His Great Plan (12/31)

Gospel: John 1:1-18

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it ~ John 1:5

It was 2008 when I lost my US Visa and was returned to Philippines from Minneapolis (airport-to-airport), on the same day I Ieft the country.

It was then; I decided to go to Dubai for work. After several months, January 2009, my father died of pneumonia. One of the few words that my dad said to my mom was, “Tell your children to offer their lives with the Lord...”

God has already constructed our lives even before. Exactly after I came back from Philippines after weeks of mourning, a flat mate of mine (Bro. Jess of A1) invited me to join the Christian Life Program for Batch 32. After my graduation from the CLP that was also the time when I got retrenched from my job.  But through the teaching which I had learned from the talks, I never blamed nor questioned Him. I know He has a great plan on me.  Second, I was not happy at all with my job then and prayed hardly to give me a new one. For I know in my heart that He will give a much better job.

And here I am until now, living in Dubai and serving the SFC Community for almost three years.

Always remember that our God will never give problems that we cannot handle or solve. And He will never forsake us. Just believe in Him. Pray. He will give you grace upon grace, as they say “siksik, liglig, umaapaw”.

Happy New Year!

Bro Bert
Unit 2

This child is set for the fall and rising of many

Gospel: Luke 2:22-40

When the time came for the purification rites required by the Law of Moses, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord. ~ Luke 2:22

Do you know the joy of a life fully surrendered to God with faith and trust?

Last 2 weeks I received SMS from my sister in the Philippines that my mother is not well she said she will take her to the hospital for check up when they reached to the hospital the doctor said your mother is diabetic and she has high sugar she’s already paralyzed cause of twice heart attacked then she undergo lots of test and gave her lots of medicines, in her 2 weeks in the hospital there’s no any improvement in her health she’s still not well and my sister told me to be strong because we don’t know what will happened next, she feels very tired and uncomfortable its come to the point that her life comes to 50/50 but she’s still surviving for us. We are experiencing sorrow, frustration & hopeless because of my mother illness we don’t even know if there’s any way to cure her health even the doctors don’t know what is happening to her and it comes to the point that I ask GOD why my mother Lord I’m not ready for all of these. I feel so hopeless & frustrated specially I’m her in Dubai and I can’t go home to see her as I am new in my work I truly don’t know what to do. But thanks GOD for all the people he gives to comport & love me. I have nothing to do but to pray and lift up to him all I know that what ever we encountered difficulties in our lives his always there for us.

While I’m reading this verse I realized we truly need to trust and have faith in him what ever we have going through right now nothing is impossible for him. I surrendered to him all what ever we are facing now, I know that he heard and felt what is inside of our hearts and he loves us so much that’s why he give to us his only begotten son to be with us when we fall his always there to catch us & guide us in the right path of our lives . .

Frustration in life can easily make us cynical and hopeless if we do not have our hope placed rightly, the hope which God places in our heart is the desire for the kingdom of heaven and eternal life as our happiness. He gives us a supernatural joy which enables us to bear any sorrow or pain and which neither life nor death can take way.

Like Mama Mary, she was given the blessedness of being the mother of Jesus the Son of God. She knows that her blessedness also would become a sword which pierced her heart as her Son died upon the cross. She received both a crown of joy and a cross of sorrow. But her joy was not diminished by her sorrow because it was fueled by her faith, hope, and trust in God and his promises.

Have faith and Trust GOD always.

"Lord Jesus, you came to restore us to unity with the Father in heaven. Where there is division, bring healing and pardon. May all peoples and families find peace, wholeness, and unity in you, the Prince of Peace and Savior of the world."

Sis Jelly

Unit 6

Be the best or give your best (12/29)

Gospel: Luke 2:22-35

The child’s father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: “This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too.” ~ Luke 2:33-35

When I was a child, my parents taught me the value of excellence. They taught me that in everything that I do, I should give my best efforts in it and never settle for anything less. I always brought them joy whenever I get perfect scores in my quizzes and exams, receive awards in various competitions and praises from my teachers. There is nothing more rewarding than to see my parents tell their friends how proud they are with their eldest son.

Years gone by and as I grew up I realized that being the best in everything became harder and tougher to do. During high school I realized that there are a lot more students smarter than me, and this took a toll on me. I became frustrated, angry and bitter until I finally gave up. I gave up trying to be excellent. I started failing my quizzes and exams, started hanging out with school bullies and under achievers and used my talents in a very bad way. It felt good but deep inside I felt empty and disoriented. My parents started to notice this and they didn’t like what I turned into. It made me feel worse knowing that I have let them down.

And so I prayed.

And God answered with a question.

“Did they expect you to be the best or give your best?”

And the answer was clear to me.

