As I mentioned in Episode 13, the Lord in a new way opened my eyes and broke my heart with the overwhelming need of the poor.
I also was challenged anew, as I observed the lives and ministries of Philip, Romy and Boni. I along with Gene Tabor and other Navigator missionaries invested our lives into the lives of a few men. Of course, there were many others who ministered to them as well. But these men, in a special way, were the men that God had entrusted to us. God was faithful in answering our prayers as He did Jesus' prayer in John 17 just before returning to the Father "Holy Father, keep the men you gave me by your power that they may be one, as we are one...I am not only praying for these men but for all those who will believe in me through their message, that they may all be one. Just as you Father, live in me and I live in you, I am asking that they may live in us, and that the world may believe that you sent me..." Jesus not only preached to the masses, healed the sick, cast out demons, showed people the way back to the Father etc., but He also invested His life into the lives of twelve men that His Father had entrusted to Him. Through these twelve men, the known world was reached with the good news. In fact, Paul was able to say to the church at Thessalonica that the good news of the gospel had so impacted their area of the world that Paul didn't have to say anything. There is no investment greater than investing ones life into the lives a few individuals.
Spending time with Philip, Romy and Boni has put a new fire in my belly (at least initially) to mentor people once again. The question that I am asking myself these days is, "Should this be a focus in my life now? To be honest, since returning from the Philippines this desire fluctuates between a 0 and 5 on a ten point scale. Questions continually come up, which are, without doubt, from the enemy. “You’re too old? It's been a long long time since you've discipled and mentored any one. You’re out of touch with the culture, you don't have the energy you once had, you have a right to retire and become an observer rather than a participator." If this is true, what is the purpose of living a few more years?
I can't believe I wrote this last paragraph! What I've just written sounds a "bit" morbid, depressing and defeating. I was about to rewrite it, to make it sound more "spiritual". But the Lord seemed to say, "no". "Be honest about your thoughts and feelings when you're in a down period." Also, this last paragraph reveals that I have not yet broken a faulty ministry model that has been a part of my DNA for so many years, which is, a follower of Christ must aggressively share Him with others. The word "aggressive" in this context, is often associated with words like strategy, programs, projects etc. And unless a disciple is committed and giving time to these programs and projects, he or she is neglecting his or her responsibility. Not necessarily. God certainly raises up strategist to advance the Kingdom of God, those who can read the signs of the time, who can foresee the future, and then develop programs to meet the need. The Lord certainly equips and empowers many to aggressively share Christ with others. Being an A type personality, such an approach has always been appealing to me but somewhat stressful. As I mentioned in Episode 9, Boni Arzadon is one who not only takes every opportunity to share Christ, he aggressively makes opportunities. He thrives on such an aggressive approach. “God, raise up more Boni's”. He's a tremendous challenge. But let's not attempt to put everyone in the same mold. Just as every snow flake is different, so God has uniquely made each of us from a different mold and has a unique ministry that perfectly fits us
I am challenged with the spontaneity and naturalness of Jesus' ministry. It wasn’t dependent on His ingenuity or well defined programs and projects. He simply went about doing good. And as hurting people came across His path, He ministered to them. It wasn’t forced. It was natural. For example, Jesus was invited to have dinner with a tax collector and his friends. He ministered to them as questions were asked. As He was passing through Samaria, a Samaritan women “happened” to come to draw water from the well where Jesus was resting. Through conversing with her and having a word of knowledge she and her entire village came to believe in Him. As Jesus was entering Jericho, he sees a wee little man, Zacchaeus, a Jew and a corrupt tax collector who had become rich. He had probably been excommunicated by his own people because of his crafty dealings with them. He was a reject. Being short in statue, Zaccheaus climbs a sycamore tree to see Jesus. Jesus sees him, acknowledges and affirms him as a friend by inviting him to dinner, probably an invitation that none of his people had ever done. Through this simple act of acceptance and affirmation, Zacchaeus life was changed and he and his entire household believed in Christ. I am praying that the last years of my ministry will be characterized by such simplicity.
The foundation of Jesus life and ministry was His total dependence upon Aba, His heavenly Father. John 5:19 bears this out. "Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing on his own, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever the Father does, the Son does likewise." There was an intimate union between the Father and the Son, enabling Jesus to hear His Father's voice, to see what He would do in a given situation and then to walk in it. We too are totally dependent upon our union and intimate relationship with Jesus to minister to others. Jesus says to us, “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." With the remainder of my time on earth I want to know Him more intimately, hear His voice more clearly, walk in His ways more obediently, and share Him with others naturally and spontaneously.
The last fourteen months, since Mary went Home, has been a time of joy and thanksgiving mixed with sorrow, loneliness, and some depression. I want to learn to graciously accept and even embrace the totality of my life when times are good and when times are “bad”. Life is full of unanswerable questions, paradoxes and even seeming contradictions. But our God reigns! He is in control. I can trust Him because He is good and loves me unconditionally.
While Mary was still around, needing my constant help, I knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that I was doing the will of my Father. For the most part, I felt fulfilled and privileged to care for Mary for so many years. But now in a sense, I’m facing a new life. Things are different. The Lord gives and the Lord takes away, Blessed be the Name of the Lord!
Where do I go and what should I do from here? Perhaps, that's a wrong question to ask right now. I need to apply the truths expressed above--trust Him, be sensitive to His voice and let Him lead one step at a time. Jesus seems to be saying to me what He said to Martha who was distraught with her sister, Mary, who was sitting at Jesus feet, hanging on His every word and adoring Him, while Martha was frantically serving Jesus. Luke 10:38-42(NLT) "As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem they came to a village where a woman named Martha welcomed them into her home. Her sister Mary sat on the floor, listening intently to Jesus as he talked. But Martha was the jittery type and was worrying over the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, “Sir, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits (at your feet) while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.” But the Lord said to her, “Martha, dear friend, you are so upset over all these details! There is really only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it—and I won’t take it away from her!”
There is one thing that is needful for me, that is imperative, especially at this season in life. It’s this—to continually live in His presence, to hang on His every word, to hear his voice, to walk in His ways and to worship Him. In other words, to find my complete identity in Him alone--not in my wife, Mary, who is now with Him, not in past achievements, not in my ministry, not in my successes or failures, not in how well I perform or how much I blow it. He is enough! What is my identity? Who am I? “I am my beloved’s, and his desire is for me." (Song of Solomon 7:10) I would appreciate your prayers during this time of transition. Thanks
The End
Oct 15, 2009
Oct 14, 2009
Philippine Trip - Episode 13
During my three week stay in the Philippines, the Lord in a new way opened my eyes and broke my heart with the overwhelming need of the poor.
And the situation continually gets worse. According to the ‘Barangay Republic of the Philippines Word Press,’ the urban poor numbered about a million in 1956, and today they number over 30 million. The Philippine population is 89 million. One out of every three Filipinos is poor. Based on the study of the National Wages and Productivity Commission, “a family of six (the size of the average Filipino family) needs at the very least $17.96 every day for food and other expenses.” The average worker in Metro Manila, which is the political, economic, social, and cultural center of the Philippines, earns $7.22 a day. In the poor section of Tondo, Manila, where Norman, my son, and his wife Tina, ministered for three weeks, a worker is happy if he makes $2 to $3 a day. They’re not poor because they are lazy and unwilling to work. They laboriously work nine or more hours a day, seven days a week to try to eke out a “living.”
The Philippine Government is doing little to improve the plight of the poor. In fact, in many ways they are contributing to the crisis. Thousands of urban poor homes constantly face demolition, often with little warning. They need space for parks, for super highways, for large and beautiful malls, for expensive homes and apartment buildings. Their malls are comparable to any mall in the U.S. They cater to the affluent, to tourist and to filling their personal coffers. The gap between the “haves and have not's” is gigantic.
According to Carmen Deunida, former spokesperson of Kadamay, “what the country desperately and urgently needs is radical change in this time of worsening crisis and hunger among the urban poor.” She further states that “it is not enough to depend on legal processes to acquire social justice and development for the urban poor.”
It is mind boggling to realize that the Philippines is only a microcosm of a large portion of the world. In fact, the Philippines is paradise compared to India and many countries in Africa. I am sad to say that since leaving the Philippines in 1975, the plight of the poor, for all practical purpose, has not been on my radar screen. O yes, I’d give to projects addressing their financial needs, but it was more or less a token. As a middle class American Christian, I joined millions of others who give little attention to the poor, the homeless, the mentally and physically challenged, the prisoners, the disenfranchised etc. Unconsciously, I gradually moved to the mind set of most Christians, “You can’t do any thing about it. The poor will always be with us so why get overly concern.” This mind set is an antithesis to the gospel, the good news that Christ came to bring deliverance not only from sin but also from the effects of sin such as poverty. In Old Testament times the Israelites made provision for the foreigners, the poor, the outcast. How much more should this be true in our Christian communities. I wish the cry of my heart was in consort with the words I'm writing. I'm not there yet, but praying to this end.
Before going to the Philippines the Lord had been speaking to me in a new and a more forcible way, through Scripture and other sources, as to God’s compassionate and tender heart for the poor. Oh yes, I knew all the scriptures but little was done to put feet under them. They were more or less just platitudes.
When Norman, my son, called me in April inviting me to join his family to minister to the poor in the Philippines, it resonated in my heart. In fact, at the time I was wondering if God was leading me back to the Philippines to write the last chapter of my life--a ministry to the poor. After much reflection and prayer I have no peace in making such a move at my age, 81. However, the need to minister and develop programs for the "outcast of this world" right here in the U.S. and even here in Morris, MN, where I live, is great. At present I don't know where this might lead me.
