Proverbs 31 Journal

ALWAYS, HE is GOOD

2014-01-31T01:49:00.001-08:00

(the bushfire remnants a day after)

I stand at the front door and I see a once lush greenery and home to many wildlife, now all burned up from the bushfire. Yes, my house almost got burned. The bushfire was too close for comfort, just 25 meters away!

The trail of destruction has left me, my family and our whole community reeling in shock and asking why on earth such a disaster should occur. And the thought these fires were caused by ‘arson’ evokes so much anger and frustration.

Those with a faith in God, myself included are in many ways facing the necessity to question God’s sovereignty over this particular life-threatening event. Many friends and family both here and overseas prayed that life and property would be spared. Yes, I am grateful that my house stands intact, but what if it wasn’t? It prompts me to question and doubt: Did God not have the strength to calm the flames? Or alternatively, I am forced to doubt God’s goodness, toying with the possibility that the all-powerful creator is at best distantly careless, hearing our prayers but wilfully choosing to let them slip by the wayside?

Just a week before this event, At least 50+ homes have been destroyed after a massive bushfire in the Perth Hills area and a man has been killed while preparing his home for a separate blaze in the area.

My homeland, the Philippines, has recently been struck by a super typhoon called ‘Haiyan’ causing massive destruction and countless deaths. It was an exceptionally powerful tropical cyclone that devastated portions of Southeast Asia. It is the deadliest Philippine typhoon on record, killing at least 6200+ people in the country alone. As of this writing, bodies are still being found as my countrymen continue to clean up the major city of Tacloban. My island was partly spared by a mere fraction. However, major parts of Tacloban had been wiped out. Days and hours before ‘Haiyan’ devoured the heart of the country, christians prayed for God to calm the storm. But the storm devoured so many lives, and homes and properties.

Again, it leaves me to question. Did the people of Tacloban not pray enough? How can I reconcile the many lives lost with an all powerful, all loving Father who seeks the best for his people?

The more I ponder deep, the more I am forced to stand in awe of the sheer magnitude of God. The more I study the life, teachings and work of Jesus, the more I am blown away by just how relevant He is to me today in all my circumstance.

You see, if we are working within a framework which asserts that our subjective experiences are the ultimate test for God’s power and goodness, then we are bound to be left flailing at the end of a misguided faith journey.

(the day after - smoke still in the horizon. I used to get into the bush
and listen to the musical tweets of the birds in the morning)

(the 'firies' - relentless, brave and my modern-day heroes!

They never left our street until all the fire has been put out)

On the one hand, if we are open to a greater possibility, then I believe that the reality of God’s presence in our lives becomes more than just a peripheral figure--- it becomes the solid foundation on which everything else in our life is built.

If it is a fundamentally true statement that “God is good” as the Bible claims, then His goodness is true no matter what our personal circumstances may be. I believe that God’s goodness runs far deeper. I may be on the brink of losing a loved one, or losing all that I have, but God is still good. He is ALL GOOD!

(Gloria, our friend kangaroo, our regular friend

and visitor every night came back

with a limp and burnt tail)

And so this is where my mind comes to rest- not so much at questions of goodness or of power, but at questions of plan and of purpose. But right now, with my Bible open beside me and my thoughts on the things of God, I am not dissatisfied nor do I feel overwhelmed by what is ahead. Rather, I hope and pray that in all of this, God’s will might be done and I look forward to the chance to one day look back on these days and see what God’s plan was all along.

Always, God is good.

I have recently commissioned a friend to restore an old and rugged frame and turn it into something useful, a blackboard. This frame, once painted in gold, then in turquoise, now painted with ash white. It has been distressed and crackled. The turn out is amazing! Underneath the new paint of ash white, is turquoise and gold, to represent new beginnings, new discoveries, and the past memories --- both a treasure and irreplaceable!

Key to Success

2013-11-22T18:11:00.000-08:00

I found this video on a friend’s timeline that talks about “Keys to Success” in life. It was interesting because what she shared were actually what Jesus taught us in the Holy Book.

Angela Lee Duckworth reiterates that successful people have “grit”, described as one with passion and perseverance for very long term goal….working really hard to make that future a reality….living life like it’s a marathon and not a sprint. Grit is never giving up…and the acceptance of failure.

God invented “GRIT” and is taught to us as evidenced in the following scriptures:

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” James 1:2-4

“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” Prov.14:23.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us” Heb 12:1

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” Gal 6:9

“"Even if good people fall seven times, they will get back up.: Prov. 24:16a

In Angela’s studies, some questions were raised, and to quote:

“How do I build “grit” and how do I get people motivated for the long run?”

“I don’t know!” was her honest answer.

But I know the answer to that.

Jesus. Our knowledge and faith on our Lord Jesus, our Saviour.

Jesus Himself is the main motivation to keep running. The main way to “run with endurance the race that is set before us” is, “fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart” (12:2-3)

You have to remember though that you can’t run the race if you’ve never entered it. If you’ve never put your faith in Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord, you aren’t even in the race. If you don’t enter the race and run with endurance, you wont’ get the prize.

Getting the prize is freedom! Finishing the race is success!

It's Called Integrity

2013-11-20T18:43:00.000-08:00

from the word integer, which means ONE..

I have integrity when who I am at home is ONE with who I am outside of my home.. When it is not ONE (inside and outside the home) then I am living in pretense... Jesus calls it "hypocrisy".

