Heavenly Peace: Me & Jesus

Last April 11, 2015, I had the most uplifting, empowering and spirit filled experience with Jesus. If I were to describe it then it has to be an encounter full of peace, serenity, overwhelming yet being still before God.

I was able to sleep well the night before and upon waking up, I felt great and recharged. I had plans to do and was able to achieve them all with God’s grace. Yipey! I cooked my meal, squeezed the juice from a kilo of lemons and was able to prepare a healthy pancake for snack which I just experimented hahaha (fyi: the ingredients were banana, black sesame powder, flaxseed oil, peanut butter mixed with chocolate, oatmeal, eggs, flour, cooking oil and milk…whew that’s a lot) I assure you it’s healthy and yummy at the same time hohoho!

I prepared myself for the Holy Mass and confession since our Baptism was on that day itself. I need to prep myself for the spiritual battle since this is one of the highlighted events in the CLP. Praise God so far I didn't experience any major harassment that day or even the days/weeks before. I guess it was all minor struggles knowing that God is always with me and that I’m not alone for I have my loved ones and friends with me. Everything feels like smooth sailing and I always feel being embraced by God and how great and wonderful it is to experience that kind of love being expressed to you.

The homily was about faith amidst doubt, worry and fears. It was also the time when Jesus breathe on them the Holy Spirit. It also spoke about doubting Thomas, him not believing until he saw and touch the wounds of Jesus. He was a man of faith upon experiencing and seeing Jesus for he uttered words with conviction “My Lord and my God”. He was a changed man and Jesus in turn said in reply, “blessed are you who have not seen but believed..”  

Hmmm God is indeed a great God. Everything happened for a reason. I learned as I held on to my faith and prayed more than before. Slowly and surely, He is fulfilling His great plans in me. Oh Lord may you change the worst of me to become the best of what I can be! Mold me, use me and lead me. Thank you for making me feel and experience a piece of heaven, an assurance of your promises and a fulfillment of your plans. Have your way in me! :) 

God never fails!

Yesterday, today and tomorrow, He is ever faithful.. Our God nevers fails to fulfill the promises He made to His beloved. The big question is, do we/I fail Him? Super duper thank you Lord. Looking back a year ago during my toughest moment, you have comforted me through family, friends and household. I wouldn't have survived and witness your great plans for me. Looking forward. Holding on. Lead me Lord.

#iamBBM #deogloria #thankyouLord

Fear NOT!

(First posted in FB last October 10, 2011 at 12:11 pm)

Define FEAR.

...a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil,pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid.

...is a distressing negative sensation induced by a perceived threat.

FEAR causes ANXIETY that makes you feel threatened that causes several changes in your body when not controlled. :)

What are your greatest fears or common fears? 

Who are you afraid of?

Why are you afraid?

How do you overcome those fears?

FEAR is NORMAL. EXCESSIVE FEAR IS ABNORMAL.

Learn to overcome fears before it causes distrubances in your body.

THE SECRET TO OVERCOMING FEARS: OVERCOME YOUR fear with FEAR.

F- Faith in God, in yourself and in others

    Forget & Focus (F n F)

     Forget your own circumstances and focus on God's promises

E- Equip yourself with Prayer and God's word.

     Enthusiasm/Excitement when facing difficult situations.

     Endure more and humble yourself.

A- Accept & Admit your own weakness/failures/capabilities/talents, etc.

     Acknowledge God's presence.

     Absolute trust & surrendering to God.

     Affirmation

R- Be READY to take RISKS.

     Respect other people's differences/uniqueness.

     React and Respond positively.

     Reach out. :)

What do you fear would test your faith in God the most?

Habakkuk 3:17-19

The Lord is my light and my salvation. Whom shall I fear?

The Lord is the stronghold of my life.

(Whom shall I fear)

PSALM 91 - PRAYER FOR PROTECTION

God has given us 365 days to FEAR NOT.

