25 and in awe

Today marks my last day as a 25 year-old woman. Wow. In just a few hours, I'm officially in my late 20s! I can't believe it (sometimes I feel like I'm just 14!)  So let's try to remember what God did in the 25th year of my life here on earth:

My 25th  birthday was celebrated with co-workers making cupcake for me (I  was so happy already) and also  with Kids family for the first time! Yung may cake (gusto ko talaga ng cake at that time). I think we had a Junior Kids bonding at that time.

It was a first time to have a Christmas bonding with Junior kids teachers also at Glorietta (as far as I can remember). I gave them pictures of their 2017 highlights. That's when I saw the smiles of Aeta children and heard more about the  Hike for Christ Movement.

My Nanay Lydia and Tito Cesar went home to heaven. It's God's grace to be able to go through those storms. Trusting... trusting...

I experience my first outreach in the Aeta community (Sitio Banawen)!It's called "Engage" event. We shared the Gospel and bless them with hygiene kits. It was such an answered prayer! I also get to help to share the Bible story! I met new friends like Ate Chaye, Pau, Earl, Albert, Lorainne, Kuya Bryan, Van,  Ate Grace etc. I also met a young Aeta  girl named Aileen. She got my number so I gained a textmate? hehe.

I get to take an undergrad subject in UP!!! WOW. WOW. WOW. At, math sya ah! Ang babata at ang brilliant ng mga kaklase ko! Huhuhu.

I get to share the Gospel to one of my UP classmates! This is too wonderful.

I met my new classmates and became a part of our "Monday Group". I miss them! I miss Mhean, Kim, Nick and Kwin!Hi guys! 

I got 1.25 in subjects I thought I will not pass. (EDRE 146 and EDFD 201!!!) Whaaaa. TEARS!!!

I went to Masasa Beach for summer! I experience a lot of firsts!

First time sumakay ng bangka.
First time sa crystal clear water!
First time mag island hopping.
First time mag snorkeling. WAAAAAHH!!!
First time mabaon sa ilalim ng buhangin.

I also had my 2nd outreach in the Aeta Community! We gave school supplies this time.
I get to be one of the Bible story tellers! WAAAAH! I shared about Joseph the dreamer.
I got the help of my friend Edz for the visual aid and the whole family for coloring it!
I met new friends like Kuya Ronald, Kuya Julius, Rose, Ate Sarah, Alphey etc.
We had fun playing games (or not getting the games)  in the dark haha.

First time matulog sa tent! (I miss my roommate Rose!!!)
I was asked to be part of the HFCM Core team. WAAAH!
I saw Aileen (a young girl in the community)  again and went to her home and met her family!!!

First meeting with the Core Team at Lorainne's house.

God enabled me to raise fund  for a  3 -day discipleship mission! I saw how He provided and my heart melts.  Grateful for Ninong and Ninang Nor, Dia, Ate Ayen and Coach Pat. Hindi ko maitatangi ang kilig ko. There are people who actually believe in me!!

But it's still not God's time for me to go on a mission. It was decided to be postponed (due to the weather and schedule). It was like my third heartbreak in missions but continually trusting. One day, one day...

I was not enrolled this sem too. Naubusan ng afternoon slot.  Still trusting.

I lost my UP ID. :(

I met Rose and Belle. (roommates)

Did One 2 One with Pearl, Mikee , Belle and  Lizette. This is too wonderful.

I saw Tita Coney again! (Lola Lucing's friend)  She's still so cheerful and lovely.

I met Kim! One of my violinists on my wedding day! HAHA! She's only 9.

What I wrote for this blog became a part of Ate Pamu's book! WOW. His dreams for me are really way bigger that my dream for myself.

I get to write a newsletter for HFCM. Grateful for the trust when I can't trust myself!

I became part of Kids main hall volunteers and curriculum team! WAAAH! #grace

Attended Kuya Michael's wedding.(Pangako, hindi kita iiwaaaannnn #LSS )

Played badminton with rules for the first time in a long time with HFCM friends!

My brother went abroad. (I miss you bro)

Stephen said "Amen"  for the first time after a prayer!

