Shoes and songs in Kidapawan Campus Ministry

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by Jeanelle Grace Lorilla

“Whenever the presence of God comes, favors are unstoppable. It is like deserts turned into springs.”

5We stand upon these words proven true when we saw the blessing of God poured out in the lives of the students as they received for the first time brand new shoes for graduation. It was distributed the same day when the Youth Shakers Campus Ministry conducted a concert crusade at Amas National High School, Amas, Kidapawan City last March 22, 2015.

Amas National High School is a field white for harvest. When EFC-Kidapawan asked permission to hold a Christian concert on the month of March, one of the busiest months in high school calendars, the Principal Mrs. Vilma Belotindos agreed. In fact, they rescheduled some of their closing month activities, even their final examination day, just to give way to this event. All the teachers were also very accommodating to us when we arrived that day for the concert.

And God blessed their responsive hearts. Early in the morning of that concert day, the school received a memorandum from the North Cotabato provincial government regarding the distribution of shoes as gifts to the graduates. Recognizing God’s provision to the graduating classes, Mrs. Belotindos said she did not regret her decision of inviting our youth group to minister to the students that day.

Then God continued to shower His grace to the school as the day progressed. A crowd of approximately 250 students, faculty and staff were not just entertained but blessed through the various presentations. There were dance numbers by the Hearts on Fire Dance Crew. Students were amused and surprised to learn that God is the Lord of the dance. The song numbers led by Fire Band touched them to sing with the performers. They clapped their hands and gave joyful noise to God. A drama skit was also shown. The song “Who Am I” by Casting Crowns and the actions of the casts portrayed the honor God gave us to be called His child. We saw some students with teary eyes as they realized God’s unfailing love communicated in songs.

It was amazing to witness that they attentively listened to the Lord’s message delivered by Rev. Tony J. Angelias. They lifted up their hands and surrendered their lives to Jesus Christ as Pastor Tony and some of the church leaders prayed for them.

After the event, we fellowshipped with the students. They were encouraged to join the campus ministry next school year and continue their journey in growing their relationship with God. We will keep on praying that more students will be closer to Jesus through this ministry. We, as a church, were also encouraged to keep working and reaching out souls in other schools and universities. We pray that we will “not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up” (Gal. 6:9-10).

Southern Mindanao Youth Challenged to walk the NexGen path

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By Michael Lyco J. Barreranexgentext

A teenager is bombarded with crises and pressures from all sides of life as he or she goes through growth, maturity and development. Psychosocial development as theorized by famous psychoanalyst Erik Erikson, states that we need to overcome crises on particular stages in our lives in order to become “whole” persons. A teenager, for instance, must overcome role confusion to establish and secure his or her identity.

Without the word of God, a teenager seeking for directions gets entangled with unbiblical ideologies and wanders on a lost path. Jesus knows the pain and restlessness of a drifter, and so he calls the lost sheep into his fold that it may lie down on green pastures. This fold is the church which welcomes all weary travelers, introduces them to the Savior, and equips and releases them to help others who are still astray.

group_pictureThis summer, the JECPP Southern Mindanao region once again fulfilled its deep calling of training young people inside the fold to love and serve God with all their hearts and strength. More than 200 youth from Evangel Family churches all over Southern Mindanao gathered in Jones Beach Resort, Talomo, Davao City for the 2nd NexGen Southern Mindanao Regional Youth Conference last April 1-4.

The event was an ideal summer spree for energetic teens and young adults where they were nourished and revived with compelling messages, physical activities, fellowships, music, prayer, and creative expressions of talents.

 

Every day in the camp was a feast of the Word served by anointed speakers. These messages were meant to transform and renew their minds so they could make sound decisions and actions as exemplary Christian youth. Reverend Peter Wee marked the first night with a highlight on the favored life of Lot because he walked with blessed Abraham. Unfortunately, Lot decided to walk on his own, forsaking the Godly legacy of Abraham and embracing the culture of his time.  Pastor Wee quoted Oliver W. Homes who said, “it matters not where you are, but rather in what direction you are heading” for where you are looking, there you will also go.