There are a lot of reasons to be afraid but knowing that we have a BIG GOD that strengthens us to overcome such fears/obstacles.

FEAR ends when FAITH in GOD BEGINS.

With that MAY GOD BE PRAISED!!!! :-)

Happy 3rd in UAE!!!

7^th October 2011, exactly 3 years ago I left the Philippines and came to the UAE bringing with me a birth certificate instead of authenticated documents or a CV. Never in my mind did I realize that I will be working here because in my heart I was seeking a mission to fulfill. I was only 22 that time and I guess I was just too childish and very much a slowpoke to realize things before it was too late but God indeed has a different plan. A month later, I was missing home, messed up and was deeply hurt yet I needed to face the reality. I committed mistakes that led to consequences that included losing friends and hurting my loved ones.

I managed to get up though nearly losing hope but yet clinging to God who was my strength. He never failed to give what I never imagined to have. He provided me with a second family and a place I call home to where I belonged. He provided me with a CV, authenticated documents, a job and finally a visa to stay here. He fixed all the things that were broken in my life and slowly but surely I was being healed. He also provided me a spiritual support through the SFC community plus the whole family ministry of CFC as a bonus! He just keeps providing me endlessly and assures me to never worry about tomorrow but just to continue trusting Him.

At the span of 3 years many things have changed. I gained through my losses, faults and failures. I am able to express myself and I am building up my confidence. I am able to handle the ups and downs of my crazy weird emotions. I have fallen in love, experienced pain, hurt, rejection, been bitter and have moved on. I struggled and worry a lot yet God’s promise always assures me. I have learned to set aside my needs for the sake of others. I experienced the feeling of true love and forgiveness through my family, service and relationships. I am continuously learning, overcoming my fears, growing as an individual and becoming matured. By the grace of God, I have improved and am on the process of being better.

Lord thank you for journeying with me not just in the UAE but beyond the distance it has led me. Thank you for bringing me to different places and witnessing your miracles unfolding. Thank you for your trust, abundant blessings and love that never failed and has reached not only me but to everyone here. Thank you for tirelessly listening and answering all my complains, wishes, prayers, heart desires and selfishness. Thank you for your sufficient grace that gave me the strength to keep holding on and never letting go which brought me here, serving, surviving and standing strong. Coming here was the best decision I made and because of that yes, my life indeed was never the same. Thank you Lord, you're da best! :)

Happy 3rd in the UAE! PARTEEEEY! :)

ROAR like a LIONESS but SMILE like a PRINCESS! <3
#iamBBM #deogloria #thankyouLord #happy #blessed

Patiently wait.

God is writing and preparing me for the best love story ever told.

Just continue to patiently wait. Everything has it's own perfect moment and right time.

Never rush and just let it be. God knows what he is doing.

Smile and be hopeful. Soon you will meet your God's greatest and gorgeous gift.

#longingness #heartsdesire #love #relationship #iamBBM

I will walk on water Lord..

Matthew 14:22-33New International Version (NIV)

22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it. 

25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.

27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”

28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”

29 “Come,” he said.

Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus.30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”

31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said,“why did you doubt?”

32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”

Peter cried out: "Lord save me!"

Jesus reached his hand, "Man of little faith, why did you doubt?"

I see the myself in the character of Peter. He may be old but his faith is like a child. His desire to spread the good news was one of the reasons why God chose and called him despite his unworthiness. He was a fisherman, a man with words, failures and a sinner like me. He can be fearful at the face of trial yet he can be strong enough to preach the gospel of God. He would say yes, firmly obey and witness God's miracle unfold before his eyes. He loved Jesus and looks up to him. He followed his master yet he denied him three times. Despite his doubts and insecurities still God was pleased with him. He hold the keys to heaven. He is a pillar of the church. He was crucified the opposite way and after his death look at where and how the Catholic faith has grown now?