Baby Jasper was born. :")

I started to learn about having a poured-out life.
I continually learned about Jesus being my Sweeter song, my Bridegroom, my All in all.

It's 7:56 PM of October 11, 2018.

I just went home after dating (in a sisterly way okay? hihi) wonderful sisters in the faith (Celina and Ate Marian). Both making great impact in the world through the Gospel. My heart was so full because of the privilege of knowing them. Their faith and passion for God and the lost are just so amazing. I'm in awe that God orchestrated  the last day of my 25th year this way. It's just too wonderful for me.

I never really thought that my 25th year would be so awesome. I'm excited for my 26th. By His grace, I declare we'll  laugh without fear of the future. :")

 Now all glory to God, who is able, through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Glory to Him in the church and in Christ Jesus through all generations forever and ever! Amen. 

                                                                            (Ephesians 3:20-21 New Living Translation (NLT))

                                                                                         Photo by Nadi Whatisdelirium on Unsplash

Christian songs in times of suffering

         

   Here's a little weather report:  It has been so stormy in the past week and the river of tears was just overflowing.

             My stepfather passed away and it's just too sudden. We thought it's only a simple fever and cold. Turned out it's something terminal and he eventually took his last breath. I got the news at around 3:15 AM from my mom. No, no, no! Wait! PLEASE WAKE ME UP!!! I hoped so hard that it's just a bad dream. The storm is approaching hard. 

             Oh, storms. Early in my Christian life, it's been established in my heart that we don't have a storm-free life. Our life is like the Philippines ... may dadating at dadating talaga na bagyo (whether you're a Christian or not). I was also taught na mas marami pa ngang storms ang Christians.  But then, there's hope. 

             Oh, hope. Though we can't have a storm-free life, we can have a storm-proof one. How? By having the right foundation. And our only foundation is JESUS CHRIST. Having  Him can make the pressure inside stronger than the pressure outside. Having Him as the source of  hope, security and peace is everything.

            When I read Narnia, one of my favorite moments is when Aslan was reminding a girl to always remember the word that he spoke to her  because it'll be very hard to hear it once she go to Narnia.

             Same is true with me in my reality. It's a challenge to be reminded of God's Word and who He is when I'm in the midst of a storm. I  tend to forget. I tend to be overwhelmed when I start staring at the storm and stop fixing my gaze on Him.

            I'm grateful that because of  the past storms that went by,  I learned that the best thing to do in times of suffering is to keep on praising Him. It helps heaps to declare to your hurting and weary soul who He is and what He can do.  In the most painful moments, earphones were stuck to my ears or sobrang lakas ng tugtog ng worship songs sa bahay namin! HAHA! It's my suffering hack... and it points me back to Jesus, back to His love, back to my hope and future that He is. It helps me hold on all the more to what He told me in the past.

            Are you suffering? Are you losing hope? Is your faith gone?  Is the fear strong? Is the pain real? Is it hard to heal? Is your joy stolen?  Here's how I fight my battles (but ultimately, He's fighting for us): I read the Bible, be reminded of the past words He spoke to my heart through my journal, ask friends to pray for me, pray and I listen to these Christian songs:   

It is well - Bethel Music

And far be it from me to not believe

Even when my eyes can't see

And this mountain that's in front of me

Will be thrown into the midst of the sea

And through it all, through it all

My eyes are on You

And through it all, through it all

It is well

Peace - Hillsong Young & Free

There's a peace far beyond all understanding

May it ever set my heart at ease

Dare anxiety come, I'll remember that peace is a promise You keep

Peace is a promise You keep

Not today - Hillsong United

Fear must have thought I was faithless

When it came for my heart

‘Cause I got a song that will never die

I know Your love is the reason why

Stars in the sky - Kari Jobe

The stars in the sky will hang there

'til You tell them to

The faith in my heart will still sing

Of what Your love can do

And even when life weighs heavy on me

I know You're in control

And You're all I need

Steady my heart - Kari Jobe

Even when it hurts

Even when it's hard

Even when it all just falls apart

I will run to You

'Cause I know that You are

Lover of my soul

Healer of my scars

You steady my heart

Find You on my knees - Kari Jobe 

So what if sorrow shakes my faith

What if heartache still remains

I'll trust you

My God I'll trust you

'Cause you are faithful

Our God - Chris Tomlin

                                                               

Our God is greater, our God is stronger

God You are higher than any other

Our God is Healer, awesome in power

Our God, Our God

And if our God is for us, then who could ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, then what can stand against?

