Dear Family and Brethren,
Merry Christmas to you all!
Having been in so many brinks in my journey, but saved by the grace and mercy of Jesus, and now living in the bonus years God gave me, I hope you don’t mind my sharing below how I feel in seasons like this beyond the cliches.
Yes, it is always such a very joyful day to reflect, knowing that we celebrate the uneventful entrance of our Lord into our world, on that silent night in Bethlehem, in a shack, in a manger, witnessed by the least and the ordinary. And, now being made aware that - all of us - the sinful men and women of the world, we are the reason for Christmas, I am ever grateful!
I am thankful God sent the BEST of Heaven to rescue the WORST of the world, like me and everyone, as the Bible says - the world. He didn’t have to. But He did, because of His unyielding Love. I am glad He did come. Now, I and all of us who welcome Him, accept and receive His salvation to have an intimate relationship with Him - our Father, we are secured. We are rescued from eternal death.
We’re not anymore alone. He is with and in us. We have help. His comfort and peace covers us. He saved us by His gift of grace. He leads us. His goodness and mercy follow us to the house of the Lord, forever.
Now, we have Christmas to celebrate! And, as we celebrate-
“May all of us be filled with the wonder of Mary, the obedience of Joseph, the joy of the angels, the eagerness of the shepherds, the determination of the magi, and the peace of the Christ child Jesus, Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit bless us all now and forever.”
In Jesus Name. AMEN!
Lovingly,
Felix, Mae & Family
Monday, December 25, 2017
Dustin and Sarah's Wedding - November 4, 2017
Dustin – Sarah Wedding
November 4, 2017
2:00 0'clock PM
Hilton Hotel Ballroom
Ocala, Florida, USA
Benediction Prayer Exhortation
Dad -
Thank you for sharing with us your precious time today, as we experienced a celebration launching a holy institution that God started in the beginning for two imperfect individuals being united to become an imperfect couple.
When I heard this verse many times in the past: "That is why a man (or woman) leaves his "or her" father and mother and is united to his wife (or her husband), and they become one flesh.” Genesis 2:24 NIV
I thought that when the day comes - and it came today, I would lose a daughter. But, today I realize God's unstated gain out of His design in marriage - my wife & I actually gained a son, while Kevin & Jill gained a daughter that we both did not have. Yes, imperfect ones but it is a gain nevertheless.
Also, this imperfect couple - now gained complete 4 imperfect pillars of support to lean on as they build the home they now are establishing, with both of us their parents behind them. (Yes, again imperfect, but today they gained 2 sets of parents)
Such an amazing design of God to usher a union He purposed to be blessed.
So, as I, with my wife and fellow parents of this newly formed launching pad of a family, send them off to navigate the vast ocean called marriage - the union of a man and a woman. And as they now establish their family and home, I say - Dustin and Sarah, I don’t have a prepared usual toast. Rather, I have a story to tell you and a prayer of declaration for you.
And First, here's a story I want you to take with you as reminder. This is the same story I heard last century when we, Mae and I started our journey. This kept us in checked - me mostly.
"There was a rich man who embarked on a long journey. As he prepared for his journey he instructed all his servants for what they do while he was away. One of those servants was his master builder. Before he left, he called his master builder. He said to the master builder, I'm going away. And while I'm a way, I want you to surprise me on my return. I want you to build me a beautiful sturdy house on a hill that withstands the test of time, season and weather. Make it your masterpiece. Make it the strongest house there is, built with the best materials there are and the best craftsmen you can find. Here is your funding. No limits. Build me the most beautiful and strongest house. Then the rich master went on with his journey.
As the rich master now gone, the master builder went to start the work he was tasked to do. Along the way, as he started designing, planning and assembling the resources he needed to build the strongest and most beautiful house that his master asked him to do, an idea hit him. He said to himself - "I need not build this house as the master ask. I need not spend as much and still build a beautiful looking house. I am going spend much of the funds for me to enjoy, instead." So he did in deed spend instead much of the funds that his master provided to enjoy a lavish lifestyle, enjoying all the cravings and whiles of the flesh that he almost forgot his project. He squandered the time and money he had been provided. Then he realized his master was almost returning.
So he rushed to assemble illegal and unlicensed workers he could find anywhere. He ordered substandard materials from China. He built in a rush a weak house with sub-standard low quality materials. Then he designed a very beautiful facade of the house resting on a hill. When his master returned, he saw from afar the magnificent looking house on a hill. Excited, he eagerly sought his master builder to thank him for such a beautiful house which he instructed him to build.
Then he called his master builder. The rich master said to him- thank you my good master builder for building this strong and beautiful house. This is indeed your masterpiece I see. Built according to my specification by the best craftsmen there are. Now, as my reward for what you have done - To you I give this beautiful house. This is yours to live in and enjoy my dear master builder!
The master builder gasped in utter disbelief. He crumbled over his legs. Regretting, if only had he known it was his house he was building he would have built it as the master specified – with Steel from Pittsburg. Not China. With Craftsmen from Florida! The best there are.
Yeah, if only he knew it.
Guess what Dustin & Sarah, now you know. The house you're about to build is yours.
Let the Creator build it. The Bible says -
“Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it;”Psalms 127:1a NKJV
Build it with the best Materials from heaven. “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”2 Peter 1:3 NIV
Here's the promise of the Master’s word -
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:19 KJV
Now, go build your home. Please know and remember. We love you. And, Jesus loves you!
Dustin & Sarah, I pronounce blessings of our
Almighty Father in Heaven in Jesus Name upon you. I declare the fullness of God's provision of grace upon you. You are blessed in the city. You are blessed in the field. God rains His favors upon you. I proclaim prosperity and success in all that you do. I declare God’s gift of beautiful and healthy children to fill your home. May God use you mightily in your calling for His glory. All these I pray, in the most gracious, holy and powerful name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
And, I say … AMEN!
November 4, 2017
2:00 0'clock PM
Hilton Hotel Ballroom
Ocala, Florida, USA
Benediction Prayer Exhortation
Dad -
Thank you for sharing with us your precious time today, as we experienced a celebration launching a holy institution that God started in the beginning for two imperfect individuals being united to become an imperfect couple.
When I heard this verse many times in the past: "That is why a man (or woman) leaves his "or her" father and mother and is united to his wife (or her husband), and they become one flesh.” Genesis 2:24 NIV
I thought that when the day comes - and it came today, I would lose a daughter. But, today I realize God's unstated gain out of His design in marriage - my wife & I actually gained a son, while Kevin & Jill gained a daughter that we both did not have. Yes, imperfect ones but it is a gain nevertheless.
Also, this imperfect couple - now gained complete 4 imperfect pillars of support to lean on as they build the home they now are establishing, with both of us their parents behind them. (Yes, again imperfect, but today they gained 2 sets of parents)
Such an amazing design of God to usher a union He purposed to be blessed.
So, as I, with my wife and fellow parents of this newly formed launching pad of a family, send them off to navigate the vast ocean called marriage - the union of a man and a woman. And as they now establish their family and home, I say - Dustin and Sarah, I don’t have a prepared usual toast. Rather, I have a story to tell you and a prayer of declaration for you.
And First, here's a story I want you to take with you as reminder. This is the same story I heard last century when we, Mae and I started our journey. This kept us in checked - me mostly.
"There was a rich man who embarked on a long journey. As he prepared for his journey he instructed all his servants for what they do while he was away. One of those servants was his master builder. Before he left, he called his master builder. He said to the master builder, I'm going away. And while I'm a way, I want you to surprise me on my return. I want you to build me a beautiful sturdy house on a hill that withstands the test of time, season and weather. Make it your masterpiece. Make it the strongest house there is, built with the best materials there are and the best craftsmen you can find. Here is your funding. No limits. Build me the most beautiful and strongest house. Then the rich master went on with his journey.
As the rich master now gone, the master builder went to start the work he was tasked to do. Along the way, as he started designing, planning and assembling the resources he needed to build the strongest and most beautiful house that his master asked him to do, an idea hit him. He said to himself - "I need not build this house as the master ask. I need not spend as much and still build a beautiful looking house. I am going spend much of the funds for me to enjoy, instead." So he did in deed spend instead much of the funds that his master provided to enjoy a lavish lifestyle, enjoying all the cravings and whiles of the flesh that he almost forgot his project. He squandered the time and money he had been provided. Then he realized his master was almost returning.
So he rushed to assemble illegal and unlicensed workers he could find anywhere. He ordered substandard materials from China. He built in a rush a weak house with sub-standard low quality materials. Then he designed a very beautiful facade of the house resting on a hill. When his master returned, he saw from afar the magnificent looking house on a hill. Excited, he eagerly sought his master builder to thank him for such a beautiful house which he instructed him to build.
Then he called his master builder. The rich master said to him- thank you my good master builder for building this strong and beautiful house. This is indeed your masterpiece I see. Built according to my specification by the best craftsmen there are. Now, as my reward for what you have done - To you I give this beautiful house. This is yours to live in and enjoy my dear master builder!
The master builder gasped in utter disbelief. He crumbled over his legs. Regretting, if only had he known it was his house he was building he would have built it as the master specified – with Steel from Pittsburg. Not China. With Craftsmen from Florida! The best there are.
Yeah, if only he knew it.
Guess what Dustin & Sarah, now you know. The house you're about to build is yours.
Let the Creator build it. The Bible says -
“Unless the LORD builds the house, They labor in vain who build it;”Psalms 127:1a NKJV
Build it with the best Materials from heaven. “His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.”2 Peter 1:3 NIV
Here's the promise of the Master’s word -
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”Philippians 4:19 KJV
Now, go build your home. Please know and remember. We love you. And, Jesus loves you!