Like Peter, I can be brave and confident to say yes knowing God won't abandon me but when trials struck me down I can be shaken easily. I guess I have a strong belief and my Christian faith is really important to me. The reason why I can't say no is because I know that there's a reason why God has called me and what He asks of me is my firm YES. Well saying yes can be a difficult thing because you really have to stand up for it and you are liable with what you say. There are times that I doubt easily when there are situations that I don't understand. It is hard especially in the time of struggle yet God assures me to keep the faith and walk on water as what He did. He wants me to journey with him and assures me that I am not alone. And when the storms of doubt, fear and struggles come, the Lord will hold my hand, will save me and will calm the storm. I know I have to call on him and be still knowing He is God and I am not.

Here's my fave line of the song: Walk on water by Woodstruck

You came so unexpectedly just when I thought my life was made..

You said My Child come follow me. With all my fears I surrendered..

Chorus: I will walk on water Lord. You have called me. You have called my name..

If it's you Lord I will go..

Journey of Faith

Do not believe me unless I do the works of my Father. But if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.

Reflected from the verse taken from John 10:31-42

The first thing that came to my mind after hearing the gospel was little faith but more of doubt. We live in a world that questions our being, our race, our religion, our morals and our good deeds. We also experience being questioned when it comes to faith and how we practice our beliefs. Some people don’t understand even if we explain it to them. We are blessed to experience freedom and to be saved from the punishment of our sins. We are not here on earth for nothing because we have a purpose to fulfill and that we are destined for greatness.

Why is it difficult to believe even after seeing the works of God?

Why really is it hard? God already worked through us and still we continue to doubt His presence? Why? Hmmmmmm.. I guess we are looking for big things to happen like a major major miracle to take place in our life similar to the Jesus feeds the 5 thousand, healing leprosy, allowing the blind to see, letting the deaf to hear, the crippled to be able to walk or when He raised the dead. When we witness those kind of events in the world we live in today, I guess it just shows how little our faith is. Our faith is easily tested in what we see. We believe in the "to see is to believe principle and that hinder us from believing in God through His simple works. Through that doubt will always overpower the little faith that we have.

Another reason would be when we are controlled by our fears that held us captive to believe the reality which is the real truth that's already in front of us. We refuse to believe because we are following the standards of this world rather than of God's based on the teachings in the Bible. We choose to please others but in reality, we can never please anybody anyway and it's only God whom we can only please.

Doubt over weighs the little faith that we have. Although we have seen still we allow questions to disrupt our thinking. We are blinded and distracted by our thoughts, by social media, by false judgment and by the things we hear around us. We have heard the words of God yet we try harder to close our hearts from listening to Him. We harden our hearts and we still choose to do what we think is right (but to others it's already unjustly). We are highly influenced with the latest trends, the gadgets, the popular things and even the immoral doings. The world is changing and satan is taking advantage of our weaknesses and he keeps on tempting us for our visions and goals to be cloudy and it gives us more worries. He's giving us reasons to doubt even if we are already praying.

The only way to defeat doubt is through our strong faith and the belief that He will answer our prayers no matter how impossible they may be. We will be tested but we should place our complete trust and total surrender to God that He will take care of everything for us. We should be deeply rooted in Him knowing that apart from Him we are nothing. We should maintain a constant prayer life and relationship with Him because that's where we'll grow as a person and where we'll learn more from. We can be ready for anything because we know God is in us and believe that He has plans for us, a future full of hope. Let's live our life purposefully and meaningfully. Let's make God happy through the works of our hands by bringing back the glory that God alone deserves! Let’s conquer this victory with our faith by being faithful to the one who is faithful and who never failed us. This journey of faith is not going to be an easy task because obstacles of doubt will always be there to challenge us but in the end it will be worth it. We will win because God is in our side. 

AMEN! PRAISE GOD!

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)

Hold on to the CROSS

When there's no hand for me to hold, I will hold on to the cross and to the one who gave up His life for me.. Thank you for loving me Lord, for not giving up on me, for always giving me chances, for being there for me, for listening to me and for blessing me abundantly. 

