Focus on Christ

Don't focus on me but focus on Christ. 
Let's pray for our families and please pray for me.
-Pope Francis

Such humility, mercy, compassion and love from him radiates to everyone despite the differences in culture and beliefs. It's all in our faith.. Praise God. Thank you Pope! Blessed kami whether we're near and far.. Ramdam namin ang presensya ng Diyos mula sayo! smile emoticon #PopeFrancisPH #PopeFrancisTYSM#iamBBM #deogloria #thankyouLord #happy

Rejected but REDIRECTED.

As I attended the Arabian Catholic Youth Conference which was a 3 day activity held at St. Joseph Church, Abu Dhabi, UAE last November 15-17, 2012 I felt the Spirit of the Lord urging me to go and experience the World Youth Day the year after. God blessed me with that conviction because He knew I needed to experience it. I was so sure that time that I needed to go. In my heart there was a longing, a space that needed to be fill, a desire and a prayer that wanted to be with God through the event. The World Youth Day is not just a gathering of Catholics but it is a time to renew our faith and also to meet the Holy Father which is our beloved Pope.

I'll pray for the grace to attend the World Youth Day in Rio, Brazil 2013! Amen!

-Sarah

I had dreams and plans for the WYD but my concern was finances and I didn't know where to get the 10K money for me to go. I know money is never an issue but standing in my shoes it is definitely a struggle. I don't earn as much because I am inexperienced and fairly new in the country. I only earn a regular salary enough for myself and for my family. I am thrifty and I was raised to be practically wise when it comes to money. I was thinking of a part time job for me to raise it but I think I wasn't capable of something. I doubted my capability and all the more I doubted God's possibility for me.

I applied the leave of 2 weeks for the WYD and it was approved. I decided to help in raising the fund. I thought of ways but I never made a move. I was stagnant yet I prayed but I lack the faith in doing something to make it happen. I guess it was hard for me to accept that I couldn't afford it. It was too late for me that's what my mind was telling me. I felt sad knowing that I promised to go there yet I failed. I'm sorry Lord that I lacked faith and that I started to drown with my doubt, fears and what ifs.

I found it hard to accept the fact that I was not capable to raise the kind of money in 6 months. I can't sacrifice the money since I know I'll need it for support and other things. I was in denial but in the end I knew God has better plan for me. With God's grace, I was able to let go of that desire slowly but surely.

In my mind, I was discerning of going home instead. I wanted to see my family and loved ones. I wanted to go home. I want to settle things and I want to take break because I am being consumed slowly and I don't want any negative change in me. I knew that I'm starting to be unhealthy – with relationships, diet, problems etc. I asked God for the wisdom behind this. It was a change of plan and I had to face it.

The desire to go was there and I didn't know how or where. I kept going and I struggled all the more when the environment was not being nice to me even if I was to them. My heart was shattered because of hurt, trial and disappointment. I felt being stepped on yet I managed to keep myself standing still on the ground and holding on to God. It was difficult to work yet I stayed positive and I tried to be kind. God knew I had to overcome this. It was when I realized I can freely express my feelings, that I had a voice and everything happened because it was my choice. God made me feel angry, sad, disappointed and it was a time that I really prayed hard. I had frequent questions to Him regarding all the why's that I had in mind. I kept reminding myself that God is merciful and just that nothing escapes Him. He will give what is just and what is right for all. I never showed anger nor revenge yet I was praying for love and kindness to envelope me. I placed my trust in Him and that He is in control of everything. Though the situations were hard on me, still I'm thankful because Christian character was bent and learned how to deal with it positively. I had ups and downs yet I managed to go through it with God's grace and healing.

A lot of changes happened. I filed a local leave from June 30 to July 30 which was approved. I had to take it or else they won't pay it. I had no plans whether I'll work part time or just stay at home. I didn't know what to do but God has something that He wants me to do. It was somewhere last May when I decided to go home and have a break. I was again tested yet I didn't doubt. This time, I was full of faith that God will carry me through and He did. What I thought was impossible before was indeed possible. I held on to His promise and I experienced His greatness. The joy and excitement of going home was priceless. I was teary eyed and very emotional that I can easily express my feelings. I was refreshed and renewed. I settled my previous relationship. I asked forgiveness and was forgiven. I shared my time with family, relatives and still, YFC. I was reminded to OBEY and WITNESS and this is a miracle that He revealed to me. I may not have been to the World Youth Day because God knew that He wanted me to be HOME instead. He gave me a better answer to my prayer and I feel so blessed to experience going home the 1^st time. I just can't believe it and I know it's real. God is so amazing! Thank you so much Lord!