I could have deep respect for people outside my home, but if I am unkind to my own family, that is hypocrisy.. It is not ONE.. It is not integrity... it is called hypocrisy. (Celebrate Recovery)

"If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen." 1 Jn 4:20

Photo by CJ

2013-11-12T18:47:00.000-08:00

God
Will
Redeem, Restore, Rebuild!

My heart cries out to see the devastation in areas greatly affected in my home country, the Philippines. So far, 10000 deaths found in Tacloban alone. The whole province is wiped out. I am grieving for my fellow countrymen. I thank God for Australia, my adopted country, for extending help financially. Filipinos here in Perth are pulling resources together to send relief goods to be shipped to the remote areas.

Countless have lost their homes and the humble possessions have been wiped out by the merciless, “Yolanda”. So many little children lost their parents, their families! Being so far away, I can only gather and put together as much resources as possible to send home.

Bim and I were contemplating about the turn of events last night. God allow these circumstances in our lives for a reason– just like the life experience of Job in the Bible. He lost everything that he had. When Job made a sacrifice in faith, at the end, the Lord turned Job’s captivity and gave him twice as much as he had before. Suffering had been an expansive, faith-demonstrating opportunity for Job. God had grown much bigger; Job had become smaller in his own eyes.

The Filipinos will come out of this with greater faith, to see God as much bigger than all the struggle and suffering!

My brothers and sisters in Christ, please continue to pray for those people in the Philippines greatly affected. Our ultimate help is in the name of the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth!

God will redeem, God will restore, God will rebuild! God save the Philippines!
------
Shot taken at Silay, Negros Occidental, July 2013
---------
http://jensnursingchronicles.blogspot.com.au/2013/02/thank-god-i-am-filipino.html

2013-11-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

Fearfully
And
Wonderfully!

Beautiful Sunday morning, whilst driving back home after church service:

Bim: “That was an awesome message, wasn’t it kids? I am fearfully and wonderfully made! Listen, what does ‘fearfully’ mean to you?”

We were all silent. I couldn’t think of anything to say.

Jed: “Hhhmm… I know the answer but I just can’t express it!”

CJ: “Yeah right, Jed!”

Bim: “Sure, we all know what ‘wonderfully’ means – it means unique, beautiful, different, striking, remarkable—outside of the power of human comprehension! But what about ‘fearfully’? It wasn’t explained very well at preaching today?”

Still and silence dominated the atmosphere.

Then Bim continued on, “Fearfully means: to stand in awe, deep reverence, respect, honor! God created us with awe, with reverence, with respect and with honor! And the best part is, God ‘fearfully and wonderfully’ created us in His image! Imagine that! Isn’t that amazing?” Then he continued on to explain further. I found myself taking notes!

May we be enthralled by this thought and encourage us that we were remarkably and uniquely created by the Creator in awe and reverence in His own image!

Wouldn't that blow your mind away? Praise be to God!

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” Psalm 139:14

2013-11-04T18:52:00.000-08:00

'Tis
Beyond
Measure!

Immediately after the night shift was a side trip to the hardware store to buy some lights, a few more potted plants and a short picket fence to install around my herb garden.

Just when I was about to pay at the cashier, this lady said, “You’re a nurse, aren’t you?”

I quickly replied, “Yes?”

And then she continued, “And you just got out from work. How was the night shift?”

I said, “It was very busy. And how did you know I’m a nurse?”

She pointed to my ID. And just when I was about to say something, she interrupted by saying, “You nurses are a gem! You guys are beyond measure! You work very hard, oftentimes unappreciated. You save lives and you always wear a smile. Just like you now. Your eyes show you’re tired but the smile never left your face.”

I was left bewildered.

And then she said, “Because of that, this, this and this (pointing to some plants, the lights and other little things that I bought) is on me!”

I was shocked! She offered to pay half of my bill!

Wow, totally unexpected. I had so much joy in my heart way beyond measure! What a treat. Indeed, the joy of the Lord is my strength!

Thank you amazing God!

So Is A Smile!

2013-09-26T18:13:00.001-07:00

Just as sweet as the flow’rs in bloom

of spring array’d

So is a smile, such lovely portrait

of a semblance portray’d.

Just as the mountains beamed

to gape on spring

So is a smile, as light as feather

refreshment it brings.

Just as fresh dewdrops glisten

like glass beads pearly spray

So is a smile, a glimpse

of heaven’s matchless display!

Just as lovely blossoms beam like

the morning sunshine

So is a smile, momentary troubles

Compel to unwind.

Just as the nightingale seranades

her lullaby by sunfall

So is a smile, of a little child’s

who hears its mother’s call.

Just as the bees kissing the soft

velvety petals of a rose

So is a smile, inequities are forgiven

and silences the opposed.

An ORANGE day at the backyard.
Enjoy and watch a favourite song of mine. I love, love this video! Trust me, you’ll be left grinning the whole day!

Blessings from Perth!

Shall be Opened!

2013-09-20T19:31:00.002-07:00

A friend once asked me, “When is that “ideal”, prince-charming coming into my life, Jenny?”

I had no answer to that query simply because I do not know the answer.

People desire so many things: a husband, a wife, a house, a car, a child, a university degree. But it stops there. A desire. It only sums up to a “desire”.

The Holy Scriptures say, "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” Matt. 7:7

Ask. The main condition. Is it God’s will? Are you entrusting yourself to God’s loving authority, praying in line with God’s Word, and being led by His Spirit? Do you surrender to His precepts and discerning to misleading choices and deception? Is it God’s priority for you?