Hold my hand Lord, never let me go and we will journey beyond the unknown. I am confident knowing you never fail and you are with me always as you have promised. Bless my heart, my desires, my dreams, my goals and my mission. I surrender everything to you. Whatever it will be, still I'll praise and love you. Lead me, heal me, use me and teach me. 

 

In your name, I hope, I trust, I claim, Amen. #iamBBM #cross #deogloria #goals #keribels #love

BLESSINGS vs STRUGGLES

Write all your blessings and your struggles. 2:45 pm; February 1, 2014
Kish Island, Iran

BLESSINGS

Life. Complete family (provided, safe, healthy, love). Education (Grade/High school/College). Achievements and awards during school years. Profession (BSN). Licensed (RN). House (Home). Relatives. Friends. Barkada – Blupz. Co-workers. Extended families. Born in Capiz (Capizena). Proud Ilongga. Guardian (Manang Evelyn and Joy V.) Relationships (Past/present). Friendship. Able to support. CFC Youth for Christ. Mission in different areas. Service in High School Based. Attended conferences, trainings, household and fellowships. CFC Kids for Christ. ROCK. New families in the ministry. CFC Singles for Christ. Household! Going to Dubai. Finding work. Stress and pressure. Growth and maturity. Independence. Going home in Pinas July 2013. First vacation after 1 year 20 months. Reconciled with Ex-BF. Meeting new friends and family in CFC/SFC/YFC/KFC. Discerning for mission. Longing and praying for a relationship (4G). True love waits. Blessed. Providence from God. Safety. Good health. Favored. Problems. Self improvement. Anger management. Forgiveness. Stable prayer time. Experiences.

STRUGGLES

  Financial crisis due to job hunting. Homesick (envy since we're almost complete). 6 months ban, early cancellation, bad company, poor benefits, low gratuity than the expected, fooled via phone 3x, force signature asap, heart broken, falsely treated, discriminated, not paid justly, increased work load etc. Mistakes of the past relationships. Worries. Fears. Struggles. Job hunting. Exit in Kish. Fear for the future. Still single unlike siblings who already have. Anger feelings (overcoming)

 + + +
 

The blessings will always be doubled/tripled than the struggles/stressors. Bad things happen but they don't last long. The lesson learned is that overcoming/fighting the struggles leads us to realizing that we are still blessed beyond measure. Things/situations happen for a reason. We should be reminded that being blessed is also being grateful and thankful because we have something. God never leaves us empty handed and He is generous enough to give us all we need even our wants.

 

The Lord's blessing enriches and struggle adds nothing to it.

Proverbs 10:22

 

Blessings are worth sharing because it fulfills it's purpose when given to others. Blessings are meant to be shared that is why God blessed us more so that we can in return bless others too. It's like a ripple effect because the act of kindness goes on without end. Being stressed is normal and it's a way of coping or adapting but you have to fight it or else you might have no control over it. Over-stress is not healthy and can lead you to serious sickness in the future. Find reasons to be blessed instead of complaining you're stressed. So the next time you're stressed believe that you are more blessed than you ever know. I'm am more blessed than stressed!

 

Deo Gloria

Deo Gloria

Last October 2013, I was privileged to attend the YFC Middle East Leaders Summit not as a participant but as a stage runner. I feel blessed because I never expected that I would be called to serve Him there. Oh how I missed being in the YFC community because it was where my journey started. The experience I had was more of a throwback of the memories I had in the past and it was God's sweet reminder of how great He has been through the years. The event was "Deo Gloria" which means Glory be to God in the Highest and was inspired by the verse taken from 1 Peter 5:1-11. It was attended by YFC leaders and couple coordinators coming from different countries in the Middle East. Indeed, God really works wonderfully despite the distance, hindrance and even our past experiences.

