Old Home - wprachel

to love and be loved

June 25, 2025

I used to be the person that longed deeply for love. Not that I didn’t get it but more so, I didn’t feel it. I remember my life group leader once told me, “You can’t expect people to love you the same way you love them. We all express love differently.” That stayed with me. Looking back, during those times when I was craving connection and affection, I also realize now — I was being selfish. I gave love expecting the same (or even more) in return. When that didn’t happen, I felt frustrated, drained, and invisible. It made people feel either indebted to me or distant from me. But God…He never left. It was His love that quietly and faithfully filled my empty cup. I believe that the first years of a young Christian are the hardest years to survive. At least for me. God allowed all sorts of problem in my life and in our family. We went through A LOT. Finances. Health. Separation. Divisions. Ungodly relationships. Sins. Add to that the struggle to walk closely with the Lord. As a young Christian, it took me years to give up all that I had to give up. Good thing, the Lord is patient with us. And good news, the story didn’t end there. My life completely turned around for the better when I paused studying and donate my liver to my nephew. I didn’t know then that it would lead me to the most beautiful path. I was only assured by God that it’s Him who’s calling me to step out of the boat and walk on water. I’ve been walking on water and living in miracles with Him since then. During the course of that dark, heavy season of our lives — preparing for liver transplant, I met Ate Nica who later became my life group leader. Then through her life group, I met Ate Rose and Shaira. They became my best friends years later. After the transplant, I decided to work while waiting to return to school (I had to wait 1.5 years before I could continue). In that work, I met Marvin, Ella, Edison, Gab, Jecoy, and Ate Jon. That was 2019, one of the best years of my life. I believe it was God who formed our little group — me, Edison, Ella, and Marvin. Only Ella and I have the same job. Marvs was in a different role and Ed’s in a different department. We ate side by side one lunch time and Ed (despite coming from a different dept) stuck with us. He and Marvs became best of friends. We would bond together after work. We would eat, pray, talk, sing and dance, play games, and everything you can think of. Because of these people, along with my other workmates and churchmates, my heart that was longing for affection suddenly overflowed with so much joy and love. It’s been 6 years since we met but we still keep in touch. Ed’s already married and I’m close friends with his wife, Ate Grazie. Ever since I met them, along of course with my best friends Ate Nica, Shai, Ate Rose, + Angge, I’ve never again questioned if people ever loved me. I got the confidence and assurance that I was loved. I was celebrated. I was in the right place. These people became the light in my dark life. God used them to transform bitter Rachel to bright Rachel. And through these best friends of mine, I’ve come to understand the beauty and fulfillment of godly friendships. To truly love and be loved. Thank You, Jesus — for the gift of friendship.

New Season

June 14, 2025

My journey as a Christian began in my teens, and throughout every stage of my life – school, work, and beyond – I’ve been blessed with incredible sisters in Christ. In every season and transition, we walked together and pulled each other closer to Jesus. Now, we’re welcoming on a new, exciting chapter. These are the sisters in Christ I stayed all night with to review for exams and endured through hell weeks. They are the ones who I spent days thriving through struggles and hardships. Still, they are whom I celebrated with when I graduated and had career successes. But something’s shifted. Our conversations, once dominated by academics, careers, and church life, are now sprinkled with discussions of crushes, relationship standards, and dreams of future families. It’s a beautiful, albeit slightly surprising, transition. To be honest, I wish I can write more about this blooming chapter. But as I mentioned earlier, this new season is just about to bloom. Regardless, I am excited to see the plans of the Lord unfold for each one of us.. Disclaimer: Some of my sisters have already passed through this season. And some of us know that we have to wait longer than others. Either way, I am profoundly grateful. For all the lessons we learned— yes, including our mistakes and wrong decisions, because it’s prepared us for this beautiful season of romance and courtship. “There is a right time for everything, and everything on earth will happen at the right time.” Ecclesiastes‬ ‭3‬:‭1‬ ‭ERV‬‬