Seek. Do you ask the Holy Spirit to lead your steps, to direct your ways, and to guide you with your decisions? Do you go out of your way to find what God has in store for you?

Knock. Are you "persistent and bold" enough to walk in faith (Luke 11:5-8), willing to wait and persevere? Do you believe that God will provide what you desire and need? He may not answer right away but He notices you! Now, go and tag on His robe.

Our faith and prayer exposes our belief in our all-knowing, all answering God who gives good and perfect gifts to His children. The key is knowing our Heavenly Father and knowing we are His, He will not withhold anything from us.

In His perfect time….

It will be given you,

You shall find

It will be opened to you!

A beautiful weekend to one and all!

This is an old door knocker from my aunt. Thank you Tita Pynky! It’s now on our door!

The Master Potter

2013-09-15T21:16:00.001-07:00

These earthenware are called “burnay”. The industry that has grown from the making of burnay dates back to pre-colonial times when immigrants from China came to settle in Vigan, Ilocos Region, the Philippines. They practiced the craft of making earthenware using the grade A clay that was found in plenty in the Western area of Vigan.   

The making of burnay is done with just the use of the potter’s skillful hands and use of pottery wheel and kiln. Fine sand is used to temper the clay, which once fashioned into the desired shape is placed inside high-temperature ground kilns made from brick and clay. Compared to terracotta, people say that the burnay is hardier, and definitely sturdier.

(the potter's hands skillfully forming a uniquely shaped vessel)

(pots are now being air-dried before they are being baked in kilns)

Burnay jars were first introduced to me by my mother-in-law, oh way back in the early 90’s. Since then, I have always been fascinated by its unique shape and make. So when my family visited the Philippines in July this year, it was such a privilege and interesting to witness how they were made: firstly, a slap a lump of clay placed firmly on the potter’s wheel followed by some human “kick power” to get the potter’s wheel turning at a pretty impressive speed whilst a pair of expert hands started to form a uniquely shaped vessel. These pots are then air-dried before they are baked in traditional century old kilns fired up by wood.

(the end product product - heavy, sturdy, dark jars ready for the market)

I am so happy to be able to hand-carry a few miniature pots back to Perth, now my home. These pots are about 3 inches in height and barely 2 inches in diameter. Yes, they are old, each weighing about 220-250 grams.

(the century old kiln fired up by chunks of wood)

Amazing how each of us were fashioned by the hands of God Himself. We are uniquely crafted, and perfectly designed by our loving Father in Heaven. The problem for people has always been sin. Sin seeks to redesign our hearts and minds through lies, deception, and temptation. In Christ, our sin is paid for, and we are offered the chisel of the Holy Spirit who resides in us!

“But now, O Lord, you are our Father; we are the clay, and you are our potter; we are all the work of your hand.” Isa. 54:8

My prayer: “Holy Spirit, please lead us and change our hearts to be for God. Lord God, re-shape us and make us new once more. You are our master potter after all. If we are broken in some way, You can most surely make it right! Yet you, Lord, are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.

Color: Dark Clay

The pictures taken here are the traditional pottery making in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. July 2013

The Garden of My Heart

2013-08-19T03:16:00.000-07:00

I have quite a productive day today. After the many weeks of downpour, I spent the whole day gardening and weeding (though I left the mowing of the lawn to the professionals!).

This garden was established a little more than two years ago. It was an exciting time. I got to choose the plants and I had specified the “native” plants as they were supposed to be sturdy and more weather-permitting. When the land developers had put in the landscaping for the house, I couldn’t believe my eyes! The plants they brought in were tiny, scrawny, and unimpressive.

Sensing my lack of enthusiasm, the landscaper urged me to “just wait and see.” Come Spring that year, the scene was spectacular! The native plants bloomed like wild fire! But oh, the weeds—my heavens, the weeds!

This year, I wrecked havoc to the garden plots! And to top it all, I must have broken my back bending down turning over the soil! What hard work!

When weeds grow, the plants are destroyed and the garden suffers. Weeds steal the nutrients that help the good plants grow. Weeding is hard work but it is necessary for the plants to grow healthy and disease-free.

My heart is my garden. For a good spiritual garden, weeds must be pulled out: weeds of unforgiveness, self-pity, envy, bad thoughts, rebellion, disobedience, and so forth.

I know for sure that the One who has chosen me to be His own longs to find delight in the garden of my heart. I will carefully tend it by spending time with the Father in prayer and intimate worship.

"Keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life." Proverbs 4:23

Have you done a heart gardening lately? Are you tending your Spiritual garden or do you have some "weeds" still growing in the garden of your heart? Don’t let it grow wild. Pull them out now, and let God’s grace cultivate the seeds of love, righteousness and truth.

A Safe Haven

2013-08-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

(shot taken on November 2010 at Herdsman Lake, WA)

Yesterday was my usual “powerhouse laundry and cleaning” type of day. You know the type when just spend the whole day keeping house. I popped in this fairly nice movie, “Safe Haven” portrayed by Julianne Hough and Joash Duhamel, While folding the new laundered clothes fresh from the dryer. A suspenseful movie about a young lady (Katie) trying to escape from an abusive husband who beats her to pieces. Her past sets her on a fearful, shattering journey across the country, to the sheltered oasis of Southport. She then landed into this remote place and met a widower (Alex) forces her to confront the dark secret that haunts her. As Katie begins to fall for Alex more and more, she is still haunted by her past and isn't sure what her next move should be. Thus the melodrama begins.

