Live in a manner worthy of the Lord, so as to be fully pleasing, in every good work bearing fruit and growing in the knowledge of God. Colossians 1:10
This reflection is a testimony of the constant change that we most likely share in our different experiences. But I know this is the same God that inspired us all, especially in our lives here in our community. Much of St. Paul’s life following his conversion demonstrates somehow a parallel reflection in my life.
As was with my brothers and sisters in this community, their lives after saying yes to God have never been the same. Relatedly, things became clear to me; something profound that I see the world differently and in a better way. As I went on with a life dedicated to service, it was hard not to notice how much of me had changed significantly for yet the better. At the onset, I started this calling with immature qualities. For example, before, I used to have no idea how to lead people or even relate to them. But now, I am serving in an area so big that I can only imagine not being capable of doing back when I was still a younger member of the MFC Youth.
I saw in this community how the universality of God’s love is constantly at work. These are rendered, for instance, through the pastoral formations, program activities, or workshops available, being privileged to evangelize from these tools, yet surprisingly, all the while, ending up becoming transformed yourself because it speaks so much about you and your life. Or even the fellowship with our fellow servants. Becoming witnesses of their lives, in one way or another, serves as an avenue of seeing God through other people. Moreover, I saw people win, saw people struggle, and even saw people come and go. Pretty much each experience inspires change for the better. There are far, far better things ahead than any we leave behind, as C.S Lewis would put it. These are the chances revealed to me, and maybe to you, that God would desire for us on how we should see the world, especially as young people.
Mostly, acceptance is the first step to change. It is always a constant struggle to make sense of it, but God always brings something into my life that is way beyond my control and understanding over and over until He leads me to it. God showed me things to believe in to remind me to forget all about who I was. Every time I try to look back, bearing this much change in mind, it is gratifying to see how far I have turned out to be, with always a fresh new perspective. I never saw myself before that I can be adept at journeying with people to God and be an extension of His love to this world. I always see myself as an unworthy mess. But you know, the best thing about being caught up in the grace of God is not knowing what to do but just being vulnerable to His love. Everything is a switchback of seemingly challenging and exciting lessons leading up to who I am today, a humble Missionary Volunteer of God.
These works of wonders of God’s grace always come with something valuable to learn from every encounter revealed in my life. The fact of the matter is, once we experience a genuine encounter with the Lord, we eventually find our hearts always yearn to be involved: such as in the business of loving God and other people, in the works of mercy and compassion, humility, sacrifice, witnessing and evangelization, profound passion, and fellowship. I knew that on these occasions, I was always in the right place, this community where God brought me. This grace gave me the conscience that continues to guide me through life.
As we continue this missionary journey, we may experience many memorable things as part of our growth. Say, the unforgettable ones in the moments of our weaknesses: the hard truths to bear, painful realities, sinfulness and guilt, emptiness, hardships, corrections, and different forms of losses, but in turn, these are all traded with a lesson of humility, sensitivity, fulfillment, patience, forgiveness, trust, and many more. Also, in the moments of our victories, when we experience abundance, joy, hope, and all other good things. Thus, as a whole, these are occasions where God enlightens our minds, stretches our hearts, and strengthens our spirits more than we ever could. Because the truth is, the love of God will never change, but this love will surely bring something new in our lives that means so much for our growth and brings constant awareness to us that His sovereign stills. It all felt so real how Jesus is journeying with me, as He also experienced and endured all these.
Allow this form of His love inside you, and always be open to where He guides. Always breathe life in His presence, and cling to that in every season of your life. Let us always try to find our gifts and work on them toward the change God wants for our lives. From what I realized on a personal level, though imperfect, I am a work in progress. My life is full of constant change. We all are always a work in progress. When all that hits you, then what could be the reason to stop? At the end of the day, only God can truly understand who we really are and what we can control in this life. Be what and where God called you to be. Decide to bear fruit in the changes that God has for you. Remain open to growth as Jesus remained faithful to you.
Then again, each time I look back, it is always hard-hitting nostalgia. From the relationships built, the things I have learned, and the thought that God loves me no matter what. And so, I am eternally grateful for where God led me, this community, a steadfast place for growth. Just like St. Paul, all the saints, and everyone we know whose life has moved forward for the better, may the changes and growth we experience in life be a reason for others to change and grow right in the presence of God and His grace and mercy, who is the source of it all. May our being a part of the MFC Youth always bring a reason for us to choose for the better part and to be ever grateful.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Kuya Von Abines is from the area of Dumaguete. He is currently a mission volunteer for the Zone of Visayas.
