Remembering my mother

On the occasion of Mother’s Day (May 9, 2011), I remember my mother who died 4 years ago.  Along with the lessons of life and living from the true story by Mitch Albom, “Tuesdays with Morrie”, I recall the past, its relevance to the present in order to have a glimpse of the future.

“Accept what you are able to do and what you are not able to do.” Acceptance of who I am, what I can do and cannot do is my faithful recognition of God’s wisdom in my life.  To my dying Nanay, I have been praying and offering my daily Masses for the grace of forgiveness and reconciliation.  She has been lying in bed since February 2007.

My parents may have lots of misgivings and resentments against me because I failed to break their bondage from poverty.  I can only ask God for our emotional healing.  The Lord only knows when and how.

“Accept the past as past without denying it or discarding it.” I have many happy and bitter memories with my parents and siblings.  The hardships, sufferings and sacrifices I experienced became opportunities to work hard in order to earn an academic degree.  The most fulfilling achievement happened when I was appointed assistant instructor effective April 1, 1976 to teach during summer that same year.  I was thrilled to handle a class that included some of my classmates who failed to graduate with me a week earlier.

My first salary for April and May was received with excitement.  I joyfully handed the whole amount to my mother.  Unfortunately, she did not say anything nor showed appreciation.   When I remitted to her my full salary for June, my heart bled when she commented, “Mao na lang ni?” I was dumbstruck and failed to explain.  I was wounded by their ingratitude.  It was the beginning of a change of my attitude towards them.  As the eldest, I committed myself to help and assist my siblings with their studies.  I supported my parents with their financial needs but they were discontented.  I missed their understanding and cooperation.  From being selfless, I became selfish.

After three (3) years of wandering, I decided to wean off and be detached from them.  I opted to have a family of my own.  Accordingly, “the experience of having complete responsibility for another human being, to learn to love and bond in the deepest way is to have your own children”.   Indeed, Judy and I are blessed with two (2) grown-up and responsible daughters who are professionals in their chosen career and an only son who is still in the elementary.  With them, I nurture my past and remind myself that “the most important thing in life is to learn how to give out love and let it come in”.  “To be fully human means connectedness with society.”  Basically, it starts with my own family then to the community surrounding me like the BCBP.

“Learn to forgive yourself and to forgive others.” This is a lesson we learn and relearn daily as we pray, “forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us”.  One of the realizations I have in our many BCBP teaching especially during the marriage retreat is that my love ones who are dearest to me were hurting me most and vice versa.  I resolved to forgive them and myself.  I pray that they forgive me as well.

“Don’t assume that it’s too late to get involved.” Nothing is too late to renew and heal broken relationships.  It is a matter of personal determination and God’s grace that we attain harmony and peace.  According to Pope Benedict XVI, “True peace is a harmonious coexistence of individuals governed by justice, where there is productive and sincere relationship following the path of forgiveness and reconciliation, being transparent in their dealing and faithful to their word.”

Human as I am being austerely practical, I planned and decided to simply send cash for the burial of my mother and other related expenses.  However, it was not so.  God provided me the opportunity to personally see her die peacefully reconciled with His divine will.  Arriving late in the evening, I found her deeply asleep with normal breathing.  I thought speaking with her in the morning was better than waking her up.  Lightly touching her skin and bony right arm, I mentally assured her that “I am around” during her dying moment.  She passed away at 3:00 a.m. on May 11, 2007.  Her death was my extraordinary gift from the Lord.  I praise and thank Him for answering my prayer lifted up for over a year.

During the second novena night, my brother knights (K of C Council 7507) with their respective wives (CFC) offered a prayer service to my amazement.  Knowing that it coincided with my 52^nd birthday, they readily sung joyful and lively birthday songs that I heard for the first time in my life.  I was deeply touched.  Indeed, “Blessed are they who mourn for they will be comforted” (Mt 5:4).   

One overnight vigil was spent luxuriantly with my dear cousin.  She is an elementary school teacher whose husband is a retired policeman.  We enthusiastically exchanged experiences and stories with the Lord keeping us surprisingly awake.  As active members of Couples for Christ (CFC), the most appropriate talk they use to comfortably deliver every time there is a Christian Life Program (CLP) in their locality is “Repentance and Faith”.

I was awestruck by our brothers and sisters (BCBP Baybay Chapter) who likewise rendered prayer service the night before burial.  Filled with astonishment, I admire, appreciate and acknowledge the initiative of the Mission Director, Music Ministry Head along with some active members headed by no less than their faithful Chapter Head.  Their exemplary deed is worth emulating.

Equally amazing was the physical presence of our empathic brothers and sisters from BCBP Consolacion Chapter.  They sailed the extra nautical miles to cross Camotes Sea to celebrate with us the Funeral Mass, a celebration of life, faith and love.

Inscribed in my mind are the generous donors who helped us with the finances.  I acknowledge with grateful heart everyone who united with us in “learning how to live by learning how to  die”.

The date of burial unexpectedly coincided with the second day of the grand reunion and alumni homecoming in my Alma Mater, my first and only prestigious employer.  Truly, death in the family reunites relatives and friends whom we missed for a long time.  To some extent, healing of relationships was attained.  In my mother’s tombstone is written the epitaph, “Death ends your life, not our relationship.”

