FAMILY RESEMBLANCE

Cherilyn was adopted by her uncle when she was little. Her aunt and her uncle have children of their own. As the adopted one, Cherilyn suffered much from her mom. She saw discrimination from the start. She had to do the household chores, and everything they said she had to do.

As the obedient child, her mom finally saw Cherilyn’s worth. She was the one who grew up straight. Her other kids had messed up lives. She was the one who resembled them in many ways. She carries the same values that they have. The 2 of them became inseparable. In fact, her mom forbid her from getting married. She was the one who took care of her when she got sick. She was also working that time, so she could not do it 24/7. She asked the help of her sister, but she regretted it because according to her, her condition deteriorated when she took care of their mom. She died eventually, and Cherilyn is now married but no child yet.

My friends, today’s reading talk about how the Jews gloated about being descendants of Abraham. Yes, they were direct descendants of Abraham. But the family resemblance stopped there. They behaved differently from Abraham. They were so consumed with their status that they forgot they got it because of Abraham’s faith. They took pride in teaching the Torah to every Jewish child, but they failed to abide by and live it. By uplifting tradition, they missed the core of God’s message – love to all mankind.

They failed to honor and serve God as Abraham did. Abraham’s obedience to God was credited to him as righteousness, thereby God promised him descendants as many as the stars in the sky. That does not mean only the people of Israel, but everyone to the ends of the earth who would believe in God’s only begotten Son Jesus, and who will abide by Him. That was the purpose of Jesus’ birth. To bring salvation to all.

We do not hesitate to say we are Christians. But do we have a family resemblance? Do other people see Christ in us when they need help? Do we condemn our family and friends when they fall, or do we help them get back up? Do we add to gossip or do we bite our tongues? Do we offer a shoulder to cry on or do we say “I told you so”? Do we extend help when needed, or do we turn our back and walk away? Do we say words that damage our kids’ self-esteem or do we say things that would build them up? Do we have kind words come out of our mouth or curse and foul language adorn our every sentence?

This Sunday is Palm Sunday, the Lent Season only has a week and 4 days to go before we celebrate Easter Sunday. Before we can see the beauty of Easter, we need to see the importance of pain and suffering Jesus had to endure for our sake. He died on the cross for our sins.

I feel guilty everytime I fall that I add more weight to the cross of Christ. But you know what? Our Lord is a forgiving, merciful God. He remembers our sins no more (Isaiah 43:25, Hebrews 10:17). If we are truly Christians as we profess, then isn’t it just right that we show family remembrance by loving others, especially the poor, the sick and the needy; by forgiving those who hurt us bad just as the Father has forgiven ALL of our sins?

Brothers and sisters, let us take time to know the Lord by reading His word and listening to Him through others. When we know who He is, then we would become free from the bondage of sin. When we know that we are forgiven and free, then our hearts will transform. As we grow in our faith, the Spirit will lead us to the truth and then day by day, we would be able to show the family remembrance with God who created us in His image and likeness.

O Merciful Father, I am nothing but a sinner but I know I am forgiven through Jesus’ selfless sacrifice. Change my heart so that I may I be able to show the same mercy and love to those who need them today and everyday for the rest of my life. Amen.

MEDITATION: John 8:31-42

 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. ³² And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

³³ They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?”

³⁴ Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. ³⁵ And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. ³⁶ Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

³⁷ “I know that you are Abraham’s descendants, but you seek to kill Me, because My word has no place in you. ³⁸ I speak what I have seen with My Father, and you do what you have seen with your father.”

³⁹ They answered and said to Him, “Abraham is our father.”

Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would do the works of Abraham. ⁴⁰ But now you seek to kill Me, a Man who has told you the truth which I heard from God. Abraham did not do this. ⁴¹ You do the deeds of your father.”

Then they said to Him, “We were not born of fornication; we have one Father—God.”

⁴² Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me.

–that in all things God may be glorified

FAITH FOOTPRINT

I first read this quote at the bulletin board of Delgado Bldg. when I was working at Fil-japan Shipping Corporation:

” I shall pass this way but once; any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness that I can show – let me not defer nor neglect it,for I shall not pass this way again. “

It really made a great impact on me. I have been trying to do good already, but this one says any kindness that I can show. Single and just graduated from an elite college for girls, I had the tendency to be a snob to people I do not know or like. I remember those who do not know the real me branding me as “masungit” (mean), “suplada” (snobbish) and unreachable.

Those who like me would tell you I am the sweetest person there is. In fact, they would not believe you if I was described as one of those three. Truth of the matter is, I was and still am capable of both. In fact, we all are.

It all boils down to a matter of choice. I remember my parents accommodating everybody who ask for their help, beggars would find a place in our table, vendors would be invited to eat in our house. I grew up in that environment, but still my “collegiala” status would get the better of me. Honestly, I thought I was better than most people. I had too many suitors, most of who didn’t even have the chance to say something and the answer’s been a big NO already. I had seamen on-the-job trainee suitors but I would not even consider them. I felt they were not good enough for me. One of them is a sea captain now.

The most important things of this life, I have learned the hard way. God has been teaching me things through trials, sufferings and blessings. There is always a time and a reason for everything. We may not understand the reasons, but surely, it is for our own good.

It was later on in my walk with Christ that I realize how wrong I was. No one is better than anybody. We are all equal in God’s eyes. He created all of us, the same sun and moon shine and the rains fall on the good and the bad. That is how much God loves everybody. He offer the same saving grace to each and everyone.

