Christmas Shoe Box Update

Praise the Lord!  Today, the students were able to raise the money we needed for our Christmas party outreaches.  The money we collected is even doubled than what we really needed.  God is indeed good.  The SC saw how God worked through our prayers.  I believe this is one of my personal purpose for them to personally experience God.

Yesterday, as we count the shoeboxes, we discovered that we still lack 100 boxes for the home for the aged.  Our president was in panic and she started to call her mom to ask her to start canvassing blankets.  I told her not to panic, and since prayer already worked the first time, it will work again the second time, all she needs is to pray and have faith.  Today, a parent called up informing us that since they are also ministering to the same group that we would be visiting, they have prepared 100 boxes of gifts to add to our shoeboxes.  They didn't even know that we lack 100 boxes.  Isn't that amazing.   The SC were so surprised about this matter.  I praise God for He continuous to reveal Himself to the students.

I also praise God for the students are really excited in planning for the outreaches.  It would be the first time for our students to go out for outreaches simultaneously.  This is also the first time, class officers are being empowered to organize such events.  I believe this is an opportunity to discover leadership skills among our students and hope we can hone them further as the opportunity arises.

Praise God for all these things that are happening.  I thank God also for giving me an opportunity to minister to our young people.  I really hope that all of our students can come to experience God in a deep and personal way.

 To God be All the Glory!!!

Christmas Shoe Box

It is my first project with our Student Council, "Christmas Shoebox."

We agreed to do something different this  year.  Instead of having a popularity contest to raise funds for the less fortunate.  We agreed to ask all students to get an adult rubber shoebox and fill it up with new stuffs like clothes, toys, books, towels etc.  Each year level was assigned an specific age group of recipients.  They are to gift wrap the shoebox and place it in their classroom as an added Christmas decor for their class.  At first, we wanted this to be done by the elementary and high school students but the pre-school also wanted to join the activity to raise social awareness.

We also agreed additional work for high school students by assigning each batch to a particular organization to help distribute the shoeboxes.  They are also asked to create a Christmas party for these less fortunate kids with a budget of 50 pesos per head.  This one really gave them a headache.  Since everyone is used to spending much for parties.  One officer was even so surprised in the meeting saying, "50 pesos is not enough for a Jollibee Christmas Party per head."  I told them, you guys better cook.  Through this activity, I wanted them to learn the value of money.

I challenge the SC to go to the grocery to canvass prices which they did and realized that the 50 pesos per head was really enough to create a good party for their target audience.  This will be the first time the whole student body are being mobilized to do such simultaneously activity.  I was glad that the homeroom advisers and some faculty members were also glad to help the students their preparation for such an outreach project.

The next question will be - where will we get the money to raise the needed funds?  We decided to collect any amount students are willing to give.  Some members of the SC was hesitant because according to last year's experience they were not able to raise more than a thousand pesos (if my memory serves me right).  But anyway, I just encouraged them to commit all things to God through prayer.  I hope they will experience the power of prayer through this opportunity.

So, we set a weekly prayer meeting to pray for this event.

Ethics: A Real Challenge

In today's class discussion, we talked about ethics.  This is actually not only important but the most complicated issue for every youth minister.  After watching the film on "The Emperor's Club," the class focused on active discussion of the movie and later relating it to ourselves, as youth ministers.  The main issue is really all about ethics.  What is ethics?

Ethics is a tough one as we went through different issues we face as a teacher, and also as a youth minister.  The dilemma whether to execute justice or to educate these young people in a subtle manner.  Should we use the rod or should we just use love?  Youth pastors are sometimes forced to be subjective or be forced to do favorites, but where and when do we really draw the line.

Ethics is all about who we are.  It includes our principles and virtues that we have developed in our life through the years of living in this world.  Our decisions are always founded with our own being.  Our judgement is always be bias on who we are.  The only security we can develop to make the best decision is when we truly seek the will of God and do His will.  God's will is good and perfect.  Unless we are clearly connected with God, integrity and good judgement will always be lagging behind us.

We can never really know whether we were able to make good decisions or not.  We can just hope that everything we do by the grace of God is able to bring out the best in every young people that has been entrusted to our care.

Thanks for the wonderful discussion in class... I was indeed blessed and learned so much from my students.

"Finis Origine Pendet"  -  The End Depends Upon the Beginning....

Looking Good and Young

Yesterday, I went for a haircut since I have not gone for a haircut over a month now.  Before we start, I got time to really take a closer look at myself.  I noticed that it seems I look younger than before hehehe... So, in vanity, I tried to look carefully again and again and really confirmed that my face is bright, light, jolly and young.  Is this an effect of working in Makati Hope?  I asked myself.  Maybe, I thought.  Maybe, these could also be effect of the L'Oreal products hehehe... It could also be because I am surrounded by lovely kids hehehe...

Working in a school is totally a different situation as compared to working in a church.  It is not easier but definitely it is a new ball game of challenges.  I really need to spend some time evaluating and reflecting the cause of such effect on me hehehe...

I am not saying that working in a church is a dread or something because each ministry is unique in its own way.  I enjoyed my ministry inside the church for the past decade.  I was blessed and very much engaged in many stuffs.  In my previous blog, I  shared about my clear calling to shift ministry.   Could this also be an effect of obedience to God's will?  Maybe.

Anyway, whatever the reason is, I am glad and praises God that I look good and young.  Sally (my Goddaughter) and Dess (Bryan's Sister) even confirmed my observation hehehe... When Bryan (my Godson) and I stood in front of the mirror last Sunday, he even looks older than me.  Truly, it is good being refreshed by the Lord no matter where you are serving as long as each step of the way is in submission to the will of God.

God's grace is bountiful....

Personal Mission Statement

My mission is to serve, inspire and transform people with the Word of God so that they will enjoy life both now and eternal.

Equipping God's People For Every Good Work

This has been the focus of my life and ministry for the past decade by continually equipping young people in all aspects of life to the best of my ability. I always focus on bringing out the best in each person so that they may use their full potential and gifts in serving the Lord where they are gifted. I also always aimed making sure that in every conversation I had with people, they should be learning something new from me.

I have been involved in equipping young people even when I was 16 years old through the Scouting Movement. And later on, though continually serving in the Scouting Movement, the Lord has added my focus in church ministry serving our young people as a youth leader and finally, went to seminary training where I was able to formulate my personal mission slogan in life. After graduation from seminary training I became the Chief Youth Pastor of our church for nine years. Today, I enter the basic education as Vice Principal still continuously serving the youth, hoping to equip God's people for every good work.

I was actually surprised when ATS first invited me to teach the course last year, and praise God, it went well. I am not trying to create duplicates of me but equipping people who can have the passion and able to contextualize their own youth ministry according to their gifts and according to the best of each one's ability. I just hope that all youth ministers may focus on equipping God's people (the youth) for every good work (discipleship). According to John 5, the very first good thing a man can do is actually to accept Jesus as his personal Lord and Savior.

I believe this is the direction God has clearly set before me and have seen how God has used me continually for His glory. The only prayer I had the day I left seminary was for the Lord to continually bless the work of my hands. And so, He DID!!! Praise the Lord!!!

The Youth Minister - Day 2 in ATS

The class today was remarkable.  It went very well and I am blessed with the active participation of my students in our discussions.  The interactive exchange of ideas and experiences made the learning experience powerful and worthwhile.

We had few more students who came it, I do hope they can catch up especially with the e-learning activities.

Being a youth minister is a difficult job.  It is not just making friends and filling our schedule with so much activities that we forget why are we doing what we are doing.  And most youth ministers forgot why are they reaching out to the youth.  We often kept ourselves busy with doing activities hoping to attract the youth.  But attract the youth for what?  The main job of the youth minister should always center on making disciples for our Lord Jesus Christ.

The youth minister is crucial in God's ministry because majority of people coming to know our Lord Jesus falls under the age group that belongs to the youth ministry.  If the youth minister lost his perspective, all souls are lost.  But having the right perspective, we are able to bring more workers to the harvest field.  The return will be a hundred folds...

Teaching Is Fun

I have not taught primary and secondary classes for a long time.  I have to do a substitution with one of our Bible teacher who is attending a seminar for the church's Sunday school.  It was so tiring but very much fulfilling.  I know I had lots of fun, but my voice and energy are all worn out after teaching six classes in a day.  I really wonder how can our teachers survive such stressful day, and they are doing it everyday.  Teachers are truly heroes that are often neglected.  They really need a lot of support and our salute for their dedication and sacrifice for the future of our youth.

I taught Grade 5, and High 2 and 3, all have two sections per level.  Each level has a unique strategy that I need to adjust and deliver.  I don't know if the students learned anything from me... hehehe.... though I know that I have done my best.

I was amazed that in each level both sections are extremely unique.  In these three levels I taught this morning, it was consistent that I had difficulty controlling a section and the other went smoothly.  Weird but true.

Anyway, the best part of this experience was that I actually enjoyed handling the classes.  It went well, maybe because of my position and I am someone new for the students, I wonder how these students would treat me in class if it becomes a regular things... hehehe...

Thanks God for the experience.

