Haha. I've missed blogging for how many days, how many months now. I even passed by my birthday without ever posting a blog entry. I don't know, maybe I got tired, lazy or busy. Well, it doesn't matter now, I've decided to at least post here once in a while (hopefully once a month or more!).
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As I've watched and observed the people around me, I ask myself how do I interact with them. Do I honestly impact them positively or nergatively? Do my words edify them or bring them down? Do my actions uplift them or make them stumble? I know I am not perfect in my own ways, but have I tried to live a life worth remembering? When I die, what would people say about me? I like the tagline of the Mapawa Resort in CDO "Stop dreaming, Start doing!"
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Our church is currently studying the latter part of Ephesians. It's all about relationships - husband-wife, children-parents. Next month, we will be starting to discuss master-servant relationships. I think this would really be a good one since I am an employee. As an emplyee, how should I treat my boss (both Christian and non-Christian).
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I'm using your format Ahia Elliott! hehe.. thanks
Showing posts with label Reflections - Experience. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reflections - Experience. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Friday, February 08, 2008
Memories
No, I'm not going to sing, but I just feel like talking about my memories this time.
Have you experienced talking with a group of freinds or perhaps classmates about current events or common interests then suddenly one would, out of the blue, mention something about the past? That doesn't end there. Have you experienced not remembering what they were talking about? Yup, that's a problem for me.
One time during a recent winter camp, we were watching a bunch of teens playing some camp games. As I watched there, I was happy because I feel that it was a good game that I've never heard or played before. To my surprise, a friend beside me said that we played that game before when we were younger. (what? Am I that old to forget? hmmm...) I remember that I once went to Disney World and that I got lost, but as to the rest of the trip, I'm not sure what happened.
Well, it's true that I can't remember most of my childhood. (I think I played a lot... studied not that seriously until grade 4... had a crush... liked very much artistry and Math... was thinner...) But does it mean that those memories that I forgot doesn't mean much to me? (Hmmm...) A friend of mine once said that we tend to remember memories that have an impact in our lives. It guess this is true. Although I can't help but think that maybe the memories that we forget is still a vital part of us. Though we may have forgotten, Though it is hard to remember, it is still a part of who you are now. (We are not controlled by it, instead we use it as a booster to our current lives - how we want to live our lives)
My solution: three ways - 1) blog 2) pictures and 3) people.
Since I'm a person who is expressive in terms of writing, blogging has been a constant way for me to express myself. It has been over a year since I started blogging and I think it is a wonderful way to keep track of the important things that happened in my life. Well, some people try to have a blog entry everyday, but I guess, all I want to do here is to be conscious that some memories are special and some may even help out other people. That's why it's noteworthy to write them down.
Another hobby that I am starting to catch now is photography. I guess I too caught the camera fever (from chruch???)! Pictures are worth a thousand words. (I think we sang a song with this title...) This is so true. Pictures capture moments in time - as if freezing that time. What's good about it is that we can go back and reminisce what has happened. I just need to attend one of the summer classes in photography to at least incrase my knowledge in this area. hehe...
Lastly, people help you remember. What better "remembering machine" than a person who experienced that same moment with you. Although there will come a time when both of you might / will forget, but until that time comes, an ever present friend is all you need to be reminded of your memories. That's why be more open to people. (If not even to a selcet few...) I'm sure, this way you'll have happy memories to keep rather than lonely ones.
So what's your way to remember things? Share them here...
Have you experienced talking with a group of freinds or perhaps classmates about current events or common interests then suddenly one would, out of the blue, mention something about the past? That doesn't end there. Have you experienced not remembering what they were talking about? Yup, that's a problem for me.
One time during a recent winter camp, we were watching a bunch of teens playing some camp games. As I watched there, I was happy because I feel that it was a good game that I've never heard or played before. To my surprise, a friend beside me said that we played that game before when we were younger. (what? Am I that old to forget? hmmm...) I remember that I once went to Disney World and that I got lost, but as to the rest of the trip, I'm not sure what happened.
Well, it's true that I can't remember most of my childhood. (I think I played a lot... studied not that seriously until grade 4... had a crush... liked very much artistry and Math... was thinner...) But does it mean that those memories that I forgot doesn't mean much to me? (Hmmm...) A friend of mine once said that we tend to remember memories that have an impact in our lives. It guess this is true. Although I can't help but think that maybe the memories that we forget is still a vital part of us. Though we may have forgotten, Though it is hard to remember, it is still a part of who you are now. (We are not controlled by it, instead we use it as a booster to our current lives - how we want to live our lives)
My solution: three ways - 1) blog 2) pictures and 3) people.
Since I'm a person who is expressive in terms of writing, blogging has been a constant way for me to express myself. It has been over a year since I started blogging and I think it is a wonderful way to keep track of the important things that happened in my life. Well, some people try to have a blog entry everyday, but I guess, all I want to do here is to be conscious that some memories are special and some may even help out other people. That's why it's noteworthy to write them down.
Another hobby that I am starting to catch now is photography. I guess I too caught the camera fever (from chruch???)! Pictures are worth a thousand words. (I think we sang a song with this title...) This is so true. Pictures capture moments in time - as if freezing that time. What's good about it is that we can go back and reminisce what has happened. I just need to attend one of the summer classes in photography to at least incrase my knowledge in this area. hehe...
Lastly, people help you remember. What better "remembering machine" than a person who experienced that same moment with you. Although there will come a time when both of you might / will forget, but until that time comes, an ever present friend is all you need to be reminded of your memories. That's why be more open to people. (If not even to a selcet few...) I'm sure, this way you'll have happy memories to keep rather than lonely ones.
So what's your way to remember things? Share them here...
Friday, January 18, 2008
Something to Start the Year With
This actually was brought about through my conversation with my boss. There I was in his room, keeping my thoughts to myself as he was reading my evaluation for the past year. I was very tense since I know he had a great expectation from me. Eventhough he already said that I had one of the best written evaluation among his team members, something inside of me still longed for assurance, for security.