Dessert Song - Hillsong Worship

All of my life

In every season

You are still God

I have a reason to sing

I have a reason to worship

Hope of all hearts - Planetshakers

In darkness,

In trial, my soul shall sing

Of his mercy, and kindness

Our offering of praise

Our God never fails

Our God never fails

Even when it hurts (Praise song) - Hillsong United

Even when the fight seems lost

I'll praise You

Even when it hurts like hell

I'll praise You

Even when it makes no sense to sing

Louder then I'll sing Your praise

Defender - Rita Springer 

All I did was praise

All I did was worship

All I did was bow down

All I did was stay still

Yesterday was the last day of my stepfather's funeral. It still hurts that he'll not be around. I still cry when I remember how a blessing he is to us. I still have the pain, but as I listen to these songs, I know the future will still be bright because I have Him there.

May you also be reminded that God is in control, He is good, He loves you and your loved ones, He is your peace, your victory and NO MATTER WHAT, IN EVERY SEASON,  HE deserves all our praises, worship and all the glory! He is our greatest blessing! More than the songs, it's actually  His love that can keep our heart together. Tara let's praise, worship, bow down, stay still.  Smile for Jesus!  

  There is surely a future hope for you, and                    your hope will not be cut off. 

                    (Proverbs 23:18 NIV)

Alone and Stuck in an Elevator

"Daddy, please... Daddy please save me...Daddy please... please..."

Uttering those words, crying, panicking, confuse, really don't know if what I'm doing was making sense.

It was Monday morning, I rode the elevator and about to get off  at the 29th floor. The door suddenly stopped opening. I tried pressing all the button but nothing's happening. "Daddyyyy". I was trying to be calm at first but after some minutes, tears just fell! I cried and I tried the elevator phone but I think it's not working.


I then  pressed the elevator alarm button repeatedly. Hoping that someone would hear me. Sobbing, I don't know what else to do.


I reached out to my phone but it's running out of battery and wala akong load at wala na ding points!  I kept on crying and making noise.



Like a ray of sunshine in total  darkness, our company guard noticed and he asked me to push the close button since the elevator door is a little open. He helped me in closing the door. I stopped crying (did I?haha). I just know that I was too  happy to see a human being! I was hopeful. Yes, Dad! But just when I thought it's over..


hindi pa pala...


Once the elevator door closed, I suddenly went down to the 28th floor! The same thing happened, the door was not fully opening. I cried hard again. I don't know if anyone could hear me here. It's around 4:35-40 AM. Is there any guards here? Is there anyone at all?

"Daddy, please... Daddy please save me...Daddy please... please...Daddy..Daddy..Daddy..."

I was just uttering "Daddy" in the midst of the noise as I continually and desperately push the alarm button. I was crying louder.

Why?

I was scared (obviously) but not for my life. I trust that I could get out of the cab safely. I trust that  help would certainly come. It's only a matter of "when". That's what I'm scared about , when? At what time? It all boils down to this prayer...

"Daddy, I don't want to be late please... Don't let me be late please.. Daddy please".

Yes,to be so honest, yun po yung iniiyak ko. Ayaw ko talaga ma late. :"( I cringe at the thought of it. Very crucial po ang time in my line of service. :(

And yes, I was eventually saved!  Two men came and the door opened. I rushed out and I was still crying while saying..."Thank you po.. huhu (yes, ang ingay ko umiyak huhu) san po hagdan pa 29th floor?"

Like a lost little girl in the mall...