The Joy of Saying Yes

May 29, 2025

1 month and 2 weeks of not posting a blog. Yikes! I fell out of my routine again, but as I read earlier in Proverbs 24:16 “Even if good people fall seven times, they will get back up.” This blog is an attempt to get back up and start creating again. I meant to write about saying “Yes” to filming in Singapore. I’ll show you some photos so you can visualize what I’m writing. This is Tomos. We met while serving in Japan. I don’t particularly remember the first time we talked but I just know we clicked. Like instant friends! Us being the most talkative people in the group must be a factor, but yes, you get the point. When I arrived home in the Philippines, Tomos sent me a prayer request from a friend he met in Thailand. He said he thinks that I’m a good fit, and that I would get along with this friend of his. That’s Corrie. She’s praying for 2 hosts for a video series she’s making: A Journey Guide to Cross-Cultural Trips. I think it’s just perfect. I’ve just been to one. So, I said Yes to God. Days after, I chatted Corrie that I’m interested to help. The next cool thing happened: Tomos will be the 2nd host. I still find it funny that Tomos sent me the prayer request saying I’m a good fit without knowing that we’ll do the project together. Who Are You Saying Yes To? For the three of us, it’s easier to say No to this project. We were going through a lot of challenges and doing other projects. I was still in the process of my cross-cultural trip to Japan, add to that taking care of my family, catching up on projects, and feeling physical and emotional heaviness. Tomos was organizing a big event that’s scheduled the day after our filming schedule. And Corrie’s sick and facing a big trial in her life. But how did we all say Yes to this? Why did we say Yes to this? Because we know it was God who’s inviting us to take part in this good project. And you know what? It was also Him who enabled us to go through and complete the project. Despite the craziness of our goals, despite the weather, despite our busyness, despite not having enough energy, despite everything. We couldn’t have done it without Him and His steadfast love. When we learn the value of who we’re saying Yes to, and what it is for, the easier it is to say Yes. And easier to say No to things that matter less. Rewards from Heaven Here’s the thing with saying Yes to God— He rewards His people in the process. For the three of us, He knew how to make our hearts glad and filled. We were only together for 5 days but God showed us His hands and favor over our journey. 1. Crazy Ability and Talent Did I say that we’re supposed to film 10 videos in just 4 days? And also in different locations. Did you know that we have to take at least 3 angles for most of our script? Ultra crazy how we were able to pull it off. Aside from the fact that that goal alone is crazy, there were other problems that arise like filming location rejections, weather changes, and more. Corrie only gave us the script the day of filming that script. I still wonder how Tomos and I memorized all those pages. We only memorized the script literally minutes before we filmed. Although there were hundreds of takes because I keep messing up and forgetting my lines. I say it’s God’s hand who gave us this talent because Tomos and I were never filmed in a formal setting like this. Technically, this was our first time acting. Thank you God! 2.⁠ ⁠Favor From People We received huge favors from people we met in Singapore. Locals said they almost never experience Singaporeans being as nice as we talk about different favors we received! Receiving favor looked like being treated ice cream by a stranger, getting the largest chicken when I ordered (this is funny haha the vendor pointed out she gave me the large one instead of the small ones. The chicken will only be used for props but I couldn’t refuse lol!), coffee shop owner allowing us to film last minute in their crowded cafe, MRT guards not kicking us out even when we filmed for almost 2 hours in the subway, auntie helping us when a teammate fell in a little swamp, and many more! It’s fun receiving favor from both Christians and non-Christians. 3.⁠ ⁠⁠Divine Connections I think the Lord allows “last minute” things to show His power. If not for the crazy connections we had, the three of us wouldn’t pull off a good film, or have an excellent filming location. Shout out to Ling (OMF Singapore SA Coordinator), En Hui (Corrie’s close friend in SG), Belly (Tomos’ friend from his Thailand trip), and Paul (Media person of OMF International). We also were blessed to meet Christians during our grab rides which I’ll share more in the next section. Going to Singapore also helped me A LOT to process my trip to Japan because apparently I found it very hard to move on and let go. Having Tomos as my co-host was the greatest blessing because I could just yap about the people I miss in Japan. My friends listen to my stories and empathize with me but it just hits different when you tell it to someone who knows ALL the people you talk about. We also met Stella who worked in Japan for a year. She shared her journey with us, along with her notebook of letters (which I also have!) and photos from her trip. Meeting her, I think, ended my yearning for my friends I met in Japan. (Side story: While Corrie, Tomos, and I are cooling down in Starbucks, I asked them “How do I stop missing my friends during my trip?” to which Corrie answered, “Why do you have to stop missing them? It’s amazing that you miss them. That means you have good memories with them. You don’t have to stop.”) 4.⁠ ⁠⁠Grab Rides We rode Grab over 20 times during our 5-day trip. That’s insane. Haha! And every Grab have their own stories. My favorites are: Thank you, God! 5.⁠ ⁠⁠Weather Our devotion focused on God’s steadfast love. God prepared our hearts to trust in Him and His steadfast love. God showed us that we can trust Him with the things we can’t control. Like the weather. God moved awesomely with Singapore’s crazy weather. This is actually my favorite reward. Seeing God’s hand control the weather. The weather was favorable when it’s time to film and unfavorable when we have to rest. I mentioned earlier that during one of our grab rides the rain was pouring heavily. Like cats and dogs level. But we just prayed and trusted that God will stop the rain when we arrive in our location. It didn’t stop. Instead, the Lord moved the clouds away from our filming location. When we arrived in the location (Corrie said at this time, raining or not, we will film), we can see the clouds from the other side very dark and the other side with clear sky blue! Insane. The Lord also moved the clouds to cover our filming location when it was too sunny to film. Too sunny that it was giving me intense headache (and I’m from the Philippines which is just as hot). (Corrie said at this time, we will film, then boom the clouds covered the area!). We also thank God for the days it was supposed to rain but it didn’t until we got home. And also for the time that it rained a few hours before we went out to film so the temp’s a bit cooler. We thank God for the amazing rain in Chinatown that forced us to rest and enjoy chatting with Belly. It was also adventurous to run away from rain because we were already so soaked! How “harsh” the lighting was and “hot” the location was (nobody jogging/playing) During film hours + God gave a family to play (we need for background) for the entirety of our rolling time The weather before going to the location The sky when we arrived to the filming location 6.⁠ ⁠⁠Favor in Locations There were last minute changes to our locations because we couldn’t get a permit or because of time constraints. Amazingly though, the locations God led us to were a lot better than what was planned. If Tomos wasn’t invited to co-host, we wouldn’t know Belly who told us about the Seletar Airport because we couldn’t get a permit to film in Changi airport. The location was 10x better than filming in Changi, in my opinion. We also couldn’t get a permit to film in the planned coffee shop location, God gave us a better one. The coffee shop is called the Ritual. And thank God for saving us a couch to film the scene! When Corrie visited the coffee shop after our film schedule, the two couches were occupied. There’s a section that we have to film about “Re-entering”. Corrie planned to film in a church, like going back to a familiar place. Fortunately, we didn’t get a filming permit in the church we wanted. We filmed it in a house with stairs in our accommodation instead. MUCH MUCH better and more fitting to the script. We didn’t have the time to go to Marina Bay to get an overlooking view of the last part of the film. En Hui shared Henderson Waves with overlooking view of greeneries and buildings. This is also my favorite location 🙂 Why it’s better for me? The background of Henderson Waves looks identical to the Journey Guide’s booklet cover. Last but not least, I’m not sure if I should write this too but we were also able to film in Changi airport without a permit (haha!). We had to stay very quiet and film the whole scene in just one shot. Thank God nobody approached us and asked us to delete the footages. Thank you God for these amazing places and showing us how awesome You are! 7. God Our Strength Tomos said, “…the fact our busy schedules opened up for this period, and we were so busy before and after and also ill, but God kept us from collapsing until it was finished!“ It was God who sustained us and gave us energy. Crazy me ran 26km 2 days before our filming schedule, spent that night celebrating with my friends, then there’s church next day, and then a 3-hour flight. It was as crazy busy/heavy for Corrie and Tomos who were going through harder phases in their lives. There were days and nights we didn’t know and feel if we can actually do it. Good thing that God doesn’t depend on us. He gave us His Spirit to give us strength, energy, and joy as we filmed. I didn’t know that filming was taxing mentally, physically, and emotionally. My initial plan to vlog each day gone with the wind because there’s just no way I can. Haha! But through God we got through and finished all the 10 videos in just 4.5 days, even with little sleep, little rest, and little preparation. Thank you, God, for sustaining us. We all had our much needed rest a few days after arriving back home. We thank God for rewarding us with an adventure we’ll never forget. For His Glory I remember saying to Corrie “I hope that the Lord reward you greatly for this project.” I said that with the knowledge of what she’s going through, and of course for the hard work she’s putting in. She just answered “I just hope that the Lord will use this video series for His glory.” (non verbatim) Our Yes to God and No to the world are active participation in giving Him glory. Isn’t it the greatest thing to live hand-in-hand with our loving Creator?

