Inspiring You to Live a Fantastic Life
No. 308 Vol. 27 MARCH 2016
KILL S.P.A.M! destroy them before they destroy you learn how to overcome sin, pride, abuse and mediocrIty
A Priest Shares His Journey from slavery to freedom WANTED: IDENTITY Know Who You Truly Are BUs Lesson learned: Let God be god he is in control
KERYGMA BARCODE.pdf 11/16/06 5:43:58 PM
Philippines P100 US $8.14 AUS $8.14 Euro 5.07 UK 4.49 CDN $7.95 SING $9.42 HK $51.83 RUPIAH 103,000 Sister Aida Manongdo, one of the leaders of the young Charismatic group The Light of Jesus Family then, prophesied to a 13-year-old Bo Sanchez that he would be preaching God’s Word to the nations.
Serving as God’s lighthouse on earth, the Light of Jesus Family continues to spread God’s life-saving and life- changing Word even to the peripheries as light travels far and wide, even to the edges, in search for those who are lost at sea. We shine Jesus’ light to a dark, broken world in search of the truth, for real love, for meaning and direction in life.
As we celebrate 35-25-20 years of ministry, media and mercy, may we continue to shine the Light of Jesus as faithful stewards entrusted with the mission to bring His lost children safely back in the Father’s embrace, guiding them towards the right direction, until they reach heaven – their true home.
Experience the Journey with us through the Light of Jesus Coffee Table Book. Get it for a minimal donation to our media ministry. Call 725-9999 locals 101-108 for more information. Shine His light!
YG E R M K A
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PUBLICATIONS, INC. The Boss
By Bo Sanchez
know I have shared this before, but it’s something that best illustrates the lesson of what we’re celebrating at the end of this month — the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. One day, when I was still a young missionary, I heard that there were eight orphans who were starving up in a mountain. I went up to the mountain and found them. Analyn, the eldest daughter who was 16 year old, told me how they survived. I Every day, she would wake up at 4 a.m. and chop down slender trees. She’d dig a hole in the ground, burn the wood in that hole, and make charcoal. She’d put the charcoal in a sack and, with her little brother in tow, hoist the sack over her shoulder, walk down the mountain, Rise and ride the jeepney to the market. In the market, she’d sell the sack of charcoal for P50. That’s what she earned for the whole day of work. And in the market, she’d buy food to bring back to her hungry brothers and sisters. She’d go up the mountain at six in the evening and start cooking the only meal she and her eight siblings will eat for the day. She told me, “Kuya, alam mo ang nangyari kahapon?” (Did you know what happened from yesterday?) I listened to her story and I couldn’t stop crying. She said she came home from the market to cook. She got the matchbox and opened it. There were only two matchsticks left. She took a deep breath. She knew she had to be careful in using those two matchsticks because she had no more money to buy a new matchbox. And then she heard someone knocking at their door. It was their neighbor. Your “Analyn, may posporo ka ba? Pahingi naman…” (Analyn, do you still have matchsticks? Can I ask for one?) She closed her eyes and prayed, “Panginoon, ibibigay ko ba? Dadalawa na lang…” (Lord, will I give this? I only have two left…) By the grace of God, she made her decision. She gave one matchstick to her neighbor. Tomb But when she closed the door, she collapsed on the floor and began to weep like she had never wept before. While holding the last remaining matchstick in her hand, she cried, “Panginoon, iligtas mo na kami. Hindi ko na kaya ito…” (Lord, save us. I can’t do this anymore.) We both cried when she shared the story to me. She said, “Kuya, sinagot ako ng Diyos. Kasi ngayon, dumating ka.” In their little shack, I embraced Analyn and all her siblings for a long time. After crying and laughing together, I said, “Yes, you’re coming home with me.” The day before, Analyn gave one matchstick. In return, God gave her family so much more. I became their “house father” for one year and continued to support them until they finished their studies. Today, those orphans are all grown up. Through God’s provision, I became the miracle Analyn was praying for. Today, around you, I believe there are many Analyns in the world who are crying out for their miracle, too. Can you be a miracle to someone? These past few years, it’s become clearer and clearer and clearer in my mind — the most important sign that shows that Jesus is alive in you is if you become a miracle for people who are praying for a miracle. Yes, Jesus is alive. We celebrate His resurrection from the grave this month. But the bigger question is this: Is Jesus alive in you? For many, Jesus is still dead in them. He hasn’t resurrected. He’s still trapped in their tomb of selfishness. But I’ve got good news for you: Tombs are no match for the resurrection power of Jesus. The resurrection power that made Jesus break out of the tomb is the same power that is in you. That power will make you rise from your tomb of selfishness. That power will make you walk with the wounded. Rise from your tomb.
May your dreams come true,
Kerygma MARCH 2016 1 Mailroom
Thanks for all your sacrifices. Indeed you have helped I am a seaman and have been a subscriber of a lot and continue to do so. You inspire multitudes. Kerygma for three years now. I come home I always encourage my sisters in the Handmaids every year and one of the things that excite of the Lord to subscribe to Kerygmaas it’s a big tool for one’s me, aside from my young family, is the stack of spiritual growth. Kerygma magazines waiting for me. God bless and more power! How I wish I could read the magazine even when I am out at sea. I also wish I could share it Flor B. to my mates. Via e-mail Rommel C. Via e-mail
I am one of those whose lives have changed because of Kerygma. May the good Lord continue to bless all of you. I first encountered Kerygma when I was at the lowest point of my life. I had just separated from Alma B. my husband and had three mouths to feed. Via e-mail Through Kerygma, I learned of The Feast and have since attended every single Sunday. It’s a big help for people like me.
Congratulations again, Kerygma, for the 25 years that you’ve been blessing people from all over the world. Bianca S. Here’s praying for more years of publishing success! Parañaque City
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2 Kerygma MARCH 2016 Just Breathe Living by Grace 3 By Rissa Singson-Kawpeng
Your Presence Is Heaven What do you do when you’re not in control?
erygma Conference is our after you’ve had to call off the first two God’s Word is true: “In weakness power biggest event for the year. days of your annual conference the night reaches perfection” (2 Corinthians 12:9). It’s a time we look forward to before it starts? Everything after that Had I been in tiptop shape and feeling meeting people we see only would be a breeze. spiritually high, I wouldn’t feel the need to during the conference. It’s a And indeed it was. Thanks to social depend on the Lord’s power. And I would Ktime of great learning — something media and SMS, only a handful out have missed the chance to witness God at like an annual retreat that we used to of thousands of attendees didn’t get work through me. have when we were still in high school. the message that KCon would start on The entire KCon was a testimony of For KerygmaBooks, it’s also our last big Saturday instead of Thursday. I was also that. It was a lesson to me that we can push to meet our sales target for the amazed at how the team was able to fit plan all we want, but we can just as easily year. all the sessions for the first two days into lose control. A lockdown happens. Ondoy With months of planning, millions Saturday and Sunday. Not a single class sinks your millions worth of inventory. of pesos worth of donors’ money and was canceled. Your fiancé calls off the wedding after the all the sleepless nights our people put As for me, here’s how my prayer invitations have been sent. A loved one into this, you can imagine how much went: “Lord, I’m a broken vessel. Please dies under tragic circumstances. But in all was hanging on an event like this. use me even in my brokenness. Let Your these, one thing remains. God’s heavenly So what do you do when APEC light shine through my cracks.” presence never leaves us. And from where (Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation) I delivered my first talk on Saturday He sits, He’s never out of control. organizers decide to lock down the Bay almost just reading through my notes. Area where heads of state would meet The next day, it was my talk on worship. Therefore I am content with weakness, just three kilometers away from the I began the session by singing “Your with mistreatment, with distress, with KCon venue? And they announce this Presence Is Heaven to Me” by persecutions and difficulties for the sake the day before our conference! Israel Houghton and Micah of Christ; for when I am powerless, it is then that I am strong. (2 Corinthians I was in music ministry rehearsals Massey with the rest of the 12:10) when I got a text from Marowe, Bo congregation. I went on Sanchez’s wife, that we were canceling to deliver my talk. Then it Email me at justbreatherissa@gmail. the first two days of the four-day happened. com or follow me on Facebook. conference on the eve it was to start. The Lord’s presence I’ll make an honest confession: came in a simple a big part of me was relieved. I had but powerful way. I WHAT TO EXPECT THIS MONTH: been plagued for months by a virulent know my listeners The best time to work on your cough and cold to the point that I felt it because some marriage is before you get married. How early? Before had to take antibiotics. The medicine of them were in tears you even meet your One kept my brain in a fog and I had been or visibly touched True Love! I’m giving a six- struggling to finish my two conference as I spoke. The fog month coaching program talks for weeks. I was so not in the of depression and for singles who need mood to speak in a huge gathering. My weakness that had guidance on this crucial weakened body depressed my spirit been afflicting me area of their life and future. If you want to Rissa’s outfit courtesy of Elite Garments/FREEWAY. Rissa’s too. lifted and disappeared There was another reason why like a morning mist. know more about it, I was relieved: The worst had already And I was healed in visit onetrueloveclub. com/bridalshower/ happened. What else could go wrong body and spirit! now. SUBSCRIBE KERYGMA MISSION PARTNER NOW!
