How does one get crucified for telling Parables?
Introduction
Two very important reminders: First, If there is one fact we are perfectly sure about Jesus of Nazareth, it is that he was crucified by order of the Roman Prefect, Pontius Pilate, in the mid-30's CE for allegedly being "King of the Jews." And we don't need the Bible to confirm this. Two historians, the Jewish Josephus and the Roman Tacitus, attest to the “pernicious” superstition called Christianity and its crucified and supposedly risen leader.
Second, if there is one thing most scholars agree about Jesus is that he was a storyteller; that he taught in parables (like the many rabbis of his time). And his followers remembered and we have many of his stories in the gospels we now call Mark, Matthew and Luke.
The key question we hope to answer this term is one which has bothered many for centuries: If Jesus were a teacher of heavenly, spiritual truths then why was he executed as a political subversive between two social bandits or freedom fighters (lestes in Greek)? It appears that Jerusalem elites collaborated with their Roman overlords to get rid of Jesus because he was a threat to their political and economic Interests? How do we reconcile the teacher with the subversive? How does one get crucified for telling stories?
To answer this question, we need to try to construct the context of those so-called stories that may have gotten Jesus killed. If parables offer glimpses of everyday life in first-century Palestine, they also infer the larger whole of which those glimpses are part. We cannot understand the parables without first attending to the social reality they imply. For this task, we have Josephus, rabbinic and Roman sources. We also have anthropologists who do peasant studies. Then we have macro-sociologists' work on agrarian societies and aristocratic and bureaucratic empires.
The World of Jesus’ Parables
Social scientists map the contours of antiquity. These maps (like the maps we have in our cars) are but representations of reality. They help us understand the world of Jesus’ parables. Many of these scientists agree that the introduction of the plow (yes, the lowly “araro”) ushered the dawn of the domestication of animals for agricultural use, the eventual settlement of cultivators in villages, and the rise of an exploiter class. Agrarian societies dominated human life from about 3000 BCE to the advent of the industrial revolution in 1800 CE. One consequence of this social evolution was institutionalized bureaucracy. In the beginning there were cultivators and armed nomads who preyed on the cultivators by destroying their settlements and plundering their goods. Eventually, in order to save their settlements, the cultivators—instead of fighting—offered a portion of their produce to the nomads as bribe. The bribe eventually became tribute. The nomads soon discover they could live off the produce of villages. Warfare and plunder became their way of life and bureaucracy is its legitimization. Financial bureaucrats made sure that wealth remained in the hands of the few and the military made sure more not less came in. The elite had to legitimize exploitation through education, record-keeping (of debts particularly) and religion. The economy was based on redistribution of wealth through tribute and other forms of enforced obligations whose effect was to leave peasants at subsistence levels while urban elites lived in luxury. Sociologists also have remarked that agrarian societies have no history. Trans-historically or cross-culturally, if you see one, you've seen them all.
The world of ancient Palestine may be represented by the following levels (and one can argue that these tiers are as true today as they were then).
High-level elite, power players-1-2%
Retainers (agents of control), 5-7%
Merchants, peddlers, barter, 5%
Artisans, manual-skilled laborers, 3-7%
Peasants, 70-80%
Unclean, despised trade, nothing to sell but bodies,5%
Expendables, excess children of peasant farmers sent away as
Day laborers and beggars, 10-15%
This is the world of Jesus' parables. Jesus’ parables were not earthly stories about heavenly things; rather, they were earthy stories about heavy things: the reality of empire, of colonial rule, the violence of poverty and oppression, and the dispossessed’s collective longing for God’s intervention.
Jesus’ parables—stories that disclosed the structures of empire, evil and greed during his time and offered glimpses of God’s reign breaking through via the struggles of the dispossessed—were, most probably, the reason he got executed. Yes, telling parables can get one killed.
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From the works of William Herzog and the collective wisdom of Carlos Abesamis, Elizabeth Gravador-Dominguez, Benito Dominguez, John Dominic Crossan, Paulo Freire, and and Gerhard Lenski.
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ang tapat at di-tapat na alipin
Ang parabulang ito ni Jesus ay matatagpuan sa Mateo 24:45-51. Isa ang parabulang ito sa mga napinggan ng mga Guro ng Kautusan na siyang nagtulak sa kanila upang ipapatay at mapako si Jesus sa krus. Sa kwento ni Jesus lumalabas na lahat ay alipin subalit may lider din ng mga alipin na siyang dapat magturo ng tama sa mga kapwa n'ya alipin. Ang nakita ni Jesus ay ang di tamang ginagawa at di tamang pagtuturo ng mga Guro ng Kauutusan. Hindi nakikita sa kanilang mga buhay ang kanilang itinuturo sa halip nais nilang ituring sila na 'mataas' sa kanilang lipunan, nais nilang igalang sila ng mga tao at bigyang pugay. Sila ang dapat na inaasahan ng Panginoon na mangalaga sa kawan subalit hindi sila nasumpungan na gumagawa sa kung ano ang ipinagkatiwala sa kanila ng Diyos, at ginagawa lamang nila kung ano ang kanilang maibigan. Ang 'outcome' sa pagawa nila ng kanilang ibig ay marami na pala silang nasasaktan na kapwa din nila alipin. Kaya ang mga Guro ng Kautusan ay galit na galit kay Jesus sapagkat sa kanilang pang-unawa ginagawa nila ang kanilang tungkulin but they were surprise dahil iba ang sinabi ni Jesus, sila'y inihalintulad sa di tapat na alipin na ginagawa lamang ang kanilang maibigan.
Randy G. Ugaddan
Mdiv. Senior
The Parable of the Tenants in the Vineyard
Marcos 12: 1-12
Adhikain\ Aim.
Para magkaroon ng linaw ang lahat ng talento na ibinigay ng Dios sa atin, kailangan na magamit ito sa magandang paraan.
Para maipakita na ang Dios ay matiaga at ang mga suwail ay mapaparusahan.
Ibinigay ng Diyos sa atin ang kanyang kalooban upang makamit natin ang buhay na walang hanggan.
Pauna:
Mayroong isang tao na nagtatanim ng maraming ubas. At binakuran niya ang kanyang ubusan, hanggang sa gumawa siya ng kanyang pagpigaan ng ubas at nagpatayo ng torre para mabantayan niya ito. Pagkatapos, ay isinanla niya ang kanyang ubasan sa mga magsasaka at umalis o lumuwas at nagpunta sa kabilang bayan.