Indeed, God answers our prayer with a yes or no because He knows what is best for us. It doesn't mean that He won't give it now but He's waiting for the right time to give it and sometimes it exceeds our expectation. God's no is not a rejection but a wonderful redirection. If the Lord allows it then it will be done. I may have prayed for WYD but God allowed me to fulfill my dream of going home for the first time. I was redirected to something better than I could imagine. God is a God of impossibilities and truly all things became possible for me because I believed and I had faith. Everything was made beautiful and God works in amazing ways that we cannot see but we can experience completely.

Thank you Lord. I feel so blessed and my feelings of gratefulness are overwhelming! It was unexpected and You never failed in fulfilling your promises and in fact it was "SIKSIK, LIGLIG and UMAAPAW!" The Lord's blessing upon me is immeasurable, uncontainable and overflowing! You are a great and awesome God. Thank you for making things beautiful in your perfect time and for allowing me to experience your greatness in witnessing the impossible things made possible with your love and grace, AMEN!

ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE FOR THE ONE WHO BELIEVES.

-Mark 9:23

Proud Lefty!

August 13 is the International Left-Handers day! I didn't know that they celebrated this. I only found out about it last week. Being a lefty became a struggle at first but as I embraced it, I began to slowly discover the uniqueness and amazing talent it has revealed to me.

As I grew up I had a hard time dealing with situations because I was left handed. It's challenging to write using a right handed chair and my side or back hurts from trying to adjust with the chair. We rarely have left handed chairs and whenever we have one it's gives me relief. I always have pen marks on my left hand as a result of writing. Whenever I write something I always have a different penmanship and I don't have a permanent one. Weird? My handwriting is difficult to read when I'm in a hurry but if I want it to be read I have to write very slowly and beautifully. Whenever I write, it would be different than how the right handers do or it's in a reverse way because somehow it's connected with the brain and perception.

Whenever I see something and when I try to copy it, it's in reverse. I also notice when I'm learning to dance I have a hard time doing the moves correctly. Before I struggled with directions especially east and west. I am often confused with left and right sides or maybe my brain is telling me otherwise. When eating whichever utensil I pick up first would be ok with me since I can use them reversely. Before I didn't like the subject arts because I also have a hard time expressing myself. I didn't know that being a lefty was a challenging part of growing up. Honestly I find it weird and hard to explain but maybe that's how left handers think. I hope so!?

Few years later, I was able to appreciate the gift of being a lefty. I am amazed at the uniqueness and the ability I can do. I have started loving arts and I learned how to draw. It started in high school when I was influenced by my classmates who loved drawing. Also there's an anime show that was popular and I became an addict of the Japanese culture - origin of Anime and Manga. I have exposed myself to colors, painting, drawing, solving math and even dancing which I hated.

In college, I realize I was capable of doing more but then due to busy schedules I was unable to do what I loved to do when I was in high school. Despite that I was able to discover a new talent which was photography, videography and learning how to edit using photoshop. I loved reading/looking at colorful pictures in books/sites. I also started to learn the guitar and I have enjoyed it. I had a meaningful college life with full of colors, fun and tears. Nothing compares to the fullness of life that I have discovered being a YFC.

Years past and I found myself working in Dubai. My art skills were challenged and I enjoyed working in the nursery. I loved preparing crafts, acting as teacher, taking care of kids and my drawing skills were rekindled. I learned doodling plus adobe editing. I had several projects and I have fun. I am attracted to quizzes/games with colors expecially the rubiks cube. A lot has changed and looking back made me realize how being a lefty is a blessing. So far I am proud of who I became to be because God has blessed and given me with so much. Whatever I have now is all thanks to His grace, love and providence. And I want to thank God for creating me uniquely and I'm a proud lefty! :)

Obey and Witness!

Imported from CFC Desert Sun

http://cfcdesertsun.blogspot.ae/2013/10/obey-and-witness.html

Shared after NATCON 2013

(Posted last October 2013)

Every conference is a blessing for God to teach and mold us.

It is a gathering of God's people with sessions to learn from and an opportunity to worship.

I have always looked forward to attending conferences because it's a way for me to grow,

learn and improve myself.

During the conference, I realized that becoming a witness is not just about

listening to God but voicing out. He desires that we should proclaim His greatness.

Being a witness is allowing Christ to work through us with our brothers and sisters.

