The Pilgrim

Yesterday's Sunday word was one of my favorites... but prior to the preaching I and my friends led the Praise and Worship singing on our 5 o' clock service. That morning John (our song leader) and I looked for songs from among my Hillsong collection and came with a very beautiful line-up of songs: they include "One Day, Let Everything That Has Breath, It Is You, Reaching For You, Potter's Hand and You Are My World". God really ministered to me during the worship. I was kind of feeling down, discouraged, insecure, envious and for days I'd rather want to be alone and spend more time surfing the internet, reading books, designing a new blog template. I would rather choose to be alone than with people, but God intervened. He "bombarded" me with wonderful friends who stayed late at night (We had this "Lost" marathon and we're so addicted into it), and talk things under the sun just to keep me aligned in fellowship with other human beings. No man is an island.

Anyway, the word yesterday kept me more inspired, kept me alive with incresing strength and challenged me to trust God and not to shift my focus on Him. The world is from Psalms 84:

Psalm 84 (Amplified Bible)
To the Chief Musician; set to a Philistine lute, or [possibly] a particular Gittite tune. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.
1HOW LOVELY are Your tabernacles, O Lord of hosts!

2My soul yearns, yes, even pines and is homesick for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out and sing for joy to the living God.

3Yes, the sparrow has found a house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young--even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.

4Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are those who dwell in Your house and Your presence; they will be singing Your praises all the day long. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

5Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man whose strength is in You, in whose heart are the highways to Zion.

6Passing through the Valley of Weeping (Baca), they make it a place of springs; the early rain also fills [the pools] with blessings.

7They go from strength to strength [increasing in victorious power]; each of them appears before God in Zion.

8O Lord God of hosts, hear my prayer; give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

9Behold our shield [the king as Your agent], O God, and look upon the face of Your anointed!

10For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand [anywhere else]; I would rather be a doorkeeper and stand at the threshold in the house of my God than to dwell [at ease] in the tents of wickedness.

11For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] grace and favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.

12O Lord of hosts, blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts in You [leaning and believing on You, committing all and confidently looking to You, and that without fear or misgiving]!

Verses 1-3 speaks about the "joy" of being in God's presence - into his courts, into his throneroom. I recall the experiences I have when I was so spiritually high, like I was on a mountaintop and in every moment I would findmyself praising God for his goodness, for his faithfulness - for all the wonderful things He has done! Even the sparrows (v3) makes a nest for herself in God's courts. His throneroom is our home.

Verses 4-7 speaks of man whose heart is aligned to God's heart. I like this so much, it says that if our strength is in Him we would find ourselves pressing with increasing intensity. Our life is a journey, a pilgrimage of our hearts along God's pathway (to Zion) and if we keep our hearts on track, even if we pass through the valley of baca, representing the trials, the dryness, the sufferings, the weepings, God will provide fresh springs, and our hearts will be renewed. They will be stronger than before (strength to strength) as we go further along
the road 'till we reach God's courts in Zion (for me it's heaven)

In verses 8-12, it the psalmist's desire and prayer and personally, I've been making this on my own - that God will look on my face for I long to be in His presence. Truly it is better to be in God's presence even just for five minutes of prayer than elsewhere. God is my sun (provider) and shield (protector) and take note of this: HE WILL NEVER WITHHOLD ANYHTING TO ANYONE WHO WALKS UPRIGHTLY. And in the end, we are challenged to grow in trust for "blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who trusts in You (God) [leaning and believing on You, committing all and confidently looking to You, and that without fear or misgiving]!" v12. God Bless us.

Let This Be My Epitaph

I longed to live my life denying myself for others and when I die, it is my prayer that during my necrological service people will not tell what I have become or what I have achieved. Let the people know that I, a humble servant of God has been used so that others may live... and you don't need to be a saint to do that

If any of you are around when I have to meet my day, I don't
want a long funeral. And if you get somebody to deliver the
eulogy, tell them not to talk too long. And every now and then
I wonder what I want them to say. Tell them not to mention that
I have a Nobel Peace Prize; that isn't important.

Tell them not to mention that I have three or four hundred other
awards; that's not important. Tell them not to mention where I
went to school.

I'd like somebody to mention that day that Martin Luther King Jr.,
tried to give his life serving others.

I'd like for somebody to say that day that Martin Luther King Jr.,
tried to love somebody.

I want you to say that day that I tried to be right on the war
question.

I want you to be able to say that day that I did try to feed the
hungry.

And I want you to be able to say that day that I did try in my
life to clothe those who were naked.

I want you to say on that day that I did try in my life to visit
those who were in prison.

I want you to say that I tried to love and serve humanity.

