but what do we really need?

What the world needs, I am ashamed to say, is Christian love.

- Bertrand Russell, author of "Why I Am Not A Christian", atheist

What I envy most about you Christians is your forgiveness.
I have nobody to forgive me.

- Marghanita Laski, author of "Ecstasy: a Study of Some Secular and Religious Experiences", atheist

My secret is that I need God
--- that I am sick and can no longer make it alone.
I need God to help me give, because I no longer seem to be capable of giving;
to help me be kind, as I no longer seem capable of kindness;
to help me love, as I seem beyond being able to love.

- Douglas Coupland, author of "Life After God", secular/atheist



Here's hoping and praying that the world will receive what the world truly needs, in the coming days. God be with us all in 2010 :)


(Thanks to "What's So Amazing About Grace?" by Philip Yancey for the quotes.)

had nothing to give...

Yesterday, had nothing to give caroling street kids... except a Christmas tree lollipop with flashing light. The smiles on their faces were priceless.

Some things are more important than money :)

They became kids again... i hope, so can we :)

When God's promises seem far off, what would you do?

Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God,

but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God,

being fully persuaded that God had power to do what He had promised.


Romans 4:20-21

Reset.

For a long time, I was concerned with "What would Christians do?" instead of "What would Christ do?"; with "Would this please people?" instead of "Would this please God?"

Reset.

(Suddenly, everything seems much simpler.)

happy birthday paps! :)

I know, my God, that you test the heart and are pleased with integrity.
1 Chronicles 29:17a



Today we celebrate the birthday of my father, Angelo Pulido; a man who has taught me conviction, principles, and integrity by the life that he is living.

This year, may God pour out so much more of His living Spirit in your life; that you will be blessed with greater wisdom, hope, joy, strength, and love.


Proud to be your unica hija,

Ate :)

for today :)

thank You God :)

thank You for renewing my sense of urgency,
yet retaining my peace of mind.

indeed, there's a lot to be done,
but it will be You working in me and through me.

let Your kingdom come
and Your will be done
in my life.

in the name of Jesus,
i believe. :)

Victory QC Relief Operations

Some pictures here, and one of our pastors reflects here. :)

UP College of Science Guidelines for Ondoy Relief

From: Dean Caesar Saloma

Please take note of the following guidelines that will be used by CS with regards to the handling of relief goods for victims of typhoon Ondoy:

1. Donations (blankets, new/used clothings, canned goods, bottled water, etc) are welcomed and will be received by the Office of Student and Public Affairs (ADSPA). The donations will be turned over to the College of Science Student Council at 4 pm of every donation day for classification and packaging.

Cash will also be accepted and properly accounted for by ADSPA and the CS Dean's Office when the relief operation is concluded.

2. A number of CS employees (faculty, administrative personnel and contractual support staff) and students have also suffered. At this point, they will be our priority concern. They can claim their relief packets in ADSPA during office hours.

I request our heads of CS units to e-mail the names of those who suffered to: Dr Portia Mahal Sabido (portiamahalsabido@gmail.com, adspa2002@yahoo.com), the OIC of ADSPA.

Please encourage your fellow faculty members and staff to extend any possible help to those of us who are now in great need.

Maraming salamat po.

PSHS launches Sagip Pisay

To the PSHS Community,

We are once again faced with the challenge of coming together to overcome the difficulties brought about by this new calamity. Typhoon Ondoy has affected not only the school but the different families of the PSHS Community.

Updates from everyone

The advisers together with the PTA are now trying to account for everyone in the school. The typhoon has devastated several homes including that of some teachers, staff and students. Some were left on the roof and were only rescued after two days. The worst probably is the death of the sister of senior student Camille Tobillo.

If you know of anyone who needs help please call your adviser or the school at 9240661.

The school also got hit by the flood. 20-30 meters of the fence between the school and the Ombudsman collapsed, allowing flood water to enter the dorms, cafeteria and the SHB. We thank the janitors, staff, teachers and CARE students who took time off from their own personal misery to help clean up the mess.

Official Announcement from PSHS

As of Tuesday morning, the school has decided to suspend classes for the entire week. Classes will resume on October 5. Second Quarter periodic exams will be moved to October 13-15. Teachers are advised to help students who lost their notes and books by providing handouts or helping photocopy other students’ notes.

Lost books cannot be replaced by the school. However, there will be books that may be used in the library.


Sagip Pisay

The Student Alliance quickly responded by launching Sagip Pisay. They are collecting donations for typhoon victims in the PSHS community and if possible other victims as well.

As part of Sagip Pisay, the school has opened its dormitories to temporarily accommodate students, teachers and staff and their families who have no place to stay while their homes are being cleaned.

Each batch has volunteered to man the collection, repacking and even cleanup in PSHS for a half day. The fourth year will start it off today followed by the juniors in the afternoon. The sophomores will be in-charge tomorrow morning and the freshmen tomorrow afternoon. Should a student wish to be a volunteer, he/she should bring the school ID (if he still has it) and a parent’s permit.

Donations may be dropped off anytime at the ASTB Hall. An SA representative will also be present to receive cash donations on hand. Cash donations may also be deposited to the following account:
Philippine Science High School Student Alliance
Savings Account # 0273094121
BPI Timog Circle Branch
Swiftcode BOPIPHMM

However, donations for particular students such as the Topaz student who met an accident last Thursday, the senior student who also met an accident last Friday, and the senior student who lost a sister to the flood should be given directly to the batch advisers or the PTA treasurer.


What to give

Those who were flooded have various needs. We ask for your help in identifying those needs so that they may be matched with the donations. The following may be brought to PSHS for distribution

Food - no cook or easy-to-cook meals such as canned goods(can openers will also be appreciated), fruits, bread, noodles, rice

Supplies – toiletries, powdered soap, cleaning materials, spoon and fork, blankets, mats

Clothes – undergarments, towels, uniforms, shoes, raincoat or umbrella

Medical supplies – alcohol, vitamins, bandages, anti-diarrhea, paracetamol, hydrite, decolgen, neozep, diatabs

We would also appreciate if you can lend your vehicles (preferable jeepney, utility vans, or pick up trucks) to help bring the goods to the victimson Friday. If the place cannot be reached then we will ask the victims to meet us in the nearest possible place. We will give whatever is extra to other victims.