In behalf of my family who is filled with gratitude, I say, “Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift" (2 Cor 9:15). nmg

Walking for life

“O nation of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the Lord!” (Isa 2:5), “walking in love” (2 Jn 6), “. . only to do the right and to love goodness humbly walking with our God” (Mi 6:8).

For me, March 19, 2011 (Saturday) was a “walking day” with the Lord.  I honored the feast of St. Joseph with my attendance to the 5:30 am Holy Mass.  In thanksgiving, I recalled how I withstood the trials during the preparation until the presentation/facilitation of the talk, Growing in faith and knowing God’s Will that was implemented first Friday evening (March 4, 2011) and the feeling of gratification as worship leader (March 18, 2011) with the same theme.

As “man of the month” for March and in my capacity as Mission Director, I took over the role as breakfast head with the absence of Kuya Paskie Tabuac who together with Ate Pureza, they were in Ormoc City to serve as couple sharers there.  

It was a week after the earthquake and tsunami in Japan that I supposed the unfavorable weather during that scheduled Saturday men’s breakfast fellowship was an aftereffect.   Kuya Gil Sanchez, our brother sharer from BCBP Mactan arrived early followed by three (3) unexpected walk-in guests: 2 ladies and a gentleman.  They were curious and interested to join.  With due respect to our invited sharer, I asked his permission whether he can allow the “unusual” to happen.  Our brief exchange of pleasantries revealed that our “out of the blue” visitors are members of the “International Strategic Apostolic Alliance of Churches and Missions” (ISAAC). 

Then, the main part which was the “sharing portion” proceeded without the usual introduction and “traditional BCBP welcome” for guests who come for the first time.  Anyway, the message I got was about “struggle and perseverance to succeed in life in spite of economic difficulties dependent on God’s Divine Providence”. 

Our fellowship ended with the invitation by our BCBP Consolacion Chapter Head to join the afternoon’s “Penitential Walk for Life” along with the other BCBP Chapters in Cebu and all other covenanted or religious Communities to express our opposition to the Reproductive Health (RH) or Responsible Parenthood (RP) Bill.

After freeing our brothers who may have appointments, our Chapter Head called our 3 guests to the podium to introduce themselves. The younger lady served as the spokesman.  She claimed that it was an appointed time provided by God after being delayed from their scheduled flight bringing them to our fellowship.  I was awed and astonished how she recalled their elementary days with our sharer as the number one in the class, her younger brother second and herself, the third.  With conviction, she dramatized how she offended our sharer by striking him with a broken pencil (this time with a broken chopstick) on his forehead.  Wow!  It was a “public display of reconciliation” (PDR). The offended one forgets the past but the offender has a “long penitential walk” to free herself from the significant duration of carrying the guilt.

The whole day was gloomy but it did not deter me from joining the “Penitential Walk for Life” late afternoon and early evening.  The absence of a public transport from Ayala prompted me to walk briskly and sometimes running with my umbrella open to catch up with the 6:00 pm assembly time at Fuente Osmeña but was 36 minutes late (exactly the same time frame our morning guests experienced with boarding).  But then, I was able to join the Celebration of the Holy Mass with Bishop Jose Palma as the main celebrant at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral.  It was scheduled to coincide with his first birthday celebration as the new Archbishop of Cebu.

Although alone but I was carrying with me two (2) identities: my BCBP Consolacion T-shirt and my Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Phils., Inc. (KCFAPI) umbrella.   I was among the overflowing people outside the Cathedral who experienced the non-stop drizzling rain since early morning until the evening.  Sharing my umbrella with a brother from the Family Life Apostolate (FLA), we finished our attendance to the anticipated Mass bringing home the message, “This is My Son, the Beloved, My chosen One.  Listen to Him” (Mt 17:5).   nmg  

Dependence on God (BCBP Mactan Edition)

(Note: This edition was delivered as mini-talk for BCBP Mactan Chapter at the Indiana Aerospace University (IAU) Chapel, Lapu-lapu City on April 21, 2011).

Brothers and sisters, good morning! To start with, let us ponder on the following verse from the Book of Proverbs that says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence rely not” (Prov 3:5).

Accordingly, coincidence is God’s way of protecting His anonymity.  However as renewed Christians, coincidence is Divine Providence.  In the afternoon last Tuesday (April 19, 2011), I was a “gate crasher” during the heavy snacks of the BCBP Mactan Intercessory Group hosted by Kuya Lito and Ate Dolor Yu.  Do you want to know the underlying circumstances? I delivered the personal effects of our nephew-in-law who is a PAF pilot whom I consider a bum, a good for nothing “son of a gun”.  Because of infidelity, we allow him to fly with his “doomed flight plan”.

Kuya Lito seeing me unloading the bags in front of their store, he invited me to their home.  The “gate crasher” became the ”greeter” because I came ahead of the Group.  To cut the story short, Kuya Gil Sanchez, my worthy brother knight of the Knights of Columbus and certainly your active and highly able and available Formation and Life Director can give you the details.

Humbly, I claim, “I am here neither by selection of an individual nor election of a group but by the Almighty appointment of God”.  With my doctrinal and expectant faith, I am here to share with you a portion of my inner being with the prayer that you can bring home a “nourishment for the soul” this Lenten season.

A collection of inspirational and Christian books including the Catechism of the Catholic Church, my Christian Community and the Catholic Serendipity Bibles provided me the much needed references.

