The Sanctuary

What comes to your mind when you hear the word "Sanctuary"?
 
* a holy or sacred place where we experience a piece of heaven
* may refer to a temple, shrine, church, altar and blessed sacrament
* being confidently safe and a source of peace
* feeling a sense of completeness, comfort and contentment
* an encounter with God

I was invited to an event in FB which will be held in St. Francis church at Jebel Ali on June 12. What captivated me was the event titled "The Sanctuary" and somehow I was curious yet excited to attend the event for I had a little clue about what's going to happen there. I anticipated that it's going to be a moment with the blessed sacrament and the mostly the youth (at heart for some) were invited. I had experienced one before about the magic moment with God last April 2014. After that encounter I had a longing in my heart that seeks to experience Jesus through the Blessed Sacrament.

I came together with Kuya Jimmy and we were surprised that the organizers were friends we knew in the community. Upon arriving we were welcome with a song serenading us and the place we were in was like paradise. The place was beautifully decorated with curtains, the altar at the middle, orange dim lights, reflective music, religious paintings, posters and friendly smiling people that it seems almost perfect. The ambiance in the place which was a former parking lot radiated peace, hope, love, passion, faith, completeness and security that you feel like you're in paradise. It was Thursday night and it's definitely worth spending with God rather than going home or have a great time since it was the weekend. 

When the event started we were singing songs of praise to hype us all up and then shifted to slow songs in preparation for the welcoming of Jesus in the Blessed sacrament. My heart was pounding, held on to my wooden cross, tried hard to concentrate, stare at Jesus and enjoyed the moment. All I can say was thank you Jesus and it made me feel lost for words. Sometimes you need not say anything but to open your heart and listen with your ears to His message. He said and assured me that He loves me and that I should keep holding on to Him. I felt love, peace, secured and warm like I was embraced by Him spiritually.

A doodle from my imagination.. (different from the actual presentation)

 After the event, we decided to help out in cleaning up. I didn't imagine it would take us nearly 3 hours. I was so amazed how the people gave time for this event that left a great impression to the attendees. Such dedication and passion in which they shared with us all. Truly it was worth thanking and praising God for. All their efforts were worth it. The hard work they endured while setting the place and cleaning up was a sign of great love for God for they will do everything to give their best. All those cable wires, the heavy equipment, the chit chats, the fun jokes, the nosebleed words, the sweat coming from all parts, the emotional support, the growling tummies, the unexplainable laughter, the unity, the pushing/pulling like we're just playing, the built in corny-ness and the feeling of being comfortable with talking to people whom I never talked to before sparked up a friendship which I never expected. Staying and helping out was worth it since I came to know these people whom I am only friends with in FB. Thank you for the new friendship.

We left past 12 midnight and we ate at Mcdo which at first some didn't agree yet we ended up eating there since it was the best place to stay among the other resto. The food we ordered were burgers, large fries and sundaes. It took us 10-15 minutes to finish all those and then we head home since it was late. Thank you for the drop off and I had a good time with you guys. Til next time.

NOM NOMSSSSSSS!

Thank you! Praise God.

#packupgang #friendship #answeredprayer #happy #blessed   

 

June 12, 2014

Like Jesus, Like Peter

Daily Manna sharing for June 29, 2014

Gospel: Matthew 16:13-19

Peter Declares That Jesus Is the Messiah

13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?”
14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.”
15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”
16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
17 Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.”

Reflection:

 

Who is St. Peter?
We often hear these famous names derived from St. Peter which meant “rock”. Some of the common names were Peter, Pedro, Pete, Petra, Cephas, Simon Peter etc. Peter was the first pope of the Catholic Church to which God entrusted the keys of heaven. Before Peter met Jesus he was a fisherman. He was the first disciple because the moment Jesus called the fishermen they immediately left their nets to come and follow Him. Jesus wanted them to become “fishers of men” and to proclaim the good news to the people. Peter loved Jesus and his life changed because of that love for the Messiah.
 

What do we remember about Peter?

He was one of the disciples to witness the miracle of casting their nets and catching a lot of fish. We remember him as the one who walked on water with Jesus but because of his doubt and little faith, he slowly sink and Jesus lifted him up. Peter has witnessed the transfiguration of Jesus. We remember him during the Last supper when Jesus washed their feet and he wanted to be washed all over his body. We remember Peter as the one who protected his master when He cut off the ear of the soldier when they were in Gethsemane before Jesus surrendered to the high priests. We remember him who denied Jesus three times. Peter was also the one who entered the tomb during the third day after Jesus’ death. Peter became the alter Christus of their time after Jesus ascended in Heaven. He continued Jesus’ mission.

