Philosophy is Flawed

Do you believe everything can be explained? Science and Philosophy tries to explain and measure who God is... his existence... but can you honestly say to yourself that with our limited brain... our limited capacity... our limited knowledge... can man really explain the unexplainable? Measure (something that has beginning and end) the immeasurable?

I got the story below from an e-mail :) I hope and pray that you enjoy and ponder on the entertaining story below :)

The Story of the Atheist Professor and the Christian Student

An atheist professor of philosophy speaks to his class on the problem science has with God, The Almighty.

He asks one of his new Christian students to stand and.....

Professor : You are a Christian, aren't you, son?
Student : Yes, sir.

Professor : So you believe in God?
Student : Absolutely, sir.

Professor : Is God good?
Student : Sure.

Professor : Is God all-powerful?
Student : Yes.

Professor : My brother died of cancer even though he prayed to God to heal him. Most of us would attempt to help others who are ill. But God didn't. How is this God good then? Hmm?

(Student is silent.)

Professor : You can't answer, can you? Let's start again, young fella. Is God good?
Student : Yes.

Professor : Is Satan good?
Student : No.

Professor : Where does Satan come from?
Student : From...God...

Professor : That's right. Tell me son, is there evil in this world?
Student : Yes.

Professor : Evil is everywhere, isn't it? And God did make everything. Correct?
Student : Yes.

Professor : So who created evil?

(Student does not answer.)

Professor : Is there sickness? Immorality? Hatred? Ugliness? All these terrible things exist in the world, don't they?
Student : Yes, sir.

Professor : So, who created them?

(Student has no answer.)

Professor : Science says you have 5 senses you use to identify and observe the world around you. Tell me, son...Have you ever seen God?
Student : No, sir.

Professor : Tell us if you have ever heard your God?
Student : No , sir.

Professor : Have you ever felt your God, tasted your God, smelt your God? Have you ever had any sensory perception of God for that matter?
Student : No, sir. I'm afraid I haven't.

Professor : Yet you still believe in Him?
Student : Yes.

Professor : According to empirical, testable, demonstrable protocol, science says your GOD doesn't exist. What do you say to that, son?
Student : Nothing. I only have my faith.

Professor : Yes. Faith. And that is the problem science has.
Student : Professor, is there such a thing as heat?

Professor : Yes.
Student : And is there such a thing as cold?

Professor : Yes.
Student : No sir. There isn't.

(The lecture theatre becomes very quiet with this turn of events.)

Student : Sir, you can have lots of heat, even more heat, superheat, mega heat, white heat, a little heat or no heat. But we don't have anything called cold. We can hit 458 degrees below zero which is no heat, but we can't go any further after that. There is no such thing as cold. Cold is only a word we use to describe the absence of heat. We cannot measure cold. Heat is energy. Cold is not the opposite of heat, sir, just the absence of it.

(There is pin-drop silence in the lecture theatre.)

Student : What about darkness, Professor? Is there such a thing as darkness?
Professor : Yes. What is night if there isn't darkness?

Student : You're wrong again, sir. Darkness is the absence of something. You can have low light, normal light, bright light, flashing light....But if you have no light constantly, you have nothing and it's called darkness, isn't it? In reality, darkness isn't. If it were you would be able to make darkness darker, wouldn't you?

Professor : So what is the point you are making, young man?
Student : Sir, my point is your philosophical premise is flawed.

Professor : Flawed? Can you explain how?
Student : Sir, you are working on the premise of duality. You argue there is life and then there is death, a good God and a bad God. You are viewing the concept of God as something finite, something we can measure. Sir, science can't even explain a thought. It uses electricity and magnetism, but has never seen, much less fully understood either one. To view death as the opposite of life is to be ignorant of the fact that death cannot exist as a substantive thing. Death is not the opposite of life: just the absence of it. Now tell me, Professor. Do you teach your students that they evolved from a monkey?

Professor : If you are referring to the natural evolutionary process, yes, of course, I do.
Student : Have you ever observed evolution with your own eyes, sir?

(The Professor shakes his head with a smile, beginning to realize where the argument is going.)

Student : Since no one has ever observed the process of evolution at work and cannot even prove that this process is an on-going endeavour, are you not teaching your opinion, sir? Are you not a scientist but a preacher?

(The class is in uproar.)

Student : Is there anyone in the class who has ever seen the Professor's brain?

(The class breaks out into laughter.)

Student : Is there anyone here who has ever heard the Professor's brain, felt it, touched or smelt it?..... No one appears to have done so. So, according to the established rules of empirical, stable, demonstrable protocol, science says that you have no brain, sir. With all due respect, sir, how do we then trust your lectures, sir?

(The room is silent. The professor stares at the student, his face unfathomable.)

Professor : I guess you'll have to take them on faith, son.
Student : That is it sir.. The link between man & God is FAITH. That is all that keeps things moving & alive.

Psalm 18:30
As for God, his way is perfect; the word of the LORD is flawless. He is a shield for all who take refuge in him.

Thanks Ganns

I'd like to thank my highschool friend Ganns for linking my blog to his blog site "Superblessed"

God bless to you and your family bro! :)

Psalm 9:11

Sing praises to the LORD, enthroned in Zion;
proclaim among the nations what he has done

When God Made You

Is there really someone out there for you? Did God create that perfect match?

