RH Bill:Beyond What You Think

The RH Bill is set to be one of the most controversial Law to be pass by the Philippine Congress. I ask so many people about it, and there are three kinds of answer i always receive. 1. Somebody pretends to know it, 2. Somebody does not care about it. and 3. Somebody don't have any idea about it.
I am not a Law Student, but i have tried reading articles and ideas about it. See the below information i gathered for you to know and decide which side are you in this issue.

I hope it can help you.

Things you should know about the RH Bill.

1. IT WILL STANDARDIZE RH POLICIES

Because there is national legislation on RH in place, varying RH policies are implemented in the local government unit level (LGU). These policies and provisions  are often subject to the whims and personal religious beliefs of LGU officials.

In Manila for example, when staunch pro-life advocate Lito Atienza was mayor, he was able to pass the infamous Executive Order (E.O.) 003. This E.O. effectively declared the City of Manila as a provider only of pro-life methods. Thus, women were denied access to modern contraception methods (pills, condoms) and procedures (ligation) in government-run hospitals.

In contrast, Quezon City, often regarded as having one of the most progressive RH policies in the country, makes both modern and traditional family planning services available to its constituents for free.

2. THE RH BILL DOES NOT PROMOTE ABORTION.

Let us repeat that for further emphasis: the RH Bill does not promote abortion. It does, however, mandate that humane and non-discriminating treatment be extended to women who suffer from life threatening, post-abortion complications.

To put this into context and emphasize why it is important, we must know that while abortion is illegal in the Philippines, the government has done little to prevent self-induced and unsafe abortions. And medical practitioners who help women suffering from these complications stand to lose their licenses. Studies from the US-based reproductive health think tank Guttmacher Institute, show that there are an estimated 90,000 women hospitalized annually for abortion-related complications. The approval RH Bill ensures that these women will be given proper medical care and not be subject to even further pain or humiliation

According to Likhaan.org, if all those who want to space or stop childbearing would use modern family planning methods, abortions would fall by some 500,000.

3. IT WILL TEACH YOUNG PEOPLE TO BE RESPONSIBLE ABOUT THE CHOICES THEY MAKE WHEN IT COMES TO INTIMATE RELATIONS, FAMILY PLANNING, AND SEXUAL HEALTH.

Under Sec. 16 of the Consolidated RH Bill, age-appropriate reproductive health and sex education shall be taught by properly trained teachers in formal and non-formal educational systems starting from Grade 5 up to senior year in high school.

It should be noted that the teachers will receive training from the Department of Education (DepEd), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of Health (DOH)--all the government agencies who have been designated to formulate the Reproductive Health and Sexuality Education curriculum.

More importantly, the standardized curriculum will not cover just sex but also information on protection against sexual violence and abuse, discrimination, sexually transmitted infections, and responsible parenthood.

4. IT WILL GIVE ACCURATE INFORMATION ON POSITIVE SEXUALITY AND SEXUAL HEALTH EDUCATION TO YOUNG PEOPLE.

According to a 2005 study conducted by the Remedios AIDS Foundation (RAF), three out of ten youths think that jumping after sex will provide pregnancy. And two out of three youths think that drinking antibiotics before sex will prevent STI.

Until now, many young people--regardless of economic or social status--believe these myths to be true. The approval of the RH Bill will ensure that the proper information about sexual health will be given to the youth to give them the knowledge that they need to make informed decisions about their sexual health.

5. THE RH BILL DOES NOT ENDORSE PROMISCUITY

Saying that the passage of the RH Bill will promote promiscuity is like saying people are going to be more reckless behind the wheel just because a seat belt law was passed.

The passing of the RH Bill will not change people’s minds about what decisions they make about their sexual relations. What it aims to do is provide people with accurate information and allow them to make choices based on these data.


6. THE RH BILL RESPECTS EACH INDIVIDUAL’S RIGHT TO CHOOSE.

In her article entitled, “If this Bill Could Talk”, Elizabeth Angsioco, chairperson of the Democratic Socialist Women of the Philippines (DSWP) defines the RH Bill as being “pro-choice”.

“You all have the right to make informed decisions, to choose from among options that should be available to you. There is nothing in me that coerces anyone. All I will do is make RH information and services available to you should YOU DECIDE to use them.” writes Angsioco.

To support her point, Angsioco identifies sections 7 , 16, 24, and 28 of the RH Bill as specific items that give Filipinos the freedom to choose intelligently.

7. THE RH BILL WILL LESSEN THE INSTANCES OF MISTIMED OR UNWANTED PREGNANCIES.

In the Philippines, four babies are born every minute. This makes the Philippines the 12th most populous nation in the world and has the highest fertility rate in the region, at 3.03%. Unfortunately, the Philippines also has the highest unemployment rate in the Southeast Asian region at 8% compared to neighbors Indonesia at 7.9%, Vietnam at 4.6%, Malaysia at 3.7% and Thailand at 1.5%.

A large population is detrimental to a country’s economic resources. Congresswoman Kaka Bag-ao of Akbayan Citizen’s  Action Partylist says, “Population growth is a public welfare issue that affects the poorest of the poor. Other poverty containment efforts will never be sufficient until we can curb population growth.”

No one contests that babies are blessings. But it is precisely because of this that they should be planned for, cared for, and given the best possible future that parents provide. Every pregnancy should be planned and wanted.

8. THE RH BILL WILL SAVE LIVES.

According to the number of HIV infections tracked by the DOH AIDS Registry, HIV is on an unprecedented rise in the Philippines. Every day, 5 new cases of HIV are diagnosed. Women--even those in monogamous relationships--are equally at risk for being infected if their partners engage in risky sexual behavior.

Over 200 million people don’t have access to modern contraceptives. Giving these women access could reduce the number of maternal deaths due to unsafe abortions by 82 percent.

In the Philippines, experts say that expanding access to contraception could result in 800,000 fewer unplanned births, 500,000 fewer induced abortions, and 200,000 fewer miscarriages. What’s more, it could prevent as many as 2,100 maternal deaths each year—nearly half of all deaths from pregnancy-related causes.

