Answered Faith Goals 2019

Last January and July 2019, I believed God for these and He showed Himself  faithful in His sweetest time!

Personal Faith Goals 

• Physical Healing 

I had my APE last November and I was not diagnosed with UTI anymore!

He also healed me of Dengue by October. I'm one of the women He healed indeed!  

• To be insured and to have investments 

 I'm finally with SunLife with  Kuya Francis as my Financial Advisor. 

• To have regular savings 

Pag-ibig MP2 is a blessing! 

• Increased Salary 

Daddy God gave the exact amount that I asked Him! Amazing! 

• Increased Tithe 
• To sow in a wedding and a baby 

I even became a Maid of Honor (this was such a dream come true!) and a Ninang for the second time!  

• To have a bed table and new pillows 

My family 

• Not to lose anyone this year 

Thanking God for good health, safety and protection!  

• To attend a worship service together 

I attended a service again with my Mom!  She even asked one morning "Hindi ba tayo mag-service?" 

• Provision for House renovation 
• Smart TV 
• Travel 

I went to Tagaytay with my Mom on her birthday!  

My Education/ Career 

• To get a subject everytime mag e-enroll 
• EDL 121 (super dream subject) 
• EDFD 221 
• Favored schedule and professor 
• Great connection with classmates and students 

I met Rachel, Marla and Gen!  

• To finish my Educ Units 

Yes, He completed! 1.2917!!!!

•  Excellent class flow 
• High score in monitoring 
• To be a Best Teacher 
• High grades 
• New UP ID 

My Ministry 

• Victory weekend for Sky and Pearl  
• Church community for them 
• More Junior Kids Teachers (Sky even became one of our Teachers!) 
• Excellence as a secretary of Hike for Christ Movement (by faith hehe) 
• To One 2 One an Aeta Kid 

Chapter 1 pa lang, praying na matuloy pa! 

• To One 2 One Heather 
• To share the Gospel to co-teachers 
• Bonding with VFs again 
• Water Tank for Sitio Banawen 
• Excellent outreach (Pasko sa Banawen! My heart was full!) 

My Church 

Victory Sta. Mesa (volunteers, strategic location, excellent building and facilities)

It was just a prayer but now it's real! We're really having a center at Sta. Mesa!!!

My Community

• For Manila to be cleaner
• To be more modern 

I was surprised how God answered this through Mayor Isko!!! 

My Nation 

Leaders with fear of the Lord (Vico Sotto won!!!)

In all this, I can only say "Our God is faithful" and "He never leaves us nor forsake us". 

"Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God." - Corrie Ten Boom  

"Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe"- Augustine of Hippo 

"It's not because I'm a good daughter but because I have a good Father." 

"It isn't about us having a perfect scenario but it's about God showing Himself faithful". 

Three Days Mission (my first "go"ing)

When something's so overwhelming, I find it really hard to put into words.
Here I am attempting to immortalize one of the best three days of my life. :)

It's been more than a week since the Hike For Christ's Movement's three days mission trip in an Aeta community (specifically in Sitio Banawen, San Felipe Zambales). We went there to make disciples and to get to know the community more so that we can serve God better through them.

Looking back before the mission, I was so grateful for the spiritual preparation that we had. We heard and learned from different missionaries who's "been there and done that" in the mission field. One is currently working in reaching out our Muslim brothers and sisters, one is a Discipleship Pastor on one of our congregation and lastly, a group that has the same heart beat as ours in reaching out the tribes in the Philippines. I was inspired with their stories, excellence and boldness. I was touched with their heart to really honor Christ in their ministries. We were so fired up.

But then, I also learned from these exhortations that there will be attacks from the enemy as we attempt to expand the Kingdom.

Days before the mission, it became evident. Internally, I had that unexplained and extraordinary tiredness. Externally, I was suddenly being threatened to be homeless.

 The attacks were great, yes, but I also learned that when the attack is great, it means we're doing something great for the Kingdom as well. That excites me. Moment by moment, I was amazed with His grace and strength that carried me (and the team) through and was able to resolve to "go" no matter what.

Day 1

I had the privilege to lead the group devotion. I was personally reminded that even before we do something, God already affirmed us and is  well pleased because of our faith in Christ. That gave me the confidence to look forward of how He's going to move on our behalf in the next hours and days.

After the devotion, off we go for the three-hour trek under the scorching weather. It was indeed VERY challenging (I could still remember my numb arms, tired feet,dry throat etc.). But more than those, I remember singing worship songs with our not-so-pang-music-team voice, vlogging (haha) and the start of becoming intentional in connecting and knowing the locals. We're grateful for the children (April Boy, Daniel and Christian) who became our guide and the families we met while taking a refuge under the shade of some trees.

And finally around 11 AM or so, we made it!  We then ate our lunch, took a rest and prepare for the house-to-house discipleship.

We were then divided into teams (I was part of Team Grace with Glenn) and we went to different houses with these goals: to know them and make Him known in their life.

We've  heard their stories, hobbies, health concerns, dreams, struggles etc.
We've shared His story of salvation, Lordship and even Repentance.

