A Christmas Potpourri

Editor’s Thoughts ………………………………. “For God So Loved the World” ……………….………. Evelyn Porteza Tabingo

Featured Items: Sharing the Christmas Sprit Don Christensen Our First Christmas in Israel Julio and Mila Mendez Our First Christmas in Africa Ellen Valenciano What Christmas was like at MVC Iris Lee Bingcang Tomampos Christmas Thoughts Anne Dagting Chew Christmas Memories Sharlene Dawn Valenciano

PATCH OF WEEDS ……………………………….…………………………………………………..…………………………………Jesse Colegado LIFE of a Missionary: …………………………“Christmas in Different Countries” …….………………Romy Halasan Alumni Reunion Report – Part I ……………………………………………………………..……………………. Eddie Zamora Greetings From The CF Editors ……………………………………………………………………………………….. Group Effort

CLOSING: |From The Mail Bag| Prayer Requests | Acknowledgements GREETINGS from The Editors |Closing Thoughts

Editor’s Thoughts

aft Avenue in Metro Manila was packed with activities. Aside from pedestrians walking between vehicles, there were jeepneys, buses, private cars and motorcabs on the avenue and perpetually T blowing their horns in hopes to gain an inch on the crowded street. Above the traffic, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) moved along with its packed passengers, all intent to finish the business of the day. Earlier that day, I was “swallowed” by the multitude of people walking about at the Mall of Asia. People looking for sales to purchase for Christmas presents, students strolling after class and many more were there just to escape the Manila heat. Sitting areas outside coffee shops were fully occupied with shoppers who were content to sit as they sipped coffee or ate sweet delicacies. Late that night, I viewed the city from the 28th floor of a condominium complex. A calm atmosphere had finally settled on the place. The LRT was done for the day. Except for a couple of vehicles that drove down the avenue, it was indeed a “silent night.” A few colored lights twinkled in the distance, a display of the Christmas spirit. It was a picture of serenity. As I gazed upon the city, I pictured a time and a place some 2000 years before, in a little town called Bethlehem. With the decree of Caesar Augustus that a census would be taken in the Roman province of Judea, with each person having to register in his own town, people on foot, on donkeys or any other mode of transportation came pouring into Bethlehem. There was no room in the inn. As darkness settled on the town and the activities ceased, the stillness of the night was interrupted by a host of angels announcing the birth of Jesus to a group of startled shepherds who were watching their flock in the hillside of Judea. “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, goodwill towards men.” (Luke 2:14 NKJV) the heavenly choir sang and their song echoed through the hillside and beyond. Although there is no Biblical record that Jesus was really born on December 25, many observe Christmas around the world through the centuries, in spite of the celebration’s intrinsic origins. As we celebrate this Christmas season with our families and friends, let our focus be on the greatest Gift given to mankind, God’s Son. May peace, joy and love reign in our hearts.

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 (RSV).

Lyn Porteza Tabingo

Sharing the Christmas Spirit By: Don Christensen

ur family spent many Christmases at MVC. It was always a special time of year. While there was no snow and no visit from our family, we always valued being part of the MVC family. There was O the annual Christmas program, and Miss Rallos would come by my office to ask permission to prepare a special Christmas day meal for students left on campus such as full timers, and those unable to afford the trip home and back. Most of our Christmases in the Philippines were spent at MVC, but there was one year when that just did not happen. I had taken my family to Manila for other appointments while I did business. The weather turned bad and we could not fly the Cessna 206 back to MVC as planned. We found ourselves stranded at the guesthouse in Manila for Christmas. Christmas eve came on Sabbath evening that year, and I wondered what we could do the make it a special family time. Our three children always looked forward to this time of family togetherness. Philippine Union College had just begun its first construction phase at Silang. There was no electricity or water yet, but two families volunteered to move out to the future campus to provide a presence. I thought of them and how alone they would be on Christmas Eve. Our family decided after church in Pasay, we would drive out to Silang with some goodies to share with these two families. Almost all of Sabbath afternoon we three families walked the future campus of Philippine Union College. Just as the sun began to set in the west, we sat down on steps of the first little agriculture building, which had been constructed. This building later became a grade school, and was at the location of the current elementary school on the AUP campus. We sang some Christmas carols and watched the reflection of the setting sun spread over Laguna de Bay and Los Banos to the east. As darkness gathered and we drew close for our sundown prayer, we saw a vehicle drive onto the campus below us. Slowly it moved up the unfinished road to where we were. We wondered who would come onto the unfinished campus at dark. Why would they come? The small car stopped in front of the agriculture building where we sat. The door opened, and out stepped Dr. Alfonso Roda, President of PUC. He carried a large bowl of fruit salad. Perhaps the shocked look on our faces showed, as he said with a broad grin, “I've been thinking about you all day. Your willingness to be out here alone on Christmas Eve has been troubling me. So I decided to come out and spend Christmas Eve with you”. He offered the unfinished sundown prayer, and we spent Christmas eve together—no Christmas lights, no Christmas tree, no fancy food, no soft music, but a special feeling of oneness. We were all touched by his thoughtfulness. The president of a major college in the Philippines who had a family and numerous other faculty he could have spent the evening with, chose to drive by himself, all the way from Baesa to Silang, to be with the first pioneers of PUC, now AUP. It's natural to celebrate Christmas with family, and we're blessed when we do, however, how often do we reach out and share the Christmas spirit with those beyond our families? Do we think of the lonely ones? What can we do to bring cheer to them? At this time of year I think of the many MVC alumni who are working in far off lands in very hard conditions. Their families are thousands of miles away. Would it be possible as fellow alumni to reach out...even an email perhaps....to let them know that the Christmas family of MVC, worldwide, still cares and does not forget.