I hastily ran and climbed up the stairs. The door's locked!!! I knock and knock  louder, louder  and the door opened for me. I was still crying! What time is it? What time is it?!  I then logged in! It's 4:47! 4:47 (I'll be late by 4:56) !!!!! I'm not late!!!! I'M NOT LATE!!!! And I cried again. I can't believe I'm not late. Sagip ulit ako ni LORD!!!!

My heart was so full when the teachers came to my station and comfort me. (Thank you Teachers!!!)

As I reflect on what happened,  I was really regretful how I reacted.

I am called to have a quiet spirit di ba? What was all that panicking and losing hope thing?

I remember my college friend's words when we were so worried about our Thesis years ago..

"Para kayong walang Diyos".

Where was my faith at that time? Why was I so scared and worried? Did I just forget that He is in control? That He's with me? FOR REAL? Anyare sa mga verses na minememorize at minemeditate ko? Psalm 23 pa man din!  I was so shy to Dad!!!

I realized how desperation can just suddenly test faith. 

Obviously, I think I didn't pass. Overwhelming ang fear talaga at that time. Yung faith parang as small as my silent whisper of "Daddy..." in between my sobs of fear.
Yes, I was unfaithful but HE REMAINED FAITHFUL. SO FAITHFUL.
The One who said that a faith as small as a mustard seed can move a mountain is FAITHFUL.

I realized na mas lalo pa kailangan mag build ng faith muscles. Mas lalo pa dapat mag store ng Word Nya. Mas lalo pa dapat mag hold on!!

I repent and accepted His forgiveness.
I learned and I learned a lot.  Including the practical things kapag na stuck sa elevator or kapag nasa overwhelming situation:

. remember that God is with you. He is real. His love and power even!!!
. find the elevator phone
. press the elevator alarm button repeatedly
. really fight for presence of mind
. cry out to Him
. witness His deliverance
. Trust that He is a good God!!

Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free. -Psalm 118:5 

I thought I would never ride the same cab of elevator ever again but He  corrected me.
I was taught that I shouldn't let fear to take hold of me. I should get back up again because fear paralyzes. He doesn't want that for me. He doesn't want that for us.

I rode the same cab and riding it again.



                                                                                                  Photo by Milada Vigerova on Unsplash

Writing for Him

For the past months, I've been doing things that I've never done before or things that I've never even imagined of doing. One of them is writing a newsletter for an outreach event. When it was first brought up, I was too hesitant (because I only write blogs and I almost forgot that comm was my major!). I was reminded though that I declared in my heart that I will not put any boundaries on how He'll gonna use my hands, feet and life. 

I am blessed to be part of the Core team of Hike For Christ Movement now and this was my first task. I resolved to rely on His grace.

Days after, I was so happy to actually come up with this (though this is still for approval!). I was like, "Whoa, this really looks like a newsletter!" I can't believe this! I thank Daddy God for His Word for me last night..

Generation after generation stands in awe of Your work;

each one tells stories of Your mighty acts. (Psalm 145:4 MSG)

Your marvelous doings are headline news;

I could write a book full of the details of Your greatness. (Psalm 145:6 MSG)

I'm amazed when the author of Psalm said "I could write a book full of the details of Your greatness." I realized it's a great privilege to write about Him and what He is doing! 

So here's the newsletter I tried to do for Hike For Christ Movement's Balik-Eskwela missions (this is not the official newsletter) : 

The text isn't  that clear so if you want, you can read it here:

Balik-Eskwela Missions 2018 

We are very much grateful for your partnership in blessing our Aeta students in Sitio Cawag and Sitio Banawen, Zambales through our Balik -Eskwela missions last May 19, 26-27,2018. We are privileged and humbled that God is continually using us to bring hope and faith in the said communities.


At Sitio Cawag


It’s great to go back to this community. It’s been 5 months since we last visited and it’s heartwarming to see familiar smiles all over again. Our team (which was composed of 54 volunteers) was expectant of what God will do in and through us this time.


In this one day missional outreach, we’re able to give 115 school bags with school supplies. Initially, we thought that we will only be able to give school kits, but because of God’s provision through your generosity, we’re amazed that we’re also able to bless them with new school bags.