Brothers and sisters, the Lord doesn’t require us to be the best for there would always be someone better than us, there would always be someone smarter than us, a better singer than us, and there would always be someone more good looking than us. What the Lord requires from us is our intention in being excellent in what we do, may it be in our work, in serving Him or in loving our brethren. This is what makes our heavenly Father happy, let’s continue to pray for the posture of our hearts and bring joy to Him by always being excellent for the Lord.

Bro Ced
Unit 2

The Seed of Sorrow and The Fruit of Joy (12/28)

Gospel: Matthew 2:13-18

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” ~ Matthew 2:13

Egypt had been a house of bondage to the Israelites and particularly cruel for their infants; yet it is to be a place of refuge to the Holy Child Jesus. God, when He pleases, can make the worst of places serve the best of purposes. This was a trial of the faith for Joseph and Mary; despite their faith being tested it remained firm. If we and our infants are at any time in trouble, let us remember the straits in which Christ was when an infant.

Herod killed all the male children, not only in Bethlehem but in all the villages of that city.

Unbridled wrath, armed with an unlawful power, often carries men to absurd cruelties. It was no unrighteous thing with God to permit this; every life is forfeited to his justice as soon as it begins.

The diseases and deaths of little children are proofs of original sin. How early did persecution against Christ and His kingdom begin! Herod now thought that he had baffled the Old Testament prophecies and the efforts of the wise men in finding Christ; but whatever crafty, cruel devices are in men's hearts, the counsel of the Lord shall stand.

Sis Myra
Unit 6

Never doubt in the dark what Jesus told you in the light (12/27)

Gospel: John 20:1-8

So Peter and the other disciple started for the tomb. Both were running, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first. He bent over and looked in at the strips of linen lying there but did not go in. Then Simon Peter came along behind him and went straight into the tomb. He saw the strips of linen lying there, as well as the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head. The cloth was still lying in its place, separate from the linen. Finally the other disciple, who had reached the tomb first, also went inside. He saw and believed. ~ John 20:3-8


In this gospel our faith is being questioned from time to time. Sometimes we lose faith when trials and problems arise. My life trials and challenges often happen to be family-related which I consider as my greatest weakness.
My mom was diagnosed with Renal disease (kidney disease) and it is already at the final stage, meaning she needs to be dialyze in order to clean the toxic inside her body and if not she will die. And so our family’s faith is tested. We prayed for guidance and healing but still trials kept on coming. The more we got closer to Him the more trials happen. However, we just keep our faith and believe that God has a better plan for all of us especially for my mom. Now I realize how blessed we are. Though Mom is on dialysis for more than 11 years her hospitalization is free, both medication and treatment...it’s all through God’s grace. I haven't seen my mom for 15 years and I always ask the question “why”. God answered me – “to prolong my mother's life”. He gives us hope that one day we will be reunited again in one table eating and enjoying each other’s company. God works in things you can never imagine and dream of. Last August my mom is admitted and was critical again. She was in ICU for two months and in an unresponsive (comatose) state.
We never doubted God. We just held on to our faith. I know deep in my heart He will never leave us. The power of faith is so amazing that even the doctor could not believe my mother recovered. I never expected that I could talk again with my mom because the doctor said she has a stroke. Some part of her brain was damaged and she can only remember little things. She cannot walk and even speak. God’s power turns the impossible into possible. Now I can talk with my mother, she walks and even laughs. How great is the love of God for us. He loves us even before we were born. No matter what the future brings...”Never doubt in the dark, what Jesus told you in the light.” PRAISE GOD.

Bro Rupert
Unit 2

Victory in suffering (12/26)

Gospel: Matthew 10: 17-22

“Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved. ~ Matthew 10:21-22



Merry Christmas brothers and sisters in Christ! Today is the second day of Christmas and the feast of Saint Stephen, a man who was filled with faith and Holy Spirit; who completely entrusted and submitted his self to the Lord. His suffering and strong faith to God is a great example of courage and faith that our Gospel speaks about today.

The disciples were warned by Jesus that by following Him they too may experience suffering and persecution. The disciples took the risk just to serve and follow Jesus and this only shows their complete trust and total surrender. But Jesus assured His disciples that the Holy Spirit will guide them and make them humble servants of the Lord.

The Gospel today reminds us to have faith in God and have the courage to face all life’s challenges and sacrifices all for the glory of our Lord. Like our fulltime missionaries in the community, they gave up their jobs just to serve God and lead other people from different places to be closer to the Lord. And during their missions, they too experience persecutions in various ways but God has filled them with the Holy Spirit and made them faithful and courageous.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, at times when we feel afraid and seem to fail, just remember that we have a great God that will help us. Let us surrender ourselves and keep our hearts faithful to the Lord like Saint Stephen, the disciples, and our fulltime SFC missionaries did. Once again, Merry Christmas!

Bro Nel

Unit 1

The word was made flesh (12/25)

Gospel: John 1: 1-18

The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. ~ John 1:14


Christmas as a kid was always fun. I would wake up in the morning, open Santa Claus' gifts and celebrate it with family and friends. But one Christmas morning, my brothers and I woke up with gifts under the tree but nothing from Santa Claus. We got sad, thinking that he might have forgotten us. My parents explained to us that Christmas has a deeper meaning more than just presents.