Why Peter?

Among his disciples, Jesus would have chosen anybody but why Peter? It makes me think and wonder why. He could have chosen John the beloved disciple or Matthew the former tax collector. And yet He picked Peter the fisherman because Jesus loved him. Peter with his love, passion, determination and faith lived his life doing the mission that was entrusted to Him. Even if it meant him to be martyred still he chose the difficult path ahead of him. He tried escaping but he knew he had to face being crucified the opposite way as to what His master had experience for he knew he wasn’t worthy to be crucified the same as Jesus did. True indeed that Jesus was never wrong as to why He chose Peter and look at to where the Catholic faith and church has spread now?

 Like Jesus, Like Peter

Jesus taught us on how we should live our life and we are like Peter because we are the rock wherein Jesus has built the church. We are the church because we are the Alter Christus of this new generation. Like Peter, we are sinful and unworthy yet we were called by God for a purpose. Jesus was not joking when He picked us and He didn’t call the qualified because like Peter, He qualified him to become the Pope that will lead His church. Like Peter there are times we doubt, we lose hope, we make mistakes, we tend to be afraid and we deny Jesus not just three times but several times. Like Peter we are also strong, dedicated, faithful, driven, empowered and full of love. Becoming like Jesus and following Him is a difficult choice but a life changing experience. Let us strive to become like Jesus, like Peter and nurtured by Mary so that we can become effective witnesses and proclaim the good news to the ends of the earth.

Happy Feast day to St. Peter and St. Paul.
The 2 Pillars of the Catholic Church
June 29, 2014

Deo Gloria! May God be praised!

#iamBBM

Send me!

From Philippines to Dubai and other parts of the UAE..
Even to the countries in the Middle East..
Let me become a witness of your love..
To bring back the glory to God above...

Bring me to places I haven't been..
Show me your greatness I haven't seen..
I may not know where..
Dear Lord please take me there...

Let me conquer my doubts, worries and fears..
Assure me with your grace to smile through my tears..
May your words I boldly live and proclaim..
For I will do things joyfully in Jesus' name..

Father, please send me to where you desire me to be..
For it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me..

GOD is asking: Isaiah 6:8  “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?”
And our response, “Here am I. Send me!”




As the Father has sent me, so I send you. -John 20:21

Magic moment with God

 

"Because every encounter with God is a magic moment to remember. "

Don’t be deceived by the word “magic”. It is what all of us think but when we talk that is related to God then it is beyond our wildest imagination.

Magic (according to merriam-webster.com) is defined as a

-a power that allows people (such as witches and wizards) to do impossible things by saying special words or performing special actions

- illusion or tricks that seem to be impossible and that are done by a performer to entertain people with special power, influence, or skill

- the use of means (as charms or spells) believed to have supernatural power over natural forces

- an extraordinary power or influence seemingly from a supernatural source

Magic is a mysterious but powerful feeling. Somehow love is connected with magic and so does a moment with God. I had a wonderful magic moment with God during the U-turn retreat at St. Mary’s Church last April 5, 2014. We had the Taize prayer and God was present in the Holy Sacrament. I closed my eyes and imagined being in His presence. I was praying and thanking Him for all of the blessings I have received, from the family, career, service, household, mission, gift of relationships, future GG and desiring to become the best version of myself. They were leading us to pray and we had songs to sing and a few chant to profess.



Every encounter with God is a magic moment! :) Worth it!
(my imagined sketch but a lot different from the actual scenario)

For God’s magic to happen, we need to recite verses, open our hearts, sing psalms, believe in our prayers, surrender to His will and entrust all our cares. When we have set aside our own selves then we can truly seek God and listen to His words. God moves and works in mysterious ways. During the prayer, I was trying to focus because I am easily distracted. I can hear noises from phones, cameras, chairs and movement of people. I closed my eyes and just kept going. Few minutes passed, we were encouraged to sit and then the majority of all followed. I kept kneeling because I felt unworthy to either sit or stand in front of the blessed sacrament. I should kneel because God deserves this. I decided to offer a simple sacrifice for everything that He has done for me. I don’t deserve all these blessings but through His grace He has given me far what I have asked and even better than I have imagined.