At nang dumating na ang anihan sa ubasan, inutusan niya ang kanyang tauhan para pumunta sa mga magsasaka at kunin yung para sa kanya, pero ito ay hinuli nang mga magsasaka at ito ay sinuntok at pinauwi nila na kamay-kamay ibig sabihin walan siyang nakuha para sa kanyang Amo.
Ang trabaho ng Dios ay ipinagkatiwala Niya sa mga tao, ito ay isang biyaya ng Dios. Na ang trabaho natin ay ang maibahagi ang kanyang ebanghelyo sa mga tao para purihin at sumunod sila sa kanya. Dahil ang Dios ay nagtatrabaho para sa ating lahat na sumasampalataya.
Iba-iba ang mga talento na ibinigay niya sa atin at gusto niya na tayo ay magtrabaho ng mabuti.para sa kanyang kalooban (Mateo 16:27) sapagkat darating ang anak ng tao na taglay ang dakilang kapangyarihan ng kanyang Ama at kasama ang kanyang mga anghel. Sa panahong yao’y gagantimpalahan niya ang bawat tao ayon sa kanyang ginawa.
Randy G. Ugaddan
Mdiv. Senior
The Parable of the Tenants in the Vineyard
Marcos 12: 1-12
Adhikain\ Aim.
Para magkaroon ng linaw ang lahat ng talento na ibinigay ng Dios sa atin, kailangan na magamit ito sa magandang paraan.
Para maipakita na ang Dios ay matiaga at ang mga suwail ay mapaparusahan.
Ibinigay ng Diyos sa atin ang kanyang kalooban upang makamit natin ang buhay na walang hanggan.
Pauna:
Mayroong isang tao na nagtatanim ng maraming ubas. At binakuran niya ang kanyang ubusan, hanggang sa gumawa siya ng kanyang pagpigaan ng ubas at nagpatayo ng torre para mabantayan niya ito. Pagkatapos, ay isinanla niya ang kanyang ubasan sa mga magsasaka at umalis o lumuwas at nagpunta sa kabilang bayan.
At nang dumating na ang anihan sa ubasan, inutusan niya ang kanyang tauhan para pumunta sa mga magsasaka at kunin yung para sa kanya, pero ito ay hinuli nang mga magsasaka at ito ay sinuntok at pinauwi nila na kamay-kamay ibig sabihin walan siyang nakuha para sa kanyang Amo.
Ang trabaho ng Dios ay ipinagkatiwala Niya sa mga tao, ito ay isang biyaya ng Dios. Na ang trabaho natin ay ang maibahagi ang kanyang ebanghelyo sa mga tao para purihin at sumunod sila sa kanya. Dahil ang Dios ay nagtatrabaho para sa ating lahat na sumasampalataya.
Iba-iba ang mga talento na ibinigay niya sa atin at gusto niya na tayo ay magtrabaho ng mabuti.para sa kanyang kalooban (Mateo 16:27) sapagkat darating ang anak ng tao na taglay ang dakilang kapangyarihan ng kanyang Ama at kasama ang kanyang mga anghel. Sa panahong yao’y gagantimpalahan niya ang bawat tao ayon sa kanyang ginawa.
Randy G. Ugaddan
Mdiv Senior.
Matthew 20:1-16
Workers in the vineyard
Aim:
To show that the Christians real motive for work is service to God and his fellow men, and not profit for himself.
In the book of Matthew they present the two great principles the right of every man to work, and the right of every man to a living wage for his work. But actually the master might have cut the pay of the late comers, but he knew well that if he had done so, there would have been hungry homes that night and on the morrow. Even in the book of lamentations 3:19-26 two great truths for the Christian workers will make to our daily work.
Work a friend or a foe? Is work something to be avoided if possible supposed the boss is out and you spend a morning in idleness, does that do you good or harm and if you work after the time for closing to finish the job you are doing, do you suffer or do you benefit.
Although: Paul’s comment on work and illness in 1thessalonians 5:12-14 even in the 2thessalonians 3:6-12 he condemns the idleness in strong and he refers to his own and how he did more than required of him that work is not a foe it is a very good friend! That nothing more tragic in this world than man who are unemployed, a man knowledge and strength are rusting in the idleness because he has no work to do the unemployed who flock daily to the Employed but the (equivalent of this is a market place in the book of Matthew 20) that can witness to the tragedy of going home without work but from the center to see the worried wife and hungry children.
Work means or an end? The spirit in which we work makes all difference. But Peter said to Jesus “Master, we left everything and followed you. What do we get out of it? “And he wanted to know what reward they were going to get. In the parable it is stressed that the first comers come to an agreement with the master (Matthew 20: 2-13). Maybe they haggled. Certainly and the spirit was, “we work if you give us so much to pay” they work simply as means to get money for food and to pay lodging. Of course we expect to be paid for the work we do. But work is worth while for its own sake. But it is an end not just a means it is the patter of life which is God’s ordained us,
Is all work worth doing? Some kinds of work should be avoided at all cost you know: making or selling alcoholics’ drinks and etc…what if your work poorly paid, or if you feel the owner makes excessive profit? In Colossians 3:23 – 24 – but all means look for a more suitable job, asking God to lead you but so long as you stay in the old job, put all your effort into it because you are serving the lord and not men.
Text: Luke 16 : 1-13
The following are my own interpretation to the Parable of the Shrewd Manager
(the one in tagalog)
here was a rich man whose manager was accused of wasting his possessions. So he called him in and asked him, "What is this I hear about you? Give me an account of your management, because you cannot be manager any longer."
The manager said to himself, "What shall I do now? My master is taking away my job. I'm not strong enough to dig, and I'm ashamed to beg - I know what I'll do so that, when I lose my job here, people will welcome me into their houses."
So he called in each one of his master's debtors. He asked the first, "How much do you owe my master?"
"Eight hundred gallons of olive oil," he replied.
The manager told him, "Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it four hundred."
Then he asked the second, "And how much do you owe?"
"A thousand bushels of wheat," he replied.
He told him, "Take your bill and make it eight hundred."
The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly.....Luke 16:1-13
******Sa Kwentong ito may tatlong pangunahing karakter..ang nagosyante ang mahihirap at ang tagapamahala.
sa kwento natuwa pa ang mayaman sa ginawa ng katiwala..
Sa Akin lang....
