3 Persons + 1 God = Church

3 persons + 1 God = CHURCH

Pastor Romel Insular

            Yes, that’s absolutely right. However, it is not just a church that I’ve found in this group of young guns; but a FAMILY… a strong and bonded family. I will forever be thankful for that moment when Pastor Romel asked me, “Do you want to join our life group?” I was like, “Of course!” since that was my goal in the first place. So I grabbed the opportunity and since then, I never had any regrets… at all.

It was a Wednesday evening; at exactly 7:00pm I went to the center and looked for Pastor Romel’s group. At first, I was kind of uncomfortable, thinking that it is my first time to join in such activity. I was never into sharing and stuff, so I was a little doubtful in every word that I said. But that feeling didn’t last long, for these people were like Walking Smileys! They always wear a smile like they never get tired of it. These total strangers made me feel at home in just a couple of minutes. Then I realized that it was God who never left me. He guided me all the way on that day and made me feel that everything’s going to be alright just as long as I follow Him. So it was already set. Wednesdays, 7:00pm, Center. I was always so excited to go to our Life Group meeting, ‘coz every individual has their share of stories to tell. Experiences, feelings, problems that definitely help each other improve their faith in God.

Kiel Lorrence – Teacher who preaches. I really admire this guy. He has this passion of preaching God’s existence in every way he could. He inspired me to do well in my blogging, ‘coz he’s one hell of a blogger too! Though we didn’t have enough time to finish my one2one due to our conflicting schedules, I am still thankful for everything that we’ve accomplished by far. He is in a relationship with God, and I’m so happy with him.

Teris Lee – Man of Conviction. Teris was the first person I became close with from the group. If you’d be judging him according to his appearance, you’d be surprised if I tell you that he’s super-duper kind and friendly. But what I liked the most about him was his conviction; he’s full of it. He seeks for the path to righteousness and never wants to get off track. He is blessed with a good heart and I am proud to witness that goodness in him.

Alex Lorenzo – PNP (Pulis na Pastor). Haha. Yes, I know; when he reads this he’d be surprised ‘coz he’s actually not a pastor (yet). But I prefer calling him one, for he acts like one. He’s like a Big Brother to us. Whenever Pas Romel’s not around, he’s the one leading our life group meetings and he never fails to share a wonderful insight. I am really fond of Pas Lex, since the time when he told us that he doesn’t bring any firearms during his duty. I mean, he has that utmost confidence in God to the point that he no longer needed the use of a gun on a job as risky and dangerous as his. He is really a blessing to many people. And that’s why I can truly say that God never looks at your resume to do His works; whether you’re a dentist, painter or a police, He has plans for you in advancing His kingdom and save lives.

Rector Nodado – Rectified Soul. I was really amazed on how God made his way back into him. He is the man who found comfort in God; a living proof that God never leaves us. Well, aside from his testimonies about life and God being so wonderful and inspiring, he was the Organizer of the group. Actually, I really appreciate his efforts especially during the time when he organized a farewell party for me. I am really privileged to be his friend, and I believe that God will use him for the greater glory of His name.

Ryan Abutazil – One of God’s Doctors. This man is AWESOME. We’ve been together at the Singles’ Retreat and I had the chance to know him much better there. He is a true gentleman and a follower of Jesus. I can still remember him telling me stories about his life and some of his experiences with God and love (The Love Doctor). I learned a lot from this guy, I can say that he really made an impact in my life.

Francis and Raymond Ng Thoe ­– Chinese Representatives of God. They are the ones who never fail to bring food every meeting. But what I like about these guys is their ultimate trust in God, especially in their business. It is from them that I really understood the truth when they say “What you sow is what you reap.” They are business tycoons that have a humble personality. You see, that’s what I like about this group; we all are from different levels – age, race, culture, etc. But we all have been gathered because of just one reason, Christ. We all honor Him and rejoice in His presence.

Paul, Dar, Jeff, Rommel, Jusy, Joey – The Mainstays. Yes, these are the faces that I always see in life our group meetings; always present and always pumped up! They all share stories about their jobs/business and how God makes a way in helping them overcome every obstacle they encounter. I just want to thank Paul for the funny comments; you’re one of the reasons why our group never became so serious. Thank you Dar for the inspiring words and prayers that always makes me feel that I’m not alone. Thank you Jeff for being so kind and humble; you have a pure heart, take good care of it. Thank you Jusy for being so transparent and righteous; I wish you well on your job, and always stay strong and courageous. Lastly, thank you Joey for your prayers; I know you will do great on your job just as long as you continue honoring Him and making disciples.

Pastor Romel Insular – Role Model. He really is to each and every one us. If it weren’t for him, it could’ve been difficult for me to get along in such an environment. He made me feel that ease when I’m with the group. Well, since idolatry is a sin, all I can say is that I really really really admire this man. I mean his conviction, his self-discipline, his love and faith for God; I can see all of them in him. He was God’s instrument in drawing me much closer to God. He is an inspiration to me, his encouraging words that pierces through my heart always gives me a reason to continue pursuing God whatever it takes. He’s my first “Pastor Friend”, and I will forever be thankful to be one of his friends.

And for those who I haven’t mentioned – it’s not like you weren’t important at all, it’s just that I’m worst in remembering names, but surely I do remember you by your face. Still, thank you for all the shared memories and experiences. I learned a lot of things from you.

There is certainly a different depth of connection with our spiritual family. We are blood relatives, because we are bound together by the blood of the Lord Jesus, Who bought us for Himself. We share spiritual DNA and the privilege of being family as well as friends (http://blogs.bible.org/tapestry/sue_bohlin/spiritual_family_gatherings). When I hang out with them, important conversations can happen simply because we’re together. I always feel that immense satisfaction with these guys. It is only to them that I can easily exercise the real me, the NEW me, without hearing any side comments, and they are the only people who call me by the name, "SOSLOW", which is totally awesome. They became my family here in Zamboanga and I will never ever forget them. I believe everything was not a coincidence, having read the Purpose Driven Life telling me to find a small group, stepping inside the center, attending a Sunday service, getting noticed by Pastor Romel who offered me to join his life group, and being a part of KADAWEDZ group. They wrote a Chapter in my life with a permanent marker – with inerasable, bold letters that will surely be worth remembering.

He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. – Proverbs13:20. Life group is FREE for ALL. That’s why I strongly encourage you to have one. You will surely benefit from them and they will make you become a better person. These are your spiritual people. They have nursed you and built you up. They are cheering for you when you are not around. They will join their prayers to yours and hope the best for you comes to bloom. These are your people and a few of them are also related to you (http://www.christchurchsummit.org/Sermons-2005/050424-TheBlendedSpiritualFamily.html).

Testimony: Other things may change us, but we start and end with family. – Anthony Brandt

Life Lesson: God never leaves you.

Godly Passion: Rejoice in the Lord, and He will give the desires of your heart.

Good News: Church.