Scanning and browsing the book entitled, “Francis of Assisi: The Man Who Gave Up Everything To Follow Jesus”, I was awed and struck by his sermon without words.  St. Francis wanted to show the Poor Clare sisters that “it is repentant heart that counts before God, not eloquent words”.   In the process of writing my thoughts, I did it with a clean conscience and a pure joy in my heart allowing the Lord Jesus, our ultimate model of dependence on God, to guide and empower me.

I found the book by J. Oswald Sanders entitled, “Spiritual Leadership” very helpful.  I treasure the compassion shown by Kuya Casi and Ate Emma Nadela who used to be the first BCBP Mactan Chapter Head who gave this book to Judy and me in February 2003.  Awfully noted and highlighted is the 7^th paragraph of 9 paragraphs of their dedication stating, “And – as you walk towards the summit where the cold gets colder, the wind stronger, the burden of responsibilities heavier – just bear in mind – you have “no one else but God”!  Yes, indeed, they are emphasizing our dependence on God.

It is amazing to note that the spirit of servanthood includes among others the dependence on God from the book by Sanders (1997).  Equally amazing is the January 19 devotional reflection titled, “Dependence on God” exactly the same title of our session we have on-hand.  This devotional reflection is from the book, “Light of My Path Each Day”, a Scripture Union’s (SU) Quiet Time Guide that I recently bought.  My reflection urged me to read the 1^st and 2^nd part of the Book of Samuel.  This is my first time to read the whole text trying to follow the story of David. I learned that during David’s time (Old Testament), an ephod (a vestment worn by the ancient Hebrew high priest in performing sacred duties) was used to determine God’s will.

Today, we have God’s Word (the Holy Bible) and the Holy Spirit to guide us in every decision we have to make.  Jesus declares, “From now on, the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My Name, will teach you all things and remind you of all that I have told you” (Jn 14:26).

In the Book of Samuel, David was featured in all his victories who began with claiming, affirmation and believing.  Claiming, affirmation and believing are acts or practices of dependence on God.  “David was a man made by God at the life of faith and the impact of grace, at a pattern of leadership and the perils of power, at God’s unfolding purpose pointing to Christ.  David foreshadowed the One yet to come:  Jesus, the King of Kings”.

In the Old and New Testament scenario, where do we fit-in?  Do we have a “heart for God” relying our total dependence on Him? Personally, as I serve as speaker/sharer in your Holy Thursday morning activity, I fervently prayed for guidance.  I acknowledge the Holy Spirit, my Helper, Counselor and Guide who assist me to do this service with gratefulness and total dependence on the Lord.

Abstraction/Personal Experience. As servant-leaders or simply being Christians, we do not act independently from our Master, our God. This dependence points to our relationship with Him.  How intimate are we to our Heavenly Father, our Creator? In any relationship for that matter, we start with knowing, then loving and finally serving.  In all aspects of our life and living, we are totally dependent on God in everything, as in everything.  In our relationship with God, He is our Giver and we are always the receiver.  Unworthy as we are because of our sinfulness, faults and failures, God continues to be a Merciful Giver.  In our dependence, God wants us to be free from the bondage of sin and be reconciled with Him through the Sacrament of Confession, Reconciliation and Penance. Accordingly, sin is a decision to deprive ourselves from God’s grace, a detachment or infidelity of our relationship with our Heavenly Father.  We need to be always in the state of Grace for God’s blessings to freely flow within and through us.

Dependence for life itself.  Basically, our life is dependent on God.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that “human life is sacred because from its beginning, it involves the creative act of God and it remains forever in a special relationship with the Creator, who is the sole end” (CCC 2258).

The Gospels of St. Matthew (Mt 6:19-34) and St. Luke (Lk 12:13-34) shed us light on “setting our hearts on the Kingdom”; “avoid being a rich fool” and “not worrying about our life”.

We are reminded to “set our hearts first in the Kingdom and justice of God and all the basic necessities of life: food, clothing and shelter will be given to us because our Heavenly Father knows that we need all these things to live” (Mt 6:32-33).

The story of the rich fool narrated by Jesus shows us how life can easily be taken away by God.  Our life do not depend on the many material possessions especially if greedily accumulated (Lk 12:13-21).  Dependence on life calls for spiritual enrichment to become rich before God. This means spiritual fulfillment. 

We must be free from worldly concerns.  Jesus said to His disciples, “I tell you not to worry about your life …” (Lk 12:22). 

Again, let us remember that material possessions do not give life.  Let us be sure that in the process of acquiring what we would like to have will not derail us neglecting the opportunity to make life.  This reminds me of Dr. Ron Jenson, America’s life coach who recommends, ”to make a life not just a living” in his book, Make a Life not Just a Living which I recommend you to read and live.

As a pro-life advocate being a faithful 4^th degree member of the Knights of Columbus myself, I for one oppose the Reproductive Health (RH) or confusingly called Responsible Parenthood Bill.   I see it as another venue for corruption geared towards making a living (money-making) disregarding the value of the “gift of life”.  We do not need so many legislations. Fundamental and essential is PRAYER for every Filipino to be disciplined that the core values of our culture be instilled and sustained for the many generations to come. Our educational system must promote values education.  May I know who joined the “Penitential Walk for Life” last March 19, 2011?.  I am writing my personal reflection about it because that day was significant for me. I think it was highly significant for Kuya Gil as well being BCBP Consolacion men’s breakfast sharer that day.  Watch for its posting in my website!.

