Sold Out

Group Meeting

Our class group had a research project meeting at 1pm. Going to our classmate's house, I walked through the streets of Pateros under the prickling heat of the sun before I finally found it. We had spent time tallying the other data gathered from the survey questionnaire, while I edited some of the descriptive parts. I bid goodbye to my group mates by 4 PM to sell chocolates on the way home.


Ignored

As I walked on the road, I began calling out to the customers until I got upset because no one was noticing my products, unlike the usual "What's that?" I got wearied while anxious on the other side because I might come home with only a little profit. "Kainis... ayoko na nga..." I kept saying. I walked like a poker-face while I'm being crushed inside. I couldn't hold back my tears that had started to blur my eyes. I was rebuking myself, hey, don't you make a drama in front of the Lord! you ought to trust in Him! When I came to Market Market at BGC, I went straight to the CR to wash my face just to try to conceal it but I just couldn't hold it back. I was upset with myself. My mind says, don't put any evil in your heart, but I was just getting emotionally weak. Lord, cleanse my heart, o, please.


Singing Praise with Thankfulness

As I continued to walk, I began singing songs of praise that reminded me of having hope in God. I sang, "I won't worry what tomorrow brings, your love's got a hold on me, and I won't let go, through the highs and the lows, I won't worry..." ("I Won't Worry" by Blanca). I was singing it all the way until I passed by the Petron station nearby McKinley BGC. The gasoline crews bought from me and I was so glad that I had begun composing a rap song when I walked onwards. I stopped by an eatery to sit down because I didn't want to forget the melody of the song. Just as I was about to continue to write the lines on my notes, people began asking about my chocolates and was offering their money to buy some. Ohhh. The Lord is amazing! Truly His promises are faithful. He had just reminded me to keep believing. I knew that was a test that tried to challenge me if I would still stand strong (Oh, how I always forget!) It was already 6 PM, but because the lyrics were just flowing from my heart, I couldn't hesitate on writing it down, so I sat for a while by the roadside and finished it in 40 minutes. The song was entitled, "'Wag Nang Mangamba." (Don't Be Doubtful Anymore)

Sold Out for Christ

Again, God reminded me not to ignore Him in every moment of my life. If I was ignored in the streets, to Him it hurts more when His beloved do not notice Him for even a single moment. We should always remember God in our lives, give thanks to Him even in simple things because He is worthy of praise. We don't seek the blessings but the ONE WHO BLESSES. We don't seek the rewards but the REWARDER himself. We must seek Him first in our lives and He will add more to us, even the good things we haven't ask for. He is so great. Remember that He is our salvation and our redeemer. He bought us back from the dark, and now He brought us to His light. By His precious Blood, we are SOLD OUT.

The Greatest Advisor

Psalm 32:8 NLT

The LORD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you.

---------------------------------------------------------------

We need wisdom in every decision we make. We should know the right thing to do in order to make our plans established. We need guidance for the path that we are to walk through. We can plan for ourselves for prosperity, productivity and success, but let us know that our own plans aren't enough to gain an achievement. There is the best plan for us, and only God has it. He reminds us in Jeremiah 29:11 that He has plans for us, to prosper us; not to harm us but to give us hope and a future. Our plans may contain hope for good, but when we commit our actions to the Lord, our plans will surely be established (Proverbs 16:3).

There are instances that we are undecided with what action to make, such as taking a college degree: what course should we really be into. This happened to me. I haven't known yet what to take but have some plans for it, anyway. I just don't know whether it is really for me, because they always tell me to choose what's practical. On the other side, practical or not, unless I have a passion for it, I won't be satisfied with my choice.


Psalm 25:5 ESV

Lead me in your truth and teach me,

for you are the God of my salvation;
for you I wait all the day long.


The Lord wants us to trust Him because He loves us and wants what is best for us. As we ask for His truth to lead us and as we wait patiently for His promises, we will see it come to pass in our lives for He is faithful.

Safe and Secured

"I Will Be Safe"

[Verse 1]

You are my strength and protection

You are my armor and my shield

When storms and thunders are raging

You are the light along my way

[Verse 2]

You part the oceans and the waves

So I can walk through the sea

I will not be swept away

With Your staff, You comfort me

Yes, I will be safe

[Chorus]

So I rejoice in Your Name

I hold onto You, in Your  embrace

O, Lord, You are my defender

You surround me with Your love

Now, I will be safe

[Verse 3]

Lord, in Your grace I sink beneath

And now I'm drowned in perfect love

I will not be drawn away

With Your hand, You will hold me

Yes, I will be safe

[Chorus]