Expounding the idea of “walking with those who are blessed”, Pastor Wee reminded the participants of another lover and follower of God in thepas_peter_wee person of Joshua. “Joshua loved the Presence of God” (Exodus 17:9) and “Joshua loved God`s House” (Exodus 33:11). Like Joshua, young people need to learn to love the presence of God above all and to be in the house of the Lord rather than to be in other places.

conference_speakersOther speakers in the morning and evening services were Rev. Albert Polino, Jr., Rev. Delia Miguel, Rev. Tony Angelias, Rev. Gregorio and Rev. Rosario Simpas, Rev. Judith Kintanar and Rev. Christine Wee. These speakers addressed various issues that the young people relate and struggle with.

An all-time pressing issue among young people is undoubtedly romance. So, “striking while the iron is hot”, one afternoon in the camp was devoted solely to the topic of love and courtship delivered by Pastor Judith Kintanar. The eager young people raised questions, and were satisfied with wise counsel from their leaders. Pastor Wee and Pastor Christine helped answer the questions and candidly shared their own love story to the delight and enlightenment of the listeners.

creative_balloons_&_table_skirtingAnother worthwhile engagement in the camp was the creative balloons and table skirting workshop headed by Sis. Cecille Gacasan, Bro. Jonathan Lariosa and Sis. Lourdes Bargoso. Since the church is a venue of gatherings, celebrations and parties, the young people can serve using their aesthetic skills in decorating and designing. The young people were of course motivated to learn as they could use this skill not only in the church but even in their own parties such as debuts and graduation.

pastor's_fellowshipThe entire camp was mentally and physically challenging, so after dinner on the last night of the conference, the leaders chilled to a “pastors just wanna have fun” session. Selected pastors from the Southern Mindanao region showcased their talents. As a result, many hidden talents such as song composition, dancing, and wildly-spirited laughter were all discovered. We believe God will release our young people to serve God with greater measure.

 

 

 

Equipping and releasing the NexGen in Luzon

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by Joven Llabore

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Holding the retreat for the second time, the Evangel Family Church (EFC) Luzon had it this year inside the metro with around 107 delegates coming from four sections:  Mindoro, La Union, Batangas, and Palawan plus EFC Quezon City as the host.

Spending the holidays with the family or mountain climbing and skydiving with  friends would be the best thing to start off the summer season; however, these gregarious campers consist of young and “once young” (as others would call it)  gave up those ideas and humbly gave in to this amazing “stay-cation” with God.

So off they went from down south and uptown provinces and cities to the base church of Luzon at Fairview, Quezon City. Little did they know that this was one exhilarating three-day summer adventure that began on April 1.

“Equipping and Releasing the Next Generation” was the theme of the of year’s retreat, and the speakers mainly focused on re-infilling of the Holy Spirit, keeping the spiritual life attuned, and challenging the youth to take a step to answer the call.

Eager to experience the moving power of the Holy Spirit, the delegates listened attentively to the messages delivered by the speakers and savored the sweet presence of God during praise and worship. Altar call followed after each session.

Loud cries echoed out as lifted hands and voices were raised. Tears continuously fell as the young people were touched and filled by the Holy Spirit. Some received the gifts of the Spirit, others answered the call. God truly moved in and fully released His power and presence to equip them all.

The tasks performed by the leaders and the delegates were a bit physically and mentally demanding, nevertheless enjoyable. For some, being in Manila was like a  dream come true. The campers toured around and strolled the two famous historical sites in the country: the Intramuros and the Luneta Park.

The young walked around the streets and went to a souvenir shop and busied themselves taking pictures with the calesa, the insignia, the building, and other “social media worthy” photos.  Given an hour to relish the Luneta Park, each did not waste a second to enjoy and have fun with their friends.

They also enjoyed swimming at the pool on the last night of the retreat. Others preferred to talk with their new-found friends and elated themselves with stories they could laugh about.

Waving goodbye to each other the next morning was hard, but the friendship and the lessons they had built and learned would always be there until the next retreat. One thing was certain, they were now fully equipped and ready to be released for the expansion of God’s work as they confidently geared themselves with great  IDEAS (Innovation, Dedication, Excellence, Anticipation, Speed)they learned in this youth convention.

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Testimonies of the young people are powerful in this three-day retreat. They give the listener the hope that God is alive and truly working in the lives of His people. 