Moved by the Holy Spirit

It has been a long time since I preached in Makati Hope Christian Church.  I am glad that I was given the opportunity again especially now as the school's Vice Principal, I believe I could better minister to our students by preaching the Word of God.  The congregation is quite young since a big majority of the worshippers were young people.

It seems God has given me a different energy in preaching His Word yesterday.  As I was preaching, though I felt my microphone is not working well - it sounds odd, and the air conditioning seems humid because I had difficulty breathing as I preach, I ended up making an altar call.

The alter call is not part of the message but because I was preaching about the deity of Christ, there was a sudden urged that was telling me to make the challenge and call.  Surprisingly, six people among the congregation professed to accept Jesus to be their personal Lord and Savior.  Wow!  This excites me more... I really do not know whether they have accepted Christ before or not, or whether they were only being assured of their salvation but what is important, they boldly took the challenge and renewed their commitment of accepting our Savior with the right and proper perspective of who Christ really is and what He has really done for us.

My message seems to be theologically heavy, I forgot that my audience is really quite young.  I believe God is in control of all things.  We just need to follow, and be sensitive whenever He talks and calls our attention.  He knows what He is doing and His will is always perfect.

Praise the Lord.  It was really good to be there and minister to them.  I was indeed blessed preaching God's Word.  To God be all the glory.  Indeed, only God can glorify us so that we can glorify Him in return.  Without Him, we are nothing and can do nothing.  He is indeed good.

Inspiring People

When we talk about Prefect of Discipline Office, people has a stigma that it is a place of chaos, punishment, headache and frustration.  It seems this office always connotes negative things; it seems there is nothing positive about this office.  This is the same picture and news I received during my first day in office as the head of the school's student affairs.

Both office on Prefect and Guidance is under my office.  It seems we have big work to do because of too many negative perception about the Prefect of Discipline Office which also house my office.

The first challenge is to correct the image of our office.  I believe the role of the Prefect of Discipline should be a culture shaper; shaping the students using the different disciplines as presented by the core values of the school.  The core values of the school is popularly known as HEIRS.  Harmony, Excellence, Integrity, Resilience and Stewardship.

I praise God that in a month's time, students have started to see some change of perception about our office.  A group of high school students came yesterday and was asking us, "How come this office seems to be very happy?"  They commented that in all of the offices, our office seems very friendly and happy.  They felt strongly about this.  They themselves, were sharing that they never thought the Office of the Prefect of Discipline would be such a wonderful place to go.

My staff and I were so much blessed upon hearing such comments from the students.  Now, we know that the office can promote and shape the culture among students.  May God continue to bless and help us in touching the lives of these students that they may come to know Jesus and lived up to the core values we hope to impress upon our graduates...

We just need to continue inspiring people... for the glory of God.

Inspiring People

When we talk about Prefect of Discipline Office, people has a stigma that it is a place of chaos, punishment, headache and frustration.  It seems this office always connotes negative things; it seems there is nothing positive about this office.  This is the same picture and news I received during my first day in office as the head of the school's student affairs.

Both office on Prefect and Guidance is under my office.  It seems we have big work to do because of too many negative perception about the Prefect of Discipline Office which also house my office.

The first challenge is to correct the image of our office.  I believe the role of the Prefect of Discipline should be a culture shaper; shaping the students using the different disciplines as presented by the core values of the school.  The core values of the school is popularly known as HEIRS.  Harmony, Excellence, Integrity, Resilience and Stewardship.

I praise God that in a month's time, students have started to see some change of perception about our office.  A group of high school students came yesterday and was asking us, "How come this office seems to be very happy?"  They commented that in all of the offices, our office seems very friendly and happy.  They felt strongly about this.  They themselves, were sharing that they never thought the Office of the Prefect of Discipline would be such a wonderful place to go.

My staff and I were so much blessed upon hearing such comments from the students.  Now, we know that the office can promote and shape the culture among students.  May God continue to bless and help us in touching the lives of these students that they may come to know Jesus and lived up to the core values we hope to impress upon our graduates...

We just need to continue inspiring people... for the glory of God.

Letting Go Eases Pain

Discipling hundreds of young people for the past decade allowed me to experience how to be a teacher as well as a friend and dad.  It is true that a teacher is the second parent of the student.  True dedication in the teaching ministry allows you to move from the initial teaching of a particular subject to a much broader picture of molding lives.

I have been very fulfilled in touching lives of those I was able to minister.  Some are very very successful, though some are struggling.  You cannot really chart their life for they are the one who makes their decision in life.  The only thing we can do is really equip them and bring out the best in them.  Time is limited because they cannot be with you always.  The good thing is, when they are in distress and need, they always come to you and sought for your help.  Some are now even my kumpare and kumare.  Some even insisted that either their first child or their first male child be my godson or goddaughter.  It really felt fulfilling and blessed.

Since it has been like these with all of them, I cannot say that I am not attach to them emotionally since I really treat them as my spiritual children and wanting the best for each one of them.  Maybe, this is the reason why I am still single because I already have too many children around.  Great people usually do not have children because they already have enough around them.  Some a whole group of people, and for some a whole country.

The other side of this is when they commit mistakes, it breaks once heart.  Especially with this post modern generation who are treats everything as relative truth.  Because the youth in this generation are frequent offenders, I felt frustrated and affects me emotionally.  Now, it is more evident for me to feel how parents are frustrated with their kids because I myself gets frustrated with them.

With the recent learning experience, though I know it is my role to educate and remind them when they fall, it has affected me with frustrations and emotional instability, maybe because I have really treated them as my real children.  Well, they are not really my children, who cares?  Yah, I know God cares.  I should care.  But with their constant offense, knowing what they should not do, and kept on doing it.  I really felt bad and felt all time and effort for these past years have gone to waste.

The best solution I can think of is to let go.  They are old enough, I have done my share to love, care and educate.  I believe I have brought out the best in each one of them.  It is time for me to move on and touch other young people's life.  Their destiny lies in their own hands and head.  I cannot control their destiny, how they will live their life and what would be its end result will always be up to their doing.  By letting go, it eases the pain seeing them do foolish stuffs in life.  Maybe that is part of their learning experience.  Now, I even understand more how God has been frustrated with me.

I have done my share well, I suppose.  The recent incident has caused me one sleepless night of sadness and frustration, I wanted to shout and scold the person, but what the heck, he will do it again and insist on his decision.  So, why bother?

Let go and ease the pain... now, I can sleep well without the heavy load of making sure they are on God's track.  God is in control and takes care of His children.  His grace I pray would just be bountiful in their lives.

First Two Weeks at Makati Hope

It was a wonderful experience being back to an old workplace to serve God once again.  Many things has changed though, but one thing has been constant - the school is of academic excellence.  All these years, this has been constant with the school.  I am blessed to be back and saw wonderful opportunities where I can serve God hoping to win more soul for Christ.

I spent most of my time trying to catch up and learn more about the school after being detach for 15 long years.  I was all smile from day one, visiting kids.  I think I have spent more time with pre-school and elementary students but not with high school students.  I hope this week, I can catch up with them.  There are still so many things to learn, I hope God will keep my mind open and make me more teachable.

I was reading a book on "The First 90 Days: Critical Success Strategies for New Leaders At All Levels" by Michael Watkins.  This book was introduced by my friend when I was in Singapore.  It talked about four kinds of Strategies you can do for your new job.  Start-up, Turnaround, Re-alignment or Continuing Success.  It seems in my present situation is the last one - Continuing Success.  According to the book, this is the most difficult thing, because this is something you cannot measure nor define.  The challenge is how to continue the success and bring the workplace to another level.  Wow, this is indeed a new and big challenge for me who can be categorized to be good with start-ups and turnarounds.... God is indeed good because with this new work place, He has installed for me a new challenge of learning experience with much humility and reliance on Him in order to honor and glorify Him.

I pray that God would continue to bless the works of my hands that God would always be glorified with my life.  To God be All the Glory!!!

Bowing Out of UECP

Today would be may last day as a fulltime pastor of UECP.  It has been nine long years serving here as a fulltime pastor.  And of course a full pledge member since November 1, 1987.  It has been wonderful serving the Lord for these past years.  I was able to gain a lot of wonderful experiences that has mold me to who I am today.

God has been gracious for the past years as I go through many challenges and learning opportunities.  My church family has been very supportive and of course God's grace has been bountiful.  God has answered my prayers again and again especially my prayers before I left BSOP that He would bless the works of my hands.  And at the same time fulfill my task to minister among the new generation of Filipino-Chinese youth.

It has been very fulfilling especially my target of having at least one youth going to fulltime seminary training every year has been answered.  We even have some years with two to three youth going to fulltime ministry.  These are all amazing blessing that in one way or another I was able to contribute, especially to the formation of our young people and church.

Today is just another ordinary day in the office.  I was in my cubicle the whole time, trying to use it every single minute before I bow out of service here.  I even had lunch - Maki Mi of Ha Yuan... walang mga ganito sa Makati hehehe...

Many were asking, hindi ba daw ako nalulungkot?  Well, why should I?  Maybe I would be sad if my ministry in UECP are all in waste.  But they are not.  God has allowed me to see again and again, my work is done here and my spiritual children would continue the work I would be leaving behind.  This is the best legacy I believe I can contribute to the history of UECP.  What more can I ask?  I leave my mother church as a fulltime pastor but not as her member.  Though serving in another ministry area, it does not mean that I am cutting ties with my roots.

