It has been ten years since I last saw my family and relatives in the Philippines and I was fourteen when I left to live in Canada. During my three weeks stay in the Philippines, I decided that I will go back to Angeles City, Pampanga and share the love of Jesus Christ and my testimony to my family. I was so joyful to see both my Lola A and Lola Mely who are 89 years old, I was also excited to see my cousin’s children, the eldest is eight years old and the youngest is 2 years old.  

Many things happened during those 10 years that I have been in Canada. I became a Christian and have accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior, my baptism at CLSF Camp on July 5, 2015 led me to grow and mature spiritually throughout the years. Becoming part of the worship ministry and children’s ministry also contributed to my learning about the importance of repentance, intimacy and servanthood to God. Being the first Christian in my immediate family is difficult and challenging but it is also a way for God’s light to shine through me. I believe that I am nothing without God, and through the years, I have learned that God is my Abba Father and my identity is formed because I am His precious daughter. My insecurities and negative bitterness with people who have done me wrong have been replaced with a strong identity and foundation rooted in Christ alone. My life verses are:

“I am fearfully and wonderfully made “(Psalm 139)

“I believe that He has made everything beautiful in its time. “(Ecclesiastes 3:11)  

“For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

During my stay in the Philippines, I was so blessed to have witnessed my biological father testifying about God’s Word and God’s goodness in our lives through the dialect of Kapampangan to my Lola’s and uncles and aunts in both family sides. I am convinced that my family is being transformed by God’s love in His perfect timing. The reason why I went back home in the Philippines was not only to see my family but also because I want them to know God’s unconditional and unchanging love for them. My trip was purposeful and I know in my heart, during those three weeks I have sowed seeds into the soil of their hearts by showing and telling them about the love of Christ and exemplifying Christ-likeness. I declare and claim that I and my family will serve the Lord! All Glory and Praise to our Lord Jesus Christ! Amen!