Don Christensen has served MVC as Financial Consultant/Advisor for several years. He and his wife, Sharon live in Northern California

Our First Christmas in Israel By: Julio and Mila Mendez BSC and BSE Class ‘78

srael is the land where Jesus was born. What do you expect for Christmas? Will there be Christmas lights all over Jerusalem or Bethlehem? Will there be Christmas trees? Will there be firecrackers or I heated bamboo “cannon” to produce noise in a festive show? Will there be caroling? Will there be a festive mood of the holiday season, as you would see in cities all over the world? It was with great anticipation that we waited for our first Christmas in Israel, even if it was our first time to spend Christmas away from our children, parents, siblings, relatives and friends. The church family in Israel became our second family away from our immediate families. There was a mixture of loneliness and excitement as to what Christmas may bring in this so-called Holy Land! We visited Bethlehem on a cold night of December 24. It was exciting. Knowing that the place was mentioned in the Bible where Jesus was born, we felt very special to be in the place where angels announced to the shepherds, “Glory to God in the highest, Good will towards men.” Our spirits were high and joyous to be visiting this memorable place of Jesus’ birth. But entering the city of Bethlehem, our high spirits dropped! It was dark!!! There were no streetlights. Scanning the distance, we hoped that perhaps over there, we will see a festive decoration of Christmas trees and lights and buildings colorfully decorated just as we imagined would look like Tangub City in Mindanao, which is famous for its Christmas lights. But no! There were no decorations. It was quiet and dark! But wait, we see… a string of lights across the street with 6 white bulbs!! That was all!!! My husband and I looked at each other. Then we laughed! We just laughed out loud!! Nangatawa mi aron ma release among Ka Palaw!!! (We laughed to release our unfulfilled high hopes.) How sad to think, that the Source of Light who was born here in Bethlehem would find only a faint light in His city. The same is true with us, Adventists, Alumni of the School of the Light who claim to be light bearers for God’s kingdom yet harbor no light within us. How can we lead someone to the Light if we ourselves do not have this light? We need this light burning so others may see the Way, the Truth and the Life who is Jesus Christ. Although the famous Church of Christ’s Nativity (believed to be the site of Jesus’ birth) was packed with people, we did not stay long in Bethlehem that night. There were so many people that it was difficult to move around. After taking a few pictures we left. Christmas came and left quietly. Two days after Christmas a kind old American lady staying in our guesthouse, knowing our story in Bethlehem, invited us for dinner. She took us to a famous restaurant in Jerusalem, The American Colony Restaurant. Upon entering the entrance our spirits soared!! The lawn, the trees, the building were all decorated with lights!! And look!!! There was a huge Christmas tree with full trimmings! We were like little children happy to see this familiar tree, the tree that brings fond memories of childhood and family togetherness. We ate with joy and satisfaction that night amidst the colorful lights!

Two weeks passed after Christmas, the Tel Aviv International SDA church invited us to go with them to Mt Hermon to frolic in the snow. Wow!! It was our first time to see snow. (Jerusalem had no snow at that time.) We left very early in the morning that day. As the bus climbed Mt Hermon, we saw the trees, houses and lawns covered with pure white snow. We could not help but sing the song in our mind “Lord, Jesus I long to be perfectly whole, I want Thee forever to live in my soul, Break-down every idol cast out every foe. Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow. Whiter than snow, YES, whiter than snow. Now wash me and I shall be whiter than snow.” It was a day filled with unforgettable activities in the snow. This included our first sleigh ride, in which the rider and the sleigh went on two different directions! What a beautiful first Christmas in Israel. As I think of it now, the scenes were just like yesterday. Yes, just like yesterday and we’ve been here in Israel for 12 years. Of course, Bethlehem has changed through the years. It now has Christmas lights and a big Christmas tree. Here in Jerusalem, the YMCA next door has decorated their building with Christmas lights and a huge Christmas tree right in front facing the famous King David’s Hotel. This is the first time in 12 years we see this Christmas tree in the center of city. So, we ask, “Is there Christmas tree? Are there Christmas lights? Is there caroling? We can now say “Yes!” We do have these Christmas traditions here. Although, not observed in the whole country but we have groups of believers who continue to remember and cherished that this Earth is the recipient of Heaven’s precious gift in the life and ministry of Jesus. Times have changed, but we are glad that our Savior Jesus Christ who was born in a manger in Bethlehem long ago never changes. He is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Julio Mendez is the church pastor for the 5 English-speaking congregations in Israel and at the same time the Secretary-Treasurer of Israel Mission Field of SDA. Mila Mendez is the manager of the Advent House, the guesthouse operated by the Israel Field of SDA.

Our First Christmas in Africa By: Ellen Porteza Valenciano

ecember 2006 was the first Christmas my family spent as missionaries to Yuka Adventist Hospital in Zambia, Africa. It was also the first Christmas when my family was not complete. My eldest D daughter was in MVC where she was going to school. Imaging how Christmas is usually spent in the Philippines, where family gathered together to celebrate the season with parties, giving and receiving gifts, made us nostalgic. For the whole month of December, there was nothing to show the spirit of Christmas. No Christmas trees complete with the trimmings of colored balls and decorations, no colorful lights were seen in the village where we lived or in the town nearby. The only Christmas decorations displayed were at my office and our house. There were no Christmas carols coming from the radio. Since we were barely four months in a hard-to-reach area, cable for our TV had not yet been installed. It was hard to believe that even in Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka, it was the same story. Only a handful of shops sold Christmas lights and ornaments. I was told that Christmas was not celebrated in Zambia. In the church, “Joy to the World” is sung at any time of the year. I thought to myself, this is going to be “Blue Christmas!” On December 17, our family went to Lusaka City, 800 kilometers away to pick up the car we ordered

from Durban, South Africa. However, we were told that the car papers would be released 5 days later. After getting the necessary papers, we were preparing to go home on December 23. But we got a phone call from Yuka Hospital’s medical director, stating that the roads going back to Yuka were dangerous to travel on. Some areas were already flooded due to the strong rains. To go back home, we had to make a detour passing a longer route which would take us more than one day to travel. Since we did not want to spend Christmas on the road, we decided to visit our friends in Mwami Adventist Hospital in eastern Zambia, an 8-hour drive from Lusaka. It was a joyful reunion with missionary doctors and MVC alumni, Dr. Vern Lyn Ong Peduche, Dr. Leonilo Ang and their families. Dr. Jessie and Shiela Agra, both dentists, and their children were also visiting from neighboring country, Malawi. Christmas Eve celebration in the house of Dr. Ang was enjoyable with our Filipino friends. We were served, suman, biko and cassava cake. I wondered how these Filipino delicacies were prepared knowing that coconut trees were almost non-existent in the country. I learned that coconut milk cans were sold in grocery stores around. Eating the Filipino food made us more homesick for our country. After the sumptuous meal, we had exchange gifts and then sing along. On Christmas day, a Filipino Catholic priest friend from nearby town, Chipata, came to spend Christmas Day with us. It made me realize that he, like us felt that Christmas in a foreign land is more enjoyable when spent with friends and loved ones. “Christmas brings family and friends together. It helps us appreciate the love in our lives we take for granted."

Ellen will serve as the Medical Director of Kigali SDA Polyclinic which is due to open on February 2017, while Harville is the Business Manager of the Kigali Adventist Medical Center in Rwanda.