Well, I am very happy indeed for my church because I find myself a contributor, strategist, educator, worker, model, influencer, leader that has brought out the best in every individual member I have ministered.

No, teary eyes but all joy... joy and peace that comes from the Lord.

Now, off to my next assignment and journey.  I believe this new challenge will complete my knowledge and expertise in ministering to young people across social status.  It will further enhance my capabilities to lead God's ministry in the future and of course, continually be fruitful in proclaiming the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I know this will be a big adjustment for me but God is with me, as always!!!  To God be the Glory!

May the good Lord continue to bless the works of my hands that His glory be filled in me that I may glorify Him in return until I meet my Creator face to face - with only one hope that He would say, "Come at my table and eat, my good and faithful servant!"

65 mins to go... I am outta here!!!  Mabuhay at ating Panginoon!  Mabuhay po tayogng lahat!!!

Surprise But Not Surprised

Yesterday, some of our youth has prepared a surprise farewell for me at the youth hub.  Well, I have known the plan from the day they started planning it.  It was one Sunday, they gathered at the Youth Hub to talk about this.  Every time I am in UECP on Sundays, my usual routine was to go through every room where the Children Ministries hold classes.  One is to visit them and make myself visible and another is to really visit my godchildren.  So, there it was, when I passed by Youth Hub and they were gathered in a circle, seeing different representative from my groups.  So, sensing their scheme, I intentionally joined them and everybody was stunned and don't know how to go about the discussion.  So, I finally left but knew something was cooking up.

It was yesterday when I receive an SMS from Michaelson that was not intended for me, asking how to bring me in on Sunday since I was so convinced that we meet at MOA instead.   hehehehe

I praise God for the generosity of such wonderful friends.  The whole program went well and saw youth from different generations or batch came to bless me as I journey to a new ministry at Makati Hope Christian School.  Though not all was present but the big majority was there.  I was blessed and satisfied for seeing every single person in that room.  Indeed, they were a blessing to me, not only me a blessing to them.

The consistent message given by each individual was that I was able to bring out the best in them.  It just goes to say my consistency as an individual fulfilling my God given direction of "Equipping God's People for Every Good Work."  Again, I was satisfied and full of contentment.

My personal insight was that the best legacy I can really leave behind is that these people whom I was able to help and bring out their best are also able to bring out the best in each person they were able to ministered with.  In return, God continues to use YWC in bringing out the best in every youth entrusted to our care.

To God be all the glory

Satisfied

Today, I start to pack up my table.  I started cleaning one drawer at a time until, my top table.  For the past years, my table has been full of pictures who I believe I was able to minister for quite some time.  As I took one picture at a time, I was able to say small prayers for them and of course there was a gush of emotions but I was very satisfied seeing each one of them blessed and successful.

Satisfaction comes from God.  And only God alone where we can find contentment in life.  As I see each individual youth grew in faithfulness and commitment with our Lord, there was no doubt that God has blessed the works of my hand.

Yes the best and true legacy we can leave behind was able to help make life better for those God has entrusted to our care even just for a little while.

God is incredibly awesome, seeing us through in every step of the way.  Praise His Name!

Thinking of Scouting

Today, I thought: what a wonderful opportunity to learn much from Scouting.  Midnight Saturday night, we got power interruption from 12 am to 3 am and the rain has not stopped pouring.  As I woke up around 5 am to prepare to go for Dawn Watch prayer meeting.  I took a peak at the sky and saw this enormous cloud so dark and heavy and it gave my instinct a message of bad, bad, very bad... And so, I decided not to go out of the house since I really knew its a very bad day.

The rest is history as in 9 am, you can no longer see Manila.  The heavy down pour of rain has block the visibility of the city as I stand at our window in Escolta.

I eventually came in appreciation once again the things I have learned from Scouting especially in watching the constellation and determining weather.  Through weather is very unpredictable now a days... it still give a 24 hour time for us to determine the weather the following day.

I was kept safe at home and was able to spend time resting, which I really needed most at such time.  Though I praise God that I was safe at home for the whole time the storm was ransacking Manila, I also was downhearted because of the devastating catastrophe Manila underwent.  Many people were greatly affected and devastated.

Time is really up because the consistent weather disturbance as written in the Scripture is truly alarming.  After the typhoon, earthquakes, tornadoes and all of this calamities happening in man parts of the globe.

God have mercy…

Understanding God's Disappointment with Us

Though we cannot really comprehend how God is disappointed with us whenever we sin against Him, since we have a concept that He has always been merciful and forgiving.  Is there really a limit with God's wrath?

I have my personal disappointments myself, whenever the person I am coaching to be Jesus' disciple failed to meet standards.  It has been years of coaching and mentoring and still they do what they are not suppose to be doing.  Of course, there were stern rebuke, but I really wonder how they feel after such rebuke?  Would they really felt bad and sinful?  or would they just shrugged us off as being not compassionate.  Will they just shut their system in order not to listen to what we are saying?  or they felt we are abusive and destructive towards them?   Are they looking at me as judgmental or another parent who is a nagger?

As I was listening to this person share what he has been up to, I really felt disappointed and frustrated, actually not with him but with myself.  Weird but true.  Though I gave a stern show of disgust but I was really not disgusted with him but with myself.  Yah, I know, I did my share to nurturing this person, but I am not really in-charge of his life.  So, what the heck?  I am sad because the initial message that I got, was I failed again in nurturing this person to become closer with Christ and do away with obvious unacceptable actions.

And as I reflected through the night, I just maybe feeling how God has been frustrated with me as I also fail to meet His standards myself.  So, the only things I can do is to love unconditionally just as how God loves us unconditionally since these disappointments and frustrations will never go away because we are always finite.

As the Lord has been merciful, we should also do likewise.  Encouragement is really helping the person to stop sinning against God.

God is Faithful to My Trips

God is indeed faithful from the very beginning when I booked my tickets on an extreme sale.  Imagine round trip for Singapore only 2,600.00 and Boracay 2,100.00.  Where can you get such a price???

As in my previous blog, I almost did not make it in Singapore twice.  First, I was mistaken with the date and second I was mistaken with time.  But anyway, God uses a lot of things to correct my forgetful mind.  Praise God.

The week before I left for Singapore, I was checking our Yahoo Weather and its stated in the extended forecast that Singapore would be experiencing thunderstorm throughout my stay there, but it was sunny except for a late afternoon drizzle, the weather for the whole duration was great.  Only Bryan was complaining about how hot it was but I really did not felt the heat of the place.  Praise God.  We kept on checking the weather, it continues to indicate thunderstorm, so we have to bring umbrellas everyday but we were not able to use them.

When I was in Boracay, the same thing.  Thunderstorm as indicated in the weather forecast but it was sunny except for one late afternoon drizzle and that's about it.  I was able to enjoy and was well rested throughout the two trips.

At first, I should be staying with the family of Stanley hia, but his in-laws were also coming in on the same time with me.  So the week before, I left for Singapore, I was actually homeless.  Good thing, I called up a friend and he will be out for a meeting in Berlin, so he was willing to lend me his beautiful flat.  His flat was so relaxing from the time  you enter his door.  Wow, incredible, how God has prepared things for me in advance.  So, I get to procrastinate everyday in Singapore, leaving around lunchtime.  I was so free and never in a hurry since I lived there solo.  And best, was the place location; it is located in Robertson Quay where the night life is, hehehe.... not I enjoyed night life but the whole place was so convenient with restaurants, stores, shops all over the place.  I would not have enjoyed so much freedom if I was to live in Stanley hia's place.   Mahihiya naman ako kay Anne chi and sa mga kids... hehehe...

Another area, I thank God was the schedule of Bryan.  Who would ever know that the exact dates I will be there would be his midterm break.  No one knows, I booked first week of May, he has not even booked his flight going to Singapore that time.  So, Bryan became my tour guide the whole duration.  It's that amazing... grabe talaga magplan si God.  You would really marvel how He planned my itinerary for my trips.

The best in Singapore was my chat with my friend, he came back during my last night stay.  So, we got to talk and he was an branding director of a well known company at the same time does a lot of image consulting with people.  Bryan and I got free consultation... hehehe.  In this trip, God allowed me to realize certain things especially those missing in my life.  Yah, midlife crisis is not really over.  I am still procrastinating and has not been up to my feet for ministry.  God has allowed me to see several important things in my life and I really have to move on.  It is not that I do not trust God with my next assignment... I am just procrastinating... maybe I have been very tired for the past few years of ministry.  It is time for new heights and challenges.

Through this trip, I was able to make a decision that I would go and move to my long delayed assignment as instructed by the Lord.  It allowed me to realized I have been relying much on myself, experience and people who were trained by me for the past years to prepare for this next leap.  But, God doesn't want them.   God only wants me to do this next leg of ministry.

I just need to submit now, and has determined to submit once and for all.

Boracay gave me another boost of rest... I enjoyed the whole trip.  God was also gracious with friends who allowed me to stay in his house.  I just want to be myself, got tanned, got to eat good food, got to read a book, got to wander around and finally in the last minute of our stay... got a tatoo... hehehe

To God be all the glory!!!