SAGIP PISAY Hotline

You may call 929-1603, 924-0661, 924-0614 or text 0919-9670426 for questions.

Let us once again work together to face this challenge God has given us.

PSHS Management

UP Sagip Isko

The UP Diliman community has tasked the University Student Council to assist in accounting for students who may be in need of assistance. Your understanding and cooperation will be highly appreciated in this time of crisis.

1. We are accepting the following donations. You may drop off your contribution( s) at the Church of the Risen Lord, UP Diliman campus.

a. Food: canned goods, noodles, biscuits, bread, rice and potable water
b. Clothing – usable, wearable, clean, and dry clothes (any size), slippers
c. Beddings – blankets, sheets, pillows
d. Toiletries - soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush
e. Medicines - Paracetamol, Mefenamic acid, band aids, iodine, alcohol, Doxycycline, etc.

2. Volunteers are encouraged to join the relief efforts. Please contact 0915-8666968 for more details, or drop by the operations center at Church of the Risen Lord, UP Diliman campus.

a. Communications – with computers/laptops, cellphones, wireless landlines, radios
b. Sorting and packaging
c. Transportation – drivers, big cars, etc

3. For assistance to flooded/missing UP Diliman students, you may send their name, college, location, contact details, and status (flooded, missing, stranded, sick) to any of the following:

a. Cellphone: 0917-8619022
b. Landline: 219-9848
c. E-mail: updusc@gmail. com
d. Facebook: updusc@yahoo. com

You may also fill in the form at this link.

4. Student organizations and local councils are highly encouraged to join hands with the USC in making our relief operations more efficient and responsive.. Org heads are invited to contact 0917-8114511.

Please forward/repost this in all your UP egroups/etc. Thanks!

this is why i'm hot.

image from http://online-restaurant-reservations.com/

i can't

i can't do good
i can't realize how bad i am
i can't move
i can't stop
i can't help it
i can't help myself
i can't save others
i can't save myself
i can't tell others what to do
i don't know.


i'm weak
i'm selfish
i'm bad
i'm a sinner
i'm cruel
i'm hopeless
i'm helpless
God, help me.

a hebrew test

While he was still talking with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep, for she was a shepherdess. When Jacob saw Rachel daughter of Laban, his mother's brother, and Laban's sheep, he went over and rolled the stone away from the mouth of the well and watered his uncle's sheep. Then Jacob kissed Rachel and began to weep aloud. He had told Rachel that he was a relative of her father and a son of Rebekah. So she ran and told her father. As soon as Laban heard the news about Jacob, his sister's son, he hurried to meet him. He embraced him and kissed him and brought him to his home, and there Jacob told him all these things. Then Laban said to him, “You are my own flesh and blood.” After Jacob had stayed with him for a whole month, Laban said to him, “Just because you are a relative of mine, should you work for me for nothing? Tell me what your wages should be.” (Genesis 29:9-15)


Love is a Conduct, Not a Conquest

Love is a powerful stimulant for change, but it is not a permanent prescription for change. Falling in love doesn’t pay the bills of a debtor, do the homework of a procrastinator or break the chokehold of a habit. No love potion can remedy a spineless, boneless or clueless person. However, love will always lend a helping hand, to inspire and change a willing and motivated person.

The education of Jacob began when he changed from lazy bum and life support to hard worker. Before this incident, Jacob was the little emperor at home in Canaan. He came from money even if had yet to get any, but he really didn’t have much of a life outside of the home nor did he have to lift a finger at home; so he was the little brat who became the master of the house, spending his time picking on, toying with and scoring against his no-brainer of a brother, Esau. His brother’s vow to kill him (Gen 27:41) when Jacob deceived him of his birthright forced him to leave home and sent him hurtling across the desert to his mother’s ancestral homeland, where he found a different and uneven kind of match in his uncle Laban, who is the brother of Jacob’s mother (Gen 27:43). Jacob the smooth-skin (Gen 27:11), homely Mama’s boy grew of age without home, money and security in his new environment.

Jacob’s usefulness and breakthrough began day one in the desert. He had good influence around him and a powerful working model – Rachel, and he had better shape up because Rachel was no slouch! Rachel was a shepherdess, a good and responsible one to be able to keep her job in the company of men. Rachel proved herself as the eyes, the voice and the guide of the sheep under her care. She was not the type to stay at home, see the shepherds off, and leave the job to men.

Jacob discovered the value of hard work, and it was never late. He transitioned from boy to man when he showed a sense of accomplishment, a stomach for responsibility and a direction in life. Jacob, who had everything done for him by Mama, began to do something for himself and for others (v 10) – he rolled the stone away from the mouth of the well and watered his uncle's sheep. Jacob knew that Mama would tolerate him as a freeloader, but potential in-laws would not. When he stayed with his uncle, he worked hard for his meals, room and board. He did not stop working from day one and even worked for nothing for a whole month. Work was a virtue and never a torture with Rachel by his side. His work ethic was second to none, his learning knew no bounds and his relationship with others improved by leaps and bounds.