Genesis 2:22-24

22 Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.

²³ The man said,
"This is now bone of my bones
and flesh of my flesh;
she shall be called 'woman,'
for she was taken out of man."

²⁴ For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.

As we can see in the Bible, God created Eve for Adam; that before all God's commandments the very first thing God instituted is marriage. God was the one who initiated it. God was the one who created Adam and Eve for each other.

Honestly speaking the first time I read the verses above a thought crossed my mind - "ei, did Adam / Eve have a choice?". Well, a very valid question. Unlike Adam and Eve's time the world we live in today has nearly 5 Billion people in it. But I submit to you today that the number is irrelevant. I believe God being the provider and loving father will create or have already created that special person just for you.

Now you might be thinking... "Ok wise-guy, proof?". Well, the best proof I can give you is of course God's Words - the Bible. Will a God who blesses you with your financial problems, health problems, spiritual problems, family problems - will he not bless you with the one of the best gifts that He can give? A partner for life?

I'll be elaborating more on this topic in my succeeding posts :) but before I leave this blog post behind I'd like to tell you guys that before you "find" or God "gives" you that special someone for you; you should be right with God in the first place. :) Build a relationship with God first, put him first in your life and believe me my friend... everything and I mean EVERYTHING will fall into place. Oh by the way, check out the song below.

Song: When God Made You
Artist: Newsong

(Verse 1)
Its always been a mystery to me
How two hearts can come together
And love can last forever
But now that I have found you, I believe
That a miracle has come
When God sends the perfect one
Now gone are all my questions about why
And Ive never been so sure of anything in my life

(Chorus)
I wonder what God was thinking
When He created you
I wonder if He knew everything I would need
Because He made all my dreams come true
When God made you
He must have been thinking about me

(Verse 2)
I promise that wherever you may go
Wherever life may lead you
With all my heart Ill be there too
From this moment I want you to know
Ill let nothing come between us
And I will love the ones you love
Now gone are all my question about why
And Ive never been so sure of anything in my life

(Repeat Chorus)

(Bridge)
He made the sun He made the moon
To harmonize in perfect tune
One cant move without the other
They just have to be together
And that is why I know its true
Youre for me and Im for you
Cause my world just cant be right
Without you in my life

(Repeat Chorus)

(Tag)
He mustve heard every prayer Ive been praying
Yes He knew everything I would need
When God made you
When dreams come true
When God made you
He mustve been thinking about me

My Poem for the Lord

Psalm 18:49

Therefore I will praise you among the nations, O LORD;
I will sing praises to your name.

The Lord has blessed me so much; I'm in awe of what he has done in my life... It's really different reading, hearing and knowing what faith is, what he can do in ones life... to experiencing it first hand! :) Seeing the hand of God literally move through your own life and the people you love. Awesome!

My Lord from heaven above,
You've showered me with your love.
You who created the heavens and the earth below,
Who has cleansed me as pure as snow.
On the cross your Son died for me,
From the bondage of sin you've set me free.
Each and everyday you've given your grace,
How I long to see your face.
My Lord, My God you've blessed me so,
This poem is for you to know.
That my thanks and gratitude is not enough indeed,
So I give you my heart, my soul, my life to lead.
Unto your will I will surrender,
For your love is so sweet and tender.
My Lord and my God this simple rhyme is for you,
Simply saying that I Love You.

Thoughts of God, thoughts of you

Lord I'm in awe! You have blessed me so much!

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Definitely when you seek him you will find him... and once you found him you would like to be in his presence all day long. Everything will fall into place... Blessings, upon blessings... only God can create such a story... I'm in awe of his power, his glory, his majesty! Lord you have blessed me so much! I was able to write the poem below because of you Lord. I can't thank you so much... for everything!

I thought of you I wonder why,
I often do this when I cried.
Times when I am in the rough,
when my heart was sad and carrying hurtful stuff.
I found it strange then thinking of you,
well during those times I didn't have a clue.
That God was already saying you are for me,
and that through you - He'll be saving me.
Thinking back I am amazed,
how God will move mountains and remove the haze.
Times might get tough but one thing I'm sure,
as sure as the sun rises and the sea rushes to the shore.
I'll be with you through the good and the bad,
through the joys and when you're feeling sad.
I have faith in us because of one thing,
because God orchestrated everything.

The poem is a testimony to how God worked and is working in my life... I sought after him... I found him... he forgave me, he completed me... he blessed me... My thanks is not enough for him saving me from sin... looking at everything... words escapes me!

Some of you might have gotten what the poem was all about, some not... but I submit to you... be faithful to God... get to know him first... serve him and make him number one in your life... and man! You'll see him make wonders, miracles... he'll move mountains just for you. To show his love.

To my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I'll be praising you all the days of my life! Thank you Lord!

Despedida for my brother

Last night just had a midnight dinner with my family @ Jack's Loft in Eastwood. It's been a long time since we had one... dinner together, since all of us are already working and we barely have common schedules anymore. This night also was a despedida for my younger brother James; he'll be going to Singapore tomorrow to work there.