Among the many who experienced personal revival, two sisters share their own stories below:

I’m Katherine Joy Manzanero Apuyan of Evangel Family Church Quezon City. I had  three marvellous days of experiencing God’s great power.  There’s a restoration of stolen joy, replenishment of empty faith, revival of my weary heart and renewal of my soul.

It was indeed a fulfilling experience to be blessed and renewed! At first, you can feel the need of the Holy Spirit covering the place. And I know everyone was waiting for the touch of the Holy Spirit.  The piercing sermons of different pastors rebuked and gave me hope.

The burdens of my heart that kept me from moving forward disappeared. The discouragement, doubt and hatred were replaced by the love and peace coming from my Heavenly Father. And as I looked upon the other believer, I have seen every spirit humbling themselves before God.

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My name is Fe Ellana, 24 years old, a young professional from Evangel Family Church-La Union. Three days of encounter with God and I answered the “Yes” to His call. Short time, right? Well, the truth is, it has been my heart’s desire since I was sixteen.

This retreat has made me give up everything I have right now. I’m spiritually filled.

I prayed and asked God to forgive me for making Him wait for too long. The burden in my heart was lifted up. And now is the time to move forward and take a bold step of faith. 

I was so grateful to God for this retreat. I’ve been blessed by the preaching of His Word and meeting fellow Christians encouraged me more.

 

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“Next Generation” equipping in Northern Mindanao Summer Youth Conference

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By Pastor Vic Louie Pacaña.

 …And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ …  Ephesians 4:11-16group_picture

Last March 30 – April 2, 2015, JECPP held its annual summer youth conference at Coconut Bay Resort in Tablon, Cagayan de Oro City with a theme “ Equipping and Releasing” participated by youths from different Evangel Family Church sections all over Northern Mindanao including Lala, Naawan, Manticao, Balingasag, Mambayaan  and Malaybalay. It was facilitated by Pastor Rowena Kwong, and administered by Pastor Andrew Kwong, Pastor Roberto Padinit, and Pastor Vic Louie Pacaña.

The four-day and three-night conference was full-packed with encouraging sermons from pastors and fun-filled activities that showcased God-given talents of young people: singing, playing instruments, narrating and acting. Noticeable also in this year’s camp was the increased number of younger participants.

The event started on March 30, 2015 with the arrival of the participants, an orientation and groupings of youth for the activities. The event was opened with a praise and worship jam in the evening and a heart-warming message of encouragement by Rev. Andrew Kwong. In his message, he reminded all young people to remember the source of eternal life. He said, “To whom shall we go? You [Lord] have the words of eternal life”.

“A biblical foundation must be built in the lives and hearts of the next generation. They must be fully equipped in doing God’s work. ” With this message from Pastor Andrew, he capped the day and set the course of the entire event!

The second day of the camp started exceedingly great when Pastora Lourdes Ello, from EFC Malaybalay, shared an eye-opening devotional. After breakfast, the morning service began with a praise and worship lead by Lala team followed by a message from Pastor Vic Pacana of EFC Cagayan de Oro. Camper Paul John Cornel of EFC Lala  was the one leading the worship team. At his very young age, God enabled Him to do his ministries.  Though he was very young, he took the responsibility in leading the praise and worship.  What a great joy to see young ones willing to be trained and be used mightily by God.

The highlight of the day was the Battle of the Bands in the afternoon where praise and worship teams from the different sections, Lala, Malaybalay, Naawan, Manticao, and Balingasag, gave out songs that brought people to an experience of anointed praise and worship.

In the afternoon of the second day, all teams prepared for the competition.  Here they would be able to express their talents and abilities in singing and playing music. Through this, each team would be able to encourage and challenge others to give their best in whatever things God has entrusted on them.  As the first team began to play, I noticed how expressive they were in singing their songs to God. They had given their very best; a magnanimous heart was evident as they worshipped through music. Others, as they waited for their turn, were also motivated. In this event, Pastor Rowena Kwong introduced Bro. Jefferson Ouano as the sole judge for the competition.  He was also giving feedbacks, recommendations and commends every team that performed.  All of them had distinct ways of playing their songs; all were commendable. To God be the glory! Among the teams who participated, Naawan won the Battle of the Bands.