What Christmas was like in MVC By Iris Lee Bingcang Tomampos

grew up in a time when life was simple. We had no computers, no cell phones, no iPads nor tablets. The only family who had a TV in our village was the Ombiga family. The only mail we got was “snail I mail.” Despite that, we were healthy and happy. Life was so free and uncomplicated then.

Around Christmas time the campus would be more quiet than usual, as most of the students went home for the holidays. The “faculty kids” would band together and play hide and seek at night. I remember Lola Aquino yelling at us for being so noisy and hiding in the empty house in their duplex.

Our ingenuity knew no bounds. We found so many ways to entertain us. The Tanamals built the unicycles

and many of the boys learned to ride them. Bamboo cannons were built and signed off their eyebrows. We had tree houses. We had the free run of the campus even at night. The reel danger had not touched us then.

When we wanted munchies, we made them ourselves. We would cook bananas, peanuts or kamote (sweet potatoes). We could also pick fruits off the trees. There were marang, mangoes, guavas, pomelo and so many varieties of fruits… for free.

On Christmas day, I remember we would share food among us. I recall Mr. Melgar’s delicious lugaw (rice porridge) with roasted mongo beans. Other foods might be biko, cassava cake, alupi, goat meat, homemade ice cream, and my mom’s spaghetti. I’m not sure but I think it was the Ombigas who had an ice cream maker that you had to crank by hand.

Nowadays I try to cook spaghetti but it never seems to taste as good as my mom’s cooking. I used canned tomato sauce bought from the store. Perhaps that is the reason, or maybe I could just taste my mom’s love in her spaghetti dish. I don’t think I ever saw a can of tomato sauce around the house. Mom made such delicious food from scratch.

In the evening our family would sing carols around the piano for worship. Our family’s favorite song was, “There’s a Song in the Air.” We would then gather around our Christmas tree and give gifts. Our gifts were mostly inexpensive, mostly what was available in the College store or the gift shop run by the department of Commerce. Gifts may be bottles of lotion, cologne, handkerchiefs of stationery. Those gifts were treasured more for the love given with it than for their commercial value.

After supper we would go to the Audi, as we used to call it, and enjoyed a Christmas program. There would be eats afterwards prepared by the cafeteria. I still recall the warm delicious sotanghon at that time. To this day, I appreciate Auntie Ludy’s efforts to cheer up the students who couldn’t go home. Underneath her gruff exterior was a heart of gold.

These days as Christmas draws near, my workplace is swamped with patients. But when Christmas day comes, the day is mostly spent relaxing and preparing for the rush of patients the next day.

Reminiscing about my mom’s spaghetti and Christmas in MVC help allay some of the anxiety the Christmas season brings.

Dr. Iris Lee Bingcang Tomampos works in Papua, New Guinea.

Christmas Thoughts By Annie Dagting Chew

he spirit of Christmas at MVC had a deep spiritual emphasis. The Christmas carols rendered by the choir, the student-faculty fellowship, and the atmosphere indeed elevated our whole being to Christ T as the Savior of the World. The whole experience was heavenly and we wished it would never end. It was a very special event, and Christ the Savior was made real to us. We received the joy of heaven and peace on earth. Heaven was so close to us, as if we only needed 5 centavos jeepney fare to get there. We really felt the true meaning of Immanuel – God with us. That was Christmas for us in MVC.

Annie Dagting Chew, BS Commerce 1973, and her husband Ted Chew are both retired and live in Thailand.

Christmas Memories By Sharlene Dawn Valenciano

’m sure that some people living in cities are curious of what Christmas is like in a mountainous place like MVC without many places and events to go to. For me, Christmas in Mountain View College was I enjoyable, exciting, and memorable. Christmas was entertaining yet solemn at the same time. I reminisced the time when I was an MVC student. Every time Christmas would draw near, many students, myself included, were eager to go home and celebrate the Christmas break with our families.

Before the break a Christmas gala or celebration was always held in the school. Each department, the Villages, both Men and Ladies’ dormitories also held their own Christmas parties. There were games, presentations, and food prepared especially for the party. It was fun because we got to bond with our friends and classmates and developed fun memories before going home for the Christmas vacation.

The high school students participated in a Christmas special musical performance every year called “Journey to Bethlehem,” where one is taken back to the time when Jesus was born. A group would tour the classrooms where each event before and after the birth of Jesus is portrayed. Tickets were available for those who wanted to see this performance.

I remembered the first time I went to see their musical performance, it was raining hard and the line to purchase the ticket was long. But in spite of that, everyone who was in line waited. Afterwards, my companions and I felt blessed and undeniably, the presentation was worth the wait.

I’m glad that even just once every year, I got to experience Christmas in MVC. Though it was not a “loud Christmas” like any others, but it was a blessed Christmas that an alumnus like me would treasure and remember.

From the Great Controversy

t the time of Christ's first advent the priests and scribes of the Holy City, to whom were entrusted the oracles of God, might have discerned the signs of the times and proclaimed the coming of the A Promised One. The prophecy of Micah designated His birthplace; Daniel specified the time of His advent. Micah 5:2; Daniel 9:25. God committed these prophecies to the Jewish leaders; they were without excuse if they did not know and declare to the people that the Messiah's coming was at hand. Their ignorance was the result of sinful neglect. The Jews were building monuments for the slain prophets of God, while by their deference to the great men of earth they were paying homage to the servants of Satan. Absorbed in their ambitious strife for place and power among men, they lost sight of the divine honors proffered them by the King of heaven. {GC 313.1}

With profound and reverent interest the elders of Israel should have been studying the place, the time, the circumstances, of the greatest event in the world's history--the coming of the Son of God to accomplish the redemption of man. All the people should have been watching and waiting that they might be among the first to welcome the world's Redeemer. But, lo, at Bethlehem two weary travelers from the hills of Nazareth traverse the whole length of the narrow street to the eastern extremity of the town, vainly seeking a place of rest and shelter for the night. No doors are open to receive them. In a wretched hovel prepared for cattle, they at last find refuge, and there the Saviour of the world is born. {GC 313.2}

Heavenly angels had seen the glory which the Son of God shared with the Father before the world was, and they had looked forward with intense interest to His appearing on earth as an event fraught with the greatest joy to all people. Angels were appointed to carry the glad tidings to those who were prepared to receive it and who would joyfully make it known to the inhabitants of the earth. Christ had stooped to take upon Himself man's nature; He was to bear an infinite weight of woe as He should make His soul an offering for sin; yet angels desired that even in His humiliation the Son of the Highest might appear before men with a dignity and glory befitting His character. Would the great men of earth assemble at Israel's capital to greet His coming? Would legions of angels present Him to the expectant company? {GC 313.3}