The RH Bill ensures that access to both RH services and information is available and thus, empowering each person to protect his/herself from STI and HIV infection; mistimed pregnancy, thus, lowering maternal deaths and HIV infections.

9.  THE RH BILL WILL REDUCE THE INEQUITY BETWEEN THE RICH AND THE POOR.

Likhaan cites that RH indicators show severe inequities between the rich and poor. For example, 94% of women in the richest quintile have a skilled attendant at birth, while only 26% of the poorest can do so. The wealthy hardly exceed their planned number of children, while the poorest get an extra two.

Apart from its benefits from a health standpoint, there is also a correlation between family size and poverty incidence. According to Ernesto Pernia, a professor at the University of the Philippines School of Economics said, “Having fewer children will allow the poor to invest more in education and health for their children to improve their lives when they grow up.”

10. IT WILL HELP SET THE RECORD STRAIGHT ABOUT THE MYTHS THAT SURROUND MODERN CONTRACEPTION METHODS.

Section 10 of the consolidated RH Bill will mandate family planning supplies as essential medicines included in the inventory of local hospitals and other government health units.

But contraceptive pills do not induce abortions. According to a statement on the Philippine Obstetrical and Gyne Society (POGS), contraceptive pills:

a. Do not cause abortion; in fact they prevent unwanted pregnancies.
b. Do not cause death and disease when used appropriately.  The hormones in the pills are synthetic hormones that are comparable to those produced by women’s ovaries.  They are modified in doses and composition to make them better, safer and predictable in their medical effects.
c. Do not cause cancer; in fact they reduce cancer of the endometrium and ovaries. The reported slight increase in the risk for breast cancer is obviated by taking pills based on the national clinical guidelines.


Kudos to Female Network Website for some of the Information.

When Death Blow Meets the Mighty(A Tribute to Manny Pacquiao)

Manny: where am i?
God: you're in the dreamland.
Manny: Lord i have a fight! i am fighting Marquez in Las Vegas, what happened?
God: you have been knocked out.
Manny: is the fight over Lord? i need to wake up..
God: No son, you don't need to, don't worry, you will be fine, the punched did not do any damage to your head or your brain. You will be safe, trust Me
Manny: Okay Lord. Thank You for saving me.
God: .Your welcome My son.
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Manny: Lord why did i lost the fight? is my training not enough?
God: No you did your best in your training.
Manny: is my faith not enough?
God: No, you have a great faith.
Manny: Then why did i lost the fight Lord?
God: I have a better plans for you. I want you to make a difference.
Manny: But how Lord?
God: you will find out soon..
----Lights going out slowly-----
Manny: Lord wait! wait! tell me what should i do?
God: Stay humble My son... stay humble..
--------------------------Mexican crowd cheering---------
Manny Pacquiao slowly opening his eyes
Doctor: Manny! Manny! are you ok?
---Pacquiao nodded...

Doctor: Do you know where you are?
Manny: I am in Las Vegas.. Buboy where are you??
Buboy comes in...
Manny: Anung nangyari, tapos na ba ang laban?(what happened is the fight over?)
Buboy: Oo bro nasingitan tayo (Yes brod, he was able sneak in)
..........................
(It's December 8, 2012 in Las Vegas Nevada Marquez  KO Pacquiao in 6th Round)

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It was a humiliating defeat. Face first, motionless, knocked out cold. To see our Manny Pacquiao that way, breaks our hearts. Words can not express how i feel for him, our fighting pride is down for almost a minute. The agony spread all over the country, and the death blow meets the mighty.

It's all about Respect

In-spite of loss, Pacman remains the same. I've read alot of blogs and articles about him being mocked and being disrespected. You don't need to be Pacman Fan to give him some respect, he represented boxing with class and humility. I remember last June when Timothy Bradley was declared winner against Pacquiao, although everybody knew Manny won, he (Manny) never said anything disrespectful about his opponent.  When is the last time you hear Manny saying bad about his opponents? I am not saying he is perfect, all i am saying is, the man has done nothing wrong to anyone. And even in losing he show some humility.

No Shame in Losing

Even the mighty fall sometimes. There is no exemption to the rules. Manny met his death blow in Marquez's "Perfect Punch". Pacquiao accepted the defeat and thanked God for keeping him safe. If you're fighting one of the best counter punchers in the history of the sport and you over commit, there is no shame in what happened.

Pacquiao - Marquez 5

The score is 2-1-1 in Pacquiao's favor. I believe this fight should happen, it is not because we want Manny to get a knockout revenge, but i believe Manny deserves a rematch. Pacquiao gave Marquez 2 rematches prior to the 4th one. Now it is Marquez's turn to give it back. Win or Lose, Pacquiao will be a legend. And seriously, i don't want to see Manny Pacquiao Retire with this kind of ending on his career. I want him to retire with his head high.


2 important things to learn about Pacquiao - Marquez 4

I notice that Pacquiao's position when he was knocked out. He was face first.
- In Life, sometimes we get knocked out going forward.There is no shame in being knockout when you know in your heart that you have tried your best.

Determination, Patience and Focus to Achieve your goals
- Marquez waited 8 years for this to happen. Whenever Him and Pacquiao Fights, he always take 3 to 4 months training, compare to Manny's 2 months. Marquez's focuses only on one goal, "to beat Manny Pacquiao". And last Dec 8, 2012 his mission was accomplished. I hope we can learn from him.

Pacman Forever

This is our Manny Pacquiao, the fighting pride of the Philippines. Pacman lives forever. You know why? because According to Manny, he met the true source of life, and that is Jesus Christ. He never just met Christ, Manny experienced what it means to be at peace with Christ. We don't know what future will bring, but one thing is for sure, God has a plan, a better future for our Pambansang kamao. Jeremiah 29:11

8 Division Champion
4 Division Lineal World Champion
2000-09 Fighter of the Decade
the list can go on...

Thank you for making us proud Pacman!
God bless you!

