p a s t o ♛ e j

married with the ministry

2011-12-23T22:27:00.000+08:00

Christmas celebration with the couple' cell group... We brought in food, potluck style. Our spiritual food exceeded all that was prepared for us that night. Thank You, Lord.

We had the communion. "Remember Me," Jesus said. After all, this season (and is every) is about Him.

The night ended with much more sharing, laughter and gift giving. Our marriage is truly owned by God and is designed to minister to others who are also starting their Love-Satellite-d relationships! We couldn't ask for more but God's grace to keep us through!

Soli Deo Gloria! =)

BCC going large!

2011-09-12T22:52:00.000+08:00

Papaps and Mama(ms) just left for Indonesia (via Singapore) today. They will be out for a twelve-day ministry. Here's a video (collage of photos) I did for them, as requested. Animoto helped me a lot to finish this as I embarked on a purposeful all-nighter.

partay, partay, eh?!

2011-08-27T23:25:00.003+08:00

So I did go to a friends' sister's debut celebration (yes, i'm not that friends with Van yet, but soon we'll be). I wasn't able to attend Jayme's 18th birthday way back in college. At least, I get to attend Vanessa's tonight while Jayme and I need a catching up to do. It was a filipiniana-themed event and that's cool since wearing the national costume became quite outdated for young people.

It was a long night. But it's good to be in that room filled with people. Yes, I need to be a people-person more than what I am now.

Not for me tonight.

That's my inaanak, Zabee, who has become an eloquent reader at five. Behind her is my stage-mother friend, Jie (as she is fondly called now). #proudofbothgirls

Typical of kids at parties.

Boyfriend is singing. One thing I'm sure right now is that I'm not in Reload.

His second song. Hataw! #younglove

Her second dress. She's the debutante. Yeah, i also mistook this for a wrong photo.

Bests in gown. Filipinas rock!

And here's a pic of us tonight. A toast to friendship! God's gift is sweet.

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so this is love

2011-08-27T14:33:00.001+08:00

Barely two months to go, we have our hearts ever set to worship God in this moment of preparation.

In case you have time to read, I'm trying to pen tidbits of my heart here.

God knows what He is doing!

Soli Deo Gloria!

resting finds a meaning

2011-08-19T23:01:00.003+08:00

Along with twenty other Eagerlz who came to pray for Dabawenyos on the streets of our lovely city--we had a blast of the long afternoon. Nothing's better than spending time w God like this--being with the girls, enjoying the festivities offered and praying for people.

We actually started off yesterday at USEP & Holy Cross for Campus Invasion; today at the heart of the city for Bless Davao Movement; and tomorrow, at the neighborhood for Anagkazo.

Church is indeed fun. Resting is worth its name after having immersed in all these.

Let God remain to be the very strength of our hearts!

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Stepping Into Super-Discipleship

2011-08-07T20:27:00.002+08:00

Since we stepped into ministry, we have encountered countless surprises. This weekend's encounter is one.

Untamed Waves. During the baptism, we were slapped by the biggest waves than what we can't almost handle. Seventeen eagerlz said yes to the prophetic gesture of being released into ministry. And it was a perfect time to illustrate a Biblical truth. We wanted to experience Biblical moments... Ha!

Unknowingly Intruded. The least we expected was theft. Cellphones, wallets, napsacks. We were imparting, receiving, renouncing, celebrating--and the devil got his way. Whew! Blessings and freedom overtook anyway. Soli Deo gloria!

Unrelenting Perseverance. I missed Kabacan today for health concerns that should have kept me rested. Nonetheless, God has orchestrated ways of letting me minister. Preaching at Matina was a perfect testimony of God's strength that allow me to:
•receive His calling
•carry His presence
•release His power

Strength... It is a necessity to unpredictable ministry--that His Name be completely glorified!

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of the harvest

2011-08-02T01:31:00.002+08:00

For a month now, we have moved from the rare monthly meetings to the more frequent twice a month (primary close cell and) youth network leaders' meeting.

May we do what we have always dreamt and held only in prayer; May we see what others have only hoped for; May we ceaselessly count disciples beyond what our fingers can move; May we see upclose what we've seen at a distant last month!

This is a season of the harvest; of the conquest; of dominion!

#TeamAtBlugre

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spiritual link wheel

2011-07-28T11:18:00.004+08:00

Just a short note to paste a moment:

I was sleepless for a cause. And mornings never fail to usher in delights to a heart prone of melting. I feel healthier. Who wouldn't be? I feel like I have created a mark on a 5-yo pastor's kid who's living across miles from a different country. Ministry is for all ages. So dear self, accelerate sa hataw mode!

Trivia: Both Blessy's have the same birthday--a day prior to mine.

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Royal Heartness

2011-07-25T13:35:00.001+08:00

I woke up feeling all-too-princess-y today. (Mind you, green tea is effective!) As Monday's keep all of us busy, mine usually starts at 3AM to beat the 8AM deadline of my work week. But this morning, I opted to sleep well and sleep deep. Good for me, I surmise. I need all the rest in the world while half of me thinks that I need all the work that I can be opportuned with. Three-months and a half to go.

Smitten.

Here is another week that gets me caught up in all things and icons that are kingdom-ly. First off, Kabacan ministry will commence on Saturday--and I will be there (woohoo!); Merje, Mayee, Ilyn and I are conceiving mode of Samal ministry; while Langga is getting Mati ready for invasion; I have three klosels (mine, Langga's, and Blessy's) to hold this week; and I should be finalizing the vintage chair that I wanted to get. I have never felt so near to doing the kingdom-agenda and so close to being the Church--the Bride of Christ--until I am here--getting ready to be wed.

(I need to start a different blog).

shopping anywhere-everywhere: it's amazing what girls can do!

2011-05-21T07:56:00.003+08:00

Working at home has changed much of my laagan nature. Practically, I have become notorious for online shopping of almost all sorts--cell phone, shirts, Havaianas slippers, watch, and even a vintage telephone from the US. To note, I could attest that the adventurous spirit is still much alive in me. I find it fun browsing catalogs, reading reviews, sending PM's, bidding and winning--to say the least. And the willies that a pending order (in its flight to her new owner) utterly takes the life of me to highest spirits.

I am fun. I proclaim.

Today, guess what. I am in another spontaneous shopping of black-white-gray corporate tops--the only way I know how to dress my petite self. I got across this album of tailored blouses--they are so laid back, they are so me! I can't help but blush in delight--they are just around 500-700 Php at their elegance. (So there, I dropped the prices! Haha, I am really conscious on the way I spend. Proverbs say we will be accounted for the way we spend our money).

So, why am I spilling all my randomness early this morning? Well, I can't pick my top likes. I might as well click my time away until I can decide. *toodles*

Justin Bieber Generation?

2011-05-05T08:05:00.002+08:00

While preparing for the program for next week's Youth Reload, I came across this Justin Bieber video. He was younger then; obviously having passion for the Lord. And I thought, What if, in his concerts, he suddenly leads people to worship and calls for an altar?

Sure, it's gonna be a great harvest event.

I am definitely past the JBieber generation, but seeing them, there's so many young souls to win for the Lord. And, one sweet, big hope I see. We just don't know what God is preparing JB for. In the limelight, for such a time as this--only God knows. (Okay, I'm about to request prayer for him... wahehe! Well, if you won't mind, you can! =D)

Barely half of the day, my mind's so up and running--but only one thing in mind--to express devotion to the greatest love of my life: Jesus.

preparing for overflow

2011-04-16T08:09:00.004+08:00

I tell you what. I've been living a cashless life. I mean, literally not having money. I guess that's how a traditional Christian defines "living by faith." I'm adept with allowing God to move in my life beyond the indispensable concerns of finance. And I could testify. I've traveled to cities and nations, sometimes, without a single penny. Yes, my God can [provide].

When we were younger, me and my sibs were trained to save. We had our piggy banks... and popular to Filipinos, bamboo banks. And then, we each opened our kiddie bank account at whatever-happened-to Banco Filipino. I would excitedly go to neighboring depository alone--as a grader. (With how our money built up then? Papaps would sometimes buy our exam results, sell peanut butter or save up from our allowance--with whatever we keep, he would double it, provided we put it in. Sure, we were motivated.)

Over the years, the faith was established rather radically. And I guess, seeing myself drop whatever was salted away, yes, even a hefty amount of 30K (which miraculously came from somewhere, someone) in the offering box. Yes, that vintage-y box became my financial account, believing that a celestial bank pays much more. I was never taught that, but I've seen it open a wellspring of blessing for our family as this lifestyle was modeled to us by my parents.

Now understanding that God does not will me to live only a life of surviving weekends (of course, I don't mean just that, hehe!) but an abundant daily life. Proverbs 3:9-10 is too much of a promise that I sadly didn't really acted upon. He was ever ready to bless me ever since I obeyed but I don't have the vats prepared for the turnaround's. Last yearend, I realized I miss banking. So I candidly scribbled on my Book of Dreams that this year, I'd finally open another my third one. With some quirks in the way, I ended up with two--in just a month. And God has poured out soooooo much [initial] blessing yet! Indeed, my God can [promote]. I'm still living life by faith only in another dimension for I am convinced, He can [prosper] His people!

snap a yuppie

2011-04-14T18:09:00.000+08:00

Finally, I get to post the shots at last Yuppies' Night, 2nd of April, at McDonald's-JP Laurel. I only had twelve trying-to-be-smart snaps of the activity. We were asked to go paparazzi-mode and get shots of each other on the condition that no face is taken. Steal photos on body parts or accessories only. I tried to get the highlight of select yuppies for me to remember them easily when asked to identify the owner. Barely two weeks now, I could no longer recall who these celebrities were. That was a chaotic night!

If that's you somewhere, just lemme know. I' have a secret to tell you. Yeah, exclusive for these photo owners. By the way, Lalai won the activity by fourteen whopping identified shots in a minute! My shutterbug of a sister!

the lurking disease of the uneven

2011-04-14T15:58:00.002+08:00

Last night is another fizzle time with my girls in church. We had to plan the twelfth day of our conquest season. After the hodgepodge of thoughts (yeah, we're like that--much of the planning time is jesting over the juicy parts of our lives), Langga and I were into another wave of spontaneity. We gushed over things big and small, but the bulk of yesternight's tattle was sharing about how our settled ministry-focused lives were again poked.

Always the articulate speaker, she sliced recent moments of having an array of job offers enough to address the rants of relatives knowing her to be all out in the ministry. But she was firm enough to say that her heart is decided to only move when she hears from God. I find her truly committed but I admit I also see in her eyes the desire of a genuine nurse eager to be back in action with those in medical uniforms. It must be tough when you know you have the edge in the field but you feel ripped the same when you're not doing what God calls you to do. Well, seeing other young people come to BCC in their hospital uniforms must have triggered the few times she entertains the idea.

In the realm of openness and encouragement, we managed to cross the drama of the night. We knew we just want to be responsible in generating more resource for our dear selves that we would be able to bless others around us. And as of this writing, we just finished our first business meeting with Dion. We were in our imaginary medical scrub top--busily working out to create a balance of things. Really, it is time to take the first step to healing the disease of the uneven.

secretly a star

2011-04-13T16:23:00.001+08:00

Since being in the youth pastoral team in Buhangin Community Center, I have been blessed to eat out a lot more than stress myself with planning. Well, it’s more converse than what I just said, but it feels more of the fun side now than tough. It’s true, building rapport has changed much of our leadership strength. And, tonight, our meeting at Coffee Cat was more of unloading and listening to one another. I had always been friends with Micah since way back when, but now I could really testify more of the evident strength of God in her life. What seem to tear her apart has always been powerless by the sustaining grace God freely affords her. And there was Val, Indai, Ombeng. These guys rock. They are all working people (Now, I am, too! ) yet they lavish so much time for the work of God. I am blessed. We meet the Yuppies (young professionals at church) monthly, but the youth only know so much about the core leaders they look up or pass by–stars in their own right, for the yuppies, a secret team star of five edges.

Kingdom CEOs

2011-04-12T08:13:00.001+08:00

Business meetings are familiar to me. I have more than four in a week. But it was only last March 28 did we decide to go out from the bounds of BCC and book one mini hall to host thirteen of us. We were in our business attires, laptops and reports in Powerpoint. Lots of great things that night. My girls are amazing–very creative, thoughtful, willing and ready to make action.

Should I add more, we were speaking in English the entire night, and photographing each other! It was seriously fun! =D And look at that polaroid photo by instagr.am. Perfectly cool to make us remember the rich night.

train of edibles

2010-07-12T09:55:00.003+08:00

Last week had been edibly tight. I was out and about the city with friends.

Came Monday, guests from Pangasinan arrived at cold 5:00am. Treated them for lunch at Davao's local pride, Penong's. They are known for the unlimited rice offer. Clap your hands twice, and you get another serving!

Tuesday, 4 family-sized pizza from Pizza Hut was a good partner for the SM4 meeting! We were never bored!

Wednesday, lunch at Tita Annie's. Buffet lunch at P99.00. It was my first time there. The place was packed with business men and employees during their lunch break. Hmm, looks like I will be a frquent visitor to Roxas Avenue. Had merienda at McDonald's. We had dinner at Ahfat, the third resto. Aah, our favorite. Everything masarap! Our guests kept thanking us for bringing them there. =). We still wanted something for a chill, we headed to Damosa's Ice Giants. Mango Magnifico! Nyum!

Thursday, dinner date with sibs at Mandarin, SM. I'm amenable that I'm the least into Chinese-food in the fam.

Friday, a date with Langga at Calda. Pizza was a good company for intimate talks!

