My little niece came to visit today with Adrian and Belle.
As usual, she is really cute and I held her for the first time! Haha cos I was quite apprehensive at holding her when she was still so freshly delivered into the world.
Oh, think she forgot to take the Woodstock home? Hee .. Snoopy's good friend that makes a pocky sound. Next time ya when you come to visit again ok? Ah Yee can pass you your mum's toy :P
Leianne's grandparents were especially busy and happy today also. Mum cooked. Dad was helpful in providing the master bed for the baby and getting the weighing machine out for her excited father. And whoa, she weighs 3kg! =)
Friday, July 13, 2007
Ed Silvoso
Attended the Ed Silvoso conference on MarketPlace Transformation last week. Yes, last week, have recently digested some of the things taught.
Quotable quotes (by Ed Silvoso):
"If you want to see what you've never seen, do what you've never done."
"The enemy of faith is memory; What kills faith is lack of works."
A few things striked me during the conference:
1. God is interested in people's lives as much as He is in their souls. Many times, I feel that we can become merely interested to get people to church/church programs even first being interested in their lives. Put differently, people will more naturally come to church when they experience the reality of God in their lives which can be radically transformed for the glory of God. The marketplace is where most of us interact with people around us. And if we let others see the Christ who lives in us, many souls can be reclaimed into His Kingdom.
2. We can transform the marketplace. 4 levels/types of Christians in the marketplace:
i. Being in the marketplace
ii. Applying biblical principles in the marketplace
iii. Doing business in the power of the fullness of the Holy Spirit
iv. Being involved in and committed to the transformation of the marketplace
Man, I think I'm somewhere in (ii), trying to live out Christlikeness in my current workplace and home. Sense the importance of this fundamental call of a Christian (aka Christ's ambassdor),
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of GRACE, seasoned with SALT, so that you may know how to answer everyone. " Col 4:5-6
It's about bearing the mark of Jesus in our daily living, routine tasks and conversations. And to take the next step to allow God to work in our lives, projects, decisions and choices, and ultimately to take a stake in our organisation and invite the Holy Spirit to transform it for the glory of God.
3. God wants us to be rich. Wealth/success is gift from God, but it needs to be brought under the power and authority of our Lord. It's ok for Christians to assume a high-paying job, make money from sound investment, drive a ferrari, live in bungalow etc. So as long as we do not fix out hope on the uncertainity of riches but on God who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. And we are generous and ready to share so that we may take hold of that which is life indeed!
In fact, David, the man of God made a business assessment when he was deciding whether to kill Goliath, enemy of God's people. David asked the men, " What will it be done for the man who kills [Goliath]?" 1 Sam17:26
Knowing fully the reward being great wealth, royal marriage with the king's daughter and tax exemption for his family, he risked his life to take on Goliath.
Jesus never opposed wealth. What He objected was idle wealth, and the inability to see wealth as a means to benefit the poor. Jesus asked a rich man in the bible to sell all his possessions and give to the poor. But He did not ask the man to give all to the poor. The lesson was to liquidate the possessions so that the man could give some of the profits to the poor.
Application when I resume work on 1 Aug: Love Mondays, exercise grace and bless others!
Quotable quotes (by Ed Silvoso):
"If you want to see what you've never seen, do what you've never done."
"The enemy of faith is memory; What kills faith is lack of works."
A few things striked me during the conference:
1. God is interested in people's lives as much as He is in their souls. Many times, I feel that we can become merely interested to get people to church/church programs even first being interested in their lives. Put differently, people will more naturally come to church when they experience the reality of God in their lives which can be radically transformed for the glory of God. The marketplace is where most of us interact with people around us. And if we let others see the Christ who lives in us, many souls can be reclaimed into His Kingdom.
2. We can transform the marketplace. 4 levels/types of Christians in the marketplace:
i. Being in the marketplace
ii. Applying biblical principles in the marketplace
iii. Doing business in the power of the fullness of the Holy Spirit
iv. Being involved in and committed to the transformation of the marketplace
Man, I think I'm somewhere in (ii), trying to live out Christlikeness in my current workplace and home. Sense the importance of this fundamental call of a Christian (aka Christ's ambassdor),
"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of GRACE, seasoned with SALT, so that you may know how to answer everyone. " Col 4:5-6
It's about bearing the mark of Jesus in our daily living, routine tasks and conversations. And to take the next step to allow God to work in our lives, projects, decisions and choices, and ultimately to take a stake in our organisation and invite the Holy Spirit to transform it for the glory of God.
3. God wants us to be rich. Wealth/success is gift from God, but it needs to be brought under the power and authority of our Lord. It's ok for Christians to assume a high-paying job, make money from sound investment, drive a ferrari, live in bungalow etc. So as long as we do not fix out hope on the uncertainity of riches but on God who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. And we are generous and ready to share so that we may take hold of that which is life indeed!
In fact, David, the man of God made a business assessment when he was deciding whether to kill Goliath, enemy of God's people. David asked the men, " What will it be done for the man who kills [Goliath]?" 1 Sam17:26
Knowing fully the reward being great wealth, royal marriage with the king's daughter and tax exemption for his family, he risked his life to take on Goliath.
Jesus never opposed wealth. What He objected was idle wealth, and the inability to see wealth as a means to benefit the poor. Jesus asked a rich man in the bible to sell all his possessions and give to the poor. But He did not ask the man to give all to the poor. The lesson was to liquidate the possessions so that the man could give some of the profits to the poor.
Application when I resume work on 1 Aug: Love Mondays, exercise grace and bless others!
Monday, July 09, 2007
Watsup on a Monday
Ok .. my 2nd driving lesson was ok. With more practice, should be better :P
The driving instructor was the 2nd person I blessed today. The first one was my mother :)
Attempted to cook butter salmon for my parents for dinner just now as well. Well, my mum had to finish the job - else the other side of the fish would probably remain sashimi :P
The driving instructor was the 2nd person I blessed today. The first one was my mother :)
Attempted to cook butter salmon for my parents for dinner just now as well. Well, my mum had to finish the job - else the other side of the fish would probably remain sashimi :P
Attack of the Flying Cockroach!
Watch it fly! It's a bird, no it's a bug, no again, it's a flying cockroach!
And it's HUGE.
I leapt right into my sofa beside my mum with cushion as my shield of defence. HELP!
In the end, my younger bro saved the day - with Baygon as his sword. He gingerly sprayed at the unaware roach and extermintated it! And destroyed all evidence - out of the window. Phew!
And it's HUGE.
I leapt right into my sofa beside my mum with cushion as my shield of defence. HELP!
In the end, my younger bro saved the day - with Baygon as his sword. He gingerly sprayed at the unaware roach and extermintated it! And destroyed all evidence - out of the window. Phew!
emo
Realised that I'm an emo person! Hee.
Was SO sad that Pocky got stopped at the gates to enter into the Expo auditorium. I'm not gonna eat inside .. just wanna save the precious yummy pinky sticks for later consumption/sharing =(
Amazed that I actually emo so much for Pocky! Haha =)
Was SO sad that Pocky got stopped at the gates to enter into the Expo auditorium. I'm not gonna eat inside .. just wanna save the precious yummy pinky sticks for later consumption/sharing =(
Amazed that I actually emo so much for Pocky! Haha =)
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Snoopy
Don't know why I love this dog so much. Perhaps it's the cute little button nose? And it's a dog that doesn't bite? Hee.
Was so happy yesterday that JY gave me a Peanuts notebook. She bought it only to have a page ripped off for Project Surprise. Looking at the rate I'm using my current journal, I should be starting on the Peanuts book by next month or so. I like the pages - fully coloured and have Snoopy and other Peanuts characters in it. 2 different designs. Thanks JY!
Special mention to Kelvin who bought me a Snoopy Mac Happy Meal toy flown in from Shanghai. I like that too :)
Was so happy yesterday that JY gave me a Peanuts notebook. She bought it only to have a page ripped off for Project Surprise. Looking at the rate I'm using my current journal, I should be starting on the Peanuts book by next month or so. I like the pages - fully coloured and have Snoopy and other Peanuts characters in it. 2 different designs. Thanks JY!
