Lesson from Pacquiao and Marquez

READ: Psalm 147

Watching the Pacquiao versus Marquez third match yesterday made me a little anxious of Pacman being outsmarted. Just like almost everybody else watching from television, I thought Marquez was so good that he was landing real solid punches. Thanks to my hubby who knows better than I do when it comes to boxing. He was also more focused as we were watching, so he explained that our champion actually outpunched the Mexican challenger (as proven by the CompuBox stats).

But wait, there was Marquez raising his clenched fists at the end of the 12th round!   He simply looked like he was declaring his victory! How could he presume he just won without hearing the final decision of the judges? Isn’t it a boxing protocol to do your best on the ring and leave the results to the assigned pundits?

On the opposite end of the ring was the humble Manny Pacquiao, probably nervous of the soon to be announced verdict. Aware of his limitations and knowing that he had to wait for the announcement, he resorted to his habit of going to his corner to bow down and pray after each fight.

Some critics and viewers may justify that Juan Manuel displayed rightful confidence. In the spiritual realm, however, I saw two opposing spirits: Pride versus Humility. Pride exudes haughtiness, not being able to submit to authorities or accept defeat. Humility does have uncertainties . . . although trusting in the greater power of his Creator.

In the end Humility wins. He and his supporters do not even have to celebrate or defend themselves. . . . Pride and his camp continue ranting. With this, they go on to prove who the real losers are. . . . I hope you’re not one of them.

“For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” –Matthew 23:12

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