More Than These?

Jesus asked Peter an important question, "Peter, do you love me more than these?" (John 21:25). That is what I am trying to learn and relearn these days. I've been pondering on Jesus' "more than these." More than what? I wonder too what my "more than these" are! Books on my shelves, my house, my family and loved ones? ... When I prepared to take the trip, my heart was aching as I looked at my children. How could I stop loving and caring for them? I asked, "Lord, you mean they're included in your 'more than these'?" Then, the Lord revealed an answer, "You love them, Angelo, yes continue to do so. Just don't love them more than you love Me." And then I came to know more clearly what He was trying to say to Peter.

Prayers for the Journey

I pray for my journeys with some of my "favorite prayers." This reminds me of my identity as God's child in need of my Father's protection. And it reminds me that it is only in and through Jesus that I have hope and grace. When I am afraid and overwhelmed, I rest in Jesus, who is the author and perfector of my faith. "God of your goodness, give me yourself, for you are sufficient for me... If I were to ask anything less I should always be in want, for in you alone do I have all" (Julian of Norwich). This prayer reminds me of Psalm 16:1-2 “Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge. I said to the Lord, “You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing.” "O Christ Jesus,
when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of Your presence, Your love, and Your strength. Help us to have perfect trust in Your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us,
for, living close to You, we shall see Your hand, Your purpose, Your will through all things" (St. Ignatius of Loyola). Let us rest in you alone. When our lives are overwhelmed by darkness, remind us of you. You are our perfect strength and eace. "I cannot do this alone. In me there is darkness, But with you there is light; I am lonely, but you do not leave me; I am feeble in heart, but with you there is help; I m restless, but with you there is peace. In me there is bitterness, but with you here is patience; I do not understand your ways, But you know the way for me…Restore me to liberty, And enable me to live now. That I may answer before you and before me. Lord, whatever this day may bring, Your name be praised" (Dietrich Bonhoeffer). You know the way for me, Lord. I know I can’t do this life on my own – I am full of fear and darkness. But you are light and life. Let me seek you and rest in you.

"I arise today
Through God's strength to pilot me;
God's might to uphold me,
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to look before me,
God's ear to hear me,
God's word to speak for me,
God's hand to guard me,
God's way to lie before me,
God's shield to protect me,
God's hosts to save me
Afar and anear,
Alone or in a mulitude.

Christ shield me today
Against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me.

I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of creation."

(St Patrick)

Confessions of a Pastor

How well do you understand your pastor? Craig Groeschel, one of my favorite living pastors. Founder and pastor of LifeChurch.TV. Wrote a deeply personal book. Perfect title: "Confessions of a Pastor: Adventures in Dropping the Pose and Getting Real With God." Honest confessed failings and inadequacies of a pastor. Lust. Sexual impurity. Marriage and parenting failure. No denial. Transparency. Honesty. In other words, pastors are just like you and me. Occasionally victorious—more often than not, falling short. A book reviewer commented: "Groeschel should be commended for being at the forefront of tearing down the stereotypes and unrealistic expectations we place upon our pastors. With his Confessions let's pray that other pastors, and all believers for that matter, will follow his lead and be fearless in admitting their faults and weaknesses. Our churches can only be better as we all learn to 'drop the pose and get real with God.' " Pastor Craig waethered the storms. He found victory and strength in God despite his weaknesses when He obeyed Him.



Related Links:
The Ted Haggard Story
Pastor Care

I'm With Somebody

Jesus said, “I am not alone, because the Father is with Me” (John 16:32).

Over the years, in the seminary where I taught, I’d tease the single women who were numerous among our staff and faculty. My “light-hearted, youthful” side. And everyone of us would enjoy moments of fun, secure within ourselves.

For singles, temptation and opportunity are all around. How I cringed when someone told me about the number of our overseas working nurses who would “sideline” as prostitutes in the countries where they work. Forbidden companionship. Not just overseas, but also in bars, parks, hotels, factories, even in churches!

I too have found such similar kinds of struggle difficult. But no human being can meet all our needs. However, these days we expect a mate, lover, or spouse to do what only God is equipped to do! So when a loved one left and will not meet my needs, in this loss I’ve found an advantage. For this has driven me to the One who is always there to love and care for me. The loss produces a win that no human companionship can fulfill.