During the last session, Kuya Ernie, FTW of YFC, talked about the realities that the youth of today experience. We become confused, persuaded, afraid and sometimes those things hinder us from glorifying God. The session was an eye opener. "How do we bring glory to God?" He simply said by obeying the will of God and becoming a witness of His greatness because it is no longer I who live but Christ who lives in me (Galatians 2:20). God is in me, in you and in everyone. Let us allow our own self for God to work through us and that's more than enough to bring Him glory. He is the King of all the Kings and the Lord of all the Lords! Being glorified in our own self is nothing for God alone deserves all the glory because He is praiseworthy.

There are many ways to bring glory to God and it can be through our families, studies, talents, service, career, struggle, community, relationships, church, and by living our life that's pleasing to Him. Worship is also a way of glorifying Him because we are able to praise, pray, sing and express our true self to Him without fear. I found out the reason behind the strumming of guitar before the worship. And it is to awaken/stir the Spirit in us (that sometimes sleep). We also raise our hands, we dance, we shout, we may cry, we open our arms wide, we kneel and we jump for joy because it's a piece of Heaven for us and how amazing it is to know that the Spirit is really working in our lives. Now it's clear why we feel hyped up because the Spirit is alive in us like a fire burning.

Bringing glory to God is not easy but it's going to be worth it. It's challenging but life changing. God teaches us not to be afraid because He is with us and that He will never fail us. He pushes us to go on mission, to evangelize, to spread the word of truth, to go out of our comfort zones, to serve, to become His instrument of peace, to become a source of love, to imitate Christ and to live a life by glorifying Him.

And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will He Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To Him be the power forever and ever. Amen.
-1 Peter 5:11

How are you going to bring back the glory that God deserves?

DEO GLORIA!

May God be praised!

Lessons learned from Kish Island

I wrote this post before I left Iran (about 2 months ago) but because of the busy schedule I have and things have been doing, I wasn't able to post it. So here I am sharing to the whole world the amazing experience through the realizations I have staying there. Better late than never hihihi!

This is my 2nd time to visit Kish Island after 2 years since I got my first job in Dubai, UAE. I can't believe that time flies so fast and here I am again exiting for change of visa from cancelled to tourist. This happened last January 27 until February 1, 2014. I stayed for 5 days as I wait for the issuance of visa.

We were in an island wherein most of us have been there for quite a while and there was nothing for us to do. We decided to go to places together, talk about random things/situations, had an experience to attend a bible study and we usually ate our meals together. We had fun because we enjoyed our stay there.

I have learned 10 things during my 5 day stay there........

1. Build RELATIONSHIPS through FRIENDSHIP with other people because no man is an island..

2. Sharing your burdens with others. In return, listening to their stories and learning from their mistakes.

3. No worries, less stress. Enjoy life. Relax. Take it easy. God is in control.

4. Try to learn something new. 

5. Be open to various possibilities. Get ready for the (unexpected) surprises from God.

6. Enjoy and savor your simple joys.

7. Overcoming fears and surrendering to God.

8. Waiting takes time. Great things come through patience.

9. Being distant is hard and communication is important to maintain relationships. Trust is essential.

10. Letting go of bad experiences, unwanted feelings and burdens then allowing God's love 

and forgiveness to heal you and take over. (Letting go and letting God)

At some point we were lonely because we felt isolated from the world but it was a chance for us to reflect and realize the importance of time for others, the presence of our loved ones and our time for our own self. Busy as we are with the priorities we have, we usually fail to realize that we are blessed. Sometimes we take for granted the persons whom we loved and the time we spent with them is almost too little.

Going to Kish was like a retreat for me since I don't spend my time wisely because I'm too busy with some things. I am happy and proud because meeting people, listening to them and journeying with them there was a bonus. I had fun and I didn't regret going there. God taught me to build and strengthen relationships and that I will put in to practice with His grace in time.