Confused and Almost Did Not Make It

It has been a confusing week or I am really getting older.

I know I am going to Singapore.  All the while I thought that I would be leaving Thursday.  I was glad that I had a chat with Bryan two days before Thursday and learned from him that I am leaving Wednesday.  I did panic trying to pack all the things I need to bring for my vacation.  Bryan was telling me that we would go to Jurong Bird Park on Thursday morning, so I was surprised how come Thursday... hehehe...

I almost did not make it again.  I thought, my flight was 10:30 pm.  I was restless and had nothing to do in office, just waiting for time to pass.  Suddenly, there was an urge to take a second look at my ticket.  I kept ignoring it until 3:00 pm.  I said to myself, what the heck... let me just take a peek.  My passport is already in the bag and really do not want to open my bag.  But I did, after that much urge speaking within.  I was surprise to see that my flight was actually 8:30 pm and not 10:30 pm.  So, I rushed to the airport at around 4: 30 pm instead of 7:00 pm.

I really did not know that Cebu Pacific has announced that their max load for travels is now 15 kilos.  I thought that was only a joke.  My luggages, weigh 21 kilos something.  But I do not have any hand-carry baggage.  So, I was asking the lady, since I do not have any hand-carry, can she just compensate the excess weight.  The lady of Cebu Pacific was impolite... she replied, "you check it in, I charge you."  So, I was a little upset because I was courteous to her.  Anyway, gladly, I always carry an extra hand-carry bag in my luggage.  So, I have to put all my clothes in my hand-carry bag and check in my luggage minus things in it... hehehe

I thought maybe God has plans.  Maybe my luggage will get lost in transit since all of my clothes are with me, it was ok for it to get lost... Well, it did not happen, hehehe... I arrived safely and all my belongings.

God is gracious, He really wanted me to go for this break.  Praise God, I arrived safely in Singapore 11: 45 pm with Bryan already waiting for me outside the airport.

Addicted with Facebook Games

It has been two weeks that I noticed that I have already been addicted to Facebook games.  It has caught my attention; so sticky that in the past few days, I noticed that I am almost online monitoring Facebook activities the whole days for almost a week now.

It all started with FarmVille, I thought it was just a game and something to relax with.  And it did helped me relaxed.  And here comes Farm Town, which was more exciting than FarmVille.  I get to hire people to harvest and plow for me.  I really felt rich because I have 3 million in cash.  I was even kidding myself that at least virtually I am rich.  Now, hear comes Friends for Sale.  I was only curious but also got hooked.  Imaging my value is not more than 30 million and I have around 70 million in cash (virtually).  This is really addictive.  I really felt that my attention to more important stuffs are being neglected, like my book reading and some of my visitation and follow-up work.

Maybe this is also an effect because I have started to refrain myself from any major work and issues in the church since I am almost done with my contract.  This does not mean that I have neglected my responsibilities but I have refrain from doing new stuffs and entails long term attention.  So far, I am still very faithful in coming to church 6 am everyday to pray for UECP and the spiritual nourishment of our church members.  This has been going on since August 1.

Because of these Facebook stuffs, I believe they are not healthy for me.  I did not bring my laptop yesterday to church so that I can focus on my reading and STOP playing Facebook games.  So far, it has been quite awhile already that I have not planted anything in my farms with FarmVille and Farm Town.

I praise God for calling my attention to this... hehehe.  Self-control truly comes from the Holy Spirit.

First Item Answered Through DawnWatch

I praise God for answering our prayer.  For the past few days, we have been praying for our church members to be more prayerful.  This is the only target as for now and yesterday's prayer meeting has already reached 91 attendees... Isn't that amazing... some people might say this is just coincidence - but there is not coincidence with my Jesus.

Inviting all of you UECP members out their to join us everyday 6 am in the morning at the 5th floor prayer room.

Prayer really works!!!!

Shifting DawnWatch

Our number attending DawnWatch has been fluctuating from two to six people.  So far, I believe this is good.  Small in number makes it more exciting.

Rather than the regular praying for an hour with praises and loud prayers, I shifted the meeting to a more solemn prayer meeting.  We start with Quiet Time and listening to music.  We also ask God what He wants us to pray rather than focusing on a long prayer list.  Then, comes the Scripture.  We are focused on going through the book of John.  A little discussion and application for the day for all of us.  Then praying out loud to God for UECP.  The focus of our prayer meeting for the past week is to pray for the church leaders, pastors and the spiritual life of members.  We are very particular in stating the names of people in the church and the focus was for them to become more prayerful; enjoying prayer time, sensitivity to prayer, prayer all the time, and of course attending church prayer meeting.

I think this is more acceptable since we do not only focus on prayer but learning from the Scripture together.  It is like a daily Bible Study but short ones.  I felt that this is also a good opportunity to accompany church members in doing devotion; like an OJT on quiet time, devotion and prayer time all in one.  It seems fun doing this.  At least they got to experience how to really do this spiritual disciplines with an exact model on how to do it.

The sharing was great but I have to control time in order not to neglect the main purpose - to pray.  Praise the Lord for His wisdom and His desire to call us to have relationship with Him.

Last Contribution?

After the exciting anniversary I was telling myself - what next?  Spring has come and the cold winter was over.  So??? Hmmmm... I was praying for our church and then suddenly, I was thinking what is the best thing I can leave with my mother church that I hope to last???

Since I can no longer be doing any major project or activity because I have leaving... What I can only do is really to pray for UECP.  And I remembered the DawnWatch prayer meeting I organized and disbanded some years ago.  I said, maybe I can reorganized this and I think this is what our church needs more to answer the question - what next?

So, crazily, I asked some of those who joined the previous DawnWatch prayer meeting to reconsider joining me in this journey of praying for UECP.  Before it was once week, this time I wanted it daily.  Are you crazy?  I was asked.

I remembered my visit in Korea where the churches there have their DawnWatch prayer meeting daily.  They have several schedule 4 am, 5 am, 6 am, and 7 am.  The churches are packed with thousands of believers going to church early morning to pray.  So, I said to myself this is possible.

And today, we launch and 6 of us came 6 am in the morning to start praying for UECP.  Praise the Lord!

First Baptism

I officiated first baptism rites to four new church members, Alex, Channel, Cathyrine and Lydia.  Well, it was cool and a little bit exciting... I did not remember be crying when I was being baptize but hehehe... they were crying.  Maybe God has bless and touch them through the ceremony.

It was my first experience and I praise God for such opportunity.  What I was disappointed about was the photographers... they gave emphasis on those being baptize without me included in the picture.  They included only my hand!!!  Eh kami nga yun importante sa picture eh!!! The evidence is not on the act of baptism but the person officiating it... Sino ba yun nagbigay ng instruction sa mga photographers??? Dapat pukpukin talaga.

Then I remember the bad attitude of many Christians towards God.  We give more emphasis on the blessing rather than on the blesser.  We wanted blessing from God but never wanting to be with God.  Same attitude di ba?  Focusing on the blessing rather than on the blesser.  hehehe…

Triple Celebration

I praise God for His goodness to our church for the past 80 years.  In spite of our imperfections but continues to showers His blessing to our church.  All I can reflect and thank God is about how our church forefathers has been faithful with the Lord and we continue to receive such blessings and grace.  It also allowed me to reflect what are we to leave behind for the next generation.

This morning celebration was already very grand.  It was short but grand.  Each second really counts through the help of five energetic worship coordinators that made all things possible.  Our joint service was meaningful though lasted only 125 mins, it was just right; just as we planned the flow of the program.   The prayer of Rev. Ong that morning was inspiring, it moved my heart to appreciate God more because of so much unsung heroes that were faithful in serving the Lord.  Each part was practically WORSHIP.  Though in my busy overseeing the whole program, still incredible that I was so blessed and was able to worship the Lord.

The fruit baskets were really symbolic and nice.  The hymns were so spirit filling.  The message was a really challenge to renew our commitment in knowing our LORD!.  The prayer of the church members were heartfelt.  The anthem sung by the church leaders really made the opening salvo calling the congregation to worship the Lord in spirit and in truth.  Of course our liturgist Elder Steven Sy has a very good command of both English and Chinese languages that has pulled people's attention to God.  I praise God for every second of the joint worship.

The afternoon service was the main course I believe, with 73 churches and para-church organizations came to celebrate with us.  It was a three-in-one celbration; a thanksgiving, a reconciliation and an ordination.  The thanksgiving help us pictured our heritage and learn how to appreciate them, follow the models of our church fathers.  What made the whole service tick more was when the speaker ushered the direction of our church with a sad past during our 70th year and a new beginning for our 80th year.  After our 70th year celebration, our church split but today we leave the past behind and reconciled our broken relationships together.  United Evangelical Church of the Philippines and New Millennium Evangelical Church made a bold move to mend differences, putting the past behind and moving both churches forward.  It was a very emotional moment at that time.  Well, though we have differences that cause our parting ways, I believe there were still a lot of good days than bad days in the past.