As we grow older, we learn and discover a lot. Our endless seeking for knowledge makes us well informed with things around us. One of them is the true meaning of Christmas. It's when God's promise turned into flesh; Jesus Christ was born. He is the man who made the biggest impact in everyone's heart and the very same person who saved us from our sins.

You may receive all the gifts in the world but none can make you satisfied and blessed than receiving the greatest gift that you'll receive; the love that the Lord has promised us. It is the love that we are now sharing in this community will be the same love that we’ll extend to those who hasn’t fully know Him.

May we all have a blessed Christmas!

Bro Tim
Unit 1

Prepare the way (12/24)

Gospel: Luke 1:67-79

“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, 
   because he has come to his people and redeemed them.  ~ Luke 1:68


As I read the passages I found many things to reflect on like the mercy of God, redemption over sins through Jesus Christ, the faithfulness of God, the promise of salvation, and the birth of John.
My reflection of this gospel relates to God’s purpose on John.

Sometimes we are too stubborn to accept what others are telling us specially if it criticizes us; we think that we don’t need other peoples’ opinion to run our lives. But think again, these people can be our teachers, regardless of how they treat or mistreat us; we can pull out something good from what they have to say. It’s just a matter of how you would accept and react to it, not every bad thing that they say about you means condemnation, they may just want you to realize and avoid doing making a mistake. I once had a chance to share in the community about the wrong interpretation of the 1 Timothy 5:23 “Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.” (NIV) My intention is not to criticize every alcohol drinker but for them to know, educate them, and stop them from misusing the verse in order to justify their cravings.

Bro Adrian
Unit 2

The birth of John the Baptist (12/23)

Gospel: Luke 1:57-66

Everyone who heard this wondered about it, asking, “What then is this child going to be?” For the Lord’s hand was with him.  ~ Luke 1:66

God gives us dreams to live them out, not just to hope for them. He places big things in our heart so we can use our faith!

Bro Shilo
Unit 1

Big Yes to the Lord (12/22)

Gospel: Luke 1:46-56

And Mary said:  “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed,  ~ Luke 1:46-48

The gospel reminds me the time when I needed to face a big problem in my life not knowing that it’s a call from God. I was full of fear and so hopeless to overcome the challenge. I got to the point of giving up and running away from it, but God was good as HE taught me to say yes to it with willingness and trust in Him. And it made me realize that it was just His way of call for me.

I felt so blessed and delighted that time, with humble heart and stronger faith in Him, I had sacrificed and did my part believing on His kindness and love that this challenge in my life has an ending. Keeping in my mind that the fulfillment and good life our God had promised to us is just in our hands.

I’m so thankful for I was able to accept and happily answered YES to His call. God will always call you for a reason, and that is to make you a better person. Let’s always humbly response to Him and do it according to His will as He will always bless us and provide us of what He had Promise to the world.

Bro Chris
Unit 2

Deeper faith (12/21)

Gospel: Luke 1:39-45

When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! ~ Luke 1:41-42

Indeed, the Holy Spirit is God's gift to us. In the past 7 years working and staying here in Dubai I’ve been through a lot of struggles and personal problems. But having a deeper faith and relationship with God and living with the Lord as the center of my life, I always feel the joy and power of the Holy Spirit on my daily routine as a person, as a brother in the community and as a Christian. For me, everyday God is working for each one of us through the Holy Spirit. God is alive and always there for us no matter what. Be prepared and ready every moment of your life by accepting HIS love and grace...

Bro Manny
Unit 1

Nothing is impossible with God (12/20)

Gospel: Luke 1: 26 - 38

“How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?”” ~ Luke 1:34

Just as God did with Mary, He freely grants His favor to all of us who open their hearts to His Spirit. Being favored by God provides us bounty of blessings. When we truly understand that "nothing is impossible with God," then we are able to step forward without fear and boldly say: "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be done unto me according to your word."

Bro Rhed
Unit 2

Believe and be Hopeful (12/19)

Gospel: Luke 1:5-25

But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. ~ Luke 1:13

Year 2001 I was diagnosed with “Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome” with multiple cysts on both sides of my ovaries. My gynecologist suggested me to settle down at least by the age of 25 because when I reached 30’s, it would be very difficult for me to bear a child. I have to undergo treatment and will keep me a minimum of 2 years to conceive. At that moment, I really wanted to cry in front of my doctor, I felt so disappointed and hurt with the bad news I just heard. I wasn’t expecting that at my very young age I had to suffer from that kind of health condition which may lead to infertility. I really cried when I told my eldest sister and my mom about my health condition. They comforted and gave me hope that someday I will have my own children, just have to follow and cooperate with my doctor for the treatment and proper medication but I was really hopeless and came to a point that I even questioned Him “Why me Lord? I really love babies. I always wanted to have my own kids when I get married”.