Saturday, afternoon chill with Salem and Jethro at Jollibee. We had fun analyzing the cars drive-thru-ing! ;) And then another pizza date at Mama Maria's Pizzeria (home of the largest pizza at 63") at J.P. Laurel Avenue. This time with Weng. My second Calzone this week. We still wanted to gab, we crossed the street and stayed at Chicco de Cafe for the wee hours of the night.

I'm glad Davao's got a host of resto's and food lounges. And just like our guests, I'm in love more with Davao. Food is not just the way to a man's heart; it's one to a woman's, too. Trust me! =p

note: I'm gonna behave next week. It's Week of Fire at BCC; that means fasting! ;)

an ode to chic-ness

2010-06-19T13:03:00.003+08:00

spending time with girlfriends, again. woohoo! ah, it has never been sweeter. ;)

i love the kulitans as much as i love the unreserved dispenses of the heart.

and last night, i was just listening to Chem (my disciple of 10yrs now) as she keeps me posted of her recents and nexts. This girl's definitely walking in high heels--confident in the Lord; sure of her calling; daring each step even though they're risky most of the time. Her faith has kept her solid, yes in the Lord.

i am blessed.

(my disciples get me blessed by their lives and choosings a lot of times; I hope they know that.)

far from being able to state fashion well, Chem and the rest of my girls have defined what it is to be spiritually posh, heavenly mod, and godly select.

they...

+genuinely love the Lord.;

+pick themselves up from falling and failing times;

+drive happenings;

+both follow and lead;

+joyfully serve;

+know they have quirks, but found the grace of God;

+listen;

...

ah, the list would be endless as I keep discovering God-things with them. =)

my girls are chic in God's eyes---so [in] in His plan and purpose---an evidence of God's grace. i am always left amazed at how the Lord has worked and how He is still fashioning us into His image. i praise Him, yes, I'll do that and more! ;)

NOTE: INTENTIONAL FAIR LOVE goes to all my girls, my loves, my treasures, my crowns, my princesses; I'm sorry for emphasizing Chemis this time. I guess I'll have more years of my blogging to not ever write about you.
+PHOTOS were used prior to this post; sorry if they're more of me =(.this is my blog, anyway! hehehe! ;)

the state of the [beloved]

2010-04-16T05:14:00.182+08:00

5:22a - 16APRIL2010

To be loved is to be known, to be known is to be loved... okay, it might be the other way around... but just the same---to me, it is to know the self, too.

Nascent things spring as I allow myself to be one step more (and a thousand times a thousand augmented) engaged in the Love of the One that's True. It's not because His Love has become greater, for it cannot be--It has been and will always be too great to comprehend. It's just that--this season--I have been made [more] conscious of a Love existent since time and extant by reason of space.

This Love--abundant, expressive and compelling. Wheeew.

I just came from one of the replete whiles with the Lord at the mezzanine. I go there despite its current mess of scaffolds, because I love the cold waft of air deprived of us at our hidden home; the view of the sky and the perfect solitaire it ushers. And today, minus them, one thing that arrested me early--is the audible voice amplifying the kindest of kindest invitations to be [loved]--the assurance of this altruistic devotion to one imperfect--me.

Blank.

(Okay, that's just my way of letting things sink and and get in.)

Finally, I got it. Yes, I am loved. I have heard it, read it, seen it. But now--I begin to understand [some more] of it. (hehe)

Come closer. Stay with me. Speak for I will listen. The voice is clearest than it ever was.

Waaaah... (simple words... but it exposed the me that I have been and is bidding me to the new me that I can be...) I grappled for some back-words--yet I only managed a sigh. Tears flowed... and I started to speak to the Voice that also hears.

And then I found myself un-shy-ingly (=p) rehearsing some dreams... boldly story-ing some thoughts... spontaneously shared my currencies (as if He's not updated)... Asked old questions... Formulated new ones... Haha, I was so honest... For I certainly know there are no judgments; no restrictions; no doubt in the One who loves hearing and watching me [be].

Jesus' Love---God's love---He is Love. What a mystery! It brings in beautiful people and circumstances. It places me in the [where] I rightfully belong--the state of the [beloved] I have skipped or feasibly thought but have never entered in.

In-Love... I guess it means---"to be inside this greatly perfect and perfecting kind of Love in Christ Jesus." Yes, in-this-Love. It is a state that makes one so much aware about the Lover and the Moment, otherwise, it's all in vain.

(woohoo-ing)

This Love---inexhaustible and evident; strong and stubborn; long and high; deep and wide.

Who can escape?

-----

Love of my life, Look deep in my eyes
There you will find what you need
Give me your life, Lust and the lies
The past you're afraid I might see
You've been running away from me

You're my beloved, Lover I'm yours
Death shall not part us, It's you I died for
For better or worse, Forever we'll be
Our Lo...ve it unites us
It binds you to me, It's a mystery

Love of my life, Look deep in my eyes
There you will find what you need
I'm the giver of life, I'll clothe you in white
My immaculate bride you will be
Oh come running home to me yeah now

You're my beloved, Lover I'm yours
and Death shall not part us, It's you I died for
For better or worse, Forever we'll be
Our Love it unites us, and it binds you to me yea now now

Well you've been a mistress, my wife
Chasing lovers it won't satisfy
Won't you let me make you my bride
You will drink of my lips
And**taste new life

all my bags are packed

2010-01-06T13:56:00.007+08:00

Twenty-ten's door turned out to be one of the kicking ones. The year of explosion, I personally baby-named it as [year of display]. What could there be? what could be beyond what i believe, perceive, and conceive [now]. Kaka-excite naman toh... pwede, paki-pigilan ako? Otherwise, I might drag you into my dreams! Wahaha.

Barely the first week of the year. I already got my share of surprises. Some are yet plans. Some are shared blessings. With the former, whether they happen or not, it already puffed up my heart--note, heart po, thank God, not the head. Much overwhelmed that I was taught that God can really orchestrate things atop my sparse desires.

Posterity. People. Places. (+Prudence.)

The sound of them makes me gigil (not giggle) already! I'm going to experience them!

Unworthy--and that's apparent. And so I am filled with thanksgiving [every]day--telling my God--You are awesome! You are Gracious! Until one thought caved in the middle of my failing gratitude--Rej, if I am not showing you these pretty stuff and letting you experience these seemingly-good-things-to-you, would I be less awesome, and less gracious, or less-God to you?

There.

Pale at the thought of my narrow perception, I was plunged into a deeper experience of my God.I know He wants me for Himself, but He's not keeping me in-doors. He wants me [out], too! For there's too much to behold that not even the biggest range can room it. Glimpses of His sovereignty are already vast lands of glory and grace for me to explore.

I'm stepping [out] of my weak senses, [in] better tastes of the play of His hands and [through] which my lifetime can contain.

Fueled and with a better perspective, I'm ready to go.

Jacob and Wait-chel

2009-12-31T19:52:00.149+08:00

(Is this part II? No, not just yet)

THE SENSES

He sees. She believes. [Blink]. The perfect picture of fear--white and without print.

He braved the words that faith alone can speak. She uttered nothing, not because there was no faith; for to conceal the words is to reveal the heart. [Hum].

He is rain. She is sunshine.[Sniff]. The ground smells the same, even if it shouldn't.

He is sugar. She is spice. [Gulp]. Their presence brought in a stirring.

He paced. She stepped-in. [Poke]. Is their a journey to start?

THE SEASONS

He dies. She mortifies.

He dares the cold. She marks the time.

He works. She waits.

He sows. She seeds. Both reaps.

THE STEERING
The wind blows. The wings flow.
The heart minds. The head feels.
He is Jacob. She is Rachel.
Either we change the story
Or we change the characters.

=D

Abbie's Cry

2009-11-19T18:42:00.017+08:00

[DIDN'T NOTICE THE BIRD UNTIL THE POSTING OF THIS PHOTO... I SOMETIMES GET BIRDS IN PHOTOS, HAHA, AFFINITY FOR FEATHERED FRIENDS]

We hit the Bukidnon Road this week and heated Abbie's wheels (mom's birthday car--a white Avanza), her first long trip loaded us:

Some deets:
Dvo-CDO (6hrs): We spoke at the Summit that Ptr Nove setup for his network, Monday night-Tue morning; CDO-Malaybalay (2hrs), another speaking engagement with the Four Square Leaders (one of the features I love about the G12 Vision, it unites the Body of Christ! *wink*), their 50th Year, Tue night-Wed afternoon; Malaybalay-Valencia City (45min)---@LPZ, Cell Leaders' Summit. Thu AM: headed home. wheeeew!

*Bukidnon so cold, food so healthy! Wee! Val-Dvo (4hrs)---BCC finally!

It was quite a trip. Papaps, on the wheels the whole time. Mamams, beaning (to keep our driver and boss--haha--awake). I managed to let the hours pass with a lot of singing-along and talking to God (sweetest part!)--not much sleep this time. I was visited with a lot of thoughts--God's faithfulness to our family, the ministry, my parents, me, the relatives, news, years ahead, friends... oh how they come in beautiful random causing me to well up--unusually. I grabbed my Supergirl shirt and covered my face--kunwari, tulog! I couldn't stop. Things are weighty and altogether light. Even in the silence of my guests, sweet tears graced my weariness and my Joy, my questions and my Answer, my confusion and my Assurance, my fears and my Faith, my hopes and my Love---unifying them at one time.

Haaaay.

I was told women cry for many reasons, and for no reason at all. When does one become a woman? Is it at twenty-seven, or when she learns to cry?

Cry and let-dry. Oh, Abbie.

Okay, mejo hanging na blog---ganyan siguro kapag pagod. na-strengthen naman, after posting! weee! Alabyu Blogger.com! ooops, tool ka lang noh! THANK YOU LORD, for in the play of emotions, I FIND YOU. =)

Losing My Opacity

2009-10-13T17:58:00.008+08:00

At the height of the mushroom rise of social networking sites, our age slowly loses its balance in relating with people. Scratch that. Perhaps only mine--my careful act of evenness. And to this, I fail. Four years back, I was surrounded with thoughtful students who would carry my educate-the-young (haha) paraphernalia, tug most of my time to have chickahan with them--and we just couldn't have enough--they created me a Friendster account--to that extent--they're totally sweet! I wasn't that interested with online networking then. I wasn't even ready to completely consent my name that I have to hide it with a kunwari-brilliant cover. Waaaah. It took me around four months of their begging to put a face on that precious site. It became friendlier and I became at home. I enjoyed how simple "hi's" and CSS graphics made others feel remembered; and how replies communicate value. To some degree, I get updated at how my students were fairing, how my girls at church were behaving and how my relatives were doing. People act and say things differently in person and online--Which one is real?--I dunno. Perhaps somewhere in between. For all its comely reasons, the site became a darling vessel of some of my thoughts, friends and memory stills--KoK!

Now a Facebook regular and a Twitter neophyte (No, I don't have a MySpace account--or I did open an account for the family, and Reload I think... and Multiply--for Reload, still)--I get reunited with old friends and start creating new ones. More than connections, the [free] *yay!* social sites became home to my responsive thoughts. Hmm... thoughts... YM and Blogger became comfy hubs for me, too. I dunno about you, but all these sites help me let out my wordy and wordless concerns. Not only that, on days I quiet my keyboard, my eyes busy themselves filtering in refined, rich and stagy thoughts from friends and strangers alike. A secret musing: I am amenably growing at their costly posts.

How could I not return the favor.

Unafraid, I let my thoughts slide, but there's still much held to keep my opacity--but I don't care if I slowly lose it as long as it has created beautiful etches of help and enlightenment--minus it, I'd look better as Ms. Woody. Every line drop, a revealing icon posted or dots of silence all compel my transparency--the need to be glassy. For how I wish I could always spill the beans! Information overload kaya? U won't need and won't be interested in them anyway. Let's just all go natural--never papansin. Sigh, some things are meant to be held concealed for a time. So, ladies and gents, girls and boys, I hope that right at this level of transparency we can all keep ourselves healthy and sane.

*wanna-speak-to-your-life,ready-to-be-touched-too* mode

Magpaka-Eagle

2009-09-16T08:58:00.015+08:00

Six AM at the Davao International Airport is scenic. Last Saturday, I was ready for boarding the Dvo-Zam flight when I finally-finally-finally realized, it was my first plane trip alone. Haaay... Magpaka-eagle ka, Rej.

Ptr. Elizabeth Inclan of Jesus Christ the Deliverer church in Zamboanga City booked me for their 10th Anniversary Celebration and Youth Reload (premiere). I had a grand time meeting new friends--who turned to be a new family! The couples who treated me with meals and rides were warm and lovely. Sana dumami ang lahi nila! And now, I miss them all.

I especially miss...

=> Ela--who accompanied me at Grand Astoria for two nights; On the first night, we gabbed waiting for midnight--it was going to be her birthday the next day--nagkaalaman!

=> Tita Letty--I'd sure visit your friend here in Davao! Thank you for touring me at the Paseo and the Regency. sooo nice!

=> Kuya Rading and wife, Ate Letty--Your testimony still grips me now. You are a great blessing. You were my parents Saturday night! You should come visit, Davao!

=> One-month old Emerald Overdeen Isaiah Inclan--my new godson! See you soon, pastor! (he smiles when I call him pastor!) =D

=> John Kelly & Kizha Almazan--I am soooo changed. Prayers & hugs are out to you guys! Faith is----. Grace is----. Yeah, you leave me blank! (SEE NOTE BELOW IF YOU WANT THE SPIEL)

=> All those I prayed for--You gave me an opportunity to minister in another level (thank You Holy Spirit); I thought I could only do well with young people ("Pastor" sounds good to the ear, too! And it made me say--Yeah, that's who I am!).

