by Sis. Elaine Medina
Reading for the day: Hebrews 6:9-10
The three-day countdown to the New Year begins! I don’t know about you, but it feels like I’ve been swept through a whirlwind of experiences—the highs and lows, the breakthroughs and setbacks, the perfect storms, and the peaceful calm. It all come together as a bittersweet conclusion to an eventful year.
As the Christmas season winds down and we turn our eyes to the New Year, I feel a wistful longing for the past, tempered by an eager anticipation for what lies ahead. This year has been especially trying. In May 2024, we mourned the passing of our beloved Apostle Arsenio T. Ferriol. His life and legacy are not just something we celebrate but something we aspire to live out.
Others come to mind as well. I think of Bishop Domingo Ferriol, with his cheerful smile, the deep truths he shared, and the chuckles sparked by his famous line, “Ewan ko sa inyo.” His decades of service uplifted the church and glorified the Lord in profound ways.
I also remember my co-ministers in Canada, Bro. Froilan and Bro. MC Manuel, who I’ve known since childhood. They devoted their lives to the ministry, fought the good fight of faith, and finished the race. Though their time with us was brief, their impact endures. I miss you both so much.
And Sis. Julie Sangalang—what a delight she was! Her funny yet charming way of speaking English still brings a smile to my face. I’ll never forget how, when testifying about God’s goodness, instead of saying “I am amazed!” she’d exclaim, “I am amazing!” And in so many ways, she truly was. Her passion for soul-winning and her heart for God’s work were extraordinary.
It’s important to celebrate the lives that have touched us so deeply. And if there is one life we should remember every day, it’s Jesus—the life He lived and the sacrifice He made for all of us. His love is the ultimate gift we should treasure and honor, not just during Christmas, but throughout the whole year.
While it’s natural to feel sadness as we reflect on chapters that have closed, we also have countless reasons to rejoice, give thanks, and celebrate about. Psalms 103:2 reminds us:
“Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits.”
Even amidst His own moments of distress, the psalmist found comfort in the Lord’s presence.
As we close this year, let’s not forget the good things God has done and the beautiful memories we’ve made. There’s so much to look back to! In March 2024, we celebrated the inauguration of the first church building in Canada, built from the ground up. I’ll never forget the joy and gratitude that filled the sanctuary as it overflowed with people, celebrating the incredible work of God!
Isn’t it amazing to think? Not only are we called to remember what God has done, but He is a God who remembers us! Hebrews 6:10 reassures us:
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work
and the love you have shown him as you have helped
his people and continue to help them.”
In some translations, it says He will not forget our “labor of love.” He remembers the hours we spent caroling in the cold, the sleepless nights preparing for big events, and the sacrifices we made to further His work. Every effort, no matter how small, is seen and cherished by Him.
Isn’t it amazing to think? Not only are we called to remember what God has done, but He is a God who remembers us!
As we step into the New Year, let us carry with us both the successes and lessons of the past. Let us honor the lives of those who have left an indelible mark on us, and above all, remember the goodness of God that has carried us through it all. May we enter this new season with hearts full of gratitude, joy, and faith, trusting in God’s continued faithfulness.
Here’s to a New Year filled with hope, gratitude, and new beginnings!
Reflection: What is one blessing that you’ve experienced this past year that you’re especially grateful for? Is there anyone who has positively impacted your life and service to God? How can you make an impact on others?
Leave a Reply