The Official Website of Rodney Garcia

One Life. How long? | 12seconds.tv (beta)

2009-04-13T12:00:00.002+08:00

One Life. How long? on 12seconds.tv

One Life. How long? | 12seconds.tv (beta)

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Detour from Enchanted Kingdom to Tagaytay

2009-01-17T23:07:00.000+08:00

We're here at Tagaytay. We were suppose to go to Enchanted Kingdom. But when we got there, a sea of people were just waiting to get in. A long line was formed just to buy tickets. So we decided to return next time. Man. We were really looking forward to go there.

Anyway, nothing is going to spoil our parade. That's why were here at Tagaytay. We're about to finish eating at Leslie's. On to the horses (if we can find it).

Director for a night

2009-01-16T17:06:00.000+08:00

Here's a photo taken last night with me at the helm directing. Our director was absent and i was asked to take the helm. I was nervous but i got the hang of it.

Thanks to Christian who helped mw learn the ropes and the guys holding the cameras who were following my instructions.

It was fun and i won't hesitate doing it again.

Mobile blogging

2009-01-16T16:51:00.000+08:00

I'm sending a mobile blog via emai' cell. Still can't make the mms bloh work. Also im attaching a pic.

2008 WAS A YEAR OF PREPARATION AND REVELATION

2009-01-13T22:03:00.000+08:00

As I look back at my 2008, I see many things. Good and the not-so-good.

In 2008, my son graduated from Primary level with high grades and a Third Honorable mention in his graduating class (with a BIG MEDAL to prove it). The year was the year we moved in our new spacious home. I got to visit different churches and got to speak to different places, companies and educational institutions. Blessings were bestowed on my wife in her career and ministry.

But what I remember most about 2008 was that it was a year when God took me, molded me and refined me. I will be honest. It was a really challenging year.Painful. Frustrating. Heart-breaking.

Everything I held dear and everything I worked hard for were taken away. Those I longed and dreamed for were dangled in front of me. Then just like a kid who was dangled with a lollipop in front of him, the 'promises' were swept away. Sadly, these were done by people who were older and supposedly more mature than me. Again, my heart was crushed.

This year revealed who the real people are in my life. It was a year when I was betrayed and was left alone. Yes. I went through betrayal this year. After the smoke cleared, everyone was gone.Yes. I had something to do with it but not as much as the real culprit. I was left alone to shoulder the blame.

2008 was a test of my calling. Should I stay or should I go? Turning your back away is easy. Quitting is a piece of cake. But the calling proved weightier than any ill feelings. I stayed because God spoke to me. I renewed my calling.

Yet through all of these, God made me a better person. He sharpened my character. I saw my flaws and mistakes and made amends with my creator. I humbly accepted my punishment and mended my ways. I learned. I fell and got up. I listened to sound wisdom. God used the circumstances to bring healing and hope. He showed me who were the one who really cared for me.

A few months ago, a brother-in-Christ once told me that the old Rodney is dead and the new Rodney has risen. Have I been "born-again" once again? Perhaps I have.

I write this because I know there are countless others like me who have experienced their own personal hell in the previous year or in the start of the year. Let me encourage you to hold on and keep moving forward. "Cry if you must but don't you quit" as the old poem goes. We are all like athletes in the Olympics called LIFE. We are all training for various competitions. Not necessarily against others but more with ourselves. We are the biggest hindrance that keep us away from success. But if we overcome our egos, our petty complaints and our unwillingness to be shaped by God, we will be VICTORIOUS. I have learned much this previous year. If there is anyone who benefited from all these challenges, it was me. Though I did not see it this way when I was in the trials, I see it now in hindsight.

As in my previous blog, I thank those who helped me this year in any way, shape or form. Every word there is from the heart. THANK YOU.

So what does 2009 have in store for me? I believe there will be more trials. Yet I know he used the previous year to prepare me for this year. Confident? I am. Arrogant? No. Ready? YES I AM.

THE BEST IS YET TO COME!

THANK YOU SO MUCH EVERYONE

2009-01-11T20:00:00.000+08:00

Hello folks!

This will be my first blog for the year 2009. So much has happened in 2008 and I will write my thoughts about it tomorrow in another blog.

But I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for 2008.