Now Laban had two daughters; the name of the older was Leah, and the name of the younger was Rachel. Leah had weak eyes, but Rachel was lovely in form, and beautiful. Jacob was in love with Rachel and said, “I'll work for you seven years in return for your younger daughter Rachel.” Laban said, “It's better that I give her to you than to some other man. Stay here with me.” So Jacob served seven years to get Rachel, but they seemed like only a few days to him because of his love for her. Then Jacob said to Laban, “Give me my wife. My time is completed, and I want to lie with her.” So Laban brought together all the people of the place and gave a feast. But when evening came, he took his daughter Leah and gave her to Jacob, and Jacob lay with her. And Laban gave his servant girl Zilpah to his daughter as her maidservant. When morning came, there was Leah! So Jacob said to Laban, “What is this you have done to me? I served you for Rachel, didn't I? Why have you deceived me?” Laban replied, “It is not our custom here to give the younger daughter in marriage before the older one. Finish this daughter's bridal week; then we will give you the younger one also, in return for another seven years of work.” And Jacob did so. He finished the week with Leah, and then Laban gave him his daughter Rachel to be his wife. Laban gave his servant girl Bilhah to his daughter Rachel as her maidservant. Jacob lay with Rachel also, and he loved Rachel more than Leah. And he worked for Laban another seven years. (Genesis 29:16-30)


Love is a Commitment, Not a Ceremony

Jacob’s commitment to Rachel passed the test of time, errors and in-laws. Rachel the shepherdess was a unique woman. Inspiring the rich and spoilt Jacob to work was a goal, a test and a miracle, which Jacob passed with flying colors. He had superhuman commitment to Rachel. Working for the right of her hand in marriage was a joy, never a torture, to him. No dowry was too much to pay, no labor was too hard to endure and no duration was too long to wait. Jacob loved Rachel so much that he got on with his father-in-law, positioned himself as potential son-in-law and married himself into her family.

Rachel was beautiful (v 17). Not only was she one of the famed seven “beautiful” ladies in the Bible, along with Sarai (Gen 12:11), Rachel (Gen 29:17), Abigail (1 Sam 25:3), two Tamars (2 Sam 13:1, 14:27), Abishag (1 Kings 1:4) and Esther (Est 2:7), she was the only one qualified as “beautiful and beautiful” in Hebrew. None of the seven beauties was praised as such. The Hebrew text describes her as “Beautiful figure, beautiful appearance.” In other words, she was shapely and striking, body-beautiful and picture perfect.

However, Jacob’s devotion to Rachel was not skin-deep. The next verse, verse 18, tells us that it was not Rachel’s fabulous body or photogenic face that Jacob loved; it was the person. The word “love” occurs three times in the chapter (vv 18, 20, 30). Lust and infatuation could only last so long. Working seven years for a bride is comparable to paying a house for dowry. In today’s permissive society, even seven days or seven months is too long a wait to cohabit together for many men and women! Jacob loved Rachel in true sweeping romance fashion. The seven years were not an itch but a flash, not an eternity but an opportunity, not a chore but a climax. He was truly, madly, deeply in love with Rachel. Seven years was a steep price to pay, but he was the one who volunteered and mentioned it (v 18); Laban did not force him.



Conclusion: Married people know that love is a catalyst for change, but not a cure for all ills. The Chinese say, “Falling in love is easy, living together is hard.” Love is the most powerful force in the world, but is also the most perplexing thing in the world. Are you married or are you marrying to escape a controlling parent, a loveless family, a boring life or a low self-esteem? Have you dealt with the empty feeling or the character flaw you have to be the right person? Do you bring joy hope or misery and suffering to people around you?



* Excerpted from "Bible Couples, Pt. 4: Jacob and Rachel" by Victor Yap, http://epreaching.blogspot.com/2007/05/jacob-and-rachel.html :)

a greek test

Once upon a time there lived a beautiful queen named Penelope who was carefully weaving a white linen roll. It was to be a gift for her husband whose return she anxiously awaited each day. For years the king had been away in the Trojan War. Each and every day she would say his name over and over again, somehow hoping he would hear the cry of her aching heart.

One day, many great chiefs and princes, all in search of wives, set sail for Ithaca to try to win Penelope's hand. They assured the lonely queen that her husband, the king, had died in battle, and that it would be best for the people of Ithaca and for her own protection that she pick one of them to be her own husband.

But Penelope, with tears in her royal eyes answered, "Heroes and most honored Princes, I refuse to believe what you say. I am certain that my noble husband lives, and I must faithfully keep his kingdom for him till he returns. I am weaving a white linen roll for him even now."

The chiefs and princes stubbornly refused to return home and daily reminded her of her need for a husband and Ithaca's need for a king.

Weeks passed by, and still Penelope did not bend, but continued to faithfully weave her linen roll in hopes of the king's return. The chiefs and princes tried every possible persuasion, but to no avail. The group of hopeful suitors moved into the palace, drinking the royal wine and consuming the royal food. They refused to depart until Penelope chose one of them to marry.

A weary and reluctant Penelope finally agreed to choose a new husband as soon as she finished weaving her white linen roll, if the king had not returned by then. Weeks passed, and still she kept weaving. However, by night she would secretly unravel all the thread she had woven during the day. Eventually her scheme was discovered.

A leader among them, Agelaus, called the assembly together and addressed Penelope in a loud voice. "Queen Penelope," he fumed angrily, "your stubbornness has left us no choice but to take this matter into our own hands. We have seen your trickery in delaying the completion of your cursed linen roll, and we will stand for it no longer. Finish it by tomorrow and select your new husband before noon, or we will choose him for you! We will not wait another day!"

The next afternoon all the suitors gathered to await Penelope's royal decision. Just as she entered the banquet hall, a strange beggar quietly crept into the assembly. His tired head was hidden beneath a tattered hood, and a ragged cloak wrapped itself around his decrepit body. He hobbled to the back of the hall quietly, unnoticed save for a few mocking sneers from the suitors as he passed. Penelope began to speak, capturing the attention of all present.

"Chiefs and Princes," said Penelope with a knot of grief in her regal throat, "we will leave this decision to fate. Behold, I am holding the great bow of my husband, the king. Each of you must try your strength in bending it, and I will choose the one amongst you who can shoot the most accurate arrow."

"Agreed!" cried the suitors, and they eagerly lined up to test their strength.

One after the other struggled to bend the great bow. Then losing patience, each of the gallant nobles threw it down and strode away.

"Only a giant could bend that bow of iron!" they moaned.

"Perhaps the filthy old beggar would like to test his strength," one mockingly yelled with a sneer.

At that, the beggar rose from his chair and went with halting steps to the head of the hall.

"You old fool!" the suitors howled in derision as the dirty traveler picked up the great bow.