“There's no safer place for you than here with me.” These

were the words of Alex when he found out everything about this woman.

Then, it made me think.

I am still settling down from a 4-week homecoming vacation and at several occasions, I wish I didn’t have to come back to the “grind”. You see, I realized coming back to work was my greatest FEAR: of making a mistake, of the shift work and of not getting enough rest and sleep, of limited support from the workplace, amongst the many qualms.

Then, it struck me.

I have a friend who is battling with stage 4 cancer. We all do not know how long he is going to last. I saw him early this week and I was just torn into pieces. He is only 30, young and full of dreams for his young family.

“Why? Why Lord?” I was driving home baffled. I was trying to hold my tears. The query lingered in my mind until I came home. It brought me down to my knees. I realized it could happen to me too!

“He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection.” Psalm 91:4 NLT

He will cover you with his feathers.  As birds do their young, who cannot cover themselves. This they do from a tender regard to them, whereby they both keep them warm, and protect them from those that would hurt them.

This represents the helpless state of the children of God, who are, like to young birds, weak and unable to defend themselves: the tender regard of God unto them, as the eagle and other birds have to their young; and the warmth and comforts souls have, as well as protection, under His powerful and gracious presence; He comforts them under their tribulations, as well as defends them from their enemies:

The psalm above was speaking to me as if it were the same words uttered in the movie, “There’s no safer place for you than here with me.”

The psalm can be both victorious and confusing. It is a victorious psalm because it is full of promises of God’s protection on those who turn to Him for their refuge and was actually written as a song. On the other hand, it is quite disturbing because so often it seems to not be the case in our life experiences.

Life experiences such as: Christians who pray for healing only to hear silence? Why do children die of SIDS or have birth defects? Why is there so much suffering among people who believe God is good and can always be trusted? Why do marriages that start at the foot of the cross end up in devastating divorce leaving the children torn and demoralized? And why this young friend suffer from stage 4 cancer leaving behind a beautiful wife and gorgeous son to fend for themselves? Why?

Questions were racing through my mind.

Bad things do happen to good people. We live in an imperfect and fallen world and no one is immune to the pains of life.

While we still experience suffering and evil in this fallen world, God has promised divine protection and deliverance. God will give complete security and victory to the person who dwells in Him and puts his trust in Him (no matter what is happening in the physical realm). Intimacy and faith will be the fruit of this in our lives.

There is a better place than in the misery, the pain, the heartbreak. Let us be strong in the Lord and powerful in His might! If safety, security, and love are not enough, maybe it isn't where you need to be, but I want that place. There is a yearning in my heart to be closer than I have ever been to my Lord. It does take diligence, and yes, time to get there, but once you achieve this goal, you will KNOW just how precious and personal your walk with the Lord can be.

And you know what? There is one more extremely valuable commodity associated with being in that secret place. PEACE!!!

PSALM 91 NLT

Those who live in the shelter of the Most High

will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty.

This I declare about the LORD:

He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;

he is my God, and I trust him.

For he will rescue you from every trap

and protect you from deadly disease.

He will cover you with his feathers.

He will shelter you with his wings.

His faithful promises are your armor and protection.

Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night,

nor the arrow that flies in the day.

Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness,

nor the disaster that strikes at midday.

Though a thousand fall at your side,

though ten thousand are dying around you,

these evils will not touch you.

Just open your eyes,

and see how the wicked are punished.

If you make the LORD your refuge,

if you make the Most High your shelter,

no evil will conquer you;

no plague will come near your home.

For he will order his angels

to protect you wherever you go.

They will hold you up with their hands

so you won’t even hurt your foot on a stone.

You will trample upon lions and cobras;

you will crush fierce lions and serpents under your feet!

The LORD says, “I will rescue those who love me.

I will protect those who trust in my name.

When they call on me, I will answer;

I will be with them in trouble.

I will rescue and honor them.

I will reward them with a long life

and give them my salvation.”

When I was 19

2013-07-18T06:05:00.000-07:00

(birthday poem for secondborn, Jed)

When I was 19, I didn't have a dream
Was passing through time and oblivious, it seemed.
Now that you're 19, dreams are big for you,
You pray and work at it, I see that's what you do.

When I was 19, I made so many mistakes
And I never, ever knew what was at stake.
Now that you're 19, you've had mistakes and all
But that's okay, it will equip you for the haul.

When I was 19, I kept friends to just a few
The old are my bestfriends, and some, I made anew
Now that you're 19, you're everyone's bestfriend!
From them I only hear good stuff and all the high commend.

When I was 19, I was always on a panic
I ran like a fool, or so I was a manic.
Now that you're 19, you keep composed, always cool
You take your time that oftentimes you're late for school.

When I was 19, I was unmindful, forever a kid
My steps were unsure, never knowing what I did.
Now that you're 19, I expect you'll say, "I'm just a kid",
But you're mature, you use your head to think!

When I was 19, I sew, I drifted, and I wrote poetry
I loved the arts, I painted, I danced and such, you see?
Now that you're 19, your hands get dirty and busy
Skillful in metalworks, at home you're such a handy!

When I was 19, I had no work nor a good job
Sure, some business on the side, but end up a flop.
Now that you're 19, at work you excell, you make us proud!
You bloom where you are planted, you stand out in the crowd!