Next: Challenges and Closing Thoughts, Part 2
And the situation continually gets worse. According to the ‘Barangay Republic of the Philippines Word Press,’ the urban poor numbered about a million in 1956, and today they number over 30 million. The Philippine population is 89 million. One out of every three Filipinos is poor. Based on the study of the National Wages and Productivity Commission, “a family of six (the size of the average Filipino family) needs at the very least $17.96 every day for food and other expenses.” The average worker in Metro Manila, which is the political, economic, social, and cultural center of the Philippines, earns $7.22 a day. In the poor section of Tondo, Manila, where Norman, my son, and his wife Tina, ministered for three weeks, a worker is happy if he makes $2 to $3 a day. They’re not poor because they are lazy and unwilling to work. They laboriously work nine or more hours a day, seven days a week to try to eke out a “living.”
The Philippine Government is doing little to improve the plight of the poor. In fact, in many ways they are contributing to the crisis. Thousands of urban poor homes constantly face demolition, often with little warning. They need space for parks, for super highways, for large and beautiful malls, for expensive homes and apartment buildings. Their malls are comparable to any mall in the U.S. They cater to the affluent, to tourist and to filling their personal coffers. The gap between the “haves and have not's” is gigantic.
According to Carmen Deunida, former spokesperson of Kadamay, “what the country desperately and urgently needs is radical change in this time of worsening crisis and hunger among the urban poor.” She further states that “it is not enough to depend on legal processes to acquire social justice and development for the urban poor.”
It is mind boggling to realize that the Philippines is only a microcosm of a large portion of the world. In fact, the Philippines is paradise compared to India and many countries in Africa. I am sad to say that since leaving the Philippines in 1975, the plight of the poor, for all practical purpose, has not been on my radar screen. O yes, I’d give to projects addressing their financial needs, but it was more or less a token. As a middle class American Christian, I joined millions of others who give little attention to the poor, the homeless, the mentally and physically challenged, the prisoners, the disenfranchised etc. Unconsciously, I gradually moved to the mind set of most Christians, “You can’t do any thing about it. The poor will always be with us so why get overly concern.” This mind set is an antithesis to the gospel, the good news that Christ came to bring deliverance not only from sin but also from the effects of sin such as poverty. In Old Testament times the Israelites made provision for the foreigners, the poor, the outcast. How much more should this be true in our Christian communities. I wish the cry of my heart was in consort with the words I'm writing. I'm not there yet, but praying to this end.
Before going to the Philippines the Lord had been speaking to me in a new and a more forcible way, through Scripture and other sources, as to God’s compassionate and tender heart for the poor. Oh yes, I knew all the scriptures but little was done to put feet under them. They were more or less just platitudes.
When Norman, my son, called me in April inviting me to join his family to minister to the poor in the Philippines, it resonated in my heart. In fact, at the time I was wondering if God was leading me back to the Philippines to write the last chapter of my life--a ministry to the poor. After much reflection and prayer I have no peace in making such a move at my age, 81. However, the need to minister and develop programs for the "outcast of this world" right here in the U.S. and even here in Morris, MN, where I live, is great. At present I don't know where this might lead me.
Next: Challenges and Closing Thoughts, Part 2
Oct 13, 2009
Philippine Trip - Episode 12
I mentioned in Episode 1 that my three week visit to the Philippines was a time of great challenge and reassessment of my own life as it relates to the Kingdom of God. Before sharing some of the challenges and things I’m working through, I would like to give tribute and honor to my beloved wife, Mary, who loving co-labored with me for fifty five years.
My time in the Philippines was a mixture of great joy and deep sorrow. From a human perspective, how wonderful it would have been if Mary and I could have shared this glorious occasion together. Perhaps, she was sharing it with me up there.
July 26, 2008 was Mary’s Coronation Day after a 15 year courageous bout with Alzheimer. Heaven is no longer an abstract place to me, but is more and more becoming a present reality. I along with the Apostle Paul can honestly say that there is a longing “to be absent from the body so that I can be present with the Lord” and with my dear wife and my identical twin brother Dean, but not until God has finished the work He wants to accomplish in me and through me.
On December 20, 1953, Mary and I promised to love each other in good times and in “bad” times until death due us part. We had the privilege of having this promise tested over 55 years, especially during the last 15 years of Alzheimer. I can honestly say that my love for Mary grew immensely during those last years. There are many qualities that God over the years had built into Mary’s life. The three that predominately stand out to me are the following:
1. Mary had a servant heart.
It was a quality that God had built into her life. She loved to serve people. When she was still somewhat coherent but was totally dependent on me to meet her needs, she would often say, “I’m sorry, honey, that I can’t help you. I don’t want you do all the work.” I’d embrace her and say, “Sweetheart, you have loved and served me faithfully for fifty years and now I have the wonderful privilege to serve you. So relax and enjoy it.” And she would smile and say, “Thanks, honey.” She never lost this Christ-like servant quality even during the last years of total confusion. She constantly wanted to help the aids and nurses in the nursing home, to share her food with those at her table. One day when I arrived at the nursing home, the nurse on duty asked me, “Do you have a dog at home by the name of Zeke. When I told her that Zeke was member of our family up until six months ago she chuckled and replied, “Mary left food on her plate and we encouraged her to eat the remainder. She emphatically said, NO! I’m saving it for Zeke.” There is no one I have met that embraced and practiced Phil. 2:2,3 more than Mary(Of course I am a bit bias). “Look not only to your own interest but also to the interest of others…Esteem others better than yourself,” She focused on the needs of people around her. It wasn’t forced but it flowed from the core of her life.
2. She had a very simple trust in the Lord, a rock solid trust in the one she loved and adored.
Mary was not a complicated person as I tend to be. She didn’t have to have all the answers to the big problems and paradoxes in life. At times I would be struggling with a problem in my own life or ministry. She would simply say, “Honey, let’s trust the Lord. Let’s commit it to Him. He has the answer.” It wasn’t said in a judgmental way. Her calm and confident spirit, breathed life, encouragement and affirmation into the situation. From a human perspective, God used Mary as the stabilizer in my life.
3. Mary had a passion to seek the Lord, to know Him more intimately.
One of her favorite passages was Psalm 63 which she had memorized many years ago. Many times in the nursing home we would quote it together from memory. “O God, you are my God, early will I seek You. My soul thirst for You. My flesh longs for you in a dry and thirsty land where no water is, to see your power and glory…..Because your living kindness is better than life my lips shall praise you….” (Read the rest of the chapter. It vividly describes the heart of a person who is truly seeking and experiencing the intimacy of the Father). Alzheimer for the most part did not steel from her the verses in Scripture or the hymns and choruses she had memorized.
Her two life verses were Philippians 3:10 and Psalm 27:4. “That I my know Him (Christ) and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His suffering being made conformable unto His death.” (Philippians 3:10) And Psalm 27:4, “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold His beauty and to inquire in His temple.” (Psalm 27:4) Mary’s longing to know Christ more intimately, to behold His beauty, to inquire of Him has come to full fruition. Death for Mary, was not an enemy but a friend. It was simply a doorway into a life that can’t be described with human words. “Eye has not seen or heard what God has prepared for those who love Him” Mary’s eyes and ears were fully opened July 26, 2008. It was Mary’s Coronation Day, a day of Celebration.
Who can find a Virtuous and Capable wife?
“She is more precious than Rubies. Her husband trusts her and she will greatly enrich his life.
She brings him good, not harm all the days of her life. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her. There are many virtuous and capable women in the world but you, Mary, surpass them all.” Proverbs 31:10,11,28,29 NLT
Next: Challenges and closing thoughts
My time in the Philippines was a mixture of great joy and deep sorrow. From a human perspective, how wonderful it would have been if Mary and I could have shared this glorious occasion together. Perhaps, she was sharing it with me up there.
July 26, 2008 was Mary’s Coronation Day after a 15 year courageous bout with Alzheimer. Heaven is no longer an abstract place to me, but is more and more becoming a present reality. I along with the Apostle Paul can honestly say that there is a longing “to be absent from the body so that I can be present with the Lord” and with my dear wife and my identical twin brother Dean, but not until God has finished the work He wants to accomplish in me and through me.
On December 20, 1953, Mary and I promised to love each other in good times and in “bad” times until death due us part. We had the privilege of having this promise tested over 55 years, especially during the last 15 years of Alzheimer. I can honestly say that my love for Mary grew immensely during those last years. There are many qualities that God over the years had built into Mary’s life. The three that predominately stand out to me are the following:
1. Mary had a servant heart.
It was a quality that God had built into her life. She loved to serve people. When she was still somewhat coherent but was totally dependent on me to meet her needs, she would often say, “I’m sorry, honey, that I can’t help you. I don’t want you do all the work.” I’d embrace her and say, “Sweetheart, you have loved and served me faithfully for fifty years and now I have the wonderful privilege to serve you. So relax and enjoy it.” And she would smile and say, “Thanks, honey.” She never lost this Christ-like servant quality even during the last years of total confusion. She constantly wanted to help the aids and nurses in the nursing home, to share her food with those at her table. One day when I arrived at the nursing home, the nurse on duty asked me, “Do you have a dog at home by the name of Zeke. When I told her that Zeke was member of our family up until six months ago she chuckled and replied, “Mary left food on her plate and we encouraged her to eat the remainder. She emphatically said, NO! I’m saving it for Zeke.” There is no one I have met that embraced and practiced Phil. 2:2,3 more than Mary(Of course I am a bit bias). “Look not only to your own interest but also to the interest of others…Esteem others better than yourself,” She focused on the needs of people around her. It wasn’t forced but it flowed from the core of her life.
2. She had a very simple trust in the Lord, a rock solid trust in the one she loved and adored.
Mary was not a complicated person as I tend to be. She didn’t have to have all the answers to the big problems and paradoxes in life. At times I would be struggling with a problem in my own life or ministry. She would simply say, “Honey, let’s trust the Lord. Let’s commit it to Him. He has the answer.” It wasn’t said in a judgmental way. Her calm and confident spirit, breathed life, encouragement and affirmation into the situation. From a human perspective, God used Mary as the stabilizer in my life.