I remembered last year that it was Pastor Andrew Kwong who proposed this Battle of the Band for all the outstation churches. We were all enthused with the idea that through this, we would grow, challenge, help, and polish one another’s music skills.

ptr_andrew_kwongAfter which we proceeded to the evening service.  Before the preaching of the Word, an hour was spent for prayer asking the power of the Holy Spirit and anointing of God throughout the service.  It helped us to be prepared spiritually.  Pastor Andrew Kwong shared about “Seeing the Unseen God”.  It was Moses’ faith that prodded him to leave Egypt, not fearing the king’s anger, and he persevered because he saw him who is invisible (Hebrews 11:27). On one hand, he fled to save his life, but it was not because he feared the anger of the king. Rather, he fled in surrender to God’s timing. He was waiting when exactly God would deliver Israel. That long, discouraging wait was possible only because Moses saw the unseen God. I believe that God can do the same to all the young people in this conference. May they learn to believe in God and choose to stand firmly in His side though they cannot see Him.

When the evening service was over, everyone was busy meeting together for their practices. They carefully planned and put all their efforts to come up with the best presentation for the next day.  It was a great time of fellowship and bonding.  It gave me a joyful heart to see them sacrificing and devoting their time at night to practice and work things out in their groups.  It was a place and time of encouragement, mentoring and understanding one another in spite of many differences.  Praise be to God for His abounding grace to them.

ptr_reynaldo_cornelOn the morning devotion of the third day, young people were all alive as Pastor Reynaldo Cornel of EFC Lala shared the message of being bold and unashamed of the gospel. The morning service started with a Cebuano praise and worship led by EFC Balingasag team followed by a message “Serve like Jesus” by Pastor Robert Padinit of EFC Cagayan de Oro.

Then came the most awaited part of the day; the room exploded into a big cheer as five groups showcased their acting skills and teamwork in the drama and cheering competitions. Teams Ephesians and Corinthians won the competition.

The evening service was also a blast with a jam-packed praise and worship led by CDO praise and worship team. The event was closed with a message “Dare to Be Different” by Pastor Andrew Kwong. He exemplified the life of Daniel and other three men as they stood out for the Lord, did what was right, and trusted God for the results, no matter what. In this case, God caused Daniel to excel than all the other youths.

Those words are remarkably insightful specifically spoken for the young people to take a leap of faith and be courageous in doing God’s will.  With willing and humble hearts, we have responded to the Word of God.  God graciously poured out His Holy Spirit to the congregation. As shared by Pastor Andrew Kwong, the lives of these men are worth emulating. Once more, the young people were challenged to do likewise.

The night ended with great assurance of hope. Many questions were answered. Doubts that clouded our minds were cleared, and the Holy Spirit moved in our midst.

The last day was spent for swimming, picture-taking, eating and fellowships allowing young people from different section to mingle and bond with their teammates and new friends to share experiences that would surely inspire them to serve the Lord enthusiastically.  This years’ youth conference played a vital role in strengthening and equipping the faith of the next generation. As they travelled home, they brought with them a touch of the Holy Spirit, the fun experiences, and encouraging messages that prepared them to be released in God’s work in their various places.

God made many wonderful things and revelations during the camp.  It was a remarkably successful and anointed youth conference.  All of the young people and outstation church Pastors were really grateful for this experience and for the vision that JECPP imparted to us.

The challenge did not end in the conference. We now have a journey set before for us.  We are now equipped, and we will never be afraid because God will always provide the skills, ability, direction and resources we need to carry out His will.

We are already looking forward to next year’s camp!

Last Respects for Mr. Lee Kuan Yew

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Paying our Final Respects to the Founding Father of Singapore, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, at Singapore Embassy, Manila. To the man who gave his life for building Singapore to what it is today. To the man who enabled Singaporeans to do what we can for ourselves and for others.

1st JECPP Synchronized Prayer Walk 2015

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SINGAPORE -1

LUZON – 176

WESTERN VISAYAS – 304

CENTRAL & EASTERN VISAYAS – 277

NORTHERN MINDANAO – 211

SOUTHERN MINDANAO – 590

TOTAL – 1559

“Praise God for giving JECPP a victorious prayer walk”

 

Christmas Party on the street of Nazareth

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(Written by: Ms. Risa Labis)

“The Christmas message is that there is hope for a ruined humanity—hope of pardon, hope of peace with God, hope of glory.” – J.I. Parker

Evangel Family Church CDO is blessed to have embarked on its first outdoor Christmas Party on a community outreach in Barangay Nazareth, Cagayan de Oro dubbed as “Christmas at Nazareth”. “Christmas at Nazareth” was a striking departure from the Christmas parties we used to have inside the four corners of our church where we enjoyed the fun and the fellowship of fellow believers and of course, feasted on a variety of delicious food.