It's amazing to witness how He's touching lives and I'm so in awe that He allowed us to be part of it!

Day 2

I think this is the most productive day of my life so far. A lot of things happened in a day and seriously, there were moments when I thought "Really, that also happened today?"

We attended the local church. We were welcomed with children singing praises! Tears shed when people shared their testimonies of how amazing God is. How He provided, healed and how He brought people back to Sitio Banawen. We met Ate Rachelle (one of the people supporting the ministry in Sitio Banawen). Her heart for community could be seen writ large while crying over gratefulnes for being back in the Sitio.

 Tears shed again when Ate Chaye spoke on our behalf and said that there are acually many people behind us who are also one with us in loving and reaching the community. Indeed, we're so grateful for those who sent us!

We're also able to finally connect with the local pastor there (Pastora Divina). We prayed for her and believe with her for the community.  She then invited us for a fellowship night and we agreed. Suddenly, we just found ourselves going to her home for lunch (am not so sure what happened,hehe).

We brought adobo and bananas. Pastora prepared pansit, fried fish,rice and.... snake. Yes, you read it right. It's not that she hates us or something. They really cook and eat snakes in the community. I wasn't brave enough to taste it though. :(

After lunch, we had a chance to meet few locals outside Pastora's house. I was so glad to see Judith again. She's one of the children I met on my first visit last year. She's a little bigger now and I also met her little sister!

After that short fellowship, we continued spending time with the kids. Some of us focused on discipling the little children while some focused on the youth. I was able to help out in handling the later.  Ate Chaye encouraged them that they're not too young to be used by God.

We then had a small group to process the Word. This was also my favorite moment since God allowed me to share my testimony to four young women (Jessa, Shiela, Anabelle and Reina). The testimony of how a girl like me (who's so unlikely to go on studying) was able to have a degree. The testimony of how I found my value and identity in Christ alone (not in other people OR in crushes hehe).

They played volleyball after that and I served as a scorer. I was proud that my girls won! :) Yay!

The team then distributed "sopas" to them. Yum!

At night, we had some time and played Uno!!! It was a challenge to play in the dark but it was so much fun!

Time pass by and we ate our dinner. We didn't realize that the people we're actually waiting  for us for the Fellowship night. I'm grateful that God didn't allow us to miss it. When we realized that they're waiting for us, we hastily went!

In the fellowship night,  they danced their traditional Aeta dance for us  and suddenly, they  asked us to dance with them. It was really, really, really an amazing time. We danced and sang (we sang "Awit ng Bayan" for them) praises together too, encouraged one another and pray. I was hoping the night wouldn't end. Awww..

Some of my personal funny moments was when Nanay Luz called me Kenkoy (Nay? why? hahaha). And when one of us thought that the English of "Gawa" is "Job" instead of "Acts".

Really, all of that happened in a day!

Day 3

We woke up early to prepare breakfast. It was a challenge to start a fire and to find the utensils sa madaling araw. Grateful na nakaluto kami just in time.

We resumed our house-to-house discipleship to reach out those who are really far from the community. When we're about to go, we're surprised na sila na mismo yung pumunta sa area kung nasan kami. Nandon na pala sila!

I'm reminded of the verse John 12:32 " And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself." - Jesus

Wow, may Jesus be lifted higher! He is the One drawing people to Himself!

I was amazed with the report that 4 Aeta fathers received salvation at that time.

 I was also able to share the Gospel to Aileen (one of the first girls I met in the community last year) as we went through the One 2 One. This was actually an answered faith goal! "To one 2 one an Aeta girl" I wrote and pray at the start of the year. Nakakaiyak when I'm teaching her how to find the verses in the Bible we gave her. HUHUHUHU. I told her we'll have Chapter 2 when we meet again.

When we're about to leave, one woman went to us so that we can talk to her as well. She went too from afar. She ran so she can catch us! Hirap magpigil ng luha. I was then able to listen to her and shared the message that we're saved by grace alone. I pray I encouraged her as well through prayers.

This is just too sweet of Him!  Thank You Jesus!

We then took some group pictures, bid goodbye and went home. I can't believe it's over.  Talagang nakakaiwan ng puso.

Who would've thought that after being rejected for mission trips multiple times,I was finally able to go? It's amazing  that the then "go" of my God in now "went".

Here's to more "go" ing.
Here's to more of His enabling power.
Here's to more for His glory.

It's just the first.



*Views and opinion expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Hike for Christ Movement.