When I was 19, I rode on my parents' cars
They won't let me drive, they said, "just because".
Now that you're 19, you bought your first sexy "whip"
Oh so sleek and shiny, it made my eyes flick!

The only good thing about my being 19 then
was when I met your Pop
Now that you're 19, you linger, you don't rush
You know she'll come around, this you must trust!

I'm more than double the age of 19, but I'm proud of you
Will be here, will pray, will guide you, will always do.
Now that you're 19, my son, keep your faith strong
laugh, love and enjoy life's blessings that come along!

--------------------------

Belated Happy birthday, kiddo! (July 18)
I love you, Jeddi! Congrats on your first car! Can you take your not-so-young mum for a spin?

—

Thank God for Grace!

2013-06-28T02:47:00.003-07:00

What is HOPE? According to Wikipedia, Hope is the state which promotes the belief in good outcomes related to events and circumstances in one's life.

But what if HOPE is no longer an option?

There is Grace.

Grace is God's unmerited favor. It is kindness from God we don't deserve. There is nothing we have done, nor can ever do to earn this favor. It is a gift from God.

The grace of Christ is sufficient; sufficient to cover our debt, sufficient to transform us, sufficient in the most trying times, and sufficient to help us as long as that transformation process takes.

Grace is not the absence of God’s high expectations. Grace is the presence of God’s power. God’s grace is sufficient. Jesus’s grace is sufficient. It is enough. It is all we need. Don’t give up. Don’t quit. Keep trying. Don’t look for escapes and excuses. Look for the Lord and His perfect strength. Don’t search for someone to blame. Search for someone to help you. Seek Christ, and, as you do, you will feel the enabling power and divine help we call His “amazing grace”. We surely need the reminder that whatever we require, however big our lack, how so very great our sin, there is GRACE.

Grace that is greater.

Grace that is free.

Grace that saves.

Grace that sustains.

Grace that is sufficient.

Grace that is amazing.

Because Jesus is more than enough and He is able to make all grace abound to you and me.

“But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.” 2 Cor. 12:9

Color: Purple Wax

When everything else dies in winter, this purple wax flowers in my garden takes grand entrance! That is GRACE made manifest. Thank you, Lord!

2013-06-26T03:02:00.000-07:00

Of Rainbows
And
Sunrise

Winter clouds may appear gloomy and grey
Yet no, that will not ruin my day.
For it no longer usher rain or storm
Enough of the sadness, weary and mourn.

Hello sunrise! You bring forth light -
Oh my, you are such a wonderful sight!
Etched on the sky, the colors of the rainbow
I stop and took you all in, what a view!

In the heavenlies, God’s HOPE is displayed
Oh how pleasant it is, with my heart at ease.
Of rainbows and sunrise or by moonlight skies
Your splendor spread out, O Lord, as You please!

My friend, your sky may be heavy and impervious
Your trials may be lonesome, crooked and mischievous
I pray that may your mountains rise above the clouds
And know no limits, God’s GRACE and LOVE abounds!

I dedicate this poem to a very good friend of mine, JM. This was the view coming home from night shift. The sunrise on the east tells of God's hope and the rainbow westforth portrays of His amazing grace. You are in my thoughts and in my prayers, dearest friend. Be strong. Know that you are not alone in this journey. God be with you!

2013-06-25T03:05:00.000-07:00

The
Crazy Things
We do!

Have you ever done anything bizarre for the sake of obeying God? I have. In fact, many times I have done mind-boggling things just because I am prompted to do so.

Most often, people think that the out-of-this-world things we do for God may be unacceptable, objectionable or simply just “crazy”. However, we haven’t considered the purpose of the instruction. Have you ever thought that the “crazy” thing could be someone’s MIRACLE?

“Then Mary, taking a pound of perfumed oil of great value, put it on the feet of Jesus and made them dry with her hair: and the house became full of the smell of the perfume.” John 12:1-11.

Jesus is only days away from His crucifixion, and he stops at the home of Simon the Leper in Bethany. While in this home, Mary came to Jesus with a very expensive jar of perfume and poured it over his head as He was reclining at a table. In John’s account of this story, she also poured the perfume on Jesus’ feet and washed them with her hair.

The disciples were not happy about Mary pouring this perfume on Jesus, as it was very expensive. In fact, the disciples point out that the perfume could have been sold for a year’s wages and the money could have been given to the poor.

Jesus, however, was pleased with Mary’s gesture, and said, “Why are you bothering this woman? She has done a beautiful thing to me. The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have me. When she poured this perfume on my body, she did it to prepare me for burial. I tell you the truth, wherever this gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her.”(Vss 10-13)

Mary poured a very expensive perfume on Jesus feet and used her hair to wipe them. In a common person’s mind, that’s crazy! But not in Jesus eyes. Mary did not seem to care that the perfume was costly nor did she mind people criticizing her. Jesus confirmed that Mary had her priorities straight. The important thing is, she followed her promptings to obey and serve the one true Saviour!

And God was honored.

Same goes with us. I hope you wouldn’t mind doing “crazy” things for Jesus. As we spend more time with Jesus, we will continue to grow and mature in our faith, and we will find that we are better able to serve Him in all that we do.

Color: Mauve

My flowers blooming in winter! A miracle unfolding!

2013-06-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

Dust

In Your

Eye.