In The Middle of Two Big Things

April 15, 2025

When we look back on our lives, it’s usually the big moments we remember most. The highs that made us feel alive, or the lows that broke us. It’s completely natural to think that way. In the Bible, we also got a glimpse of these big moments in the characters’ lives. We saw Joseph’s rollercoaster life being the most favorite to being sold to slavery to being promoted, to being prisoned, then to being 2nd to Pharaoh. We also saw Jesus in His big moments— humble birth, extraordinary childhood, performing miracles, preaching the Kingdom of God, dying on the cross, and resurrecting. What else? 40+ kings’ chronicles of major events, Jonah’s calling, Queen Esther’s favors, Joshua generation’s wars, Mary and Joseph’s calling and transitions, the apostles’ obedience and persecution, and so much more. However, even if we try hard to always have those big, impactful, and life changing moments in our lives, we can’t. And we shouldn’t. When you hike a mountain, you’ll notice that it’s not always uphill or downhill. There are stretches where the path is just steady, ordinary, and quiet. That’s how the Lord designed our lives too. What About the Middle? I’m in it now— in the middle of two big things. I just finished serving in Japan with OMF for three months—an unforgettable, life-defining experience. And ahead of me? Lord willing, three years of studying for a master’s degree. Yes, you read that right. The Lord firmly prompted me to study and get my master’s. In the middle of serving in Japan, the thought of “Bible School” wouldn’t leave my brain. I reached out to my pastors and leaders for prayer and guidance. Before I left Japan, I already received several confirmations from His word, my friends, and colleagues that taking a master’s degree is the next step in my journey. There were several friends and important figures that didn’t support this decision though. I’ll tell more about the story when the school I applied to accepts me (please pray for me). The middle is an awkward place for me. Maybe because I’m used to extremes of life. Heartbreaks, abandonment, hustle, sufferings, etc. As well as immense joy, best friendships, travelling, rewards of obedience, etc. So when I applied for my master’s, I counted the months I have to wait before I start studying. 5 months. 5 long months. Waiting. Preparing. Living in the middle. If you consider the years or decades the characters in the Bible had to wait, you can judge and tell me that I am an impatient woman. Lessons and Joy in the Middle But you know? The middle is not just a straight line. The middle also has its twists and turns. It also has its own shine and glimmers to it. Thinking about it now, even the middle has its own ups and downs. In fact, I think it’s where most of the work happens. The middle are sometimes hidden and sometimes in plain sight. Think about it. We read Paul’s letters for several churches about their middles. We also know of Israelite’s journey in the middle of wilderness. We heard of Job and his friends’ conversations in the middle of Job’s loss and suffering. What are some of the middles in the Bible that are hidden? Jesus’ middle life from ~13 to ~30 years old. Jacob’s hard work for 14 years. The normal days of Solomon as a king. Or maybe even the days when Joshua had to wait outside Moses’ tent in the middle of the wilderness— what did those look like? My wild guess is this: Their middle looks a whole lot like our middle. The Invisible Work of the Middle I’m reminded of that quote by Jacob Riis: “Look at a stone cutter hammering away at his rock, perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred-and-first blow it will split in two, and I know it was not the last blow that did it, but all that had gone before.” Jacob Riis The first strike is important, as well as the hundredth-and-first. The starting point and the breakthrough. But who would want to endure the sweaty, achy, and tiresome 2nd to 100th strikes? Even in running— The first and last kilometer are usually the hardest and have the most “pressure”. It is very important to start and end a run. But who would say that the 2nd km and the middle kms are less important? Each phase of the journey is equally important. The uphill, the straight paths, and the downhill. The first strike, the strikes in between, and the last strike. The first kilometer, the middle of the run, and the last kilometer. The middle is long. It’s steady. It’s often unseen. And yet—so much happens there. Including joy and fun, as well as misery and hardship. Live Your Middle We can only wish to have a steady highs in our lives but unfortunately, that can never be the case. Even downhills can be tough. I’ve found them harder than the climbs, especially with tired, shaky legs. I think a lot of us are going through our middles. Waiting. Transitioning. Preparing for the next thing. I hope, my friend, that you can see the Lord working in you and through you in such a precious season like this. We shouldn’t shake, rush, or despise the quiet middles. Why? God made sure that there’s also beauty, grace, strength, and lessons in it.

