Kids for Christ Thanksgiving Party

Thank you Lord for the lives of these kids.. We've learned a lot.

(pictures taken during their kids for Christ thanksgiving party, more pictures here)

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
(Psalms 127:3-5 ESV)

Bible School or Graduate School?

(testimony I wrote for Tigib)

About six months ago, I was thinking about going back to school. I was considering taking up a Masteral degree in BU if ever I would have the capacity to make ends meet. Financial problems do not end. As I get hold of the “weighing scales” of my different options, I ended up asking myself, “what for?” Will I do it to trounce boredom? Or to awaken my mind that is gradually shattered by the rusting of memory? Or maybe, I have this hidden agenda – to be someone whom my family would be proud of. I had that foolish notion to desire achieving more until I was reminded, it’s not about me, it’s about Him.

GRADUATE SCHOOL OR BIBLE SCHOOL?

Good thing, the moment I was thinking about entering the graduate school, I got news about the opening of classes in BCCL. The moment I got the information, I had this

pound in my heart, “this is a chance I should not miss”. Why?

For about two years in a walk with Jesus, I have encountered many questions, and no matter how hard I try to dig out information from the internet and books, I always find myself discontented with the answers I find. I have little knowledge about God compared with others. But you know what? I always have this desire to know Him more. I am sure He is not just that invisible somebody. There’s something awesome about Him that I should seek. And I was thinking that entering BCCL will somehow help me with this.

I wanted to enroll; however, I was put into test before finally deciding to pursue bible school. I lost a job few months ago and my laptop was stolen last March. I was having troubles with finances since I had to produce enough amount at once for the new laptop, which is badly needed for the job I have. It was tough. But God provides. Every day is just a test of faith.

Casting the Burdens Upon Him

I am a freelancer. The time when I was about to decide whether to enroll or not, I had a couple of clients already. Just imagine how ironic the circumstance was. That time was the first month where I will be given the chance to earn an amount that would be twice the cost of my new laptop. To think, from that month onwards, I will have a monthly salary of a junior engineer in Saudi. That is more than what is needed to bring back what was lost. Nonetheless, that job requires me to at least work for 12 hours a day! Bible school requires 3 hours, which is very significant in the freelance job I have. Three hours will cost dollars already. Reckoning all these, I had to decide: will I enroll or not?

One night, I was really burdened. I was hoping that all these rare chances can be grabbed at the same time. But I had to choose - Bible school or the high-paying job? I was crying to God. I was longing for His plan not mine. I was trying to listen to Him. A question suddenly pops out of my mind, “Does your work cause you to be far from God? If so, better end it asap.” After praying to Him, at 1 am, I decided to talk to my client and I resigned. It seemed to be a heart-breaking decision but I realized about an hour after my resignation, I’m free! I felt unloaded. I felt like I was a rubber band that has gone under pressure and now freely moving again.

First Day

I then enrolled at BCCL last July. The programs are subsidized. As far as I can remember, one module is equivalent to the cost of just one unit taken in the graduate school. My salary that time is just enough to make ends meet again. Financially, it was the right decision. But let me tell you, it’s more than that.

As I took the way to the bible school with my brothers and sisters in Christ, I was praying to God, “Lord I did the right decision. Please help me to know You more. I’m eager to learn more about You.” Later, we stepped inside BCCL and as all of us sat and experience the thrill behind our first day of class, the first words that our teacher Mayette wrote on the board have caused blood rushing through my veins. It would sound exaggerated but I want to overstate it further- the hairs at my nape stood to their ends. Our teacher wrote: Knowing God and Knowing about God. That was exactly what I was praying for! It is the very reason why I was there – to know God more, realizing that I only recognize little things about Him. I believe, God has started answering my prayer from that moment on.

What He Is Teaching Me

For the past three months of experiencing God and learning His ways of leadership, I have encountered many changes in life already. For that short period of time, I have learned more about how important it is to undergo the maturing process.

From the last three modules, God has let me understand the business that we are having together. Guess what, the status of my job is great. God has provided the clients that will not demand more time, making it easy for me to deal with the schedule for the ministry and bible school. What a great Boss I have. He is faithful. The kind of partnership we have is just amazing. It has been there for a long time and He was the one who pursued and invited me to join Him. It is the grandest invitation ever.

Such invitation I have received from God has led me to the eagerness to “expand the market”. I also desired to see my family walking with me as we follow God. However, I know, God has the perfect time for that. I have a lot of “rejected proposals” but God gives me the strength to remain unshaken and move forward.

Along the way, God has taught me a lot about my past, present, and future. I am pressing on towards the goal while pushing the obstructions out of the way. He has let me understand why my mom had to pass away, why our family should go through the hardest trials, and why should I see myself to be emotionally battered because of the problems surrounding me. He has let me feel that I am consoled in His arms in every problem. Through Him, I learned that it feels great to praise Him even in the storm. As I learned more through His word, it feels like each stone is added up for the edification of my whole being. God completes and edifies me.

He considers me as His ambassador, His friend, and His child. He has also given me and everyone the calling to lead His people. He knows my strengths and understands where I can use them. He can point out my weaknesses and use them to proclaim how perfect His power is. I am His servant. He is my master.

If I will be put into the same situation, where I will choose between the same options, Over and over again, I will surely choose bible school over any high-paying job or graduate school. God is more important than anything else.

True Achievement

Knowing all of these, I definitely believe that the greatest achievement in life is to see God smile at the end of the day and not the number of diplomas I would get. For the rest of the lessons that He will provide to me through BCCL, I believe, God will continuously answer my prayer, which is to know Him better.

