Bahala na ang diyos means “leave it to God”. As a largely Roman Catholic nation, God is very present in the world view of the Filipinos. Since I learned the phrase, I have found myself saying and thinking “bahala na ang diyos” multiple times in conversation with Filipinos. The many children and their needs…bahala na ang diyos! The future of students finishing school…bahala na ang diyos! The seemingly unending cycle of poverty and sickness…bahala na and diyos! The future of minors in jail because of crimes committed out of ignorance and desperation…bahala na ang diyos! The men, women, and children in overcrowded hospitals…bahala na ang diyos! Whether in the Philippines or elsewhere, sometimes the only response we can have is: bahala na ang diyos. I’m thankful that we have a trustworthy, faithful, and loving God to whom we can “leave it all to”.
I was feeling overwhelmed by the fact that the daily realities I see here are truly realities…the poverty I see on the streets is not just a temporary situation for these people…they won’t leave here in two more weeks like I will. The kids do not just live here until they grow up and go to college…this is their reality…But then, God encouraged me with a verse from Colossians that I will hold on to throughout the Race. It is Colossians 3:1…“Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory.”
This is why we share the Gospel…because people need the hope of the truth…that their real life is found in Christ…and not only that, but that we will actually share in his glory one day when Christ returns and his kingdom reigns on earth as it does in heaven…meanwhile, we push on, encouraged by each small victory that brings God’s kingdom a little nearer.
Thank you for your generous support and love that allows me to be here.
Love to you all, Ate Charlene
