The “I AM”

Moses' first encounter with God was while he was tending to his father-in-law Jethro's flock at Horeb. It was there that the Almighty told him to lead His flock, the Israelites. Moses was not up to the job because he knew that he was just a nobody. He was content to living a life of peace and quiet, yet purposeless, in the desert. But God assured this run-away prince that He would be there to guide him and empower him with great strength and power.

It was no surprise that Moses asked this question, “Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, 'The God of your fathers has sent me to you,' and they ask me, 'What is his name?' Then what shall I tell them?" (Exodus 3:13). God's answer to this one important query was nothing ordinary. He told Moses, "I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: 'I AM has sent me to you." (Exodus 3:14)

To a usual onlooker, this may seem very confusing. But to someone who has encountered God in the deep recesses of his being, this statement is very powerful. In this “I AM” statement lies the very essence of our God - He can be whoever and whatever we need Him to be. When we need someone to take out our infirmitites, He is our Healer. When we need someone to bring us our daily bread, He is our Provider. When we need quietness of spirit, He is our Peace. When we are grieving and our hearts are in turmoil, He is our Comforter. The possibilities are endless. God can be anyone we need Him to be – that brings us great hope and cheer.

The Power of The Cross

The Holy Week is definitely one of the most awaited holidays in the country. For many, this holiday, locally known as Semana Santa, is the only time when Filipinos can take some time off from work to relax and spend time with the whole family. Some families go on beach outings or mountain hikes. However, for more than half of the Filipino population, Semana Santa is a time when they can lessen their sins by making sacrifices like flogging and crucifixion, and visiting as many churches and shrines as they can. But do all these acts really make a difference?

To answer that question, we would have to go back to the power of the cross. Interestingly, when we visit churches all across the country, we see two kinds of crosses - one with Jesus Christ still on it, while the other one empty. It can be quite confusing for a normal church-goer but which one depicts the cross of the Bible?

If we look at the Bible’s account of Christ’s suffering on the cross, we will see that after he was crucified, he was buried, which means that He did not stay crucified on the cross. But amazingly, he did not stay in the tomb, too. After three days, the rock that sealed His tomb was open and Christ was nowhere to be found inside it. The impossible has happened. Christ has risen from the dead.

The cross is God’s wisdom for our salvation. No amount of sacrifice on our part can do that. Only Christ’s sacrifice on the cross can save us from our sins. On the other hand, the empty tomb tells us that in God there is victory. The empty cross and the empty tomb remind us that God’s power is at work in the lives of those who believe in Him. All we have to do is put our trust in Him.

God Takes The Broken Pieces

Have you ever felt like God was so far away? As if your prayers don't go past the ceiling? Does it seem like your dreams will just stay that way – just dreams? Have you resigned yourself to saying, “Que Sera, Sera. Whatever will be, will be?” as you feel like life is all about luck. Some are lucky, some are not – and only a few are lucky enough to belong to the first lot. If this is exactly how you feel, then here's good news for you: God has created you with a purpose and a great future. And there is indeed hope for you.

When God created the world, every thing was perfect. But because of sin, things became corrupted. The perfect world that God has created became full of lies, disappointments, pain, suffering, disillusionment, illnesses – all sorts of evil things. Man's image which was after God's own image became distorted. Man's relationship with Him became marred with filth. The world that God had created was now a far cry from His original design, and it's all because of sin.

It may look like things are utterly hopeless, as if there's nothing that can be done about our situation. But the truth is, God himself went out of his way to restore things for us, especially our relationship with Him. Two thousand years ago, He sent his only Son to bridge the gap between us and Him. Right now, he's stretching out his hands to us so he can take the broken pieces of our lives and put them back together. The invitation is always open. He's just waiting for us to accept it. But it's always our choice as he never forces himself on us.

Love Is The Answer

At the mention of the word “love”, our minds would immediately conjure up a myriad of images that show how we perceive this word. For a married couple, they may remember the day they committed to spend the rest of their lives together for better or for worse. A grandmother would remember the time when she held her first grandchild in her arms, while a teenager would be thinking of the boy that she has taken on a certain fancy. Love can mean a million different things to different people but ultimately love is God, and God is love.