I have learned that our education, position, social stature, wealth, fame and fortune are God’s gifts to us, never to be used to look down on people, but to help and show God’s love and mercy towards others. Apart from God, we are nothing. We are only able to do things because God allows us to. The job that we have is God-given. All the money we have, the cars, properties, businesses, they are all from God. Yet, we are very stingy when we have to give back to God through church offerings and helping other people. We do not realize that what we have do not really belong to us. We are just stewards, caretakers.

What is more important, my friends is doing what the Lord wants. There may not be angels appearing before us today, but we have the bible as our guide. It is very clear that sacrifices and offerings are not what God desires, but obedience.

Today’s reading tells us about Joseph, the husband of Mary and the earthly father of Jesus. He, a carpenter, an ordinary person, was chosen to be the father of God. A man of a lesser stature and faith would have backed out and left Mary, Mary would have been stoned to death as that was the punishment she deserved according to the laws of that time. Jesus would not have been born.

My friends, the Lord does not choose educated, famous and wealthy people for special missions. He always chose the unknowns, because He looks not at the appearance as man does, but He looks at the heart. David was a young, unassuming shepherd. God made him a king. Abraham was chosen to be the Father of many nations, because of his obedience to God, which was credited to him as righteousness. Those were their faith footprints.

With this, I want to leave you all a challenge and a question. Any good that you can do, do it now. For we may not pass this way again. What is your faith footprint?

Father God, we thank you for our faith models like Abraham, David and Joseph, Pope John Paul II, Mother Teresa. Help us to realize that you choose ordinary people to do extraordinary things for your kingdom and I can do something as well. Teach me, mold me, guide me, let your Spirit lead me to the truth. Amen.

Meditation: Matthew 1:16, 18-21, 24a

Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary.
Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

Now this is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about.
When his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph,
but before they lived together,
she was found with child through the Holy Spirit.
Joseph her husband, since he was a righteous man,
yet unwilling to expose her to shame,
decided to divorce her quietly.
Such was his intention when, behold,
the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said,
“Joseph, son of David,
do not be afraid to take Mary your wife into your home.
For it is through the Holy Spirit
that this child has been conceived in her.
She will bear a son and you are to name him Jesus,
because he will save his people from their sins.”
When Joseph awoke,
he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him

–that in all things God may be glorified

GOODNESS AND MERCY SHALL FOLLOW YOU

I turned 45 last Friday, March 15^th. The day before, we signed the agreement for the 7.9 acres of land adjacent to ours that we bought. At work, about 3:00 p.m. on my birthday I was called to the Store Manager’s office and was offered a Back-up Manager position; no salary increase yet but I will be provided training and more options on the Telxon which will make me more qualified to fill up a Department Manager’s position when one becomes available. 

We had a blast at John and mine's joint birthday party last night. I had to work and my good friends cooked for me. When I came home, all I had to do was to change my clothes and eat. There were lots of food and loads of fun. Good friends came to share the day with us. I cannot thank God enough for the many wonderful blessings He bestow. 

Even though I was dead tired last night, God made me see today’s devotion from WAU- my favorite Psalm (the 23^rd) and I was given a new insight to it. It was the first time that the focus was not on Jesus as my shepherd but the conclusion – GOODNESS AND MERCY SHALL FOLLOW ME ALL THE DAYS OF MY LIFE and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. 

My friends, for 45 years, I am a living testimony of this verse. He has blessed me immensely, protected me and gave me a lot of life’s hard-earned lessons. To enumerate some, bear with me.

 When I was 2 years old, Daddy had a most pressing trial in his life and Mamang Pendie took us under his wings. I had 2 near fatal falls from our Indian mango trees when I was in grade school. I was given good Christian education. He made me attend high school and college in all-exclusive Catholic school for girls which solidified the Christian foundation laid for me by my mom and her mother, my Inay Salud.

When I was little, I had an almost drowning experience but I was delivered from it too. He gave me friends along the way, most of whom I am away from now but still in contact with. Time and space are not boundaries when it comes to friendship. God made me reconnect with them on Facebook.

I was blessed with parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, relatives and friends who truly care for me. I may not be rich materially but they are my wealth. I was blessed with wonderful children and husband who may be difficult at times but who loves me anyway. 

I’ve had my share of fame. I was chosen as muse of the most prestigious club in our town when I was 16. I rubbed elbows with the rich and famous when I was working in the Philippines. I can say I have led a good life. I slept in five-star hotels, visited places. In fact, on Saturday, MJ and I together with good friends will leave for Washington DC.

I may not have fulfilled my dream of becoming a lawyer but He has blessed me with 2 college degrees, must have been 3 if I pursued my MBA. But I have also learned that degrees, fame, fortune, high position and properties do not not make you a better person. Apart from God, we are NOTHING!

He has taught me humility and patience through tribulations. I have learned that no amount of money in the world can make you happy. Peace, contentment and joy comes only in knowing Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. There is no other way.

Yes, goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life. They do even if you have not decided to follow the Lord yet. But it doubles if not triples as soon as you do. Am I saying you will not have problems or suffering if you do? I don’t. But there is peace and joy in knowing that we are never alone even if our spouse, children, parents, relatives and friends abandon or desert us. God is with us. He is goodness and mercy.

Lord God, maker of heaven and earth. I could never thank you enough for the gift of life, and for the gift of your son Jesus Christ who assured us that we can have life when this one is over. May I not defer from offering help when needed, may I continue to follow you and share your love with others any way I can. I know that only goodness and mercy shall follow me all the day of my life and I shall dwell in your house forever. Amen.  

Meditation: Psalm 23

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

² He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

³ He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

⁴ Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

⁵ Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

⁶ Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.