3. Mary had a passion to seek the Lord, to know Him more intimately.
One of her favorite passages was Psalm 63 which she had memorized many years ago. Many times in the nursing home we would quote it together from memory. “O God, you are my God, early will I seek You. My soul thirst for You. My flesh longs for you in a dry and thirsty land where no water is, to see your power and glory…..Because your living kindness is better than life my lips shall praise you….” (Read the rest of the chapter. It vividly describes the heart of a person who is truly seeking and experiencing the intimacy of the Father). Alzheimer for the most part did not steel from her the verses in Scripture or the hymns and choruses she had memorized.
Her two life verses were Philippians 3:10 and Psalm 27:4. “That I my know Him (Christ) and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His suffering being made conformable unto His death.” (Philippians 3:10) And Psalm 27:4, “One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold His beauty and to inquire in His temple.” (Psalm 27:4) Mary’s longing to know Christ more intimately, to behold His beauty, to inquire of Him has come to full fruition. Death for Mary, was not an enemy but a friend. It was simply a doorway into a life that can’t be described with human words. “Eye has not seen or heard what God has prepared for those who love Him” Mary’s eyes and ears were fully opened July 26, 2008. It was Mary’s Coronation Day, a day of Celebration.
Who can find a Virtuous and Capable wife?
“She is more precious than Rubies. Her husband trusts her and she will greatly enrich his life.
She brings him good, not harm all the days of her life. Her children stand and bless her. Her husband praises her. There are many virtuous and capable women in the world but you, Mary, surpass them all.” Proverbs 31:10,11,28,29 NLT
Next: Challenges and closing thoughts
Oct 12, 2009
Philippine Trip - Episode 11 - Philip Flores Part 2
Philip has been uniquely gifted and equipped for the ministry to which God has called him. He ministers to pastors throughout the Philippines, those who for most part have had no theological training. After leaving the Navigators and graduating from seminary he became involved in a mission group called TOPIC (Trainers of Pastors International Coalition) They are working in developing countries in Asia, Africa and South America. They are called by God to minister to the shepherds of the flock. Philip has been the national coordinator of TOPIC Philippines for the past ten years. Philip and I had breakfast with three men he’s mentoring and training. It is so evident that Philip has a pastor’s heart whose ministry is based on relationship. TOPIC (Trainers of Pastors International Coalition) has become the training, equipping and mentoring arm of the PCEC (Philippine Counsel of Evangelical Churches) which number about 2,800 churches. The director of PCEC is Efraim Tendero.
Mary and I developed a close relationship with Ephriam in the early 70’s. He was a first year student at FEBIS (Far Eastern Bible Institute and Seminary) where I was teaching two classes—Evangelism & the Christian life course. Ephriam was an energetic, enthusiastic and committed student. I spent considerable time with him, helping him to get establish in the basics of the Christian life. It was apparent even then that he had unusual gifts of leadership, a servant style of leadership. In 2001 Mary and I had the joy of reconnecting with Efriam and his lovely wife. We were attending the 40th anniversary of the Navigators in the Philippines. They were honoring Gene Tabor and me who started the work 40 years ago. What a privilege it was to spend time with Efraim and his wife. It was a time of encouragement, challenge and a new realization of the greatness and goodness of God. Efraim expressed his deep appreciation for the ministry I had in his life and that what he learned in those early years laid the foundation for his walk with Jesus and for his ministry. This affirmation didn’t cater to my pride. It humbled me, to realize anew that we sow, we water but it’s GOD that makes it grow and multiplies it a thousand times over.
Philip has divided the Philippines into sixteen geographical regions ministering to many needy pastors. Philip and his team have developed a five year program called "CORE 300." CORE stands for, “Community Of Regional Equippers” and “300” indicates the set target number of trained and equipped pastors. For the past five years Philip and his team have been mentoring and training core pastors from these sixteen regions. The goal is three-fold. First, to minister to their personal needs. Second, to train and enable them to equip their people for the work of the ministry. And third, to encourage these key pastors to train and equip other pastors to do the same. II Timothy 2:2. The target date to train and equip 300 pastors is December 31.2010. As of July, 204 have received in depth training and have graduated from this 5 year course. They are quite sure that their goal of 300 trained pastors will be met by the end of this year. Pastors in these out of the way places often get discouraged and overwhelmed in their own personal lives and ministry. They have no one to mentor and encourage them. Also, special financial needs continually arise, especially in the area of medical expenses, with no reserve to handle them. Philip has established an emergency fund. Some pastors were ready to throw in the towel before Philip and his training team began visiting and ministering to them on a regular basis.
While I was there, a three day retreat was held in Takaytay City for pastors from the sixteen regions. Efraim Tendero,the director of PCEC (Philippine Counsel of Evangelical Chruches) was the main speaker and Philip Flores, and Boy Espiritu were moderators. Boy Espiritu was also a FEBIAS student back in the 70’s, who became a member of a group I formed called, “The Mighty Seven”—a group of seven men that met weekly for training” They were committed to become the kind of men that David had, “mighty men of valor” I had some time with Boy Espiritu and his wife during my trip. Again, here is a couple who are pursuing God and advancing the kingdom of God. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the three day retreat since I had doctor appointments. Close relationships among these 500 pastors have evolved over the five year training period. They’ve learned to be open and honest with one another. Successes and failures are shared. Often, sharing ones failures ministers more deeply than sharing one's successes. It makes one realize that he is not alone. Failures and suffering prepares one to minister to the needy. Some one has said, “In the ministry of love, only the wounded can serve.”
These pastors belong to different and very diverse denominational groups. It’s unfortunate but often true that each denomination consciously or unconsciously feel they have a corner on the truth which often divides the body of Christ. Walls that often separate pastors have been broken down. Philip has an inclusive mind set which has taken root in the hearts of these pastors. They have come to experience the liberation and joy that takes place by being one Body, not merely in theory but in actually experiencing it at the core of their lives. Christ's prayer in John 17:21 is being answered through the Holy Spirit using Philip and other team members of TOPIC—“that they may be one, as You, Father, are in Me , and I in You; that they may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.”
Next: Tribute to Mary, my wife
Mary and I developed a close relationship with Ephriam in the early 70’s. He was a first year student at FEBIS (Far Eastern Bible Institute and Seminary) where I was teaching two classes—Evangelism & the Christian life course. Ephriam was an energetic, enthusiastic and committed student. I spent considerable time with him, helping him to get establish in the basics of the Christian life. It was apparent even then that he had unusual gifts of leadership, a servant style of leadership. In 2001 Mary and I had the joy of reconnecting with Efriam and his lovely wife. We were attending the 40th anniversary of the Navigators in the Philippines. They were honoring Gene Tabor and me who started the work 40 years ago. What a privilege it was to spend time with Efraim and his wife. It was a time of encouragement, challenge and a new realization of the greatness and goodness of God. Efraim expressed his deep appreciation for the ministry I had in his life and that what he learned in those early years laid the foundation for his walk with Jesus and for his ministry. This affirmation didn’t cater to my pride. It humbled me, to realize anew that we sow, we water but it’s GOD that makes it grow and multiplies it a thousand times over.
Philip has divided the Philippines into sixteen geographical regions ministering to many needy pastors. Philip and his team have developed a five year program called "CORE 300." CORE stands for, “Community Of Regional Equippers” and “300” indicates the set target number of trained and equipped pastors. For the past five years Philip and his team have been mentoring and training core pastors from these sixteen regions. The goal is three-fold. First, to minister to their personal needs. Second, to train and enable them to equip their people for the work of the ministry. And third, to encourage these key pastors to train and equip other pastors to do the same. II Timothy 2:2. The target date to train and equip 300 pastors is December 31.2010. As of July, 204 have received in depth training and have graduated from this 5 year course. They are quite sure that their goal of 300 trained pastors will be met by the end of this year. Pastors in these out of the way places often get discouraged and overwhelmed in their own personal lives and ministry. They have no one to mentor and encourage them. Also, special financial needs continually arise, especially in the area of medical expenses, with no reserve to handle them. Philip has established an emergency fund. Some pastors were ready to throw in the towel before Philip and his training team began visiting and ministering to them on a regular basis.
While I was there, a three day retreat was held in Takaytay City for pastors from the sixteen regions. Efraim Tendero,the director of PCEC (Philippine Counsel of Evangelical Chruches) was the main speaker and Philip Flores, and Boy Espiritu were moderators. Boy Espiritu was also a FEBIAS student back in the 70’s, who became a member of a group I formed called, “The Mighty Seven”—a group of seven men that met weekly for training” They were committed to become the kind of men that David had, “mighty men of valor” I had some time with Boy Espiritu and his wife during my trip. Again, here is a couple who are pursuing God and advancing the kingdom of God. Unfortunately, I was not able to attend the three day retreat since I had doctor appointments. Close relationships among these 500 pastors have evolved over the five year training period. They’ve learned to be open and honest with one another. Successes and failures are shared. Often, sharing ones failures ministers more deeply than sharing one's successes. It makes one realize that he is not alone. Failures and suffering prepares one to minister to the needy. Some one has said, “In the ministry of love, only the wounded can serve.”
These pastors belong to different and very diverse denominational groups. It’s unfortunate but often true that each denomination consciously or unconsciously feel they have a corner on the truth which often divides the body of Christ. Walls that often separate pastors have been broken down. Philip has an inclusive mind set which has taken root in the hearts of these pastors. They have come to experience the liberation and joy that takes place by being one Body, not merely in theory but in actually experiencing it at the core of their lives. Christ's prayer in John 17:21 is being answered through the Holy Spirit using Philip and other team members of TOPIC—“that they may be one, as You, Father, are in Me , and I in You; that they may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.”
Next: Tribute to Mary, my wife
Oct 11, 2009
Philippine Trip - Episode 10 - Philip Flores Part 1
I met Philip Flores back in 1963. He had committed his life to Christ one month before we met. He had recently finished a Bible Correspondence Course entitled Bible Investigation School of which I was “principal” at one time. Gordon, my seven year old son, and I were visiting some of the graduates. Philip was one of these. Philip was 19 years of age, a very enthusiastic, goal oriented with leadership qualities. He soon became involved with the Navigators. I met weekly with Philip helping him to get established in the basics of the Christian life. His love for the Lord and others grew. After a few months, he began sharing Christ with his friends. Those who responded, he diligently followed up and discipled who in turn continued the process. After a few years he was leading the Navigator ministry at the Araneta U and then at the University of the Philippines and in time became the Navigator director of the Philippine work.
