“Sana All”

by Elder Aries de Vera

Reading for the day: Luke 2:4-20

Every generation creates slang terms that become popular among the people of its time.  Slang evolves as societies change, often driven by pop-culture, technology, and social movements.  These words and phrases serve as markers for generations, capturing the spirit, struggles, and innovations of the people who use them.  The Baby Boomers will call you “far out” for being unconventional.  “Whatever”, if the Gen Z’s don’t approve of things.  And in today’s generation, your ears will be bombarded by expressions like “skibidi”, “sigma”, “Ohio” and etc. by the Gen-Alpha.  

One of the most widely used Filipino slang expressions of all time is “sana all”.  It has dethroned “walang forever” and “petmalu” by a mile in usage and popularity.  It is a wishful phrase or term that translates to “I wish everyone” in English.  It is often used to express a mix of admiration, longing, and sometimes playful envy when someone shares something positive, fortunate, or desirable.

In this edition of our devotional series, Grace Unwrapped, I’ll be unwrapping some “sana all” truths from the first Christmas.  The story of the first Christmas, as told in the Bible, introduces us to several characters whose actions, choices, and attitudes provide timeless lessons.

JESUS

As the central figure of the first Christmas, Jesus Christ teaches us profound lessons through the circumstances of His birth and His role in the nativity story. In a nutshell, the birth of Christ manifested the greatest love of God to mankind (John 3:16).  It also provided us with a clear definition of humbleness and surrender to the will of the Father.  “Sana all” can receive and experience God’s unconditional love by accepting Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

MARY

A young woman chosen to bear the Son of God, displayed remarkable faith when the angel Gabriel told her she would conceive through the Holy Spirit (Luke 1:30-31). Despite the risks to her reputation and future, she responded with humility and trust.

Then Mary said, “I am willing to be used of the Lord. Let it happen to me as you have said.”  (Luke 1:38)

“Sana all” can follow Mary’s faith and obedience who is open to God’s plan even though there are risks involved.  Following His will, even in the face of uncertainty or fear.

JOSEPH

When Joseph learned of Mary’s pregnancy, he initially planned to quietly divorce her.  But after an angel appeared to him in a dream, he chose to stand by her and raise Jesus as his own (Matthew 1:18-25).  “Sana all” can resemble the integrity that Joseph possessed.  Let us show compassion and understanding in difficult situations and demonstrate courage and selflessness in obeying God’s will.

THE SHEPHERDS

The shepherds were among the first to hear of Jesus’ birth (Luke 2:8-12). Though they were considered lowly in society, they were entrusted with the message of the Savior’s arrival and spread the news with joy (Luke 2:20).  “Sana all” can display humility and true joy exemplified by the shepherds in proclaiming the Gospel. God values humility and often uses ordinary people to fulfill extraordinary purposes.  Let us share the good news and rejoice in the blessings we receive.

WISE MEN

The wise men traveled great distances, following a star to find the newborn King (Matthew 2:9-11). They presented Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh, symbolizing His royalty, divinity, and sacrificial purpose.  “Sana all” can worship like the wisemen. Let us seek truth with determination and an open heart. Offer your best to God, recognizing His worth and sovereignty.

THE ANGELS

The angels announced Jesus’ birth to the shepherds, praising God and proclaiming peace on earth (Luke 2:13-14).  Like the angels, “sana all” continues to proclaim God’s glory in different ways we can.  Let us use our voice to glorify God and spread hope to this world.  Let us celebrate the joy of salvation and share it with others.

The characters of the first Christmas remind us of the power of faith, humility, and love. They inspire us to live with purpose and to embrace the transformative message of hope that Christmas represents.

The characters of the first Christmas remind us of the power of faith, humility, and love.

In our time, we are God’s vessels of change.  Let us continue to empower ourselves with these virtues and to spread it to other people.   

In passing, “sana all” can reflect on and follow the apostolic legacies that the Goodman of the House has imprinted in our hearts.  “Sana all” continues to be in one accord with our church leaders, partnering with Apostle Jonathan S. Ferriol in championing the work of God in our time.  

“Sana all” will have a very meaningful Christmas, celebrating it with humility, thanksgiving and worship. 

Reflection: What is your wishful thinking and prayer this Christmas that everyone can respond to, “Wow, sana all!”?