A little over three weeks ago, a staff at the workplace offered me a promo of her very own “falsies” business. “Falsies” is a short term for “false lashes”. How can I resist a bargain which is a third of its trading price? I thought it was something I will enjoy. After all, I work hard. I deserve such a treat. At least my hubby thinks it’s “sexy”!

Just yesterday, I noticed the “falsies” are starting to fall off, one by one. One got into my left eye. It was the most agonizing feeling! I had to shut the affected side as it felt like it was cutting into my eye’s surface! The one effective trick I learned during my youth and that is to take the speck out by burying the whole face in warm water. And while my face was in the state of complete submersion, I flicked my eyes open and close several times until the speck had been douched out.

This experience brought me to one of Jesus’ amazing “sermons in the Mount”. Jesus reminded me that we often pass judgment on others to keep from examining our faults, shame and weaknesses. Jesus emphasized that before we start removing someone else's sawdust, we had better get our own “blinding plank” out of the way. We spend so much time finding all the little things that are wrong with others while we ignore our own inconsistencies. Too common, but true, am I right?

Matthew 7: 3-7 says, "Why do you notice the small piece of dust that is in your brother's eye, but you don't notice the big piece of wood that is in your own eye? Why do you say to your brother, 'Let me take that little piece of dust out of your eye'? Look at yourself first! You still have that big piece of wood in your own eye." You are a hypocrite! First, take the wood out of your own eye. Then you will see clearly to take the dust out of your brother's eye.” (ERV)

I pray for the Almighty’s special anointing to convict me and produce in me a holy character and not find the faults of others to keep from dealing with my own. I hope that is your prayer too.

Keep those eyes looking up, expectant of what God can do in your life today!

Color: Ash

Video presentation of Jesus at the Mount:

My Women's Small Group

2013-06-10T19:49:00.001-07:00

(From left to right: Irene and Baby Bella, Faith, Jannie, Ysa, Tara, Me and Grace. Plus the little monkeys: Bianca and Marge)

Always a blessing to fellowship with my beautiful and lovely women of God!

Missed those who couldn't make it--- Gel, Tracey, Elim! See you all girls next meeting!

Remember: "Expect the impossible from God!"

On Things Eternal

2013-06-10T18:45:00.002-07:00

These are just a few of my spectacles, some bought from different convenience stores, others are prescribed multi-focals or bi- focals. Why so many? Because I lose them all the time! I lose a lot of reading glasses, which means I buy a lot of them as I consider them my one important possession of surpassing utility.

I keep them around the house in various rooms, in all places, so there will always be one handy no matter where I am. I have one by my bedside, one at the car, one in my work bag, one on my computer table, one lying around somewhere, and mostly one suspended above my head! The moment I reached the age of 40, my eyesight started to dwindle. I felt like I’m losing a limb. I feel so disabled not having my reading glasses around. I am literally blind without it. Sounds familiar?

I hope not so in our spiritual walk with our Heavenly Father. I pray that we do not lose hope and sight of HIM. "Faith is the evidence of things not seen". There are unseen things, as well as things that are seen. There is this vast difference between them: unseen things are eternal, seen things are temporary.

I pray that all of us grow in our walk with God, and that we keep our minds on things above, on things eternal instead of temporal.

2 Corinthians 4:18 says,
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Color: Glass

The Spring of Winter

2013-06-10T18:42:00.001-07:00

The winter comes; I walk alone,

No bird in sight that sing;

For me to keep my heart my own

The winter is "my" spring.

No flowers to see--no bees that hum--

The coming spring's already come.

I will love the cold, the slippery road

I’ll keep warm in my abode.

All sacred gifts sent unto us

Are made by God's own hands -

And always, they are precious ones

To love just as He plans!

While lillies in the valley rest,

And clad are crystal trees...

A lifeless day revives the soul

Through coldness on a breeze.

These heavenly troves to come our way,

So beautiful, big or small...

Will touch our lives through each new day -

God's gifts... they're best of all!

Head On!

2013-06-02T18:51:00.000-07:00

Head on! Quite a mouthful there. Need I say more?

Australia, the land of dreams and possibilities!

2013-04-09T20:26:00.001-07:00

(with the City of Swan Mayor, Charlie Zannino,

who swore as in as Australian Citizens)

Excitement was building up towards the date: 9^th of April, the day that I will officially be sworn in as an Australian citizen, along with my two girls. It is a special day, I thought. So, me and the girls made a whole lot of effort to look our best.

We have been anticipating this day for the last four years, so to say I am excited is an understatement. For some reason ever since I set foot here, I feel at home. I want to live in Australia for good. But when the day came to swear in, along was a striking sense of finality that I now have to relinquish my Philippine citizenship. Yes, I know I can acquire dual-citizenship. But I find this Australian citizenship ‘thingi’ deeply unsettling.

I had asked my second-born son to drive us to the venue as I was a bit stressed out as we were running late. As I walked into the venue, I felt tears welling up. In my mind, I felt like turning my back and ran away. My hands were clammy and sweaty, and my feet, wabbly. I assured myself that I was not going to cry. Before the main ceremony began was a choir of elementary kids from my village in Ellenbrook singing some familiar Australian songs I only hear at school programs and at the local radio.

The simple ceremony began with an introduction of the City of Swan District Officials. Followed by a short speech by one of the officers who was previously a naturalized citizen from Italy in the late 1950’s. He was recounting his sentiments and something from that speech resonated with me and helped me reconcile my inner turmoil.

