Reflection: 44 Days of Faith and Valor

44 days of Faith and Valor, written by PLTGEN CESAR HAWTHORNE RIVERA BINAG (Ret), begins with the sentence:

"The greatest story ever told is God's love story for humankind and the Salvation mission he rolled out to make this happen. This message is repeated in various ways throughout this devotional because the Bible and the Gospel are always read better when interwoven into our lives."

It is a book of a personal adventure intended for the reader, both active and retired in the armed services, men and women in uniform, particularly those who are part of the Special Action Force (SAF). A mixture of illustrations, Bible verses, and personal experiences made lessons that the readers may come to their life. It differs from the typical daily Bible devotionals that many people are already accustomed to, which fit a day's observations on a single page. Instead, it's more like a running novel with some long and some small parts. Similar to how some days are lengthy and challenging while others are brief yet full of joy. Some days are filled with happy moments, while others are filled with dire circumstances. Each chapter would be viewed as a task by readers.

It has a clear goal in mind. It goes at certain foes in our spiritual lives. Missions are always different, as every SAF Trooper is aware. Some can take a painful two weeks, while others may take three hours for an in-and-out infiltration. Some may involve a peaceful stroll across the fields, while others involve violent encounters.

As the author of this book achieved his goal since, as a reader, I am embarked on a journey with the help of this book. Posed the task is also mine. I alone am capable of achieving the goal for myself. Each chapter ends with a reflection question that helped me apply the lesson to myself and my particular circumstances.

We are realizing that God has seized control of our lives and is penning the narrative of our personal and professional histories. We have many tales to share about how God guided us through the highs and lows of our duty, even when we almost lost our life or limb.

God's love for humanity and the salvation mission He launched to make it happen is the most powerful narrative ever. This message is reiterated throughout the devotional because it is always easier to read the Bible and the Gospel when particular sections are intertwined in our daily lives.

Indeed, this devotional seeks to show us how the Word of God, taken from the closed leather-bound book we often refer to as the Bible, may alter course when applied in daily life.