Masasa Beach 2018

In the midst of all the news that  the Masasa Beach is too crowded and becoming dirty, we went there and prayed to still be in awe of God's creation! Being with spiritual sisters in this adventure made it even more fun and delectable! I will be forever grateful that Daddy God allowed me to walk this life with these women - My Victory Friends! Anyway, here's how we went there and what happened (I hope my memory will serve me right, so the time here is only an estimated time, hindi ko na talaga masyado matandaan):


12:30 AM I met Jo and Gab in KFC (near Kia Theater) and then we walked (yes! We went there on foot! HAHA) to Jam liner's Kamuning Terminal (near GMA) 

1:20   AM We arrived in  Jam Liner Terminal. Bought and ate Spaghetti! I was too hungry. Hehe. Waited for the other girls and start na ng tawanan. :)

2:00   AM   We rode a bus going to Batangas Grand Terminal. It's the bus with a signage:  CALABARZON / Batangas Pier   (Php 165)

4:20   AM  We arrived at Batangas Grand Terminal. We then rode a jeepney going to Anilao port (Php 40)

5: 00 AM   We arrived at Anilao Port.  We paid for the environmental fee (Php 30). They will write a number on your environmental fee's ticket. For the boat ride, they will call out the number written on your  environmental fee's ticket.  I saw a watermelon-designed salbabida and we bought it hehe. You'll see how it looks later.

5:30 AM  We rode the boat. Supposedly, it should go to Tingloy port, pero sa ibang port pala ang punta nung boat na nasakyan namin. I can't remember the name of the other port though but it's still near Masasa so don't worry. It's just that it's more expensive. Instead of Php 80, we paid Php 100. Parang nasa bus lang ang singilan dito. May parang kundoktor na maniningil ng bayad habang nasa byahe. More than an hour ang travel time. It was so exciting! It's my first time to ride a boat!!!! I met Ate Millet and her son. She shared to me that she grew up in Batangas and she always ride a boat but until now, she's still a little scared of the waves. I always wonder if I'll have seasick if ever I'll ride a boat but it was tolerable for me. It's great to discover that.

Speaking of waves, I was so surprised nung biglang nabasa ng alon  ang mga natutulog kong friends and nagising talaga sila!  (It was hard for me to hinder myself from laughing! Peace girls. ;))

Life jacket! (it's my first time to wear it hehe)  :) 

6: 50 AM     We arrived at the port (Victory port? just kidding! HAHA). And then rode a tricycle going to our transient  house.  (Php 20) It was one of the most challenging tricycle ride ever AND YET ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL TOO! Challenging because nakasakay ako sa likod bitbit ang malaking salbabida, tapos sobrang taas nung paakyat!!! We had to move forward para hindi tumaob ang tricycle! Oh my! And then one of the most beautiful because makikita mo na yung dagat sa ibaba!!! We then walked going to our transient house.

7:00 /7:30 AM (not sure na talaga) We arrived in Teacher Benny's Transient House. I recommend  to make a reservation in  a transient house before going to Masasa. We're blessed in our transient house! Baka gusto mo din sa kanila?

It is near the beach!!

No need to ride a service boat or tricycle

Rate: We paid  Php 350 per head per night 

Offers:

8 rooms with fan, 4 bathrooms & cr, with standby generator in case there's brownout, free use of gas stove and kitchen wares, with grilling station, free use of videoke

May tindahan din sila!!!

Activities:

Snorkeling 

Island hopping 

Mountain trekking to Mag asawang bato 

Visiting a lagoon 

Contact numbers: 09178048427 / 09997762755

We prepared our brunch (rice, maling , kamtis,  itlog na pula and pritong talong) . Ate some bread. Prepare for our photoshoot (wahahaha!) and Island hopping! The price of Island hopping varies and it's optional. For us, we paid Php 365 per head. 

Then we went to the beach. It's true that there are a lot of people (well, not so many I guess compared to the crowd during the Holy Week). Anyway, I was fine with it. I focused more on the fact that the water was sooooo clearrrrrrr!!It's breathtaking!!! (Buti pa yung water, malinaw. HAHA) 

Then these happened: 

Time for Island Hopping!!!!!

Saya "tumindig" sa bangka! ;) 

The watermelon Salbabida! HAHA

First Island : Sombrero Island. Pero, umikot lang kami dahil may bayad ang pagdaong sa Sombrero Island. Php 200 per head.  It's a private property. 

Second Island: I forgot the name. Huhu. Was it "Seyuc Island"? Not sure. It was the island na almost kami lang yung tao. We ate lunch there and went swimming. 

Naging Morena na. HAHA. a pic with Kuya Vic, our bangkero! :) 

For our Magazine spread. HAHAHA

Linaw!!!!

Third Island: Don't ask me the name. HAHA. Pero kami lang yung tao. It's where we had our training for snorkeling. I was soo grateful to learn!!!! #learner . It was too amazing!!!!

Picture muna bago sumabak. 

When we finally knew how, it's time to snorkel!!!!  My mind and heart are still trying to repeat what I saw and felt until now. It's like wala akong word for this. I'm too in awe. It's true when Daddy said that He will let me see "great and marvelous" things. I was singing a worship song or talking and praising Daddy (in my head of course haha) while snorkeling for letting me experience this!  I saw corals, fishes and starfishes. They're soooo cute!!!! I was like in another world for  a while. Whooooooohoooooo!!!!!

After seeing God's wonderful creation below!!! 

Going back to Masasa... 

