In keeping with the

CCD VISION:
of desiring…”to see each Calvary Chapel family members being equipped, prepared and empowered for works of service towards Jesus Christ for the glory of God.” And the


CCD MISSION:
“a Family of Believers in the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, worshipping, discipling and mobilizing people towards Christ in love, equipping them for unity and maturity, encouraging and sending them out to serve.”



The WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP Mission Statement is:

“To equip women in the Ministry for their responsibilities as a Christian in the home through Worship, Fellowship and the study of the Word; to be the woman that God desires us to be.” (Titus 2: 1,3-5; 1Titus 2: 1,3-5; 1
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
2 ¹ But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: ³ The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; holiness: or, holy women false...: or, one who foments strife ⁴ That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, sober: or, wise ⁵ To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. The Epistle of Paul to Titus ^{1 1} Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; ² In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; In: or, For ³ But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour; ⁴ To Titus, mine own son after the common faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour. ⁵ For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: wanting: or, left undone ⁶ If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. ⁷ For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; ⁸ But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; men: or, things ⁹ Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. as...: or, in teaching ¹⁰ For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: ¹¹ Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. ¹² One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. ¹³ This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; ¹⁴ Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. ¹⁵ Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. ¹⁶ They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. reprobate: or, void of judgment  

WP-Bible pluginPeter 3:1-4r 3:1-4
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
3 ¹ What advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit is there of circumcision? ² Much every way: chiefly, because that unto them were committed the oracles of God. ³ For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? ⁴ God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.  

WP-Bible plugin).



Verse:

“You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine… Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to much wine, but to teach what is good. Then they can train the younger women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled and pure, to be busy at home, to be kind, and to be subject to their husbands, so that no one will malign the Word of God.” (Titus 2: 1, 3-5Titus 2: 1, 3-5
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
2 ¹ But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: ³ The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; holiness: or, holy women false...: or, one who foments strife ⁴ That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, sober: or, wise ⁵ To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.  

WP-Bible plugin).

Packing gift bags, foodstuffs for Missionaries in Thailand

To that end, the CCWF meet every Monday for Prayer, Study in the Word; learning crafts and sharing with the women in our outreaches.

EVERY FIRST MONDAY:

Worship time; Sharing praise reports, testimonies and prayer concerns. Prayer Hour.

EVERY SECOND and THIRD MONDAY:

Worship time; Study in the Word, Fellowship and prayer.

.
EVERY FOURTH MONDAY:

Prayer and Crafts: Cooking, Sharing tips on home, family and health; learning new crafts.



ONCE EVERY TWO or THREE MONTHS:

OUTREACH TO THE DIFFERENT Women’s Group (CC Valencia, CC Pamplona, Calo, Maningkaw, Amlan) where we lead Worship, Share Testimonies, Share God’s Word, Teach Crafts (like making gift bags, jewelries, etc that would help the women augment their income), Share meals or snacks, and Pray with them in groups.

We also help out with the PTA (Pastoral Training of Asia) and CCD Medical Mission Outreaches and few days before each Medical Outreach, the CCWF help sort out and pack medicines.
AT ALL TIMES: To be available whenever we are asked by the CCD Admin to help out in preparing and/or serving meals or snacks during church functions or outreaches.



November…

We went to visit with the Women’s group at CC Samboan, Cebu. We worshipped together, shared our testimony, encouraged them in the Word, taught them crafts, served them lunch and snacks. About 50 women attended.



April 21…CALO

Ten of the CCD-WF went to Calo with Pastor Jeff and Jamie Martin of PTA. We had our testimony time, sharing the Word after which we had some Q and A time with the women. Then we taught them some crafts which they could use to augment their income. They were delighted with what they themselves were able to make. Before we left, prayed with them and served them snacks. About 40 women attended.

MAY 05…PAMPLONA

A few of the women joined wp with the CC Men’s Fellowship and PTA for the Pamplona Medical Mission. We were assigned to take the vital signs. We also brought some snacks for the volunteers. Jane Barbajo invited the CCD-WF to have a Women’s Outreach the following month.



MAY 19…..SCANDINAVIAN VILLAGE

We were invited by Mila Carreon to teach crafts to the women. After testimonies and Sharing of the Word, we taught them how to make gift bags from old calendars and how to make earrings and bracelets. We prayed with them and served them snacks. About 40 attended and 8 ladies received Jesus as Savior and Lord.

JUNE 19…CC PAMPLONA

As promised, we went back for a Women’s Outreach. We ministered to the women’s group there as we worshipped the Lord together. After testimonies by two of the women and sharing of the Word, we invited the women to say the sinner’s prayer. We then taught them some crafts, served them snacks and distributed some used clothes and bags which we brought to share with them.





CRAFTS WE TAUGHT:

JEWELRY MAKING: how to make fancy earrings, bracelets and necklace out of beads, colored stones, etc.



MAKING GIFT BAGS: out of old calendars and recycled gift papers, with handles and how to decorate them.



We do not have a set list of officers and members because the women are free to come and attend the Monday fellowship or help us during our outreaches or church outreaches.



The Regular Attendees/Officers are:

Asha Chandiramani, Ministry Leader (ML)
Eva Longa, Asst ML and Treasurer
Dory Moncal, Asst ML and Secretary
Nida Ragay, a Home Eco teacher; teaches crafts, cooking
Irene Wells, leads worship and study; cooking and baking
Leslie Basilan, leads worship; crafts
CyBeny Concepcion, leads worship; crafts
Ninotchka Roz, teaches crafts
Hannah Faye Abenes, teaches crafts.