Sa akin lang ang kwentong ito ni Hesus ay lumalarawan sa dalawang kalagayan ng lipunan hindi lamang sa Pilipinas kundi sa maraming bansa...ang tinutukoy ko'y ang maliliit at ang makapangyarihan.
Sa akin lang..ang mayamang mangangalakal ay larawan ng mga makapangyarihan, matalino o maari din tawaging tusong negosyante..
para sa negosyante ang lahat ng bagay ay may kinalaman sa "pera" at "pagkita".kung ikaw ay isang magaling na mangangalakal..bago mo ilabas ang pera mo alam mo muna kung magkano ang iyong tutubuin...at malabong magbitiw ka ng pera kung hindi ka siguradong kikita ka.ang mangngalakal tutulong nalang gusto pang kumita...kaya nga mangangalakal ang tawag sa kanila.
Ang sa akin lang... ang mag maliliit ay desparadong maka-survive...totoo sa mahihirap ang kasabihang "kapit nalang sa patalim..." at ika ng nga ng matatanda "pagbuhulin ang dulo ng pisi"
Sa ating kwento ang mangangalakal ay may mga pautang...
ang sa akin lang...kung ikaw ay mahirap na bibigyan ng pagkakataong mag negosyo at papahiramin ka ng perang pamuhunan..kahit malaki ang patubo anu ang gagawin mo.?
dahil itong malilit ay desperadong maka-survive...tatanggapin nila yan..
ang problema sa laki ng patubo hulog ka ng hulog..pero interest nalang ang binabayaran mo...hindi na nakaahon itong mahirap sa kanyang pagkakautang..
Ang sa akin lang...kung ikaw ay katiwalang ng isang mahusay na mangangalakal..siguradong alam mo kung paano tumatakbo ang negosyong pautang ng amo mo...kung mag magalit sya sayo at aalisin ka sa trabaho alam mo na mo ang gagawin mo..maghahanap ka ng kakampi..
kanino ka kakampi? sa malilit...dahil mas marami sila kaya marami kang makakasama..
pinalaya ng katiwala ang kanyang mga kapwa mangngagawa sa interes at komisyong pasan nila na ipinataw ng kanyang amo..Ngayon gumaan na ang kanilang balikat.
kung ikaw ang mga mangangalakal at at mayayamang pareseo. tyak na hindi ka malulugi ngunit siguradong malaki parin ang mawawala sayo, Kung bakit kasi itong Panginoong Hesus para yatang sinasagasaan pa ang kanilang mga negosyo..natututo tuloy mangatwiran ang mahihirap..kung isa kang mangangalakal na ober kung magpatubo at nagkataong naroon ka nung nagsasalita si Hesus, magustuhan mo kaya ang kwento nya... End
prepared by:
Nixon C. Sarmiento
Master of Divinity Senior
The Parable of the Talents
(Matthew 25: 14-30)
This parable, like several others, involves slaves. “Slave,” not servant, is the meaning of the Greek word doulos. Slavery was prominent in the Ancient Mediterranean world, including Palestine where Jewish slaves served Jewish masters.
The man was about to leave home on a trip, he called his servants and put them in charge of his property. To one, he gave five talents, to another he gave 2 talents, and to another he gave one talent. A talent equaled about 6,000denarii. One denarius was the daily pay for a common laborer, and a year had 300 workdays, then 6,000denarii or 1 talent equaled 20 years worth of wages. So 5 talents worth 100 years worth of wages. So these servants were educated, owned property and held high ranking professions. But still they were subject to the will of their master, and could receive harsh corporal punishment.
When the first two servants come forward before the master, they are rewarded as expected. The 100% profit is pleasing to the master. He responds accordingly by promising them bigger and better responsibilities in the future. The praise offered by the oppressive master mystifies the ugly realities suppressed beneath the profit margin. “Well done, good and trustworthy slave.” Both servants are good in terms of the master’s values because they have been proven to be effective exploiters of the peasants and they have been trustworthy because they have produced a level of increased wealth in line with the master’s expectations. The sheer extent of the master’s wealth comes through his follow-up: “you have been trustworthy in a few things.” “5 talents equaled to 100 years worth of wages! 2 talents! A few things!!! Grabe naman!!! It is hard to grasp the steep curve of wealth concentration in agrarian societies. Those in the ruling class, roughly the 2% of the population controlled the vast majority of the world.
The promise follows his praise: “I will put you in charge of many things”. Ilang taon pa kaya silang alipin ng mga sakim. Each servant has gained a more powerful position in the elite’s household bureaucracy, but their dependency as clients has also been reinforced. The clients are never allowed to forget who the source of their patronage is.
He is inviting his clients into a celebration of their plenty in the midst of other’s deprivation and want. We expect the third character to turn out best: but here the last, the least is thrown into “outer darkness” For me, the hero of the parable is the third servant. He occupies the bold center of the picture. He is not a bad man. He is neither drunken nor wasteful. He is not lacking in a sense of responsibility or he would have squandered his talent. This servant hid his talent in the ground. The action, as judged by the standards of that day, was not lazy. To hide money in the ground was the traditional way of saving money. He takes the best available precaution against theft and liability. Because the master of the parable, as one who has no conscience where money is concerned. He identifies the master for what he is; strict, cruel, harsh and merciless. He shames his master through his unexpected effect. And even describes as an exploiter who lives off of the productive labor of others.
The judgment is immediate. Having spoken the truth, the servant must be vilified, shamed and humiliated so that his words will carry no weight.” Wicked and lazy slave.” These elite also view his wealth as what is my own, not as a trust from God to be administered in the interest of the poor of the land.
He describes the master for what he is and acknowledges his fear of his power. He realizes that he will pay a prize, but he has decided to accept the cost rather than continue to pursue his exploitive path.
Can peasants and rural poor folks realize how their interests can be tied to the very class of people whom they despise?
Do the people of the land realize the role played by the servants? Do they understand how their bitter animosity toward them plays into the hands of the ruling elite?
These are difficult questions with which to grapple, especially when one lives is in the outer darkness, far from the centers of power and light, struggling to survive from day to day, weeping and gnashing their teeth.
The third servant is the focus of the parable. This servant belongs to the inner circle and enjoys the master’s trust. Perhaps the servant will enter into partnership with the poor. He buries the talent in the ground to safeguard a treasure and wanted to end the cruelty of his master.