Some of my friends have to go back to Manila right away.. so we went back to our transient and  settled  the payment.  The girls (who will leave) still need to pay the transient house since may mga nagbago yung sched. Dapat 6 kaming mag overnight pero naging tatlo na lang. Need pa din bayaran yung na reserve na slot so make sure to be sure kung ilan sa inyo ang mag oovernight. :)

We had our short VG. Dessie shared to us about making a difference in the workplace and  prayed "Lord, help us to be there for each other as You are there for each of us".  Then it's time to say goodbye. Awww.

Naiwan kami ni Ana and Arl. We sang in videoke while waiting for the sun to go down a bit. Feeling namin quota na sa sun rays ang  balat namin. HAHA. We also ate cucumber with magkakaiba ng sawsawan. Hihi.

We eventually went back to the beach and found a great spot because the sand is powdery. :")
I love the girls. Grabe. They made my dreams come true... like pagsakay sa salbabida and matabunan ng buhangin. yayyyy!!!

Chat and chat and chat. Sunset.

Prepared for dinner and took a bath.Ate dinner and sleep.


Day 2

5:27 Woke up

6  AM went to the beach. Worshiped God together. Encouraged one another. Sought God individually. Shared what Daddy spoke to our hearts and prayed for each other. I'm too blessed to have them as eternal friends and sisters :")

date with Daddy 

Thank you Mars for capturing and for your life! 

How precious are Your thoughts about me, O God. 

 They cannot be numbered!

 I can’t even count them;

they outnumber the grains of sand!

And when I wake up,

You are still with me!

Psalm 139:17-18 

#tears

Prepared breakfast , ate and prepared to go home. We're supposed to go to the famous lagoon pero 24 hours lang dapat sa transient house. Lagpas na kami and may paparating na bagong guests so nakakahiya na. hehe. 

We left at around 10:10 AM. 

We rode a tricycle going to Tingloy Port (Php 20 each) . 

Rode the boat (Php 80) going to Anilao Port.

Bought some candies and pasalubong. 

Took the jeepney going to Batangas Grand Terminal (Php 40)

Rode a bus going to Cubao. (Php 165) 

We arrived at Cubao around 3PM. Parang panaginip ang lahat. :) 

P.S. If you'll go there, please.... BE DISCIPLINED. Magtapon ng mga basura sa mga trash bin not in the seashore. Wag na din mag bonfire kasi nakakasira din sa beauty ng Masasa. Thank you! 

May more people and generation enjoy the beauty of this place.

Ana: Mars, balik tayo!

         Yes, Mars! Tara!!!!!

                                                   *Photos are from Ms. Desserie Dionio and Ms. Ana Fatima Morauda 

Answered 2017 Faith Goals!!!

It's that time of the year again wherein I'm excited  to make Daddy smile through my faith (by having my Faith Goals!!!). Every year, my church (Victory / Every Nation) usually have  Prayer and Fasting week. It is " to dedicate the year to the Lord and seek His will."   I've been participating since 2012, saw a lot of breakthroughs and grew in my relationship with Him.  It simply became one of the highlights of my year!

Then Joshua said to the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” JOSHUA 3:5 (ESV)

If you want to do it with us this year, you check this site: https://victory.org.ph/join-us-as-we-pray-and-fast-in-2018/

 Anyway, before I write my 2018 faith goals, let's look back on how God heard and miraculously made a way for my Faith Goals last year.

 Let's get started (opening the booklet) !


Last 2017 I believed God for.... and He answered!

Personal Faith Goals: 

• Leadership 113 graduation! 

          - yay! My Mom even came for that! And so does my One 2 one Leader, Ana!

• Better than Jewels (book) by Ms. Rica Peralejo - Bonifacio

          - gamit na gamit for my VG last year!

• Strengths Finder (book)

- WAAAAHHH! My dear friend blessed me with this on my birthday!!!!!

• Awesome special offer

          - Yes! I got 5K from the company! (Nabunot kasi ako ulit for Trip to Korea, kaya lang, hindi na daw pwede yung mga nakapunta na.. so.. they gave special offer instead.)

• Braces

• To cook more food again

- I cooked  Penne Pasta etc. on my birthday!!!! plus pag volunteer na magluto sa bahay ;") 

• Beach 

          -  I went to Zambales with VFs! Teehee!

• Increased tithe

• Increased ability to love 

• Deeper and more intimate relationship with God 

• Security in Him 

My Family 

• Family business !!!!

- Yes! We started to have a store in front of our house and my uncle bought a new Tricycle (pangpasada) 

• Great relationship with relatives

- I bond with my cousins this year like never before. It was amazing!

• Smartphone for my brother

-oh yeah. He just bought one! 

• Boldness to share the Gospel 

- I somehow got to share the Gospel during the Eulogy! Continuously declaring SALVATION! 

• For Nanay Lydia to be comforted and healed

- I believe she is comfortable now and completely healed.

My school / career

• High grades in UP!!! 

- awesome! awesome! I got 1.00 and 1.25 in my subjects!!!!! Yes,  even on my subject last sem (undergrad subject with Math!!!! oh my!!!! Si Lord talaga ito!!! This is worthy of another post!!!) 