Yes, if you want to say that I was a drum major, say that I was
a drum major for justice. Say that I was a drum major for
peace. I was a drum major for righteousness. And all of the
other shallow things will not matter. I won't have any money to
leave behind. I won't have the fine and luxurious things of
life to leave behind. But I just want to leave a committed life
behind. And that's all I want to say.

If I can help somebody as I pass along,
If I can cheer somebody with a word or song,
If I can show somebody he's traveling wrong,
Then my living will not be in vain.

If I can do my duty as a Christian ought,
If I can bring salvation to a world once wrought,
If I can spread the message as the master taught,
Then my living will not be in vain.

Yes, Jesus, I want to be on your right or your left side, not
for any selfish reason. I want to be on your right or your left
side, not in terms of some political kingdom or ambition. But I
just want to be there in love and in justice and in truth and in
commitment to others, so that we can make of this old world a
new world.

~excerpted from a sermon by Martin Luther King Jr., delivered at
Ebenezer Baptist Church, Atlanta, Georgia, on February 4, 1968

We're Two Years Old!

Bye, One Way Jesus

Andy's Undies is 2 years old! Hurray! Two years of faithful blogging and defeating hearsays that blogging is just mere fad. As another year begins, let's shed old skins and other ways. It's sad for me personally to replace my "One Way, Jesus" skin. I love it so much cause it's a work by heart. Don't worry it'll be back. This new skin is called "All Around the World"... and starring, ME (You're so vain, I think this song is about you!) yeah and of course the different landmarks of big cities around the world! I'm just felt overwhelmed of the thought that when God comes all nations, all tribes and languages would worship him. (Could it be that all religions lead to worshipping one true God? Would worshipping God transcend religions?)

Anyway, I've just joined my friend Nina's group blog, All Rights Unlimited. It's a about a blog where you can post anything you like: poems, articles, opinions, stories, scripts, songs, news, etc. Just click on the link and see it for yourself.

Pacman "Bites" Again!

Pacman

It's such a SHAME for a certified Filipino such as myself to sorely MISS the most anticipted rematch between Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao and Erik Morales:

LAS VEGAS, Nevada--(2ND UPDATE) Manny Pacquiao stopped Erik Morales in the 10th round of a super featherweight eliminator here on Saturday, avenging his defeat last March with an impressive display of speed and power.
Pacquiao sent Morales to the canvas for the first time in his career and completed the victory when the referee stopped the fight at 2:33 of the 10th.

The Filipino fighter improved to 41-3-2 with 33 wins inside the distance.

Mexico's Morales, who had posted a unanimous 12-round decision over Pacquiao in March, fell to 48-4, with 33 wins inside the distance.

In their first encounter, Pacquiao was looking for a knock-out against the hard-chinned Morales, but instead end up bloodied by Morales who earned the close decision.

The first half of Saturday's fight at the Thomas and Mack Center followed the same script as the 130-pounders traded a flurry of punches, practically from the opening bell.

Morales had the upper hand as he outboxed Pacquiao, winning rounds three, four and five.

However, that effort seemed to sap the energy of the 30-year-old Mexican as he offered less resistance to Pacquiao's pressure as the fight progressed.

Pacquiao finally put away the valiant Morales when he dropped him with a left with just under a minute remaining in the 10th round. Morales sprung up at the count of nine, but Pacquiao quickly pounced and again floored Morales, prompting referee Kenny Bayless to stop the action.

With the victory Pacquiao was installed as the World Boxing Council's No. 1 contender in the division in which Mexico's Marco Antonio Barrera holds the title.

On the same card, Mexico's Martin Castillo won a 12-round split decision over Venezuela's Alexander Munoz to retain his World Boxing Association super flyweight title.

Castillo, who finished the fight with two cuts on his face, was given the win by two of the ringside judges, 116-111 and 115-112, while the third judge saw it 115-112 for Munoz.

The Mexican fighter was on the canvas in the first round but survived to improve to 30-1, with 16 wins inside the distance.

Munoz, a former champion in the division, fell to 29-2, with Castillo responsible for both of his defeats, the first in December of 2004.

--> Link to this post: gmanetwork.com

Grey-Colored Hues (Part II)

Yesterday, as I go offline and do my things for that day, I though about the recent post I made. It sounds "gloomy" and kind of "depressing", don't you think?

Basically, grey-colored hues is about weariness... when things are pulling you down, when people become rude, and the attitude levels are rising and you feel you'll like to blow up! And so you get wild, partying and enjoying yourself just to get rid of that weariness you felt inside... hoping you'll feel well. For a moment, maybe, but it goes back and doubled its full force.