It's also an opportunity for me to serve God through documenting the event. 

I was asked to take pictures during the conference. I willingly obeyed and tried my best.

At first I was nervous and I felt clueless. I didn't know what to do and how to do it.

I felt blank and somehow a bit pressured. I know I'm not a professional photographer

but I just love photography.

I don't own a DSLR but I have a point and shoot camera.

I didn't have the capability but with God's grace He blessed my ability.

It was challenging for me in the beginning but God gave me strength to fulfill it.

God didn't allow me to doubt because He believed in my capacity.

He kept whispering to me: "Do whatever He tells you."

He kept encouraging me to go on even if it doesn't make sense. 

He kept reminding me to "Obey and witness!" I followed Him and He made me

feel confident that I can.

He took away my shyness and empowered me to go on.

He removed my doubts & unworthiness.

He is a great God! I even learned about adjusting the effects/settings in the cam

and though my flash wasn't working, I just kept documenting!

Indeed, Praise God! I was able to capture images of Him and documented

some parts of the event through videos.

Stolen shot :)

Bless the work of my hands that I may bring back all the glory to you!

Thank you Lord for your grace and I will be a witness of your love! AMEN!

By Sis Sarah Lauren Lim

SFC UAE

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!

Holy Week 2014

Reflect because Jesus needs respect.

H- Halt! Stop of slow down.

O- Off with your worldly pleasures and concerns.

L- Listen and be silent.

Y- Yield to God.

W- Warm up your relationships.

E- Erase burdens of sin with a good, honest and humble confession.

E- Express your love.

K- Kneel down in prayer before God, say sorry and thank Him.

Stay happy, holy and healthy this Holy Week!

God bless you!

Thank you! Praise God! ;)

Testify and See

TESTIFY AND SEE (January 3, 2014) from Daily Manna

Gospel for the day: John 1:29-34

29 The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! 30 This is the one I meant when I said, ‘A man who comes after me has surpassed me because he was before me.’ 31 I myself did not know him, but the reason I came baptizing with water was that he might be revealed to Israel.” 32 Then John gave this testimony: “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. 33 And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’ 34 I have seen and I testify that this is God’s Chosen One.”[a] ~John 1:29-34

We have heard this statement that says "To see is to believe." People nowadays are concerned more in seeing and if they do, then they'll believe. Here's a funny situation that proves it wrong. How do you know if you have a brain? Can you see it? No? So since you don't see it then you're brainless? How about your heart? You know what it looks like? Have you seen it? No? So you're heartless? The people during the time of Christ need not see because they know that if they believe, they will see how far God's wonder may lead them to. Blessed are those who were physically blind that time for they truly seek Jesus and indeed they testified, witnessed a miracle and even saw Him in all His greatness, power and majesty.  

I suddenly realized a better statement: To see is to believe but to feel and experience is better than seeing." Believing is a different thing and seeing is not everything. We can't see emotions but we can feel them. We can't see knowledge and wisdom but we can express them freely. We can't see sickness but the symptoms are there to indicate that there's something wrong. We can't see technology or communication but the gadgets are there to show how it works. We can't see the childhood beliefs we had like the existence of tooth fairy, Easter bunny, etc., but story books were there to prove they do when in reality they don't. Being able to see is not an assurance that things are real because sometimes the eyes can be deceived. 

However there are supernatural things that the eye can't see but the heart can feel. We can't see love but our hearts can express, feel love and also pain. We believe in God but do we see Him? No, but because we have faith then it makes all things possible. Yes, God is real and we can definitely feel His presence. We may not see Him physically but we can see Him in other people and through the situations that are happening to us. We can testify that we have seen Him in all areas of our life and that He never left us especially in times that we needed Him.

Our God is an amazing God and He will find a lot ways to make us feel blessed, loved, treasured, provided, cared for, assured, answered, embraced, healed, comforted, honored, supported, worth fighting for, saved, forgiven, spared, inspired, motivated and a lot more! He is our Everything. He hears and sees every event in our lives and sometimes we fail to notice that because we believe in seeing than that of experiencing Him. May we realize that testifying is seeing God at work in our life and that may we continue to obey and witness especially when it doesn't make sense.

Prayer: Lord, may You teach us to have more faith in You. Allow our eyes to see things beyond our capacity so that we could testify, experience, and feel more of your grace and love. Lord in Your name, we trust! Amen!

Sis Sarah Kailyn Lim 
Chapter 2B3 - CLP Batch 43

Household Leader - SFC Dubai

SFC FAMILY

Merry Christmas Angels, my dear Household and to our CFC Singles for Christ family and extended families in Christ.. 

