Santa Maria Cemetery

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Even as the afternoon waned, and the heavens wept with a heavy, persistent drizzle, the people did flock with an unceasing devotion to the graves of the departed. What a providential, solemn moment to stand amidst the monuments of the dead and remind the living that our sovereign God owes no man the assurance of another earthly day!

The purpose of this gathering, therefore, is truly not about the state of those who sleep, but rather about the unsettled condition of the living—those who, in a space of time all too swift, shall themselves take their turn at that final resting place, to be visited by their own mourning kin. The truth is stark and urgent: Now is the accepted time; now is the day of salvation, for the tolling bell of eternity waits for no man's convenience!

Indeed, the Good LORD, in direct answer to humble petition, had prepared a most favourable station for my voice, positioning me directly alongside the long table where the Barangay officials were seated.

Though my Holy Bible itself was dampened by the continuing drops of rain, the people were arrested by the power of the Spirit, and they remained seated throughout the whole message. The intersection, despite its extreme busyness and ceaseless clamour, was hushed. The LORD, in His mercy, arrested not a few souls with the sound of the pleading truth. Even the occupants of the dwelling places situated directly across the road came out, and listened with evident and serious intent.

O, may this solemn gathering and the earnest hearing of the Word not be recorded unto their condemnation, but unto their full and everlasting salvation! Let thy sovereign Word, O Lord, now go forth with irresistible power and unction, and let all those who have ears to hear the Spirit's call be drawn immediately and forever unto the saving grace of Christ!

Thereafter rode I onto the next cemetery on my list.

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