=> Ptr. Beth and family---I miss your chabacano accent! Thank you--thank you--thank you! (Bogota seemed so near!)
=> Mighty To Save---in spanish! woooh, i so love it! Bem, Lai and I were memorizing it since last year! I finally got to sing it in corporate worship! weee! =D

=> the Mt. Apo sight @7:37am--the great Mt. Apo and the six baby mountains with it (along with the Bukidnon hills) keep us from typhoons, you are gorgeous, Ms. Mountain. Now I know what you so eagerly expect there--that in me will be a revealed daughter of God! (Rom8:19)...woooh... The sight was short-lived, but you left me fuller.

Now I am home--with a new me! (missed fam and the eagurlz during the whole trip, your text messages helped me survive--naks!)

THE JOHN KELLY STORY
John is four years old. Tumors began to grow in his eyes--September last year.

Unlike other four-year olds who toy around, his puny eyes confined him in the hospital for months. There, he and his family met the Lord. The malignant tumors grew out from his eyes and inside his head. The Enemy was clearly harassing the boy. However, out of it came a very young intercessor--Kizha, his cousin. Kizha prayed for John every day and would even cry out to the Lord in behalf of him.

The family was told that John's case was impossible. John wouldn't survive an operation. It'll damage his eyes and brain. But the daily (yes, daily!) communion (bread and wine ceremony) build the hope in them--and on Christ. Claiming Isaiah 53:5, they were more hopeful then that John's life would be spared for a greater cause.

The right eye was healed, but the left kept growing. John's case interested one doctor from Davao. He said, an operation would be possible--except that John would totally lose his vision. The family went for it--and now, John is ever better than months ago. Although, he lost his sight, he has Jesus in his heart now (and in his parents').

At the anniversary celebration, John sang the old song--
He paid the debt He did not owe
I owed a debt I could not pay
I needed someone to wash my sins away
And now I sing a brand new song
Amazing Grace!
Christ Jesus paid the debt
that I could never pay!
...
(bawling)
...
Kizha had her turn, she sang--
God will make a way where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me
He will be my guide
Hold me closely to His side
With love and strength for each new day
He will make a way, He will make a way!
...

...

The Lord's hand is still active. Our God is alive. He works works in ways that never cease to amaze me.

Hmm... my luggage readies now for the future trips that would disclose more of the God-ways an eagle has to eye and establish. I am totally up for more learning rides (borrowed term). =)

Blogging The Day I Have To Blog About

2009-08-27T22:15:00.019+08:00

okay, spare me a fraction of your day to reminisce the moments of one day I can really call a day :p

[22 AUGUST 2009]

EARLY EAGLE, CATCHES EARLY MONKEY
I took my usually early devotional a little oversoon that Saturday. (There's something about early, I tell you! No, not just about the monkey! :p). It's the first waking morning since our parents left for Cebu for a Marriage Family Life Conference and at the same time, wedding anniversary trip (their 28th! I mean, the anniversary, not the trip. ahaha!). It's gonna be a long day I thought--my typical Saturday!

Manang Honorata's knock broke the day's starchiness. She's always early, I thought it was Sunday already. She looked haggard. Her son (her kindest, according to her) died that daybreak. He was shot with seven cruel bullets at eleven in the evening, Friday. Manang was hysterical. She exclaimed praise and remorse alternatingly. I was battling hard how to feel with her during that most bitter time. I failed. I looked at Bem who shared the breakfast table with me. We were speechless. We hoped our parents were there that morning. They're experts of comforting the bereaved. Still lacking the best comforting gesture I could make, I held out my arms and embraced Manang (it will be awkward if Bem did it ;). I was already crying. It's so hard to watch a lamenting mother. Sigh.

I called mamams. She instructed us of the protocols (sorry for the very serious term--death is a serious matter anyway) which ended with--Take charge of the whole church while we're away, okay? You guys can make it. Hmm... after the challenging words, I whispered to God, Seems [hard], but here I [am]--ever willing--use me.

9:00 am.

THE THREE ARE ONE
It was supposed to be a festive day in Davao (Kadayawan Celebration), but Bem, Lai and I were just lounging around our small sala. Our old bamboo set had been home to our thoughts since 1991. Hehe. So, we exchanged news--not much of the world around us, but the domains we so happily guard. Wow, I found big worlds I wish I could explore more often. We crafted big dreams. Pure aspirations--genuine desires that God in His sovereignty, would use us wherever, whenever. Funny, but we were touching on the course of marriage. I didn't know that Lalai really wanted me married already--it's her third asking this month. Ngorkz. But it was Bem who, without reservation(s), said that he thinks he is [ready]. woooh!

Oist. Your reactions don't matter for now. And why I am spilling it here? Wala lang, nakilig lang ko sa akong manghud! Ahahaha... Who knows? My beautiful and blessed sister-in-law-to-be could be reading now! *louder laughs*

Those precious two hours, weren't a waste. Those were investments I believe.

11:00 am

And so we decided to do some kickin' in the city. We didn't really know what we want to do then except, [bond]. Did I say, "bond"? Yeah, just anything we could glue on.

We drove to SM (after we decided to skip the bone screening I should have gone to. We didn't see Corie who urged us to visit the free clinic. Tsk, I needed that one!). The mall was packed. We had lunch and then set off to claim Lalai's SM Advantage card. While she was queuing, I saw [someone]--I really knew from the past. (naks! parang kung sino na noh?). Let's equate past with some days short to a month. My heart skipped. This lady in a halter top was the one I saw last July 30 at the G12 Summit in Matina. I can't be mistaken. It's her!

SINO BA SIYA SA BUHAY KO
That lady pretended to be a leader-member of the church venue we assembled at for the Summit. We were both charging our gadgets at the media booth. We naturally conversed (with Papa, actually!) over mp3's and sermons. Weng came to me to say bye--she's off to her 3/11 shift. It took us a couple of minutes when I turned back to the lady--she's gone. With Papa's iTouch. :( I asked the guy at the media booth where's her aunt (the lady)... He said he doesn't have an aunt there. But the lady told me he's her nephew! (Tugudugdog) I'm being clipped? I looked for her among the crowd... hastened downstairs, thinking she hasn't strided far--CLEAR--uh-oh! Haaay, my heart beat so fast. I was beguiled that easy? Grr.

12:45 PM ca.

SOMEWHERE DOWN THE SM-HALL
Bem and I decided to follow the lady. I think she saw me trailing (Perhaps she remembered me, too). I asked Bem to follow her closely while I remained distant. She entered the Lito Sy Studio and delayed there for a few minutes. She went up the next floor and Bem lost her there. I staired the other side and got her! (cheer me on!)... Promise, I was in-tongues the whole time... I still don't know exactly what to say... I knew I'd see her again--but would it really be this time? Will she admit? No, she'll deny most likely. Gaining more courage now, I approached her. I introduced myself (can't help being polite! naks! waaaaah!). I told her we met at the summit, she pretended to share files, that she told me her name's Joy, she's a leader at the church, her nephew's the media man--blah-blah-blah. I got an oh-yeah! You! I was about to return your Papa's iTouch. It's at home. If you want to come with me, I'll give your gadget. I didn't take it. It was may nephew who took it. I actually asked him to return it. I'm not that kind of a woman. I am decent. I have a decent job. Let's arrange this. Let's not make a scandal here.

Woooh... Too many things said in a 32 seconds! I wasn't making a scandal... And she was the one raising her voice... I wasn't actually planning to get the iTouch. Our family was already settled with the loss. Anyway, so she wanted to return it... we decided to go with her to her house--in Buhangin! Good, just near our place! She trembled--she immediately said, we have to drop by her work place (Apo View Hotel) to get her keys--she left at her locker. Wherever. Whatever. (heehee)

She hasted to leave SM. Bem had to pick Lalai from the SM Card counter (she didn't know yet what was happening). When the lady thought we lost Bem, she pulled me. I insisted that we wait for my siblings. She was insisting, too that she'd be late for work. (note: late? may duty pala xa? what time kaya? that was around lunch time... and why was she inviting us to go to her house after dropping by the hotel? hm...)

JUNIOR POLICE
We already neared the exits, we lost Bem and Lai, the two lost sight of us, too. Where is she taking me? The lady said we had to see her cousin who was with her at the mall, daw. My doubts rushed up in heaps. I stopped her. I said, we had to go back to where we left my sibs. She dragged me to her way. This isn't right, I thought to myself. This lady can't do things her way. I went against her yanking and culled her back the department store. I told her, You follow us. Let's do this our way. You understand? (Kunwari, I was strong--and I was preaching to myself: You have to be strong!) She said we should trust her. She's really going to return the item. If we want, she'd surrender her phones to us until she returns the iTouch. Hmm, baka mabaliktad ang story... We wanted her ID's instead. She didn't carry any. It's in her locker, daw. (haha, we were playing police!)

On our way to the hotel, we tried to capture photos of her. All three of us were silently and simultaneously thinking that this lady is trying to getaway. And just in case she does so, at least we'll have a picture of her. Ang ingay niya sa loob ng car. We were silent. We were in a bevy of prayers. Lord, wisdom. What's the best and right thing to do now? And we can't discuss. Haaay. We were discussing in the spirit with the Holy Spirit. Pa'no ba naman kasi, puro kami first timers!

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!
At the hotel, she wanted me to accompany her--only me. But Lalai followed us (good, Lai). We went to the coffee shop where she claimed to be working. She tried to make us sit down while she goes to her supposed locker. We still followed her. She immediately entered the crew room past the shocked lady manager. We asked her (the manager) if she was really working there, she said no. We had to appeal to her and the crew to trail the lady down. We told them that she stole an item from us. Lalai followed them. I went back to the entrance to ask for help. The hotel closed all the doorways. Lai and the security ran after her through the kitchen and the laundry departments. She checked the basement, the gym and even opened the ballroom (with the doctors in conference)--oops! The chasing went for minutes. They were asking me how the lady looked like. We tried to show them photos--blurry side photos and clear backviews lang pala nakuha namin---waaah!

We lost her.

FAVOR IN DISGUISE
The traffic was jammed. It was a city holiday. Bem took a while to park the van. And when he did so, he headed to the hotel. But she saw someone coming out from the alley beside the hotel lot. The lady! Saan ang mga ate ko? The lady saw him. She ran back. She tried to enter the Casino building. Knowing that Bem was pursuing her, she asked the guards to stop Bem. And the sentry did so. Si Bem na ngayon ang salarin! Bem explained. But it took time. Haaay. One good thing is that when the lady tried to exit from the Casino, the hotel's security apprehended her there! Weee! :D

2:00 PM ca.

PUZZLE COMPLETED
She was brought to the hotel's crew lounge. Everyone was there--the admin, the owners, the staff, the security, the lady and us. In a moment's time, the police was there. She was investigated. There were two other theft incidents at the hotel in the last two months, and close to their inferences, it was her. The hotel had been her getaway berth when she does her MO's. We went to the nearest police station. Wooh, for the first time, we rode on a police patrol! Pangdamay nga babae! Haha. Super naulaw gyud si Lalai.

THE COST OF REDEMPTION
We settled everything at the station. The lady was begging us. She returned the pawn paper--whaat??? Yes, the item is at the pawnshop already--lukatable at Php 6K. "Who's going to pay for this?" I inquiringly exclaimed. Alangan naman ako? the officer said. Haha. Bem was silent. He was staring at the ceiling and said--Redemption. Jesus paid the full price, ate, just to redeem us.

The Anti-Fencing Law not applicable this time, we laid the plush amount. The iTouch, when I held it, it's [dearer] now.

THREESOME
So much for the James Bond spirit--chasing criminals--it's time to retire now. When we decided to leave the station (we didn't file a case but a scenario was recorded), we left the detained lady (we were merciful at that... hehe), but we brought with us precious lessons of redemption, mercy and discernment. While on our way home, we were still thinking about the lady--how she urged us and the police to let her go. (She even offered one officer herself, just to let her go--pitiful lady!). Time flat, the van was filled with praises. We interceded for salvation of the hotel people, police and the lady.

We really did bond.

4:00 PM ca.

KADAYAWAN
We called Papa and Mama. We wanted to let them know that we're safe and had a fun festival. We wanted to break the news, but the story-telling would be limited... Mas enjoy yung may action-action and sound effects! haha! Haaay, Kadayawan!

Madayaw--richness; abundance. Truly, the Lord has inexhaustible ways of illustrating His extravagant love and rich ways to His people. He wants to express them in forms unforgettable. Let's be ready for days like this--fun, expensive and deep--I guess there's a lot ahead.

:x

notes:
Went home--caught up with the eagurlz's prayer time;
worship team practice;
and wake service.

11:00 PM

That's a day I call a day.
NOT BECAUSE OF THE MANY THINGS THAT HAPPENED
BUT BECAUSE OF THE MANY LESSONS LEARNED. =)

making it happen

2009-08-25T15:29:00.007+08:00

*click photo to enlarge. =)
Article for Sunog Mindanao III Newsletter.

CONSOLIDATION makes a rhythm...

2009-08-03T16:43:00.009+08:00

consolidation now begins!

Lunch blast last Sunday--buttered chicken... (tinitipid na) rice... Coke sakto... the favorite mango float (thx to Blexii)... and of course--my girls who completed the festive time! Everyone was so excited to share their praise reports. I actually told AJ on our way to Amorens (ang suking tindahan)--freeze your excitement 'til we get there... and let everyone share your joy! When we got to the place, everyone was mama-ing... my ~~eleven~~ twelve (Weng had her 7/3 duty). Banquetting over a simple meal, I was actually consolidating and hitching their weekly scoops. In this very berth, I relish every moment with my already grown, all-ready, and all-in girls. Consolidation doesn't end. Food is powerful. haha.