Note: The Conversation between God and Manny Pacquiao, was just a mere imagination by the Author.

How to hug a Vampire? Part 2(Unity to fight the Enemy)

I have to confess, i am so nervous at the very start the Cullens and the Volturi went head to head. As i watch Alice approach Aro and offer to show him the future. Then fast forward all i remember is Aro ripped off Dr. Carlisle's head. To tell you the truth, i was shocked more than Esme did in the scene. I thought i heard someone from the crowd saying "Hindi ito nangyari sa book!!"(this was never happened in the book!!). The next thing i saw is Edward in shock and started running towards the Volturi (everybody follows him). The fight scene began. From this moment, everything became interesting. I was holding on to something and got really hooked watching Jasper's head being cut by one of Volturi's main member(ofcourse with the help of Jane). What really made me cry on the fight scene was the death of Seth and Leah, Seth was an innocent young wolf who volunteered to help the cullens against Volturi, Seth was attacked by Jane (Dakota Fanning) and killed by from the back by Volturi's member. And the other is Leah's sacrificial jump for Esme, who's almost pulled into the underground by Volturi's member. Leah reminds me of the bible teachings about loving your enemy, and to the extent by causing her life. Leah hates Esme so much but she still chooses to save her life.

Every christian is a vampire in his own way. The fight scene reminded me how each of us(vampires) are fighting against each other. Attacking each other, hating each other and even destroying each other. When in reality, all of us sucks. Whether we choose to be on Cullen's side, or Volturi's side. The fight scene is intense, and in reality nobody wins no matter what happen. Just like how Christians fight nowadays (not literally but by arguing about who will do it, and how will do it..). In the end nobody wins, and honestly division is the only way to solve it.

The Holy Spirit produces Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control. I don't see any reason for Christians to fight if those things are the fruits. The real enemy is Satan, who seek to destroy the work of God. And by making Christians fight each other, he is the one who's enjoy watching the movie(we are the movie).

The last part of the fight scene blows my mind. After Aro saw himself being killed and burned by Bella, He then realized that they should not continue fighting the Cullen's. All was just a mere imagination. Nobody would have thought that it will make an epic ending to the story. What a wonderful realization by Aro, which i believe should be the thinking of all Christians before going into the battle with fellow believer. If all of us will only realize that individually we are all affected, i think all of the arguments will be prevented. In this movie, every vampires has a gift, Bella has a gift of AOE barrier(Area Of Effect), she can defend by surrounding herself and others a barrier. Edward can read minds, Alice can predict the future. Just like many Christian has a gifts, a gift to encourage, to teach to give, to preach, and sometimes a gift to evangelize. How about use it for good and not against each other? The real enemy is Satan. Let's unite to fight him.

The fight scene ended but nobody was wounded. I hope we Christians all does.


United to fight the enemy! All for God's glory!

Read Part 1 Here

How to hug a Vampire? (Not your favorite Movie)

The fight scene started when Dr. Carlisle Cullen's head was cut by Volturi's leader Aro, and yes i think the people who watched the movie knew exactly what i am talking about (spoiler alert!!). Vampires of old movies are scary, they exists only to kill someone and suck their blood.

Creepy isn't it?

But wait there's more!

Do you know that real life vampires exists?

Yes you read it right! "Vampires" exists in reality.

Not the one you see in the movie, but the people around you that suck the life out of you.. Here's few examples:

1. People who always demand their rights, but denied their responsibilities.
2. People who don't follow through their commitments.
3. People who talks so much, and listen so little.
4. People who excuse their own issues but always picks out the flaws of others.
5. People who freak out when faces the slightest inconvenience.
6. People who don't want to put in much effort, but want's awesome results.
7. People who keep bragging about their accomplishments but kinda slow to acknowledge their deficiencies, and slow to give credit to people who help them.
8. People who constantly complaints so much about their situation, while there's so much people who would love to trade places with them.

The list can go on if you'd like to..

I use to hate this kinds of people.. Period...
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It's Tuesday night, i am about to start my cell group with my two disciples. I am reading the book of Romans chapter 12 of the bible, when suddenly, it hits me hard, when God made me realized that what i just wrote above is not a blog introduction, but more of a self assessment. It turns out, that when i use the idea of vampires(life suckers), God made me think that the number one life sucking and blood sucking person in my life is none other than my self. I am my own brand of vampire, "me sucks", i am a life sucker.. and i realized that, "loving the people who sucks the life out of you, starts with realizing how much you suck too.." you may agree and you may be hurt, but either way it is true.. I often suck people's blood by giving them burden, complaining about what i have, and so on. But the worst part of it is, i keep sucking the precious blood of Him Who died for me.. Him Who's grace is sufficient. I am a vampire and i suck so much. I agree with what Paul says: What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! (Romans 7:24-25). Very true, God is OUR only way, and i will say it again ONLY way. Not just way to heaven, but the only way to make this life worth living. How to hug a vampire? it starts with realizing how much we suck, realizing how much ungrateful are we. We don't own this life, we are ransomed, and we are bought. 

A change of perspective. 

I pray unity for all church leaders, youth leaders and members. That we may not suck each others blood, but support each other in every step we make. I have a very close friend, who has doctrinal beliefs that i must say i don't usually agree with, but we never fought about it, and in fact we are both respecting each other, and tend to share secrets. 

Let's stop being Vampire, and let's move. All for God's glory.

Kudos to Pastor Steven Furtick!

Read the Part 2 here

Oh Holy Night...

As the "ber" comes, there is only one thing in people's mind nowadays, and yes it is Christmas :)
I am so amazed to see, how people gets so excited whenever this season comes. Some people are already thinking of doing their "to do" lists, "things to buy", and "things to wear". People are so worried about so many things, to the point that christmas became a traumatic season, especially for those people who doesn't have much money.

Christmas should be enjoyed not worried about. Let us remember the true meaning of it, and be excited about the reason of this season. For this night was really the Holy Night, because our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ was born.

