Reflection # 12 (Enduring Church)

The Philippine drama often feature the protagonist as one who is expected to suffer all challenges to the point of giving up or defeated by the enemy. This picture comes to mind while learning towards the end of our study is Church History this semester. I find this week to be really special and fascinating that I came to compare church history like the typical movie scene in the country. I have learned that like a drama Christianity has been through a lot in all ages. So many figures in history tired to stop it. So many martyrs fought for it. There were even compromises.The church has been through a lot. In addition, I have learned also that in behalf all the power, human efforts, teachings, persecution, etc., Christianity endured. And yes, like a movie that glued our eyes to the screen, the events of church history unfolded with victory. It is proven with solid evidences that our faith indeed is enduring. And I believe that someday when the end comes, Jesus and His church will achieve all victory. That victory is sweeter than what anyone could feel when their favorite actor finally reached a happy ending. That victory is for eternity and to be attacked no more.

I realized that Christian faith's essence remained the same. The church has an enduring spirit which was never quenched by any opposing power. If it endured this long, why not to the end? It gives hope that what we hold on to is true. The work of Jesus still resonate two thousand years after He came. Somewhere in my Christian walk I was worried about those false religion deceiving many. I was worried about the eternal destiny of those who have gone astray. I worried about the true church being overtaken. Now, I know I should not. Yes I should care but to worry about being defeated by the power of darkness, I should not.

So what now? I shall cease worrying about the future of the church. I shall stop thinking that Islam is growing faster and might overthrow Christianity because it is proven in history that God is empowering His church so that it still exist today. Instead, I will work and continue to be faithful in serving God. In that way, I will be a useful tool in propagating the truth of what we believe about God, His word and the church.

Reflection # 11 (Use Me)

 Sometimes it may sound irrational or make believe when we hear stories of simple/ unexpected people doing great things in life. Sometimes the discrimination and indifference went ahead so that often times a critical eye missed brilliant reality of the ways of God. Sometimes we thought that the stories told in the Bible about God using simple people who accomplished great tasks were just stories and somehow a lofty aim. Sometimes we look at our selves only to look away because we feel so intimidated with our dreams that seemed so big and impossible. It makes me wonder about our faith. What happened to us? Are we going to just read about the lives of other people and would not even dare to hope that maybe somewhere somehow we could achieve something out of ordinary? These wondering kept bugging my head. Why do we tend to be amazed with the greatness of God and other people without expecting or desiring to be great ourselves? Is it because of our culture or upbringing? Is it because of our past failures that wounded our pride so that we sheltered ourselves forever? So why am I saying this? It's because I was listening to the report and my mind drifted to the thought that really impressed me this week. I have learned or rather relearn that God can use people with limitations for greater things. Just like Charles Spurgeon. He was poor, uneducated, etc. Yet, he was called the “Prince of Preachers”. God sees beyond our physical appearance and our academic background. That is what I have learned and realized this week.

So what? Is this applicable to me? Of course. I often feel the deep conviction that God wants to use me but my insecurities would often overtake me that it choke every ounce of courage I have. So in application I am giving my heart, mind and skills to God. NO matter how big or small they are. I'm giving it to God and if He calls me to do something with those little abilities,t hen I will obey and trust Him that He will equip me wherever HE sends me.  Just like the song "Potter's Hand" I am giving my life to the Potter to be molded, to be used, guided, corrected, lead, etc. I pray that I will be able to see past myself and see the hands of God.