We talked for a while through my accomplishments, then we went into strengths. He totally agreed with it. He didn't disapprove of anything that I wrote. I was relieved for a while but when it came to my weakness, I suddenly felt that uneasy feeling coming back. I don't know if it's natural, but talking about one's weakness seems to leave one naked and nobody wants that "butterfly in the stomach" feeling.
But something in the conversation made an impact on me. The ones that I wrote down were true. I need to be a confident, executing, clear thinker. Let me explain. I am person who is easily distracted by the things that come my way. More so, I am a forgetful person. Would you believe there are some childhood memories that I can't remember already? I need to be confident - not just about myself but also of the results of my work. Lastly, I need to achieve my set goals and if possible exceed these expectations.
Woah! talk about some hard and serious stuff. But when I think about it, they are all true. One sentence stuck to my mind for the rest of the session and I just want to share it with you. "Begin with the end in mind." What does this means? It means going from general to specific. In one of Stephen Covey's book, he did an illustration that is very fitting for this. Think about the future you who is already dead. And let's just say that you happen to be a ghost who is on your own funeral. What would you like to hear from those who attended your service? "Oh, this man was very irresponsible when he was alive!" "This man did not finish anything that he started!" or would you rather hear "He was a great loss to all of us because he was one who encouraged us by the way he lived his life!" " He always surprised (exceeded expectations) me with his work!"
This is also relevant not only in work, but also in life, in church, in the family. "Begin with the end in mind!" I want to be a good Christian. I want God to say "Welcome my good and faithful servant!" I want to be a good son and brother. Of course, after which planning how to achieve that is equally important. At least I have something to begin with.
I can't say that I'll be able to turn at once my weakness into strengths, but with God's help maybe I can (I will) in the near future.
We talked for a while through my accomplishments, then we went into strengths. He totally agreed with it. He didn't disapprove of anything that I wrote. I was relieved for a while but when it came to my weakness, I suddenly felt that uneasy feeling coming back. I don't know if it's natural, but talking about one's weakness seems to leave one naked and nobody wants that "butterfly in the stomach" feeling.
But something in the conversation made an impact on me. The ones that I wrote down were true. I need to be a confident, executing, clear thinker. Let me explain. I am person who is easily distracted by the things that come my way. More so, I am a forgetful person. Would you believe there are some childhood memories that I can't remember already? I need to be confident - not just about myself but also of the results of my work. Lastly, I need to achieve my set goals and if possible exceed these expectations.
Woah! talk about some hard and serious stuff. But when I think about it, they are all true. One sentence stuck to my mind for the rest of the session and I just want to share it with you. "Begin with the end in mind." What does this means? It means going from general to specific. In one of Stephen Covey's book, he did an illustration that is very fitting for this. Think about the future you who is already dead. And let's just say that you happen to be a ghost who is on your own funeral. What would you like to hear from those who attended your service? "Oh, this man was very irresponsible when he was alive!" "This man did not finish anything that he started!" or would you rather hear "He was a great loss to all of us because he was one who encouraged us by the way he lived his life!" " He always surprised (exceeded expectations) me with his work!"
This is also relevant not only in work, but also in life, in church, in the family. "Begin with the end in mind!" I want to be a good Christian. I want God to say "Welcome my good and faithful servant!" I want to be a good son and brother. Of course, after which planning how to achieve that is equally important. At least I have something to begin with.
I can't say that I'll be able to turn at once my weakness into strengths, but with God's help maybe I can (I will) in the near future.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Recent Changes
Changes... one of the things that is truly constant according to some old songs or sayings.
But come to think of it. It's true. Only a dead person will not be able to change. You might say that dead person's exterior might still change (rot) but would he care? He wouldn't feel anything even a slight pain or happiness. I am alive that's why I change...
This past few weeks, I am constantly bugged again by some thoughts about my present and future situations mainly about life (family, work, spiritual life). It seems that I think about these because I am living in this environment. I meet my family in the mornings and when I get back from work. In the middle, I travel and go to work. During Saturdays and Sundays, I go to Church. Sometimes, I am afraid that it has just become a routine for me.
But I feel that God is testing me becuase in the midst of my comfort zones, changes are about to happen (or already happened). I know that He doesn't want me to feel so relaxed that I only think of myself. Instead, He wants me to be an effective Christian wherever, whenever.
Family. It seems we are bonding more and more these past few weeks. I missed these special times because I feel that I have shied away so much from the pressure and the stress that came from family. I feel God saying to me that it is time to open up once again and try to listen.
Work. Three bosses, three roles in a year. That must have been some major adjustments. I feel God is saying to me humble yourself because I am the source of all your successes. I feel that He wants me to do my best and to glorify Him as my ultimate boss! Also, Saturday mornings will be gone! I have to work for my uncle as a part time auditor. I hope I can shine there too.
Church. Adjustment in the time of choir and to a new praise team next year sure is not easy, but it is for the best of the Church. Here, I believe He is testing my commitment and devotion to serving and giving Him all honor and glory that is due Him. It is indeed true that the spotlight can blind you in so many ways. I hope and pray that He will still use me as an instrument for proclaiming His mission.
Life. Sometimes I'd go staring at the wall, thinking about my life, my future. I think about studying again or life 5 years from now. I feel that God wants me to also look at my past - how He has saved me from my sins, how he led me to my job, kept my family safe, all the successes and failures in my life - and continue to trust in Him for my future decisions in life.
Changes can be hard for a person especially if one comes after the other. But I also believe that changes can be better when we have someone to lean on to, talk to, or share it to. It'd be good if we had a special friend to share these things... a Friend would be better.
But come to think of it. It's true. Only a dead person will not be able to change. You might say that dead person's exterior might still change (rot) but would he care? He wouldn't feel anything even a slight pain or happiness. I am alive that's why I change...
This past few weeks, I am constantly bugged again by some thoughts about my present and future situations mainly about life (family, work, spiritual life). It seems that I think about these because I am living in this environment. I meet my family in the mornings and when I get back from work. In the middle, I travel and go to work. During Saturdays and Sundays, I go to Church. Sometimes, I am afraid that it has just become a routine for me.