I want to thank those who gave gifts to me for Christmas 2008. It was very sweet to remember me and be part of your gift list for the Christmas season. I want you to know that I appreciate what you have given me: food, items and even financial gifts. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. These gifts are simple ways to show how you appreciate yours truly. It feels good in my soul and spirit to receive these with all humility. Whenever I receive gifts, I am deeply honored because someone took the time to remember me and thought about me. Some gave clothes and clothing accessories such as ties. I will be using them during services and during my business engagements. I hope you catch me wearing them to show my outmost appreciation. Those who gave food, I thank you .They have not just fed my stomach but my soul as well. For all these gifts, I say THANK YOU.

I want to thank those who believe in me in 2008. Yes. There are countless people who didn't give Rodney Garcia much of a chance n 2008. Peopel doubted my abilities and what I can put on the table. But as much as there are doubters, there are supporters. I want to THANK YOU for giving me opportunities, opening new doors of ministry and involvement in the community, for believing that I can do it and for being a friend when I needed it. To you I say, THANK YOU.

I want to specifically thank some people and groups.

WORD FOR THE WORLD, its pastors and its attendees specifically the 8am Sunday Service congregation, workers, Gener8 group and various supporters - You have constantly opened yourself to me and have seen me grow. You have cheered me on especially during my dark period in 2008. I want to thank you for lending your encouragement and support to me and my family. For 2009, God will bless the works of our hands and he will take us to places we have not dreamed before.

The New.Media Ministry - We have laughed and cried together. We have dreamed and failed together. We have grown apart and have been brought together. Yet, through it all, your support was unwaivering. You are my family. We do not know what the future holds for us. But one thing is for sure, the bond between us will NEVER be broken.

Kidzone Church - Thank you for being an inspiration to me. Every time you hug me, it makes me feel good inside. I pray that I have been able to make your life better, teach you things that make you a better person and help you become closer to God. I miss you all.

I want to thank those who visit my websites, watch my videos, send me comments and support my causes. Every time I type, every time I shoot a video, every time I post a message, I always have you in mind. I always think if what I type, say or record will impact your life. Not that I am as significant as the world leaders or CEOS. But I believe that I can do my part to make your life a bit better. Thank you for letting me talk to your via YouTube. Thank you for watching my videos and listen to my opinions. I will continue to do these things knowing that I am speaking LIFE to you TODAY. To you I say, THANK YOU.

I want to thank the FACEBOOK community and the wonderful people I have met through Facebook. Peopele ranging from simple folk, celebrities, people of influence and even politicians. I thank you that you took the risk of adding me to your account. I thank you that you took the time to talk to an unknown fellow. I thank you that you trusted me to be your friend though we have not met personally. To my Facebook friends, I say THANK YOU.

To my wife, Aida, and my son, Rafael. 2008 has been a time of great trials for our family. Yet, it was an opportunity for us to be closer as a family. Aida - you have been a pillar of strength. Rafa - you are always an inspiration that pushes me to be a better father. Our family has faced tremendous odds. Still, we have passed them and learned from them. I love you both.

Finally, and with all of my heart, I want to THANK GOD for 2008. I want to thank Him for always having me in mind (as with all of us). God taught me many things in 2008. It was a testing of character and integrity. I learned so much and I carry all these lessons to 2009. I know that greater things are in store for me in 2009 and 2008 was my training session. Lord, you know my desires and dreams. Once again, I give them to you. Let your will be done in me. To my Saviour, Lord and Best Friend, Jesus, I say THANK YOU.

A BLOG VISIT

2008-12-31T17:34:00.000+08:00

I know I have not blogged for about a week. I'm trying to spend some time with the family and enjoying the holidays. I do have some things to write about but I think it can wait.

May God bless your new year 2009. Happy New Year!

ALL WEEKEND CHRISTMAS PARTY ANIMAL

2008-12-22T15:56:00.000+08:00

Talk about an all weekend Christmas Party Animal.

Saturday (December 20, 2008), I was with the Batch IV for their annual Christmas party. Lots of games, prizes and food. It's great to be with friends who literally grew up with you. These wonderful people were with my Dad and Mom through good and bad. They are family to us. I always look forward spending time with them especially during Christmas.