As the christmas season begins, i remember one of my favorite christmas song "Oh Holy Night". This song is not just a song, it is very historical. The Original lyrics of this song was written by Placide Cappeau de Roquemaure in 1847. Cappeau was a wine seller by trade but was ask by the parish priest to write a poem for Christmas. He obliged and write the beautiful song of the hymn. He then realized that it should have music to accompany the words and he approached his friend Adolphe Charles Adams (1803 - 1856).
He agreed and the music for the poem was therefore  composed by Adams. Adolphe had attended the Paris conservatoire and forged a brilliant career as a composer. It was translated into English by John Sullivan Dwight (1812-1893).

Here's the Original English translated by this song.

O Holy Night Lyrics

O Holy Night! The stars are brightly shining,
It is the night of the dear Savior's birth.
Long lay the world in sin and error pining.
Till He appeared and the Spirit felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees! Oh, hear the angel voices!
O night divine, the night when Christ was born;
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!
O night, O Holy Night , O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
O'er the world a star is sweetly gleaming,
Now come the wisemen from out of the Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus lowly manger;
In all our trials born to be our friends.
He knows our need, our weakness is no stranger,
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!
Behold your King! Before him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another,
His law is love and His gospel is peace.
Chains he shall break, for the slave is our brother.
And in his name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
With all our hearts we praise His holy name.
Christ is the Lord! Then ever, ever praise we,
His power and glory ever more proclaim!
His power and glory ever more proclaim!

Together i accompanied the lyrics with the unique video version of this song from lifechurch. Truly it is a HOLY NIGHT for all of us. goosebumps whenever i hear this song..

Merry Christmas to everyone! =')

Only by Grace....

It was 1:57 AM in the morning, i have just arrived in the office. I did the usual routine, open my laptop, fill my mug with cold water, Opened my browser, my emails, and other office related stuffs, nothing new. No new work assigned to me. I opened the facebook, and see what's new. So many statuses from different people i knew.. some posted their "usual" activities as if the world is watching every move they make, some posted indirect attacked from somebody(or in tagalog nagpaparinig or nag papatama) and some posted some religious "stuffs" as if they wanted to gain points from above..

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The Parable of the River (Kudos to Max Lucado)

Once there were five sons who lived in a mountain castle with their father. The eldest was an obedient son, but his four younger brothers were rebellious. Their father had warned them of the river, but they had not listened. He had begged them to stay clear of the bank lest they be swept downstream, but the river's lure was too strong.
Each day the four rebellious brothers ventured closer and closer until one son dared to reach in and feel the waters. "Hold my hand so I won't fall in," he said, and his brothers did. But when he touched the water, the current yanked him and the other three into rapids and rolled them down the river.
Over rocks they bounced, through the channels they roared, on the swells they rode. As the strong current of the river cast them down the stream, they all found themselves in strange place, far away from their home. They consider climbing back but the mountain is just too high for them to climb.
Finally, they built a fire and sat down. "We shouldnt have dis-obeyed our father," they admitted. "We are a long way from home."
With the passage of time the sons leaned to survive in the strange land. They found plants for foods and killed animals for clothes. They determined not to forget their homeland nor abandon hopes of returning. Everyday they always hope that someday they will see their father and their older brother again. All for sons longed to see them again.
Then one night, one brother failed to come to their built hut. The others found him the next morning in the valley with some people from that place. He was building his own hut of grass and mud. "I've grown tired of our talks", he told them. "What good does it do to remember?" Besides, this land isn't so bad. I will build a great house and settle here." "But it isn't home," they objected. "No, but it is if you don't think of the real one." "But what of Father?" "What of him? He isn't here. He isn't near. Am I to spend forever waiting his arrival? I'm making new friends; i'm leaning new ways. If he comes, he comes, but i'm not holding my breath." And so the other three left their hut-building brother and walked away.
Some days later a second brother failed to appear at the built house. The next morning his siblings found him on a hillside staring at the hut of his brother.
"How disgusting," he told them as they approached. "Our brother is a failure and an insult to our family name, he forgets our father he is a failure.."
What he's doing is wrong, agreed the youngest brother, "but what we did was wrong as well." We dis-obeyed. We touched the river. We ignored our father's warning.
"Well, we may have made a mistake or two, but compared to sleaze in the hut, we are saints father will dismiss our sin and punish him." "I will keep my eye for our brother., someone must keep a record of his wrongs to show father."
And so the two returned leaving one brother building and other judging.
The remaining two returned to their house encouraging each other and speaking of home. Then one morning the youngest son awoke to find he was alone. He searched for his brother and found him near the river, stacking rocks.
"It's no use," the rock-stacking brother explained as he worked. "Father won't come for me. I must go to him. I offended him. I insulted him. I failed him. There is only one option. I will build a path back up the river and walk into our father's presence." "Maybe if he see how hard i tried, he will have no choice but to let me in again." The youngest brother did not know what to say, as he returned back to their built hut alone.
One morning, the youngest brother heard a familiar voice behind him. "Father has sent me to bring you home." The youngest brother lifted his eyes to see the face of his oldest brother. "You have come for us!" he shouted.. For a long the two embraced. "Where's our brothers?" the eldest asked. "One has made a home here. Another is watching him. The third is building a path up the river." And the firstborn set out to find his siblings. He went first to the thatched hut in the valley.
"Go away stranger!" screamed the brother through the window. "you are not welcomed here!". "I have come to take you home." "You have not. You have come to take my mansion." "This is no mansion," firstborn countered. "This is a hut" "It is a mansion! The finest in the lowlands. Now go away! you can not have my mansion."

"Don't you remember the house of your father?"
"I have no father", "go away!!"

