HER Public Declaration

I remember two years ago when I attended 1st encounter retreat in Pampanga. It was one of the most amazing experiences in my life. I finally understood what it is to be a real follower of Jesus. And so I publicly declare my faith through water baptism...

That was MY decision. I never asked for anyone's approval --- not even my mom's. I believe that following Jesus should be a personal verdict, it's between me and God and no one else. And so I texted nanay and told her excitedly that I was baptized. The only words I got from her was, "ambilis mo naman magdesisyon." That made me eager to show her the changes in me, so she might see Jesus in me --- yes, I was too eager to be a living testimony for my whole family. Never did I forced them to attend Sunday worships. And I tried to do it in my own strength, and I kept on failing.

But God has been so faithful to me. I learned to depend on Him, and I learned to admit that I am nothing without Him --- that I cannot do it myself. He allowed my younger sister to serve in music ministry in CCF Eastwood. Nanay also started to attend Sunday service - take note, even without me. My kuya & his girlfriend also started going with us. Tatay also did once. All of which by the grace of God happened within a short period of time --- 2 years...

I want them to experience True Life retreat, so I can share the same joy I had 2 years ago. But due to work schedule conflict, only nanay was able to attend True Life 2015 in CCF Main. By the way, I attended with her.

me, nanay, my boyfriend Lester

I did not ask her to do anything but attend. I leave it to God if she would be moved to undergo water baptism. I just want her to be there and understand the meaning of true life.

Praise God because we were assigned in different breakouts. I want her to be with someone else so she can freely say anything without being conscious. She enjoyed the company of her breakout team and facilitator.

She kept saying that she couldn't be baptized - she is hydrophobic & she has lumbar issues. And so I kept praying, for God to give her courage. I also heard her facilitator encouraging her. Full support, whew! I love her faci...

The time of baptism came, she was so nervous and all. I really thought she wouldn't do it. I just kept praying. I knew God won't allow anything bad happen to her.

While she was climbing the stairs (the pool was about 4 ft high, she was shaking. I had to brief the guys there regarding her condition. And there, in less than one minute she's done!

Yehey!!! She did it!

I was just laughing because she swallowed some water, but deep inside, I was so happy - no words can describe that joy of seeing your nanay PUBLICLY declaring her faith. I am so proud of her. I really felt the presence of the Holy Spirit there.

I am so excited to see God's miracle in her - how God will heal her sickness, and how He will transform her life. I am excited for her future with me and the whole family. I can't wait to see her starting her own DGroup soon...