Sunday (December 21, 2008) at 9:30am, it was the last Sunday prior to Christmas and it was really a blast hosting with Bro. Peter and Bro. Arnold the WWCF 8am Workers Christmas Party. I think we had about 100 people packed in Room 301. But that didn't stop them from having fun! Games galore. Prizes. Laughter. Food. I just love being with the 8am workers especially that they're always "GAME" and enthusiastic. Also, this was a culmination of their hard work this past year. The 8am workers have always been supportive to me and have watched me grow as a pastor. Their patience and support have made me a better person and pastor. Thanks 8AM!

Sunday (December 21, 2008) at 8pm, Aida, Rafa and I were off to go dance the night away at Warehouse 135 for the monthly Spirit House Party. The place had good attendance. But I didn't come there to count. I came there to party. Our friends were there as well. Dancing has always been my personal passion. I love to dance. Unfortunately, there is a common stereotype that pastors don't dance. Well, I've always seen myself as going against the flow. I remember in the Karate Kid 3 movie, Miyagi said "You cannot trust a holy man if he does not know how to dance." Funny. Thanks to DJ Benjo and Lyka for the invites and for a great time.

Just a few days to go and we are off to Christmas Day. Hope you got to shop. If not, then I join you in the same boat. God bless you!

WHEN MINISTRY IS FAMILY

2008-12-21T00:35:00.002+08:00

I spent the night of December 19 with people who I though I wouldn't spend this year - the WWCF New.Media ministry. Through the years, this ministry has been a breeding ground for creativity and innovation. More importantly, the people of this ministry are family. I have seen them grow. I have felt their pain. I have loved being their spiritual mentor and friend. Being with them made me just be me.

It was a night of games, singing, food, more singing and endless laughter. Media loves to laugh and we are not ashamed of it. It was a night for us to just let our hair down and just have good clean fun.

To be honest, our parties are simple: Put food in the middle of the room, plug in the Ziller Karaoke machine and away we go. Imagine. Five hours of non-stop singing and games. Wow!

Thank you media for making me part of a wonderful night of singing and fun. I'm sure we have more to come soon!

I love you guys!

PERFECT SON?

2008-12-14T22:18:00.000+08:00

Is there such thing as a perfect son? A son who does your bidding when you give a comand? A son who won't give you a hard time? A son who would not make you worry or put you into shameful moments?

None. Other than Jesus, there is no such thing as a perfect son simply because we are all flawed human beings.

Sometimes, I wonder how much pressure do we put on our children. Being a pastor has its hiccups. One of them is having so much expectations on your children. Since people think that they are a pastor's kid, then they should be the embodiment of an angel on earth. Not true. Though they may be pastor's kids, do we forget that they are, first and foremost, children? I think we do.

My son, Rafa, is a pastor's kid. He's seven. He's a ball of energy. He's active. He's bright. He's got a great imagination. Somehow, he kinda reminds of me of myself when I was a kid. These past few days, I'm trying to recall how I was as a kid. I think pretty similar with Rafa. My parent's didn't shield me from the realities of life. Still, they gave me my space and let me be what I am - A KID.

Sometimes, we parents put so much pressure on your children and try to make them behave as adults. We forget that they are children. Shamefully, I am guilty of that.

Being a pastor who has an entire church's eyes on your every movement can be frustrating at times. Living in a fishbowl doesn't help my family life. We are under the scrutiny of public opinion. Yet, early in my ministry, I found out that I could never please the people around me. Plus, I made sure to let people know that I am vunerable just like any ordinary human being. Having the title as a pastor doesn't give me a FREE ACCESS PASS from real world problems.

One of the major fears of pastors is their sons and daughters to grow up with the Pastor's Kid syndrome - a condition when children of pastors become rebellious and turn away from the faith. Frankly, that is my fear. It is real. I have seen it happen. And I have prayed to God that I not be in that situation at all. But, sincerely, when I make my child conform to what the public wants, do I contribute in making the syndrome a reality in my family. Yes. I do.

Please listen. It is not an excuse for children's pastors to behave without discipline. I would not want my son to grow up undisciplined. But am I also robbing him of his youth if I conform him to become an adult at age seven? I think I am making a big mistake.