But I feel that God is testing me becuase in the midst of my comfort zones, changes are about to happen (or already happened). I know that He doesn't want me to feel so relaxed that I only think of myself. Instead, He wants me to be an effective Christian wherever, whenever.
Family. It seems we are bonding more and more these past few weeks. I missed these special times because I feel that I have shied away so much from the pressure and the stress that came from family. I feel God saying to me that it is time to open up once again and try to listen.
Work. Three bosses, three roles in a year. That must have been some major adjustments. I feel God is saying to me humble yourself because I am the source of all your successes. I feel that He wants me to do my best and to glorify Him as my ultimate boss! Also, Saturday mornings will be gone! I have to work for my uncle as a part time auditor. I hope I can shine there too.
Church. Adjustment in the time of choir and to a new praise team next year sure is not easy, but it is for the best of the Church. Here, I believe He is testing my commitment and devotion to serving and giving Him all honor and glory that is due Him. It is indeed true that the spotlight can blind you in so many ways. I hope and pray that He will still use me as an instrument for proclaiming His mission.
Life. Sometimes I'd go staring at the wall, thinking about my life, my future. I think about studying again or life 5 years from now. I feel that God wants me to also look at my past - how He has saved me from my sins, how he led me to my job, kept my family safe, all the successes and failures in my life - and continue to trust in Him for my future decisions in life.
Changes can be hard for a person especially if one comes after the other. But I also believe that changes can be better when we have someone to lean on to, talk to, or share it to. It'd be good if we had a special friend to share these things... a Friend would be better.
Friday, August 24, 2007
God's Leading
Have you ever imagined how your life would be 5 to 10 years from now? Well, I'm sure every person have dreamed of having their own car or house or even family with kids. I think this is the ideal picture that most people have in their minds when somebody ask them this question. But I ask you again, "How do you see yourself 5 to 10 years from now?"
Indeed it is a hard question because it not only touches the physical senses but transcends and delves deeper inside a person - his values, priorities and beliefs. Somehow this question has been lingering in my mind as I end up late alone inside my office space these past few weeks. This new assignment truly was a shock not just physically but also emotionally. It was as if this assignment was testing how long i could hold on ... as if trying how far I could go ... And I did. I tried my best. I even stayed up late just to cover up lost time for understanding things.
But as I drive home, I ask myself why do I do these things. I try to reason within myself that it's ok because I am not doing anything wrong. In the end I see a person who is proud to admit that he needs help. A person who cannot do things alone and needs to learn to ask for help. This is the lesson that I've learned this week.
I try to see this change as God's leading in my life. For many years now, I've tried avoiding work / subject related to Finance. I guess I don't want people to see me having a hard time or see me weak. But in the end, God is glorified in my weekness. During those lonely nights, he would allow 1 to 2 people to stay behind also. Those people that I thought I couldn't get along were really friendly after all. I also now have the opportunity to grasp more knowledge in this subject. He even provided people who I can ask for help. I'm glad that God didn't allow me to back down at first mention of my new assignment. He gave me the strength to say "I'll try and do my best." And that's what I'm going to do!
I believe God has a plan for each of us. It only matters how you see it. Don't be so blinded by the world's distraction, but keep your eyes, ears and heart open for His leading. 5 to 10 years from now, I see myself a better person because I know and trust that Christ is leading my life.
Indeed it is a hard question because it not only touches the physical senses but transcends and delves deeper inside a person - his values, priorities and beliefs. Somehow this question has been lingering in my mind as I end up late alone inside my office space these past few weeks. This new assignment truly was a shock not just physically but also emotionally. It was as if this assignment was testing how long i could hold on ... as if trying how far I could go ... And I did. I tried my best. I even stayed up late just to cover up lost time for understanding things.
But as I drive home, I ask myself why do I do these things. I try to reason within myself that it's ok because I am not doing anything wrong. In the end I see a person who is proud to admit that he needs help. A person who cannot do things alone and needs to learn to ask for help. This is the lesson that I've learned this week.
I try to see this change as God's leading in my life. For many years now, I've tried avoiding work / subject related to Finance. I guess I don't want people to see me having a hard time or see me weak. But in the end, God is glorified in my weekness. During those lonely nights, he would allow 1 to 2 people to stay behind also. Those people that I thought I couldn't get along were really friendly after all. I also now have the opportunity to grasp more knowledge in this subject. He even provided people who I can ask for help. I'm glad that God didn't allow me to back down at first mention of my new assignment. He gave me the strength to say "I'll try and do my best." And that's what I'm going to do!
I believe God has a plan for each of us. It only matters how you see it. Don't be so blinded by the world's distraction, but keep your eyes, ears and heart open for His leading. 5 to 10 years from now, I see myself a better person because I know and trust that Christ is leading my life.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Advice For A Friend: Have Faith!
I have a friend who is moving to Stamford for her next rotation. Although it is a big break for her, she is hesitant because she doesn't know what to expect afterwards. The rotation is for six months but after that she is afraid that she'll get so engrossed with work or that she might not get a chance to return home.
I told her to grab the opportunity. Because if she stayed here, she does not know either what will happen afterwards. At least there, she'll get trained under the best of the best; I'm sure she'll experience a totally different kind of world, but I told her that she need not worry because knowing her, she can surely do it. I also told her that as long as you are enjoying yourself, you're not stepping on any body's shoes, you know you're doing the right thing, you can somehow be sure that you're on the right track!
But there's a warning. If the time comes when caring people like friends and family are telling you that you have gone astray, then don't try to act like you don't hear the words we speak. People may view things differently from your perspective, but they may be seeing what you truly are doing. Also, don't be afraid to tell us what you truly are feeling, because this eases the burden and can be a source of encouragement.
Lastly, enjoy life! God gave us a chance to live another day is a sign that He wants us to continue to do His work. It might not be an easy road, but God's mercies strengthens us to go on. Live life positively and never forget to constantly evaluate your life. Someone said "if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail."
Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” That's the Bible Verse for the Day in my other blog. And I see it perfectly fitting in this situation. "Sure" and "Certain" are words that should be said with full conviction. A certain slur or a slight hesitation can give away that a person is not firm in what he's saying. "What we hope for" and "What we do not see" may pertain to God or, in this case, the future. People are limited and cannot predict what will happen in the future at the exact moment of time. That's where faith comes in.
Although we don't know what's going to happen, we can fully trust that God knows what is best for us. When we make a major decision in our lives, we should include Him. Only then can we have the peace of mind and the peace of heart that everything will work out the way that He planned it and not how we planned. So the best way is to put our plans coinciding with God's plan. When we do this, we can be sure that we are doing the right thing and we will be happy!
I told her to grab the opportunity. Because if she stayed here, she does not know either what will happen afterwards. At least there, she'll get trained under the best of the best; I'm sure she'll experience a totally different kind of world, but I told her that she need not worry because knowing her, she can surely do it. I also told her that as long as you are enjoying yourself, you're not stepping on any body's shoes, you know you're doing the right thing, you can somehow be sure that you're on the right track!
But there's a warning. If the time comes when caring people like friends and family are telling you that you have gone astray, then don't try to act like you don't hear the words we speak. People may view things differently from your perspective, but they may be seeing what you truly are doing. Also, don't be afraid to tell us what you truly are feeling, because this eases the burden and can be a source of encouragement.
Lastly, enjoy life! God gave us a chance to live another day is a sign that He wants us to continue to do His work. It might not be an easy road, but God's mercies strengthens us to go on. Live life positively and never forget to constantly evaluate your life. Someone said "if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail."
Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.” That's the Bible Verse for the Day in my other blog. And I see it perfectly fitting in this situation. "Sure" and "Certain" are words that should be said with full conviction. A certain slur or a slight hesitation can give away that a person is not firm in what he's saying. "What we hope for" and "What we do not see" may pertain to God or, in this case, the future. People are limited and cannot predict what will happen in the future at the exact moment of time. That's where faith comes in.
Although we don't know what's going to happen, we can fully trust that God knows what is best for us. When we make a major decision in our lives, we should include Him. Only then can we have the peace of mind and the peace of heart that everything will work out the way that He planned it and not how we planned. So the best way is to put our plans coinciding with God's plan. When we do this, we can be sure that we are doing the right thing and we will be happy!
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
One Year at GE Money
My Thoughts:
Has it been really one year already? June 27, 2006 was last year... Today is June 27, 2007... What? I didn't even realized it today... not by myself... someone only reminded me...
One year ago, I was a fledgling fresh graduate who was out to look for work. I didn't know what I liked. I didn't know either what to look for. I just thought that any work would do or any work will be alright except for work in the bank.
Who could blame me. I have had my ups and downs in that field. Yet no matter how hard I shied away from it, it seems the Lord wants me to be there. Isn't funny how God sometimes deliberately puts you in a place where you really didn't want to be. Maybe because that place brings out bad memories or maybe because it is not your comfort zone or maybe because you just don't feel like to be in that place.
Whatever the reason, God still knows what is best for us. We might not see it. We might not understand it. Yet somehow I feel that God is truly leading my life into some place I've never imagined. When I look back and see how pieces are starting to gel in, I see God's work in it.
I had my OJT at PLDT's quality department where my project was about comparing the actual and theoretical process of the Collections Department. Who would have thought that in GE Money Bank, after more than two years, I'll be able to go back again to working with the Collections group? I know I couldn't have especially in a bank.
My only response today is in humbleness. I've only started and have a long way to go. I'm not sure where God will lead me, but as long as I do my part and trust in Him, I know everything will be as it should be.
Who could blame me. I have had my ups and downs in that field. Yet no matter how hard I shied away from it, it seems the Lord wants me to be there. Isn't funny how God sometimes deliberately puts you in a place where you really didn't want to be. Maybe because that place brings out bad memories or maybe because it is not your comfort zone or maybe because you just don't feel like to be in that place.
Whatever the reason, God still knows what is best for us. We might not see it. We might not understand it. Yet somehow I feel that God is truly leading my life into some place I've never imagined. When I look back and see how pieces are starting to gel in, I see God's work in it.
I had my OJT at PLDT's quality department where my project was about comparing the actual and theoretical process of the Collections Department. Who would have thought that in GE Money Bank, after more than two years, I'll be able to go back again to working with the Collections group? I know I couldn't have especially in a bank.
My only response today is in humbleness. I've only started and have a long way to go. I'm not sure where God will lead me, but as long as I do my part and trust in Him, I know everything will be as it should be.
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My Prayer:
Lord, I know You have plans for my life. I have plans too, but may my plans be according to Your will. Help me to truly love You and trust in You. Please forgive me of my sins and help me to love and enjoy the work that you gave me. Help me to learn more and to gain experience more in this field. Help me to overcome my fears and be a good Christian example to my colleagues. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
On Covenants, Promises and Prayers...
Last week for me was a constant reminder on learning how to keep my promises and vows.
The first time was Friday when we had a Bible Study on the book of Judges. Achi Hensie wasn't around so we had to split into groups of four to be headed by an assigned facilitator. The topic was a continuation of the story of Jephthah. He swore to the Lord that if the Lord gives him the victory, he would offer to God the first living thing to greet him upon his arrival. Sadly, his daughter was the first one to greet him. Of course, it was his own folly that lead to that consequence. Jephthah didn't completely trust that God would deliver even after God assured him of victory. In the end, Jephthah did what he had promised to the Lord.
The first time was Friday when we had a Bible Study on the book of Judges. Achi Hensie wasn't around so we had to split into groups of four to be headed by an assigned facilitator. The topic was a continuation of the story of Jephthah. He swore to the Lord that if the Lord gives him the victory, he would offer to God the first living thing to greet him upon his arrival. Sadly, his daughter was the first one to greet him. Of course, it was his own folly that lead to that consequence. Jephthah didn't completely trust that God would deliver even after God assured him of victory. In the end, Jephthah did what he had promised to the Lord.