Thinking back to my childhood... I have fond memories of family get-togethers, usually during Christmas or during special occasions. These activities help rekindle the bond of a family. Thinking of my own future... when I have my own family... activities such as these will be a constant part of my family life. I'll spend time with my wife... scheduling dates with her... for us to spend time & cherishing each other & thank God for what he has done to our lives, for creating her for me and me for her. When I have kids... they'll have their own special time with me... and with my wife as a family. Of course I'm talking all in future tense here - since I'm not yet married hehehe.

Well, this blog post is for my family - specifically my brother James (besides our mom). Well bro, I wish you all the best in Singapore. We might not have spent that much time... when we were younger we were usually at odds... especially when our parents were not around... thinking back to those times bro... I can't help being the older brother... looking after my siblings - I did that out of love and concern. Thinking now and the future, I don't know if I'll be able to visit you in Singapore... I don't know if you'll be able to return to the Philippines during special occasions but what I'm sure of is that I'll miss you bro and that you'll always be part of my prayers. I know Singapore’s a very hectic place... at times when the going gets tough... just pray to God for guidance and strength. Well, you take care now and don't forget to write or in this case e-mail :) God bless always!

My prayer for my brother James

Lord God, I lift to you the life of my brother James (Jim-B)... I thank you for having created him to be part of my family. Lord, as he goes to Singapore to work and make a living for himself - I pray that you guide and protect him. I pray Lord that you present people to his life in Singapore that will help him through all his endeavors. Father God, I pray for provisions for my brother... I pray for health and protection... I pray for continual blessing upon him. I lift you up the life of my brother whom I love - in Jesus' name. Amen.

Terms and Titles

People often ask me... so what type of Christian are you? Evangelical? Baptist? Born-again? Catholic? Orthodox? Etc...

Hmmm... I think there are differences on how the Truth is taught in a particular group... but I don't think titles are important... but what is important is what's the state of the individuals relationship to Jesus is.

Let's look at the heart of it all... beyond the group name... The heart of what being a Christian is all about. "Christian" (as generally accepted) is a title given to someone who is a follower of Christ. But I submit to you - that not everyone who says, "I'm a Christian" is a "Christian"... some people live lives as if "Christianity" is a badge.

Regardless of group affiliation... Christians call Jesus as "Lord". My friend, I'm sure if you're a part of any of the Christian groups... at one point in your life... you called Jesus as "Lord"; maybe in the prayers you pray... especially at hard times... but let me show you what Jesus said 2000 years ago as testified in the Bible...

"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?" (Luke 6:46)

"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven." (Matthew 7:21)

Hmm, do we only call him Lord... in our prayers? What does it mean to call someone Lord in the first place? During the olden days, the title of Lord wasn't merely a title given to someone. It talks about authority, talks about having the say, talks about giving your allegience. During medieval times - servants died for their lords... knights fought and died for their king. Servants followed each and every command even if it will mean their lives - that's how heavy the word lord is.

In our modern world... Lord might mean boss... in an office scenario... your boss is the one who calls the shots... the one who you follow... I doubt it if any employee will say no to his or her 'boss'.

Plain and simple lordship demands obedience... Now let's see... hmmm, are we serious when we call Jesus Lord? or is it simply a title that we put besides his name? Hmmm, you might answer... "yes I call him Lord and I'm serious... I follow his commandments!" Now I ask you, what do you think of the following verses below?

"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brotherwill be subject to judgment." (Matthew 5:21-22)

"You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart." (Matthew 5:27-28)

What do you think? :) Search your heart my friend... do you call Jesus 'Lord' as a title or 'Lord' because he has total dominion over your life? Do you really live-up to what Jesus asks of you? Are you really a Christian? :) I'll be elaborating on this topic in my succeeding posts :D

Oh by the way... going back to the question above... I answer "I'm a Christian", people usually respond, "born again?"... I respond... "Christians go through the process of being born-again, it's not a title connected to being a Christian... so to answer you question... I'm a Christian" :)

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come." (2 Corinthians 5:17)

I'm a Protector! Weee!

You are a protector.

Yes, you don't like to kill people. That goes against everything you belive in. It's not that you are a coward, but your ideals and morals wouldn't allow it. You are the typical hero, do the righteous things, get the bad guys and do it all legally. But just because you don't kill doesn't mean you can't kick ass. And that is what you do. You use your brain and your strenght to do honourable deeds and protect people you know and love. If an evil guy is going to take over the world soon, it's you who will get involved. You hate watching innocents suffer, and love seeing bad people getting what they deserve. You are probably also happy and optimistic and work pretty good in groups. And the friends you usually make are true ones.

Main weapon: Anything at all
Quote: "You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough" -Joe Lewis
Facial expression: Smile

What Type of Killer Are You? [cool pictures]
brought to you by Quizilla

My Comments regarding Jesus not being a personal Lord and Savior

I've been a Christian now for almost 6 months and man I can boldly say that these past months has been the best times of my entire life! I'm not saying that the problems has been removed or I am no longer affected by emotions, stress, sickness... I can say that all my "troubles" or "tests" prior to becoming a Christian is / are still present... but because of my relationship with Jesus... I'm able to weather the storms :)

"I can do everything through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13).

Christianity is not a religion as some say it is... it is a personal relationship!

I'd like to comment on one message that was aired on TV by a charismatic "religious" leader in our country, it seems that he has memorized the entire Bible and dares people to ask him anything about it - I think it is his way to display "his" knowledge of the Word of God.

