What is this all about?

This blog has been at least 15 years in the making. Many different factors have pulled me away from putting this together—my perfectionism, procrastination, impostor syndrome, failure to prioritize it, and the list goes on.

No more excuses. Here I go!

 

This is my story

First Things First

I was born in Brazil to a Catholic family, and at around the age of 9, my mom enrolled me in the Roman Catholic Church initiation course. However, it was a strange and shallow experience, led by some inexperienced teenagers who couldn't answer my (admittedly naive) questions. They merely read the catechism book to us. Around the same time, my family moved to a different street in the same area, where I befriended some kids who attended a "church of the Japanese" — a Free Methodist Church. They told me it was fun, and that we would play soccer in the afternoon. What little boy doesn't like to play soccer in Brazil?

Japanese Popcorn

Sunday school was much more enjoyable at this church. Finally, someone could explain who Jesus is and what his death on the cross really meant, using simple words and a flannel board (you can guess my age now). After the service, which included lots of children's hymns (we cheerfully called them "corinhos"), we would have snacks like popcorn (seasoned with MSG¹), chips, and futomaki sushi² on special occasions. Later, we played soccer, tag, hide-and-seek, and other games.

I like to say that God caught me by the stomach 😅. But seriously, the love this community shared with me and all the other kids made all the difference in my formation as a Christian. However, out of respect for my parents (although it might not have been the wisest decision), I didn't get baptized until I was 18, the age of majority in Brazil.

He Already Had a Plan

My life with Jesus—my Savior and King—has been full of ups and downs, and I am far from perfect. I am a sinner being worked out by this perfect hands.

And the vessel he was making of clay was spoiled in the potter’s hand, and he reworked it into another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to do.
Then the word of the Lord came to me: 'O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter has done? declares the Lord. Behold, like the clay in the potter’s hand, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.'
— Jeremiah 18:4-6

But like clay in the hands of the potter, I am being perfected every day by a loving God who never gives up on me. To Him, I am grateful, and I surrender my life every day, placing my hope in Him.

If you don't know Him personally and want to understand who God is and what Jesus did for me and you, so that you too can have the hope of eternal life, please drop me a note. I'll be more than happy to share everything He has done for me.

Everyone, whether Christian or non-Christian, is welcome to join me on this journey of learning and being perfected by God through His Holy Spirit.

 

Now, just a quick disclaimer: Every word on this blog is my own (except when explicitly cited from the Scriptures or other authors), based on my interpretation and understanding of the Bible. My writing is also influenced by various teachings from my mentors, D-group leaders, pastors, and authors, and how I perceive their influence in my life. Finally, it is shaped by my own life experiences as a Christ follower, husband, father, son, friend, neighbor, co-worker, employee, taxpayer, and immigrant.

In no way should the texts shared on this website be used as a rule for anyone's life—the Bible is that rule. By reading my texts, you should come to your own conclusions and make your own decisions. Though I hope you learn from them, just as I do from everything I read, listen to, and experience from others.

Thanks, and in Christ, I love you.