Called and Empowered

This sharing was written a day after the empowerment that happened last Monday (March 27)

We had a powerful empowerment yesterday at Tita Grace’s residence at Sharjah. Everyone was surprised to see almost ¾ of the service team from SFC who attended. Before the prayer started, Tita Grace shared and exhorted about the battles we will be facing. She gave us a glimpse of what we will experience during this empowerment. The exhortation itself was empowering and somehow most of us were excited for what’s next.

We started the prayer by singing songs of praise and were praying in tongues. During the prayer, the Lord was telling me messages but it was not clear but I just felt it. Everyone in that room was moved by the leading of the Holy Spirit. Each of us prayed in tongues. There was a time when our hands were blessed with Holy water and even our bodies were sprinkled by that same water. It was a long and continuous prayer, before it ended we all surrendered and claimed the victory.

After the prayer, was the time for eating! Since it was nearly 12 MN, it’s time for us to go home since there’s work the next day. Tita Grace hugged us all individually before we left. When it was my turn, she whispered to me that: "Marami pang gustong ipagawa si Lord sayo..." English translated: “You have more things to do for the Lord”. Of course I was shocked and it was then that I realized what the Lord made me feel during the prayer. He made me remember and see both the bad and good things when serving Him like pain, frustration, struggle, doubt, worry and even joy, victory, love, fulfillment etc. He is expecting me to do more things for him before I settle down. Maybe he wants me to work for the mission and he even assured me that he will take care and lead me as we prepare for our upcoming wedding.

After that it made me think more of what I can do. I realized that I have to give my full force in serving God for he is expecting me and calling me to give more because he still needs me and who am I to say no? After all he has done and given me? I say yes for greater and bigger services for the Lord. I also realized before my services sometimes became my burden because I myself is serious enough to fulfill them. There are moments that maybe I partly enjoyed but now with all the experiences I have been through, I finally know how to handle them and I am enjoying. I am having fun because I need to feel the excitement when preparing and doing my service to Him.

Before the awaited desert camp, last Sunday I attended the meeting for KFC Family Conference. I was given a task and I just said yes because I want to give God the glory he deserve. My current service is not yet done for the Family Ties and here comes another responsibility but I know the Lord will sustain and prepare me to do what he is expecting me to do. I believe that my God is strong and faithful and I hold on to that truth. I hold on to His promises for I may fail but I know he never fails.

Sisters and brothers, I thank you for the support and love that you have for me. Thank you for being God’s instrument to me and altogether let's stand firm in the faith.

Called for a Greater Purpose

Date: October 10, 2016

Gospel: Luke 11:29-32

The Sign of Jonah

²⁹ As the crowds increased, Jesus said, “This is a wicked generation. It asks for a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah. ³⁰ For as Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so also will the Son of Man be to this generation.³¹ The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the people of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon’s wisdom; and now something greater than Solomon is here. ³² The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and now something greater than Jonah is here.

Reflection:

The gospel reading for today speaks about Jesus comparing the old generation (BC) with the present one (AD). People nowadays when making decisions look for signs, read horoscopes, ask fortune tellers and even follow superstitious beliefs. Above all these practices, we should have a deeper faith in God, knowing that his ways and revelations have a clear meaning with a great purpose behind for all. Following and believing this practices is okay but we should be aware that they can oftentimes mislead us to different paths that may affect God’s plan for us.

What is the sign of Jonah? It means that the time has come to repent. God has sent Jonah to lead the people to change their ways. Jonah was disobedient at first by trying to avoid doing what God wants him to do but after experiencing a heavy storm, being thrown overboard and being swallowed by a whale, he was sent off to Nineveh to bring God’s salvation to many and in turn fulfil God’s great plan for everyone.

The sign of Jonah happened again after many years passed and here comes Jesus being sent by God to redeem the people. That time they still believed in signs which was very hard for him to evangelize them. The people were also close-minded that they refuse to listen to the word of God despite the miracles that Jesus performed. As Jonah stayed in the whale for three days, Jesus died and rose from the dead after 3 days for the sake of our sins.

Jonah’s and Jesus’ time have passed and the mission is being handed over on to you and me. Currently, I am blessed to be able to handle a new household which I did not expect and it came as a blessing in disguise. I asked God why but then I was assured that “I was called” and my SFC sister also affirmed that I was anointed. I accepted the task even if I don’t know what to do or how but the grace of the Lord keeps me going despite the difficulties I am also experiencing. I always remind myself that the task of leading a household is difficult but in the end, the fruit is sweet.