Anyway, he commented that the born-again’s (a term used to call some Christians - I'll tackle this later in another post) got it all wrong... that Jesus is not a personal Lord and Savior. And he challenged everyone listening to check the Bible - because the term personal Lord and Savior is not written in it... and included in his challenge is that... if whoever sees a verse that says that... he'll have his arms chopped-off. He continued that Jesus is Lord and Savior of the entire church (as an institution)... and not of an individual (since he already said no to Jesus becoming a personal Lord and Savior). He even commented that for people to be saved... we need to be Biblical... just follow what is written in the Bible. (his members then clapped to his entertaining comments). I think the institution thingy... came about because he's at odds with another "religious" institution... getting members... a numbers game. :(

Anyway, I agree with him in some points though... that we should be Biblical... as Christians we go to the word of God for guidance :) and so far... yup he's right... I haven't seen a line in the Bible that literally states... "Jesus should be your personal Lord and Savior"... but still... I disagree with that "religious leader".

My bro and sis... I'd like you to reflect upon the Words of God Himself... and you decide :)

"Come, follow me, " Jesus said, "and I will make you fishers of men." (Mark 1:17)

"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith - and this not from yourselves, it is a gift of God - not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8,9)

"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching." (Hebrews 10:25)

"Then I acknowledge my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, 'I will confess my transgressions to the LORD" - and you forgave the guild of my sin." (Psalm 32:5)

"But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." (Matthew 6:6)

Ok... I'll stop typing... if I continue... I'll be typing the entire Bible! Hahaha! :) kidding aside. What have you observed with the verses above? :) Search your heart... do you think God is just talking to an institution? Or an individual? Talking to your heart? :) If you read the Bible from cover to cover it shows how God is... who God is... that he is constantly trying to reach out to his children... you can read stories of how God interacts and talk with people as individuals... from Adam to the last pages of the book of Revelations (You!).

But probably the best evidence that Jesus should be a personal Lord and Savior is through what he did on the cross 2000 years ago.

"For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich" (2 Corinthians 8:9)

Jesus died for each and everyone of us... God held you worthy to be saved… that’s why he sent his only son to die for you! Imagine what kind of love that is! That’s the awesome love that God has for each and everyone of us… for you! That’s what I call mind-blowing love!

The Bible is a method of God conversing with individuals… hmm, just like what I’m doing right now to you :) I created this blog to reach individuals… to reach you!

Lastly... maybe there is no verse in the Bible that say "personal Lord and Savior" but... check-out the following verses...

"That if you confess with your mouth, 'Jesus is Lord,' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved." (Romans 10:9,10)

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him." (Colossians 2:6)

"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord." (1 Peter 3:15)

So my friend... what do you think God is telling you? :)

Take all of me

I'd like to ask you guys this question... Who is Jesus to you? What's your relationship with Him? Do you know him? You might say... "yeah" but think about this... How much do you know him? Are you his friend or a simply acquaintance? Think hard my friend :)

Being friends with someone means having a relationship with that person. In the past I can say that I have knowledge of Jesus... I knew that he died for me... but I didn't really understand what it means... I didn't have a relationship... he was mearly an acquaintance of mine. I did things my way... I saw things... in my way... when I don't get what I wanted... I mocked him.

Friendship equates to trust and faith in someone... do you whole-heartedly have faith in him? Trust and Faith are two very strong words - infact it's synonymus! If you say yes... then ask yourself... "Have you counted the cost?"... How much do you love Jesus? How much do you trust him? How much faith do you have? Imagine you're in a plane that's about to crash... and you'll have to jump off the plan using a parachute... basically you're entrusting yourself on the parachute... that's what faith is... now... do you have "that" relationship with Jesus? Do you have total trust in Him? Trust not only in one aspect of your life... or your schedule... but rather... every aspect of your being.

Can you surrender your life to him? Give him everything you've got! Everything that you have? Can you? Don't simply say it... but do you really mean what you say? You probably understand what I'm saying but... think about this... what's stoping you of giving that 100%? When will you start?

Statistically speaking... most people in their death-bed call unto God prior to death... even those who don't believe in him. Now I ask you... will you wait until that time?

While you're at it... why not read the lyrics of the song below :)

Artist: Australia Hillsongs
Song: Take all of me

You broke the night like the sun
and healed my heart with Your great love
any trouble couldn't bear
You lifted me upon Your sholders

Love that's stronger
Love that covers sin
and takes the weight of the world

I love You
all of my hope is in You
Jesus Christ take my life
take all of me

You stand upon mountain tops with me
with You I walk through the valleys
You gave Your only Son for me
Your grace is all I rely on

Love that's stronger
Love that covers sin
and takes the weight of the world

I love You
all of my hope is in You
Jesus Christ take my life
take all of me

I love You so, and I give up my Life to say
I need You so, my everything

I feel weak :(

Well just met my classes today. It's unfortunate that I wasn't in "fighting form" :( (I have the flu).

I opted to come to class even with my condition. I promised the Lord that I will give my 100% for Him in my work. That this simple ailment will not hinder me to worship the Lord my God. I'm thankful that he gave me the energy to talk to my class, that the fire that is inside me... the passion I have to teach my students was still there... the passion of doing my best for the honor of God.