Love is the very essence of God. To know God is to know His love. If we fail to understand that God will always be a God of love, then we miss the whole point of our existence - that is to reciprocate the love that He has given us freely. The Bible says, “we love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

God loves us not because we do good things for Him or because we are nice people. He loves us because that is who He is. There will never be a time when he will stop loving us. It's just impossible for Him not to love us. He wouldn't be God if he stopped loving because that is His very essence. What is amazing about God is that He, the Almighty and powerful God, extends His hands towards us to draw us near to Him by making His love known to us. We don't reach out to Him, He reaches out to us. All we have to do is to accept what He is offering us – His love.

God's love is unchanging. It has been and will always be the same. No matter what we do it will still be as it is now. God's love is also powerful. It can bring people together, as well as bring healing, joy and peace in our lives. There is no corner in our lives that love cannot touch. Knowing this, we have no reason to fear. Understanding and accepting God's love means entering into His loving arms where all fear is cast out. (1 John 4:18) There is every reason for us to praise God because there is nothing or no one in this whole wide world that can shake us or bring us down if we have God's love in our hearts. So we can now say with firmness and conviction that “love is the answer” to everything that we're facing right now.

A New Year, A New Start

It's 2010! A new year, a chance to have a new start. We turn to God with eagerness for what He has in store for us this year. But as we do that, we also remember the past year with a mixture of both happiness and pain. God allows us to remember our mistakes and frustrations in the past to help us grow in Him. He wants to remind us that only He alone can give us hope for the future.

As we start the year 2010, we hold on to God's promises in the Bible. By faith, we are certain that He will go before us, paving the way for us. He will guide us and watch over us so we will not fall over the same failues which can happen if we don't ponder over His Word and dwell in His presence through prayer.

Let's not rush into the new year, forgetting all that God has done for us in the past. Let's patiently wait for God to reveal and accomplish His promises to us. Let's learn from our past failures but let's not dwell on them. What's in the past is irreversible, we can't change them anymore. But God holds greater things for us in the future. Let's us wait with expectant and eager hearts knowing that He holds our future in His hands.

True Spirit of Christmas

Christmas is the most festive time of the year. It’s a time when malls are packed with hordes of people trying to find gifts for their family and friends. Commercial establishments probably achieve their biggest sales during the Christmas season.

Amidst all the rushing and shopping, few people truly understand the reason why we celebrate Christmas. Why do we give gifts? Why do we sing Christmas carols? Why do we have parties? The shepherds who were looking after their flocks that special night or the wise men following that bright, bright star would be most capable of telling us why. What then is the reason for the season?

A lot of people do not know why they give gifts, sing Christmas carols or have parties during this season. They just know that they have to do it because of tradition. For those of us who know, this is the perfect time to tell them why.

Two thousand years ago, God sent Jesus to live here on Earth as part of His redemptive plan for mankind. Because of His great love for us, He was willing to let His only Son become the ultimate sacrifice to save us from the punishment that we deserve. Here we see the greatest gift of all, Jesus as payment for all our sins. All we have to do is to accept God’s gift of salvation and commit our whole life to Him, then we will have eternal life.

Many people do not know this so it is our job to tell them. The greatest gift that you can give your loved ones this Christmas is not something that you can buy from the stores. The best gift that you can give them is the message of the gospel. They have to know that Jesus is the reason for the season.

Advent Conspiracy

Nice concept...



Why don't spend less on gifts and more on relationships?

One Flaw of Women

Got this from one of my friends. Just wanted to share it to remind all women how priceless they are.

Women, enjoy!

---------------

One Flaw In Women

Women have strengths that amaze men.

They bear hardships and they carry burdens,

but they hold happiness, love and joy.



They smile when they want to scream.

They sing when they want to cry.

They cry when they are happy

and laugh when they are nervous.

They fight for what they believe in.

They stand up to injustice.



They don't take "no" for an answer

when they believe there is a better solution.



They go without so their family can have.

They go to the doctor with a frightened friend.

They love unconditionally.

They cry when their children excel

and cheer when their friends get awards.



They are happy when they hear about

a birth or a wedding.

Their hearts break when a friend dies.

They grieve at the loss of a family member,

yet they are strong when they

think there is no strength left.

They know that a hug and a kiss

can heal a broken heart.



Women come in all shapes, sizes and colors.



They'll drive, fly, walk, run or e-mail you

to show how much they care about you.



The heart of a woman is what

makes the world keep turning.



They bring joy, hope and love.

They have compassion and ideas.