Today, both church put a big period (.) in our history; we have closed a chapter of our books.  The shaking of hands, hugging and tears has allowed me to see how God was gracious to both churches.  I think this is even record breaking, because I have not heard of church that split, publicly reconciled.  Both churches really have spiritual maturity, with the desire to honor Christ.  The reconciliation was witnessed by our guests and in front of all ordained ministers.  It was so good and God glorifying moment.  I praise God, really praise Him.

The third part opened with the entrance of our two emeritus pastors to the sanctuary, both are very old and well.  Rev. Wesley Shao 93 and Rev. Wesley Chang 94 came in at the same time, we gave them honor by recognizing their contributions to our church together with two lady pastors Pastor Ho Wee Tuan and Pastor Yap Aie Hoo.  I think it was so well sequence that after recognizing the pastors, we entered the ordination ceremony.  It made our ordination even more meaningful.  Imagine both of our senior leaders who are well respected by the Filipino-Chinese Churches came to the scene in full robe and join the ordination.  For me, it was a blessing because their presence made our ordination meaningful, especially when they handed over to us the Shepherd's Staff.  I did not notice this great significance, but members told me that they were so blessed when the pictured out the most senior ordained ministers passing their baton to the youngest ordained ministers.  When I was told about such insight, the more I appreciate and see the load of responsibility even heavier.

The ordination ceremony was indeed significant when each part was highlighted with its symbolic significance.  I was again bless, though many still thought that I was excited but in reality I am confused.  The different symbolisms of the ordination ceremony made me more undeserving and questions' myself if I am qualified to such position.  Anyway, I believe God's grace I really need to move forward and continue to do His ministry for His glory.

Dinner was simple, elegant and really fellowship.  At first we have problem, how many people?  but at the end of the day, from 50 tables expanded to 60 to 70 and awhile ago 75 tables all in all.  Many were willing to buy more tickets but we were really exhausted, the ballroom can only accommodate 60 tables max, we need to use the hallway to accommodate all the people.  It was really a big celebration.  God is honored.

I praise God for allowing me to be part of this wonderful church.  I believe I see spring for UECP.  After being frozen in the winter for almost a decade.  Now, we enter spring, the long cold winter is over.  I believe UECP will be very very well blessed by God in the coming years.  It is now springtime, it would be exciting years ahead for us...

Praise the Lord!

A Revival - A Church that Rocks the World

Tonight is the first of the two part revival meeting entitled, "A Church That Rocks the World" by Elder Li Chien.  I was spiritually nourished, if only I can listen to more message like these, if would help me a lot in my spiritual journey with God.

Tonight, focused on a passage where I did my exposition paper on Ephesians 4: 17-20.  I was reminded that the letter speaks to Christians who continues to walk like a Gentile.  It is true that no matter how long we have been a Christian does not say that we would walk with God smoothly.  The speaker reminded that the older we get in our walk, the more we become vulnerable to become more like Gentiles as our focus misaligned with the desires of God.  Just like the Pharisees who became "Pharisees" not in a day but a little by little shift on their original focus with God to focusing on themselves and the law.

The speaker shared that he needs to remind himself with this passage every time he has a new ministry to do.  Yes, I believe I have to do this to myself as well.  The more important to rethink how my walk with God becomes more relevant to being with God, rather than being busy with God.  I am also reminded by the book I have been reading this month on "Healthy Emotional Spirituality."  This book also kept on reminding about the personal transformation and the "being" rather than the "doing."

The speaker also shared that what is important is not the outward appearance which involves doing ministry or our behavior or action but rather the life with God and our heart for God.  Before, he is focus on the three, but later he shared that the outward or our behavior which we usually use as gauge of our spirituality is rubbish.  The most important is our life with God, then our heart for God.  We need only to focus on the two.

The root of the tree is more important than its leaves.  We living in a tropical weather would not understand this.  But for those who lives in four seasons would understand this.  The leaves are the outward appearance.  If the tree during winter times, would cling on to its leaves and not let go, it will die because it has not concentrated on its roots to make it survive.  Trees that are in winter places loose their leaves because the energy is all focused down below to keep itself from surviving the weather.  The same is true when you plant a seedling, you cut the leaves because the most important is not how beautiful it would look but rather if it would survive.  Cutting the leaves pushes the effort of the plant on its roots.  And the roots is the main component for the tree to seedling to survive.  The same is true with our life with God.  This is the root of our being.  Without the life with God, there is nothing in our outward appearance.

The trunk symbolizes our heart for the Lord.  The same importance given with our life with God (roots).  This two combination would enable us to bear much much good fruit in our life.  As we live our life on earth, we need to keep on reminding ourselves about our life in God and our heart for God because this is the most important components of a life the rocks the world.

I praise God for tonight's meeting.  It refreshes me and allowed me to see and be kept reminded that I need to focus on what is important and that involves nourishing my life with God as well as my heart for the Lord.  Other than these are nothing...

Praise the Lord!!!

Understanding Ordination

Weird but true... since I am the Program Director of the 80th Anniversary, I have no choice but  to do the program of my own ordination.  Weird but true, because I was also the Program Director during our church's 75th Anniversary, I was able to gain experience how to do it.  This time with some coaching from Rev. Willy Cheng more meaning has been added to the ordination ceremony as compared last time and even the past ordination ceremonies of our church.  I came to learn and understand what ordination is all about.  Some misconceptions were changed and in the end, we realized even more that ordination is no joke or not even "just" a ceremony.

The Ordination goes like this...


Opening Remarks (Explains to the congregation the meaning and importance of ordination of ministers).

Script: Pastoral Ordination is an ecclesiastical credential. It is proffered upon an individual in public acknowledgment of what the Lord has already accomplished in calling him to the Gospel Ministry. One seeking such a congregational affirmation should be and must remain above reproach in life and character, and be sound in doctrine as well as competent in ministry skills.


Introduction of Candidate (The candidate is presented to the congregation with a recitation of key aspects of his Christian life and ministry).

Script:


Pastor Leonides T. Son was born on June 17, 1971 in Manila.  He is the eldest son of Arsenio and Purita Son.


He studied in Hope Christian High School from pre-school to high school, graduating in 1988.  He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Major in Accounting degree from the Philippine School of Business Administration in 1992.  He worked in the corporate world for five years before heeding the call of God for fulltime ministry.  He graduated with a Master of Divinity in Biblical Studies from the Biblical Seminary of the Philippines in 2000.  He finished his Master of Arts in Education Major in Educational Management in De La Salle University in  2006 and finished his Doctor of Philosophy in Education Major in Educational Leadership and Management in 2008 at the same school.


Pastor Leo was an active youth leader in UECP before entering the seminary.  Since 2000, he has served as a fulltime pastor at UECP.  He held various positions, including Chief Youth Pastor, Head of General Service Department, Head of Nurture and Training Department, Program Director of the 75th and 80th Anniversary Celebrations, organizer and adviser of various ministries.


He is also an active member of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines serving as Assistant Leader Trainer with CMT, training adult leaders.  He is currently on his 3rd term as First Vice Chairman of Manila Council, BSP.


Pastor Leo Jaime T. Son was born in Manila on April 2, 1975 and is younger brother to Pastor Leonides and the youngest of three siblings.  He graduated from Hope Christian High School in 1992 and finished his Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the Mapua Institute of Technology in 1997.


His earliest involvement in UECP was with the Children’s Choir and Sunday school.  Since his early teens, he served in the youth ministry in various capacities.  His involvement with Campus Crusade for Christ in college further developed his passion for evangelism and discipleship.  After graduation, he worked in the world of sales and marketing for some years.  

After 8 years of waiting for God’s timing, Pastor LJ went to Singapore Bible College for his theological training.  He graduated with a Masters of Divinity in Biblical Studies in 2003 and Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling in 2004.  He has been married to Nancy for 7 years now and they are blessed with a son, Nigel, who is now 10 months old.  For the past five years, Pastor LJ has been serving at UECP as youth pastor, reaching, discipling and equipping youth and young professionals alike to make disciples.  He looks forward to involve you in partnering with him to fulfill the Great Commission for the glory of God.


Narration of Events (A telling of the sequence of events including the Consistorial recommendation, pastoral examination and final endorsement).

Script: In June 1, 2009, the UECP Board of Elders formally endorsed Pastor Leonides T. Son and Pastor Leo Jaime T. Son for ordination.  This was affirmed by the UECP Consistory on June 5, 2009.  Subsequently, an ordaining council composed of seven ordained ministers was organized.  The candidates were interviewed on their doctrinal beliefs, pastoral experiences and personal life conditions on June 18 and 20, 2009.


Endorsement of Ordination (A public endorsement of the candidate for Pastoral Ordination is given which affirms his fitness and willingness for the profferment).

Script: Upon the recommendation of the leadership of UECP and after a thorough examination by the ordaining council,  both candidates meet the standards for ordination. Therefore, we endorse Pastor Leonides T. Son and Pastor Leo Jaime T. Son to be ordained.


Doctrinal Examination (The candidate is examined before the congregation with reference to his doctrinal beliefs and steadfastness).

Script:


1. Do you believe in the Triune God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and rely on Jesus Christ as your Savior and confess Him as Lord of the Church?   (I believe.)

2. Do you believe that the Scripture of the Old and New Testaments are revealed by God, are the supreme standard of faith and action, including all doctrine for salvation?  (I believe.)

