His Life - Cagayan De Oro ABLAZED

Pastor Dante and Sister Pearls shared these pictures to me this week. His Life Cagayan is growing powerfully in their Sunday Celebrations through relationship building in Small Groups. They have 5 SMALL Groups formed in just 4 WEEKS! Isn't that amazing. Whenever you are at CAGAYAN ... just go to KFC, Divisoria Branch, Sundays 530 pm to see the group in ACTION. I believe in you guys! -- pastor jr here

Getting READY for THANKS ALLOT!

Here's a READING to begin with ... I borrowed this from "Our Daily Bread" Daily Reading Devotional Guide.

Let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. —Hebrews 13:15

Throughout history, many cultures have set aside a time for expressing their thankfulness. In the United States, Thanksgiving Day originated with the pilgrims.

In the midst of extreme hardship, loss of loved ones, and meager supplies, they still believed they were blessed. They chose to celebrate God's blessings by sharing a meal with Native Americans who had helped them survive.

We know we've lost the spirit of that original celebration when we catch ourselves complaining that our Thanksgiving Day has been "spoiled" by bad weather, disappointing food, or a bad cold. It's we who are spoiled—spoiled by the very blessings that should make every day a day of thanksgiving, whatever our circumstances.
Billy Graham wrote, "Ingratitude is a sin, just as surely as is lying or stealing or immorality or any other sin condemned by the Bible." He then quoted Romans 1:21, one of the Bible's indictments against rebellious humanity. Then Dr. Graham added, "Nothing turns us into bitter, selfish, dissatisfied people more quickly than an ungrateful heart. And nothing will do more to restore contentment and the joy of our salvation than a true spirit of thankfulness."
Which condition describes you? — contributed by Joanie Yoder

A grumbling mood of discontent, Gives way to thankfulness, When we consider all God's gifts, And all that we possess. —Sper

Remembering MAMA "Nonoy" Remy Together

The following pictures were taken last November 1 at the Bacolod Memorial Park. Hundreds of people were there remembering their departed loved ones. For us -- it was Mama Nonoy. We not only had a meaningful reunion ... we also had food, fun with the kids, chats with each other and picture taking. PRAISE the LORD for the Hope we have in Christ Jesus -- our loved ones are in His side and a GREAT Reunion of Saints will happen in the future.

A collection of photos of the 1st Missonary Trip of Joshua to Mindanao! He visited Cagayan de Oro City, Iligan City and Marawi City (an Islamic City) in the South of the Philippines. He enjoyed the trip ... he helped started our HLM Church Plant in the great, beautiful island of Mindanao.

JOSHUA's Cousins

After CAGAYAN ... we went to CEBU City! These pictures were taken at the house of Nong Charles and Manang Mera. Look how the kids have grown. Another set of pictures will be posted soon .... this time it will be Joshua's cousins -- the Larrazabals :-)