In today’s world, life has become increasingly difficult for many people. The combination of economic instability, social pressures, mental health issues, and other concerns has created a complex and extraordinary web of challenges affecting everyone’s lives. In times of uncertainty and challenges, it is natural to feel overwhelmed and anxious.

Nevertheless, being counted among God’s nation, the true servants must never worry because He is always on their side. This divine assurance of being blessed, happy, and fortunate to be a member of the true Church was the key message of the biblical lesson preached by the Executive Minister of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (Church Of Christ), Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, during his pastoral visit to the Local Congregation of Commonwealth, Ecclesiastical District of Central.

After the opening prayer led by Brother Cyrus Jose E. Dizon, the Executive Minister taught that in order to remain blessed, members of the Church must find happiness in following God’s commands. No matter how heavy their burdens are, they must fulfill the Lord’s teachings with all their heart. This important lesson resonated with the brethren in attendance, including Brother Danny Genova Sr., 68, a deacon. A four-time heart attack survivor, his life has been a testament to the power of perseverance and devotion.

“My journey hasn’t been easy,” Brother Danny declared. “It was fraught with health challenges and financial constraints. Yet, despite the trials, I remain unbroken.” His battle with heart disease began decades ago. Surviving one heart attack is a formidable feat, but Brother Danny has faced four. He further shared, “Each episode left me physically weaker, but spiritually stronger. I underwent a complex surgery replacing my heart with a pacemaker. The cost of medical treatment has been a significant burden, yet I continue placing my trust in God’s plans, believing that every heartbeat is a blessing.”

Finding solace in his faith, Brother Danny was filled with joy as he attended the worship service officiated by the Executive Minister. “My hope and strength were renewed. I draw inspiration from biblical passages, as taught by Brother Eduardo Manalo, that speak of endurance and faith through trials.”

True happiness stems from living in harmony with the will of God. This reminder of the Executive Minister is true, especially for Sister Virginia Lapira, 80, a widow of a minister. When her husband, the late Brother Alfredo Lapira, passed away, she faced the immense challenge of continuing alone. According to her, the loss was profound, but her faith provided the strength to carry on. “I dedicated myself even more to the Church and my family, believing that through service and devotion, I could continue to fulfill my divine calling,” she said.

Committed to serving the Lord until the end, Sister Virginia shared, “I instill in my children and grandchildren the values of faith, fulfillment of one’s duty, and perseverance.” Her purpose in leading her entire household towards salvation was even more fortified through the pastoral visit. She added, “It was a very special occasion that left an indelible mark on my heart. It also brought a sense of comfort and rejuvenation. The message of the lesson reaffirmed my faith to carry on.”

Also inspired by the message, Sister Lydia dela Cruz, 75, a deaconess, always upholds what the Executive Minister taught that another key to being happy is to trust in God. “The recent loss of my husband has been a great challenge, but my faith has been my anchor. Even though it’s difficult for me to walk, I still strive to fulfill my duties in the Church,” she declared. As a matriarch of a thriving family business, she never lays her trust on her achievements and the things of this world in facing obstacles. “Despite the success, I remain grounded. For me, true success is measured not by wealth but by the values one upholds. So, I thank the Church Administration for the guidance I continue receiving through the worship services.”

The strength and grace exemplified by Sister Lydia during difficult times are a source of inspiration to her family. She further shared, “My resilience and trust in God was further edified during the recent pastoral visit of the Executive Minister. The sacred occasion was a pivotal moment for me as I felt God’s presence and received His holy words.” With a newfound strength, she professed, “I will continue guiding my family with humility and dedication in my services that have defined my life.”

Upon concluding his homily, Brother Eduardo Manalo gave the congregation a message of hope: God will satisfy His people with good things for as long as they walk in the Lord’s ways. Thus, the Executive Minister encouraged the brethren to be devoted to obeying the commandments of God, be active in their worship services, and be prayerful to overcome any hindrances in attaining the promised eternal life.

After the uplifting and heartfelt message of Brother Eduardo Manalo, Brother Romer D. Galang led the congregation in prayer. Brother Ernesto V. Suratos led the prayer for the voluntary offerings. Brother Angelo Eraño V. Manalo said the benediction.

The brethren present at the holy occasion expressed utmost happiness as they were able to receive God’s blessings through the preaching of the beloved Executive Minister. Sister Leilani Fontillas, a finance officer, declared: “I will be able to endure the challenges even more. I became stronger. Indeed, blessed are we as members of the Church Of Christ, for we have the true God to help us.”

By Gigi Anne M. Lapira