Sometimes, we forget that our children are children. They are childish because they are children. It is our responsibility to slowly usher them towards adulthood.

So I talked to my son tonight. I told him that I get hurt when he disobeys. I told him that character is better than grades or popularity. I let him know that he is a good boy and that he doesn't have to be perfect. Just do his best to be good. I looked into his eyes. Though I saw a boy, I knew the man inside was listening. He felt my heart. He knew I love him no matter what other people say about him. I assured him that his dad and mom will support him to the end. I wanted to make him feel that he is loved. Other than God, there is no one else who knows my son than my wife and I. So we made a deal to help each other, be open to each other and continue to love each other no matter what. We hugged and said "Good night."

Let us not rob our children the youthfulness that they should experience. They have the rest of their lives to be adults.

MY NEW ONLINE PROJECT: LEADER IN PROGRESS

2008-12-06T01:13:00.000+08:00

I'd like to invite everyone to check out my new online project - LEADER IN PROGRESS.
http://www.youtube.com/leaderinprogress

Leadership-in-progress is a weekly show of Rodney Garcia that gives insight and opinion in the realm of leadership. This site does not proclaim to know all about leadership. Though it does aim to generate conversation about the points discussed here.

Let me know what you think. God bless!

THE KATINAS: Aftermath @ Starbucks

2008-12-04T01:19:00.001+08:00

Here's a short video after The Katinas concert. I took this at Starbucks.

SPEAKLIFE: "TRUST"

2008-12-01T23:32:00.002+08:00

Proverbs 3:5 says "Trust in the Lord ..."

Trust. One word. Simple to say. Hard to do.

All of us have problems with trust especially nowadays. These days, you don't know who to trust: Politicians. People of authority. Groups. Religious figures. Even our friends and relatives. Each one tries his best to be trustworthy. Only to make a mistake that breaks it.

This proverb tells us to Trust the Lord. Who is the Lord? He has a name - Jesus Christ. The savior has always been dependable in all circumstances. Because He is perfect, He does not lie. When we trust in God, we are sure that He is dependable and that He will never break the trust between Him and us.

Though I cannot say the same for our part. Because we are flawed, we tend to be inconsistent with our end of the bargain. We end up doing what we promised not to do. Yet, God continues to love us and give us grace to do our part.

Does it mean that we should not trust people? Not at all. There should be people that we can trust. But to put these people above God is something else. Trust God above all.

Let me encourage you to TRUST GOD. He never breaks a promise. He never pulled out of a deal. He never short-changed anyone. He is consistent and trustworthy. All is waiting for is for you to trust Him?

THINK ABOUT IT:
Trust is earned, right? Do you know that God does everything in His power to earn our trust. Yet, who are we to be given such treatment when we are the ones who are suppose to earn His trust. That's just how God loves you and me.

What will you do about it?

THE KATINAS CONCERT ROCKED!!!

2008-12-01T09:52:00.001+08:00

When we heard The Katinas were coming to Manila, our friends and I didn't hesitate to watch. I mean it's not everyday these guys come over for a concert. We grabbed the opportunity. Personally, I was very excited because it is just recently that I get to go out in concerts. My wifey and I needed some personal time as well.

We got there around 7pm. It was raining. But it did not dampen our excitement. Our friends were already inside the colesium. We're hungry. So we grabbed a bite in one of the Wendy's which one burger costs an entire meal if you buy it outside the venue. Plus they didn't even serve french fries. Can you believe it?

We went inside the concert hall. I didn't expect that we would be watching at the patron side of the venue, which was at the left side of the stage. The night was electrifying. It was not a concert. It was ministry. It was a time for people who belonged to the Body of Christ to worship God together.

They shared their life: how they are brothers who had a father that held on to Christ. They showed a video montage of their kids. They shared about how to live a FULL LIFE. We were fed with music and the word of God. Amazing! Personally, I needed that.

The event ended with all of us singing "OUR GOD IS AN AWESOME GOD." As the Araneta Colesium was filled with worship, The Katinas walked off the stage. It was not about them. It was about God.

As for the gang, we had a wonderful time. The video speaks for itself. Check it out and see how we enjoyed the event (It's about 10 minutes long.)

The Katinas have the heart for ministry and to share the love of God in a language the whole world recognizes - music. God bless you, Katinas! May God expand your territories.