They give moral support to their

family and friends.



Women have vital things to say and everything to give.



HOWEVER, IF THERE IS ONE FLAW IN WOMEN,

IT IS THAT THEY FORGET THEIR WORTH.

A Greater Purpose!

It's been 2 months since I've arrived from Indonesia. I miss teaching. I miss my friends in Surabaya. I miss hearing Bahasa Indonesia. But I am also happy that after so many years, I now have lots of time in my hands (that's just a better way of saying "I am now a bum").

Sometime last year, I felt a deep stirring in my heart to leave Indonesia and go back to the Philippines. It was triggered by one comment made by an immigration officer. She was checking my passport and immigration card when she asked me whether I was teaching in a private school or a government school. I told her that I was teaching in a private school. Her reply was simple, "Good, 'cause if you were teaching in a government school in Indonesia, I wouldn't allow you to leave". She gave me back my passport and said goodbye casually. She had no idea what she's done.

After hearing the immigration officer's comment, I felt uneasy. The message was clear to me. It was time for me to go back to my homeland and serve my fellowmen. I've been in Indonesia for six years and I have loved every moment that I've spent there. I have been given lots of opportunities to serve in communities. The latest was in a poor community where I had the chance to teach Character Building Education to preschool children. I won't be able to forget the memories that I've had in that community.

I remember that I would always feel nervous when it was time for me to teach as I had to speak in Bahasa Indonesia. I would diligently memorize the "script" given to me, trying to imitate a local's accent when speaking. But whenever I stand in front of the class and deliver my "lines", I only see children with blank faces. In my frustration, I asked my friend why they seem not to understand what I was saying. I asked her whether my accent was wrong or was I speaking too fast 'cause the children didn't seem to understand what I was trying to teach them. My friend just laughed and told me that almost all of the children in that community couldn't understand Bahasa Indonesia. They could only understand their tribe's local dialect. It brought relief and at the same time disappointment. I was relieved that it was not because of the way I spoke. But I was disappointed that they didn't understand the lessons that I was trying to teach them. But despite this, I was still very happy that I had the chance to reach out to them. This is the kind of opportunity that I long for. While others are longing for opportunities to work in highly developed countries to earn big bucks, I am dreaming of finding opportunities where I can help others. I would be hypocrite if I say that I don't want to be rich. Of course I want to be rich! But only so that I can have all the resources that I need to help others.

So in November of last year, it was clear to me that it was time for me to pack my bags and head for my beloved homeland. It was a struggle as I was already used to my life in Indonesia. I loved my job, my ministries and my friends there. But then I know that if I don't do as my heart says, I would always be hearing "What if's" in my mind.

Now, I am back in the Philippines. But I still haven't done anything for my country. I was hoping that as soon as I hopped off the plane someone would approach me and hand me and envelope and say, "This is your mission". But then it only happens in movies. I am neither Tom Cruise nor Keanu Reeves. So there won't be people popping in front of me telling me what my mission is. But one thing is for sure, my Almighty Father has already prepared everything for me. He constantly guides me, leading me in the right path. He is always patient, especially when I am stubborn. I am secure knowing that His plans for me are greater than anything that I could ever imagine. I was created for a greater purpose.

Ninoy's Letter to Noynoy

I read this post in the blog of one of my friends. I couldn't help but be teary-eyed. How I wish Ninoy was still alive so he could become our President. Read on.

LIHAM NI NINOY KAY NOYNOY (Ninoy's Letter to his son, Noynoy)

August 25, 1973

Fort Bonifacio

11:30pm

Mr. Benigno S. Aquino III

P E R S O N A L

My dearest Son:

One of these days , when you have completed your studies I am sure you will have the opportunity to visit many countries. And in your travels you will witness a bullfight.

In Spanish bullfighting as you know, a man – the matador – is pitted against an angry bull.

The man goads the bull to extreme anger and madness. Then a moment comes when the bull, maddened, bleeding and covered with darts, feeling his last moment has come, stops rushing about and grimly turns his face on the man with the scarlet "muleta" and sword. The Spaniards call this "the moment of truth." This is the climax of the bullfight.

This afternoon, I have arrived at my own moment of truth. After a lengthy conference with my lawyers, Senators Jovito R. Salonga and Lorenzo M. Tanada I made a very crucial and vital decision that will surely affect all our lives: mommie's, your sisters', yours and all our loved ones as well as mine.