In addition, we also gave toys to the preschool children, prizes for the games and fed them physically by cooking and distributing snacks (“sopas” and juice).


Most importantly, we’re able to feed them spiritually.


We praise God together, conducted Bible story telling and had a discipleship time with the youth. Specifically, we taught the children to love others as Jesus Christ loves us. We’re grateful that we’re able to share the Gospel to the parents as well. We believe that they could and should be our partner in leading the next generation to Jesus. We must always go back to our mission. We exist to reach out different tribes around the Philippines to share His hope and His love.


It wasn’t only a wonderful time for the community but for the volunteers as well. We had a chance to meet new brothers and sisters in Christ, had a deeper revelation of why we were doing these things through our time of devotion and we were able to use our different skills and gifts so that we can serve more. Some had fun cooking, ministering, preparing the place, teaching, singing, dancing and even acting! Yes, some tasks were challenging, but we declare that we’re unstoppable in doing what God wants us to do. We’re grateful for the spirit of fun, faith and family in our midst. The outreach shaped our faith and we’re forever grateful that we’re there to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus.


At Sitio Banawen

It’s the second time that we blessed this community and it’s great to be back. The 2-3 hours trek just to reach them was really worth it. Our team was relatively smaller (we only had 33 volunteers) this time but God still worked mightily through us.

In this two-day missional outreach, we’re able to reconnect with the children and bless them with snacks, 85 school bags with school supplies and toys. It’s our prayer that they will be able dream big and believe that nothing is impossible with our God.

Just like in Sitio Cawag, we were intentional in sharing what they ultimately need - the saving knowledge Jesus Christ. We shared the story of Joseph the Dreamer to the young ones and presented John 3:16 to the youth. We were also able to reach the parents with the Gospel.

It was also a great privilege to lead the children as they sing and dance for Jesus. To celebrate His great love with them is a sight to behold.

The volunteers had a great time of fellowship on the second day. We reminded each other that Jesus is a compassionate God who can relate to us. We also ponder on what He did on the cross for each of us. We can only love the community that we’re in because He first loved us.

Again, we thank God for you. We truly appreciate your prayers and support to our Balik- Eskwela Missions.

God bless you always!

Hike For Christ Movement

After a series of meetings and heeding suggestions, here's the final look of our Balik- Eskwela missions newsletter: 

This might be not as long as a book but this is from my heart to our God and our partners. 

LORD, have Your way as I write for You

Only One Life (a poem)

Awe-inspiring  poem by C. T. Studd (an evangelist and a missionary to China in the 1800s). :") 

Only One Life

By C.T. Studd

Two little lines I heard one day,

Traveling along life’s busy way;

Bringing conviction to my heart,

And from my mind would not depart;

Only one life, ’twill soon be past, 

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one,

Soon will its fleeting hours be done;

Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet,

And stand before His Judgement seat;

Only one life,’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, the still small voice,

Gently pleads for a better choice

Bidding me selfish aims to leave,

And to God’s holy will to cleave;

Only one life, ’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, a few brief years,

Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;

Each with its clays I must fulfill,

living for self or in His will;

Only one life, ’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

When this bright world would tempt me sore,

When Satan would a victory score;

When self would seek to have its way,

Then help me Lord with joy to say;

Only one life, ’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Give me Father, a purpose deep,

In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;

Faithful and true what e’er the strife,

Pleasing Thee in my daily life;

Only one life, ’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Oh let my love with fervor burn,

And from the world now let me turn;

Living for Thee, and Thee alone,

Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne;

Only one life, ’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Only one life, yes only one,

Now let me say,”Thy will be done”;

And when at last I’ll hear the call,

I know I’ll say “twas worth it all”;

Only one life,’twill soon be past,

Only what’s done for Christ will last.

Photo by Taylor Ann Wright on Unsplash

To you who have a boyfriend

This is a letter I wrote for a young woman I love a few years ago when I heard that she already has a boyfriend. The draft resurfaced and I read it again. I realized,  it's the same message that's burning in my heart. I just also want to share it to you  girl. This is from my heart to yours...