* This made me think. Many times we do tend to treat God as a genie. Our wishes may go something like "I would do service if you grant me this..." or "I will tell that person about You, but first You have to..." I am reminded once again that God has His own purposes and plans and he gives us what is best for us in His own perfect will and time. I tend to believe that most of the promises that we make to God are selfish and "gut-feel" promises. Sometimes, out of the blue, we just say it without thinking, without it really coming from the heart.
Another point is that when God does provide or give your request, do we do our part of the promise? We can see daily that God has been and will always be true and faithful to His Word. How about us?
Another question might be "What is the motive for asking such a request?" May we learn to please God in our promises and may God helps us to ask for the right things.
The second reminder was last Sunday in the worship sermon. Ahia Harg was talking about having the successful life using God's standard. He's saying that we should have love that is faithful and faithfulness that has love. An example of love that is true is a family that is eating together (love) vegetables as against a person eating fattended calf by himself . An example of faithfulness that has love is a couple who dearly love each other (who truly treasure each other's wedding vows) as against a couple who do not even sleep on the same bed or do not talk with each other.
* This made me think of my future wedding vows. Maybe God doesn't want me to have "someone special" yet is because I am not ready yet to a commitment. According to the discipleship material, when God doesn't give you your request, it may be that He wants you to learn faith and perseverance. That's why I'll wait, I'll wait... and I need to learn faithful love and loving truth.
The last reminder was unexpected actually and a little related to Ahia Harg's sermon. My mom was watching a Koreanovela entitled "To Marry a Millionaire". I just happen to catch up the last few episodes, but something between the heroine and the hero struck me. I think because it was chezed kind of love! In the end, the guy said to the girl that he'll surely keep his promise to wait for her and that everday will be better. The girl said to the guy that he'll never be able to keep that promise because today (being with the guy) is best! (of course, they got back together after the hardships that tried to separate them.)
* It is romantic and somehow realistic. Oftentimes, we are afraid to tell someone we love of our problems and state because we think that we will encumber them or that we will shame them. But as the series pointed out, if we truly love that person, we are willing to share the pain and bear together the burden. I guess this is the kind of commitment that is at par to the chezed kind of love and faithfulness!
Till next time! Ü
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Singing in the Storm
Have you ever been so scared and frightened in your life? Have you been in a situation where you felt so alone and so helpless? Have you felt your heart skip a beat or two because of being trapped? Well last night, I somehow experienced all of these...
Yesterday was a hard day for me. I somehow experienced someone say to my baby that he's ugly. Haha. You probably might wonder at this illustration if you hadn't heard Ahia Harg's sermon on positive criticism. Well, I have a project that I really worked on until the end or its final stage only to find out that my boss thinks its too complicated. He had already approved of it during its initial stages so it was hard for me to somehow accept his explanations (which makes sense by the way). So I had no complaints and agreed to adjust and make ammendments. But somehow my actions and my heart are not in sync.
I went home late yesterday around 7 pm. I knew it was raining then, but as I stepped in front of the main gate, I knew that getting home was going to be harder. As I was driving, I said to myself, "This is the first time I've experienced rain so fine that I couldn't see much where I was going." I really depended on the tail lights and blinkers of the other cars.
Suddenly, I heard a familiar sound from the brakes. Uh-Oh. I knew I should have stayed away from flooded areas. "I would have if only I could see where I was going" I thought. But still I pressed on and went home the way I used to know... only to find out that the road gets flooded during heavy rains. Traffic was really building up because small cars couldn't pass through the flooded areas. But still I continued until such a time that I was stuck in the traffic itself.
While being stranded in the traffic, I could hear the rain splashing on the wind shield. I could see the lightning as if it were reaching to me. I could hear the thunder roaring. I could feel the gushing waters beneath my car. I could see and hear it all and yet I was unable to do anything. I was really stuck with another car in front and the waters at my back. I had to make a choice - go to another road which I am not familiar or stay stucked in there. I prayed to God to protect and guide me in this situation and to also be with my loved ones and friends.
I backed up against the current to a new road that is not that flooded and followed a car which did the same. I followed the car while trying to balance speeding and braking. Then I found myself singing to songs like "I Know Who Holds the Future","My God Is So Big","Cares Chorus" and many others (that I couldn't remember now). I was singing until I found a familiar billboard that signalled me I was close a familair road - the way to home. I was so overjoyed that I practically was singing and thanking Him until I was home.
I don't know what you are going through today, but may this encourage you to let God control your lives. As Jesus has calmed the storms during His time, so can He calm the storm in this age and the ages to come. This is a lesson that I've learned while in the translation class (Eccl. 9:1,7-10) Accept the realities of life with a happy heart because all is in the plan/hands of God, be able to share it with someone you love and continue to fully live and mightily do the work which God has allowed you to do. Glory to God!
Yesterday was a hard day for me. I somehow experienced someone say to my baby that he's ugly. Haha. You probably might wonder at this illustration if you hadn't heard Ahia Harg's sermon on positive criticism. Well, I have a project that I really worked on until the end or its final stage only to find out that my boss thinks its too complicated. He had already approved of it during its initial stages so it was hard for me to somehow accept his explanations (which makes sense by the way). So I had no complaints and agreed to adjust and make ammendments. But somehow my actions and my heart are not in sync.
I went home late yesterday around 7 pm. I knew it was raining then, but as I stepped in front of the main gate, I knew that getting home was going to be harder. As I was driving, I said to myself, "This is the first time I've experienced rain so fine that I couldn't see much where I was going." I really depended on the tail lights and blinkers of the other cars.
Suddenly, I heard a familiar sound from the brakes. Uh-Oh. I knew I should have stayed away from flooded areas. "I would have if only I could see where I was going" I thought. But still I pressed on and went home the way I used to know... only to find out that the road gets flooded during heavy rains. Traffic was really building up because small cars couldn't pass through the flooded areas. But still I continued until such a time that I was stuck in the traffic itself.