Dustin & Sarah, I pronounce blessings of our
Almighty Father in Heaven in Jesus Name upon you. I declare the fullness of God's provision of grace upon you. You are blessed in the city. You are blessed in the field. God rains His favors upon you. I proclaim prosperity and success in all that you do. I declare God’s gift of beautiful and healthy children to fill your home. May God use you mightily in your calling for His glory. All these I pray, in the most gracious, holy and powerful name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
And, I say … AMEN!
Sarah & Dustin's Wedding - November 4, 2017
Dustin – Sarah Wedding
November 4, 2017
2:00 0'clock PM
Hilton Hotel Ballroom
Ocala, Florida, USA
Reception Welcome Exultation
Mom-
Today, We remember the Lord.
In the Mighty name of Jesus Christ, With Jill & Kevin, my husband Felix and I, we, the proud parents of Dustin and Sarah,
Welcome you all!
My husband and I stand here today in this momentous occasion of celebration, as Sarah and Dustin enter into the institution that God started in the garden, in awe of Him our Creator.
It is written: “Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib, and he brought her to the man.” Genesis 2:22 NLT
We take pleasure with gratitude to see this moment, as our beautiful Baby Daughter gave us the honor and opportunity to fulfill God’s design in marriage. It is with a grateful heart that we gave her away to her handsome husband, in the luxury of your presence, our physical and spiritual families, brethren and friends.
Dad -
So, today, we remember The Lord! We give Him honor, in this very significant event as Dustin cleaves to Sarah and Sarah cleaves to Dustin.
And, we, together with you all our family and friends, my wife and I, stand here to give God all the glory.
We give glory to the Sovereign God, the Creator of heaven and earth, and everything in it...
The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob...
The same God yesterday today and forever...
The same God our Father, who gave His only Son Jesus ...
We give glory to God who led Abraham to the land He showed him. Who is the same God who showed the land where my family and I now stand - the greatest Nation the world ever had and will ever have – this is our promise land.
We give glory to Him, who took Moses to the wilderness of Midian. Who is the same God, who took me and my family to the same land of Midian, the present day Arabia.
We give glory to Him, the same God who Moses encountered at the burning bush in Midian. He is the same God my family and I encountered on the burning sand in Arabia.
Not minimizing Moses, but magnifying the goodness of God the Great I AM, I give Him glory for the contrasting parallel I have been privileged to encounter Him, as Moses did in the land of Midian.
He took Moses to Midian pursued by Pharoah.
He took me to my Midian pursuing the enticement of oil money.
Moses left royalty in Egypt.
I left adversity in the Philippines.
We give Him glory for making us see He is a God of the ordinary, as He allowed us in our ordinariness to witness and experience many things in the extraordinary – He kept my family and I safe as we lived and watched intense persecution (even to the brink of execution for some) in the land of Arabia.
We give glory to Him who protected my family, as He privileged us to be instruments of planting underground churches in the perilous land of Arabia.
We give glory to Him who protected us, when He humbly used us to establish Christian Schools and touch lives for Jesus in the middle of the Islamic stronghold in the land of Arabia.
We give glory to Him who led us to where we are today, standing in the midst of you our friends and our families, boasting of God's abundant grace in Christ, here in our promise land, as citizens of this greatest nation on earth, the United States of America.
Yes, we give glory and remember the God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob who led my Wife & I from the small islands of Bohol and Cebu in the Philippines, to truly encounter and personally know our Lord Jesus Christ the most unusual way in the anti-Christ land of Arabia, in the Middle East, then led us here in Ocala, in Florida, in the USA, in the Western Hemisphere, in the World, in the Universe and in the heart of the Almighty.
We give glory to The Sovereign God and Lord Jesus Christ as Mae and I give away in marriage, our baby daughter Sarah to be united as wife to Dustin, her husband.
We give glory to The Great I Am, as we declare Sarah and Dustin are one in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ.
Again, welcome all of you, in Jesus Name, AMEN!
November 4, 2017
2:00 0'clock PM
Hilton Hotel Ballroom
Ocala, Florida, USA
Reception Welcome Exultation
Mom-
Today, We remember the Lord.
In the Mighty name of Jesus Christ, With Jill & Kevin, my husband Felix and I, we, the proud parents of Dustin and Sarah,
Welcome you all!
My husband and I stand here today in this momentous occasion of celebration, as Sarah and Dustin enter into the institution that God started in the garden, in awe of Him our Creator.
It is written: “Then the Lord God made a woman from the rib, and he brought her to the man.” Genesis 2:22 NLT
We take pleasure with gratitude to see this moment, as our beautiful Baby Daughter gave us the honor and opportunity to fulfill God’s design in marriage. It is with a grateful heart that we gave her away to her handsome husband, in the luxury of your presence, our physical and spiritual families, brethren and friends.
Dad -
So, today, we remember The Lord! We give Him honor, in this very significant event as Dustin cleaves to Sarah and Sarah cleaves to Dustin.
And, we, together with you all our family and friends, my wife and I, stand here to give God all the glory.
We give glory to the Sovereign God, the Creator of heaven and earth, and everything in it...
The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob...
The same God yesterday today and forever...
The same God our Father, who gave His only Son Jesus ...
We give glory to God who led Abraham to the land He showed him. Who is the same God who showed the land where my family and I now stand - the greatest Nation the world ever had and will ever have – this is our promise land.
We give glory to Him, who took Moses to the wilderness of Midian. Who is the same God, who took me and my family to the same land of Midian, the present day Arabia.
We give glory to Him, the same God who Moses encountered at the burning bush in Midian. He is the same God my family and I encountered on the burning sand in Arabia.
Not minimizing Moses, but magnifying the goodness of God the Great I AM, I give Him glory for the contrasting parallel I have been privileged to encounter Him, as Moses did in the land of Midian.
He took Moses to Midian pursued by Pharoah.
He took me to my Midian pursuing the enticement of oil money.
Moses left royalty in Egypt.
I left adversity in the Philippines.
We give Him glory for making us see He is a God of the ordinary, as He allowed us in our ordinariness to witness and experience many things in the extraordinary – He kept my family and I safe as we lived and watched intense persecution (even to the brink of execution for some) in the land of Arabia.
We give glory to Him who protected my family, as He privileged us to be instruments of planting underground churches in the perilous land of Arabia.
We give glory to Him who protected us, when He humbly used us to establish Christian Schools and touch lives for Jesus in the middle of the Islamic stronghold in the land of Arabia.
We give glory to Him who led us to where we are today, standing in the midst of you our friends and our families, boasting of God's abundant grace in Christ, here in our promise land, as citizens of this greatest nation on earth, the United States of America.
Yes, we give glory and remember the God of Abraham Isaac and Jacob who led my Wife & I from the small islands of Bohol and Cebu in the Philippines, to truly encounter and personally know our Lord Jesus Christ the most unusual way in the anti-Christ land of Arabia, in the Middle East, then led us here in Ocala, in Florida, in the USA, in the Western Hemisphere, in the World, in the Universe and in the heart of the Almighty.
We give glory to The Sovereign God and Lord Jesus Christ as Mae and I give away in marriage, our baby daughter Sarah to be united as wife to Dustin, her husband.
We give glory to The Great I Am, as we declare Sarah and Dustin are one in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ.
Again, welcome all of you, in Jesus Name, AMEN!
Monday, June 19, 2017
Happy Father's Day
Happy Father's Day to great Dads!
Thanks and God bless to amazing Moms. Without you it won't be meaningful being a Dad or even impossible for that matter!
Most of all, Praises to our Heavenly Father for the gift of Beautiful Children who kept/keep us awake all night in work days and painted/paint yellow stains of poops on our shirts as we get to work. They are heritage from God affirming the rewarding title DAD. "Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from Him.” Psalm 127:3 NIV
To All Dads, We are blessed and graced in Jesus Name, Amen!
Thanks and God bless to amazing Moms. Without you it won't be meaningful being a Dad or even impossible for that matter!
Most of all, Praises to our Heavenly Father for the gift of Beautiful Children who kept/keep us awake all night in work days and painted/paint yellow stains of poops on our shirts as we get to work. They are heritage from God affirming the rewarding title DAD. "Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from Him.” Psalm 127:3 NIV
To All Dads, We are blessed and graced in Jesus Name, Amen!
Sunday, June 18, 2017
Pete's Tragic Passing
May 31. 2017
A very dark day.
My Brother in Law Pedro Taganahan, we called him with endearment "Juan" or "Pete", a very gentle man, a loving husband to his wife Tessie and devoted father to his daughter Maimai and grandfather to Theona, was taken early accidentally.
This is overwhelmingly tragic to fathom. Yes, this is beyond us. When life is interrupted and stolen. But, thanks be to God we have a Heavenly Father who takes care and carry what we can't. Our minds maybe confused and our hearts may be troubled. But, by His grace in Christ Jesus our Lord, He is our refuge to run to for comfort. He makes our heavy load light. In the turmoil that our hearts bear, His grace is sufficient. In our most vulnerable and weakest moments, His word promised these -
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness..”(2 Corinthians 12:9a KJV)
In the midst of intense sadness, His peace guards us. We have this assurance- “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7 NIV)
Tess, Mai, Tobert and Theona, please know, we love you. Jesus loves you. There's nothing the enemy can do to rob us that. It is written: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:35-39 KJV)
We declare all these in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, AMEN!
The Frias Family
A very dark day.
My Brother in Law Pedro Taganahan, we called him with endearment "Juan" or "Pete", a very gentle man, a loving husband to his wife Tessie and devoted father to his daughter Maimai and grandfather to Theona, was taken early accidentally.