An angel visits the earth to see who are prepared to welcome Jesus. But he can discern no tokens of expectancy. He hears no voice of praise and triumph that the period of Messiah's coming is at hand. The angel hovers for a time over the chosen city and the temple where the divine presence has been manifested for ages; but even here is the same indifference. The priests, in their pomp and pride, are offering polluted sacrifices in the temple. The Pharisees are with loud voices addressing the people or making boastful prayers at the corners of the streets. In the palaces of kings, in the assemblies of philosophers, in the schools of the rabbis, all are alike unmindful of the wondrous fact which has filled all heaven with joy and praise--that the Redeemer of men is about to appear upon the earth. {GC 314.1}

There is no evidence that Christ is expected, and no preparation for the Prince of life. In amazement the

celestial messenger is about to return to heaven with the shameful tidings, when he discovers a group of shepherds who are watching their flocks by night, and, as they gaze into the starry heavens, are contemplating the prophecy of a Messiah to come to earth, and longing for the advent of the world's Redeemer. Here is a company that is prepared to receive the heavenly message. And suddenly the angel of the Lord appears, declaring the good tidings of great joy. Celestial glory floods all the plain, an innumerable company of angels is revealed, and as if the joy were too great for one messenger to bring from heaven, a multitude of voices break forth in the anthem which all the nations of the saved shall one day sing: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men." Luke 2:14. {GC 314.2}

Oh, what a lesson is this wonderful story of Bethlehem! How it rebukes our unbelief, our pride and self- sufficiency. How it warns us to beware, lest by our criminal indifference we also fail to discern the signs of the times, and therefore know not the day of our visitation. {GC 315.1}

It was not alone upon the hills of Judea, not among the lowly shepherds only, that angels found the watchers for Messiah's coming. In the land of the heathen also were those that looked for Him; they were wise men, rich and noble, the philosophers of the East. Students of nature, the Magi had seen God in His handiwork. From the Hebrew Scriptures they had learned of the Star to arise out of Jacob, and with eager desire they awaited His coming, who should be not only the "Consolation of Israel," but a "Light to lighten the Gentiles," and "for salvation unto the ends of the earth." Luke 2:25, 32; Acts 13:47. They were seekers for light, and light from the throne of God illumined the path for their feet. While the priests and rabbis of Jerusalem, the appointed guardians and expounders of the truth, were shrouded in darkness, the Heaven- sent star guided these Gentile strangers to the birthplace of the newborn King. {GC 315.2}

It is "unto them that look for Him" that Christ is to "appear the second time without sin unto salvation." Hebrews 9:28. Like the tidings of the Saviour's birth, the message of the second advent was not committed to the religious leaders of the people. They had failed to preserve their connection with God, and had refused light from heaven; therefore they were not of the number described by the apostle Paul: "But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness." 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 5. {GC 315.3}

The watchmen upon the walls of Zion should have been the first to catch the tidings of the Saviour's advent, the first to lift their voices to proclaim Him near, the first to warn the people to prepare for His coming. But they were at ease, dreaming of peace and safety, while the people were asleep in their sins. Jesus saw His church, like the barren fig tree, covered with pretentious leaves, yet destitute of precious fruit. There was a boastful observance of the forms of religion, while the spirit of true humility, penitence, and faith-- which alone could render the service acceptable to God--was lacking. Instead of the graces of the Spirit there were manifested pride, formalism, vainglory, selfishness, oppression. A backsliding church closed their eyes to the signs of the times. God did not forsake them, or suffer His faithfulness to fail; but they departed from Him, and separated themselves from His love. As they refused to comply with the conditions, His promises were not fulfilled to them. {GC 315.4}

Such is the sure result of neglect to appreciate and improve the light and privileges which God bestows. Unless the church will follow on in His opening providence, accepting every ray of light, performing every duty which may be revealed, religion will inevitably degenerate into the observance of forms, and the spirit of vital godliness will disappear. This truth has been repeatedly illustrated in the history of the church. God requires of His people works of faith and obedience corresponding to the blessings and privileges bestowed. Obedience requires a sacrifice and involves a cross; and this is why so many of the professed followers of Christ refused to receive the light from heaven, and, like the Jews of old, knew not the time of their visitation. Luke 19:44. Because of their pride and unbelief the Lord passed them by and revealed His truth to those who, like the shepherds of Bethlehem and the Eastern Magi, had given heed to all the light they had received. {GC 316.1}

(from the Great Controversy, pages 313-316)

Who started Christmas

woman was out Christmas shopping with her two children. After many hours of looking at row after row of toys and everything else imaginable, and after hours of hearing both her children A asking for everything they saw on those many shelves, she finally made it to the elevator with her two kids.

She was feeling what so many of us feel during the holiday season time of the year---overwhelming pressure to go to every party, every housewarming, taste all the holiday food and treats, get that perfect gift for every single person on our shopping list, make sure we don't forget anyone on our card list, and the pressure of making sure we respond to everyone who sent us a card.

Finally the elevator doors opened and there was already a crowd in the car. She pushed her way into the car and dragged her two kids in with her and all the bags of stuff.

When the doors closed she couldn't take it anymore and stated, “Whoever started this whole Christmas thing should be found, strung up, and shot.”

From the back of the car everyone heard a quiet, calm voice respond, “Don't worry. We already crucified him."

(from Cybersalt Digest)

Ring

guy bought his wife a beautiful diamond ring for Christmas.

A A friend of his said, "I thought she wanted one of those pretty 4-wheel drive vehicles?"

"She did," he replied, "But where in the world was I going to find a fake jeep!!"

(from Mikey's Funnies)

Tree Shopping

fter searching high and low for a Christmas tree, my husband Norm and I finally found one we liked. That was when I spotted a woman nearby, holding up and inspecting the "perfect" tree. How A could we have missed it? Even as we gathered up our tree and began making our way to the checkout stand, I kept an eye on the other woman, and watched as she carried it around the lot. Suddenly, she set it aside and started looking at other trees, clearly no longer interested in that one.

I couldn't believe my eyes!

I ditched ours and quickly ran over to grab the coveted tree. As we made our way back to the checkout stand, I said to Norm, "That was a stroke of luck. I can't believe she didn't want this tree. It's perfect!"

"Not to her," Norm replied. "She just ran over and snatched up the one we had."

