Tuesday, October 20, 2015
One Sentence Sermons
Many folks want to serve God, but only as advisors.
It is easier to preach ten sermons than it is to live one.
If God is your co-pilot, swap seats.
When you get to your wit’s end, you’ll find God lives there.
Opportunity may knock once, but temptation bangs on the door forever.
Coincidence is when God chooses to remain anonymous.
Don’t put a question mark where God put a period.
God doesn’t call the qualified. He qualifies the called.
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
The Will of God never takes you to where the Grace of God will not protect you.
Prayer–don’t give God instructions, just report for duty.
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning to dance in the rain.
You can tell how big a person is by what it takes to discourage him.
Jesus died for you. Will you live for Him?
Man’s way leads to a hopeless end. God’s way leads to an endless hope.
A lot of kneeling will keep you in good standing.
Are you wrinkled with burden? Come to the church for a facelift.
God doesn’t want shares of your life. He wants a controlling interest.
We don’t change God’s message. His message changes us.
Suffering with truth decay? Brush up on your Bible.
Exercise daily. Walk with the Lord.
Wisdom has two parts. Having a lot to say, and not saying it.
Nothing else ruins the truth like stretching it.
Worry is the darkroom in which negatives can develop.
–Anonymous Author
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Corregidor Island: "The Rock" of the Philippines
Corregidor is a small rocky island in the Philippines about 48 kilometers west of Manila which is strategically located at the entrance of Manila Bay. This island fortress stands as a memorial for the courage, valor, and heroism of its Filipino and American defenders who bravely held their ground against the overwhelming number of invading Japanese forces during World War II.
Also known as "the Rock," it was a key bastion of the Allies during the war. When the Japanese invaded the Philippines in December 1941, the military force under the command of Gen. Douglas MacArthur carried out a delaying action at Bataan. Corregidor became the headquarters of the Allied forces and also the seat of the Philippine Commonwealth government. It was from Corregidor that Philippine President Manuel Quezon and General MacArthur left for Australia in February 1942, leaving behind Lt. Gen. Jonathan M. Wainwright in command.
With Michelle and Paul, we are prepared to conquer the island :-)
But wait, we reached Manila Bay very early in the morning of February 3, so it's good to have a fine breakfast first. And we did not go further because Sofitel is just right here.
Our stomach is no longer empty :-)
We are ready NOT for World War III but to conquer you Corregidor!
Here we come!
To the east of Bottomside a hill rises abruptly to an elevation of 390 feet. Called "Malinta," it severs Bottomside from the tail end of the island. The North and South Shore roads curved from its slopes and girdled the hill and ran on down the curving tadpole tail. To facilitate passage and to create a bombproof shelter, the Americans drove a shaft from a rock quarry at Bottomside directly through the hill, creating the famous Malinta Tunnel. Construction of the tunnel took about 10 years.
The defense of Corregidor was the immediate responsibility of the Philippine Coast Artillery Command under Major General George F. Moore. To carry out this important mission, 23 batteries were set up on Corregidor and the adjoining islands at the outbreak of World War II in 1941. These consisted of 56 coastal guns and mortars which formed the main power of the island fortress. Corregidor had 13 anti-aircraft artillery batteries with 76 guns, twenty-eight of which were 3-inch and forty-eight 50-caliber. With all the gun emplacements set up in the island, Batteries Geary and Way proved to be the best and most effective for the defense of Corregidor during the siege by the Japanese forces.
Mile-Long Barracks - This is a three-story concrete building which was constructed to be hurricane-proof. It was used for the billeting of American officers and enlisted personnel detailed at the garrison. The entire length of the building measures about 1,520 feet that it became popularly known as the world's longest military barracks. The headquarters of Gen. Douglas MacArthur was also located in this building.
Spanish Lighthouse - At its current site, the original lighthouse was built by the Spaniards in 1836. Sixty-one years later a need for a much bigger lighthouse was conceived which led to the erection of another structure to replace the old one. However, the lighthouse was destroyed during World War II. Being the highest point in the island, visitors who climb up the stairs of the lighthouse can have a breathtaking view of Corregidor, Manila Bay, the South China Sea, and the neighboring provinces of Bataan and Cavite. Speaking of lighthouse, guys, please DO NOT forget this: When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Looking back again to Corregidor as the island fortress and "the Rock" of the Philippines, I was reminded of Psalm 62.
"Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge."
You may want to check this praise song on youtube by Aaron Keyes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSp-3kvKQZs
Thank you Paul and Michelle for having me. I hope that our corregidor experience will be cherished.
To update myself :-) I've been to 133 islands already... and Lord willing, I hope to do more island hopping!