E-Mail addresses:

Asha Chandiramani…ashachandiramani@yahoo.com

Eva Long…eva_longa@yahoo.com

Irene Wells…rennienreenie@aol.com

Leslie Basilan…lespb@yahoo.com

Ninotchka Roz…judee_roz@yahoo.com

CyBeny Concepcion…cy_b75@yahoo.com

Hannah Abenes…zhane1_abenes@yahoo.com

Ministry Leader

Name: Asha Ramesh Chandiramani
Birthdate: August 25th, 1950
Civil Status: Widow
Address: Dumaguete Apartelle, Bantayan, Dumaguete City
Email Address: ashachandiramani@yahoo.com

Three children:

1. Jitender, lawyer, married to Ma. Dulce Flores, nurse. One son: Moses, 6 yrs old
2. Aruna (Manju), office manager, Calvary Chapel Training Center (CCTC), Candau-y, married to Pastor Randy Nellas, Bible College Teacher, CCTC. One son: Aaron J., 3 yrs old
3. Deepak Kumar, Youth Pastor, Maranatha Church, Dumaguete City; married to Milbe Grace Ampong, Worship Leader, Marantha Church.

Ministry Involvement:

CCD Women’s Fellowship, Ministry leader, 1989-2008
Praise and Worship
CCD Choir
Ushering Ministry

Favorite Verses: (Personal)

“Being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians1:6).

“…continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling for it is God who works in you to will and to act accordibg to His good purpose.” (Philippians 2:12Philippians 2:12
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.  

WP-Bible pluginb-13).

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Romans 15:13Romans 15:13
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
13 Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.  

WP-Bible plugin).

No. This is not about the boxing match between Manny Pacquaio and Joshua Clottey dubbed as “The Event.” It is about the next great event that will take place in the world – the rapture of the church! Just to remind us as His people of that blessed hope that will soon come – lest we are caught sleeping when He comes. What is the rapture? It’s the church being “caught up” to meet the Lord in the air –1 Thess.4:15-17 – “According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be CAUGHT UP together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.”

…we who are still alive and are left will be CAUGHT UP together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.

Now that word “caught up” is the Greek word harpadzo. We got the word “rapture” from the Latin word, ”rapare” which means “to take away” or “snatched out”, which is the literal meaning of the word, “caught up.” It’s a snatching away with force – by the collar, like what the angels did to Lot. Beloved, there’ll be a great snatching away that will occur anytime! And it’s going to be quick! 1 Corinthians 15 describes it like the twinkling of an eye. That’s how fast it’s going to happen. Blinking and twinkling are not the same. See how fast you can blink your eye. It’s not that. That’s about one four hundredth of a second. The twinkling of an eye is the time it takes your eye to see someone you are looking for and recognize them–that’s the twinkling of an eye.

Some people think when Jesus comes to rapture the church, they are going to have time to get on their knees and repent. They think He’s going to come floating down on a parachute. “Hello, Lord. I want to get saved!” No it’ll be so sudden. 1 Thess.5:9 – “For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” What an awesome truth! The word “appoint” means “a destiny, an appointed end.” You know we all plan for the future. Most of you have already planned where you will eat lunch after church today. Our plans don’t always work out the way we intend, but God’s plan for us is so certain that we can call it a destiny, or an “appointment.” And if you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior, we have nothing to fear because God didn’t save us from our sin and call us to follow Jesus only to pour out His wrath on us. No. He died to save us not only from hell but from the God’s judgement that will upon the earth! Rom.5:9 – “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!”

Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus come!

Beloved, the coming of Jesus for His bride is indeed our blessed hope! With all what’s going on in the world today, there is hope for us who believe in Jesus. It may look bleak and black but the brightness of His coming will change all that! Nobody knows the day nor the hour of His coming for His bride, but we know it is coming soon and very soon! Don’t fall asleep. Be watchful. Be faithful. Be light and salt. Maranatha! Come Lord Jesus come!

With all that’s happening in the world today (earthquakes, El Nino, political instability, moral downward spiral, etc), this is a timely reminder. Our text says, “Be still….” Other versions translate it as, “Cease striving…” It literally means “relax”, “to let go, to let your arms down to your side.” What? Is it possible to relax when you are in trouble? Yes! God’s Word says so! Of course this is not our normal response to troubles; so this advice doesn’t seem to make much sense. Any time I have been involved in a struggle I have wanted to do something.

Is it possible to relax when you are in trouble?

Think how vulnerable you feel when you drop your arms, let go, cease striving, and relax! Yet, this is what God instructs us to do in this Psalm. But God doesn’t just tell us what to do here….He doesn’t just tell us to “relax”….He also tells us how to relax. He says “Be still………AND KNOW that I am God.” In other words, there is something we can KNOW to help us cease our striving in the midst of the battles of life. There is something we can KNOW that will help us to relax when things get rough. Often we respond to problems in life emotionally…based on feelings of fear and insecurity and panic….but here, God challenges us to respond…not emotionally but on the basis of something we KNOW….instead of something we feel. So what? What is that we can know in the midst of our battles?

KNOW THAT HE IS GOD! That He is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble(Psa.46:1); that He is the River of Life, the Fountain within us, the source of everything that we need (vs. 4-5); that He is the Lord Almighty (vs.7); the Victorious One who defeats His enemies (vs.8&9); He is the Ever-present One, who never leaves us nor forsakes us (vs.11 – The Lord Almighty is WITH us)! Know that God is sovereign and absolutely perfect in His dealings with us. It means that there is nothing which escapes His notice, and there is nothing which is beyond His ability!