I could see clearly that my love for the Philippines is likened to what one feels for a parent or parents? Without them, I am not borne into this world. I owe them my life and I will fight for them! I feel a strong sense of responsibility for them. That is what I feel when I think of my home country, the Philippines. Yes and true, there’s pollution, poverty, crime, political unrest, among others, but that doesn’t discourage me nor does it change how I feel about my beloved country. Had I not been exposed to all of this, I would never have appreciated what  I have now. I choose the Philippines for its colors, exuberance, resilience, culture, spirituality, and most of all, relationships.

Australia, on the other hand, is like the love you feel for a partner or spouse.  You marry this person and choose to commit to spend the rest of your life with. God brought us here. Australia is our portion, our land of inheritance, a land that opened its doors of unlimited possibilities and opportunities I would have never dreamed of.

As I swore in with my right hand on the Holy Scriptures, there was sadness in my heart but I was happy! Is there such a thing as ‘joyful sadness’?

I am Filipino by descent, The Philippines is the archipelago of my affections. Australia is where I am now and it is where I want to be.

They say, ‘home is where the heart is’. I embrace you, Australia. You have my heart. I am committed to serve and honor you, and I will partner with you. Thank you for looking after me and my family.

Thank you, Lord, for Australia.

Thank you, dear Australia. The land of dreams and possibilities!

He's got a plan

2013-04-04T19:35:00.004-07:00

This is what my side of the woods look like this morning. A thick fog was blanketing the main roads with a visibility of about 50 meters. I had to take a slow ride home.

Then, after a quick brekky, I walked Little P to school. The wind was calm and cool. I can only hear the birds chirping along the way, and a few logs that barricaded our path which posed as a hazard with very limited visibility. As I started to head home, the fog started to lift up and the horizon, clearing up. I saw the clouds moving east uncovering the most amazing sky! Then as I glanced towards the valley revealed the lush greenery. I can see the birds now hopping from one tree to another! It was a lovely sight!

God’s will is like that. There’s nothing mysterious about it really, although knowing God’s will takes a bit of understanding and patience. But I know five things that lead us to the Father’s will for our lives:

Firstly, God leads us through His written Word (Ps 119:105). You will never, ever go wrong in consulting Scripture. God’s word doesn’t beat around the bush… it gives you direct instructions where to go.

Secondly, God leads us through the inner prompting of the Holy Spirit (Phil 2:12-13). Discerning can be a bit tricky because much of the time we just can't figure it out. The Holy Spirit leads, prompts, nudges, steers, and all the more compels you to walk on the right path.

Thirdly, God leads us through the counsel of wise, qualified, trustworthy people. No, I’m not referring to palm or card reading, nor am I gearing towards getting advise or hint from the zodiac signs or some guru from Tibet. I am talking about a person who has proven himself or herself wise and trustworthy and, therefore, qualified to counsel on such issue or matters at hand.

Fourthly, God leads us into His will by giving us an inner assurance of peace  (Col 3:15). Doing God's will demands a decision. And that decision requires faith and action. You can't see the end, so you have to trust Him in faith and then step out. You have to act. Faith and obedience are like twins; they go together. However, I always advise people that if decisions are drawn up without peace, then, most likely it is not from God.

And lastly, Wait. God’s message could be one of two things, “no and not yet”. Believe that He will make your paths straight.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jer. 29:11

Color: Fog

iPhone shot.

Foggy this morning.

He is thinking of You and Me

2013-03-29T18:01:00.000-07:00

After the arrest in the middle of the night, Jesus was next brought before the Sanhedrin and Caiphus, the High Priest; it is here that the first physical trauma was inflicted. A soldier struck Jesus across the face for remaining silent when questioned by Caiphus. The palace guards then blind-folded Him and mockingly taunted Him to identify them as they each passed by, spat upon Him, and struck Him in the face.

Yet, Jesus didn't say anything because He was thinking of you and me.

The Roman legionnaire steps forward with the flagrum (or flagellum) in his hand. This is a short whip consisting of several heavy, leather thongs with two small balls of lead attached near the ends of each. The heavy whip is brought down with full force again and again across Jesus' shoulders, back, and legs. At first the thongs cut through the skin only. Then, as the blows continue, they cut deeper into the subcutaneous tissues, producing first an oozing of blood from the capillaries and veins of the skin, and finally spurting arterial bleeding from vessels in the underlying muscles. The small balls of lead first produce large, deep bruises which are broken open by subsequent blows. Finally the skin of the back is hanging in long ribbons and the entire area is an unrecognizable mass of torn, bleeding tissue. When it is determined by the centurion in charge that the prisoner is near death, the beating is finally stopped.

Again, Jesus didn't do anything, because He was thinking of you and me.

The half-fainting Jesus is then untied and allowed to slump to the stone pavement, wet with His own blood. The Roman soldiers see a great joke in this provincial Jew claiming to be king. They throw a robe across His shoulders and place a stick in His hand for a scepter. They still need a crown to make their travesty complete. Flexible branches covered with long thorns (commonly used in bundles for firewood) are plaited into the shape of a crown and this is pressed into His scalp. After mocking Him and striking Him across the face, the soldiers take the stick from His hand and strike Him across the head, driving the thorns deeper into His scalp. Finally, they tire of their sadistic sport and the robe is torn from His back. Already having adhered to the clots of blood and serum in the wounds, its removal causes excruciating pain just as in the careless removal of a surgical bandage, and almost as though He were again being whipped the wounds once more begin to bleed.