May Christ's birth bring us peace, joy, hope, love, faith, trust, light, healing and prosperity in all our good works as we live to evangelize others with God's grace! 








Thank you Jesus for being born in this world and for saving us from our sins. Happy birthday Baby Jesus! Cheeers!    Lalaaaabs! God bless us all! Mwaaaaaaaahhhugs! 
   

My presence is your present!

Merry Christmas!!!!!!! :) 

Happy Birthday Jesus!

I woke up late since I slept late. We celebrated the birthday of Jajah and also the savior, Jesus! Thank you Lord for being born in this world and for saving us!

I ate lunch with my flatmates and we had such fun. I wasn't able to decide which church to go to but then decided to go to St. Mary's instead. I have plans in my head that I wanted to do that day. I thought of bringing my camera to capture moments of joy as we all celebrate His birthday!

I was up and ready to go to Church past 2 in the afternoon to attend the Holy Eucharist but then decided to leave at 3:30 pm since I didn't want to be late for Jesus' birthday celebration...

So I left and traveled for an hour and arrived just in time. I was a bit distracted during the mass since I saw a lot of adorable kids playing with their fellow friends. I felt so touched with how playful they are hehe.. The parents will then act as referees when they are almost fighting haha.. That moment was also a reminder of how I missed the kids whom I used to take care of.

After receiving the Holy Eucharist, I tried to go inside the church since a lot of people were there so the whole compound was full. I managed to go in and see the Church.. I was so amazed on what I saw. a lot of devotees and families were complete. I felt teary eyed yet I managed to hold it in. Of course the envy and jealousy is there knowing I'm on my own and my family is far away but I know God has reasons why. I captured shots inside the church and was able to capture a family by volunteering to take a picture for them. The idea then came in and that's what I did after 35 minutes.
 

I went outside the church and I was surprised to see this kind of view. Santa's giving out present to the kids. How generous this people are to the kids! God is indeed great and amazing. Seeing happy faces from the kids is a great blessing! For sure they brought more smiles not just to the kids but also to the family as well. May God bless you more!

The spirit of Christmas was everywhere. The cold weather, the expression of love and joy, the giving of gifts and the kindness of everybody was infectious! Christ's presence was indeed a big present to us!

I went to the Christmas tree and I noticed a lot of people taking pictures -selfies, duos and family pictures. I volunteered to take pictures for them for I know how important it is. And I personally was alone that time and I need not take pictures of me for it'll make me miss home more. From 5:30 pm til past 6:10, I volunteered to offer myself to take pictures for them. It was a simple act of kindness I can give to them. I can see them smile and I would greet them Merry Christmas! Of course it gave me a touchy and mushy feeling and somehow I felt sad inside knowing I couldn't do these things but I know God always has something better in store for me and for my family.

A simple act of kindness is something I am proud of doing today and will be doing for the days to come! I read from the post last Friday that said: "Friend, my presence is your present!" Good point and it was from a priest who conducted Simbang Gabi masses in Jebel Ali and He was a guest priest at St. Mary's that time. I wasn't there but I was able to see a status regarding that. I left the church about 6:25 then went to Burjuman metro because I was planning to buy gifts but decided not to since I don't have a job now. I am thankful for today because God has blessed me with a free dinner sponsored by Kuya Jimmy and also I met Christian an SFC from Chapter 2B4. It was the first time that we actually met in person but we communicate via FB. He even gave me Rellenong bangus! Yummm! God is a great God!

Thank you for a wonderful experience during Christmas day! Yeheyy! Merry Christmas! :)

Kaya let's remember that our presence is our present to others!

Be a blessing! Touch a heart! God bless! <3 :)

Journey during the CLP

God has great ways in making you feel extremely loved, blessed, guided, empowered, inspired, gifted, evangelized and molded.

My heart and soul was touched deeply through the service during the CLP! I realized that there's more that's in store for me than what I knew for myself. :) Throughout CLP God moved in ways I never saw and mysteriously yet wonderfully He changed and improved me. I gained confidence that I know with God's grace and with my capability, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. I became more loving, sweet, expressive, caring, concerned about others and family oriented. I overcomed my fears and gained new strengths. Though I lost somethings yet I gained better things!