Created from dust with Love

Today is Ash Wednesday (March 5, 2014) and it marks the start of the Season of Lent that is composed of 40 days. It is a time to repent, to fast, to pray, to serve and turn to God. The reason we celebrate Lent is for us to reflect on the life of Jesus, on the life He chose to live wherein He saved us yet He suffered and died for the salvation of many. This is the time to change our negative ways and do good to others.

All are from the dust and to dust you shall return.

Ecclesiastes 3:20

We are reminded that we came from dust and it is where we will return when our time is finish on earth. God formed us through dust and how wonderful what we have become now. Who would have imagine that we were once dust? We were stained, dirty, sinful, imprisoned, lost and messy but through the salvation of Christ we were made clean, presentable, freed from sin, saved, guided, loved and forgiven. The power of God's love is incomparable, uncontainable, limitless, unending, indescribable, empowering, sustaining, unconditional and overflowing. The kind of love He possessed was the love that set us free from the bondage of sin. The love that’s willing to sacrifice the life of His son for the benefit of everyone. It is the love that surpasses all odds and makes impossible things possible. It is also the love which Jesus showed by dying on the cross, the love that in which Mary obeyed the will of the Father, the love between the disciples of Jesus to serve and proclaim the gospel, the love for the families and the love that first came from God. How powerful that kind of love that they possess, a love that is immense, genuine and selfless.

Lord may this season of Lent allow me to pray, serve, fast and repent. I know I have flaws, mistakes and some sins that I need to overcome. Help me to do things in accordance to your will. May I accept your plans and I am confident that by your grace I will surpass them all. I know Lord I will be stronger, better, wiser and braver. Thank you for creating me from dust with love and for reminding me that it is from dust shall I return. Thank you for embracing me, for guiding me, for loving me, for supporting me, for being in me and for saving me. I am ready Lord for whatever that lies ahead. May I bring you glory and praise because you deserve it.

"Repent and don't sin again."

Readings of the day:

Joel 2:12-18
2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2

Psalm 51:3-6, 12-14, 17

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-18

  My Child,

Rejoice! Be grateful that I have molded and created you from dust with love,
God

My Child, don't worry!

Be strong Princess!

 God's letter for strength, encouragement and acceptance of His will

(written last February 27, 2014)

Dear Princess,

How are you? I wrote to you because I can feel the burden that you are and have been carrying. You may hide those things from others but you cannot hide them from me. I noticed how moody and sad you are for the past few days. I know it's a hard thing to experience but I am here to support and encourage you to keep going. I can see that you are struggling and you're trying to overcome it by being strong. I know that the fight is tough and the road you're traveling is rough. I know it gets harder each time and sometimes it gets even worst. I can feel the pain that you are going through and no words can ever describe how you really feel. I know you can't resist being angry because I know you were hurt and still you're hurting. It's heart breaking but at least you know the truth at the earliest and it gets difficult to believe knowing that you were expecting something yet ended up being disappointed. I understand what you feel and I know how you try your best to understand the situation. I can definitely see that you are coping up. It's never easy but it's definitely worth it. Just be real with your feelings and cry when you need to. You can always run to me and tell me because I am always listening.

My Child, trials are difficult at first but allow them to mold and transform you to be better, to be stronger, to be wiser, to be mature and be open for a lot of changes. I know you have gotten used to the things you were doing but it's time to move on and leave it all behind. I don't want to see you down, depressed and cold. I want you to feel that you're important and you are loved. No more insecurities, guilt, anger and emotional (negative) feelings. Get up, set yourself free and move. It's not worth it and he's not worth it anymore. Save some pride for yourself. It's time to let go of the things that hurt you and allow me to heal you. I can do a lot of things for you as long as you allow my love to comfort and assure you. Open yourself and listen to me. I will take care of you. I will not hurt you. I will empower you and allow you to stand up again for you to learn the things that you refuse to learn. I will push you to do greater things and bring glory in my name. I have a lot of wonderful plans for you. Don't give up trying. Keep struggling and fighting. There's a right time for everything. Trust me because I know what I'm doing. Believe, have faith and never doubt. It may be cloudy or rainy now but it cannot stay like that forever. The rainbow and sunshine always come after a gloomy weather.