So I rejoice in Your Name

I hold onto You, in Your  embrace

O, Lord, You are my defender

You surround me with Your love

Now, I will be safe

 (a song by JBL, 2017)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

My Comfort

I composed this song during one of the times I'd felt that I am safe in spite of the struggles around me. Instead of being worried, I just thanked God because I know He was there beside me; He was within me. His comfort was already inside of me. I cried a lot because of failures and burdens, but God still speaks to remind me and say, "I am with you always." When I am hurt, I know that He welcomes me in His arms, ready to embrace me and heal me from every pain. In the midst of the storms, I know that I am safe because He is my anchor, and so I wouldn't be washed by the violent waves of life. His perfect love is more than enough. I praise God and will praise Him even more for He is so, so good and His love endures forever. 


Proverbs 18:10 ESV

The name of the LORD is a strong tower; 

the righteous man runs into it and is safe.

Who You Are and Who You Should Be

"Identity"

I see the world in desperation
People always long for more attention
Searching themselves on things that are worthless
And in the end it leaves them helpless

People wandering in the road of emptiness
Desperately looking for temporary happiness
Thirsty for likes, to fill up their insecurities
Hungry for followers to build up their ego

People worship appearances and good looks
People adore fame in this world more than books
People follow the flow of futility
More than a person’s humility

Share, Post, Like, React
Conforming to everything trendy
And what the world says fancy
In the end, it leaves them empty, helpless!

Putting on a mask so the world could
Define them perfect and happy
But deep inside, their minds are torturing them endlessly

“You’re not good enough”.
”You’re not pretty as her”,
“You’re not as smart as him”,
“You are a nobody”
“No one likes you, and no one will ever will”

Oh the lies how they make your soul sink in anguish
Oh the lies that tear your soul in perish

Why, Why would you indulge yourself in this worthlessness
Why, Why would you search your Identity in this hopelessness
The world doesn’t define who you are

Not on the number of likes in your latest facebook post
Not on the number of hearts on your French toast

You are created more than this
Because you are created in the image of His!
The image of God!

Don’t you know that there’s only one voice that we should listen to
The voice of the Way, the truth, and the life
Because that should really do

Why, why do you keep listening and conforming to the
Endless pattern of lies, envy, injustice
Haven’t you realized that someone loves you!
He had even gave His one and only son for you
He created the stars and the skies and sees you beautiful

He calls you fearfully and wonderfully made
Don’t you know that you and I
We are not a mistake!
So stake your claim, He knows your name!
Lies are lame, don’t let the devil win his game

This is the truth, this is the fruit
This should be your reality
Your true Identity

Regardless of what brand of shoes you are wearing
Regardless of the price tags in your clothes
Even the number of contacts you have in your phones
You are created more
You are created by the Lord of Lords!
Your worth isn’t measured by such things
So stop these worthless feelings
And start believing



Created by: Kathryn Icuspit (2017)
Source:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1920590124647896&id=100000907825052

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Who You Are

Who are you, and who you should be? The first thing that comes to my mind is my name. My name is Jane, and I'm identified as Jane. It can also be your nationality or social status. It can be in your school or office ID with your face picture along with a school or company name, your signature and other profile information. Identity matters, because it is how we are classified and known as an individual. We may notice that even though a person has a twin, there are differences in their body features, as well as their character. 

How You are Defined?

People have a lot of definitions about how to identify themselves. It can be with impressions towards others when seeing their appearance. Some might call a man luxurious when he owns a grand mansion and a lot of vehicles, and also runs many business companies. A beggar can easily be identified when you saw someone 'ugly' or 'nasty' on the street, begging for alms. Some people will dress themselves according to what their favorite artists wear or do, just to be known as a 'fan'. What is popular and trendy, they add up to their status. Followed by likes, reactions, shares, and comments on Facebook, most individuals wanted to gain fame. 

Who Do You Imitate?

People were getting more eager to change their appearance because of the blemishes they see in themselves. Just to be 'in,' some might give up their dignity and take the step to get out of their comfort zone and press on to what most people might like. "Let's do this," "let's do that...." They try to imitate the things that are not supposed to be what they are. We are created uniquely, with a different purpose. We must not imitate what the world offers as temporary. We must look to the One whom we are to be identified with. To be identified in Christ. We cannot buy our identity because it has been given to us already. All we need to do is to accept it and be contented of who we are. This contentment is not by accepting that you are poor, or ugly, or underestimated, but that you know that you must be fulfilled. Worldly desires cannot fulfill us because they are just fleeting. We must have the desire of what is greater than the things of this world, but that which is eternal. 

Who You Should Be?