This is overwhelmingly tragic to fathom. Yes, this is beyond us. When life is interrupted and stolen. But, thanks be to God we have a Heavenly Father who takes care and carry what we can't. Our minds maybe confused and our hearts may be troubled. But, by His grace in Christ Jesus our Lord, He is our refuge to run to for comfort. He makes our heavy load light. In the turmoil that our hearts bear, His grace is sufficient. In our most vulnerable and weakest moments, His word promised these -
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28 NIV)
"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness..”(2 Corinthians 12:9a KJV)
In the midst of intense sadness, His peace guards us. We have this assurance- “And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7 NIV)
Tess, Mai, Tobert and Theona, please know, we love you. Jesus loves you. There's nothing the enemy can do to rob us that. It is written: “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:35-39 KJV)
We declare all these in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, AMEN!
The Frias Family
Sunday, April 23, 2017
Easter Greetings 2017!
April 9, 2017
Dear PFC Brethren,
Happy Resurrection Day!
As sojourners, we are all spending a limited time in this realm. In a short time, the journey is over. Then, eternity - heaven or hell. And, hell is real for those who choose not to be saved. Praises to our Lord, we are blessed to have a Savior.
Such a solemn day to reflect!
A Father gave His only Son to save a sinner like me (and everyone of us), who's headed to a certain eternal place of damnation. Yes, a sinner that's so unlovable. Yet, He loves us to send the Best of heaven, to save the Worst of the world. It's so amazing to realize His love, knowing that in our worst, Lord Jesus is at Hist best. He suffered, that we shall be saved. He gave up His life, that we shall receive our life. He died, so we will live. He has risen, so we can rise above our circumstances to live life abundantly.
Thank you Lord Jesus!
We are yours!
Father in heaven, thank you!
Honor and power are yours, forever and ever, in Christ Jesus' holy and mighty Name, AMEN!🙏
Lovingly,
PFC Family
Brethren Fel & Mae, with Hannah & Shasha
Dear PFC Brethren,
Happy Resurrection Day!
As sojourners, we are all spending a limited time in this realm. In a short time, the journey is over. Then, eternity - heaven or hell. And, hell is real for those who choose not to be saved. Praises to our Lord, we are blessed to have a Savior.
Such a solemn day to reflect!
A Father gave His only Son to save a sinner like me (and everyone of us), who's headed to a certain eternal place of damnation. Yes, a sinner that's so unlovable. Yet, He loves us to send the Best of heaven, to save the Worst of the world. It's so amazing to realize His love, knowing that in our worst, Lord Jesus is at Hist best. He suffered, that we shall be saved. He gave up His life, that we shall receive our life. He died, so we will live. He has risen, so we can rise above our circumstances to live life abundantly.
Thank you Lord Jesus!
We are yours!
Father in heaven, thank you!
Honor and power are yours, forever and ever, in Christ Jesus' holy and mighty Name, AMEN!🙏
Lovingly,
PFC Family
Brethren Fel & Mae, with Hannah & Shasha
Thursday, April 20, 2017
The Clock!!!
Greetings, on Dr. Tessie Taganahan's Retirement.
January 26, 2017
The Clock!!!
What's with the clock for celebration theme?! Great significance!!!
What's with the clock for celebration theme?! Great significance!!!
Time is infinite through all eternity. Yet, in this realm of matter and space, we pause. We map out a new direction of our journey. We reflect to embark a change and transition for greater things. God sets something good ahead of us to pursue.
Solomon said in The Bible: “What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:9-11 NIV)
Solomon said in The Bible: “What do workers gain from their toil? I have seen the burden God has laid on the human race. He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the human heart; yet no one can fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” (Ecclesiastes 3:9-11 NIV)
Yes, none can fathom what God had done. But one thing's certain - God made it all beautiful in its time. He established our calling before the foundations of the earth. He knows us better than we do. He laid a plan for us as He formed us in our mother's womb. He gave us hope and a future before we were born. And, you blazed through your moments to work on the "burden" you've been charged, with ease and zeal.
Depending on one's outlook, what's generally viewed by many as burden, you carry out yours as a mission. You finish it superbly in exuberant style. Many have gained by your toil. They are men and women you have sent off to their destiny. You equipped them well. Many of whom are the modern heroes of our time. I met many of them in the desert of the Middle East.
Depending on one's outlook, what's generally viewed by many as burden, you carry out yours as a mission. You finish it superbly in exuberant style. Many have gained by your toil. They are men and women you have sent off to their destiny. You equipped them well. Many of whom are the modern heroes of our time. I met many of them in the desert of the Middle East.
Tess, the frosting of the cake has come for your blessed journey. You climbed your majestic mountain. You stand at the apex viewing the harvest fields of your labors. Your dashing spirit asseverates a job done well. Now you do the things you love most.
Congratulations!
God bless you an exciting retirement adventure, in Jesus name. Amen!
The Frias Family
Monday, February 13, 2017
Celebration of Life: Nanay Auring Dinal
February 4, 2017
4:00 PM
McLaughlin Hall St Therese Church
Belleview, Florida, USA
It is with a grateful heart that we welcome you today in the presence of God and our Lord Jesus Christ to celebrate a life well lived.
In behalf of Jim and his family Lizette, Nikki and Ben
My wife Mae and family me, Hannah and Sarah
Their Sister Eva and family Art and Tracy in Texas
Their sisters in the Philippines:
Gloria and family Jovil, Ken and Zia with her family in NZ
Giegie and family Erle, Ragnar and Liyo
Tessie and family Pete and Maimai with her family
And their eldest sister Effie;
I welcome you all with thanks for sharing with us this time to celebrate Nanay Auring's life.
The Bible said: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;”
(Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 ESV)
We are here to laugh and to dance. We are here to celebrate for Nanay. She is in a better place.
Apostle Paul says in the The Holy Scripture:
“Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8 NLT)
Nanay, is at Rest. Nanay, you are home.
❤️
I am celebrating as Nanay's son-in-law. Nanay was my mother-in-law.
When most people think about a “mother-in-law” there are quite a few thoughts that come to mind, and not all of them are flattering. Images of a mother-in-law constantly meddling in a marriage or making trouble may come to mind, or perhaps the thought of an angry and spiteful old woman moving in and constantly bickering with you about your family and your children.
To me Nanay was none of those things, though. She was a sweet, gentle woman. She welcomed me into both her home and family with open arms.
I remember the first time I BOLDLY visited Mae in Tagbilaran as a destitute and struggling unimpressive young man. (I'm still unimpressive. The difference now is I'm old).'Totoy' they called me then. Strict and choosy as Nanay Auring was, (I was told, like every mother would do for their beautiful daughters. And I respect her for that), she received me in her house, allowed me to eat at her table and even let me sleep in Ondoy's bedroom-who's just a teenage boy at that time. She did all of that not because I passed her criteria, but because of her goodness at heart. That instance was a pivotal moment for me. I made the commitment to work hard to win Mae, so I can be her son-in-law and I can work harder still so she can be my mother-in-law. And boy, hard work it was indeed, as any upscale endeavor is. But, all worth it!
💚
Nanay was Nanay to me and to many, I realized. Many years later, as my whole family joined with Nanay in Florida, USA, she was well known around Ocala, Florida, as everyone's Nanay. I knew her more deeply when she lived with us for a short time before going back to Tagbilaran. I am ever grateful. I was blessed to experience for fleeting moments her motherly touch. I wish Nanay stayed around for a bit longer. But none of us could and would have that control of a decision.
💙
Life is a continuing cycle of generations and seasons.
God says in The Bible - "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven- A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-7 NASB)
I can't keep silent but speak, there's no better mother-in-law. Nanay's goodness and welcome gifted me to be affiliated with her children - the finest I know, and a beautiful wife in Mae. And, I've been privileged to provide a contribution to her large family with 2 beautiful grand-daughters – Hannah (Anne) & Shasha (Sarah). I am graced with the highest honor to be called her son-in-law.
A feeling of longing creeps as she has now moved on to the final realm of life in eternity. Yes, new generations come. Another goes. That's God's grand design. Today is Nanay's appointed time. We are destined to dwell with God in our heavenly home. He called Nanay. She is home.
💛
Reflecting upon this moment of Nanay's transition from the temporal to eternal life, I can't help but linger on the exhortation of Apostle Paul. He wrote: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”(Philippians 1:21 NKJV)
Simply put, he said dying is a crowning moment. It is a gain, Not a loss. That is if the life we live is in Christ. That is having Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior in an intimate relationship through His grace, and by faith. Yes, that's by His grace, impressed by our faith. Not by our work. We can't impress Him with our work. Our work is flawed. Rather, we are to impress Him by our faith and total dependence upon Him. His finished work on the cross is enough. Besides, He is already so impressed with us. He loved us. He died for us out of His relentless love. And nothing we do or not do, can or cannot do, could and would ever change that love. Nothing can separate us from His love. It is written in The Bible, Apostle Paul says: "And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39 NLT)
He wants us to live in Christ who loves us dearly. Then death is a celebration of life. Like we are doing today. Not a last rite of mourning.
But, we can't lie that moments like these, are overwhelming to grasp on our vantage view in this physical dimension. Our minds wonder. Our hearts ache. Our inner being breaks to tears. But, one day we will all understand. We will all leave this life. We either fly for the rapture or die to transition from the physical to the spiritual-as Nanay did.
And while we are in the state of pain, we know - There is a time and place for comfort and solace. That time is our time with God. And, that place is in the ever presence of God. For now, grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ will help us through. We have this promise of His word - "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”(Philippians 4:7 ESV)
Thank you, Nanay for treating me like a son. I love you. Rest.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Lord, I say ... AMEN.
By Felixnito 'Titing' Frias
4:00 PM
McLaughlin Hall St Therese Church
Belleview, Florida, USA
It is with a grateful heart that we welcome you today in the presence of God and our Lord Jesus Christ to celebrate a life well lived.
