by: Ptr. Andy Sunga

Nowadays crisis are impacting the lives of almost everyone around the globe. Yes, crisis is rampant not just here in the Philippines but even in our neighboring countries, the last time I’ve read about the news in Malaysia and Thailand the price of rice and other common commodities are also rising. Christians are not shielded by these prevailing difficulties. Since we are not exempted, how do we react to this kind of situation? Do we call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ? Or do we rely on the things that He can do in our lives?

I would suggest that we say “Yes” for Christ and “No” for crisis. For the Bible says; “No one can separate us from the love of Christ”, not even crisis. As Christians, we should fight for the good fight of faith that the Lord has given us. Yes it’s hard to become a Christian and even harder for a Christian leader but we should learn to stand firm in our faith for God rewards those who have remain faithful until the end.

This is the reason why I am still standing in what God has promised and God commanded me to do in His ministry – Christ’s Shepherds And Flock Ministry Int’l. Obedience is the key to tremendous blessings. I’m always saying that “ Paborito ko ang may problema” ( I love it when I’m surrounded by problems.) because through this my faith will be strengthened and I will be molded toward what the Lord wants me to be.

Currently, as the appointed Pastor - Provincial Overseer of Pampanga I’ve seen how the ministry continue despite the crisis.

After a year of conducting Bible studies particularly in Highview Hills Apalit and Florida Pampanga, the regular attendees are now all excited to have our own Local Church and they are thirsty to attend Sunday Fellowship to hear from the Word of God. Yes we have lots of dreams, plans, and programs for the vineyard of CSAFMI but sufferings come because of financial problem. But we will never surrender instead we will pursue God’s purpose in our lives. I pray that may His will in my life be done. Please do pray for my re-assignment at Qatar to expand the ministry by His grace immediately this year 2008.

by: Ptr. Faithie Salude

One hour traffic on the highway, two hours seating inside the van, and 30 minutes ride on a jeep that sums up my complete journey from Manila to a small town in Pampanga - Florida Blanca. Every Saturday I go there with my pastor to conduct a bible study. We constantly share God’s word to a family, who eagerly waits for us not because they want to mingle and have fun with us but because they are excited to hear the Word of the Lord - to know more about Him, about His plans and His love. They are always prepared every session. They have been reading and studying their Bible diligently. In fact, they comprehend our lessons effortlessly and most often than not recognize the Bible character that we are talking about easily. They asked questions right away if they find something not so clear to them .They will not let the session end without finding the correct answer to their question.

Our Bible Study sessions grew more and more intense and in depth that we just found ourselves not only studying the Word but also praising and worshipping God through songs, breaking the bread together and sharing testimonies and life-changing insights to one another. Everyone is excited to share how God moved in their lives. I also am very thrilled to share my life to them – how God mold me and change me in the process. These new believers in Florida Blanca desire to become God’s workers and serve Him faithfully. They are like brand new lamps ready to lighten up dark places. All the hustles that I am experiencing along the way are fine. I believe that God is pleased whenever I share to them His Word properly. When I was in the van, on my way to our Bible Study, I’ve noticed the word “perishable goods, do not delay” in the back of the private vehicle that carries foods that should be delivered immediately because it will get spoiled if it will not be handed-over on time. It should be delivered immediately to the place where it is needed. There’s a similar urgency in spreading the Word of God. It’s not that it will be rotten or spoiled because it outlasts a million lifetimes but because the people not just in Florida, Pampanga but in other places as well, are expecting and waiting for it, so we should not delay.

As of now we are persistently praying for a sanctuary in Pampanga where we can all praise God freely. Please join us in asking God for this so that more souls could be ushered towards Him.