Right Direction

An individual without direction is like Alice in the fairy tale Alice in Wonderland. In a conversation between her and the Cheshire Cat, Alice asked, "Would you tell me please, which way I ought to go from here?" "That depends a good deal on where you want to get to," said the cat. "I don't much care where," said Alice. "Then it doesn't matter which way you go," said the cat.

Many have been trying to search diligently and seek patiently the right direction for their life. There is an intense desire to better life as days and years pass by yet the “how” still seems unknown to many. How does one know if you are traversing in the right direction? Is being married with this person the right choice? Is this course the right way? These are all valid questions that need valid answers.

There are those who trust their instincts in regards to making choices. Yet many is stuck and surrendered to whatever comes their way. Though, there is a bit discomfort at first but for lack of a better option, they’ve just decided to just give in. Both of these actions are extremes that need to be evaluated and applied on a case to case basis. Also, because of the many choices presented to us, conflict within us arises. Thus, we become unstable and double-minded especially true when we allow other people to give opinions, the choice becomes even more difficult. Remember that every situation we are in will contribute or confuse any right decision made.

Proverbs 3:5-6 provides a clear glimpse of what should we do especially if you will seek God’s help in this regard. It goes like this: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight.” (NIV)

You see, only God knows the future and He is the only one that could provide the necessary guidance towards it. Let’s look at the example in the life of Abraham in Genesis 12:1-3, “The LORD had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you. "I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." (NIV)

Looking at this example, observe that God did not tell him where he will go but only mentioned that He will show the way towards it. Then the promises of blessing were added to emphasize God’s intentions. There was a specific direction from point A to point B yet no mention to what will happen along the way was missing. This is exactly where faith in God’s promises kicks in for those who will trust God’s way. He has a clear direction towards the way and guaranteed result when obeyed. Abraham’s response was critical to the fulfillment of God’s plan. He needed to have faith in God’s plan.

Unfortunately, this is where many are stumped at the idea of putting everything in God’s hands. They shudder at the thought of not knowing the specific details of any venture. This is due to the fact that we were taught not to do it this way. Furthermore, when we let go of something, we think that everything must go our way or no way. Besides, one might say, “Trusting other than my own instinct even God Himself is a red flag and a “no-no”.

Well, it is a choice that each one must make. We could continue to do what we think is and receive unsatisfactory results as a hit and miss style or God’s way already proven as tried, tested and true. With God, it is always a sure thing! We know that God fulfilled His promise to Abraham because even after more than 4,000 years, Abraham is still a very important figure to three major religions in the world: Judaism, Christianity and Islam. What more do you need to be assured that God knows what He is doing?

Let’s talk again!

Ministry Updates -JIL BC Events

The past two weeks for us was filled with major events: a special day for a senior couple, two JIL Churches' aniversaries and a baby dedication.

Last week, Tatay and Nanay Colocado celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in JIL Burnaby Church complete with all the trimmings from a wedding format to renew their vows with a fun-filled reception afterwards. This was the first time to have such a celebration and it was truly wonderful. Witnessing such longevity is a testament to God’s faithfulness of one of His greatest creation-marriage. God bless Tatay and Nanay for being an example to all of us through their marriage life.

The following day, we were off to JIL Victoria for their anniversary celebration. It was an excellent time to showcase what God has done in the past 9 years. Seeing the people who were there since the start and still serving faithfully provides great encouragement to all of us. I fully remember how we travel weekly to Victoria in those early pioneering years to provide guidance and leadership. Well, looking at them now, it was all worth it. Congratulations to JIL Victoria for reaching this far. Be ready for more!!!!

This past weekend, a child dedication was held last Saturday morning with one of the JIL Vancouver 1 Church member. One of the highlights was exhorting the parents and the sponsors of their responsibilities to provide direction and God’s principle for raising up a child. And being able to do such activity is a privilege to declare God’s glory.

During the afternoon, JIL Richmond celebrated their 10th anniversary. A decade of God’s faithfulness was declared to all who witnessed the celebration. The whole leadership was excited and brimming with joy as the celebration began. It was a simple celebration filled with exuberant atmosphere that showcased JIL Richmond’s desire to live God’s life. One of the highlight was the Kiddoz presentation of “Livin’ Inside Out.” Everyone was delighted to watch how these young kids shared through song and dance God’s principle of living a Christian life victoriously. High five to the JIL Kiddoz for an excellent job. Thumbs up to JIL Richmond leaders and workers for a job well done especially to Pastor Ben and Gina Pelayo for their untiring dedication and commitment to JIL Richmond’s growth. Congratulations, y’all!!!!

Finally, JIL Seattle had their quarterly Prayer and Healing Service yesterday and off we went with the whole family. I spoke on faith focusing on Moses’ encounter with God as His faith was built up through God’s manifestation of power. A special time of prayer was done to those who came to the front. The Lord honored the gathering and I believe that it was a great opportunity to plant God’s seed to the first-timers who came to attend the service. Thanks to the JIL Music Ministers from JIL Burnaby, Surrey Fleetwood, Newton and North Vancouver for their support. Pastor Raymund Dagampat and JIL Seattle leaders and workers have done an excellent job as well. Keep it up!!!!!

Now, we are preparing to pack for the upcoming trip to Manila for the 30th anniversary celebration of JIL Worldwide on Oct 5. Please pray for its success and God's protection as well.

Until next time……..