In behalf of Jim and his family Lizette, Nikki and Ben
My wife Mae and family me, Hannah and Sarah
Their Sister Eva and family Art and Tracy in Texas
Their sisters in the Philippines:
Gloria and family Jovil, Ken and Zia with her family in NZ
Giegie and family Erle, Ragnar and Liyo
Tessie and family Pete and Maimai with her family
And their eldest sister Effie;
I welcome you all with thanks for sharing with us this time to celebrate Nanay Auring's life.
The Bible said: “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;”
(Ecclesiastes 3:1, 4 ESV)
We are here to laugh and to dance. We are here to celebrate for Nanay. She is in a better place.
Apostle Paul says in the The Holy Scripture:
“Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8 NLT)
Nanay, is at Rest. Nanay, you are home.
❤️
I am celebrating as Nanay's son-in-law. Nanay was my mother-in-law.
When most people think about a “mother-in-law” there are quite a few thoughts that come to mind, and not all of them are flattering. Images of a mother-in-law constantly meddling in a marriage or making trouble may come to mind, or perhaps the thought of an angry and spiteful old woman moving in and constantly bickering with you about your family and your children.
To me Nanay was none of those things, though. She was a sweet, gentle woman. She welcomed me into both her home and family with open arms.
I remember the first time I BOLDLY visited Mae in Tagbilaran as a destitute and struggling unimpressive young man. (I'm still unimpressive. The difference now is I'm old).'Totoy' they called me then. Strict and choosy as Nanay Auring was, (I was told, like every mother would do for their beautiful daughters. And I respect her for that), she received me in her house, allowed me to eat at her table and even let me sleep in Ondoy's bedroom-who's just a teenage boy at that time. She did all of that not because I passed her criteria, but because of her goodness at heart. That instance was a pivotal moment for me. I made the commitment to work hard to win Mae, so I can be her son-in-law and I can work harder still so she can be my mother-in-law. And boy, hard work it was indeed, as any upscale endeavor is. But, all worth it!
💚
Nanay was Nanay to me and to many, I realized. Many years later, as my whole family joined with Nanay in Florida, USA, she was well known around Ocala, Florida, as everyone's Nanay. I knew her more deeply when she lived with us for a short time before going back to Tagbilaran. I am ever grateful. I was blessed to experience for fleeting moments her motherly touch. I wish Nanay stayed around for a bit longer. But none of us could and would have that control of a decision.
💙
Life is a continuing cycle of generations and seasons.
God says in The Bible - "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven- A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-7 NASB)
I can't keep silent but speak, there's no better mother-in-law. Nanay's goodness and welcome gifted me to be affiliated with her children - the finest I know, and a beautiful wife in Mae. And, I've been privileged to provide a contribution to her large family with 2 beautiful grand-daughters – Hannah (Anne) & Shasha (Sarah). I am graced with the highest honor to be called her son-in-law.
A feeling of longing creeps as she has now moved on to the final realm of life in eternity. Yes, new generations come. Another goes. That's God's grand design. Today is Nanay's appointed time. We are destined to dwell with God in our heavenly home. He called Nanay. She is home.
💛
Reflecting upon this moment of Nanay's transition from the temporal to eternal life, I can't help but linger on the exhortation of Apostle Paul. He wrote: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.”(Philippians 1:21 NKJV)
Simply put, he said dying is a crowning moment. It is a gain, Not a loss. That is if the life we live is in Christ. That is having Jesus as our personal Lord and Savior in an intimate relationship through His grace, and by faith. Yes, that's by His grace, impressed by our faith. Not by our work. We can't impress Him with our work. Our work is flawed. Rather, we are to impress Him by our faith and total dependence upon Him. His finished work on the cross is enough. Besides, He is already so impressed with us. He loved us. He died for us out of His relentless love. And nothing we do or not do, can or cannot do, could and would ever change that love. Nothing can separate us from His love. It is written in The Bible, Apostle Paul says: "And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow—not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39 NLT)
He wants us to live in Christ who loves us dearly. Then death is a celebration of life. Like we are doing today. Not a last rite of mourning.
But, we can't lie that moments like these, are overwhelming to grasp on our vantage view in this physical dimension. Our minds wonder. Our hearts ache. Our inner being breaks to tears. But, one day we will all understand. We will all leave this life. We either fly for the rapture or die to transition from the physical to the spiritual-as Nanay did.
And while we are in the state of pain, we know - There is a time and place for comfort and solace. That time is our time with God. And, that place is in the ever presence of God. For now, grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ will help us through. We have this promise of His word - "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”(Philippians 4:7 ESV)
Thank you, Nanay for treating me like a son. I love you. Rest.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Lord, I say ... AMEN.
By Felixnito 'Titing' Frias
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
Tributes To Nanay Auring
Farewell Nanay.
By Mae Dinal Frias
"To everything there is a season, a time for every matter under heaven; a time to be born,and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;a time to weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to keep, and a time to cast away."- (Ecclesiastes 3:1-6 ESV)
We are here today to mark a season, in the memory of our mother, Aurea Makiling Dinal, so that together we may acknowledge and share both our joy in the gift that her life was to us, and the pain that her passing brings. In sharing the joy and the pain together today, may we lessen, be strong to cast away this moment of pain and remember more clearly to keep our times joy.
Nanay was 89 when she passed away Monday morning of January 2 just past Christmas. The last goodbye is the hardest to say to a loved one - most specially a mother. We wish that we had more time, and perhaps that during the time we had, we had spent more of it together. I'm thankful to God for the time we have during her birthday last August. We wish that the last moments of her life had not been marked with pain, that things could have been different for her, and for us. While we know that she is at peace and that her struggles are at an end, there is pain and sadness. But even though she is gone, she has left the legacy of her love and perseverance. The ways she touched our lives will remain, and I ask you to keep those memories alive by sharing them with me and with one another.
One of the most important things in Nanay ’s life was making sure all's in order and neat. She's never at ease. Always scurrying around with either broom and dust pan or duster in hand. Cleaning was her obsession.
Nanay was an only child. Then blessed with half-siblings when Mama Siling married Tatay Ninong.
Nanay married Tatay at a young age. After Tatay tragically died, our family was her focus, and her role as mother and later as grandmother to our children - specially Eva's daughter Tracy and Ondoy's children Nikki and Ben whom she had the joy of caring when they were babies, was the most important thing to her. This is where she drew her strength and left her legacy. Being with her family was what Nanay took pride of most of all.
Her life had many obstacles, and she struggled immensely being fully dependent on Tatay. Yet through it all, her love and caring for her family remained her focus, and in so many, many ways, she was able to show her own way how to love us - most specially her devotion to Tatay. She persevered and never re-married, even with overtures she had been exposed. This perseverance through adversity is a powerful lesson for us, and I believe it is her legacy. What a wonderful lesson she gave us. Don’t let adversities or setbacks or any of the distractions of the world keep you from this most important aspect of life.
How many people in this world have it so much easier than our Nanay did. How many never had to face half the trouble she faced, and yet lose sight so easily of what is truly important. Many of us get distracted by insignificant things in life, many of us brood and focus on our little problems, and forget that which is most important.
But despite everything Nanay went through, she managed to send all 7 of us through college. What can be more important than equipping your children for living. Nanay kept her faith through all of her trials.
Thank you Nanay for the privilege of being your daughter.
We’ll close today with the 23rd psalm ‘the Lord is my shepherd’, but before we do, on behalf of myself, husband, my 2 daughters Hannah and Sarah, and rest of the family, I’d like to thank you all for coming here today.
The Twenty-Third Psalm(KJV)
"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the
paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of
the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; Thy rod and
thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence
of mine enemies: thou anointest my head
with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life: and I will
dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
I love you Nanay. Take your rest in our Heavenly Father's comfort.
In the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, I say ... Amen.
Your loving daughter, Mae
❤❤❤
Nanay, Rest.
By Felix 'Titing' Frias
When most people think about a “mother-in-law” there are quite a few thoughts that come to mind, and not all of them are flattering. Images of a mother-in-law constantly meddling in a marriage or making trouble may come to mind, or perhaps the thought of a bitter old woman moving in and constantly bickering with you about your family and your children.
To me Nanay was none of those things, though. She was a sweet, gentle woman. She welcomed me into both her home and family with open arms.
I remember the first time I BOLDLY visited Mae in Tagbilaran as a destitute and struggling unimpressive young man. 'Totoy' they called me. Strict and choosy as Nanay Auring was, (I was told, like every mother would do for their beautiful daughters), she received me in her house, allowed me to eat at her table and even let me sleep in Ondoy's bedroom-who's just a teenage boy at that time. That instant, I made the commitment to work hard to win Mae, so I can be her son-in-law. And boy, hard it was indeed, as any upscale endeavor is. But, all worth it!
Nanay was Nanay to me and to many, I realized. Many years later, as my whole family joined with Nanay in Florida, USA, she was well known around our community in Ocala, Florida, as everyone's Nanay. I knew her more deeply when she lived with us for a short time before coming back to Tagbilaran. I am ever grateful. I was blessed to experience for fleeting moments her motherly touch.
I wish Nanay stayed around for a bit longer. But none of us could and would have that control of a decision.
Life is a continuing cycle of generations. God says in The Bible - "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven- A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-7 NASB)
I can't keep silent but speak, there's no better mother-in-law. Nanay's goodness and welcome gifted me to be affiliated with her children - the finest I know, and a beautiful wife in Mae. And, I've been privileged to provide a contribution to her large family with 2 beautiful grand-daughters – Hannah (Anne) & Shasha (Sarah). I am graced with the highest honor to be called her son-in-law.
A feeling of longing creeps as she now moves on to the final realm of life in eternity. Yes, new generations come. Another goes. That's God's grand design. Today is Nanay's time. We are destined to dwell with God in our heavenly home. He called Nanay. She is going home.
