This was my first time going to the Philippines in 24 years. I moved to Canada when I was only a year old, thus I cannot recall anything about my homeland. The only real knowledge I had of the Philippines was just like any other third world country, engulfed by poverty and corrupted by the government; I only had an idea of how impoverished it was. However, witnessing it first-hand dramatically changed my perspective. It was so disheartening to see the endless blocks of shanties and broken down houses repeatedly patched with sheets of metal and wood. Despite the run down shelters, the people in the Philippines were the happiest people I have ever met. Even when they possess very little, they find joy and happiness in the smallest of things. I learned that by truly living a simple life, God would reveal Himself to you in so many ways.
I will never forget our first week at Tarlac. I could not help but stare outside the window as we drove to Tarlac. In the middle of nowhere there were shanties made out of scrap metal and wood. It is as if families arbitrarily chose any location to establish their homes; they were everywhere. The build site in Tarlac stirred my heart the most. The families showed the utmost kindness and hospitality. The parents were the ones who really touched my heart and showed me God’s everlasting love. They sacrificed so much for their children and would do anything that would benefit their family as a whole. The fathers work long hours and get paid next to nothing just to put their kids to school. These Men of God inspired me to grow as a man and make those same sacrifices for my family and loved ones. The kids at Tarlac brought such joy to everyone. Their smiles and laughter will forever be engrained in my mind and heart. I wanted to give them absolutely everything I have; they truly deserve so much more. Building houses in Tarlac in the excruciating heat was hard work, but it was such a blessing at the same time. During the build I lifted up to God every bead of sweat, every sore muscle, and every deep breath for His glory and victory. My experience in Tarlac will always be memory that I will cherish till the end of my days.
I will forever pray for the families we have visited. I hope that they will continue to be strengthened by God’s love and persevere through any trials and tribulations they may encounter. I love sharing my experience and joy about my time in the Philippines and I hope I may inspire others to completely surrender themselves to the Lord and give back everything to Him.
[This reflection is written by Mitchel Ranara, one of the missionaries who attended Great Adventure Tour 2014.]
I will never forget our first week at Tarlac. I could not help but stare outside the window as we drove to Tarlac. In the middle of nowhere there were shanties made out of scrap metal and wood. It is as if families arbitrarily chose any location to establish their homes; they were everywhere. The build site in Tarlac stirred my heart the most. The families showed the utmost kindness and hospitality. The parents were the ones who really touched my heart and showed me God’s everlasting love. They sacrificed so much for their children and would do anything that would benefit their family as a whole. The fathers work long hours and get paid next to nothing just to put their kids to school. These Men of God inspired me to grow as a man and make those same sacrifices for my family and loved ones. The kids at Tarlac brought such joy to everyone. Their smiles and laughter will forever be engrained in my mind and heart. I wanted to give them absolutely everything I have; they truly deserve so much more. Building houses in Tarlac in the excruciating heat was hard work, but it was such a blessing at the same time. During the build I lifted up to God every bead of sweat, every sore muscle, and every deep breath for His glory and victory. My experience in Tarlac will always be memory that I will cherish till the end of my days.
I will forever pray for the families we have visited. I hope that they will continue to be strengthened by God’s love and persevere through any trials and tribulations they may encounter. I love sharing my experience and joy about my time in the Philippines and I hope I may inspire others to completely surrender themselves to the Lord and give back everything to Him.
[This reflection is written by Mitchel Ranara, one of the missionaries who attended Great Adventure Tour 2014.]