So how do we get rid of this endless cycle? I know you might find my advice too common, to cliche... too touchy-feely... BUT if you are HUMAN enough to admit that you are helpless, that you need help, that you desire some greater power to save you - YOU NEED GOD. YOU NEED JESUS. I'd like to share to you the lyrics from "Evanescence's" first hit, "Bring Me To Life" and pray that God will work you through...It says,

How can you see into my eyes like open doors
Leading you down into my core
Where I’ve become so numb without a soul
My spirit sleeping somewhere cold
Until you find it there and lead it back home

--> You see the person in this 1st verse realizes how his/her soul becomes "numb" ... When we say numb, it doesn't mean that we feel weary at all... we are left feeling-less, that all things good or bad mean the same.

"Why do I care if I want to be on top while I hurt others along the way", "Why do I care if I have lots of one-night stand partners?", "So what if my mom and dad from the province will come to visit me?". (Sorry, for the offended ones) These are some of the examples if we had a "dead conscience".

We don't feel any guilt nor any form of serendipity (grace) from anything. Everything is just plain, nor black nor white ... just gray, gray and gray! In the first line, the person realizes that "someone" knows everything regarding his/her sad predicament and that person realizes that that "someone" could "lead" his/her soul back home. That "someone", you may call it God, or "something greater than the mind can conceive" will take your soul back to where it belongs - in his nature, in his likeness. Genesis 1:26a says:

Then God said, "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness,...

... God's image is spiritual in nature and we are to be spiritual beings because we came from him. When the "spirit" becomes "lost", of course, "it wants to go home"... Logically it make sense, right?

The chorus, I leave it to you... Make it your own prayer when you feel "lost". God is always there to find you and wake you up and lead you to His home.

Wake me up inside
Wake me up inside
Call my name and save me from the dark
Bid my blood to run
Before I come undone
Save me from the nothing I've become
Now that I know what I'm without
You can't just leave me
Breathe into me and make me real
Bring me to life

Though Evanescence outrightly denied that their song is a "Christian" song... many people have been blessed. They may not realize the impact it made to those who are hungry, those are weary and how the song led them back to God... I included.

Grey-colored Hues

Sometimes I'm still wondering why time seems to fly fast when you're here in Manila. It seems that there are things much to be done and later find out that you have so little time. Yesterday I went Eastwood Technopark to submit my resume at a company. I assumed that since I only live in Kamuning (Quezon City), that wouldn't be that far (as suppose you live in Las Pinas or in Manila or Valenzuela). But it took me almost 3 hours to go there and back! In Davao, I could have been in many places in that span of time. So now, (even if i had realized it before but haven't got used to it ... still) I realize that it's the travelling that kills most of your time! Metro Manila is such a big, big collection of cities and in the future it will be bigger as disticts around it like the Tanay, Antipolo, Cainta, Binan, Sta Rosa, Dasmarinas, Bacoor, Imus, etc. will be highly urbanized.

Week Faces

At the end of the day, I'm wondering if I had done something worthwhile. Everything happened like fast swirling blur of grey-colored hues... and in my quiet reflection I try to grasp the goodness, the excitement of the seemingly tiring, boring and monotonic lifestyle. That's why I like it here in Metro Manila. The culture inscribed in it allows me to experience the wonders of life and realize how blessed I am even if the people around seemed to be walking too fast, heading in different directions but did not allow themselves to slow down and think - to regain the lost energy, environment has taken from them. They go to bars and discos and eat out on Fridays by dates of 15 and 30 and they party all night long thinking that indulging in some frenzied happy-tripping would take away the stress they got not only from the workplace, not only from the pollution but from the this stressful culture itself. And they go to sleep the whole day on Sunday, wake up on Monday and work like zombies till Frdiay. You see them standing on MRT with droopy eyes and haggard souls. And the cycle repeats... and truth be told, their souls will be as dry as ever. I was once on this path and I thought it's the way it should be if you want to survive in Metro Manila. But I realized, it's not bad to be probinsyano^FYI with inate tendencies to be more reflective while enjoying the clear night skies in the fields up on an acacia tree (not really in acacia tree, much more like a guava tree).

Probinsyano - Tagalog term which means one who lives or comes from provinces

What Love Is (As Kids tell)

I remembered Jesus saying in the gospels that in order to see the Kingdom of heaven we should be like children. It means that our hearts should be innocent, pure and sincere. I recently received this hilarious e-mail about kids being interviewed on what love is. I believe they're more meaningful than the love quotes we've surrounded ourselves these days:

"When my grandmother got arthritis, she couldn't bend over and paint her toenails anymore.

So my grandfather does it for her all the time, even when his hands got arthritis too. That's love."

Rebecca- age 8

"When someone loves you, the way they say your name is different.

