January, 2012
Dear brethren in Christ!
A blessed New Year!
“In everything give thanks”. This was Paul’s admonition to the believers while he was in prison, facing death eventually. Only Christians can truly appreciate these words of exhortation from the Apostle Paul. We can always give thanks in all circumstances because God is Sovereign. He allows things to happen and can work out all of these for good to those who love Him. History is really His story. He is the Alpha and Omega.
Join us in thanking the Lord for everything that He allowed to happen. The Sendong (washi) event was really painful, but God works in the midst of this occurrence. More than the physical assistance that the victims needed, their lives are shattered due to loss of many loved ones. After sharing some material blessings to them, we started to share the Gospel to the survivors. They are really receptive. They realized they need the Savior more than anything. They experienced life and death situation and hearing that Jesus died for them to give them eternal hope is good news. Let us pray that many will really come to terms with Jesus- His offer of forgiveness, new life and new hope. Most of all, that we, Christians in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan will be willing vessels to help follow up those who respond to Christ, until they grow in the knowledge of God and be truly secure in His love, in spite of the many hurts and pains they are into.
We are looking forward this year with anticipation that He who started a good work in us, will perfect it until He comes. His work of changing our lives, to be more and more like His Son, and using us so that many who are still in darkness could be led to His light.
We travel together in this journey. The road may not be smooth, but the destiny is sure, and the finish line is very near. Let’s press on towards the goal to which Christ has called us.
We would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all of you who prayed and gave material/financial support.
In Christ,
Ptr. Bernardo A. Mendoza
Arise Christian Ministries, Inc.