To be identified is to show your reality, and you cannot base it on what you do or what you have. Your identity is not by branding. "Regardless of what brand of shoes you are wearing" or "of the price tags in your clothes," you are designed well by the Wonderful Creator. Even if you have disabilities, you are to be grateful because you are regarded as beautiful in His sight. No matter what they say, you are "fearfully and wonderfully made." You are His masterpiece, and your life has more worth than any gold or jewelry. You are to be identified in the One who is to be in control of your life, not by sinful desires but that which is pure and of the Heavenly.


Genesis 1:27 ESV
So God created man in his own image,
in the image of God he created him;
male and female he created them.

2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. 

The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Ephesians 2:10 ESV
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus 

for good works, which God prepared beforehand, 

that we should walk in them.

The Light and Salvation

Psalm 27 (NLT)

¹ The LORD is my light and my salvation–

          so why should I be afraid?

   The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger,

          so why should I tremble?

² When evil people come to devour me,

          when my enemies and foes attack me,  

          they will stumble and fall.

³ Though a mighty arm surrounds me,

          my heart will not be afraid.

   Even if I am attacked,

          I will remain confident.

⁴ The one thing I ask of the LORD–

          the thing I seek most–

   is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,

          delighting in the LORD's perfections

          and meditating in his Temple.

⁵ For he will conceal me there when troubles come;

          he will hide me in his sanctuary.

          He will place me out of reach on a high rock.

⁶ Then I will hold my head high

          above my enemies who surround me.

  At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy,

          singing and praising the LORD with music.

⁷ Hear me as I pray, O LORD.

          Be merciful and answer me!

⁸ My heart has heard you say, "Come and talk with me."

          And my heart responds, "LORD, I am coming."

⁹ Do not turn your back on me.

          Do not reject your servant in anger.

          You have always been my helper.

Don't leave me now; don't abandon me,

          O God of my salvation!

¹⁰ Even if my father and mother abandon me,

          the LORD will hold me close.

¹¹ Teach me how to live, O LORD.

          Lead me along the right path,

          for my enemies are waiting for me.

¹² Do not let me fall into their hands.

          For they accuse me of things I've never done;

          with every breath they threaten me with violence.

¹³ Yet I am confident I will see the LORD's goodness

          while I am here in the land of living.

¹⁴ Wait patiently for the LORD.

          Be brave and courageous.

          Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.

-----------------------------------------------------------

The LORD is my light and my salvation–so why should I be afraid?
The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?

The psalmist, David, faced a lot of struggles during his lifetime. Though he has conquered many battles, king Saul wanted to kill him because he was loved by most people and their hearts were already turning to David from their king.  But despite of multiple threats, David has never forgotten his SAVIOR and FORTRESS, in whom he can find safety and security. God reminds him that when he call on His name, he has a defense and righteousness that comes with victory. When we understand that God is our Defender, we know that we can stand firm at the end of the line because He is the One fighting the battle for us.

One thing I ask of the LORD–
the thing I seek most–
is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life,
delighting in the LORD's perfections and meditating in his Temple.

To be in His house "all the days of my life" has more worth than to be in anywhere else. To delight in the Lord and be in His presence cannot be compared to the bodily desires that ought to bring us pleasure but fails to satisfy our innermost being. No one and nothing can satisfy us but only the One who has every good thing in His hands.

At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy,

singing and praising the LORD with music.

Why should we praise and worship God? Since the earth was created, it is the purpose of mankind; to give praise to the Creator. To rejoice and make music in the Lord is to honor and glorify Him for all that He has done.

My heart has heard you say, "Come and talk with me."
And my heart responds, "LORD, I am coming."

Many times I tried to walk away and hardened my heart as a stone whenever I fail to do something ought to be done. I would inflict myself with curses and bury myself to the ground. But there would always be the tiny voice calling, "Come and talk with me." I then find my heart responding, "LORD, I am coming." Its original Hebrew line is translated to "Seek His face". The word 'seek' comes from the Hebrew word 'baqash' which originally means to search out or to strive after. So when we come to the Lord, we strive after Him. We come to him with longing, wanting to see Him face to face.

Wait patiently for the LORD.
Be brave and courageous.
Yes, wait patiently for the LORD.

Remember that His promises are faithful. Whatever He said, it is TRUE. Trust in Him and "wait patiently" for what He has planned for you. His Word says that He is not slow in His promises, even He is waiting patiently for everyone to believe. Whatever hard times you face, be brave and courageous. He is our Defender, our "light and salvation." Just have faith; have the assurance of hope for the One that is unseen, and you will see it.