My Prayer to the Lord

Lord God I feel weak... my mind and body is at its limits... but my heart Lord continues to work for Your glory. I pray Lord that you give me the strength to overcome this obstacle... that I maybe able to serve you even with this ailment. I love you Lord God, and this simple sacrifice of mine is not enough for what you have done for me 2000 years ago on that cross... by dying for my sins - You have saved me from the fires of hell. I know Lord God that I should not fear anyone or anything because You are my defender, my redeemer, my strength, my hope, my shield, my comforter... as you promised and as I have experienced... You're always am with me.

Have you?

Just woke up a few minutes ago... now I'm gonna get ready to go to the sunday service @ Republic of Malate. Hmmm, I have a sore throat (again!)... Wahhh! How will I sing for the Lord later at service? How will I talk to my students this week?

Usually we only get to appreciate things, senses, and talents given by God when you lose it. Think about this my friend... have you used the senses, talents He has given you at all? If so, another question... how did you use it? If not - why?

Below are a couple of stories from my life that I'd like to share with you guys

The Sketching Story

When I was in grade school I used to draw (pencil, pastels, charcoal)... I drew landscapes and people... in fact I even entered drawing contests - I can say that I was good at it! Then came a point where I simply given-up drawing (high school)... and one time while walking, I met my grade school art teacher; you can say that he's my mentor with regards to the drawing and painting. He asked me "Hello Norman, kamusta?" I replied "Ok lang sir" with a smile. He then asked me "O, nag-draw-drawing ka pa ba?" I then replied "Sir hindi na". With a sad face he said "Sayang naman". His words and the expression on his face still haunt my thoughts till this very day.

The Tae Kwon Do Varsity

In highschool, my friend Ligert asked me to join the Tae Kwon Do club. At first it was simply exercise but as the months past by my view on Tae Kwon Do transformed; from exercise to serious pursuit of the art. I can say the pursuit was because of my friend’s passion for the art and my respect and admiration to our mentor Mr. Rolly Paterno. Tae Kwon Do was my world was in everything that I do.

Then the last tournament that I and Ligert had for LSGH came, National Tae Kwon Do Championship (the biggest event in all of Philippine Tae Kwon Do events wherein there are 5 fighters and for the entire team to advance 3/5 must win their individual matches). After several months of training... after all the pain... here is the arena to prove myself... and to give honor to my school, my team mates and my mentor. But during that time I had to overcome adversity, there was an oversight on the weight category that I was in. I was overweight by 10lbs and had to remove those pounds in a week’s time. It was the lowest and the most painful time of my all highschool days - but my mentor stuck with me through that endeavor. With Sir Rolly's help I reached the required weight, but at a price. All the hardwork, the training has gone to waist... I was famished! I felt weak! The speed and power of my kicks, my reflexes have all been diminished due to that 1 week’s journey.

But I can't simply give-up! During the two days tournament - I fought with my all my heart! During the team huddle Sir Rolly even commented "I'd like to commend Norman, his attitude, kita nyo naman na wala syang lakas pero he still fought ang gave his all. Let's have that attitude, that heart". My friend Ligert also encouraged me. Our team won battle after battle but came the turning point of it all... we lost our bronze medal fight... the only time that me and Ligert lost. After the match Sir Rolly talked to me and Ligert. He said thanks for our effort and dedication; he encouraged us to continue our pursuit of Tae Kwon Do even in our college days... and even said that with hard work we might even end up in the Philippine team. (We were in tears as Sir Rolly said though encouraging words). It's sad that Ligert and I stopped Tae Kwon Do when we reached our 2nd year in college.

Conclussion

Now thinking about my past... here are men who believed in my skills, my talents... men who saw something in me, who encouraged me to use my skills & talents... and I simply put it to waste. I can simply imagine what could have happened if I continued with my drawing... my art work might already be in different art galleries... if I pursued Tae Kwon Do... I could be fighting right now for the glory of our nation.

In the past, I drew and fought to please my mentors and other people. The result is I gave-up. I started the race but never did I finish it. Yes I had passion... but never did I channel that passion to a greater pursuit... for a greater purpose. Yes I was out to please someone... but not THE ONE who gave me ALL the gifts and talents that I have.

When I think of my mentors right now... the sadness on their face knowing that I gave up... that I didn't use the skills and talents given to me... I think of how God must have been feeling all this time. From my birth until my adulthood I have a squandered what He has given. Me - not going to my full potential! Me limiting myself! Me not using his gifts for His glory. Me not doing what He has planned for me! Me not doing His will!

Open your Bible and read Matthew 25:14-30 (The Parable of the Talents).

God gave us all these gifts; the more you use the gifts that He gave can lead to new gifts... a grander purpose... I can imagine now that if I used my gift of drawing, I would have excelled and might have lead to me knowing how to paint and not simply sketch... it would be an instrument for me in advancing God's kingdom. Or if I pursued Tae Kwon Do, I might be in the Philippine Team right now and again... God would have used me for His purpose there.

