A WORD FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR  – It is both a privilege and an honor to introduce this collection to our broader community of Christian businessmen, professionals, and seekers of truth.  This anthology brings together a rich tapestry of short stories written by bro. Noel and originally birthed in the forge of fellowship and formation—many shared as inspirational beacons within BCBP circles and his personal Facebook friends and groups before capturing a wider audience. Each narrative in this collection serves a dual purpose:

1. To Entertain and Engage: Richly drawn characters, authentic workplace dynamics, and gripping narrative tension make every story a compelling read in its own right.
2. To Form and Transform: Beneath every plot point lies a subtle, powerful lesson on integrity, steward leadership, social responsibility, and faith-in-action.

Bro. Noel’s writings challenge us to re-examine our own vocations. He asks us, for instance: What is the “pile” of tasks or expectations you are carrying right now that you need to leave at the feet of Jesus? and, In what areas of your life are you currently letting a performance-based mindset dictate your peace or self-worth?

Whether you read these stories during a moment of quiet personal reflection, use them as formation material for small groups, or pass them along to a colleague facing a difficult decision, know that you are holding the work of a true kingdom artisan.  Open these pages, reflect on their timeless lessons, and let Bro. Noel Guevara’s words inspire you to lead, build, and serve with a renewed sense of noble purpose.

Lovingly published in BCBP Kalibo Rising with full permission from the author. Please show your support: Connect with Bro. Noel on Facebook at @noel.guevara.92. – Max P. Ereño, Jr., Kalibo, Aklan, August, 24, 2026. 

---

“Jesus answered and said to him, ‘Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.’”

John 1:48

Recently, I found myself drowning under a massive pile of community obligations, ministries, and endless tasks. I had convinced myself that the only way to please God was to constantly perform for Him, checking off spiritual to-do lists and rushing from one community activity to the next. Yet, beneath the frantic busyness, my soul was exhausted. I realized I didn’t want a life measured by how much I could produce or how flawless my religious résumé looked. Deep down, I craved a peaceful life—one anchored not in the stress of performance, but in the simplicity of authentic, unstructured living. I wanted my faith to impact the lives of others through real, raw connection rather than structured programs, but I was too busy executing tasks to actually love people. I was performing for a God who was simply asking me to be still and be known.

In today’s Gospel, Nathanael experiences the ultimate antidote to this exhaustion of performance. When he meets Jesus, he is skeptical. But Jesus completely disarms him by saying, “I saw you under the fig tree.” In ancient Israel, the fig tree was a private place for prayer, study, and honest thought. Jesus was telling Nathanael: I saw you when you thought you were completely alone. I know the prayers you whispered in secret. I know the doubts you wrestled with when no one was watching.

There is a profound liberation in realizing that the Creator of the universe already knows the parts of you that you hide from the rest of the world. He knows your secret grief, your silent anxieties, and the dreams you are too afraid to voice out loud. You do not have to audition for His love or send an application to be noticed by Him. Because He knows you perfectly, He is also the only One who can promise you “greater things” than this world can offer.

Human validation and religious checklists are fickle and limited, but the spiritual reality Christ opens up to us is infinite. He offers a peace that survives the worst storms, a purpose that outlasts our busy schedules, and a love that does not depend on our performance. When we stop trying to earn our worth through endless doing, we finally open our eyes to see the heavens opening.

Prayer:

With all my heart, thank You for seeing me even when I am caught up in the noise of trying to prove my worth. Forgive me for the times I have substituted frantic performance for true intimacy with You. Help me to rest in the beautiful truth that I am fully known and deeply loved just as I am. Strip away my need to impress, heal my hidden exhaustion, and grant me the grace to live an authentic, peaceful life that reflects Your love to others. Amen.

Questions for Reflection:

What is the “pile” of tasks or expectations you are carrying right now that you need to leave at the feet of Jesus?

How can you shift your focus today from performing for God to simply being present with Him and the people He has placed in your life?

Pages: 1 2 3 4 5 6