3. Are you willing to seek the unity and fellowship of the church and uphold and keep the sacraments and ordinances of our church according to the proper interpretation of Scripture?  (I am willing.)


Pastoral Promises (The candidate is asked to publicly declare his commitment to the pastoral ministry).

Script:


1. As far as you know, your own heart and conscience, do you believe your willingness to accept this office comes from a sincere desire to glorify God and to seek the growth of His church?  (I so believe.)

2. As you receive this call to be a minister, is your greatest purpose and most important motive to glorify God and to spread the saving Gospel of Jesus Christ?  (It is.)

3. Do you promise through God’s help to sincerely take up the responsibilities of pastor of this congregation, to joyfully seek all work that will extend God’s kingdom, and to give an example of faith and life to them?  (I so promise.)


Congregational Promises (The congregation pledges their support to the future pastor, promising to be subject to his spiritual instruction and vowing to take care of his earthly needs).

Script:


Members of the United Evangelical Church of the Philippines, since you have chosen and called Pastor Leonides T. Son and Pastor Leo Jaime T. Son to be the ministers of your congregation.

1. Do you promise with humble hearts to accept the truths of the Gospel that they preach?  (Congregation raises hands.)

2. Do you promise to pray for them, to encourage them in shepherding the church, and to help and follow them?  (Congregation raises hands.)

3. Do you promise, in order to preserve the order and name of the church, to follow the rules of the church and to mutually forgive so as to avoid harm to the work?  (Congregation raises hands.)

4. When they become your minister, will you respect their office and give them what is necessary so that their life may be without strain and that the dignity of the church may be protected?  (Congregation raises hands.)


Signing of Promises (The candidate signs an agreement based on the Pastoral Promises in front of witnessing Elders attesting to his commitment to fulfill the duties and responsibilities as an ordained minister).


Ordination (The members of the Ordaining Council, being composed of ordained ministers, lay hands upon the candidate to ordain him into the pastoral ministry).


Presentation of Robe (The pastoral robe placed upon the newly-ordained symbolizes his willing assumption of the new office.  It also serves to hide the human instrument, thereby highlighting his being sheltered by the grace of the Lord Christ whom he serves).


Presentation of Stole (The stole symbolizes the religious authority of this office to the ministry of the Word and to officiate religious ordinances).


Presentation of Bible and Scriptural Verse (A copy of the Bible is presented to the new minister as a symbolic gesture that his teaching is to be guided by the Word of God.  A selected Bible verse(s) is read to him by way of encouragement, exhortation or reminder).


Presentation of Shepherd’s Staff (The Shepherd’s Staff handed over to the new minister represents his responsibility to guide and to protect the flock, as well as his authority to lead and to instruct them).


Presentation of Towel (The Towel of Servanthood is presented to the new minister in remembrance of the Lord Christ who washed and dried the feet of His disciples).


Presentation of Gift (The Gift represents the congregation’s pledge of steady support and provision for the life and ministry of the new minister).


Presentation of Ordination Certificate (The Ordaining Council presents the Certificate of Ordination to the new minister).


Presentation of Newly Ordained Minister (The new minister is formally presented to the congregation).

Script: In the name of Jesus Christ, the Lord of the Church, according to the authority He has given the church, I now announce that both of you, Rev. Leonides T. Son and Rev. Leo Jaime T. Son, have been ordained as ministers by the United Evangelical Church of the Philippines to proclaim the Gospel, to celebrate the sacraments and to conduct other ordinances, to lead and serve the Church.


Prayer of Supplication (A member of the Ordaining Council prays for divine sustenance and blessings upon the newly-ordained in this new phase of his ministry as a Minister of the Gospel).


Right Hand of Fellowship (The Ordaining Council welcomes the new minister into the fellowship of ordained pastors.  The new minister is ushered to take his place on the stage with other ministers).

Script: As servants of the Lord, we by this hand of fellowship welcome you into our fellowship, together doing the Lord’s work.


Pastoral Pledge (The new minister declares his commitment to the Lord, to sound teaching, to the Great Commission and to the pastoral ministry).


Ordination involves solemnity and high value because its office is affirmed and instituted by God through His selected people (Ordained Ministers).  This experience of program preparation has allowed me to understand the sacredness of the office that I am about to receive.  All the more, I am humbled because I am not worthy for such office but God's grace gave it to me to fulfill the Ministry of the Gospel.


For His GLORY!!!

Performers' Circle First Name Musicale

It has been some years since our last provincial tour.  This year through the 80th Anniversary Celebration the group decided to go for another Musicale entitled "First Name" by the Trumpets. Our team were able to go to Vigan, Laoag, Baguio and La Union to perform and have led more people to Christ.

And finally a performance for God in UECP yesterday.  In this year's performance, I felt God has really set up a new batch of performers for our church and I was impressed with what they have presented as a team.  So far, I can consider this performance the best through the years.  Steven's directing has improved a lot, and of course with the right chemistry of our young people.  They were able to bring the message of Jesus Christ clearly to the audience.  Many were asking for a repeat performance, will see...

This is a more improved Performers' Circle in terms of running a show.  I was also informed how the members cooperated in setting up the sets in the different provinces.  And I thank God because this was really the dream of the original people who organized the group - all will work together harmoniously for the gospel, no one is to be above anyone (bawal artistahin).  Just as I have mentioned in my previous blog, benchmarking with the Heavenly Melody group on how they work together.

I praise God because I personally witnessed such cooperation after the show in UECP, where everyone cooperated and removed all the set in 30 mins as a team, considering our stage is really very big.

God has been working in each ministry, which I would soon leave behind as I move to my new ministry.  God is telling me that each ministry is safe in His hands.  I praise God for the wonderful experiences and opportunities I got in serving my mother church.    

Celebrating 38

Clock is really ticking... Last week, in the Heavenly Melody Concert in UECMalabon, I was able to be seated from start to the end since I was just accompanying the group for their concert with our daughter church.

In his message, he said Birthdays are not necessarily happy.  It is like God has given us coins in our pocket and each year spend is one coin lost.  It means life gets shorter.  But the problem is you do not know how many coins are in your pocket.  Very very true.

As I celebrate my birthday at 38.  I was able to reflect my contributions and my damages to the world in this 38 years of existence.  I spend some time walking around our main sanctuary that day praying and God has indeed used me in many ways and I praise Him about it.  Still a normal busy day for me since I am the Program Director of two-month long 80th Anniversary Celebration, we just finished 20% of our scheduled activities.

Of course, I took off early and went to have dinner with my godchildren.  This has been our second year, where my godchildren, Marisa, Bryan, Sally and Dominic would treat me for dinner.  By the way, Dominic was absent last year, so this is his first year to join the group.  I might miss this since Bryan is already leaving for Singapore.

I enjoyed much having such dinner with I really felt my children hehehe since I do not have one and hope to have one in the very very very near future.  Oh God, please... hehehe. We ate at UCC since some of them has not eaten there.

Seeing them discuss life and encourage one another like how they talk to Dominic seems to really make us a family as older siblings encourage the younger ones.

 Marisa got to bring me home that night is her big big car.  Praise the Lord for He allows me to continually see how He bless me and be blessed through people like my godchildren.

Heavenly Melody Concert

Gladly, it has been 8 years since I got acquainted with the Heavenly Melody Singing Group and has maintain in close contact with them.  I praise God for allowing them to come to the Philippines though they are really very very busy.  They just came in from New York and after a few days of rest came to our church to present a three night evangelistic concert.

All the concerts were fully attended.  What I love about their songs as compared to other Christian songs is that rather than the usually praise and worship to hype your feelings, the focus of their songs is evangelistic.  This theme has always been their target - all songs should evangelize and proclaim who God is to its listeners.  Not many song writers or singing group has focus their song on such important message.  Whenever I listen to their music, I felt how God is so close to man and that He is the Almighty and is actively involve in our daily lives.

There were new members of the group from Sunshine who came for the first time to the Philippines.  The Sunshine group is a younger singing group like our Junior Choir in church.  They were being trained to become professionals.  The Heavenly Melody is a professional singing group.  They earned their living through this ministry.

I am glad to allow more young people to witness how they work together.  Amazing, bringing all their sound system to the concert venue and setting it all up in 20 mins, and packing all up in 10 mins.  Everyone took part; and a role in a specific task.  They really work as a team.  Incredible.

So, I remembered their very first visit that draw up my vision to have a group of young people in performing arts in 2001, which bore Performers' Circle through the help of Steven Conde and Derrick Lim (the founders).  It was amazing how the group lasted and has already performed many shows.  Though PC has not gone professional but their group is becoming stronger and performances becoming better.  Would this be realized someday that the group becomes a professional group???  God knows...

So far, Performers' Circle has been doing provincial tours and in our last tour, it was reported that the whole cast really worked well together and helping each other set and packing things up.  The concept of Heavenly Melody team is already present after 8 years... hehehe

In all areas, I praise God for continually using me and my ministry and my co-workers and my church to spread the gospel through different means and opportunities.  Praise the LORD!

Who Will Do It For Me?