Messy Thoughts

April 3, 2025

This blog is a form of procrastinating. Instead of writing my outline for tomorrow’s speaking engagement, here I am writing a personal blog. The featured image (Korean food) has nothing to do with everything I will write in this blog, except that they’re both an attempt to grasp something I can’t/am yet to hold. Baby A. The past 2 days have been amazing. I’m with my sister to assist and be with her while her partner is on a trip. I’m mostly just watching, barely helping at all! The most that I can help with is looking after A. while my sister’s taking a nap, eating, or breathe for a moment. Apart from that, salutes to her, really.. and all the newborn moms. My sister and her partner haven’t slept for a full sleep since they went home. 3 hours max, that’s it. I woke up earlier today, fighting myself not to sleep again. While my sister’s already nursing her daughter. She’s been waking up from every hour or two last night to feed and care for A. Wow is an understatement. Since I went back to the Philippines, my camera roll’s been quiet. Now, they’re bustling again with A’s photos. She’s so pretty. I care for her deeper now that I’ve been looking at her and caring for her (even for a bit). A bump in the crossroad Tomorrow, I’m going to talk about “Living God’s Purpose” to 300 students. I was prepared to outline and create my slides at 4pm, just after my work. Surprisingly, I got overthrown by a bump just around that time. Living my purpose, aka following God closely and following His leading, is NOT a smooth straight road. I wondered earlier, maybe I should add this to my outline: obstacles to living your purpose. Haha. Joke. I’m just exaggerating, what’s thrown at me isn’t really an obstacle, but a challenge. I thought earlier, huh, I forgot that this was a challenge to me since early 2024 before going to Japan. It’s here, again. The “tangible” result. The good and faithful servant “doubled” the talents given to him by his master. I already know the tangible results I’ll send to them, but I wonder, will it be enough for them? I already know years ago that I don’t exactly fit the standard… but I cling to my friends’ encouragement: Kaya yan ni Lord chel. You are obeying his voice so just prepare and don’t worry that much just give them what you have. R.L But at the end of the day, kung si Lord ang tumawag sayo. Si Lord ang gagawa ng paraan for you. M.B Go chel. Will pray for you.The Lord is with you whatever it takes. Love you🩷 R.L Whirlwind 2024 was the year the Lord taught me to relax and rest in His presence. That was the year’s focus. Maybe I’ve been too relaxed that an unexpected blow of wind already feels like a whirlwind. How can I be distracted and burdened so easily with just a simple demand? Am I afraid that I won’t be able to study? Why would I be afraid if it’s the Lord who’s leading me to study? The Lord have already prepared the way, we just have to walk in it. How? By following Him closely. By leaning to Him in every moment. Music I’m listening to a playlist I made back in 2020. It feels good that I like my music taste now, I used to be very insecure with my playlists. My friends would often comment negatively to my type. This is not connected to anything I wrote above. As I said, I’m procrastinating. To be fair friends, they only gave me my focus topic yesterday. We’ve been praying though. Too bad, my speaking engagement tomorrow is not affiliated to our church, so I can’t add it to my tangible results report. Huge sigh. I should start writing my outline now. Over the weekend, I’ll complete my Japan’s 3-month mission trip report and my 9-year tangible result report. All these reports and “results” are only by God’s grace. Because look at me, I’m a scatter brain. Hahaha.

Cru AIA Annual Planning

March 27, 2025

Finally, an involvement to missions again! Im very blessed to be invited and take part in this ministry for year 2025-2026. I started to volunteer in Sports Ministry back in Feb 2024. I don’t have any professional experience in sports but oh how God moves. You would think that this Sports ministry is small but ever since 1988, AIA Philippines have been evangelizing to and discipling national athletes from PBA to campus athletes. It was a wild ride for Coach Totie. From the highest of high winning people and creating a team for the ministry to losing all the members to knocking on campuses alone to getting connections again to now where AIA is connected to most campuses in U-Belt and partners with local churches. Coach Totie is currently the Southeast Asia head of AIA. I’m very grateful I’ll be present for AIA’s future endeavors. Day 1 of planning focused on strategies and technicalities. It’s my first time being involved in something so serious like this. We wrote tactical plans for praying, winning, building, and sending. Day 2 of planning focused on prayer and building up the current team (there are others who couldnt make it tho). Our upcoming work is so much easier now (though I know it will still be hard as we are in the field of hard ground) because of all the work, sweat, and prayers of missionaries/workers before us. Cru (Campus Crucade) I can’t help but be amazed by Cru. They have so many ministries to reach out to the lost. They have all the resources that the workers need for every stage of life/Christianity. They have proper funding system. They also have a school (IGSL). I know Cru is just one of many mission organizations that are successful. Thank you, God, for your continuous work here on earth. I’m writing this after 2 am so please excuse any typos and if this is not smooth to read.

Sanji and Soba

March 22, 2025

Where I am, there my cats will cling to me. It would be best to just write about anything until I think of a plan for my blog. Meet my two cats, Sanji and Soba. They have opposite personalities. Soba acts like a princess – she’s calm, sweet, shy, and liked by everyone. The other one is Sanji, he’s a ginger. You know ginger cats – they’re wild, uncontrollable, and fearless. Despite the difference, I love them equally. And I feel their affections equally too. Soba sticks to me like her life depends on it. She likes being close to me and cuddling with me. She sleeps beside me most nights. Sanji, on the other hand, doesn’t like being touched. At least not by me. He seldom wants to be pet. He likes to be independent and to explore on his own. He shows his affection to me by being wherever I am, at least a meter apart. When he’s awake, he’s always looking at me. Ever since I got home, where I am, there they will be. When I wake up, when I eat, and before I sleep. Soba right beside me and Sanji across the room. Whenever I get home from the hospital last week, both of them would be at the front door every time I arrive. Saving Grace Sanji’s been with me for 2 years now. There were times in the past that I would only wake up and work because I have to feed Sanji. We lived alone together and he relied on me. He’s seen me through different seasons and he was used by God in so many ways to teach me about His love and provision. Now, the Lord uses the two of them. I’ve been rotting emotionally and mentally this week. However unlike before, I don’t have to get up now because my family puts catfood in their trays. But they’ve been here. With me. As I yearn for and let go of so many things. The two of them perfectly fit to fill the longings I have. Committing to God I thought going home meant that I’ll be back to familiarity and thus, it would bring me comfort. The only familiarity and comfort I’ve felt was the weather. Everything else seems to be a challenge. A challenge to let go. Of people. Of plans. Of dreams. A challenge to get back to work and find my old routine. A challenge to commit again. My cats found it natural to cling to me after I’ve been away for 3 months. Good for them. “Commit to God” was the word I meditated on today. What does that even mean? I searched the dictionary for meaning– to carry into action (deliberately), to bind, to entrust. The Lord asked me to let go of things I held on to so tightly for the past 5 years. I committed all those to Him. Yet, He still asked me to let go. Now, His word is to commit my work to Him and my purposes (or plans) will be established. Did I understand the word incorrectly before? My dear reader, I am not sure how to get on my days anymore. For the past 5 years, I’ve set my heart to plan and make sure that everything in the list gets ticked off. And almost every day, I make sure to have a plan. No days to be wasted. I couldn’t afford it then. Then the Lord removed these special plans and goals, committed to Him, one by one. I think I reached a final string last week. When He asked me to let go of this one big thing. Two big things and a million other things in between. Except for my cats and best friends (which aren’t mine too lol), I truly feel like I lost everything. How do I know if my plans and work are from you, Lord? I envy my cats for knowing how to cling to me again. “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” Proverbs‬ ‭16‬:‭3 ESV‬‬ Lord, give me wisdom on how to cling to Your word again. … Let yourself fall into His arms.