The firstborn went out and find the second brother who we're watching the hut builder. He didn't have to walk far, outside the hut, there is the fault finding son. When he saw the firstborn approaching, he shouted, "How good that you are here to behold the sin of our brother! Are you aware that he turned his back on the castle? Are you aware that he never speaks of home? I knew you would come. I have kept careful account of his deeds. Punish him! I will applaud your anger. He deserves it! Deal with the sins of our brother."
Firstborn spoke softly, "We need to deal with your sins first."
"My sins?"
"Yes, you disobeyed Father."
The son slapped at the air "my sins are nothing compare to him!" pointing his fingers to the hut.
"I'd rather you tell me about yourself". "Don't worry about me, let me show you who need's help" the fault finding son run to the hut.

The firstborn then walked to the river. There he found the last brother, knee-deep in the water, stacking rocks.
"Father has sent me to take you home." the brother never looked up. "I can't talk now. I must work." "Father knows you have fallen, But he will forgive you..." "he may.. but i must show him that i am worthy.. i will go up there and will ask for his mercy"
"He has already given his mercy. I will carry you up the river, I am stronger."
"I have sinned greatly! i need much work!"
"No brother, you don't need much work, you need much grace."
"No! look at me, i can walk against the river now, i can walk five steps now... i am strong enough to go back up there.."
"But you still have five millions steps to go.."
"Go away! i can do this! i can win our father's mercy! i will work harder to earn it!"

Firstborn shook his head "Favor won is no favor. Mercy earned is no mercy. I implore you, let me carry you up the river." The brother ignored the firstborn. So the firstborn turned and left.

The youngest brother was waiting near the built hut, when the firstborn returned.
"The others didn't come?"
"No, one chose to indulge, the other to judge, and the third to work. None of them chose our father."
"So they'll remain here?"
The eldest brother nodded slowly. "For now"
"And we will return to Father?" asked the youngest brother.
"Yes."
"Will he forgive me?"
"Would he have sent me if he wouldn't?"
And so the younger brother climbed on the back of the firstborn and began journey home.
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All four brothers heard the same invitation. each had an opportunity to be carried home by the elder brother.
Now the question is.. who among them are you?
The first said no, choosing grass hut over his father's house.
The second said no, preferring to analyze the mistakes of his brother than admit his own.
The third said no, thinking it wiser to make a good impression than an honest confession.
And the fourth said yes, choosing gratitude over guilt.

May i ask a vital question? as you read of the brothers, which describes your relationship to God? have you like the fourth son, recognized your helplessness to make the journey home alone? Do you take the extended hand of your Father? Are you caught in the grip of His grace? Or are you like one of the other three sons?

Are we those people in my FB page? who's status are only to show the world what he/she is doing, or maybe we are the people who were busy looking and judging others. And just like the third son, maybe we are the hardworking christians who always, go to work, forgetting the fact that God already did it for us. Our job is to trust Him, not to trust our capabilities. I saw some people in my FB working hard for God's kingdom, but if i look and give honest opinion about their lives, nothing really changed at all.  The Gospel should be lived by, not talked by. It is very nice to share the Word ofcourse! and i also believe that to be our goal. But don't you think we may share the gospel by living and practicing it? and it will be much powerful for us to share it, and show it rather than just mere talking about it? Why not practice what we preach?

When i first read about this parable, i thought what the third son did was good. He kept working to earn his Father's mercy. But as the story goes, i realized that it's no use at all, and besides, the work made the third brother proud of his works.. Just like us, if we work for God's kingdom, the tendency we became proud. We look at other people's works too.. We say "well, i do the devotion everyday, he doesn't, i do this and that, he doesn't" and the list will go on...

We must realize that only by His Grace we are saved... No other things needed. Jesus the firstborn is enough to carry us back home to our Father. The bible said He is the only way to God, there is NO OTHER WAY to father except through Jesus(John 14:6). So i urge you to once and for all, respond to His invitation to accept Him as your Savior and Lord, and you will have peace in your heart forever.

The Father's Heartache

It was around 5pm in the afternoon, me and my youngest sister were waiting for the result of my wife's ultrasound and checkup, excited, nervous and my mind is full of what if's. Confidently, i continue reading the latest news on my ipad, knowing that God will take care of everything.

Suddenly, a nurse came out of the room rushing, calling for someone's name. She shouted, "Mr. Bolista!", twice and the third time she shouted, i stood up and said it was me. She told me, "sir, sunod po kayo sakin sa loob". I don't have any idea what's going on, but without question i followed the nurse. On the third room there's my wife lying on the bed, and looking at the monitor, and beside her there's a woman standing, and pointing fingers on the monitor. To my amazement, i was smiling because i saw a baby's image on the ultrasound screen monitor. But when i look at my wife's face again, she was crying and said "beh, walang heartbeat ang baby". I was shocked, the doctor, kept telling me the reason and she kept doing some explanation, i heard everything she said, but did not remember any of it. I just heard continuous sound in my ear saying "my baby's heart is not beating.." The last thing i remember is we are on the car, driving back home, my wife and my sister were silent. I stayed focus on the road, but tears in my eyes started to fall, it all began to sink in, "my baby is dead, my baby is dead" it was painful. Painful for a father who was excited to have a baby.

That was not so long ago, 4 days before my birthday, i started to think "what is this? a gift to me?"  i asked questions after questions, "what went wrong ?"

A heartache of a father..

That same night, me and my wife we're in the house, she's lying on the bed, i was on the PC, checking FB and other stuffs. I was looking on my friend's profile when suddenly i saw a cross.. A picture of Jesus on the cross, my emotion shifted, i was crying again, but this time its harder, my wife noticed my agony she stood up and hugged me, then with full emotions i cried hard telling my wife, "i'm sorry babe, i am so sorry".

That moment, all things where emotional, it was hard to accept but its the truth. But one thing i remember and what i think God shown to me. The Cross, even God was a Father to a Son. The most beloved Son Jesus. A blameless Lamb, full of Mercy and Love. What hit me that night is not our baby's lost, but what i was reminded. I've heard and read the story of Jesus dying on the Cross, but never i felt the agony of losing your own child. I think i read in the bible that even God the Father can't look at Jesus when He was on the Cross dying terribly. It is painful for a father to lose a child. I realized what God did for me. I'm a church guy, a leader, and a christian, i thought i was doing ok, but God made me realized, i am losing my focus. I was so focused on the "things" of this world, and not the true meaning of life "Jesus". It was a true story for me, a reality of my life, and most of us. We take God's grace and mercy for granted and living for our own selfish life.