Jesus never married. He understood being alone. Even forsaken. Toward the end of His ministry, crowds of people turned against Him. Family members, closest friends, hometown people, religious authorities, disciples forsook, denied, and betrayed Him. Yet at the end of His earthly visit, He said: “I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.”

No one in Christ is never really alone. There is God. “Nothing shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:39). “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). We can always be calmed by these divine assurances.

Embracing Commitments

Last Sunday, we started a weekly fellowship and Bible study with a few brethren and friends in a high-rise residential condo. God has a unique way of cheering us up when others leave! That’s how He meant the Body of Christ to be. Everyone needs one while we pick our way through the minefields of life’s journey.

Ed, the host, used to be someone I’d not seen for quite some time. He just appeared at my side when I least expected him. That’s only about 3 or 4 months ago while I was walking in the Ortigas Center area at the height of a personal crisis. According to him, way prior to that chance meeting, he’d write my name in his personal diary and remember me in prayers. Somewhat “strange” to me! Before I knew it, we’re going on coffee talks together.

During the bible study and dinner together that Sunday, I heard a side comment looking back on some sad church experiences. Commitments and relationships were not kept. And because of that, one has become “commitment shy.” Things that happened in the past have somehow affected one’s efforts to make new commitments in the future.

“I’m not committing again!” I wonder how many times I can hear that “silently” from bruised men and women (and even from me!). It is easy to build an altar around hurts or disappointments experienced in the past. But God does not want us to spend the rest of our lives worshipping in this altar. He wants us to grow by learning from the past. And then, move on.

Could I be hurt again if I embrace new commitments? Of course. We will still fail at times. People may hurt us again. It’s simply the reality of living on this planet. But not every one else is your ex-friend, or your ex-church, or your ex-spouse who hurt you. The only way we can grow is to learn from our “ex-periences” and be responsive and responsible again to make new commitments to live.

God is with us when we embrace new commitments. “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with my eye” (Psalms 32:8). Ask for His instructions and guidance before you start the journey again.

Dad’s Letters to Christine, Paul, and Angel (4)

My Dear Children,

I hope you’d always remember what Dad has been teaching you on “consequence.” It’s a life lesson that is very biblical.

You know Michelangelo? He is one of history’s great painters and sculptors. Once he was criticized for wasting so much marble when he sculpted the “David” statue. Michelangelo responded, “As the chips fall away, the image emerges.”

Same thing with what Dad desires for you, my Christine, Paul, and Angel. Dad tries to help you have the image of God emerge out of your growing up and character through the discipline of “consequence.” So, times before when you broke rules like “do not steal” or “tell the truth,” I’ve to allow you to suffer the appropriate negative consequences such as spanking, house work, or withholding of certain privileges.

Remember that Dad’s goal is to lovingly help you develop self-discipline and self-control. I want you to grow up responsible that I don’t have to do any more. As you grow older, your God-led control over your life should increase while Dad’s decreases.

I want you to fly someday!

Love always,

Dad

Which type are you? S-People, 75% … N-People, 25%.

I’ve come to understand myself and other people better upon reading and learning this from creative writer Kathryn Lindskoog.

According to her, we can imagine people belonging to 2 great “nationalities” that prefer to see the world differently.

S-PEOPLE. 75% of people are S-people (“sensible citizens of solid surface”). Lindskoog describes them with following: practical, down-to-earth, matter-of-fact, realistic, majoring in common sense, steady, don’t mind repetition, like SOP, their tastes and interests are majority tastes and interests, their critics call them superficial and simple-minded.

Among S-people, you’ll find sellers, managers, accountants, servers, negotiators, entertainers, stuntmen, and dancers.

N-PEOPLE. 25% of people are N-people (“navigators to new worlds”). Descriptions given to them by Lindskoog are: imaginative, they love ideas, never-quite-satisfied, feel a need to grow, they make use of ‘sixth sense’, live in realm of possibility and ingenuity, they get inspirations, they sense mysteries, they like dreams, symbols, fiction, and fantasy, they read between the lines of life, look beneath the surface of things, they get bored with repetition, some lose track of time, hunger to see meaning, critics call them nutty

Among N-people, you’ll find leaders, entrepreneurs, pastors, executives, professors, performers/artists, poets, and priests.

Is this helpful? Would you come to know which type are you?