Special mention to Kelvin who bought me a Snoopy Mac Happy Meal toy flown in from Shanghai. I like that too :)
Driving
Started my driving lessons recently. Driving was quite fun. First lesson was on last Monday. And I'm driving a manual car. Engine kept stalling as I over release the clutch. It was quite funny that I got to restart the engine so many times. Got a few times the traffic lights some more. The L plate saved the day :P
Navigated my way to CDC much more easily compared to the first time I went there to apply PDL and register for Final Theory Test. Took a cab there the last time. The trick is to enter/exit by Gate 3 rather than Gate 1 or 2.
Navigated my way to CDC much more easily compared to the first time I went there to apply PDL and register for Final Theory Test. Took a cab there the last time. The trick is to enter/exit by Gate 3 rather than Gate 1 or 2.
Sign language
Was shocked at the silence of the class when we entered the room in Blk 162. I mean, to learn sign language does not mean that we can't talk right? Thereafter, I realised that the teacher is hearing-impaired person himself.
Anyway, the lesson was packed. Quite a fair bit of material after a brief introduction of the course mates on their names and objective of attending the course. Discovered that there is a fellow diver in our midst! He's wanting to learn sign language as an alternative means of communicating underwater. I didn't think of that actually! Can add that to my objectives too! I was thinking more of to learning the language since I was quite interested when I was teaching at USSS prior to uni.
Overall, the first lesson is very interesting and useful. Sad that I have to miss one out of 4 lessons due to the Manado trip. But towards the end of last Thursday lesson, I was like zoning out a little. Was actually signing to Ziting the time during the last 1/2 hr. Can't wait to go home :P
Anyway, the lesson was packed. Quite a fair bit of material after a brief introduction of the course mates on their names and objective of attending the course. Discovered that there is a fellow diver in our midst! He's wanting to learn sign language as an alternative means of communicating underwater. I didn't think of that actually! Can add that to my objectives too! I was thinking more of to learning the language since I was quite interested when I was teaching at USSS prior to uni.
Overall, the first lesson is very interesting and useful. Sad that I have to miss one out of 4 lessons due to the Manado trip. But towards the end of last Thursday lesson, I was like zoning out a little. Was actually signing to Ziting the time during the last 1/2 hr. Can't wait to go home :P
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Cinta Ayu All Suites Johor Bahru
2D1N Spa Retreat in a studio room for 2. Got quite a good lobang from Citibank. $154 all in. Totally enjoyed the retreat with ziting. Spa, swim, gym, jacuzzi and dinner. It was really good. The swim was the best. Tranquil fitted with jacuzzi. Blue waters. Only 2 of us - and a lifeguard.
Also managed to find a small bottle (60ml) of non tear shampoo. Was looking for a 50ml Johnsons Baby Shampoo for a few days already. Somehow a lot of places not selling already. But I bought the Watsons brand instead. Which can be found in SG actually. Well, there is over the choice of that 100ml J-brand. The packaging is better (smaller). Oh btw, the shampoo is for de-fogging of the mask used for diving. Tried and tested that it really works (for the J-brand).
On the way to the resort, we kena 'chopped' by the taxi driver. It costed us RM70 to get there but only RM25 to get back. Right. No integrity at all. Now we know better.
Ok, gtg The Tent already. Supposed to be Mon but was postponed due to Youth Day.
Also managed to find a small bottle (60ml) of non tear shampoo. Was looking for a 50ml Johnsons Baby Shampoo for a few days already. Somehow a lot of places not selling already. But I bought the Watsons brand instead. Which can be found in SG actually. Well, there is over the choice of that 100ml J-brand. The packaging is better (smaller). Oh btw, the shampoo is for de-fogging of the mask used for diving. Tried and tested that it really works (for the J-brand).
On the way to the resort, we kena 'chopped' by the taxi driver. It costed us RM70 to get there but only RM25 to get back. Right. No integrity at all. Now we know better.
Ok, gtg The Tent already. Supposed to be Mon but was postponed due to Youth Day.
Monday, July 02, 2007
Transfomers
*****
I will give a 5-stars rating for this blockblaster. Lotsa action. Good story linkages. And to watch with good company, it was a good 2.5 hrs deal for me :)
Whoa .. Harry Potter is showing on TV now. Gonna catch that - and hopefully the latest sequel on screen.
On Transformers, it's more than meets the eye .. watch it yourselves for the full story! Hee .. I love to be on leave :)
I will give a 5-stars rating for this blockblaster. Lotsa action. Good story linkages. And to watch with good company, it was a good 2.5 hrs deal for me :)
Whoa .. Harry Potter is showing on TV now. Gonna catch that - and hopefully the latest sequel on screen.
On Transformers, it's more than meets the eye .. watch it yourselves for the full story! Hee .. I love to be on leave :)
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Big Bro's Wedding
As I was mentioning in the previous posting, my brother had his wedding on 23rd Jun 2007. 
The pictures are coming in already. Thanks to his wonderful friends (the honourary paparazzi). The church wedding was planned in a sleek military fashion, with SAF officers dressed in their No.1. Quite cool!
The above is a family pic taken with the couple. Some of my uncles and aunties (and their children) came to lend their support too. My bro actually gave a special thanks to my uncle for showing his kindness to him when he was young. Thought that was pretty nostalgic.
The above is a family pic taken with the couple. Some of my uncles and aunties (and their children) came to lend their support too. My bro actually gave a special thanks to my uncle for showing his kindness to him when he was young. Thought that was pretty nostalgic.
The dinner was also somewhat done differently as well. It's at Asian Civilisation Museum, buffet style. Performances put up by friends (and family) graced the night. I did a love song duet with one of the buddies (who happened to be my ex-church friend) and fill in backup vocal support for my bro's song item dedicated to the bride. 
Kelvin came for the wedding dinner too. It was a good time of introducing and re-introducing him to my extended family members. And predictably, the question of the night is, "When is your turn?" Cool it man, not so soon but the time will come :P There were fireworks out there to celebrate the occasion too! Hee, nice to hold a wedding function near National Day and Padang :)
Feel that my bro is really blessed to have buddies that stick by him all the way from secondary school till now. His best man has testified that it was my bro who was always arranging meet-ups and outings for this gang of friends. At the end of the day, other than feeling really tired, I took back valuable lessons of friendship and cherishing the people around whom we so love.
Monday, June 25, 2007
I will not forget you
It's a promise from God - for me.
About a month ago, I got this gnawing thought that somehow God has forgotten about me. The feeling is akin to being left behind when everybody else is ruptured. Or along more earthly tunes, it's like everyone else is riding on His blessings, moving on etc. While I feel more stuck than ever. Back here, tuckered behind the crowd, inconspicuous and all. Ok. Full-stop over here. Ain't go any further with this e-grumbling.
There came one night I was spending some time with God. I heard Him say "I will not forget you." It dawned upon me that I do not 100% believe in God that He has plans to prosper me and plans to give me a hope and a future.
And half a month later, I just sensed that I need to re-read the book by Max Lucado "Come Thirsty". Thought of cutting the chase and flipped right to the last few pages. This particular passage caught my attention, spoke right to my spirit:
You sometimes say, "The Lord has deserted me, the Lord has forgotten me." But can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for a child she has borne? Even if that were possible, I would not forget you! I paid for you with the precious lifebllod of Christ, my sinless, spotless lamb. No one will snatch you away from Me. See I have written your name on my hand.
Isa 49:14-16, 1 Pet 1:19, John 10:28
Guess it's just too easy as we go on our journey, not seeing what's ahead and doubt if God is really who He claims to be. Or perhaps we don't really know who God is. Anyway, I don't think we can ever fully understand God. That, we will find out when we go Home. For now, I believe that God is Jevhovah Jireh, my Provider. And I do want to continue to know Him more each day.
The Isa 49 verses came out again during the message by a pastor during my brother's wedding last saturday. The words are still clear: I will not forget you! And I think the passage is not pre-planned as they are not printed on the order of service along with the other verses. I feel that God is really speaking to me.
And again, yesterday, Pastor Lawrence in his closing prayer, he said that God remembers, He will not forget you. I mean, I don't know what else to say - except God has such excellent memory? *blah*
God knows exactly where He has placed us and where He will place us in future. He can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Not only my name is engraved on the back of His hand, my destiny is too. For He says, "I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and give you a future."
My prayer is that He will bring me to my knees to know who He truly is. And allow the Holy Spirit to have more of me. Amen.