To you who have a boyfriend ,


Kamusta?

This message is coming from a friend/ Ate who only wants what's best for you ok?

Since you decided  to have a boyfriend  in this season, I'm just concern because  I know the temptation will be there and will be stronger.

So this is just to encourage you, to beg you..

if ever...

if ever....


he or someone in the future  will ask you to do something that supposedly only married people could do...

Please say NO.

NO.

NO!!!  (With conviction. With all that you are.)

Please be brave enough to protect yourself and your future.

Been counseling women who gave themselves away to their exes and saw how regret, guilt and shame consumed them.  And those are NOT COOL. NOT COOL  AT ALL. (though the world makes it appear like pre-marital sex is cool) .

Know that you are valuable. So valuable.You're bought with a price.

You're just too precious.

 And sex too. Sex is God's  idea  (who else right? ) and it is to be enjoyed at the right time.  It's so precious that God had to protect it in the boundaries of marriage. Kung saan walang shame and guilt!



If a man really loves you, he will respect you. He will wait for you because you are worth waiting for.



Sounds so old-fashioned ba? so KJ (Kill Joy) ? Well,  can you just  call it PJ (Protecting Joy)? Because a glorious joy ( not just a temporary one) awaits you once you decide to embrace His perfect time for this and that is His will for you.


"For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor, not in the passion of lust like the Gentiles who do not know God."  (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 )


You'll tend to think that boundaries limits but actually, it  protects my dear.

Payakap ako! Be strong and very courageous! May you always consider Jesus, your first love in every decision.May He be the one to complete you. You are loved. So loved.  And at times, when you feel like you've been so far and you can't go back,  know that you can, you can. Pagtalikod mo, He's just there waiting for you.

"Christ has loved you and gave Himself for you. Everything you need as a woman is found in Christ." - Thammie Sy .  May this reality sink deep in your heart just like how it did to mine when I was 18.


I love you but Christ loves you more than most.

from a friend who prays for you and  only wants what's best for you,

 Ycah / Ate Ycah


Photo by Tord Sollie on Unsplash 

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 

About

English teacher for Koreans. 
Graduated from PUP - Manila.
Taking Education Units  at UP-Diliman.

Victory Group Leader and Kids Church Volunteer at Victory U-belt.
Secretary of Hike For Christ Movement. 

Without Christ, I am nothing. 

loves praying, meeting new people, learning,
encouraging, eating, reading, kids,

sunflowers

and a good laugh!

currently falling in love with

Loves to be discipled and to make disciples.

I will hike and climb more mountains and go to the nations to share faith, hope and love.

My life is wonderful (and it's wonderful to write about it) only because of Jesus Christ.

for visiting!

How to be on fire for God?

I was chatting with a sister in Christ one night and asked her about her relationship with God these days..



Me: Going strong with the Lord? :”)

Her: Nuh. Trying pa..I really don't know if you know the feeling or you went through with the struggle, but when people say na pray like ako, read this and that, seek Him, I dunno.... It doesn't help, hindi madali. Im not backsliding pero im not on fire. ..




It left me asking myself, “What does it mean to be on fire?, How to be and to stay on fire for God?, Am I on fire?” I think these are important questions because I know that being lukewarm / not so on fire is not honoring to Him. As it is mentioned in Revelation 3:14-16, “To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth.

On fire.


Dictionaries defined this idiom as being enthusiastic, excited, passionate or highly motivated.


When it comes to our faith, it is safe to say that it’s all about spiritual passion, it’s our devotion to God. Julie Ackerman Link wrote on one of her entries for Our Daily Bread that “In ancient Israel, the priests were instructed not to let the fire on the altar go out (Lev. 6:9,12-13). This required a lot of work, not the least of which was collecting firewood in a land not known for its dense forests. Some scholars see the fire on the altar as a symbol for the flame of our devotion for the Lord. Spiritual passion is not something to be treated lightly or taken for granted. It will grow cold if we fail to keep it supplied with fuel.”


So when we’re not that enthusiastic, excited, passionate or highly motivated about God, What are we gonna do? How can we fuel it? How to be and stay on fire for God?