Bible study methods and curriculum Development
First semester, SY2 008- 2009
Needs Analysis:
The pressing need of our youth today in order to have a better future of this country is to have concrete programs that will help them grow not only in their spiritual life but of course of their total being therefore, as church people
The UMYF envision, as partners for the promotion of collective welfare and general well being, to be committed to uplift the identity and become responsive for the total development of its members and constituents.
UMYF shall work hand in hand in order to continue and provide financial assistance to indigent but intelligent, hardworking and deserving student.
UMYF shall undertake projects and activities that shall improve the economic welfare of its members and constituents.
UMYF shall help improve educational, social, moral, health and economic welfare of its members and constituents.
UMYF shall promote an integrated basic program of livelihood, education, health and nutrition, environment focusing on needed communities.
UMYF shall engage in income generating projects for the purpose of sustaining the development programs and projects of the association.
Aim and objectives
1. To provide scholarship and financial assistance among indigent but intelligent hardworking and deserving students.
2. To undertake projects and activities that shall improve the economic welfare of its members and constituents.
3. To help improve educational, moral, health, spiritual and economic welfare of its members and constituents.
4. To promote an integrated basic programs of livelihood, education, health and nutrition environment and self-government focusing on community.
5. To receive gifts and donations of money and property of any kind and to administer the same for projects uses and to do everything necessary for the accomplishment of their purpose.
6. To held training programs, workshop and seminars as well as research and development projects in pursuit of educational and scientific advancement of its member and its constituents.
SUBJECT: BIBLESTUDY AND CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
BIBLE STUDY LESSON FOR YOUTH
Introductions:
While Paul emphasized faith, James emphasized behavior. While Paul’s instruction was salvations by faith, James instructions were salvation that works. Different focus, same truth. Looking at the writings of Paul and James from this perspective is good way of resolving what may appear to be disagreement between their teachings. We can say that James teachings compliments Paul’s teaching. The purpose of James was to cheer, challenge, convict, and correct believers to attain maturity with the objectives of a faith that works. And this is our challenge for our youth today, not just be member of the church, but of course to be a part of transformation that liberate people not only from their present situation but of course within their own self. A new perspective in line with the kingdom values, which I believed that this is what the Lord want to us. Our Bible study for today focus on our faith that works and liberate.
LESSON 1
When your faith is being tested, think positively
James 1:1-4, 9-12; 5:7-11
Memory verse
“Consider it pure, my brother, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”
LESSON OUTCOMES
At the end of the small group, participants have
• Ascertained that as Christians their faith will be tested and tried.
• Established that in the midst of testing and trials, they must persevere and be patient knowing that God is in control just as he was over job and that he is compassionate and merciful.
• Embraced a stronger faith in God in times of difficulties.
• Expressed whatever testing and trial they may be experiencing
• Prayed and worshiped God for enabling them to overcome their present and future predicaments.
WORD
Read: James 1:1-4, 9-12 “trials and temptations” and James 5:7-11 “patience in suffering”
1. The book of James is a practical book consisting of everyday counsel and conduct. Who wrote this letter, when was it is written and to whom was it addressed? (1:1?
2. James opened his letter on the topic of trials. What was his exhortation to Jews of the Diaspora in this situation? How should we characterize “pure joy”? (1:2)
3. What are: trials and why should we rejoice in their midst?
What do “trials” and “testing” do to our faith? (1:3,4)
4. Part of the result of the Diaspora in the time of James was poverty, degradation and lost of human dignity, what was James encouragements to those who were in this circumstances? (1:9-11)
5. James believed that something worthwhile awaits the person who “perseveres under trial” what reward lies ahead? (1:12)
6. Aside from persevering, what else did James urge his readers to be? As Christian, we should be put our hope? (5:7-8)
7. James cited a farmer as an example on patience in suffering, what lessons on patience and perseverance can we learned from a farmer? (5:7b)
8. After exhorting patience and perseverance, James gives a warning to his readers. What was this warning to his readers? What was this morning and why did he give it? (5:9
9. In summary, what are the reasons for believers to rejoice in times of difficulties? (1:12; 5:10, 11)
Trials are inevitable but Christian always has the reason to rejoice because the Lord’s compassion and mercy will enable us to withstand the difficulties we have today. Our God promises the crown of life to those who love him.
To have the right attitude in trials, one must see the advantages of trials; however, it is sometimes difficult to see the advantages. Thuds, one can ask for wisdom from God to give him the right attitude in the midst of trials.
APPLICATION
• Are you currently going through difficulties that the group can pray?
• Why do we find it difficult to rejoice in our times of trials? Commit to God any trials or difficulty you are undergoing.
PRAYER:
My Lord, see me through this trial. Teach me to have the right attitude that I may be able to appreciate your mercy and grace hat enables me to carry on.
LESSON 2
When you lack wisdom, ask God
James 1:5-8; 3:13-18
Memory verse
“If any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5
LESSON OUT COME:
At the end of the small group, participants have
• Known that God is willing to give wisdom to all who ask….
Wisdom to understand God’s purposes for life’s trial and testing….
Wisdom how to at react/behave in times of trials and testing.
• Known the difference between earthly wisdom (human Philosophies or pragmatic approach) and heavenly (divine) wisdom.
• Appreciated God’s purposes for our trials and testing by trusting and obeying God and not by resigning to fate (bahala na, talagang ganun, suwerte o malas)
• Desired for God’s wisdom and understanding in all circumstances.
• Prayed for God’s wisdom to understand God’s purposes for what may seem to be misfortunes in life.
• Discerned and accept God’s purposes in our trials and testing.
• Acted wisely (pro-actively) in times of trials and testing.
WORD:
Read: James 1:5-8 “trials and temptations” and James 3:3:13-18 “two kinds of Wisdom”
1. When in the midst of trials and testing, we may become lost. We may become confused, frustrated and agitated and start to behave irrationally and carelessly. Moreover, the high goal of “not lacking anything” (1:4) may be a pressure. What were James prescriptions in such circumstances? What does having wisdom do in times of trial and testing? (1:5)
2. God’s provision of wisdom however has a prerequisite. What is this requirement? (1:6a-8)
3. James 3:13-18 is a natural outgrowth of the discussion of the tongue (see lesson 9). These six verses divide into three sections (1) An exhortations (vs.13) and two kinds of wisdom (2) an earthly wisdom (vv14-16) and (3)A wisdom from heaven (vv. 17-18). What is James exhortation for those who are “wise and understanding?” (3:13)
4. How does James describe unspiritual wisdom? How does this kind of wisdom manifest in a person’s life and what are the results of yielding to it? (3:14-16)
5. On the other hand, how does James describe “wisdoms that comes from heaven?” (3:17)
6. James concludes his discussion of “the wisdom comes from heaven” by reiterating the second quality listed in v. 17. What kind of climate must we have to “raise a harvest of righteousness?” (3:18)
WRAP UP
With heavenly wisdom, we gain peace that can produce a crop of righteousness. This is sown and cultivated not in a climate of bitterness and self-seeking but of peace. By having God’s mind and peace we will be able us to react righteously to all people even to those who cause and inflict trouble.