About a month ago, I got this gnawing thought that somehow God has forgotten about me. The feeling is akin to being left behind when everybody else is ruptured. Or along more earthly tunes, it's like everyone else is riding on His blessings, moving on etc. While I feel more stuck than ever. Back here, tuckered behind the crowd, inconspicuous and all. Ok. Full-stop over here. Ain't go any further with this e-grumbling.
There came one night I was spending some time with God. I heard Him say "I will not forget you." It dawned upon me that I do not 100% believe in God that He has plans to prosper me and plans to give me a hope and a future.
And half a month later, I just sensed that I need to re-read the book by Max Lucado "Come Thirsty". Thought of cutting the chase and flipped right to the last few pages. This particular passage caught my attention, spoke right to my spirit:
You sometimes say, "The Lord has deserted me, the Lord has forgotten me." But can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for a child she has borne? Even if that were possible, I would not forget you! I paid for you with the precious lifebllod of Christ, my sinless, spotless lamb. No one will snatch you away from Me. See I have written your name on my hand.
Isa 49:14-16, 1 Pet 1:19, John 10:28
Guess it's just too easy as we go on our journey, not seeing what's ahead and doubt if God is really who He claims to be. Or perhaps we don't really know who God is. Anyway, I don't think we can ever fully understand God. That, we will find out when we go Home. For now, I believe that God is Jevhovah Jireh, my Provider. And I do want to continue to know Him more each day.
The Isa 49 verses came out again during the message by a pastor during my brother's wedding last saturday. The words are still clear: I will not forget you! And I think the passage is not pre-planned as they are not printed on the order of service along with the other verses. I feel that God is really speaking to me.
And again, yesterday, Pastor Lawrence in his closing prayer, he said that God remembers, He will not forget you. I mean, I don't know what else to say - except God has such excellent memory? *blah*
God knows exactly where He has placed us and where He will place us in future. He can see the light at the end of the tunnel. Not only my name is engraved on the back of His hand, my destiny is too. For He says, "I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and give you a future."
My prayer is that He will bring me to my knees to know who He truly is. And allow the Holy Spirit to have more of me. Amen.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Double happiness
Wow! I'm amazed at the inactivity of my blog. It's been more than a month since the last blog.
Lots of happenings lately for my family. Sister just given birth to baby Leianne! (pronounced "Lay-ann"). It's exactly a week ago (15 Jun). Happy 1 week old Leianne! =) A very cute small little gal. Couldn't wait to come out and see the world - she came out in less than 1/2 hour. Truly, the delivery is fast, safe and smooth. My sister has gone through 1 1/2 days of contractions though. Thank God both mother and child are safe and are recuperating at Punggol now =)
Next joyous news: My elder brother gonna tie the knot this saturday! (2 days from now). No more fooling around hee.. he's on his way to be a family man. In 1 1/2 time, he will be flying off to Florida with his wife for 1+ year to study some instructional design course. Hope that all the procedures (Visa, course registration etc) pull through smoothly.
Somehow, for the Chinese, these 2 events are NOT considered double happiness (shuang xi). Instead, the 2 "xi" clash and become "chong xi". The lady just don't get it. Anyway, my dad/bro not visiting my sister until the wedding "xi" is over. And my sister is not coming to the wedding as well. She's in confinement anyway.
Alrightey, a short update for now. More blog happenings coming up =)
Lots of happenings lately for my family. Sister just given birth to baby Leianne! (pronounced "Lay-ann"). It's exactly a week ago (15 Jun). Happy 1 week old Leianne! =) A very cute small little gal. Couldn't wait to come out and see the world - she came out in less than 1/2 hour. Truly, the delivery is fast, safe and smooth. My sister has gone through 1 1/2 days of contractions though. Thank God both mother and child are safe and are recuperating at Punggol now =)
Next joyous news: My elder brother gonna tie the knot this saturday! (2 days from now). No more fooling around hee.. he's on his way to be a family man. In 1 1/2 time, he will be flying off to Florida with his wife for 1+ year to study some instructional design course. Hope that all the procedures (Visa, course registration etc) pull through smoothly.
Somehow, for the Chinese, these 2 events are NOT considered double happiness (shuang xi). Instead, the 2 "xi" clash and become "chong xi". The lady just don't get it. Anyway, my dad/bro not visiting my sister until the wedding "xi" is over. And my sister is not coming to the wedding as well. She's in confinement anyway.
Alrightey, a short update for now. More blog happenings coming up =)
Monday, May 14, 2007
Jackie Pullinger
An amazing woman. Heard much about her and we finally met her and heard her first hand. Hearing about her faith, about how she trusts God to provide for her in foreign and dangerous place, gives me a new courage to give my life away for His Kingdom.
Her stories were so real. I could almost imagine the visuals in my mind. The emotions so real, and they lead me to think about the girls at The Tent, especially one of whom I have to know very dearly.
I understand that the ministry with the poor is not a once-off. It's lifestyle of giving. It requires my life. I'm prepared to give to these girls, to love them, to take care of them. I even have this thought to bring one of them back home so that she can be protected from the people closest to her who have hurt her. But hearing what Jackie shared blew my mind. She just invited gangsters to live in her house, not just one , but .. a lot .. I'm not sure how many but enough to invade her private space.
Her secret receipe: the grace of God. We all need that. I need that too.
Her stories were so real. I could almost imagine the visuals in my mind. The emotions so real, and they lead me to think about the girls at The Tent, especially one of whom I have to know very dearly.
I understand that the ministry with the poor is not a once-off. It's lifestyle of giving. It requires my life. I'm prepared to give to these girls, to love them, to take care of them. I even have this thought to bring one of them back home so that she can be protected from the people closest to her who have hurt her. But hearing what Jackie shared blew my mind. She just invited gangsters to live in her house, not just one , but .. a lot .. I'm not sure how many but enough to invade her private space.
Her secret receipe: the grace of God. We all need that. I need that too.
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Hair issues again haha!
Is that me in the mirror? Can't be lah. My forehead is high - erm but so high meh? Ok, I think my hair is thinning .. I'm balding!! Argghh!
Exaggerated a little. Hee. Anyway I decided to have haircut yesterday afternoon. In town after facial and before dinner time, got some time to spare. Got a shopping list all ready. But, I think, check out the hair salon first lah - and no time for the rest already :)
Hee .. no worries O my dear readers. No drastic measures. Just some fringe stuck on my forehead. Yes for camouflage reasons. Kinda concerned abt the possible outbreak on my forehead though. Well, I think should be under control - cos I did hair treatment too!
Oh my goodness, I spent money again. I think it's hmm ok bah. The hair scan analysis detected that I got gleasy scalp! Which causes my hair to drop off more easily .. and prevents new hair from growing out. Argghh... which means my hair once drop off, it's irreplaceable, non replenishable. No!! Ok, signed up for a hair PACKAGE .. the word sounds scary. But after the first try, I think the thing really works lah. Got before and after scan one. Oh ya, forgot to mention the salon ... *drum roll* it's Jean Yip! haha I know Shups has some opinions abt the brand. Oh well, it's convenient lah. At bugis. Though I think I can get better deals at Kimage (cos of rebates).
Yup yup, see how it goes. Will I get fruitful, flourishing hair? The Lord knows. Hee =)
Exaggerated a little. Hee. Anyway I decided to have haircut yesterday afternoon. In town after facial and before dinner time, got some time to spare. Got a shopping list all ready. But, I think, check out the hair salon first lah - and no time for the rest already :)
Hee .. no worries O my dear readers. No drastic measures. Just some fringe stuck on my forehead. Yes for camouflage reasons. Kinda concerned abt the possible outbreak on my forehead though. Well, I think should be under control - cos I did hair treatment too!
Oh my goodness, I spent money again. I think it's hmm ok bah. The hair scan analysis detected that I got gleasy scalp! Which causes my hair to drop off more easily .. and prevents new hair from growing out. Argghh... which means my hair once drop off, it's irreplaceable, non replenishable. No!! Ok, signed up for a hair PACKAGE .. the word sounds scary. But after the first try, I think the thing really works lah. Got before and after scan one. Oh ya, forgot to mention the salon ... *drum roll* it's Jean Yip! haha I know Shups has some opinions abt the brand. Oh well, it's convenient lah. At bugis. Though I think I can get better deals at Kimage (cos of rebates).