I know God gave me the gift of teaching... he also gave me a talent for singing... and now, having this relationship with Jesus Christ - I get to appreciate the love that God have for me. Grabe bro! He's a very very loving God talaga! Everyday He shows me what he gave - and I didn't know that I had them all along pala. Bro, I'm simply am scratching the surface of His majesty... His gifts for me... and I'm ecstatic! C'mon! Now I'm going to use the gifts that I know I have... teaching and singing... unlike my younger years where I would do things to please people... this time... I'm going to please My God! When I said that I will follow you Lord... I made a covenant! I will finish this race! I will be God's champion! I will use everything that He has given me for His purpose for His kingdom for His Glory!

I will teach my students not only academics but what life is all about... about values... about faith... I will use God's gift of singing as I train under the Music Ministry and I know one day God will ask me to perform for Him and sing for Him in front of the children of God.

I will teach and sing with my heart and my soul... when I'm weak... I'll call upon the Lord to grant me the strength to overcome any obstacle... so that I can further His kingdom here on earth!

I encourage you to use it! It's God given!

Friend, what do you think you'll answer when God asks you when you're judged... what have you done with the gifts I given you? I pray it's not - "wala... I opted to watch TV and party all day and night"

Going back to my questions at the start of my post.

Usually we only get to appreciate things, senses, and talents given by God when you lose it. Think about this my friend... have you used the senses, talents He has given you at all? If so, another question... how did you use it? If not - why?

The BEST Decision!

Just came from Campus Harvest. What? You weren't there? I tell you... you missed alot! Talk about PASSION for Christ! Man! The best! Don't worry though... if you were unable to join this years "Harvest"... it's not too late... I believe next year's "Harvest" will be even more bountiful! Ei... last year I wasn't part of the event... and now... WOW! C'mon! :D

Now I wanna ask you something my bro/sis... What is the best decision you did in your entire life? Ok... wait and reflect... think... was it applying in school / course / job you wanted? Asking out the girl of your dreams (for guys)? Accepting a date from your crush (girls)? Getting married? Accepting a promotion? Going on a trip? Etc... etc... Now some/all of these might be "valid" decisions... some might even be life changing... but I tell you this bro/sis - for me... everything that the world can offer can't be compared to what the Lord has in store... The best decision for me is not... getting that dream job... it's not asking out and being accepted to a date from the girl of my dreams... etc... But rather... the best and I mean the BEST! Is accepting and surrendering my life to the Lord!

I was focussed on the wrong things... my life was work and/or relationships... and it led to depression & stress... talk about existing and walking through life not knowing what my purpose is... everything seemed "robotic".

But since the Lord has taken control of my life... He has shown me amazing things! He has opened my eyes to the TRUTH! By surrendering to His will... to His Lordship... I began to see changes in the way I think... the way I do things... the way I interact with people... even the way I "feel". Everything is so simple... he also has continually blessed me from day one! I can't imagine what He'll give me tomorrow... the day after... two years from now... etc... Exciting bro/sis!

Ei bro/sis... when God makes a promise... He means it... just like my post last April 3... He'll give those who are faithful to Him the desires of their heart. I never thought that God is this giving! Cool! Hmmm, I can babble all day long and you won't understand what I'm saying... but I know! You're questioning my post right this very moment... "totoo ba yan?"... "wushu"... "bola"... "stir".... "ano ba yan mga desires nya?"... “malamang hindi mangyayari mga sinasabi nya”… “dreamer”

I tell you… don’t take my word for it... you have to experience it yourself! I challenge you! To take that leap of faith... focus your energies to having THE relationship… a relationship with Jesus Christ... If you think you know him… think again! Bro/Sis you have nothing to lose... but all to gain! Believe me it'll be the best decision you’ve done! :)

If you need help on how to start a relationship with Jesus... feel free to send an email through norman.g.lee@gmail.com or through my cell number 09178552066.

All glory and honor to the Lord Jesus Christ! :D

Campus Harvest!

Wahoo! Today is the start of Campus Harvest! :D Change the campus... Change the world! I'll be attending todays Teachers and Administrators Seminar at the ENLI Building at the Global City.

May the Lord fill us today with his grace so that we can further glorify his name!

Psalm 145:10-12

10 All you have made will praise you, O LORD;
your saints will extol you.
11 They will tell of the glory of your kingdom
and speak of your might,
12 so that all men may know of your mighty acts
and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.

CONCON? Charter Change? Leadership?

For the past years, our politicians have been talking about charter change - presidential to a parliamentary form of government and just last night I heard news that congress is planning to push the CONCON.

How sad that our "leaders" and some sectors of the public think that changing the form of government will improve life, solve poverty and destroy corruption - basing their views on the success of governments that follow the parliamentary form. I can see it now where "leaders" will go on TV, radio, print and the internet... justifying the need to change the charter.

My brothers and sisters... the problem with our government is not the structure but rather the people who "run"... who "lead". What's the use of changing the form of government if the "leaders" that will be in the new form of government are the same people who run the current one?

If we're serious in changing our lives! There is only one answer - Jesus! Surrender to his Lordship and follow his teaching of loving God above all and loving your brothers as you love yourself. The world we live in - blinds us to the truth. It blinds us to the point that we put money as our god. That my friends is the problem. Yes money is a nessesity to survive... but it shouldn't rule our lives! God should be our ruler! And this world has also blinded us to look-out for ourselves... self-love... selfishness... which is a contradiction of Jesus' teaching of loving your brothers as yourself.