While being stranded in the traffic, I could hear the rain splashing on the wind shield. I could see the lightning as if it were reaching to me. I could hear the thunder roaring. I could feel the gushing waters beneath my car. I could see and hear it all and yet I was unable to do anything. I was really stuck with another car in front and the waters at my back. I had to make a choice - go to another road which I am not familiar or stay stucked in there. I prayed to God to protect and guide me in this situation and to also be with my loved ones and friends.
I backed up against the current to a new road that is not that flooded and followed a car which did the same. I followed the car while trying to balance speeding and braking. Then I found myself singing to songs like "I Know Who Holds the Future","My God Is So Big","Cares Chorus" and many others (that I couldn't remember now). I was singing until I found a familiar billboard that signalled me I was close a familair road - the way to home. I was so overjoyed that I practically was singing and thanking Him until I was home.
I don't know what you are going through today, but may this encourage you to let God control your lives. As Jesus has calmed the storms during His time, so can He calm the storm in this age and the ages to come. This is a lesson that I've learned while in the translation class (Eccl. 9:1,7-10) Accept the realities of life with a happy heart because all is in the plan/hands of God, be able to share it with someone you love and continue to fully live and mightily do the work which God has allowed you to do. Glory to God!
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Elections and the Fear of God
Have you ever thought how life would be easier if everybody would just get along, if everybody would love and care for each other, if everyone would just be nice to one another without thinking that he or she might get something out of being nice... what a world that would have been!
And yet God chose to place us in this world where, most of the time, people do things out of selfishness, pride, jealousy, foolishness and many other reasons. The sad thing is, most of the time, people are not unaware of what they are doing. It is the same as a person who puts shades while doing these horrible things. They know it is bad enough to even think about these things (they see through their shades), but they still do it (pretending not to see it). The recent Philippine election was a testament to this fact. We see people deliberately killing each other for the position - no wonder they say that in the Philippines, "People would even kill just to serve." Actually, we should add a follow-up question "They serve who?"
The Bible accounts in Judges the many errors of God's people so that we could learn from their mistakes. I agree with what my Bible Study leader has been repeatedly saying in the Bible Study..."Not only did the Israelites went through the cycle of forsaking God, but they (this includes the judges) also became worst and worst than before." The Israleites knew what they were doing was wrong and yet they chose to do it out of convenience, practicality, and fear of others.
The manner of forsaking God maybe different from that time to this generation, but one way or another if we are not careful, we will relive the mistakes of the Israelites because the root is basically the same - convenience, practicality and fear of others. I must confess that I find myself struggling in this battle arena. How many times have I said I'm sorry because I hurt others? How many times have I made wrong decisions in my life? How many times have I tried to people please than to please my God?
I could still remember a story from when I was a youth. What if God was a guest in your house, would you let him in your living room only where you show off the finest materials, furniture, and household wares? What if He asks you to let Him enter your bedroom or your closet? Would you bring Him to where you go, where you work, where you hang out? Will you let Him in your secrets? I'm sure that if it is someone special, you wouldn't dare to show off your bad traits or the bad side of you! Why? Because there is an element of embarrassment or a hint of fear.
When we come before our God, let us strip ourselves of all these things. He is a holy God, therefore we should also strive to be holy. It is a fact that we cannot be perfect in this world, but God is glorified when we strive to be like Him in this ungodly world. Let us not wait until that time when we don't even feel the shame of doing evil things or when we blatantly (in the open without the shades) do these things. I pray that we will all be men and women who fear God more than we fear circumstances and people.
And yet God chose to place us in this world where, most of the time, people do things out of selfishness, pride, jealousy, foolishness and many other reasons. The sad thing is, most of the time, people are not unaware of what they are doing. It is the same as a person who puts shades while doing these horrible things. They know it is bad enough to even think about these things (they see through their shades), but they still do it (pretending not to see it). The recent Philippine election was a testament to this fact. We see people deliberately killing each other for the position - no wonder they say that in the Philippines, "People would even kill just to serve." Actually, we should add a follow-up question "They serve who?"
The Bible accounts in Judges the many errors of God's people so that we could learn from their mistakes. I agree with what my Bible Study leader has been repeatedly saying in the Bible Study..."Not only did the Israelites went through the cycle of forsaking God, but they (this includes the judges) also became worst and worst than before." The Israleites knew what they were doing was wrong and yet they chose to do it out of convenience, practicality, and fear of others.
The manner of forsaking God maybe different from that time to this generation, but one way or another if we are not careful, we will relive the mistakes of the Israelites because the root is basically the same - convenience, practicality and fear of others. I must confess that I find myself struggling in this battle arena. How many times have I said I'm sorry because I hurt others? How many times have I made wrong decisions in my life? How many times have I tried to people please than to please my God?
I could still remember a story from when I was a youth. What if God was a guest in your house, would you let him in your living room only where you show off the finest materials, furniture, and household wares? What if He asks you to let Him enter your bedroom or your closet? Would you bring Him to where you go, where you work, where you hang out? Will you let Him in your secrets? I'm sure that if it is someone special, you wouldn't dare to show off your bad traits or the bad side of you! Why? Because there is an element of embarrassment or a hint of fear.
When we come before our God, let us strip ourselves of all these things. He is a holy God, therefore we should also strive to be holy. It is a fact that we cannot be perfect in this world, but God is glorified when we strive to be like Him in this ungodly world. Let us not wait until that time when we don't even feel the shame of doing evil things or when we blatantly (in the open without the shades) do these things. I pray that we will all be men and women who fear God more than we fear circumstances and people.
Monday, May 14, 2007
A Fishy Week!
It all strated last Friday when our YoungPro fellowship decided to have book reading on the minor prophet Jonah. Well, at first I thought to myself, "What Jonah again? I know that story! Can we have something else." But as you will see later, I'm glad I went last Friday.