The church, under the guidance of Pastor Andrew Kwong and Pastora Rowena Kwong, felt that Christmas should be a time where we can showcase God’s generosity because on that first Christmas night, God gave the most precious thing He has, and that is His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. So instead of lavishing ourselves with gifts and toys and all that, we decided to go out to the community and spend Christmas with them. Interestingly, a barangay in Cagayan de Oro named after our Messiah’s hometown was fittingly chosen for the event.

It was a warm afternoon of 21st of December 2014 when about 500 children from Barangay Nazareth were gathered together in a gymnasium. It was an uncomfortably humid day, yet the kids did not mind because they were very excited on what were in stored for them during that day.

The active and dynamic TKK (The Kingdom Kids) teachers started the program on “Christmas at Nazareth” with a Praise and Worship led by the Music Team. Kids were attentive to hear the sharing about Christmas, and Jesus being the center of the celebration. Moreover, Burglar, a mascot brought fun to all the kids when he started playing with them. Teachers also entertained the kids with various games and fun activities.

Moments later, grandparents, parents, and more adults started coming in. The second part of the program was dedicated for them. Everyone enjoyed worshiping and praising the Lord. Everybody raised their hands as they all sung joyous Christmas songs. Evangelites continued on by having more surprises through various games and activities.

The day will not be complete without hearing a word of encouragement from beloved Rev. Andrew Kwong. He gave a very uplifting word of Hope. Also, a brother in Christ, Jeff Ouano and his band presented songs about his life experiences in encountering the Lord during the darkest moments of his life.

After all the games and giving out of prizes, four families were surprised with gifts given by Evangel Family Church. They were thankful and indeed surprised.

 

The fellowship with an estimated 900 adults and kids ended with a night of shared happiness and so much laughter over the warm and simple foods prepared by Evangel Family Church’s Staff and members.

By going into Nazareth, which happens to be the name of Jesus’ hometown, we meant to be a blessing to others as the Lord wants us to be. We shared material things that we could manage to buy to give to others so they would be happy on Christmas. We did this to let people know God is a generous God. But little did we realize that we in turn were also blessed to share the message of God’s relentless love with the people most in need of it – the destitute, the downtrodden, the hopeless and the restless. Indeed, the true message of Christmas is His undying love for everyone.

 

 

 

 

Christmas is giving to children

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(Gift-giving for Leyte and Samar kids)

The Christmas holidays in the Visayas region, strikingly 2011 up to 2014, have been ravaged by typhoons with shocking death tolls and destructions. For those who have witnessed in the news the horrific climate crises in the Philippines, one can only imagine the sufferings of children in the provinces of Leyte and Samar, Eastern Visayas.

JECPP churches in the Visayas region have since taken part in the nationwide relief and humanitarian aid to trauma and grief-stricken victims. This Christmas 2014, JECPP aimed to soothe the pain of the weakest victims, yet packed with God-fashioned strength and resilience in their soft hearts and quick smiles despite tragedy after tragedy. The hope of Christmas belongs to them, the Filipino children of Leyte and Samar.

Last December 22 and 23, Evangel Family Churches in Leyte and Samar spent the Christmas break gathering about 600 children from various barangays. The little kids were treated to a party filled with games, prizes, food, toys, and most of all, a Christmas Bible message of love and hope. The children were introduced to their strongest advocate and defender, Jesus Christ himself, who calms the storm and the fears it brings.

In Ormoc City, Evangel Family Church-Ormoc spearheaded the event they called GASA: Kids Christmas Party and Gift Giving 2014.  The activity, from the Visayan word gasa which means gift, was well appreciated by one hundred children from two barangays who flocked to the church for a morning of fun-filled party led by Pastor Bobby Subong and the energetic Hearts on Fire (HOF) youth.

The GASA team proceeded to two other barangays where 52 children awaited them in the afternoon of the same day. The next morning on December 23, another group of 83 children in Brgy. Talisayan, Albuera, Leyte received the surprises, and so did the 65 kids in Brgy. Montebello, Kananga, Leyte.