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KMP-generic ad.indd 1 1/20/16 10:27 AM Just Breathe 3 your presence is heaven 1 The Boss rise from your tomb Seasons wanted: identity 41 Columns The Bo Files Catholic Soul CHRISTMASFaith @ 2015 Work 43 48 Point of Contact MARY: THE WOMAN March 2016 K Preacher BUS LESSONS 45
2 Mailroom About the Cover Model If there is one person who can testify on 6 Daily Pause how to overcome Sin, Pride, Abuse and Introduction 21 Mediocrity (S.P.A.M.), that would be our KILL S.P.A.M! cover model — JPaul Hernandez. He used to New You 8 think that he was never good enough, so he Teaching concealed it by engaging in vices, profane 9 Real Stuff shatter SIN 24 relationships, and egoistic living. Today, JPaul leads The Feast Greenhills 10 Kfam Insider Teaching and enjoys living to the full. He is a certified 18th Birthday Surprise the danger with pride 27 Neuro-Linguistic Program (NLP) coach, for MISSY an advocate of chastity for the youth and singles, and a published author. He shares how we won over his S.P.A.M. living on pages 33 to 39. Special Section Photo by Departments Charles Harry A. Oraiz
12 Dear K Testimony Feast Snapshots SEEKING WHAT 31 15 testimonial of a first-time I’VE ALWAYS HAD servant and attendee Teaching We Accept the Love 33 It Happened We Think We Deserve 17 FROM slavery TO freedom
Teaching One Last Story MiraculouslY GREAT 37 47 Work Hard but Ask God — FIRST
founder and publisher BO SANCHEZ • editor-in-chief RISSA SINGSON KAWPENG • managing editor TESS V. ATIENZA • assistant managing editor MAYMAY SALVOSA • creative director MIKE CORTES • assistant layout artist LEAH KIM RECTO • graphics director REY DE GUZMAN • staff writersMARJORIE DUTERTE, KARREN RENZ SEñA, DINA PECAñA • contributing writers KRIZELLE TALLADEN, BELLA ESTRELLA, GRACIOUS ROMERO, ELLY CABAL, JUNE ANN DE VERA, MONCHING BUENO, JPAUL HERNANDEZ • photographer DANIEL SORIANO • columnists NIKO CAPUCION, J YOGAWIN, EDGARDO DE VERA • production assistant ANGIE ESPUERTA chairman of the board and CEO BO SANCHEZ • president HERMIE R. MORELOS • vice-president for corporate services WENG CEQUEÑA • assistant vice-president for production RISSA KAWPENG • production manager TESS V. ATIENZA • sales and marketing manager JOSEPH MARTINEZ Kerygma. A Greek word meaning “Proclamation of the Gospel.” It is a Catholic inspirational magazine. It aims to be an evangelistic tool for all nations, providing Scriptural, practical and orthodox teachings to Catholics, particularly those in the Catholic Renewal, as an alternative to present-day magazines. It is also committed to fostering the renewal and unity of the whole Christian people. Philippine copyright Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Inc. 2016. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission. Published monthly by Shepherd’s Voice Publications, Inc., whose editorial and business offices are located at 60 Chicago St., Cubao, 1109 Quezon City. Tel.: (632) 725-9999, 411-7874, 725-1190, 470-4091 and 881-3082 (Production Department). Fax: 727-5615. Email: [email protected]. Website: www.kerygmabooks.com Daily Pause with Pope Francis
1 2 3 “In a world which is sometimes “Mercy is the path uniting God “However grave our sin, God barren of life and love, you (dear with man, for it opens the heart responds with total forgiveness.” families) speak each day of the to the hope of an eternal love.” (MV 3) great gifts that marriage and family (MV 2) are.”
7 8 9 “Nothing is more important than “The time has come for new “Christians and Muslims are choosing ‘what pleases God most.’ messengers of Christ, ever more brothers and sisters, and we In other words, His mercy, His love, generous, more joyful and more must act as such.” His tenderness, His embrace and His holy.” caresses!”
13 14 15 “A family that hardly ever eats “Where there is violence and hatred, together, or that does not talk at Christians are called to witness to “All human persons — all of us — the table but watches television, the God who is Love.” are important in God’s eyes.” or looks at a smartphone, is a ‘barely familial’ family.”
19 “This is why20 there is no need for a “I am addressing 21 the young “The coexistence of wealth and long speech, as a caress is enough: people: Think about what you are poverty is a scandal, it is a disgrace for one caress and everything is over doing with your life. It is time to humanity.” and one can start afresh. But do think and ask the Lord to make not end the day at war!” you feel His will.”
25 26 27 “The Lord never forces the door open; “An inhospitable Church, like a He too asks permission to enter. Let family closed off within itself, “Hospitality shines in the us imagine the Lord knocking at the mortifies the Gospel and withers freedom of welcoming, and dims door of our heart!” the world.” in the arrogance of invasion.”
6 Kerygma MARCH 2016 “If we learn to apologize promptly 4 5 and to give each6 other mutual “One goal for each day: to convey “May the Jubilee of Mercy bring us forgiveness, the wounds heal, the the tenderness of Christ to those all closer to God’s goodness and marriage grows stronger, and the who are most in need.” love!” family becomes an increasingly stronger home, which withstands the shocks of our smaller or greater misdeeds.”
10 11 12 “One cannot live without seeking “In truth, we are well aware that we forgiveness, or at least, one cannot too are watchmen and servants of “This is beautiful: God’s joy is live at peace, especially in the the Door of God, and what is the forgiving, God’s being is mercy.” family.” name of the door of God? Jesus!”
16 17 18 “What is it that pleases God most? Forgiving His children, having mercy “What we are asked to do is to on them, so that they may in turn “Sharing and knowing how to promptly heal the wounds that we forgive their brothers and sisters, share is a precious virtue!” cause, to immediately reweave the shining as a flame of God’s mercy in bonds that break within the family.” the world.”
“By partaking22 of the Eucharist, the 23 24 family, purified of the temptation “Witness is the great heroic to close in on itself, is strengthened missionary spirit of the Church. “Faith is preached first by witness in love and fidelity, and broadens Proclaim Jesus Christ with your and then through words. Slowly.” the borders of its fraternity in life!” accordance with the heart of Christ.”
/ “When children are engrossed with a computer30 at the table,31 or a mobile 28 “If the gatekeeper29 hears the phone, and do not talk to each other, Shepherd’s voice, he opens and lets this is not a family, it is like a boarding “The house of God is a refuge.” in all of the sheep that the Shepherd house.” brings, all of them, including those lost in the wood, whom the Good “The family is a great training ground for Shepherd went to get back.” the mutual giving and forgiving without which no love can last for long.”
Kerygma MARCH 2016 7 New You Tips for Personal Development
Summer is the best time for a vacation. It may be unlikely, but it’s also good for meditation. It is the perfect time to recharge your energy by immersing in reflective silence. For religious and lay people alike, teenagers and professionals, parents and kids, shutting down the noises of the world can just do you holistic wonders. Here are some of the reasons why silence is beneficial:
• Improves productivity. Our competitive world dictates that we can get ahead of others if we just work, work, work — skip meals and be always on the go. But one company implemented “third spaces” that allow its employees to have meditative breaks. It increased the employees’ SUMMER productivity and improved health condition. • Boosts mental functions. Like all other muscles, the brain needs rest. A research conducted by the University of California showed that when a person regularly spends time in silence, his brain processes information better, strengthens memory, and produces more “Aha!” or creative ideas. HUSH • Calms emotional turmoil. Silence leads to Find the sweetness in silence self-awareness and inner sensitivity. We get to acknowledge the emotions that we set aside as we rush through life every day. By keeping still, we can pinpoint what triggered our negativities and address them rationally. It also allows us to check if our decisions and actions are still aligned to our life goals.
You may have a thousand and one plans plotted for the days ahead, but it wouldn’t hurt to squeeze in quality time to take a break and pause for a while. Perhaps it’s what you really need to make your plans come to life.
Source: http://www.entrepreneur.com
Quick Health Tip:
BEETS
Beets are cardiovascular and liver-friendly root vegetables. They are rich in betaine which helps prevent coronary heart disease and stroke. These roots also contain plant-flavonoids and beta- carotene that cleanse and improve the liver condition. If our liver fails, it can no longer process the nutrients and filter the toxins from the food that we eat. Beets are further known for their anti- inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Source: http://www.whfoods.com
8 Kerygma MARCH 2016 Real Stuff
Mother It’s official. The well-loved missionary of India, Teresa nears Mother Teresa, is set to Segunda be canonized this year, Canonization according to Vatican Mana reports. Prayer. Fasting. Almsgiving. These are Agnes Gonxha the three marks of Lent. As much as most Bojaxhiu, also known as Blessed Teresa of Calcutta, lived a life of service people focus on prayer and fasting, we also for the poor, the sick and the dying. She instituted a congregation named ought to practice almsgiving, but hopefully Missionaries of Charity in 1950 to continue her mission. Blessed Teresa not only during the Lenten season. The also attended to orphans, prostitutes and abused women. She died on Bible says, “Prayer with fasting is good. September 5, 1997 and Almsgiving with righteousness is better was beatified by then than wealth with wickedness. It is better Pope St. John Paul II in to give alms than to store up gold, for 2003. almsgiving saves from death, and purges The miraculous all sin. Those who give alms will enjoy a full healing of a Brazilian life” (Tobit 12:8-9). man who asked for One way to give is through Segunda Blessed Teresa’s Mana, a fundraising project of Caritas intercession Manila. Segunda Mana, which literally strengthened the cause means secondhand, invites people to of her canonization. The donate used or unused items which can Brazilian, who opted still be sold. The proceeds are utilized to to be unidentified, fund the programs of Caritas Manila for the was suffering from needy. Aside from promoting the values of eight abscesses in his charity and volunteerism, Segunda Mana brain that needed an advocates recycling and responsibility for operation when a priest the common good. encouraged them The accepted items are as follows: old to pray relentlessly goods that are still usable, used objects that through Blessed Teresa. still have value, new items, old stocks and Soon after, the medical non-moving inventory. You may visit www. team found out that the caritasmanila.org.ph for more details. man was surprisingly and completely healed.
Although there is no specific date of canonization at the moment yet, Cardinal Angelo Amato, prefect of the Congregation of Saints, suggested that it might be in September of this year. Source: http://www.caritasmanila.org.ph/inkind.php Source: http://www.catholicnewsagency.com
Saints-at-a-Glance
St. Augusta of Treviso
Death: 5th Century Feast Day: March 27
Augusta was the daughter of a pagan chief named Matrucus. She converted to Christianity in secret, but her father learned about it so he put her in prison. Unsatisfied and enraged, Matrucus tortured Augusta. He knocked out all of her teeth and beheaded her own daughter using his sword. Augusta died a martyr’s death at Serravalle, Italy.
Source: www.catholic.org
Kerygma MARCH 2016 9 Kfam Insider
18th Birthday Surprise for MISSY
By June Ann De Vera
10 Kerygma MARCH 2016 hen we learned that Missy (not her given a hearing aid by a generous donor during real name), one of the girls in Jeremiah her stay in Jeremiah. 33:6-7 Foundation Inc.’s shelter As one of the eldest girls in the shelter, she for victims of sexual abuse, will be became a dependable big sister not only to her celebrating her 18th birthday, the Feast siblings but also to the other girls. Despite her WBay Area Medical Team decided to hold a surprise hearing impairment, she managed to finish high birthday party for her. We wanted her to feel loved school while at the shelter. and special on that day. Presently, Missy is a first year college student First off, we surprised Missy with a beautiful taking up Bachelor of Science in Elementary bouquet of flowers and a birthday cake. We asked Education and she hopes to finish her college some of the girls to give special messages for her education to support her two younger sisters. during the lighting of 18 candles. Then we held Regarding her stay in the shelter, she says, “I parlor games and introduced some song and thank the people here because they take care of us dance numbers. and support us in our needs.” When asked about how she felt that afternoon, Jeremiah 33:6-7 Foundation is a shelter for Missy said, “Thank you very much. I’m so happy. I sexually abused girls located in Pasig City. For was surprised!” donations and inquiries, you may contact Nova or She first came to the shelter in May 2014 with Ana at telephone number (+632) 6552889 or email her two sisters. She is hearing-impaired and was [email protected]
Kerygma MARCH 2016 11 Do you want to have a copy of Bo Sanchez’s latest bestseller? What about our collection of books that inspire, empower and move you to live fantastic lives? Do you want to shop for them – from the comfort of your home?