It has only been more than a month yet God has made me feel so loved and blessed beyond measure. Slowly he is changing me, he is allowing me to conquer my fears and he pushes me to strive to be the best I can be. God is also giving me the best of what He thinks I deserve and despite my unworthiness, he assures me that I still deserve it. I have a long way to go and I pray that may God’s will always be done in my life. The Lord’s love, mercy and grace for me never fails even if I fail always. I know the task won’t be easy but I am assured that everything is all worth it and my God will reward me eternally in Heaven.

I am Sarah Lauren Lim, a beloved child and I am called by God for a greater purpose!

And for this, may God be praised!

God’s messenger

Sept. 24, 2016

Gospel: Saint Luke 9:43b-45.    
While they were all amazed at his every deed, he said to his disciples,
"Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men."
But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

Reflection:

"If the message does not kill you then kill the messenger."

I heard this line from Father Tom as he was giving his homily last Feb. 2, 2013 at St. Mary's Church. It is a simple message but it hides a big meaning which creates a big impact behind the simple words stated. Father Tom even joked as he ended his homily stating: "If I'm not here anymore tomorrow then you know what happened.." After that everybody started laughing and it seems they got the message that the priest was trying to share. As I reflected, I realized that the reason why God is sending us this messages is for us to share the message to others and not keep it to yourself.

The gospel reading for today is reaching out to all us that we need to pay attention more when we are amazed of the great things that the Lord is telling or showing to us because He will use several ways through persons, scriptures, situations or other means to tell us of the message that he wants us to proclaim. Oftentimes the message that he transmits will not be clear for us to understand. In this case, let’s not be afraid to ask him for clarity since the Lord will surely reveal that message through several ways. When the Lord reveals the message, our interpretation should always be guided by the Holy Spirit.

Being a receiver of God message, we should be sensitive enough and ponder deeply on what the message he is trying to reveal us because if we don’t, then we might be misled to different interpretations. Let us become a vessel of His love to others by seeking the best interest for the good of all. May we allow ourselves to become God’s messenger of peace, faith, hope, mercy, grace and love to our brothers and sisters in and out of the community.

Love is the Answer

 

Date: June 2, 2016
Gospel: Mark 12:28-34 New International Version (NIV)

The Greatest Commandment

28 One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?”
29 “The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30 Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”
32 “Well said, teacher,” the man replied. “You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but him. 33 To love him with all your heart, with all your understanding and with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself is more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.”
34 When Jesus saw that he had answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And from then on no one dared ask him any more questions.

Reflection:

Jesus clearly said in the Gospel: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ 31 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

If Jesus would tell me those words, I would have asked him: “Lord how do I love like you did? How easy can loving others be? How can I express that love? Please help me to understand the kind of love that you are teaching and in return to do it because I don’t know.”

I have a hard time understanding what love is and its definition depends on each person’s experience and story. Love for me is complicated and I guess it’s my weakness and it’s also what I lack within me (I think so). Growing up, I had longed to feel and experience the kind of love that makes you feel warm, joyful, contented and the kind of love that people fight for. I had been finding that love and I don’t know why it’s so hard for me to understand that love is simple, that love can be described as a sacrifice and being selfless like what Jesus did for all of us on the cross.

We are 7 in the family and our parents were ex OFWs. They had provided a great life for all my siblings. They gave what they think was deserved by us and we are blessed for all the sacrifices that they did. They gave us the best even if it cost them more time working and being away from us. In the absence of our parents, we grew up with other people taking care of us. We know that they love us because they are working hard to send us to great schools for us to have a better future. I guess my parents showed that love in a different way that I did not understand it before.

2 years ago, our parents have retired and our eldest sister has a family of her own. I, being the 2^nd eldest child, felt that it is my responsibility to provide for the needs of my parents and my sibling. I know that it’s my turn to sacrifice since I believe that sharing my resources is one way where I can extend my love to them despite the distance. There are times that the efforts I put cannot be appreciated and somehow that makes me feel sad. There are moments that make me feel burdened that I just want to give up trying. Sometimes there are unexpected situations that I need to sacrifice my own desires so I can provide more for their urgent needs. A lot of times I find myself complaining, worrying about my future and helplessly crying if I cannot take it in anymore. It is very hard but by the grace of God, He makes it possible. I guess during those trying times, God is testing as to how I can give more to my family. He is checking my heart if I can love and think of my family more than my own self.

