It was an extraordinary day when I had the privilege of standing alongside leaders from across the Philippines. We were united by a shared vision and a divine calling: to launch discipleship movements across the country with a focus on the youth.
Change the youth of a nation, and you will change the future of a nation in 10 years.
This movement is not confined to church walls or limited by geography. It reaches into campuses, communities, and church regions, extending even to international horizons like the Middle East and other areas of Asia. It’s a movement driven by faith, passion, and a commitment to raise the next generation of missionaries.
Unity in Diversity: Reflecting John 17
Jesus’ prayer in John 17 is a profound call for oneness among believers. “That they may be one, as we are one,” He prays, so that the world may believe (John 17:21-23). This prayer is more than a spiritual aspiration; it’s a practical guide for our mission, a blueprint for how we are to live and work together as the body of Christ, fulfilling His words in John 17:21.
The harmony we experienced during the National Assembly was a living testament to this prayer. Leaders from diverse backgrounds and denominations came together, not merely tolerating differences but celebrating them, like different instruments in an orchestra creating a harmonious melody. We were united by a common purpose, a shared vision, and a commitment to serve. This oneness was not about uniformity; it was about collaboration and cohesion, reflecting the teaching in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14.
This togetherness was not just for us; it was a witness to the world. It was a tangible expression of God’s love and a fulfillment of Jesus’ prayer. By being one, we were showing the world a glimpse of the divine, a reflection of God’s heart. We were revealing to the rest of the world who God really is, living out the call in Ephesians 4:3.
Through this connectedness, people can come and see His glory. They can witness the transformative power of God’s love, a love that transcends all barriers and divisions. They can see a community that reflects the very nature of the Triune God, where love, grace, and fellowship abound.
But this sense of oneness is not something that happens automatically. It requires intentionality, humility, and a willingness to put aside personal preferences for the sake of the greater good. It requires a commitment to listen, to understand, and to value each other’s unique contributions, as Paul urges in Philippians 2:2-3.
In a world that often emphasizes division and discord, the harmony we strive for is a powerful counter-narrative. It’s a beacon of hope, a sign that a different way of living is possible. It’s a call to all believers to live out Jesus’ prayer, to be one as He and the Father are one.
“We are part of something bigger than ourselves, something that has eternal significance. We are part of a movement that seeks to embody the very essence of the Gospel, a movement that invites others to come and see the glory of God through our oneness.”
Training and Empowering: The Heart of the Movement
The core of this movement is the training and empowerment of Filipino youth to make disciples, both in the Philippines and overseas. We recognize that the youth are not just the future of the Church; they are the Church today. They are vibrant, passionate, and ready to make a difference.
Through targeted training in missions, we’re equipping them to be effective ambassadors of Christ, both locally and internationally. The Filipino diaspora is a phenomenon not common to other nations, and it presents a unique opportunity for Filipinos to make disciples in other cultures. We’re providing them with tools, resources, and mentorship to thrive in their campuses, communities, and beyond, embracing this unique calling.
This is not just about imparting knowledge; it’s about nurturing faith, building character, and fostering a sense of purpose. It’s about raising a generation that is grounded in Christ and ready to impact the world. The heart of the movement is to fulfill the Great Commission, to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), leveraging the unique position and passion of the Filipino people.
By focusing on discipleship and recognizing the unique role that the Filipino diaspora can play, we are aligning ourselves with God’s plan and purpose. We are embracing a vision that transcends borders and breaks down barriers, a vision that unites us in a common goal and a shared mission.
Conclusion: A Heartfelt Thanks and an Invitation to Join the Movement
As I reflect on the unity and harmony we’ve experienced in the Philippines, my heart is filled with gratitude. I’m so thankful to be part of what the Lord is doing in this nation and to serve alongside such amazing leaders from all around the country. In the Kingdom of God, we are more than just workers we are brothers and sisters in Christ. Their wisdom, dedication, and love are a constant inspiration. Together, we’re not just launching a movement; we’re living out a calling to make more disciples.