HOW DO I TELL MY DAUGHTER ABOUT HER REAL DAD?
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Visit our blog for more inspirational articles: www.Kerygmabooks.com/kerygmaonline 12 Kerygma MARCH 2016 Dear K
H OW DO I TELL MY DAUGHTER ABOUT HER REAL DAD?
I was once in a relationship with Dear Leslie, a married man but I decided to You are in a sticky situation. Being honest with your daughter is good but it might break up with him for good. We hurt her somehow. She is in the stage of building her identity that’s why she is seeking had a daughter who is now 11 areas of her “self” that will build who she really is. At this point, you have to be a positive years old. Our daughter is starting parent-friend (an authority but a confidant at the same time) to allow her to build herself to ask about her father but I don’t appropriately. know how to respond. I want to be Try doing a question-and-answer dialogue. Refer to her questions before, then start honest with her without breaking from there: “You were asking about your dad. May I know why?” That way, you can gauge her heart. Like all children, she her readiness and interest on the matter. As for telling her father’s situation, it may not be looks forward to a complete so ideal. However, admit to her that you cannot be together due to circumstances beyond family but, at 38, I am afraid to you. If she demands the reason, gauge her readiness (and your own as well) and maturity take a risk again. to deal with the kind of relationship you had. If she is not ready, defer it to a later time. It Please advise me on how to may break her heart but assure her of your love. Tell her that a family may not necessarily let my daughter know the truth be composed of a mom, a dad and a child by referring to some people you know who are about her father. successful in being solo-parent families. It can be just the two of you — who have a positive relationship, love each other, and seek the well-being of the other. Leslie I pray that you talk to her the soonest time and in the most peaceful way!
Michele A.
Michele S. Alignay is a registered guidance counselor and is currently taking up her Ph.D. in Family Studies at Miriam College. For 12 years, she worked as a guidance counselor handling grade school children for premier exclusive schools. Today, she is an associate counselor at the Love Institute and also holds consultancy and counseling work for schools on guidance and child-parenting programs. Michele is happily married and a fulfilled mom to two growing children.
Email your questions to [email protected]. Or if you need to talk to someone, call (632) 726-4709 or 726-6728 to contact a Light of Jesus Pastoral Care Center counselor. Pastoral counseling by telephone is 24 hours from Monday to Friday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays. Face-to-face pastoral counseling is by appointment. For correspondence pastoral counseling, email [email protected] or go to www.kerygmafamily.com.
Or Call (632) 725-9999 Pregnant? Confused? Abortion is not the answer. Contact Grace to Be Born at 654-1377. You may also contact Pro-life Philippines at (632) 733-7027.
Kerygma MARCH 2016 13 Kerygma Conference 2015
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[email protected] Kerygma Conference 2015 Feast Snapshots ee ant ant of of a
v l Bo Sanchez (center) and the Backstage Barkada
nd Anthony Valenzuela acting onstage with Bo Sanchez at the Grand Feast of Kerygma Conference 2015 e ser
onia me m Anthony and Meanne Valenzuela attending the ti Kerygma Conference 2015 t ti t and att es s By Anthony Valenzeuela t 1 as told to Gracious B. Romero
t was a unique experience for Bo Sanchez and other Feast builders like which had the most impact on my me to be a first-time servant Obet Cabrillas and Alvin Barcelona. It life was the talk of Bo and Marowe and attendee at the Kerygma was truly an honor and a privilege! Sanchez titled “I Do... Again.” Marowe Conference 2015 with the As if that was not enough, I was shared that wives must make an theme “Coming Home” held last also given the chance to share the stage effort to know and identify with INovember 21-22, 2015. I consider with Bo as the actor for his main talk at the world of their husbands and to it one of the greatest blessings the Grand Feast on the last day of the be their number one cheerleader I received for the year and the conference. I couldn’t help but recall all the way. For his part, Bo advised highlight of my service at The Feast. memories of how I first started acting at husbands to simply “die” every It was like everything conspired and The Feast PICC for the Vampire Series in day to themselves, their past allowed me to attend the conference November 2012. It reminded me of my singles lives, their personal desires — not only did I have the time but transition from serving as an actor and and preferences, and to devote also the resources. how it came to full circle at the KCon. themselves to love their wives as Being a servant backstage in Lastly, I also served as Feast marshal “Christ loved His Church.” Having itself was a fantastic experience at the KCon, assisting my fellow marshals married my girlfriend, Meanne, last of directing and coordinating the in between the morning and afternoon April 8, 2015, this talk empowered me actors for the opening number of sessions which was the critical transition to be the best husband I can be and, the conference. It needed 80 actors for those attendees exiting and those in the same way, help her to become to pull off. The rest of the talented lined up to enter their respective session the best wife she can be. To cap off actors were volunteers from local halls. my Kerygma Conference experience, Feasts around the metro. Meanwhile, as an attendee, I took the I literally “came back home” with my It was also an amazing tracks on Business and Career as well as one true love — Meanne. experience to be part of the the Family and Relationships class. Truly, these things made me alive “Backstage Barkada” who hosted the Since I am just starting my own in ways that I have never imagined I conference from behind the scenes public speaking company, the Business would ever experience. and interviewed the inspired and and Career classes gave me tips on God’s overflowing love never empowered attendees as well as the how to grow my business mindset, fails to surprise and call us to level guest performers and preachers. abundance mentality, and financial up and to make us even more open I had the rare opportunity to literacy. to His presence, love and blessings in converse and share insights with It is worth noting that the class service.
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from slavery to freedom By Fr. Bobby dela Cruz as told to Bella Estrella Photos by Dave Apalla
EOPLE who know me and those who have heard my story can hardly believe that I am now a priest. My past was dimmed by slavery to sin — until God intervened in His own perfect time. He guided me to the path of freedom. I was born to a middle-class family in Manila. We were foodstuff dealers in government hospitals and in the New Bilibid Prison. I’m the youngest of seven children in my family. My brother and sisters were all straight-going, studious and business-minded. I was the only one who always stayed out on the streets. I did not take my studies seriously. A passing grade was good enough for me. And I cheated my way through. My father was an authoritative figure in the family. Whatever he said, we followed. I obeyed him out of fear but, behind his back, I did what I wanted. Our family is Catholic, but we were not a church-going people. I attended Catholic schools in elementary, high school and college. But for me, being Catholic is just going to Sunday Mass which I rarely did. P Kerygma MARCH 2016 17 When shabu became popular in the mid-80s, I tried it, too, and got addicted to it. I began to steal from our business. I embezzled a large amount, made up stories why I did it, and left home. I earned the ire of my family. I turned away from them for less than a year and lived with friends in cheap hotels within Manila. I continued selling drugs on a small scale. I got arrested a number of times but I managed to get out through bribery and connections. I went to different drug rehabilitation centers. There came a point when I lost all money mainly because of gambling. I got buried in debt, so I decided to make my drug deals a more serious business because it was lucrative. I continued living in hotels, but despite the affluence, I was an unhappy man. I could not attend family reunions. I lost all hope of having my own family. My reputation was ruined. Although I had money and power, I had no dignity. I was confused. Deep inside me, I wanted to do good, but I couldn’t. Fr. Bobby’s ordination was one of his life’s biggest miracles. A Hopeless Case The second time I was brought for readmission to the Welcome Started Young in the World of Vices Station rehabilitation, my doctor When I entered high school, I got exposed to drugs, night clubs, beer said, “You’re hopeless, Bobby. joints, sex dens and pornography. My classmates were from well-to-do If I bring you to a Christian families. At a young age, some of them already carried guns. I joined community, perhaps you can be a fraternity to wield power and popularity. I got involved in rumbles, renewed.” I simply brushed off his drinking sprees, womanizing, drugs, and a lot of partying just for idea. enjoyment. When I was locked up in the When I stepped into college, I began dealing drugs. I earned so I city jail for some months, I was could afford to have fun with my gang. I had girlfriends in between. I treated as a VIP. I could go home. was detained many times due to petty offenses, fights and rumbles. I knew how to have my way with When my father died, I felt free to do my thing and so my offenses got the guards and escorts. Then one worse. day, somebody who knew me saw After college, I progressed in my vices while working for our me when he visited an inmate. He family business. I got hooked on gambling. I frequented casinos and told my mom about it. Late that had bookies for horse races. I also frequented bars and night clubs, evening, she rushed to prison in drinking with friends. My girlfriends in college, who could have been tears. good wife material, left me. I got out, continued with my
18 Kerygma MARCH 2016 illegal activities, and was arrested for the last time. I ”All right,” he said, “give me a down was able to bail myself out. payment for the trip.” So I raised money for my One time, I thought of going to church just fare. to breathe some air. It was timely that there was I had everything ready — visa, plane tickets an ongoing evangelization at St. Paul the Apostle and everything, but with just a week left Parish being held twice a week. I attended that before we our trip, the court case remained a evangelization without expecting anything. hindrance. I was already arguing with the one who told me to pay for the trip. Touched by the Word A few days before our flight, I received a call The moment I heard the Word of God, it touched from a friend in the court, “Bobby, your case me to the core. The preachers talked about God’s has been dismissed. You’re acquitted!” unconditional love and how He forgives our sins, Stunned, I jumped for joy. I couldn’t believe no matter how grave. I found meaning in the it was happening! That was a sign. God was Sacraments. I saw a glimmer of hope for a new life surely impressing His power upon me. leading me to freedom. I just had to bow down to Him So I went to France and UK, joyous over my and be small. As a leader, I was used to giving orders. first time abroad. And then we went to Lourdes. This time, I must listen and obey God. It was around November of 1994. Prayer to Mama Mary I was happy to be part of the Neocatechumenal It was in Lourdes that I opened my heart in Way community. I was accepted despite my failures front of Mama Mary’s image. “If you really want and weaknesses. The fact that they welcomed me me to be a priest, help me. It seems that I am was a big deal because prior to knowing them, I being called, and they’re telling me to pursue it, already considered my life as worthless. but I know it will be hard. I have never studied In January 1995, Pope John Paul II visited the seriously all my life. I have never thought about Philippines for the World Youth Day (WYD). I was Philosophy, Theology, not getting married, extremely happy. It was as if God visited me. A few and serving. There’s no problem if I’m not for days after John Paul II left, a friend invited me to join priesthood. But if I am, please help me.” him in his search for a priestly vocation. We joined During WYD 1997, I expressed my intention a pre-formation session. We went there weekly, to enter the seminary. I was sent to Rome and listened attentively, celebrated the Eucharist, ate the team responsible of the Neocatechumenal together, and shared stories. Way assigned me to the Redemptoris Mater I kept attending the pre-formation until I was Missionary Seminary in Manila to study until I about to be sent as a missionary in a team. That was ordained a priest in 2008. posed a problem because my mother entrusted our family business to me. They had no idea that I was The Need to Proclaim attending a pre-formation for priesthood. To sum it up, all I wanted was to be happy like I informed my mom that I would let go of any other person. But I sought happiness in the our business to do mission work. This upset her. wrong places, enslaved by my desires. It was That was the first time I told her of my interest in only later in life when I heard the Good News becoming a priest. “Nay, I am not sure if I will become of the love of God that gives liberty to captives one, but I am happy here. This is a step for me to and sight to the blind, especially for a sinner see if I really have a vocation.” She knew that she like me. could not stop me. And so it happened — I became a Indeed, proclamation is vital to our faith. missionary. Others have proclaimed it to me, and I listened. Today, I am a resident priest of Santo Niño A Big Miracle de Tondo Parish. I head the Ministry of Visions WYD 1997 was held in Paris, but I could not go and the Restorative Justice (Prison) Ministry of because of my pending case in court. Surprisingly, the Archdiocese of Manila. I am also part of the the head of our team asked me, “Do you believe that Archdiocese of Manila’s Ministry of Exorcism if God wills, it will happen?” and a priest anchor in two programs of Radio “Yes, of course! I have gone through all the risks of Veritas. being a bad guy. Why will I not gamble on this one?” I am free.