Until then, God bless!

KATINAS TONIGHT

2008-11-30T16:13:00.000+08:00

I am a few hours away from one of the biggest Christian concerts this side of the globe.

I am really excited to go to the Katias concert not just to see and hear the band but to be ministered to. The music they play isn't just popular Christian music but music that speaks to the heart and uplifts the spirit. Everyone, even pastors, need to be fed and be ministered to.

My wife and I and some friends will be there. If you're coming, I hope you enjoy the concert. Maybe we can exchange thoughts about it here on the site.

See you there!

Until then, God bless!

I'VE BEEN BITTEN BY THE HOUSE MUSIC BUG

2008-11-25T22:15:00.000+08:00

I spent some time with one very precious soul. The one responsible for me being bitten by Gospel House music - DJ Benjo Marquez.

I met the guy during the recent Spirit House Party. There was something about him that I felt in my spirit. He was passionate in his craft - House music.

I sat down and spoke with him about his life, how we started his relationship with God and what is the future in store for him. Man, Benjo is a ball of fire. His passion to reach people through his music is contagious. Within just a few hours, I've been hooked with his excitement and his ideas.

I mentioned to him that I'm working on a house track which could be part of his playlist when he does gigs. Hopefully, he can give it a spin one of these nights.

If you happen to know that he's playing in a gig somewhere, go and attend. Find out what makes this guy stand out.

Benj, I appreciate the coffee. But more importantly, I appreciate the new found friendship we have. I believe that God has crossed our paths for a higher purpose - to help each other spread God's love to the world.

More power. More blessings. More music. God bless you brother!!!

Until then, God bless.

THE EDGE RADIO EXPERIENCE

2008-11-21T23:01:00.000+08:00

Hello folks! Here's my account of the EDGERADIO EXPERIENCE.

I got to the studios around 5:30pm to beat the traffic which is predominant around the area. Friday night = Rush hour traffic. I didn't want to be late for my first full-pledge radio interview. To be honest, it has been a dream of mine to be on radio. Maybe as a DJ. But God blessed me more as I was being interviewed by my dear friends Ron, Joyce and Owie.

Going back, I was there early and was very excited. I was trying to climatize myself with the booth and the fact that I will talking on air in a few minutes. Owie graciously toured me around and introduced me to some of the staff. Around 5:55pm, Ron and Joyce have not arrived yet. They're suppose to do the interview with me. So Owie was preparing to go on board and was quite nervous. Then, a few minutes later, Ron and Joyce arrived. Whew for Owie.

The show started. Around 6:30pm, Joyce had a talk with me just to do some background stories. Most of the things you heard in the LIVE show were discussed beforehand. That's where the stories about my involvement in the new age, the stories about my family and my ministry were briefly talked about.

7pm. I'm on. I was nervous. I was excited. I couldn't believe this was the answer to a prayer. Fo about 30 minutes, I was talking about how God changed my life and how life has been good with God around. Let me tell you, it felt good being in the booth. All those days I'd hang out in the DJ booth when I was in college daydreaming to be one day be interviewed on air has come to pass. God does answer prayer!!!

If you want to check out the interview, please view the video below.

That was one awesome interview. Too bad I wasn't able to do a rap for them which we talked about before. Hopefully, I'll be back to do it.

Thanks again to EDGE RADIO for guesting me on the show. Hope we do another one in the future. I have a feeling we will be working closely soon.

Ron. Joyce. Owie. My wonderful and supportive friends who, unconsciously, believed in me - THANK YOU!!

RODNEY GARCIA AT EDGE RADIO

2008-11-21T15:50:00.001+08:00

Hello folks! I'll be at the EDGE RADIO show tonight at about 7pm.

Here's the link to view the show: http://www.theedgeradio.net/edgetvpage/manila/

PREACHING LAST NIGHT AND RADIO TONIGHT

2008-11-21T10:13:00.001+08:00

I have a wonderful time preaching last night about being THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. God has called those who are Christians to become the light to others. So that others may be pointed towards Jesus' direction. He says to LET or permit the light shine. Don't suppress it. Others need your light. Others are searching for a way out. Let God's light in your life become a beacon to others. Be an encourager. Be an uplifter. Pray for someone. Be a shoulder to cry on. Be a light.