 

Few more minutes passed, I suddenly felt a tingling sensation on my knees. I said: “This is normal because it has been a while since I kneeled longer. I can do this.” Songs were being played and sang beautifully for us to reflect on. I kept praying and I was so distracted with what I’m seeing even if the lights were off. I looked at the sacrament then I closed my eyes, I prayed harder and I imagined God in my mind. My heart was full of gratefulness and joy that my feelings were overflowing since a lot of wonderful things happened.

 

I applied what I learned on how to deepen our prayer life. I don’t know what it was called but I tried inhaling this and exhaling that. To what I perceived it’s like doing long breaths and allowing God to enter and expelling the negative things we encounter. So basically you’re breathing but in your heart you are communicating with the mind and the rest of your body. I was like “inhale Jesus, exhale worries.. inhale Jesus, exhale concerns… inhale love, exhale hate.. inhale Jesus, exhale pain.. inhale strength, exhale weakness.. inhale forgiveness, exhale hurts.. inhale Jesus… exhale Jesus…etc..”

 

20 minutes passed and I was close to giving up. I wanted to sit because I can feel the pain on my knees. I just thought “A few more. This is nothing compared to all the pain and suffering that Jesus did for me on the cross. I believe I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13)” Temptation really knocks when you least expect it but I had to keep my word and overcome this. I kept saying after every song that I will sit but then I just said “Kaya ko pa! (I can do it!)” I kneeled a little longer and I encouraged myself to not give up. I am person who endures a lot as long as I can do it.

I continued and I kept pushing. I wanted to stop but there's something in me that says "a little more.." I kept going and after almost 35 minutes, everybody was asked to kneel. I was smiling deep within because I have conquered my doubts and I knew God was smiling at the little sacrifice I did. I can feel the numbness and pain but it was nothing compared to the joy that I felt in my heart. I have experienced a magic moment with Jesus as I stare and pray during that time. It was an extraordinary moment and the Taize experience doesn't happen everyday.

I praise and thank God for the opportunity to feel His immense love through the Blessed Sacrament. It brought me healing, forgiveness and peace. Thank you for making me feel your greatness "for heaven is here in my heart.." Lord I need you. I am sorry. I love you. Thank you so much!!!!! I am looking forward for the next encounter with you and surely it is going to be a magic moment to remember! :)

2005 moments with Mama

April 2005 was my high school graduation and Mama was there..
July 2005 was my graduation from YFC.. We had a chance to talk. I hugged you and we prayed over each other. It was a magic moment. I remember the letter you wrote to me and that I was the ate to the younger siblings you were leaving behind.
September 2005 - Mama then left to work in the US..I was studying BSN while they were in elementary.
November 2013 - 8 years later she went home for good..

A lot of things/events have happened during those times. I know it's hard for you to be away from your family especially to your 5 kids who were very young that time. I know the feeling you felt when you missed every milestone that we have achieved. You weren't there to see us graduate one by one and even witness our dreams coming true. Ma, you have done so well for us all. I can't explain the hurt you felt but I know you were struggling with it. It must have been unbearable for you but you were strong enough and you have survived all those years of loneliness and distance. You valued your family more than yourself. You never exchanged us or Papa for wanting to be a legal resident in the US. 

I honor you Ma for all your sacrifices and love for me and for us. Thank you gd Ma sa tanan.. Thank you sa faith mo, sa encouragement, sa advises, sa teachings and all.. Now I realize the importance of your discipline when I was young even though I questioned it before na daw ka unfair. Hehehe pero now I am proud to be a carbon copy of you.. hehehe I have changed and grow to become a better person  You are my inspiration and that's what I have come to know and understand. God is good for blessing me such wonderful, dedicated, loving and kind parents!

Happy Mother's day! I miss you. I long to see you. Ako nalang ang wala pa nakakita sa imo in person! Ingggggit heheheh It was September 2005 that I last saw you. I hope to see you this December and para ma completo na rin family natin after nearly 9 years. With God's grace, lahat possible. Claiming and praying for it!

I love you Ma.  See you! God bless you! Enjoy your special day! 

-late post (copied from FB)

Fearless to stand and proclaim

"....To be as fearless to stand and to proclaim..."
FEARLESS by YFC Liveloud...

Sharing a part of your story to many who may not agree is a frightening experience but definitely worth telling. When you are blessed with the presence, love and grace from God, everything impossible becomes possible. God’s power works in many ways that we cannot explain but feel. You will then realize how great and amazing He is because He is able to do things in your behalf and He therefore receives all the glory that He truly deserves.