A night before my 30th birthday, i was sitting on my bed(my wife is in her father's house in cavite) alone. I pray and do my devotion. I read the first 2 chapters of the book ecclesiastes, once again, i was reminded of things that are not important. First verse of chapter 1, said "meaningless meaningless!" it was Solomon, the riches, and wisest man and king who ever lived. Said it was meaningless.. everything is meaningless.. Truly it is. After i read the book, i prayed for the very first time in a long while a loud prayer, a declaration of faith, with a loud voice i ask God to restore me again. I asked for forgiveness of my sins. And ask Jesus to empower me. As i close my prayer and turned 30 years old, i thank God for everything in my life, the experiences, the blessings and even the painful things that happened to me. From that moment, i promised myself, that i will do my best to please God in everything i do. No more compromise and so... And just like Joseph the dreamer's line says it. "We meant it for evil, but God meant it for good". The painful experienced about my baby's lost was a clear reminder and restoration to me (and hopefully to other people) that we are not of this world, we are His children so we have to behave like we should because He is our Father.

Jesus is the TRUTH, the final Word of God to man, my Savior and my God.

Thank You Jesus.... =')

HEAVEN (Have you made a reservation?)

There's a story of teacher and her Sunday school students having an interesting conversation about heaven:

The teacher ask:
"If i sold all my money, and gave it to the church would that get me into heaven?"
the students responded spontaneously with a big  "NO".
the teacher once again asks:
"if i clean my house, plant a tree, or made my home beautiful, would that get me into heaven?"
then once again the students responded with resounding "NO"
again the teachers asks:
"well if i am polite, and kind to my friends, and loving to my family would that get me into heaven?"
and just the same thing, the students responded with the same big "NO".

and finally, the teachers asks, then "How can i get to heaven?"

and a little boy new to Sunday school shouted from the back "You have to be dead".

well the boy has a point... :)
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Worldwide, 3 people die every second, 180 every minute, nearly 11,000 every hour and if the bible is right about what happen to us after death, that means 250,000 people everyday go either to heaven or to hell..
As of July 2011 Philippine population we're already 103 Million. and nearly 70% of our country's population are mostly Catholics. Most of the traditional Catholic believers believed they will go to heaven after they die.
In our christian community churches, you will not hear many of our pastors or leaders preaching about either heaven, or hell. Quiet honestly, nobody really talks about heaven anymore.. This is one of the forgotten subjects in our christian walks, yet we all know that this is the final place or destination that every TRUE believers will be after their lives.

We are omitting the teachings about heaven, that's why our churches are at lost, no direction and sadly losing faith. Our minds are surrounded by the earthly blessings and we have forgotten the true place where we belong. Heaven nowadays is just a thought or an imagination to some Christians. And most people tend to create their own "versions" of heaven here on earth.

Did you know that, the wisest man  who ever lived tried to mimic heaven? and that wisest man just happened to be also the richest man who ever lived. But in the end, he just discovered that its all vanity.
God has placed in our hearts and minds, a hunger for eternity, a hunger for something deeper and much better than this life offers. And if we do not understand that, and if we do not feed our hearts with spiritual Truth of the Word of God, we end up, not satisfied, or worst we're replacing it with cheap and childish things that will only leave us empty.

Do you know the saddest thing that can ever happen to someone?
It is living his life believing he  did the right thing, believed the right religion, and thinking he is going to heaven and yet, when he died he will be in a place he did not expected to be..
God in His living word said. "Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgement (Hebrews 9:27)". The truth that this world cannot accept is that "everybody" are natural sinners and we all comes short of God's righteousness and destined to be destroyed in hell.

But you know what? there's a good news, Heaven is still accepting reservation. If you will just open your heart, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. You know what? Jesus, the lamb of God did it all for you. All you need to do is to accept what He did for you and live according to His word and that's it. Your reservation is booked in heaven. You may still experience some troubles in this life, but Jesus promised to give you peace. A peace that nobody can take away from you, a security for all eternity. God loves you so much, He even planned a salvation strategy for you. Jesus is your ticket to heaven, and the bible said "He is the Only way to God (John 14:6)".

Are you ready to book a ticket in heaven? :)

Just please read and follow this simple prayer:

"Lord, I believe in You. I admit that i am a sinner and i fell short of your righteousness, and i need a Savior. I believe Jesus died for me, so that i can live for You. Lord change me, give me new life. A life that is pleasing to You. I believe Jesus died for me and He cleansed me for all my sins, and i will walk by faith in You. and I surrender everything in You, in Jesus Name. Amen"

If you follow this prayer and sincerely believed in your heart, i have a good news for you.

YOUR TICKET IN HEAVEN WAS SUCCESSFULLY BOOKED. ^_^

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My Prayer for you:
Lord thank you for this person, who believed and accepted You. May You blessed this person with Your spiritual things. And let this person grow in wisdom and knowledge of understanding You more and more. As this person continues to walk by faith for You. And thank You for the opportunity to serve You. In Jesus Name, Amen...

A Lesson on Money..

The preaching that made me change my view on money..

Just sharing :)

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Last part

Do not be slave...

Be a servant :)

Being different for HIM..

Romans 12:2

"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect will"

Do not be normal.. be different..

I stand for Him.. I stand for the Truth.. 

I stand for Love, Love that was crucified...

LET'S BE WEIRD FOR GOD^^

My Long Lost College quote..

I remember reading this quote from my college years.. and up to now it is still one of my favorite. ^__^

I went into my classroom
Ready for another year at school.
I didn’t want the work
Just wanted to hang and be cool.

I had on new clothes,
New sneaks on my feet.
I was there for class on time
Went to the back and took my seat.

Yeah, I’m moving up.
I’m already grown.
Soon I’ll be graduating
And out on my own.