I was telling them of Val's experience on winning and consolidation. Last June, Val handed Joshua and his guy friends a 4D-ticket at G-mall. Not very cogent I know, because we usually hand flyers, tickets and sometimes calamansi juice at campuses. But this time, Val was happily shocked at Joshua's cloud-nine felicity--Yey!!! Finally I am invited to Reload... I have heard this before and was actually waiting to be invited. Thank You Lord!!! ---------Wow? and more wows at Val's perfect consolidation combo--prayer and gleeful (imagine his trademark grin) kamustahan that I get to sit beside them at the G12 Summit. Patakod beh...

Mimay, too, showed-off her consolidation stint yesterday. She boldly walked to Ivan's invite (Angelie), got the story and a conso-date this week. Yeah I know you want to hear the spiel, so here it is (as if mahaba): Angelie was actually waiting at People's Park--not for a date--but in a lucid hope that somebody would come to share the good news. She would go there just for that reason. Ibang klase! That Saturday, she waited... and tarried some more. She texted her cousin why someone [from above] wasn't showing up. 'Just linger, someone would surely come, maraming nagsh-share diyan...' was the reply. (You now get that there's a change of city buzz--woooooh!!!) God didn't fail her. Moments after, she got what she was there for.

The field is white. Doubtlessly.
It's winning time and some more.

Oh, you know what [some more] is =).

tubaga daw beh...

2009-07-31T11:32:00.003+08:00

crack
nagaraya-mode :p (natubag pud...)
How are you?
(salamat buen jr. at careful ka sa tanong mo.
napahinto ako dun ah.)
hm, if you (me)heard the words you need to hear,
life has never been better.
How long do you intend to minister?
like, until Jesus comes back?
How do you feel about yourself?
kaka-opera. oucharap.
Is there something unhealthy with you today?
even a hint of paranoia is poisonous.
Why do you say the words you say?
sometimes i forget about the why.
carelessness in careful thoughts,
words wade through without the why.
[sorry].
Lacking good words to speak?
minsan.
tahimik nalang dapat, ano?
women daw are like this.
the more we speak, the more things get wrong.
the more we correct the wrong,
the worst it gets.
deliverance :p
Why do you do what you do?
kung di dahil sau Lord...
bawas nalang dun sa maraming kapalpakan lately.
pa-second-chance...
What does the Lord have to say about you?
nu nga kaya...
Why do you think your dreams are unreachable?
uy, kala ko reachable not until now...
haaay, wrong self-image--you stung. tsk.
im picking myself up.
Why do you think lesser than your dream?
malaking exposure ito!
Ptr Zhaleen: God doesn't give us dreams that are unreachable.
Why do you let yourself hinder your destiny?
will now resign from the blocking-mode.
Why do you let others challenge your perception about you?
i-ti-turn-off na po ang volume.
no longer challenged, just changed (and be changing).
Why do you hide?
huh, hiding is demonic?
Are you at the right place?
most probably.
Are you with the right crowd?
i love my crowd right now...
a few more changes
and things will be more purposeful.
Why do you take time to believe me?
bakit nga ba Lord?
help me not to waiver in the right amount of self-faith
because You first believe in me and in the things I can do;
then You chose me.
Aah.
Watta Driver.
Whose hands touched you first?
Psalm139.
Excited mode na po talaga to see you.
Beautiful hands that
created me out of ~~dust~~nothing.
What did you conquer yesterday?
stress. shame.
What will you conquer today?
food.
Why are you answering these questions?
nagbabaka-sakaling matantanan kayong mga dumadaa't tumatakbo sa mahiwagang kalsada ko... kayo'y dumaan--maingay man at nagtatagal kung minsan, ako nama'y natulungan...
Haaaay, Learning Highway.

If we died with him,
we will also live with him;
If we endure,
we will also reign with him.
If we disown him,
he will also disown us;
If we are faithless,
he will remain faithful,
for he cannot disown himself.
2Tim2:11-13

The Journey to [Love]

2009-07-15T08:47:00.034+08:00

Of the ninety-plus entries in this blog, this I think would be the most vulnerable (yet). I am a little hesitant, but I'm gonna pen (and post) it anyway for the purposes of blessing you--and I hope it will, dear reader.

EIGHTEEN
Ten. November. Two thousand. I could remember so well how my eighteenth birthday happened--half of it planned, the other a big surprise. I knew there would be a salu-salo at church, so I made invites for my college and high school friends. I cut my hair really, really short--went to school, and my, I love the day (since I promised to cherish each part of it)--
said the best recitation (good, I didn't embarrass myself on my birthday);
had all my classmate's attention (they liked my short bob);
letters and gifts kept coming (they all knew i like letters, at least nagreply na sila sa mga sulat ko);
and the teasing (grrrr).
On my walk home, I was talking to God. I didn't have my Book of Dreams then, so all my prayers were verbally sent. I was actually looking forward to the Purity Ring Ceremony later that night, but I wanted to tell Him my commitment without the ears of even my closest friends. I'm not showbiz after all. Haha.
Had the ring-giving part at the celebration, but it was later that night when I again closed my day with a prayer to fulfill the prominent vow minus triviality:

Believing that true love waits, I make a commitment to God, myself, my family, my friends, my future mate, and my future children to a lifetime of purity including sexual abstinence from this day until the day I enter a biblical marriage relationship. (Yeah, you have read this from True Love Waits)

Beyond the words above, I really had a growing intention of honoring the Lord even in the area of my emotions. Every time I get letters and cards from guys, my mom got to read them. A must. Although I have a bunch of closest friends, I didn't have one to call my BFF. But it saved me, too! My mom always wanted to know my issues first than hearing it from somebody else. And secretly, I said, Don't worry, Ma, you won't be hearing things late.

DOWN OBLIVION ROAD
I tread the Love Road quite carefree and a bit more cautious than any girl in my circle. I wasn't into guys and into relationships, yet mushy things like these still happened:
I had a classmate that had his binder full of drawings of me. He would write me poems and good luck cards every time I join a contest in school. I was flattered, but I didn't like it.
I had an unplanned lunch date with another guy when we saw each other at the mall. When he caught me at McDonald's, he followed me there and got to pay the lunch. It was awkward (the talk was). I was flattered, but I didn't like it.
When mama was invited to speak at a Christmas gathering, the family who would be hosting her said that she'd bring me. I was excited then. But I didn't know what was up. Saturday night before Thanksgiving, their son took me to his classmate's reunion, and the whole class knew me. That was weird, I thought. After the uneasy time at the party, he toured me around town. I was flattered but I didn't like it.
Then there were youth camps of course. The hand-cuff moments which made me curious. I was the youngest of the Davao Team and thought I would be excused, especially because Papaps was the keynote speaker. I was teasing all my churchmates (like the tease that I am), until I got my turn. I thought I could run away and just repent for the mischief I made that camp night. It was too late. I was in cotton cuffs with the cute chinese guy. Though he was polite, and--yeah, again, I was flattered but still I didn't like it.
I could remember, too one of Chem's buddies in high school who was a basketball athlete. He sent me cards with all the familiar verses inscripted. I was almost blessed--haha--he wasn't a Christian at that (Chem, did you coach him? Tsk. Haha, right, he came to our Wednesday Babad services before... ikaw bat-ana ka!) In BCC-nese, "X na kaayo." And the [kornz] part, I was asked to sign the balloons his friends gave him on his birthday bash (artistahin siya! or ako kaya? ako man ang nagsign sa autograph... cge, ako nalang :p)
There was a church mate who composed a couple of songs. I think they were nice, but I didn't like it altogether.
A bright chinese guy in college asked me to spend time with him on his birthday. He wrote me letters and printed me stationeries of my favorite cartoon character (back then, ink is expensive and searching for the graphics take time ug abog pa ang wifi). I was flattered, but I didn't like the idea.
And so were the times I was told that a guy friend fasted for me to be his wife. Wahaha. I was flattered but I certainly didn't like it. (I was planning to fast double time :p).

These were most of the cute, polite and maybe, open ways of pursuing a lady. When I look back, I ask, why didn't I respond? Was it because I didn't like the guy? Yes and No. But a better answer would be--it's because I knew in my heart he wasn't Jacob. What would it be like if all these were done by Jacob and with Jacob? What would Jacob think if I gave a part of my heart with any of these guys, when actually I gave a part of my time already... Haaay, Jacob... If you only get the picture of the rehearsals I'm into just to say "sorry" for all these.

JACOB WORKED. RACHEL WAITED. LEAH WATCHED.
I always (and will always) believe that men do the initiation (or is it initiating?). Girls should never be forward, they respond or regulate. Girls should never even be unnecessarily open about who they like except to their leaders or parents who can be accountable with them and their feelings. Other than that, she just have to wait and be in prayer.
Rachel and Jacob were shepherds. Unless we go through the season of prioritizing God's call for us to pastor young people (that's so specific, just for starters), we have no right to ask God's hand on any other issue we have.
Rachel waits in preparation. And some girls are Leah's--just out there watching--and learning. I have learned that we might as well combine the three: work, wait and watch (out for our season).

SLEEPING BEAUTY
Much of my college years was spent in ministry and passionate surrendering of my own causes. Like the mysterious girl that I am in school and church, I was always asked who's the guy I like. My answers would range from Joel Houston to Prince William--definitely in emotional slumber for years! But just like Lisa Bevere said, Sleeping Beauty neither soiled nor aged... she even became more beautiful in her rest. I have a lot of working to do in terms of my character and skill, and so I guess, it's just right to be emotionally at rest. It's a time of beauty preparation (Queen Esther)--a painful shaping in the vital areas such as ministry, socialization, cultural, and domestic life. Song of Songs 8:4 says Daughters of Jerusalem, I charge you: Do not arouse or awaken love until it so desires.If you have awakened and think that you should still be asleep, lull yourself back to sleep. It's an effort, I know. But you can do it!
I could not forget this blog post: It's better to be asleep a hundred years and be awakened by the right prince than to be kissed a hundred times by the wrong frog. To learn with a friend, all guys have their frog seasons... I'd agree and will add, all girls have to be sleeping beauties but they are first Cinderella's, too--having seasons in cinders and rags.

Not until the time is right and the heart is healed.

HEART STRINGS AND COB WEBS
Careful, careful! I always tell my girls (and all the young people in my life--in-my-life talaga noh?) to be careful with the way we carry ourselves. From dressing up to the words we use--we attract men (girls, for the guys' case). It's normal. And it should be that way. However, we have to be extra careful not to cross emotional lines. Simple text messages such as take care's could be entertained by the receiver (which I call the Care Taker) and be a sign to the sender (the Care Giver, wahaha) that the receiver takes those subtle gestures. If not guarded, the two could send wrong signals. Who said wrong signals could turn right along the way? Weak foundations get destructive with time.
I have met a lot of young people that are not in relationships but are actually in emotional marriages (at worst, emotionally attached in a one-sided way). Like strands of strings, the mutual understanding attaches the two little by little. They slowly demand attention from each other and in some cases, display ways of being a couple, just minus the officiality. With time, if the playing around doesn't work, they try to pull away from each other, but it's a lot harder now since the bonds are there.
I have seen this over and over (sadly, inside church... I can't demand much from the world, anyway). And I'm amenable to the fact that I was scared I'll be involved in such activities. So I came up with rules: R.A.'s such as the Rejoice Act 1982--Anti-Take Care Law. Wahaha. Another is--no giving of phone numbers to strangers; do not reply to suggestive inquiries (except for ministry matters... and in one case, I got this reply: Then make me your ministry! Aba, matalino!) And so the list of rules kept stretching. Did I keep them all? Yes, most of the time (Ms. Imperfect, tsk). Did the rules help? Definitely. The rules are temporary and the victims may claim victims, but I hope we would together appreciate later how this stupid (if they are) rules guard us.

SCRAMBLED EGGS
I admit, I am a loner at times, but I do not feel alone most of those moments. The sad thing about loneliness is we can be surrounded by a lot of people and still feel alone. In fact, I was open to the notion that if God calls me to celibacy, then obedience is the best form of worship. Myles Munroe said that we do not enter relationships because we want to be completed. We will be in a relationship because we are healed, whole again and ready to bless the other person. Like two eggs readied for omelet, each are first two wholes that will be beaten together. Neither can be separated after they are joined together. Just make sure that each are good eggs. One being rotten will spoil the whole serving.

NBSB
No Boyfriend Since Birth, pity!? But, hehe, I admit I'm part of this deplorable club and my co-members most-of-the-time grieve themselves since fate signed up for them. The other half (where I belong, tsk) of the NBSB's (or NGSB's) pride themselves of being a part of this prestigious sorority (what would you call your group guys? Fraternity?), making the experienced feel inferior of being in (or having been into) relationships. Sorry about that. But the good news is oh so good it would shame the proud (oo, kasali ako dun): Anyone who reaches for the Cross and allows him/herself to be crushed and crucified in full surrender of his/her ugly past and present--and even the meager dreams of the future--will be restored. To desire a personal encounter and a destiny-changing experience of God's grace will allow all of us to start pure. Being in this new and glorious state, we are joyfully compelled to pursue God's call first--To love God and love people. Way to go, NBSE's and NGSE's!