PRAYER:
Lord, grant us wisdom to understand every circumstance in our lives that other may see opur hope and faith in the sovereign Lord of the universe. Makes our lives a positive influence of peace and righteousness in this troubled world.
LESSON 3
When you are you tempted discern the source
James 1:13-18
Memory verse
“Built each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. “ James 1:14
LESON OUTCOMES
At the end of the small group, participants have
• Discovered how temptation spread its deadly poison
• Internalized confidence of the goodness of God even when experiencing temptation.
• Established an attack against temptations.
WORD
Read James 1:13-18 “trials and temptations”
1. James began the topic on temptation by clearly establishing that God “cannot be tempted by evil, or does he tempt anyone”. What is it impossible for God to be the source of temptation? (v.13)
2. Why is it important for Christians who experience temptations to discern its source? (13, 16)
3. What is a temptation? How does temptation develop? (vs. 14-15)
4. How does temptation snow ball into sin? (vs. 14-15)
5. What does temptation teach us about God? (vs17-18)
6. As conniving as Satan may be, there is a solution for avoiding temptation. What is the solution for resisting temptation? (vs. 17-18)
WRAP UP
Temptation is the Devils scheme to snare Christians to sin on the one hand: on the other hand it is the Christians opportunity to show God our loyalty by staying away from it. Knowing that temptations come from Satan warns us of the seriousness of its intentions. Understanding that God never tempts but gives good and perfect gifts inspires confidence in us to overcome every temptations that Satan puts on our way. Discerning the source of temptation paves the way to winning against it.
Additional papers for Bible Study and Curriculum Development:
THE INITED METHODIST CHURCH
WEST MIDDLE PHILIPPINES ANNUAL CONFERENCE
NEED ANALYSIS:
• Ang bilang ng mga ayta churches sa kasalukuyan ay nasa mahigit na limampu (50)
• At ang bawat iglesiya na ito ay nasa ilalim ng mga regular o lowland district
• Ang regular district ay binubuo ng apat na probinsiya (Bataan, Pampanga, Tarlac at Zambales)
• At nasa ilalim ng tatlong kumperensiya ( ang PAMPAC, WMPAC,TARPAC)
• Ang support ng mga aeta pastor sa South Tarlac District ay dalawang daang piso (P200)
• Ang financial support naman ng Aeta pastor ng Zambales ay nasa tatlong libong piso( pero hindi regular na naibibigay dahil sa walang pondo para sa mission at nagpapauloy ito sa solicitation o mga mission Sunday, at nasa college pa ang mga aeta pastor)
• Ganundin naman ang Bataan ay nagbibigay ng kanilang monthly support na apat na libo (P4000)
• Minsan inamin ng aming District Superintendent (Zambales District) na halos hindi talaga nabibigyan ng time o hindi talaga nakakasama sa agenda ang issue ng tribal church. Ang direction nito ay halos hindi napapag-usapan at kahit may committee ito.
• At ito rin ang impression ng mga Aeta sa Tarlac bagamat may binuo silang Aeta_, Subdistrict, ang District Superintendent pa rin ng regular district ang nagsasalita para sa kanila. At hindi sila nabibigyan ng pagkakataon na gumawa ng kanilang sariling report. Kaya hindi alam ng annual conference ang totoong kalagayan nila.
• Kaya maging ang kanilang sub-district lider ay kulang ang suportang financial. Kaya’t paanong magpapatuloy at maisaayos ang Gawain sa tribal church.
PROPOSALS - Ayta Pinatubo Ministry UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Ang isang nakikitang solusyun dito ang pagbubuo ng isang ministry na focus only for Mission. Ang pagtatalaga ng isang katiwala sa kabuuan ng Aeta Ministry. At malaking tulong sa kasalukuyan ang pagkakaroon ng isang sub-district supervisor sa bahagi ng Tarlac. At ganun din ang pagkakaroon ng isang Lider ng committee on Aeta affair sa Zambales at Bataan. Pero dapat merong isa na magiging katiwala sa lahat ng mission. Na siyang makakatuwang sa pagpaplano ng dalawang lider katutubo sa isang direksiyon na makakabuti sa gawain at paglago nito. Sa ngayon wala kaming nakikitang concretong programa sa Tribal church. Dahil nakadepende ito sa plano ng isang regular district.
DYNAMICS:
Ang Ayta Pinatubo Ministry ay maaring pangunahan ng Executive Director ng Immanuel Bible School at makatuwang ang mga appointed sub-district superintendent ng bawat probinsiya sa pagpaplano sa tunguhin ng Ayta Ministry. At para masiguro din ang suportang pinansiyal ng bawat head ng Distrito ang bawat appointed supervisor ay gawing titser sa Immanuel Bible School. At bahagi ng kanilang pagtuturo ay upang sa Bible school pa lang ay maihanda na ang mag katutubong mga manggagawa sa layunin at pangarap na makapagsarili at hindi umaaasa sa tulong mula sa labas at maipikita na mayroon kaming dignidad. At hindi lingid sa atin na ang Immauel Bible School mula pa noon ay katuwang na sa paghuhubog ng mga manggagawa sa panahon pa ng ating butihing mga Pastor: Rev. Paz Macaspac, Rev. Goldie Bergsten at Mam Rose De guzman. Kaya bunga noon ay nagkaron ng isang Mission District for Tribal Filipinos. At ito ang isa sa pangunahing layunin na maibalik ang nadisolve na distrito. At sa kasalukuyan ang IBS ay nasa pangngunguna ng ating Pastor at missionary Rev. Carmen and Jeffrey Schuerman. Na mayroon kongretong programa sa mga Ayta, Ang livelihood program, ang scholarship program, at hinihintay pa na katuparan ng skill development program. At hindi maikakaila na ang IBS sa kasalukuyan ay tumutulong din sa pagbili ng kabayo na ginagamit ng ating mga kapatid na mga manggagawa sa kabundukan. Ang pagbibigay ng binhi, ang goat raising project, ang pagbili ng mga kalabaw. Mga guitara sa ating mga ayta Pastor. Naniniwala kami na kapag iisa na ang direksiyon ng ministry dito na mag simula ng isang makabuluhang ministeryo sa kabundukan. At upng matugunan na rin ang malaking problema na kinakaharap ng ating mga Ayta Pastor lalong higit sa tulong financial. Sapagkat mayroon ng tutok sa ministry na ito. At ang isang malaking isyu ay ang pagkaubos ng lupa at ang dumarating na pagmimina.