About Tomorrow

March 20, 2025

Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring. Proverbs 27:1 This was the word I meditated on yesterday during my quiet time. We should really be careful in (vainly) planning for tomorrow. A good example would be, I thought and planned to finish at least 2 long videos when I arrive back in the Philippines. That would only take me a week to complete. To our surprise, I spent most of my first week in the hospital, looking after my sister who was rushed to the ER. Praise God, she delivered her baby safely through a CS after 1 week. The short 2 days I’m in our house, I was exhausted from commute, thinking, and worrying. My first week in the Philippines was very unstable and unplanned. Yet, God has taught me that I was where I was supposed to be last week — with my family. Even if that meant I missed checking things off my Week 1 to-do list. Master’s Before the night ended, I was still thinking of this verse “Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring.” My mind have been in taking master’s for the past few days. My heart is already set on a master’s program. And I’m already planning to inquire to the two schools I’m interested in. But God, God is funny sometimes. I think the Lord is leading me to enroll somewhere else. Let’s see how it will go. If you’re reading my blog, please pray with me as God leads me to where I should take my masters.

7 Things I Learned in the Mission Field

February 11, 2025

I only have a few weeks remaining to finish my mission trip in Japan. There are more than 7 things, of course, that I learned in this journey of following God and serving His kingdom. I’ll make sure to write more when I get back to the Philippines. Godly families are God’s design Growing up with a broken family, being surrounded by separated married people, and witnessed abusive parents (both mental and physical) both in my close environments and the people I know, so having a godly family is more than just a fantasy. I thought it was impossible! I’ve always been afraid to marry because they might just cheat on me and leave me alone in the end. I thought it was the norm. Men, doing whatever the heck they want. And women, suffering for it. Coming to Japan, God showed me families who love Him, love each other, and serve one another. It was mind blowing. I’m usually the expressive one but as I observe these families, I couldn’t say anything. I was left speechless! Not just one family, two families, or three families, but a lot! It was a sight for me to behold. For the past decade that I’ve been a Christian, God is slooowly healing me of my childhood trauma and wrong perception about men and marriage. But in this trip, I think, finally, God has fully healed me. I can trust Him with my future marriage and with my future family. Kindness culture “A person doesn’t become kind by telling them to be kind. A person learn to be kind by experiencing kindness.” Christians are normally kind. I’ve heard nonbeliever friends who say that we are so kind, loving, and peaceful to be around. I think I’m used to this kindness because of church 🙂 and I thought that was the depth of it. But wow, there’s a deeper and flowing kindness I haven’t encountered before. It’s the OMF Japan field’s kindness (I had a glimpse of this during my birthday last year in OMF Philippines but I’ve only been with them for a day). They are kind by character. All the missionaries here are! And I remember thinking, they must be this kind because of the humility in them. All missionaries are supported. No missionaries here earn like most people do. We are all supported financially by our family and friends. I think that’s the reason why there’s no hint of pride to the OMF Missionaries here. [[after a few weeks edit: Another reason, I think, is that they do not take pride in the work they do because of full awareness that God is the one at work, not them]] God’s calling is true When people hears that you have a calling, they won’t always support and encourage you. Some would doubt you. Some would give you looks. And some, even, would stop you. I’ve always doubted if the calling to do cross-cultural missions was for me. I don’t know anyone from my church who did it. And the only one cross-cultural missionary friend that I have is doing it with his family. Being called to do what people around you haven’t done yet seems daunting. At least it was for me. I didn’t get a full understanding and acceptance of God’s call until I actually followed and stepped on Japan. The call stops ringing when you answer. And answering means that we step in faith. When I talked to the other OMF Missionaries and learned about how God called them to go to Japan, I felt so validated, heard, and understood! Different people from different countries with different stories had the same call. We’re all here! Contributing in His work, no matter how little it may seem. God’s calling is real. The power of rest boundaries There were several boundaries set for Japan Serve Asia Workers (or OMF short termers) like no dating, no working, no drinking alcohol or partying, etc. This might seem “strict” for others but as I continue to work here, I understand why they gave these guidelines for us. It’s so easy to slip in to distractions. It’s easy to forget what we came here for. Among these guidelines, I learned the boundary between work and rest. OMF Missionaries are great at this. Making sure there’s a day off, I sleep well, and that work and rest do not overlap. The other day, as I was assessing why I always want to be busy and productive each hour, I think it’s because my first work experiences were in customer service- every minute must be productive. The real life doesn’t have to be like that. Sometimes working takes more mental load than it looks in the physical. So every hour cannot be full of tasks. We have to allow our heart, body, and mind to rest. God really provides After countless times of God’s provision over my life and my family’s, I don’t know why I still questioned this. My first mission trip (although I think it is also God’s will) is short because the budget for a long term was too high for me. I didn’t have any concept of prayer partners, mission partners, and raise support. I chose the 3-6 month route because that was the budget my mind could comprehend of offering to the Lord. I came to Japan without a full budget (this is a special case and most of the time, they don’t give financial clearance without it) and went almost crazy on December because nobody knew except my coordinator the Lord. Hahaha. I eventually shared with my prayer partners, they prayed for me, and the Lord provided. Writing this 2 months after those crazy days. Earlier as I was singing to God in worship, I prayed Lord, You really did it. You provided. You didn’t fail me. I can go home to the Philippines! Hahaha. I was so afraid of being jailed or shamed because I wouldn’t be able to go back or go homeless because the accommodation is so expensive! But wow, the Lord provided for those 3 months in sooo many ways <3 Ahh but that isn’t the main point! Haha. I’m only here for a short time right? Other missionaries are here for 4 years, 10 years, 20 years, 30 years, or more. All supported by church, family, and friends. Some of them even have children of their own. God truly provides for His people. As Hudson also says “Depend on it. God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply. He is too wise a God to frustrate His purposes for lack of funds, and He can just as easily supply them ahead of time as afterwards, and He much prefers doing so.” Hudson Taylor And as Meg told me in my first week here, “God will provide. That’s a 200% assurance.” If you have a dream or calling in your heart. If it’s from the Lord, He will provide for you. God is at work Is the Lord doing something in unreached countries like Japan? Yes. As much as He is at work in reached nations. God is at work everywhere. In million of ways we cannot see. God is at work in every person, every nation, and every tribe. He is always present. Wherever the Lord calls you to serve, whether it be in your home church, your community, your workplace, or even to a totally exotic place or unreached nations, God is at work there. If you will pray and ask Him to show you how He works, He will show you. At the same time, God is also calling people to work with Him. Alongside Him. These are some of the lessons that I’ve learned while working as a full time missionary. I recorded an episode, very raw, about this a month ago. If you want to listen, please click the Spotify or Apple Podcast icon.