Following the command of God is easy but loving others can be so hard. Why is it so hard? I realized that love can never be forced, never be explained completely through words, but expressed through actions and can only be felt from our heart. Some people say that if it doesn’t hurt then it’s not real love. At first love can hurt, but in the end it can be tolerable and somehow it will be meaningful because you freely gave and sacrificed it. I realized that God is measuring my capacity to love through my family and He wants me to continue giving and be selfless in serving my own family.

I have been serving the community for 11 years now and I believe God wants me to also serve my family. I am thankful that God made me realized how important it is to love and accept my family. I admit that I had neglected them when I joined the YFC community because I thought and felt unloved before. Through my services in SFC and KFC, God made me appreciate and value their presence more. Despite the unexplained wounds, God removed the pains and hurts that I had buried beneath my heart. He has healed and made me realize that it is time to let go, time to forgive and be forgiven, time to heal and time to express my way of love to the people closest to me. He has replaced the burdens in my heart with inner peace and joy that there’s no more room for pain, fear and negativity. I am still a work in progress and I pray that may God give me the mercy and grace to continue what he was entrusted me and that may I never get tired of trying.

Everyone is created uniquely and we are blessed by love in different ways. We are indebted to love as God has loved us despite our faults, failures and past. In all our worries and problems, God is the answer because God is love. Believe that he hears our prayers and assures us that difficulties are there for a reason and he will reveal His great plan in his perfect time. May we continue to love others more even if it hurts and obey him in all circumstances while we rejoice, pray and give Him thanks.

And for that, may God be praised!

 

 

In whatever questions and situations that we will encounter,

let's remember that love is always the answer.

For our God is love and love is God,

therefore we can never go wrong for Love conquers all.

 

 

Delighted (April 2015)

Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you your heart's desires. -Psalm 37:4

This verse has fulfilled great to greater things with all God's grace and abundance. Truly God is a God of amazing things and with that thank you so much Lord! Super mega thankful for all your blessings, for all the answered prayers, for the sweet surprises and for the assurance of your promises. 

‪#‎HOME‬ ‪#‎PINASvacation‬‪ #‎LOVEproject‬ ‪#‎iamBBM‬ ‪#‎deogloria‬ ‪#‎lovePAmore‬ 

‪#‎breakFREE‬ ‪#‎chooseCHRIST‬‪#‎justASK‬ ‪#‎blessingsOVERLOAD‬ ‪#‎HAPPY‬

Looking back a year later, I am affirmed and delighted to keep on believing that God is indeed an amazing God. I am reminded to keep holding on and to continue trusting your plan for me. Thank you Lord for answering all my prayers and requests. It may not be what I asked but for sure you gave it knowing that it's best for me. Thank you for your generosity, grace, mercy and love that never fails and surpasses all things. May your name be praised.

Share and Give thanks to God!

Sharer: Sarah Lauren Lim, Batch 43

Gospel (John 6:1-15)
Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand

6 Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea of Tiberias), 2 and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the signs he had performed by healing the sick. 3 Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat down with his disciples. 4 The Jewish Passover Festival was near.

5 When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” 6 He asked this only to test him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.

7 Philip answered him, “It would take more than half a year’s wages to buy enough bread for each one to have a bite!”
8 Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up,9 “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”
10 Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and they sat down (about five thousand men were there).11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.
12 When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” 13 So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.
14 After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” 15 Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.

------------------------------- 

The story about Jesus feeding the five thousand is not new to us. In fact we heard it several times but do we apply it in our personal lives? This story teaches us that with God nothing is impossible. In the story, the boy shared what he had and after doing that, people imitated him by sharing what they also had which resulted to having plenty of leftovers. It also teaches us to give thanks to God for all the blessings he has given us like what Jesus did. Let us focus with sharing our blessings and giving thanks to God.

I asked my best friend, Ayette about the question: “Why do you share?” Her response is that “Sharing makes me happy because I feel that I am so blessed that God gave me this kind of opportunity to share the blessings he gave to others too. One reason why I share is because the feeling of knowing that I shared to someone gives an impact that can be contagious. It’s like the one whom you shared with, will also find ways to share to others because deep within his heart it is a nice feeling. Then it will create a ripple effect that will go on and on.” Several friends also agreed that it gives them a nice feeling after sharing.

We are blessed to have a generous, merciful and loving God. He is teaching us to do the same to our neighbors no matter how difficult and challenging they can be. Our Lord is an amazing God that even before we ask, He already knew what to give to us even beyond what we deserve. As he extends his hand and blesses us with much, he is also expecting us to bless others with the blessings he gave. The joys in our heart after sharing like experiencing heaven on earth. This unexplained feeling of happiness and contentment is different and can only be experienced through sharing and through the grace of God. 