--that in all things God may be glorified

THROUGH THE EYES OF GRACE

It is easy to say we love God and we believe in God. Anybody can say that. However, the way we conduct ourselves say more than what comes out of our lips. 

I encountered this true story last year. I could not remember if I heard it on the radio or read it in a book. But let me summarize it for you.

A Christian lady sought the advice of her spiritual director. She told him that she's been saved for a long time but something is still not right. She said she's been trying to walk the walk. She attends church regularly, give tithes, try to be nice to strangers and highly participate in socio-civic activities.

However, she said there is still something missing. When the spiritual director prodded her with questions, he was able to detect where the void was. Apparently. the lady had had a falling-out with her mother ten years ago and even though they've been in good terms already, she still held a grudge against her. She has not totally forgiven her in her heart.

She was counseled by her spiritual advisor to talk things over with her mother, tell her how she feels, just let it all out once and for all. She needed to forgive her totally, Then she had to ask for forgiveness for holding on to her unforgiveness for so long.

The lady prayed about it, did what she was advised to do, and she couldn't believe how things have changed. There were no more clouds in her horizon. She felt a big burden was lifted up and that felt so good. Her trip to the doctor even decreased dramatically.

My friends, unforgiveness can make us sick. When we hold on to the negative feelings, they permeate our system and so manifest themselves in illnesses. Most of what's wrong with us are psychosomatic.

When someone does us wrong and hurt us badly, our initial reaction was to get mad. Then we want to get even. Those very bad acts against us that we take to court, even if the prosecutor, judge and the jury say we need to have justice for closure, there is a very faint voice whispering to us "set it free!" 

True closure comes not in achieving justice the human way (a tooth for a tooth and an eye for an eye [Matthew 5:38-39 ) but in forgiveness. I know it is not easy. In fact, that is the hardest thing to do. Everytime you see the person who did you wrong, you remember all the things that he or she did and then the pain becomes raw all over again.

But if you want to set yourself free from the prison of anger, rage and unforgiveness, you have to try harder. First, you can set aside your pain for a while and try to think of all the possible reasons why he or she acted that way. Trust me, if we look past our hurts, we will see that there is always a reason. 

Sometimes the reason is one that we can not understand, but let us go deeper than that. Persons who continually cause other people pain do so because they themselves were victims of painful circumstances, most probably in that crucial stage of self-esteem development that damaged their characters eventually. 

As our highest goal as Christians is to be like Jesus, we need to remind ourselves not of what Jesus would do but of what Jesus did in similar situations. He did not match their sneers with a sneer; He looked at them through the eyes of grace instead. Remember what He said when He was almost out of life in that cross? "FATHER, FORGIVE THEM FOR THEY KNOW NOT WHAT THEY WERE DOING" (Luke 23:34)

That statement is the truth. If they did, they would not have condemned Him to die on the cross. They were blinded by their greed, jealousy and hardened hearts.

So next time your blood is boiling just thinking of that person who's hurt you over and over again, make a mental note: I think he is more pitiful than I am because he is lost, confused and blinded.

Father, I was told to love my enemies and pray for my persecutors. I could not do it by myself for I am another sinful human being. Help me to love the unlovable, reach the unreachable and to do the impossible -- to FORGIVE. Amen."

Meditation: Matthew 18:21-35

Peter approached Jesus and asked him,
“Lord, if my brother sins against me,
how often must I forgive him?
As many as seven times?”
Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times.
That is why the Kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king
who decided to settle accounts with his servants.
When he began the accounting,
a debtor was brought before him who owed him a huge amount.
Since he had no way of paying it back,
his master ordered him to be sold,
along with his wife, his children, and all his property,
in payment of the debt.
At that, the servant fell down, did him homage, and said,
‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back in full.’
Moved with compassion the master of that servant
let him go and forgave him the loan.
When that servant had left, he found one of his fellow servants
who owed him a much smaller amount.
He seized him and started to choke him, demanding,
‘Pay back what you owe.’
Falling to his knees, his fellow servant begged him,
‘Be patient with me, and I will pay you back.’
But he refused.
Instead, he had him put in prison
until he paid back the debt.
Now when his fellow servants saw what had happened,
they were deeply disturbed, and went to their master
and reported the whole affair.
His master summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant!
I forgave you your entire debt because you begged me to.
Should you not have had pity on your fellow servant,
as I had pity on you?’
Then in anger his master handed him over to the torturers
until he should pay back the whole debt.
So will my heavenly Father do to you,
unless each of you forgives your brother from your heart.”

--that in all things God may be glorified

JAVY — BETTER THAN MOST….

Javy was a healthy baby boy when he was born. After 2 years, he was diagnosed with some type of a seizure disorder. He was never the same anymore. His mental growth was repressed.

His parents, Donald and AnnaFe were sad about it but the Lord gave them strength. Anafe had to quit her job so she can be a hands-on mother. She gave Javy all the love he can get. So did Donald and their elder son Yuan.

Donald had to go overseas in order to earn more for his family. He wanted to be able to afford the best treatment for Javy. He has plans of getting them next year. But the Lord has another plan in mind. He called Javy back home today. He would have been 8 on the 10th this month.

To the human mind, it’s a pity that Javy had to have that condition, and that he passed away very young. I am sure everyone who saw him wished that life for him was different.

But you know what? Truth of the matter is — Javy’s life’s been better than yours and mine! Javy was SINLESS save for the original sin that he inherited from Adam and Eve. But that was gone, too! I attended Javy’s baptismal party.

Javy was pure, blameless and innocent. He is to be envied because He did not sin at all. No foul language ever escaped his mouth. He brought only joy and happiness to his family and those who love him.