Lord, Thanks for New Brethren and Friends

"Lord, this week, we start a new Bible study and fellowship of new brothers and sisters in Christ and friends. Thank you for Ed, Janet, Nep and others. I pray for your presence and blessings upon birth of our new extended family and community. I love you Jesus, amen."

Your Best Life Now

Once on TV, I saw two of our popular actresses, Sharon Cuneta and Connie Reyes, endorsing and giving out pastor Joel Osteen's book, "Your Best Life Now." In coffee shops and churches, this book has become a byword. Indeed, it has already impacted millions of people around the world. Including myself. Each day, for the past several months, this book has become a staple in my personal devotions. Get your best life now with this book!

Dr. Dobson's Tragic "New Woman"

Dr. James Dobson, in his bestselling book, "Love Must Be Tough," wrote about the phenomenon of the "new woman," a product of the radical feminism of our times. Dr. Dobson mentions its positive side. But he also explains its downside that could predispose or push some women to immorality and adultery.

Here are some excerpts from the book of Dr. Dobson to help us understand better what he means by the "new woman:"

"... There have been casualties, too, especially when the philosophy of radical feminism is adopted uncritically by former traditionalists. I'm referring to the role reversal and change in lifestyle that often occurs when a loving wife and mother suddenly becomes a 'new woman.' ... One day she is raising a family, maintaining a home, doing her best to live on a budget, undergirding her husband in his career, helping out at the church or at the PTA or the hospital, and trying to serve God to the best of her ability. Then overnight, or so it would seem, she makes a ninety-degree turn and becomes somebody else."

"The saddest chapter in the life of the new woman occurs when she runs -- runs from her children -- runs to establish a new identity -- runs to the arms of another man. I remember one young woman whom I had watched with interest during her childhood and adolescence ...as a college coed, as a bride, and then as a mother. But the babies came too fast for her. She couldn't handle the stresses ... But I underestimated her frustration until the day she disappeared. She left behind three beautiful kids and a bewildered, wounded husband. Her behavior changed, her faith evaporated, her morals crumbled ... And five people in that little family will never be the same."

A tragic "new woman."

What Would You Like To Be Remembered For?

I remember as a young boy looking up at my grandmother, Lola Angie. She’d pray every angelus hour with all of us her grandchildren in her old house in Makati poblacion. She’s so religious who went to a nearby church almost each day. She thought she’s able to talk to Somebody up there.

Like other mothers, my Lola Angie made and admitted mistakes. I could sense it in the family dynamics. With my Dad. And his brothers and sisters. But grandmother, before she died of old age, had changed for the better. She started a thread and link in the family for a spiritual life. She worshipped Somebody beyond herself. And I, her grandson (“apo”), remember her for that.

Let’s face it, you and I won’t live forever on this earth. We’re all passing by. So allow me to pose this question, “Knowing that life is short, what would you like to be remembered for?”

When I came to know Christ many years ago, He called me to be faithful. I’d like to be remembered as God’s servant who made mistakes but was willing to change and obey God right to the end. No matter what the cost. I wish to be remembered as one with a passion to win and heal souls for Christ.

I would like my family to remember me as someone who truly loved them. One who tried to point them more to Christ than to me. That in spite of my past wanderings and shortcomings, my aim was to glorify and please Him. That given an ultimate choice between God and money, I won’t compromise. I choose honor and inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade.

This is cathartic to see. There is still time remaining to make things better and more memorable. Also, for eternity.

Prayer for ED

"Lord, I thank you for ED, a true friend and brother in Christ at this time of my life journey. Bless him, his wife Janet, and their three kids with much today and always. In Christ, amen."

Is There A Butterfly Stuck Inside the Cocoon?

Today, I've been looking at a photo of a butterfly. I'm reminded that a butterfly starts inside the safe, protective covering of a cocoon. However, in time, the cocoon has to be shed so the mature butterfly can fly. It cannot remain stuck inside the cocoon forever! Sometimes, when we are in a crisis, we need a protective cocoon for a while. But we don't want to hide there the rest of our life. The cocoon has to go so we can fly! Your promise today is found in Isaiah 40:31: "They shall mount up with wings like eagles."

Will You Go Through It Or Grow Through It?

I'm starting a new ministry with an international organization called B.A.N. based in Ontario, Canada. Here's a word I received from author/international director Anne Brecht: "I'm absolutely thrilled to have you join our group of coordinators. As a pastor, a Christian, and someone who already has a grasp that devastating as this is, you know the Lord can work together for good, I know you will make an exceptional coordinator...Yes, you can certainly work as a BAN coordinator in any country where you may be located. I look forward to supporting your work and ministry as a coordinator." In relation to this, I'm starting a new weblog today to launch this new international ministry. Pray for this.

