Tuesday, September 30, 2008
AWANA Talents Nyte 2008
Yo! Check out the Awana Talent's Night 2008 Pictures.... :) at my picasa web album account... or just click the pictures on the right side...
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Re-reading the Bible
For quite some time I have just tried reading the Bible again… Hehehe! Surely I must admit. I haven’t really had my devotion for a long time. Perhaps have had my devotions using other books, but never practically tried to read directly from the Bible, chapter by chapter. Basically we Christians are fond of using other books as a guideline or something that will help us ease out our understanding of the Word of God, the Bible. But I believe the Bible can speak for its own, as it is closest to hearing God Himself speak by reading through the Word of God. True it’s hard to understand the words on its own, but as the Word itself has spoken, the Comforter will teach us all things and bring all things to remembrance. In other words, the Comforter or the Holy Spirit should teach us and reveal to us what we ought to learn.
John 14:26
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Practically, I started reading the Bible after being challenged by my father recently, asking me if I have read the whole Bible. Of course my answer was “No.” I did remember: I tried reading it chapter by chapter when I was at high school, every night. I was consistent and tried to read a chapter every day at night. I even had my notebook trying to write things I learned. But as far as I can remember, I think I went as far as……. Oops I can’t remember….. I only remember the book of Genesis. I also remember repeating to read Genesis again. But that wasn’t my goal then, I wanted to read the whole Bible. But I failed. In other words, I wasn’t really that consistent. But one thing I learned, that even as I read the book of Genesis over and over again, I learn new things even from the same story. And perhaps, the same thing I see today.
Though I did not start at Genesis, I started reading Matthew instead. Basically, it made me feel different and think so different. I mean it felt like a new story to me, although I know the story of Mary and Joseph and everything. Perhaps, it’s because it has been long time since I read the Book that gives life. It reminded me of how impossible things God made possible. It also reminded me of God fulfilling His own promises. And as I continue to read, one chapter somehow struck me more. Matthew Chapter 5
If I could remember this chapter is where you can find what they call “The Beatitudes” (whatever that means). The latter verses, makes me fascinated on how Christ talked and preached that day. So indifferent from what man practically or instinctively responds to any circumstances Christ gave. It is totally the opposite of what man will respond. And truthfully? I can’t even see these responses to our day-to-day activities as Christians. I wonder if I can do the same. Truthfully at some point I too fail. But wouldn’t it be really great if this will be true to our lives? How amazing that would be?
I remember a part of Ptr. Donald Tandoc’s preaching, just recently, about meekness. Truly it is synonymous to the word humbleness. But I liked the way he defined it and he said “something” like this “Ang meekness po e ganito… Ikaw ay tinatadyakan na.. sinasampal na.. dinuduraan na… at wala ka pa rin ginagawa kundi patuloy na minamahal at minamahal ang taong gumagawa ng di maganda sa yo.” And that’s true! I agree with him. That’s because that’s the picture of how Christ died, suffered and agonized for the sake of me and for all mankind. The One who knew no sin, died at the cross, so that those who believe in Him might be saved. And, as I remembered, when Ptr. Tandoc asked the congregation “Kaya po ba natin gawin to?” I felt the silence that struck the congregation. Surely they seem to have never heard this kind of point of view before. Or perhaps, they weren’t really reading their Bible that much, when the Bible itself is actually covered all over it. Or, I mean it’s written all over it.
Oh, how I wish God’s people will learn to die for their brethren, as Christ has died for them as well…
1 John 3:16 (New International Version)
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
John 14:26
But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Practically, I started reading the Bible after being challenged by my father recently, asking me if I have read the whole Bible. Of course my answer was “No.” I did remember: I tried reading it chapter by chapter when I was at high school, every night. I was consistent and tried to read a chapter every day at night. I even had my notebook trying to write things I learned. But as far as I can remember, I think I went as far as……. Oops I can’t remember….. I only remember the book of Genesis. I also remember repeating to read Genesis again. But that wasn’t my goal then, I wanted to read the whole Bible. But I failed. In other words, I wasn’t really that consistent. But one thing I learned, that even as I read the book of Genesis over and over again, I learn new things even from the same story. And perhaps, the same thing I see today.