It seems things are really very very awkward, how can you do a program that recognizes yourself?  Whether you like it or not, you were the appointed in-charge as the program director.  Now, they add an event that recognizes you.

Isn't that ridiculous?  The turn of events created an imbalance for the planning of program.  Doing it too simple destroys the essence of the celebration since the recognition is much much bigger than the celebration itself.  But doing it celebrative might cause people to think that you are glorifying yourself rather than God.

Your hands are now tied up; in all directions you take, all decisions become wrong decisions.  And the worse part of this, time is not on your side.  The insertion of such recognition came very very very late.

So, who will do it for me?

The Church Just Endorsed

The church leaders through the recommendation made by the Board of Elders last June 1, approved in June 5 for the ordination of my brother and I this coming 80th Anniversary on July 12.

Well, honestly, I did not feel any excitement because my concept of ordination is a little bit different.  Ordination for me is an affirmation of the church of my pastoral ministry calling and work, and upon ordination I would move to become a bona-fide, empowered minister to do gospel work in the church who ordained me.  But I am leaving, I already signified my intention to leave last February to join Makati Hope Christian School to be their Assistant Principal.  I really felt weird rather than excited with the affirmation of my calling to fulltime minsitry.  I have talked to the leaders to decline but due to some technical issues, I have to accept the ordination.

Come to think of it, I felt accepting ordination is additional work hehehe... which is true.  Not that I am complaining.  I know my life is dedicated to God's work, but being ordained and attending Makati Hope Christian Church as a volunteer seems disadvantageous.  The church does not have any ordained minister, so in any liturgical work, I would become the closes available in times of need, which in Filipino-Chinese church, there seems to be a need everyday.  So, I need to fill in automatically??? hehehe... Oh no, we the load of work in school and fulfill church duties... I think it will kill me and make me single for life.  I have worked in a Filipino-Chinese church for 9 years and I tell you, I know these scenarios... hehehe.

May the good Lord who I love and serve continue to be my strength in my next ministry, and it is still "EQUIPPING GOD'S PEOPLE FOR EVERY GOOD WORK!"

Nothing to Write

Grabe!!! it has been days and nothing significant has come into my life... nothing to write until now.

Busy and Yet Not Busy

It has been an exhausting week, it seems I am busy with so many stuffs.  I thank God for making me accomplish many things but it seems I am not busy.  This is really weird, have been pre-occupied with too many stuffs and yet it seems I am busy and it seem I am not since I have to many white spaces.  I got this mix feelings for the past 5 days now.

Is this part of getting old?  Or part of no one to share my life with?  hehehe wag, na hihirit Geran.

It seems I have been doing so many nitty gritty things or the finishing touches that is why the details seems intoxicating and yet because of much accomplishments, I felt fulfilled and light.  The fulfillment and light attitude or feelings has made me longing for more work to keep me busy? hehehe

Ang gulo talaga na buhay... hay buhay.

Busy And Yet Fruitful

It has been a very busy two weeks that I was not even able to post any insights.  I have been doing a lot of things lately as we try to finish up phase 2 of our church anniversary promotions.  I am tired and exhausted.  It seems I am getting enough sleep and yet still very very sleepy.  I do exercise everyday and still it keeps me awake only in the morning.  I was thinking again that there is something wrong with me.

As part of my stress of the week, I started to crave for food, food and foooood.  As a result of this craving I gained around 5 more pounds and a little bigger tummy.  I am cutting my rice again and hopefully make my tummy a little smaller when I exercise.

I also got disappointed with my tailor, the four pants really sucks... too tight around my butt, have them repaired but still I do not feel comfortable.  I think I have to send it back.  Maybe next week, since many of our drivers are out for the week.

I am glad that I started to read a book again.  It has been quite awhile since I got sick, I have not read any.  I am reading Emotional Healthy Spirituality, the first few chapters allows me to reflect whether my spiritual life is healthy or not.  Actually, without reading it, I know I am in trouble.  It seems I can't focus for the past month since getting out of that hospital bed.  I felt too much pressure and stress with this anniversary.

It seems everything about the anniversary is revolving around me as the head of all the programs.  Our June and July is loaded with so many stuffs that it is killing me to keep everything on schedule.  Yah yah... I should put the people who is really in charge to take charge.  But lately, I felt it would be double work because few are really working on it.  Maybe I have not trusted them or empowered them?  Well, I have actually, but I have to start intervening or our programs might become chaotic.  We have timetables like February targets, and until I intervened late April, we might not have launched our anniversary until now.

Sometimes, I felt indispensable.  And I am not, God is the one who is in control and given me enough gifts to do all of these stuffs at the same time.  Weird but true.  Still, plan to entrust again to some people some works this Sunday, since I am going to Sta, Cruz, Laguna to preach.

I praise God for giving me gifts to make things happen.  He is the one who blesses the works of my hands as an answer to my prayer when I left BSOP.  I am enjoying what I have been doing and though it was tiring... still fruitful that glorifies our God.

 May people continue to see Jesus in my service to Him in and out of the church.

Seminar Workshop with Hope Faculty

I was asked to conduct a workshop with the faculty of Hope Christian High School on "Events Planning."  At first, I was hesitant to do this, but the continues prodding of Grace made me say yes.

How do you teach "Events Planning?"  I think this is impossible because each event is unique and each event requires different approach to make it successful.  Anyway, I prepared a lesson where we can learn from each other, I also gave tips with regards to my personal learnings and experiences on events planning.  It was sure hard.

At the end of the day, I felt I was highlighting and maybe at the very moment learned the following: When we do an event....
a. It should contribute to enhancing the mission-vision statement of the school.
b. It should be a wonderful and productive learning experience for the organizers.
c. All events should be a support to the academe targets and the holistic formation of the students, and not doing an event for the sake of doing an event.
d. If it becomes mere activities, scrap it.
e. It should not overburden the faculty but instead faculty feels encourage because it help their teachings lighter.
f. It should focus on one learning experience and not trying to hit too many bulls-eyes with a single arrow. The impact of the event should be well written way before the implementation of the event.
8. All events should be well budgeted since this is part of meeting the needs of the academe. And all budgets should be well itemized and canvassed before presenting a budget to the administration.
9. Always try to think of something unique that you would do to make your event significant.  Something that has not been done before.  It should be able to retain a memorable impression on both faculty and students.
10.  Try to deviate from the routine of events by creating new events that would still meet the targets and scrapping the old ones.

The workshop was very productive, we all have learned from each other.  My teachers were there Mrs. Divina, Mrs. Abad and Ms. Arenas.  Also my batchmates, Cynthia and Eden.... they were all very supportive.

I praise God that I can still serve my alma mater even in small ways...

Wonderful News

I got up early Sunday morning, of course open the laptop and try to disturb people.  Suddenly, I found one of my good disciple online.  We have not in contact for quite a long time already.  I tried to buzz him, and miraculously he replied.... hehehe (He always does not reply).

We tried to catch up and told him that I am moving to a new ministry.  I still hope that I would only stay for five years in this new ministry and go back to pastoral ministry.  I am still praying if I would want to start a new generation Filipino-Chinese church which has been my burden for the last five years.  It seems I need another five years to really prepare myself.

So, he asked me, why not now.  Why wait for five years?  So, I answered, "I am giving you five years to enter and finish your seminary studies and come back here to the Philippines to help me out."  He was laughing, and confessed that he is going for part-time studies this year and will go fulltime next year.

After the conversation, I really felt blessed.  I was filled with joy and praising God.  It made up my day.  It even helped my preaching that morning.  I was so energized because of the wonderful blessings from God.

I praise God... allowing me to continually see what God has said to be last January: The fruits of your labor is not in vain.  Praise the Lord!

Coffee Time with BOBinC

It has been quite awhile since our last gathering.  It was only a sudden trip to call a coffee night with BOBinC, though not every one was present but most were.  I am blessed though it was a casual talk, it sure was a good fellowship.

Why do we always pick on Wyndale?  hmm... hindi ko din alam, it seems everybody loves him that is why we pick on him... hahaha...

It seems the night was light and enjoyable.  I was glad to see Jaspher with us.  It seems he is not always there.  Of course we also have a major topic - women - what else?  It seems only David is really on to it.  And Michaelson, hehehe... nevermind.

Geran seems to always give a just and straight in his thinking; also very creative.

Dominic panic with what he will teach with Feelers hehehe... Ralphie, bangag with too many work in church mezzo club.

Well, it seems life is just like that... everybody matures and moves on with life.

Recognizing Apol

After recognizing Jayson, I thought that I need to recognize also John Paul Deloso who is even doing better right now with his professional career.  John Paul has been my secretary around four or five years.  He inherited much of my attitude besides being a toxic boss.

Unlike Jayson, John Paul who is a certified accountant is actively pursuing his career in an office in Makati.  I heard the his boss was really proud of him and has even promoted him.  His work includes creating the accounting system of their Accounting Department, which is not easy.  Buti na lang very systematic kami in doing our task in UECP, which I believe greatly contributed in formulating the system he proposed and adopted by the company.

John Paul is not only multi-tasking but also excellent with arts.  He is also strong in program planning which is not normally seen now a days among young people.  I really felt paralyzed when he resigned as my secretary few years ago because I have relied much on him.  His talent and expertise has made my ministry expand to a very high potential.  It seems nothing can stop our tandem in terms of creating and implementing ministry.