I observed we did not start with the usual singspiration. We started with the announcements and Bible verse memorization. (This time it's tough, memorizing James 1:21 in three languages) After the LCD was set-up, then we had the singspiration. ("For the Sake of the Call" and a new song song... forgot the title) I knew then that this fellowship would not be just an ordinary Jonah story. I was right! We delved into the book of Jonah through some games - not only one but three!
The first game was family feud (a group game). We were divided into three teams. We used the piano as buzzer (low, medium, and high notes... hehe) The game basically has the same mechanics as the original except the sole basis of answers is found in the book. "Woah... and to think this was easy... i was very wrong!" This game showed me how much details I've left out when reading this book and how much time I've spent on being contented with what I know and not seeking the deeper meaning of the details.
The second game was weakest link. Two representatives from each team is needed to play the game. Each player needs to answer a series of questions that will add up to the "jackpot". At the end of each round, the players vote off who they like to leave. Sadly, I was one of those who left first not because my answers were wrong, but because I'm a threat. hehe. But as I was sat out and listened to the other questions... I began to see a newer side of Jonah that I haven't seen before.
The last game was actually challenging... summarizing the book of Jonah and giving a moral lesson in as few words as possible. My group came up with a short poem. It was kind of a children's poem so we decided to act out some of the words.
God said "Go!"; Jonah said "No!",
boarded boat to Tarshish, swallowed by a fish,
prayed for forgiveness, was spat ashore,
He preached in Nineveh so judgment no more!
'Cause people repented; Jonah resented...
Poeple hide, God will find... He forgives!
We won that evening... Actually all of us, because we learned so much!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yesterday, we went to the Mall of Asia. Guess who we hooked up with unexpectedly... Ahia Harg and his family, my aunt and her children and grandchildren (father's side), my mom and dad's friend (who also had a child taking up music). Well, that's rather funny 'cause it is as if we were thinking of the same thing and to meet up in such a huge place - truly amazing!
Then we ate dinner... guess where? Fish and Co. It was really sumptuous. It was the first time my family and I ate there so we didn't know the taste. Luckily we liked it especially their fish and chips. hehe (getting hungry)
Lastly, guess what was playing on Fish and Co.'s screen that night! Finding Nemo. I really liked this animation picture because of the rich characters and the adventure. Of course, it wouldn't be complete without my favorite charcter from that movie - Dorie!
I guess in all these, what I'm trying to say is that God's ways are higher than ours. Even though things or events might seem fishy to us, to Him all is planned and worked out! He has purposes why things happen. The only thing we can do is to live each day for Him and be thankful for the things/people/events that might come along our way!
Imitating Dorie's whale talk.... "TtHaNnKk YyOoUu FfOoRr RrEeAaDdIiNnGg!"
I observed we did not start with the usual singspiration. We started with the announcements and Bible verse memorization. (This time it's tough, memorizing James 1:21 in three languages) After the LCD was set-up, then we had the singspiration. ("For the Sake of the Call" and a new song song... forgot the title) I knew then that this fellowship would not be just an ordinary Jonah story. I was right! We delved into the book of Jonah through some games - not only one but three!
The first game was family feud (a group game). We were divided into three teams. We used the piano as buzzer (low, medium, and high notes... hehe) The game basically has the same mechanics as the original except the sole basis of answers is found in the book. "Woah... and to think this was easy... i was very wrong!" This game showed me how much details I've left out when reading this book and how much time I've spent on being contented with what I know and not seeking the deeper meaning of the details.
The second game was weakest link. Two representatives from each team is needed to play the game. Each player needs to answer a series of questions that will add up to the "jackpot". At the end of each round, the players vote off who they like to leave. Sadly, I was one of those who left first not because my answers were wrong, but because I'm a threat. hehe. But as I was sat out and listened to the other questions... I began to see a newer side of Jonah that I haven't seen before.
The last game was actually challenging... summarizing the book of Jonah and giving a moral lesson in as few words as possible. My group came up with a short poem. It was kind of a children's poem so we decided to act out some of the words.
God said "Go!"; Jonah said "No!",
boarded boat to Tarshish, swallowed by a fish,
prayed for forgiveness, was spat ashore,
He preached in Nineveh so judgment no more!
'Cause people repented; Jonah resented...
Poeple hide, God will find... He forgives!
We won that evening... Actually all of us, because we learned so much!
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yesterday, we went to the Mall of Asia. Guess who we hooked up with unexpectedly... Ahia Harg and his family, my aunt and her children and grandchildren (father's side), my mom and dad's friend (who also had a child taking up music). Well, that's rather funny 'cause it is as if we were thinking of the same thing and to meet up in such a huge place - truly amazing!
Then we ate dinner... guess where? Fish and Co. It was really sumptuous. It was the first time my family and I ate there so we didn't know the taste. Luckily we liked it especially their fish and chips. hehe (getting hungry)
Lastly, guess what was playing on Fish and Co.'s screen that night! Finding Nemo. I really liked this animation picture because of the rich characters and the adventure. Of course, it wouldn't be complete without my favorite charcter from that movie - Dorie!
I guess in all these, what I'm trying to say is that God's ways are higher than ours. Even though things or events might seem fishy to us, to Him all is planned and worked out! He has purposes why things happen. The only thing we can do is to live each day for Him and be thankful for the things/people/events that might come along our way!
Imitating Dorie's whale talk.... "TtHaNnKk YyOoUu FfOoRr RrEeAaDdIiNnGg!"
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Home Alone
My thoughts:
Remember the movie "Home Alone"? I believe that it had many other sequels because it was, after all, a funny film for the family. It mostly features a kid who was left alone in their house (the first movie; I think the other movies was somewhere else) who basically felt that he had the freedom to do whatever it is he wanted to do because no one is there to force him to do things. His mom won't be there to nag him. His brother is not there to bully him. His sister isn't there to disturb him. Practically everyone is not there to have anything to do with him.