Yup yup, see how it goes. Will I get fruitful, flourishing hair? The Lord knows. Hee =)
Verse of the day
The verse of the day is:
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.”- John 10:28-30
Was reading John 10 passage this week.. and in particular these 3 verses this morning. Now, I'm reading them off the screen of Biblegateway website>verse of the day. Ok God, I got the message :p
Feel the Lord's encouragement to me. Sometimes I over-worry. The girls are in good hands - God's hands.
“I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.”- John 10:28-30
Was reading John 10 passage this week.. and in particular these 3 verses this morning. Now, I'm reading them off the screen of Biblegateway website>verse of the day. Ok God, I got the message :p
Feel the Lord's encouragement to me. Sometimes I over-worry. The girls are in good hands - God's hands.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Jesus ROCKS!
My heart is bobbing with tremendous thanksgiving to the Lord. I can see it happening ... God is breaking out for me .. for the previous lives at The Tent.
2 salvations at The Tent from our Jesus The Rock Concert. I'm truly blessed by how God draws them to salvation and affirm His love for them. Know them for more than 3 months now, I thank God that their Maths results are improving by leaps and bounds. My prayer was God, pls help them with their studies. At least, to The Tent, that's my primary purpose for being there. Without that, I mean, I can't do very much there.
The concert staged by JR tribe (adults and youths) is another breakthrough! Thank God for His favour that the gals are allowed to go for a 'Christian' event. Serving at The Tent, I come to know that I'm treading on sensitive grounds. Regarding 'religious stuff', the authorities (MCYS, The Tent, parents) are especially cautious. The rule is: No proselytising i.e. 'selling' religion.
So ... yes the both of them receive Christ, but they can't go church (becos their mothers forbid them to) and they can't openly say that they are Christians. I'm really not sure what to do man. Discipling takes a different dimension, e-Discipling. Created quite a big who-ha at The Tent when the girls excited reported that they accepted Christ and wanted to go to FCBC church. The staff was really worried. If the parents somehow or rather decided that this is ridiculous and complained higher up, they are deadmeat. And I think I be finished too. Thank God things are very kept under control. So now, I'm sharing with them over emails, encouraging them etc.
Encounter Weekend for under 17. Hee I decided to push my luck a tad further. Oops but kena opposition. The girls are keen but I agreed that ya, it's better to shelve it. God got to change the parents' hearts first! This journey is getting really exciting. I feel that it be a long haul. But seeing what God can heal and restore, I'm sticking it out for them man. *aww* For now, though it's good for them to be come into the house of God etc, to me as long as they learn to grow in the Lord where they are, it's good enough. I pray that they will experience the reality of God in their lives and experience breakthroughs!
One of the girls actually passed me 2 of her most recent diaries for my reading. My heart goes out to her. Tragic, heart wrenching stories. All the poor soul wanted was acceptance, trust, security .. and love. We got to win back the territories that Satan has dominion over!
Last thanksgiving: Thank God for filling my heart with His love for His daughters. It's amazing - Amazing love. Amazing Grace.
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy" ~ Psalms 126:5
"Wait for the Lord ... it will surely come" ~ Hab 2:3
"Jesus is the Great Shepherd .. His sheep recognise His voice and they follow Him" ~ John 10:11, 14, 27
"Jesus said, 'Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?'" ~ John 11:40
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Manado 6D5N
It's the diving season again!
Oh boy, am I excited! Going diving with ah lian and gang at month end (Tioman)... and planning for the BIG one in July - Manado 6D5N! Estimated $1000 all in.
Some background:
Manado is the capital of the North Sulawesi province of Indonesia. It is located at the Bay of Manado, and is surrounded by a mountainous area. As the largest city in the region, Manado is a key tourist transit point for visitors. Sam Ratulangi International Airport of Manado is one of the main entry ports to Indonesia. In 2005, not less than 15,000 international passengers entered Indonesia via Sam Ratulangi International Airport. Ecotourism is the biggest attraction in Manado. Scuba diving and snorkelling on the nearby island of Bunaken are popular attractions. Other places of interest are nearby Lake Tondano, Lokon Volcano, Klabat Volcano and Mahawu Volcano.
Some chio pics I founonline (http://www.eco-divers.com/uwphotography_galleries.html):
Sunday, April 01, 2007
Thanksgiving for The Tent
Thanksgiving assignment -- copied and pasted for sharing below =)
--------------------------------------------
I thank God because I see Him moving in my ministry to reachout to the girls at The Tent.
The Tent is a sanctuary for troubled female youths from dysfunctional families, who are victims of abuse, exhibit behaviour problems, or are in need of crisis shelter. The centre help the youths attain reconciliation - with themselves, their family and society.
Started giving weekly tuition at The Tent since August 2006. Been praying that God will invade the hearts of the dear ones. On the first night of the G12 Conference, Pastor Khong asked us to lay hold of God for our loved ones and prophesize that we will see breakthroughs in their lives. I cried out to God with all my heart that He will transform The Tent, He will let His Glory be shown and everyone in The Tent will come to know the Lord, and it will be a place of healing, restoration for all who will come. I sensed that something broke through in the spiritual realm that night.
The following Monday after the G12 Conference, I went to The Tent as usual. But I've prepared some old worship scores to be used as rough papers, hoping that I could "by-the-way" introduce the songs to the girls. It turned out that the girls were very excited to learn new songs and hear me sing. I came to know that they used to attend Sunday School and knew a few Christian songs and the actions! After the tuition, we began to sing worship songs, about God's love for us. This is a breakthrough for me because I never knew I can do this in The Tent and it felt like we were having cell group at that place!
On the same night, I smsed one of The Tent staff to ask if I could bring the youths to our Good Friday youth outreach rock concert. I was not sure if this was possible as the girls normally had a curfew to be back at The Tent by 9.30pm and the concert is a church event in a church. Thank God for His favour! I was given the consent by the manager of The Tent as well as the youths' parents to take the girls out!
My dream is to see The Tent won by God, that everyone (including youth and staff) will come to know the Lord, disciple the girls and help them plant their own cells in their schools. I'm claiming the following verses from Isaiah 61:1-3 this year:
The Year of the LORD's Favor
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners, [a]
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
--------------------------------------------
I thank God because I see Him moving in my ministry to reachout to the girls at The Tent.
The Tent is a sanctuary for troubled female youths from dysfunctional families, who are victims of abuse, exhibit behaviour problems, or are in need of crisis shelter. The centre help the youths attain reconciliation - with themselves, their family and society.
Started giving weekly tuition at The Tent since August 2006. Been praying that God will invade the hearts of the dear ones. On the first night of the G12 Conference, Pastor Khong asked us to lay hold of God for our loved ones and prophesize that we will see breakthroughs in their lives. I cried out to God with all my heart that He will transform The Tent, He will let His Glory be shown and everyone in The Tent will come to know the Lord, and it will be a place of healing, restoration for all who will come. I sensed that something broke through in the spiritual realm that night.
The following Monday after the G12 Conference, I went to The Tent as usual. But I've prepared some old worship scores to be used as rough papers, hoping that I could "by-the-way" introduce the songs to the girls. It turned out that the girls were very excited to learn new songs and hear me sing. I came to know that they used to attend Sunday School and knew a few Christian songs and the actions! After the tuition, we began to sing worship songs, about God's love for us. This is a breakthrough for me because I never knew I can do this in The Tent and it felt like we were having cell group at that place!
On the same night, I smsed one of The Tent staff to ask if I could bring the youths to our Good Friday youth outreach rock concert. I was not sure if this was possible as the girls normally had a curfew to be back at The Tent by 9.30pm and the concert is a church event in a church. Thank God for His favour! I was given the consent by the manager of The Tent as well as the youths' parents to take the girls out!
My dream is to see The Tent won by God, that everyone (including youth and staff) will come to know the Lord, disciple the girls and help them plant their own cells in their schools. I'm claiming the following verses from Isaiah 61:1-3 this year:
The Year of the LORD's Favor
1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners, [a]
2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
and the day of vengeance of our God,
to comfort all who mourn,
3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion—
to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise
instead of a spirit of despair.
They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the LORD
for the display of his splendor.