I'm in awe!!!!

• Best Teacher 

- I was awarded twice last year (I guess)  and for the 9th time in history. ALL BY HIS GRACE!!!!!

• For TOR to be released before Feb. 15!

-I needed this for my admission and the Lord granted it! Nakapagpasa before the deadline! 

• Tuition Fee

• Favored Leave and Schedule

- I super needed these and He made a way! Most especially for enrollments!!!!

• Highly favored enrollment

-Grabe. It's indeed divine na nakakuha ako ng subjects and profs pag enrollment. Hunger games po ng subjects sa UP. 

• Favor sa  Professors

- super answered! I love and I admire my Profs!!!!

• Great relationship with classmates and co-workers 

- I love and I miss my classmates in different subjects. I love and I miss (those who resigned) my co-workers too!!!

• Cash Special offer

- like what I said earlier, I got 5K for this. So it's cash! Yay! 

• Wisdom, Intelligence, Knowledge 

My Ministry 

• Cha's Victory Weekend

Last 2016, I was crying in Mcdo kasi hindi natuloy weekend nya. But God made it happen this year. I declare she's been established in the faith! Hug Cha! I miss you so much! 

• Spiritual growth and fruitfulness for my Spiritual daughters

I'm amazed. How one became a leader. How others served God in the ministry or simply, when they lead a prayer,  started reading the Bible or Tithing. Their growth brings so much joy in my heart. You're always in my prayers girls! Huggggggg!!!! (So this is how it is to be a  mom noh?) 

• Invite and have more teachers in our group sa Office

- yay!!! Some left, some came. I'll be forever grateful and privilege to share His love to the teachers!

• Singles Ministry VG

- started to have one! Sundays at 1pm! And our family is growing! Vibrant gals it is!!! I'm excited for this 2018 with them! 

• Share the Gospel to more co-teachers and classmates

- whoohhoooo!!! Thank You Daddy for the boldness and opportunity! I was even more elated when I got the chance to share the gospel to a classmate last year!!!! I'm in awe!!!!

"...2017. To say it's been a roller-coaster would be a huge understatement. I had my lowest and my highest points in the same year and there were times I felt like I was just floating-- unable to feel because there were too much happening all at once. But at the end of it all, whether I'm grateful, grieving or trying to heal/feel again, I find myself with  no questions at all... just an abundance of peace. Because when nothing else is sure, I know His love for me is. Always. And this year made sure that was enough confidence for my heart to make it through anything. 2017, you were one crazy ride but I'm grateful you happened. Thank you for making me braver."

Very well said,  Moira dela Torre.

It was a great year because of the GREAT GOD alone. :") 

I'm super expectant for 2018 only because of our GREAT GOD and  DAD.

Always remember though that JESUS is our GREATEST BREAKTHROUGH. 

*closing the booklet and will open another one! :") 

A spring of water flowed from UP!

He turned the rock into a pool of water; yes, a spring of water flowed from solid rock. - Psalm 114:8 NLT 

This post is about my  enrollment feels in UP, the recent upgrade of my faith,  and above all, His glory and power in the midst of it.


Enrollment feels

Yes, I was qualified for admission for the Certificate of Professional Education program of the Univeristy of the Philippines - Diliman (College of Education). Yes, I'm done with the orientation and  by God's grace, passed the medical exams too. Yes, I found OUR (Office of the University Registrar) , passed my  honorable dismissal from PUP and  got a temporary CRS (Computerized Registration System)  account.  Not just that.   I was also miraculously  granted a Service Incentive Leave for the day of my enrollment (January 12, 2017)!

January 12 (or so I thought). It thought it's the start for our enrollment  (Non-degree students) but it was suddenly changed into January 11!! Waaah!At, guess what? January 11 ko ito nalaman!

And SO WHAT  if it was changed? Well, have you heard? UNAHAN SA PROF/ SUBJECT SA UP!!!! I think 30 slots for undergrad subjects and around 16 slots for graduate subjects!!! I even read some blogs and news reports about students camping in school just to be the first in line for the coveted slots! Whoaaa!

So ganon pala sa UP. Will I still have slots if I'll go in the  afternoon of  January 11 or morning ng 12?

Here's what happened:

I went there in the afternoon of January 11th. I realized pwede naman pala makita sa CRS yung mga subject, sched, prof, available slots etc. pero nun ko lang nalaman. I borrowed my co-CPE student's phone and saw "0/30" or "0/16" on the subjects that I want to take. It means 0 .. zero.. wala nang slot!  Not only na wala nang slot but, hindi din pasok sa sched ko yung iba. waaaaahhh!!!!

 For pre-advising, my adviser was in a hurry since I'm the last one for the day. I was struggling with the pronunciation of the Prof's surname etc..  kinda worried because the subjects na pwede sa sched ko are the ones na wala sa plan kong i -take and at the same time, wala na din slot!