The One Who Wipes Away the Tears

"I Weep"

I weep, when troubles come

When I fail for something to be done

Where fear has tried to anguish me,

To devour the soul ravenously

I weep, when I would've lost my hold

Into the sea, I might sink down cold 

Over the mountain, I might slip and fall 

When I think I couldn't fight, can't stand at all 

I weep, when the burdens drag me down 

Wearying my feet, and so I cannot run; 

Breaking my bones, tearing off my flesh; 

Trampling over me relentlessly 

Yet to the utmost, I weep when I'm reminded of love 

Love that no one and nothing can compare 

Love that has made a sacrifice 

Love that heals and carries the burdens I bear 

Love that says, "Come, and I will give you rest" 

Love that conquers and has conquered 

So that even when I weep, I'll be stronger 

And remember that I have a Savior and Redeemer 

Yes, to the utmost, I weep, 

As my soul thirsts for the One I seek; 

For the Heavenly Father who is ever faithful 

In all His promises He never fails to keep. 

(Created by JBL: 12/12/18, revised 02/19/19) 

------------------------------------------------------ 

I weep, when troubles come... 

When I weep, it can be out of sorrow and anguish. But then, I would realize something and ask myself: why do you weep? And when I come up to the answer, I ask: why should you weep? It might be confusing to ask ourselves this because we cannot object to what we feel. Emotions are difficult to conceal because what we feel could always be revealed. Anger? Loneliness? Happiness? Even sarcasm can obviously be seen. There are a lot of negative reasons for weeping. When we are frustrated, we seem to be empty and hopeless. We might be stressed out, while some others might be depressed. The most thing people do is to get rid of themselves.

I weep, when I would've lost my hold...

Since we were babies we cry. Crying for babies is natural. Therefore, to cry is just part of our being. It's natural for us to long for something; we want to be filled with something. When we weep, it can be from the struggles and we are in need of help; someone we could hold onto; someone to stretch a hand towards us, to lift us and help us to stand stronger despite of the loads we bear. Being in a difficult situation will really cause us to weep. 

I weep when I'm reminded of love... 

There is the kind of longing in our hearts for LOVE. With that comes the joy, peace and hope in life. We cannot say we are 'contented' when there is still something we lack of. We would still cry and want for something. Then we point out to that love. It is the UNCONDITIONAL love. This world has a lot to offer: happiness, fame, riches, love – but that which is temporary. Many are still broken and trampled. No one is satisfied, and just wanted more... and more... and more of what they couldn't bring into eternity; things that are not the TRUTH of REALITY. So what do we hope for? WHOM do we hope for? 

Love that says, "Come, and I will give you rest" 

It is the One who rescues us. The one who will "wipe away the tears from every face," and has promised salvation by grace. If only we surrender our lives to Him and live for Him alone, we will receive the cup of blessings He is generously offering to us – more than what we ask for. 

Yes, to the utmost, I weep, As my soul thirsts for the One I seek 

Naturally, we always seek for something. Our body and soul cannot deny that longing, because it cries out inside us. He is the One in whom we were created through and for. The One whose promises are faithful. The One in whom we can receive FORGIVENESS. The One in whom we can TRUST. The One who has conquered the grave and is risen back to life, to give us NEW LIFE. He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Jesus Christ. Our Lord and Savior, Redeemer and Friend. 

In all His promises He never fails to keep.

--------------------------------------------------------- 

Psalm 63:1 ESV 

O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you;

my soul thirsts for you; 

my flesh faints for you, 

as in a dry and weary land where there is no water. 

Isaiah 25:8 ESV 

He will swallow up death forever; 

and the LORD God will wipe away tears from all faces, 

and the reproach of his people he will take away from the earth, 

for the LORD has spoken. 

Matthew 11:28-30 ESV 

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 

Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. 

----------------------------------------------------------

His Plans are Good

God is Faithful

Truly, God is faithful in His promises. He said that He has plans for us, plans not to harm us, but to give us hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). This reminds me of His faithfulness, knowing that His promises are true. But sometimes, when troubles come, my heart seems to fail in trusting Him. Anxiety would grip me and make me grieve for myself. But because "nothing can separate us from the love of Christ," I am assured that He is always there for me; will "never leave" me "nor forsake" me. It is a great joy for the people who has known that there's a Savior in their lives. 

A Beautiful Purpose

Regarding with the plans of the Lord, another event happened, showing His purpose in our lives. During Wednesday night, a family friend brought a teenage girl into our house, who was from Laguna. Our friend told us that there's no place for her to stay here in Manila for a few days, and we are the only ones whom she can entrust her with. She came here for domestic reasons, and yet we welcomed her like she had been part of the family. The next morning when Rhea came, dad shared to her the Gospel, and afterwards, led her to a prayer of repentance and acceptance of Jesus as personal Lord and Savior. She honestly told about her side, the things that had been a lie when she came. She sincerely confessed, but of course, we didn't bother her to bring up her past anymore. Whatever wrong thing she did, the Lord has forgiven her when she sincerely confessed it to Him and let Him enter into her heart. 