I talked to some of my friends.
We were all having fun.
Said some things I shouldn’t have said,
Did stuff I shouldn’t have done.

I knew I was different.
I felt God touch my heart.
I knew I should set a standard,
But then I’d be set apart.

Walking to the bus,
I was not looking for strength.
I heard the car tires screeching,
But now it’s too late.

I’m standing in this room
And I can see the heavenly gate.
Oh no! I never prayed. I thought
I had time to get it straight.

An angel walked to me.
He had a book in his hand.
I knew it was the Book of Life.
When would this dream end?

I told him my name
And he began to look.
Then he looked at me sadly and said
“Your name is not in this book.”

“Angel, this is a dream. No, I can’t be dead!”
He closed the book and turned away.
He whispered, “You cannot proceed ahead.”

“No…no this can’t be real.
Angel, you can’t turn me away.
Let me talk to God.
Maybe, He’ll let me stay.”

He led me to the gate.
Jesus came to me,
He did not let me in but said,
“Beloved what is your need?”

“Jesus,” I cried, “please
Don’t cast me away from you.”
Tears ran down His face as He said,
“You knew what you needed to do.”

“Lord, please I’m young.
I never thought I would die.
I thought I’d have plenty of time.
Death caught me by surprise.

Lord, I went to church. Please Jesus, I believe
He said you would not accept me.
My love you would not receive.

Lord, there were too many hypocrites.
They weren’t being true.”
He took a step back and asked
“What does that have to do with you?”

“Lord, my family claimed to be saved,
They weren’t real. You know.”
He said, “I died for you.
Now I have to go.”

I fell to my knees crying to Him.
“Lord, I planned to be real tomorrow.”
I couldn’t, make Him understand.
I had never — felt such sorrow.

Then it hit me hard, I said
“Lord, where will I go?”
He looked into my eyes and said,
“My child you already know.”

“Please Jesus,” I begged
“The place is so hot.”
It seemed to trouble and grieve Him.
He whispered, “DEPART FROM ME, I KNOW YOU NOT.”

“Lord, you’re supposed to be love.
How can you send me to damnation?”
He replied, “With your mouth
you said you loved me,
But each day you rejected my salvation.”
With that in an instant,
Day turned into night.
I never knew such torture could be.
Now too late, I know the Bible is right.

If I can tell you anything,
Hell has no age.
It is a place of torture,
Separated from God and full of rage.
You know I thought it was funny — a joke,
But this one thing is true.
If you never accept Jesus Christ
HELL IS WAITING FOR YOU!..

I hope you won't leave earth without accepting Jesus :)

Welcome to the iGeneration

It's already 3:57 am and i still can't sleep, my goodness. I will be the service director today in our church whew!

I turned my PC on and opened my browser. Welcome to the iGeneration.. Yes! "iGeneration" the word "i" is an acronym for "internet", and almost every device nowadays has a internet enabled capabilities. In all honesty, as a person, i really don't know if i can still survive without internet. Yes indeed, internet made a major impact to the people's lives, but just like any other things in this world, it can be use for bad and it can also be use for good. When i checked my facebook page, i saw different "nonsense" status from different friends (well majority of them are not really my friends, they are just connected to me, for some reason). I posted a status before stating "person's IQ level of thinking can be measured by their facebook status". And up to now i still believe in that.

iGeneration - a generation of "i", meaning selfishness, me, me and me... always pointing to themselves. "i" want it, "i" deserve it, "i" need it, "i" crave for it, and "i" want to be like that, isad, ipad, ipod, iphone, imad, ibad. Everything has an "i".

How much time do you spend checking your facebook, twitter, youtube, or email? how much time do you spend playing? and how much often do you chat with your friends? think about it...

Internet is not bad at all, i just want people to think of more ways on how we can use the internet in a more productive manner. I hope we can use it, to share the good news, honor people, posting bible verses, posting encouraging videos and more positive things.

As Christians we are commanded to be the salt and the light of the earth, what difference can we make? i hope that this simple blog will be a reminder for a so-called Christians to step up and be different. Remember that we honor God in everything we do, even in posting simple messages or statuses in our fb account.

I think by changing our ways of using those "iDevices" we can definitely make a big difference. Why not get an bible app for your iPhone? or a podcast/video of lifechurch.tv preaching on your "iPod"? or get a sherwood movies on your iPad? Instead of using those things for bad, change your way by using it for good. Use it to generate income, instead of talking to nonsense apps like simsimi or playing and making your self bored slashing those fruits on fruit ninja. Let's be a generation builders and not time wasters.

I hope we can iBuild character, iBuild attitude, iBuild friendship, iBuild broken relationships, and most importantly iRepent, iAccept Christ and iShare the Gospel. So we can iWalk with Him and iKnow Him more :)

Because Jesus said: iDied for you, so we can say iLive for Him ^_^

Friends....

Proverbs 17:17 says "A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity..."

I am bored, i turned my desktop computer on, and browsed my Facebook page.. nothing really new.

I opened my old files and saw the old pics (around 2005) whoa! its been 7 years.. a lot of things changed from 2005. I've met so many friends.. 

On 2005, i worked in makati, the company is a software house.. i've met, gary, nolan, ani, louie, madz, yheng, and meia... they are my friends there..

2006 i've met chris, leo, jay my team mates..

2007 i met ernest, jenny, janie, aldrin, reisol, richard, gerry, jacq, jojo,lean and Ms. Vibay.. (this year i've met alot of friends i really can't write them all here hehe)

2008 i've met a new set of friends, roll, louie, beverly, rean, mia, and bj. (This is also the first time i climbed a mountain ) Also during this year i've met a memorable teammates anna, rex, ramon, and the most business minded woman bing. (I consider this team/friends one of the best) 

2009 in a short project i've met jarell, peggy, mia and glenn. Also during 2009 i've met the coolest team mon, jao, gil, jay, bong, phil, jon, gene and mary.