See more information about Corregidor at http://corregidorisland.com/
Also known as "the Rock," it was a key bastion of the Allies during the war. When the Japanese invaded the Philippines in December 1941, the military force under the command of Gen. Douglas MacArthur carried out a delaying action at Bataan. Corregidor became the headquarters of the Allied forces and also the seat of the Philippine Commonwealth government. It was from Corregidor that Philippine President Manuel Quezon and General MacArthur left for Australia in February 1942, leaving behind Lt. Gen. Jonathan M. Wainwright in command.
With Michelle and Paul, we are prepared to conquer the island :-)
But wait, we reached Manila Bay very early in the morning of February 3, so it's good to have a fine breakfast first. And we did not go further because Sofitel is just right here.
Our stomach is no longer empty :-)
We are ready NOT for World War III but to conquer you Corregidor!
Here we come!
To the east of Bottomside a hill rises abruptly to an elevation of 390 feet. Called "Malinta," it severs Bottomside from the tail end of the island. The North and South Shore roads curved from its slopes and girdled the hill and ran on down the curving tadpole tail. To facilitate passage and to create a bombproof shelter, the Americans drove a shaft from a rock quarry at Bottomside directly through the hill, creating the famous Malinta Tunnel. Construction of the tunnel took about 10 years.
The defense of Corregidor was the immediate responsibility of the Philippine Coast Artillery Command under Major General George F. Moore. To carry out this important mission, 23 batteries were set up on Corregidor and the adjoining islands at the outbreak of World War II in 1941. These consisted of 56 coastal guns and mortars which formed the main power of the island fortress. Corregidor had 13 anti-aircraft artillery batteries with 76 guns, twenty-eight of which were 3-inch and forty-eight 50-caliber. With all the gun emplacements set up in the island, Batteries Geary and Way proved to be the best and most effective for the defense of Corregidor during the siege by the Japanese forces.
Mile-Long Barracks - This is a three-story concrete building which was constructed to be hurricane-proof. It was used for the billeting of American officers and enlisted personnel detailed at the garrison. The entire length of the building measures about 1,520 feet that it became popularly known as the world's longest military barracks. The headquarters of Gen. Douglas MacArthur was also located in this building.
Spanish Lighthouse - At its current site, the original lighthouse was built by the Spaniards in 1836. Sixty-one years later a need for a much bigger lighthouse was conceived which led to the erection of another structure to replace the old one. However, the lighthouse was destroyed during World War II. Being the highest point in the island, visitors who climb up the stairs of the lighthouse can have a breathtaking view of Corregidor, Manila Bay, the South China Sea, and the neighboring provinces of Bataan and Cavite. Speaking of lighthouse, guys, please DO NOT forget this: When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12
Looking back again to Corregidor as the island fortress and "the Rock" of the Philippines, I was reminded of Psalm 62.
"Truly he is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
My salvation and my honor depend on God;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
Trust in him at all times, you people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge."
You may want to check this praise song on youtube by Aaron Keyes
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSp-3kvKQZs
Thank you Paul and Michelle for having me. I hope that our corregidor experience will be cherished.
To update myself :-) I've been to 133 islands already... and Lord willing, I hope to do more island hopping!
See more information about Corregidor at http://corregidorisland.com/
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Trek To TAAL Twice
It was a great blessing to be part of the OMF Philippines Field Conference at CCT Tagaytay on January 2-6, 2013
I learned a lot from the all the sessions...
One of the highlights of the conference was a morning trip to Taal Volcano -- my first time :-)
Boat ride to the Taal Island...
I have been to Tagaytay several times knowing that this (photo below) is the so called Taal Volcano, BUT it is NOT! This is just a small mountain that looks like a volcano. Interesting!
From the mountain foot is a 30 minutes trek to reach the crater.
And ola!
The volcano crater...
I had my second trek to Taal Volcano on January 12.
I was a guide to auntie Tess, Michelle and Paul:-)
TRIVIA: Taal Volcano is famous for having an island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island in the Pacific Ocean.
Congratulations Paul Kelly, you've made it! You have conquered one of the Philippine Islands.
There are many Korean resorts in Tagaytay and around Taal Lake--no wonder, many Koreans are opt to climbing Taal Island. This Korean couple asked me to join them in this shot :-) oops I'm not a star! Anyway, your wish is my command hihi:-)
Thank you Lord for the chance to enjoy your wonderful creation!
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, (and Taal Volcano) which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! -- Psalms 8:3-9
I learned a lot from the all the sessions...
One of the highlights of the conference was a morning trip to Taal Volcano -- my first time :-)
Boat ride to the Taal Island...