The Supreme Chaplain of the Knights of Columbus, Bishop William E. Lori in his faith formation program, advises us, “We should ask for the Grace to open our minds and hearts to the truth and the beauty of the Church’s challenging and life-giving teaching on human sexuality.  We are called to embrace this teaching and to lead others to live the virtue of chastity in generosity and joy” (Columbia, Jan 2011. p. 5).  

Dependence on God for service.  From the book of the prophet Jeremiah, God says, “I will appoint over you shepherds after my own heart who will shepherd to you wisely and prudently” (Jer 3:15).  Do you feel and hear this call for service as shepherds (being the action group or unit leader) to our BCBP brothers and sisters assigned to you?  Let us be convicted (enough evidences to charge us being followers of Jesus) that indeed, God initiates the call for our service. Our respective assignments is an “Almighty appointment of God” for us.

Our response to the call for service may vary.  An outright No because of being busy is inacceptable.  Be reminded that ”God is holding our time.”  He can take it away from us anytime. Jeremiah again comes to the picture with our hesitation due to the feeling and fear of unworthiness and inadequacy. When he was called, God assured him, “Before I formed you in the womb I know you, before you were born, I dedicated you” (Jer 1:5).  Jeremiah responded, “Ah, Lord God!  I know not how to speak; I am too young” (Jer 1:6)

A resounding assurance every time we accept whatever service we are called for, God is firm in assuring us, “To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak.  Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you” (Jer 1:7).

The Lord knows the kind of men and women He chooses.  He knows our gifts and capabilities. He is aware of our feeling of inadequacy and our shortcomings.  But, in spite of these, He calls us to service by name.  Our Yes to His call, our willingness and commitment to serve will definitely be supported with our total dependence on God’s grace.  We are empowered to do God’s will for His greater honor and glory.

Dependence on God for our service also means seeking His will for the people entrusted to our care.  During our prayer time, we seek guidance and enlightenment.  We do not simply wait for God to act because the Holy Spirit will lead, assist, guide and counsel us what to do.  Reading the Bible allows us “to become familiar with God’s Word becoming accustomed to the tone and tempo of God’s promptings in our lives” (Columbia. March 2011. p.17).

Again, we look at Jeremiah as our model for dependence on God for service.  He was an excellent leader who was authentically dependent on God.  He realized his own limitations.  However, he knew that only God can change a man’s heart and so he turned to God.  He prayed and waited.  While waiting for God’s answer, he organized a feasible plan of action and pressed on despite vocal opposition to execute the plan once God opened the way.

Continuous dependence in spite of trials.  In the New Testament (NT), Jesus exemplifies dependence on God in the midst of adversities and trials.  On the Cross, while breathing His last, He cries out, “Father, into Your Hands, I commit My Spirit”.  Jesus made a tremendous act of love, trust and dependence on the Father.  Jesus clings to the conviction that the Father loves Him even when the circumstances seem to indicate that the Father has abandoned Him.

In our life, we encounter or experience a feeling of God’s absence.  It seems paradoxical and hard to believe but “we find God through our problems. He loves us and His love is intense every time we have problems and in pain.”  We need to be spiritually sensitive because problems and trials in various degrees nurture us to grow in faith and allow us to listen to God’s call/message. Putting it in another perspective, we are encouraged to see and identify the positive or good things in all bad situations we are into.

We pray that God will endow us with the spiritual eyes to see, spiritual ears to hear and all other senses to be spiritually mature as we also mature emotionally because we have our Almighty Father who is in control.

Personal sharing.  As I examine myself looking back from childhood until now, I was and am continually dependent on God.  I came from a poor family that urged or triggered me to aspire for freedom from the bondage of poverty.  I equipped myself professionally but I did not remain in the academe.  I married to have my own family.  In all these earlier endeavors, God was basically part of my decision-making.  For over 5 decades of life and living, I have over 5 decades of experiences and circumstances in life during which times, God was faithfully present for me because I was and will continue to be dependent on Him.

Let me cite at least 2 highly significant events showing dependence on God for my life and service.  First was my voluntary resignation from government employment.  It was a paradigm shift from being an employee to what God wants me to be.  It took a year in 1989 for Judy and me to weigh the merits and demerits of my plan and decision.  We prayed because I knew we were facing a variety of uncertainties.  Indeed, trials came our way testing our faith.  Life and living were confusing and chaotic then.  It was the lowest period in my life that lasted for 2 years (1992-1994).  I may be able to give the details of this episode in another venue and through other means.  Definitely, God was a major part in that segment of my life realizing that He has a different plan for me.

The second is our decision to renew our faith as we joined the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP).  I committed myself to know, love and serve the Lord through the BCBP.    Being a college drop-out, I have “time freedom” to seek first the Kingdom of God believing that He will provide everything I need to live.  I know my talent and abilities and I freely return to God what is due Him. 

Initially, I feared whenever given a talking assignment as shown by my trembling hands every time I approached the podium.  In time and with acceptance of various services, I grow and establish confidence believing that God empowers me.  As the incumbent Mission Director of BCBP Consolacion, Cebu, I surrender and rely on God’s power. 