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Ohana means family
Had a good time worshipping God on platform last Leader's meeting on Tues night.
The challenge given by Ps. Eugene that night was: Do you love the church? Church itself takes on a wider meaning to encompass not only FCBC but the Church of Singapore and the nations. He shared from the Ephesians message on how husband and wife should love each other. Particularly, the husband ought to love his wife the way Christ love the church! And God is this context, is also illustrating the fact that Christ loves the church, thereby we as believers, should also love the church the way our God does!
Remember that some months back (last year), Chaoyang shared this with us during one of our combined G12 sessions at AMK. Do we love the church? My first honest response is, erm, actually I don't. But as I began to ask God to help me love the church, as I gave thanks for the church, more specifically for FCBC, on how the Lord has blessed us with the facilities, with people who love people. Yes there are imperfections, just as all of us are imperfect, we learn to bear with one another ... simply because we are family.
I think it's been a while since this thing about church and family is discussed openly. Or at least, it didn't really sink in for me. There was this cartoon that has this tag line: Ohana means family. Was in this cell group where the family concept is central. We see each sister and brother as our family. We love, or learn to love with the sincere love of God. It breaks our hearts to see our family members falling away or not walking right with God. We also envisioned how we will continue to hang out even when we are old and our kids play with each other. Right. On how Lynn's kids will act cute and Ben's kids be sprouting sarcastic jokes. I think that this is still possible. The dream can become reality! It takes effort and commitment. Are we willing to lay our lives for one another?
This year, I wrote in my warrior matrix that I want to grow in having sincere love for my fellow sisters, that I will grow to love them deeply from the heart (1 Peter 1:22). This verse first jumped out at me when I was in NTU. I find it a tough call. If I were to love without God, it is impossible!
Yet truly, I hope to grow to love and serve them ... and bring glory to God. May the world will come to know God because they see that we are His people who love one another. Amen.
The challenge given by Ps. Eugene that night was: Do you love the church? Church itself takes on a wider meaning to encompass not only FCBC but the Church of Singapore and the nations. He shared from the Ephesians message on how husband and wife should love each other. Particularly, the husband ought to love his wife the way Christ love the church! And God is this context, is also illustrating the fact that Christ loves the church, thereby we as believers, should also love the church the way our God does!
Remember that some months back (last year), Chaoyang shared this with us during one of our combined G12 sessions at AMK. Do we love the church? My first honest response is, erm, actually I don't. But as I began to ask God to help me love the church, as I gave thanks for the church, more specifically for FCBC, on how the Lord has blessed us with the facilities, with people who love people. Yes there are imperfections, just as all of us are imperfect, we learn to bear with one another ... simply because we are family.
I think it's been a while since this thing about church and family is discussed openly. Or at least, it didn't really sink in for me. There was this cartoon that has this tag line: Ohana means family. Was in this cell group where the family concept is central. We see each sister and brother as our family. We love, or learn to love with the sincere love of God. It breaks our hearts to see our family members falling away or not walking right with God. We also envisioned how we will continue to hang out even when we are old and our kids play with each other. Right. On how Lynn's kids will act cute and Ben's kids be sprouting sarcastic jokes. I think that this is still possible. The dream can become reality! It takes effort and commitment. Are we willing to lay our lives for one another?
This year, I wrote in my warrior matrix that I want to grow in having sincere love for my fellow sisters, that I will grow to love them deeply from the heart (1 Peter 1:22). This verse first jumped out at me when I was in NTU. I find it a tough call. If I were to love without God, it is impossible!
Yet truly, I hope to grow to love and serve them ... and bring glory to God. May the world will come to know God because they see that we are His people who love one another. Amen.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Romans 8:37
God spoke this verse to me as I was praying and walking to The Tent to give tuition one evening.
I was feeling quite tired after work, and slightly hungry (after having just a bao) and rushing to there to meet Sally and Huihui. My prayer was Lord, refresh me with your love. Help me to serve their needs. Use me to show them Your love.
Then He says, "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Rom 8:37
I was reminded of this verse again when Ps Lawrence preached this on CNY morning. Was affirmed in my spirit that yes Lord, I have heard you correctly. And sense that He wants me to claim this verse - by faith.
Indeed, the Christian walk is a faith thing. A week ago, I was feeling quite sianz. Cos I felt that God didn't really speak to me during my QT with Him. No relevation from the Word. Really very sianz. Then I realised, actually God had always been speaking to me. I have to exercise faith to believe that the verses I sensed or read, are the very rhema Word from God to me.
God declares, "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you." (Jer 29:13-14)
I was feeling quite tired after work, and slightly hungry (after having just a bao) and rushing to there to meet Sally and Huihui. My prayer was Lord, refresh me with your love. Help me to serve their needs. Use me to show them Your love.
Then He says, "In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." Rom 8:37
I was reminded of this verse again when Ps Lawrence preached this on CNY morning. Was affirmed in my spirit that yes Lord, I have heard you correctly. And sense that He wants me to claim this verse - by faith.
Indeed, the Christian walk is a faith thing. A week ago, I was feeling quite sianz. Cos I felt that God didn't really speak to me during my QT with Him. No relevation from the Word. Really very sianz. Then I realised, actually God had always been speaking to me. I have to exercise faith to believe that the verses I sensed or read, are the very rhema Word from God to me.
God declares, "You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart. I will be found by you." (Jer 29:13-14)
CNY
Today is the 3rd day of CNY already. And there is still have more visiting in the queue :)
Wow, this year, quite a packed CNY. Rem that last year, almost all the visiting is done in the first day and the rest of the days are kind of free.
Kelvin and I went to each others' family and relatives' houses to bai nian. A new experience for me. Just some small talk here and there, watching TV, feasting.. the usual stuff. But ya, that's one step forward in building our relationship and working towards the assumptions :P
Let me recollect the series of events:
Day 1 -
1. Service at Expo
2. My uncle's house at Pasir Ris
3. Kelvin's grandma house at Lakeside
4. My grandma house at West Coast
Day 2 -
1. Kelvin comes for lunch at my place
2. Kelvin's grandma house at Bishan
3. Ah lian's house at Clementi
4. Ps Jeffrey's place at Outram
And counting....
Felt quite ministered at the CNY service. The Holy Spirit spoke powerfully through Ps. Lawrence. Barely on the first point of the sermon, I was like tearing away. Hee thanks JY for the tissues but no prob I got mine. It's still about God's love. It overwhelms me that God loves us so much - beyond our works and accomplishments. Had shared with Huisi on this some time back, God also spoke on this during the Sancification weekend (thru Ps Eugene), and now through Ps Lawrence. Guess it's spoken by a different authority now. But the passage is consistent: Know that God loves me unconditionally. Nothing to prove. Nothing to lose.
Feel that God is humbling me. From the stage of, Lord I can do this or that for you (using my talents/abilities) to, Lord I cannot do anything without you. It's about going beyond what I cannot do or finds it hard to do, to just rest in God's love. To have that kind of blessed restedness in the Lord. To know that He still loves me. He has always loved me and will always love me.
I'm reminded of God's covenant of love with us:
1. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. (Isa 55:3)
2. I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. (Jer 31:3)
And a promise He has laid upon my heart:
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has endowed you with splendor. (Isa 55:5)
Wow, this year, quite a packed CNY. Rem that last year, almost all the visiting is done in the first day and the rest of the days are kind of free.
Kelvin and I went to each others' family and relatives' houses to bai nian. A new experience for me. Just some small talk here and there, watching TV, feasting.. the usual stuff. But ya, that's one step forward in building our relationship and working towards the assumptions :P
Let me recollect the series of events:
Day 1 -
1. Service at Expo
2. My uncle's house at Pasir Ris
3. Kelvin's grandma house at Lakeside
4. My grandma house at West Coast
Day 2 -
1. Kelvin comes for lunch at my place
2. Kelvin's grandma house at Bishan
3. Ah lian's house at Clementi
4. Ps Jeffrey's place at Outram
And counting....
Felt quite ministered at the CNY service. The Holy Spirit spoke powerfully through Ps. Lawrence. Barely on the first point of the sermon, I was like tearing away. Hee thanks JY for the tissues but no prob I got mine. It's still about God's love. It overwhelms me that God loves us so much - beyond our works and accomplishments. Had shared with Huisi on this some time back, God also spoke on this during the Sancification weekend (thru Ps Eugene), and now through Ps Lawrence. Guess it's spoken by a different authority now. But the passage is consistent: Know that God loves me unconditionally. Nothing to prove. Nothing to lose.
