God You Are Everywhere

Psalm 22:26 "The poor will eat and be satisfied; they who seek the Lord will praise him - may your hearts live forever!"

As a family we spent some time after Christmas in the Philippines.  The first six days were spent at a resort called Paradise Island.  The final days were spent at our dear missionary friends home in Tagum.  Valerie, Mike, and their children Esther, Steven, and Deann Boado have a true mission.  This family has heeded the call to serve God's people in an area of little wealth.  At times their safety is compromised and they live frugally.  Robert and I were impressed observing the Boado family's interactions with people.  Similar to the way Jesus interacted with His people in Biblical days.  Loving, training, teaching, and always pointing people to the cross.  Their job was never taken lightly.  They work as unto the the Lord.  Thank you Boado family for serving God!

I have seen poverty in my life.  However, the poverty I observed in Davao City and Tagum was life altering.  Prior to our trip I wouldn't have thought twice about whether I should buy a 5 dollar coffee at Starbucks.  An entire family can live off of less than 5 dollars a day in the Philippines and some of the poorest families per week.  Our trip revealed how truly blessed we are!  At times I think more about what I want, and less about being thankful.  Thank you God for the blessings you have poured over us!  Help us as a family to give more, and help us be better stewards of  the rewards you have given.  The most astounding thing was the spirit of life amongst those working hard in the Philippines.  They were grateful to have job's, and lived, laughed, and loved!

A poem I wrote while visiting Tagum.


God You Are Everywhere


The tree's spread tentacles of your love.
Each unique branch it's own destination.

Your creation screams "God Is Alive"
The changing of colors, so vibrantly alive.

The most astounding blues.
To a forecast of the stormiest grays.

Amazing God "How Do You Reveal Your Love"
Nation to nation, Souls praise your name.

America to Korea, Korea to the Philippines.
People sing Your praise

People abounding in wealth.
To those surviving the depths of poverty.

Gentle smiles, spreading your compassion.
Giving hands nudged my the Holy Spirit.

Your love penetrates around the world.
Reviving the hurt, needy, and lost.

Spreading your unconditional hope, grace, and love.
Using missionaries, creation, and your people.