It is overwhelming to grasp on our vantage view in this physical dimension. Our minds wonder. Our hearts ache. But, one day we will all understand. For now, grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ will help us through. We have this promise of His word - "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”(Philippians 4:7 ESV)
Thank you, Nanay for treating me like a son. I love you. Rest.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Lord, I say ... AMEN.
Lovingly, your Son-in-law, Felix
By Mae Dinal Frias
"To everything there is a season, a time for every matter under heaven; a time to be born,and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;a time to weep, and a time to laugh, a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to keep, and a time to cast away."- (Ecclesiastes 3:1-6 ESV)
We are here today to mark a season, in the memory of our mother, Aurea Makiling Dinal, so that together we may acknowledge and share both our joy in the gift that her life was to us, and the pain that her passing brings. In sharing the joy and the pain together today, may we lessen, be strong to cast away this moment of pain and remember more clearly to keep our times joy.
Nanay was 89 when she passed away Monday morning of January 2 just past Christmas. The last goodbye is the hardest to say to a loved one - most specially a mother. We wish that we had more time, and perhaps that during the time we had, we had spent more of it together. I'm thankful to God for the time we have during her birthday last August. We wish that the last moments of her life had not been marked with pain, that things could have been different for her, and for us. While we know that she is at peace and that her struggles are at an end, there is pain and sadness. But even though she is gone, she has left the legacy of her love and perseverance. The ways she touched our lives will remain, and I ask you to keep those memories alive by sharing them with me and with one another.
One of the most important things in Nanay ’s life was making sure all's in order and neat. She's never at ease. Always scurrying around with either broom and dust pan or duster in hand. Cleaning was her obsession.
Nanay was an only child. Then blessed with half-siblings when Mama Siling married Tatay Ninong.
Nanay married Tatay at a young age. After Tatay tragically died, our family was her focus, and her role as mother and later as grandmother to our children - specially Eva's daughter Tracy and Ondoy's children Nikki and Ben whom she had the joy of caring when they were babies, was the most important thing to her. This is where she drew her strength and left her legacy. Being with her family was what Nanay took pride of most of all.
Her life had many obstacles, and she struggled immensely being fully dependent on Tatay. Yet through it all, her love and caring for her family remained her focus, and in so many, many ways, she was able to show her own way how to love us - most specially her devotion to Tatay. She persevered and never re-married, even with overtures she had been exposed. This perseverance through adversity is a powerful lesson for us, and I believe it is her legacy. What a wonderful lesson she gave us. Don’t let adversities or setbacks or any of the distractions of the world keep you from this most important aspect of life.
How many people in this world have it so much easier than our Nanay did. How many never had to face half the trouble she faced, and yet lose sight so easily of what is truly important. Many of us get distracted by insignificant things in life, many of us brood and focus on our little problems, and forget that which is most important.
But despite everything Nanay went through, she managed to send all 7 of us through college. What can be more important than equipping your children for living. Nanay kept her faith through all of her trials.
Thank you Nanay for the privilege of being your daughter.
We’ll close today with the 23rd psalm ‘the Lord is my shepherd’, but before we do, on behalf of myself, husband, my 2 daughters Hannah and Sarah, and rest of the family, I’d like to thank you all for coming here today.
The Twenty-Third Psalm(KJV)
"The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.
He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the
paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.
Yea, though I walk through the valley of
the shadow of death, I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; Thy rod and
thy staff they comfort me.
Thou preparest a table before me in the presence
of mine enemies: thou anointest my head
with oil; my cup runneth over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life: and I will
dwell in the house of the Lord forever."
I love you Nanay. Take your rest in our Heavenly Father's comfort.
In the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, I say ... Amen.
Your loving daughter, Mae
❤❤❤
Nanay, Rest.
By Felix 'Titing' Frias
When most people think about a “mother-in-law” there are quite a few thoughts that come to mind, and not all of them are flattering. Images of a mother-in-law constantly meddling in a marriage or making trouble may come to mind, or perhaps the thought of a bitter old woman moving in and constantly bickering with you about your family and your children.
To me Nanay was none of those things, though. She was a sweet, gentle woman. She welcomed me into both her home and family with open arms.
I remember the first time I BOLDLY visited Mae in Tagbilaran as a destitute and struggling unimpressive young man. 'Totoy' they called me. Strict and choosy as Nanay Auring was, (I was told, like every mother would do for their beautiful daughters), she received me in her house, allowed me to eat at her table and even let me sleep in Ondoy's bedroom-who's just a teenage boy at that time. That instant, I made the commitment to work hard to win Mae, so I can be her son-in-law. And boy, hard it was indeed, as any upscale endeavor is. But, all worth it!
Nanay was Nanay to me and to many, I realized. Many years later, as my whole family joined with Nanay in Florida, USA, she was well known around our community in Ocala, Florida, as everyone's Nanay. I knew her more deeply when she lived with us for a short time before coming back to Tagbilaran. I am ever grateful. I was blessed to experience for fleeting moments her motherly touch.
I wish Nanay stayed around for a bit longer. But none of us could and would have that control of a decision.
Life is a continuing cycle of generations. God says in The Bible - "There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven- A time to give birth and a time to die; A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted. A time to kill and a time to heal; A time to tear down and a time to build up. A time to weep and a time to laugh; A time to mourn and a time to dance. A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones; A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing. A time to search and a time to give up as lost; A time to keep and a time to throw away. A time to tear apart and a time to sew together; A time to be silent and a time to speak.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-7 NASB)
I can't keep silent but speak, there's no better mother-in-law. Nanay's goodness and welcome gifted me to be affiliated with her children - the finest I know, and a beautiful wife in Mae. And, I've been privileged to provide a contribution to her large family with 2 beautiful grand-daughters – Hannah (Anne) & Shasha (Sarah). I am graced with the highest honor to be called her son-in-law.
A feeling of longing creeps as she now moves on to the final realm of life in eternity. Yes, new generations come. Another goes. That's God's grand design. Today is Nanay's time. We are destined to dwell with God in our heavenly home. He called Nanay. She is going home.
It is overwhelming to grasp on our vantage view in this physical dimension. Our minds wonder. Our hearts ache. But, one day we will all understand. For now, grace and peace of our Lord Jesus Christ will help us through. We have this promise of His word - "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”(Philippians 4:7 ESV)
Thank you, Nanay for treating me like a son. I love you. Rest.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ our Lord, I say ... AMEN.
Lovingly, your Son-in-law, Felix
Sunday, January 1, 2017
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
When God says .......
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV)
It is such a powerful reminder from God, as we stand in a new season. What a relief leaving behind a season in high hopes and with thanksgiving. He wants us to enter the year 2017 in a confident posture. Free of doubt and fear, here we are walking-in in assured strides. The year 2016 was unarguably overloaded with cocktails of burdens, challenges and trials. But praises to God, He is with us through both the dark valleys and radiant mountain tops of the year that passed. Now, He is with us with His best plan for us in 2017 and the years ahead. He is prompting us to let go and release our own plan. Our plan is faulty. He invites us to grab hold His flawless plan tailored for each of us. We are always in His thoughts. He knows us better than we do our selves. With His plan, He made available for us the necessary resources to succeed, with His provision of grace. His plan will come to pass. In His plan we are poised for a prosperous and victorious new season. In His plan we have a hope and a future!
Apostle Paul exhorts us with these words: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."(1 Corinthians 15:57 NIV)
Again, God bless you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017!
And we say ... AMEN!
Lovingly in Christ,
Frias & PFC Family
“For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11 NKJV)
It is such a powerful reminder from God, as we stand in a new season. What a relief leaving behind a season in high hopes and with thanksgiving. He wants us to enter the year 2017 in a confident posture. Free of doubt and fear, here we are walking-in in assured strides. The year 2016 was unarguably overloaded with cocktails of burdens, challenges and trials. But praises to God, He is with us through both the dark valleys and radiant mountain tops of the year that passed. Now, He is with us with His best plan for us in 2017 and the years ahead. He is prompting us to let go and release our own plan. Our plan is faulty. He invites us to grab hold His flawless plan tailored for each of us. We are always in His thoughts. He knows us better than we do our selves. With His plan, He made available for us the necessary resources to succeed, with His provision of grace. His plan will come to pass. In His plan we are poised for a prosperous and victorious new season. In His plan we have a hope and a future!
Apostle Paul exhorts us with these words: “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."(1 Corinthians 15:57 NIV)
Again, God bless you all a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2017!
And we say ... AMEN!
Lovingly in Christ,
Frias & PFC Family
Saturday, December 24, 2016
Christmas 2016: Reflections
When God says …….
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11 KJV)
Signals the season of festivities for His arrival into our world.
That's Christmas!
What a very beautiful, meaningful and powerful word ever!
It is beautiful as it portrays the magnificent expression of love ever displayed. A loving God sending His only begotten Son our Lord Jesus Christ stepping down into the earth He created to embrace His prodigal creation – all men, women and children who have been caught in the spiral roll of sin in a corrupted world. Yes, we all needed a Savior. And, out of His love He came to save us by His grace (Ephesians 2:8 NIV) and mercy so we can be with Him in eternity. He designed us to live in eternity where there are only two choices – eternal life or eternal death. God wants us to choose life, by accepting our Lord Jesus Christ in our hearts by faith to be our Savior. (Romans 10:9 NKJV). It is simple. Just accept Him and trust in Him and stay with Him by keeping ourselves fed by His Words – The Holy Bible.
It is meaningful as Christmas embodies His grace and mercy. You see, He does not expect us to work hard to impress Him with our self effort of goodness and perfection. He is already impressed with us. He loves us and nothing can ever change that. (Romans 8:31-39 NLT). He does not need our goodness and perfection. We can’t be. We are flawed in everything and every way. All He wants from us is have faith in Jesus and put our trust in the work He has done which He finished by dying in our place on the cross. Yes, He died so that we may live both flourishing in this world and rejoicing in eternity. No other father ever did that for us. Only Him, whose love for us is relentless. What a meaningful word it is. Christmas is God loving us!