Kerygma MARCH 2016 19
Special Section Introduction KILL S.P.A.M!
By Bo Sanchez
destroy them before they destroy you
Kerygma MARCH 2016 21 22 Kerygma MARCH 2016 I was only a kid then. My Self-Portrait Was a Lie But to this day, I can never forget our old electric fan. Years ago, I had a raging pornographic addiction. If you’re my age, you’ve probably seen those monsters: At 3 a.m., I would wake up and roam the streets, electric fans made of pure 100 percent steel, as heavy as a looking for my “fix”— pornographic material. (There boat and with blades that could chop your head off. was no Internet porn at that time, so I had to One day, we switched it on, and the blades made so much scrounge for cheap porn magazines.) That was who noise, you’d think there was an army helicopter right inside I was many years ago. our home. In my mind, I had only one self-portrait: I was That was when my cousin Chuck dropped by and lustful. I was sick and ugly and shameful. I was volunteered to fix it. He was known in the family as a “jack-of- sinful. all-trades-but-master-of-none” kind of guy. We should have And stronger than my sexual addiction was my focused on the “master-of-none” part. Because after he “fixed” approval addiction. it, the noise was totally gone — but so were all signs of life. Our Desperate to fill in my hunger for love — and fan was now dead. “Chuck, you killed it!” we told him. “Well at desperate to escape my inner shame — I yearned least, it’s quiet now,” he said, “and we can sell this junk!” for people to like me. I’d bend over backwards to That was when my Uncle Tom came ambling through the get people to love me. I was a pathological people door. “He’s good with his hands,” my father said. So we asked pleaser. And I was miserable as hell. him to check what was left of our fan. Yes, I failed in the past. Too many times to count! Uncle Tom took it apart, and after almost two hours, put So what happened? Why am I still here, it together again. He plugged it — and with bated breath — we preaching and writing about grace and love and saw the blades moving again! And without the noise, too. mercy and living anew? But no wonder, because the blades made one complete In a phrase, I changed my self-portrait. I broke spin every... 60 seconds! It was so slow, we wondered if it was free from my sinfulness. now a clock. Because every time I came to God in prayer, He That was when one of my sisters asked, “Who made it wouldn’t agree on how I saw myself. He would insist anyway?” on changing it. Each time, He would tell me I was Someone said, “Hitachi.” wonderful, beautiful, loved and powerful beyond Another sister of mine said, “Then let’s bring it my wildest imagination. to Hitachi. If they made it, I’m sure they can fix it.” Once in a He also told me that it didn’t matter how much I while, my sisters can say sensible things too. (Just kidding. I’m failed. the only boy in the family, and the youngest too. So I have the Surprisingly, He didn’t even look at my failures license to tease them.) at all… True enough, we brought it to Hitachi, and in a few days, Many times you think you are your sins the fan was running perfectly. because of your sinfulness. Many times you live like a proud king — above You Have a Self-Portrait in Your Heart and Many Times, and greater than anyone else. It’s a Lie Many times you consider yourself deserving of all the abuses thrown at you. That you’re doomed to In your mind, you already have an image of who you are. be a victim forever. It’s a self-portrait. Many times you settle with mediocrity And it’s so incredibly powerful, it actually determines believing that you can never be any better than you your entire life. were since time immemorial. That you’re stuck. This self-portrait — how you define yourself — comes from You’re small. your collective experience of your failures and successes. It But they are all lies. also comes from how other people treat you. And it comes You’re more than your Sins, Pride, Abuses and from how you’ve treated yourself all these years. Mediocrity. That S.P.A.M. is the enemy’s scam to That’s why your self-portrait could be a lie. make you malfunction. It’s like asking my cousin Chuck and my Uncle Tom to Together let’s go back to our Manufacturer and fix you up. They don’t have your blueprint. They really don’t let Him restore our self-portrait. He can give us sight know who you are. to see our true worth. Because they didn’t make you. It’s time to kill that S.P.A.M. Go to your Manufacturer instead. Friend, turn the page and be free. Delve deep within you and you’ll see your label stitched Better days await you. to your soul: “God’s Own, Made in Heaven.”
Kerygma MARCH 2016 23 Special Section shatter
By Monching Bueno
ave you ever felt that there is something missing in your life? In your relationships? When there’s just this empty or broken space in your heart? We encounter this all the time. But the problem is we try to fill this space with things that are not supposed to be there, or worse, that can lead to a much bigger problem — sin. One of the biggest problems we face in the world right now is that it makes sin look good and glamorous as if it’s the “in” thing to do. Check out the advertisements that bombard us every day and you’ll see how the enemy works its deceitful ways to lure us into its deadly trap. But we know the truth: Only God can fill us up.
“The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive H24 Kerygma MARCH 2016 again; he was lost and is found.’ Sin can easily deceive us and When sin creeps in, we become So they began to celebrate.” appear to be right even if it’s wrong. Sin as dirty as these pigs and no amount – Luke 15:21-24 has an uncanny ability to present itself of antibacterial soap can cleanse our as something great and “cool.” It is sin’s souls of this kind of dirt. Sin makes our shatter Just like everyone else, the way of inviting us to the wild side, but spirit filthy and will destroy us from the prodigal son was trying in reality, it’s the blind side. You inside out — physically, emotionally and to fill a certain space in know where you are headed if spiritually. his life. Unfortunately, you live a sinful life. You may he learned late that not see it at the start but you can 4. Sin keeps us away from God’s only God suffices what be sure it will lead you to a dead blessings we lack and it can never end. The blessings of God are always there, be replaced by worldly but when we sin, we block these joy as it will only lead us 3. Sin is destructive blessings until we are left with nothing. into sin. Reflecting on “So he went and hired himself out There was a story about a young what happened to this to a citizen of that country, who vice president of a Fortune 500 parable, God is telling sent him to his fields to feed pigs. company who was considered for us what will happen when we sin. He longed to fill his stomach with the promotion to president. One day, the pods that the pigs were eating, but no board of directors sat down and decided 1. Sin is divisive one gave him anything.” – Luke 15:15-16 that the young and talented VP would “Not long after that, the younger son got In the olden times, pigs were be the next president. They would together all he had, set off for a distant considered filthy creatures, and to announce this promotion after lunch country…” – Luke 15:13 time. So they all went When we sin, we turn away from to have lunch. On people who love us — our family the way to the buffet, and friends. Why? Because these the board members people will not allow us to commit greeted the VP who sin and break off from God. They was in front of them are concerned about our well-being in the line to the and would prompt us to stop our cashier. To the board wrong ways. And we don’t like that, members’ dismay, especially when we enjoy what we they saw the VP take are doing. Sin pushes us to push other three pieces of butter people away. costing three cents each and covered it 2. Sin is deceptive with his napkin to “… and there squandered his wealth in evade having to pay wild living.” – Luke 15:13 for it. (Apparently, The prodigal son thought most employees do riches and worldly joy could fill his this since it just costs emptiness. Instead, he experienced three cents.) The guilt, fear, shame, sorrow, separation board members were and near death. appalled at what they The world today deceives us of witnessed. Instead what is important and necessary. of announcing a There is actually nothing wrong eat what they eat meant you have promotion after lunch, they announced with wanting all the good and fancy reached the lowest point in life. I can his termination. things this world has to offer. The just imagine how the prodigal son We sometimes tend to justify the problem starts when we change our looked like during this time, not to small, bad things we do, thinking it’s no character and our values. We start a mention how he smelled. To live, eat big deal. There are times when we feel so-called “wild living.” It’s so tempting and bathe with the pigs would mean it’s OK to do dishonest things, for as long to have a rock-and-roll lifestyle where having a love affair with a million as it’s small or insignificant, especially everything you need is available to you different bacteria and inviting all sorts when no one knows about it. But that’s on a silver platter. It doesn’t matter if it’s of sickness into your life. I guess even what sin is all about. It projects itself as good or bad as long as you enjoy it — so the toughest man can only last a few something small, something good, and you do whatever you want, whenever weeks with this kind of lifestyle before all other tempting things that will defy you want, wherever you want. he dies. your reason and lure you to its trap. We
Kerygma MARCH 2016 25 become unaware of the danger it compassion for him; he ran to his son, while David was blessed, brings. threw his arms around him and kissed considering the latter’s sin We all knew what happened to him.” – Luke 15:20 weighed more heavily? the story of the prodigal son, right? When we ask God for forgiveness, The difference is in No matter how foolish he was, the God forgives us! So forgive yourself their response to sin. When ending was great for him. as well. God wants to kiss you and Saul disobeyed God’s direct But how did that happen? He give that warm embrace — let Him command, he justified his followed the steps that God laid do exactly that! Sometimes our past actions instead of feeling sorry down for us. failures and sins become a part of us and asking for forgiveness. To that we carry them all through our lives. make matters worse, no thanks 1. Accept your brokenness to pride, he started to point “When he came to his senses, fingers, blaming everyone else he said, ‘How many of my instead of just manning up to his father’s hired servants have mistakes. food to spare, and here I am David, on the other hand, starving to death!” – Luke 15:17 took responsibility for his The prodigal son only mistakes rather than make came to his senses when he excuses. He was broken was left with nothing. When and so he repented for his he was broken to pieces, he transgressions. Check out his realized that what he did was letter to God in Psalm 51. He wrong. Nothing good can laid bare before God, asking for come out of sin, but something forgiveness and restoration. good can happen when we We are all sinners, no are broken — God breaks and question about that. But how do enters into the cracks in our we respond to sin? Are we a Saul hearts. Being broken can who justifies our sins and turn knock us back to our senses. on the blame game or are we a We see God as a ray of hope David who, out of brokenness piercing our dark and broken and complete remorse, falls on heart. his knees with a contrite heart, repents and asks forgiveness 2. Repent from God? “I will set out and go back to my The world today makes sin father and say to him: ‘Father, look as if it’s something that can I have sinned against heaven and We become ashamed; we distance bring happiness to our lives. But against you. I am no longer worthy to ourselves from God and the people we should know better. Sin can be called your son; make me like one who love us. But just like the father in never fill the void in our life. Sin of your hired servants.’ So he got up the story, God eagerly waits for you. can never give us meaning. We and went to his father.” – Luke 15:18- A great author once said, “Your past are so blessed because God gave 20 does not define your future.” meaning to our lives when He When we repent, we start our Receive and enjoy the mercy, sent His son Jesus to us. People journey back to God. This journey forgiveness and grace of God! will always seek to make sense is not easy. It’s long and challenging. out of their lives. But instead of We will be tempted to go back to our A Tale of Two Kings looking elsewhere, we just need old ways again and again. But the Two of the most prominent kings in to look into our hearts. God is thought of forgiveness, of breaking Israel were Saul and David. Both of there, waiting for you. Go to Him away from the prison where you them sinned and failed God terribly. and you will never go empty came from, gives us the strength to Saul did not obey God’s command again. For only God can fill you take on that journey to God’s loving while David committed adultery, up! embrace one day at a time. conspiracy and murder. But if you notice, Saul was rejected by God for 3. Receive God’s mercy and being disobedient, while David was Monching Bueno is the builder of forgiveness called a man after God’s own heart even Feast Marikina-Bluewave and Sta. “But while he was still a long way off, after committing a horrific act. Both Lucia. Email him at ramon_bueno@ his father saw him and was filled with men sinned, but why was Saul rejected yahoo.com
26 Kerygma MARCH 2016 Special Section Testimonial
the danger with PRIDE
hat do sin and pride have in common? It is “I.” Yes, you read it right — it’s in you and me. Pride is perhaps the greatest evil that exists. It wreaks destruction at every level of human experience and is present from small irritations to the collapse of great civilizations. Of the seven deadly sins, pride is the only one with a virtuous side. It is certainly a good thing to have pride in one’s country, in one’s community, in one’s self. But when taken too far, this virtue becomes deadly. When we think more of ourselves and less of God and others — when the wrong kind of pride kicks in — we sin. And did you know that pride is the root of all sins? It is the first sin which caused Adam and Eve to eat the forbidden fruit. It is pride that made them think, “Why should we follow God anyway? Is He greater than us?” By Monching Bueno W Kerygma MARCH 2016 27 Pride gives you, your family and your As they were flying low, a farmer Second, we come to regard entire household more trouble than you in his field looked up. When he saw others as people who are not could ever imagine. the strange formation, he said, “Well, equal to us. isn’t that a clever idea? I wonder who What Pride Can Do thought of that?” 2. When we are proud, we The frog opened his big mouth become stubborn. To some who were confident of and said, “I did!” Then down he fell Let me share with you a true — their own righteousness and proud — and looked down on story. everyone else, Jesus told A U.S. this parable: “Two men Air Force went up to the temple to transport pray, one a Pharisee and plane, with the other a tax collector. its captain The Pharisee stood by and five crew himself and prayed: members, ‘God, I thank you that I was flying am not like other people over Alaska — robbers, evildoers, in the mid- adulterers — or even like 50s when this tax collector. I fast they entered twice a week and give a an unusually tenth of all I get.’ “But the fierce tax collector stood at a snowstorm. distance. He would not The even look up to heaven, navigator but beat his breast and contacted said, ‘God, have mercy on an air base me, a sinner.’ “I tell you that only to be this man, rather than the told that he other, went home justified had veered before God. For all those several who exalt themselves will hundred be humbled, and those miles off who humble themselves course. will be exalted.” Correct – Luke 18:9-14 to his death. To be proud is what it coordinates were given to the Three things happen when we means to be fallen, whether angel or navigator, who continued to become proud. human, or in this story — a frog. Pride insist that his own calculations is our deadliest enemy. Satan uses could not be that far off. Soon 1. When we are proud, we fall. pride that is alive and active within the plane ran low on fuel. The Two wild ducks and a frog lived in a us. If we are caught off-guard, like the six men decided to abandon certain pond. They were the best of frog, it may cause us to fall not just in the plane and parachute to friends. All day long they played together. the pit of sin, but also to our death. safety, but because of the -70o When the summer came, the pond began The Pharisee in our Bible F temperature and winds that to dry up. Soon there was so little water passage was just like that frog. He gusted to 50 miles per hour, that they realized they had to move. Now was praying to God but his prayers they were all frozen within the ducks could easily fly to another were, “Thank You, Lord, for making minutes of hitting the ground. pond, but what about their friend, the me awesome unlike the robbers and As a result of the navigator’s frog? vendors outside.” pride, five other people froze to Finally, it was decided that the ducks This is the first problem with death. would put the two ends of a stick in their pride: We come to trust in our own Simply put, pride is to think bills. Then the frog could hang on to the abilities rather than God and we higher of ourselves than of middle of the stick with his mouth, and forget that whatever good we have is others. It’s so simple to say yet the ducks would fly him to another pond. out of His pure grace. powerful enough to produce
28 Kerygma MARCH 2016 hellish consequences. We become a child, he put him in the midst grow up and be like children. blinded thinking that we are right and of them and said, “Truly, I say to everyone else is wrong. When we are you, unless you turn and become Understanding Humility proud, we become stubborn and we like children, you will never enter I cannot think of anything else don’t want to listen to other people. the kingdom of heaven. Whoever to combat pride than humility, Proverbs 12:15 tells us, “The way of a humbles himself like this child but it’s hard to talk about. When fool is right in his own eyes, but he who is the greatest in the kingdom of you jump into this topic, people heeds counsel is wise.” To be proud is to heaven.” would most certainly think: Is see the world through the lens of a lie. – Matthew 18:1-4 this guy the expert on humility? By thinking that we are far greater and Why do only childlike people enter If he’s not, then why does he talk bigger, everything and everyone else the kingdom of heaven? Because only about humility? becomes smaller, even God. childlike people have the capacity to Humility means “the quality enjoy it. or state of not thinking you are 3. When we are proud, we become Think about this: children delight in better than other people.” empty. going to a playground. If adults see it and I know this may sound like I was once a man with great pride. like it, they will try everything possible to declaring yourself as less than Everything was going great. others. On the contrary, it People even looked up to doesn’t. It just makes good me and so I felt I was better people great! Haven’t than everyone else. That you noticed? All of the seemed to be the problem most inspiring and most when everything is going influential people are well — we don’t see our need filled with humility. for others. We don’t see our need for God. Humility Makes But all of that changed Common Sense when the Lord had His way I remember a story when with me. You see, God loves a plane was about to us that He gives us free will. crash and there were But if all else fails, He will four people on board: make a way for us to learn the pilot, a professor, a and go back to Him. backpacker (tourist) and Some of you know my a priest. Unfortunately story. When I thought I had there were only three it all and when I thought I parachutes left. The pilot, could do it all, God showed who was also the owner me that everything came of the plane, said, “Since from Him and so He could I own this plane and all take it anytime He wanted. those parachutes, I’ll get I lost my job. I was one and save myself.” All denied my working visa of them agreed, and so abroad. I lost my child and he jumped right off. The I lost my family. I lost it all brilliant professor then — even my relationship with God. But possess their own “playground.” stood and said, “Since when you are down to nothing, God is Children love to hear a great story; I’m the smartest among all of up to something. And in my emptiness, adults want to impress everyone with us here and I got a lot to offer to I found Jesus. their own story. the world, I deserve to get one Children easily absorb the greatness parachute and save my life for Only Children Can Enter the of something wonderful; adults are easily the greater good of all.” Kingdom of God absorbed in wanting to be great. Even before they all agreed, Just like what the author Jon Bloom he just got one bag and jumped At that time the disciples came said, “Grown-ups will be having a hard right off. There were only two to Jesus, saying, “Who is the time being happy in heaven.” people left — the priest and greatest in the kingdom of Satan wants us to grow up and be like the tourist. They were both heaven?” And calling to him God. God, on the other hand, wants us to looking at the only parachute
Kerygma MARCH 2016 29 left. Suddenly the priest told the lad, “You go get that last parachute. I have lived my days. I’m an old man. I know where I’m headed. Maybe it’s just time to meet God. Go live your life to the fullest and be a blessing to the world!” The young tourist replied, “No need for that, Father. That brilliant professor got my backpack. He jumped right off before I could even tell him. It means we have one parachute for each.” The lesson: Our field of expertise is only limited to one area or another. No one knows it all. Be humble.
Humility Is Beautiful We are attracted to someone who knows what he is talking about — and is humble compared to someone who knows a lot but brags about it. Here’s a story about Sir Edmund Hillary, one of the most famous people in the world in the 1950s. He was a humble young man. He was a beekeeper from New Zealand but became the first man to conquer Mt. Everest. Despite the fact that he had completed a tremendous task, he didn’t announce it to everyone until his Sherpa guide died. He was one of the greatest explorers or adventurers of his time but he devoted his life and used his influence in helping and improving the lives of the Nepalese people. He built hospitals, schools, orphanages and bridges. He was a hero! One day, while he was walking at the base of Mt. Everest, a group of mountain climbers begged to have a picture with him and he politely said yes. They let him hold an icepick just to make it realistic (he was considered a titan and a legend by enthusiasts). Suddenly, a tourist passed by and approached Sir Edmund and said, “Excuse me, but that’s not how you properly hold an ice pick.” He then got it from his hand and showed the right way. Sir Edmund just nodded and relpied, “Thank you.” Everyone was surprised. The passerby didn’t care how great Sir Edmund Hillary was. He didn’t even know his name. But that man’s arrogance diminished his self-proclaimed greatness. Sir Edmund Hillary is well-loved in different continents and his greatness is magnified when people share his story.