Recently, in our modest marketplace (Kalubian ni Lolo), we have identified and defined our “social responsibility” employing the culture of BCBP.  Log on to youtube.com and search permaculture2011 and verify what I mean.  We welcome your comments and suggestions to improve our life-long plan.

Conclusion.  My dear brothers and sisters here in Mactan, by  way of conclusion, let me share with you an admonition from the Book of Psalms, “Let us trust in the Lord and do good that we may dwell in the land and live secure” (Ps 37:3).  nmg

   

Dependence on God

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence rely not” (Prov 3:5).

 Although I did not hesitate to accept the task of facilitating and delivering the talk,                Dependence on God being the second part of our BCBP Consolacion Lenten Recollection (10 Apr 2011), but it was hard for me to gather, integrate and synthesize my thoughts recalling and examining myself how totally dependent I am on God.

Humbly, I claim, “I am here neither by selection of an individual nor election of a group but by the Almighty appointment of God”.  With my doctrinal and expectant faith, I prayed, “Lord, lead me and I will follow”.

A collection of inspirational and Christian books including the Catechism of the Catholic Church, my Christian Community and the Catholic Serendipity Bibles provided me the much needed references.

Scanning/browsing the book entitled, “Francis of Assisi: The Man Who Gave Up Everything To Follow Jesus”, I was awed and struck by his sermon without words.  St. Francis wanted to show the Poor Clare sisters that “it is repentant heart that counts before God, not eloquent words”.   In the process of writing my thoughts, I did it with a clean conscience and a pure joy in my heart allowing the Lord Jesus, our ultimate model of dependence on God, to guide and empower me.

I found the book by J. Oswald Sanders entitled, “Spiritual Leadership” very helpful.  I treasure the compassion shown by Kuya Casi and Ate Emma Nadela who used to be BCBP Mactan Chapter Head who gave this book to Judy and me in February 2003.  Awfully noted and highlighted is the 7^th paragraph of 9 paragraphs of their dedication stating, “And – as you walk towards the summit where the cold gets colder, the wind stronger, the burden of responsibilities heavier – just bear in mind – you have “no one else but God”!  Yes, indeed, they are emphasizing our dependence on God.

It is amazing to note that the spirit of servanthood includes among others the dependence on God from the book by Sanders (1997).  Equally amazing is the January 19 devotional reflection titled, “Dependence on God” exactly the same title of our session we have on-hand.  This devotional reflection is from the book, “Light of My Path Each Day”, a Scripture Union’s (SU) Quiet Time Guide that I recently bought. My reflection urged me to read the 1^st and 2^nd part of the Book of Samuel.  This is my first time to read the whole text trying to follow the story of David. I learned that during David’s time (Old Testament), an ephod (a vestment worn by the ancient Hebrew high priest in performing sacred duties) was used to determine God’s will.

Today, we have God’s Word (the Holy Bible) and the Holy Spirit to guide us in every decision we have to make.  Jesus declares, “From now on, the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My Name, will teach you all things and remind you of all that I have told you” (Jn 14:26).

April 10 (today), the devotional reflection of the same book, ”Light of My Path Each Day” again features David who in all his victories began with affirmation, claiming and believing.  These are acts of dependence on God.  “David was a man made by God at the life of faith and the impact of grace, at a pattern of leadership and the perils of power, at God’s unfolding purpose pointing to Christ.  David foreshadowed the One yet to come:  Jesus, the King of Kings”.

In the Old and New Testament scenario, where do we fit-in?  Do we have a “heart for God” relying our total dependence on Him? Personally, as I serve as moderator/facilitator for 90 minutes of this afternoon’s recollection, I fervently prayed for guidance as I attend the 5:30 am Holy Mass daily, receive the Holy Eucharist and read the Bible.  Thanks to the Holy Spirit, my Helper, Counselor and Guide who assist me to do everything smoothly.

Sharing of Experiences about Dependence on God.  May I request each couple (husband and wife) to discuss a life experience showing your dependence on God. 

·      Cite a specific instance or life situation where you were made to choose several options and finally decided through discernment.

·         What and how did you do it?  Did you pray and wait?

·         Did you make a feasible action plan while waiting for the Lord to answer?

You are allotted 10 minutes to discuss and another 10 minutes for reporting/sharing in the whole assembly.

Analysis/Summary of Reports.  Stress those that show dependence on God.

We learned from the various testimonies of our brothers and sisters who come over to share how dependent they were on God in making decisions.

Prayer and discernment are major activities whenever we are confronted with problems.

Abstraction/Personal Experience. As servant-leaders or simply being Christians, we do not act independently from our Master, our God. This dependence points to our relationship with Him.  How intimate are we to our Heavenly Father, our Creator? In any relationship for that matter, we start with knowing, then loving and finally serving.  In all aspects of our life and living, we are totally dependent on God in everything, as in everything.  In our relationship with God, He is our Giver and we are always the receiver.  Unworthy as we are because of our sinfulness, faults and failures, God continues to be a merciful giver.  In our dependence, God wants us to be free from the bondage of sin and be reconciled with Him through the Sacrament of Confession, Reconciliation and Penance.  We need to be always in the state of Grace for God’s blessings to freely flow within and through us.

Dependence for life itself.  Basically, our life is dependent on God.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that “human life is sacred because from its beginning, it involves the creative act of God and it remains forever in a special relationship with the Creator, who is the sole end” (CCC 2258).