He is the River of Life, the Fountain within us, the source of everything that we need…

Another thing that we can KNOW when we face the battles of life – We know that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28Rom. 8:28
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.  

WP-Bible plugin).” There is a story about a fisherman who, with his two sons, went out fishing. The catch was good; but by mid-afternoon a sudden storm blotted out the shoreline, leaving the men groping for the direction home. Meanwhile, a fire broke out in the kitchen of their cottage. Before it could be extinguished, the fire had destroyed the family’s earthly possessions.

Finally, the father and sons were able to row their boat ashore. The man’s wife was waiting to tell him the tragic news of the fire. “Honey, fire has destroyed everything,” she said tearfully. “We have nothing left.” But the husband was unmoved by the news. Didn’t you hear me?” she asked. “The house is gone!” “Yes, I hear you,” he replied. “But a few hours ago were lost at sea. For hours I thought we would perish. Then something happened: I saw a yellow dim glow in the distance. It grew larger and larger. We turned our boat toward the light. The same blaze which destroyed our home was the light that saved our lives!”

The same blaze which destroyed our home was the light that saved our lives!

So when we face the struggles and battles of life we may not KNOW how things are going to work out presently, but we can be still…we can cease striving…we can relax….because even though we don’t know how things are going to work out, we do know Who is going to work things out – and when He does things, He does it for our good! Life is not always good, often the battle turns against us…we do WIN some and LOSE SOME….life is fickle…good for some and bad for others…but God is always good! And beloved, this God is for us, not against us!

Revelation 1:9-20Revelation 1:9-20
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
9 I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. ¹⁰ I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, ¹¹ Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, What thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea. ¹² And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; ¹³ And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. ¹⁴ His head and his hairs were white like wool, as white as snow; and his eyes were as a flame of fire; ¹⁵ And his feet like unto fine brass, as if they burned in a furnace; and his voice as the sound of many waters. ¹⁶ And he had in his right hand seven stars: and out of his mouth went a sharp twoedged sword: and his countenance was as the sun shineth in his strength. ¹⁷ And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: ¹⁸ I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. ¹⁹ Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; ²⁰ The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.  

WP-Bible plugin (New International Version)

One like a Son of Man
9I, John, your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus, was on the island of Patmos because of the word of God and the testimony of Jesus. 10On the Lord’s Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet, 11which said: “Write on a scroll what you see and send it to the seven churches: to Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea.”

12I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, 13and among the lampstands was someone “like a son of man,”[a]dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. 14His head and hair were white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. 15His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. 16In his right hand he held seven stars, and out of his mouth came a sharp double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance.





17When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

19″Write, therefore, what you have seen, what is now and what will take place later. 20The mystery of the seven stars that you saw in my right hand and of the seven golden lampstands is this: The seven stars are the angels[b] of the seven churches, and the seven lampstands are the seven churches.





Calvary Chapel Dumaguete looks back on the year 2009 celebrating God’s faithfulness! Indeed He is the God of the Breakthrough!

“My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him.” (Psa.62:1). If you are of average weight and height, here is what you will go through in an average 24-hour period: Your heart will beat 103,689 times. Your blood will travel 168 million miles, as your heart pumps approximately 4 ounces per beat. You will breathe 23,040he 23,040
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
Izbrano poglavje ne obstaja!

WP-Bible plugin times, inhaling 438 cubit feet of air. Your stomach will take in 3.5 pounds of food and 2.9 quarts of liquid. You will lose 7-8 pounds of waste. If you are a man, you will speak 4,800 words. If you are a woman, you will speak close to 7,000 words. You will move 750 muscles, and exercise 7 million brain cells. No wonder we’re tired!

“How long would this continue…how long should I hold on…would this ever end?”

But there is weariness much more draining than physical fatigue. It’s the kind of weariness you feel when you just don’t know if you can go on another day. It’s the weariness a father feels when his child is doing wrong. It’s the weariness a friend feels who has been abandoned or misunderstood. It’s the weariness a wife feels whose husband has rejected her. It’s the weariness which can take a toll on even the most seemingly successful individual – even a child of God, a servant of God.

Have you ever become so weary, so tired of life’s battles? And worse, all your resources – material, emotional and mental are already depleted that you have nothing left so you just want to give up? If anyone was ever weary, David was (read Psa.62). He had grown weary from the constant assaults of his enemies! He is so worn out and tired that he is about to fall down and collapse. David asked what we also ask when we are in the midst of troubles, “How long?” “How long would this continue…how long should I hold on…would this ever end?” Yet in the midst of his weariness he is able to find rest – where? In a Liquor Bar? In Drugs? In Entertainment? No. In God alone (read vs.1) –

Beloved, there is place of rest for the weary – and it is in God alone. Jeremiah 6:16Jeremiah 6:16
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.  

WP-Bible plugin – “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls. But you said, ‘We will not walk in it.” When we are in the weary times of life, it is as if we have reached a crossroads and we must now choose which way we will go. In this passage God is telling us that we must choose the good way because that is the only way to “find rest for your souls.”

He listens. He cares…. simply REST in Him!

The opposite is there is no rest for the weary when they will not listen to God and choose to go their own way rather than “the good way.” What is “the good way” that Jeremiah wrote about? It is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “I am the way” (John 14:6John 14:6
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.  

WP-Bible plugin). He also said, “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28Matthew 11:28
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  

WP-Bible plugin). Truly, Jesus is the good way — the only way — that provides rest for our souls. Call on Him. Pour all your heart out. Let go. Let Him fill you with love and grace. He listens. He cares….and simply REST in Him!

