IN THESE UNCERTAIN TIMES, it is crucial to have faith in God and remain devoted to worshiping Him. The world is being overwhelmed by chaos, poverty, and violence. Many people are enveloped in fear, depression, and hopelessness. These are all signs that the end of the world is truly near.

That is why members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ) are always reminded by the Church Administration to never let their guard down as they sojourn  in this world. Instead of conforming to the wicked and promiscuous lifestyle of many people today, Church Of Christ members are taught to uphold their services to God with unwavering faith and perseverance. They learn that, regardless of their situation, they ought to fully trust in God’s good plans for His chosen servants.

These were some of the points from the Bible preached by Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, the Executive Minister of the Church Of Christ, during his pastoral visit to the Local Congregation of Village East, Ecclesiastical District of Rizal. During the worship service he officiated, 31 regular ministerial workers took their oath and were ordained as full-fledged ministers of the gospel.

The opening prayer for the worship service was led by Brother Alfonso O. Rico, supervising minister of the Ecclesiastical District of Rizal. The prayer after the Executive Minister’s sermon was led by Brother Romer D. Galang. Brother Bienvenido C. Santiago led the oath-taking of ordinands, and Brother Arnel R. Canicosa led the prayer after the laying on of hands by the Executive Minister. The prayer for the voluntary offerings was led by Brother Ernesto V. Suratos, and Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo said the benediction.

Brother Eduardo Manalo emphasized that being chosen by God is a profound privilege that requires utmost dedication. Church members should maintain their relationship with God and fulfill the divine purpose of their calling despite the many distractions and challenges of daily life. Brother Jon Magat, a 48-year-old Children’s Worship Service teacher and choir member, reminisced one of these challenges that he faced which ended up bolstering his faith. He recalled the time when he was presented with a tempting job offer that would send him to a foreign country but promised financial security and a comfortable living situation.

“The offer was in place and I had to make a decision. They supposedly prepared all the provisions needed for the job; the salary was very impressive, and I already found a nearby house of worship fairly close to where I would live. But when I found out that my work schedule there would be very demanding and probably would have made it impossible for me to perform my Church duties, let alone to attend the worship services, I had to pause and think,” Brother Jon narrated. For some, the offer felt like he had “struck oil”— a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. But since Church Of Christ members are taught to prioritize more important values over corporeal wealth and success, making the right choice was not too difficult for him.

Brother Jon declined the job offer. Reflecting on his decision, he said, “I realized that the true measure of success is not just in financial gains but in fulfilling my divine duties in the Church, which is pleasing to God, and being present for my family. It didn’t feel like I missed out on those opportunities, because I fully trust that God will provide for all that we need.” His choice underscores that true success lies in prioritizing faith and family over material wealth.

Another Church member, Brother Rhen Manalang is a 21-year-old KADIWA local officer, and Technical Support for Video Streaming (TSV) officer. Guided by God’s words taught during the worship services, which his grandmother has always reminded him about since he was young, he remains committed to his Church duties despite onerous trials in his life. After being diagnosed with tuberculosis in 2020, he continued his service and overcame the illness with renewed vigor.

“My grandmother always taught me to never forget what the Church Administration always admonishes, that is, to hold on to my faith and fulfill my duties wholeheartedly, no matter how difficult things get,” Brother Rhen reflected. Although he felt sad and troubled upon learning of his illness, he did not succumb to depression, but instead put all his hope in the Almighty Father.

Brother Rhen’s journey demonstrates that true devotion is measured not by the absence of trials but by the steadfastness and hope that true servants of God maintain to overcome them. He said, “I did what the doctor ordered—I took my medication, I ate healthy foods, I visited the clinic regularly. But I believe that the Lord God was the One Who helped me recover. The anointing of oil for the sick was instrumental for me to regain my strength. I did not loosen my grip on the hope that God will take away my illness, and He did. He answered my prayers.”

Many people today emphasize self-reliance and material gains as measures of success. However, for members of the Church Of Christ, staying true to their divine election amid difficulties and receiving God’s spiritual blessings are what truly make them feel triumphant. Amidst uncertainties and hardships, true Christians always trust in God’s guidance, and remain devoted to their Church duties. By faithfully obeying all of God’s commandments, and trusting in Him with all their hearts, they draw closer to the promised salvation on the Day of Judgment.

By Lady Jo-an C. Llorin