Philip and I have a very special relationship since he considers me his spiritual dad. What a joy it was to live and interact for three days with Philip and Myrna, Philip's wife. I was so encouraged and refreshed. I believe the Lord orchestrated my schedule so that I would be with the Flores family on Father’s day. What a joy it was to meet Philip and Myrna’s tribe: their three children (Ging, Joy and Jabez), Ging and Joy’s husbands, Ging’s lovely baby, Myrna’s sister and Myrna’s ninety year old father who is still strong and quite active. The Flores children are blessed with godly training and role models.
Philip gave the Father’s Day message in a church where he preaches once a month. It was partially in Tagalog (Filipino language) and English. God has gifted Philip with communication skills but more importantly with an anointing from above. The one hundred or so in attendance were really engaged in the message and responded verbally throughout. At the close of the message, they had a 30 to 40 minute special service to honor the dads. Words and poems were spoken and read by their children. Skits were performed, enacting the idiosyncrasies of their fathers. It was so humorous. They honored each father individually. When their name was called they came forward to receive a gift of remembrance, a gift of love. The service was closed with a prayer of blessing over the fathers. I’ve never witnessed such a meaningful tribute to dads.
Sunday afternoon the entire Flores family gathered to fellowship and to honor Philip, Myrna’s father and me. We each were given a Fathers' day card. Philip included a meaningful message on my card as his spiritual dad. Each of us also received a gift of remembrance. These loved ones are so gifted in expressing and actively showing their love and appreciation and it’s not contrived. It flows from the core of their lives. I was so refreshed and strengthened in spirit by the Lord through their kindness and generosity.
Philip’s ministry in the Philippines extends from North to the South—from Luzon (the northern island} to Mindanao (the southern island). The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands. There are more than 5,000 evangelical churches scattered through out the Philippines. Philip and his team are meeting a very urgent need. They are training, equipping and mentoring many pastors who for the most part have had no formal theological training.
To be continued…Part 2, Philip’s ministry
Philip and I have a very special relationship since he considers me his spiritual dad. What a joy it was to live and interact for three days with Philip and Myrna, Philip's wife. I was so encouraged and refreshed. I believe the Lord orchestrated my schedule so that I would be with the Flores family on Father’s day. What a joy it was to meet Philip and Myrna’s tribe: their three children (Ging, Joy and Jabez), Ging and Joy’s husbands, Ging’s lovely baby, Myrna’s sister and Myrna’s ninety year old father who is still strong and quite active. The Flores children are blessed with godly training and role models.
Philip gave the Father’s Day message in a church where he preaches once a month. It was partially in Tagalog (Filipino language) and English. God has gifted Philip with communication skills but more importantly with an anointing from above. The one hundred or so in attendance were really engaged in the message and responded verbally throughout. At the close of the message, they had a 30 to 40 minute special service to honor the dads. Words and poems were spoken and read by their children. Skits were performed, enacting the idiosyncrasies of their fathers. It was so humorous. They honored each father individually. When their name was called they came forward to receive a gift of remembrance, a gift of love. The service was closed with a prayer of blessing over the fathers. I’ve never witnessed such a meaningful tribute to dads.
Sunday afternoon the entire Flores family gathered to fellowship and to honor Philip, Myrna’s father and me. We each were given a Fathers' day card. Philip included a meaningful message on my card as his spiritual dad. Each of us also received a gift of remembrance. These loved ones are so gifted in expressing and actively showing their love and appreciation and it’s not contrived. It flows from the core of their lives. I was so refreshed and strengthened in spirit by the Lord through their kindness and generosity.
Philip’s ministry in the Philippines extends from North to the South—from Luzon (the northern island} to Mindanao (the southern island). The Philippines is made up of 7,107 islands. There are more than 5,000 evangelical churches scattered through out the Philippines. Philip and his team are meeting a very urgent need. They are training, equipping and mentoring many pastors who for the most part have had no formal theological training.
To be continued…Part 2, Philip’s ministry
Oct 10, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 9
Boni Arzadon came to Christ in 1964 during his third year in College through the Navigator Ministry. He is now 64 years of age. He is very inquisitive, always questioning things, including the traditional approaches to ministry and has developed a different paradigm for his ministry. He is zealous, always on the go, constantly witnessing, discipling and mentoring. I came to realize, being around Boni, how my life flow has diminished over the years. His life is a real challenge and motivation.
I asked Boni what motivates him in ministry. Without any hesitation he said, “The Great Commission—Go into all the world and make disciples of all nations.” He went on to say, “I really get caught up and excited that the Lord can mightily use anyone in reaching the whole world for Christ. And it’s going to work because God has said so. It has always been the Great Commission that has motivated me. Disciple nations – or nothing!” Witnessing and discipling are Boni and Luming’s (Boni’s wife) total focus and joy. But it was not always joyous and fulfilling. The first seven years were tough. Few converts, few disciples. But Boni doggedly hung on to God’s promises. The break came in 1971 when he moved from Manila to Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines (about two hours south of Manila). It has a people population of 90,000. One of the campuses of the University of the Philippines is located in Los Baños.
The first month was given to prayer, praying for students as they were getting off the bus, going to classes, eating in the cafeteria etc. He claimed the promises of God, e.g. “A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it in his time” (Isaiah 60:22). He then began sharing Christ to as many as possible in a given day. Sometimes it would take him into the wee hours of the morning “arguing and persuading until they received Christ.”(Boni’s own words) God began to multiply the fruit. In the first year, 55 new converts were in a weekly Bible Study. In the second year there were 155. And at the end of the 3rd year there were more than 250 in small group bible studies.
The present ministry format evolved through studying the principles and structure laid out by Ralph Neighbour, Jr. in his “Shepherd’s Guidebook” which a friend gave Boni in 1992. It emphasizes the importance of establishing cell groups as people come to Christ with the objective of not only seeing these converts grow into Christ-likeness but also enabling them to form their own cell groups who in turn would continue the process. Cell groups are being formed nationwide. The ministry is beginning to exhibit exponential growth. Boni’s not a person given to numbers but based on the information I gathered I would estimate that at least 8,000 are attending a weekly cell group. The majority of cell group members were reached through their cell evangelism.
Churches have now been established around the cell group structure. Cell groups meet during the week. On Sunday the cell groups in a given area gather in a central meeting place for worship, prayer, testimonies and sharing of the Word. During the week they go out with the objective to share Christ with those within their spheres of influence. Evangelism is happening in the market place. For the most part, those who attend these churches are not spectators but laborers in advancing the kingdom of God.
These cell groups are reaching all ages, from children to seniors. They are reaching all classes—the poor, the middle and the upper class. Almost every occupation is represented—students, professors, professionals, tricycle drivers (a bicycle made into a vehicle that can carry three or four passengers), blue collar workers, farmers etc. These cell groups for the most part are heterogeneous. Often, different ages, different occupations will be represented in a given cell group. The Philippine culture is very inclusive, and family-oriented. All are welcome. However, men and women have their own cell groups. Special groups are formed and seminars are conducted to address specific needs—husband and wife relationship, raising of children, overcoming inhibitions and deliverance from bondage, etc. They have developed Filipino-oriented Bible Studies for their discipling process.
God has wonderfully provided sufficient funds to build a training center which accommodates about one hundred beds, a very nice meeting room as well as a worship hall and kitchen facilities.. The total cost was around $220,000 U.S. which came in totally from Filipinos involved in their ministry. Every Sunday they feed between 100 and 150 people, mainly those who are poor. There are always 15 to 40 people living and eating with Boni and Luming day after day. They have a huge round dining room table with a lazy suzan in the center. I lived with Boni and Luming for two days. Early in the morning I would see a number of those in training spending time with the Lord in a secluded area. Even though there were many people around, I sensed a very peaceful atmosphere. But Boni and Luming were constantly interacting with those in training. On one occasion. I asked Boni if he and Luming ever take a vacation? He chuckled and said, “What do you mean by vacation? The Lord’s ministry provides its own respites.”
Next: Philip Fores, Part 1
I asked Boni what motivates him in ministry. Without any hesitation he said, “The Great Commission—Go into all the world and make disciples of all nations.” He went on to say, “I really get caught up and excited that the Lord can mightily use anyone in reaching the whole world for Christ. And it’s going to work because God has said so. It has always been the Great Commission that has motivated me. Disciple nations – or nothing!” Witnessing and discipling are Boni and Luming’s (Boni’s wife) total focus and joy. But it was not always joyous and fulfilling. The first seven years were tough. Few converts, few disciples. But Boni doggedly hung on to God’s promises. The break came in 1971 when he moved from Manila to Los Baños, Laguna, Philippines (about two hours south of Manila). It has a people population of 90,000. One of the campuses of the University of the Philippines is located in Los Baños.
The first month was given to prayer, praying for students as they were getting off the bus, going to classes, eating in the cafeteria etc. He claimed the promises of God, e.g. “A little one shall become a thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it in his time” (Isaiah 60:22). He then began sharing Christ to as many as possible in a given day. Sometimes it would take him into the wee hours of the morning “arguing and persuading until they received Christ.”(Boni’s own words) God began to multiply the fruit. In the first year, 55 new converts were in a weekly Bible Study. In the second year there were 155. And at the end of the 3rd year there were more than 250 in small group bible studies.
The present ministry format evolved through studying the principles and structure laid out by Ralph Neighbour, Jr. in his “Shepherd’s Guidebook” which a friend gave Boni in 1992. It emphasizes the importance of establishing cell groups as people come to Christ with the objective of not only seeing these converts grow into Christ-likeness but also enabling them to form their own cell groups who in turn would continue the process. Cell groups are being formed nationwide. The ministry is beginning to exhibit exponential growth. Boni’s not a person given to numbers but based on the information I gathered I would estimate that at least 8,000 are attending a weekly cell group. The majority of cell group members were reached through their cell evangelism.