Blessed to be Blessed

During Friday, February 15, Rhea agreed to come with me to our Bible study with junior high school students. Afterwards, we were welcomed to take a ride with the pastor and my co-leaders to church to attend the River Night (Worship) Service later. During the ride, Rhea told me how blessed she is during her few days stay in our house. "Marami akong natutunan kahit ilang araw lang ako sa inyo..." she gently declared. My heart melted when she said that she wanted to be changed, and not to do anymore what she had done before. She had conflict with her siblings when she went away, and now she was able to apologize and reunite with them. I reminded her that God made a great purpose for her life, so that she may learn to know Him and to seek Him. It might be hard for her to let go some of the things. But I know that God will not let her go astray now that she is in His hands. His mercy and grace will keep her to the right path, and someday, she will see the great destiny God has prepared for her.

National Museum

We came early at 3 PM, so we decided to go to the National Museum at Taft Avenue. We enjoyed our small tour around the museum, taking pictures and expressing wonder on how beautiful the species were. The plant and animal structures, even the land and water forms declare how beautifully our Creator made them.

At the National Museum; some of the photos I have taken

Worship and Fellowship

At 7 pm, we were at church for the Worship Service. Our spirits were lifted up as we prayed and sing praises to the Lord. With the sermon about seeking God, I realized seeking Him first is not about bringing request to Him for blessings, but about just wanting to be with Him, and to be satisfied in His presence. I thanked God for the amazing things that happened, things that are more than what I could have imagined. So wonderful... I stand amazed as the beautiful song was repeatedly sang (Goodness of God - Song by Bethel Music and Jenn Johnson):

"And all my life You have been faithful 

And all my life You have been so, so good 

With every breath that I am able 

Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God"

God, You have done so much good in my life, and I will praise You 'til my last breath...

Tiresome Day, Joyful Night

"My Choco Journey"

It was a bright summertime of 2018 when I walked along the streets to sell chocolates. From daytime to noontime, I spent hours of journey going elsewhere from Taguig to Makati. Evening came and it was already 7 PM. I was planning whether I'd just walk home or take a ride since the night has already gone dark. Both my feet and knees hurt of weariness. I was in Bluevos street when I saw a beggar asking for alms on the roadside. On the opposite corner was a street food stall. I bought some fish balls and decided to give it to the old lady instead of offering money. When I approached her, she gently refused to accept the food. She was pointing to her legs and feet, and whispered that she has diabetes.

Heart Melted

I didn't hesitate to sit beside her and asked if I could pray for her healing in Jesus' Name. I also shared to her about the good news of God, and she said that she have placed Him in her heart, and believed that He would really heal her. She was asking for alms because she had no enough money for the bus fare to Bicol, to go back to her home province. She was a laundry woman for five years, and only stayed in a friend's house. When she got sick during the previous year, she stopped working. She couldn't ask help from others, and since she had no other relatives to stay with, she began to beg for alms in the streets.  She didn't even have communication with her family and they weren't aware where she was until then. Broken at heart, she had wanted to reunite with them and ask for their forgiveness.

Joy in the Night

As she shared her story, I found tears in my eyes and was glad that God used me to show His goodness. I didn't care what others might say while I sat beside her. All I knew is that God wanted to show me how far His mercy and loving kindness can reach, that even this person who was ignored and wounded in her heart has become worthy to receive healing and salvation.

Miracle

The weariness in my feet had seem to be gone. It was also a miracle that the pain instantly dissolved. All I felt was joy and thankfulness to the living God. I didn't take a ride home but just continued to walk and rejoice in the name of Jesus. Tears still brimmed my eyes, yet all I could do is to smile and laugh in wonder. "Wow God, wow God," I testified over and over until I got home.

Make Music in the Lord

with COP Echo Youth Choir (Nov. 20, 2017)

Sing for the Lord

Once I was asked, “Why do you only sing and compose church songs?” For me, it’s not necessarily called a church song, but rather a LOVE SONG. The wonderful reason is because of the LOVE of God. I sing for His amazing love for us. All of us have talents, and to use it for the glory of God is to let blessings upon blessings to flow in our lives.