The Gospels of St. Matthew (Mt 6:19-34) and St. Luke (Lk 12:13-34) shed us light on “setting our hearts on the Kingdom”; “avoid being a rich fool” and “not worrying about our life”.

We are reminded to “set our hearts first in the Kingdom and justice of God and all the basic necessities of life: food, clothing and shelter will be given to us because our Heavenly Father knows that we need all these things to live” (Mt 6:32-33).

The story of the rich fool narrated by Jesus shows us how life can easily be taken away by God.  Our life do not depend on the many material possessions especially if greedily accumulated (Lk 12:13-21).  Dependence on life calls for spiritual enrichment to become rich before God. This means spiritual fulfillment.
 

We must be free from worldly concerns.  Jesus said to His disciples, “I tell you not to worry about your life …” (Lk 12:22).
 

Again, let us remember that material possessions do not give life.  Let us be sure that in the process of acquiring what we would like to have will not derail us neglecting the opportunity to make life.  This reminds me of Dr. Ron Jenson, America’s life coach who recommends, ”to make a life not just a living” in his book with its title carrying the same phrases.

As a pro-life advocate being a faithful 4^th degree member of the Knights of Columbus myself, I for one oppose the Reproductive Health (RH) Bill.   I see it as another venue for corruption geared towards making a living (money-making) disregarding the value of the “gift of life”.  Anyone who joined the “Penitential Walk for Life” last March 19, 2011?.  I am writing my personal reflection about it.  Watch for its posting in my website!.

From the Supreme Chaplain, Bishop William E. Lori in his faith formation program, he addresses us, “We should ask for the Grace to open our minds and hearts to the truth and the beauty of the Church’s challenging and life-giving teaching on human sexuality.  We are called to embrace this teaching and to lead others to live the virtue of chastity in generosity and joy” (Columbia, Jan 2011. p. 5).
  

Dependence on God for service.  From the book of the prophet Jeremiah, God says, “I will appoint over you shepherds after my own heart who will shepherd to you wisely and prudently” (Jer 3:15).  Do you feel and hear this call for service as shepherds (being the action group or unit leader) to our BCBP brothers and sisters assigned to you?  Let us be convicted (enough evidences to charge us being followers of Jesus) that indeed, God initiates the call for our service. Our respective assignments is an “Almighty appointment of God” for us.

Our response to the call for service may vary.  An outright No because of being busy is not acceptable.  Be reminded that ”God is holding our time.”  He can take it away from us anytime. Jeremiah again comes to the picture with our hesitation due to the feeling and fear of unworthiness and inadequacy. When he was called, God assured him, “Before I formed you in the womb I know you, before you were born, I dedicated you” (Jer 1:5).  Jeremiah responded, “Ah, Lord God!  I know not how to speak; I am too young” (Jer 1:6).

A resounding assurance every time we accept whatever service we are called for, God is  assuring us, “To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak.  Have no fear before them, because I am with you to deliver you” (Jer 1:7).

The Lord knows the kind of men and women He chooses.  He knows our gifts and capabilities. He is aware of our feeling of inadequacy and our shortcomings.  But, in spite of these, He calls us to service by name.  Our Yes to His call, our willingness and commitment to serve will definitely be supported with our total dependence on God’s grace.  We are empowered to do God’s will for His greater honor and glory.

Dependence on God for our service also means seeking His will for the people entrusted to our care.  During our prayer time, we seek guidance and enlightenment.  We do not simply wait for God to act because the Holy Spirit will lead, assist, guide and counsel us what to do.  Reading the Bible allows us “to become familiar with God’s Word becoming accustomed to the tone and tempo of God’s promptings in our lives” (Columbia. March 2011. p.17).

Again, we look at Jeremiah as our model for dependence on God for service.  He was an excellent leader who was authentically dependent on God.  He realized his own limitations.  However, he knew that only God can change a man’s heart and so he turned to God.  He prayed and waited.  While waiting for God’s answer, he organized a feasible plan of action and pressed on despite vocal opposition to execute the plan once God opened the way.

Continuous dependence in spite of trials.  In the New Testament (NT), Jesus exemplifies dependence on God in the midst of adversities and trials.  On the Cross, while breathing His last, He cries out, “Father, into Your Hands, I commit My Spirit”.  Jesus made a tremendous act of love, trust and dependence on the Father.  Jesus clings to the conviction that the Father loves Him even when the circumstances seem to indicate that the Father has abandoned Him.

In our life, we encounter or experience a feeling of God’s absence.  It seems paradoxical and hard to believe but “we find God through our problems. He loves us and His love is intense every time we have problems and in pain.”  We need to be spiritually sensitive because problems and trials in various degrees nurture us to grow in faith and allow us to listen to God’s call. Putting it in another perspective, we are encouraged to see and identify the positive or good things in all bad situations we are into.

We pray that God will endow us with the spiritual eyes to see, spiritual ears to hear and all other senses to be spiritually mature as we also mature emotionally because we have our Almighty Father who is in control.

Personal sharing.  As I examine myself looking back from childhood until now, I was and am continually dependent on God.  I came from a poor family that triggered me to aspire for freedom from the bondage of poverty.  I equipped myself professionally but I did not remain in the academe.  I married to have my own family.  In all these earlier endeavors, God was basically part of my decision-making.  In my over than 5 decades of life and living, I have over 5 decades of experiences and circumstances in life during which times, God was faithfully present for me because I was and will continue to be dependent on Him.