You just know that your name is safe in their mouth."

Billy - age 4

"Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs."

Chrissy - age 6

"Love is what makes you smile when you're tired."

Terri - age 4

"Love is when my mommy makes coffee for my daddy and she takes a sip before giving it to him, to make sure the taste is OK."

Danny - age 7

"Love is what's in the room with you at Christmas if you stop opening presents and listen."

Bobby - age 7 (Wow!)

"If you want to learn to love better, you should start with a friend who you hate,"

Nikka - age 6

--> we need a few million more Nikka's on this planet

"Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who are still friends even after they know each other so well."

Tommy - age 6

"During my piano recital, I was on a stage and I was scared. I looked at all the people watching me and saw my daddy waving and smiling.

He was the only one doing that. I wasn't scared anymore."

Cindy - age 8

"Love is when Mommy gives Daddy the best piece of chicken."

Elaine-age 5

Love is when Mommy sees Daddy smelly and sweaty and still says he is handsomer than Brad Pitt."

Chris - age 7

"I know my older sister loves me because she gives me all her old clothes and has to go out and buy new ones."

Lauren - age 4

And the final one -- Author and lecturer Leo Buscaglia once talked about a contest he was asked to judge.

The purpose of the contest was to find the most caring child.

The winner was a four year old child whose next door neighbor was an elderly gentleman who had recently lost his wife.

Upon seeing the man cry, the little boy went into the old gentleman's yard, climbed onto his lap, and just sat there.

When his Mother asked what he had said to the neighbor, the little boy said,

"Nothing, I just helped him cry"

A New Day Has Come

My Soundtrack - Yeah Right!

I woke up this morning and gazed at the vanilla skies outside the window. It was still dark but a flickering ray of light was seen over the horizon (which was our neighbor's rooftop.. what sight :( ) I'm going to Manila today, to, again, seek my destiny. Yes! My God-given destiny and purpose. This time it's for real... I believe that it's time and I prayed for it many times... I prayed for it that has become a part of me - an insatiable dream no person, no discouragement can break! I knew I have made stupid decisions in my life and God made sure that I regret doing them because I just felt bad, worthless and battered... and so afterwhich it has become my SALVATION history. Now, I felt more than a conqueror just like what the judge Joshua said.

But actually I'm scared - scared that I'll fail, scared that I can't stand the ever competitive and heartless working world here in Manila, scared that I would fail my parents again but when I gaze upon the grace of God, I felt hope and enthusiasm. A great wave washed my heart expecting that something good will happen! Something that I could be of good use for people who need help and it is good and it felt good... I don't what is and I'm going to find out! I'm going to share to you verses which will give you new strength in times you feel weary, in times you feel that the world is going to devour you and sap your strength away...

Isaiah 40:30-32 (NIV)
30 Even youths grow tired and weary,
and young men stumble and fall;

31 but those who hope in the LORD
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
They will run and not grow weary,
They will walk and not be faint.

See what marvelous things God can do when he put our hope on Him! It is my prayer that you'll be blessed by this verse. Rise up and conquer the new heights!

The Frustration Bug

Smile and look good!

I just hate when times like these happen in my life. I woke in the morning wearing a smug look and people talking sound annoying to you... But by God's grace I am (hopefully) still have reason to live this day, bless other people even if it requires extra effort and do things I normally do not do these days like exercising in the gym. When the frustration bug sets in, you are vulnerable to temptation - I might invite my friends and get drunk, or maybe I would like to meet someone in the bar - just to ease the pain the bug has caused your heart. But instead of easing the pain, it gets worse and the pain is now mixed with guilt, regret and blame.

Right now, my plans going back to Manila are thwarted. My brother just had an accident and of course the money will be used for his operating expenses, his medicines, etc. I understand that accidents to happen and nothing is to blame for that. But somehow deep inside my heart, I am angry. Angry with the situation and angry ... just angry okay and of course frustrated. I don't know how to elaborate and I am of course vulnerable to impulsive thoughts (temptation). I have the tendency to "pig out" when I feel something stressful like anger, frustration, discouragement. In the past, I do not hesitate to do it but now I seek God's wisdom, discern what I can learn from the situation and how can I make it better by God's grace. What does the scripture says in times like these:

Psalms 37:7a (NIV)
Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;

Romans 8:28 (Amplified Bible)
We are assured and know that [ God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.