I have been to Tagaytay several times knowing that this (photo below) is the so called Taal Volcano, BUT it is NOT! This is just a small mountain that looks like a volcano. Interesting!
From the mountain foot is a 30 minutes trek to reach the crater.
And ola!
The volcano crater...
I had my second trek to Taal Volcano on January 12.
I was a guide to auntie Tess, Michelle and Paul:-)
TRIVIA: Taal Volcano is famous for having an island in a lake on an island in a lake on an island in the Pacific Ocean.
Congratulations Paul Kelly, you've made it! You have conquered one of the Philippine Islands.
There are many Korean resorts in Tagaytay and around Taal Lake--no wonder, many Koreans are opt to climbing Taal Island. This Korean couple asked me to join them in this shot :-) oops I'm not a star! Anyway, your wish is my command hihi:-)
Thank you Lord for the chance to enjoy your wonderful creation!
When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, (and Taal Volcano) which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him, the son of man that you care for him? You made him a little lower than the heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honor. You made him ruler over the works of your hands; you put everything under his feet: all flocks and herds, and the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, and the fish of the sea, all that swim the paths of the seas. O LORD, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! -- Psalms 8:3-9
Thursday, April 12, 2012
It's More Fun in Ilocos :-)
We thank the Lord for the opportunity to explore our very own province of Ilocoslovakia this April 2012... an advance birthday adventure for Gem Joshua.
Hmmn i think i would love to promote Ilocos tourism - why not :-)
FIRST DAY EXPLORATION
Our first stop was Heritage Village in Vigan Ilocos Sur.
Explore more by copying this link to your web browser http://www.vigancity.gov.ph/default.asp
Hidden Garden has a relaxing and natural ambiance. There's a romantic place with overhanging millionaires' vine malapit sa Lover's Corner. There are plants and garden items on display and for sale. Meron ding souvenir shop and a celebrity corner where pictures of famous visitors to the place are on display.
Mickey Mouse fruit
Pagburnayan (Clay Pot Making)
You are the Potter, I am the clay
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray
Change my heart oh God, make it ever true
Change my heart oh God, may I be like You.
Baluarte
http://chavitsingson.net/baluarte/
Bantay Bell Tower
Towering over the town, the Bantay Bell Tower is a sight to behold, standing separately over a hilltop. The original structure as it stands today was built by Augustinian missionaries in 1591, most likely as a part of the parish church nearby. It was made of bricks, rocks, and a mixture of seashells and sugar cane. The bell tower stands on the tallest point in the town, and was used as a watch tower during the Spanish colonial period. As such, the tower is aptly named since “bantay” is an Ilocano word for both “mountain” and “guard.”
SECOND DAY EXPLORATION
As early as 4am we were already on our way to Pagudpod, Ilocos Norte - the "Haven of the North" because of its unspoiled natural resources, peaceful community and beautiful beaches.
http://tourism-philippines.com/pagudpud/
Next on our itinerary list was White Rock Formation in Kapurpurawan
Bangui Windmills are huge, powerful, and modern-looking considered to be the biggest in Southeast Asia. It sells 40% electricity to Ilocos Norte and is contributing to reduce the greenhouse effect which causes global warming.
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse also known as Burgos Lighthouse, is a cultural heritage structure in Burgos, Ilocos Norte that was established during the Spanish Colonial period. First lit on March 30, 1892 and is set high on Vigia de Nagparitan Hill overlooking the scenic Cape Bojeador where early galleons used to sail by. After over 100 years, it still functions as a welcoming beacon to the international ships that enter the Philippine Archipelago from the north and guide them safely away from the rocky coast of the town.
THIRD DAY EXPLORATION
We spent a night with my comare's family in Pasuquin which is a place known for salt making.
Fort Ilocandia
The only 5-star deluxe resort hotel in northern Philippines sprawling over 77 hectares of land amidst gentle sand dunes and pine forests with a 2 kilo-meter sandy beach facing the South China Sea. It is located in the heart of the city of Laoag and the province of Ilocos Norte. It’s a 10 minutes drive from Fort Ilocandia Golf & Country Club at Paoay and from the Laoag International Airport.
Dropping at Plaza del Norte before heading up to Fort Ilocandia Golf and Country Club.
Fort Ilocandia Golf and Country Club
Java Hotel is famous for its unique Balinese Moroccan atmosphere, exquisite Spanish design and warm Ilocano touch. Its recreational facilities will surely meet your needs and expectations for it includes a souvenir shop, tennis court, fitness gym, and swimming pool, as well as a function hall.