I am proud to be called and chosen by God. Yes I doubted and questioned at first but God embraced me and assured me of the plans He has for me. Now I am blessed for saying Yes to the service of being a Facilitator and now a Household Leader in SFC! <3

For it was because of them that I was inspired more to serve and follow God. I became true to myself and never did I pretend to them. I became open and my feelings where real. I never lied and I learned to admit my faults. They are indeed blessings from God for it was because of them that changed me and help me strive to be better and good. It was because of them that I realized the importance of the family, relationship and work. And it was because of them that my service became meaningful in SFC because it was through them that I was sharing my life with and theirs too with me. They created an impact in my heart and therefore I can say that my life will never be the same again!

Thank you to everyone, to the team, to the heads, to the new friends and especially to my Angels! You have made my 3 months CLP journey worth sacrificing for and worth remembering! :) All the sacrifices of leaving the house early and going home late, travelling almost an hour and going back, the tears, the joys and all the mixed emotions are all because I did it for my love for God, for my family, for the community and for myself.. I offer it all to you Lord that may you always be glorified! For all my achievements and for the new found talent in dancing and voice over, Thank youuuuuuuuuu! You made me conquer my fears and I gained confidence to do it.

Truly you are a great God and for everything Lord, I praise you and I thank you! I love you Lord! You are amazing and beyond compare! :))) I am ready to do your will! Have your way Jesus! For this heart belongs to You! <3 <3 <3

31 days to go before my 25th

The countdown begins! Yay! :)

For greater things are yet to come.. :)

God's revelations are sure to be heard.

Excitement levels are rising up.

So blessed that I can't contain it in.

Dream big! Smile bigger. Pray biggest!

Plans. Wishes. Dreams. Heart's desires!

Better me turning silver next year. :)

As the day passes by, my heart keeps asking why..

Sometimes I feel blue yet I dunno have a clue..

All I long to see is to be with my family...

As I celebrate my big day, I fully ask and pray

that may I bless others with the blessings God has already given me..

Thank you Lord for allowing me to go this far! :)))))))))))

31 days.... tick tock... tick tock..

So excited for the BIRTHDAY FOR A CAUSE NEXT YEAR (JANUARY 2014)

Journey with CFC Kids for Christ

KFC Activity last October 2013

Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not prevent them, for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to such as these." -Matthew 19:14

I had my ROCK (Reaching out Christ to Kids) last May 2009 at Roxas City, Capiz to become a KFC Ate when I was a YFC. A fulltime worker serving KFC who was Kuya Nice said the verse from Matthew 19:14 and from that day on til now, those words have been planted in my heart. I had served KFC NKVs, PKVs and even Kids sessions back home. Years passed and I have never fully understood what it meant but after coming in the UAE, being an SFC and serving God meaningfully it was then that I realized that God has a purpose in everything.

 Now, I'm looking back full of gratitude on how God has simply transformed me not just in being a good "ATE" but a good servant in teaching, molding, leading and being like a kid through the CFC Kids for Christ ministry..

Junior 2 KFCs

So blessed to belong in this family wherein I was able to learn and improve my skills. Thank you for teaching me how to love, pray and serve like a kid.  You have made my life brighter and full of purpose. Thank you for allowing me to meet you and bond with you in service with Him. Thank you for inspiring me to dream of a family united in Christ and for that I would be asking God that in His grace will bless me of what I desire. For everything, Thank you so much!

I have gained new friends, a big family, abundant blessings, had opportunities to visit other areas which I did not expect, to go on mission and a better me. I have gained confidence to speak in front of the kids. I have become passionate, loving and expressive of my feelings to them. I have discovered a new talent in face painting thanks to the KFC activity we had about Noah's ark. I gained a deeper friendship with CFCs, SFCs, YFCs and KFCs. Also, I have conquered my fear of singing/dancing and perhaps have enhanced it to the best of my ability. And I know a lot is more to come and for that God knows when and what.. 

Thank you Lord for a fruitful year and more years of service and I that never knew that time flew so fast and now I am asking for more.. 

Thank you CFC KFC ministry!  God bless us all! And for all that may God be praised!!

DEO GRACIAS! DEO GLORIA!

Guitar session: Have your way

HAVE YOUR WAY by YFC LIVELOUD
One of my favorite worship songs.. :) It never fails to touch me most and move me to tears every time I sing it from the heart to God. :) Jamming while I have nothing to do! :) Praise God for the gift of talent! May this bring glory to Your name Lord! AMEN! :)))))))))

Lord please have your way! Lord have your way in me! AMEN! :)

Journey in the UAE (2011-2013)

Think about your story and thank God for bringing you this far. Praise Him for His mighty acts; praise Him according to His excellent greatness. - Psalms 150:2

Every experience is a memory worth remembering and a story worth sharing. Allow me to narrate my story on how I came to the UAE. It all started last June 2011. I was asked by my Father if I wanted to go abroad and He mentioned that there's YFC there. I thought about it and immediately I said Yes, not knowing what will happen next. I trusted God and I prepared myself because I said I'd go mission there.