I have decided not to participate in the proceedings of the Military Commission assigned to try the charges filed against me by the army prosecution staff. As you know, I've been charged with illegal possession of firearms, violation of RA 1700 otherwise known as the "Anti-Subversion Act" and murder.

You are still too young to grasp the full impact of my decision. Briefly: by not participating in the proceedings, I will not be represented by counsel, the prosecution will present its witnesses without any cross examinations, I will not put up any defense, I will remain passive and quiet through the entire trial and I will merely await the verdict. Inasmuch as it will be a completely one-sided affair, I suppose it is reasonable to expect the maximum penalty will be given to me. I expect to be sentenced to imprisonment the rest of my natural life, or possibly be sent to stand before a firing squad. By adopting the course of action I decided upon this afternoon, I have literally decided to walk into the very jaws of death.

You may ask: why did you do it?

Son, my decision is an act of conscience. It is an act of protest against the structures of injustice that have been imposed upon our hapless countrymen. Futile and puny, as it will surely appear to many, it is my last act of defiance against tyranny and dictatorship.

You are my only son. You carry my name and the name of my father. I have no material wealth to leave you. I never had time to make money while I was in the hire of our people.

For this I am very sorry. I had hopes of building a little nest egg for you. I bought a ranch in Masbate in the hope that after ten or fifteen years, the coconut trees I planted there would be yielding enough to assure you a modest but comfortable existence.

Unfortunately, I had to sell all our properties as I fought battle after political battle as a beleaguered member of the opposition. And after the last battle, I had more obligations than assets.

The only valuable asset I can bequeath to you now is the name you carry. I have tried my best during my years of public service to keep that name untarnished and respected, unmarked by sorry compromises for expediency. I now pass it on to you, as good, I pray, as when my father, your grandfather passed it on to me.

I prepared a statement which I intend to read before the military commission on Monday at the opening of my trial. I hope the commission members will be understanding and kind enough to allow me to read my statement into the record. This may well be my first and only participation in the entire proceedings.

In this statement, I said: Some people suggested that I beg for mercy from the present powers that be. Son, this I cannot do in conscience. I would rather die on my feet with honor, than live on bended knees in shame.

Your great grandfather, Gen. Servilliano Aquino was twice condemned to death by both the Spaniards and the American colonizers. Fortunately, he survived both by a twist of fate.

Your grandfather, my father was also imprisoned by the Americans because he loved his people more than the Americans who colonized us. He was finally vindicated. Our ancestors have shared the pains, the sorrows and the anguish of Mother Filipinas when she was in bondage.

It is a rare privilege for me to join the Motherland in the dark dungeon where she was led back by one of her own sons whom she lavished with love and glory.

I ended my statement thus: I have chosen to follow my conscience and accept the tyrant's revenge.

It takes little effort to stop a tyrant. I have no doubt in the ultimate victory of right over wrong, of evil over good, in the awakening of the Filipino.

Forgive me for passing unto your young shoulders the great responsibility for our family. I trust you will love your mother and your sisters and lavish them with the care and protection I would have given them.

I was barely fifteen years old when my father died. His death was my most traumatic experience. I loved and hero-worshipped him so much, I wanted to join him in his grave when he passed away. But as in all sorrows, eventually they are washed away by the rains of time.

In the coming years, I hope you will study very hard so that you will have a solid foundation on which to build your future. I may no longer be around to give you my fatherly advice. I have asked many of your uncles to help you along should the need arise and I pray you will have the humility to drink from their fountain of experiences.

Look after your two younger sisters with understanding and affection. Viel and Krissy will need your umbrella of protection for a long time. Krissy is still very young and fate has been most unkind to both of us. Our parting came too soon. Please make up for me. Take care of her as I would have taken care of her with patience and warm affection.

Finally, stand by your mother as she stood beside me through the buffeting winds of crisis and uncertainties firm and resolute and uncowed. I pray to God, you inherit her indomitable spirit and her rare brand of silent courage.

I had hopes of introducing you to my friends, showing you the world and guide you through the maze of survival. I am afraid, you will now have to go it alone without your guide.

The only advice I can give you: Live with honor and follow your conscience.

There is no greater nation on earth than our Motherland. No greater people than our own. Serve them with all your heart, with all your might and with all your strength.

Son, the ball is now in your hands.

Lovingly,

Dad