Happy Sunday! This morning I went to church and we were able to watch a service that took place recently in one of the newest chapels in the Philippines. This service was a dedication service for God, to of course, thank Him for blessing the brethren in that part of the world with a house of worship. This was led by our spiritual leader, our beloved Executive Minister, Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, who works SO hard to keep us strong in our faith. Although this service was in Tagalog, it was translated into English for us, there is no doubt that God’s blessings were present during that service. His love can be translated in all languages.
I couldn’t believe that three hundred and fifty houses of worship were built and dedicated from last January to the first of December. I had no idea that there were so many other churches in this world closing down because of the lack of people worshipping. It’s crazy. I’m blinded by this information because I know for a fact that I’m in the right place.
To be honest, I do have my moments where I’m in complete awe. That I’m a member of the Church of Christ, and this is because God chose me. That He is the one who chooses His servants. That there are amazing things going on within this church that you just can’t witness anywhere else. With every service and every word I hear taught from the Bible, I become more firm in my faith. God does not set us up for failure in this life nor the one after this one.
So this special service made me reflect on how thankful I am for my house of worship… I am grateful for the home God has given me, the place I can run to when my heart is heavy, the house that is meant for prayer, the house where He is always in. He chose the location of my chapel, there’s a reason why He placed it there, and I am willing to find out…
“Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. I have chosen and consecrated this temple so that my Name may be there forever. My eyes and my heart will always be there.”
– 2 Chronicles 7:15-16
He gives us better than when we wanted, God’s goodness will forever be there.
I remember earlier this year in March when Brother Eduardo V. Manalo made a pastoral visit to lead the dedication service of the newly renovated chapel in Jersey City, New Jersey. I remember the first and last time I visited that place of worship two years ago. I remember looking at the drawn out plans for the chapel. And I remember seeing that chapel that March morning gazing at it as the God’s warm love beamed on His temple and people that chilly morning.
None of these blessings would have ever arrived if it weren’t for the help of prayer.
The root of beautiful events begin and happen in His holy house.
You have to humble yourself and pray.
much love,
joy
Joy in the Life 