Sharing your blessings doesn’t refer to money alone. Sharing can be through your time, talent or treasure. Sharing is blessing, is caring and is loving. In sharing, we also give thanks to God because He is the source of all this and by doing that, we give glory to His name. Let us continue to share what we have because God’s generosity cannot be undone and that the more we share, the more we gain and also the more people will experience the same. As followers of Jesus, may we become an instrument of God’s love to the people we encounter by sharing and being a blessing to others so that they too can experience heaven on earth and will also do the same to others.

And for this may God be praised!

KFC 1C Entry Camp March 2016

Rejoice, Pray and Give thanks!

March 19, 2016 - St. Mary's Church DXB
2 words: Blessed and Privileged.

Thank you Lord for all the blessings and great things..

Impossible as it may seems but if you truly are with the Lord then all things are possible.

To everyone who gave their time, treasure, talents, prayers and effort - BIG THANKS to ALL! The event won't be possible without your support, providence and guidance! From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, thank you very much!

I can say that this service is one of the best that I encounter. Imagine 4 meetings within 3 weeks for a one time big time event? Wow! I am in WOW really! With the dedication of the CFC and with support of YFCs and SFCs also with the help of others. I mean Lord you put us all together so we can give our best to the kids in KFC ministry. God you are amazing!

Lord thank you for the little and big details, the amazing discoveries, for all the blessings, for the friendship, for finding a family in this KFC ministry, for sisters/brothers and siblings, for the love shared and for greater things that are yet to unfold. Lord I just want to thank you, for believing in our capacity, for providing everything, for the endurance, for the patience, for being an instrument and for your unconditional love and promise that kept us going through. Without you Lord, this all will be nothing. Thank you for the fulfillment and all our efforts were paid off. Thank you for revealing yourself through the kids that we are serving. We may not remember all your names but the good Lord will bless you far more than you can imagine. 

Lord we offer this service. 

May you be glorified in everything that we do! :)

Delight and ASK (Ask, Seek & Knock)

http://b3-dailymanna.blogspot.ae/2016/02/delight-and-ask-ask-seek-knock-0205.html

Gospel for the day: Mark 6:14-29

14 King Herod heard about this, for Jesus’ name had become well known. Some were saying,[a] “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous powers are at work in him.” 15 Others said, “He is Elijah.” And still others claimed, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago.” 16 But when Herod heard this, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from the dead!” 17 For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled[b]; yet he liked to listen to him. 21 Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. 22 When the daughter of[c] Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you.” 23 And he promised her with an oath, “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom.” 24 She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” “The head of John the Baptist,” she answered. 25 At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: “I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” 26 The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring John’s head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison, 28 and brought back his head on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her mother. 29 On hearing of this, John’s disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb. ~Mark 6:14-29

Reflection:

In the Gospel, we have heard that John the Baptist was a prophet in which others also called him as Elijah. He was a righteous and holy man and King Herod liked to listen to him. On the King’s birthday, the daughter of Herodias danced and pleased the guests in which the King promised an oath. Herodias having a grudge on John took that opportunity to kill him. The daughter of Herodias then requested to have John’s head on the platter. And because of the King’s words which he did not want to refuse, he made orders to fulfill the request.

Many times in our life, we have this word of honor that whatever we say, we need to do it. We were raised by our families to practice and do what we say. Same as like in today’s gospel: The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you.” It’s also the same as to when God speaks and answers our prayers. Our God is a very generous Father who’s willing to give everything to His children as long as it is for the good purpose. God knows when to say yes and when to say no or maybe.

I have 2 favorite Bible verses from Matthew 7:7-12 (Ask, Seek and Knock) and Psalm 37:4 (Delight yourself in the Lord and He shall give you your heart’s desire). I must say that 2015 has been a great year for answered prayers which I never expected to all come true. God surprised me with a God’s gift and a better opportunity at work. God entrusted me a bigger service in KFC ministry. God assured to provide me with all I need and even allowed me to go home twice this year. It was only December in which 10 years we waited to be complete for our family reunion. We celebrated birthdays, wedding anniversary, Christmas, New yearYear and vacation holidays. We had our first complete family photoshoot and we travelled a lot together. God blessed me and my family so much and all the struggles we had were worth it. God heard my prayers and fulfilled them in His perfect time.