It is comforting to know that IF you love the Lord, trust that all things work for good according to his will and purpose. I may not have the understanding why he allows times like this but he knows and he knows BETTER than us. He told us to be still and wait patiently for him for his timing his perfect in his time. Wow! Many times have I trusted my own instinct and they all fail. Many times have I listened to wordly values (and truth be told, they sound good) but the scriptures are perfect and true to its promise. As Christians we are trust his word - not our feelings, not the circumstances and not what we think is best for us. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (Amplified) says, "For we walk by faith [we regulate our lives and conduct ourselves by our conviction or belief respecting man's relationship to God and divine things, with trust and holy fervor; thus we walk] not by sight or appearance."... Right, so cheer up if you're bankrupt, if you're boyfriend/girlfriend just left you, or your dog was sick - we live by faith and not by sight! GBU everyone.

The Lion, The Arm and Capoeira

Lion of the Tribe of Judah

Yesterday, we endured one and half hour of our time standing behind the ticket booth to watch the most anticipated movie, "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe". I got the tickets while my brother Aris and our friend Bryan, got the food for us. When we got there, all seats were taken so we decided to sit by the floor and made ourselves comfortable.

I remembered my classmate, Aya who was a Narnia fanatic and kept telling us how great this book is. Of course, it was written by the most deep and highly respected Christian writer, C.S. Lewis. As the story progressed we were led into a journey with the 4 siblings into the frozen land of Narnia, ruled by a wicked witch queen. But according to the prophecy, when the two sons of Adam and two daughters of Eve (who are the 4 siblings) appears, Narnia will be freed and the witch queen will be defeated. However among the siblings there seems to be indifference and quarrels, so Edmond one of the siblings was led astray and was corrupted by the witch queen. The three other siblings however, found their way to Aslan, the Lion, who is the rightful king of Narnia.

As the story progressed, I led myself into thinking what the events mean. Knowing C.S. Lewis' works, I'm sure that there is a Christian truth behind the events. It came when Aslan rescued Edmond from the witch queen. The witch queen, however demanded her rights with Edmond - that every traitor must belong to her. (I remembered the Devil being portrayed this way in other stories like "Faust" and the play "The Devil vs. Daniel Webster") Aslan sacrificed himself for Edmond's freedom. During the night, Aslan willingly surrendered himself. He was mocked and stripped (his mane was shaved) struck by the witch queen and her minions. I remembered Jesus Christ who was mocked by the crowd, his majesty insulted, his clothes stripped, before the Roman soldiers lifted him on the cross on Calvary. So I realized Aslan must be Jesus Christ who gave his life in exchange of sinners, who like Edmond exchanged the whole cause of the Narnia for a bunch of sweets. It reminded me of us, who gave in to small indulgences to sin because it feels good at the moment not regarding any thought what it might do to us, or to other people because of what we do. Of course Aslan died but at sunrise he resurrected back into his radiant glory, roaring mightily like the "Lion of the Tribe of Judah" just like what the Psalms said. He and the whole Kingdom, no matter how small or young they are - from the smallest beavers to young children (the 4 siblings) who led the war- fought and the force of darkness was extinguished. If we, no matter how we sinned, no matter where we came from, if we fight for the cause of Jesus and for his Kingdom, we can defeat the Enemy who tries to destroy us. I just love movies like this.

After watching the movie, we decided to eat cause we are really hungry. While walking along the sidewalk, Bryan and Aris begin to act "show-offs" and were cartwheeling demonstrating their capoeira^FYI skills. Aris cartwheeled but when his foot landed the floor, his shoes lost grip and he fell on his side, his right arm carrying all his weight as it made impact on the floor.

Capoeira - a martial arts native to Brazil

We helped Aris up, and he said he felt like he was going to faint. We checked his right arm and to my horror (or rather amusement :) bad me), it looked weird. It was like his triceps had gone big and his whole arm looked weirdly lop-sided. We concluded it was just dislocated and so Bryan and I decided we could eat first before we would attend to Aris' arm. But Aris insisted that he felt something "cracking" near his joints. So we decided to take him to the hospital and brought him to ER. Tests were done and the X-ray showed his humerus was fractured. Imagine a twig, that was split into two. It looked like it. That's why his triceps looked big. It was his bone protruding against his muscles. As I was writing this, Aris is on the operating room. The doctor is going to "screw" and snap the bone into place. I pray, Aris will be all right. He promised he will reflect upon his spiritual journey while he's on this... as if! God Bless you everyone and remember to smile despite trials. Last morning as I was paying to the cashier when I saw a poster that says, "You're problem is not your problem. It is your attitude that is your problem", quoted from John C. Maxwell... I guess he's right. Have a postive attitude on all situations and your problems are not big deal!

Who am I?

Has anyone of you watched the movie, "The Island"? Due to well, my busy schedule when the movie was due for screening, I haven't had the opportunity to watch this magnificent movie.

From where?