Let me cite at least 2 significant events showing dependence on God for my life and service.  First was my voluntary resignation from government service.  It was a paradigm shift from being an employee to what God wants me to be.  It took a year for Judy and me in 1989 to weigh the merits and demerits of my plan and decision.  We prayed because I knew we were facing a variety of uncertainties.  Indeed, trials testing our faith were experienced.  Life and living were confusing and chaotic then.  It was the lowest period in my life that lasted for 2 years (1992-1994).  I may be able to give the details of this episode in another venue and through other means.  Definitely, God was a major part in that segment of my life realizing that He has a different plan for me.

The second is our decision to renew our faith as we joined the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP).  I committed myself to know, love and serve the Lord through the BCBP.    Being a college drop-out, I have “time freedom” to seek first the Kingdom of God believing that He will provide everything I need to live.  I know my talent and abilities and I freely return to God what is due Him.
 

Initially, I feared whenever given a talking assignment as shown by my trembling hands every time I approached the podium.  In time and with acceptance of various services, I grow and establish confidence believing that God empowers me.  As the incumbent Mission Director, I surrender and rely on God’s power.
 

Recently, in our marketplace, we have identified and defined our “social responsibility” employing the culture of BCBP.

Application (30 minutes)

With the readily available worksheet as guide, each participant was directed to write his/her reflections.

Conclusion.  “Let us trust in the Lord and do good that we may dwell in the land and live secure” (Ps 37:3).  nmg

Note: This is the second part of the Lenten Recollection of BCBP Consolacion held at the Sto. Nino Spirituality Center, Tolotolo, Consolacion, Cebu on April 10, 2011.   

  

How to Grow in Faith and Knowing God’s Will

And Jesus replied, “Have faith in God.  Truly, I say to you, If you say to this mountain: ‘Get up and throw yourself into the sea’ and have no doubt in your heart but believe that you have received it and it shall be done for you” (Mk 11:22-24).  These verses encapsulate tonight’s activity that deals with the topic, How to Grow in Faith and knowing God’s Will.

Let us imagine swimming towards God. Do you still remember the talk of Kuya Robert Lim about the obstacles (the world, the flesh, etc.) in our Christian life? Your imagination is unlimited regarding the many obstacles we encounter in swimming.  Our Christian life is comparable to swimming in a river or threading in water. Growing in faith and knowing God’s will is like swimming in the river. If we stop believing and knowing God’s will through sin and intellectualism, we simply die because we are no longer part of the Body of Christ.  

Through the Sacrament of Baptism, we become children of God. It is the beginning of our Christian life.  We are followers of Christ.  In order to grow and mature in our Christian life, we must act and practice our faith because “faith without action is dead”.  Our basic action and practice is our constant and persistent prayer. Through prayer, we deepen our faith in the Lord.  In the process of consistent and persistent prayer with faith, we learn to recognize what God wants from us in the circumstances of our life.

Our faith expressed through Community and personal prayers seal our relationship with God. In connection with the recently concluded 25^th anniversary of EDSA Revolution last February 25, 2011, it is striking to note Philip Yancey’s description how we prayed as a nation.  In his book, (Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference? p.150), he claims that “Filipinos prayed importunately (urgently and unceasingly) for relief before People Power brought down a corrupt regime.” 

In the global scenario, prayer shattered to pieces Berlin Wall that once divided Germany and Iron Curtain that once divided Europe. 