May 16, 2014 was our National Conference in SFC held at RAK, UAE. We had a storycon the night before and arrived home nearly 2 in the morning. I was worried and almost panicking because there were changes and I felt I had little time left to prepare. I slept late and woke up early. We left past 6 in the morning to travel. As I remember myself hours before the sharing, I was very nervous, I couldn’t sleep, I was shaking in fear and as I rehearsed I wasn’t able to pronounce the words correctly. I kept my sharing a secret to my household and close friends because it will only add pressure to me.

During the mass I was completely distracted. I was assured by God that everything will be alright. I surrendered to Him all my worries, fears, doubts and concerns. After the mass, I rushed and prepared since we were to be prayed over by the team. I was longing for a hug of affirmation because I wanted to feel comforted. I hugged my household and left them stating I was going to assist someone. After the pray over, there I was still shaking with fear and that I wanted to scream, shout and let it all out. I was crazy yet I know I can overcome those feelings. I kept practicing my lines and talked to the other sharers. Most of us were first timers and it was a common feeling that we were experiencing. Imagining that we were going to share to 1350+ delegates, it is indeed overwhelming. I realized I was excited more to share my story because God has worked a miracle through me. I just couldn’t hide the excitement and my fear was being lessened.

A few minutes before I stood up, I was ready, smiling and I left it all to God. I whispered a prayer stating that “No matter what happens may your will be done Lord and may your name be glorified.” As my name was called by the speaker, the mic was turned on, I kissed my wooden crucifix necklace, held on to my cross, walked to the stage, showed a big smile, held a long big breath and there I was proclaiming the greatness of God through my experience. At first I was nervous as evidenced through my voice  but I was speaking halfway and until the end it was going smoothly. The power of God through the Holy Spirit moved in mysterious ways. I was touched and so were the people who was listening. Not with the speakers, nor with us who were sharing but to everyone who worked hard and prepared for the event.

I felt great. I received affirmations from my brothers and sisters in the community. It made me happy and inspired all the more. It was as if God was telling me that He was proud of me. It was a nice feeling being praised but I added that God is greater and He deserves the praise. My family too was proud of me and even my household shared the same feelings. They were happy for me and somehow I have conquered my fears, all with the grace from God. I even was blessed to have a guitar that I finally own and will be practicing to proclaim God through the talent and to the best of my ability. For God, I know I can.

As I look back, I know God has brought me here in the UAE because He wants me to go in a mission. I said YES before and until now I will continue to stand firm for my commitment to Him. Saying YES has led me to places I haven't been and witnessing wonderful things I haven't seen. He has given me everything that I needed. He has provided far more from what I expected. He has blessed me beyond measure and I am not worthy to receive all of this but because He loves me, He continues to reveal His greatness in me regardless of my faults and failures..

Thank you Lord. Let's journey beyond the unknown. I am confident knowing that you are in me and You will never leave nor forsake me as you have promised. I need you. I love you!

PRAISE GOD! COMPLETE HH :)
My inspiration and God's greatest and gorgeous gifts to me.

 #iamBBM #fearless #magicmoment #blessed #sfc #sharing #uae

Family Skype Picture

FIRST COMPLETE FAMILY PICTURE - JANUARY 1, 2014

 

 

  I was teary eyed because I was looking forward to going home but God has something in store for me. Praise God for the social media that we were complete kahit sa SKYPE lang.. I celebrated my 3rd Simbang Gabi, 3rd Christmas, 3rd New Year, 3rd birthday, 3rd Valentines, 3rd Ash Wednesday, 3rd Holy week and nearly 3rd year in the UAE away from home (Roxas City, Capiz, Philippines).

Our last Christmas and New Year was 2004 and that was nearly 9 years ago. We were so young that time. I studied BSN last 2005 then Mama left to work in the U.S. for 8 years without going home. Papa worked in KSA and was blessed to go home and to visit Mama as well. Kevin and Carla was in High School and Vince was in elementary. We were cared for by Manang Evelyn and Joy while our parents were away. Ate Karen was working in Manila while we were in the province. I am grateful for the hard work and sacrifice that Mama and Papa has given us. Thank you for your love and for your guidance not only with mine but for the 5 of us.