EUNUCH-KA-HIJA...
is a term coined by Pastor Jonathan and my brother, Migz. It may sound like one of the names of the female networks in BCC, but it is definitely not a prophecy (In Jesus' Name!) In one of their dynamic tugudugdug discussions, they probed on the possibility of being a eunuch for Christ... I have learned so much from them, Pastor Jo, being married for six years now and Bem who has never been into a relationship (at least that's what I know, hehe, peace, Bem!). But they'd still end up concluding that in the vision, marriage is important. Men can only minister to men; women relate deeper and [safer] to women; and only the married have the authority to minister to the married. They reasoned, almost all of our young people [will] marry and the need for pastoral care will not cease. Hmmm?
Squarely, the Lord plans that god-fearing and responsible people build households that honor Him. Indeed, it's time to produce regenerate minds in healthy homes.

THE ANSWER IS... D) ALL OF THE ABOVE
(Here are the choices by the way:
A) WOMAN
B) WOMAN
C) WOMAN)
In grade school, we had a lot of boys-vs.-girls games. Often times, I would lead the girls team. I was always assertive, competitive and protective. My young mind believed that girls can always do things without the boys, and excel. If I met Lisa Bevere in her teens, we would be best friends. But her tried growth and persistent seeking of the Lord led her to a revelation that women (yes, that's us girls, when we grow up---nakijoin noh?) are the answers. God gave Adam an enormous task in Eden. Yes, he didn't complain that the Lord didn't give him a partner when every animal had. But it was the Lord who saw the need and supplied Adam the answer in His own way and time. What a thoughtful God!

NOT WHO, BUT WHY.
I knew people wanted to know someone not remote, but personally, I, too was asking myself Who?. There was no one, except Jacob (can be Isaac, or David, too... but let's just use Jacob for consistency ;)--somebody who doesn't really exist you'd complain. Haha, of course he does (now I'm insisting!). He is presently in a mold. Uhm, well, just like I am.
Who-I'm-spending-my-life-with comes second to Why-I'm-spending-my-life-with-Him. Trend-setting? Dati na pong uso ang purpose-driven life. Hahaha.
If I may put an order in the questions, it would be: WHY-WHO-WHEN. HOW and WHERE can be somewhere in between I guess. HOW--always a unique story but should always honor Christ. WHERE--as long as there are people who needed God's touch in their lives.

Joanna Castellanos-Proenca, in her book, iLove, enourages young people to make a Book of Dreams. It will be a book of prayers and conversations with God, since dreams are the language of God (akala ko pa naman, Bisaya). It will include the desires you want in a future mate. So, I made one. And the realizations brought me far which now humble me. I thought I could best things alone. But the dreams of becoming a great wife and mother can never be done alone, or can it be? :p

HAS [HE] ARRIVED YET?
The Book of Dreams helps me know Jacob more and I sure will recognize [him] when he comes. Until then, I'd keep my hands clasped, knees bent and heart guarded. (Or is there a knock outside? kadali lang. False alarm? Pagkapait, labaw na kung kanunay nalang false alarm. Hahaha.)

TO BE MY OWN DREAM
I was told I would attract who I am. So I made a list of Jacob's qualities and mine. My cousin, kuya Jojo said, they should be compatible, the non-negotiables are the same, and the negotiables complement. Last Saturday, I remember myself telling Amor (we were rehearsing for her preaching the next day on Sexuality): If Jacob would come, would I like him? (she laughed). And would he like me? (hmmm...)

WHEN GOD MADE YOU
It’s always been a mystery to me
How two hearts can come together
And love can last forever
But now that I have found you, I believe
That a miracle has come
When God sends the perfect one
Now gone are all my questions about why
And I’ve never been so sure of anything in my life

I wonder what God was thinking
When He created you
I wonder if He knew everything I would need
Because He made all my dreams come true
When God made you
He must have been thinking about me

I promise that wherever you may go
Wherever life may lead you
With all my heart I’ll be there too
From this moment on I want you to know
I’ll let nothing come between us
And I will love the ones you love

Bridge: He made the sun He made the moon
To harmonize in perfect tune
One Can’t move without the other
They just have to be together
And that is why I know it’s true
You’re for me and I’m for you
‘Cause my world just Can’t be right
Without you in my life

He must have heard every prayer I’ve been praying
Yes He knew everything I would need
When God made you
When dreams come true
When God made you
He must have been thinking about me

And hey, I have high bars for Jacob, so I should be working well, too, eh? To be spiritually determined, involved and committed; socially flexible; academically excellent; physically tessellate; culturally-mannered; and financially wise. So, help me God. (and help me, Mom.)

HONORING NAOMI
Summer 2004, we attended a Missions Mobilization Conference for two weeks. Then, at the last service, our family was prayed for in front of the 17 congregations in joint service. Dr. Michael Brown prayed long for Papaps, then for Mamams. He then prayed for us three and his emphasis was--weird--on our marriages. (Haha. Sorry for the laugh. Uhm, Sarah is that you?) Lalai would always remind mom of that prayer. But our very forward biological mom (who happens to be my spiritual mom, too) would always remind us to wait and pray. (Is it not watch and pray?).
I like being in a conversation with Mamams. She's animated but direct to the point and I am always left in high hopes yet grounded every time we share deep things. For the nth time, she said, she and Papaps had been praying for our future mates but we still have to brave the decisions we're going to make. Her assuring words spell covering, love and trust for me. (Sometimes, I wish* she does not trust me that much, so she'd make decisions--HEART decisions with me--all the time. I am not so tough, after all).

WHAT IS THIS THING CALLED LOVE?
I entitled this entry as Journey to [Love], as if I have a good grasp at the subject. But let's check Martin Smith of Deliriou5?'s song first:

Looking into yesterday and all the dreams that heaven sent.
Maybe love will come our way
And when I stand upon the land I threw the dreams into the sea
Maybe they will rise again

And maybe, maybe love will come our way
And maybe hope will come to us again

What is this thing called love?
I know I've found it, it's in your eyes
What is this thing called love?
I know I've found it, it's in your eyes

Looking to the 'morrows dreams
And all the secrets that they hold
Patiently waiting for these days
And when I look into the sky I see that
hope is coming soon
Praying love will come again

And maybe, maybe love will come our way
And maybe hope will come to us again

Love? Jesus. It's giving what the other (people) needs; It giving what the Other (the Father) wants; It's expressing even when the other (the person) isn't perfect.
1Corinthians 13 speaks more of what love is and I could never disagree.
Love. Am I capable of this?

THE LONG AND HARD ROAD
Muddy. Stony. Dusty. Rough. Smooth. Love is either or sometimes, all.
It is long. Some would prefer shortcuts but end up missing the necessary and enriching part of the process. It is hard. I am delaying the things that I think would gratify me.
It is long. We can't skip parts--friendship and the voice of the adults. It is hard. We are misinterpreted at times.
It is long. The waiting sucks when worries come. It is hard. The doubts are torturing.
It is long. It is hard.The prayers--oh how I need them. If my parents (and a number of caring people) pray for me, I, too should do my own silent and consistent rantings. Emotional decisions--it's make or break. When it's time to walk that way, let's do it well just like Brooke Fraser said:

LOVE IS WAITING
In the autumn on the ground, between the traffic and the ordinary sounds
I am thinking signs and seasons while a north wind blows through
i watch as lovers pass me by
Walking stories - whos and hows and whys
Musing lazily on love, Pondering you
I'll give it time, give it space and be still for a spell
When it's time to walk that way we wana walk it well

I'll be waiting for you baby
I'll be holding back the darkest night
Love is waiting til we're ready, til it's right
Love is waiting

It's my caution not the cold
there's no other hand that i would rather hold
the climate changes, im singing for the strangers about you
dont keep time, slow the pace
Honey hold on if you can
the bets are getting surer now that you're my man

I could right a million songs about the way you say my name
I could live a lifetime with you and then do it all again
and like I can't force the sun to rise or hasten summer's start,
neither should I rush my way into your heart

THE YOUNGEST WOULD BE THE LAST?
I'm the youngest of the six female youth network leaders who are 35, 30, 29, 28, 27 (and 26). Our Monday night close cell meetings would not end without the juicy heart musings. When the teasing stick turns on me, I would always tell them I'd let them marry first. These ladies, (my Ate's) are blessings to me. Being surrounded by them, I find the waiting season worth and rich. Worry caves in subtly in the talks and gets me realizing that we're not following the human calendar, but God's. If God plans that our eldest marries at 38, then wala pa gyud siya nabiyaan sa sakyanan! I tell them if God's calendar has me scheduled to marry at 25, then maybe, I am the one missing the chance. And we all were laughing out loud.
To be serious, it isn't about the age. Age plays the least of the factors in marrying. One can be thirty, and still act very childish, emotionally indecisive and unstable. It's rather in the purpose and preparedness, I guess.

LOVE STORY IN WRITING
We are all each other's books. We would now or one day exchange stories and I hope we get to learn and be blessed by each other. The next generation is watching and waiting, too. Let them be a part of the story's purpose. To release the pen and let God author yet another unique, uncompromising and birthed-out-of-prayer kind of story would be a step of faith... Let's all position ourselves for victory as we conquer the journey to [love].

xx No rush xx
Entry is dedicated to Mamams, Lai, my Twelve, ang power na mga Agilas, my Close Cell sisters (Te Emma, Indai, Te Debbz, Juvy and Ating), the PK's and you (xempre apil ka, ngano bitaw gibasa-basa nimu ning akong notebook! :p).
It has been my heart to write something about emotions. It took me a while. Sorry. I was held captive of my own fears and reasons. But the weight is heavier now. And your struggles are beyond my bearing (wala lang, trying hard lang na maki-load lift). You, being able to reach this part of this writing, I hope you're with me in becoming more committed and chaseable to the grave. Toodles.

PS: NBSE/NGSE=No Boyfriend (Girlfriend) Since Encounter! :p

Time To Fly

2009-07-13T08:48:00.005+08:00

Girls will be girls. Eagurlz will be Eagurlz!
I can never end thanking God for giving me [you] girls: faithful, available, with initiative, teachable, humble and powerful girls... To borrow a line from a friend, yes, [gratitude is lame].

Through you, I have never been the same...
I have become
appreciative;
malambing;
prayerful;
thoughtful;
observant;
diligent;
thrifty;
generous;
strong;
faithful;
careful;
wise;
humble;
understanding;
patient;
sharp;
responsible;

and so the rest of the things I need to grow.
(uy, the list is not absolute... I still have to grow more!)

What would Rej be [now] without you girls and your girls?
---

Seeing you soar despite the odds encourages me and confirms my calling to pastor young women... The Hannah-Tears of heartfelt prayers now become Silent Tears of rejoicing. I would not care to have a spiritual enlargement of the heart, as I dare to capture God's dreams through you...

You did not complain last week.
You cry when I open up a burden.
You carry your loads.
You passionately take up your crosses.
You consider all tests as the purest form of joy.
You grow with me as I grow with you.
You rise more than you fall.
You speak without pretensions.
You serve with all your heart.
You do hard things with delight.
You labor and give birth with pleasure.
And oh, you love me like I'm really a good mother.

Your girls bring [true joy]. My, am I a happy mother?!

Beauty And The Barbarian

2009-05-25T14:11:00.004+08:00

From Anne, To Anne. Haha, at talaga namang nagkaintindihan tau noh?! Ingat ka jan, kasi dala mo phone mo. tsk.

Once upon a time, a young princess wandered through the woods. A nasty and barbarous man spotted the lovely princess and approached her. He offered her the “pleasure” of becoming his bride and living with him in the shack he called home.

After a quick look at this barbarian and his residence, the princess flatly refused. She told him she would never marry a man who couldn’t respect himself or his home. She wanted someone honorable like her father, the king. Then off she went to the beautiful castle.

The barbarian was crushed. In the following days, he couldn’t get the pure and noble princess out of his mind. Finally he vowed to win her, no matter what. He decided the only way to do this was to become a noble man himself.

He observed the king from afar, watching his actions and listening to his speech. He noticed and admired the king’s integrity and dignity. The king’s character captivated the barbarian. He wanted to be just like him. He still longed to marry the princess, but now his desire to become as noble as the king exceeded even his love for the princess.

Slowly but surely, as the barbarian modeled his behavior after the king, his appearance and manner were refined. He also worked long and hard to transform his home into a beautiful estate surrounded by well-tendered gardens.

Finally he felt ready to approach the princess once more. This time the princess was so impressed that she promised to consider his request to become his bride. Eventually the two were wed, and (you guessed it) they lived happily ever after.

author: unknown

*crown-crown-crown*

Take OFF

2009-05-20T22:07:00.011+08:00

Sifting sand and shifting hands--natural phenomena in the G12 Vision.

Sifting sand--now in the habit of trying to find the gold ores of faith amidst estuarine rocks--I get to expose the faith--the real one in me! For a moment now, I'm believing for stuff and doing things that I can actually and only fruit in the natural. Sunday, I came home--you got it--to my senses: I was ([was] that's not so long ago) actually living a life not my own--someone not unknown (magulo noh?)--someone presumed extinct--someone expected obsolete--but one I was trying to revive: Rejoice Lagat-in-the-previous-level. Now pebbling in me precious dusts of faith, I am strengthened inside. Our most recent Klosel (my favorite spelling for the Eagurlz's primary close cell, which I'm fond of calling K-Night) was the culprit. Anointed yata yung Jollibee couch! Haha. The girls and I were up for a night of program designing for the next two big events in our ministries (sense of ownership?)--Reload's fourth year anniversary (I will be speaking! And I'm thrilled!); and the presentation of my Twelve's Twelves--the Eagurlz144's Night. We were expecting a night of shaping the skeletons. Seeing my governors in their excitement--I saw just that--ado.