I believe that when Javy passed on from this life to the next, He went straight into Jesus’ loving arms. He felt the ultimate love one can ever feel. And I can say without a doubt that he is 100% happy and truly home, praising God in heaven. He has no condition at all over there; he is healthy, happy and joyful. He is better than most if not all of us.

To all who love Javy, I issue this challenge. If you want to see Javy again, you better make sure that you are saved. Because only those who are saved can enter the Kingdom of God in heaven.  The same challenge goes to all who read this. If you want eternal joy and happiness and not fire and damnation, accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, repent of your sins and confess Jesus as the Lord of your life. The choice is yours.

Heavenly Father, author of life, we thank you for almost 8 years of having Javy with us. We praise Your holy name for the blessing of his condition which ensured that he was blameless in Your eyes. May you bring healing, strength and hope to all those who are greatly affected by Javy’s passing and may they realize how fortunate and blessed is he. Amen.

Meditation: Luke 18:15-17

People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. ¹⁶ But Jesus called the children to him and said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. ¹⁷ Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”

– that in all things God may be glorified

GOD WILL MAKE IT RIGHT

I do not think highly of myself because I am but a sinner. But I know what I am capable of. God has blessed me with a quick mind and a lot more talents than I could ever ask for. And I acknowledge that I could not do anything without God, and that without Him, I am nothing.

I applied for a higher position in my job but I did not get it. Since I did not want to be jobless before Christmas, I accepted their offer even though it gave me a pay cut of $4.58 per hour. I work hard and I pick-up fast, so modesty aside, I feel it is unfair whenever I see those who got higher positions that look lost almost everyday because they do not know what they were doing. It feels funny for sometimes I have to show my bosses how to do things instead of the other way around.

But God has answered my silent questions in today’s reading. It shows how the poor and those who suffer are closest to God’s heart. Of all the parables Jesus told, this is the only one that He named a character – Lazarus. In the others, He called one a prodigal son, another a rich young man, the vineyard owner, the sower. All nameless.

So why was Lazarus very important? It’s because of who and what he symbolizes. A poor beggar, his life on earth was spent begging at the table of the rich man who couldn’t probably finish all the food laid on their tables. Yet, he couldn’t spare him a decent meal.

When they both died, Lazarus found solace at the bosom of Abraham while the rich man went to hell. God righted the injustice brought about by the rich man’s lack of love, mercy and compassion to a fellow in need. It surely would not hurt him to spare some to help Lazarus but he CHOSE not to.

This is a very important lesson Jesus wants to tell all of us. When God created the world, He meant for it to be a perfect one. But man sinned. That fall from grace cost us death. But Jesus paid for that with His own life. It is only but natural that we do good any way that we can. We should not just think of ourselves and how we could make money all the time. We must not turn our backs on those who need our help.

We have a duty as Christians to show love to EVERY human being within our reach that needs it.

Jesus looks at our HEART because to Him, LOVE is the most important thing. A whole chapter defined it and as the last verse of 1 Corinthians 13 says “Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love.”

I know that all the things that happen to my life have reasons, most of them I could not understand until He reveals them to me. But I have hope as I have faith in God’s love, whatever there are that to me seems so unfair right now, He will make it right in His time.

“Lord God in heaven, You are the fairest, loving God of all. Help us to understand that we may suffer injustice right now but You will make them right in the proper time. May we always thank You for the many many blessings we sometimes take for granted. In the mighty name of Jesus, with the Holy Spirit I pray. Amen.”

Meditation: Luke 16:19-31

Jesus said to the Pharisees:
“There was a rich man who dressed in purple garments and fine linen
and dined sumptuously each day.
And lying at his door was a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores,
who would gladly have eaten his fill of the scraps
that fell from the rich man’s table.
Dogs even used to come and lick his sores.
When the poor man died,
he was carried away by angels to the bosom of Abraham.
The rich man also died and was buried,
and from the netherworld, where he was in torment,
he raised his eyes and saw Abraham far off
and Lazarus at his side.
And he cried out, ‘Father Abraham, have pity on me.
Send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue,
for I am suffering torment in these flames.’
Abraham replied, ‘My child,
remember that you received what was good during your lifetime
while Lazarus likewise received what was bad;
but now he is comforted here, whereas you are tormented.
Moreover, between us and you a great chasm is established
to prevent anyone from crossing
who might wish to go from our side to yours
or from your side to ours.’
He said, ‘Then I beg you, father, send him
to my father’s house,
for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them,
lest they too come to this place of torment.’
But Abraham replied, ‘They have Moses and the prophets.
Let them listen to them.’
He said, ‘Oh no, father Abraham,
but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.’
Then Abraham said,
‘If they will not listen to Moses and the prophets,
neither will they be persuaded
if someone should rise from the dead.’“

–that in all things God may be glorified

WHAT ARE YOU IN CHARGE OF?

This morning, John had to go somewhere for a very short time. Johnathan was at a friend's house so it was Ryan, Jonei and Peter in the house. They have no school today due to the heavy rains which left other roads flooded yesterday.

When I got to the kitchen, I asked Jonei if her father has left. She thought he did so she told me "yes". Then she said "Ryan's in charge of me and I'm in charge of Peter. Peter's in charge of the teddy bear."

I thought what she said was cute and funny. But you know what? It made me think. To Jonei's mind, we are all in-charge of someone when the one truly in charge's not around. I think it clearly portrays our role as Christians. We are not only responsible for ourselves. We are responsible for others as well. Each man is our brother and each man should be our friend. That is what Jesus would want us to have for a mindset.

