"In
the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see
your good works AND GIVE GLORY TO YOUR FATHER WHO IS IN HEAVEN." (Matthew 5:16)
Typhoons
have ravaged the Philippines in ways that has put this country on the map.
Not a great way to gain recognition; but yes, we have had our taste of
natures' so-called 'wrath'. But in the midst of it all, God has blessed
the Filipinos with the gift of resilience. To quote an online newsclip,
"When the world looks at the Philippines, they won't just remember the
worst typhoon to hit the earth---they will recall how strong Filipinos
are, too."
Those who suffer loss and grief all need a glimpse, a taste, an encounter with God especially during
times like these where all we see is hopelessness and despair. That is
why Jesus commanded us to be salt and light. "You're here to be
light, bringing out the God-colors in the world...be generous with your
lives. By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with
God." (Matthew 5:13-16, MSG)
With
this embedded in the hearts of volunteers, members from the church organized a rescue team to reach out to families who have
been ravaged by the storm. Through networking, the Primary leaders
contacted their down-line who contacted their respective down-line, and pretty
soon a short-list of the most needy families was identified.
The message of God's love made its way through strong
winds and knee-deep murky waters. One mother exclaimed that it was more
than enough to know that they were remembered. She did not even care
about the food that was brought for them. What mattered was that she
knew that God had not forgotten them.
God's love can permeate through the hearts of
men, and become truly inspiring to others. It's true what Jesus said. REAL
FOOD is in doing the Father's will. (John 4:34) Seeing these people
overwhelmed and in tears because they realize that there is a God, will
continue to be a driving force to keep overflowing the benefits of
having a relationship with Him.
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| To the ends of the earth |
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| "Kayo
po ang unang-unang dumalaw sa amin. Natutuwa po ako na hindi niyo kami
nalilimutan." ("You are the first people to come and check our
situation. I'm so overwhelmed that you have not forgotten us." ) |
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| Sometimes, all they need is a comforting touch. |
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| Let the people know that Jesus loves them. |
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| "By opening up to others, you'll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven." (Mt. 5:13-16, MSG) |
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| The message of God's love made its way through strong winds and knee-deep murky waters. |