And yet again, Jesus didn't do or say anything, because He was thinking of you and me.

He stumbles and falls. The rough wood of the beam gouges into the lacerated skin and muscles of the shoulders. He tries to rise, but human muscles have been pushed beyond their endurance.

Jesus is offered wine mixed with myrrh. He refuses to drink. Simon is ordered to place the patibulum on the ground and Jesus quickly thrown backward with His shoulders against the wood. The legionnaire feels for the depression at the front of the wrist. He drives a heavy, square, wrought-iron nail through the wrist and deep into the wood. Quickly, he moves to the other side and repeats the action being careful not to pull the arms too tightly, but to allow some flexion and movement. The patibulum is then lifted in place at the top of the stripes and the titulus reading ,"Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews" is nailed in place.

Even at this point, Jesus is thinking of you and me.

The left foot is now pressed backward against the right foot, and with both feet extended, toes down, a nail is driven through the arch of each, leaving the knees moderately flexed. The Victim is now crucified. As He slowly sags down with more weight on the nails in the wrists excruciating pain shoots along the fingers and up the arms to explode in the brain -- the nails in the writs are putting pressure on the median nerves. As He pushes Himself upward to avoid this stretching torment, He places His full weight on the nail through His feet. Again there is the searing agony of the nail tearing through the nerves between the metatarsal bones of the feet.

Jesus cries out in agony, but he is thinking about us still: you and me.

A sponge soaked in posca, the cheap, sour wine which is the staple drink of the Roman legionaries, is lifted to His lips. He apparently doesn't take any of the liquid. The body of Jesus is now in extremes, and He can feel the chill of death creeping through His tissues. This realization brings out His sixth words, possibly little more than a tortured whisper, "It is finished."

Even at His last breath, He was thinking of you and me.

His mission of atonement has completed. Finally He can allow his body to die.

Thus we have had our glimpse -- including the medical evidence -- of that epitome of evil which man has exhibited toward Man and toward God. It has been a terrible sight, and more than enough to leave us despondent and depressed. How grateful we can be that we have the great sequel in the infinite mercy of God toward man -- at once the miracle of the atonement and the expectation of the triumphant Easter morning.

He rose up from death, because all the while, He was thinking of you and me.

What's that in your hands?

2013-03-27T18:57:00.000-07:00

The past week had been a real testing ground of faith for me and my family. After the incident with my dearly loved eldest brother of ours come other forms of “mountain-trial experiences” to tackle: the huge hospital bill, my brother's recuperation, and so forth. Yet and again, God had shown Himself mighty and sovereign. He provided for every need! Praise Him!

It came to me that God can take ‘anything’ what we are keeping for ourselves. This may be: A habit or lifestyle (smoking, drugs, alcohol), a prized possession, a position in office, your job, or even your spouse or partner, your children? What about your hopes, fears, broken relationships, ambitions? Oftentimes, when there is a cry for help, we’re so quick to say, "Hey, not me what could I possibly do? I can’t do it. I am not ready. I simply can’t quit now. Call the pastor, or others can do a better job than me!” Then we find ourselves saying, “It will only complicate things…this is a stumbling block—my life is doing so good now, I can manage…. I’m over this… but not yet. I don’t have enough, there’s nothing of me to give.”

Actually you have something to give. Let me tell you, God can take them away from you! He takes our limited abilities, our weaknesses, our resources, our comforts in life, our dreams and use them for whatever way He chooses for kingdom building and for great purposes.

The key to the “miraculous” is first of all seeing the need. Then the tough part – the letting go. Once released, God uses what you are keeping for yourself to tap into His grace and power. That’s when miracles happen! They come as we grow in faith and learn to look to God for His grace - and not to our own abilities.

The big question here is this, “Are you humble enough to let go what it is you have in your hands?” I’ll leave that up to you.

“Then the Lord said to him, “What is that in your hand?”

“A staff,” Moses replied.

The Lord said, “Throw it on the ground.” Ex 2:2-3

Color: Seashell

Nikon D40 Macro lens

Song: Alvin Slaughter: What’s that you have in your hand?

Please listen to the song. You’ll be blessed. I dedicate this song to my siblings. The greatest MIRACLE I have is you. I love you all!

Nothing is Wasted

2013-03-26T19:22:00.000-07:00

The news of our dearly loved eldest brother Jojo having a heart attack shook us all. It was a family crisis, more so for those of us siblings living abroad. But thank God for a successful operation. My brother went through a two-vessel stent Angioplasty resolving two left and right blocked arteries. Prayers were stormed in the heavenlies lifing up my brother for healing and restoration.

The ordeal my brother went through emerged a life-changing, life-transformation experience for him, thus, a MIRACLE!

There's nothing that escapes the notice of God. Everything matters to Him. Not only does it matter, but if you are His child, He promises that every part of your life will be used for your good and His glory.

Let it be our prayer that we trust God with every circumstance and moment of our life and for Him to let us see glimpses of how He is making our life beautiful. Our creator do not waste anything, instead, HE uses everything! Amen!

"Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted" John 6:12b NIV.

Color: Seed
Nikon D40
This was an avocado seed taking root planted on a pot of good soil where an old-dried plant had taken homage. I dedicate the song below to my brother, Jojo Salvador. I love you Manong. Your life is more than precious to us!