Humility Revolution When we sin, we create a huge gap between man and God. It’s the same distance that Satan created when he fell because of pride. But Jesus closed this gap. Through His ultimate sacrifice and most noble act of humility — His death on the cross — we did not fall in the pits of hell. Instead, we fell right into His loving heart. Humility is the best weapon against pride. But can you believe that being humble was not always regarded as beautiful? In ancient Greece and Rome, humility was regarded as bad. Ironically, seeking pride and honor was a virtue. So why has that status been reversed in today’s world? People now see humility as a virtue and pride as a sin. Such radical change started when a Teacher from Nazareth taught, “Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43). He had a multitude of teachings that impacted and changed the lives of many people. It changed the norms of His time and threw out the virtue of pride, replacing it with great humility. But it was this Teacher’s actual death that made this all great. He is regarded as God, the greatest of all men, but He willingly received the lowest possible punishment for a person — crucifixion by the cross. Until His last breath, Jesus showed the greatness of humility — sacrificing Himself for the sake of the entire world. Pride opens your heart to the enemy, but if we follow the examples of Jesus, your heart will be the birthplace of humility and you will find glory in the cross of our Lord, our Savior, and our King.
30 Kerygma MARCH 2016 Seeking What I’ve Always Had
By Dianne Po-Tuazon as told to Erlita Suarez Cabal
ike a defenseless baby thrown in the garbage, helpless and abandoned, I cried, “Lord, will You be my Father again? Can it be just the two of us again?” I was a prisoner then of my tiny room. I couldn’t go out or eat. I was alone.a A Princess’ Life Dad was a Chinese businessman who owned gigantic supermarkets. Although my school was just walking distance from our house, my dad always drove for me. I was not even allowed to play outside our home as my parents feared that I would be kidnapped. I never knew that a nightmare would unfold...
A Princess Enslaved by Emotional Abuse My parents separated when I was nine. Mom made me believe that Dad had cheated on her. She left us but later returned for me. I was astonished that my new stepdad made me do all the household chores and look after my three younger step-siblings. Worse, he made me feel that I didn’t belong. I bid goodbye to my princess life and said hello to slavehood. Though I was not L Kerygma MARCH 2016 31 Dianne with her kids, Geline, Rogue, Aenn and Eann. physically abused, they abused the the send button. I waited for a reply “I-love-yous” with her husband love I had for them. I felt like a prisoner. for what seemed like an eternity. when he never does that to their They stole everything from me — my To my delight, my dad replied the children. She added, “Why do you time, strength, and my youth. next day. He asked all the information call my husband ‘Papa’? Are you I tried escaping from this agony and I knew. Although he was obviously sure that he is really your father?” It ran to my aunt, but my stepdad always still skeptical, my heart melted at his drove daggers into my heart. I cried fetched me. Left with no choice, I words: “Bye, anak.” I couldn’t believe and apologized to her, sputtering decided to live on my own and peddled it, he called me his “daughter” — the that I would keep my distance. homecooked delicacies to get by. words I’d always longed to hear! Realizing that texts and phone Heart Full of Hatred Turned to A Lie Unearthed calls weren’t enough to fill the 30 Love Exhausted living all alone, I decided years of longing, we agreed to finally My dad called telling me that to get married at the age of 21. I asked meet. he knew I would understand. Mom’s permission and said I wanted to I wanted to shout at him and ask my real father for his blessing. It was From Joy to Mourning make him realize that I was just a then that she shocked me to the core. On that fateful day, I hugged him daughter longing for a father’s love She revealed the truth that the man tightly trying to make up for the lost and acceptance. Anger engulfed who I had always known as my birth years. My kids were so excited to me and I lost my words. I endured father wasn’t the real one. I was living finally see their grandfather. They the pain in silence. a lie after all. I felt lost in an abyss with kissed and hugged him. His wife In the midst of my distress, too many questions left unanswered. reacted abruptly saying, “Don’t be I heard God’s voice saying, “My too sweet, I hold the money.” I said child, you are My daughter. I am A Glimpse of Hope lovingly, “Kids, you’re making Tita the one who brought you into this The emptiness in my heart pulsated jealous. Kiss her too.” world. I raised you. I am your Dad. into a prayer. “Lord, I know that You I posted a photo of our first I will never hurt you. I will never love me but will You please allow me to meeting on Facebook and tagged leave you.” feel Your love in flesh? I want to see my him. He called saying that I should My tears became tears of joy. I By JPaul Hernandez father. I only heard of his name once, not have posted the photo. I was realized I was secure in God’s love. but please help me believe that nothing devastated when he blocked me I allowed Him to fill the empty is impossible with You.” afterwards. I dreaded that he would spaces in my heart. He touched I searched for my father’s name also block me from his life. We my wounds and embraced me. He on Facebook. My hands shook when continued communicating through was the Father I had been looking I found him. I messaged him: “Hi, I am text. I held on to the hope that I would for all my life. My heart leapt for looking for my biological dad. I just experience his fatherly love. But joy. I have always had what I was want to see him.” his wife called and said that she felt seeking — my Heavenly Father’s With my heart pounding, I clicked uncomfortable that I was exchanging love.
32 Kerygma MARCH 2016 Special Section We Accept the Love We Think We Deserve
et me share with you the story of Charlie and Sam. Charlie was a weird kid and he didn’t have a lot of friends in school. One day, he met Sam and her brother and they became fast friends. The moment Charlie saw Sam, he immediately had a crush on her. During his first real conversation with Sam, Charlie waskilig (giddy) to his bone marrow. She was beautiful, smart and nice. By JPaul Hernandez Charlie and Sam became inseparable. They were like best friends. Charlie was afraid to court Sam because he thought he wasn’t good enough for her. Sam was beautiful but she always ended up with a broken heart. Guys would pursue her but not take her seriously. The jocks of their team would take advantage of her sexually. She was always craving for love because when she was little, she was molested. One day, Sam talked to Charlie. She asked him, “Am I ugly?”
L Kerygma MARCH 2016 33 Special Section
Charlie replied, “No! You are beautiful.” Every person has a childhood You don’t have to pay or work She asked him another question, “Why dream. For boys, it might be to become for this new life. All you need to am I so stupid that I let other guys treat a superhero, a scientist, an actor, a do is accept God’s love for you and me like dirt?” politician or a musician. For girls, it can you’ll see that your life will never Charlie responded by saying, be a princess, a beauty queen, a model be the same again. He will shine “We accept the love that we think we or to live happily ever after. His warm light into your cold and deserve.” But somewhere in the middle dark life. I don’t know how bad you see of our journey, something terrible yourself, but I know that there are days happens to us. How to Free Ourselves from when you are not kind to yourself. You It could be a family problem. We Abuse don’t treat yourself with dignity, respect, joined the wrong crowd. We were honor and love. abused by someone, or something we 1. Accountability But here’s the truth: No matter how didn’t want happened to us. And this Dr. Brené Brown is one of the abused or dirty you think you are, Jesus painful situation etched a deep wound world’s leading experts on notices you. He knows that you are in our heart and soul. shame. She has devoted her life worth stopping for. You are worth talking The truth is, no person ever plans to understanding the roots and to. You are worth spending time with. to wreck his life, but because of our causes of shameful living. She And most especially, you are worth His reaction to the negative things that discussed in her TED talk entitled love and healing. happen to us, we create an even bigger “The Power of Vulnerability” that problem. when people don’t speak about It is obvious what kind of life Anika became a sex addict their shameful feeling, it eats develops out of trying to get your because she was molested when she them up and slowly it develops own way all the time: repetitive, was young. more negative fruits. Eventually loveless, cheap sex; a stinking Thirdy had a lot of failures in it will just explode to something accumulation of mental and his life, and his father always put ugly. This talk reached over four emotional garbage; frenzied him down. He was so broken that he million views. and joyless grabs for happiness; resorted to drinking, smoking, and She explained, “Empathy is trinket gods; magic-show religion; eventually drugs just to numb his pain. the antidote of shame.” You need paranoid loneliness; cutthroat Paula used to be a confident people you can trust, whom you competition; all-consuming-yet- woman, but through the years, I saw can be vulnerable with. Why? never-satisfied wants; a brutal her self-worth drop. That’s when I Because their heartfelt empathy temper; an impotence to love found out that her husband has been can crush your feeling of shame. or be loved; divided homes and abusing her verbally and physically. The Bible says, “As iron divided lives; small-minded She couldn’t escape that relationship sharpens iron, so a friend and lopsided pursuits; the because somewhere in her mind she sharpens a friend” (Proverbs vicious habit of depersonalizing believed that she would be the one to 27:17). everyone into a rival; change her husband. I invite you to join a Light uncontrolled and uncontrollable Obviously there are a lot more Group at any Feast and share your addictions; ugly parodies of forms of abuse, but the point is, people story with them. They can be your community. I could go on. This stay in abusive situations not by accountability partners. You may isn’t the first time I have warned choice but because of brokenness. also contact the LOJ Pastoral Care you, you know. If you use your Our brokenness turns into shame, Center at (+632) 725-9999. freedom this way, you will not and slowly we start thinking that this inherit God’s kingdom. is what we deserve and this is our 2. Affirmation – Galatians 5:19-21, MSG destiny. Once I was having a meeting If you are a victim of an abusive with my Senior Feast builder, Vic Why We Allow Ourselves to Be situation, stop being afraid. Revelation Español, when the door from the Abused 21:5 says, “Behold I make all things other room opened and a guy All of God’s children are innately good. new.” named Bo Sanchez came out. I When my brother was still young, I It doesn’t matter how wounded, wasn’t a Feast builder yet then. asked him what he wanted to be when battered or broken you are today. I was starstruck. As he walked he grew up. He said he wanted to be What matters is that God is the God by, I tried to greet him with a small a fireman or an MRT operator. Me? I of new beginnings. He has appointed wave, but he was in deep thought wanted to be Batman! Na, na, na, na, na, a far better future for you than you that he didn’t notice me. Oh, OK. na, Batman! imagined. When I turned to Bro. Vic
34 Kerygma MARCH 2016 to resume our meeting, someone terrible things to escape the pain that I We accept perverted love. touched my shoulder. It was Bo. He was experiencing. But is it really the kind of love told me, “Hey, brother, I’m sorry I I started looking for love in the that we deserve? didn’t notice you earlier. I wanted to wrong places, which developed into The answer: No. walk back and just say hi to you. I’m wrong beliefs. I became a toxic person Because Jesus already showed glad to see you.” who sucked out life from the people I the love that we deserve to have After he spoke, I wanted to be knew. through the cross. slain in the spirit. His presence alone I remember a Light Group meeting, In ancient times, the cross was was very powerful. our sharing groups, with my “Radical” the ultimate act of humiliation saved “Who am I to be noticed and brothers that was held in our house. for the worst criminals. According to affirmed by Bo Sanchez?” I thought. “Radical” is a discipleship training research, it was also the cruelest and It meant so much to me. The good program for young men. Obet Cabrillas, most painful way to die. thing is, someone bigger than Bo our coach, facilitated the sharing and But God is so powerful that notices and watches every single he invited my dad to join us. He turned the most cruel thing in moment of your life, and His name Our discussion was about our the world to be the universal and is Jesus. greatest achievements. Then, my only ultimate symbol of love. No matter how small or achievement was graduating from The cross means that your insignificant or ugly you think you college. Everyone shared wonderful abuse is temporary, but God’s love is are, once Jesus touches your life, and more colorful stories than mine. permanent. you will never be the same again. Then came my dad’s turn. The cross means you are worth If Jesus is in your life, you will I was nervous of what he would dying for. You are worth living for. automatically change for the better. share. After a pause, he smiled and said The cross means that Jesus will And most especially, because His with love, “My greatest achievement are leave the 99 sheep to save you. love is so great, you will not be able my two sons.” The cross means that Jesus to stop yourself from talking about OMG! My heart overflowed with is with you yesterday, today and His love for you. love and acceptance. forever. If Jesus heals you today, I invite I felt God’s acceptance through my The cross is the love you you to have the courage to tell the father’s acceptance of me. It was the deserve. world about the love of Jesus. absolute form of love that I needed. The cross is equal to love. It was the kind of love that I’ll never 3. Acceptance get from anyone else. It was the pure For a long time, I believed in a lie love that I experienced that night that JPaul Hernandez is the builder of that I didn’t deserve a good life and started the healing in my heart. Feast Greenhills and is the author of my family didn’t truly love me. It A Young Man’s Manual to a Successful Life, available at www.kerygmabooks. caused me to smoke, drink, engage Cross = Love com. Connect with him through email at in premarital sex, jump from one Sometimes we accept cruel love. We [email protected] or follow him relationship to another, and do other accept ugly love. We accept dirty love. on Facebook.