Suddenly an amazing change came over the stranger. The decrepit traveler straightened his back and rose to his full height, and even in a beggar's rags it was impossible not to notice that this weary traveler was every inch a king. Then, without effort, he bent the bow and strung it as everyone in the great hall looked on in astonishment. The king had returned!

The suitors were speechless. Then, in sheer panic, they turned and fled for their lives. But the arrows of the king were swift and accurate, and not a one missed its target. There wasn't a suitor who escaped the vengeance of the king that day.

Penelope ran to her hero, who was clothed in rags, and embraced him. Then with the voice of an angel she said, "I have faithfully kept your kingdom, my noble king!" She tenderly presented him with a soft white linen roll. "I have spent years weaving this gift in hopes of your return. On the day I finished it, I was told to choose a husband." Then, placing a tender kiss upon his soiled cheek, she said, "And I choose you."



* From "Homer's Odyssey" by Richard Lattimore, as quoted in "When God Writes Your Love Story" by Eric and Leslie Ludy :)

an american test

Lt. John Blanchard was in New York City at Grand Central Station, and he looked up at the big clock. It said five till six. His heart was racing. At exactly six o'clock he was going to meet the girl he was in love with, but had never met. This is what happened...

He had been in Florida for pilot training during World War II, and while he was there he happened to go to a library and check out a book. As he flipped through the pages, he noticed that someone had made notes in the margins. Reading the insightful observations in beautiful handwriting, he said to himself, "I would love to meet whoever wrote these notes --- they seem so kind, gentle, and wise."

He looked in front of the book and saw a name, Harlyss Maynell, New York City. He decided to try to find her. With the help of a New York City phone book, he found her address and wrote her a letter. The day after he wrote her, he was shipped back overseas to fight in the war.

Surprisingly, Harlyss answered John's letter. They soon began to correspond back and forth throughout the war. "Her letters were just like the marvelous notes she had written in that book," John recalled. "She was so comforting and so helping."

One time John had confessed in a letter that he had been scared to death when they flew over Germany. Harlyss had encouraged him, "All brave men are afraid at times. Next time you are afraid, just say 'Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me.'"

As they continued to write, John began to realize that he was having romantic feelings toward Harlyss. He wrote, "Send me a picture," and she replied, "No, I won't. Relationships are not built on what people look like."

Still, he was intrigued by her and longed to meet her in person. Finally the day came when he was to return to the States on leave. He mentioned in one of his letters that he was coming home and would like to take her to dinner. She had arranged to meet him in New York City's Grand Central station at six PM under the big clock. "You'll know who I am because I'll be wearing a red rose," she told him.

At last the day had come. John waited nervously to finally meet the girl he thought he loved. Here is how John described his first meeting with Harlyss Maynell:

A young woman was coming toward me, her figure long and slim. She had blonde hair that lay back in curls from her delicate ears. Her eyes were as blue as flowers. Her lips and chin had a gentle firmness, and in a pale green suit she looked like spring-time come alive!

Excitedly, I started toward her, entirely forgetting to notice that she was not wearing a red rose. As I moved her way, she noticed me. A small provocative smile curled her lips.

"Going my way, soldier?" she asked coyly. I took another step closer to her. It was then that I saw...Harlyss Maynell with the red rose in her coat, directly behind the girl in green. My heart sank. She was a woman well past forty. She was plump. She had graying hair tucked under a worn hat. Her thick ankles were thrust into low shoes. The girl in the green suit was walking quickly away. I had to make a choice. Should I follow after the beauty who had just spoken to me? Or stay and face poor Harlyss Maynell?

I made my decision and I did not hesitate. Turning toward the woman, I smiled. Even as I began to speak, I felt choked by bitter disappointment. "You must be Miss Maynell," I said, extending my hand. "I'm so glad you could meet me. Will you join me for dinner?"

The older woman's face then broadened into a smile. "I don't know what this is all about, son," she replied, "but you know that young woman in the green suit who just went by? I met her on the train. She begged me to wear this rose in my coat. She said that if you should ask me to dinner, to tell you she's waiting for you in that big restaurant across the street. She said it was some kind of test."



* From "When God Writes Your Love Story" by Eric and Leslie Ludy :)

an english test

[A. In prose]


One day, King Arthur was riding through the forest of Inglewood and came upon a hideously ugly woman, one whose ugliness was so great that original texts go on for many a verse describing it. She stopped him saying that she had the answer he was seeking and could save his life, if he agreed to her terms. He asked was these were, and she replied, “I am Dame Ragnell and I want to marry one of your knights, Sir Gawain.”

King Arthur was horrified, and told her that he could not promise her Gawain without his consent and that he would return to her after speaking with Gawain. He returned to court and explained the situation to Gawain. Without hesitation, Gawain answered that he would marry her in a minute, even if she was a devil, if it would help Arthur.

Upon seeing her for the first time, Gawain looked stunned, but bravely assented to be married the next day. The ladies of the court wept to see such a kind and handsome knight to be married to such a hideous woman; the knights were glad it wasn’t any of them who had to marry her.

Ragnell demanded to be married publicly and to have a great feast with all the nobles attending. She was decked out in the most costly array, but her manners repulsed everyone there. Great was the pity felt for Gawain that day!

At last it was over and the couple led to their chamber. There Gawain gazed at the fire, reluctant to touch his bride, until she requested a kiss. Bravely, he acceded, only to find a most radiant woman in his arms. He stared speechless in wonder and, finally finding his tongue, asked her how could this be.

“I have waited in that shape until I found a man gentle enough to marry me. Now I offer you a choice: I can be fair by night and foul by day; or foul by night and fair by day. Decide which you want.”

Gawain thought for a while, pondering the events that had lead to this moment, and then it dawned on him what answer he must give. “I cannot make such a choice; that is for you to decide.”

She cried out in joy, “My lord, you are as wise as you are noble and true, for you have given me what every woman genuinely desires, sovereignty over herself. You will never see that hideous old hag again, for I choose to be fair from this time on.”