As I journey with the Lord this 2016, all I want is to give back the glory that belongs to Him. I am still a work in progress and I will strive with all that I can to become a better me. As the line from Kuya Noli says: “The reward for more blessings is more service!” Lord, let me serve You with joy and gladness and not treat the service as a burden. Let me inspire others as how You inspired me. Allow change to mold and transform me to be like Jesus. I will always delight in You and will continue to ask, seek and knock. Lord, may Your will always be done. Thank You for everything and may Your name be praised! Deo Gloria! :)

A love that endures

“What is family?”
We pondered and ask ourselves what family meant for us. We mentioned words that relate to “family” and we agreed that the word itself has a lot of meaning. We concluded that family means God’s gift, belongingness, happiness, blessing, comfort, love, faith, trust, peace, purpose, guidance, strength, unity, forgiveness, home, church, marriage, providence, sacrifice, relationship, communication, time, treasure, community, work, effort, distance, responsibility, blood related, sweat, rivalry, hurts, under progress, third party, mistress, abortion, emotional baggage, selfishness, separation, brokenness, defense mechanism, pain, misunderstanding and the list goes on. We realized that family can be defined simply as love.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things and endures all things.
-1 Corinthians 13:7

How wonderful and powerful true and genuine love can be? For it is by love that God sent his Son to save the world. It is by love that he has called us and even blessed us with a family we can call our own. It is also by love from our parents that we are here enjoying life by living on earth. We don’t choose our parents and neither do they choose their children. The family is a manifestation of God’s great plan and love for mankind.

A family is not referred to as blood related only. Any person can be a part of a family no matter what their circumstances may be. Belonging to a community, to a workplace, to the Church, to friends or even housemates is already considered as a family because we are building a relationship with them. Being migrant workers in a foreign country, I believe God provided a second family for us to share and enjoy our life even if our biological family is away from us.

The fruit of a family is a blessing of a relationship and a love that is shared between them. It is the love that binds and unites them like a rope tied by connecting each member together. The love continues to grow stronger and blazes like fire burning with passion and desire that nothing can stop it. The relationship built flows deeply more than blood, sweat and water as time passes by. We all have good and bad sides and when there is love and acceptance, the heart is freed of any guilt or bad emotions and the desire to change to become better is there.

The family nowadays is being attacked and we should always remember that no matter how hard and difficult the situations may be, as long as there is love, relationship and a commitment to hold on to then definitely it will withstand all the storms that life may bring. The vibrant colors symbolize the ups and downs of family life. It shows that family will always be the reason for us to love and they will always be our home when there’s no place that we can run to for comfort. Love endures and therefore our family should endure because they are God’s gift to us. Our family and our love to them is always worth fighting and enduring for!

This entry is dedicated to all our family and friends who are gifts from God and we praise the Lord for they are our treasures! They are a God's masterpiece in our life. "Thank you and We love you!"

Dubai Chapter 3B3: Thank you Girl power!
Sarah Lauren Lim, Karla Mae Gabion, Vaneflor Olesco, Leah Joy Lingat, Madonna Cabalona and also thank you for the support from members of Chapter 3B3

Funny convo of Me and God

A funny convo with God that's a bit melodramatic yet somehow was an eye opener for me and hit me with a big realization. I was praying for something to happen and I was doubting if it was really meant for me. Truly He answers us in ways we couldn't see but in circumstances we can really feel. He hears our every cry and no silence escapes Him. You are indeed a great God. Thank you for your confrontation and for making me see the blindness I refuse to unveil and discover the lies that held me captive. Allow me to break free and to stand up slowly but surely. In your name, I trust. May your will be done. AMEN.
(written last year when I was discerning to go for RECON but failed to do so)

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AKO: Ano bang gusto mong gawin ko?

SIYA: Ano ba ang kaya mong gawin para sa akin?

AKO: Aaaahhh…. Ummm **isip** Hindi ko alam? Marami?!? **duda mode**

SIYA: Bakit naman? Pinagdududahan mo ba ako o ang sarili mo?

AKO: Nagdududa ako kasi alam ko capasidad ko. Basta ang gulo kasi!

SIYA: Isa lang naman ang pipiliin mo at ako na bahala sa ano pang kailangan mo. Manalig ka sa akin!

AKO: Paano eto……. Kasi may ganito……. Tapos ayun….. Haaaay buhay napaka complikado…. Puro na lang problema. Nakaka stress na!

SIYA: Ikaw lang naman nagpapa complikado ng usapang ito. Oo o hindi lang ang isasagot mo pero nagdadahilan ka pa ng kung ano ano. Oh kay tigas nga naman ng ulo mo.