As I was watching a basketball game the other day a thought came to my mind, as if the Spirit of God gently reminding me – that Life in general is not a game! Oh we wish it is! But not so! Most of the time it’s a battle, it’s a struggle; a lot of tears and pain, heartaches and hurts. Beyond the smile and the laughter is a hurting and weeping heart – crying out for love, pleading for help, begging for relief! We live not in a fantasy world nor in video game world, but in a real world of sin and trouble! What do we do when life turns to the worst? When the battle rages and we’re in the thick of the fight? When our enemy is gaining ground and we’re losing our grip? Psalm 46:1-3Psalm 46:1-3
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
46 To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. for: or, of ¹ God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. ² Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; midst...: Heb. heart of the seas ³ Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.  

WP-Bible plugin – God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”

When life presses in upon us, when trouble comes, then we can know that we have a place to run to. God is our refuge and strength. It does not matter what form the trouble takes, or how it is delivered, or how long it stays. God alone is our accessible, protected place of refuge and retreat. We can hide there and know that nothing can get through to us unless it goes through Him first. In any battle you need a safe place…a fortress where you can go to rest and recoup and think. One of the most beautiful pictures of spiritual refuge is found in Psalm 91:4Psalm 91:4
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.  

WP-Bible plugin where it says, “God will shield you with His wings.”

Have you ever seen little chicks hop around, chirping, pecking, doing “little chick stuff”? If the mother hen becomes aware of a predator or a threat to her offspring, she responds by lifting her wings and within seconds, all the baby chicks disappear underneath them. Now, the predator sees nothing but one mean-looking mama who just dares the enemy to take a step forward! She is a refuge for her children…..she is their protection. Now eventually, the chicks will have to crawl out and face the real world again. But for a season, there is nothing quite like the soft shelter of those wings—the downy feathers caressing their heads; the mother’s warmth stilling their shakes; her heart’s steady beating gradually calming their fears.

And God delights in spreading His protective wings and enfolding His frightened, battle-weary children. God is our refuge! And one way that we let God be a refuge for us is to simply talk to Him about our struggles. Psalm 62:8Psalm 62:8
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
8 Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.  

WP-Bible plugin says, “Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.” So the passwords that open the gates into the refuge of God are the soul – wrenching words that flow out of our hearts, when we finally decide to trust God enough to tell Him about our struggles. Somewhere in the middle of taking that step of faith, the gates open, and God’s wings extend.

God delights in spreading His protective wings …enfolding His frightened, battle-weary children…

Jesus is our refuge even when what seems permanent and unchangeable changes. When the world seems to crash in around us, He is still there. When the world does not make sense, He is still there. When the problems overwhelm us, when we are afraid, when we are hurting, God is still there. He’s an ever-present help! Thank You Lord!

Revelation 1:1-3Revelation 1:1-3
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
The Revelation of St. John the Divine ^{1 1} The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: ² Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. ³ Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.  

WP-Bible plugin (New International Version)

Prologue
1The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2who testifies to everything he saw—that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ. 3Blessed is the one who reads the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it, because the time is near.





More than 100,000 people were feared dead Wednesday after a cataclysmic earthquake with 7.0 magnitude in the Richter scale struck Haiti, filling the streets with corpses and burying thousands under razed schools, hotels and hospitals. Parliament has collapsed. The tax office has collapsed. Schools have collapsed. Hospitals have collapsed. What a devastation! As many people are, my heart breaks and go out to the victims and to the survivors. Pray that God would use whatever happened there to turn hearts to Jesus Christ!

He wants to tear down the scaffolding and reveal the unshakable realities that are eternal…

GOD TODAY IS SHAKING THINGS. He wants to tear down the scaffolding and reveal the unshakable realities that are eternal. Too many people are building their lives on things that can shake. But a Christian can be confident, for we shall receive an unshakable kingdom. In fact, we are part of God’s kingdom today! Now what shall we do as we live in a shaking world? Listen to God speak and obey Him. Receive grace day by day to serve Him with reverence and awe. Do not be distracted or frightened by the tremendous changes going on around us. Keep looking to Jesus Christ and run with perseverance. While others are being frightened we can be confident!

ESTABLISH YOUR PRIORITIES. When you begin to establish priorities, you have to decide just where God stands in your life. So ask yourself, “Who or what is most important in my life?” And I’m hoping that your answer will be, “My relationship with God, through Jesus Christ, is most important to me.” If so, then put that at the top of your list of priorities, & say, “This will affect my decisions, my scheduling, my relationship with others, & my whole outlook on life.” The next in the list is your family. If you’re married – Your wife; if you have small kids – Your kids. They’re growing up ever so fast. These are precious moments. Don’t let them get away. Make sure that you spend quality time with your children. Make sure that your family is very high on the list.

And if you are single, listen to Paul’s advice: “I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man/woman is concerned about the Lord’s affairs – how he/she can please the Lord. Her/His aim is to be devoted tot he Lord in both body and spirit (1 Cor. 7:32-341 Cor. 7:32-34
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
32 But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: that belong...: Gr. of the Lord ³³ But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. ³⁴ There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.  

WP-Bible plugin).” And for the church as a whole – let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and the harvest field – for they are ripe for harvest; and let’s continue to be faithful to His Word and to help others know the Word – to disciple them – for this is Christ’s mandate for the church!

See to it that we do not refuse Him who speak (Heb.12:25). God still do speak through His Word…

See to it that we do not refuse Him who speak (Heb.12:25). God still do speak through His Word and His creation today. Is anybody listening? Are we listening, church? We have this ever shining hope in our hearts, are we sharing it? Do we tell others of this hope we have in Christ? Why not when God wants to use you to be a messenger of hope in this ever darkening times! Jesus’ return is near. Is anybody listening?