(from GCFL)

1 Corinthians 13 for Christmas

f I speak in the tongues of Christmas materialism and greed but have not love, I am only a tinny Christmas song or an out of tune choir. I If I have the gift of knowing what Aunt Agatha will give me this year and can even understand last year's present, and if I have the faith that I won't get yet more socks and ties this year but have not love, I am nothing.

If I clear out the house and give everything to charity and my credit cards are snapped in half but have not love, what can I possibly gain?

Love is patient when the fourth store you've tried doesn't have a bottle garden.

Love is kind and lets the couple with only a few items go in front of you and your bulging shopping cart.

Love does not envy your friend who gets mega-presents from everybody.

Love does not boast about the $1200 bike, the ipad, the TV, cell phone, and computer your dad gave you.

Love does not attempt to out-buy, out-wrap, and out-give the rest of the family just to impress.

Love doesn't cut Aunt Flo off your Christmas card list because she forgot you last year.

Love is not self-seeking and leaves a copy of your Christmas list in every room of the house.

Love is not easily angered when the young girl at the checkout takes forever because she is just temporary staff.

Love doesn't keep remembering how many times your mum forgets you don't like brussel sprouts.

Love does not delight in the commercial bandwagon but rejoices with the truth of a baby born in the stable.

Love always protects the family from Christmas hype.

Love always trusts that the hiding places for presents will remain secret for another year.

Love always hopes that this year more neighbors will drop in to your open house coffee morning.

Love always perseveres until the cards are written, the presents all bought, the shopping done, and the Christmas cake iced.

Toys may break, socks wear thin but love never fails.

Where there is the feeling of the presents to guess their contents, and mum going on about being good so Father Christmas will come, and searching through the cupboards to find your hidden presents, they will all stop.

For we think we know what we are getting, and we hope we know what we are getting but when Christmas Day arrives all will be revealed.

When I was a child I talked with big wide-open eyes about Christmas, thought that Christmas was all about me; I reasoned that Jesus should have been born more often. When I became an adult, I forgot the joy, wonder, and excitement of this special time.

Now we just hear about the angels, shepherds, and wise men, then we shall see them all the time. Now I know as much as the Bible says about the first Christmas, then I shall know just how many wise men there were and where they came from.

Now three things remain to be done:

To have faith that the baby born in a stable is the Son of God.

To hope that the true message of Christmas will not get discarded with the wrapping paper and unwanted gifts.

And the most important: to have a love for others like the one that God has for us.

Copyright 2001 Claire Jordan, Permission is granted to send this to others, but not for commercial purposes. (from Cybersalt Digest)

Early Shopping

t was Christmas and the judge was in a merry mood as he asked the prisoner,"What are you charged with?" I "Doing my Christmas shopping early," replied the defendant.

"That's no offense," said the judge. "How early were you doing this shopping?"

"Before the store opened."

(from Mikey's Funnies)

Christmas Night Gown

ooking in the mall for a cotton nightgown, I tried my luck in a store known for its hot lingerie. To my delight, however, I found just what I was looking for. Waiting in the line to pay, I noticed a young L woman behind me holding the same nightgown. This confirmed what I suspected all along: despite being over 50, I still have a very "with it" attitude.

"I see we have the same taste," I said proudly to the 20 something behind me.

"Yes," she replied. "I'm getting this for my grandmother for Christmas."

(from PearlyGates) The First Christmas

small cute little boy regularly went to Sunday school where he learned the stories from Bible. One Sunday, he heard the story of Three Wise Men guided by the Holy Star. A His version of story, which he told his parents after returning home, was: "On the first Christmas, there was no Santa. So, three men had to deliver toys to Baby Christ on camels. Since, they didn't have Rudolph's red nose to guide them, they used a spotlight in the sky to guide them around."

(from Da Mouse Tracks)

Christmas in Different Countries

ime is moving past that I did not notice that its Christmas time again. Every year, I make it a point to have family time always. It’s the time of the year that I always look forward to because it means T time for enjoyment. This week, I thought of sharing with you how Christmas is celebrated in some countries I have visited. You might be interested to know that in different parts of the world, Christmas celebration differs.

Thailand

Thailand differs in their Christmas celebrations or it could be said that the Christmas Celebrations in Thailand vary from the rest of the world in the sense that 25th December is not the recognized as a holiday by this country, which is located in Southeast Asia. In spite of the fact that at the time of the festival of Christmas the offices as well as the schools, colleges as well as the universities remains open, the residents of the country still makes the efforts to observe this festival in the best way possible. The children on the day of Christmas get dressed up in vibrant colors and most of the schools make this day a special affair for the children. The distribution of the gifts by Santa Claus to the children along with the singing of the Christmas carols and Christmas hymns form a major part of the school Christmas festivities and the teachers as well as the other staff of the school also acts out plays for the entertainment of the children. The families embellish their homes, cook special meals and guests are invited over and some special moments spent with family members relatives, colleagues as well as close associates. Drinking, eating and merry making are the characteristics of the Christmas celebration for the residents who observe this day in Thailand. (Dgreetings.com) Fiji

Christmas celebration in Fiji more about family get-togethers rather than extravagant decorations and fireworks. Observance on Christmas Eve: Fijians spend Christmas visiting churches to observe the

The Meke Dance midnight worship and listen to carols. At night, children expect Santa Claus to visit their homes and leave behind toys and gifts for them. Two weeks before December 25, people gather together at the largest house in the community and stay there till two weeks after New Year’s Day. They participate in singing, and enjoy the traditional “Meke” dance, which is usually a part of every important occasion in Fiji. This classic dance form involves a fan dance or “seasea” by women and a spear dance known as “Make wesi” by men. People light lamps to decorate the whole area where the ‘Meke’ dance is performed. Christmas trees are also adorned with colorful ribbons and candles are used to decorate homes. People prefer to cook food in the “lovo” which is an oven full of stones, placed immediately outside their homes. They usually organize a feast or December 24 and 25. Some of the most favorite dishes eaten during Christmas in Fiji are garlic and spice filled chicken, pork beef, fish, Dalo and cassava,. A special drink known as “kava” is an integral part of the festive season. (Dgreetings.com)

Malaysia

Malaysia has its unique style of celebrating Christmas. Christmas trees are put up by the Christians at their homes one or two weeks before Christmas. All the shopping malls of Malaysia put up with lights and decoration and welcome Christmas, the festival of joy and merry making, with much fervor and enthusiasm. The practice of singing Christmas carols for this very special occasion begins in the middle of December with the carolers going around from house to house one week before Christmas in their respective zones. Along with the carolers there is also a person dressed as Santa Claus who gives out sweets to the children. Christians dress up in new clothes and visit the church for participating in the midnight mass on the eve of Christmas. (dgreetings.com)