Children’s laughter rang loudly not only in Leyte but also in Calbayog City and Sta. Margarita in Samar on December 23. Evangel Family Church-Calbayog also launched the same gift-giving event they called Evangel Children Christmas Party Samar Section led by Pastor Gerry and Pastor Ailene Fernandez. About 200 children from three barangays in Calbayog City were the recipients of this activity as well as the one hundred children from Brgy. Magsohong, Sta. Margarita.

The children gave their merriest “thank you” to this generous project of Rev. Dr. Robert and Rev. Marion Lim and all JECPP Spiritual Leaders and church volunteers.

 

Christmas Greetings 2014

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A small thing can carry great love

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By Pastor Jordan Kintanar

Mother Theresa said, “In this life, we cannot always do great things, but we can do small things with great love”.

Last November 8, volunteers from Evangel Family Church- Davao visited Co Su Gian Home for the Aged, a temporary shelter for indigent and abandoned old persons. Sick with flu that day, I wonder how much I can do to help and inspire them. Because of my condition, I could not even go near the indigent and abandoned elderly folks.

We came to know of this place through a friend, Dr. Rizaldo Gonzales and his wife who committed themselves to help the JECPP yearly medical mission in Marilog District. The shelter, used to be called Day Center for the Elderly, served as haven for socialization and relaxation for senior citizens. Here they exchanged views and experiences, play guitar and chess, and do other productive activities.  After few years of operation, the center was turned over to the City Government of Davao, and became a temporary shelter that serve poor and neglected old people.

I remember EFC Davao first visited this place last Christmas. Our Sunday school kids sang and recited poems for the residents. This year, twelve of us from Evangel Family Church Davao came to clean and decorate the place in time for Christmas again.

Our day started with a drive to Buhangin district, Davao City in the warm morning of November 8. When we reached the place, we were moved, touched and at the same time amused of how they welcomed us. There were three elderlies present in the receiving hall when we arrived. One met us with a smile and hello while the other sat on a corner staring at us like a little kid.  His expression looked as if he had been scolded or had quarreled with someone. The third one was busy chopping firewood to cook their meals.

We were divided into groups. My group spent the whole day energetically wiping windows, railings and the surrounding of the Center while the second group climbed ladder and hang decors personally made by the EFC staff.  After we embellish the dining and receiving areas with our ornaments, the Christmas mood stirred in.

After our tasks, everyone assembled in the receiving area. I did not go close to the elderly folks, however, due to my flu. Though wanting to help, I just stood at a safe distance watching a lovely scene unfold at the receiving area where the residents assembled. The volunteers were now distributing to each grandpa and grandma personalized Christmas mug, toothbrush, toothpaste and colorful face towel. We also gave personalized Christmas mugs to the volunteer social workers and nurses there.

I just kept watching from afar as the Center staff prepared the residents’ lunch. I felt quite hungry myself and still weak with my bout of flu. I just managed to stand up from my sick bed that morning because I wanted to experience the therapeutic joy and satisfaction of sharing love to these precious folks even for just a short time before the Lord takes them home.

A few minutes later, refreshment was served. One elderly man said a prayer of thanks for the food. For me, his simple prayer is the best part of our visit here. It almost brought me to tears. “Lord, thank you for the lives of these people that are here cleaning today that you might bless them, keep them healthy, and keep them safe when they leave this place,” the old man prayed.

I was dumbfounded. I was thinking that we were there to bless these old abandoned fellows, but I realized only then that God has a gift waiting for us there. That gift is His love expressed in affirming words. “…whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).

As I am writing this article, I’m still having goose bumps recalling that prayer of blessing coming from the most unlikely place. The Center has nothing spectacular for inspiration, rather a chilling reminder that life is short, and that one day, we too might end up in the same place.

If we desire to become a blessing to others, God will in turn bless us in the most unexpected way. My sick body really needed that boost from God that day. I left that place strong and encouraged in my spirit. It’s not how much we do that counts, but even in our weakness, we can touch and bless others through the abundance of God’s love in our lives.

I again remember Mother Theresa’s words. “To show great love for God and our neighbors, we do not do great things. It is how much love we put in the doing that makes our offering something beautiful for God.”