Everything boils down to love. If we love God, it follows that we love others as well, not only our family and friends but especially strangers -- the poor, the sick and the needy. Those were the people closest to Jesus' heart.

If you see someone starving, feed him. If they need clothes, give some of yours. For sure, you have more than enough. If they are in need, help them. If they are in grief, console them. If they need a shoulder to cry on, offer yours. 

There are many more ways that we can show our love to others. I have heard this story from someone, I just couldn't remember when. A man received a message that Jesus was going to visit him and so he was waiting. He was very excited. But it's already been a while and He has not shown up yet.

In the meantime. there was a car that broke down in front of his house. He offered them help in fixing it. Then the neighbor came to borrow his lawn mower since they have not replaced their old one and the grass badly needs cutting.  After he ate supper, his coworker called him if he can go to the hospital to drive him home. It was almost midnight when he was able to come home.

He was so tired and when he was already in bed, he was thinking why Jesus never came. Then as he was asking that, the faces of all those whom he helped earlier flashed in his mind. Then the last one was Jesus'. Now he understood. 

Jesus said "whatever you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me." The doubt has been erased from his mind. Jesus did visit him afterall.

Brothers and sisters, everyday we wake up, we have a choice - to be responsible for others or  go about our own selfish way. What would you choose: to be in-charge of a person or to be in-charge of a teddy bear?

Heavenly Father, take away the evil thoughts in my mind. Replace them with godly ones so I may be able to serve and glorify Your holy name. Amen.

Meditation: Isaiah 1: 10, 16-20

Hear the word of the LORD,
princes of Sodom!
Listen to the instruction of our God,
people of Gomorrah!

Wash yourselves clean!
Put away your misdeeds from before my eyes;
cease doing evil; learn to do good.
Make justice your aim: redress the wronged,
hear the orphan’s plea, defend the widow.

Come now, let us set things right,
says the LORD:
Though your sins be like scarlet,
they may become white as snow;
Though they be crimson red,
they may become white as wool.
If you are willing, and obey,
you shall eat the good things of the land;
But if you refuse and resist,
the sword shall consume you:
for the mouth of the LORD has spoken!

--that in all things God maybe glorified

OUR HIGHEST GOOD

When Carol and her husband Jim moved to their new place, they had to find a church. It is not practical to travel 2 hours one way just to go to a church. They finally decided on one. The people were very nice, friendly, and they feel very welcome.

One parishioner became over friendly to the couple. He was always there to offer his help to them, even mention their every activity in the congregation whenever praises and prayer requests were asked for.

Carol did not know that he does the same everytime there's a new female member that come in. She was touched by the extra attention. This man does not only represent the physical attributes she was wishing for when she was younger, he also knows how to treat a woman right. And so Carol fell for him. 

Carol told Jim about it. Jim cried but he did not condemn her. He asked her to stay. He talked to her and prayed to God about it. He is not giving up. It truly hurts but he vowed to love her for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health. 

Meanwhile, Carol was very determined to be with the man of her dreams. Imagine, he was single and he could have chosen a single woman but he chose her instead. So she started being ugly towards Jim. But Jim's love persevered. He let Carol drive his car even though he knows where she was going.

Jim did n0t give up. He did all he can to save their marriage. God heard Jim's prayers (finally) after 2 months. Carol did not leave him. She stayed with Jim. Jim's love for Carol did not diminish at all.

My friends, it sounds like a good story from a book but this one is true. I've read it somewhere. 

On Wednesday, 13 May 1981, in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican City, Pope John Paul II was shot and critically wounded by Mehmet Ali  Ağca while he was entering the square. The Pope was struck four times, and suffered severe blood loss. 

Following his shooting, Pope John Paul II asked people to "pray for my brother (Ağca), whom I have sincerely forgiven." Although Ağca had been quoted as saying that "to me [the Pope] was the incarnation of all that is capitalism", and had attempted to murder him, Ağca developed a friendship with the pontiff. In 1983, he and Ağca met and spoke privately at the prison where Ağca was being held. The Pope was also in touch with Ağca's family over the years, meeting his mother in 1987 and his brother a decade later.

My friends, what separates a true Christian from the others is GRACE. Grace is treating others not as they deserve, but as God wishes them to be treated -- with loving kindness and tender mercy. God is good to the just as well as the unjust. His love embraces sinners and saints alike.  

God seeks our highest good and teaches us to seek the greatest good of others, even those who hate and abuse us. Our love for others, even those who are ungrateful and selfish towards us, must be marked by the same kindness and mercy which God has shown to us.

Yes, it is easier to show kindness and mercy when we can expect to benefit from doing so. But it is very very hard when we can expect nothing in return. Would you lend money to somebody whom you know could not repay you even though they promise you they will? 

Our prayers for those who do us wrong both breaks the power of revenge and releases the power of love to do good in the face of evil.

How was Jim able to forgive Carol and still love her unconditionally? What made Pope John Paul II ask for prayers for Mehmet Agca and call him my brother? How can we possibly love those who cause us harm and ill-will? 

My friends, our highest good is to be able to treat others with love just like Jesus did. With God all things are possible. He gives power and grace to those who believe and accept the gift of the Holy Spirit. His love conquers all, even our hurts, fears, prejudices and griefs. Only the cross of Jesus Christ can free us from the tyranny of malice, hatred, revenge, and resentment and gives us the courage to return evil with good. Such love and grace has power to heal and to save from destruction. 