[B. In poetry]


"Ah, Sir Gawain, since I have married you,
Show me a little courtesy in bed.
You cannot rightfully deny me that.
Indeed, Sir Gawain," the lady said,
If I were beautiful,
You would act a bit differently.
But you take no heed of marriage.
Still, for Arthur's sake, kiss me at least.
I ask that you do it,
So we can see how you manage."

Sir Gawain said, "I will do more
Than kiss, I swear to God!"
So he turned…
And saw she was
The fairest creature alive.
"Jesus!" he said. "What are you?"

"Sir, I am certainly your wife.
Why are you unkind to me?"

"Ah, lady, I am to blame.
I ask you mercy, fair madam.
I hadn't realized. You are so beautiful,
And earlier you were the ugliest woman
I have ever seen.
I am happy, lady, to see you thus."
So he embraced her in his arms
And began to kiss her
And made great joy, certainly.

"Sir," she said, "thus shall you have me.
By God, choose one--for my beauty will not hold.
Choose whether you will have me
Beautiful in the nights
And as ugly in the days, when men see me,
Or else have me beautiful in the day
And the ugliest woman in the nights.
One or the other you must have. Choose.
Choose, sir knight, which is more important
To your honor."

"Alas!" said Gawain, "the choice is hard.
Choosing the best is difficult.
I don't know what to choose.
To have you beautiful
At night and no more,
That would grieve my heart.
And I would lose my reputation.
But if I choose to have you beautiful in the day,
Then at night I would have slim pickings.
Now, gladly would I choose the best,
But I don't know what in the world to say.
Choose what you think best, happy lady.
The choice I put into your hand.
Do as you want, as you choose.
Untie me when you will, for I am bound.
I give the decision to you.
Body, possessions, heart and everything,
It is all yours, to buy and sell.
This I swear to God."

"Thank you, courteous knight," said the lady.
Of all the earth's knights, may you be blessed.
For now I am worshipped.
You shall have me beautiful both day and night,
And always I shall be fair and bright.
Therefore, grieve not,
For I was transformed through necromancy
By my stepmother, God have mercy on her.
She changed me by enchantment
From my true form--
Until the best of England
Had truly married me
And given me sovereignty
Over his body and all his goods.
Thus I was deformed,
And you, sir knight, courteous Gawain,
Have given me sovereignty indeed.
Never will you be sorry for that.
Kiss me, sir knight, right now,
I pray you. Be glad and make good cheer.
For all has turned out well."



* Prose excerpted from "Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnell (revised for the 1990s and beyond)" by Susan Reed, http://www.nachtanz.org/SReed/GawainLL.html
* Poetry excerpted from "The Wedding of Sir Gawain and Dame Ragnell" by David Bredeen, http://www.lone-star.net/mall/literature/gawain.htm :)

Pilipino. Kalayaan. Salamat.

"The Filipino is worth dying for."
(Benigno Aquino Jr., senator of the Philippines)


"I thank God because He made me a Filipino."
(Corazon Aquino, president of the Philippines)



Salamat, Ninoy at Cory.
Minahal ninyo ang Pilipinas at ang mga Pilipino.
Inialay ninyo ang inyong buhay at pati na ang inyong kamatayan.

Nawa'y ipagpatuloy namin ang pagmamahal at ang laban.

Mabuhay kayo.

Mabuhay ang Pilipinas.







Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo
composed by Jim Paredes
sung by Various Artists
video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooGtSV7UafI


'Di na 'ko papayag mawala ka muli.
'Di na 'ko papayag na muli mabawi,
Ating kalayaan kay tagal natin mithi.
'Di na papayagang mabawi muli.

Magkakapit-bisig libo-libong tao.
Kay sarap palang maging Pilipino.
Sama-sama iisa ang adhikain.
Kelan man 'di na paalipin.

Handog ng Pilipino sa mundo,
Mapayapang paraang pagbabago.
Katotohanan, kalayaan, katarungan
Ay kayang makamit na walang dahas.
Basta't magkaisa tayong lahat.

Masdan ang nagaganap sa aming bayan.
Nagkasama ng mahirap at mayaman.
Kapit-bisig madre, pari, at sundalo.
Naging Langit itong bahagi ng mundo.

Huwag muling payagang umiral ang dilim.
Tinig ng bawat tao'y bigyan ng pansin.
Magkakapatid lahat sa Panginoon.
Ito'y lagi nating tatandaan.

Handog ng Pilipino sa mundo,
Mapayapang paraang pagbabago.
Katotohanan, kalayaan, katarungan
Ay kayang makamit na walang dahas.
Basta't magkaisa tayong lahat.

Mapayapang paraang pagbabago.
Katotohanan, kalayaan, katarungan.
Ay kayang makamit na walang dahas.
Basta't magkaisa tayong lahat!






Magkaisa
by Virna Lisa
video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-wWTqd1OJ9U


Ngayon ganap ang hirap sa mundo
Unawa ang kailangan ng tao
Ang pagmamahal sa kapwa"y ilaan

Isa lang ang ugat ng ating pinagmulan
Tayong lahat ay magkalahi
Sa unos at agos ay huwag padadala

Panahon na (may pagasa kang matatanaw)
Ng pagkakaisa (bagong umaga, bagong araw)
Kahit ito (sa atin Siya"y nagmamahal)
Ay hirap at dusa

Magkaisa (may pagasa kang matatanaw)
At magsama (bagong umaga, bagong araw)
Kapit kamay (sa atin Siya"y nagmamahal)
Sa bagong pagasa

Ngayon may pag-asang natatanaw
May bagong araw, bagong umaga
Pagmamahal sa Diyos, isipin mo tuwina






The Impossible Dream
from Man of La Mancha
music by Mitch Leigh
lyrics by Joe Darion
video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YBeepShsgo


To dream the impossible dream
To fight the unbeatable foe
To bear with unbearable sorrow
To run where the brave dare not go

To right the unrightable wrong
To love pure and chaste from afar
To try when your arms are too weary
To reach the unreachable star

This is my quest
To follow that star
No matter how hopeless
No matter how far

To fight for the right
Without question or pause
To be willing to march into Hell
For a heavenly cause

And I know if I'll only be true
To this glorious quest
That my heart will lie peaceful and calm
When I'm laid to my rest

And the world will be better for this
That one man, scorned and covered with scars
Still strove with his last ounce of courage
To reach the unreachable star








I Have Fallen In Love With The Same Woman Three Times
by Ninoy Aquino
set to music by Jose Mari Chan
video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0qmXayOneyA


I have fallen in love
With the same woman three times
In a day spanning nineteen years
Of tearful joys and joyful tears.