AKO: Kasi naman takot ako… tsaka maraming duda sa kung ano ano.. hmmm maraming iniisip na d naman kelangan.. haay napaka advance pa ng utak ko… kasi maraming dinadala at kinakarga....tsaka maraming inaalala at alam kong nakaka abala na talaga.. Haaay napaka worry freak lang ng peg ko.. Grrrrr kainisssssss!

SIYA: Sumasakit na nga tenga ko sa kakapakinig sa lahat ng litanya mo kahit na paulit ulit na lang ganyan. Wala ka bang tiwala man lang? Nasaan na ba ang dating “ikaw” na walang takot hinaharap ang mga bagay bagay, ung dating “ikaw” na di basta basta sumusuko kahit lubog na lubog na, ung dating “ikaw” na malakas ang loob at may tiwala sa akin, ung dating “ikaw” na hindi ng aalala sa mangyayari bukas, ung dating “ikaw” na wagas ang ngiti kahit may pinoproblema, ung dating “ikaw” na kung makapagsabi ng OO/YES ay papanindigan kahit gaano kahirap, ung dating “ikaw” na may disiplina at hindi pabaya tsaka ung dating “ikaw” na kilalang kilala ko mula noon. Anyare at bigla kang nagbago at lumayo???

AKO: .......................................................... Alam ko..

SIYA: Anyare?

AKO: Nagpadala kasi ako sa kahinaan ko, sa pagiging makasarili ko, sa kalungkutan ko, sa pangungulila ko, sa kakaibang emosyon ko, sa sari saring iniisip ko at sa kung ano pang nararamdaman ng puso ko. Akala ko tama ung ginagawa ko pero nakakalimutan ko na at sa mga yun dun nagsimula ang unti unti kong paglayo. Hinanap ko ang mga bagay na mgpapacompleto sa akin and magbibigay saya sa akin. Kaya nakalimot ako at dun nawala na ang lahat. Kaya eto ako ngayon, hirap na hirap bumangon ulit. Ung mahinang ako na nauubusan na ng lakas ng loob at laging takot. Ung ako na d ko inaasahan na bibigat at lalapad ng ganito. Ung ako na mahina, mapagduda, makasarili at ngpadala sa temptasyon. Nagsisisi ako at ngayon gusto ko ng itama ang mga mali ko. Gusto ko ng bumalik sa dati kaso ang hiraaaaaaaaaaap pala.

SIYA: Magiging maayos rin ang lahat Anak. Tandaan mo na ang mga nangyayaring ito ay may rason. Kapit ka lang. Pagdaanan mo lang kasi ito ang magtuturo sayo ng tama kesa sa mali. Matututo ka Anak. Wag kang matakot. Tumayo kang muli. Mag-umpisa ka sa sarili mo, sa dasal, sa tiwala at isipin na makakayanan mo rin ito. Kasama mo ko at d magtatagal ay magtatagumpay ka din.

AKO: Panginoon, turuan mo akong maniwala sa di kapanipaniwalang bagay. Alam kong walang imposible sa iyo at alam kong malalampasan ko rin ito. Itinataas ko na ang lahat sa inyo. Oh Diyos, kayo na po ang bahala sa akin. Kailangan kita at maraming salamat sa lahat. In Jesus' name, Amen.

SIYA: AMEN!

 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0 ~ 0

God speaks in different ways. Are we listening when he speaks?

Or are we busy talking the whole time in prayer?

Reflect and listen well.

Are you?

 

Songwriting Tips

FOR ALL THE SONGWRITERS OUT THERE

Taken from the blog of one of the best songwriter that I know in the CFC community, Kirby Llaban. He composed the song “God is enough”, “Send me”, “I give my all” and many more…

visit his blog: (The links have expired so it's not valid anymore.)
http://www.godisenoughforme.com
http://ghamaypepito.tumblr.com

Songwriting Tip #7: It’s Okay To Have the Same Chord Pattern
Many songwriters are worried that their new song has the same Chord pattern as the previous one. In my experience, it doesn’t matter. Most of my songs are in the E-B-F#m-A chord pattern. But each song still sounds unique. What is more important is that we are able to make songs for the Lord.

If you are just a simple musician like me, who just knows the basic guitar and piano chords, you can ask an expert to improve the chords. I ask my friends Fredney and Mike to arrange the songs to make them sound better and distinctive. Suddenly I see “broken chords” and “sus” chords, because of their help.

If your goal is to let more people easily learn the songs you make, then simple chords are better. Also, having the same chord patterns make it easy for you to transition from one song to the next.