"The Island" is set in the near future where a highly advanced yet secret institution "clones" individuals who are in need for purposes limited to future use of the clones. That purpose may be for limb replacement, organ transplant, or child-bearing. For example if one suspects he/she will be needing a heart transplant in the the near future, that individual will apply to that cloning institution. The institution clones that individual and when the indvidual needs something like let's say a heart, the institution gives the clone's healthy heart to that individual.

The clones are made from a mass tissue. After it is injected with DNA, it grows into an individual with the same characterstic as its sponsor. They are planted with false memories. When the clone is "finished", it is given a name and is well fed, kept healthy, educated in a highly controlled yet very healthy environment. They are brainwashed into thinking that they are survivors from nuclear contamination from the outside world and were kept inside to contain them. A lottery was made every now and then and select random individuals. The lottery winner is said to transfer to the last habitable place on Earth called, "The Island". Everyone is hopeful that one day their name will be called and they will transfer to the paradise called, "The Island". The truth is when they will be called, it is the time when their sponsor needs them and after that they will be eliminated. However, in every successful technology products there occurs one bug, it is when one clone, Lincoln 6 Echo (Ewan McGregor) had dreams never implanted by the institution, memories he find strange, and that (sometimes irky) human attitude of curiosity and intimate feelings for the opposite sex. In his wandering, he found the horrible truth behind the existence of the world he was living in. In desperation he wanted to escape and his friend Jordan 2 Echo (Scarlett Johansson) who won recently to be trasferred to "The Island".

As I watched this movie, I recalled one moment in my life when I asked this question: Who am I? I can relate to the desperation Lincoln 6 Echo feels as he desperately justifies his existence. Are we some mere organism who just breathe, grow up, study, work, have family, and die? What is my purpose in this world I'm living in? Philosophy has by all means try to justify, gave proof, reasoned out of figuring out the man's identity. When I found Christ (or was it He found me?), my life was never the same. I am no longer doubtful of who I am or of my purpose in this world. I am so secure in my identity as God's son and belong to a big family of God's people. My purpose is to go back home where my Father dwells and everything that is happening here in this world with regards to my life all collects in preparation for my stay there in Heaven. I am not afraid of die (physically) because if it does, I'll be glad that I have gone home.

Extravagant Worship

Darlene Zschech's New Book

Year 2006 marks a new and renewed spirit in me because I have decided to be an "Extravagant Worshipper" for Christ. By the end of year 2005 while I was in the MDD district, I have been reading Darlene Zscech's ^FYI new book, "Extravagant Worship". Now what is "Extravagant Worship"? Does it mean having a "grandiose" Praise and Worship in our churches every Sunday? From what I read, being an extravagant worshipper, to give extravagant worship does not nocessarily mean to praise and worship God through songs. The ones we have in our churches, where we sing fast songs (which we label praise worship songs) and slow ones (which we label worship songs), worshipping God must not be limited there.

Darlene is the worship pastor and leader of the Creative Arts ministry of Hills Christian Center in Sydney, Australia

Darlene speaks from her heart and from first-hand experience that to give extravagant worship would cost us greatly. Worship is in itself must and should be our lifestyle. It is about discipline, to give our very best even if God does not require for us to perform for Him. To be an extravagant worshipper means to have the renewing of mind and to align our desires and dreams with God's will in our lives. These are only a few things that Darlene discussed.

Darlene in 'God He Reigns'

The book also discussed few pointers for musicians and "Praise and Worship" leaders which would you, amateur musicians, song writers, praise and worship leaders find useful. Her advice will inspire you and makes you aspire to improve in your ministry in your local church (Would you believe I composed a song after reading the book? I'm so in love with God and what He has done in my life). When I was saved (Was it a time I was baptized our was time when I hear God called my name?), God had planted a dream seed in my heart and at this point in my life, God is making that seed grow. Feed the seed God gave you. Be an extravagant worshipper for God.

Raw Worship

Sitio Pantalan People

On the 2nd day of the convention, we spent the whole day playing this game patterned after "Amazing Race". We were divided into 10 teams and I was assigned to the ever (loser) energetic "Peach team". After breakfast we gathered at the venue lobby quite excited or just plain sleepy (The sleeping quarters were dusty and the weather was hot and I'm sure everyone did not have a good sleep including me). Our leader, Mae, met with the game staff for instructions. Then as the game began, we were first given the first clue on how to find the second clue. We were to find a solitary tree in the grounds and there by the far end was the lone coconut tree. At the coconut tree, we found the 2nd clue to find a book called, "The Blue Book of Mysteries" at the Barangay^FYI library, so the whole pack went off outside and roamed the streets of Toril. People were watching as these a hundred or plus young people ran off in every direction wearing their distinct orange IDs. I was worried that my right foot will be inflammed again for walking so I really prayed and trust my foot to God.