Praise and honor to our God!

Your home for the coolest holiday fun eyeglasses

Holiday fun eyeglasses are now being set as great part of the new trend. Good thing, the internet has a lot to bring when it comes to cool and trendy stuffs. Some may seen expensive while some are just cheap but are of hight quality, just like the $8 Prescription Zenni Glasses. You can check out the New arrivals and the rest of their cool collections at zenniOptical.com.

Hardest problem ever solved

Do you have a problem?

I have.

Noone seems to be free from worries right?

But, do you worry a lot?

Maybe you have a problem with your boyfriend

or girlfriend. With family perhaps. Or the never ending "utang" of your family. Yeah, the bills just cause too much draining. Your dog might have died or your cat if I may guess. Your bully brother might have been nagging you all the time and it just annoys you all day. Maybe you are suffering from the hands of a terror teacher and you are thinking of dropping the subject. Your parents might be over protecting you. You are grounded for 2 weeks. You need money for your project because you don't want your parents to take another month of overtime at work just to make ends meet.

The world is upon your shoulders but don't worry. You just need one shoulder to work. The other shoulder? God will take care of it. He said "take my yoke.. my burdens are light.. I will give you rest.." You and Him will carry the yoke TOGETHER.

Whenever i have problems, I don't take it seriously like how emo's do. I look at the cross and see that I am just having a "small time" problem. The cross represents the biggest problem ever solved. I don't have to worry because I will not face the furiously angry people who will hit me with blazing blades while mocking at me. They won't spank and beat me mercilessly. And they will not crucify me with the 6-inch nails over my hands and feet.

I've just got a small problem.

God had a big one.

And He was victorious.

Why should I complain.

Jesus never did.

What if..

What if your son,daughter, or younger sibling , whom you love dearly, has been into drugs. Say he/she has murdered a person and now, he/she will be executed. You love him/her and you don't want him/her to get beheaded even though you know he/she has sinned. If there's a way for you to take his position, will you?

Most people will say yes to this, especially parents.

Remember what most parents say?

"isusubo ko nalang ibibigay ko pa sa anak ko.."

Why? Because of unconditional love. A parent denies himself/herself for the sake of his/her child.

You know what, God also feels that way for you. For me.

He has laid down His Godship and became man, to humbly reach us. He suffered from the worst execution ever made. Ever made by whom? The people whom He created. But He is forgiving. He said, "Father forgive them for they don't know what they are doing."

To think, we are all going to be executed eternally in fire.

But He is willing to take the sins that we have done. Because we are His children.

He loves you.

He carried the cross. And died. For you and me.

Because of our redemption from sins, the ultimate love has been witnessed.

Think about this love.

Think about what you have done. Amazingly, you are forgiven.

At His expense.

That's true love.

Greatest love.

Praise our Savior for all He has done.

Praise Him.

Have you accepted His love?

You have the option to accept or not.

He does not force you to accept Him.

But if you allow Him to reside in your heart,

He will be with you forever.

____________

why not read Revelation 3:20

He's waiting for you............

All for God

I've been "googling" my name earlier, just out of curiosity, thinking if somebody is blogging about me (asa! haha). Knowingly, I was reminded of the people who used to persuade me to have a career in the limelight. Yeah, I got some people blogging about me (nyahar!). These people used to push me to go there and sing some songs for them, watch them clap and let me enjoy the applaud of the throng. IT WAS BEFORE. It felt good, honestly, but it's different now. I feel the opposite way. It's like whenever I go and sing or play an instrument in front of the crowd, I'm feeling small (even though physically, I really am small. I know what you're thinking. :-p). It's just that, it feels like it is the least thing I can give Him, because actually, He deserves more than that.

IT IS NOT ABOUT ME. IT IS ALL ABOUT HIM.

I do these things for Him. Only for Him. Who "Him"? Our Father up there. It's all for Him. I want other people to see how marvelous He is. That He can give anything we want to have if only we are willing to give back all the glory that He just deserves. All the talents and skills, these are all from Him, and to Him, these should be offered. It is not about God's selfishness, it is about Him, being deserving of all the glory. All the worship. Why? Because He is God. A Big God. Enormous. Incomparable. Indescribable. Lovely and Beautiful. All powerful. All-knowing. Limitless...and so on.. so forth..

This song is for Him. Let's sing this from our hearts.
He will listen. Trust me.

I Could Sing of Your Love

cover by chibi

i could sing of yo...

Verse:

Over the mountains and the sea,
Your river runs with love for me,
and I will open up my heart
and let the Healer set me free.
I'm happy to be in the truth,
and I will daily lift my hands:
for I will always sing of when
Your love came down.

Chorus:

I could sing of Your love forever,
I could sing of Your love forever,
I could sing of Your love forever,
I could sing of Your love forever. [Repeat]

Bridge:

Oh, I feel like dancing -
it's foolishness I know;
but, when the world has seen the light,
they will dance with joy,
like we're dancing now.

Hold On (33 miles) Chords

Hi, a lot of readers/visitors are requesting for the chords of this song by 33 miles. Here it is.

Hold on - 33 miles cover by chibi

hold on by chibi (...