Songwriting Tip# 6: Have a Handy Recorder
It’s important to have a gadget where you can record your song in an instant. There are times that suddenly a melody comes across your mind or a beat or an idea for an intro. Sparks of inspiration can easily be forgotten when our focus is diverted. It helps if your cellphone has a voice recording feature, so you can hum your melody or sing out an inspired chorus directly to your phone. Another way is to video yourself, including the chords that you play.

You can stack your recorded ‘inspirations’ and get back to them anytime. The temptation though is that because you are confident that you have stored the initial parts, there is a lesser tendency to finish the song. Be sure to finish what you have started.

Songwriting Tip #5: Lyrics or Melody? It’s Up to God
Which comes first? The lyrics or the melody? This “chicken or egg” query is the most frequently asked question regarding songwriting. The answer to that: whichever the Lord reveals to you first. There are times that you strum a certain chord pattern and a melody comes out. There are also instances that we are inspired to write down and express a realization or an emotion.

In my experience, the advantage if the melody comes first is that the song is most likely to have a very catchy chorus and a complementing stanza melody. The challenge is to write down an inspiration that will capture the feel of the music.

When you write the lyrics first, a great advantage is that the song can have a very unique outcome of its melody since it’s based on the words and the emotions behind the poetry. It is less likely to be structured and the song is not “boxed in.” The big challenge is to shorten some of your written verses to fit in the desired number of syllables to match the song timing. You may have to change many of your original lyrics.

The best thing to do is to allow the Lord to lead you whether what you are holding now is a pen or a guitar. It’s His song anyway.

Songwriting Tip #4: Build Up the Message of Your Song
Do you have anything to say? What is it that you feel? The answers to these questions can be communicated by speech or better yet, by SONG! St. Augustine once said, “Singing is twice praying.” Music is such a potent tool to communicate and express our innermost thoughts and feelings.On the blank below, write down a key message that you want to deliver. It can be a word or a phrase. (ex. love for God, expressing a romantic feeling, etc.)_____________________________

List down five(5) topics related to your key message. (ex. love for God: forgiveness, peace, joy, etc.)

1.___________________________

2.___________________________

3.___________________________

4.___________________________

5.___________________________

Next, write down how you feel about each topic. (ex. forgiveness: freedom)

1.___________________________

2.___________________________

3.___________________________

4.___________________________

5.___________________________

With these information, you can now proceed to write a draft composition. What is vital is that you have a clear message and that you can visualize the emotions that will match to the tune you will be creating.

Songwriting Tip #3: Believe in Yourself
A basic requirement for song writing is CONFIDENCE. If you don’t believe in yourself, then most of the time others won’t. Stephen Covey suggests in his Seven Habits of Effective People, “Begin with the end in mind.” Believe 100% that you can be an excellent song writer. Stick with that goal, and you will see how fast your skills develop. State three(3) reasons why you can be an excellent song writer.

1.___________________________

2.___________________________

3.___________________________



Songwriting Tip #2: Find Out Why You Want to Write Songs
Can you state three(3) reasons why writing songs is important? State your reasons.

1.___________________________

2.___________________________

3.___________________________

The question above aims to let you realize that songwriting can affect lives. It may be a hobby or a skill you want to harness, but best of all it is something of worth and importance. Answering the “whys” will bring out your passion for songwriting. When time comes that you feel lost and tired in writing songs, the “whys” will bring you back on track.

Songwriting Tip #1: Have the Passion
A musician with great passion will later outdo a musician with great skill. How many times have we seen someone so gifted in an instrument but never dared to write or even finish a song he has started? I know I have dozens of them. Passion always creates possibilities. Passion drives us to learn more each day until we become excellent. Having a passion for songwriting will ignite endless possibilities to creating a musical masterpiece.

TB HH

A love that shows is a love that overflows. Thank you for the gift of household wink emoticon i miss you Angels!
#iamBBM #deogloria #thankyouLord #happy#LOVEmore #blessings — 
with Collete Cawagas,Cristina Padual Alday, Enina Ocampo and Maikie Ann Quimson Aniciete.

Be God’s Chosen One

Date: January 3, 2015

Sharer: Sarah Lim

CLP Batch: 43

Gospel: John 1:29-34 New International Version (NIV)

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.”

Reflection:

In the Bible we have heard a lot of chosen people of God and the first would be Adam and Eve. Despite their sinfulness, still God was merciful enough to forgive and give them the chance to live. After our first parents, God then chose people from different families. To name some they were Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Noah, Moses, Israelites, Joseph the dreamer, David, Samson, Elizabeth, Zechariah, Joseph and Mary. Jesus the Messiah is God’s Chosen One and after His legacy a lot has followed. After Jesus was Peter being the first Pope, the disciples, John the Beloved, Mary Magdalene, the conversion of Paul, the apostles, the followers, Stephen who was the first saint and all other saints, priests, nuns, missionaries and that includes individuals like you and me.