I was saddened as I remember  how panicked I was and worried. Which I know is not honoring kay God (I repent, Dad :"() . My thoughts were clouded with what ifs.. "what if hindi ako makapag enroll, what if hindi ako tanggapin ng mga prof.. what if parang maging katulad  lang din to ng missions na hindi natuloy, what if hindi ko kaya yung mga subjects? Wala ako background nun!!!"

That was the rock. THE SOLID ROCK.

I left affter the pre-advising. I decided to talk to the professors the next day. Inhale. Exhale.


Upgraded faith.

I talked to Dad at Mcdo and I'm in awe again of how He is such a comforter and encourager.


Hosea 1:7b

"..I will free them from their enemies - not with weapons and armies or horses and charioteers, but by My power as the LORD their God"

not through me, but by His power!

"Trust Me. I am your helper. I am your shield."

Hosea 2: 15a

"I will return her vineyards to her and transform the valley of trouble in to a gateway of hope."


Wow. He will transform the valley of trouble in to a gateway of hope!!!

And then, that night was the third prayer meeting in our church (Victory Ubelt). I met ate Ayen and Ate Marianne. I hastily asked them to stand with me in prayer for my current situation. It's really amazing how the church can encourage you. Ate Marianne said "Kaya yan, yung dagat nga nahati Nya eh!". Whoa. And I was reminded.

We prayed,  worshiped God, magnified His power, His sovereignty. I realized I fail to do that earlier. I saw the situation bigger than My God and that is a "No, no!"

Before we go home, Ate Marianne, prayed for me. It was so comforting and my faith was really built. I remember her saying the words, "delight in Him and He will give you the desires of you heart". "His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts are higher than our thoughts."


His glory and power

I went to UP at around 8 AM the next day and waited for the professors. While I'm waiting, I tried my best to just trust in Him and His words. I was really holding my breath.  I then read these verses:

Ruth 3: 1a


And now, my daughter, don't be afraid. I will do for you all you ask.

Psalm 138:8a

The LORD will work out his plans for my life--for your faithful love, O LORD, endures forever.

Isaiah 26:3

You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.


What an encouragement again!

The professor came. I talked to her and she was really hesitating at first to accept me. She sounds so nice and compassionate. Indeed an answered prayer already. She accepted me even though 0/16 na. She made the maximum number of students into 17 so may isa pang slot for me! I want to cry in front of her! Salamat po sa pink slip!

Not just that! She's also the one who talked to the other prof if may slot pa for me.  She said "Yes!" she can also change the maximum number of student. From 17 to 18!!!


Oh how our God moved!

"See my daughter, see how I've made it happen."

What-a-privilege to witness how mindful and powerful He is!

YESSSSS! I can move on na! Few more steps pa and I got my Form 5 (registraton card)!! Went to the cashier to pay for my tuition and ID!

Went to Univ shopping center to buy a Lanyard and UP shirt and then ate at Rodics. So clueless, sisig yung inorder ko, Tapsilog pala yung best seller dun! Awww next time na lang.

Went back to Eduk and confirmed if enrolled na ba talaga ako pagkabayad ng tuition.

Me: Enrolled na po ba ako (showing my Form 5)?

The office of the college secretary staff : Oo, enrolled ka na.

Whoa. This is it Dad! Student na talaga akong muli! Seryoso? UP student na talaga ang little girl na nangarap!!  I know You'll continue to save me, Dad! Have Your way in me in this new season. Kamsahamnida Appa!

He turned the rock into a pool of water; yes, a spring of water flowed from solid rock. - Psalm 114:8 NLT

Yes, a spring of water flowed from UP!

Little girl's dream: UP

When I was a child, I had a dream. It's one of those that I can still vividly remember even after I woke up.  It was very simple:  I dreamt of a building with high and wide stairs.


When I was a child, I heard of UP. Well, who won't right? The number one, the best, where the really smart students go..oh the high and mighty.. UP. Yes, it'll be great to study there one day (I thought for seconds), but then I know it's so impossible, there's NO WAY I can study there. I'm not even sure if I can study in high school. Mag UP pa kaya after that? Nah. No. way. Okay. Shrug. Bye.  UP is like that, a dream. A dream that's just too far.

When I was a university student in PUP (yes, by God's grace I made it to high school and then nakapag PUP pa!) , I was in awe already! I'm so grateful and happy to be there. I just love my university. There, we had a professor (who studied in UP) and he asked us to go to UP for a tour and to watch a stage play. It was my first in UP. I was so amazed how wide it is, the trees, the Oble, the students, the Ikot jeepneys...but  what struck me the most is.... the Palma Hall.

When I saw it and climb it's steps, it seems like I've been here before! I've seen this! And yes, it's like my dream as a child:

"I dreamt of a building with high and wide stairs. "

It's so amazing. How could I have a dream about this place?

Anyway, I just find it amusing and eventually I moved on. Maybe UP and I just really meant to meet like that. As a visitor, as someone from another university. Oh, okay.Okay. Shrug. Bye.

I came back again as a visitor after that. Back then, I almost join an activist group and we had a meeting in UP one time. I also watched the lantern festival, shot some school project, ran with friends and  watch Eigasai (Japanese Film Festival). My  future with UP includes still watching Eigasai, run with friends  and  I was also planning to take pictures with the sunflowers there! That's it. No more. no less.