I was working as a volunteer nurse that time and I was actively serving YFC in High School Based. God knows how much I loved serving YFC and I was dedicated to empower and equip the high school to become future leaders. I pushed them to go on mission while training and teaching them more about service. We had leadership training, fellowship, youth camp and household. I felt confident and calm because I know they will stand for the province and will become better leaders. God prepared my heart and strengthened me to leave without regrets knowing that I gave my all for the province and for the YFC community.

I arrived in Dubai, October 8, 2011 and I brought with me my birth certificate. Unknowing of what lies ahead I kept going on. I learned step by step on what I should do. I was guided even though I felt so lost in a foreign land. I then realized that I was prepared spiritually but not physically and mentally. I was blinded, insensitive, selfish, confused and eventually I almost gave up. I struggled and it was hard for me to overcome it. I made mistakes and have hurt a few people which then I regret doing. It was when I learned to trust and have faith in God more that I started to build myself again. I tried to stand up and motivate myself to keep going even though it means fighting over homesickness and selfish desires. God made his presence more felt and I was surrounded by love from a family who hosted my stay here. God blessed me with so much that I forgot to appreciate and be thankful for the blessings. God made me realize that I can change, I can make mistakes, I can repent, I can grow, I can be hurt and I can move on.

God has a right time and everything happened with a purpose. I had my CV ready, applied jobs online, tried walk-in and my authenticated documents arrived then I had a job at a nursery. God never left me when I needed Him the most. I wouldn't have a job without the help of my family and friends. I started working and it was where I experienced the ups and downs of life. I realized that it's hard to work with different people having unique attitudes. I felt pressured and stressed yet I was able to manage in the end. From then on, things started to change and I was getting better. God allowed me to learn through my experience that it resulted as a consequence of my actions. I then realized that I should think before I do something. I was able to adapt to the job I am in and it went well but then I felt incomplete. I searched for the community because I was spiritually dry. I was longing for the comfort of my family, brothers and sisters back home.

It was somewhere in January 2012, when I had my visa and just finished attending the Holy Eucharist that I received an invitation about an ongoing CLP for SFC. I then reflected that maybe God is calling me to go back to Him and that the CLP would be the answer. I decided to go and attend the CLP. I was welcomed and I felt at home. I made a decision to start the CLP again instead of being endorsed to a household because I wanted to refresh my memory and learn more about God through the talks. Everything was new to me and that's where I started journeying with God and with my newfound family. I finished the CLP with God's grace. 3 months later we had our covenant orientation and it was a go signal for me to start serving God.

After Covenant Orientation, I hungered for fellowship, service and worship. I started serving in Kids for Christ. It was in that ministry that I learned to be close to the children. I learned to speak, act, pray, play, learn and enjoy like a child. Now I realized that I am indeed close to the children for they have taught me to be expressive of my emotions through actions like hugging, etc. I continued serving them and eventually I grew matured and I knew I was getting better. For every service I had with them, it was an opportunity for me to learn and improve myself. All I can say was YES and I just kept going for I know the Lord will be glorified more through the service with the kids.

Finally it was nearly the end of the year. I got to complete my 1^st Simbang Gabi in the UAE, celebrated my 2^nd Christmas and New Year. Months flew like hours and before I knew it 2013 came in like a bang! Then my 24^th birthday came and I celebrated it with my SFC household! God is great! Then I became busy with a blog account and was able to manage it for 3 months but then became inactive due to demands with the schedule and lack of sources. I managed to update my blogspot for a while so I tried hard to write and post.

Activities come and go wherein you never knew that it was done. I attended the several KFC activities but the KFC desert camp was the most memorable and totally fun because the focus was with the family. Also I had the chance to attend a Mother-Daughter weekend before Mother's day. Of course the KFC monthly activity in Dubai and Jebel Ali was a great blessing to me and gave me chances to learn and improve myself.

Unexpectedly God blessed me the opportunity to go home this year. With second thoughts God pushed His will for me. I immediately planned my destination and budgeted my money. I was able to send a package with God's grace. I felt being alive and extremely happy knowing I can see my loved ones and be finally home. The feeling of going home really made me crazy and so expressive. And it was totally worth it! I felt so blessed and loved extremely that a lot of things happened according to God's plan for me.