Churches have now been established around the cell group structure. Cell groups meet during the week. On Sunday the cell groups in a given area gather in a central meeting place for worship, prayer, testimonies and sharing of the Word. During the week they go out with the objective to share Christ with those within their spheres of influence. Evangelism is happening in the market place. For the most part, those who attend these churches are not spectators but laborers in advancing the kingdom of God.
These cell groups are reaching all ages, from children to seniors. They are reaching all classes—the poor, the middle and the upper class. Almost every occupation is represented—students, professors, professionals, tricycle drivers (a bicycle made into a vehicle that can carry three or four passengers), blue collar workers, farmers etc. These cell groups for the most part are heterogeneous. Often, different ages, different occupations will be represented in a given cell group. The Philippine culture is very inclusive, and family-oriented. All are welcome. However, men and women have their own cell groups. Special groups are formed and seminars are conducted to address specific needs—husband and wife relationship, raising of children, overcoming inhibitions and deliverance from bondage, etc. They have developed Filipino-oriented Bible Studies for their discipling process.
God has wonderfully provided sufficient funds to build a training center which accommodates about one hundred beds, a very nice meeting room as well as a worship hall and kitchen facilities.. The total cost was around $220,000 U.S. which came in totally from Filipinos involved in their ministry. Every Sunday they feed between 100 and 150 people, mainly those who are poor. There are always 15 to 40 people living and eating with Boni and Luming day after day. They have a huge round dining room table with a lazy suzan in the center. I lived with Boni and Luming for two days. Early in the morning I would see a number of those in training spending time with the Lord in a secluded area. Even though there were many people around, I sensed a very peaceful atmosphere. But Boni and Luming were constantly interacting with those in training. On one occasion. I asked Boni if he and Luming ever take a vacation? He chuckled and said, “What do you mean by vacation? The Lord’s ministry provides its own respites.”
Next: Philip Fores, Part 1
Oct 9, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 8
Romy Salvador is the first of the old time Navigators that I had extended time with after getting out of the hospital. Romy came into contact with the Navigators in 1965 while attending a Bible Study that Gene Tabor (Philippine Navigator Director at that time) was leading
Romy is a non-assuming, low key, relational type of person that you would feel very comfortable with over a cup of coffee. Romy and Kathy (Romy's wife) were so gracious and desirous to make my stay a most memorable occasion. The first question he asked when we met at the Navigator Headquarters was, "Gene, how would you like a real Filipino body massage?" What a delightful thought and a relaxing experience—first a warm shower, then a 30 minute sauna and finally an hour and half massage. Wow! Cost? $7 U.S.
Romy's ministry is very diversified and yet focused on making disciples and equipping them to do the same. In the early years, his ministry emphasis was primarily directed toward students. But in 1977 (after 9 years of student ministry) a diversified approach evolved. Below is a partial summary of the ministries into which the Lord has led him.
Businessmen and Professionals
God brought Romy into favor with a number of businessmen and professionals who are now followers of Jesus. Romy and his team are making inroads into the entertainment and Television news world. They have reached the top Filipino pop singer who was voted number 1 in the 'young business entrepreneur' category. He is now influencing thousands of youth nationwide, interweaving the Christian message. Two well known television news commentators have been reached for Christ, who are now following their Master.
Politicians
God, through unusual circumstances, brought Romy into contact and favor with three politicians--the former Speaker of the House, the former National Security Adviser and the former SEC chairman. It's true that not many who are wealthy or popular according to the world's standard become followers of Christ but when they do, we rejoice.
Charismatic Catholics.
The Filipino Catholic Charismatic movement numbers over three million. In 1994 Romy was asked by the leaders to train and equip fifty of their potential leaders. After four years of intense involvement with Romy, they have gone throughout the Philippines to establish communities of committed Christians to reach, train and equip the Body of Christ. Currently, there are 11 such communities.
Chinese Businessmen with a Buddhist background
2004 was a very traumatic, emotional and trying year for Romy. Cita , Romy's first wife of 29 years died. He was devastated. But God was faithful. Romy gradually recovered from his loss. Through a series of miraculous events God brought Kathy into Romy's life. She is a very capable and gifted Chinese lady. They were united in marriage in 2006.
Kathy's brothers were devout Buddhists and are very successful businessmen. The older brother owns five corporations, for one of which Kathy is the sales manager. Through the gift of knowledge of Romy's friend along with Romy's witness, both brothers have come to Christ and are now sharing Christ with their employees. Weekly Bible studies are being currently held in four of their companies which Romy and one of his Timothy's lead. I shared some of my own experiences in the Wednesday Bible Study group held in one of the older brother's company, "Mga Packaging," which employs four hundred people. What an enthusiastic group. They all have committed their lives to Christ within the last year and are growing.
Ministry to the Poor
One businessman that's a part of Romy's team, has set up a foundation to give scholarship grants to needy students. Also, he has provided a large sum of money to establish food distribution centers. Food is bought at wholesale and is sold with only a slight mark up, the profit of which goes to struggling churches.
Raising and Training a Child, IVAN
This year, Romy became a father for the first time at age 64. He and Kathy are really excited. It's very evident that Romy is already a great father. This precious little one, Ivan, is going to keep Romy young for a long time after I'm dead and gone.
Next: the ministry of Boni Arzadon
Romy is a non-assuming, low key, relational type of person that you would feel very comfortable with over a cup of coffee. Romy and Kathy (Romy's wife) were so gracious and desirous to make my stay a most memorable occasion. The first question he asked when we met at the Navigator Headquarters was, "Gene, how would you like a real Filipino body massage?" What a delightful thought and a relaxing experience—first a warm shower, then a 30 minute sauna and finally an hour and half massage. Wow! Cost? $7 U.S.
Romy's ministry is very diversified and yet focused on making disciples and equipping them to do the same. In the early years, his ministry emphasis was primarily directed toward students. But in 1977 (after 9 years of student ministry) a diversified approach evolved. Below is a partial summary of the ministries into which the Lord has led him.
Businessmen and Professionals
God brought Romy into favor with a number of businessmen and professionals who are now followers of Jesus. Romy and his team are making inroads into the entertainment and Television news world. They have reached the top Filipino pop singer who was voted number 1 in the 'young business entrepreneur' category. He is now influencing thousands of youth nationwide, interweaving the Christian message. Two well known television news commentators have been reached for Christ, who are now following their Master.
Politicians
God, through unusual circumstances, brought Romy into contact and favor with three politicians--the former Speaker of the House, the former National Security Adviser and the former SEC chairman. It's true that not many who are wealthy or popular according to the world's standard become followers of Christ but when they do, we rejoice.
Charismatic Catholics.
The Filipino Catholic Charismatic movement numbers over three million. In 1994 Romy was asked by the leaders to train and equip fifty of their potential leaders. After four years of intense involvement with Romy, they have gone throughout the Philippines to establish communities of committed Christians to reach, train and equip the Body of Christ. Currently, there are 11 such communities.
Chinese Businessmen with a Buddhist background
2004 was a very traumatic, emotional and trying year for Romy. Cita , Romy's first wife of 29 years died. He was devastated. But God was faithful. Romy gradually recovered from his loss. Through a series of miraculous events God brought Kathy into Romy's life. She is a very capable and gifted Chinese lady. They were united in marriage in 2006.
Kathy's brothers were devout Buddhists and are very successful businessmen. The older brother owns five corporations, for one of which Kathy is the sales manager. Through the gift of knowledge of Romy's friend along with Romy's witness, both brothers have come to Christ and are now sharing Christ with their employees. Weekly Bible studies are being currently held in four of their companies which Romy and one of his Timothy's lead. I shared some of my own experiences in the Wednesday Bible Study group held in one of the older brother's company, "Mga Packaging," which employs four hundred people. What an enthusiastic group. They all have committed their lives to Christ within the last year and are growing.
Ministry to the Poor
One businessman that's a part of Romy's team, has set up a foundation to give scholarship grants to needy students. Also, he has provided a large sum of money to establish food distribution centers. Food is bought at wholesale and is sold with only a slight mark up, the profit of which goes to struggling churches.
Raising and Training a Child, IVAN
This year, Romy became a father for the first time at age 64. He and Kathy are really excited. It's very evident that Romy is already a great father. This precious little one, Ivan, is going to keep Romy young for a long time after I'm dead and gone.
Next: the ministry of Boni Arzadon
Oct 8, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 7
I just received a comment from an anonymous person regarding my last blog, episode 6 in which I mentioned that St Luke's hospital was a model to be followed. Here's the comment:
"Times have changed since I lay in that hospital - on the roof! After my surgery, I came to and found myself on the flat roof of the hospital. I could hardly wait to go home. Ask me about the rest of that adventure sometime. Gene, Bob and I are thanking the Lord for taking such good care of you."
Things have dramatically changed at St Luke's Hospital but not so with most hospitals in the Philippines, especially with those that are run by the government. Norman, my son, and his wife Tina, visited one of these and graphically described the filth and the crowded conditions. St Luke's is one of a kind. I felt I needed to clarify my description less you get the impression that St Luke's represents most hospitals in the Philippines. It is the exception to the rule.
The last week and a half of my time in the Philippines after being discharged from the hospital could only be describe with such adjectives as fabulous, incredible, unbelievable. If I hadn’t gone to the hospital my schedule and involvement would have been entirely different. God turned what appeared to be a grave misfortune into an unforeseen blessing.
There’s no greater joy than to reconnect with those you’ve ministered to many years ago, especially when they are still passionately following Jesus and aggressively sharing Him with others. After leaving the hospital I had the joy of spending extended time with three of them—Romy Salvador, Boni Arazadon and Philip Flores, along with their wives. Their ministry emphasis today is much different than it was back in the sixties and seventies.