I asked my friends/mentors/ churchmates to share their thoughts about this. These are the people that I really look up to when it comes to their devotion to God and they’ve been walking in this journey for a while. Let’s learn from them. :)

• Back to Basics

I find wisdom in reading His word. I find joy in every revelation God gives to me.. i find hope in every promise He says.. When I’m down i just go back to the Word. I go back to the cross. to His throne of grace..His living word.Jesus.and what Jesus did.. I focus on the reality of who God is not on who I am. – Daisy Gasmen, Food Technologist




How I stay on fire for God? Basic I just continue knowing Him and knowing His will for me. And I just continue listening and obeying Him. Continue my devotion. The fire [is] never gone it’s just setting low. It happens when God gave me something I think I can’t go through and fear overcame me I just feel I can’t hear Him. When this thing happens, sometimes I stop myself on doing something I literally stop and close my eyes and talk to Him until I’m done giving all my worries to Him/ until I calm down. Sometimes preaching/declaring His words/promises to myself. Well, that's it. Ay isa pa pala sometimes nakanta ko ng “Keep holding on”. – Alaisa Nazareno, Food Technologist




When prayer and Bible readings seem not to be working, (but of course we know it still work and is a necessity sa Kristiyano) then the disciple has to develop the habit of Fasting. As we humbly seek God, on our knees, we will become more sensitive to the voice of the Holy Spirit! -Gab Ternida, future Campus Missionary



Hello, well, eto medyo generic, but first is communication; without you praying or talking to Him I think there is a very low chance of you hearing what He wants you to do, next is read His word; most of the time you cannot audibly hear God, but you can read His word and that's as good as hearing Him, lastly is stay close to Him; like an actual fire, it's most likely to be put out when there's no cover and exposed to strong winds, so keep God close to you so He can cover you from the things that can put out the fire in you… - Joshua Antolin, Game Developer




How to stay on fire for God - we usually measure our "ON FIRE" for God through our ministry involvement or with the people we meet for vg or discipleship. Most of the Christians think that as they go to church, meet people for fellowship and do all kinds of ministries --- they are already on fire for God... or they rather feel that they are on fire. on the other hand Christians who used to be so active in the ministries and for some reasons hindi na sila ganun ka active, they feel like they are not on fire anymore. Kasi yung routine of serving God decreases. Siguro dahil naging busy sila sa work or ministries or may iba ng priorities than the ministries. BUT really at the end of the day, whether you are busy in the ministry or not, going to church or not what really determines our ON FIRE for God is our relationship with HIM. With the help and power of the Holy Spirit, we can sustain our "On Fire on God because of our relationship with HIM... nothing more nothing else. Pag may self preservation na tayo sa sarili natin, like we find our worth in the ministries or with our vgs, dun na mejo may mali... kasi our relationship with God will not depend on our works or ministries but with our relationship and identity in HIM. So how to stay on FIRE FOR GOD is simply to deepen our relationship with HIM... through getting to KNOW him more…





1. By HIS WORD (BIBLE) and by listening to HIS WORD (Preachings, podcast, prov 1:5, luke 11:28) 2. Obedience (Luke 11:28) hindi lang makikinig pero mag oobey din 3. Walk in Holy Spirit (Gal 5:16-17 fruit of the HS) minsan din, its the sin that keeps us away from being on fire, because of sin... shame guilt and condemnation... whenever this comes, GO BACK TO THE WORD OF GOD FAITH.... natetest tayo tru our FAITH, keep the FAITH and TRUST God in everything



2. Pag nabuburn out nako or if i dont feel the fire... I go back to that old path where I first meet Christ Jeremiah 6:16a and i check my heart, bakit pakiramdam ko wala na ang fire.... dahil ba hindi nako active sa ministry? wala akong wina one to one? I also check my quiet time, my devotion, am i doing it for the sake of masabing nag devotion ako or am i really seeking God. The WORD OF GOD is like treasures from heaven, it will always depends on how long you spend time in collecting the treasures... treasures that we need for our soul and our daily living. - Long Term Missionary in the Middle East