For more than two years in SFC community, I just received the answer to my question last week and I know that God used “Daily Manna”, particularly Sis Dred who represented “Angel Gabriel” in the bible verse as an instrument to deliver the message and an affirmation that “it’s never too late…your question has been answered” and I claimed it. PRAISE GOD!

I see myself in Zechariah when he said to Angel Gabriel “How can I know this? I am an old man and my wife is getting on in years”. But the angel replied “I am Gabriel, who stands in God's presence, and I have been sent to speak to you and bring you this good news.” Zechariah and Elizabeth “were upright in the sight of God and impeccably carried out all the commandments and observances of the Lord” but we can see the doubt from Zechariah when he asked Angel Gabriel instead of just saying thank you Lord. Sometimes when we are praying we tend to have a doubt in what we are praying for and we want an immediate answer. We never realize that God is just preparing us to receive the answer or God might give us a better answer in His own perfect time. My fiancée is always telling me that a baby is a blessing from God, we should be hopeful that God will bless us with a very healthy baby in His own perfect time. As we are preparing for our marriage, I am always praying and even tried nine-day novena to Immaculate Concepcion, hoping that all the cysts in my ovaries should be discharged, ovaries will be in normal size and my health condition will be more okay so I will bear child even if I get married at early 30’s.

At first I was hesitant to share but immediately after I read the bible verse I said “YES!” I come to realize that same with Elizabeth and Zechariah they are hopelessly praying and waiting for a gift of child but they are too old and Elizabeth was barren, who were not capable to bear a child but God’s grace and blessing always come in a perfect time. All our prayers have an answer, we just need to wait patiently and believe that God is a faithful and a generous God.

Sis Jnis

Unit 7

Open arms (12/18)

Gospel: Luke 1:26-38

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. ~ Luke 1:38


In this Gospel, we as Christians are challenged on how we will respond to God’s calling. Sometimes, we too are puzzled why such thing is happening to us. But just like Mary, we too must surrender our whole self to God and say YES to His call. Always remember that God has a great plan for us and can do impossible thing in us.

The dialogue between Gabriel and Mary outlines the journey in any call. I can relate this Gospel to my personal experience when I first join the SFC Community. I know He has a wonderful plan why I was able to know this community; and without hesitation, I said yes to Him. My journey with the community moves from bewilderment to certainty. God just want me to experience how great His love for me is. And as I go on with my fruitful journey, the challenge for me now is to share and bring more souls to Him; by accepting and saying “yes” through guiding our brothers and sisters in Christ and taking this great responsibility in my hand. I believe that there is nothing impossible with God, and He will guide me all the way throughout this journey.

Mother Mary’s “yes” to our Creator makes a new move; a move to make us whole and be saved. With me saying “yes,” to God, I know I can make a move as well to help our brothers and sisters to know more about God.

Sis Jhen

Unit 7

Journey (12/17)

Gospel: Matthew 1:1-17

Thus there were fourteen generations in all from Abraham to David, fourteen from David to the exile to Babylon, and fourteen from the exile to the Messiah ~ Matthew 1:17

Browsing the pages in our bible we can see how people refused and accepted the calling and the commandments of the Lord, as well as how our God continuously and constantly stood by His people to offer His undying love and mercy. Because of his Love - God’s glory has passed on to generation to generation as people from all walks of life carry their cross to share and evangelize not only in obedience, but for love and gratitude to the lord our God.

In the past I am so much concern about finding and landing a good job in a well reputed company with an attractive salary package. These things are normal but as I observe the people who have all these, with all the material things in life, I came to ask myself, “Are they truly happy? Can these things make us really happy?” There was a time that I felt everything is well in my life but I cannot help but notice the feeling of something is lacking and no matter where I turn to I can still feel that there is a void that needs to be filled. And this void made me seek more than what this material world can offer, this emptiness directed me to dig deeper and question my goal and purpose in life. Little did I know that I was only feeding my soul and the void that I was feeling was the emptiness in my spirit. And this realization brought me to a path that leads me to seek the Word, where not only my soul was filled but my spirit as well.

This experience made me understand that by carrying our cross we are not only feeding our spirit but also experiencing the fullness of life with the Lord in our hearts. And this is the reason why the glory of God has been passed on to from one generation to another as we cannot disregard, refute, exclude the fact that we need the love and mercy of the Lord our Father.

Bro Jason
Unit 1

Blessings in Our Midst (12/16)

Gospel: John 5:33-36

You have sent to John and he has testified to the truth. Not that I accept human testimony; but I mention it that you may be saved. John was a lamp that burned and gave light, and you chose for a time to enjoy his light.” I have testimony weightier than that of John. For the very work that the Father has given me to finish, and which I am doing, testifies that the Father has sent me. ~ John 5:33-36

All through the course of life, the Lord has paved the way for us to get to know Him and His ways, and for thousand of years we have opted not take heed and continuously ignored His call. God’s love goes undeterred as He send His holy people one after the another to guide us, to lead us, to teach us, so that we may be worthy of a blessed life with Him in His kingdom.

