By Bro Jess Caraga, Mission Director BCBP Cebu South
In a few months, I will be celebrating my ninth year with the brotherhood. Despite the many misconceptions I had in joining this community, I still continue and profess to be a good member. When I was still new in the brotherhood, I dreamt of joining the mission team. Now, it is no longer a dream, for Iam tasked to lead the team. I recall the time when I was asked to becamone an Action Group Leader. I was not prepared to accept it, but just the same, I became the action group leader of a group of young couples who were already into commmunity life. I was afraid of not being able to shepherd my flock, for I did not have the skill in shepherding. Later it dawned upon me that skill was not an issue, What God demanded was my willingness to serve.
I tried to lead by example to my small and young flock. For several years, we have handled major services in the community. But community life has always has its peculiarities which, if not handled properly, lead to discontent among its members. On several ocassions, I have tried to lead lead my young flock to submit to our elders. With humble hearts, they have continued to serve not because they have to but because they were eager to.
As I moved up the ladder of our community structure, I have felt the burder of community life. Maybe this is because I did not have pure intentions when I first joined the community, or maybe because I am not ready to accept service, or maybe because many other reasons. But everytime I entertain the thought of lying low in my community life, there is always that mighty hand of God that pushes me up and points me to the direction where I should go.
God has always been good. He took care of us. But during those times when I feel so low, I asked, “Why oh Lord?” God did not answer, instead He asked: “Are you a faithful servant?” How then should I reply.
I dared to lead other servants and dared to live the life expected of every member of this community, no matter how difficult it maybe. I dared to become a servant, but for how long I can last, that I do not know. But I continue to hope on the promise that God has made. So I continue to lift up everything to Him, and for Him to bless my plans. God reminded me in the following scripture.
“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be, not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve;not lording it over those entrusted to you but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown glory that will never fade away. In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:2-7)
God has made the story of my life in this community. The above scriptures defines my community life. I cannot undo His plans for me, but if I wre to be given the choice, i would love to take charge of the elder flocks who have served in our Carcar outreach.
Last Sunday, March 2, 2014, we were blessed with one first timer during our breakfast in our Carcar Outreach. Seeing once again this small group adds life to my community life. I find myself recharged everytime I am with the group. Once again, I saw my former young flock in the hearts of these elder flock.
Let us continue to touch the hearts of other men. Invite them to our breakfast. I urge you once again my brothers and sisters, bring life to this community, its future is in your hands. Be God’s humble and faithful servants.
To God be the Glory.