Kerygma MARCH 2016 35 36 Kerygma MARCH 2016 Special Section
MiraculouslY Great
few months ago, a friend of mine shared about her work problems. I listened to her story and then she asked me if I could give some suggestions to help her out. I lovingly enumerated suggestions based on what she told me. As I was speaking to her, I got confused because I saw discontent in her face. After I said my piece, she sarcastically told me, “Pasensya na ha, tao lang kasi” (Sorry, I’m just human). I was dumbfounded. I didn’t know how to respond to her. By JPaul Hernandez That phrase stuck to my head for a few months and I noticed that as I talk to more people, I found out that this was not an isolated case. So many people live by the idea that they are limited because they’re “just human.” They think that being human makes us weak, lowly and ordinary. Today, I want to tell you that there’s nothing
A Kerygma MARCH 2016 37 wrong with you. The real problem is classmates most of the time. As I that we believe we are small, weak and struggled through the exam, I saw problematic creatures. my 6”6’ athlete friend trying to get The Parable of the Talents explains a glimpse of my answers. I laughed that God created us to be great. in my head because I already knew the outcome. “The kingdom of heaven is like a When we got our scores, I got man who was leaving on a trip. He two correct points, and he got zero. called his servants and handed That was the last time he sat beside his possessions over to them. To me. one he gave five valuable coins, I hated numbers but loved and to another he gave two, and words so I was better at theory, to another he gave one. He gave history and literature. Sometimes to each servant according to that I would write reaction papers or servant’s ability. Then he left on articles in 30 minutes and still get his journey. After the man left, a good grade. That’s how in love I the servant who had five valuable was with communication. coins took them and went to work The reason why you think doing business with them. He lowly of yourself is because you gained five more. In the same way, are not maximizing the gifts God the one who had two valuable has given you. coins gained two more. But the If you are tired of living a first book, I was excited. But servant who had received the one “pasensya na, tao lang” life, then somewhere along the way, I valuable coin dug a hole in the continue reading this article. If wanted to stop because I felt that I ground and buried his master’s you are happy where you are, I wasn’t good enough to be a writer. money. Now after a long time the invite you to still keep on reading I overcame that feeling by master of those servants returned because God has something big in making sure that I would write and settled accounts with them. store for your life. every week. Eventually, I finished The one who had received five the book in four months. The valuable coins came forward God’s Calling book is called A Young Man’s with five additional coins. He said, Let’s unleash God’s call to Manual to a Successful Life. While ‘Master, you gave me five valuable greatness through these points: waiting for it to be published, I coins. Look, I’ve gained five more.’ wrote a free e-book called Start His master replied, ‘Excellent! You 1. God celebrates the small Your Success Story to help you are a good and faithful servant! things. find the right career for you. You’ve been faithful over a little. In verse 21 of the story, the You can download it from www. I’ll put you in charge of much. master affirmed his servant’s jpaulhernandez.com. (Oh, did I Come, celebrate with me.’ The accomplishment. say that it’s free?) second servant also came forward When we started Feast God faithfully grants growth and said, ‘Master, you gave me Greenhills, there were only about as I become faithful to the small two valuable coins. Look, I’ve 20 servants and 50 attendees. It things He entrusts to me. gained two more.’ His master was hard. I felt that I was the wrong replied, ‘Well done! You are a good person for the task. But I didn’t give 2. God chose you for a purpose. and faithful servant. You’ve been up. I focused on doing the small When God created you, He didn’t faithful over a little. I’ll put you in things like constant improvement just do an experiment. He created charge of much. Come, celebrate and taking care of our people. you for a specific purpose with with me.’” In less than two years, we grew the right kind of ingredients – Matthew 25:14-30, CEB to over 400 attendees with two which made you the masterpiece Sunday sessions. that you truly are. During my Economics 101 class in When I decided to stop college, our professor was pretty nice smoking, I longed for the taste of Oh yes, you shaped me and cool. She treated us kindly, but cigarette after two weeks. I focused first inside, then out; when she handed out our first exam on doing the tasks of each day you formed me in my papers, I couldn’t see the goodness in without a cigarette, and soon after, mother’s womb. I thank her anymore. It was terribly difficult. I was able to free myself from that you, High God — you’re Worse, since I was bored during lectures, bondage. breathtaking! Body and I just daydreamed or talked to my When I began writing my soul, I am marvelously
38 Kerygma MARCH 2016 made! I worship in uneven landscapes like mountains. adoration — what • We were able to go to the moon, and a creation! just recently our satellites reached – Psalm 139:13-14, Mars and Pluto. MSG • We won wars without bloodshed like the People Power movement Our anatomy is and the African-American civil war truly spectacular. Did movement. you know that: • The nose can Most inventions or victories come from remember 50,000 necessities. It is triggered by a problem different scents. that needs solution. Through our human • Nerve impulses connections, we are able to collaborate, travel to and from the help each other and do the most wonderful brain as fast as 273 things. kilometers per hour. When my mother was three months That’s faster than the pregnant with me, she almost had a car you drive. miscarriage and she was bedridden for six • Your small intestine months. The doctors advised her to drink is about 23 feet, all medicine to help me live. They were afraid packed in the core of that because of her fragile pregnancy, there your body. was a big chance that I’d be deformed or • All babies are born with blue eyes and they just change there would be something wrong with me. eventually. Thus when I was born, my father • Your tongue design is as unique as your fingerprint. immediately checked if there was something • Your body produces 300 billion new cells each day. abnormal with my body. He counted my • You have seven octillion atoms inside you, and that’s a fingers, checked my eyes, my lips, my nose lot especially if you compare it to the number of stars in and my limbs, and he even looked if I had a our galaxy which is just a measly 300 billion. tail but everything was fine. • The human brain is more powerful than the best super I grew up very athletic. I played football computer because it can handle 38 thousand-trillion since I was in grade school but I had to stop processes per second, and the super computer can only in high school because my doctors said it do 0.02 percent of that. would be bad for my health. Why? Because when I was about nine And these amazing things can be found in every human, no years old, though in perfect shape externally, exception! something was wrong internally. I was found to have only one kidney. 3. God created us to be one. One solid blow could end my life because people in fraternity hazings die Each of you should use whatever gift you have received not because of the pain but because their to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its kidneys could not process the blood clots various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one from the bruises. who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they I thought it was the end of my exciting should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all life, but instead it became my biggest things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be blessing. Since I had no Saturday games the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen. anymore, I was pushed to join the youth – 1 Peter 4:10-11, NIV ministry — and there I met Jesus and accepted Him as my Lord and Savior. God didn’t only create us humans to be individually great. Fast forward to today. I’m living out my When we are joined together, we become living miracles of life purpose to bring out the best in people as God’s divine majesty. a preacher, Feast builder, author, and soon to Here are some unbelievable feats that humans were able to be a husband! I also found out that my true pull off together: gift is not in sports, but communication. God doesn’t want you to live a mediocre • 5,000 years ago, our ancestors built the pyramids life. He wants you to master the gifts He has without high-tech machines. given you and be the best person you can be. • Our ancestors also built the Great Wall of China in Go and be great for God’s glory!
Kerygma MARCH 2016 39
Seasons 41
Wanted: Identity
riana Grande. Justin Bieber. on our accomplishments. The problem is that Kathryn Bernardo. Daniel Padilla. someone will always be better than us. Failure is Nadine Lustre. James Reed. Alden inevitable. What if you fail? Who are you then? Richards. Maine Mendoza. 2. Wrong friends and relationships A We want to live like them. Sing, act We become the friends that we keep. The more and be famous like them. Wear what we hang out with them, the more we become they wear. Eat what they eat. And hope like them. Question is, are we becoming who that, maybe, we can be who they are. we are or are we becoming who they are? What But does becoming who they are if these relationships are destroying us more help us find who we are? Or does it than building us up? Are they worth keeping? make the search more complicated as Many times, we associate our identity with our we cover up who we are with who we relationship statuses. want to be? 3. Authoritative Figures (Parents, Teachers, Identity Search Professors, Coaches and Leaders) Finding our identity can be confusing. The words of the people we look up to as By Niko Capucion We’re torn between a lot of different things authorities often affect us more than the rest. We and ideas based on varying opinions of have to be aware, though, if their words help us who we are. discover who we really are or they just mold us to “Who am I?” is the most important become who they want us to be. question that teens want to answer but they always tend to look for it in the wrong 4. Financial Status or Material Wealth places and settle for whatever is readily Money makes the world go round. It dictates that if you can’t afford any luxury, available to them. you’re not worth hanging out with. Do you measure who you are with what you But because these things change, they have? What if all of it fades away? Who are you then? don’t give us a true measure of who we are and what we are worth. As I mature, I realize that there is only one standard that we should Let me share with you a list of the use to measure our worth and identity — God’s love for us. It is a love that is common wrong sources of identity: unconditional, unchanging, unwavering, unfaltering and unending. No matter what the world tells you, one truth doesn’t change — that “while we 1. Titles and Achievements were still sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). We think we are our awards, position There is no need to try so hard to identify with other people. You are a child of or title. It may be a very good way to God. And that alone is enough. remind ourselves of our competence but it can also make us anchor our worth Niko Capucion is the current Youth Ministry Head and Campus Life Head of Feast Alabang District. Aside from leading worship in Feast Bellevue, he is also a singer, songwriter and a resource speaker. Drop him a message at [email protected].
