Whew…our third trip in a row! It has truly been an exhilarating, but nonetheless fulfilling time for E_tab! We still marvel at how God did honor our seed’ faith which stemmed from genuine compassion. We are in awe at how He would open opportunities, and foster partnerships that would be the beginning of E_tab’s humanitarian undertakings. Truly, we are merely instruments of God’s enterprise…we are His hands and feet…to a perishing world!
Daan Banwa, Calapdan & Lonoy (Estancia)
The needs however are endless, and rehabilitation a slow process. We could only concentrate on what is needed for the moment. To think beyond the immediate, would be a gargantuan task. But for the moment, our efforts and sacrifices would suffice.
On our third outing, with the assistance of Estancia’s DSWD personnel, we penetrated the backlanes…places in which relief aid seldom arrive, the neglected minority who lack the advantage of proximity to the powers that BE. Traversing these three places, would require muscle and brawn…which our E_tab guys did possess. Massive electrical posts and cable felled by the typhoon oftentimes blocked our smooth passage…nonetheless our mighty men’ did the job!
Yet despite the grim evidence of Yolanda’s destruction, a spirit of brotherhood strongly connected us to these people. They may have been through the worst crisis possible…yet in the midst of the havoc, they would experience God’s mercy – through the many ‘Good Samaritans’ sent along their way.
Small World…
It was in this setting, that we bumped into delegates from the City Care Medical Missions, an interdenominational organization from Singapore stationed at Calapdan. At our last stopover, there we met Canadian navy seals setting up tents for evacuated victims of the oil spill. It was heartwarming to observe, how God had gathered nations and peoples unitedly with one cause…transcending race, color and creed…and how we could set aside our differences for once…and sow goodness!
We Are HIS Answer…
With each smile, handshake, mumble of thanks and occasional hug…we understand why our simple act of goodwill matters…as an anonymous writer state:
When you find yourself in the position to help someone, be happy and feel blessed because God is answering that person’s prayer THROUGH YOU. Remember our purpose on earth is not to get lost in the dark. But to be a light to others, so that they may find God’s way THROUGH US!