Samuel, Saul, and David

WILL YOU MISS IT?

God makes fresh plans for our lives! I’d like to say that life is smooth. But God does not promise that. Times when we face disappointments and crises. It’s part of our human condition where we’re given free will to choose whether to do right or wrong.

Take prophet Samuel. He suffered a horrible disappointment in his relationship with Saul. Saul started out as a humble and shy young man. Then, among the crowds, God directed Samuel to declare and anoint Saul as first king of Israel. Unfortunately, SAUL, God’s first anointed king of Israel refused to live in obedience to God. Samuel gave much of himself and did his best to help Saul be an obedient and pleasing king unto God. But Saul still chose to live outside of God’s will. (1 Samuel 16: 1-12) As a result, God had to reject and replace Saul as king.

I can imagine the pain this had brought Samuel. Heartbroken, devastated, wounded. The first one he anointed blew it! So while Samuel was feeling the pain, God asked him, “Samuel, how long are you going to mourn over Saul?” (1 Samuel 16:1). Then God went on to tell Samuel, “Fill your horn with oil and be on your way. I’m sending you to the house of Jesse, for I have chosen one of his sons to be the new king.” Samuel obeyed God. He quitted mourning and got going to the fresh new beginnings God had in store.

If Samuel had not trusted God at that point, he could have missed DAVID, one of the Bible’s greatest kings. Put a smile on your face! Perhaps, God is asking you to apply this lesson to your self. God has another plan for your life even after being disappointed by people and events in the past.

Fill your horn with oil, get up, and get going! Expect God’s new blessings and beginnings.

Rich Quotations

One of my favorite new authors is Paul Callaway from Canada. In one of his books, he has a collection of "rich quotes" that one may reflect on for spiritual and personal growth. Here are some of them:

"Money has never yet made anyone rich" (Lucius Seneca, 4 B.C. - 65 A.D.).

"The trouble with being in the rat race is that even if you win, you're still a rat" (Lily Tomlin).

"When you have accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace; God is awake" (Victor Hugo).

"It is better to live rich than to die rich" (Samuel Johnson).

"No man can tell whether he is rich or poor by turning to his wallet. It is the heart that makes a man rich" (Henry Ward Beecher, 1813-1887).

"If you don't learn to laugh at trouble, you won't have anything to laugh at when you're old" (Ed Howe).

"My attitude determines whether grief causes a disease in me or a glorious and everlasting reward" (S.I. McMillen).

"Circumstances and situations do color life, but you have been given the mind to choose what the color shall be" (John Miller, 1722-1791).

"With profound potential for good, suffering can also be a destroyer. Suffering can pull families together, uniting them through hardship, or it can rip them apart in selfishness and bitterness ... It all depends. On us. On how we respond." (Joni Eareckson Tada).

"I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish He wouldn't trust me so much" (Mother Teresa).

"A man travels the world over in search of what he needs and returns home to find it" (George Moore, 1852 - 1933).

"I'd rather laugh in a tent than cry in a palace" (Bill Jensen).

"The stuff of earth competes for allegiance I owe only to the Giver of all good things" (Rich Mullins, 1955-1997).

"He is richest who is content with the least" (Socrates, 470-399 B.C.)

"Jesus wants us to see that the neighbor next door or the people sitting next to us on a plane or in a classroom are not interruptions to our schedule. They are there by divine appointment. Jesus wants us to see their needs, their loneliness, their longings, and He wants to give us the courage to reach out to them" (Rebecca Pippert).

"The great use of life is to spend it for something that outlasts it" (William James, 1842-1910).

"You gave me everything to live with, and nothing to live for" (a teenager's suicide note to his parents).

"I would not trade one moment of heaven for all the joys and riches of the world, even if it lasted for thousands and thousands of years" (Martin Luther, 1483-1546).

"Let us so live that when we come to die even the undertaker will be sorry" (Mark Twain).

A Prayer To Wait

Thanks Lord for holding us. For forgiving us. For cleaning us up. For accepting us. For reshaping us. For not giving up on us. At this moment, we give You the full right to direct us. Give us patience to wait. In Christ's name, amen."