I loved her first when she was young
Enchanting and vibrant, eternally new
She was brilliant, fragrant and cool
As the morning dew.

I fell in love with her the second time
When first she bore her child and mine
Always by my side, the source of my strength
Helping to turn the tide.

But there were candles to burn
The world was my concern
While our home was her domain
And the people were mine
While the children were hers to maintain.

So it was in those eighteen years and a day
Till I was detained
Forced in prison to stay.

Suddenly she's our sole support
Source of comfort
Our wellspring of hope
On her shoulders fell the burden of life.

I fell in love again
With the same woman the third time
Looming from the battle
Her courage will never fade.

Amidst the hardships she has remained
Undaunted and unafraid
She is calm, composed
She is God's lovely maid.






Prayer for a Happy Death
by Cory Aquino


Almighty God, most merciful Father
You alone know the time
You alone know the hour
You alone know the moment
When I shall breathe my last.

So, remind me each day,
most loving Father
To be the best that I can be.
To be humble, to be kind,
To be patient, to be true.
To embrace what is good,
To reject what is evil,
To adore only You.

When the final moment does come
Let not my loved ones grieve for long.
Let them comfort each other
And let them know
how much happiness
They brought into my life.
Let them pray for me,
As I will continue to pray for them,
Hoping that they will always pray
for each other.

Let them know that they made possible
Whatever good I offered to our world.
And let them realize that our separation
Is just for a short while
As we prepare for our reunion in eternity.

Our Father in heaven,
You alone are my hope.
You alone are my salvation.
Thank you for your unconditional love, Amen.




"Greater love has no one than this,
that he lay down his life for his friends."
(Jesus Christ, John 15:13)




** Please click or point cursor over an image to view its source. :)

Free our Chinese brother, Gao Zhiseng!

DAY 168: Gao Zhisheng Petition Delivered; Chinese Embassy Says "Take it away!"

Because of your efforts, on July 9 and 10, ChinaAid was able to deliver the petition with more than 100,000 signatures to the Congressional-Executive Commission on China (CECC), the U.S. State Department and the Chinese Embassy.

American attorney David E. Taylor, a ChinaAid volunteer, delivered the petition for Gao's release to the Chinese Embassy. However, when the embassy staff saw the petition was from ChinaAid for Gao Zhisheng, she said, "I'm sorry, Sir, I'm sorry! Take it away!"

Taylor left the petition at the front door of the embassy, stating that: "The Chinese Embassy was legally served with the petition even though they tried to avoid it."
Read full statement from Attorney Taylor regarding the petition delivery.

The Chinese government simply wants us to give up. They refuse to comment on Gao Zhisheng's whereabouts or well-being. But, we will not give up. With your help, ChinaAid will continue to travel to Washington and meet with concerned U.S. government officials and continue to gather signatures from around the world for the petition to free Gao.

Please continue to share the petition drive with your friends. Encourage them to learn about Gao's story and to take action at www.FreeGao.com.

Please also continue to financially support this critical effort. Gao's story of persecution is only one of many. But it is also a key story in exposing the truth behind China's Communist regime and its abuse of human rights.

Make a donation.

As a result of the petition, several Congressional leaders have agreed to send a letter to Chinese Ambassador Zhou regarding Gao Zhisheng's current whereabouts and condition. It has become clear that the efforts on behalf of Gao Zhisheng are not only important for Gao, but, also, for all human rights attorneys in China.

Your prayers, financial contributions, e-mails and phone calls to Chinese government officials and sharing this campaign with family and friends are sending a cry for justice and freedom that is having impact in China and in America. We will continue to grow the petition and will not give up until Gao's whereabouts and safety are known. Please continue to "speak out" within your sphere of influence and, especially, in prayer, until Gao Zhisheng's freedom becomes reality!

To see the latest information, make an online donation, view the latest signature totals on the petition, and see photos, go to www.FreeGao.com.

» Go to www.FreeGao.com now.

This online offer is being presented by ChinaAid and The Voice of the Martyrs. For additional information, you may contact us by clicking here or calling at 888-889-7757. To view our privacy policy, click here.

the 2009 birthday blog

Because of the LORD's great love we are not consumed,
for His compassions never fail.
They are new every morning;
great is Your faithfulness.
I say to myself, "The LORD is my portion;
therefore I will wait for Him."
(Lamentations 2:22-24)

Happy birthday, teci. Happy birthday, victory.
But most importantly, i need to celebrate my rebirth, everyday :)



Without God, even a nationwide celebration at the Araneta Coliseum on one's birthday won't satisfy.
With God, even the crappiest, crankiest day filled with all the injustices of the world cannot stop one from giving thanks.



Yesterday, my birthday, the focus was barely on me. In fact, it was an exercise in humility before God and servanthood towards others.
In other words, i'm ready to be a wife and mom! ;p


Time and again, God has generally and specifically assured me that He is always with me.
So whenever i don't feel His presence, instead of chiding Him for His absence, i need to chide myself as Jesus does those "of little faith". Here, faith is far from blind --- faith is holding on to the promises of the God who has already revealed Himself to me and has already established a relationship with me.



Next year, the worldwide gathering of Every Nation churches will be held in Manila, where i live, and culminate on July 24, which is my birthday, again.
God is really making sure i glorify Him rather than myself, eh?
(Talk about an answered prayer for humility --- how can anybody top that? ;p)

Pray for Kidnapped Missionaries in Yemen

Pray for Kidnapped Missionaries in Yemen

Would you take a moment to join us in prayer for the safety of six fellow believers who were kidnapped by suspected al-Qaeda linked terrorists in Yemen?