Countless times, human as we are—have chosen to ignore the wisdom of people around us simply because we are too caught up in the grinds of our daily lives. For most, we have managed to reduce the blessing of life to a mere “tick tock” that we ended up valuing the wrong things. But it’s always comforting to know that whatever situation we may be, whether we deserve His love or not, no matter how many times we have refused His guiding hands, the Lord our God will always send people and strangers in our lives to teach us, to guide, to manifest His will in our lives and to lead us back to His welcoming embrace.

Sis Lanie
Unit 5

He is love and he is our life! (12/15)

Gospel: Luke 7:24-30

This is the one about whom it is written:    “‘I will send my messenger ahead of you,    who will prepare your way before you.’. ~ Luke 7:27


In today’s gospel, Jesus praises John for the person that he is and for the responsibility he has. This serves as a beautiful guide for all of us who in a way feels threatened by the presence of those people who are more popular or better than us. In this reading, we are reminded that God has placed us in this world for a purpose and that varies according to our abilities.

We are living in this world to serve Him by means of love. Being a part of the SFC Music Ministry is a way of executing my purpose through service. Sharing a part of my time through praising and singing expresses my gratitude for all the blessings He has provided me everyday. God is love and He is our life.

Sis Rubychiel

Unit 7

It will come... (12/14)

Gospel:  Luke 7: 18 - 23

he sent them to the Lord to ask, “Are you the one who is to come, or should we expect someone else?”. ~ Luke 7:19

We must see what God is doing in our lives and be open to His call - for it will come... but only if we listen. Let God be the center of your family and circle of friends. Walk with Him continuously and you will renounce sin, learn to love, and the things that you must do will work out prosperously for you. God is the one who has come into our lives and who is asking us to follow Him. We only need to say “yes” to His call.  

St. John of the Cross, we ask you to intercede for us in Heaven, and help us find silence and listen to the voice of God in our lives that, through our thoughts, words, deeds, and actions, we might lead others to Him.

Sis Juliet
Unit 7

Say "YES" to GOD with all your HEART (12/13)

Gospel: Matthew 21:28-32

For John came to you to show you the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes did. And even after you saw this, you did not repent and believe him. ~ Matthew 21:32


Do we realize how often we question GOD in HIS purpose?
How often we take HIM for granted and how often we disappoint HIM?

Countless. Isn't it?

Everyone is called by God to experience His love but not all of us respond.
There are many of us who say "YES" to HIM but  couldn’t stand for it, and there are others who say "NO" yet still follow even if they have to struggle.

Our faith in GOD will not be based merely by praising Him with our lips but more of living a life that He wanted us to live - that is to follow HIS will.

It's difficult to profess faith when life gets tough and the world seems unfair.
But remember that God has a better idea when things aren't going the way we wanted to. We just have to remain faithful like He does for us.

Never doubt God's promises. He will never abandon us no matter what.
He will understand and accept us wholeheartedly despite of our unpleasing actions.
This is how great our GOD is.

May God be praised.

Sis Valerie
Unit 7

God’s Promises, NEVER been Broken (12/12)

1st Reading: Zec 2:14-17

Sing, rejoice, daughter of Zion, for now I am coming to live among you -Yahweh declares!

And on that day many nations will be converted to Yahweh. Yes, they will become his people, and they will live among you. Then you will know that Yahweh Sabaoth has sent me to you!
Yahweh will take possession of Judah, his portion in the Holy Land, and again make Jerusalem his choice. 

Let all people be silent before Yahweh, now that he is stirring from his holy Dwelling!

. ~ Zec 2:14-17


Our Lord God has promised redemption to our forefathers and He fulfilled it when he sent his only begotten son, Jesus Christ. He lived and dwelt among us in this world. He was crucified and suffered for our sake. Jesus Christ died on the cross so that we will no longer bear the wages of our sins. Jesus Christ did it with all obedience to His father - our Creator. Therefore, it is only proper that we, His people, show the same obedience and do our best to follow the same path of holiness as Jesus did. The first part was already done for us; we don't have to be crucified, we are spared from that. We just need to live this life loving Him, abiding by Him and giving glory to Him and His son, Jesus Christ.

So, be glad! Our existence alone is a great gift from Him. Yet, His enormous heart, overflowing with love, did not only intend to give us life - He wants us to live! And by living, He wants us redeemed from our sins. He wants us to joyfully experience all the love and all the blessings He has to give for us. It is out of His love that we are given chances after chances - a chance to be better and to do better in all our waking days. Never has He grown tired of us. Never has He given up on us. All these is because, He wants us to be with Him in His Kingdom. It is the same reason why He has given the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. The only thing left for us to do is to accept His greatest present with all our hearts.