I felt quite rusty last night though. It's been a while since I last preached so I'm trying to get back into "preaching mode." Plus with all the lights and cameras towards me, it takes a while to get used to it. And, without the knowledge of the crowd, I actually had back aches before the service. I had them in the morning and continued through the day. It was just a miracle that I didn't feel the aches while I preached. However, they returned right after I spoke. I guess its the stress or the pressure.

Tonight, I will be joining my friends at EDGE RADIO for an apprearance in one of their live shows. I'm very excited about it. I wasn't able to compose a rap this week which was suppose to be heard tonight. Maybe some other night.

I'll be at the EDGE RADIO show tonight at about 7pm.

Here's the link to view the show: http://www.theedgeradio.net/edgetvpage/manila/

Pray for me folks. I need your prayers as we venture into new ground.

Until then, God bless you!

PREACHING TONIGHT

2008-11-20T11:49:00.000+08:00

Hello folks! I will be preaching tonight at the THURSDAY NIGHT WORSHIP (TNW) service of WORD FOR THE WORLD. If you have time, please join me and let's just be encouraged by God's word.

102 Valero st. Salcedo Village, Makati City.

See you later. God bless.

MY NEW BIG TASK: WWCF TELEVISION CHANNEL

2008-11-18T20:05:00.001+08:00

I have been given one of the biggest challenges so far in my life. I have been assigned to be part of a working team to lay the ground work for the Word for the World Television Channel.

It is a herculean task. But I am confident in my teammates and the ministries that are involved in this major project. It is in the impossible that we see God do the possible. Please do pray for me because so much needs to be done for this channel. I will update you all about this.

Personally, I am very excited. Please don't get me wrong. I'm not saying it will be easy. I know it is not. But there is just something exciting when you think about starting something new for the church. I have always been a strong advocate of making things better. This is another avenue for me to be used by God to make things better.

Until then, God bless you all!

FINALLY, I GOT TO DANCE AGAIN

2008-11-18T00:37:00.003+08:00

I was invited to attend a unique Sunday night experience - the SPIRIT GOSPEL HOUSE Party at Warehouse 153 (Yakal st. Makati city). I heard about it a few times and I was very curious. Could it be? A house party with house music that is ....Christian? Perish the though! Christian House music? Christians dancing to Christian house music? Could this be true? Yes. It is true.

Aida, Rafa, Odette and myself went to satisfy our curiousity. Was it possible to have clean Christian fun in a club setting? We were quite early. But we got to meet some fine people such as DJ Benjo, Ptr. Manu (who was a batchmate in the youth ministry), Laica Marquez, Ron and Joyce Titular and other individuals. I didn't really know what to expect but I was open for the experience.

Then, the music started rocking. The lights flashed around as the house music rocked the place. It was a party atmosphere. There was something different with the lyrics. Typically, house music contained either random phrases or words about love and life. But this one was very different. It spoke of God. It spoke of Jesus. It was house music about Jesus. I couldn't believe my ears. I was filled with excitement. Imagine!

So I was on the dance floor with my wife and my son who was dancing the night away. He was just enjoying himself. He even asked me if he could celebrate his birthday there. Just proves he was just enjoying the night.

As for me, I danced. Yes! I DANCED! Dancing has been a passion for me. Unfortunately, when I became a pastor, I was put into a stereotype. Pastors preach. They don't sing. They don't dance. Well, whoever said pastors don't dance? So I did. I danced with my wife. I danced with my son. I dance with God's music. And it felts good! Really good. I haven't dance liked that for...wait for it... SIX YEARS! Has it been that long? Oh yeah!

I am hoping to join the next Spirit House Party in December. Hope you join me too.

RODNEY G. AT GARY V LIVE AT 25

2008-11-16T00:24:00.001+08:00

When I heard that Gary Valenciano will stage his 25th anniversary concert on November 14 and 15, I just had to be there. I wanted to buy my tickets. Due to some schedules I needed to attend to, I lost track of time. When I checked the ticket offices, they were all SOLD OUT. Man. I was sad. I really did want to go. I wanted to go to the last night of the concert (November 15 - Saturday). I tried in vain and asked around if anyone had a spare ticket or knew anyone who can sell me a ticket. Alas, no success.