2010 i've met the most classy team jan, cha, gelo, ivan, eljan, mark and faical. (Few of the most intelligent people i've met)

2011 i've met jenny, sahlee, karen, jo, ian, and ty.. also in 2011 i've met the DOTA team marvin, mic, cen, xtian, charm, rina and alfred.

2012 i've met bobby(the most calmed supervisor/TL i've met), zander, cupert, aileen and alvin.

In between those years.. i've also met too many christian friends...

"Cristy", paul, ghelo, anna, chelle, mic, ivy, grace, tess, yanie, josh, violet, heis, julie, jay-ann, nona, edwin, jobi, yvette, verly, khate, deo,  mitz, ramjith, erns, daisy, grasya, lei, cryan, jamai, lhaiza and a lot more..

Whew, this is really tough blog lol. 

It's really nice to have friends. On this life, there comes a time that we will be meeting lots of people.. Some will hate us, some will love us, and some will even despise us.. i just love being with my friends now.. and i love the group i have now. A4PEEPS, Ronald, Ai, Jayar, Annie, Albert, Eula, Cristal, Vanessa, Jed, Jhe, Joey, Jelyn and Glonna.. 

My friends that i really love to be with. :) i love them all..

btw.. i also have lots of friends in my favorite game perfect world (joebelle, dong, patrick, jojo, april, gem, yin, cybelle and many more(since they are so many i really can't mention all their names hehe)).

And ofcourse ultimately, the only bestfriend, partner, best buddy, travel buddy, kakulitan, and kalandian that i have.. my wife Cristy. ayieehhh <3 <3

my prayer:

Thank You Lord for giving me such a wonderful friends.. up to now i still can't believe i have them. I pray for the past officemates, that they may know You more. And Lord please guide me until i met new set of friends, and may i be a good servant to You, and allow me to share the Gospel to them..

in Jesus Name...

Amen.

Christianity is not about Religion..

Christianity is not trying harder, doing more, working harder... christianity is intimate personal relationship with Jesus Christ who's alive and lives He's life by the Spirit through you.. Christianity is the Holy Spirit convicting you on what's right or wrong, not setting the list of to do's and don'ts.. Jesus sets free, and wants everybody to have life, "Life to the fullest..." Religion brings people back to bondage, it is a set of rules, and burdens that makes us desperate.

Jesus did it for you...

^_^

Can you feel His Love tonight?

Feel the love of God tonight... ^_^

This version of my favorite band Stellar Kart really rocks! they turn a worldly song into a Christian Rock song :)

Enjoy Listening :)

Return, Recharge, Remain....

I remember when i was in the camp 2001 "Jesus in me" was the theme of the camp. And i remember a Pastor doing some altar calling, telling his audience to "Return" to God.. I can still remember many young people ran fast to the front and cried and did a prayer of repentance to God... Yeah that was just a glimpse of it, and you know what? i want to tell you honestly, more than 50% of the youth that i knew who attended that camp? was at lost... Maybe they just returned to God, but then they returned to sin... too bad isn't it? I've also remember somethings about the past, when most of the christians i know (specially in a youth camp) often return and... "recharge"in God's presence... i honestly do the same thing too.. i often return to God, and then recharge in His presence.. then, will just be "discharge". Now the word "remain" is not so common to the christians. Let's be real, we need this three words to grow.. We need to "Return" to God(it includes, repentance, reconciliation and restoration), "Recharge" in God (continuous reading His words and meditating on it), and finally the most important part (but often forgotten) "Remain" in God. The Bible says in John 15:5 that "if we remain in Him, He will remain in us..." and we will bear fruits. The truth is, we can do nothing without being connected to Him. So remember this three words "Return", "Recharge" and most of all "Remain"...

The Holy Spirit

All of the christians are aware that there are three persons that represents God, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. And most of the believers knew who is the Father (with the imagination of a big man on the clouds sounds like a thunder whenever He speaks from heaven), and Jesus(the Son of God, who most of us imagine as the long haired guy with blue eyed, pointed nose and serious looking face). Christians often forgets the 3rd person, who is the "Holy Spirit". Believers in Christ knew there is a 3rd Person (lets be honest, whenever we think of the Holy Spirit, we always imagine of a dove), but most of the time unaware of His job. If i will be ask who will i want to be, Jesus in flesh? or the Holy Spirit, i'd be honest, i prefer Jesus in flesh than the Holy Spirit. But look at what Jesus said in John 16:7 "Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away: for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart I will send Him to you", He said it is advantage for Him to go away, so that the Helper or the Comforter can come. Many of us do not understand what power can the Holy Spirit give us. The same Spirit that Raised Christ from the dead is available for every people that will believe and accept Christ as their Lord and Personal Saviour. I pray that all people who may read this blog ask themselves "what am i missing?" am i living a Spirit-less life? when i can live a Spirit-filled life.. May the Presence of our Lord be with you, and the blood of Jesus Christ cleanse you, and the Power of the Holy Spirit enable you to stand up for God.

:)

The Married Life

Oh yeah after 2 months, here i am writing in this blog again, but this time not as a single but as a married guy. My wife Cristy and I, just got married last December 19, 2011. It was a memorable night for me, i sang a song, while she was doing her bridal entrance. It was very nice, my bride looks so amazing and so beautiful in her gown (Kate Middleton inspired). To be honest, when i first saw her, i really got nervous, one of our "abays" even said my voice while singing the first line was a little bit "shaky", i think they obviously notice my tension. I really had a wonderful night on our wedding. What's with the married life anyway? hmmm, most of people will never believe this.. "it is so much fun". Having someone with you, is really a gift from God. You don't need to worry about other "girls" anymore, because you have your own beautiful spouse. We share everything, food, happiness, trials and all others. I am a blessed guy to have a wife like Cristy. She is really a gift from above. I won't say a lot on this blog, i just want to simply thank God for all the blessings, and finally i have my wife now. My happiness is unexplainable.. God is really good! and thru my wife, i can see how good He is. Credit to Jesus! my Lord and my Savior. I love you.... :)

This is the Video of Zapata taken during our wedding..