All eyes on me--I said, "Hey! Thanks for the excitement--but can you please verbalize the glitters in your eyes?" However, I still did the wording--Pressure. Positive maybe, still, it's pressure. Most of them committed that they can form their twelves by June fourteenth.

G12 Lessons (by the Eagurlz--haha!):
1. Do things with the right motivation--I remember forming my twelve in December 31, 2007. Past three years in the G12 Vision, I knew in my heart it was my season to build the altar. It wasn't out of pressure because some One-Four-Four gathering was up. It was the year's fruition--the year's offering to the Lord. Twelve. Col3:23.
2. Build a Team of Twelve that will govern the next generation of leaders. Forming the twelve is not about complying the demands of an ambitious leader. It is not rush. It is not an event. It is a preparation for the next level of ministry. It is about catering the coming of the pre-(new-)believers--the next line of twelves--their preparation, heart and capacities will enable the rooming for the next, next line of twelves. Preparation is key.

Feeling the lack of preparation since most of our girls are still in their provinces, I lipped off the movement of the gathering to a new date. (siyempre, mejo hesitant pud ko ato--kay gusto man pud nila dayunon--but I was after the lasting and more effective result--painfully, through waiting--and more waiting--nakaka-relate ba kau?). Sure, the girls would be back at the end of this month; would be having enough finances for our supposed beach-cocktail party; will be staying on the fourteenth--since it's a holiday weekend--nonetheless, the entire heart preparation is not enough. Also, the network will be spearheading the anniversary come June 26th--which will require us extensive precipitation of our ideas, time, labors and (again) finances.

Hmmm...

We were weighing things. Taking them out. And weighing them again. Tough.

Arrive July, we will be starting the next Pre-Encounter (batch 17). August--the presentation of the 144s. September--Sunog Mindanao III. Yes, quite a busy quarter. Mas busy dapat sa prayer ano?

Wazzup this June? Shifting hands! My doce (that night, called themselves "Doc's" short for DOCe, "c" sounds as "k"--feeling doctors na sila--Ako naman daw talaga ung "Gov" kasi ako naman ang part ng primary twelve... But honestly, I like the sound and feeling of mama better... myrej, mrej, or terej... it sounds pamilyang-pamilya... P.Rej evolved recently kasi the network leaders are now called network pastors... pero, parang lumayo yata ako sa mga anak ko! Haaay... name calling! Enough for the detour...)--planned to meet their girls... re-align them with the vision (you know what summer can do! haha); most of them going back to the PEPSOL process.

Then, one of the doc's (can't remember exactly who said it--super maingay kasi kami--brain storming--tsaka feathering !!!) suggested that we start the Pre-Encounter this June since a lot are ready but were not able to join the summer Encounter (kasi umuwi nga *wink*) while waiting for the 3rd Q's Enc naman would be straining na... We'd have an early Encounter this July and meet after a week for a network celebration--which will be the presentation of twelves!

Ang taas ng faith noh? Wow. My girls' feathers now have grown. (from an eagle song)

Wooooh!

They were volunteering for the Pre-Enc teaching loads. We'd be having the Pre-Enc during Conquest Night skeds--5pm/Sundays. (My girls are power preachers, by the way! The Conquest Nights exposed it! Thank you Holy Spirit! You are the Reason.)

And oooohh--what excited them more was the Encounter lessons--they want to teach. I can feel it in their Spirit. And I can confirm in the Spirit, too, that they are ready (and will be preparing more) to minister. So we checked the Encounter lessons and made assignments! (Indeed, we were soaring in faith that Jollibee Night!)

We reviewed the goals--at least 60 Eagurls for the July 10-12, 2009 Encounter. The Take OFF (144's Night) will be a week after--no longer the fancy beach-cocktail party--but a simpler gathering at BCC. We'll be in our pyjamas and pica-pica food nalang while gathered on mattresses (sana may mahiraman kaming air beds! haha...). We'll be listening to Ptr. Merlyn's exhortation after some kantahan, kulitan (sure yan!), games, manicure-pedicure(-kulot?) sessions... SPArty!

Ito pala lahat ung excitement sa mga mata nila... Di rin nila alam... Pero pinabasa din ni Lord sa 'min nung lumalim na ang gabi... Really, sometimes, there are things that thrill us to the gut, but we don't know it...
-until we spend time with God and (xempre time din with His people *wink*);
-until we learn our lessons;
-until we're ready for it.

At a loss for words...

Lord, help us.

We wrote the desires (plans na actually) and laid our hands on them. We were all so passionate in the intercession--abi namo naa lang mi sa BCC! We were at Jollibee! Hahaha. Mabuti nalang, solo namin ung room! Haha.

Until now... I am humbled by my girls' faith and the leading of the Holy Spirit. These are still plans--let God honor it. If He makes shifts again--super okay parin--as long as He's leading the flight.

:>

Eagurlz Take OFF!!!

ps: me at the end of penning this blog:

part II:
(i can't help but update this blog, hehe)
we're moving the Take OFF Night pala frm July 18 to Aug01, so we can have Micah with us... di pwedeng kulang! haha... I'll take this time to thank the Lord din, for Micah's life, her career included... she's a nurse by profession, a school administrator by practice. she's drafted to be one of Phoenix Publishing's Team of Speakers here in the PI. She's going to be the youngest! haha, imagine her colleages--academe vets--grandma's by age and experience! she couldn't be so if she will not have a training in San Francisco, USA this July... Galing noh?! "She once winced, how could a nurse like me take a call like this?" Hmmm? Pano nga ba? Simple lang po! Talagang magaling si Lord mag set-up! Pa-steup na din tau?! hahaha!

To Micah---keep growing your feathers! Fly high, agila! :x

"The Million Dollar Question:

2009-05-02T16:05:00.012+08:00

Musta?"

Got that SMS just now from Bryan (our official text minister! haha). I can't help but reply: "Ang million dollar na tubag kay...? At best! :P" 'Coz i really am. Sometimes stupefied* by my own tanggal-ang-boredom ways, at least--oops! at best pala!--I get to tell myself: I still love life! To be more specific, my unique and original ('di ba pareho ung dalawa?) Rejoice Credo Lagat life! And for those of you who get to be part of it--swerte nu! Hahaha. JK! Bawal ang patola! Okay, I admit, I'm blessed--super blessed--no, super-raised-to-the-nth-power blessed to have all the people surrounding me now. You're all kisses of heaven to me!

Why am I saying all these? Am I leaving? or worst, dying? Eeengk! At best nga ako ngaun! (di nga lang perfect... pero getting there! God's grace naman daw reshapes and perfects us all... galing noh?) So, bakit nga ba halatang-halata ang drama ko? Hmm... Well, last Saturday, we passed by Baranggay Baganihan, Sitio Maharlika, Marilog District. April 25, 2009--exactly one month from the very day our lives (papaps & mamams) spinned--yeah, literally. Check the photos below... or maybe u've gone through it already! Pics always get our attention first thant texts, haha.

Noooo--I didn't cause the exhibition! Well, an hour before it happened, I was maneuvering the wheels... my sixth time to drive, actually... but i got tired... (trying to hide the real reason i was evicted from the driver's seat *wink*)... okay, cge, Papaps said, the road after Kibawi area is a little challenging, so siya muna. When the hour hand was close to make a full revolution, Mams suggested that Paps take a nap, and she'd drive. Paps succumbed. Bajada and a big truck cut over us, Paps (was still awake--di yata maiwan si Mama na sariling magmaneho--kahit 19 years na siyang licensed driver... Licensed without driving kasi! Still refreshing the pages!) said that Mama would exert brake and motion the car to the side... mejo nataranta yata c Mama, ung accelerator ang naapakan niya... Imagine the car running faster (when it shouldn't) at a downhill slope! Paps shouted "Brake! Brake!" daw! Hinabol ni mama... pero too late na, kasi napunta na rin sa side ung car... sobrang nasa side, na sa canal na pala dumadaan si Rah-Rah (pangalan po pala ng sasakyan! haha)... When mom stepped on the brake from a high speed motion... Something amazing happened... Voila! The car turned upside-down!

Mom was shouting daw a battery of I'm-sorry's and Jesus's! Papaps was praying hard, too. Then mom, shouted: Si Rejoice! Check Rejoice! Saan ba kasi ako? Ayun, sa likod... natutulog! Remember the Mark4 story? Jesus was sleeping on a cushion-in a a boat-during a fierce storm! Haha, wala lang, naka-relate lang... Pero di naman ako si Jesus... before I could have said Be Still to the car... Still na rin talaga siya when I opened my eyes... I did feel the turbulence before it ceased, but the only thing I managed to do was close my already-closed eyes (in slumber, diba? mantika matulog, eh) and pray the most heart-felt prayer of confession and repentence in 5seconds. I really thought, it's gonna be heaven the next time I use my eyelids!

3:15pm. March 25, 2009.

A teaser.

A heavenly illustration.

Another kiss from heaven.

All three of us realized we're still so alive, yet trapped inside Rah-Rah's damaged body. Paps immediately broke-open one window and we got out of the car through it. We checked ourselves from injuries--zero! PTL! We were sooo joyful that at best, we're physically A-okay! My dad hugged mama and I... and continued hugging mama while I tried to call Bem and Lai. In the highest level of aftershock, they didn't notice that we were at public's eye. Haha. Hindi sila artistahin. Naturally loving lang--lalo na these years...

So I phoned Lai. Told her the details. She called 911 for us. 911 came. (bilis noh? hndeh, the way i said it lang... they arrived mga 35min after pa).

I saw a spot where I could collect myself together. And I told God: Thank You that You Are Real. He answered, Welcome to Part II. I was about to ask why there's a Part II? But Paps came and said, (tumatawa siya) Doys, same mission. Same vision. We're still gonna do it. Then he asked if I wanted water.

...

Remembering that life-changing moment, I now understand that Part II's are better. I'm at my best while in Part II. Kasama ko kau, eh! Haha... And I said to myself, I'm gonna do better this time... I'm gonna love more... give more... learn more... worship more... smile more... save more... work more... and just do more... for JC-Love and for all He calls me to serve.

:>

take two.

warrior chicks

2009-04-15T12:06:00.006+08:00

(one of three blogs I wish to pen this week… okay, congratulate me kay nadasig napud!)

just finished editing the video compilation of my girls' one-liner testimonies... haha, natuwa ako... finally, i figured out how chroma-keying is done!
it's going to be a full night this friday, noh? (talking to myself...) we're still half-way the preps, but as the global-melancholy that i am, i take more lakwatsa sa net, than preparing... and xempre, on-my-knees and facedown sessions are musts!

some things make this coming reload different:

i. "Ptr. Ave Moment" (Ate Raya translated his fam name into English--Ptr. I-thought--galing ni Ate Raya! Haha, pero it doesn't lessen the fact that we honor our leaders... hm... come, let's reason together! wahaha!) i thought we're hosting the 24th's... and just last sunday, Bem checked the sked for me--it's gonna be this friday na... so, we're cramming (as we usually do!)... nakaka-score na naman ang pressure sa akin... at least, it brings out the best (in me? in-us nalang!)... nagiging best friend ko na yata... (a new friend from an old company, huh?)

ii. "walang puyatan"—pero whole day work nga lang… not-to-mention the breaks!!! But since we’re still in advent, di natin alam... pero so far, all arranged naman... what else are yet-to-be-done? Ppt Presentation? (pics are ready—it’ll be final by friday); Outline (half-way through; revelations keep coming!); stage deco (the girls are doing it tonight); Dance Presentation (Jing's the girl!); Program (my ever trusted Langga & Kilet); PAW (Toto's leading); Announcement Media (Allyza & me are doing it mamaya!)Haay… I sooo love my girls!

iii. "something old, something new" --what's something old?--the basics... prayer... prayer... prayer... and a little conceptualizing!!! Since the theme is Warrior Chicks--the environmental theme would be China--as in Mulan! Why? Hmm... See you sa Reload!!!
Something new naman... Ung Chroma-Keyed video! (halata ba'ng ang saya ko talaga? waaah....); and the remix of chinese songs for the dance which Jing asked of me... my first time to edit, and i think i'm enjoying it!

iv. and... haha... i'm blogging before the event happens! (okay, sorry for the usually late Reload blogs especially the Jacob-Rachel one...)

you might ask, bakit ba kina-career naming sobra ang Reload? For the Eagurlz (and the whole youth reload, I believe), it’s WORSHIP. Whatever we do—whether we speak, dance, sing, challenge an offering, usher people, act, write scripts, edit videos, capture God-moments with a camera, manage media or intercede—it’s all Worship before the King. And we long for every turn that we get to do it… (once a month by the way! And a rest in January and May!) It’s also SERVICE. We get to serve the Church—the reloaders in bringing the Message to this generation. And, it’s FUN… bonding and consolidation for everyone! Whatever we do, masaya naman—that’s because you like the people you’re with… Ganyan din cgro sa heaven noh? You get to be with the people you like (and love!) for like, forever! (Reload preps pa nga lang, masaya na! Imagine life na bawal ang word na “end!”)

so thanks guys for sharing the excitement with me... there's one thing that i'd like you to do, though... and please do it over (plus over plus over and over plus again--kahit until this Fri lang!): Please pray for us!

Much thanks!

So, cge, gtg, allyza's coming na! toodles! ;)

charged at sunup

2009-04-11T02:21:00.010+08:00

four hours of hugging pillows and hiding under the sheets... how time squeaked by! and now i'm in full senses again... (at 2:38am)... a little bored, well, at least entertained by my first cup of coffee (first? ...and will delight in a sequel!) i'm just forcing myself to finish one so i can take a spoon of mucolytic in a while... yeah, i coughed myself to wake! at least the hacking (not to mention, barking) only disturbed myself...