Saturday morning came. I post my status on my FACEBOOK account - "Rodney is SAD he cannot go to the GARY V. Concert." Then, my friend Joyce Titular of EDGE RADIO was online. I asked her if she can hook me up with some tickets for the Gary V. event. She said that the station had given away tickets for the concert and they're all out. But maybe if I check with Joel (one of the radio station volunteers) if there's a spare.

Then, just when you thought miracles don't happen, it hits you on the face. There was ONE TICKET left. They asked me if I'd like to have it. I said, "YES!" Just like that, God gave me favor. I was on my way to watch the GARY V. concert.

I met Joel to claim the ticket. Cool guy. Unfortunately, we weren't sitting together. I was in another part of the venue. But I didn't expect that the place I'll be sitting on was at the dead center view of the venue. It was like being in front of your own living room watching the event. I said, "Lord, I don't know if I deserve such a treat. But Thank you!"

For four hours, I was treated to music coming from a man that I have looked up to as a brother in the faith. Yes. He has had his struggles. Who hasn't? But I admire his determination to be the best that God wants him to be.

I personally would like to thank my friends Ron and Joyce Titular of EDGE RADIO for giving me a chance to watch the concert. Thanks for all the help, guys! It really means a lot to me. To Joel for being patient in all my text messages and for waiting for me. To the Lord, thanks for making me smile that day. Love you!

PASTORS NEED ENCOURAGEMENT TOO

2008-11-13T22:00:00.000+08:00

Just came back from Caliraya. I spent three days with the WWCF Local and International pastors. I am blessed with their obedience and how they have answered to God's calling.

Retreats are usually done to relax and just enjoy. This retreat was extra special for me because I get to spend some time with the pastors. I believe that pastors need to be encouraged and edified not just in material things but, more importantly, in words.

I have found the importance of encouragement in my own life and I have made it a personal mission.

I enjoyed spending time with my fellow pastors in these three days. Somehow, a new bond has been established.

I hope I become an encourager to them in any way I can be.

God bless you, my fellow workers in the Lord! May God be with you in all your efforts.

KIDZONE CHURCH LIVE 2008 BETTER THAN 2007

2008-11-09T23:44:00.000+08:00

This year's KIDZONE CHURCH LIVE! 2008 at the PICC Forum Tent was so much better than last year.

The event held last 2007 was our very first major event done in a major venue - The Philippine International Convention Center. We had about 1,000 kids and about four hours of activities that just totally brought the energy levels of all KZC coaches to its minimum. There were plenty of things we did that we should not have done and we were willing to learn from these mistakes.

This year, we came back with more wisdom.

We changed the placement of the stage and had the chairs surround it just like a concert theater. Instead of having four hours of programs, we just alloted a two-hour worship service for kids complete with praise and worship songs. The coaches added bonus stuff like action songs, puppets and the mime. It was so cool watching the coaches do their stuff.

As for me, I was given about 30 minutes to teach a lesson. This year's lesson was entitled "BEING THE BEST IN LIFE." It was a big challenge because I had to teach 800 kids in 30 minutes or so. A normal 5 year old has an average two to three minute attention span. So you could just imagine what I was about to encounter. Good thing God gave me wisdom.

The sermon was based on the hit Pixar movie "CARS" (which is one of my favorite films). I talked to the kids about Lightning McQueen and how he transformed from being a rookie without heart to a real racecar with heart. During a crossroad in his life, he meets new friends that teach him different values. In between principles that I taught, I included video snipplets that got the kids glued. And, YES, they were glued.

I was able to receive very positive feedback about the teaching from the kid's themselves. I was told they really learned a lot. Now, coming from these kids, they are not just honest but it does mean they got the point. Praise God!

This would be my second time to preach in a major venue. Not everyone get the opportunity and I am blessed to be given such.

The kids had snacks with the help of Universal Robina Corporation - makers of different snack foods. Thanks URC!

Will there be another KIDZONE CHURCH LIVE next year? We don't know. But I am proud of the KIDZONE CHURCH Coaches and staff and all those who helped out to make KIDZONE CHURCH LIVE! 2008 a God-glorifying event.

Until then, God bless.