Amidst this uncertain and chaotic world, the true Church of God continues to serve as a beacon of hope. It was really great to have a break from the usual things we do and have a blissful moment with our brethren.

During our outing last December in Bucal, Calamba, Laguna, we arrived at the resort with the swimming pool half-filled. Children gathered around with great excitement, watching it being filled with warm water. Watching the children really amused me because they reminded me of the time when I was just a kid, having no worries, and when small things could make me happy.

Finally, the pool was ready for swimming. The water was warm and had a soothing effect on me. We played many kinds of games in the pool. But what I enjoyed the most was when we made a giant whirlpool inside it. At first, I thought it would be hard if not impossible. It was about larger than the size of a badminton court and we were only a few to start with. But we gave it a try anyway.

We started to swim around, circling the pool. I felt the resistance of the water. I paddled as hard as I could but nothing happened. I felt like giving up, but I noticed one by one every person inside the pool was slowly beginning to imitate us. The water was now moving along our direction. Finally, we made a very strong whirlpool. Everyone was celebrating. I silently watched them and smiled.

That simple game taught me a valuable lesson. I’ve learned that in life there is absolutely no reason for us to give up doing what is right in God’s sight no matter what the situation is. We might feel alone at times, but as long as we are on God’s side, we have an assurance that we can be victorious because God never loses a battle.

After I got tired swimming, I spent the rest of the night singing-along and fellowshipping with the other brethren. The mere thought of having conversations with the brethren excites me because in it, I find comfort and the feeling of warmth and belongingness.

Like every other outing, it has come to an end. It was time to pack our things and go our separate ways. Indeed, we cannot deny that life is full of challenges. This is an imperfect world but this is the only one we have now. We must not forget why we are here and who we are living for. We must persevere and endure until God’s Kingdom comes!

© 2008 United Church of God, AIA - Pilipinas