ANG PANAWAGAN:
Ang panawagan lang sa ating mga bagong Elect na Obispo ay mabigyan sana ng pagkakataon ang mga Ayta na makapag-ministeryo kami na hindi hadlang ang isyu ng financial at mabigyan ng laya na makapagplano kami sa iisang direksiyon upang mapaunlad ang komunidad hindi lamang sa kanyang pangangailangan sa kabuhayan, sa edukasyon, kalusugan, at lalo na ang buhay espiritual. At siyempre ang pakikipag unayan sa ibang simbahan na tutugon sa isyu ng komunidad. At sa puntong ito ang ayta ministry ay maging bahagi sa pagpapatupad at pagtatag sa kaharian ng Diyos dito sa lupa. Ang pag-papairal ng katarungan, kapayapaan, pagkakaisa at pagmamahalan.
Submitted by:
Elmer S. Victoria and Joey Cunanan
Bible study methods and curriculum Development
First semester, SY2 008- 2009
Needs Analysis:
The pressing need of our youth today in order to have a better future of this country is to have concrete programs that will help them grow not only in their spiritual life but of course of their total being therefore, as church people
The UMYF envision, as partners for the promotion of collective welfare and general well being, to be committed to uplift the identity and become responsive for the total development of its members and constituents.
UMYF shall work hand in hand in order to continue and provide financial assistance to indigent but intelligent, hardworking and deserving student.
UMYF shall undertake projects and activities that shall improve the economic welfare of its members and constituents.
UMYF shall help improve educational, social, moral, health and economic welfare of its members and constituents.
UMYF shall promote an integrated basic program of livelihood, education, health and nutrition, environment focusing on needed communities.
UMYF shall engage in income generating projects for the purpose of sustaining the development programs and projects of the association.
Aim and objectives
1. To provide scholarship and financial assistance among indigent but intelligent hardworking and deserving students.
2. To undertake projects and activities that shall improve the economic welfare of its members and constituents.
3. To help improve educational, moral, health, spiritual and economic welfare of its members and constituents.
4. To promote an integrated basic programs of livelihood, education, health and nutrition environment and self-government focusing on community.
5. To receive gifts and donations of money and property of any kind and to administer the same for projects uses and to do everything necessary for the accomplishment of their purpose.
6. To held training programs, workshop and seminars as well as research and development projects in pursuit of educational and scientific advancement of its member and its constituents.
SUBJECT: BIBLESTUDY AND CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT
BIBLE STUDY LESSON FOR YOUTH
Introductions:
While Paul emphasized faith, James emphasized behavior. While Paul’s instruction was salvations by faith, James instructions were salvation that works. Different focus, same truth. Looking at the writings of Paul and James from this perspective is good way of resolving what may appear to be disagreement between their teachings. We can say that James teachings compliments Paul’s teaching. The purpose of James was to cheer, challenge, convict, and correct believers to attain maturity with the objectives of a faith that works. And this is our challenge for our youth today, not just be member of the church, but of course to be a part of transformation that liberate people not only from their present situation but of course within their own self. A new perspective in line with the kingdom values, which I believed that this is what the Lord want to us. Our Bible study for today focus on our faith that works and liberate.
LESSON 1
When your faith is being tested, think positively
James 1:1-4, 9-12; 5:7-11
Memory verse
“Consider it pure, my brother, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”
LESSON OUTCOMES
At the end of the small group, participants have
• Ascertained that as Christians their faith will be tested and tried.
• Established that in the midst of testing and trials, they must persevere and be patient knowing that God is in control just as he was over job and that he is compassionate and merciful.
• Embraced a stronger faith in God in times of difficulties.
• Expressed whatever testing and trial they may be experiencing
• Prayed and worshiped God for enabling them to overcome their present and future predicaments.
WORD
Read: James 1:1-4, 9-12 “trials and temptations” and James 5:7-11 “patience in suffering”
1. The book of James is a practical book consisting of everyday counsel and conduct. Who wrote this letter, when was it is written and to whom was it addressed? (1:1?
2. James opened his letter on the topic of trials. What was his exhortation to Jews of the Diaspora in this situation? How should we characterize “pure joy”? (1:2)
3. What are: trials and why should we rejoice in their midst?
What do “trials” and “testing” do to our faith? (1:3,4)
4. Part of the result of the Diaspora in the time of James was poverty, degradation and lost of human dignity, what was James encouragements to those who were in this circumstances? (1:9-11)
5. James believed that something worthwhile awaits the person who “perseveres under trial” what reward lies ahead? (1:12)
6. Aside from persevering, what else did James urge his readers to be? As Christian, we should be put our hope? (5:7-8)
7. James cited a farmer as an example on patience in suffering, what lessons on patience and perseverance can we learned from a farmer? (5:7b)
8. After exhorting patience and perseverance, James gives a warning to his readers. What was this warning to his readers? What was this morning and why did he give it? (5:9
9. In summary, what are the reasons for believers to rejoice in times of difficulties? (1:12; 5:10, 11)
Trials are inevitable but Christian always has the reason to rejoice because the Lord’s compassion and mercy will enable us to withstand the difficulties we have today. Our God promises the crown of life to those who love him.
To have the right attitude in trials, one must see the advantages of trials; however, it is sometimes difficult to see the advantages. Thuds, one can ask for wisdom from God to give him the right attitude in the midst of trials.
APPLICATION
• Are you currently going through difficulties that the group can pray?
• Why do we find it difficult to rejoice in our times of trials? Commit to God any trials or difficulty you are undergoing.
PRAYER:
My Lord, see me through this trial. Teach me to have the right attitude that I may be able to appreciate your mercy and grace hat enables me to carry on.