Feel that God is humbling me. From the stage of, Lord I can do this or that for you (using my talents/abilities) to, Lord I cannot do anything without you. It's about going beyond what I cannot do or finds it hard to do, to just rest in God's love. To have that kind of blessed restedness in the Lord. To know that He still loves me. He has always loved me and will always love me.
I'm reminded of God's covenant of love with us:
1. I will make an everlasting covenant with you, my faithful love promised to David. (Isa 55:3)
2. I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness. (Jer 31:3)
And a promise He has laid upon my heart:
Surely you will summon nations you know not, and nations that do not know you will hasten to you, because of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for He has endowed you with splendor. (Isa 55:5)
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This posting is for my friend in the business of mass ordering of Korean fashion.
Real chic clothes n fashion buys frm a korean site.
Check this out: http://snowwhitecandy.blogspot.com.
Sunday, February 11, 2007
Wakeboarding saturday
Yeah! x3. Yesterday was really fun. A bunch of colleagues went together for wakeboarding at Punggol Marina. Yes, 1 major +point abt staying in Punggol is the Punggol Marina Country Club! Trie cutting waves and moving from side to side .. alas, my waking skills are what I left them 1 year ago. You see, wakeboarding is an annual event for me. Company SRC organise, I go. Good rates mah. Hmm, after yesterday, I' thinking of forming a group of kakis to go wakeboarding once a month. Per pax is abt $60. Meanwhile, must ask the SRC comm to organise more of these :P Met some fresh faces, colleagues and colleagues' friends. Was reasonably high "I" yesterday. Well, in a group of pple you don't know, got to make friends.
Went to visit my sista and bro-in-law after that. The shuttle bus whizzed past their flat so I thought could pay them a visit. It was Operation Spring Cleaning for them. Quite fun to see them do the cleaning together. Erm, I also helped a bit here and there where possible. And the ham and cheese sandwich prepared by Adrian is superb! My sista is really a lucky woman :P
Next was to a colleague's grandma wake at Singapore Casket. The grandma was a Buddhist ... the place was filled with incense smoke ... I definitely prefer the usual void deck setting man. Anyway, the lot of us blessed her family with bai jin. And boss came out with the largest amount (as usual).
Had an early night at 9.30pm last night. And... I thought I couldn't get out of bed this morning. My body is aching all over! Neck, shoulders, upper arms, thighs, back... etc. Everywhere in short. *stretched and argh* Hopefully all the aches be gone within a day or 2.
And I still very much want to do wakeboarding again! Got to master the waves cutting and perhaps some jumps! =)
Went to visit my sista and bro-in-law after that. The shuttle bus whizzed past their flat so I thought could pay them a visit. It was Operation Spring Cleaning for them. Quite fun to see them do the cleaning together. Erm, I also helped a bit here and there where possible. And the ham and cheese sandwich prepared by Adrian is superb! My sista is really a lucky woman :P
Next was to a colleague's grandma wake at Singapore Casket. The grandma was a Buddhist ... the place was filled with incense smoke ... I definitely prefer the usual void deck setting man. Anyway, the lot of us blessed her family with bai jin. And boss came out with the largest amount (as usual).
Had an early night at 9.30pm last night. And... I thought I couldn't get out of bed this morning. My body is aching all over! Neck, shoulders, upper arms, thighs, back... etc. Everywhere in short. *stretched and argh* Hopefully all the aches be gone within a day or 2.
And I still very much want to do wakeboarding again! Got to master the waves cutting and perhaps some jumps! =)
Saturday, February 03, 2007
Sanctification Week for me
I thought I wanted to sleep at 10 .. but now I'm still up. Hee. Anyway, good to update my blog as and when.
The Sanctification Week came and went. 3 days .. *poofed* and it's gone. 2 things hit me strongly then and they're still in my heart: Identity in Christ and Passion for the Word.
Did I tell you that some weeks back, I heard God say "Know who you are in Christ" while I was crossing the road to my bus stop one morning? Subsequently I realised that I have been feeding on packs of lies, negative thoughts abt myself. No wonder. Seriously I was thinking what went wrong that I kept feeling so defeated, so unable to serve God, so small and inadequate. At the 2nd night of the Sanctification Week, I laid down my own view of myself at the altar of God. I refused to think badly of myself. I accepted what God thinks of and says of me. It blew my mind when Ps. Eugene, representing God the Father, told us "I am proud of you." I mean, I couldn't fully believe that God is proud of me. I always thought I could have done more, be more Christlike etc. Why God, you are proud of me for who I am now? Even now, I still feel pretty overwhelmed by the truth. God is proud of me! He is passionate about me!
Sometimes I wonder, how come Christians can be so like any other person, going through day after day, routine, pursuing material things. Myself included. There has to be a distinction isn't it? In terms of life goals, purpose, passsion. What truly marks the difference between a sinner saved by grace and a pre-believer still .. lost. 1 salvation, many heart conversions. With no conversion of hearts, no one will see God.. in us.
Many a times, reading the Bible was a .. chore. I'ts like, you have to read your notes to pass your exams. Ps Eugene addressed that aptly last night. The Bible is not a textbook or instruction manual. It is God's love letters to me! I often felt that I owe God the timeslot to do my devotion with Him.. failing of which due to laziness/ busyness will result in feelings of gulit. God says "I yearn to spend time with you. I yearn to speak with you." It's a love relationship between the Heavenly Father (Son and Holy Spirit) and the earthly human. I need to renew my mind God has a special word for me everyday. I don't want to go through the motion of "doing QT" and miss the very essence of what God wants to do.
This morning, I tried the "Everyday before meal" approach of reading the Word of God before breakfast. It's tough man. Just woke up and so sleepy. And hungry. Ok, I pulled up the curtain and started to ask God to speak to me cos I wanted to hear Him! And I knew that He wanted to speak to me. Ok .. I read John 6 ... not much relevation leh ... I think I still need to get used to this. Feels nice to greet God "Good morning!". Was just reading the Word at abt 8-9pm. Could feel the Spirit stir in my heart. We communicated and all. It was a good time .. but I want MORE! Room for more hunger though.
A simple prayer for this year: God, show me Your Son Jesus. Help me to be like Him.
The Sanctification Week came and went. 3 days .. *poofed* and it's gone. 2 things hit me strongly then and they're still in my heart: Identity in Christ and Passion for the Word.
Did I tell you that some weeks back, I heard God say "Know who you are in Christ" while I was crossing the road to my bus stop one morning? Subsequently I realised that I have been feeding on packs of lies, negative thoughts abt myself. No wonder. Seriously I was thinking what went wrong that I kept feeling so defeated, so unable to serve God, so small and inadequate. At the 2nd night of the Sanctification Week, I laid down my own view of myself at the altar of God. I refused to think badly of myself. I accepted what God thinks of and says of me. It blew my mind when Ps. Eugene, representing God the Father, told us "I am proud of you." I mean, I couldn't fully believe that God is proud of me. I always thought I could have done more, be more Christlike etc. Why God, you are proud of me for who I am now? Even now, I still feel pretty overwhelmed by the truth. God is proud of me! He is passionate about me!
Sometimes I wonder, how come Christians can be so like any other person, going through day after day, routine, pursuing material things. Myself included. There has to be a distinction isn't it? In terms of life goals, purpose, passsion. What truly marks the difference between a sinner saved by grace and a pre-believer still .. lost. 1 salvation, many heart conversions. With no conversion of hearts, no one will see God.. in us.
Many a times, reading the Bible was a .. chore. I'ts like, you have to read your notes to pass your exams. Ps Eugene addressed that aptly last night. The Bible is not a textbook or instruction manual. It is God's love letters to me! I often felt that I owe God the timeslot to do my devotion with Him.. failing of which due to laziness/ busyness will result in feelings of gulit. God says "I yearn to spend time with you. I yearn to speak with you." It's a love relationship between the Heavenly Father (Son and Holy Spirit) and the earthly human. I need to renew my mind God has a special word for me everyday. I don't want to go through the motion of "doing QT" and miss the very essence of what God wants to do.