HOLD ON

verse 1

D A
ive been there a thousand times
Bm A
felt the rain like a thousand knives
G A
and it hurts, i know it hurts

D A
ive been there like a fighter plane
Bm A
tryin to find my way through a hurricane
G A
and its hard, i know its hard

Bm A
dont be afraid you'll make it through
G D G A
just call out to me Ill come running to you

chorus:

D A
hold on hold on
Bm G
when the current pulls you under
Em D
and your heart beats like thunder
Em A
just give me your hand
D A
hold on hold on
Bm G
until the storm is over
Em D
and Ill be fighting for you
Em A
just give me your hand
D
and hold on



(same chords for verse 2)

verse 2

I'll give you hope, I'll give you faith!
And if it's dark, I'll light the way,
For you, for you!
By your side, until the end,
Until you're standing tall again!
I'm here, I'll always be here.
Find More lyrics at www.sweetslyrics.com
And if the tide, sweeps you out to sea,
When your strength is gone, and it's hard to believe!

Hold on, hold on!
When the current pulls you under,
And your heart beats like thunder!
Just give me your hand,
And hold on, hold on!
Until the storm is over.
And I'll be fighting for you,
Just give me your hand!

Besy

This is a composition for my friends. I did this 2 years ago.

Hope you'll enjoy it.

..B'.E.'s'Y..*.. ....

Hold on Tight

I'm excited about this. Claire, a writer from UK, will be sending my siblings their own copies of her book "hold on tight", with her personal messages. I'm sure my brothers and sister will like it.

It's great to know that people like Claire are always ready to share what they have to other people. Glory to God indeed!

"Hold on Tight is the first book in my series of self-development books for children.

It is a story which inspires children to believe in themselves and to follow their dreams, come what may.

Tommy loves the moon and decides one day he’d like to go there himself. His bold dream is dismissed as nonsense by everyone around him, including his parents and the clever little girl next door. But with bravery, persistence and some unexpected help from a fiery new friend, Tommy eventually makes his dream come true." - claire

I'll Press On!

Glory to God for this new composition.

God wants us to press on until we reach the finish line.

Press On!





I'll Press On!
composed and sung by chibi


I

I never thought I'll meet the King
The King of kings, the Lord of lords
I never felt as awesome as this
It's great to be with Jesus

II
With Him I learned how to rejoice
in suffering, serving, believing, and giving
the privilege to grow in His likeness
it keeps me on pressing on

Chorus:

TO die is gain
to live is Christ
He has won me to Himself
I'll run to Him
to win the prize

I'll press on, I'll press on


Bridge:

And You are there to show me the way
Forever we'll see...

Worship concert for God

Just a quick post for today. I have not been visiting my blog for quite some time.

For the past 5 weeks, we have been busy with the practice for the forthcoming concert for God and bible school. I thank Him for all the opportunities that He has been giving me. First is the opportunity to learn more about Him through BCCL, our bible school. Because of new learnings, I press on, doing better not bitter. Thank God for the respite, we are having a 2-week vacation. But we still need to accomplish the take home exam and reaction paper for the Oswald Sanders' Spiritual Leadership. Aside from that, I also need to prepare a testimonial for the school's publication - 'Tigib'. This is such a great privilege from God for me to share how blessed I am today. God is great. Amazing.

Today is thursday, September 24th. Tonight will be our last practice for the concert. I am not that good at playing the keyboard but God knows how I want to make it perfect for Him. I still remember that day when He has let me realize that it is not actually me who is playing, it is Him. For a fact, I cannot really do anything, but He is my strength. I breathe because of Him. Without Him, I am just a corpse. So as thanksgiving for all He has done, it's just right to offer Him everything. He must be glorified because He deserves it.

For all my weaknesses, God is my strength. He is good. He will enable. Tomorrow will be the orientation at the venue and on Saturday, the corporate worship is scheduled. See yah all on Saturday 1-5pm at Albay Astrodome.

God is always with us. ;)

Daraga worship team- group 2

MY BIRTHDAY!

It’s another day lived for God’s glory! I thank Him for this wonderful day.

Last night I was thinking about what special thing to do today. However, I have not come up with the brightest idea. What I know at this very time is that, tho there’s no plan at all, I am very happy. Though I only got 300 pesos in my wallet, I’m in bliss. Praise God! He will provide!

Why am I happy? Small things are just around, and these make me happy. Gifts should not be grand to make my day. Simple greetings from my friends and family will make this special day complete. This is the reason why every birthday, about two days before the big day, I do the countdown myself. I believe that no time should be wasted on frowning over the fact that people forget my day. I work on it so that in advance, they are followed-up! Haha. I don’t want them to feel the guilt of forgetting my birthday. On the other hand, I also don’t want myself feel sad when they forget it. It’s a choice. And I am glad I did the initiative myself. You see, it’s also their choice if they will greet me and celebrate with me or not. The thing is, they are reminded. haha. The one who will be the most excited about the birthday is the celebrator him/herself, so I'd rather do the first move.

My excitement is driven by my heart that is very grateful to God. I am so thankful that God is giving me another year to live.

Another Year Nearer To My Death

Earlier, as a treat to my self, I got the time to watch my favorite movie, “Facing the Giants”. I have watched it for the 5^th time and the ounces of tears are still the same! The story really touches my heart.

What struck me today in that movie is that scene where David and his father are talking about David’s try out for the team. Tears fell when the lines pushed through my heart that “as long as I live, I want people to see how strong God is in my life!”.

Who may know, this might be my last birthday, only God knows what will happen. I trust God. As I always say to myself, God has a plan and things will come in His time. I should not think about my end of time, but rather, think about how to prepare before the end.