The primary target then was students. In the beginning, the focus was directed only towards their spiritual needs. However, we discovered early on that many of those we were discipling and training had great nutritional and financial needs. In the States it’s usually a given that students eat three meals a day, have enough money to get by on and have an insurance policy to handle their medical expenses. Not so in the Philippines. There was nutritional deficiency among those we were helping. Financially, they needed help. There was no source of funds to handle medical needs that would arise. The parents and siblings of some we were helping spiritually, were dependedent on the income of their children. Consequently, they often needed to work long hours to supplement their family’s income. It’s difficult to help one spiritually if 70% of his or her time and emotional energy is directed towards meeting basic needs. It seemed obvious to us that we needed to minister to the total person, just as Jesus did. However, this conviction was not shared by all.
Gene Tabor (the director of the Philippine Navigators) had a strong conviction that it was imperative for us to develop a holistic approach in our disciple making ministry. In a recent article by Tabor he speaks to the need at that time. "The poverty of the people I (Tabor) was ministering to forced me to ask: What were the social implication of the Gospel? Jesus was the pattern. He saved souls AND ministered to their material needs." In light of the need, nutritional studies were done? What native foods had the greatest nutritional value for the buck? We began experimenting with practical livelihood projects. How could one generate income? Studies were done as to how to most efficiently and economically raise pigs. Land was provided for this endeavor by a family we were helping. This would provide work experience and a decent wage for those in training. Hopefully, it would provide a model that they could follow to generate income. Unfortunately, the Stateside leadership at that time was blind to the need. As a result our efforts were stopped. This was a very dark and trying time in our ministry. Since those early days, the Navigators worldwide have embraced and are advancing the social implications of the gospel along with their disciple making ministry.
The ministries of Romy, Boni, and Philip, focus on meeting the spiritual AND material needs of those they're discipling. Collectively, they are ministering to all ages—children, teenagers, adults and seniors. They are working with people in all economic groups—the wealthy, middle class and the poor. They are ministering to people of different occupations—students, professors, professionals, pastors, politicians, business owners, celebrities and the thousands who are unemployed.
They have programs for the poor. They are teaching the rich to follow Paul’s exhortation in II Timothy 6:18 “Let them do good, that they may be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share.
But more important than the breadth and inclusiveness of their ministries is the relationship of love that exists. They are not just sharing truth and skills but are imparting their very lives to those God has entrusted to them. They can honestly write to their flock what Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica, “So, affectionately longing for you, we are pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives because you have become dear to us.” (I Thessalonians 2:8)
After getting out of the hospital, the first of the three men that I had extended time with was Romy Salvador. He is the focus in the next episode.
"Times have changed since I lay in that hospital - on the roof! After my surgery, I came to and found myself on the flat roof of the hospital. I could hardly wait to go home. Ask me about the rest of that adventure sometime. Gene, Bob and I are thanking the Lord for taking such good care of you."
Things have dramatically changed at St Luke's Hospital but not so with most hospitals in the Philippines, especially with those that are run by the government. Norman, my son, and his wife Tina, visited one of these and graphically described the filth and the crowded conditions. St Luke's is one of a kind. I felt I needed to clarify my description less you get the impression that St Luke's represents most hospitals in the Philippines. It is the exception to the rule.
The last week and a half of my time in the Philippines after being discharged from the hospital could only be describe with such adjectives as fabulous, incredible, unbelievable. If I hadn’t gone to the hospital my schedule and involvement would have been entirely different. God turned what appeared to be a grave misfortune into an unforeseen blessing.
There’s no greater joy than to reconnect with those you’ve ministered to many years ago, especially when they are still passionately following Jesus and aggressively sharing Him with others. After leaving the hospital I had the joy of spending extended time with three of them—Romy Salvador, Boni Arazadon and Philip Flores, along with their wives. Their ministry emphasis today is much different than it was back in the sixties and seventies.
The primary target then was students. In the beginning, the focus was directed only towards their spiritual needs. However, we discovered early on that many of those we were discipling and training had great nutritional and financial needs. In the States it’s usually a given that students eat three meals a day, have enough money to get by on and have an insurance policy to handle their medical expenses. Not so in the Philippines. There was nutritional deficiency among those we were helping. Financially, they needed help. There was no source of funds to handle medical needs that would arise. The parents and siblings of some we were helping spiritually, were dependedent on the income of their children. Consequently, they often needed to work long hours to supplement their family’s income. It’s difficult to help one spiritually if 70% of his or her time and emotional energy is directed towards meeting basic needs. It seemed obvious to us that we needed to minister to the total person, just as Jesus did. However, this conviction was not shared by all.
Gene Tabor (the director of the Philippine Navigators) had a strong conviction that it was imperative for us to develop a holistic approach in our disciple making ministry. In a recent article by Tabor he speaks to the need at that time. "The poverty of the people I (Tabor) was ministering to forced me to ask: What were the social implication of the Gospel? Jesus was the pattern. He saved souls AND ministered to their material needs." In light of the need, nutritional studies were done? What native foods had the greatest nutritional value for the buck? We began experimenting with practical livelihood projects. How could one generate income? Studies were done as to how to most efficiently and economically raise pigs. Land was provided for this endeavor by a family we were helping. This would provide work experience and a decent wage for those in training. Hopefully, it would provide a model that they could follow to generate income. Unfortunately, the Stateside leadership at that time was blind to the need. As a result our efforts were stopped. This was a very dark and trying time in our ministry. Since those early days, the Navigators worldwide have embraced and are advancing the social implications of the gospel along with their disciple making ministry.
The ministries of Romy, Boni, and Philip, focus on meeting the spiritual AND material needs of those they're discipling. Collectively, they are ministering to all ages—children, teenagers, adults and seniors. They are working with people in all economic groups—the wealthy, middle class and the poor. They are ministering to people of different occupations—students, professors, professionals, pastors, politicians, business owners, celebrities and the thousands who are unemployed.
They have programs for the poor. They are teaching the rich to follow Paul’s exhortation in II Timothy 6:18 “Let them do good, that they may be rich in good works, ready to give, willing to share.
But more important than the breadth and inclusiveness of their ministries is the relationship of love that exists. They are not just sharing truth and skills but are imparting their very lives to those God has entrusted to them. They can honestly write to their flock what Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica, “So, affectionately longing for you, we are pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives because you have become dear to us.” (I Thessalonians 2:8)
After getting out of the hospital, the first of the three men that I had extended time with was Romy Salvador. He is the focus in the next episode.
Oct 7, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 6
The next six days, Wednesday—Monday was a time of testing. I was incapacitated. I had difficulty walking. There was increased swelling, pain and discoloration in both my legs. How does this fit into God’s plan? Was this interruption of God? Was it of the enemy or was it a result of my stubbornness not to check in earlier with the doctor? I think it was probably the latter. Regardless, the Lord seemed to say, “Don’t second guess the reason why? I’m in charge. Just trust Me and rest in My love.”
Friday, at 11:00 p.m. I finally went into the emergency room at St Luke Hospital, the same hospital where Ron and Norman, two of our sons, were born over forty years ago. Extensive test were administered—laboratory work, an EKG, x-rays, ultrasound on both legs to determine any blood clots in my veins and arteries. There was a blood clot in both my right and left leg. I was immediately admitted to the hospital, attached to an I.V. and assigned to one of their top heart specialists. During the first day and a half, blood was drawn every hour.
The accommodations were first class—a large private room with a sitting area, a good size private bathroom, a safe, a full size refrigerator and a large TV screen with at least twenty channels including U.S. news and sports. Every night they televised the New York Yankees. (Ug). Why couldn’t they have televised the Minnesota Twins? The friendliness and hospitality of the Filipino nurses and aids was outstanding. Almost every hour they would enquirer if they could in anyway make my stay more enjoyable. It was like being on vacation and having at my disposal beautiful Filipino nurses pampering and spoiling me good.
I was sure that Medicare would basically cover the cost. Was I ever mistaken! Medicare does not cover service performed overseas. Now what? I expected the bill to be somewhere around $10,000, that is if it was half the amount that would be charged in the States. Was I ever pleasantly surprised--$1320 including two specialists. Unbelievable! President Obama’s administration should study the streamline approach of hospitals in the Philippines. I was impressed from the time I checked into the emergency room until I was discharged Monday afternoon. By the way, my Blue Cross, Blue Shield supplement policy took care of 80% of the charges. Praise the Lord!
One of the highlights of my time in the hospital was the extended time I had with two dear Filipino brothers ( Philip Flores and Romy Salvador). I along with other Navigator staff had ministered to them over forty years ago when they were still in their teens. Now they are in their early sixties, aggressively following and serving the Lord in advancing the Kingdom of God. What a blessing and challenge they were. More about them in the next five episodes.
Friday, at 11:00 p.m. I finally went into the emergency room at St Luke Hospital, the same hospital where Ron and Norman, two of our sons, were born over forty years ago. Extensive test were administered—laboratory work, an EKG, x-rays, ultrasound on both legs to determine any blood clots in my veins and arteries. There was a blood clot in both my right and left leg. I was immediately admitted to the hospital, attached to an I.V. and assigned to one of their top heart specialists. During the first day and a half, blood was drawn every hour.
The accommodations were first class—a large private room with a sitting area, a good size private bathroom, a safe, a full size refrigerator and a large TV screen with at least twenty channels including U.S. news and sports. Every night they televised the New York Yankees. (Ug). Why couldn’t they have televised the Minnesota Twins? The friendliness and hospitality of the Filipino nurses and aids was outstanding. Almost every hour they would enquirer if they could in anyway make my stay more enjoyable. It was like being on vacation and having at my disposal beautiful Filipino nurses pampering and spoiling me good.
I was sure that Medicare would basically cover the cost. Was I ever mistaken! Medicare does not cover service performed overseas. Now what? I expected the bill to be somewhere around $10,000, that is if it was half the amount that would be charged in the States. Was I ever pleasantly surprised--$1320 including two specialists. Unbelievable! President Obama’s administration should study the streamline approach of hospitals in the Philippines. I was impressed from the time I checked into the emergency room until I was discharged Monday afternoon. By the way, my Blue Cross, Blue Shield supplement policy took care of 80% of the charges. Praise the Lord!