My dearest, be still and just allow my will to be done. Be patient and enjoy the wait. Forgive and don't allow anger to dwell in your heart. Be flexible and guard your heart. Be excited for the surprises that I have prepared for you. Live by being free and learn from your mistakes. Surrender your worries, fears, pains and all emotions to me for I will give you rest and peace. Smile. Just forget your circumstances and focus on my promise. I know what I'm doing. Everything will be revealed to you when everything's settled. Just hold on to me. You are not alone. You can go through this for I am with you. I love you. Allow my love to complete and embrace you during this moment. Everything will be alright. I promise you.

Love,

Your God Almighty King

Joshua 1:9

Weird dreams Part 2

Then again.. I dreamed of somebody for the second time around and this time I think we were a couple already hahahah.. Or maybe was I assuming? I felt happy and we called ourselves "My Boy or Guy and My Girl" because we were in an intimate relationship. We go out for a date, walked near or by the bridge and I remembered cooking a white meal for Him like maybe oatmeal/porridge, lugaw, soup, or caldo! All I know is that it was something hot and I happily cooked it then we ate together hehe..

Hmmmm who is this person that I've been dreaming of? I never think of somebody or anyone. Hmmmm I don't know.. ehehehe I think unconsciously???? Well but yeah I miss the feeling of somebody caring for you. Someone who would make you happy and do crazy things for you. He would call and text you for no reason but say I love you! He would give you flowers, chocolates or anything He thinks you love. You would go to Mass together then go out after. He would offer to take you home and you would talk over the home til midnight. You would even see each other everyday or even play cards together. You would do things you both love and even do skype hahahah.. Then He would meet your family and then you would also meet his family. Then you would celebrate monthsaries, anniversaries, birthdays and all other special occasions.. :)

Owwwww it's been almost 17 months since I was into a relationship and I guess it's about time I prepare my heart to accept. Actually it's been prepared and ready hehehe.. :)) God allowed me to learn, to mature, to realize, to wait, to heal and to be better. Woooh time to brush off the fears away and let love take over..hehehe

I had a 2 minute conversation with an Indian friend working in a grocery store which I usually buy from at the elevator.. He asked me, "You've changed and it's beautiful." I was flattered, blushing and happy then answered, "Yes I did. I changed the color of my hair and everything!" He then asked, "Are you married?" I said, "No." He asked again, "Single? You have boyfriend?" I proudly said, "No, not yet! Soon!" Then he wondered, "Why?" I answered, "Well I'm waiting and sooon!" Then our conversation ended because we parted ways heheh

I then asked myself after that, "Am I ready to enter in a relationship?" Or maybe I just need someone who'll listen to me and even comfort me in times of distress. I am not sure if I do need a boyfriend now or am I just lazy to explore hahahah.. *kidding! But then I guess it's in a ratio of 65 sure and 35 unsure (65/35)..

Then again, God assures me to wait. :) That while I wait, I should pray, I should serve and I should focus myself unto Him more. He wants me to go and explore. I know He never fails and that He has planned all of this. Sooon in the right time, He will be mine. :) With God's grace, AMEN!

 

I have YOU in my heart.

-Philippians 1:7

Heal Me Father 02/06/13

Lord I can't breathe! :(( I have hoarseness of voice and dry cough! Thank you because I survive a day at work. Thank you Lord for all the blessings you have showered and will be showering upon me and my family. Save and heal me Lord. Only in your presence and embrace shall I be healed. Forgive me Lord of my trespasses and failures. I trust You Lord, my stronghold and strength. Deliver me from this struggle I have with my health. Restore me back to good condition so that I may serve you more and bring glory to Your name. Lord, I will be still because I know you are God and that you are in control of everything. In You Lord, I trust, I pray, I hope, I have faith, I love, I claim, I ask in Jesus name, AMEN.