Psalm 118

January 11, 2025

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Let those who fear the Lord say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” Psalm‬ ‭118‬:‭1‬-‭4‬ ‭ESV‬‬ There is so much to be uncovered with my readings today. Lord, I can always thank You because Your love for me, for us, never ends. Your love is steadfast – it is immovable. Your love endures forever – it is permanent. I can boldly declare this with faith for it is true. You have been loving us since the beginning of time. I have so many testimonies. In the verses after this, the Palmist talks about trusting You in the time of distress. So shall I, Lord, I will declare Your love even during the hardest time. It is never ending for I know it. I know You. You are on my side and will never NOT help me. Your love for me is sure and secure. Listen to the Series I’m following a devotional plan focusing on Psalm 118, click the links (Spotify and Apple Podcast) to follow along.

How To Set Healthy Personal Boundaries

January 23, 2024

If you are tired of being robbed of your joy and peace, you need to know how to set healthy and personal boundaries. Personal boundaries are limits and rules a person sets to protect his or her life and relationships. Without boundaries, our lives will be full of chaos, brokenness, and pain. I realized that one of the main reasons why my joy and peace were short-lived in the past is because, for the longest time, I didn’t know how to set boundaries. So in this blog, I hope that it will also help you protect the blessings and gifts of life by learning how to set personal boundaries. After reading this article, you’ll learn what healthy boundaries look like, why it’s important, simple practical steps to set personal boundaries, and how to protect them moving forward. Learn more about setting healthy personal boundaries in our podcast: EP 21 Setting Healthy Boundaries with Addie Cook. Why Personal Boundaries Are Important Almost everyone on the internet talks about self-love and a peaceful life but without setting healthy personal boundaries, that would be impossible. Imagine a house right now. It was designed by an amazing architect and built by one of the best engineers you know. The house is clean, perfectly organized, and has all the things you love and adore in it. But there’s a problem. This house is located on a very dangerous street, accessible to robbers and trespassers. And it doesn’t have a door or a gate! The worst part is, that this house represents us and our individual lives. Our lives are precious but we live in an imperfect environment. You might say that you would rather build a house in a safe village. Well, that can be the case for actual houses but the reality is we live in an unsafe world where people and situations can easily rob us of our peace. (Also, even the houses in a village are locked and have high security! So should we in our personal lives.) Setting healthy boundaries is similar to this. We protect our lives and relationships by placing necessary limitations and rules on what can enter our personal space. For more practical reasons why we need to set healthy boundaries, here are 7 : 4 Main Consequences of Not Having Any Boundaries But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. Then indeed he may plunder his house. Mark 3:27 Benefits are always talked about when learning about healthy boundaries. I think, similarly, we also have to discuss the consequences of not placing them in our lives. Damage to others and self Having no boundaries can cause a lot of stress and anxiety. It could cause self-sabotage as well whenever we allow others to continuously step over our boundaries. Lost self-identity People without boundaries often say “yes” even if it’s against their will. This could result in doing something that is not part of your identity. If you’re a Christian, an example could be saying “no” to relationships that are not of God. False peace False peace is when it is quiet on the outside but everyone is unwell within. People who have no personal boundaries result in a false peace environment. Facade Connected to the points above, when boundaries are unclear, we subconsciously create a facade to accommodate the people and situations that are crossing over our boundaries. What Healthy Boundaries Look Like The keyword for boundaries is self-respect. When a person has healthy boundaries, they can say “no” to whatever or whoever (will) invade or disrupt their personal space. Additionally, this person can also express their limitations and expectations to another person. Again, we can visualize personal boundaries as a gate or guard to our lives. How to Set Healthy Personal Boundaries I think we can all agree that we have to take responsibility for our lives. That includes taking responsibility for setting boundaries. Unfortunately, people can’t read minds so people can’t guess if you don’t like something or not unless you express yourself. I’m guilty of that. For so long, I’ve been living in a bubble hence I thought all people could understand one another. The real-life was harder than I imagined it to be. Fortunately, we learned how to set personal boundaries AND it’s not hard. Setting boundaries is pretty easy. Discern First, we have to discern. This includes discerning God’s will through prayer and meditation. This step should allow us to see what are our limits to certain behaviors and how we can control ourselves when the need arises. In our discernment, we have to listen to God’s wisdom instead of our feelings and the world’s standards. Each person has different limitations so your boundaries may look different than mine. However, when together, it should create an environment where harmony is present and respect is served. I love what GotQuestions wrote about boundaries, Boundaries can be used in healthy ways and sinful ways. The way to know which boundaries are godly is to examine the motive. Are you protecting yourself or someone weaker from potential harm, either emotional or physical? If so, then you are setting healthy and needful boundaries. However, if you are maintaining distance simply because you desire to exclude someone, that is sinful. Boundaries that maintain cliques or prohibit ministry opportunities are unhelpful. GotQuestions.Org Express Warning: This step doesn’t mean you have to post and announce your boundaries (unless you feel the need). This step means to express your boundaries when a person or situation makes you uncomfortable, intentionally or unintentionally, and whenever your boundaries are crossed. An example of this is when a person constantly shouts at you (or has shouted at you), you can calmly express that you don’t like being shouted at because it makes you anxious or nervous. Another example of expressing boundaries is when we communicate how we would like to be treated as a friend, partner, member, or colleague. Like, expressing not to talk to you when you are angry or that you want to settle things right away (whichever type of person you are). Or it could be as simple as expressing that you cannot do overtime at work. The more precise you can express your boundaries, the more likely your boundaries will be respected. -Science of People Follow Through Lastly, after expressing our boundaries, we have to be firm and follow through with what we set. This could be the hardest part because we don’t know (or have control over) how the other person will react or how the situation will turn out. There will be two sides to this – the other party can accommodate or cannot. If they can accommodate, then it’s best and healthy to continue working with them. If not, you could find a resolution that works best for the future which could be to compromise or give space indefinitely. I remember my friend expressed her situation to her previous company’s owner that she was not treated well by her store manager. We talked beforehand that she was going to set boundaries by communicating the situation to the owner and we hoped together that it would be resolved well. However, the owner expressed that she could just find a different job if she had a problem with the manager. Her follow-through is to quit. We both agreed that it was a good conversation because she and the owner expressed their situations well and it wasn’t that much of a loss for both of them anyway. She didn’t like the treatment she experienced and the owner didn’t want to resolve the issue. My friend found a better job later on. Sometimes we are afraid of the outcome of setting boundaries, and that’s completely normal. Following through our boundaries is a sign of respect and taking responsibility for our well-being. Addie Cook taught me about these three steps and we talked more about boundaries in more detail in our podcast EP 25 Setting Healthy Boundaries with Addie Cook. Protecting Personal Boundaries Sometimes, people don’t get it the first time. We still need to have grace and not block people right away from our lives. Here are some tips to protect your boundaries moving forward. Conclusion We’re all a student of life and we’re all continuously learning. So don’t beat yourself up if you haven’t had boundaries for so long. I also only learned this recently and taking action on the steps has tremendously changed my life. Whenever we set healthy boundaries, we give way to a more productive and healthy way of living. This also means that we can give more of ourselves to people, projects, and opportunities that are most important to us. Setting Boundaries As A Christian In the bible, we are taught to love one another and to give the other cheek when we are slapped. Similarly, the Bible also teaches us about healthy boundaries, self-respect, and self-love. Giving to others means that we have our source (which is God) and the capacity to give and share. Here are some bible verses that are related to setting healthy personal boundaries. But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man. Then indeed he may plunder his house. Mark 3:27 Training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, Titus 2:12 The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:31 Thorns and snares are in the way of the perverse; He who guards his soul will be far from them. Proverbs 22:5 Don’t give what is holy to dogs or throw your pearls to pigs. Otherwise, they will trample them and then tear you to pieces. Matthew 7:6 Cheers to learning healthy personal boundaries to foster more healthy lifestyles and relationships!