Birthday Holiday And Presents From God

God’s gift to me today is to take some “rest”. Last night, one client gave me a birthday holiday, and this morning, another accepted late outputs. In other words, no pressure today! I am planning to start writing the book that I was struck last night. This is a big challenge to me since I am now being granted by God with higher pay on my work. I need to give my best shot in managing my finances. Next sem, I will be sponsoring another scholar. Yey! 3 scholars this year.

I remember how hard it is to make ends meet but truly, nothing is impossible with God. I believe, if God is in my place, He will even give more than what I am giving them. I just want these people know that we have a big God who provides.

I am revealing this because I want other people to be inspired by what God can do. We don’t have to have millions to support others. God knows our needs. All we need is to trust. I remember the last time I had to give my tithe to the church, it was my last money in my wallet. I didn’t want to ask God, “Lord pahiram muna nito ha?”. Trusting God that He will provide, I gave it to Him that day, when I don’t have anything but my fare to guinobatan. You know what happened? The next day, one client came, and just last week, I had $55 from him. Next week, I will have $60 or more! I can’t help but cry about this, God is just amazing. He is always faithful. He did it many times in my life. Amazing God.

_____

Later I will be back for the rest of what will happen this day! Happy New Year to me! God is so great in my life and I want people to see how great is that word “great”!

Do not boast

Beware.. you might just realize that
you are being too righteous.
Remember God said through the apostle Paul:
No one is righteous.. no one.
(I'm also telling this to myself)

For a couple of times this week, I have encountered people who caused some bruises in my mind, which tries to be sensitive at all times. These people whom I thought to be humble, because they are under a wonderful process called “road to Christ-likeness”, gave impact to me, as a believer of Christ.

This is not to criticize them but for the sake of pondering more on what I have learned. I know some of them for quite a long while now, yet I know, I have more to know about them.

Some people (in particular situations, may include ME) become too careless about relating what they know about God and the bible. The driving force, when they talk about God’s glory, is sometimes not anymore LOVE, but self righteousness and for worse, self-wisdom. When a person has a lot of knowledge about the bible, he/she tends to get drowned of the overflowing principles, which he/she claims to be God’s privilege for him/her. However, when he/she starts to talk, you will feel it – you won’t feel love, but rather, you will feel smaller than you are.

4Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. - 1 Corinthians 13

I believe that when our brothers and sisters in Christ talk, we should feel the LOVE from God, not the boasting tongue. Some will say : Praise God, I have already finished the book of Isaiah, tomorrow I will be reading Micah. But when you look at his/her lifestyle, the reading seemed to be useless. How come he/she uttered praises to God? Let's be careful.

Most of the time, we get tough struggles as we saturate ourselves to God’s word. Satan can use the inputs for us to feel so proud. There are times that we might focus on the teachings of God and not to God Himself anymore. It’s like having a lot of money. You intend to give them to the poor and the church (as what God wants), then realize that you are already considering money as your/others' main source of security. Let’s not forget that money is a tool that should not come between us and God. Same as our mind, it is God’s tool for us to learn. Do not use it for personal security. God is our fortress, shelter, and refuge - not our mind – nor money.

Now, I have learned from God that I need to be more sensitive about the use of His word. It is He who should talk, not me. My mind and mouth are His tools. He is in control. I must not use these to boast. I should let Him stay inside me and purify my heart so that His righteousness (not mine) will come out. My words may hurt people, but God’s word will not. I'd rather use His word, which is the powerful sword against the enemy. Praise God for this realization. By now, I am praying for my brothers and sisters whom I have learned this matter from. I believe God has a way to let them know that He is the only holy and righteous God. No one is perfect enough to have the right to boast about anything. No one.

Developing A Wholesome Relationship

Just few hours ago, I attended a meeting with the worship team and we had a simple activity that promoted transparency within the group. Each one prepared a sheet of paper with his/her name on the top portion of the paper. We folded the paper once and wrote on the left side - “strengths” as the heading then “weaknesses” on the other side. Each one in the circle fills out the 2 boxes. One paper filled, then passed counter-clockwise to the other members of the team. When the paper reached me after revolving around the circle, I started reading out what they had to say about me. In the “weaknesses” box, many of them have the same things to say about me. “Serious and too busy to miss fellowship with us”. I thank God for their honesty. I have realized then that as the head of the team, I need to establish good relationship with them. I need to spend time with them and love them even more.

How can I lead them if I can’t truly love them. That is what I have realized. 1 Thessalonians 2:8 says we have lives to share not just knowledge to pass. God has reminded me that leading them is more than guiding them. Jesus Christ sets the finest example to share life by being our good shepherd – John 10:11.

The Shepherd leads, feeds, nurtures, comforts, corrects, and protects the sheep. He has a good relationship with the sheep that’s why the flock remains following him. The sheep recognizes his voice and eat/drink what he provides, that’s because everyone in the flock trusts him. Building trust is a hard thing to do but in establishing a wholesome relationship with our disciples, it is not an intricate subject at all.

Apostle Paul said: Follow me as I follow Christ – 1 Corinthians 11:1. Truly, a Christian leader follows Christ and inspires others to follow Him as well. Jesus never fails to spend quality time with His disciples so why won’t I follow His example. Thanks to my brothers and sisters who have rebuked me about it. If Jesus is in my place, He will make it a point to spend more time with the team, to empower them and show them that I love them. I will do it as well.

