Faith is…

Faith is something to cherish, something to love, something to care for

-Bro. Eliseo Soriano

A Cherished Learning: Offering Thanksgiving to God

Photo from MCGI.org

Many years ago, when I was around seven years old, there was one occasion that until now I preciously treasure in my memory box. As far as I can remember, it was the first time I set my feet on the stage of the Ang Dating Daan Convention Center. I was with my fellow children then, dressed in vibrant blue and white dresses and suits, singing and dancing to an upbeat praise song. We were there, offering thanksgiving to God.

Yes, we were young and innocent then, but who says we cannot offer and extend our gratitude to our Creator?

Through Members Church of God International (MCGI) leaders Bro. Eli Soriano and Bro. Daniel Razon, the children’s ministry called Kawan ng Cordero (KNC) was organized as an avenue for people at the early age for learning spiritual wisdom, and Christian songs and dances. And it was through this endeavor that we were sent to that stage, blessedly saying our Thank You’s to God.

We thanked God for our allowances and delicious meals prepared by our parents for school; for our talents of drawing, singing, and dancing; for passing periodical tests; for the kindest families and friends He gave to us; for adding another day to our lives. Indeed, we thanked God for the simplest reasons.

Clocks ticked. It has been twelve years since that day of thanksgiving. It has also been three years since I was baptized in the Church. In those years, through the spiritual dishes regularly served by Bro. Eli and Bro. Daniel, God has let me understand and know the deeper reasons for offering thanksgiving. From the mere fact that I exist to the highest calling of God, I have learned and realized that we have all the reasons to be grateful and let people witness this unending appreciation.

Recounting those years that passed, I cannot help but be humbled. I know, without God’s permission, I could not have set my feet on that stage again in the other thanksgiving programs of MCGI. Without His mercy, I could have been buried in shame because of my sins. Without His loving kindness, I could not have known how to express my sincerest gratitude.

It is a truly a cherished wisdom, the wisdom of offering thanksgiving. Learning this, I am able to do one of the few things men can do for God. And this one-of-its kind knowledge is a blessing that could not be bought by any amount of money. Having this kept in my heart since those KNC days, I know, with all the blessings and tribulations I have, I somehow can repay.

Even though no words can translate what I feel, I still thank God for letting me write this.

Sanctuary

Under Thy grace
Under Thy care
Thy humble servants
Found safe haven
Stronghold, refuge
Placid place

In Thy sanctuary
Living serenely
Thy humble servants
Praying fervently

‘May we never be
apart from Thee!’

Aiming to Transform Cab Drivers to Lifesavers, UNTV Launches Tulong Muna Bago Pasada

For the people behind UNTV, the Philippine’s Public Service Channel, even the cab drivers roaming around the busy streets of metropolitan areas have the capability to carry out emergency responses and lifesaving operations. Hence, the launching of its latest advocacy, Tulong Muna Bago Pasada (Rescue Now, Transport Later).

Akin to Tulong Muna Bago Balita (Rescue Now, Report Later), the television station’s innovative journalism campaign that started last 2010, this most recent addition to its list of charitable endeavors aims to impart the value of prioritizing saving lives – whenever at hand- before anything else.

The first batch of cab drivers are now undergoing a series of basic life support training to equip them with the technical know-how needed to perform rescue operations. After this, they will be handed certificates as proofs of their ability to function as lifesavers-on-the-street.

This initiative is UNTV’s answer to the alarming road accident statistics in Metro Manila. According to Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the total number of road accidents last 2011 numbered to as high as 77, 110. Also, the area is home to major thoroughfares considered by the MMDA as Accident Prone Stretches like Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon Avenue, Gil Puyat Avenue, Pres. Sergio Osmeña Highway and some parts of EDSA.

“If only all cab drivers will learn rescue, maybe our roads will be safer,” said Mr. Daniel Razon, UNTV’s CEO. Also, he has high hopes that this campaign will not only transform cab drivers into on-field rescuers but into more disciplined citizens as well.

For inquiries, you may contact UNTV through the following numbers: 0938 803 0777 (Smart), 0926 633 5744 (Globe), 0923 416 1377 (Sun) and 441 8688 (PLDT).

Sources:

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/tag/statistics

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/tag/road-mishaps

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=exINwpNNuRQ

The Great Helper

Faces–
Sober and staid
Traces
Of fear, pain
Remain
Steadfast in faith
Somebody–
A Great Somebody–
Is there
To always
Help and aid.

Friends

“Friends may come and go, but we need God in our daily lives.”

-Bro. Eli Soriano

(Follow him on Twitter for more sensible musings. You can also send him questions on spirituality and faith)

A Man I’ve Once Met

Once I met a man
Whose house was filled with gold
And decorated with his brilliant works of old
Clocks ticked, I saw him once again
He firmly held on a cane of sorrow
Then looked at my eyes and cried,

“I missed the chance to share what I own!”