Singapore

Singapore being a melting pot of different religions and cultures with people from every country residing in this city-state, Christmas is mainly a secular occasion here. Christmas is largely celebrated outdoors in the city as tourists form around the world converge in Singapore to completely immerse themselves in the Yuletide spirit. Shopping seems to be the main activity as supermarkets, malls, and outlets aggressively compete with each other to offer fabulous discounts to shoppers. Almost every store has a Christmas tree at the entrance. The two km Orchard Road stretch is decorated with impressive lights of all kinds. The entire area bathes in a sea of illumination. The Christmas trees are adorned with teddy bears, candies, ribbons, phosphorescent balls and other adornments. (focussingapore.com) Jamaica

Christmas is a very special time in Jamaica and like a lot of other countries, radio stations play carols all through the Christmas period. Lots of people paint their houses and hang new curtains and decorations for Christmas. Most families spend Christmas Day at home with friends and family members. In Jamaica, Christmas Eve is also called 'Grand Market' and is a really exciting time, especially for children. In every town and city in the country there is a cross between a festival and a market. During the day, people go shopping for Christmas foods, sweets and toys, etc. The traditional Jamaican Christmas meal include fresh fruits, sorrel and rum punch and meat. The Christmas Day breakfast includes ackee and saltfish, breadfruit, fried plantains, boiled bananas, freshly squeezed fruit and tea. Dinner is usually served in the late afternoon and this may include chicken curry goat, stewed oxtail, rice and peas. (whychristmas.com). Christmas in Jamaica is a mix of non stop parties, Jonkonnu, Grand Market, Christmas carols always sung to a reggae beat

Japan

Christmas has only been widely celebrated in Japan for the last few decades. It's still not seen as a religious holiday or celebration as there aren't many Christians in Japan. Now several customs that came to Japan from the USA such as sending and receiving Christmas Cards and Presents are popular. In Japan, Christmas in known as more of a time to spread happiness rather than a religious celebration. Christmas Eve is often celebrated more than Christmas Day. Christmas Eve is thought of as a romantic day, in which couples spend together and exchange presents. In many ways it resembles Valentine's Day celebrations in the UK and the USA. Young couples like to go for walks to look at the Christmas lights and have a romantic meal in a restaurant - booking a table on Christmas Eve can be very difficult as it's so popular! Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day. The traditional Japanese Christmas food is Christmas cake, but it’s not a rich fruit cake, but is usually a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream. The ‘shortcake’ emoji is Japanese Christmas cake! (whychristmas.com) Indonesia

Although most people in Indonesia (about 85%) are Muslims, about 10% of the population are Christians - that's still about 20 million people! Indonesian Christians love to celebrate Christmas! Indonesian Christians usually go to church services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In most churches and cathedrals, people create nativity scenes and use them as part of the Nativity drama performance. Christmas trees in Indonesia are normally artificial ones made of plastic. Although less common, some people have real Pine trees to be decorated as Christmas trees. Another special type of Christmas trees are ones made from chicken feathers - made by people in their homes on Bali Island. These feather trees have been exported to different countries around the world. In early December, huge Christmas trees with beautiful and colorful decorations can be found in most shopping malls in big cities all over the country. In 2011 there also a huge Christmas tree made of edible chocolate, created by professional Indonesian chocolatiers! Popular Christmas carols in Indonesia include 'Malam Kudus' (an Indonesian version of 'O Holy Night') and 'Malam Kudus' (an Indonesian version of 'Silent Night'). These songs are usually sung on Christmas Eve in churches by a choir during the candle-light service, when people think about the Christmas story. (whychristnas.com).

India

Compared to other religious festivals, Christmas is quite a small festival in India, due to the number of people who are Christians (about 2.3%) compared to people who belong to other religions. Having said this, the population of India is over 1 Billion, so there are over 25 million Christians in India! One of the largest Indian Christian Communities in a city is in Mumbai. A lot of the Christians in Mumbai (previously known as Bombay) are Roman Catholics. In India's smallest state, Goa which is on the west of India, about 26% of people are Christians. Many of the Christians in Mumbai came from or have roots in Goa. The states of Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Mizoram (all on the very east of India) have high populations of Christians as well. Midnight mass is a very important service for Christians in India, especially Catholics. The whole family will walk to the mass and this will be followed by a massive feast of different delicacies, (mostly curries) and the giving and receiving of presents. Churches in India are decorated with Poinsettia flowers and candles for the Christmas Eve Midnight Mass service. Instead of having traditional Christmas trees, a banana or mango tree is decorated (or whatever tree people can find to decorate!). Sometimes people use mango leaves to decorate their homes. In Southern India Christians often put small oil burning clay lamps on the flat roofs of their homes to show their neighbors that Jesus is the light of the world. (whychristmas.com)

China

In China, only about one percent of people are Christians, so most people only know a few things about Christmas. Because of this, Christmas is only often celebrated in major cities. In these big cities there are Christmas Trees, lights and other decorations on the streets and in department stores. Santa Claus is called 'Shen Dan Lao Ren' and has grottos in shops like in Europe and America. In Chinese Happy/Merry Christmas is 'Sheng Dan Kuai Le or 圣诞快乐' in Mandarin and 'Seng Dan Fai Lok or 聖誕快樂' in Cantonese. Happy/Merry Christmas in lots more languages.

In China, Santa is known as 'Sheng dan lao ren' (Traditional: 聖誕老人, Simplified: 圣诞老人; means Old Christmas Man). Only a few people have a Christmas Tree (or celebrate Christmas at all!). If people do have a tree it is normally a plastic one and might be decorated with paper chains, paper flowers, and paper lanterns (they might also call it a tree of light). The Christmas Trees that most people would see would be in shopping malls! Christmas isn't that widely celebrated in the rural areas of China, but it's becoming more well-known. The strange thing is that most of the world's plastic Christmas Trees and Christmas decorations are made in China, but the people making them might not know what they are for!!! (whychristmas.com)