Just continue stoking the fire - continue seeking Him even if you don't feel like it - Lanie Teves, Professor






Reading the Word. Minsan mahirap. Pero kasi nilalaban talaga yun eh. - Anne Sabrina Rojo,Registered Nutritionist-Dietitian




Mahirap magstay on fire kapag inisip ko na, "kung ano bang ginagawa kong magstay on fire". Kasi minsan kapag sobrang feeling ko napapariwara na ako, tapos gustong gusto ko nang bumalik, yung idea na "kung gusto kong bumalik, mas gusto ng Lord na bumalik ako" yun lang yung tinatanim ko sa isip ko, kasi minsan ang original na response ng heart ko is mahiya e. Basta yun ate. Feeling ko wala akong kayang gawin para magstay on fire. Ang hirap kasi e. Siguro yung spiritual discipline pero yun nga kung walang internal na ginagawa si Lord lahat yun magiging duty nalang e. -Ja Macarayo, Young Professional

• Better together

Word and prayer po talaga ate like really soaking myself in the word also with worship. Babad kung babad. Hahahaha. AND if not really okay, I ask for godly counsel, I become more accountable, I let God's light through His people, to shed some light in my dark situation. It really helps to be surrounded by people who are more on fire with God. Just like the very classic example, a burning coal, I need to remain connected with the other who are also burning for God. – Nikki Sean Enyong, Student



There's no secret on staying on fire it is simply being consistent and faithful on having your QT. When fire is not there best way for me is to get close with people who are on fire. Remove the pride and approach those people. Ask for prayers and advice. – Jethro Gonzales, Operation Specialist



..unang naisip ko being inspired...Inspired sa word ni God. Pero sobrang general. Haha.
You need also other people to bring back the fire much more stronger . Hahaha kaya need mo yung mga accountable friends and leaders mo. – Renmark Tapang, Engineer




I'll just share a couple of things. Well, being a Christian is not an easy walk. It's a continuous process of learning and application. I just want to highlight the application part. Whenever I fell short, sinned, or disobeyed God in my journey, i go back to Him. I asked forgiveness and grace to overcome those. I make it a point to be accountable. Acknowledge and expose the darkness to light and be humble enough change to be better. Its painful at first to hear corrections but it's worth it because would help me in the future. I set aside my prideful heart bec it wouldn't help me if i take it as an offensive statement. – Timothy Tolentino, Young Professional and Student

• Bring back the Joy

The Gospel is helping me to stay on fire. Everytime I feel like I’m losing my endurance to run the race, I remind myself of His great love. More often than not, i wasn’t the one reminding myself about His goodness, it's still Him who do the reminding and restoring. Other times, I do the opposite of how i feel. My leader once told me that if I don't feel like doing my QT, I should all the more do it. – Dexter Alvarez, young professional and blogger/vlogger




Personally, I also experience moments or days that I’m not that on fire for God. I don’t feel like praying, reading the Word, sharing the Gospel or encourage someone. Those days are usually (I think) because I’m distracted with my worries, fears, problems, issues, good things (yes, even good things) and other things or maybe I became just familiar with Jesus, cross,salvation, resurrection, prayer, Bible, worship etc.


As I reflect on my on fire, I realized it burns when God restores the joy of my salvation. I bring my focus on the cross and what Jesus did for me. I remember the old me and how He saved me. I remembered the moment that the cross stopped being a cliche’ and became a reality to me. The moment that I prayed to Jesus that I don’t want to be familiar. I don’t want to be familiar. I want it to be fresh to me. So fresh to me all the days of my life.



Basically, just like Dexter, the Gospel is helping me to stay on fire.



This might or might not apply to your situation since we could have different reasons why we don’t think we’re on fire for God sometimes. Nonetheless, I hope this helped you.


Be on fire . Keep the fire. Set the world on fire.


At the end of the day.. May we all do this: “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12:2




P.S.

Special thanks to all of you who answered! I really appreciate you guys!Keep the fire burning!!!!




                                                                                                        Photo by Caleb Woods on Unsplash