“Lord, grant us ears to hear, eyes to see, hearts that are yielded to You only. In Jesus’ mighty name, Amen.”

Two weeks into the New Year, already many people’s hopes of a better future on earth are dashed to pieces. The world remains the same, no change for the better. Same condition. Same situation. It’s still a hard life. Tomorrow is another day to worry about. Not to a child of God! Would it not be better to leave tomorrow with God? Didn’t Jesus say that we should not worry about our life, what we will eat or drink; or about our body, what we will wear (Matt.6:25)? That the birds of the air do not sow or reap and yet our Father feeds them? That we are more valuable than they (Matt.6:26).

Would it not be better to leave tomorrow with God?

Instead of worrying about tomorrow we’re taught to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread.” What does it mean when we pray this prayer? First, it means we are saying that we trust God as the source to supply all the physical needs of our lives. In Deuteronomy we’re reminded, “It is God who gives you power to get wealth” (8:18). All the resources at our disposal are gifts from Above, James 1:17James 1:17
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.  

WP-Bible plugin, says.

Second, notice that this trust in God for these needs is for each day. In the first century, bread had to be made on a daily basis. They couldn’t just buy a couple loaves and put them in the freezer. It was baked fresh every day and was an essential part of life. Jesus was instructing His disciples to ask God for what they needed to live for the day. Like manna that comes once a day, God provides one day at a time. So when we pray “Give us this day our daily bread” we’re showing that we’re depending on God a day at a time. It doesn’t say, “Give us next week our weekly bread.” Jesus urges us, “Don’t worry about having enough food or drink or clothing….Do not worry about tomorrow” (Mt 6:31, 34Mt 6:31, 34
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? ³⁴ Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.  

WP-Bible plugin). Instead trust Him each day at a time!

How much is enough, Lord? How much is too much? What can I live without?

And this prayer, thirdly, means Contentment – Some people are never satisfied with what they have. Beloved, God gives us that which is necessary, not always the wants of life; He provides for our needs, not our “greeds”. It’s when we insist our “wants” that lead us to troubles and debts! Listen to this prayer of a fellow-believer that I know also expresses our own –

“Lord, sometimes I fear the things I have. They steal my best time and energy by crying for my attention: ’Buy me! Eat me! Wear me! Upgrade me!’ And so I am hungry, because I am feeding my greed and not my soul. How much is enough, Lord? How much is too much? What can I live without? I don’t want too little, for fear of becoming bitter and anxious. Nor do I need too much, lest I turn complacent and blind to the needs of others.

Give us this day our daily bread….I need bread to stay alive, but without the Bread of Life I will never truly live. Teach me contentment, Jesus. Show me a way of true delight in the things of this earth, without mad cravings to own or control. Increase my hunger for You and for the things of Your Spirit. May I never desire anything – a tasty meal, a beautiful dress, even a cozy home – unless You are in the desire, helping me to be grateful and generous.” Amen.

This was what we heard over the airport P.A. system as we sat there in the waiting room. Our flight home was cancelled due to zero visibility here in Dumaguete last Thursday afternoon. Excited to get home but God had another plan – an extended time with my family in Manila. We were able to spend the new year with them and it was indeed a blessing in disguise. This reminds me of another kind of cancellation that I always rejoice in – “He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the written code, with its regulations, that was against us and that stood opposed to us; he took it away, nailing it to the cross.” (Col.2:13b-14)

Jesus paid in full what you and I cannot pay…

We were completely forgiven! What wonderful words these are. Look at the scope of forgiveness: “He forgave us all our sins.” How many of our sins? ALL. Not just the past sins, not just the present sins, not just the big sins, not just the little sins but ALL of them. Do you get it? It means those times in your past that plague you with guilt . . . He forgave those sins. That means every single one, even those that you have a hard time forgiving yourself of. And those times when you let others down and hurt them, He forgave those sins too. And all those times you promised you did something for the last time . . . and then you fell again . . . God forgave those in Christ too. He forgives the hidden sins and the public sins.

How is this possible? Paul tells us that God canceled the written code that was against us. This is the Law. The Law is holy and good but we are not, so we are condemned because we cannot fulfill the Law. The Law was against us and stood opposed to us because all it could ever do was point out our sinfulness. But the condemnation this Law brings Jesus has removed from us. It’s not that the Law He removed but the condemnation it brings to us due to our sins. He died in your place. His goodness was applied to your account. Your debt was canceled. That’s what it means when He shouted, “IT IS FINISHED!” The debt is paid. Jesus paid in full what you and I cannot pay. The debt of our sins is gone forever because of His blood shed once and for all!

We stand on the verge of a new spiritual venture… a new calling to serve the Lord in the new year.

So, beloved, you who believe in Jesus, as we are now into the New Year receive afresh His forgiveness and acceptance. If you’ve been holding on to the past, it’s time to accept the hurts and losses of our pasts in such a way as they no longer influence or control us, where they no longer have power in our lives. Don’t be a prisoner of your past. Past blunders, mistakes, failures and hurts need not have a stranglehold on your life.

We stand on the verge of a new spiritual venture; a new calling to serve the Lord in the new year. In a sense, the challenge of a new year is like standing on the edge of the fresh sand of a wave swept beach. Or, holding a clean sheet of paper or a clean slate. And that once again, we are given an opportunity to trust God, to walk with Him and show us great and mighty things He wants to and will do in and through us for His greater glory. HOPE IN HIM, FOR ONLY IN HIM IS HOPE!