 And, during the times that we feel burdened, we should always keep it in our minds that the Lord God has given us the best gift and through Him, we can never go wrong. We might not be perfect and, our lives, we might judge it imperfect but, we have a perfect God who cares, who forgives and who shows us His never-ending love in every minute, every second that we breathe – in all our days!
All glory and honor to Him alone!

Sis April
Unit 6

Believing in God (12/11)

Gospel: John 1:6-8, 19-28

6 There was a man sent from God whose name was John. 7 He came as a witness to testify concerning that light, so that through him all might believe. 8 He himself was not the light; he came only as a witness to the light.. ~ John 1:6-8

In some point of our lives, we experience questioning God's existence or even asking who really God is, as many have claimed that they are the real GOD. 
We cannot deny that there are  people who have a complete disbelief on God’s existence for some reasons. 
Due to human weaknesses, we also question God's existence during those times when we are broken, devastated and when we experience difficulties in our life.


In this gospel, it made us realize that there is GOD. He always find ways to make us believe that HE truly exist, and that HE is the WAY and the LIGHT and that we will believe through in HIM. 
He sends people in our lives to be our guide, who serves as the witnesses of HIS works. 
This people could be our family, our friends, our workmates, and even strangers who we encounter in our everyday life.


As humans and being a Christian, we accept and believe in God is by simply opening our hearts and letting HIM in and living a life in accordance to His will.

Sis Chai

Unit 5

There is no other time but now (12/10)

Gospel: Matthew 17:10-13

The disciples asked him, “Why then do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?”

Jesus replied, “To be sure, Elijah comes and will restore all things. But I tell you, Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but have done to him everything they wished. In the same way the Son of Man is going to suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was talking to them about John the Baptist.

 ~ Matthew 17:10-13

The gospel of today reminds us brothers and sisters that we have a mighty and powerful God. He has complete dominion over all creatures and mankind. He is a generous giver but He can also take everything away in one snap of a finger.

My brothers and sisters, as we relate this to our daily lives, it tells us to always be READY to face the Lord for we will not know when this time will come.  We should not delay to do good deeds as there is no other best time to start but NOW.   Start giving and share what you have to your less unfortunate brothers and sisters  now.  You may start with your service in the community by offering your talents, time and resources NOW. It is never too late to apologize to someone who you have hurt before or forgive someone who has caused you great pain; you still have the moment now. Whatever the circumstances are, life is too short to let the time and opportunity to do God’s will pass by. We must always live a life that is pleasing to the Lord so that when the time comes, we can face Him with a clean heart and He will welcome us with an outstretched arm and a smile.

Sis Kottie
Unit 5

Ought to have a second chance (12/09)

Gospel: Matthew 11: 16 - 19

The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Here is a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners.’ But wisdom is proved right by her deeds.”” ~ Mark 11:19

Prior to Jesus Christ’s period on earth, human is already vulnerable in committing wrongdoings. People tend to please themselves in any means without considering the consequences of their spiteful actions. They indulge  on anything that may satisfy their worldly desires. But because of GOD’s genuine love to His children, He has given to us His only begotten son, Jesus Christ who serves as our mediator and most of all, our only Redeemer. As time passes by, we humans opted to become more sinners. As a human being, we only pay attention for temporary happiness in which this world can offer us. We no longer care and mind what kind of life we are living in, whether it may be good or evil. We are living in a doomed and wicked place. Why & How? Merely by permitting Satan to rule our daily lives. We let him manipulate us simply by our sinful thoughts and actions.

Brothers and Sisters, we are fortunate enough to have a loving and merciful God who is always there for us ready to accept and forgive us anytime. It is not yet over! This is the perfect time for us to repent from our sins and refresh our lives. I do believe that if we only allow GOD to lead and be the center of our lives, everything will be all right because in God’s eyes, everyone is equal. Amen.

Sis Maya
Unit 3

Vocation of Mary (12/08)

Gospel: Luke 1: 26 - 38

“I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Then the angel left her. ~ Luke 1:38

In this life, we are called to respond with love and willingness to surrender our own capabilities to the works of God whom have been gracious and loving from the very beginning. I always look at Mama Mary as the very epitome of a Lord’s servant with all her life surrendered to the will of God. Mama Mary herself made known to us the very posture of how a servant must be, in our willingness to be vessels of the grace of God. Jesus himself is the very essence of God’s grace cared inside Mama Mary’s womb who is the new Ark of the Covenant. Mary symbolizes that it is for us to emulate her humility despite our lacking, for the Lord promised us that He will qualify and empower those who are called, He does not call the qualified. I am confident in His very grace that despite of my imperfection I believe that He does not look at my limits or my success, nor should I succeed or fail, rather He only requires me to try. We as new breed of Christians are called to respond with utmost love and devotion for it is only then we will be living our very vocation to Jesus. And with Mary’s ways of living with her calling, I look upon her as a symbol of God’s providence that no matter what, the Lord will always be my source of grace. Mary has been filled with grace for she offered everything to the Lord, so as I am called to surrender unto Him as well, then the Lord’s grace will accompany me all throughout my very existence.