One of the highlights of my time in the hospital was the extended time I had with two dear Filipino brothers ( Philip Flores and Romy Salvador). I along with other Navigator staff had ministered to them over forty years ago when they were still in their teens. Now they are in their early sixties, aggressively following and serving the Lord in advancing the Kingdom of God. What a blessing and challenge they were. More about them in the next five episodes.
Oct 6, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 5
As I mentioned in episode 4, on Tuesday afternoon, after the tide had gone out we walked through the poor area of Tondo relating and talking to children, teenagers and adults. Some were recycling plastic bottles, cardboard, glass, metal, trying to make a couple of dollars. Others were selling vegetables, fruit and rice. They often do not have enough money to bury their dead. As a result the family will set up a gambling table on the street hoping to raise enough money to bury their loved one. Next to the gambling table is placed the casket with the dead person in it bearing witness that they need immediate help.
We met prostitutes and even an abortionist. It was impossible to look upon them with a judgmental and condemning spirit. They were just attempting to survive. My heart was profoundly moved. I visualized Jesus walking through this village. His heart is moved with compassion. I can only imagine that His unconditional love for these broken, disfranchise people caused them to become followers of Him just as Mary Magdalene, who perhaps was a prostitute, experienced Jesus’ kindness and total acceptance.
We handed out candy and granola bars to the children. Were they ever excited and thankful. The next day over 100 bags of groceries were given out to families. One bag was given to a prostitute by the name of Grace. Norman and Tina befriended her. She began to attend the Bible Study which is held daily under the bridge. The Holy Spirit was mightily at work. She was in tears the second day she attended. She shared that she was overwhelmed with Jesus’ love for her. I’m sure the bag of groceries she received without any strings attached impacted her life.
Lola Maming was given a bag of groceries. She also showed up at the Bible Study. She makes her living by buying mango's and then selling them for a little more. She brought a kilo of mango's to the Bible Study to give to Norman and Tina. They hesitated to take them knowing it was a great sacrifice on her part. But knowing her heart and desire to give a little in return, they took them. She cried and hugged them and gratefully expressed her appreciation for the groceries.
Norman and Tina visited Lola Maming before they left the area. Grace, the prostitute, was visiting her at the time. They learned that Lola Maming was Grace’s aunt. Was this connection by chance or was it orchestrated by God to perhaps bring a whole family to embrace the good news. Lola Maming is now attending the church in Tondo that Ramil pastors.
A sack of groceries was given to a lady abortionist. Up until then she had been very aloof and somewhat antagonistic toward Christians and the church. But she began to warm up. In fact, she gave some flower pots to the church. A little love and recognition goes a long way. We were probably the only Jesus many of them had ever seen. The scriptures says, ”the only thing that matters is faith that expresses itself in love.”
To be continued…
We met prostitutes and even an abortionist. It was impossible to look upon them with a judgmental and condemning spirit. They were just attempting to survive. My heart was profoundly moved. I visualized Jesus walking through this village. His heart is moved with compassion. I can only imagine that His unconditional love for these broken, disfranchise people caused them to become followers of Him just as Mary Magdalene, who perhaps was a prostitute, experienced Jesus’ kindness and total acceptance.
We handed out candy and granola bars to the children. Were they ever excited and thankful. The next day over 100 bags of groceries were given out to families. One bag was given to a prostitute by the name of Grace. Norman and Tina befriended her. She began to attend the Bible Study which is held daily under the bridge. The Holy Spirit was mightily at work. She was in tears the second day she attended. She shared that she was overwhelmed with Jesus’ love for her. I’m sure the bag of groceries she received without any strings attached impacted her life.
Lola Maming was given a bag of groceries. She also showed up at the Bible Study. She makes her living by buying mango's and then selling them for a little more. She brought a kilo of mango's to the Bible Study to give to Norman and Tina. They hesitated to take them knowing it was a great sacrifice on her part. But knowing her heart and desire to give a little in return, they took them. She cried and hugged them and gratefully expressed her appreciation for the groceries.
Norman and Tina visited Lola Maming before they left the area. Grace, the prostitute, was visiting her at the time. They learned that Lola Maming was Grace’s aunt. Was this connection by chance or was it orchestrated by God to perhaps bring a whole family to embrace the good news. Lola Maming is now attending the church in Tondo that Ramil pastors.
A sack of groceries was given to a lady abortionist. Up until then she had been very aloof and somewhat antagonistic toward Christians and the church. But she began to warm up. In fact, she gave some flower pots to the church. A little love and recognition goes a long way. We were probably the only Jesus many of them had ever seen. The scriptures says, ”the only thing that matters is faith that expresses itself in love.”
To be continued…
Oct 5, 2009
Philippine Trip - Episode 4
After this “exciting” mountain top adventure that left an indelible scare on my psyche, we ate lunch and then returned to Manila. That last sentence, by the way, was written for effect. No. It was not a negative experience at all. It is a cherished memory that I will savor for the rest of my life. In fact, if I go back to the Philippines, it would be such a joy to reconnect with those delightful mountain people. Perhaps, I would forgo the trip down the mountain on a horse.
We had made arrangements to stay at the Navigator headquarters in Quezon City which is adjacent to Manila. How inviting and delightful it was to spread out on a bed and mattress after being denied of such luxuries for four or five days. I slept until noon on Tuesday. The swelling in my leg seemed to have receded a bit after elevating it for 14 hours.
We joined Pastor Ramil Tuesday afternoon in Tondo Manila which is the poorest area of Manila. Manila has a population of 1,700,000, which is divided into six districts. Tondo is the largest district with a population of 650,000 which represents over one third of Manila. Pastor Ramil lives and ministers in the poorest area of Tondo. He also ministers at the garbage dump at Pagutay, Manila.
Words are so inadequate to begin to convey the primitive, unsanitary, poverty-stricken living conditions in Tondo. We walked through the narrow streets in the area where the pastor lives. On each side were crude shacks attached one to another. During this time of the year their “homes” are flooded with twelve inches of water from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. And it’s not clean water. It’s basically sewage water. There are open sewers that go into a narrow river that runs through the village and then into Manila Bay. When the high tide comes in the river overflows and floods their dwellings. What a depressing and heart wrenching experience this was. Such living conditions bring sickness. Many residents suffer skin lesions from contact with the diseased water. Dysentery and tuberculosis are prevalent.
The garbage dump in Paytay Manila where Pastor Ramil ministers weekly is an unseemly, reprehensible sight. It covers 24 acres rising 130 feet above the valley floor. Thousands of people live on or around this garbage-mountain. Just after 4:00 a.m. the first trucks start to arrive carrying their precious cargo. Over the next seventeen hours 430 garbage trucks will deposit an estimated 1200 tones of garbage. The people living at this site rummage through each truckload of garbage. It is their only source of income. They consider themselves lucky if they make two or three dollars a day for their efforts.
To be continued…
We had made arrangements to stay at the Navigator headquarters in Quezon City which is adjacent to Manila. How inviting and delightful it was to spread out on a bed and mattress after being denied of such luxuries for four or five days. I slept until noon on Tuesday. The swelling in my leg seemed to have receded a bit after elevating it for 14 hours.
We joined Pastor Ramil Tuesday afternoon in Tondo Manila which is the poorest area of Manila. Manila has a population of 1,700,000, which is divided into six districts. Tondo is the largest district with a population of 650,000 which represents over one third of Manila. Pastor Ramil lives and ministers in the poorest area of Tondo. He also ministers at the garbage dump at Pagutay, Manila.
Words are so inadequate to begin to convey the primitive, unsanitary, poverty-stricken living conditions in Tondo. We walked through the narrow streets in the area where the pastor lives. On each side were crude shacks attached one to another. During this time of the year their “homes” are flooded with twelve inches of water from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m. And it’s not clean water. It’s basically sewage water. There are open sewers that go into a narrow river that runs through the village and then into Manila Bay. When the high tide comes in the river overflows and floods their dwellings. What a depressing and heart wrenching experience this was. Such living conditions bring sickness. Many residents suffer skin lesions from contact with the diseased water. Dysentery and tuberculosis are prevalent.
The garbage dump in Paytay Manila where Pastor Ramil ministers weekly is an unseemly, reprehensible sight. It covers 24 acres rising 130 feet above the valley floor. Thousands of people live on or around this garbage-mountain. Just after 4:00 a.m. the first trucks start to arrive carrying their precious cargo. Over the next seventeen hours 430 garbage trucks will deposit an estimated 1200 tones of garbage. The people living at this site rummage through each truckload of garbage. It is their only source of income. They consider themselves lucky if they make two or three dollars a day for their efforts.
To be continued…
Oct 4, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 3
We got very little sleep that night. I think I sat up half of the time. I did my best to elevate my right leg on a bag which helped a bit to reduce the swelling. It seemed that morning would never come. Throughout the night I kept turning from my back to my side on the hard wooden planks—a bit uncomfortable.
But the love, friendliness and hospitality of these dear Filipinos far out weighed the physical discomfort. The food they prepared was scrumptious--Filipino tantalizing dishes that I haven’t eaten since leaving the Philippines in 1975. The bananas and mango's were beyond description.
These delightful mountain people were looking forward to leading our group down the mountain to a small crystal clear waterfall that emptied into a swimming area. So after breakfast, they gathered everyone together for this adventure. Everyone was excited with the exception of me.
I knew it would be impossible for me to climb down this steep mountain and then climb back up—a three hour round trip. So I graciously tried to bow out. But they had already eagerly planned ahead. Shortly, a horse arrived with a homemade saddle prepared for me, whom they referred to as lolo (lolo is grandpa in their language) At first I thought it would be a fun experience even though I can hardly remember ever riding a horse.