Though I did not start at Genesis, I started reading Matthew instead. Basically, it made me feel different and think so different. I mean it felt like a new story to me, although I know the story of Mary and Joseph and everything. Perhaps, it’s because it has been long time since I read the Book that gives life. It reminded me of how impossible things God made possible. It also reminded me of God fulfilling His own promises. And as I continue to read, one chapter somehow struck me more. Matthew Chapter 5
If I could remember this chapter is where you can find what they call “The Beatitudes” (whatever that means). The latter verses, makes me fascinated on how Christ talked and preached that day. So indifferent from what man practically or instinctively responds to any circumstances Christ gave. It is totally the opposite of what man will respond. And truthfully? I can’t even see these responses to our day-to-day activities as Christians. I wonder if I can do the same. Truthfully at some point I too fail. But wouldn’t it be really great if this will be true to our lives? How amazing that would be?
I remember a part of Ptr. Donald Tandoc’s preaching, just recently, about meekness. Truly it is synonymous to the word humbleness. But I liked the way he defined it and he said “something” like this “Ang meekness po e ganito… Ikaw ay tinatadyakan na.. sinasampal na.. dinuduraan na… at wala ka pa rin ginagawa kundi patuloy na minamahal at minamahal ang taong gumagawa ng di maganda sa yo.” And that’s true! I agree with him. That’s because that’s the picture of how Christ died, suffered and agonized for the sake of me and for all mankind. The One who knew no sin, died at the cross, so that those who believe in Him might be saved. And, as I remembered, when Ptr. Tandoc asked the congregation “Kaya po ba natin gawin to?” I felt the silence that struck the congregation. Surely they seem to have never heard this kind of point of view before. Or perhaps, they weren’t really reading their Bible that much, when the Bible itself is actually covered all over it. Or, I mean it’s written all over it.
Oh, how I wish God’s people will learn to die for their brethren, as Christ has died for them as well…
1 John 3:16 (New International Version)
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.
Monday, September 8, 2008
Roldan is Dead!
Haha! Quite a disturbing title I presume… but two things I’m pondering about when this thought comes to my mind. 1) The wonder of what does happens if this becomes true in the physical aspect? 2) The need of this phrase to be true in the spiritual aspect.
Well, the number one idea is simply a brink of my own thoughts of curiosity. Recently we have had several deaths in the past. And the most recent is the passing away of one of our faithful servant of the Lord, Mrs. Josefa Salinas. To be honest, I know only too little of her, but her name is known to many, and indeed I have heard of her deeds and ministries for the Lord and perhaps worthy to be called faithful servant of God. But one thing I may not forget of her is the time she helped my family through a piece of an amount that may have supplied enough the lacking amount needed for my father’s expenses when he was hospitalized. Interesting testimony of my mom would be all expenses were paid enough, no lacking nor excess, but simply enough.
And now, months after she had just visited my father, God took her home. I’m actually speechless, for I know I can not comprehend what God’s plan or will is for the matter. All I can only say perhaps is that she lived a meaningful life. Just looking at the people whom she has touched and made an impact…. they were many. Same scenery as I have been through the past deaths of the faithful servants of the Lord - remembering Ptr. Dawal, Ptr. Nick, Auntie Aning and Ptr. Bigornia. And I know those that have served the Lord whole-heartedly same picture would that be. Who then are the faithful? Perhaps a challenge towards the new generation of servants and ministers, will they also be faithful? And how about me, will I be faithful?
With all the happenings these days, being faithful to God maybe hardest ever, as we face a new world, a new era, where gadgets, internet, media, technology and knowledge has become the most prominent of this age. And, the other face of the earth shows that survival is the major factor that controls the life of a man. Sometimes, I wonder, are these happenings truly signifies the coming of our Lord? Just remembered Ptr. Marzan’s argument, a sign of Christ coming is the increase on knowledge of man.
Daniel 12:1-4
And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.
And so runs my curiosity and imagination, will Christ come in this period? Will I see that time of His coming? So many questions; But perhaps my recent question still remains a wonder for my own. Will I experience death as well? If so, I wonder how many people will come. But anyhow, there’s one thing I may have learned about death. As just been reminded of dreams my sister and even I myself have had this year.
My sister dreamt of me dying in a simple falling down from jumping up to get a fruit of a tree. But my dream was different, I dreamed I went to the future yet knowing at the future I was already dead (by assassination, I believe…. I think I’m watching too much movies). Then, came back to the present, being given a gun by a chief police (who’s face seem familiar but I know not his name) just to protect myself, saying I’m the only one who can protect myself.
