It is not what we gain that gives us true happiness – it is what we lovingly lose for others.
My college days were full of medical missions and voluntary assistance whenever our school, affiliated hospitals or training centers provide free medical assitances for our less fortunate brothers and sisters. It was always a very challenging role especially during emergency cases which is one of my favorite. The excitement was unending and rewarding when you see a patient walks out feeling relieved in spite of the incoveniences he or she received from any medical procedures done in their bodies.
And since my husband and I have met, we were always blessed to be invited to join in several outreach programs. When we both started working, Rowin’s company in Laguna had this industrial-zone wide safety group LISACOM Committee and one of their programs was visiting and holding a simple Christmas party for an orphanage in Paranaque. They provided Jollibee meals for about 30 kids and some gift-items for them. The kids were so happy having someone provide for them and play with even for just a short time. In turn, they showcased to us their singing talents by rendering a heartwarming Christmas song. That experience was so full of compassion just looking in their eyes.
When we got married, we joined Couples for Christ and have the chance again to participate some outreach programs in Laguna in assisting kids for Christ camping. We did some educational activities, sleep with them and cook foods for their every meals like one big happy get together family reunions.
After celebration with families and friends of Zek's third birthday and Maia’s baptism two years ago, we went straight to Bethany on that same afternoon to share with more than 50 kids in the Bethany orphanage a simple Jolly-burgers and juices while giving away some old but usable toys and clothes. Zek had a great time for they surprised him with a unique birthday song with a prayer before meals. We spend some time with them by talking, listening and playing with them. They are well organized not just for our visit, but as a way living in general. It was another heartwarming moment for all us present that time. Every time, children see someone visiting them, they leap for joy and very happy to see us. They are not always expecting something from us materially, only our presence makes their days complete. Feeling loved even not from their own family can really fill the emptiness and loneliness inside them.
For related stories about Bethany, please copy-paste on your URL link one of the blog-link;
http://people-places-praises.blogspot.com/2007/07/bethany.html
http://people-places-praises.blogspot.com/2008/05/bethany-re-visited.html
God always give us an opportunity to share our blessing to other, for these are chances given to us to show our love for Him by loving others especially the needy, abandoned, and the sick people. We may not get the same chances again and ignoring each one of them every time is simply denying ourselves of God’s eternal love. May we not let Him down as he calls us.
“ For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own. … At the present time your plenty will supply what they need, so that in turn their plenty will supply what you need. Then there will be equality. ...” — 2 Corinthians 8: 3, 14
Menchi there is more to giving . It makes our hearts so warm everytime we hear the thank you. It makes you more sensitive to other needs also. And realize you are more bless and lucky having more to share.
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