On June 12, a group of Christians, including 7 Germans, 1 British man and 1 South Korean were kidnapped while picnicking in the northern Yemeni province of Saada. The believers were aid workers based at al-Jumhuri hospital in northern Yemen.

Three days later, the bodies of two Germans, Rita Stumpp, 26, and Anita Gruenwald, 24 (picture at right), as well as a South Korean woman, Eom Young Sun, 33 (picture at bottom right), were found in el-Nashour, in northern Yemen.

Yemeni security officials have been searching for the other six Christians who are still missing. They are: Johannes Henschel and his wife Sabine, a German couple, and their three children - Lydia, 4, Anna, 3, and Simon, 11-months, and an unnamed British man.

Please pray for:

- Comfort and strength for the families of the three murdered believers.

- Strength and comfort for the six still missing. Ask God to give them hope and faith as they go through this ordeal.

- The success for security officials in finding the six missing believers.

- For Muslims in Yemen to open up to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Sincerely in Christ,

Jeff King

President, ICC

International Christian Concern

P.O. Box 8056

Silver Spring, MD 20907

Phone: (800) ICC-5441

Fax: (301) 585-5918

Address postal inquiries to:

International Christian Concern

2020 Pennsylvania Ave # 941

Washington , DC 20006

there's something more

(1) More
by Tyrone Wells
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdTyVg9njOk


Sometimes I get so tired,
Just trying to find a place,
To lay my head,
I look up to the sky,
I feel the warmest light comfort me,
I've seen the great heights,
Reminding me... that I'm alive,

I don't wanna die,
I don't wanna waste another day,
Or night,
I know there's something more,
Than what we're living for,
I see it in the stars,
I feel it on the shores,
I know there's something,
I know there's something more.

I think we're all afraid,
That we might be alone,
Alone down here,
We all want to have some faith,
At least that's true in my case,
To just believe,
I've seen the great height,
Reminding me... that I'm alive,

I don't wanna die,
I don't wanna waste another day,
Or night,
I know there's something more,
Than what we're living for,
I see it in the stars,
I feel it on the shore,
I know there's something,
This world may crumble,
Into the ocean,
It could all end tonight,
I undermined you,
Then tried to find you,
My only source of light,
There breathing,
I am alive,
Breathing,
I am,
Alive,

I don't wanna die,
I don't wanna waste another day or night,
I know there's something more,
Than what we're living for,
I see it in the stars,
I feel it on the shore,
I know that I'm alive,
I don't wanna die,
I don't wanna waste another day,
Or night,
I know there's something more,
Than what we're living for,
I see it in the stars,
I feel it on the shore,
I know there's something more.



(2) (There's Gotta Be) More To Life
by Stacie Orrico
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-234917615772674509


I've got it all, but I feel so deprived
I go up, I come down and I'm emptier inside
Tell me what is this thing that I feel like I'm missing
And why can't I let it go

There's gotta be more to life...
Than chasing down every temporary high to satisfy me
Cause the more that I'm...
Tripping out thinking there must be more to life
Well it's life, but I'm sure... there's gotta be more
Than wanting more

I've got the time and I'm wasting it slowly
Here in this moment I'm half way out the door
Onto the next thing, I'm searching for something that's missing

There's gotta be more to life...
Than chasing down every temporary high to satisfy me
Cause the more that I'm...
Tripping out thinking there must be more to life
Well it's life, but I'm sure... there's gotta be more
Than wanting more

i'm wanting more
I'm always waiting on something other than this
Why am I feelin' like there's something I missed.....

There's gotta be more to life...
Than chasing down every temporary high to satisfy me
Cause the more that I'm...
Tripping out thinking there must be more to life
Well it's life, but I'm sure... there's gotta be more



(3) Meaning Where Everything Seems Meaningless
Ecclesiastes 12:8,1,6-7,13-14
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=25&chapter=12&version=31


"Meaningless! Meaningless!" says the Teacher.
"Everything is meaningless!"

Remember your Creator
in the days of your youth,
before the days of trouble come
and the years approach when you will say,
"I find no pleasure in them"-
Remember him—before the silver cord is severed,
or the golden bowl is broken;
before the pitcher is shattered at the spring,
or the wheel broken at the well,
and the dust returns to the ground it came from,
and the spirit returns to God who gave it.


Now all has been heard;
here is the conclusion of the matter:
Fear God and keep his commandments,
for this is the whole duty of man.
For God will bring every deed into judgment,
including every hidden thing,
whether it is good or evil.

The sacrifice of Jesus vs. other priests (from Hebrews)

The book of Hebrews in the Bible was primarily written for the Hebrews or Jews, who followed God through elaborate rituals and sacrifices. The author is explaining that Jesus has already given Himself as the complete and perfect sacrifice to take away all our sins. This is quite appropriate for this group discussion.



NO ONE IS HOLY ENOUGH; CHRIST'S BLOOD MAKES US HOLY (Hebrews 9:1-17)

The first promise that was made included rules for worship and a tent for worship here on earth. The first part of the tent was called the holy place, and a lampstand, a table, and the sacred loaves of bread were kept there. Behind the curtain was the most holy place. The gold altar that was used for burning incense was in this holy place. The gold-covered sacred chest was also there, and inside it were three things. First, there was a gold jar filled with manna. Then there was Aaron's walking stick that sprouted. Finally, there were the flat stones with the Ten Commandments written on them. On top of the chest were the glorious creatures with wings opened out above the place of mercy. Now isn't the time to go into detail about these things. But this is how everything was when the priests went each day into the first part of the tent to do their duties. However, only the high priest could go into the second part of the tent, and he went in only once a year. Each time he carried blood to offer for his sins and for any sins that the people had committed without meaning to.

All of this is the Holy Spirit's way of saying that no one could enter the most holy place while the tent was still the place of worship. This also has a meaning for today. It shows that we cannot make our consciences clear by offering gifts and sacrifices. These rules are merely about such things as eating and drinking and ceremonies for washing ourselves. And rules about physical things will last only until the time comes to change them for something better. Christ came as the high priest of the good things that are now here. He also went into a much better tent that wasn't made by humans and that doesn't belong to this world. Then Christ went once for all into the most holy place and freed us from sin forever. He did this by offering his own blood instead of the blood of goats and bulls.