Statistics point out that 68% of people leave a group/organization because of attitude of indifference. God reminded me that to keep the flock from getting scattered, I need to know their indifferences and do something about what I will discover. No matter how different is one member from another, as long as we have the same Christ, we will remain intact with the body. I need to respect them for what or who they are because I actually don’t have the right to reject them. Relationship by God’s grace is the key for me to understand this.
John 10:14, Jesus said: “I know my sheep and they know me. I am willing to die for them.” God called us to join Him in His work, not to govern people. We are tasked to be humble slaves, not slick celebrities. God wants laboring servants who will love His people by having a heart that is willing to die for them. I need to have a clear understanding of the needs of people I am leading to God. I can do this by reaching out to them and care to know their necessities. The sacrificial love that Jesus has set for His disciples is well illustrated when He washed His disciples’ feet – John 13. Jesus did it to show them what they need to learn when Jesus leaves. God wants His disciples to understand the real meaning of servant leadership through that example. Jesus knew exactly how to set it and so the fact that we are here today, believing in our God, Jesus has definitely done an awesome job!

Love is not an emotion, it is an action. God reminded me that it is not enough to tell them I love them. I have to put my words into action. For me to show them I love them, I have to develop a wholesome relationship with them. To attain such ideal relationship, I need to have a more intimate relationship with God first.

Christian leadership is a position of humble, long service. This means I have ample time to develop the relationship God wants me to build up with people. Along the process, God reminds me of these 4 building blocks of relationships: love, trust, respect, understanding. (during the module 2 lesson in ‘Maintaining wholesome relationship.”)

From the lessons, I’ve got to learn that servant leadership is ‘ministry’ and not ‘management’. I should seek vision not objectives. I should appeal to my heart not to my head. My energy should be pulled through passion not control. My concern should be on what is right and not on being right. My focus are on leading people not on managing work. I have faith that all of these will be attained through Jesus. I stand helpless without Jesus.

Today, I have many plans to work out my relationship with the team, fellow believers and even the unbelievers. However, I know God’s plans will always be better than mine. For now, I am praying that God will guide me as I desire to set more time for knowing the team/believers. I am interested to establish relationship with them just like how Jesus shared life with His disciples. Jesus is my guide and so I’ll follow Him. Along this, I will continuously study, pray, obey, and testify to God’s word. As always, I will be putting Jesus first in all things – Matthew 8:34-38.
The next time we will have the same activity, I know God will allow me to never accept the same comments again. God is powerful to change me.

Lanilane Ocbina
JDC
module 2 exam part 2

HOW SWEET THE SOUND

Grace from God is infinite. Limitless. Vast and never-ending. In whichever circumstance in our lives, the truth remains – our eternal God gives everlasting grace. This is what God taught me in the first chapter of the book - “What’s so amazing about grace” by Philip Yancey.

God gives abundantly even though we don’t deserve it. The story of Babette caused a huge impact in my life. It is hard to imagine a person who is willing to give up a large amount for people who don’t even care. Along with this movie, “Babette’s feast”, I also remember the movie “MOST”, which entails the sacrificial love of a father to his son while getting trapped in the wildest dilemma in his life. He is as a bridgemaster and he was once brought to a point where had to choose whom to save between the people in the train or his son. Later on, he opted the salvation of multiple lives in the train over his son’s life. The train crashed his beloved son under it while the people inside the train didn’t know that a father outside is grieving for his son’s death. They are saved but his son died.

If people knew what Babette did, they will laugh at her and apparently, some will call her fool for giving out her money in just a snap. However, in the end, people were transformed. It was a victorious sacrifice. I remember how God sacrificed His son Jesus Christ to let us, His people, know that He is a victorious God who loves us. Some people question His ways: “Why should a loving God let His Son die?” Nonetheless, God has laid down the best plan ever designed – through Jesus Christ.

After Babette’s sacrifice, many people were able to show up their true self. They were renewed at the expense of Babette. Like the story of the bridgemaster and his son, people inside the train were given the chance to change. Most of them decided to live under God’s provisions. Indeed, grace is about chance. It is the chance that we need but we don’t ask for. We receive it and we don’t care. God gives it to us because he knows we need it, and we don’t realize we should have it.

The point brought out in Mark Twain’s way of gathering different animals in a cage and different church leaders in a place is really and interesting fact that made me laugh. Indeed, churches communicate ungrace through lack of unity. Some people just don’t see how much grace they received that’s why they fail to let the infinite grace to flow through them as well.
In the section “A new math of Grace”, I have learned many things about calculating. Grace is immeasurable. It was said that if statistics matters to God, then we are saved by Moses not Jesus, because of Moses’ gauges in the book of numbers. God never counts how much sin we did and He never counts how much He has forgiven us. We are receiving more than enough from Him, yet most of us don’t realize how abusive we become each day.

As I went through the last pages of the chapter, I realize a lot of things about how many times God did this and that out of grace. From the 1:99 lost and saved sheep to the seventy times seven (or seventy seven – in some manuscripts) forgiveness gauge, God’s provisions are always there. He has the most accurate calculator ever, and that calculator surely has no significant numbers, only repeating decimals and infinite numbers.

God’s grace is immesurable. Noone can calculate it. Everyone is unable to see how much more He can give. Philip Yancey did a great job in the book. The first four chapters contain amazing revelations about God, who gives lavishly and unconditionally. I will continue reading and go on discovering how great the God who brings immeasurable forgiveness, understanding, and love is.

Lanilane Ocbina
JDC
module 2 - final exam part 1

Corporate Worship for God

By end of September 2009, we will be joining other churches for a corporate worship. This is a great privilege to witness God's marvelous power. I am also privileged to play the keyboard for God. Praise God. Will be posting more about this soon.

Glory to God.