Everyone is God’s chosen one because our presence on earth is not a mere accident. You, existing on earth is not a joke and in God’s eyes you are very special. Can you imagine the love He has for us that He gave Jesus for our salvation? All of us were called by name for a purpose and that is to fulfil the plan of God in our life. We may be ordinary individuals but God has prepared the best for us to experience life on earth and therefore we should not waste the opportunity. There’s a saying that goes: “God doesn’t call the qualified because He qualifies the called.” We are called and our duty does not end by answering yes but by doing our best to do the mission entrusted to us. God wants us to say Yes to His call and of course it includes action as well. God is ever faithful for He’ll never leave us in times of difficulty.

How can we be God’s Chosen One? Well let’s strive to be a blessing to others in many simple and small ways. We are called to make a difference. We are called to become an Alter Christus (Alter Christ) to those whom we meet. We are called not to be Christian thinkers nor talkers but doers of Catholic faith and teaching. We are called to love because love is understood in God alone for God is love and love is God. Love is expressed not in words but in deeds. So let’s love more. We are called to proclaim the good news and evangelize the people of this world. We are called to be ready for the second coming of Jesus Christ and when that happens, all tongue shall give praise and all knees will bend to Him.

We are called. You are called. I am called. Why? Simply because we are God’s beloved. We are special and beautiful in His eyes.  We are highly favoured and blessed like none other. We were paid for a price because He loved us dearly. He assures us through His promises that He won’t leave nor forsake us. God is calling us not to be successful but to be faithful just as He is. So now, God is waiting for our Yes in action and let’s allow His plan to unfold in our lives. When all else fails and just so you may forget, remember and be proud to say that “I’ll be the ONE” because YOU and I is God’s Chosen One.

Soli Deo Gloria! (Glory to God alone!)

God bless us all! Happy New Year!

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

Best of 2014

The best of 2014

Indeed, 2014 has come to an end and it feels like it just started yesterday. Time flies very fast and what we can do is just to enjoy and savor the moment until it lasts. 2014 has been a great and unique year for me with a lot of ups and downs with twists and turns and dark to light moments. 2014 just like the previous years that passed allows me to continuously improve with myself since I know I am a work in progress, a clay to be molded upon, a light to be sent out to spread with others and a jug waiting to be filled to the brim.

Today may be the last day of the year and still we have few hours left to make the most of 2014 before we welcome 2015. So now let me take this time to appreciate and say thank you to the ones who touched my life and will be touching my life for the many years to come. Thank you Lord for all the blessings, graces and love that you have showered upon me through my family, friends and the community. You are a faithful and merciful God for you have given me chances despite my sinfulness and stubbornness. Still your love remained and it keeps on getting stronger. Sorry for the times I failed you and for disobeying your commands. Allow me to continue growing and become the person you want me to be with the help of my loved ones. May your will be done in me as always as it should be.

I am excited for a new year which means a lot of new events, experiences and encounters. There are a lot of things/situations and circumstances to look forward for. I hope and pray that may I learn to love more not just in words but in deeds. I guess I’m ready for a new chapter and I know with God’s grace I’ll survive like the previous years that passed. Let’s all prepare our hearts for the plans that the Lord prepared for us. May God’s peace, hope, faith, grace, forgiveness and love be upon us all! Yipeeeeey!

Happy New Year! Happy 2015! Cheers! :)

With God.....

With God…………….

I am blessed. I am His beloved. I am forgiven. I am dearly loved.

I am secured. I am freed. I am capable. I am special.

I am complete. I am a Princess/Prince. I am highly favored. I am contented.

I am forever grateful. I am called. I am happy. I am chosen.

I am strong. I can be the best. I am inspired. I am supported.

I am wanted. I am adored. I am humbled. I am wonderfully made.

I am captivated. I am useful. I am destined for greatness.

I am accepted regardless of my past, faults and failures.

I can be me without pretension, guilt, fear and worry.

I am saved by His grace. I am needed. I am empowered.

I can be, I am me, I will be, with His love, mercy, grace and providence.

With God, I can do everything to the best of my abilities.

Without God, I am empty, incomplete, lost, weak, helpless, incapable and useless.

With God, all things are possible for impossibilities are His specialties!

Thank you Lord. You're the best!