Vanuatu

Vanuatu holds all the charms of a South Pacific Island and is appealing year-round for international visitors. But when the end of the year rolls around, and residents of the Northern Hemisphere are preparing for a white Christmas and a chilly New Year ... this is when a holiday in Vanuatu is truly unique! Celebrating Christmas in the tropics is an opportunity of a lifetime, something that you need to have experienced at least once in your life! It may be a little disconcerting for all those familiar with a wintertime feast, for a mid-summer Christmas is better suited to scrumptious fresh seafood, salads and cold meat. The best thing about Christmas in Vanuatu is that it’s a festivity that you can celebrate any way you wish! If you prefer to have a European-style luncheon, with Christmas hats on the heads of all the guests and Xmas crackers adorning each plate, then that’s possible. (resort-vanuatu.com) Samoa

The holidays for Samoan children starts in the month of October when they celebrate "White Sunday". They call it "Lotu A Tamaiiti". This is the Sunday that the churches will have the children to a recital of their memorized scripture or part (Tauloto) in a church play (drama) and then come home to be served by their parents and other adults. The only day out of 365 days that the children will eat first and served by adults. The adults in Samoa eat first. The rest of the year they do all the work (Feau's). They get their one tray (Laulau) of food and a new shirt (lavalava). By the beginning of November the villages will start setting up events for the Christmas and New Year celebration. Most villages in Savaii will have their Bingos and Togi's (Bowling equivalent) and crickets and other sports events. On the week of Christmas to the New Year sports teams from each villages will go to other villages to play for competitions.

On Christmas Eve Samoans go Christmas caroling during the night. On Christmas day after family feast some will go caroling at villages with Christmas trees. The village would have a big tree in their Malae (field) with all the food hanging on it. They had cooked pigs, chickens, fishes (Afi or Lauia), cornbeefs, apamasi (Can of Crackers) etc. hanging and after the singing they the food hanging from the tree. The Christmas present they usually get as children were water guns, balloons, marbles, bath soaps or a new shirt or pants. Majority of village children will get balloons and they will be satisfied. The evening bingos, togi, and piliati will continue until New Year’s Day. The volleyballs, crickets and other sporting event continue during the day hours. (news.rootsweb.com)

Tonga

No snow and no real pine trees. Maybe a balloon, if you’re lucky. This is how some Tongans describe Christmas in Tonga. In Tonga for Christmas you had to imagine a lot of things, in Tonga, they don’t give gifts, they share talents. Singing is a big part of Christmas in Tonga. It begins the first week of December and goes until New Years. Christmas in Tonga is described as “very spiritual and singing mostly.” Tongans get together in churches and sing all day and night. In Tonga, the government shuts down from Christmas Day until New Year’s Day. Christmas Day is celebrated by everyone. It’s against the law to break the Sabbath and it is a law to celebrate Christmas since everything is closed. The government is set up to believe in God and to believe in Christ. Christmas decorations in Tonga are nothing like those in the United States. If you have a Christmas tree, it’s real. They get it from a tree in the bush (meaning your backyard). And you decorate your tree with balloons and candy. Some Tongans say the focus of their Christmas is more on food than on presents. On Christmas Day, Tongans make plates of food to exchange with or give to their neighbors. Most of Christmas in Tonga is about food. If you have six neighbors, then you make six plates. And you end up with six different foods on Christmas night.

Others say the highlight of Christmas in Tonga is the tutukupakanava, when coconut husks are lined up on the beach and lit on fire. This is a practice followed not throughout the South Pacific. Each island burns their husk on the seashore and they space it out and it looks like Christmas lights. But its real fires. It will be so beautiful and so pretty and it actually looked like Christmas lights.

Overall, Christmas is a simpler holiday in Tonga. (universe.byu.edu)

This year had been a very difficult year related to my work as I faced with so many difficult and unique work-related situations. I am very glad that at the end of this year most of these difficulties have been resolved and I can celebrate Christmas at its fullest with my family.

Romy Halasan, Davao City Philippines

The MVC Alumni Association Western USA Reunion At the Omni Rancho Las Palmas Hotel, Rancho Mirage, California By Eddie Zamora

e arrived at the hotel at about 4:30 in the afternoon of Friday, December 16. The days are short and it was almost dark. We had checked in online so that made the process a bit easier. We W were a bit late arriving at the reunion venue because we had to meet Loida (Estabillo-Cruz) at the Ontario Airport a little after noon. One weather condition that stood out was the wind blowing pretty hard. The wind gave the term “wind chill factor” a clearer meaning because our fall temperature was pretty low and with the blustery wind it felt colder yet. We had lunch after 3 pm so we did not need to have dinner. Ellen and Loida went to the meeting place on a golf cart provided by the hotel—it was good to have a ride because it was cold and the meeting place was some distance from our room. I spent the evening finishing the CyberFlashes with Joy’s help. It was good to have her in the area. The hotel also had a good WiFi so mailing out the finished issue was easy and fast. Sabbath morning we went pretty early to the meetings. There were a lot of empty seats at the start but it soon filled up pretty fast. The hotel personnel brought in chairs almost continuously until the hall

At the registration desk The Babaos with Raylene was filled to capacity. Since I was coughing now and then, I decided to stay outside the hall. Based on the number of times chairs had to be added, I would guess that the reunion attendance was quite large. There were quite a number of people that I have not seen in years. Some we met in northern California at the reunion there three years ago I believe. Others we met in Henderson, Nevada. One nursing alumna that I was told was present was Teresita Labitad. The last time I saw her was probably at her graduation. I watched for her and saw her before the Sabbath School program started. I went and greeted her and we chatted a bit. What she confessed later was she did not recognize me and politely smiled and talked. Eventually she figured out who I was and we got to be real acquaintances after that. It was good to meet with Raylene and Joy, two current editors of the CyberFlashes. It was also nice to get to talk again with Ed Babao, a former editor. He lives in San Diego but we have not met for quite a while, so we had a pose with Raylene. We wish Joy was around then. Ed came with his sister Beth Roble and her husband and his brother Eliel and his wife. I haven’t seen Eliel since he was at MVC. Raylene wrote about the banquet and the socials. Both affairs were most enjoyable. About the banquet, the food was outstanding. I can’t complain about that. There was only one concerned comment I heard. It was about time management for the programs. It was about starting promptly and ending on time so the next program will not be “pushed” into the next part. The Hour of Worship ended after 1:00

Macie Porteza-Flaherty giving a promotional talk Hannah Decolongon singing

pm because the speaker started at noon. The afternoon reports ended at 7:00 pm so the banquet scheduled for 5:30 started at 8:00 pm. The person who commented wonders if the alumni reunions will always be this way. I certainly hope not. Other than that, everything was commendable. For next year’s reunion it was suggested that it be held at the same venue. What say you?