Automobile drivers know that the rear view mirror is an important part of a vehicle…but they don’t fix their eyes on it, always looking at what’s behind. It’s going to be disaster if they do! And do you notice that it’s so small compared to the windshield in front of you? What is it saying? That we’re to look ahead more than we look back! As we enter into the new year, I have a Word from the Lord for all of us: THE LORD SAYS, `Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I’m doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland.” (Isaiah 43:18Isaiah 43:18
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
18 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.  

WP-Bible plugin) –



God is saying, …”don’t think about the past. It’s over. If you can learn from it, learn well, but the book’s closed on it.”



Listen to what God is saying in this verse. Forget about what’s happened before. He says don’t think about the past. It’s over. If you can learn from it, learn well, but the book’s closed on it. We need to understand that God is far more interested in our future than He is in our past. Some people think that God is stuck on their past. That all He wants to do is remind them of the things that they have done wrong. God is more interested in your future than He is with your past. That’s where you’re going to spend the rest of your life. He says, “Forget about your past. Forget about the former things. Don’t think about it. Look at the new thing I’m going to do.”

Israel was being punished for their sins and rebellion against God. God wanted to give hope and encouragement to His people. He wanted them to know that even though they were being punished they were not being forsaken. God wanted His people to understand that the punishment that they were experiencing would not be the end of them. The fact is that God want to give them a fresh start in life, a new Beginning in life. Israel no doubt was discouraged because they thought this was the end of them. They had gone too far, they had sinned and rebelled against God to the point that He would no longer be their God. Maybe they thought ‘God would not deliver us again, it’s over’. They could remember the former things, but they couldn’t see their future. That is why God said; “ I am going to do something new.



Every new day His mercies are fresh and every day is an invitation to receive afresh His mercy, His forgiveness.

Maybe that is where you are this morning! You feel that you have made so many mistakes, you have failed God so many times and you have sinned it all away. That God doesn’t want anything to do with you. You feel and believe that you have no future with God. The good news is, God is saying, “ It’s not over, I have plans for your life. I am about to do something new for you. ” And you don’t have to wait for a new year to do that. Every new day His mercies are fresh and every day is an invitation to receive afresh His mercy, His forgiveness. God wants to do a new thing in your life. Come to Him with humility and repentance today, with heart wide open to receive His healing grace and with your mouth ready to declare His goodness and faithfulness!

A SPIRIT-FILLED, CHRIST GLORIFYING NEW YEAR TO ALL!



The Bezalel Circle

In keeping with the Conviction, Mission, and Vision of Calvary Chapel Dumaguete which is anchored on the foundation of true faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, a group of gifted artistic Christians called The Bezalel Circle is organized.

"Genesis"

The CALVARY CHAPEL DUMAGUETE MISSION STATEMENT

WE are a family of believers in the Lordship of Jesus Christ and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, worshipping, discipling and mobilizing people towards Christ in love — equipping them for unity and maturity, encouraging and sending them out to serve.



Bezalel Circle Sunrise Fellowship/Photoshoot at the Rizal Boulevard

Photos by Michael Farrar

Photo by Gail

SYNOPSIS:

The name Bezalel (Hebrew בְּצַלְאֵל – “beZel El”, transcribed as Betzalel and most accurately as B’tzalel) is taken from the Old Testament of the Holy Bible, which means “in the shadow of God”. BEZALEL is the name of the chosen chief architect of the desert Tabernacle. In Exodus 31: 1- 6Exodus 31: 1- 6
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
Štetje svetopisemskih vrstic se začne z ¹! Vrstica ⁰ ne obstaja!

WP-Bible plugin the Lord said to Moses,

“See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts — to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given skill to all the craftsmen to make everything I have commanded you…”

Cartoon Art by Lanni

OUR CONVICTION

WE acknowledge that

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father
of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” (James 1:17James 1:17
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.  

WP-Bible plugin)

WE acknowledge that

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully
administering God’s grace in its various forms.” (1Peter 4:10r 4:10
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.  

WP-Bible plugin)

WE acknowledge that

In Jesus, “we are chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him
who works out everything in conformity
with the purpose of His will …” (Ephesians 1:11Ephesians 1:11
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:  

WP-Bible plugin)

ALL for the praise of His glory.

OUR MISSION:

In obedience to the Lord’s calling —

• WE offer ourselves as an extension of the Lord’s hand to do HIS will in assisting the church and its different ministries. We hope to be of help by providing the various ministries information, guidance, ideas and skills they may need to maximize the effectiveness of their creative and art projects;

• we would like to teach and to share to those who display an interest in gaining the knowledge and skills for creating art in its various forms;

• we will encourage one another to devote ourselves in reaching out – to help others discover and develop their gifts of the arts through the power of the Holy Spirit.

• WE commit ourselves to serve others as a privilege of the Lord’s calling, always dwelling “in the shadow of God” upon Whom all things are possible.

Photo by Mark Diamoaden

OUR VISION:

In prayer —

WE desire GRACE from the Lord that we may become a blessing to the church and its various ministries;

WE desire WISDOM from the Lord that our teaching others on the gifts HE has given will bear much fruit for the glory of HIS Kingdom;

WE desire HOPE from the Lord that others may see the fullness of their gifts through the power of the Holy Spirit and use them for HIS glory;

WE desire HUMILITY from the Lord that we may create works of art as an expression of the beauty of worship, proclaiming the glory of God;

WE desire ACCEPTANCE from the Lord that our service may be a fragrant offering sweet and pleasing to HIM;

ABOVE ALL, We desire MERCY from the Lord that we will remain faithful to our calling until HE returns.