My vacation flew like hours and now I'm back in Dubai. Said hello to new challenges and greater struggles. I felt homesick like it was the first time and I was able to get over it. I experienced the Eid holiday, Dhow Cruise and it was a time wherein I focused more on myself as I learned to stand up again. I realized my self worth, I gained confidence and I was up and ready to go out of my comfort zone to meet new friends instead of isolating myself.

Then CLP came. I was called to be a facilitator in which I doubted at first but then said yes. God moves in mysterious ways and I felt myself changing slowly. I really felt better than ever and my desire to serve Him grew stronger. I started loving and embracing the cross He entrusted to me. I know this is just the beginning and a lot of things will be happening and knowing He's with me is all I need to go on. My faith became my weapon and I felt it growing and improving to withstand any circumstances that come my way. And I know I have a great and amazing God that will never leave me at any cost.

I may have my own problems and issues yet I place my trust on God who will never gave up on me, who continuously trusts in me, who believes in my capability, who empowers me to go on, who blesses me beyond measure, who understands and hears the real me, who inspires me to serve others, who uses me as an instrument for His greater glory, who pushes me to the limits of my capacity and who loves me the most in spite and despite my flaws and imperfections.

MEC 2013 at Al Ain

Lord, thank you so much for being with me and for that I will continue to be faithful in finishing whatever you have started in me. Let your will be done. I lift up everything to You Lord knowing that you are God and I am not. I am excited for what lies ahead knowing that I am never alone for you are in me.

You are God's beloved! The Lord loves you so much no matter what you are going through! :)

.Blessed. Loved. Happy. Empowered

May God be praised!

Nov 2013   

GG: My Angels!

I feel so blessed for God has given me angels that I consider as gifts and blessings. At first I said no without thinking then eventually said yes. God reminded me to Obey and Witness. I started realizing that there are far greater things than what I thought it was. I experienced a lot last night and it's amazing how God works mysteriously. It is great to talk to them like we knew each other for a long time. Even if we just met I really felt we're close. I enjoyed how we introduced ourselves! It made me laugh and certainly I can't forget our new names: Sweetie Sarah, Crazy Cristina, Adorable Annie, Jolly Josephine, Awesome Ailene and Cutie Collete. God is good! There was no awkward moments (well maybe a little but we can work it out). It brought me happiness, love and peace. The joy we shared as we first discussed about God's love was amazing though we lack time! God made us feel His love through each other's presence. I feel that I belonged and that I couldn't fully express how grateful I am for them. The moment they called me "Mama Sarah" is priceless and memorable. I am humbled and inspired to bring them closer to God. They are my God's gift because they are angels sent from heaven. I will cherish and nourish them as the Lord entrusted them to me. With God's grace, I know I can do things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:12). I am excited and looking forward for more bonding with them! Well there's still next week so let's make the most of it. Thank you Angels! Thank you Lord! See you again soooon! God bless! 

Mwaaahhhugs! <3

Wala tayong family pic kaya eto na muna.. :))

I am blessed and grateful....

To celebrate WORLD GRATITUDE DAY, here's something that I am blessed and grateful for…..

GOD – Thank you Lord for everything. For the life I am living, for the love that is the source of my being, for the things I am enjoying, for the sins that you keep forgiving, for the opportunities that you are opening, for the providence that you keep pouring, for the guidance that you are supporting, for the blessings that are unending and for the grace that's greatly amazing! Thank you for the answered and unanswered prayers. Thank you for the struggles and for the strength to keep on enduring! Thank you for the salvation and for the chances you keep offering. Lord, I have a lot to be thankful for and if I seem to forget to be grateful, please do remind me. Thank you for understanding my faults and failures. Thank you for always being there for me 24/7. Thank you for your assurance and for not failing me. I will try my best to follow your ways and may your will be done unto me. May all that I do will be for your great glory in Jesus' name, AMEN!     