A Burning Heart For You, Lord

October 5, 2025

As I settle in our semester, I can’t help but be grateful to the Lord. Especially being surrounded by loving and godly people, learning His word deeper, and following Him closely. This has just been my dream years ago as a new believer. I’ve always prayed to live in His courts all the days of my life for His presence is better than a million elsewhere. Studying in a seminary is a glimpse of heaven. Yes, a glimpse, because I know heaven would be thousand times better. A million better, even, to be in His very presence. My schoolmates and I keep on saying that no matter how heavy or rigorous our readings and requirements are, we are still so eager to do them. We even don’t like it when classes are suspended! We love going to school, haha! We are rested even if we’re so busy with work. We are blessed even if we face rejections from people. We are at peace even if we battle so many. The Christian Bubble It’s not the first time I thought of staying in my “Christian” bubble— where I’m surrounded by people who I love and loves me, where people agree that there is only one God, and where most are inclined to follow Jesus. Many times I thought it’s better to cut myself off from the toxicity of this world. From worldly influence, lifestyle, ideologies, and corruption. Besides, these things do nothing but drain me. I already know the truth so isn’t it wise to stay in the bubble of this truth? The Lord is Looking One of my old friends said she’s always been mindful of how she acts around us, sadly, as she’s conscious and afraid to be corrected the moment she falls. May we not perceive the Lord that way. The Lord looks at His children lovingly. With eyes expecting of our faithfulness and return to Him. Interestingly, God also looks for those whom He can send — those who are humble, contrite in spirit, and tremble at His word. He looks expectantly at us excited to pour His grace and power over those who’s delight is in Him. A God so powerful to do whatever He put His mind to with just a word but yet, for a loving reason, chooses to look for instruments in His mission. Hunger for Righteousness I found this draft from just a few months ago: My heart grieves as I write this. A few moments ago, I asked the Lord “God, why is the world so broken? Why is the world so evil?” My dear reader, do you also get these realizations? Yes, we are safe in His love and we experience His favor everyday. But do you still have the burden of this world’s sin? And get a sense of urgency as the world continue to devour in evil things? Things of the devil are rampant today— abortion, murder, corrupt government, evil leaders, selfish ambitions, lustful men and women, people worshipping idols. Do you still hunger for righteousness? Or do you conform to the world’s ways? Light My Heart on Fire Since my school is so safe— a place of solace and rest, I had this thought that I don’t ever want to be out in the world. How can I ever think of going to the mission field again where God is rejected? I already had a taste of how difficult it is. How can I ever want being sent again if I am already so comfortable where I am? If it was up to me, I wouldn’t want to go anymore. But it’s the Lord who calls and corrects me. I am reading “Gods and Kings” by Lynn Austin. It is a novel written in the setting of King Ahaz and King Hezekiah’s reign. It gave me a picture of the reality of the prophets during Isaiah’s time. As Micah went to Jerusalem to deliver a message to King Hezekiah, he was surprised to be in the pool of idolaters, harlots, people who reject and mock our Lord. In his mission, he thought: “Weariness and depression settled over Micah as he recognized the hopelessness of his mission. It was too late for his nation. His was only one voice, shouting against thousands of others. What could he possibly hope to accomplish? No one would listen to a poor peasant farmer-including the king. Isaiah was an educated man of royal blood, and the king hadn’t listened to him. What was Micah doing here? This was useless. Stopping evil was like trying to hold back the waves of the sea.”- Lyn Austin I cry to God as I drive. It must be the Spirit grieving within me. I am no stranger to Micah’s feeling. Before I went to Japan and realized how people are so corrupted, just within my circles, I thought “Why would the Lord call me to Japan if even my own family and friends reject Him?” It’s still the same today. “What can I do Lord? I’m only a woman.” The Lord provides no answer except His peace. In the end, He will prevail. Heaven will fill the earth. Until then, may the Lord light my heart on fire. May He cause me to be as passionate as Isaiah, Micah, the prophets, and His followers during the reign of Ahaz. May my heart burn for God’s truth and laws everyday as the prophets were during their time— firm, unbending, faithful. And may your heart burn too.