LESSON 2
When you lack wisdom, ask God
James 1:5-8; 3:13-18
Memory verse
“If any of you lack wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5
LESSON OUT COME:
At the end of the small group, participants have
• Known that God is willing to give wisdom to all who ask….
Wisdom to understand God’s purposes for life’s trial and testing….
Wisdom how to at react/behave in times of trials and testing.
• Known the difference between earthly wisdom (human Philosophies or pragmatic approach) and heavenly (divine) wisdom.
• Appreciated God’s purposes for our trials and testing by trusting and obeying God and not by resigning to fate (bahala na, talagang ganun, suwerte o malas)
• Desired for God’s wisdom and understanding in all circumstances.
• Prayed for God’s wisdom to understand God’s purposes for what may seem to be misfortunes in life.
• Discerned and accept God’s purposes in our trials and testing.
• Acted wisely (pro-actively) in times of trials and testing.
WORD:
Read: James 1:5-8 “trials and temptations” and James 3:3:13-18 “two kinds of Wisdom”
1. When in the midst of trials and testing, we may become lost. We may become confused, frustrated and agitated and start to behave irrationally and carelessly. Moreover, the high goal of “not lacking anything” (1:4) may be a pressure. What were James prescriptions in such circumstances? What does having wisdom do in times of trial and testing? (1:5)
2. God’s provision of wisdom however has a prerequisite. What is this requirement? (1:6a-8)
3. James 3:13-18 is a natural outgrowth of the discussion of the tongue (see lesson 9). These six verses divide into three sections (1) An exhortations (vs.13) and two kinds of wisdom (2) an earthly wisdom (vv14-16) and (3)A wisdom from heaven (vv. 17-18). What is James exhortation for those who are “wise and understanding?” (3:13)
4. How does James describe unspiritual wisdom? How does this kind of wisdom manifest in a person’s life and what are the results of yielding to it? (3:14-16)
5. On the other hand, how does James describe “wisdoms that comes from heaven?” (3:17)
6. James concludes his discussion of “the wisdom comes from heaven” by reiterating the second quality listed in v. 17. What kind of climate must we have to “raise a harvest of righteousness?” (3:18)
WRAP UP
With heavenly wisdom, we gain peace that can produce a crop of righteousness. This is sown and cultivated not in a climate of bitterness and self-seeking but of peace. By having God’s mind and peace we will be able us to react righteously to all people even to those who cause and inflict trouble.
PRAYER:
Lord, grant us wisdom to understand every circumstance in our lives that other may see opur hope and faith in the sovereign Lord of the universe. Makes our lives a positive influence of peace and righteousness in this troubled world.
LESSON 3
When you are you tempted discern the source
James 1:13-18
Memory verse
“Built each one is tempted when, by his own evil desire, he is dragged away and enticed. “ James 1:14
LESON OUTCOMES
At the end of the small group, participants have
• Discovered how temptation spread its deadly poison
• Internalized confidence of the goodness of God even when experiencing temptation.
• Established an attack against temptations.
WORD
Read James 1:13-18 “trials and temptations”
1. James began the topic on temptation by clearly establishing that God “cannot be tempted by evil, or does he tempt anyone”. What is it impossible for God to be the source of temptation? (v.13)
2. Why is it important for Christians who experience temptations to discern its source? (13, 16)
3. What is a temptation? How does temptation develop? (vs. 14-15)
4. How does temptation snow ball into sin? (vs. 14-15)
5. What does temptation teach us about God? (vs17-18)
6. As conniving as Satan may be, there is a solution for avoiding temptation. What is the solution for resisting temptation? (vs. 17-18)
WRAP UP
Temptation is the Devils scheme to snare Christians to sin on the one hand: on the other hand it is the Christians opportunity to show God our loyalty by staying away from it. Knowing that temptations come from Satan warns us of the seriousness of its intentions. Understanding that God never tempts but gives good and perfect gifts inspires confidence in us to overcome every temptations that Satan puts on our way. Discerning the source of temptation paves the way to winning against it.
Additional papers for Bible Study and Curriculum Development:
THE INITED METHODIST CHURCH
WEST MIDDLE PHILIPPINES ANNUAL CONFERENCE
NEED ANALYSIS:
• Ang bilang ng mga ayta churches sa kasalukuyan ay nasa mahigit na limampu (50)
• At ang bawat iglesiya na ito ay nasa ilalim ng mga regular o lowland district
• Ang regular district ay binubuo ng apat na probinsiya (Bataan, Pampanga, Tarlac at Zambales)
• At nasa ilalim ng tatlong kumperensiya ( ang PAMPAC, WMPAC,TARPAC)
• Ang support ng mga aeta pastor sa South Tarlac District ay dalawang daang piso (P200)
• Ang financial support naman ng Aeta pastor ng Zambales ay nasa tatlong libong piso( pero hindi regular na naibibigay dahil sa walang pondo para sa mission at nagpapauloy ito sa solicitation o mga mission Sunday, at nasa college pa ang mga aeta pastor)
• Ganundin naman ang Bataan ay nagbibigay ng kanilang monthly support na apat na libo (P4000)
• Minsan inamin ng aming District Superintendent (Zambales District) na halos hindi talaga nabibigyan ng time o hindi talaga nakakasama sa agenda ang issue ng tribal church. Ang direction nito ay halos hindi napapag-usapan at kahit may committee ito.
• At ito rin ang impression ng mga Aeta sa Tarlac bagamat may binuo silang Aeta_, Subdistrict, ang District Superintendent pa rin ng regular district ang nagsasalita para sa kanila. At hindi sila nabibigyan ng pagkakataon na gumawa ng kanilang sariling report. Kaya hindi alam ng annual conference ang totoong kalagayan nila.
• Kaya maging ang kanilang sub-district lider ay kulang ang suportang financial. Kaya’t paanong magpapatuloy at maisaayos ang Gawain sa tribal church.
PROPOSALS - Ayta Pinatubo Ministry UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
Ang isang nakikitang solusyun dito ang pagbubuo ng isang ministry na focus only for Mission. Ang pagtatalaga ng isang katiwala sa kabuuan ng Aeta Ministry. At malaking tulong sa kasalukuyan ang pagkakaroon ng isang sub-district supervisor sa bahagi ng Tarlac. At ganun din ang pagkakaroon ng isang Lider ng committee on Aeta affair sa Zambales at Bataan. Pero dapat merong isa na magiging katiwala sa lahat ng mission. Na siyang makakatuwang sa pagpaplano ng dalawang lider katutubo sa isang direksiyon na makakabuti sa gawain at paglago nito. Sa ngayon wala kaming nakikitang concretong programa sa Tribal church. Dahil nakadepende ito sa plano ng isang regular district.