We were able to finish our studies. We were able to enjoy our life without worrying because all our needs and even our wants was provided generously by Mama and Papa. We were blessed to be living in a house that protected us, with having an internet, with having several computers, latest gadgets and having allowances even if we were already finished with school. Your example is a legacy that inspired us. Your love was genuine and selfless. Hindi man namin masuklian yun but we we will try to give back because it's our time to bless you. You have done too much for me and now it's my turn. As I said before I will really try to be the best for you Mama, Papa and for our family. I am proud that you are my parents.

Imagine how the years have passed and it feels like only yesterday. We are all grown up now. We even have Kyle Lawrence Andrei Lim. We have achieved our dreams one at a time. Still we are learning and improving with our lives. We are getting better and I am happy to have this moment.

My only wish is that soon we will be complete. We will celebrate the important events of our life as one complete family. The Christmas that I long to experience. The missed events of our family namely the 25th anniversary, the 30th anniversary, the graduations that passed, the birthdays and many more to come.

I know God has prepared a great plan for us. I will never stop believing because He is a great God. He has shown how time is important in our life and soon we will have that time. I am excited and I am hopeful knowing that He hears our prayers, our desires and our dreams at the right time.

I miss you. I love you! See you all soooooon..

Thank you Lord. I am blessed beyond measure! My Family is God's greatest and gorgeous gift!  Praise God!

 

#iamBBM

You may be wondering what's the meaning behind the hashtag..
I hope it makes you think what BBM means... Hmmmmm...

Here are some ideas that I am BBM could mean...

+ I am blackberry messenger... (hahaha kidding)
+ I am a busy bee in motion... (cooool!)
+ I am beautiful but mysterious... (proud woman here)
+ I am broken but moving on... (woah! so deeep)
+ I am blessed beyond measure.. (definitely)

#iamBBM means I AM BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE.
This blog (project) will contain all the blessings received (whether good or bad)..
No matter how I think about it.. God's never ending generosity surpasses all things and He blesses us beyond measurable units. Sometimes He gives us His grace abundantly that even we, feel we're unworthy to have them. God gives. God loves us. We are God's beloved. And God blesses us so we can be a blessing to others.

Share the blessings by being JOYFUL, PRAYERFUL AND GRATEFUL. :)
Boldly and firmly declare that "I AM BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE!" because the God of all grace has blessed me with so much that I am overflowing in thanksgiving and praise.

Soli Deo Gloria!
#iamBBM

4G prayer

To Single men and women: Prayer for your Greatest God's Gift <3

Dear Lord,

I pray for the man/woman who will be part of my life. A man/woman that really loves you more than everything. A man/woman that will take me in the second place of his/her heart. A man/woman that lives not for himself/herself alone but for you. Face and Physical attraction is not important. The most important is I want a heart that really loves; thirst for you and has a desire to be like you. And He/She must know whom and for what He/She lives for. So his/her life isn't useless. Not on a smart brain but also a wise heart.

A man/woman that not only  loves me but also respect me. A man/woman that can adore me but also warm me gently when I'm wrong. A man/woman that will help me live a righteous life. A man /woman that can be  my bestfriend in every time and situation. A man/woman of patience and understanding. A man/woman who needs my smile to cover his sadness. A man/woman that needs my love so he/she could feel be loved. A man/woman that needs me to take his/her life perfect.

Lord, I also ask you to make the man/woman that can be proud of. Give me a heart of Love, So I could love him/her with your love. Give me your gentle spirit, so my beauty comes from my soul. Give me your hands that I may be able to pray for him/her. Give me your eyes so I could see the many good things in him/her. Give me your mouth that I may share your words of wisdom and encouragement to support him/her everyday.

And when we finally meet, both of us can say, How great Thou Art You give Someone,  can Make My Life Perfect" in your time I know, You will make everything beautiful. Amen.



The greatest thing a man/woman can do is to lead one another to God other than his own self. <3 LOVE <3



Fearless Cover

FEAR NO MORE. STRONGER FAITH.

To be as fearless, to stand and to proclaim.

"Fearless" Guitar Cover

My fave song because I love the meaning behind the lyrics.

We have to set aside our fears to proclaim the greatness of God.

With fear in our hearts, we cannot do our part.

We have to be fearless for us to fulfill the plan of the Lord through us.

To be fearless means being able to do extraordinary things with God's grace.

Let's be fearless and equipped with a stronger faith that can move mountains, fulfill miracles and witness impossible things made possible through God's grace, love and mighty power.

