Life as it is

I think my packed holiday schedule of camps, outings, going out with friends is finally taking its toil on me. Feeling the effects now, but I won't complain.

Just reminded of what Ate Joy spoke to me about in the morning (we were roommates for 1 or 2 nights during the ecamp) when I woke up around 6+. (We were stuck in a 3 and a half hour traffic jam the night before en route to south Cebu) She asked me how I was doing, and I replied that I was quite tired. She then told me in a serious tone that I have to learn to ''discipline my body'' like Paul did, and then run the race. I was taken aback, but I remembered reflecting on what she said for the rest of the day. Really respect Ate Joy and her discipline, and it was truly my privilege to be able to room with her.

So, in a way, I just really want to thank God for everything that He has given to me. Thank You Jesus for being my Best Friend, my Lord, my Comforter, my Helper, my everything. With You just reflects my heart for now.

You have been so good to me
How can I find the words to thank You?
Healer of broken hearts and broken dreams
Lord, I never cease to praise You

I am constantly amazed
You are a God forever faithful
As I look back on my history of grace
How could I be anything but grateful?

// doreeen

End of a life chapter for me

I've been in my church youth group for coming to 5 years now, and as much as I'm reluctant to close that chapter, I have to move on to young adults, especially after my parents' firm decision for me.

I remember the first time I stepped into GLCC, I was moved by the warmth and welcome of the people, including every single one of the youth then - Melody, Yufei, Elizabelle, Claudia, Giolo etc. My first youth meeting was the screening of Fireproof, and other than the movie that moved my heart, the people at that youth meeting treated me as if I was already part of them, which really moved me greatly.

Then, after the Lord touched me in a special way, I felt moved to join Street Evangelism (or Street E in short) because I was excited to tell people about the power and the love of Jesus. I still long for souls to be saved everyday, for people to experience the amazing love of Jesus like what I experience. I also joined the Youth Ministry, because I wanted to reach other newcomers and welcome them like I was welcomed.

The past 5 years in Youth taught me so much, and I made so many new friends. Though many came and left, I still pray that the youth will continue growing and reaching more for the Kingdom. It is my heartbeat for youths to love the Lord and fix their eyes on where true joys can only be found - in Jesus, and help others to experience that great love of God.

I guess I should be grateful that I've had an extra 2 years with you all when the youth extended the age limit to JC and poly kids, but I guess the time has come for me to move on.

I am truly so thankful that I have had the privilege to serve with so many of you, whether through youth camp or other means, and every one of you have made an impact on my life in some way or another. Really sad to leave especially after all the new friendships forged in this youth camp, but I believe God has a plan for me. One day, maybe the Lord will lead me back to the youth again to serve. Praying for y'all!

// doreeen