Journal 1

September 7, 2025

I’m not sure if this is allowed but here goes. Haha! One of our subjects in seminary require us to write a journal of what we learn month per month regarding the course subjects. This course is Building Disciples. The focus of Journal 1 is what we learned about God, ourselves, and others from class sessions 1 and 2. Here’s my answer and I hope it blesses you. As a person who was won through evangelism, I couldn’t wait to learn how I can also win more people to Christ effectively. I’ve always felt that I’m lacking in skills in sharing the true and complete gospel, and how right I was! In our first sessions, Kuya Tom’s testimony and the Theology of Gospel, I learned that indeed, the gospel and the Holy Spirit are so much more powerful than I’ve described and shared to other people. This is not to say that I can fully expound about His power, I recognize that no amount of words can fully describe God. In our first session, Kuya Tom shared his testimony of building a life group in Baguio and evangelizing his brother’s murderer. I learned that God freely uses people who are willing and available to advance His kingdom, no matter what their personalities are. It is God who empowers His servants and appoints them to the right people who need to hear the gospel. This subject is where I first heard the word “Person of Peace”. Through this, I got a revelation that it is truly God who prepares everything before us. God was already working on the place even before we go! And if we co-work with God and not just for Him, He will reveal to us His plans and ways firstly through connecting with a person of peace. As if His testimony about their life group in Baguio wasn’t enough, Kuya Tom also shared how he forgave and prayed for the man who murdered his brother by the power of the Holy Spirit. We all knew that it wasn’t Kuya Tom who could’ve done that. It was the Holy Spirit who’ve already worked in him throughout the years of service and the Holy Spirit who hugged the person and extended God’s love to his brother’s murderer. What a loving, merciful God I serve. Kuya Tom said that we serve the same God and He is at work in us and through us as He is with him. I remember going in the first class empowered because of our TAM orientation assignment to share 4 Spiritual Laws with two people. (Both of them accepted, praise God!). But after that first class with Kuya Tom, I felt more than empowered. I felt sent. Activated. The God I serve is a God that saves and is able to do more than I imagined. He loves people more than I do and He wants to use me to reach out to the blind and lost. In the second session, Ate Leah shared the Gospel of Christ. Before I go into what I learned from her lecture, I was amazed by how structured the structure of winning souls and making disciples in the Cru system is. I love that it is bold and direct, and how it’s straightforward to make it easier for all to follow. I learned that God is also a businessman, He’s in the business of winning (reconciling) the whole world back to His presence. He truly did not leave us alone when He ascended into heaven but also left us a blueprint for doing the great commission, following Him wherever He sends us. When Ate Leah shared with us the illustration of the Gospel (cross in the middle, parallel lines of God’s love and God’s justice), I fully understood what Jesus came here for. It took me 10 years to fully understand, ah this is what the Lord did! A genius and mastermind! After this, I had a clearer view of what I’m doing for the Lord– helping people in their journey, turning people to Jesus who restores us to eternal life, and partaking in His ministry. Every class in IGSL, not just Building Disciples, is an affirmation that I’m in the right place and I’m learning what the Lord wants me to learn for His Kingdom. After sessions 1 & 2, and writing my personal testimony, I literally lost my shyness to share the gospel to anyone. I know I’m sharing the greatest treasure in the whole world. The sessions helped me share during our TAM and connect with people better. It is the Lord I’m presenting. It is the Lord who saved me and sent me. What should I be embarrassed about or be afraid of? This is the greatest news. That we were on the way to eternal wrath because of our sins but Jesus descended from heaven to commune with us, die on the cross, rose again, and save us. Jesus invites us all to turn from our way that leads to death and turn to Him. He is the way, the truth, and the life. He’s the God who loved us that He gave His life for us so we can spend eternity with Him. Hallelujah!

A New Beginning

August 22, 2025

Did I mention that I started seminary already? Not yet? Sorry for not keeping you updated but yes, finally, I started a new journey to follow His calling. In between today and June 30, I may have had more than 10 blog post ideas to share with you. None of which I remember as I write today. But let’s forget about that and focus on what’s here now. What’s happening today. My family’s still going through a major problem. And also a major happiness.My body’s recovering from a half marathon. But my body’s so much stronger at the same time.I was elected as our batch’s ambassador. I’m part of the student council in our seminary.The podcast’s 2-year long of preparation is ending! And the daily podcast is coming soon. Yay! I wanted to write in my blog to update my readers. In my heart, I know that I should be writing more. Why? Because there are so many testimonies and miracles to share. Because the Lord is doing so many things that I want to make sure that it’s known in the world. Even if that just means my sphere of influence. A Few Testimonies I thank God for keeping me in His Kingdom for the past 10 years. I made a short video to commemorate. I thank God for the full scholarship for my master’s program granted by my seminary and Cru. I thank God for the countless testimonies on how He saved families in different nations and tribes. I’m blessed by every testimonies I heard during our orientation training in seminary. I thank God that my two nephews accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior. I thank God for His sustenance in our life group and our church. I thank God for newfound brothers and sisters in Christ. And most of all, I thank the Lord for having me in my graduate school. From the orientation day to now, I am in awe of how everything is an answered prayer. From the professors, to the community, to the courses, and even to the place. I thank the Lord that He guides me day by day and that His grace is always sufficient. I thank God that despite all the chaos and battles, I am living in an answered prayer. God is faithful.

A Significant Life

June 30, 2025

What does it really mean to live a significant life? In a world that glorifies hustle and success, this episode invites you to slow down and remember: true significance begins with a heart anchored in Christ. Whether you feel lost, unsure, or simply tired of doing life your way—this one’s for you. We’re talking about the three things that make a life meaningful: a solid foundation, clear direction, and purposeful action. Let’s walk this out, together.