In tonight’s Activity or exercise, we share with each other our faith experiences, and make resolutions or amendments to practice and deepen our faith.  Note: After the triads (discussion/sharing among three individuals in the group) about the topic on hand, I have the following synthesis and personal sharing: 
      Way back in time (1975-1976), when we were about to graduate with the degree of Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education (BSAgEd), I recall how I experienced being guided and enlightened.  Discernment was not yet part of my vocabulary but I was and will continue to be a practicing Catholic.  The whole class in “Guidance and Counseling” was suspended except a female classmate (a distant relative) and me.  That was one significant event that cultivated and allowed me to grow in faith.   
      In 1992, I voluntarily resigned from government service. I was only 37 years old then.  Judy and our two daughters with ages, 13 and 9 years old then were insecure, doubtful and anxious.  For 2 years, I was depressed and I considered it the lowest segment in my life.  During that period of depression, I resorted to reading inspirational, motivational and positive-thinking books that eventually settled with regular and consistent Bible reading. In addition, I read a lot of books written by Christian authors that provide me insights and teaching aid to continue to know, love and serve the Lord. 
    I was unemployed but did not opt to seek employment because I dreamed and decided to become an employer from being a temporary government employee in an agricultural state college (my Alma Mater) for 15 years. I claim that I am endowed with time freedom. With this time freedom, I am always free to do anything according to God’s will for me through the leading of the Holy Spirit and discernment.  I maybe unemployed but I am occupied with God’s work, “seeking first His kingdom” asking for material and spiritual fulfillment. My strong religious foundation gained in 2 private Catholic high schools, anchored me to my doctrinal faith.  I did not lose hope.  I remained a faithful, loving and responsible husband and father to our 2 lovely and stress-relieving daughters. I declined the enticement to go abroad and earn a living.  My unwavering faith, enlightenment, guidance and invitation to the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP) breakfast fellowships led to BCBP Mactan with Judy in 1994. One significant realization I have with our renewal of faith through the BCBP is that “life begins at forty” because a few months after the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, I turned 40 years old.
     Reconciliation with my parents-in-law regaining their trust and confidence was the most momentous among the amazing graces received.
     The birth of our only son was an answered prayer through expectant faith. He is considered by our brothers and sisters in BCBP Mactan as our “BCMR baby” because he was born approximately 9 months after the Brotherhood Christian Marriage Retreat (BCMR No.1).  Expectant faith led us to prepare the needs of a baby boy, all colored blue.
    My resolution to attend the 5:30 am Holy Mass and receive Holy Communion daily while in the City is doctrinal faith.  This practice leads me to discern my responsibility to return 10% of what God has given me.
     As mentioned earlier, I have sufficient time freedom. The talent to write is cultivated through “reflective writing”.  Starting January 25, 2011, I posted my first blog through the assistance of Marianne Claire, our second daughter.  Log on to www.nestofglory.blogspot.com and sign in as member or my blog follower.
     The greatest challenge I am facing is the development of the 40-hectare farm dubbed as “Kalubian ni Lolo”.  Log on to youtube.com and search permaculture2011. God endows us a land resource where we can practice in our own small ways the application of some solutions to global warming.
     We have defined our social responsibility that includes at least 19 farm households excluding occasional workers who are dependent on us to improve their livelihood.  This means financial freedom and abundance to materialize our ambitious dream reflected in our “blue-printed” and lifelong coconut-based permaculture living system. 
     After the February 13, 2011 teachings specifically on financial management, Judy and I resolve to follow strictly a written or recorded budget to graduate from “budgeting in the mind”.  Number one in our list of expenses is the 10% tithes from the gross income.   At first, I had doubts and reservations.  Through discernment and firm belief and expectant faith, our Rich God will definitely fulfill His promise to provide us what we need.  As to when and how will depend on our persistent and unceasing prayers.  Per discernment, I find the Archdiocesan Youthlinks Training and Assessment Center, Inc. as a fertile ground to build the Kingdom of God here on earth specifically in Cebu, Philippines.  Log on to www.coycebu.org for more information and recent developments.
     Accordingly, there are at least two (2) major activities in any undertaking in life. They are sowing and reaping.  The time in between is the waiting that should basically be devoted to praying. Thank you.  nmg

Asking, seeking and knocking

Our action group meeting (AGM) last Feb 7, 2011 was hosted by Ate Erma and Kuya Ben Sangco.  As prayer leader, Kuya Ben introduced and dealt the theme, “faith without action is dead”.  Prayer is basically the simple and sure action for our faith to be alive.

In a related passion, our Feb 21, 2011 AGM was providentially a continuation because our prayer leader discerned the Gospel according to St. Matthew (Mt 7:7-11) for our reflection.  Ate Helen and Kuya Ed Lanticse hosted our meeting at their Universal Shipping Management Services office.  With Kuya Ed leading, we came to the realization that “Our Father in Heaven gives good things to those who ask Him.”

I learn that “asking, seeking and knocking have an effect on God, as Jesus insists, but it also has a lasting effect in the asker-seeker-knocker”.  Moreover, “prayer offers an opportunity for God to remodel us, to chisel marble like a sculptor, touch up colors like an artist, edit words like a writer.  The work continues until death, never perfected in this life” (Yancey. Prayer: Does it make a difference? p. 154).

Significantly noted on the occasion of the 25^th Anniversary of EDSA Peaceful Revolution (Feb 25, 2011) is Philip Yancey’s claim that “Filipinos prayed importunately for relief before People Power brought down a corrupt regime”.

A lot of references give us insights on how to pray.  The Gospels according to St. Matthew (Mt 6:7-15); St. Mark (Mk 11:23-26) and St. Luke (Lk 11:1-13) teach about the Lord’s Prayer, the Our Father that require faith, forgiveness and purity of desire, consistency and perseverance.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) likewise abound in teachings about prayer. For those who may have not been able to allocate a time with the Lord may consider and note that “Our time is in the Hands of God:  It is possible to offer fervent prayer even while walking in public or strolling alone, or seated in your shop, . . while buying or selling, .. . or while cooking” (CCC 2743).  Stated in another manner, prayer can be done in a ”Martha way to be Mary”.  It is doing the household chores and sitting to listen to Jesus at the same time.

This points us to prayer and temperament.  Kathy Calahan-Howell as cited by Yancey (Prayer. pp 194-195) enumerated four (4) meditation styles:

Ø  Intuitive feelers stress creative exercises involving imagination, imagery and journaling.

Ø  Intuitive thinkers benefit from a Scripture passage asking basic investigative concerns.

Ø  Sensory judges driven by duty use the senses to see, hear, and smell the scenes of Scripture bringing ancient truths to modern application.

Ø  Sensory perceivers engage action in prayer.  In my case, while planting and doing all farm activities, I always associate the Lord asking Him to allow me to see the fruits of my labor.  No matter how tiresome the activity maybe or how long the waiting to take before reaping because I am dealing with perennial crops and planting forest trees, I am always delighted and light-hearted because I pray the “Martha way to be Mary”.  nmg