Bro Nanan
Chapter Head

Do your best and God will do the rest (12/07)

Gospel: Matthew 11:28-30

Jesus said to the crowds: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.” ~ Matthew 11:28-30


Jesus first before anything else. And God said also... Do your best and I will do the rest.

Let’s offer to God all our burdens in life... Everything will be lightened because God never refuses His child. And one sure thing is whatever plans we have in mind, seek God's sign first. Most importantly do your best, exert all your efforts and God will do whatever will be left behind.

Bro Deo
Unit 2

The Parable of the Lost Sheep (12/06)

Gospel: Matthew 18: 12-14

If a man has 100 sheep, but one of the sheep becomes lost, then the man will leave the other 99 sheep on the hill. He will go to look for the lost sheep. Right? And if the man finds the lost sheep, the man is happier about that one sheep than about the 99 sheep that were never lost. I tell you the truth. In the same way, your Father in heaven does not want any of these little children to be lost. ~ Matthew 18: 12-14

In life, we may lose our way and totally get lost and be with the sinners walking down the dark tunnel searching for that sole light and gasping for air to breathe.  Like everyone else, we have committed a lot of sins and wrong doings in our lives.  We rebel and forget who we are and what our purpose of existence is.  But just like a lost sheep, the master will always look for the lost one. No matter how dirty we are, the Lord will always cleanse us. His desire to see the lost sheep return to Him, despite having ninety nine other sheep, despite the sinful and rebellious lost sheep, the Lord will always joyfully receive it back. Just as He does when we repent our sins and return to Him.

I was once on that lonely tunnel wandering and I’m so glad that I found the light at the end of it.

Bro Joel
Unit 2

Desperate for Jesus (12/05)

Gospel: Luke 5:17-26

“But I want you to know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins.” So he said to the paralyzed man, “I tell you, get up, take your mat and go home.” ~ Luke 5:24

It came to a point in my life wherein I chose to lead my life apart from God. Thinking that I was too good enough to handle myself, I confidently took control of my own life and rejected God’s graces. But human as I am, I am nothing without God. I had made wrong turns in my life by allowing my own weakness to consume me and resorted to making irresponsible decisions.  I watched myself slowly falling deep into the bottom of the pit until I became very weak, helpless and paralyzed. Then I found myself very desperate for Jesus; desperate for forgiveness.

It is much like how the people in today’s gospel were so desperate enough to get to Jesus, to the extent of ripping off the rooftop, just to bring their paralyzed friend to receive healing. Because of their great faith, Jesus had forgiven and healed the man and told to get up, take his mat and go home.

I had similarly sought Jesus for spiritual healing, forgiveness and repentance.  Jesus accepted me with open arms and gave me another chance.  And as I continue my journey in life, with a renewed spirit, I offer my life participating in God’s mission making Jesus as my inspiration.

If we feel that we are so far away from God, let us reach out to Jesus for he is our way to God. He is our stronghold. He is our merciful healer and redeemer who would never deprive us of his forgiveness and compassion. Jesus Christ is the manifestation of God’s great love for us. Let us all keep our faith strong in that belief.
.

Sis aRn 
Unit 3

Straighten the Path… This is His path (12/04)

Gospel: Mark 1:1-8

“a voice of one calling in the wilderness, ‘Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him.’” ~ Mark 1:3

“May we be able to follow the right path in our lives and serve our purpose in this world.”  This is one of my prayers every night before I sleep. This is quite an uneasy job. Temptations are just too inviting; painful moments are not that easy to forget.  Two months ago we had a heated argument with my immediate boss and the result was an additional one-day work per week. It was unacceptable for me but then it’s a take it or live it chance. I don’t want to lose my job so I had to bear the burden of waking up early in the Saturday morning while all my roommates are still snoring. In my heart, I couldn’t forgive my boss! When I go to church, I’m praying for that. I was really dismayed. But one recent weekend we had this retreat. One of the topics talked about healing. I thought of many things; my shortcomings, my intentional mistakes and my unforgivable boss who make me feel unwell emotionally.  On the other hand, I realized all the blessings I have had. I still have a decent job, earning fair enough, healthy, comfortable, safe, helped a few in need,  a loving family, etc.  It’s just overwhelming and this boss was somehow more than good to me than being cruel sometimes. I regret of feeling bad against him and I decided to forgive him. I felt better. The following day, it was Saturday, and I was in the office as usual. Surprisingly, he came in and said; “Let’s return our 2-day weekend. So now you’re happy?” I said, “Very happy!”  “But remember this,  I was really upset with you.” he added.  I just kept my silence.  Now I find relief! I felt I was forgiven also by forgiving my boss.  It was such a sweet heavenly grace!