Barangay - a community unit similar to a town

When we got there at the >Barangay library, I saw my teammates opening every book along the "Fiction Section". The librarian also helped us to find the book. After 10 minutes, still, no one found the book called "The Blue Book of Mysteries" or something like it. Mae sent a text message to one of the game staff to clarify which book is it. One of the library staff, suddenly said that he found some paper posted on the bulletin board and thought it was some trash so he threw it. Everyone scampered to the garbage bin and there we found the 2nd clue, it says:

Go to "Love The Children Foundation" along the way to Eden (Nature Park). Teach 2 or 3 children memorize a verse. The verse should be at least 6 words.

Everyone gathered to decide whether we walk our way towards the foundation or ride a tricycle. Since not everyone brought their wallets, we decided to walk. When we got there, several teams were already there and were teaching some children new songs and others let them recite some Bible verses. We looked for a spot where we could find "our children". Two little girls were already seated, anticipating for our arrival. We gathered round them and made them memorize Genesis 1:1. For your information, "Love the Children Foundation" is an organization which takes care for homeless and orphaned kids. The children ages range from 3 to 13 or 14.

Love The Children & Peach Team

When the kids memorized the verses, some of my teammates gave them words of comfort telling them not to worry or be lonely or discouraged because they don't have earthly parents. There is God who will love them very much. He loves you more than any earthly parent can. Another teammate gave them her spare accessories and the smiles on their faces are priceless. Before we ended our meeting, we thanked them for their cooperation. I prayed for them before we go and in my prayers, I bless them that they will be of great use to God, that they young minds be filled with things that matter, things that love, things of excellence and things worthy of praise. I took a picture of them together with the whole Peach team (shown above).

The game staff tested the children if we have been successful teaching them. The children we taught were very good and even sang a song they knew even if we hadn't taught them. When the testing was done, the children of the foundation had prepared a number for us so we sat down and listened. Four boys come up the stage to play the drums, the electric guitars and the keyboards. I thought they will just "pretend" to play while the music will be played. However, I was amazed when those guys start to play the instruments. They are so good and the music was good even by adult standard. Even the guys in our worship team were like dumb struck seeing these boys who aged like 7-12. The crowd were cheering for them and I can't help to be awed by how God used these boys' talents despite the lack of encouragement and love only a parent can give. God's love is seen on these boys. When the boys were done with their intro, 4 girls came onto the stage with their choreograped dance routines, and singing their hearts out. These girls showed enthusiasm and you can see the joy in their faces as they sing songs like "We Wanna See Jesus Lifted High" and "Jesus, Lover of my Soul".

When the program was over, our team walked out for the next stop. Personally, I was ministered. There are times when I feel so lax in my service for God's ministry (Music Ministry). I was confident in my abilities that "enough" is just enough for a particular crowd, that our level of service depends on what crowd we will be ministering. I felt I don't deserved such ministry from children whose hearts are pure and shout wholeheartedness in what they do. I realized that when we serve, God is and our only audience and we give our very best to bring people into His presence. No one is greater - from the person on the platform to the person at the corner of the back row. In God's presence, it doesn't matter who you are or where you are. What matters is your heart longing after Him.

Airheads Not Allowed

Charlie and Angels

Good day! Happy New Year. You see, I'm back from our Youth Conference which took place last December 27 - 30. It was 3-day event full of blessings - recommited callings, meeting amazing young people who share the same passion, and lessons to be learned the hard way.

When I arrived the first night, I was rather distracted and not minding the whole convention thing cause you see I was a contestant for solo singing contest which will take place on each evening of the convention. I was apparently nervous and kept forgetting the lyrics of my songs. I sang on the first night and on the 2nd and on the 3rd. But despite the nervousness, I'm pretty confident that I could pull it off - provided the "extensive" singing experiences I have since college. I have prepared for this. I have sacrificed a month here in Davao just for this thing and rehearsed quite well.

On the first night, there are 4 contestants, a girl named Mary from another circuit of the same Zone and Mary Joy, a pretty lass from Zone 3, who decided to sing on the instant her name was called. She was unprepared and sang only the first half of the song, "The Warrior is a Child". There was this girl and her name is Ciara who was only 13 years old and sang like a seven-year old kid with a good but with an undeveloped voice. I'm pretty sure I'm quite better than these two. Then there was Mary, who was good and I can say she's into solo singing contests since she was born because you can see the "coolness" in her thing. She was a big threat in short. :( But I say, I don't care. I came here to sing for God and for His glory and I don't care what will happen. So when it was my time to sing, I can say I gave my all - all my love for God I have expressed despite the minor mistakes like forgetting some of my lyrics and some "flats". The judges gave their comments and I thought I can swallow what they have said/commented. They say, I don't know my lyrics and I don't have eye-contact to the audience. But hello? This is a Christian solo singing contest and you're there to sing for God and not for people! Is it necessary to look at people? But they're the judges and there are elements of truth to what they say.