VERSE:

Then the Lord said to Moses, “See, I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts — to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship. Moreover, I have appointed Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have given skill to all the craftsmen to make everything I have commanded you…” (Exodus 31: 1- 6Exodus 31: 1- 6
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
Štetje svetopisemskih vrstic se začne z ¹! Vrstica ⁰ ne obstaja!

WP-Bible plugin)

MARK MICHAEL ANTHONY DIAMOADEN – Ministry Leader

Members:

Ana
Gail
Lanni
Beth
Jaycee
Marlyn
Besheil
Jennie
Cheew
Kylie

Many people have asked me this question. For some suggest that there are several reasons why a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas.

First, some say that a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas, because of the name of the holiday, Christmas. The very name Christmas is offensive to some because the name is derived from the combination of two words, “Christ” and “mass”. The word means “the mass of Christ.¨ Some, therefore, are offended by what they think is an association with the Catholic Church. But the root meaning does not in reality have anything to do with Catholicism it means “Christ is sent.” It would seem that name accurately presents what the holiday is all about. In fact Galatians 4:4Galatians 4:4
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,  

WP-Bible plugin says, “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son.”

Second, some say that a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas, because of the use of Christmas trees. Some quote Jeremiah 10:2-4Jeremiah 10:2-4
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
2 Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the heathen, and be not dismayed at the signs of heaven; for the heathen are dismayed at them. ³ For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. customs...: Heb. statutes, or, ordinances are vanity ⁴ They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.  

WP-Bible plugin as forbidding the use of Christmas trees (Go and read it). If indeed this passage referred to decorated Christmas trees it would most certainly be wrong to have them. But when we read this verse in the context of the whole chapter we find that what is being described is the practice of felling trees and carving idols from them.

I, personally, do not put up Christmas tree in our house not because it’s idolatry, no, simply because it’s something that you can live without. In our family we like to always keep things simple. Now it is true that some Christians are offended or stumbled by Christmas trees so for them it’s wrong. I respect that. But I don’t find it a sin to put up one. Why? Because just as we are redeemed people, we’re called to redeem our society and point them back to the cross. What do I mean? I can use a Christmas tree to tell people that God also has a tree, it’s called the Cross and explain to them how Jesus was hanged on a tree(1 Peter 2:241 Peter 2:24
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. on: or, to  

WP-Bible plugin).



“I can use a Christmas tree to tell people that God also has a tree…”

And Thirdly, some say that a Christian should have nothing to do with the modern celebration of Christmas, because December 25th is the wrong date. Jesus was probably not born on December 25th. This date was chosen because it was a pagan holiday already being celebrated. It seems Christian leaders endeavored to keep Christians from being a part of this pagan celebration by giving them a Christian festival on the same day, celebrating the birth of Christ.

Would the Lord be opposed to the celebration of a non-biblical holiday? We might find some guidance in what transpired in John 10. Jesus entered the city of Jerusalem at the beginning of an observance of a non- biblical holiday (non-biblical in the sense that it was not commanded in the word of God) called the Feast of Dedication or Feast of Lights (Channuka). How did Jesus respond? Did He stay at home and refuse to participate? Did He condemn those that did participate? NO!! He was right there in the temple in the middle of the celebrants using it as a teaching opportunity.

That’s what we’re to do. What is not an obvious sin we can use as a teaching tool about Jesus Christ. We should be right there among them looking for every opportunity to tell them about the reason for the season, the child who was born to save them from their sins. Let us approach this Christmas echoing the glory expressed by the angel in Luke 2:10-11Luke 2:10-11
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. ¹¹ For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.  

WP-Bible plugin, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord!”

There were some American soldiers stationed on a small island in the South Pacific during WWII. Monkey meat was a real delicacy on this island, and the islanders showed the Americans how they captured monkeys — 1. Put an apple in a wide-mouth jar. 2. Tie a rope around the jar. 3. Tie the other end of the rope around a tree. 4. Wait patiently.

Eventually a monkey will come along, look curiously in the jar, see the apple, reach in and grab it. The monkey’s hand easily compressed to fit into the jar but his fist, holding the apple, was too large to pull out. The monkey, however, would predictably refuse to let go of the apple. The monkey was in effect, tied to the tree by the rope, the jar and the apple. Very soon…monkey adobo! Now think about this for a moment… Was the monkey too stubborn or too stupid to let go of the apple? You know what? It really doesn’t matter. It is the same result: one dead monkey.

Now for the real question…Did the monkey have the apple or did the apple have the monkey?

It is only by letting go that we become free…

There are things that bind us. As long as we hold on to them, their power over us continues. It is only by letting go that we become free. It’s only by surrendering everything to Christ that we experience true freedom.

Now, true freedom is NOT having the freedom to do whatever you want, however you want to do it. We are free in Christ indeed. That means we have the freedom to obey God and live fruitful lives or we have the freedom not to obey Him and choose sin. If we are sincere in our faith we must not willingly abuse our freedom. Paul writes, “You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature” (Galatians 5:13Galatians 5:13
English: King James Version (1611) - KJV
13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.  

WP-Bible plugin). Jesus didn’t set us free to give us an excuse for sinning. He set us free from sin so we could enjoy a relationship with the Father. He set us free so we might choose to obey and serve Him with sincerity of heart.

