“…For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil…” –Ecclesiastes 12:14

The ouster of Davao del Norte first district Rep. Pantaleon Alvarez as Speaker of the House, which took place on the same day as President Rodrigo Duterte’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA), serves as a stern and grim reminder, glory days end at some point for those ensconced in power. Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 reads: “There is a time for beginnings and there is a time for endings” – those in power should always remember this truth. They may think they are the best because they are in power, but that “best” will come to an end, as determined by the truly powerful One.

It would serve those in office well to also be true to their service and not work exclusively towards personal, family, and political interests.

Those given the opportunity to lead must remember they will be held accountable for every thought, statement, and deed done in their position. In addition, judgement is not only made by their constituency, but by God as well. Ecclesiastes 12:14 reads, “For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil;” a scarier type of judgment for elected officials, as that will determine if one’s actions leads them to Paradise or hell.

Government officials must also remember how God judges everyone. Matthew 25:31-46 offers a story that established one standard for an individual’s entry into Paradise or hell: Whatsoever he or she did to his or her fellow human beings, especially the poor and the marginalized, and those who suffer, would be rewarded or punished accordingly.

This is also a reminder to the new speaker, former president, Pampanga second district Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. While she is making history as the only former president to serve as speaker, the congresswomen must keep in mind that she has to perform well in the new position for the good of the country. She may have many unfavorable issues to from her time as president from 2001 to 2010 and I know Macapagal Arroyo is aware she is characterized as a president who upheld her own interests during her administration.

She must look at the new job as an opportunity to straighten out her record – this may be her last chance to earn “good grades” before she is evaluated by God.

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