Band 2 - Daraga Worship team
Churches:
Touch of the Holy Spirit
Jesus our Discipler Church
Mt. of Zion Church

1st line, from left to right:
gay, ryan, joy, jorem, josef

2nd line, left to right:
jun, ariel, budz, mae, salie, marylou, iris, lani, jane



WLs:
salie
iris
ryan
mae
ariel

lead guitar: jane
rythm guitar: budz
drums: jorem
keyboard: lani
bass: josef

dancers:
gay
joy
marylou

When was the last time you’ve heard from God about specific assignment? How did you know it was Him?

One day when I was getting a hold of the bible, I was led to the book of Ecclesiastes. I’ve never realized that this book is containing 12 chapters in 4 leaves. Too short but the messages were really amazing. Full of wisdom, to the extent that anyone who will read it will surely have a change of heart and mind, from worldly to Godly perspectives.

It was a big revelation to me by God, I believe. He led me to this book in perfect timing. Why? Few hours before I have started browsing Ecclesiastes, I was thinking about the task given to me by our pastor, which is to formulate plans for the ministry in Guinobatan. I was actually pressured and something seems to pull me away from the right position. It’s a big task. I am partly excited because that is a big privilege to serve God. But something is telling me I am not worthy (I definitely know who’s telling me that).

Knowing myself, I don’t think I can accomplish such a big mission. I am broke and I was thinking that I cannot finance another youth camp that will be attended by 3 participants and 10 facilitators (like our 1^st super outnumbered youth camp!). But God is faithful, you know what He did? In BCCL, I got a lot of answers. I didn’t realize how selfish I have been. I realize that it is really not about me but about God. It is not me who’s going to work for I am just going to be used by God, who is actually the one working already. God is using mam mayeth to show me the things I need to get rid of. Like a pot, a lot of imperfections are eliminated so I will be molded to a more useful container. It’s painful, but I appreciate the corrections. God wants me to be well. I never thought I was so sick and unwell. But praise God, He has given me the capacity to take the challenge and become moldable in His hands.

The same day, before I was led to Ecclesiastes, I was praying to God, how will I start. It was really surprising that right then, my cousin (in Toronto) sent me an IM. Out of nowhere, he asked me about our “old-rotten” organization that was actually rejected by our highschool principal. He asked me about how we are going to revive the group. I didn’t really expect he will still have such a great support for the group. (guess what? Right at this moment, my cousin signed in!)

It was a great encouragement. The exciting thing about it is that, before my cousin sent his first message that day, I was browsing our picture during the servant-leadership seminar. While browsing the pictures, I was praying to God, “Lord, how will I start”. And that’s it, my cousin came in.

Now the next thing that happened? That day was actually a great surprise to me, because one of our former BS attendees texted me and asked about the possibility of us, being convened again for a BS. Imagine, it was about 3 months since we had our last BS and out of nowhere, he texted. Long ago, it was me and sis ems, my ministry partner, who were texting them about the schedule of our BS, but the opposite happened this time.

A month ago, I resigned from one client, because I had to unload tasks from secular work. Perfect for the circumstance, I have ample time to prepare, plan, and work out the youth ministry. I am so glad that thru the learning that God has given me in BCCL, I am able to comprehend His real purpose and timing. I have understood my real role and His role. It is not me who’s going to work. It is Him. I am just invited to join Him.

Glory to God!

(2nd assignment, CLF- Experiencing God)

God is ...

He is God

He is the first and the last

The Beginning and the End

He is the keeper of creation and the creator of all

He is the Architect of the universe and the manager of all times

He always was, He always is, and he always will be

Unmoved, unchanged, undefeated, and never undone!

He was bruised and brought healing

He was pierced and eased pain

He was persecuted and brought life

He is risen and brings power

He reigns and brings peace

The world can’t understand Him

The armies can’t defeat Him

The schools can’t explain Him and the leaders can’t ignore Him

Herod couldn’t kill Him; the Pharisees couldn’t confuse Him

And the people couldn’t hold Him

Nero couldn’t crush Him and Oprah can’t explain Him away!

He is light, love, longevity and Lord

He is goodness, kindness, gentleness and God

He is holy, righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure

His ways are right, His word is eternal

His will is unchanging and His mind is on me

He is my savior

He is my guide and He is my peace

He is my joy; He is my comfort

He is my Lord and He rules my life

I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise

The power of the powerful; the ancient of days

The ruler of rulers; the leader of leaders

The overseer of the overcomers and is to come

And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size

His goal is a relationship with ME

He will never leave me

Nor forsake me

Never mislead me

Never forget me

Never overlook me and

Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!

When I fall, He lifts me up

When I fail, He forgives

When I am weak, He is strong

When I am lost, He is the way

When I stumble, He steadies me

When I am hurt, He heals me

When I am blind, He leads me

When I am hungry, He feeds me

When I face trials, He is with me

When I face persecution, He shields me

When I face problems, He comforts me

When I face loss, He provides for me

When I face Death, He carries me Home

He is everything for everybody, everywhere, every time, and every way

He is God, He is faithful. I am His and He is mine!

My Father in Heaven can whip the Father of this world.

So if you’re wondering why I feel so secure, understand this…

He said and that settles it.

God is in control, I am on His side

And that means all s well with my soul

Everyday is a blessing because God is!

-source, module 1- Experiencing God, BCCL, “GOD IS”

God can use you no matter how weak you are

Do you always see yourself as a weak person and that God cannot use you for anything in His kingdom? Think again! Why don’t you try discovering the truth about the instruments that God used according to the scriptures.

IN OUR WEAKNESS, GOD’s POWER IS MADE PERFECT!