DYNAMICS:
Ang Ayta Pinatubo Ministry ay maaring pangunahan ng Executive Director ng Immanuel Bible School at makatuwang ang mga appointed sub-district superintendent ng bawat probinsiya sa pagpaplano sa tunguhin ng Ayta Ministry. At para masiguro din ang suportang pinansiyal ng bawat head ng Distrito ang bawat appointed supervisor ay gawing titser sa Immanuel Bible School. At bahagi ng kanilang pagtuturo ay upang sa Bible school pa lang ay maihanda na ang mag katutubong mga manggagawa sa layunin at pangarap na makapagsarili at hindi umaaasa sa tulong mula sa labas at maipikita na mayroon kaming dignidad. At hindi lingid sa atin na ang Immauel Bible School mula pa noon ay katuwang na sa paghuhubog ng mga manggagawa sa panahon pa ng ating butihing mga Pastor: Rev. Paz Macaspac, Rev. Goldie Bergsten at Mam Rose De guzman. Kaya bunga noon ay nagkaron ng isang Mission District for Tribal Filipinos. At ito ang isa sa pangunahing layunin na maibalik ang nadisolve na distrito. At sa kasalukuyan ang IBS ay nasa pangngunguna ng ating Pastor at missionary Rev. Carmen and Jeffrey Schuerman. Na mayroon kongretong programa sa mga Ayta, Ang livelihood program, ang scholarship program, at hinihintay pa na katuparan ng skill development program. At hindi maikakaila na ang IBS sa kasalukuyan ay tumutulong din sa pagbili ng kabayo na ginagamit ng ating mga kapatid na mga manggagawa sa kabundukan. Ang pagbibigay ng binhi, ang goat raising project, ang pagbili ng mga kalabaw. Mga guitara sa ating mga ayta Pastor. Naniniwala kami na kapag iisa na ang direksiyon ng ministry dito na mag simula ng isang makabuluhang ministeryo sa kabundukan. At upng matugunan na rin ang malaking problema na kinakaharap ng ating mga Ayta Pastor lalong higit sa tulong financial. Sapagkat mayroon ng tutok sa ministry na ito. At ang isang malaking isyu ay ang pagkaubos ng lupa at ang dumarating na pagmimina.
ANG PANAWAGAN:
Ang panawagan lang sa ating mga bagong Elect na Obispo ay mabigyan sana ng pagkakataon ang mga Ayta na makapag-ministeryo kami na hindi hadlang ang isyu ng financial at mabigyan ng laya na makapagplano kami sa iisang direksiyon upang mapaunlad ang komunidad hindi lamang sa kanyang pangangailangan sa kabuhayan, sa edukasyon, kalusugan, at lalo na ang buhay espiritual. At siyempre ang pakikipag unayan sa ibang simbahan na tutugon sa isyu ng komunidad. At sa puntong ito ang ayta ministry ay maging bahagi sa pagpapatupad at pagtatag sa kaharian ng Diyos dito sa lupa. Ang pag-papairal ng katarungan, kapayapaan, pagkakaisa at pagmamahalan.
Submitted by:
Elmer S. Victoria and Joey Cunanan
THE LIFE OF BRIAN
…"Freedom of speech does not end when it offends someone. It should only end when it incites violence."
Minsan maging tuntungan din marahil natin ang kasabihang ito upang bigyan ng pagkakataon ang iba na maipahayag nila ang kanilang damdamin. Pero hindi ito na nangangahulugan na tama na sila. Bagkus maging daan pa rin ito ng pagtatama sa kung ano ang nararapat. At hindi ito paghuhusga sa tao na nagsalita o gumawa kundi sa bawat pangayayari na dapat na maitama. Ang movie na Life of Brian ay isang uri ng kapahayagan kung ano ang pagtingin nila sa isang kristong napako sa Krus at marahil ito ay masakit sa bahagi ng mga Kristiyanong ang tingin ay makitid at hindi tinitingnan at pinag aaralan ng maigi ang mga pangyayari at nagiging judgemental. Kung ito ba ay plano lang ng direktor upang maiba naman ang pagtingin natin sa Kristo, o makita rin kung paano nga ba tayo katatag sa ating tinitindigan. Kagaya ng ating mga kapatid na mga muslim na nasaktan nung mapanood nila ang isang movie cartoons war and it showed the image of mohammed which was censored (in the US and the UK) at marahil ang movie na ito ay ayaw di ng karamihan dahil ang tingin ay blasphemy kay Kristo o sa Diyos.dahil nagmukhang katatawanan ito at parang napakahirap nga naman ng tanggapin sa mundo ng relihiyon na ang Kristo na kanilang itinangahal at pinagpugayan ay gagawan lang ng movie na katawatawa.
At hindi rin natin masisisi ang mga conservative christian dahil minsan ipinakita sa atin na ang Kristong ipinako sa Krus ay nakaranas talaga ng totoong parusa o pinakabayolenteng parusa na hindi naranansan ng iba at kung tutuusin iniyakan ang movie na ito ni Mel Gibsons. Dahil sa kakaibang pelikula na humakot ng milyong dolyar sa bahagi ng mga nagproduce nito. Ang tanong din sa atin wala din bang mga kakatuwang karanasan si Hesus sa panaho na iyon? Hindi ba naranasan ni hesus ang tumawa at puro pagiging serious sa buhay. Mukhang boring naman ata ang kristiyanismo kung ganun. Sa atin mg a Pilipino likas ang tumawa at humalakhak sa gitna ng mga problema. At diyan tayo nagsusurvive hindi kagaya ng Japan. Kapag puno ng sila ng problema nagpapakamatay na sila. Sa atin na napapaghalo natin ang iyak at tawa bagamat ang sakit sakit na ng loob natin sa gobyerno. At minsan sa mga joke na lang natin naidadaa ang lahat. Ang isa sa nagustuhan ko yung sa huli na inawit nila... at totoo sa aitng buhay meron liwanag sa gitna ng dilim, there is rainbow after the rain..pagkatapos ng problema nandun ang tagumpay. Ito naman ang hope natin as Christian.
elmer victoria
m.divinity/senior
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