The Sinking Bell Tower of Laoag City is one of the first things you may spot upon entering the city proper. It’s a massive 45-meter bell tower said to be one of the tallest bell towers in the Philippines and was built by the Augustinians in 1612. The tower has earned its “sinking” reputation because it is so heavy and it was build on sandy foundations that it has consistently sunk into the ground. Stories mention that a person on horseback could enter the tower with ease back when it was built. Now, a person of normal height has to bend down just to enter the vaulted entrance.
Known as the “Earthquake Baroque” church in the Philippines, Paoay Church was built of baked bricks, coral rocks, salbot (tree sap) and lumber, and has 24 carved massive buttresses for support.
How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. Psalm 31:19
We give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." Psalm 107:1
Hmmn i think i would love to promote Ilocos tourism - why not :-)
FIRST DAY EXPLORATION
Our first stop was Heritage Village in Vigan Ilocos Sur.
Explore more by copying this link to your web browser http://www.vigancity.gov.ph/default.asp
Hidden Garden has a relaxing and natural ambiance. There's a romantic place with overhanging millionaires' vine malapit sa Lover's Corner. There are plants and garden items on display and for sale. Meron ding souvenir shop and a celebrity corner where pictures of famous visitors to the place are on display.
Mickey Mouse fruit
Pagburnayan (Clay Pot Making)
You are the Potter, I am the clay
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray
Change my heart oh God, make it ever true
Change my heart oh God, may I be like You.
Baluarte
http://chavitsingson.net/baluarte/
Bantay Bell Tower
Towering over the town, the Bantay Bell Tower is a sight to behold, standing separately over a hilltop. The original structure as it stands today was built by Augustinian missionaries in 1591, most likely as a part of the parish church nearby. It was made of bricks, rocks, and a mixture of seashells and sugar cane. The bell tower stands on the tallest point in the town, and was used as a watch tower during the Spanish colonial period. As such, the tower is aptly named since “bantay” is an Ilocano word for both “mountain” and “guard.”
SECOND DAY EXPLORATION
As early as 4am we were already on our way to Pagudpod, Ilocos Norte - the "Haven of the North" because of its unspoiled natural resources, peaceful community and beautiful beaches.
http://tourism-philippines.com/pagudpud/
Next on our itinerary list was White Rock Formation in Kapurpurawan
Bangui Windmills are huge, powerful, and modern-looking considered to be the biggest in Southeast Asia. It sells 40% electricity to Ilocos Norte and is contributing to reduce the greenhouse effect which causes global warming.
Cape Bojeador Lighthouse also known as Burgos Lighthouse, is a cultural heritage structure in Burgos, Ilocos Norte that was established during the Spanish Colonial period. First lit on March 30, 1892 and is set high on Vigia de Nagparitan Hill overlooking the scenic Cape Bojeador where early galleons used to sail by. After over 100 years, it still functions as a welcoming beacon to the international ships that enter the Philippine Archipelago from the north and guide them safely away from the rocky coast of the town.
THIRD DAY EXPLORATION
We spent a night with my comare's family in Pasuquin which is a place known for salt making.
Fort Ilocandia
The only 5-star deluxe resort hotel in northern Philippines sprawling over 77 hectares of land amidst gentle sand dunes and pine forests with a 2 kilo-meter sandy beach facing the South China Sea. It is located in the heart of the city of Laoag and the province of Ilocos Norte. It’s a 10 minutes drive from Fort Ilocandia Golf & Country Club at Paoay and from the Laoag International Airport.
Dropping at Plaza del Norte before heading up to Fort Ilocandia Golf and Country Club.
Fort Ilocandia Golf and Country Club
Java Hotel is famous for its unique Balinese Moroccan atmosphere, exquisite Spanish design and warm Ilocano touch. Its recreational facilities will surely meet your needs and expectations for it includes a souvenir shop, tennis court, fitness gym, and swimming pool, as well as a function hall.
The Sinking Bell Tower of Laoag City is one of the first things you may spot upon entering the city proper. It’s a massive 45-meter bell tower said to be one of the tallest bell towers in the Philippines and was built by the Augustinians in 1612. The tower has earned its “sinking” reputation because it is so heavy and it was build on sandy foundations that it has consistently sunk into the ground. Stories mention that a person on horseback could enter the tower with ease back when it was built. Now, a person of normal height has to bend down just to enter the vaulted entrance.
Known as the “Earthquake Baroque” church in the Philippines, Paoay Church was built of baked bricks, coral rocks, salbot (tree sap) and lumber, and has 24 carved massive buttresses for support.
How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you. Psalm 31:19
We give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever." Psalm 107:1
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