Well, just yesterday, I felt like I was that kid in the movie. My youngest sibling was out to camp. My parents and other siblings went to sleep in a hotel for free (why didn't they tell me...) Well, I thought to myself, at least i got the whole house to myself. No one will disturb me now when i do my business. Hours of watching TV, playing some games, reading books... (you get the point) This was supposed to be fun. No one's bothering me but why do I feel sad and lonely (like I'm missing a part of me?) Suddenly, I remembered what my dad usually say that once his children get married, he'll miss the noise in the house. Probably he's right because the kid in the movie, he felt very alone and sad towards the latter part of the movie (and it could be dangerous too).
I also was reminded about our topic in the "Disciple Another to Love Jesus". Freedom as it states is not the ability to do what you want to do, but the ability to do what you ought to do. This got me to think because I think it is somewhat relative and may be open to misunderstanding. If I am a person who comes from a worldly perspective, probably it would be different from a person who comes from God's perspective. In a very competitive world, Christians face a very hard reality of being a minority. More often than not, our co-workers, colleagues, even bosses might not be Christians who understand your beliefs and stands. And sometimes its just hard to do what you ought to do and just follow (forced to follow) what everyone wants to do.
I wonder how Christian companies "do what they ought to do?" How do they keep themselves above all others who are using a wordly standard to measure their success and reputation? Hopefully a book that I bought will give light to these questions.
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My prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, what do you want me to learn from this experience? I pray that I may find You in my life and the lives I touch. help me to use my freedom to do the things that I ought to do for your global glory. I am that you forgive my selfish nature and encourage through your words in the Bible. Always remind me that freedom is not an excuse to do want I want or even evil deeds, but it is a tool to glorify You and edify my brothers and the people that i interact with. All these things i ask in Jesus' name, Amen.
Remember the movie "Home Alone"? I believe that it had many other sequels because it was, after all, a funny film for the family. It mostly features a kid who was left alone in their house (the first movie; I think the other movies was somewhere else) who basically felt that he had the freedom to do whatever it is he wanted to do because no one is there to force him to do things. His mom won't be there to nag him. His brother is not there to bully him. His sister isn't there to disturb him. Practically everyone is not there to have anything to do with him.
Well, just yesterday, I felt like I was that kid in the movie. My youngest sibling was out to camp. My parents and other siblings went to sleep in a hotel for free (why didn't they tell me...) Well, I thought to myself, at least i got the whole house to myself. No one will disturb me now when i do my business. Hours of watching TV, playing some games, reading books... (you get the point) This was supposed to be fun. No one's bothering me but why do I feel sad and lonely (like I'm missing a part of me?) Suddenly, I remembered what my dad usually say that once his children get married, he'll miss the noise in the house. Probably he's right because the kid in the movie, he felt very alone and sad towards the latter part of the movie (and it could be dangerous too).
I also was reminded about our topic in the "Disciple Another to Love Jesus". Freedom as it states is not the ability to do what you want to do, but the ability to do what you ought to do. This got me to think because I think it is somewhat relative and may be open to misunderstanding. If I am a person who comes from a worldly perspective, probably it would be different from a person who comes from God's perspective. In a very competitive world, Christians face a very hard reality of being a minority. More often than not, our co-workers, colleagues, even bosses might not be Christians who understand your beliefs and stands. And sometimes its just hard to do what you ought to do and just follow (forced to follow) what everyone wants to do.
I wonder how Christian companies "do what they ought to do?" How do they keep themselves above all others who are using a wordly standard to measure their success and reputation? Hopefully a book that I bought will give light to these questions.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
My prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, what do you want me to learn from this experience? I pray that I may find You in my life and the lives I touch. help me to use my freedom to do the things that I ought to do for your global glory. I am that you forgive my selfish nature and encourage through your words in the Bible. Always remind me that freedom is not an excuse to do want I want or even evil deeds, but it is a tool to glorify You and edify my brothers and the people that i interact with. All these things i ask in Jesus' name, Amen.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Worship 101
"It's a hard thing to express, but for me, I sense God's pleasure when I sing to Him. And nothing pleases me more than when other people tell me that they also sense His pleasure when they listen to me sing."
- Abridged from My Second Chapter: The Matthew Ward Story. Copyright © 2006 by Matthew Ward.
- Taken from http://www.christianitytoday.com/music/commentaries/itunes.html
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My thoughts:
I had my ups and downs in leading the praise and worship - from being commented and praised to having a bad rehearsal (which led to arguments within the group). After evaluating what happened and where all these come from, we talked about it and shared what we thought, shared what we felt. I can sense that we tried not to only compromise onto a solution, but to really cooperate and refocus on why in the first place we are doing this kind of service.
Yes, we could have blamed each other and pretended that nothing was ever wrong when we get on to lead the praise and worship. Yes, we could faked it all along and just do it technically because either way the congregation wouldn't know what lies behind each practice, each team member, each song. But in the end, the congregation is not the audience. We had to humble ourselves and resolve this because I'm losing the first and foremost reason why I joined the praise and worship group, I'm losing the reason why I sing - to please God, not men. Men may or may not see our intentions; they might or might not get a sense that we don't work together as a group, but the Lord sees all and everything.
Therefore, I have decided to do these goals as I continue to lead them to worship:
1) Preparation - Who is my audience? (not myself, not the congregation)
2) Evaluation - Am I alright with my God? (prayed, read the Bible, etc.)
3) Cooperation - Am I doing this the right way? (work together)
4) Participation - Am I really "leading" them to praise/glorify God? (hopefully they will also offer to God a pleasing aroma of worship from the heart!)
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My prayer:
I pray for myself as I am leading the worship service. Yes, it is true that leaders are attacked the most since when they make a mistake, many others will follow him fall. I pray that I will always be alert and stand firm in the Word. Next, I pray for my team members. I know that we may have our differences, but we can still lay aside these and cooperate to come before God and give Him the best praise and worship ever! I pray for the congregation that may be able to worship with us with all their hearts and minds, in spirit and in truth. Thank You for your infinite mercy and grace and for giving us the richness of music. May all glory be to You and You alone always. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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