As the horse was going down this step mountain and attempting to maintain its footage on slippery rocks, I felt at times I was going to fall off. They kept saying, “Lean backwards!” “You’re leaning to the left; straighten up!” It seemed like I was constantly being corrected. To make matters worse, Norman, my son, was taking pictures of my struggle. He thought it was so funny. Apparently, there’s something in my personality that causes people to take advantage of me. Just kidding…or am I? ha, ha. Frankly, I enjoy being made fun of.
The entire group really enjoyed swimming, going down the waterfall, jumping off the boulders protruding out of the cliff on the right side of the swimming area. After an hour or two, we proceeded back up the mountain. This time it was, “Lean forward, you’re going to fall off backwards!” “You’re leaning to the left, straighten up” and on and on.
When I finally got off the horse, I was bruised between my legs. In fact, I was a bit black and blue.
To be continued…
But the love, friendliness and hospitality of these dear Filipinos far out weighed the physical discomfort. The food they prepared was scrumptious--Filipino tantalizing dishes that I haven’t eaten since leaving the Philippines in 1975. The bananas and mango's were beyond description.
These delightful mountain people were looking forward to leading our group down the mountain to a small crystal clear waterfall that emptied into a swimming area. So after breakfast, they gathered everyone together for this adventure. Everyone was excited with the exception of me.
I knew it would be impossible for me to climb down this steep mountain and then climb back up—a three hour round trip. So I graciously tried to bow out. But they had already eagerly planned ahead. Shortly, a horse arrived with a homemade saddle prepared for me, whom they referred to as lolo (lolo is grandpa in their language) At first I thought it would be a fun experience even though I can hardly remember ever riding a horse.
As the horse was going down this step mountain and attempting to maintain its footage on slippery rocks, I felt at times I was going to fall off. They kept saying, “Lean backwards!” “You’re leaning to the left; straighten up!” It seemed like I was constantly being corrected. To make matters worse, Norman, my son, was taking pictures of my struggle. He thought it was so funny. Apparently, there’s something in my personality that causes people to take advantage of me. Just kidding…or am I? ha, ha. Frankly, I enjoy being made fun of.
The entire group really enjoyed swimming, going down the waterfall, jumping off the boulders protruding out of the cliff on the right side of the swimming area. After an hour or two, we proceeded back up the mountain. This time it was, “Lean forward, you’re going to fall off backwards!” “You’re leaning to the left, straighten up” and on and on.
When I finally got off the horse, I was bruised between my legs. In fact, I was a bit black and blue.
To be continued…
Oct 3, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 2
I decided not to mention the leg problem to anyone. After all, one would expect some swelling after a twenty two hour flight. But a blood clot? No. Was I ever wrong! More about that later.
After sleeping less than four hours, the ten of us piled into a seven passenger van and headed up the mountain. Our tribe consisted of Norman, Tina and their three daughters, two teen age fellows (friends of Hannah and Kaitlyn), and Tina’s close girl friend plus the pastor and myself—ten of us in all. We traveled three hours by van and walked the last 35 minutes which was quite a challenge. When we arrived at this small primitive mountain church, built out of corrugated mental, no windows and a dirt floor, Sunday school was just finishing. We were the first Americans that had visited their church. They treated us like royalty.
It was a very emotional and Spirit moving service. Norman had decided a couple of weeks before leaving the States that it would be appropriate and Christ-like for us to do what Jesus did for His disciples at the last supper—He washed their feet. A graphic picture of servant hood.
After giving brief testimonies and a message by the pastor, we took communion together and then took turns washing the feet of these dear Filipinos. God’s presence was so real. After washing their feet we put brand new shoes on them. .
Why was this significant? The school that the children attend is about 30 minutes down the mountain. Many students who attend live in a less poor area. Their parents can afford shoes for their children. As a result they look down upon the children who do not wear shoes. Norman had the pastor purchase 65 pairs of shoes a week or so before we arrived. What a joyous occasion this was for the children!
We retired early because there was no electricity, gas or kerosene for light. But where were we going to sleep? There were no beds or mattresses in sight. We were to sleep on a wooden platform (no padding) not more than seventeen feet wide and seven feet long. It was a challenge to fit nine adults in this small area—a little less than a two feet wide space for each of us.
To be continued….
After sleeping less than four hours, the ten of us piled into a seven passenger van and headed up the mountain. Our tribe consisted of Norman, Tina and their three daughters, two teen age fellows (friends of Hannah and Kaitlyn), and Tina’s close girl friend plus the pastor and myself—ten of us in all. We traveled three hours by van and walked the last 35 minutes which was quite a challenge. When we arrived at this small primitive mountain church, built out of corrugated mental, no windows and a dirt floor, Sunday school was just finishing. We were the first Americans that had visited their church. They treated us like royalty.
It was a very emotional and Spirit moving service. Norman had decided a couple of weeks before leaving the States that it would be appropriate and Christ-like for us to do what Jesus did for His disciples at the last supper—He washed their feet. A graphic picture of servant hood.
After giving brief testimonies and a message by the pastor, we took communion together and then took turns washing the feet of these dear Filipinos. God’s presence was so real. After washing their feet we put brand new shoes on them. .
Why was this significant? The school that the children attend is about 30 minutes down the mountain. Many students who attend live in a less poor area. Their parents can afford shoes for their children. As a result they look down upon the children who do not wear shoes. Norman had the pastor purchase 65 pairs of shoes a week or so before we arrived. What a joyous occasion this was for the children!
We retired early because there was no electricity, gas or kerosene for light. But where were we going to sleep? There were no beds or mattresses in sight. We were to sleep on a wooden platform (no padding) not more than seventeen feet wide and seven feet long. It was a challenge to fit nine adults in this small area—a little less than a two feet wide space for each of us.
To be continued….
Oct 2, 2009
Philippine Trip – Episode 1
A number of friends have asked me to share my experiences and impressions during my three week visit to the Philippines (June 6-27). It was a time of great challenge and reassessment of my own life as it relates to the Kingdom of God. To share the account in one episode would be an overload. I will break it down into manageable bites and send out one bit a day for the next thirteen days. The proliferation of information we receive these days is mind boggling. So please feel free to delete it when Gene Denler appears on your email.
Around the first of April, Norman, our youngest son, called me from Texas and said, "Dad how would you like to accompany our family to the Philippines in June?" Of course, I was elated. He and his wife Tina along with their three daughters, Hannah 18, Kaitlyn 17 and Rebekah 13 had ministered in the Manila area in February 2009 with a group of teenagers. After a week with the group, they teamed up with Ramilo Mateo, a pastor who with his family live and work with the poor of the poorest in Manila. Norman and his family fell in love with these destitute and forgotten people. I believe it has permanently impacted their lives. Their world view will never be the same.
Norman and Tina had planned to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary in Hawaii in June. But they all agreed that they would much prefer to go back to the Philippines to minister and relate to these dear people whom God compassionately loves.
As most of you know, Mary and I served with the Navigators in the Philippines for over twenty years along with other Navigator staff (Tabors, Trautmans, Sacketts, Hills and other Nav staff).. It was pure joy to reconnect with those we all had ministered to. Their passion for Jesus and for the advancement of the Kingdom of God was catching. I can certainly identify with the apostle John's emotional response upon hearing of his spiritual offspring living the Truth. "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." (III John 1:4)
We arrived Manila on Sunday, June 6th at 1:00 a.m. Our Tokyo flight was two hours late. Pastor Ramil met us at the airport. We were schedule to leave four hours later, 5:00 a.m., to minister with Pastor Ramil at a poor primitive mountain church. It was a three hour ride by van and a 35 minute walk with quite a steep incline. But there was one problem. I was experiencing swelling and some pain in my right leg. Could it be a blood clot?
To be continued…..
Around the first of April, Norman, our youngest son, called me from Texas and said, "Dad how would you like to accompany our family to the Philippines in June?" Of course, I was elated. He and his wife Tina along with their three daughters, Hannah 18, Kaitlyn 17 and Rebekah 13 had ministered in the Manila area in February 2009 with a group of teenagers. After a week with the group, they teamed up with Ramilo Mateo, a pastor who with his family live and work with the poor of the poorest in Manila. Norman and his family fell in love with these destitute and forgotten people. I believe it has permanently impacted their lives. Their world view will never be the same.
Norman and Tina had planned to celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary in Hawaii in June. But they all agreed that they would much prefer to go back to the Philippines to minister and relate to these dear people whom God compassionately loves.
As most of you know, Mary and I served with the Navigators in the Philippines for over twenty years along with other Navigator staff (Tabors, Trautmans, Sacketts, Hills and other Nav staff).. It was pure joy to reconnect with those we all had ministered to. Their passion for Jesus and for the advancement of the Kingdom of God was catching. I can certainly identify with the apostle John's emotional response upon hearing of his spiritual offspring living the Truth. "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth." (III John 1:4)
We arrived Manila on Sunday, June 6th at 1:00 a.m. Our Tokyo flight was two hours late. Pastor Ramil met us at the airport. We were schedule to leave four hours later, 5:00 a.m., to minister with Pastor Ramil at a poor primitive mountain church. It was a three hour ride by van and a 35 minute walk with quite a steep incline. But there was one problem. I was experiencing swelling and some pain in my right leg. Could it be a blood clot?
To be continued…..
Sep 30, 2009
Philippine Prayer Request
Please pray for the people in Metro Manila, Philippines where I was visiting close Filipino friends recently. As you perhaps know, Metro Manila experienced the worse typhoon (hurricane) in it's recorded history--16.7 inches of rain in 9 hours. Some areas were under 20 feet of water due to poor drainage systems that they've been "trying" to fix for many years, but little has been done. The root of the problem, 'is a government whose predominate preoccupation is with graft and corruption--how to steal more money from the people." Thousands of homes were washed away especially in areas where the poor live. Over 500,000 people have been displaced. "The prospects of another typhoon this week-end underscores environmentalists concerns that shifts in global temperature may mean increasing extreme weather patterns for coastal cities like Manila. I've tried to reach my Filipino friends but learned that the electrical power and internet is out in most of the flooded areas.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