I just loved music, and one of the best things that have happened in my life is not just to be able to sing for the Lord, but to compose songs for Him. Even as a kid, I never thought I would make a simple melody over a poem, “All Things Bright and Beautiful," which all throughout recognizes the beauty of God’s creation. When I have entered into a personal relationship and encounter with God, I looked back at that memory and realized that He really has a purpose for me. During my teenage years, I used to sing and write love songs that honestly, I don’t even understand. It was just like ‘chasing fantasies’. I learned that we don’t need to please people and become famous because of what we have. To live right before God, with sincerity and humility is worth living for.

“Music sinks deep into your soul...” as what I’ve heard from one of the sermons in church. It’s so TRUE. We use our emotions when we make music, right? So, when we sing a song full of brokenness and sorrow, it’s being manifested on us. In the same way, if we are singing songs with empty or trash words, aren’t we wasting our body on it? Those are desires of the flesh and not of the Spirit. This world wants what is acceptable to everybody, and not what God wants. So, people ended up being hurt and defeated.

COP -  Echo Youth Choir (Oct. 9, 2017)

But when we sing praises to the Lord, we ourselves are moved in our hearts, because His Word speaks, and His power flows through us. We find peace and comfort in our hearts. To declare His wonders through music in His Name and to live with it is the best ever talent He has given me, and let it be used all for His glory.

Psalm 96: 1-3 ESV

Oh sing to the LORD a new song;

   sing to the LORD all the earth!

Sing to the LORD, bless His name;

   tell of His salvation from day to day.

Declare His glory among the nations,

   His marvelous works among all the

       peoples!

--------
Photo Source:
https://m.facebook.com/cop.snl/photos/a.10155899611289706/10155899620284706/?type=3
https://m.facebook.com/cop.snl/photos/a.10155788294634706/10155788339724706/?type=3

Use it All for His Glory

Talents for the Lord

In the book of Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus tells us a parable about talents. Well, this talent in the parable literally talks about a certain measure or amount of wage which the man has entrusted his servants with. The first servant got five talents, who worked with it and earned a double. The same happened to the second one, who got two talents and earned another two. But the last one with only one talent didn't work with it but buried it to the ground. So what happened to him? His one talent and whatever he has was given to the one who earned the most. 

To reflect it in our lives, we too have been given talents based on our abilities. When we grow it, it becomes skill. On the other hand, the last servant's illustration is just like wasting a talent. When we use it only for our personal pleasure or benefit, we cannot earn anything but pride and lust. When we use our talent to help others, it can be the same with serving and honoring God, in obedience to His Word, "Love God" and "love your neighbor as yourself."

When we use it for good, it grows better, and we are entrusted more. Blessings flow; promotion flow; prosperity flow. We are stewards of these things, and we must use and develop it all for His glory.

'Way Maker, Miracle Worker'

Not Lucky But Blessed

It was our class day off yesterday (Friday). It was also my Teens Connect Group day, wherein I meet students or teenage people in their school to do Bible Study, praying together and learning from the Word of God. I handled Grade 10 students, as well as to my co-leaders' connect groups in Grade 7 to 9 because they weren't able to come. I was so glad because many of them were eager to learn, and were active to participate during our short meeting. I feel blessed when a girl approached me to let me hear about her song composition, which she has dedicated to her mother who was in a difficult health condition. The song gives the message of faith and hope in God, no matter what the circumstances are. I remembered the line "You're not lucky 'cause you're blessed," which has truly declared that we don't live by luck or chance, but by faith and by the grace of God.

Grade 10-A students of EP Ville Integrated Academy (Taguig City)

Way Maker, Miracle Worker

In the afternoon, I went to my usual routine: chocolate selling. Oh yeahhh! I had a goal to accomplish that time, and if I reached the certain amount of sales income, I would be able to attend the River Night Service in church. Wanting to be in church, I fervently prayed for miracle to come and let there be more customers to buy my products. I was so happy when God heard my plea, because He provided for me. Truly, He is a Way Maker and a Miracle Worker.


River Night Service

So blessed with the night's sermon: A Pilgrimage into God's Presence...

Reading the whole passage in Psalm 84, we are reminded that our heart and soul, and even our flesh longs for God. Just as we crave for food we like, our body and soul also want to be in God's presence. David, in spite of the circumstances during his life time, he never forgot to seek God, because it was what his soul yearned for. In the verses 1 to 2 (ESV), David spoke:

"How lovely is your dwelling place,

O Lord of hosts!

My soul longs, yes, faints

for the courts of the Lord;

my heart and flesh sing for joy

to the living God."

The creation longs for the Creator. Even demons have longing for God because they have no rest. How about us, who are created in His likeness, and are created to be in His presence? This just reminded me that even though we set God aside in our lives, there will still be the realization for a need of a revival; the real happiness that we could ever have. To be in His presence is the most wonderful moment in our lives, as it says in Psalm 84:10 (ESV):

"For a day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere." 