Ministry Updates-JIL Canada Area Pastors Meeting

This past week (Sep. 8-12, 2008) was another round of the quarterly meeting of the Area Supervising Pastors and Regional Coordinators of JIL Canada composed of Ptr Evelyn Licayo, Area 1 (Alberta); myself as the Area 2 (British Columbia) and Regional Supervising Pastor (JIL Canada); Ptr Bong Gonzales, Area 3 (Ontario) and 6 (Quebec); Ptr Mary Juarana, Area 4 (Manitoba) and 5 (Saskatchewan); Ptr Rose Gonzales (WIN Canada); and Ptr Monette Navo (JIL 12 Canada).

Altogether, it was a week of discussion towards fulfilling the JIL MVV and strategies for JIL Canada. We had time for everything that will create a wholesome meeting to avoid stress and pressures. I believe we have done that in this quarter.

God was pleased as all of us did our role to ensure that JIL Canada will be aligned to God's mandate.

God bless you Partners in God's vineyard....See you again in Manila for the 30th Anniversary celebration of JIL Church Worldwide!!!

The More I Seek You - Kari Jobe

God of this City - Video

JIL Ministry Updates-JIL BC WORSHIP CAMP AND CONFERENCE 2008

If there is an event that will stir up a renewed passion to praise and worship God, this was the place to be! The three-day event last Aug 29-31, 2008 was held at the JIL BC Prayer House and Retreat Center with 24 participants from the JIL BC Churches Music Team Heads of the Worship Team (VIA) and Instrumentalist Team (JAM). The sessions were all pointing towards excellence in fulfilling each ministry as assigned to both teams not just on Sundays but each day of their life.

One of the major impacts of these two events was creating a clear picture of what a Music Minister looks like and it was received with enthusiasm. Now, I believe will begin to usher a new level of praise and worship for every VIA and JAM; Sound System and Graphics members of how a team must function together for God to come and inhabit the praises of His people having a united heart and mind for this goal…..

It is an unbelievable time together as God’s lingering presence came down to stamp His approval for entering His throne with a mighty praise…

Congratulations to all participants, leaders, workers and all who took part in this events. Be ready to experience a new way of praise and worship!!! Become excited……..Hallelujah!!!!!!!

Mssion Trip -JIL Alberta

I would say the this trip would be one of the most memorable in terms of how Pastor Monette and I were concerned in ministry activities done. We spent two weeks ministering in two locations: JIL Edmonton and JIL Calgary hosted by Pastor Evelyn Licayo, the JIL Alberta Churches Supervisor with Pastor Amy Vilog as well. Of course we took this opportunity to insert some family bonding (and shopping!) but only after the ministry commitments were completely done.

Let me begin my update for the first week we were there: There were two nightly seminars (Thursday and Friday) done for JIL Edmonton Churches from JIL West 1, 2 and South Edmonton. There was a one day JIL 12 Summit for JIL Alberta Cell leaders attended by more or less 200 Cell leaders from Alberta Churches from 10am-7pm the next day (August 16). Pastor Monette and I shared the 3 lessons for the day. The encouragement to continue God's work in every churches were greatly emphasized. All were more than willing to do it for God's glory. The conquering spirit is alive and well!

The following day (Sunday) was JIL Alberta 21^st Anniversary celebration with yours truly as their Guest Speaker with “Year of Conquest” as its chosen theme. The whole place was filled with joy and excitement to celebrate God’s faithfulness. God truly honored the celebration with His presence and favor all throughout. Praise the Lord!!! Congrats JIL Alberta for conquering!!!!!

Then, a one day Preachers Training Course was held in JIL West Edmonton Church facility from 10am-7pm accommodating more or less 60 attendees of JIL Alberta. It was such a fun time for all to learn and re-learn principles for effective preaching of God’s word. Also, Pastor Monette and I shared the 4 lessons for the day.

We were off to Calgary by Wednesday and conducted two nights seminar that day and Thursday focusing on the theme of “Partnership.” It was a two-part series of teaching that JIL Calgary Churches from the four congregations gathered to hear. Truly it was an opportunity to see the desires of the JIL people to grow in their partnership with God personally and corporately as a church. One of the many highlights was the prophetic gesture of unity to strengthen the leaders and congregation’s commitment to one another as they conquer different places with one vision and mission. Thanks very much to the JIL people for the fellowship you’ve shared in those two nights.

The next day we traveled back to Edmonton to prepare for the nuptial of Joal and Abigail. They’ve requested for me to do it and booked it last year. It was a very beautiful wedding of these precious brethren beginning from the entourage, ceremony, reception and up to the end. The whole atmosphere was charged with expectation for the next part. There were many surprising and unforgettable moments yet done with such elegance and care to the delight of everyone present. Congratulations again to both of you!!!!

Finally, the next day (Sunday) I was assigned to preach in West Edmonton 1 and 2 services respectively. I thank God for the strength and inspiration from God. It was such a wonderful time. Thanks JIL West Edmonton congregations for the time well spent. God bless you greatly!

But of course, my whole family is so grateful to the JIL people in Alberta for their hospitality, generosity and fellowship. My children commented that it was a special time for them not just they went to West Edmonton Mall specifically going to Galaxyland rides and swimming in the Waterpark inside the mall (Yes, there is a waterpark inside the mall!) but spending time with the other PK’s (Pastor’s kids). Thanks very much!!!!

It will be one of our ministry experience recorded as the most maximized yet fruitful two weeks. Everything was there. What could you say? But thanking the Lord for the great opportunity to serve Him this way. We left for Vancouver last Wednesday (August 27) preparing for the upcoming JIL BC Worship Camp from Friday to Monday. I will update you about this next time!!!! Thanks for reading!!!

Please visit: www.jilcanada.org under Alberta for pictures. Happy viewing!