He is a hard working person, intelligent and we can categorized as crafty in some ways.  I still look forward working with him someday.  It is difficult to find a person who you can shoot anyway with any task.  John Paul by the way is a person who is very workaholic and will work until the wee hours in the night in UECP finishing all task since a new day is a new set of task for us.

I pray for your continuous success in your career ladder.  Of course, will tap you again when the right time comes hehehe... pakayaman ka na muna dyan hehehe....

Wala pala tayo ni isang picture na magkasama though we have been working together for a long time.

Proud with BOBinC Jayson

The first to launch to the professional world is Jayson of my group BOBinC.  He has been working several months already in a company where I have introduced him to.  So far, I am getting positive feedbacks from his boss.  He is enjoying it as well.

Sometimes life does not really go the way you planned it.  Like Jayson, who is a nursing graduate is now a businessman.  He is helping his boss manage three stores in Boracay.  His boss, by the way, can also be said my mentee during his Boy Scout years hehehe.

I am always proud with my mentees who have sore high in the challenges of life.  I felt God has used me to bring out the best in people.  And this is my purpose in life, "Equipping God's People for Every Good Work."  Though, I cannot take all credit, because it was all God's work, timing and guidance.  But I am sure happy and proud to be part of Jayson's journey.

He is now learning more on sales and marketing, and of course, personnel management.  Super layo sa nursing talaga... grabe!!! hahaha...  Through his leadership, I heard that the stores are more organized and now earning more than ever.  He also got his experience in firing people - astig di ba!  Well, I miss doing that one in the corporate, shouting at people, "You're FIRED!" hehehe

I just heard, he is also trying to organize a fellowship in a church in Boracay.  Wow!  Isn't that great!  I hope after this leg of journey, he will join me in serving God, fulltime... hehehe  - in my dreams!!!

I pray that he will continue to humble himself before God, and seek God wholeheartedly all the days of his life.  To have the wisdom of Solomon in making good decisions in all his dealings.  And to always be a blessing to others by doing the same in bringing out the best in people.

Keep it up, Jayson!!!

Sugar Beets Works!

I wanted to thank my cousin Rowena who introduced me to eat sugar beets some months ago.  She said it is good for removing fatty liver.

Actually, I was so lazy to buy and prepare it but eventually have to do it for my health sake.  I ate sugar beets around three weeks daily.  I did not eat whole beets a day but one beets for two or three days.  This is before I got sick.

The Sugar Beets smells like soil but tasty because of its sweetness.  I have to boil it and peel the skin.  Afterwards, just slice it to pcs and eat them with my salad.

When I was confined in Metropolitan Hospital, I had an ultrasound, but the result shows that my fatty liver is already gone.  So, after two week, I decided to see my regular doctor for a check-up because of my strange fever.  He was not satisfied with the finding of the Hospital specially about my fatty liver.  He can't believe that the fatty liver is gone.  So, he asked me to go for another ultrasound.

Today, I went for another ultrasound to the place where I regularly have my test.  They say if you wanted accuracy, you need to stay put with one place of testing so that there will be consistency and comparison of previous tests.  The technician was telling me that my fatty liver has indeed become very minimal.

She showed me the monitor and said that the liver should be the same color with the kidney.  And my liver and kidney is almost the same color.  If you have fatty liver, the liver will be whiter than the kidney.  Mine is only very slight white with many parts the same color with the kidney.  She said, maybe the result was so slight that the hospital has already ignored it.

I praise God that my liver is better as of the check-up but still need confirmation with my doctor tomorrow.  Still I am grateful.

For those who have fatty liver... you need to try Sugar Beets.

Fatty Liver prevents the liver to function right.  The liver is in-charge to say to our system if the fats that we eat are for storing or burning.  If you have fatty liver the tendency was for the liver to malfunction.  So the result, it will kept on telling our system to store fats rather than burn them.  The result is of course bigger belly, which make us big and look bad.

Eat Sugar Beets... lalo na ikaw Geran!!! hehehe

Mentoring Feelers

It has been our fourth meeting I think hehehe... It seems the last two meetings has been very productive for all of us.  I am refreshed through their sharing as well as from distancing myself from discipling young people lately.

It has been two years since I have decided not to get much involved in discipling our young people since I have already planned and decided through God's leading to leave UECP.  It is difficult to leave if we have too many baggages to carry.  It is heart-breaking to leave your group behind.

Strange but true.  It seems something struck me, when God has impressed on me to get this Feelers group on track.  Maybe this is the last group so far I would mentor before I totally bow out of UECP.  Feelers has been in existence for quite sometime now, but it seems they were not able to reach their maximum potential.  Some of them have even drifted away from church.  And only two or three of them are seriously involved in ministry.  I heard they have been passed from one counselor to another.  It seems no one lasted mentoring them.

Mentoring is a hard job and many people do not know how to really disciple people.  Most of the time the failure of discipleship ministry is the leader surrenders rather than the members surrender.

For the last two weeks of meeting, I saw the potential in every member of Feelers.  I hope that in these several months of fellowship, we would be able to make the most out of it in bringing the best from each one of them.

I also thank God, the last member has been found.  I was able to talk to Brian this morning and he agreed to rejoin the Feelers meeting every Friday.  If he would fulfill his promise then, Feelers is now a complete group once again.

Praise God…

UECP 80th Anniversary Rolling

It has been more than a week that I have been very much pre-occupied with meetings and trying to patch things up for the 80th Anniversary Celebration.  It seems we are fully packed with so much things that would give honor to God.  God has been very faithful to our church, and I am happy being part of this momentous celebration as the head of the program events.

There are so many things to praise God about.  I hope that every event would really be blessed by God and draw His people closer to Him.  As for the rest of my friends, please do help pray for the different events for our celebration.

Pray also for me: to have wisdom, patience and the strength to coordinate all activities well.

The activities are as follows:
June 11 - Heavenly Melody Concert (Hookien) @ Main Sanctuary 7:30 pm
June 12 - Heavenly Melody Concert (Mandarin)@ Main Sanctuary 7:30 pm
June 13 - Heavenly Melody Concert (English) @ Main Sanctuary 7:30 pm
June 20 - Performers’ Circle Musicale “First Name” @ Main Sanctuary 7:30 pm
June 28 - UEC Joint Choir @ Main Sanctuary 7:30 pm
July 9 and 10 - Revival Meetings with Elder Li Chien @Main Sanctuary 7:30 pm
July 11 - UEC Congress

Worship Service Theme:
July 05 - My Church and Its Legacy - 9 am Chinese Service, 11 am English Service
July 12 - My God and His Grace - 9 am Joint Worship Service
July 12 - Thanksgiving Service Celebration - 3 pm Special Thanksgiving Service
July 12 - Thanksgiving Dinner 7 pm Century Park Hotel Ballroom
July 19 - My Family and My Identity  9 am Chinese Service, 11 am English Service
July 26 - My Role and My Responsibility 9 am Chinese Service, 11 am English Service
November 8 - Children Ministry Musicale: Toys and Treasures

Not Fully Recovered

It has been more than a week after being discharged from the hospital.  I have continued to eat antibiotics for seven days, and it ended last Tuesday.  So, I started to report to work this week.  It seems all are normal but I have took notice that once a day, it seems an energy within me is built up and moves around my body and causes me to have cold sweat even in air-conditioned room.

Hmmm what is really happening to me?  It is very obvious that I have not fully recovered and there seems to be an imbalance within me.  What to do next seems odd?  I do not know if western medicine can help me with my problem.  I was thinking of trying out going back to the traditional Chinese medicine maybe it can help improve my condition.

I also do not know, maybe what I am experiencing is actually my body trying to adjust to the new weight I have.  I lost a total of 15 pounds +- 2.  The sudden drop of my body weight can also be the cause of this imbalance.  I am not a doctor but knows within that there is something wrong in me.  hehehe

I pray that God would be merciful in my condition since I have tons of work to finish for the next three months in preparation for our church's 80th year celebration.

God Gave Rest

After this ordeal of sickness, I really felt God has asked me to rest.  I think He is preparing me for the difficult task ahead, which is the 80th Anniversary Celebration where I am heading the program.  I think the preparation would be very tedious that I need to recharge so that I can launch the whole thing well.  God is incredibly active in our life that He guides and directs all our action for His glory.

Even the Family Camp.  Actually, I was prepared to God, talked with Bryan that we would be roommates, but it seems I was prevented to go because of this sickness.  I remembered the message of God during the Senior's Retreat, when He said, "the people whom you have discipled will continue your work in UECP."  I need not worry about anything.  I think God is also helping me to let go of things and give full trust to the people whom l have discipled.  I can only give them prayer support throughout the camp at home.  And indeed, God is faithful that many were indeed blessed during the camp.  Reports are coming in to me, how they were blessed.  I am happy about it.

So, in the midst of our busyness, God can give rest though it seems the rest was painful but I think I am more recharge for the tasks ahead now than before.  Still taking antibiotics until tomorrow, so I prefer to stay home and hopefully, I would be reporting to work this Wednesday.  And resume work that I have left behind.

Praise God for all things...