So 2nd day came and there was a new contestant and new set of judges! I was irked with the inconsistencies this contest have. But I was happy because my "fans" were there. My sister and her pals (They call themseleves, PHENGSTERS) made me a banner and it said "MYMP", "Make Your Mandug Proud!". Mandug is the church I came from. I remembered the comments said to me yesterday hoped I can incorporate it. This time, I decided to sing an alternative song which was "To the Ends of the Earth". When it was my turn to sing, I felt I've done better this time except I did a bad "timing" problem. I was told by the judges, that still I didn't have eye-contact with the audience! (Is 1-second be considered an eye-contact? I think it does!) and I was intimidated by the stage because I'm afraid to move. When I went back to my seat with my churchmates, I was thrilled to hear their comments about other contestants. It made think I was better than I have thought but I was again irked because one pastor came onstage and made an announcement but could not contain himself to comment and said you should sing songs that are "singing contest" types and you should make your voice loud always. I know he's referring to me because I sang an alternative-ballad song and there was a portion where I had to sing pianissimo. Hello? I thought I was told that this song is patterned after "Search for a Star In A Million" and how could you imagine a song if you don't put dynamics in it? I just shrugged the thought and felt pity for the pastor who obviously was born in ancient times with his Jurassic period thinking. I sound so cruel thinking about that but hey I thought he just made an "undisciplined" comment, acted upon impulse and never given much thought.

The 3rd night came and the it was the finals night. But hours before, I decided to change song since the "Life's Journey" theme relevance was not followed by other contestants (another inconsistency I am irked about) but it was still in line with the theme. I sang a song familiar to me and I felt more relaxed singing and very confident with my performance. I received less "bad" remarks from the judges and I was pretty confident that I would be 2nd! So after the contest, I waited anxiously on my seat until the time the winner will be announced. After a few contests, the time came when the winners were called. They first called the 2nd runner-up, I was not called. The 1st runner up, maybe that would be ME and I was so excited. I was not called. Maybe, I was the champion but no... Mary won. I slumped back to my chair pretending I was OK, they called my name - I was 4th and my churchmates looked in disbelief. I got my prize (which was a lime-colored mug with Pooh pics on it). It was okay or so I thought until I get home and the events from the contests kept coming back to me.

I was 4th, the 2nd to the last winner and I knew I have done well. I was defeated by a girl who looks as if she joined a singing contest for children and a girl who sings as if she sang a naughty and sexy novelty song. I was pissed off because I knew I gave justice interpreting how a Christian song must be interpreted. I have observed many Christian artists sing and they sing very differently unlike secular artists who sing as if they sing for a show or for a performance, to entertain people. Singing Christian songs is not singing for a show. I was pissed off for what seemed like "unfair" and "uneducated" decision by the judges. Worst, I felt "diminished", my experience were reduced to that of an amateur.

In frustration, I sought God in prayer. I sought God's wisdom and what He is trying to teach me in this experience. He knows that my intention for joining the contest was for His glory, that His name will be glorified through the songs I was going to sing. I never asked to win but at least I would be given justice. I said, "God, I know I never had to perform for You with a good song to make me pleasing in Your sight but since I love you so much, I would give my best for You even if that's the least that I can give". I allowed those moments to sink in and God said, "My son, I allowed it. I allowed you to be treated that way because I want to show to you what your heart is like. True, you have the intention to glorify me but there is a room in your heart that does not please me. Your heart is full of pride. You are proud and in your heart you think you are so great by virtue of the things you know. Glorifying me would not need your knowledge. In your heart, partly you agreed to join the singing contest to show how great you are. In your heart puffed arrogance and vainglory."

Today, the experience still hurts but I was humbled. God made sure of that. Sometimes, we have to learn a lesson the hard way and accepting it is a way to learn and to grow in His wake. Truly, everything the world values can bring pride in our hearts. My so-called extensive musical knowledge which I thought would glorify God became the way for my heart to be led astray, 1 John 2:16-17 (NIV) says,

For everything in the world-the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does-comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

Yeah, I say to God, you are right. I indeed quite so full of myself and a million thanks to you for this lesson. How about you? In what ways God taught you a lesson the hard way? If you want to speak your mind. Leave a comment or tag along. :) God Bless. More convention-related experiences will be posted soon.