It is a very powerful word to reflect on. This reminds us that when our Lord Jesus touched ground on earth at His birth in the manger in the little town of Bethlehem, a transformation occurred. The earth is changed. A world that was once hopeless is now hopeful. This world is now a Paradise restored in Christ. And, everyone who accepts Jesus the Lord of his/her life will become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). Yes, in Christ, we can live in the new paradise where all the provisions of grace are made available. And yes, there will still be challenges and trials and upheavals as we are still in the flesh. But, as we are in Christ, we can be at peace even in the middle of the turmoil of the world. When our Lord Jesus died on the cross, it did not end there. By His wounds, He healed our disease. He defeated death – ‘Where, O death, is your sting?’ (1 Corinthians 15:55). He rose from the dead to give us the power of His grace and mercy to live a victorious life, here on earth and in heaven (1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV).
This is why to me, Christmas is the most beautiful, meaningful and powerful word ever in the English lexicon. I trust it will always be. It is because Lord Jesus came. I can rest in this assurance: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21 NLT)
MERRY CHRISTMAS! I love you all!
In Jesus name,
And I say … AMEN!
“For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11 KJV)
Signals the season of festivities for His arrival into our world.
That's Christmas!
What a very beautiful, meaningful and powerful word ever!
It is beautiful as it portrays the magnificent expression of love ever displayed. A loving God sending His only begotten Son our Lord Jesus Christ stepping down into the earth He created to embrace His prodigal creation – all men, women and children who have been caught in the spiral roll of sin in a corrupted world. Yes, we all needed a Savior. And, out of His love He came to save us by His grace (Ephesians 2:8 NIV) and mercy so we can be with Him in eternity. He designed us to live in eternity where there are only two choices – eternal life or eternal death. God wants us to choose life, by accepting our Lord Jesus Christ in our hearts by faith to be our Savior. (Romans 10:9 NKJV). It is simple. Just accept Him and trust in Him and stay with Him by keeping ourselves fed by His Words – The Holy Bible.
It is meaningful as Christmas embodies His grace and mercy. You see, He does not expect us to work hard to impress Him with our self effort of goodness and perfection. He is already impressed with us. He loves us and nothing can ever change that. (Romans 8:31-39 NLT). He does not need our goodness and perfection. We can’t be. We are flawed in everything and every way. All He wants from us is have faith in Jesus and put our trust in the work He has done which He finished by dying in our place on the cross. Yes, He died so that we may live both flourishing in this world and rejoicing in eternity. No other father ever did that for us. Only Him, whose love for us is relentless. What a meaningful word it is. Christmas is God loving us!
It is a very powerful word to reflect on. This reminds us that when our Lord Jesus touched ground on earth at His birth in the manger in the little town of Bethlehem, a transformation occurred. The earth is changed. A world that was once hopeless is now hopeful. This world is now a Paradise restored in Christ. And, everyone who accepts Jesus the Lord of his/her life will become a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17 KJV). Yes, in Christ, we can live in the new paradise where all the provisions of grace are made available. And yes, there will still be challenges and trials and upheavals as we are still in the flesh. But, as we are in Christ, we can be at peace even in the middle of the turmoil of the world. When our Lord Jesus died on the cross, it did not end there. By His wounds, He healed our disease. He defeated death – ‘Where, O death, is your sting?’ (1 Corinthians 15:55). He rose from the dead to give us the power of His grace and mercy to live a victorious life, here on earth and in heaven (1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV).
This is why to me, Christmas is the most beautiful, meaningful and powerful word ever in the English lexicon. I trust it will always be. It is because Lord Jesus came. I can rest in this assurance: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21 NLT)
MERRY CHRISTMAS! I love you all!
In Jesus name,
And I say … AMEN!
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Jesus Is Lord, He Comforts And Sustains
June 22, 2016
When God says .......
“Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 10:32, 33 NKJV)
He tells us that our public confession of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ is our emblem of belonging with the Almighty God. Not only for the benefit of men that they too shall have the opportunity to receive Jesus through us, but also before our King who appointed us His ambassadors, so that He can affirm before our Heavenly Father that we are indeed His genuine disciples.
This is a warning against pretentious declaration as a matter of convenience when the goings is good and pleasant. That attitude of: - going along with the flow of the waves of time. One that sways every direction the wind blows. When in reality, true confession is punctuated by tight spots. When all the odds are against our physical fate, tests the quality of our faith. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the core, the cornerstone and the essence of our confession of faith. In whatever situations we are in, it is His Lordship over our life we confess. Not our circumstance. Especially in dire times, we lift His name high. Not the trouble we face.
In life and in death, in joy and in sorrow, Jesus is Lord. He comforts and sustains. I am grateful for His comfort in this time of mourning. He helps me face the reality that I will not anymore see my brother physically. He gives me the assurance that I will meet Nenie again one day in eternity in the presence of my Holy God. We will worship our Father together with the angels in the kingdom, where He granted us, my brother and everyone who believe a citizenship, which is in heaven.
His promise is true, by His grace through faith in Christ Jesus, as we accept and confess - He is our personal Lord and Savior we are saved. These passages affirm: "If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved. As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.” (Romans 10:9-11 NLT)
And I say ... AMEN!
When God says .......
“Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven. (Matthew 10:32, 33 NKJV)
He tells us that our public confession of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ is our emblem of belonging with the Almighty God. Not only for the benefit of men that they too shall have the opportunity to receive Jesus through us, but also before our King who appointed us His ambassadors, so that He can affirm before our Heavenly Father that we are indeed His genuine disciples.
This is a warning against pretentious declaration as a matter of convenience when the goings is good and pleasant. That attitude of: - going along with the flow of the waves of time. One that sways every direction the wind blows. When in reality, true confession is punctuated by tight spots. When all the odds are against our physical fate, tests the quality of our faith. Our Lord Jesus Christ is the core, the cornerstone and the essence of our confession of faith. In whatever situations we are in, it is His Lordship over our life we confess. Not our circumstance. Especially in dire times, we lift His name high. Not the trouble we face.
In life and in death, in joy and in sorrow, Jesus is Lord. He comforts and sustains. I am grateful for His comfort in this time of mourning. He helps me face the reality that I will not anymore see my brother physically. He gives me the assurance that I will meet Nenie again one day in eternity in the presence of my Holy God. We will worship our Father together with the angels in the kingdom, where He granted us, my brother and everyone who believe a citizenship, which is in heaven.
His promise is true, by His grace through faith in Christ Jesus, as we accept and confess - He is our personal Lord and Savior we are saved. These passages affirm: "If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by openly declaring your faith that you are saved. As the Scriptures tell us, “Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced.” (Romans 10:9-11 NLT)
And I say ... AMEN!
Wednesday, May 25, 2016
Reflections from Musuan, Bukidnon. Philippines
May 20
When God says .......
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. (Matthew 10:16, 17 NKJV)
He warns us of life's challenges in this world. Men could deliver us for scourging in their synagogues. We may even become our instrument to self-destruct, if we forsake wisdom. We are to be wise as a dove lest we squander the limited time we have. We are in the midst of wolves. And, life is short.
I see how God uses bad situations to produce good out of a person. As I also observed how Jocy takes care of my brother Nenie is his state of coma for over a year now. The sight of my brother is very heart breaking. When I talk to him there is no hint of response. But his eyes are open and it blinks. Though not to converse. He at times stirs. I see in Jocy love without conditions. Considering that Nenie's present state is caused directly by abusive use of alcohol. His massive stroke was triggered by a drinking spree. That in spite, I watched many of my relatives continuously pouring hard drinks even at the wake of Sol. A sad sight. But I am thankful to God for giving me this opportunity to see my brother and other relatives in this part of the Philippines. I thank the Holy Spirit for prompting me to celebrate Holy Communion, the Breaking of Bread and Passover meal with my brothers. I thank our Lord Jesus Christ for His grace and His ever presence. I see His hands at work in every thing around us. He reveals many things out of my encounters on the journey and around here in Musuan, Bukidnon, Philippines.
When God says .......
“Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. But beware of men, for they will deliver you up to councils and scourge you in their synagogues. (Matthew 10:16, 17 NKJV)
He warns us of life's challenges in this world. Men could deliver us for scourging in their synagogues. We may even become our instrument to self-destruct, if we forsake wisdom. We are to be wise as a dove lest we squander the limited time we have. We are in the midst of wolves. And, life is short.
The Psalmist declared to himself: "My days are like an evening shadow; I wither away like grass." (Psalms 102:11 ESV)
It happened to my cousin Sol. At age 53, he died while in his sleep on 5/19/16. He left his 6 children now totally orphaned. The youngest is in his senior high. One young lady and one young man are both in college. Good, 3 older siblings are working with stable jobs. The 2 oldest sisters are 26 and 24, respectively, and the next eldest brother is 20. I watched them at the wake of their father who was, as every father is, full of flaws. Yet they honor him. They are just made aware, they have a 3 year old sibling, whose mother just surfaced. With all their troubles of living, their father had another hidden problem they did not know. That's amidst their father having had no clear job for a long while. And here they are gathering around taking on the unwelcome task of preparing for their father's last rites.
It happened to my cousin Sol. At age 53, he died while in his sleep on 5/19/16. He left his 6 children now totally orphaned. The youngest is in his senior high. One young lady and one young man are both in college. Good, 3 older siblings are working with stable jobs. The 2 oldest sisters are 26 and 24, respectively, and the next eldest brother is 20. I watched them at the wake of their father who was, as every father is, full of flaws. Yet they honor him. They are just made aware, they have a 3 year old sibling, whose mother just surfaced. With all their troubles of living, their father had another hidden problem they did not know. That's amidst their father having had no clear job for a long while. And here they are gathering around taking on the unwelcome task of preparing for their father's last rites.
