Blessed be the Name of the Lord!

This scripture reminds me of my brother.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)

Growing up as the youngest and surprised child, kuya has always been present in my life. When our father died 1 month I was born, he took the responsibility and helped Nanay earned a living. He’s a very responsible person.

No one’s perfect as we all know and I have seen kuya’s “life in the world”. I was young then but I remembered it. He got a lot of friends in our place and most of the weekends they’re gathered in the “kubo” in front of our house with some drinks and endless stories. I have never seen him picked up a fight but I saw him mediating when the alcohol hits some of the “tropas” brains.

I was 9 turning 10 when I first got a nephew. Kuya and Ate Rose’ first born, Sydel. He was named after their names. When Sydel was growing up, I remember Kuya’s time of searching for the truth. He tried to join another sect but he didn’t find the truth in their belief. There was one time when we got visitors from this sect, and my cousin Susan was there too. They were discussing about the truth. I knew I was present by then. That was the first time I heard the scripture from John 8:32 “the truth will set you free” and that was the very time (I think!) Kuya was set free. I didn’t know so much details but I remember he started going to Agape and we followed after him.

He’s a new creation. The old has gone and the new has come. Transformation happened in the life of my brother. I noticed his change. There’s no more Friday Night happening in front of our house. He got new friends but I don’t think he’s forsaken his old friends. He remained friends with them but he was too busy discovering the new life he’s found. He found the greatest thing in life. He’s a lost sheep found by the Shepherd of his soul. He found Jesus, his Lord and Savior.

I have seen his devotion to God. He sought God continuously and blessings followed him. Of course, he has ups and downs as well but he lived a life that trusts the Lord.

There was a crucial time in my life when he really made me realized what kind of life do I want. It was a special time we had in Hong Kong. He told me how my decisions and choices would affect my future. His life showed me how important it is to be faithful in the Lord and to have the fear of God. I have taken it in my heart and forever will I be grateful for that moment.

You’re my “online” and “on call” counselor, a very caring and thoughtful son to Nanay, a loving and funny husband to ate Rose, a good brother and supporter to ate Mel and kuya Allan. A generous tito Rodel. You are a faithful employee and a humble boss. You are Denan’s number 1 fan, Airah’s caregiver and Sydel’s encourager and friend. You have shared your wisdom, love and even resources to us.

I miss you so much Kuya and I know you are enjoying your life now with Abba Father. Maybe you are having the best coffee now that no one has ever seen.

I want people to know that your life impacted me so much and I am grateful to God for allowing us to have you and to experience a life with you.

I miss you kuyakot!

--Tinz--