Losing to gain a stronger faith

Session 1: Journey of a lifetime (Reflecting the passion of Jesus)
Sharer 3: (Jesus is stripped off His garments)

 

SFC National Conference held in St. Mary's Church RAK, UAE
May 16, 2014

Saying YES to the Lord is a lifelong journey with the Almighty.

I am Sarah Lauren Lim, an SFC from Dubai and a beloved daughter of God. I first said YES to the Lord during my Youth camp last 2005 in Capiz and after that my life was never the same again. My journey with God in the UAE started last August 2011 when I was asked by Papa if I wanted to go to Dubai because He said there's YFC there, I then replied "Yes I will go for mission there." I arrived in Dubai last October 8, 2011 and believe it or not the document I had with me was a birth certificate. I was blessed to be taken care of by Tita Bel and Tito Danny Abutas. Everything was provided to me - visa, CV, college authenticated documents and I found a job and was grateful since my documents arrived nearly before my visa expired. I joined SFC last 2012 after receiving my residence visa. I worked in the nursery as an assistant teacher/nurse and was taking care of kids. I loved my job but the people I was surrounded with had problems of their own and it was a struggle for me to get along with them.  

2013 came and a few months before the end of contract, I started applying online. We had a CLP last September and I was called to become a facilitator. I was blessed to handle 4 angels namely, Annie, Collete, Cristina and Maikie. I am also blessed to attend the MEC and learned that I am God’s beloved. November came and I had an interview at Ate Jhang's company who was offering thrice the salary, with an accessible place in Warba, good benefits and 2 days off. She coached me before interview and I passed. A week later I had an offer letter. Before signing, I was asked and then they told me that they will put it on hold until I get my high school documents ready since they can't issue a visa because I need to join them after 2 weeks. In my mind I was thinking how can it be possible? My province was badly hit by Yolanda. I cried as I went home and I couldn’t hide it because I felt being stripped off what I thought was for me. I spoke to my parents and siblings. I simply prayed "Lord please have your way in me."

 It was baptism week of the CLP and the denial was the reason I was struggling with. I know I have to overcome this. During the service team prayer, I shared the experience and I said "I may have lost the opportunity but I gained a stronger faith." I had to let go because God has something better in store for me. I believe God is in control. He wants me to be still knowing He is God and that I have to trust Him. "Lord may your will be done."

  The CLP was a success. My angels have graduated and are now SFC members. I send a non-renewal letter. We agreed to have my visa cancelled early January. I kept applying online and had several interviews. After Christmas, December 26^th I received a phone call from our PRO. I was threatened that if I don't sign the cancellation then it will be my problem. I was shattered because it stated that I have a 6 months labor ban and that I have received the money from them. He said that it's a usual procedure. I signed and I felt something was wrong yet I tried to smile. When I went home, I cried in secret and it was very painful since I didn’t want them to know. I felt being stripped off my freedom by being forced to sign. And so because of my obedience and fear, I signed and allowed them to hurt me. Still thank you Lord for allowing my family and friends to comfort me and for understanding my situation.

 The greater the struggle but far bigger is the victory that waits. I was heartbroken yet I tried to accept wholeheartedly that in God there’s justice and I trust His plan for me. I nearly finished my contract but they cancelled me 1 month earlier and that’s the reason why I have a 6 month labor ban. Everybody wondered why and advised me to report the incident because it’s not fair. Despite what happened, I was happy to have a skype new year with my family and we were complete virtually. I celebrated my 25^th birthday and was blessed to witness the miracle garden. I was ready for whatever God has prepared for me whether it’s a new work here or considering going home since I want my family to be complete. I wanted to see Mama whom I haven’t seen for 9 years since she worked in US and she went home last year for good. I prayed and asked for God’s guidance. During weekdays I would apply for work and attend interviews but on weekends it was time for service. I continued to serve God and I would still be positive whenever I encounter such negative experiences.

 January 2014 was full of hope, affirmation and unexpected surprises. My high school documents arrived late but the opportunity is no longer there. The job application became difficult for me since I was rejected every time because of the ban. The job offer is often lower than the previous job. I received my back pay and finally I had my passport with me. I exited in Kish Island, stayed there for 5 days then I got 2 months tourist visa. I’ve got nearly empty NOL card load, housing rent to pay and then realized I wasn’t financially prepared as I was running out of resources but God in His generosity provided all of those. I would attend the teachings, regular upper/lower household and also a CLP of a different chapter so I can de-stress myself since I am pressured and worried about my status.