FAMILY – Thank you for the family that you have blessed me, for the love they have showed and expressed to me, for the greatest gift that you ever given to me, for the support and guidance to me, for making me feel complete, for teaching me the good things, for establishing me childlike faith and commitment to you, for the joy that I have when I am with them, for the relationship between siblings and parents, for the happiness and victories shared among us, for the fights we used to have that didn't last long, for the trips we did together, for celebrating special events in our life, for giving importance to one another, for building our character and molding our personality and for allowing me to feel the belongingness that nobody can replace. Thank you to my Father and Mother who sacrificed a lot for me and my siblings. Thank you to my sisters and brothers that made me crazy and gave enjoyment to my childhood and growing up. I just want to thank you for your love and I am willing to love you more as you deserved! Thank you! I am so blessed to have you! <3

TEACHERS & MENTORS – Thank you for molding me to become the person I am now From preschool to elementary to high school and college and to becoming a nurse and it's all thanks to all of you. . Without your efforts, love and teaching then I wouldn't be successful, I wouldn't have finished my studies or achieved my bachelors degree. The hardship and the struggle became a stepping stone to wonderful opportunities that God has prepared for me. All that I am became complete because of your contribution to my life. I wouldn't be here and I am grateful for the part you shared that changed and transformed me to become better and to keep striving to be good and to do good. Thank you so much!

CFC AND FAMILY MINISTRIES – Being a part of this community opened doors of opportunity and chances for me to improve myself. From being shy to gaining confidence, from isolation to being surrounded with friends, from having weaknesses to enhancing my strength, from dependence to independence, from being a wimp to becoming a warrior, from inability to ability, from being a member to soon becoming a leader, from gaining experiences that teaches people about God, from inability of use my talents to enhancing them for God's greater glory, from being nothing to becoming something and from the person I used to know to the person who is now. God is good, great and amazing! I wouldn't be who I am without the community that look after me, that trained to make me witness and experience God's fullness, that molded and taught me things that is not learned in school, that inspired me of the mission that God entrusted, that captured my heart and instill to me how wonderful it is to be alive and to serve, that explained and made me feel how great it is to love and be loved, to establish relationship that's Christ centered, that made my faith grow deeper and my knowledge expanded. The community planted the seed in my heart, the people water and fertilized it but it was God who allowed that seed to grow and bear fruit. I witnessed the miracles in me because I obeyed and followed God. He led me to believe that all things are possible and He assured me to trust His plans. I am so grateful that I couldn't keep it within, that I need to share it and that I have to express it fully. Thank you Lord for using those people and I am so blessed to be a part of this family ministry that together we will renew the face of the earth and be transformed by God's love!

FRIENDS – Life is tough but when you have friend, it becomes easy. Thank you Lord for the gift of friendship that remains the same despite distance, argument, circumstances and personal concerns. Thank you for the relationship that you blessed me with. Thank you for they have become a part of me that I couldn't live without. Thank you to them because they inspired and motivated me to do better. Thank you to the sisterhood and brotherhood that the friendship has started. Thank you for the moments that I felt down and depressed and they were there to cheer me up. Thank you for their presence that surely made a difference. Thank you for the opportunity of knowing how blessed I am to have them. Thank you Lord! I am so blessed with true friends that will stay with until the end!

WORK/CAREER – Thank you for allowing me to maximize my potential, learn new things, develop my talents, start my career, boosted my confidence, gain new friends, earn money, improve my character and allowed me to grow, made me experienced the realities in life and opened my eyes to the opportunities that's in store for me. Thank you for the lessons and the new experiences that taught me well. Thank you for the salary and benefits you provide for me. Thank you for the chance to work in your company, with the colleagues and with the people I'm dealing with. Thank you and may you provide better opportunities to people who deserve to be highly paid, for benefits and insurances, for bonuses to the hardworking employees that aim to improve your company. (I hope and pray!)

BLESSINGS AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN – What more can I say? Thank you for being the best thing that happened to me. Without the struggles then life won't be challenging as it is. Without blessings then life won't be the same or exciting. Without everything in between then it's not life that you're living. Thank you Lord for everything in between and for all the blessings! I know I fail to appreciate the beauty of life and the things that surround me. May I learn to be grateful for the little and big things that come my way. I am excited and looking forward to what lies ahead! Yehey!

Prayer:

Lord, allow me to thank you and everyone for being a part of my life. Thank you for making me experience the life that's purposely lived for your great glory. Thank you for the learning, the struggle, the relationship, the blessing and for everything. Teach me to always be grateful, appreciative and faithful. Thank you for your unconditional love, providence, guidance, support and grace. May I be a reflection of your Son, Jesus, to others as I fulfill the mission that you have entrusted to me that is to proclaim the good news to the ends of the earth. Amen!  

How about you?

What are you blessed and grateful for? 

Share the blessings! Experience the love! 

:)))))))))))

God bless you! <3

~SarahKailyn~