This morning, I tried the "Everyday before meal" approach of reading the Word of God before breakfast. It's tough man. Just woke up and so sleepy. And hungry. Ok, I pulled up the curtain and started to ask God to speak to me cos I wanted to hear Him! And I knew that He wanted to speak to me. Ok .. I read John 6 ... not much relevation leh ... I think I still need to get used to this. Feels nice to greet God "Good morning!". Was just reading the Word at abt 8-9pm. Could feel the Spirit stir in my heart. We communicated and all. It was a good time .. but I want MORE! Room for more hunger though.
A simple prayer for this year: God, show me Your Son Jesus. Help me to be like Him.
Monday, January 22, 2007
The link (edited after listening to sermon online)
Today is a homely day of MC-ing. Down with the cold package of headache, flu, cough, phlegm, sore throat. Spent a great deal of time reading the Bible and journaling the verses/thoughts fiercely. At the back of my mind, I'm still thinking about the Tues night before my next day AM flight. I led worship for cell group with the song "At The Cross". Shared with the gals that I had been listening to this song over and again and was very overwhelmed by the lyrics as I could empathise with what is meant by sinners saved by grace. God loves me even though I failed Him time and again.
Also prepared a sharing on a passage from 2 Cor 3:12-18, about the veil being torn and we can enter boldly into God's presence. Actually I thought of this passage cos it coincides with the bridge of the song: You tore the veil... You made the way .. when You said that it is done ..
During the allocated time of listening to God during worship, I sensed that God say that this ladies' group, daughters of God, is very precious to Him. He really loves us. JY also released a word on David's army won the battle as He is a man after God's heart (something like that I think). During Word time, Ah Lian then shared on offering right sacrifices to God (Psalms 4:5). There were more verses and references... but I think my brain shut down by then. But the gist of it is on sacrifice to God. After the whole cell meeting is over, I was thinking, hmm the worship (God's love, veil, victory) and the Word (sacrifice) part didn't really gel? Quite a lot of content over there, as in there wasn't 1 distinct theme....
I guess there is no need for 1 distinct theme. Oops, I guess I have boxed God in that way. Was reading Heb 10 today and just listening to last sunday's online sermon which I missed. Actually the words released during cell group is quite aligned with the sermon. From Heb 10, the veil/curtain (His body) is now torn ... we can enter the Most Holy Place (His Sanctuary) confidently/boldly. Our sins/lawless acts, He remembers no more and have been forgiven. There is no longer need for any sacrifice for sin. The only sacrifice He requires from us is our lives! The Lord desires us to do His will. He desires our hearts (deceitful), minds (logical) and our all (time, resources ... everything else). The underlying truth of this is: Jesus loves us so much - to the point of death, death on the Cross.
Ps Melvyn's sermon is the bestest. Sums up nicely:
1. Sonship - encounter of God's love as sons & daughers of the living God
2. Surrender - enthrone God to every right in our lives
Amen.
Also prepared a sharing on a passage from 2 Cor 3:12-18, about the veil being torn and we can enter boldly into God's presence. Actually I thought of this passage cos it coincides with the bridge of the song: You tore the veil... You made the way .. when You said that it is done ..
During the allocated time of listening to God during worship, I sensed that God say that this ladies' group, daughters of God, is very precious to Him. He really loves us. JY also released a word on David's army won the battle as He is a man after God's heart (something like that I think). During Word time, Ah Lian then shared on offering right sacrifices to God (Psalms 4:5). There were more verses and references... but I think my brain shut down by then. But the gist of it is on sacrifice to God. After the whole cell meeting is over, I was thinking, hmm the worship (God's love, veil, victory) and the Word (sacrifice) part didn't really gel? Quite a lot of content over there, as in there wasn't 1 distinct theme....
I guess there is no need for 1 distinct theme. Oops, I guess I have boxed God in that way. Was reading Heb 10 today and just listening to last sunday's online sermon which I missed. Actually the words released during cell group is quite aligned with the sermon. From Heb 10, the veil/curtain (His body) is now torn ... we can enter the Most Holy Place (His Sanctuary) confidently/boldly. Our sins/lawless acts, He remembers no more and have been forgiven. There is no longer need for any sacrifice for sin. The only sacrifice He requires from us is our lives! The Lord desires us to do His will. He desires our hearts (deceitful), minds (logical) and our all (time, resources ... everything else). The underlying truth of this is: Jesus loves us so much - to the point of death, death on the Cross.
Ps Melvyn's sermon is the bestest. Sums up nicely:
1. Sonship - encounter of God's love as sons & daughers of the living God
2. Surrender - enthrone God to every right in our lives
Amen.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Bangkok shopping, erm I mean conference
APO International Productivity Conference on Knowledge Management
Bangkok, Thailand, 17 - 20 Jan '07
What a start to a new year! Am thankful for this trip. Good exposure to international conference and BKK shopping!
Let me attempt to summarise the interesting sights/insights/experiences ... unplugged version .. in no coherent order:
1. I realised that I forgot my namecards AFTER I've checked in. Called home and tried to get my dad to fetch them for me... he finally found them .. but couldn't get a cab. Plan B: I asked my colleagues to despatch to Bangkok instead. Thank God! The cards arrived at lunchtime the next day (Day 1 of conference). Made a few apologises that my dog gobbled up my namecards .. nah .. and that my cards were on their way .. am glad that DHL saved the day in the end!
2. Was reading the book 'The Confident Woman' by Joyce Meyer on the plane. Thank God for the timely message .. actually I thought I will need this book especially on my inaugural conference trip - lone ranger representing my company some more. Particularly, I'm impressed by this quote: YOU DON'T HAVE TO FEEL CONFIDENT TO BE CONFIDENT! That blew my mind. We need to believe God's Word more than we believe our feelings. During and after the conference, I received comments from the other delegates that they find that I'm very bold, yet so young, intelligent and could expect to do very well in my life/career. Wow .. the funny thing is that I didn't FEEL very confident.
3. Made a few international friends, particularly from Korea and Cambodia. The Korean guy is a Christian too! He's married with ... 1 or 2 children (sorry, short term memory) and runs an online marketing company. Oh by the way, the delegates were mainly CEOs, managing directors or personnel of equivalent rank. Yes, I was saying, I met him and his group of Korean counterparts at breakfast table. Actually I saw the ladies first and asked to join them at their table. He was very friendly.. we spoke on our different languages, cultures, social trends. On the last day, he passed me an exquisite pocket mirror! Thank God for His favour!
4. Hmm I met the Cambodian group at lunch table and subsequently joined them for dinner at the last day at the shopping plaza next door. Not all of them spoke English ... I wondered if they understood all that were shared during the conference. Anyway, one of them is the Head of the Cambodian National Productivity Organisation, likened to Spring Singapore in our local context. He was had a very fatherly and down-to-earth outlook. There was a younger guy in the group who passed me a Roti-Boy and dropped me a 'parting note' before he left for Cambodia in the early morning. Oops, I'm sorry ... if he were a girl I be more comfortable to keep in touch with him.
5. Oh yes, I was talking to a Nepalese group during a cocktail dinner To my surpise the next day, the lady came and gave me her bright orange Nepalese shawl! It was very kind of her .. But I decided to leave it at the hotel room. The Jasmine smell was too strong for me ...
6. The 2-day conference was quite insightful as we discussed (at length) on knowledge management, organisational learning, innovation etc. I asked 2 questions (on paper) that were answered by during Q&A .. but the British guy was pretty soft on the mike and his words sounded very muffled. He also got quite a strong accent that's hard to follow at times. So, it's as good as questions not answered :( Actually I was dying to ask another question to a German speaker. But it was complicated ..I was drafting and re-drafting my question until it's time open the floor for questions (on mike). I really wanted to ask, but was too shy to get up to the mike. I have not decided on the final draft of the question! I could imagine a girlish, quavery voice over the mike, with corrections in words and sentence structures used. So much for a confident woman .. oh well, at the end of the conference, I managed to introduce myself to him, got his card and requested to email my question(s) or could even meet up during his trip to Singapore in 2 weeks time (which he revealed during our conversation). Cool.
