CMA HeartBeat May 2020 | Page 23

CMA International By ROWIE Ledesma . Hello from the Philippines. As a part of the forming Philippine chapter of CMA, it was directed upon us to BOND and TRUST with our fel- low brothers in the group during the biker camp held last April 5-6, 2019. As time passes by, the stronger ties we have. We become one with the mission and vision of CMA and apply it not only to bikers, but to the com- munity as well (sharing GOD's love). January 12, 2020, the smallest active volcano in the Philippines (Mount Taal) erupted and thousands of people were affected by the ash fall. People were dislocated from their homes, lands, livelihood, and businesses. Family members were separated into different evacuation sites for survival and some were brought to the barangays for shelter, food, and clothing. CMA Philippines was given the opportunity to show GOD's love through sharing and giving, as well as making an impact in the commu- nity. We called out for donations. Among us, the members, some gave monetary assistance, food, water, and used clothes while some volun- teered to do the distribution work to the evacuation sites and barangays sheltering the victims of the eruption. Working with barangay officials and other motorcycle riding groups, CMA Philippines, targeted the far- flung areas that were not reached immediately by the government’s aid. A total of five barangays with 186 families were given food packs and a gallon of water. Each barangay that we visited and extended help, was surprised that there is a group of Christian riders ready to extend help, blessings and love from the LORD. The barangays even mentioned CMA Philippines during their flag cer- emonies to thank us and GOD, for sending HIS people to give to those who are in need during this time of calamity. People not only needed physical nourishment but spiritual hope as well. We prayed for the barangay officials and those affected by the calamity to be guided and given peace despite what they are going through. For them to receive help and strength to stand again after they fell, and to rebuild the homes and families, and continue to trust in GOD. A barangay chair- woman even prayed for CMA to con- tinue GOD's mission not only to bik- ers in need but also to the communi- ties they are in. Through this, CMA Philippines made an impact to believers and non-believers that truly GOD's love will shine through HIS people. CMA Philippines left them with a mark that there is hope in the LORD. As it is written in the Bible, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NASB). CMA Members of CMA Philippines. Rowie Ledesma serves as country contact of CMA Philippines. MABUHAY