 God places his burden to those who can carry its weight. February was the most difficult month for me because for the first time I was deeply hurt more than the pain that I felt when I heard about my ban. It was during the Parish Festival, when I met him who became my inspiration and I thought He was the one that I was waiting for. I was motivated but then he just left. OUCH! I was heartbroken again and I found myself no longer interested to find a job. I found myself giving up and wanting to go home. There I was trying to stand up, trying to push myself and telling myself to keep going. I felt weak, alone and hopeless. I would encounter sending mails and receiving no reply from them. It was depressing yet I held on to God’s promise. I was also fooled in a skype interview wherein I applied for the post of a private nurse but they posted it in findyourmaids.com without me knowing. I was embarrassed. I received calls from different nationalities and I considered working as a nanny but God said through the song “Jesus I believe in you and I would go to the ends of the earth..” That song pierced me and it was a reminder to never give up on God and He has better plans ahead.

 All the unwanted feelings were kept within. I was misunderstood by those who didn’t know what I was going through because I kept quiet. Still I managed to smile, remained strong, hopeful and determined that God will bless my hearts desires in time and by His grace my attitude towards the situation started to change. I have felt being emptied little by little and things became clear to me. I had experienced rejection, being abandoned, hopeless, lost, worried for my future and heard negative feedbacks against me. I held on to God. My prayer time became my strength and He was my comforter. He allowed me to go through it all to realize what I desire. He stripped off the unnecessary things for Him to give what I deserved. God is good for He has provided and has blessed me abundantly. Never was I hungry, homeless or ran out of load for blessings just continued to pour unexpectedly.

 God never ends in defeat. March became a new hope for me as I was surrendering it all to God. When I thought it was the end, God assured me it was only a bend. Two weeks before my visa expires, I had an interview at JLT then a week later started a 1 day training. I passed my papers the next day and signed the offer letter. I couldn't believe what I was experiencing since this is the moment that I have been waiting for. After all that I have been through, here is what God has prepared for me all this time - freezone visa, better pay, Christian boss who's very kind, only girl in the office doing admin work, peaceful environment, accessible workplace via metro, good timing and 2 days off. Truly God's delays are not denials. All the bad experiences I had was nothing compared to the glory He has revealed to me now. I finally understood why. Praise God!

 April was a great month for me. I exited at Kish as employment visa then started working. The medical and visa is being processed. Things are falling into their right places and my prayers have been answered beyond expectation. I realized God's purpose on why He has allowed me to go through those things. He wanted me to let go, to accept, to wait, to be patient, to understand, to love, to hope, to forgive, to trust Him even if it didn't make sense, to be good even if they are not and He needed my faith to be stronger. God has molded me to become a better and kinder person that I can still be nice to the people who have hurt me. I have become a witness of how He has transformed me during those trying moments. He truly is a great and awesome God!

 As I reflected with Jesus' passion and how he was stripped off His garments, I realized that God slowly stripped me not with my garments but of things, persons and circumstances. He wants me to detach myself from those things that hinder me from following Him. God wants me to be empty so He can fill me, to be stripped off for me to gain and to experience pain for me to be strong. God never deprived me because when I thought I have lost a lot, it is where He was generous enough to pour down His blessings. Indeed I am blessed beyond measure #iamBBM. Thank you Lord.

 May became an awesome and fulfilling month. I got my first pay, labor card, residence visa, emirates ID and even a medical insurance. And now that I am staying here, God is calling me to serve Him. He wants me to go out for mission. He keeps whispering "You have a mission to fulfill." Praise God I was able to experience my first mission in Dibba, then in KFC and I am looking forward for more. Looking back to what my father has asked me, I say "Yes Lord, I have a mission to fulfill and I will never forget the reason why I'm here." So that explains why I only had my birth certificate. In my mind, it was mission that I desired and not work but then God is gracious to bless me both. Thank you Lord for your amazing grace and wonderful journey. I am blessed to grow up in YFC and now proud to be in SFC. Lord you have made things beautiful in time and you are the best thing that has happened to me. I know and I believe that this year you will unite my family who has been incomplete for 9 years. Greater things are yet to come. Bless my talents that I may glorify you that will inspire and evangelize others. I am ready to go. Send me Lord for I don't know where but lead me there. Lord may your will be done and in your name, I hope, I trust and I claim, Amen.

And for that brothers and sisters, Deo Gloria! May God be praised!