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Mary: The Woman n John’s Gospel, we find two guilty of violating the Fourth Commandment. instances where Jesus addresses Besides, there was no tension between them as His mother, “Woman” – first at evidenced by Mary’s instruction to the servants: “Do the Wedding at Cana, then at the whatever he tells you.” Crucifixion. Doesn’t that sound Notice how John’s Gospel begins with the same Iimpersonal and disrespectful? exact words of Genesis: In the beginning. What follows Aside from His Mother Mary, He also is the testimony of John the Baptist (v. 19-28) then addressed the Samaritan woman three verses (v. 29, 35, 43) that identically continue the at the well, the crippled woman narrative with: The next day… leading to: On the third healed on the Sabbath, and Mary day there was a marriage at Cana (John 2:1). Magdalene, “Woman.” This makes for a seven-day timeline in the First, understand that the word Gospel, akin to the creation story of Genesis 1 which, woman carries a dignity inherent juxtaposed with the second account in Genesis 2, in itself. In some cultures, it is polite shows that a nuptial takes place on the seventh day: a to address a female, “Woman.” For marriage between God and His creation, represented Spanish speaking people the proper by the union of Adam and Eve in a matrimonial manner of introducing one’s wife is covenant bond. Nuptial language is a prevailing By Edgardo C. de Vera Mi mujer which means woman. The theme in the Old Testament of God’s relation with word woman is honorable; only the Israel. In its fulfillment in the New Testament, Christ malicious give it a derogatory and is the bridegroom and His Church the bride. Mary is scandalous slant. Jesus addressed a figure of the Church, and the Church is the Bride of Christ. The nuptial here is the other three women out of spiritual, not carnal. As the first believer and first disciple, she is the model for all respect. Christians who comprise Christ’s body, the Church. All believers are espoused In regard to Mary’s concern to Him. about the shortage of wine, He Christ accomplishes His work of the New Creation from Cana to Calvary. replied, “O woman, what is it to me Paul speaks of Jesus as the New Adam or Second Adam (Romans 5:12-18; 1 and to you?” My hour has not yet Corinthians 15:45) and a New Creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). We find the first come.” That was said within the mention of woman in Genesis: “this one shall be called ‘woman’…” (v. 2:23). In context and backdrop of Salvation calling His Mother Woman, Jesus invokes the pre-Fall title for Eve. History. In calling Mary Woman at The Fathers of the Church understood the New Creation deducing that if Cana and from the Cross, Christ there is a New Adam, there must also be a New Eve. St. Iranaeus said, “As Eve bookended His public ministry, was seduced to disobedience to God, Mary was persuaded to obedience to fulfilled Genesis 3:15 and anticipated God.” Eve was the mother of all the living (cf Genesis 3:20). Mary as New Eve Revelation 12:1. He was not being is the Mother of the redeemed, bequeathed in Christ’s last will and testament, rude to His mother as extreme “Woman, behold your son… Son, behold your Mother.” Protestant Fundamentalists claim otherwise. He would have been Email Ed at [email protected].
K Preacher 45
Bus Lessons just learned my second “bus” lesson. flat tire, or a water issue, or any other solvable But what was my first, to start problem? Why an internal engine breakdown? with? Well, please don’t judge me for Why now? I took a deep breath as the truth slowly my seeming stupidity... sunk in. That was it. I’m going to miss the party — of You see, I mistakenly rode a bus which I was the host! Ito Baler when I was actually heading for Accordingly, all bus precautions were Baguio! Would you believe that? And I implemented and engine tune-up was done just a just realized it five hours later! I wrote few months before. This shouldn’t have happened. about that embarrassing incident in my To make matters worse, my phone battery got last K-Preacher article where I learned drained and I couldn’t communicate with those in a very important lesson in life: When Baguio. boarding a bus, check your ticket. We all What will happen? How will they handle the have a choice as to where to go. And we event? How am I going to explain things when I need to be sure of our destination. arrive? Lesson one learned. Now let’s move Then, in the midst of the tension, I realized on to my recent learning. that my situation was out of my hands. I was left By Jonathan “J” Yogawin with no recourse but to “let go” and entrust myself, The Not-So-Perfect Timing the trip, the party, to the Lord. There I was, on another bus trip And so I did. headed for Baguio. (Don’t worry, I checked my ticket.) I was invited Lesson Number Two to facilitate the Feast Video Baguio Guess what? Christmas Party. Despite my rush to When I arrived at the venue, the people were still there. They were all smiles. catch a bus amidst holiday traffic, I Everything went smoothly and successfully. All they needed was an inspirational figured I would still reach Baguio in message to culminate the party. Talk about timing! time for the party as planned. Or so I My second bus lesson: Trust God. He is in control, not us. I realized how wrong it thought. was to assume that everything depended on me. That I dictate success and failure. As I opened my eyes from a nap, That I was in control. It was about time to let God be God in my life. That day on the I noticed that the bus had stopped, expressway, God taught me humility. the air conditioner was turned off and Thank God He’s in charge! Despite all our mistakes and failings, His grace will people were going in and out of the bus. always be there. At the end of the day, our loving God has the final say. After a few minutes, I heard what every Oh, I can’t wait for my next bus lesson! time-bound passenger dreaded to hear. “Sorry, we need to transfer bus. There is Feast Video Baguio holds sessions every 1st and 3rd Fridays of the month from 6:30p.m, at El Cielito Inn, something wrong with the engine.” North Drive, Baguio City. For info, contact Lianne at +63-923-680-6280. Email J at [email protected] or [email protected]. What? Why couldn’t it be just a
One last Story 47
hat more could I ask for? After graduating Work and Study — But Put God First with a degree in Communication, I It would seem automatic for a newbie like me to focus on thought I already had the best job as a studying. But in the midst of my struggles and thinking that marketing and sales head, the best salary, I didn’t have anything else but God, I learned the formula of and the best achievements a young giving your best but choosing to pray first and foremost. I prayed Wprofessional could have. more for God to give me the confidence and perseverance that I I was at the height of my career when one day, I needed. I prayed to the Holy Spirit and asked the intercession of found myself burned out and exhausted. I didn’t like St. Jude Thaddeus, the saint to whom most students call for help what I was doing anymore. I finally resigned from my when they have exams. job and felt like a lost kid living without a direction. I would hear Mass at St. Padre Pio Chapel in Libis, Quezon But God, my Father, eventually showed me where I City every week and pray by St. Joseph’s life-size statue there. had to go. St. Joseph is known as Anne discovers the power the patron saint of real God’s Directions of putting faith and work estate brokers. I also kept While I was jobless together. a small image of him by in 2014, I became my bedside. Whenever responsible in helping my I prayed and looked at family and relatives with him as my role model, his our real estate properties. hard work as a carpenter It was also timely that inspired me to set aside there was a real estate my laziness to study. conference I attended Because I learned which inspired and to prioritize praying, I motivated me to research already felt like a winner more on this new field. even before the exams. A new dream was Eventually, studying and then birthed in me. I felt going to the seminar like God was calling me to became easier. I also got be a licensed real estate high scores in our mock broker to maximize the exams, helped my other skills I already developed classmates in studying, back in the corporate and encouraged them as world and also to help well. more people, especially Work Hard my family and relatives. God’s Surprises but Ask God — Before going to the The Narrow Path College of the Holy Spirit, I’ve heard people say that which surprisingly was my real estate is where the FIRST testing site, I first prayed at money is, but I’ve also St. Jude Thaddeus Church heard other people rant By Anne Margarette S. Tongo right across it. Then I about how difficult it was, As told to Krizelle R. Talladen entered the college’s St. especially for a newbie Joseph Building where my like me. Despite this testing room was. There notion, I still followed the call. was a huge St. Joseph image which I greeted before stepping in I believe it was God’s perfect timing that the May the assigned room. 2015 board exam would be the last exam for any When everyone seemed so stressed during the exam breaks, degree-holder. The next would already require an I was surprised that I was just calm. The exam was difficult and aspirant for a degree in real estate. exhausting but I was able to finish it and I even smiled at my I enrolled in a seven-month real estate seminar parents when they fetched me in the evening. that bombarded my brain with new concepts and In the wee hours of the morning five days after the exam, one terms. It was hard at first. I was sometimes too lazy of my classmates called and congratulated me. She told me we to study, even losing confidence that I would pass both passed the exams. Praise God! the exams. Because of the hardship in studying, I was God is not just good. He is great! Our God, our loving tempted to go back to marketing and sales because of Father, is just a prayer away. Not to mention the saints who are the appealing offers from big companies. interceding for us in heaven. Talk about the power of prayer and intercession. Point of Contact 48 I Pray That You Receive Your Miracles In Jesus’ Name!
I pray that God lift your trials, heal your diseases, bless your problems and direct you to the path He wants you to take. I pray that God remove your fears and give you the courage to surrender your burdens to Him. So place your hand over my hand, and let us pray with trust, together with our prayer team of intercessors praying for you right now…
This page is our Point of Contact, our spiritual connection. Say after me…
In the Name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Lord, I surrender to You my worries and anxieties. I surrender to You my needs, my problems, my trials. I place them all in Your big hands. And I open myself to all that You want to give to me. On this day, I say yes to Your love, to Your blessings, to Your healing, to Your miracles. And Lord, specifically, I ask for the following miracles for my life... I believe that You answer my prayer in the best way possible! And I thank You in advance for the perfect answers to my prayers. I also ask for the special intercession of Mama Mary. I pray all this in the Name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
SPECIAL INTENTION FOR THIS MONTH:
Dearest Father, we thank You for Your grace. Thank You for giving us unlimited Email your prayer requests to me chances to start again. Thank You for giving us the courage to do the right thing and at bosanchez@kerygmafamily. to believe that we can do greater, better, and more loving deeds. com or write to me at Shepherd’s Voice Publications, #60 Chicago We ask for Your continuous guidance. Help us to live a life of significance, St., Cubao, Quezon City, holiness and humility. Bless us, O God. Amen. Philippines 1109.
Praying for you,