...

i didn't know mamams own a very orange (neon pa nga) umbrella... (it's in front of me now--as if it's gonna move! and no, i'm not relocating)...

it's Saturday na pala noh... what were the highlights this week?
...the primary twelve's photoshoot... buffet lunch (and siyempre, buffet pud ang katawa!)...
...the Milan talk with Corie... it swoop me literally... perte uy!
...the stroll... threesome, we (mom & lai) looked for something to munch and ended up lounging at some coffee place... nagkwentuhan... nagtawanan... mayaman naman kami sa ganyan! haaay, ang saya ng gabi--what could a melancholy expect from sanguines! and now, solong-solo ko ang silence ng sala... i wish one of them would wake up and dish out a story... (i'll try to whoop a little louder... hehe)
...the pizza birthday (happy birthday, migz! hala uy, 23 ka na... magminyo najud ka? di pa unta ko sugot, pero murag sugot man si papa... haha... good luck nalang jud sa maminyuan... hahaha... mag-ampo jud kog buotan nga sister-in-law...)
...Eagurlz prayer at Biba's--marathon... lahat nanalo sa endurance... soaking and encouragement through the Word... (pikot kaayo akong mata pag-uli... totoinkz!)
...Eagurlz concept night--tambay, prayer and brain storming for the next Reload to spearhead... Gogogo Warrior Chicks!!!
...online meeting with Janeth (no running away!)
...registration payments; pastors' allowances;
...the loooong worship practice...
...leading worship (woah... woah...)
...Re-Encounter (topic: Creating Leaders Who Are Sure of Themselves);
...hearting the book, Girlfriend, You're A B.A.B.E. (malaman!)
...last night's footwashing
...delirou5?'s back to the start, my heart is heavy; feels like it's time to dream again... it's gonna rain... yeah-yeah...

...
...

Sip. Gulp. Sip.
...

To a beautiful you:
1. Do beautiful things.
2. Take worship walks.
3. Laugh well. (it's okay to cough, but express a hearty cackle when it desists... haaay...)

...
3:31
...

tabled

2009-03-29T01:21:00.004+08:00

Short of three inches to be a foot from the console's edge,
There, the chocolate sat.
Wooing the one it's aimed at.
'Is it for me?' I asked.

A delightful display, An intriguing sight;
A cautious stare, A hesitant will;
A hazy montage, A silent answer;

Sweet cocoa.
For me, I pray.

ready for love?

2009-03-01T12:23:00.005+08:00

discussion will be posted not later than Feb13, 2010...

Son of God

2009-01-08T07:36:00.006+08:00

Son of God
by: Starfield

Son of God, Shaper of the stars
each one ravishing...
U shape us and position us just where U want us 2b...
You alone, The dweller of my heart
yes, U r...
don't just reside, but take control...
considering i'm weaker than before...
Mighty King, How beautiful You are, how beautiful
i take another day gazing at U...

Son of God, The Father's gift to us
Precious...
You alone, Were broken on the alter of love
I'm still captivated...
Precious Lamb, Our freedom's in Your blood,
It's in your blood
Just one drop--able to cleanse me...
yet U gave Ur all...
i'm indebted...

Jesus, Oh Holy One, I sing to You, Forgiven
I love U still...
Savior, I'm overcome
With Your great love for me
yet U outlove me...

Son of God,Strength beyond compare
I need your strong arm...
You alone, The darkness cannot bear
refulgent... and it's taming me...
Lord of love, Your kindness draws me near
It draws me
and draw me nearer Lord...

Son of God, Prophecy of old
my present lover...
You alone, Redeemer of my soul
my rope...
Come again, And lead your people home
Come lead us home
call me ms. eager...

You are worthy, You are worthy
You are worthy of all my praise
and i desire to give more of my all...

You are beautiful, You are beautiful
I will lift up my hands and sing
oh i just can't stop...

come to davao!

2009-01-05T17:31:00.012+08:00

my cousin, Christine Hope, had been here since
new year's eve.
we have been inviting her since
"i could not remember."
my uncle doesn't let her travel without
somebody from their fam accompany her.
but finally her dad succumbed
and she's here!
(she's graduated college, anyway!) ;)
i wasn't able to go with them (w/ lalai & mamams)
at crocodile park last saturday night
(praise & worship prax kasi...
at nagpower-off the whole AM nung Sunday! haha...)
Lalai & Migz drove her to people's park
then to our cousins' house
last sunday night
(again, di ako nakasama...
i was unwell,
yet felt well when the eagurlz nestled with me!
mbuti nlng anjan kau girls...)
so yesterday, it was my treat...
Sinabi rin kasi ni Papaps na nakakagaling
ng sipon at ubo ang dagat...
so ayon, we packed our stuff
to Blujaz Resort at the
Island Garden City of Samal (IGaCoS)...
We brought AJ along...
ala din naman siyang gawin eh...
hehe...

Hope texted her f&f to make them jelly...
haha...
it was also my first time at the newly constructed resort.
it was serene...
it melted the christmas* buzz in me
and it buffeted summer immediately.

the girls freshened at the pool
while clad with (nooo... not the strings!)
their child-like hearts.

we dipped in the cool, waveless ocean
and unraveled our hearts out.
(lam nu na un... hot seat! haha)

the water, the sky, the sand...
and xempre... the gurlz...
all composed...
oh so ideal!
sabi pa nga ni Hope,
"Ate, this is such a perfect holiday!"
i thought so, too.
i love davao.
i love beach again.

i regret regretting

2008-12-31T16:35:00.007+08:00

a few hours and some minutes,
it's gonna be over...
yeah, like you, i hate goodbyes...
but what can i do?
keep memories in my heart...
yet it's still farewell.

without a doubt, i enjoyed (no, there's a better word than that!) the rich year,
in fact, dragging myself towards 2009,
would be the least thing to do.

right now, i'm actually thrilled
by the thought of yanking it to heaven's gates
that the Lord be glorified in all the turn-outs within it...

that's the regret I secretly kept until the time's closing.
i was flaunting my todo mode operation all year
yet today, i feel there's a
todo-er mode(*wink*)i can switch my knob to.

are you familiar with rehearsing mistakes?
my, i have become a master of that art (huh, if it is!)
by paying a luxurious amount of time for it!
i regret regretting.

i'm taking off my toga,
because it's school time again in few turns of Mr. Hour's hand... happy new year, everyone!
prepare, coz greater things are gonna come!

maayong pasko

2008-12-23T06:38:00.003+08:00

"I still love you, Jesus!"

STAR TALK...kwentuhang YOU!

2008-12-20T12:36:00.009+08:00

(c)December 2008/YOUTH RELOAD
(just click the images for larger view)

-The birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ!
Mankind will no longer sorrow at the thought
of debt, punishment and eternal separation from God.
-There is One that will become the ultimate
sacrifice and finally appease the Father.
-Christmas is a great promise for each of us who believes!
-It's a remembrance of Christ's birth;
receiving presents should not define the beauty
of the season, it's not our birthday anyway!
(unless of course you're born during yuletide! ;)

The Almighty gave first.
It's a loving response to give back...
Christmas is an opportunity to bring
the most extravagant offering to JESUS!
Gifting our loved ones & friends come second.

The season becomes meaningful when we are able
to get right with God and with people.
Short of that, it's an understatement.

Christmas is celebrating our liberation
from the curse of death through Jesus Christ.
We extend this joy with F&F (friends & family!)

-It reminds us how great is God's love for us
and Jesus' obedience (love) to His Father.
it's actually valentines, haha!

Among all the [legitimate] symbols of Christmas,
we esteem the Star for being the very emblem
that led the wise men to Jesus.
Jesus is the Bright & Morning Star (the Sun)...

It's not enough to be amazed and stare (if you can!)
at the Sun, we are to revolve around it
and be like it.
We are stars. (Abraham's promise from God Gen26:4)

(What do you call the stars that don't shine?)

2Peter1:19 - "...YOU MUST PAY CLOSE ATTENTION
TO WHAT THEY WROTE,
FOR THEIR (PROPHETS) WORDS ARE LIKE
A LAMP (STARS/NIV) SHINING IN A DARK PLACE--
UNTIL THE DAY DAWNS
AND CHRIST THE MORNING STAR
SHINES IN YOUR HEARTS."

We are to shine our light Day and Night!
Day = good times; days when we are
so on-fire for God; it's easy radiate God's Light;
NIGHT = tough times; seasons of trial & process...
but the call to shine still rings...
in fact, it's the best time for stars
to shine and be recognized!

We had lots of "day" times and "night" ones in 2008.
and there's more to see in 2009,
this time, we decide to enjoy each season
as stars shining bright in places
where God positioned us.
Expect blessings and await trials to conquer.

the "DAY dawns" in 2Pet1:19 talks about
Jesus' Second coming.
It doesn't scare us anymore but
it excites us of eternity with Him!
Saints (stars) or the faithful will be rewarded
(Rev 3:5)

Be reminded that... A)

Jesus purchased your star-ship (stardom!).

Many are stars but don't actually feel that they are...
which causes them to fail the third step:

it's not about nice clothes or fame.
Being a star is...
-believing in Jesus & cultivating a relationship with Him.
-becoming TODO in worship & service.
-being a leader and making a difference!

Hold your Faith. GET READY for the "awards night."
It can be dawn, day, noon, afternoon...
We just don't know.
That's why we have to get ready.
Rewards await us!
*Eternity in Heaven...
*the Crown of Righteousness
and the prize of winning souls to Jesus...

The world needs a star a like you.
(go, mga artEsta!!!)
***wink***

attachment: (video compilation of YR2008)
have a great year-end everyone!

just like you

2008-12-19T12:33:00.006+08:00

by: Jason Upton

I tried to walk on the water and found myself under the sea
So with water up my nose I felt your hand come close to save me
Ive tried to cast out the demons Ive gone to the darkest of regions
When fear has me shaking you suddenly break in to save me

I desire
To be like you
Like any son or daughter
I want to be like my Father
I desire to be like you
You promised to never forsake me
So Ill risk it all if youll make me like You

You stand beside me just waiting
while I try to go it alone
Smiling You say son come here
wont you let me just help you
But frustrated I try to make it
cause Ive just got something to prove
Not knowing it is my weakness
that perfects your power

i still love this song...
i can't get enough of it since i heard it in 2002
and got a copy of the cd in 2004.
Sir Jason Upton himself sent me a package of his cds
and i was all too exuberant...
there were five Remember cds...
(which includes the unedited FLY spontaneous song
where you can hear the angels sing with him)
2 Key of David's...
and 1 Faith album...
(don't bother to ask for the xtra ones,
unfortunately, they were up for grabs four years ago!)
I love to play the songs over and over
until i memorized almost all the adlibs...

so for you guys who are part of the post encounter class...
enjoy the song,
best--enjoy being a child of God!!!
Remember, many are eagerly waiting to
see your sonship (daughter-ship) revealed!
Romans 8:19
;D

The Cute Jew At MOA

2008-12-15T13:45:00.003+08:00

it's past twelve when we have decided
to kill the time at the Mall of Asia
since our Mla-Dvo flight was still at 6.
we still have 3 hours or so before check-in.
so while strolling at the
second largest mall in Asia
(i dunno the first one!
i was just told it's the 2nd largest.
i didn't even bother asking what outlasted it,
for the reason that i'm already satisfied with the
leisurely yet punishing walks
i've had in the three visits i paid in this trip ;)
so you know where an unplanned mall time
would lead: clothes department!
i'm not really into it, i confess.
but the spacious Kamiseta, P&P, Maldita and Bench shops
are definitely inviting.
while nearing the Von Dutch (did i spell it right?)
boutique, a cute young man was smiling at me.
i did not reciprocate of course.
but i found myself staring at the curly mane
and clear skin that he was sporting.
he came to me, smiled wider and grabbed my left hand.
hey, this foreigner is going overboard.
the next thing i know, he was pinching a lotion tube
and massaging my hand.
He's actually selling me a lotion from the "holy land."
My mom who was with me asked
if he's a jew. a proud one, he nodded and
turned to squeeze my mom's hand with lotion, too.
he led us into his corner of "holy land" products
called -417 (Minus 417).
he got my mom into a conversation
while i managed to look around the rest in their stacks.
i found crucifixes, stones, prayer booklets,
colognes, shampoo, soap, and rosaries.
his cousin who attempted to entertain me
probably thought that i wasn't that interested,
grabbed a stick from his box of cigarettes and left.
i motioned close to the flat monitor screen
that showcased Israel, the Holy Land.
My heart broke as i was watching the video clip
and the young men right before us.
(because there were four of them in all)
they're making a business out of:
a. their country,
b. other nations' idea of the holy land
(or the red sea)
c. Jesus!
The Christian angst in me arose.
i personally didn't like
what they're doing.
before i gestured to my mama my dislike of them,
i saw her making a purchase of an eye cream
and another product which cost her
a discounted price of 2100 Php.
well, it didn't anger me since i am in hope,too,
that it would remove the redness
and skin-peeling around papaps' eyes.
(let it heal, i pray! money-back at least)
while the guy busied himself packaging the items,
i waited near the ice skating rink adjacent to the stall.
though i enjoyed the sight of children gliding,
i heard a voice probing,
"right attitude, huh?"

"can i have our lesson later? I'm at the mall,"
I bargained.
you read me right, yeah,
i was actually avoiding a session with God.

okay, i am sorry...
*my* lesson, not our lesson.
They're Your children.
Your chosen people.
I'm an adopted daughter,
bought at a very high price.
(which i will be forever grateful for)
I may have not said bad things,
but I thought of them in a bad way.
Compassion for Your people.
COMPASSION.
a genuine feeling that should start
some "where"
right "where"
other people cannot see, hear, or even enter.