We are free to choose the best…

You see freedom has boundaries in order to keep us safe. In Christ we have freedom – within the boundaries of God’s Word. We are free from the punishment of sin, from eternal death, from the past, from fear of the future, but we are not autonomous. We are not free to do our own thing. We are not free from responsibility. We are not free to sin. In fact the Bible says that we are not our own we were bought with a price. That means we belong to Jesus! So it’s not me who is in-charge anymore – it’s Him!

So when Jesus sets us free… We are free to rise above our sin. We are free to live a holy life. We are free to finally CHOOSE what is right. We are free to choose the best. We are free to keep growing. We are free to reach the potential for which God has designed us! Live free!

Today the whole nation commemorates the dead. Cemeteries are filled with people remembering their loved ones who passed away. Death. A very unpopular, not-part-of-daily-conversation kind of a word. We avoid going to funerals if possible and we never just drop by a funeral home to have a cup of coffee. We work out and lose weight and lower our cholesterol and we try to be careful so that death won’t come too close to us. But sometimes death comes and knocks at our door. Other times death breaks the door down and comes barging into the living room whether we like it or not.

Sometimes death stares us in the face and we don’t know what to do or how to respond…

Death is never easy to deal with. Most of the time we can avoid it or try to postpone it or keep it far away from us. But sometimes death stares us in the face and we don’t know what to do or how to respond. In fact, the longest walk you’ll ever take is the walk away from the grave of someone you love. If you have never done that, you can’t imagine how difficult it is. To walk away and feel as if the world has come to an end. It is the longest walk and the saddest day. Every step takes you away from the tombstone of a broken dream. And what is worst is: hell awaits those who do not have Jesus! But there’s good news. Imagine this conversation between a Christian and Death –

CHRISTIAN: Hello, Death, my old enemy. My old slave-master. Have you come to talk to me again? To frighten me? I am not the person you think I am. I am not the one you used to talk to. Something has happened. Let me ask you a question, Death. Where is your sting?

DEATH, sneeringly: My sting is your sin.

CHRISTIAN: I know that, Death. But that’s not what I asked you. I asked, where is your sting? I know what it is. But tell me where it is. Why are you fidgeting, Death? Why are you looking away? Why are you turning to go? Wait, Death, you have not answered my question. Where is your sting? Where is, my sin? What? You have no answer? But, Death, why do you have no answer? How will you terrify me, if you have no answer? O Death, I will tell you the answer. Where is your sting? Where is my sin? It is hanging on that cross. God made Christ to be sin—my sin. When He died, the penalty of my sin was paid. The power of it was broken. I bear it no more. Farewell, Death. You need not show up here again to frighten me. God will tell you when to come next time. And when you come, you will be His servant. For me, you will have no sting.

Where is my sin? It is hanging on that cross.

If you are a believer of Christ, Death need hold no more terror in your life. For Christ “Tasted Death” for us, and triumphed over it on that First Easter Morning. That first Easter morning will ever be known as THE DAY DEATH DIED! So rejoice this morning that through Christ we have eternal life!

This is the theme of our just concluded Calvary Chapel Regional Conference. It was indeed a time of refreshing, encouragement, and instruction. We were reminded to live, work and serve in the light of Jesus’ return. In the parable, the king gave one mina to ten of his servants and told them to ‘Put this money to work until I come back.’ Or, as the KJV puts it, “occupy until I come.” That they were to be engaged in business with this money, to use for the benefit of the kingdom.

Have you been reluctant to use God’s gifts for God because you think you don’t have enough time?

How true also with us. God expects us to put into practice, to use the gifts He has given us for the benefit of God’s kingdom. He has given each one of His servants valuable gifts. He has commanded us to “do business”, to occupy until He returns – for whose benefit? Ourselves? No, His kingdom! Now we all have different amounts of money, and spiritual abilities, but what are some of the things all of us have been given equally by God? I can think of at least three gifts we’ve all been given in equal amounts –

(1) Time – I’m not talking about the length of your life, because that varies. But each of us has the same amount of time each day–24 hours. Even though we have the same amount, wouldn’t you agree some servants do a better job managing those 24 hours in terms of doing business for God? Have you been reluctant to use God’s gifts for God because you think you don’t have enough time? Do you need more time? Here’s what you do. Start using the time you have to do business for God. Soon you’ll find you have more time. You won’t get 25 hours a day, or eight days a week, it will just seem like you have more time! If you don’t believe it, try this. Starting tomorrow, get up 30 minutes earlier and give that time to God in prayer and personal Bible Study. If you do that regularly, you’ll find you seem to have more time instead of less time.

(2) Truth – As servants of God, we all have the same instruction manual, the truth found in God’s Word, the Bible. God hasn’t given me any more truth than what is available to you. What do you do with the truth you know?

All of us have opportunities to serve our Master…

(3) Opportunities to serve God – All of us have opportunities to serve our Master. Some servants just do a better job of taking advantage of those opportunities. The faithful servants in the parable didn’t play it safe. They risked their lives in doing business for the Master. God honors that kind of bold faith. When you risk it all on serving God, even though you may be afraid, you’ll find that God gives you more and more opportunities!

The undeniable truth is we will be judged by how we manage His gifts. God is looking for a few good spiritual entrepreneurs who are willing to risk their lives doing His business because they love Him. Will you be one? I pray so.

Watch and relive what the Lord has done during our H4U Outreach Concerts in Dapitan and Dipolog!



CCD celebrated its first Church Family Day, combining all three services as one, at the Macias Sports Complex. Watch and enjoy the slideshow presentation.

Watch the slideshow presentation of the H4U Praise & Worship Seminar and Night of Psalms in Dipolog City held last Aug. 29-30, 2009.