Let us remember John who was born, lived holy and done a great job to prepare Jesus’s way. It’s every ones job. Let’s make our own paths straight… for this is the path for our Lord!

Sis Crest
Unit 5

The kingdom of heaven is at hand (12/03)

Gospel: Matthew 9:35-10:1, 5-8 

Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying, give without pay. ~ Matthew 10:8

How grateful we should be for our Lord God for He is really awesome and wonderful. He has endowed us with so many gifts and graces and blessings in life. These gifts and graces that God has given us will be our guiding tools to be used in partaking with His mission for the whole world - His greatest mission of bringing back all those that have lost their path and lead them to His way. Our God has always an invitation for all of us, an invitation to accept within ourselves the reality of Life. A life having armed with the spiritual tools, a life in service to others, a life mandated to work on a specific task , a life with full of sacrifices in fulfilling God’s mission and to be with Him in His kingdom on His perfect time.

Just as what Jesus have done when He chose to live with us, He showed to us the right way on how to live the Life He has given us. Because God has created us according to His image with mind, heart and soul and been embraced with so many gifts and graces. That is why He wants us to live the very essence of this LIFE and that is to give LIFE also to others so that the LIGHT of the world will shine on those who will follow His will and will receive the reward of eternal life. God is our teacher and preacher.  But the way He teaches us is not just merely thru His words but those words were demonstrated to us so that all mankind will understand clearly the message of God to all humanity.

Our Lord Jesus Christ is a generous God. For God knows who are in great need. And He gives freely even before we ask. Jesus said to his disciples: Freely you have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8).  He is a compassionate God.  For His hand are always ready to offer to those who accept Him. He is a living God.  By accepting His generosity to us… by acknowledging the graces and blessings of God to us… we are then also accepting the task He has commissioned to us.

Oh God whatever Your will to us…may it be done unto us.

Sis Reah
Unit 6 

Blessings behind Troubles (12/02)

Gospel: Matthew 9:27-31

“As Jesus went on from there, two blind men followed him, calling out, “Have mercy on us, Son of David!” ~ Matthew 9:27

From the words "Have mercy on us, Son of David", I was thinking about the struggles in life.  I know every one of us are aware that struggles in life are part of our life. No one is exempted. I believe that even struggles and pains are also a blessing from above. Without these, how can we be strong? How can we learn to have faith and trust God? How can we know who are the true people that would really care and pray for us? Even sometimes it may seem out of control, we just have to remind ourselves that God has a plan and a purpose for us. He sees and understands the condition of our hearts. He knows. Going out to attend interviews gave me a chance to discover many places, meet a lot of people and hear their stories. Hearing some of their stories may break your heart and somehow be inspired to keep going. That you will ask and pray, "Lord, please let her have this job. I still have good friends and family to rely on. Please, let her have this job."  God has been very generous with me. When I pray and ask for something, in just an hour or before the day ends, there's already an answer. But because I am hard-headed sometimes and wanting for more, I declined some of the opportunities that came my way. I felt bad in asking for more. I pray again and asked for forgiveness for wanting what I want. I began to think about those people I have met along my journey.  Again, it made me realize how blessed I am. During these times of hardships, sometimes, you can't help yourself  but cry out during prayer. You cry… not because of these hardships, but, because God let you feel and made you realize that aside from these, there are a lot of things to be grateful and be thankful for. He showed me and made me feel that I am still blessed for everything that is happening around me. I may cry because of the hurts and pains that my family and I are experiencing right now, but, as I pray and lay down to sleep, I feel hope, peace and comfort.  I believe during these times, God is with me.

Life can be hard at times, but, we always have choices. With God's help you don't have to let struggles defeat you. Remember, we all face struggles in life. God, will always be there to remind you that,
"I will never fail you, I will never forsake you." - Hebrew 13:5.
Listen to your heart. Be still and quiet.
It may be hard but don't let this struggles steal your HAPPY YOU.
"Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer." - Roman 12:12
The storm will pass... It will pass...

Sis Shella
Unit 5

The Wise and Foolish Builders (12/01)

Gospel: Matthew 7:21, 24-27

Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. ~ Matthew 7:24

The Gospel today is very significant in our SFC Life. YES! We listen to his words more often but we should ask ourselves… How can we listen more attentively to the words of Christ? In the decisions of life, do we tend to build our house on rock, or on sand?

The reading puts before us the challenge to take seriously the words of Jesus’ preaching and to put them into practice. We too, as disciples we need good foundation as we seek the kingdom of heaven in our lives. We believe that everyone has something special to share in our community. Let’s share and give our FIAT... YES without hesitations! Because we are called to be holy…

So better do our best every single day to embrace, cherish & treasure all that we have now….even our considered crosses! Always be thankful and contented! We are given another chance to make our lives better and worthy stewards of God’s creations.

Sis Dred
Unit 6