According to the Law of Moses, those people who become unclean are not fit to worship God. Yet they will be considered clean, if they are sprinkled with the blood of goats and bulls and with the ashes of a sacrificed calf. But Christ was sinless, and he offered himself as an eternal and spiritual sacrifice to God. That's why his blood is much more powerful and makes our consciences clear. Now we can serve the living God and no longer do things that lead to death. Christ died to rescue those who had sinned and broken the old agreement. Now he brings his chosen ones a new agreement with its guarantee of God's eternal blessings! In fact, making an agreement of this kind is like writing a will. This is because the one who makes the will must die before it is of any use. In other words, a will doesn't go into effect as long as the one who made it is still alive.



JESUS' SACRIFICE IS ENOUGH TO SAVE US (Hebrews 10:15-23)

The Holy Spirit also speaks of this by telling us that the Lord said,
"When the time comes, I will make an agreement with them. I will write my laws on their minds and hearts.
Then I will forget about their sins and no longer remember their evil deeds."

When sins are forgiven, there is no more need to offer sacrifices. My friends, the blood of Jesus gives us courage to enter the most holy place by a new way that leads to life! And this way takes us through the curtain that is Christ himself. We have a great high priest who is in charge of God's house. So let's come near God with pure hearts and a confidence that comes from having faith. Let's keep our hearts pure, our consciences free from evil, and our bodies washed with clean water. We must hold tightly to the hope that we say is ours. After all, we can trust the one who made the agreement with us.



PRIESTS' SACRIFICES CAN *NEVER* TAKE AWAY SINS (Ritual communion is useless) (Hebrews 10:8-14)

The Law teaches that offerings and sacrifices must be made because of sin. But why did Christ mention these things and say that God did not want them? Well, it was to do away with offerings and sacrifices and to replace them. That is what he meant by saying to God, "I have come to do what you want." So we are made holy because Christ obeyed God and offered himself once for all. The priests do their work each day, and they keep on offering sacrifices that can never take away sins. But Christ offered himself as a sacrifice that is good forever. Now he is sitting at God's right side, and he will stay there until his enemies are put under his power. By his one sacrifice he has forever set free from sin the people he brings to God.



JESUS IS THE HIGH PRIEST WE NEED (not the popes, not Mary, not the saints) (Hebrews 7:22-28)

This means that Jesus guarantees us a better agreement with God. There have been a lot of other priests, and all of them have died. But Jesus will never die, and so he will be a priest forever!

He is forever able to save the people he leads to God, because he always lives to speak to God for them. Jesus is the high priest we need. He is holy and innocent and faultless, and not at all like us sinners. Jesus is honored above all beings in heaven, and he is better than any other high priest. Jesus doesn't need to offer sacrifices each day for his own sins and then for the sins of the people. He offered a sacrifice once for all, when he gave himself. The Law appoints priests who have weaknesses. But God's promise, which came later than the Law, appoints his Son. And he is the perfect high priest forever.



WHY CHRIST SACRIFICED HIMSELF ONLY *ONCE* (Hebrews 9:25-28)

Christ did not have to offer himself many times. He wasn't like a high priest who goes into the most holy place each year to offer the blood of an animal. If he had offered himself every year, he would have suffered many times since the creation of the world. But instead, near the end of time he offered himself once and for all, so that he could be a sacrifice that does away with sin. We die only once, and then we are judged. So Christ died only once to take away the sins of many people. But when he comes again, it will not be to take away sin. He will come to save everyone who is waiting for him.



WHAT CRUCIFIES JESUS AGAIN AND AGAIN? (Hebrews 6:4-6)

But what about people who turn away after they have already seen the light and have received the gift from heaven and have shared in the Holy Spirit? What about those who turn away after they have received the good message of God and the powers of the future world? There is no way to bring them back. What they are doing is the same as nailing the Son of God to a cross and insulting him in public!



IF TODAY YOU HEAR HIS VOICE, HAVE FAITH (Hebrews 3:15-4:3)

The Scriptures say, "If you hear his voice today, don't be stubborn like those who rebelled." Who were those people that heard God's voice and rebelled? Weren't they the same ones that came out of Egypt with Moses? Who were the people that made God angry for forty years? Weren't they the ones that sinned and died in the desert? And who did God say would never enter his place of rest? Weren't they the ones that disobeyed him? We see that those people did not enter the place of rest because they did not have faith. The promise to enter the place of rest is still good, and we must take care that none of you miss out. We have heard the message, just as they did. But they failed to believe what they heard, and the message did not do them any good. Only people who have faith will enter the place of rest.

OMF Lit's Ukay BOOKay on June 1-27!

Get ready to stock your shelves without breaking your budget! Enjoy 20% off all books at OMF Literature's Ukay BOOKay on June 1-27! Save big on all OMF Lit local and imported titles. We have new imported titles waiting for you. Next week, we'll send you samples of the new books on our shelves, so check your inbox or visit OMFLit.com. If you like ukay prices, you'll love our big bargains for bookworms at only P50, P75, and P100! Here's your chance to grab gifts for your family, friends, and even yourself. Lots of titles to choose from--all within your shopping budget. Kaibigan and Pastors' Exclusives members get 30% off on May 29-30 and June 19-20! Mark your calendars for the much-awaited Kaibigan/P-Ex Days! Enjoy bigger discounts and longer store hours--exclusively for you. Don't forget to bring your membership card! Visit the OMF Literature Bookshop 776 Boni Ave. corner Pinatubo St., Mandaluyong City 531.6635 | 531.0141 | Inquire@OMFLit.com Units 111-112 Marijoy Bldg., F. Ramos St., Cebu City (032) 412.5543 | 253.1525 | OMFLitCebu@OMFLit.com G/F Mitaji Bldg., Tionko cor. Mapa Sts., Davao City (082) 221.3416 | OMFLitDavao@OMFLit.com Visit OMFLit.com