But then I started to become curious about teaching, education etc. How is it really to be trained as someone who'll  teach others? Most of my co-workers majored in Education and they really inspired me. The major thing is the thought that  I could really have an avenue to engage the students, the next generation plus, I could also be an effective first teacher of my future children (Haha, indeed, so futuristic). My heart beats fast when I thought about learning about it, eventually taking the LET and becoming a licensed teacher.

Wow. To think that I hated this thing before entering college.

"Ang tagal ko na nga sa school, sa school pa din ako magtatrabaho?" This is what was on my head at the time the my grandmother told me that she wants me to be a teacher. Who would've thought of a changed mind and heart right? As Ms. Acel puts it: isang  pambihirang pagkakataon.

The initial plan was  enrolling in NTC (National Teacher College) because I thought UP only offers online classes for those who want to have a Certificate of Professional Education. I'm not that into the idea of studying online so..

But then, last August 18, I went to UP to watch Eigasai with Ana. On the way there, I was with Camille, a co-worker who's currently taking up her masters in UP. While we were talking, she mentioned that CPE is not only online but there's a classroom setting too. She knows for sure because she has classmates who are taking CPE!

My heart fluttered against my ribcage. I can't hide my excitement. I was so kilig. So in awe. Honestly, just the thought of sitting and learning in a UP classroom makes me feel so giddy and hindi talaga makapaniwala! Huhuhu!

I called the UP College of Education to inquire  and the secretary told me that if I can submit all the requirements within the week, I can still make it to the next semester (which January  2017)!

I still don't have my NSO copy of birth certificate at that time so I hastily prayed and asked Daddy God  if I can have it right away so that I can pass the requirements ASAP.

Great thing is that God answered that prayer when Shim told me that she got hers for less than 30 minutes in the PSA main office!

I got mine in 20 minutes! Whoa. And now, my requirements are complete! I'll be in UP later to submit them and then we'll see. If it's His will, walang makakapigil. In Jesus' Name Amen! :)

----

November 10, 2016

Hello there! It's been over two months since I wrote this. Over two months since I saw my name in a receipt with "University of the Philippines" written on it. Over two months since I tried to ride the whole route of an IKOT jeep (yes, umikot sa UP, hehe). Over two months since I wrote a very challenging, childish, full of heart na hindi talaga  scholarly  na  essay.

Two months of waiting for their e-mail but there's none.
I'm starting to lose heart. Thinking maybe it's not for me.
Oh those two months. But then earlier, I decided tocall UP to ask and to know the status of my application.

Tantanannnnnn

Me: Hello po. This is UP college of education po di ba?
Her: Yes, Yes.
M: mag i inquire lang po sana  for the result ng exam...
Her: ah wala pang  result yung sa Masters
M: ah, sa CPE po..
H: ah, sa CPE? wait lang...

another person on the phone:

Him: Hello po.
M: mag i inquire lang po sana  for the result nung sa CPE?
H: Wait lang po... ano pong pangalan nila?
M: Jessica May Padayao.. Padayao po..
H: letter P po?
M: Opo
H: Pasado po
M: Pa..pasado po?
H: Opo ......


And the rest is poker face. Ganun pala yun. Yung gusto mo sumigaw at magtatalon pero dapat composed ka pa din.

Huhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhuhu. Yung essay ko... alam ko si Lord lang talaga ito. Pramis!  I'm just too in awe ngayun. Hala sya oh... UP oh... huhuhuhuhu!!!!

Come on! Let's be the teacher that He wants us to be! I declare favored sched, result ng medical , provision and above all, wisdom! May the purpose why He allowed me to be there prevail!

*tulala

Background Music:

"The Maker"

 by Chris August 

I see You in the sunrise

I see You in the rain

I see You in the laughter

I feel You through the pain

Everything that You have made is beautiful

Oh, my God, I can't believe my eyes

But in all of this to think that You would think of me

Makes my heart come alive

Your love is like a mighty fire deep inside my bones

I feel like I could climb a thousand mountains all at once

And I never have to wonder if somebody cares for me

I love the Maker

And the Maker loves me

I see You, You are creation

I see the grandness of Your majesty

The universe is singing all Your glory

I can't believe You live inside of me

More than just some words upon a page

You've shown me in a million ways

But there is one that stands above them all

Hands of creation on a cross

2015 Answered Prayers: I thank God for...

. my Visa!
. the trip in South Korea! (grabe! I thank Him talaga for the good health ko dun, the spirit of fun, the snow, the airplane experience, Ms. Han, Sir JJ,  Ms. Jenny and Clara!)
.nothing is impossible with Him
.the people who were so happy for me and supported me when I wen to S. Korea (like HT Pat,Jovie, my Mom, my brother...)
. my new cousin (My Tita conceived!)
.PUP Alumni Summer Bonding in Lian Batangas! (after 15 years nakakita ulit ng dagat!)