My eyes moistened with tears as I watched them. I talked to MaeAnn, the eldest. I told her I'm full of admiration her taking control of such an overwhelming situation, in maturely stride. Considering the bad cards she's been handed. Specially, taking care of her 3 brothers and 2 sisters as a very young teenager, when they originally lost their mother tragically. Their father was also critical from the multiple gunshots he got, when their parents were attacked in their home by a drug addict. With God's grace they were spared and their father survived. then. But, now he is gone too. And here she is having to carry all of it on her shoulders.
As we talked she reveals to me that she's thankful God helped her with all her siblings to listen to her. Also God blessed her efforts to have all of them 6 siblings live together. She's pulling out 3 of her younger siblings who studied at CMU here in Musuan. She managed to find scholarships for the 3 of them in Cebu schools. She told me she is continuing also her 2nd degree in education which she already started before all this happened.
I see how God uses bad situations to produce good out of a person. As I also observed how Jocy takes care of my brother Nenie is his state of coma for over a year now. The sight of my brother is very heart breaking. When I talk to him there is no hint of response. But his eyes are open and it blinks. Though not to converse. He at times stirs. I see in Jocy love without conditions. Considering that Nenie's present state is caused directly by abusive use of alcohol. His massive stroke was triggered by a drinking spree. That in spite, I watched many of my relatives continuously pouring hard drinks even at the wake of Sol. A sad sight. But I am thankful to God for giving me this opportunity to see my brother and other relatives in this part of the Philippines. I thank the Holy Spirit for prompting me to celebrate Holy Communion, the Breaking of Bread and Passover meal with my brothers. I thank our Lord Jesus Christ for His grace and His ever presence. I see His hands at work in every thing around us. He reveals many things out of my encounters on the journey and around here in Musuan, Bukidnon, Philippines.
As I meet the budding beautiful grand niece- in- law Theona, with her lovely parents Maimai and Tobert, and grands Tessie and Pete, all the tragic things I observed, are wiped off by their loving and warm welcome. They are the light in such a gloomy environment I stepped into. I am reminded, Lord Jesus balanced everything on the cross. His grace is sufficient. I know that Jesus loves us all. He loves me. We have His assurance, as the Psalmist declares: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. (Psalms 23:1-6 KJV)
And I say ... AMEN!
Thursday, May 12, 2016
Over Four Billion Souls Are Neglected
May 10, 2016
When God says .......
Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:37, 38 NKJV)
He likened the weary and spiritually hungry crowds that followed Him, to the ripen field ready for harvest. They have been subjected to all kinds of spiritual dehydration from the scorching ungodliness of their time. Just like us today, with religious leaders converting God's business into their own business enterprises, instead of doing God's business to bring the good news to all people. Thereby, neglecting the many peoples of the world - the plentiful harvest, who have been deprived by their wicked rulers, of access to the gospel of salvation and grace by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Yes, the multitudes then, as with the multitudes now in every parts of the world, are ripe for harvest. And every believer who has Jesus living in His heart is sent by The Lord of the harvest. We are all sent with each of our part to participate in the season of harvest. We all have a part to play. Anything counts. There are those who are already in the field, specially in Asia - with latest news of crackdown on underground Churches in China, they need our prayers. As well as the continuing slaughter of our brethren in the Mideast and the Coptic Christians in the northern part of Africa. We can also reinforce our missionaries in Cambodia and other areas of Asia with our material support. Any amount helps and can be channeled through:
www.PFCGlobal.ws
Or,
Partners For Christ Ministries
PO Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
As we consider reaching out to the neglected (over 4 billion) souls in Asia who have yet to meet our Lord Jesus Christ, let's reflect on the following passages from the letter of Apostle Paul to the Philippians. The first missionary of the gospel wrote: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. (Philippians 4:13-17 NIV)
And I say ... AMEN!
When God says .......
Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” (Matthew 9:37, 38 NKJV)
He likened the weary and spiritually hungry crowds that followed Him, to the ripen field ready for harvest. They have been subjected to all kinds of spiritual dehydration from the scorching ungodliness of their time. Just like us today, with religious leaders converting God's business into their own business enterprises, instead of doing God's business to bring the good news to all people. Thereby, neglecting the many peoples of the world - the plentiful harvest, who have been deprived by their wicked rulers, of access to the gospel of salvation and grace by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.
Yes, the multitudes then, as with the multitudes now in every parts of the world, are ripe for harvest. And every believer who has Jesus living in His heart is sent by The Lord of the harvest. We are all sent with each of our part to participate in the season of harvest. We all have a part to play. Anything counts. There are those who are already in the field, specially in Asia - with latest news of crackdown on underground Churches in China, they need our prayers. As well as the continuing slaughter of our brethren in the Mideast and the Coptic Christians in the northern part of Africa. We can also reinforce our missionaries in Cambodia and other areas of Asia with our material support. Any amount helps and can be channeled through:
www.PFCGlobal.ws
Or,
Partners For Christ Ministries
PO Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
As we consider reaching out to the neglected (over 4 billion) souls in Asia who have yet to meet our Lord Jesus Christ, let's reflect on the following passages from the letter of Apostle Paul to the Philippians. The first missionary of the gospel wrote: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Yet it was good of you to share in my troubles. Moreover, as you Philippians know, in the early days of your acquaintance with the gospel, when I set out from Macedonia, not one church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving, except you only; for even when I was in Thessalonica, you sent me aid more than once when I was in need. Not that I desire your gifts; what I desire is that more be credited to your account. (Philippians 4:13-17 NIV)
And I say ... AMEN!
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Celebration of Life for Mariecon Frias Bucasas
April 23, 2016 (Saturday 11:52 PM)
When God says.......
As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he arose and followed Him. (Matthew 9:9 NKJV)
As Jesus calls us, we follow. There should be no turning back. No matter how important what we do might be, like this tax collector. There is nothing more important than God's calling for us.
When God says.......
As Jesus passed on from there, He saw a man named Matthew sitting at the tax office. And He said to him, “Follow Me.” So he arose and followed Him. (Matthew 9:9 NKJV)
As Jesus calls us, we follow. There should be no turning back. No matter how important what we do might be, like this tax collector. There is nothing more important than God's calling for us.
Life on earth is brief. Yes, it is even so fragile. But, thanks be to God, He equipped it with resilience to stand and fight against every forces in this fallen world. I saw that, in the battle of my niece Mariecon against the arrogant and ruthless aggression of cancer. It may have taken her body as she passed away in her young life at 40, but, she won the war with valor. Though heavy and overwhelming for our hearts to bear, we celebrated her short but well-fought physical life today. Which made me reflect upon the brevity of this journey we are all part of, called life.
Life in this natural dimension is described in the Bible as:
- Our best state is but vapor. (Psalms 39:5b)
- Our days are like a passing shadow. (Psalms 144:4b)
Short might this life be, but it is more than enough seed to sow towards life in eternity. Like when Karen Saadeh (Mariecon's friend since their childhood in Saudi Arabia) talked about relationship with Jesus Christ, today. Which reminds me of Apostle Paul's words: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21 NKJV)
In Christ, as we follow Him, and having accepted Him our personal Lord and Savior, we are covered by His grace. And, His grace is sufficient for us to surmount every onslaught formed against us. Apostle Paul gives us these encouraging words: "If God is for us, who can be against us." (Romans 8:32b)
As we engage life in the physical realm with audacity - like my niece Mariecon did, if we place our lives in the saving grace of Christ by accepting Him our Savior, then follow Him as the tax collector did, we have a blessed assurance. We can stand with comfort in this exhortation from Apostle Paul: "Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:8 NLT)
And I say ... AMEN!
Life in this natural dimension is described in the Bible as:
- Our best state is but vapor. (Psalms 39:5b)
- Our days are like a passing shadow. (Psalms 144:4b)
Short might this life be, but it is more than enough seed to sow towards life in eternity. Like when Karen Saadeh (Mariecon's friend since their childhood in Saudi Arabia) talked about relationship with Jesus Christ, today. Which reminds me of Apostle Paul's words: "For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (Philippians 1:21 NKJV)
In Christ, as we follow Him, and having accepted Him our personal Lord and Savior, we are covered by His grace. And, His grace is sufficient for us to surmount every onslaught formed against us. Apostle Paul gives us these encouraging words: "If God is for us, who can be against us." (Romans 8:32b)
As we engage life in the physical realm with audacity - like my niece Mariecon did, if we place our lives in the saving grace of Christ by accepting Him our Savior, then follow Him as the tax collector did, we have a blessed assurance. We can stand with comfort in this exhortation from Apostle Paul: "Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. (2 Corinthians 5:8 NLT)
And I say ... AMEN!
www.PFCGlobal.ws
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Happy Resurrection Day. Let's Celebrate!
When God says .......
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. (Matthew 7:21 NKJV)
Here's a very important advisory we must seriously take to heart. Not just the fact that heaven exists, but also the need to have the passport to enter it. And the access code is not only knowing the way, but holding the key and putting into action what The Father in heaven wills to be done.
“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. (Matthew 7:21 NKJV)
Here's a very important advisory we must seriously take to heart. Not just the fact that heaven exists, but also the need to have the passport to enter it. And the access code is not only knowing the way, but holding the key and putting into action what The Father in heaven wills to be done.
What then is the will of the Father? It is important that we know His will. Not knowing results to not doing, and not doing leads to not entering God's heavenly rest.
So, we are to know that the Father's will for us, is to believe and trust in the finished work of Jesus. He took our sin by dying in our place on the cross. In death, He defeated death. He is risen to give us new life. He is alive so we can live a fruitful and meaningful vibrant life. That's our Father's will for us. Lord Jesus declared, and it is written: "For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will but the will of him who sent me. And this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up on the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who looks on the Son and believes in him should have eternal life, and I will raise him up on the last day." (John 6:38-40 ESV)
And I say ... AMEN!