Eugene Sarsoza with some former academy friends Jun Israel and family

Ellen Zamora with Loida Cruz and Felin Camato Ed Babao, Raylene and Eddie, CF Editors

Lolita Valdez, Loida Cruz and Lydia Tayrus Alumni President Elbert Moralde

From the Mailbag From Elbert Moralde, President. MVC Alumni Association Western USA Redlands, California

Our MVC Alumni & Friends Reunion 2016 is gone and done. The tremendous turn-out and success of that event underscores the desire of every alumnus, alumna & friends to personally reconnect and emotionally reminisce or to just be with each other and do some 'catching up' even for just some few moments.

That desert gate-away weekend gave us a lasting "December to Remember" experience indeed that, I'm sure, will leave an additional indelible mark in our memory - the culture of cohesiveness and closeness of MVC Alumni & supportive friends.

However, the success of that event may not have been made possible without the volunteer efforts of your officers who were diligently and efficiently doing their share to make that occasion an outstanding endeavor.

Therefore, in this regard I would like to offer my sincerest thanks and appreciation to Don Frasco, Lem Escamos, Caesar Decolongon, Ben Rosas, Jen Luceñara, Jerelyn Bocala, Bing Baliton and Joy Caballero- Gadia - my fellow volunteers (officers) who stuck it out through 'thick and thin' just to make this event a reality.

I would like also to convey my appreciation to Ric Abordo for his outstanding and efficient PA system. To all our participants: Las Vegas chapter, LASDAC, COISDAC, Waterman, the SULADS, mass choir and conductor Noemi Tañada, the singers (Advent Philomels USA, F8ithful Youth, Hannah Decolongon) and our guest speakers: Dr. Joe Dial, Pastor Edwin Gulfan and Dr. Gladden Flores.

TO ONE AND ALL, the bottom line is - it was a successful reunion and retreat because of GOD & YOU.

From SULADS USA to each of the MVC alumni and friends out there. A Native American prayer.

May the Warm Winds of Heaven Blow softly upon your house; May the Great Spirit Bless all who enter there; May your Moccasins Make happy tracks in many snows; And may the Rainbow Always touch your shoulder!

Christmas Greetings The Editors

Wishing all our readers "May we all have the Merriest A Merry Christmas this Christmas and the Happiest New Holiday Season. Year!"

Lily Escara Lare Ellen and Eddie Zamora Lily_lare at yahoo dot com dot ph ezamora594 at aol dot com

"Merry Christmas to you all. May Jesus Christ live in our hearts and show in our lives in 2017. Blessings and "Love, Joy, Peace to all!” prosperity to all." Raylene & Helmut Baumgart Jess & Nancy Colegado raylene.baumgart at gmail dot com Cyberflashes at gmail dot com

May peace, love and prosperity Acknowledging CHRIST follow you always. the Reason for the season. Merry Christmas The greatest Gift of all. Henry-Lyn Tabingo Joy Caballero-Gadia & Andy Gadia etabingo at gmail dot com watermankids at yahoo dot com

May the Yuletide season fill your

hearts and homes with an In this Yuletide Season, abundance of love, contentment, my family and I wish you a very joy, and harmony. Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year to all.

Melodie Karaan-Inapan & family Romy & Lucy Halasan’s family melodieinapan at yahoo dot com Romsnake at gmail dot com

This week’s issue of Cyberflashes was by Evelyn Porteza Tabingo. Next week’s issue will be by Melodie Mae Karaan Inapan. Please direct all entries to her or any of the editors.

If you wish to subscribe to Cyberflashes, to unsubscribe, or if you changed your email address and want Cyberflashes to be sent to your new address, please send your request via email to any of the editors. We spell out the @ and dot signs in the email addresses to prevent worms, viruses, and robots from harvesting them. If you would like to correspond, simply substitute the correct symbols.

Acknowledgement

I wish to thank the following for their regular contributions despite their heavy workload:  Jessie Colegado for the chuckles in “Jessie’s Patch of Weeds”;  Romy Halasan for the first-hand mission stories in “Life of A Missionary”  Eddie Zamora for editing, Raylene Baumgart for photo instagmag, Joy Caballero-Gadia for the lay out

Special Thanks to:

Mr. Don Christensen Iris Lee Bingcang Tomampos Julio and Mila Mendez Sharlene Dawn Valenciano Ellen Valenciano Annie Dagting-Chew

Thank you all for sharing your interesting Christmas stories

Prayer Request

Prayer for comfort for the bereaved families of: Kerry Tortal, Elmore Jornada, Rolly Boniales, Pastor Rudy Bermudez, Celia Mendez, Venus Pasco, Necito Ruado, Malachi Zamora, Pura Alsaybar, Gladys Sanes and Jonathan Navales.

Continue to pray for the other families who lost their loved ones this year. This would be the first Christmas season with an empty chair at the Christmas dinner table. May the God of peace and love be very close to these families, as we all look forward to the blessed tomorrow where there will be no more death.

Prayer for Protection .. for the missionaries who dedicated their lives in service to God. Pray for their safety and protection as they face the many challenges in the mission field.

…for those who will be travelling this holiday season. …the men and women who protect our country

Prayer for Healing Rebecca Antemano, Roxie Pido, Virgie Osita, Neneng Sanes, Pastor Oseas Zamora, Pastor Remelito Tabingo

Prayer for Peace. Pray for the displaced refugees due to the conflict in different parts of the world. May they experience peace this holiday season.

Continued Prayer Request for Gary’s safe return. A person who was so active in church activities in California then in Virginia, he went to the Philippines to study medicine. Sadly, last month he went missing and his truck was found abandoned. Nothing makes sense. No further clues have been found. Philippine authorities are actively working on the search.

Closing Remarks

No Room at the Inn

Angels traveled with Joseph and Mary from their home in Nazareth to Bethlehem, but in the city of their royal ancestor, Joseph and Mary were lost in the crowds. No one noticed them or cared about them. There was no room for them at the crowded inn. Finally, in a shelter full of animals, they found a spot to rest. And there, the Savior of the world was born.

The news fill heaven with joy. Angels gathered in the sky over the hills around Bethlehem, waiting for the signal to announce the happy news to world. If the leaders of God's people had been waiting and watching for the Messiah, they could have joined in announcing Jesus' birth. But they were passed by. Instead, God searched for those who were faithfully waiting and watching.

(from the book Messiah by Jerry D. Thomas) Shared by Jess Colegado

Is there room in our heart for Him? Or are your plans and actions all geared to celebrating the holidays, forgetting the reason for Christ’s birth?

Happy Sabbath