7. I had the experience of travelling on Bangkok skytrain on the first day as I decided to venture downtown. The system was like old Singapore MRT system. But the process of getting the single trip ticket was made more complicated by the language barrier. Asked a few people and I managed to get around. Not too difficult after all. I'm impressed with the orderly train boarding protocol of the Thais. They actually followed the signages on the floor and queued up in 2 rows on both sides of each entrance to the train. The train cabins were similar to our MRT. Except there were handrails high up (near the roof) forming a ring at the doorway areas. Particularly handy for the jerky train rides especically when caught during the rush hour.
8. Went shopping at MBK, Siam Centre, Siam Paragon and Chatuchak market. Missed the Platinum Complex and that area for lack of time. Got myself some good deals even in the posh paragon! My first visit to a Mango sale.. hee and it was not crowded at all! Got a black jacket at a steal at SGD 39. Bought the most stuff at Chatuchak market. My bargaining skills still need more polishing man. I'm quite willing to just pay and don't bargain one loh. Haha easy customer. Oh I bought an intricate clock in huge glass bottle with sea shells, underwater world simulated decorations in it. At a steal at 200 baht or SGD 8.7. We bargained for a price 220 baht actually. But I just didn't have small change! Oops, I really didn't mean to 'cheat' her money one loh. haha.
9. Realised that Gucci was a rather popular brand in Bangkok. I see people clutching Gucci wallets, bags everywhere I go. Then I saw that Gucci stuff (obviously intimations) were sold in heaps, shops, pushcarts as though they were Perlini. Luckily I didn't see any Coach bags sold like that. Was carrying a mini Coach hand-clutch given by my mum. A gift from my 2nd uncle to her but she finds it too small. Just as well. I kio-deo-ed. :P
10. Kena conned by cab driver on my way back to hotel from the skytrain station. The driver obviously knowingly drove me to the wrong Sofitel hotel. I gave him the hotel card that comes with a mini map loh. The hotel is so near to the skytrain station and yet it took me about an hour to get back. The driver took me to a faraway Sofitel, to-and-fro the highway and I kena taxed twice of total 80 baht and still must pay them around 200 baht for the meter cab fare. Incredulous! It only costed me 40 baht to get to the train station in the first place. Anyhow, I just paid loh. He even shortchanged me. But I was like, whatever lah, super tired already and got to prepare for next day early morning conference.
Overall, I enjoyed my trip very much! Checked my emails and saw that there is an upcoming project to apply the knowledge I've acquired in the conference. Sounds exciting :)
Ok.. got to go .... =)
Bangkok, Thailand, 17 - 20 Jan '07
What a start to a new year! Am thankful for this trip. Good exposure to international conference and BKK shopping!
Let me attempt to summarise the interesting sights/insights/experiences ... unplugged version .. in no coherent order:
1. I realised that I forgot my namecards AFTER I've checked in. Called home and tried to get my dad to fetch them for me... he finally found them .. but couldn't get a cab. Plan B: I asked my colleagues to despatch to Bangkok instead. Thank God! The cards arrived at lunchtime the next day (Day 1 of conference). Made a few apologises that my dog gobbled up my namecards .. nah .. and that my cards were on their way .. am glad that DHL saved the day in the end!
2. Was reading the book 'The Confident Woman' by Joyce Meyer on the plane. Thank God for the timely message .. actually I thought I will need this book especially on my inaugural conference trip - lone ranger representing my company some more. Particularly, I'm impressed by this quote: YOU DON'T HAVE TO FEEL CONFIDENT TO BE CONFIDENT! That blew my mind. We need to believe God's Word more than we believe our feelings. During and after the conference, I received comments from the other delegates that they find that I'm very bold, yet so young, intelligent and could expect to do very well in my life/career. Wow .. the funny thing is that I didn't FEEL very confident.
3. Made a few international friends, particularly from Korea and Cambodia. The Korean guy is a Christian too! He's married with ... 1 or 2 children (sorry, short term memory) and runs an online marketing company. Oh by the way, the delegates were mainly CEOs, managing directors or personnel of equivalent rank. Yes, I was saying, I met him and his group of Korean counterparts at breakfast table. Actually I saw the ladies first and asked to join them at their table. He was very friendly.. we spoke on our different languages, cultures, social trends. On the last day, he passed me an exquisite pocket mirror! Thank God for His favour!
4. Hmm I met the Cambodian group at lunch table and subsequently joined them for dinner at the last day at the shopping plaza next door. Not all of them spoke English ... I wondered if they understood all that were shared during the conference. Anyway, one of them is the Head of the Cambodian National Productivity Organisation, likened to Spring Singapore in our local context. He was had a very fatherly and down-to-earth outlook. There was a younger guy in the group who passed me a Roti-Boy and dropped me a 'parting note' before he left for Cambodia in the early morning. Oops, I'm sorry ... if he were a girl I be more comfortable to keep in touch with him.
5. Oh yes, I was talking to a Nepalese group during a cocktail dinner To my surpise the next day, the lady came and gave me her bright orange Nepalese shawl! It was very kind of her .. But I decided to leave it at the hotel room. The Jasmine smell was too strong for me ...
6. The 2-day conference was quite insightful as we discussed (at length) on knowledge management, organisational learning, innovation etc. I asked 2 questions (on paper) that were answered by during Q&A .. but the British guy was pretty soft on the mike and his words sounded very muffled. He also got quite a strong accent that's hard to follow at times. So, it's as good as questions not answered :( Actually I was dying to ask another question to a German speaker. But it was complicated ..I was drafting and re-drafting my question until it's time open the floor for questions (on mike). I really wanted to ask, but was too shy to get up to the mike. I have not decided on the final draft of the question! I could imagine a girlish, quavery voice over the mike, with corrections in words and sentence structures used. So much for a confident woman .. oh well, at the end of the conference, I managed to introduce myself to him, got his card and requested to email my question(s) or could even meet up during his trip to Singapore in 2 weeks time (which he revealed during our conversation). Cool.
7. I had the experience of travelling on Bangkok skytrain on the first day as I decided to venture downtown. The system was like old Singapore MRT system. But the process of getting the single trip ticket was made more complicated by the language barrier. Asked a few people and I managed to get around. Not too difficult after all. I'm impressed with the orderly train boarding protocol of the Thais. They actually followed the signages on the floor and queued up in 2 rows on both sides of each entrance to the train. The train cabins were similar to our MRT. Except there were handrails high up (near the roof) forming a ring at the doorway areas. Particularly handy for the jerky train rides especically when caught during the rush hour.
8. Went shopping at MBK, Siam Centre, Siam Paragon and Chatuchak market. Missed the Platinum Complex and that area for lack of time. Got myself some good deals even in the posh paragon! My first visit to a Mango sale.. hee and it was not crowded at all! Got a black jacket at a steal at SGD 39. Bought the most stuff at Chatuchak market. My bargaining skills still need more polishing man. I'm quite willing to just pay and don't bargain one loh. Haha easy customer. Oh I bought an intricate clock in huge glass bottle with sea shells, underwater world simulated decorations in it. At a steal at 200 baht or SGD 8.7. We bargained for a price 220 baht actually. But I just didn't have small change! Oops, I really didn't mean to 'cheat' her money one loh. haha.
9. Realised that Gucci was a rather popular brand in Bangkok. I see people clutching Gucci wallets, bags everywhere I go. Then I saw that Gucci stuff (obviously intimations) were sold in heaps, shops, pushcarts as though they were Perlini. Luckily I didn't see any Coach bags sold like that. Was carrying a mini Coach hand-clutch given by my mum. A gift from my 2nd uncle to her but she finds it too small. Just as well. I kio-deo-ed. :P
10. Kena conned by cab driver on my way back to hotel from the skytrain station. The driver obviously knowingly drove me to the wrong Sofitel hotel. I gave him the hotel card that comes with a mini map loh. The hotel is so near to the skytrain station and yet it took me about an hour to get back. The driver took me to a faraway Sofitel, to-and-fro the highway and I kena taxed twice of total 80 baht and still must pay them around 200 baht for the meter cab fare. Incredulous! It only costed me 40 baht to get to the train station in the first place. Anyhow, I just paid loh. He even shortchanged me. But I was like, whatever lah, super tired already and got to prepare for next day early morning conference.
Overall, I enjoyed my trip very much! Checked my emails and saw that there is an upcoming project to apply the knowledge I've acquired in the conference. Sounds exciting :)
Ok.. got to go .... =)
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