Leadership in this world equates to Position, Power and Privilege... but REAL LEADERSHIP is becoming a servant and being subservient - just like the greatest leader of all time! Jesus Christ!

Leadership is moving people onto God's agenda, not ours! We are nothing without him! All glory and honor should be for him alone.

Matthew 20: 24 - 28

²⁴When the ten heard about this, they were indignant with the two brothers. ²⁵Jesus called them together and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. ²⁶Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, ²⁷and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— ²⁸just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."

More Praises!

Just bought the Hillsong CD's yesterday :) with our hearts and God's grace the fire will continue burning! Fan the flames Lord! Glory be to God!

One Way

I lay my life down at Your feet.
You're the only one I need.
I turn to You and You are always there.
In troubled times, it's You I seek.
I put You first that's all I need .
I humble all I am, all to You.

One way, Jesus.
You're the only One that I could live for.
One way, Jesus.
You're the only One that I could live for.

You are always, always there.
Every how and everywhere.
Your grace abounds so deeply within me.
You will never, ever change.
Yesterday, today the same. Forever 'til forever meets no end.

One way, Jesus.
You're the only One that I could live for.
One way, Jesus.
You're the only One that I could live for.

You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life, we live by faith and not by sight.
For You, we're living all for You.

All Day! For the Lord!

When I was young, people kept on saying to me that there is a "proper" time to worship God and read the Bible. I was also taught that God is this Almighty God... to be feared! A God who punishes! Hmm, let's say as a kid... I felt God was so distant and hard to reach... I was worshiping out of fear.

I thought to myself... is God really this "punisher"? I remember my teachers say "Naku bad yan... magagalit si God!" (Translation: "That's bad... God will get angry!"). In a sense yes God will get angry if we do things that are against His commandments but... I think my teachers in religion class should have explained or showed the reasons behind the commands. I thought the commands were too "restrictive" or "harsh" but now; having my eyes opened, having my brain... WASHED! (Like Pastor Nixon shared "I'm happy they are brainwashing me... because my brain is full of dirt and I needed it washed!") I know God is a caring and loving God, and that the commandments are there because of love and concern. Thus, now I'm doing and following the commands not because of fear... but because I love God! They are not at all restrictive or harsh... infact they freed me from the bondage of this world! Wahooo!

Oh by the way, with regards to having a "proper" time for God... I say, EVERYTIME is a "proper" time for God! He should be part of our daily activities... from the time we open our eyes until we close them to sleep... wait... even in sleep! He's still part of it, hehehe... well the song below can help explain. Glory be to God!

This one is for the Lord! It's from the Hillsong Praise and Worship CD.

All Day

I don't care what they say about me
It's alright, alright
I don't care they think about me
It's alright, they'll get it one day

I love you, I'll follow you
You are my, my life
I will read my bible and pray
I will follow you all day

I don't care what it costs anymore
Cos' you gave it all and I'm following you
I don't care what it takes anymore
No matter what happens I'm going your way

All Day
All Day now
All Day

Anyone around can see
just how good you've been to me
For all my friends that don't know you
I pray that you would save them too

Love moves in mysterious ways

Been listening to this song (Nina Version) for couple of weeks now... ei Bethel (sa kanya yun playlist kasi and lagi tugtog hehehe) na-last song syndrome ako! Wahhh! Pero nice song nga eto.

Love Moves in Mysterious Ways

Who'd have thought this how the pieces fit
You and I shouldn't even try making sense of it
I forgot how we ever came this far,
I believe we had reasons but I don't know what they are,
So I blame it on my heart oh...

[Chorus:]
Love moves in mysterious ways
It's always so surprising
How love appears over the horizon
I love you for the rest of my days
But still it's a mystery
Of how you ever came to me
Which only proves, love moves in mysterious ways

Heaven knows, Love is just a chance we take
We make plans, but then love demands of leap of faith
So hold me close and never ever let me go
'Coz even though we think we know which way the river flows
That's not the way love goes, no..

[Chorus:]
Love moves in mysterious ways
It's always so surprising
How love appears over the horizon
I love you for the rest of my days
But still it's a mystery
Of how you ever came to me
Which only proves, love moves in mysterious ways

Bridge:
Like the ticking of the clock, two hearts beat as one
But I'll never understand the way it;s done, oh

[Chorus:]
Love moves in mysterious ways
It's always so surprising
How love appears over the horizon
I love you for the rest of my days
But still it's a mysteryOf how you ever came to me
Which only proves, love moves in mysterious ways

Love moves in mysterious...ways.....

Yep I agree that love do move in mysterious ways! :D *dreamy eyed* ei... guys can be mushy too! Hehehe :D

On Fire! Wahoo!

I'm very happy to say that I've been a Christian for a month now. I have accepted Jesus as my Lord and Savior and everything and I mean bro... Everything is different! :) Everything is clearer... Simpler... Life is definitely worth living... living for Christ.

The world we live in today constantly bombard us with ideas that blind us to the truth. No wonder why our nation our world is like this. :(

"Lord I have been so blinded by this world that I was going through life as a daily routine... Simply existing for the sake of existing. I know that I am young in my faith and that with all my iniquities I am very capable of failing... But I know I can overcome any obstacle any test since I have you by my side. Nothing is impossible to you Lord! Mold me Lord to who I should be... Lead me Lord to what I should be doing... Change my heart so that I can serve you better, your will be done."