- Theology 101.03 -

it is finished!

2008-12-01T11:12:00.005+08:00

I have been struggling to finish our
new Pre-Encounter Manual.
Squeezing this project to other pressing needs,
I finally got it done!
Thank you Lord!!!

BCC family day

2008-12-01T10:46:00.006+08:00

BCC Family Day, the first since embracing the vision for multiplication,
i really enjoyed the busy day that i forgot to eat!!!
Papaps shared about the prominent John Wooden
and inspired us all to continue rowing our boats upstream!
The powerful testimonies of Jojo, Juris, Mayang & Lawrence
added to the Thanksgiving flavor!
I went home at lunch to fetch 3 trays of Crema de Fruta
and the PiNATAka special
I prepared for my girls!
(uuuy, marunong na daw ako magprepare ng food!
hahaha, trying hard!)
The money was from BCC, a monetary treat for the network
that sends the most number of Encounter participants--
and oh, there was no announcement that we will be prized
and was prized! But thanks again BCC Leadership
for remembering the girls who labored
to send people to the Encounter! ;D

We spent the whole afternoon with a battery of presentations!
the kids' song number and FDD's skit stood out...
and there were door prizes in between...

Children were dedicated to the Lord
(ninang ulit ako for the 23rd time!)
and our network did a repeat performance of
Vineyard Manila's Time to Fly! haha...
the girls held the Tatty Bears,
mother eagle's early Christmas gift...

I missed Annie's 18th Birthday well wishing
and the water baptism
since i ran 2 rounds of pre-encounter lessons 4 & 5!
(four lessons in all)
i really asked for a break since super gutom na talaga!
(thank God, the girls were kind to me!)

F.Day ended our busy November
and we'll be surely starting the busier month of December!!!

the bridge

2008-11-24T16:31:00.005+08:00

i was left bawling.

take you back

2008-11-23T22:36:00.002+08:00

The reason why I stand
The answer lies in you
You hung to make me strong
Though my praise was few
When I fall and bring your name down

But I have found in you
A heart that pleads forgiveness
Replacing all these thoughts
Of painful memories
But I know
That your response will always be

[Chorus]
I'll take you back always
And even when your fight is over now
Even when your fight is over now
I'll take you back always
And even when the pain is coming through
Even when the pain is coming through
I'll take you back

You satisfy this cry
Of what I'm looking for
And I take all I can
And lay it down
Before the throne of endless grace, now
That radiates what's true

I'm in the only place
That erases all these faults
That have overtaken me
But I know
That your response will always be

[Repeat Chorus]

I can only speak
With a grateful heart
As I'm pierced by this gift
Of your love

I will always bring an offering
I can never thank you enough

[Chorus Two]
You'll take me back always
And even when my fight is over now
Even when my fight is over now
You'll take me back always
And even when my pain is coming through
Even when my pain is coming through
You'll take me back always

Even when my fight is over now
Even when my fight is over now

You'll take me back always

Even when my pain is coming through
Even when my pain is coming through

You'll take me back

cry in my heart

2008-11-20T22:42:00.002+08:00

WHY NOT tell the TRUTH?!

2008-11-19T09:55:00.006+08:00

Lying is an issue.
Revelation 21:8 says, "but cowards, unbelievers,
the corrupt, murderers, the immoral,
those who practice witchcraft, idol worshippers,
and ALL LIARS--their fate is in the
fiery lake of burning sulfur.
This is the second death."
White lies or dark ones will lead us to hell.
Who among us hear have never told a lie?

What is a lie???
-any bearing of false witness
is a lie (Exod 20:16)
-anything untrue
-any changed or twisted thought
-flattery
-lack of information
-absence of words (when you can speak the truth)
-falsehood
-lake of fire
-misleading impression
-fib
-stories
-distorted thought
-triviality
-front

WHAT DO WE CALL A PERSON WHO LIES? a Liar.
How many times does a person have to lie
to become a liar? ONCE.

we have become very good at lying.
WHO TAUGHT US ANYWAY?
Psalm 58:3 = These wicked people
are born sinners;
even from birth they have lied
and gone their own way.
We don't have a subject on Lies in school
yet we learned it so well.
Some of us are majors on
Bachelor of Arts in Lying
(pwede rin Bachelor of Science in Lying).
Terrible.
Jeremiah 9:3 = My people bend their tongues
like bows to shoot lies.
They refuse to stand up for the truth.
They only go from bad to worse.
They do not know me," says the Lord.

It's scary when we don't know
how to distinguish truth from lies.
It's scary when we do not know how to tell
the truth anymore!
1TIMOTHY 4:2 = THESE PEOPLE ARE HYPOCRITES
AND LIARS,
AND THEIR CONSCIENCES ARE DEAD.

WHY DID WE LIE? (WHY DO WE LIE?)
-to protect someone? and that someone
is usually ME.
-we feared the Truth;
or that the Truth is painfully true.

Does the Truth really hurt?
Or we were hurt more when we were deceived by lies?
Lying is like collecting garbage.
Chronic lying makes us become beautiful garbage bins.

WERE THERE LIARS IN THE BIBLE?
ANANIAS & SAPPHIRA- they told the Apostle Paul
that they gave 100% of their lot proceeds
when they didn't. They were immediately killed
after telling a lie.
GEHAZI, Prophet Elisha's assistant--lied about asking
for a set of Naaman's royal robe. He got leprosy after lying.
MICHAL, King Saul's daughter & King David's wife--lied
by keeping his husband's mock body on bed
ABRAHAM & SARAH--lied that Sarah is Abraham's brother
REBEKAH--taught his son Jacob to lie about his identity
JACOB--lied to his father that he is his brother Esau
ISAAC--lied to Abimelech by telling him that his wife
Rebekah is his sister (just like Abraham did)

Lies bring guilt.
It's more hurting to tell a lie.
We hurt people. We hurt ourselves.

The truth sets us free from
A. GUILT
B. SHAME
C. CONSEQUENCE(S) OF LYING
(leprosy, death, bad reputation,etc.)

WHERE CAN WE FIND THE TRUTH?

The Truth is found in Jesus Christ.
Jesus is the Truth.
There is so much Truth in Him and His Word
that lies become bitter anymore!
John 14:6 = Jesus said, I AM THE WAY,
THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE.
NO ONE COME TO THE FATHER
EXCEPT THROUGH ME.

THERE ARE TOO MANY LIES
AND TOO MANY LIARS.
IT'S TIME TO STAND AS BEARERS OF TRUTH.
THE HEALING BALM FOR BEING A CHRONIC LIAR
IS STARTING TO SPEAK THE TRUTH
(no matter how hard it is).

Let's draw close to the Cross
and allow Jesus to change us; to heal us.
***

If the world has
Commercial Model-turned-Actresses
TV Reporter-turned-Politicians
Actor-turned-Businessmen, etc.

then I am a LIAR-TURNED-CHRISTIAN LEADER
(I'm an ex-liar)
WHAT'S YOUR NAME TAG???

my valentine birthday

2008-11-17T23:47:00.009+08:00

okay, i know this is a late blog.
but i have to try to document
(though it's almost impossible to do so!)
how special was the day i turned twenty-six.

a bunch of twenty-five red roses
was delivered at the middle of our
usually Monday staff meeting.
the mysterious guy who brought them
got all the girls so kilig.
the whole room was filled with what sounded
as a choreographed shouting...
they hated it when i kept saying it's from a gal pal...
no, i think they're from my girls... Eagurlz!!!
the love note gave me clues...
Prov18:22 and one other verse...
from the Fuego de Dios network kaya?
James who was present commented that
the handwriting is Val's.
(actually, it's Langga's)
the cute little note ended with
from: 26th rose bearer.
i joked at Juvy, "what if this is from Dacs?"
hahaha... it left us all lol-ing.we all tried to continue with the meeting
since the Women's Encounter is at hand.
yet, we all could not keep away from wondering
who's up to this?
i kept asking Chemis, "you know about this, right?"
"how much did you pay for this?"
hahaha, her guilty eyes couldn't lie!
Kilet came to meet her pre-enc girls,
we also bugged her with questions!!!
she was successful at spilling nothing!
Chairman Ating was the most kilig in the group.
and her kilig virus ran up to Ate Emma and Juvy..
but Ate Jingle insisted that they're from girls...
she examined the roses,
felt it with her chest...
scrutinized the note
and the words on it!
haha, she just knew when flowers come from a man
or from girl friends!
so we waited for sundown
for Mr. Twenty-Sixth Rose Bearer to come.
we were supposed to have our
Primary Twelve Women's Close Cell,
but mamams opted to have it at
Chicken Ati-atihan for some chicken cut grabbies.
meanwhile, the girls were planning to come to church
but Chairman Ating--who acted like innocent,
and was very very convincing,
was actually part of concocting the birthday surprise--
texted the group to switch plans.
The connivance almost messed up but
I believe she queued them to go to Chicken Ati.
While dining, she was acting like
telling Lalai to tell the full throttle
of the Rose Bouquet Mystery
while the girls were readying
for the greeting salvo!!!
While Ate Debbs, Juvy, Ate Jingle were listening,
the girls came with fuchsia and purple balloons,
along with happy and loud greetings!!!
All the Ati guests looked at us
since we filled the place with shouts...
Bemboy, who drove us there waited for his queue
and stood to hand me the rose!!!
we all shouted in surprise
and i kissed my favorite brother!!!

awww... how sweet!!!
Papaps could have been the One...
yet he missed the victimizing surprise!
and so Bem played the part...
Ate Emma came late and gifted me
a red heart box.
She asked if Mr. Twenty-Sixth Rose Bearer
already came... we told her yes
and that he already went home!
She can't concentrate with her dinner
at kinukulit kami kung sino...
they told her the clue is "B" and "J"
a) BenJie???
b)Balbino Jr? (hahaha--c kuya dodong)
c)Brylle John (blessy's younger bro)
then, we told him
it's "Bemboy" or "J.Salem"
hahaha....
(bem, u really made the night so special & fun!)

almost all the young people at church wondered who's who.
we came home facing a lot of querries.
ang sarap makipaglaro, but kawawa naman
ang susunod na mabibiktima...
super fun talaga ang day!

thanks to the Eagurlz Doce who planned it,
and you, miss Rizza Jean Rivera a.k.a. Langga
who masterminded it!!!
hahaha, you're super creative!
thanks sa barkada mo who came to deliver it
because of a Burger meal bribe! hahaha!!!
thanks to all who signed the birthday greeting compilation!

thanks to Mamams
who did not tire of picturing me! hehe...
Twenty-six na jud ko Mams...yet the photos resemble my photos in high school
(wait til i get to scan them,
just to compare...Asus!)...
ewan ko bah, i'm so trying hard to look my age!!!
i really want to look like i'm twenty-six!
parang high school lang ako noh??? wahehehe....
joke lang!!!
i then closed the day counting all the SMS greetings
in my phone and replying to the Fster msgs...
ang saya pala maging twenty-six.
hehe...
here's the official reply to the 100+ SMS greetings:
Thx _____! I thk God 4 fnds lyk u ;)
Thx 4 taking tym 2greet!
Special thx 2d best parents n d wrld:
Ruffy & Merlyn Lagat...
Sissie Lai ug Bro Migz..
Eagurlz..
Reload..
BCC..
Ug xmpre, I wnt 2 thk
my ever faithful
Producer, Manager,
Director & Boss:
GOD ALMIGHTY
4 wo Him,I am super nothing.
(Hhha, feeling artEsta!
Dats bcos u made ds day
xtra spxal 4me! Weee!)
thku.

again, THANK YOU, everyone
for remembering! ;D

through the lenses

2008-11-17T23:01:00.009+08:00

my second try in photography
for my speaking engagement tomorrow
at Reload Cafe.
these photos will be used for the msg slide
and then, one of it will be the main
screen back drop...
for now, that's the plan...

model: Amor
make-up artist: me!
costume design: me? was it amor? uhm, oh, yeah,
we agreed on it!!! so, both of us! haha...
pray for me, as i speak!
thx...

women's encounter batch 14

2008-11-17T11:52:00.006+08:00

184 women gathered to encounter God. (well, the number includes us, speakers and guides *wink*)forty-three are Eagurlz plus nine who volunteered as guides (that makes fifty-two of us). the biggest delegation since the network was born! and, oh, we are in hope of adding to the number *wink again*
Exhausting as always--since it's a battle in the spirit--yet we all emerged victorious! i admit, i grappled at the very opportunity laid before me last night--you'd ask, what is it? well, something that makes one wince, "ooooohhh...sleep!"
and so... sleeping beauty indulged! hehehe...
now collected and composed, i'm heading off to grab some balloons and feathers for tomorrow's reload cafe! bye-bye.

insatiable

2008-11-13T22:58:00.002+08:00

i want more.
perhaps i'm a little dismayed
of the thought that i
miscalculated our potential as a team,
but again, i was proven
that i am so blessed by girls
who are peeking at the same vision
that i am closely guarding
and watching--
discounting the times i blinked!

tomorrow's the start
of the big event!!!
i'm supah excited to life...
me and my girls have given much
in preparing the girls
for the batch14 encounter...
and instead of resting,
i can't keep a hold
of my ever counting-the-stars mind...
(or should it be
count-the-sheep?
count-the-sand?
count-the-dust?)

calculate.
re-calculate.
who said we can actually calculate potential?

maybe, count-the-cost
and head off.

my, i'm insatiable.
(all for you, my JC love!)