MAKING THE BIBLE KNOWN

In the aftermath of natural disasters, we may find ourselves struggling to determine what to do. Our minds are often filled with fears and uncertainties. But in times like these, we are also reminded that just as our bodies need food and water, so do our spirits need hope and sustenance from the Word of God.

Yesterday, the Philippine Bible Society (PBS) partnered with Living Word Christian Churches of Cebu – International, Inc. (LWCCCI) in Banawa, Cebu to deliver around 600 relief packs at designated drop-off areas in the municipalities of Bogo, Borbon, Medellin, San Remigio, and Tabogon in Cebu. This relief effort was organized to address our countrymen’s ongoing needs in the wake of the 6.9 magnitude earthquake that struck the province on September 30.

The operation commenced at 4 a.m. Members of the PBS staff met up with LWCCCI volunteers to drop off relief packs at Medellin, Bogo, and Sogod. There, they were able to converse with people who were gravely affected by the quake—some of whom were sleeping in tents due to their fear of aftershocks. It was in this environment that the relief packs were delivered and accepted.

In addition to basic relief goods, sleeping mats, and hygiene kits, the people would receive about 3,000 copies of the Cebuano New Testament from PBS and 700 copies of the whole Cebuano Bible from a donor. There were also PBS staff who chipped in to give 11 additional boxes of 500 mL bottled water. And while the packs are set to be distributed this coming Sunday, the people are already thankful for the supplies and the copies of Scripture that they received.

“Isa lang po akong masasabi,” said Jerry Inot, one of the residents of Medellin. “Ang Panginoon ay napakagandang plano niya sa atin… Mahirap ang aming na-experience. At salamat sa Panginoon na binigyan po kami ng buhay—na nakaligtas po kami kahit sa malakas na lindol.”

“Maraming salamat talaga sa Philippine Bible Society at saka sa Living Word Ministry,” said Myla Saga, another Medellin resident. “Ulitin ko, maraming salamat talaga—salamat sa Panginoon sa paggamit niya sa inyo.”

Let’s continue to pray for our countrymen in Cebu who are recovering from the devastation brought about by the earthquake, and may the Lord provide for their every need. May he sustain them with grace and hope that comes from his Word!