I'm excited to see and do what the Lord asks of me. Hmmm, I just joined "Campus Harvest" cool! We believe that the youth is/are the future of this nation / the world and if you want to change the world/nation you change their lives through Christ.

For more information you can email campusharvestasia@vli.edu.ph

New Life

Yesterday I just attended the wedding of my co-profs and friends (Taki and Meng). It was the first time for me to attend a Christian wedding.

It was like a celebration... not the usual traditional... solemn... quiet... method of which I'm accustomed to.

Hmmm, hearing their love story... that the relationship they had was built around God is really an inspiration... thinking of my own "love stories"... there is a missing ingredient... Just like Pastor Nixon said that marriage / relationship is a "love triangle". You, your partner and of course in the middle of it is God. God is the binding force... that's what I have missing all these years.

Hearing Pastor Nixon point out things in the Bible really moved me, Grace (Louie's wife - my co-prof) talking about - me focusing first in finding God... building a relationship with God... Taki and Meng's love and faith story... everything was soooooo moving... infact - I cried! These past few days have definitely been an eye opener... wait... a heart opener for me.

Below is a chapter from the Bible that Pastor Nixon (during Taki and Mengs wedding); Grace, Taki, Betz have told me... (different instances).

Matthew 6:33
"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

Hmmm, for the past couple of weeks my friends have been teasing me to one of our colleagues... Oliver infact has been "urging" me to court her (name withheld)... I told him... "I admit, she's different from anyone I knew... she has qualities that amazes me... her convictions on certain things... her point of views about life and issues and many many more... I feel more alive whenever I'm around her... but moreover... I'm inspired of her devotion to the faith... she's also one of the people who led me to this journey of mine... finding God (like Louie said, nothing is by chance)... but like what Matthew 6:33 is saying... and I've decided that - I'll focus on finding God first... to know what His plans are for me... right now... might not be the right time... I'll let God tell me when and if she's the one He wants me to be with and vice versa... If GOD WANTS ME to fall head over heels inlove, to GIVE MY LIFE to her then HIS WILL BE DONE... Honestly, I'll surely feel like I'm the luckiest guy in the world if what my heart desires is also the same person that God has planned me to be with... but right now... I'm happy that we're friends... she's one of my guides to the TRUTH... that everything is in God... so unlike my numerous "failed" relationships... this time... I'm handing my life and trust to God... I'll let Him guide me... spiritually, morally, mentally, financially... and even with my relationships... God has His own time-table and plan - they say everything will fall naturally if it was Gods plan; who am I to question that? So God first!".

Today Pope John Paul II just passed away - he's inspired me in so many ways... here's a man who gave his life to spreading the word of Jesus Christ... I'm saddened at the thought of his passing but having had my eyes and heart and mind opened these past few days... I'm also am joyed... for Karol Wojtyla (Pope John Paul II) will be meeting the Lord in heaven whom he served for 84 years.

John 11: 25-26
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

That First Step

Just had a One to One yesterday... I started reading the Bible, The Purpose Driven Life... I also have contemplated, prayed and had decided to just give-in and let God guide me.

Just got news that the Pope was given the last rites; here is a man who has given his entire life to serving God... I can't imagine the pain that he has gone through the past years due to the different illness that he has... but still he continued to do what God wanted him to do...

Let's pray for the Pope.

Signs?

I was driving yesterday to work (still questioning my faith), the odd thing is that I saw a car with a license plate saying John 3:16 (316 JHN). I knew it was a chapter in the Bible but I wasn't sure what it was; of course - I started to ponder whether God was giving me signs... and the odd thing again was that after the license plate - here comes a taxi with a sticker saying "Jesus never fails".

John 3:16
"For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life."

I shared my odd experience to my officemates (Betz and Oliver) and they said that God is trying to give me signs, since I am trying to find "something" - He's already am talking to me...

A side note... I bought a copy of "A Purpose Driven Life" (I lost my 1st copy - I wasn't able to complete the book though... just 3 chapters)... I also got my first copy of the Bible (I don't really have my own "personal" copy). I also have a one-to-one with Louie (my office mate) - later at 5pm; I don't know what will happen later... Betz just told me to tell Louie everything... hmmm, well... I'll give it a shot.

Hmmm, are these signs? What am I so afraid of? Why do I keep on questioning? I have alot of questions... maybe in time I'll know - what the heck I'm searching for.

What is Faith?

I've been questioning what this is for the past couple of months... What is my purpose in this earth? After the breakup I had last year... the turmoils at work... personal issues... :(

I remember I used to pray from the heart... rightnow everything is "robotic". For that past weeks, I've been trying to find what I have lost.

I'd like to thank Betz for inviting me... I think it's working but I don't know how long it will take me to accept His words by heart... as much as I would like to surrender myself to God... right now it still escapes me... the thought that I'm not in control.

Ei Betz, like you said... God has His own time and plan for us...

I just need to be patient.

Sore Throat

Argh... I hate having sore throats... I can't do my lectures in class.

Ok I posted this mainly because I don't have anything significant to say... hahaha! :P