1. Moses stuttered
2. David’s armor didn’t fit
3. John Mark was rejected by Paul
4. Hosea’s wife was a prostitute
5. Amos only training was in the school of fig tree pruning
6. Jacob was a liar
7. David was too young
8. Timothy had ulcers
9. Peter was afraid of death
10. Lazarus was dead
11. John was self-righteous
12. Jesus was too poor
13. Naomi was a widow
14. Paul was a murderer so was Moses.
15. Jonah ran from God
16. Miriam was a gossip
17. Gideon and Thomas both doubled
18. Jeremiah was depressed and suicidal
19. Elijah was burned out
20. John the Baptist was loudmouth
21. Martha was worrywart
22. Mary was lazy
23. Samson had long hair
24. Noah got drunk
25. Moses had a short fuse… so did Peter, Paul… more more more

What more are you going to say for an excuse? God gave them second chances and they gave glory to His name.

God does not require a job interview. He doesn’t hire and fire like most bosses do because He’s more our Dad than our boss (in spite of being His master in our lives). He doesn’t look on financial gain or loss. He’s neither prejudiced nor partial; judging, grudging, sassy, nor brassy. He’s not deaf to our cry, or blind to our needs.

Satan says, “You’re not worthy”
Jesus says, “So what? I AM.”

Satan looks back and sees your mistakes. God looks back and sees the cross.

Sure there are lots of reasons why God shouldn’t want us. But if we are in love with Him, if we hunger for Him more than our next breath, He’ll use us in spite of who we are, where we’ve been or what we look like.

-source, module 1- Experiencing God, BCCL, “In spite of who we are”

Oxygen

Q- If you will be asked to describe who God is to you, what will you say? Reflect on God's dealings with you and give Him a name.
_______________________________


Oftentimes, I imagine a person in a hospital bed, half dead. Having all the life-supporting apparatuses connected to his body. He’s weak but still struggling. Almost hopeless, yet trying not to give in. When he almost loses his breath, the doctors and nurses try to revive him, and they surely know how to do it. They do everything to let him breath again.

This scenario helps me realize how important breathing is, and how I should be thankful about it. Many times before, I struggled alone. Keeping myself believe that I can do a lot of things by myself. But when I find out that I am just human, and I am weak, I decided to turn to God. I learned that no matter what I have and what I do, when there is no God living in me, I’m just a corpse. Having no life at all.

God is the air that keeps me breathing. And this air that keeps me alive is containing the most abundant element in the earth’s crust – oxygen. Thus, I would say that God is my oxygen. Without Him, I can’t live day. He’s there, I just can’t see Him but I can feel Him, and I know, He’s the one who sustains my breathing.

Any element that combines with Oxygen seems to “enjoy” the resulting compound. One example is water, where two atoms of Hydrogen combine with Oxygen. No doubt, water is the most important compound that we can get hold of. This makes up a large percentage of the blood flowing inside us. We cannot live without it.

Oxygen combines with most elements to form thousands of organic compounds. Hence, God has infinite ways to make great combinations, that’s why I am unique, so are you. Not so long ago, I can still remember my life, having a god called “me”. I do things alone and when I succeed, the credits are earned by me. However by God’s grace, He searched for me and called me. He invited me to carry the yoke with Him. And everything seemed simple and easy. Sometimes, I laugh about the old ‘me’, dealing with my own stuffs while carrying the yoke I’ve designed myself. But God has let me learned from these and He led me to the right yoke. Indeed, combining with God makes everything useful and perfect. So I will make sure, I remain in Him.






Oxygen supports combustion. Without it, there’s no fire. The reason why I am living right now is the fire the God has set within me. I would’ve ended it all but He cared to know me and my needs. How humble He is to look down and carry me out of the cold, dark, and lonely hours of my life. It is great to know that there is a God living in me. He makes me strong and He enables me to produce a contagious fire, so that I will not be the only one who would enjoy the fire He has set.

Ozone (O3), a highly active compound is formed by the action of an electrical discharge or ultraviolet light on oxygen. This is the compound that keeps everyone of us from being burned by the sun’s rays. It serves as our protection.

God is my protector. I know how vulnerable my body is. Anything can happen. I may lose my life today because I don’t have the power to sustain it. But God has. I owe my protection to Him. This life belongs to Him.


Plants and animals need oxygen for respiration. Hospitals prescribe oxygen for patients. About two thirds of the human body and nine tenths of the mass of water is oxygen. God is the oxygen of every man but He seems to be unimportant to some. It’s hurting to know that God is just the “invisible somebody” for most people. Some even say He is the “fictitious one” in the “history book” called bible. However, I know He has a plan. And no one could ever come up with such surprising plan but Him.

This invisible but awesome somebody is watching over me. He is living in me. He is burning inside me. He is protecting me. He is with me. This is how He is not just to me but for everybody.

With all the attributes I have mentioned, I know that countless aspects are yet to be revealed. Oxygen is important. God is. He is invisible but it is great to know that He is just around, working for me (and you too).
I love Him. He is the oxygen that I will forever grasp for.

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Dr. Terry Shintani- “Living Treasure of Hawaii- now a Knight of Saint John

“I am humbled and honored to become part of this humanitarian Order... I look forward to being a part of the international work that the Knights of the Order of St. John have undertaken for nearly a thousand years.”- Dr.Terry Shintani

He deserves it. God is good in his life. Dr.Shintani has never wasted the blessings he has got from above by offering what he has to other people. A true servant-leader indeed.