Most loving Father, we are sinners and there is nothing we can do to earn our salvation. Your grace is enough. May we in turn show grace and mercy to others with the help of Your Holy Spirit. In the most precious name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Meditation: Luke 6:36-38

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

“Stop judging and you will not be judged.
Stop condemning and you will not be condemned.
Forgive and you will be forgiven.
Give and gifts will be given to you;
a good measure, packed together, shaken down, and overflowing,
will be poured into your lap.
For the measure with which you measure
will in return be measured out to you.”

--that in all things God will be glorified

THE MESSAGE

If you read yesterday's blog, you know who Tim Joyner is. He is the man whose truck fell into the shoulder, jerked his wheels hard to the left and capsized it instead. God kept me awake the whole night because if I were sound asleep, I probably would have valued sleep more than getting up, lighting candles and praying for him even if I didn't know his name or who he was.

I guess God did not want to end my story there. It was not enough that Tim Joyner's injuries were minor, that he was not in a critical condition. He wanted me to do more.

This morning, I was in Peter's bedroom still trying to tidy things up when John reminded me it's Sunday. He knows I could get so engrossed in something that I would be lost in time and space. 

As I was getting ready for church, I heard John say that something about a man picking up things from the accident site. I said "Tim Joyner?" He said yes. 

For once, we were early getting out of the house so I looked at the shed where John's mice were transferred. John saw a lizard and went back to the house to put it in the lizard's tank. On the way to the van, I saw the man (Tim Joyner) was still there so I told Ryan to tell his dad I would talk to the man and just pick me up there. 

John said it's not proper for me to walk there so I got into the van. He stopped in front of Tim so I could talk to him. 

I told Tim what happened, and how God made me pray for him. He said he's thankful that it happened near our place for we might not have heard it if the truck capsized on the other side. I told him how God gave me the sense of peace after I prayed; that I knew everything's going to be alright.

Who would have thought that someone not wearing a seatbelt, whose one foot was outside of the window while the other was in the windshield, who was unconscious the whole time, would be  up and about the next day?

He took his hat off and I saw the bruises around his left eye and the forehead. It was nothing but a miracle. And then I told Tim Joyner the message God wants me to give him. I said "I just want you to know that He wants me to tell you this: JESUS LOVES YOU!"

My dear brothers and sisters, God wanted me to tell Tim Joyner how much Jesus loves him. He said that message is not only for Tim, but for each and everyone of us.

Truth of the matter is, Jesus loves you and me. I am sure you could recall moments when He has saved you or your loved one from something -  a bad decision, accident, injury, hunger, poverty, from near-death experience. 

That speeding ticket you've got and paid for was not to punish you, it's to save you from future accidents by paying attention to the speed limit. That 10-20% artery blockage could have been 90% requiring a by-pass surgery. Your broken heart may be depressing but aren't you glad you're not fighting over custody right now?  You might have lost a son but you still have other children who needs your love and attention.

The list could go on and on. I didn't want a broken home but if I did not, I would not have met John and there would not be Jonei and Peter in my life.

My point is, let us not dwell on our pains and sufferings; on the what might have beens and what ifs. Rather, let's focus on what we have and the many blessings we've been given. They are the expression of God's absolute love.

If we know how much Jesus loves us, we would not keep it to ourselves. We would proclaim to to everyone; shout it out. He loves you -- so much that He sent Jesus to die in your behalf so you might live with Him in heaven. Go tell the world!

"Father, in my distress, it's You I call and You have not failed me. You've delivered me from death brought about by my iniquities. Deliver me from every evil and grant me peace in Your day; may Your light shine through me so others would realize how much You love them. And may your glory be revealed at all times. Amen."

Meditation: John 3:16-18

¹⁶ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him. ¹⁸ Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.

--that in all things God may be glorified

ALL IN A DAY

Last night, I couldn't go to sleep. I've been tossing and turning because my stomach was hurting. I went to bed at 11:30 p.m. but was still wide awake at 12:45 a.m. so I decided to write my blog because sleep was eluding me anyway. I had frequent visits to the bathroom but I did not do anything. I even had a bucket with me in case I throw up. 

About 1:15 a.m., Jonei went to my room saying she puked in her floor. I said it was okay and I would clean it up. I thanked God it was in her bed and not in her floor. And it didn't stink at all. I was glad then that I stayed up. Otherwise, John would have been awaken and not too happy had he been the one to clean her mess. I had to change her sheets and make sure she has a bucket in bed in case she had to do it again. She went back to sleep swiftly. I thanked God and lifted her up in prayer.

At 5:23 a.m., we heard the screeching sound of a break followed by a loud thud. I asked John "is that an accident?" He said it sounds like it. He went out to check it. Part of me wanted to come but I couldn't because of my tummy and partly because I am a coward when it comes to those things. I am afraid of blood. I did not know why my heart was beating so fast and I felt cold inside.

What I did immediately was say a prayer that it was not tragic for whoever and whatever was involved in the accident, that God will protect them; that no one would die. I said prayers over and over again, trusting that the Lord will do something. Then my heart calmed down. I felt a sense of peace.

After I prayed, I looked out the window but couldn't see anything, Then a truck passed by and I saw something like smoke. I was puzzled why the truck did not bother to stop at the scene. I knew John knows what to do in an emergency like that but I did not know if he bothered to bring a phone with him to call 911.I just wished he did. 

The more sleep eluded me and then I decided to light two (2) candles for the intention of the accident. John has not come back so something must have happened.

Several minutes later, I heard our dogs howling. They do that whenever they hear sirens or ambulance passing by. I thanked God that they arrived. When I looked out the window again, there were firetrucks, EMS and police cars.