Happy resurrection day. Let's celebrate! Jesus is alive, forever and ever. AMEN!
Happy resurrection day. Let's celebrate! Jesus is alive, forever and ever. AMEN!
www.PFCGlobal.ws
Thursday, December 31, 2015
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2016!
When God says .......
Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. (Matthew 3:4-6 NKJV)
He shows us the image of John who heralds the coming of The Lord. He is not a picture of affluence. He is one wandering in the wilderness of ordinariness. He lived dependent on God's provision of grace, sustained with locusts and wild honey, and warmth by camel's fur. He's a man of simplicity drawing people of diversity from Jerusalem, all Judea and all the region of Jordan. People who acknowledged their filthiness - willingly surrender in baptism for the cleansing of their sins.
Now John himself was clothed in camel’s hair, with a leather belt around his waist; and his food was locusts and wild honey. Then Jerusalem, all Judea, and all the region around the Jordan went out to him and were baptized by him in the Jordan, confessing their sins. (Matthew 3:4-6 NKJV)
He shows us the image of John who heralds the coming of The Lord. He is not a picture of affluence. He is one wandering in the wilderness of ordinariness. He lived dependent on God's provision of grace, sustained with locusts and wild honey, and warmth by camel's fur. He's a man of simplicity drawing people of diversity from Jerusalem, all Judea and all the region of Jordan. People who acknowledged their filthiness - willingly surrender in baptism for the cleansing of their sins.
Such a trite message for us in this timely moment, standing at the brink of time, with fingers ready on the re-set button to enter a new season. Looking back the old changing seasons, thanking God for each meaningful and precious moments we had, it is always useful to step into that spot of truth to confess the things we have done wrong. Own it. Surrender it to God. It must be done in full honesty. To use as illustration, not to diminish the seriousness of sin, our confession should be like that moment when Steve Harvey made the terrible mistake of crowning the wrong lady as Miss Universe. Though he could have made excuses or blame the design of the results card he was reading, he did not. He faced up to it squarely. He swiftly climbed back to the spotlight of the world like a wet puppy. Humiliated maybe. But he owned his mistake. Took full responsibility of it. And apologized to all concerned, most specially the confused, devastated and humiliated ladies. And in the end, everyone came out unscathed, forgiving and lifted up. Grace stepped in.
Yes, that's what we do, with our imperfection and frailty. We sin. We slip all the time. We fall short of God's glory. (Romans 3:23). But as the redeemed of the Lamb by grace through faith in Christ, He provides us a way of recovery. It is written: "If we claim that we’re free of sin, we’re only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense. On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won’t let us down; he’ll be true to himself. He’ll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing. If we claim that we’ve never sinned, we out-and-out contradict God—make a liar out of him. A claim like that only shows off our ignorance of God. (1 John 1:8-10 MSG)
Friday, December 25, 2015
Saturday, December 12, 2015
World Overview - 70% Are Perishing
When God says .......
"Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’" (Mathew 25:45)
World Overview – 70% are Perishing
Population Estimates
TOTAL CHRISTIANS
TOTAL World Population: 7. 337 Billion 2.184 Billion 29.7%
ASIA : 4.397 Billion 353 Million 8.1%
AFRICA: 1.171 Billion 420 Million 35.9%
EUROPE: 742 Million 487 Million 65.6%
LATIN AMERICA: 630 Million 567 Million 90%
NORTH AMERICA: 357 Million 252 Million 70.6%
OCEANIA: 40 Million 27 Million 67.5%
Philippines
Total Population = 93.3 Million
Total Christians = 81.5 Million
% of Christians = 88.3%
Asia Without The Philippines
Total Population = 4.304 Billion
Total Christians = 272 Million
% of Christians = 6.3%
Cambodia - 15.1 Million = 0.4% Christians
Laos – 7 Million = 1.5% Christians
THERE ARE A TOTAL OF OVER 4 BILLION PEOPLE IN ASIA WHO HAVE BEEN NEGLECTED. THEY HAVE NOT HEARD THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, LET ALONE THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION.
We have a responsibility as Beneficiaries of the benefits of grace in Christ. Lord Jesus said: “v31When the Son of Man comes …………….v40 The King will reply, ’Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ………v45"Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’"….” (Mathew 25:31-45)
When He said brothers and sisters of mine, He is referring to:
- His fellow Israelites for His heritage through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
"Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’" (Mathew 25:45)
World Overview – 70% are Perishing
Population Estimates
TOTAL CHRISTIANS
TOTAL World Population: 7. 337 Billion 2.184 Billion 29.7%
ASIA : 4.397 Billion 353 Million 8.1%
AFRICA: 1.171 Billion 420 Million 35.9%
EUROPE: 742 Million 487 Million 65.6%
LATIN AMERICA: 630 Million 567 Million 90%
NORTH AMERICA: 357 Million 252 Million 70.6%
OCEANIA: 40 Million 27 Million 67.5%
Philippines
Total Population = 93.3 Million
Total Christians = 81.5 Million
% of Christians = 88.3%
Asia Without The Philippines
Total Population = 4.304 Billion
Total Christians = 272 Million
% of Christians = 6.3%
Cambodia - 15.1 Million = 0.4% Christians
Laos – 7 Million = 1.5% Christians
THERE ARE A TOTAL OF OVER 4 BILLION PEOPLE IN ASIA WHO HAVE BEEN NEGLECTED. THEY HAVE NOT HEARD THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, LET ALONE THE GOSPEL OF SALVATION.
We have a responsibility as Beneficiaries of the benefits of grace in Christ. Lord Jesus said: “v31When the Son of Man comes …………….v40 The King will reply, ’Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ………v45"Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’"….” (Mathew 25:31-45)
When He said brothers and sisters of mine, He is referring to:
- His fellow Israelites for His heritage through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
- All believers in Jesus – the apostles, the disciples and all of us who belonged to the body of Christ, who are spiritual Israelites by grace.
- All humanity, the gentile unbelievers and sinners like us all, as His human lineage is traced back to:
Ø Bathsheba, (Mathew 1:6) Uriah’s wife who committed adultery with David (2 Samuel 11)
Ø Ruth, (Mathew 1:5) a Moabite (Gentile) worshipper of idols, but decided to worship the God of Naomi her mother-in-law (Ruth 1:16)
Ø Rahab, (Mathew 1:5) a gentile prostitute who helped the spies of Joshua in Jericho (Joshua 2:1)
Ø Tamar, (Mathew 1:3) a Canaanite woman who posed as prostitute to seduce Judah, her father-in-law (Genesis 38:13-30)
OUR Mandate as Christians:
Matthew 28:18-20New King James Version (NKJV)
18 And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19 Go therefore[a] and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.[b]
Partner with us in Cambodia & Laos:
www.PFCGlobal.ws
Partners for Christ Ministries
P. O. Box 773716
Ocala, FL 34477
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Happy Thanksgiving!
When God says.......
A man’s stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; From the produce of his lips he shall be filled. (Proverbs 18:20 NKJV)
He reaffirms the key role of our mouth in having God's favors come to pass for us. In as much as we utter words with our mouth to empower the faith in our hearts, we are to declare with our mouth God's favors and blessings to fill our hearts and satisfy our needs.
The state of our life is a result of what we declare on our lips. If we constantly declare failure, we become a failure. If we verbalize every negative complaints, emotions and thoughts, that would be the outcome we will get. Complaints of aches, pains and hopelessness take a person to a place of sickness, torment and defeat. What we say and pronounce in our lips prophesy our future.
In order to be blessed and victorious, we shift to the language of hope and victory day in and day out, even if what we hear and see show otherwise. The truth is we are redeemed from the curse of sin to live in the blessings of grace. So, with our lips 'let the redeemed of The Lord say so' (Psalm 107:2)
We must not succumb and agree with the lies of reality. We defy the reality of problems and challenges with our mouth's declarations of faith on God's promises for solutions, in Jesus name. One such attitude we can mirror on is that of Jabez, whose name his mother gave means pain. He defied that label with declaration of faith, when he prayed, as it is written: "Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that, you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request. (1 Chronicles 4:10 NIV)
And I say ... AMEN!
God bless you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
The Frias Family & PFC Global Family
www.PFCGlobal.ws
A man’s stomach shall be satisfied from the fruit of his mouth; From the produce of his lips he shall be filled. (Proverbs 18:20 NKJV)
He reaffirms the key role of our mouth in having God's favors come to pass for us. In as much as we utter words with our mouth to empower the faith in our hearts, we are to declare with our mouth God's favors and blessings to fill our hearts and satisfy our needs.
The state of our life is a result of what we declare on our lips. If we constantly declare failure, we become a failure. If we verbalize every negative complaints, emotions and thoughts, that would be the outcome we will get. Complaints of aches, pains and hopelessness take a person to a place of sickness, torment and defeat. What we say and pronounce in our lips prophesy our future.
In order to be blessed and victorious, we shift to the language of hope and victory day in and day out, even if what we hear and see show otherwise. The truth is we are redeemed from the curse of sin to live in the blessings of grace. So, with our lips 'let the redeemed of The Lord say so' (Psalm 107:2)
We must not succumb and agree with the lies of reality. We defy the reality of problems and challenges with our mouth's declarations of faith on God's promises for solutions, in Jesus name. One such attitude we can mirror on is that of Jabez, whose name his mother gave means pain. He defied that label with declaration of faith, when he prayed, as it is written: "Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, “Oh, that, you would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain.” And God granted his request. (1 Chronicles 4:10 NIV)
And I say ... AMEN!
God bless you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
The Frias Family & PFC Global Family
www.PFCGlobal.ws
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