A lot of people today who are powerful, intelligent, and have got everything in this world, yet, they don't have the heart of service. Unlike them, Dr. Terry Shintani, chose to earn and give. He earned knowledge, worked, and then shared his accomplishments with us.

Dr.Terry Shintani has been a great leader in the field of complementary and integrative medicine, He was honored by being knighted by the Sovereign Order of the Orthodox Knights Hospitaller of Saint John of Jerusalem for his accomplishments in medicine and his years of service to humanity. May 24, 2009- the Order conferred upon him the title of “Knight of Honor” in a formal investiture ceremony that took place in New York City. He has also been designated the “Living Treasure of Hawaii” by the Honpa Hongwanji Mission and is best known for developing the “Shintani Diet”, which became popular for its natural effect weight loss and improvement in health.

WHO IS DR. TERRY SHINTANI?

"Terry Shintani, MD, JD, MPH, KSJ is a physician, attorney, nutritionist, author, lecturer, radio show host and community advocate. He is formally designated a "Living Treasure of Hawaii".

Dr. Shintani is best known for his whole-person health programs and pioneering the Eat More, Weigh Less Diet and the Shintani Diet programs. His Diet Program is featured in the Encyclopedia Britannica. Dr.Shintani's nutrition science works are published in scientific journals such as the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. In the Legal field, he created a landmark law to allow Native Hawaiian practitioners to practice without fear of prosecution. He founded the innovative integrative medicine clinical practice at the Dept of Complementary and Alternative Medicine at the University of Hawaii School of Medicine." continue reading TERRY SHINTANI in wikipedia.

Indeed, Dr. Shintani stands as an inspiration for everyone. He is a model for responsible stewardship. He is investing his intelligence, skills, strength, and everything to God and people. Nothing is wasted in his life. Let's all do the same.

You my friend has your own strengths. It's impossible to think that God has not given you anything to grow and bear fruit. Today, you are challenged to use them for God's glory. Dr. Shintani should have been using what he has for his selfish ambitions but he chose to be "selfless" like what God did. You too has the opportunity to serve. Like God, He came to earth to serve and not to be served.

Good Health from Home Infrared Sauna!

Over the years, Home Infrared Saunas have been great innovations that helped many people solve physical problems like being overweight, having scars on skin, cellulites and more. Today, there are more improvements being introduced in the world of sauna bathing. Among the highlighted breakthroughs that you should know about is the HOME INFRARED SAUNA.

Did you know that infrared saunas can help solve physical ailments? Some studies claim that these infrared saunas can help you maintain:

• *good nervous system
• *good cardiovascular system
• *weight*beauty
• *smooth skin
• *more more more!!

... continue reading Home Infrared Saunas are Good for Your Health

Bible school or Graduate School?

I have been thinking the past few days about pursuing a higher educational degree. However, I found myself caught in the middle of confusion because I also want to get more serious about studying the word of God. So now, I am being trapped in a stern decision making era of my life (grabe sa era!)

I always wish that there are 48 hours in 1 day. I am working often from 8am down to 10pm. After that, I can’t sleep without learning something new from the bible. Before I start working the next day, I need to do my private things with God. 24 hours seems to be too short and I guess, I am not the only one in this world who is experiencing this. I bet, you are also getting through the same situation, aren’t you?

Whatever my decision will be, I will always assure that it will be offered to God. All that I am and all that I do, I want them to be done for the glory of my Father in Heaven.

THY WILL BE DONE.

Too much carbs is bad? No way!

Having a tight diet for losing weight? When we were kids, we didn’t care about these diets. However, as we get older, we tend to be so conscious about the food we eat and how we look. You might have even stared at the mirror this morning and told yourself: “you are what you eat.. and it’s your fault!”. That may sound a little too bitter as you glance on the little bellies on your tummy. You were not as fit as you were before. So what happened? Some might say, it’s about too much carbs. No way!

Among the biggest problems about diet for losing weight is the fact that carbohydrates is being “antagonized” as bad nutrients. There is a lot of misinformation about carbohydrates definition over the last few years, as some popular literatures on dieting promote the benefits of protein while ignoring the use of carbohydrates. So what do most of us miss about carbs? continue reading






Read other posts:

Epidemic of A H1N1 virus

A H1N1 virus and SARS

Diabetes Complications

Sit all day and suffer a stroke!

What Happens When You Laugh

Real Secret to Health

Aerobics for your health

Is the ideal diet for humans based on meat? or is it based on grains? Remember, humans only thrived after the agricultural revolution when we began to eat large amounts of complex carbs from grains. Click here

We Need Grains for Brains

Novel influenza A (H1N1) has been all over the news for the few months. This is the flu virus of swine origin that was first detected in Mexico and the United States some time in March and April this year.

The first novel H1N1 patient in the US was confirmed by laboratory testing at CDC on April 15, 2009. The second patient was confirmed on April 17, 2009. From then, experts confirmed that the virus was spreading from person-to-person. It’s thought to spread in the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread; mainly through the coughs and sneezes of people who are infected by the virus.On April 22, CDC activated its Emergency Operations Center to alert the public health office and so on April 26, 2009, US Government declared a public health emergency. continue reading

HEALTH IS WEALTH

"Have we evolved to be grain-eaters? After all, carbs and B complex from whole grains support the high energy requirement for the optimal function of brain matter."

We Need Grains for Brains

So Forget the Meat!

ALSO READ:

epidemic of A H1N1 virus

Diabetes Complications

Sit all day and suffer a stroke!

What Happens When You Laugh

Real Secret to Health

Aerobics for your health