When John finally came in the door, I asked him what happened. He said a man named Tim Joyner driving a 4-door chevy 4 X 4 truck  decided to pass a vehicle by Paradise Lakes and ended upside down near our neighbor's house. He said the neighbor was there first (he was closest) but it was him who called 911. He said it took 40 minutes for them to pull him out of the truck. Tim was not wearing a seatbelt, one leg was outside the window and the other was in the windshield. He said he did not know if his legs were okay but for sure he had a broken arm. He said he was lucky he did not die.

I thanked God he was  not critical and after some time I finally fell asleep.   I woke up 4 minutes til 11:00 a.m. The boys were getting ready to move Peter's bed, toys and clothes to the extra room which will be his  own bedroom. Johnathan and Ryan will again have the room to themselves. John had given them orders on what to do and did not even tell me. I wanted Peter to upgrade to a twin bed already but John said he will still use his toddler bed. The big lizard tank will stay in the room since it's very heavy to move and it has no place for it yet. There were again battle of the wills and tongues.

Before eating lunch, John said he wanted to watch a movie in the theater. I was opposed to it because I still was unsure if my stomach was okay. Besides, Jonei was sick. She threw up twice last night. The boys were nagging me about going. If you truly know me, you would know I do not like that at all. I felt as if they were deciding for me and that is what I've had enough of in my life. In my desire to keep peace and respect others, I agreed to their bidding even if that was not what I wanted.  So I was irritated and aggravated that resulted in more argument between me and John.

They were ready to go without Jonei and myself when I heard Jonei say "I want to go to the movies." So we all went. On the way there, we stopped at the gas station in Southport. I was talking with my friend Amy on the phone. I saw the kids get out of the van to go to the bathroom. Then John tossed the card on me and we drove away. I was still talking to Amy and at the Lynn Haven bridge, I decided to look back to where Peter was seating. He was not there. The seats were empty! The kids were left at the gas station. We turned around to get them. John was a bit mad but I laughed so hard so he mellowed down. 

I saw Peter, Jonei and Johnathan at the gas station but Ryan was not there. I asked them where Ryan was. He was apparently in the back, sleeping. 

At the mall, we watched "The Rise of the Guardian". It was a very good movie for everybody. We all enjoyed it. It was another "good triumphing over evil" movie but this one's plot was truly spectacular. The scene that had the greatest impact on me was when Pitch tried to eliminate all the light in the earth. The light represents those who believed in any of the guardians. There were 7 left and Pitch was able to extinguish all 6 but 1. 

That one boy (Jamie) made the difference. He believed and when everybody else gave up, he asked for a sign that what he believed in was true. And he got it.

My friends, there are many things that could happen in one (1) day. We relax, may be happy one moment, receive good news, do our devotions, then next thing we know, we face temptations, we argue, we see things we do not want to see, say things we do not want to say, go through things we'd rather not. But at the end of the day, we will realize that it's all been good. Every single day, there are  lessons to be learned.

Today, these are the things that God wanted me to know: 1) He is in control. 2) He kept me awake to tend to Jonei's need and so that I could pray for Tim Joyner. 3) Prayer is very effective. 4) I need to be a better mother 5) I should not lose heart when I fail because even His apostles failed even when Jesus was right beside them 6) just like in majority of the movies we see, good always triumph over evil. We should never ever doubt that.

Last but not the least, faith is important. We should never give up on our faith because God is real. He is our only hope and the one who truly loves us. 

"Father in heaven, thank you for this day. Thank you for telling me that one person can make a difference; that even though we fall short of your expectations, You still look at us with loving eyes and remember only the good things that we do. Help us to remember this seemingly impossible truth and that with you, all things are possible. Amen." 

Meditation: Philippians 3:20-4:1

Brothers and sisters:
Our citizenship is in heaven,
and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
He will change our lowly body
to conform with his glorified body
by the power that enables him also
to bring all things into subjection to himself.

Therefore, my brothers and sisters,
whom I love and long for, my joy and crown,
in this way stand firm in the Lord, beloved.

--that in all things God may be glorified

GOD'S PERFECT WAY

When I saw this week's schedule 3 weeks ago, I was not happy. First, I only got 37 hours instead of 40. 2nd, today, I was scheduled for 5 hours only. I even asked Hatch, my ASM, why did you schedule me for 5 hours when you know I live in the boonies? 2 out of those five   hours will just be gas money so it's not worth coming to work at all.

3rd, I work Sunday-Wednesday, Thursday off, work Friday and Sat off again. Why didn't I get 2 days off in a row?

Today, I finally understood why. Yesterday, my stomach was very upset and I had to watch what I eat for 48 hours according to my nurse/cousin Jessica so what I eat did not give me all the energy I needed. My ZMS Dena even asked me if I wanted to stay and work my full 8 hours since nobody was coming to work after 4 p.m. in our area. I said I couldn't as I still was not feeling too good.

Sherry and I were even talking about it. Now I appreciate that I wasn't given the full 8 hours today. I have the weekend (tomorrow and Sunday) off again. And today's word validated God's message to me and to everybody.

The Lord, our God is the God of perfect timing. He knew I would need shorter working hours today. He knew because He is God. He is omniscient. I was just so awed.... and thankful.

My dear brothers and sisters, I am sure you have had similar experience/s wherein you were asking why things happen then later on the reason was revealed to you and then you realize it was for your own good.

This just proves that there is SOMEONE who is truly in control of our life. Nothing happens by accident. Everything has a purpose and a reason. There is a Master Planner who designed everything in the universe and on this earth.

As I have written before, He put people in our life for a purpose. We do not meet them by accident. He alone decides the who, when and where in our life. Like friends and relationships. Our parents, siblings and children. We do not choose them. They were given to us because He deems they are the best suited for His purpose.