   - I even witnesed a miracle nung nakita sa may gitna ng dapat yung isang pair ng slippers ni Dia na nawala the night before!

- I loved the time alone with Dyna. Swimming in the sea with her was really fun! Then the bonfire by the beach..singing worship songs, praying for each other..videoke!!

. the first family outing!

- first time ni Jhared sa pool and na makalabas sila Tita and Ka Herly. I thank Him for our good health at that time and sa provision!)

. Marian (one 2 one again after a long time)

. Winn and Ja! (regular VG!)

. Singles' Camp in Camp John Hay Baguio City (Ezekiel 34:25-31)

- I didin't include this in my FGs in 2015 but daddy told me to go.

. Approved leave (didn't have to lie) and safety (bumabagyo sa bagyo at that time!)

. Team Solar

. Planet Shaker's Concert (August)

- my brother raised his hand in accepting Jesus!

. Victory Weekend ni Rosette (it inspires me to engage moreeeee!!!)

.Star of the night as Audrey Hepburn in PUPm Alumni Christmas Party

.fruitfulness of Heart and Jhesie (grabeee!!!)

. APE! (Annual Physical Exam)

. Arroyo Paskong Palaro ng Lahi (Grace talaga na ang daming pumunta and I think nag enjoy naman sila hehe)

. CHRISTmas eve service with family!! (Nany, Mac and Angelo!! - First time ni Ngilo!!)


. Mt. Pamitinan climb!!!  (Habbakkuk 3:19)

- for the strength and endurance! His creation si really awesome!!!

- for the boldness to finally shout ...


"Thank You for Your Love JESUS!!!"


I heard Word in 2015 that that will be my year of ownership and I hastily claim to own a VISA and Victory Group and it happened!!!!


Awesome 2015 yeah?!!!! Lets' dare to believe for more this 2016!!!!

Aica in Korea

Boarding Pass. :) 

Airplane selfie. Ang taba ko dito no?:)

and we're Flying!!!

Samgyeopsal!!! Our First dinner!

Starbucks in Korea. :) First Breakfast. :)

Chocolate from Ms. Jenny. :) 

Selfie with Ms. Hann. :) 

YBM Main Office :) 

Let it snow..let it snow.let it snow.. not fashionable at all. hehe

with Clara #anakngboss

Gyeongbuk Goong!!!!Lamiggg!!!

Evergreen!!! Just like our God na hindi nagbabago kahit ano pang season!

seafood Jjampong for Lunch! 

The morning of the Wedding. hahaha

Uyyy Hi there Woo Bin!!! -11 and temp nyan ah!

Oppa! hahaha!

The locks at Namsan Tower!

Clara trying to copy the airplane. This was at Incheon airport. Really sad moment. 

I'm going home..awwwwww...

Answered prayer! Window seat!!! Annyeong Korea. 'til we meet again! :) 

2014 Breakthroughs

This year, we believed God for these and  He's just  so faithful to fulfill them. :) Thanks for standing with me with faith and prayers! :)




Personal Faith Goals

.eyeglasses that will last
.Growth as an intercessor (nakapag -exhort this year. Yay!)
.Increased tithes (wahaha)
.to support students for Caliraya Leader's camp
.to give more to my Mom and Aunt. :)
. Passport
.local travels (taytay,tanay, laguna etc.)
.write more (iamycah.blogspot.com/ iamycah.tumblr.com)
.more Chrsitian books to read and apply (hahaha!)
.Sign -up for Ten Days missions (Kyrgyzstan! <3 nbsp="" p="">. To attend Discipleship 2014
. to celebrate Victory's 30th anniversary
.To run in Race for Life!

and of course..

TO FLY TO SOUTH KOREA (this is still too surreal). waaahhh. huhuhuhu!

Hindi ko naman tlaga pinagpray specifically sa #fasting2014 pero sobrang breakthrough:

Attended Hillsong United Concert and Saved Festival!


My Family

. Wisdom for my Mom and Tita with their Love life (I believe answered ito. ahah)
.saftey and favor in the workplace of my tito Fer
. Good health
. for my brother to be His man. (he usually listen's to podcasts now! - I believe we're on the way here.)

Hindi ko naman tlaga pinagpray specifically sa #fasting2014 pero sobrang breakthrough:


.nakapag service kami (my mom and borther together! WAAAHH!!!)


My Career:

.Excellence in the workplace (Grace...grace..grace..3x Best Teacher ALL FOR HIS GLORY ALONE)

.to have a part time . :)


My Ministry

. regular victory group (push pa further!)
. more week 2 Junior kids Volunteer
. more LIFEbox PUP leaders to rise up
. Harvest in PUP youth Service


Honestly, I thought 2014 would be just a "so-so" year but with Dad, na ah ah.. indeed greater things are yet to come! He was so amazing and nakaka speechless talaga!

We're continously fighting a  good fight of faith! :) Ready to Honor God more this 2015 prayer partners? Here's to more years of praying with and for you guys! Maraming salamat!


Psalm 115
1 Not to us, Lord, not to us
    but to Your Name be the glory,
    because of Your love and faithfulness.