Well, that was just a dream, but as I have said, it maybe that I have learned about death. The fact that we all face this at a point in our life time, death makes us reflect and re-evaluate our life, our actions, our deeds, everything that is about life, and perhaps our Christian life. And perhaps one question should we put in mind as Christians, will God say to us “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
And, this is where the second point I’m pondering about. How do we become good and faithful servant? Or do we even want to become one? At this time? I’m sure most of us don’t care (probably) but when we meet our Creator? I’m sure you’ll desire to hear it.
But anyway how do we become good and faithful servant? Well, one thing is for sure, this is only concluded at the end of our lives and never in the middle of our life time. But in the mean time as we continue living our lives I have this verse in mind:
Galatians 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
I believe this is what Paul wants Christians should do. For he himself recognizes he has still his sinful flesh and the only way for him to live for Christ, is that he must die daily. And that is what I’m talking about. For as Christians, we ought to really die unto ourselves so that Christ may live in us. Our desires for His; our plans for His; our decisions for His; our everything for Him.
Matthew 16:24-28
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
Well, the number one idea is simply a brink of my own thoughts of curiosity. Recently we have had several deaths in the past. And the most recent is the passing away of one of our faithful servant of the Lord, Mrs. Josefa Salinas. To be honest, I know only too little of her, but her name is known to many, and indeed I have heard of her deeds and ministries for the Lord and perhaps worthy to be called faithful servant of God. But one thing I may not forget of her is the time she helped my family through a piece of an amount that may have supplied enough the lacking amount needed for my father’s expenses when he was hospitalized. Interesting testimony of my mom would be all expenses were paid enough, no lacking nor excess, but simply enough.
And now, months after she had just visited my father, God took her home. I’m actually speechless, for I know I can not comprehend what God’s plan or will is for the matter. All I can only say perhaps is that she lived a meaningful life. Just looking at the people whom she has touched and made an impact…. they were many. Same scenery as I have been through the past deaths of the faithful servants of the Lord - remembering Ptr. Dawal, Ptr. Nick, Auntie Aning and Ptr. Bigornia. And I know those that have served the Lord whole-heartedly same picture would that be. Who then are the faithful? Perhaps a challenge towards the new generation of servants and ministers, will they also be faithful? And how about me, will I be faithful?
With all the happenings these days, being faithful to God maybe hardest ever, as we face a new world, a new era, where gadgets, internet, media, technology and knowledge has become the most prominent of this age. And, the other face of the earth shows that survival is the major factor that controls the life of a man. Sometimes, I wonder, are these happenings truly signifies the coming of our Lord? Just remembered Ptr. Marzan’s argument, a sign of Christ coming is the increase on knowledge of man.
Daniel 12:1-4
And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book. And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. But thou, O Daniel, shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the time of the end: many shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.
And so runs my curiosity and imagination, will Christ come in this period? Will I see that time of His coming? So many questions; But perhaps my recent question still remains a wonder for my own. Will I experience death as well? If so, I wonder how many people will come. But anyhow, there’s one thing I may have learned about death. As just been reminded of dreams my sister and even I myself have had this year.
My sister dreamt of me dying in a simple falling down from jumping up to get a fruit of a tree. But my dream was different, I dreamed I went to the future yet knowing at the future I was already dead (by assassination, I believe…. I think I’m watching too much movies). Then, came back to the present, being given a gun by a chief police (who’s face seem familiar but I know not his name) just to protect myself, saying I’m the only one who can protect myself.
Well, that was just a dream, but as I have said, it maybe that I have learned about death. The fact that we all face this at a point in our life time, death makes us reflect and re-evaluate our life, our actions, our deeds, everything that is about life, and perhaps our Christian life. And perhaps one question should we put in mind as Christians, will God say to us “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
And, this is where the second point I’m pondering about. How do we become good and faithful servant? Or do we even want to become one? At this time? I’m sure most of us don’t care (probably) but when we meet our Creator? I’m sure you’ll desire to hear it.
But anyway how do we become good and faithful servant? Well, one thing is for sure, this is only concluded at the end of our lives and never in the middle of our life time. But in the mean time as we continue living our lives I have this verse in mind:
Galatians 2:20
I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.
I believe this is what Paul wants Christians should do. For he himself recognizes he has still his sinful flesh and the only way for him to live for Christ, is that he must die daily. And that is what I’m talking about. For as Christians, we ought to really die unto ourselves so that Christ may live in us. Our desires for His; our plans for His; our decisions for His; our everything for Him.
Matthew 16:24-28
Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Food for E-knowledge 2
A little bit of information people should be aware of. Read this article from the Yahoo....
http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/104079
http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/null/104079
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