He gives and He takes away. Only He has the right to do that. It is indeed very painful to lose a loved one. But there is always a good reason for it, as hard as it may be for our human minds to fathom. The more we dwell on our loss, the more miserable we become. On the other hand, the more we trust God and His ways, the easier for us to bear the pain. The pain subsides and eventually a new hope springs up, the hope that it is all for God's glory.

If you lost a loved one to death, be comforted by the thought that as Jesus rose from the dead, so will all those who believe and follow Him. If your loved one betrayed you for another, they will not be completely happy for they will always have their guilt haunting them. Either way, cheer up! He is our shield, protection and strength. God has plans for you. And remember, His ways are perfect!

"I couldn't help but be amazed by Your love, O God! Who am I but a sinner! Yet, you love me more than anyone ever could. In fact, You love me even more than I love myself. I fall, yet you're always ready to forgive. I do not deserve Your love but You deemed I am worthy. I cannot thank and praise You enough. All praise, honor and glory be to You Almighty Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever. Amen."

Meditation: Psalm 18:30-36

God’s way is perfect.
All the Lord’s promises prove true.
He is a shield for all who look to him for protection.
³¹ For who is God except the Lord? Who but our God is a solid rock? ³² God arms me with strength, and he makes my way perfect.
³³ He makes me as surefooted as a deer, enabling me to stand on mountain heights.
³⁴ He trains my hands for battle; he strengthens my arm to draw a bronze bow.
³⁵ You have given me your shield of victory. Your right hand supports me; your help has made me great.
³⁶ You have made a wide path for my feet to keep them from slipping.

--that in all things God may be glorified

WHEN GOOD FRIENDS ARE HARD TO FIND

They say you can tell who your real friends are when you are in need......

My stomach's been upset since 12:30 a.m. It was so bad I had to be in the bathroom about 10 times before 6:00 a.m. We had an appointment at 10:00 a.m. in town. We ate at Chow Time for lunch but I had to watch what I eat so I just had a piece of bread, mushrooms, a bit of noodles and a small bowl of soup.

At suppertime, I wanted to eat something better so I could have strength for tomorrow's work. But my stomach was still bothering me so I could not and did not want to cook. I called Divina to ask what they're having for supper. She said she's not cooking anything because they were busy. When she asked why I was asking, I told her I was just wondering if what they're having is something I like and then told her my condition. That was 5:50 p.m. I told her never mind, I'll just see what I can eat.

She asked me if I could wait 'til 6:30 p.m. She cooked rice, vegetables and brought me a can of sprite. This was not the first time she took care of me when I was sick. Another time, she cooked fish for me when I was sick a few months ago.

Last Friday, John was brought to the ER via an ambulance. On the way to the ER, I called Ellen as she lives in Chipley. The first thing she told me was "I can walk to the Chipley Hospital, it's kind of near our house. I chose to pick her up instead so she did not have to walk. John was discharged from the hospital, and Ellen decided to go home with us and let her husband Arthur pick her up later.

At the house, she asked me what can she do to help. She said she will cook food but John did not like anything to eat. I finally convinced him to eat noodles which Ellen wanted to help cook.

My friends, I may not be rich materially but I am rich in friends. True friends are real blessings from God. To me, they are the extension of God's hands.

I saw two Filipina acquaintances at Chow Time earlier. They were telling me about friends who they do not want to be associated with anymore. I understand where they were coming from. I told them to go with their guts.

Sometimes, the people who we think are our friends are really not. Some stick only in good times and disappear in hard times, when we are down. It happened to my father when we were younger. When Daddy was prosperous, we had visitors in the house everyday. My father had good faith in everybody. It is not hard to get in his good graces.

When my father went down because of a bad financial investment, those friends who frequented our house stopped coming. I guess I've observed that some people want to be your friend if they can get anything out of you. And when they couldn't anymore, they stop being your friend.

There are many more true stories of friendship and betrayal. Spouses who their better halves vow to be their soul mates leave their partner for another person. Best friends who stab the other in the back; trusted colleagues selling out for monetary gain.

Brothers and sisters, we humans are weak, fallen beings. We are prone to sin. No one is exempted (Romans 3:23). But you know what is amazing? God knows this. He knows our very nature because He is the one who created us. He sent us His Son Jesus Christ to die a criminal's death to save us from sure death and give us eternal life.

Jesus, in fact, made this statement to His Apostles: "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if you do what I command you." (John 15:13-14). Jesus' friends love God and one another. They stick to their friends no matter what.

It is very assuring to know that even if our friends disappoint and betray us, we have a friend in Jesus. He is the only one who truly understands us, how we feel, and loves us even if He knows our weaknesses, all of our darkest thoughts. He will never betray us. He always has ears ready to hear us. All we need to do is call.

Today's reading says ASK.... SEEK... & KNOCK. If you haven't made that decision yet, I urge you to trust the Lord now. You do not know what you're missing!

"O sweet Jesus, no one is a better friend than You. Help me to always remember that. May I always be a true friend to those who trusted me as their own. Amen."

Meditation: Matthew 7:7-12

Jesus said to his disciples:
“Ask and it will be given to you;
seek and you will find;
knock and the door will be opened to you.
For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds;
and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Which one of you would hand his son a stone
when he asked for a loaf of bread,
or a snake when he asked for a fish?
If you then, who are wicked,
know how to give good gifts to your children,
how much more will your heavenly Father give good things
to those who ask him.

“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you.
This is the law and the prophets.”

--that in all things God may be glorified