There's nothing in this world that could ever satisfy us apart from God. Just as David cries out to Him, we do have that natural desire to seek God's presence, where we find joy, peace, safety and protection, provision, and all the goodness that our generous God has to offer.

Overwhelmed: Tears Turned Into Joy

Rush Hour

After class, I went to sell chocolates, and walked again from school to home. But of course, I just slowed down, so that my limbs wouldn't weary too much. I came home and took a snack and went to Pasay to order for another batch of chocolate products.

While I was waiting for a jeepney ride back home, people were crowded again. I was more hassle than yesterday because I carried loads: a shop bag with almost 4 kilograms in weight, and my chocolate Styrofoam box which weighs lighter but was still huge in size.

I prayed for grace to come. Jeepneys passed by, and was the same scene as yesterday: me, unable to get in (not even at the right mood to take a picture of the crowd in my phone). I was tired and exhausted. I glanced at my watch, 7:30 PM.

Moments later, an empty jeepney came. Yahoooo! I got in a rush when I was the first one to follow the back of the vehicle, prepared to get in immediately. But when I was about to step inside, someone jerked behind me and I was pushed away, causing me to stumble down the road The vehicle wheeled forward and began to speed up, while the crowd pressed on. My loads fell. No one had been a 'Good Samaritan' to help me up. I felt pain in my right palm and left knee as both were scratched to the ground.


Stumbled and Hurt

I found myself crying, not just because of pain, but of anger with those passengers with no sincere consideration. Yet it was rush hour and everyone was in a hurry, so I cannot blame anyone among them. But it had been so unfair. They just ignored me when I had obviously been hurt and a humiliated in public. The world is SELFISH. Frustrated, I stomped towards the sidewalk with tears stinging my eyes.

I sat by the roadside, almost helpless. "Lord, mamaya pa'ko nito makakauwi." I sobbed, thinking that I wouldn't be able to come home early. I was about to message my dad when someone tapped my back.


The Way Maker

"Sa'n ka sasakay, FTI ka ba?" The lady asked, but I refused to answer. She kept asking and then I gave a nod.

"Sabay ka na sa'kin sa taxi," She said, telling me that we were on the same route. I marveled when she began to carry my things and went to the taxi cab. "Hala ate, 'wag na po." I pleaded, telling her that I'll just wait for another jeepney. She was insisting me to get a ride with her, and in a few moments, I found myself seated inside the taxi cab.

It made me OVERWHELMED. I was speechless and shy, but instead of having an awkward feeling, I feel blessed, and one thing that rolled into my brain: God is a WAY-MAKER. Oh, His mercy endures forever! I covered my face full of tears, and was happy and amazed at the same time.

Her name was Hazel. My heart melted at her kindness. God used her for my rescue. When the vehicle wheeled over, she asked what exactly happened when I stumbled on the road. On the other side, she told me that she cannot really hesitate to help me up, and told the taxi driver to wait for me. Moments passed but still, it didn't seem to sink in to my mind.

"It's really true, God will make a way when there seems to be no way," I told her in a hopeful demeanor.

We talked and shared stories to each other, and I just can't contain the joy in my heart to be able to share the Word of God, including my testimonies about His goodness as well as the incident earlier that has added to the great miracles He had performed in my life.


The Gospel Preached

I told her that it's not really about religion. What matters is our personal relationship with God, because that is what He truly wants with us. The Holy Spirit just filled me up, that I didn't even noticed how I was able to say graceful things to her, without any hesitation in doing it. God just moved in me, wanting me to witness His touch in her life. Later on, I found out that she needed healing on some particular health-related issues. She was also thinking about her career path, and was a bit frustrated because she didn't totally like her present job.

I prayed over her, thanking God for the miraculous healing she will receive, and for guidance, provision, and protection for her and her family. I was so delighted at how God really made my day meaningful, in spite of the weariness I had for the whole day.

This, I treasured in my heart. Another opportunity has come for me to declare God's glory. He has always made me OVERWHELMED in many different ways. Praise God!

Another Day

Cramming

I woke up at exactly 5:20 AM without even hearing the alarm set at 5 AM. Whooosh! I hastily jumped out of  bed and changed into my school uniform (Well, I already took a shower last night before I slept, so I wouldn't have to bother myself wasting additional time in the bathroom).

Almost 15 minutes have passed, and I was on my way out, carrying my school bag and my 'chocolate box' to do my 'small business' thing later...

"Wow," I marveled in sarcasm when I've seen that almost all jeepneys were full of passengers and they weren't able to stop over for our pick-up. It was already 5:40 AM when I had been given grace to get in the jeepney, and yet it wouldn't be enough for a 20-minute ride to get to school before our first class period at 6 AM.


'Oh, yes!'

When I arrived in school, I came running upstairs because it was already 6:01 AM, but I suddenly realized, what was the use of hurrying myself if I would still arrive late? Huhhh, I sighed. Arrrggghhh. Haha. I was blaming the jeepney, or the alarm clock, rather.

Haggardly, I slowed down my pace when I stepped on the third floor. When I walked into the door, I sighed in relief, thanking God that our professor hasn't come yet. Grace period. Whoohooo!

---------

Crowded

Later in the afternoon, I went on my way and sold chocolates in the streets. It was 'Baclaran Day', so there might be a huge crowd in the market places; more customers will buy Dutché choco.

As I was going to the jeepney stop in Pasay, there also was a huge crowd standing by the roadside, waiting for vehicles. I came there by 6:30 PM, and couple of minutes later, an empty jeepney passed by. People began pressing against each other to get in the vehicle, and I was one of them. Unfortunately, I was unable to get in. Carrying a large ice box (chocolate box, rather) with me, it would really be hassle to push through the crowd.

At 6:48 PM. Crowded, isn't it? So hassle here.

Endured

At 6:54 PM I got in to the third jeepney stop, but there was no more seat so I didn't hesitate to squat in the middle isle just to take a ride home, not minding about the weariness of my feet. I kneeled and squat frequently until we arrive at C-5 Extension.

My feet and legs have endured thirty-eight minutes long inside the vehicle, and when the jeepney arrived to stop nearby Taguig-Pateros Hospital, I got down and was walking like a limp. Poor girl...

4REAL: The Neverclaim (Worship Concert)

The Neverclaim band (Beji is hidden at the back...haha)

So Blessed

Sunday, February 3, 2019, was the last day of The Neverclaim concert when the band ministered to the church of Cathedral of Praise for the 4REAL event. In three days, during the first weekend of February, there were not less than 5,000 souls saved; many repented and accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. It was so amazing to witness the Holy Spirit touching people's lives, and the miracles that made people overwhelmed...

Four of my invites attended and I was so glad to see them worship the Lord as He opened their hearts to be filled in His presence.

In the midst of worship, Jeremiah Carlson, the lead vocalist, shared his testimonies, and declaring about the goodness of the Lord in people's lives.


Revival in Christ

"We are a band called The Neverclaim. We're so honored to be with you. I got to tell you guys somethin'.... We played all over the world and it might sound just a little partial here, but... we think that the Philippines are probably one of our favorite places we've ever been..." Jeremiah stated during the Saturday night worship service. "And that's –I'm not joking... it's serious..." He added immediately.

"And one of the reasons I can say that is because there's something about this culture that just gets it; you're so full of joy, and so full of hope. And I'm tellin' you guys right now, if there's anything that this world needs more than ever before, it is joy, and it is hope. Because on the foundation of that, on the foundation of hope, which our hope is — not found in like, concerts per se— our hope is not found in this band or this music. It's a matter of fact, we didn't come here just to play music for you to listen to. We all came here to make a collective noise to the only One who is worthy of our adoration, Jesus."

"He is the One in whom we put our hope, and because you have such a culture of hope, I believe that you guys are on the verge of such a massive revival that the world is gonna look at and goin', 'What is God doing in the Philippines?'... There's joy that you guys have, that many of the rest of the world, and even the church long for; A type of joy that when there's any bad situation they face, they say, 'No matter what I'm going through, I'm gonna look at that bad situation and I'm still gonna rejoice, 'cause I know that God is good." 

The congregation shouted out and gave praise to the Lord as the music continued, while the band played the song, "Revival". 

One of my old time favorites is " Dance with God", which excites me so much every time I hear it. It's the real joy and laughter that rises up from my heart, knowing that I am FREE to WORSHIP God whatever I want to do: sing, dance , jump, laugh, run– like CRAZY! It's so amazing. I always remember to realize that being a Christian, I don't need to think about what people say about it. Just focus on God and love Him with all my mind, heart, and soul.

Everyone was also blessed with Jeremiah's sincerity and humility towards God. He had always pointed it out all through Him, as this is what he has been called for; to play music that will lead more people to Christ, and witness a supernatural change in people's lives.

"Be Lifted Higher"

Beji George

Dancers/ Creative Ministry

Mitchell Maldonado

Chuck Hill

COP Choir ministers

"Wildfire"

Images: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=2569163883110373&id=100000503603001