The Day of the Tonner.

I spent the enitre day today as a Vehicular Commander. To all you peeps who do not have any idea on army matters, a Vehicular Commander (or V-Com) is someone who sits with the driver in the front compartment of the 5 - Tonner, and is responsible for the safety and correct handling of the vehicle by the driver.

I volunteered to be one after countless pleads from my friends. And there i went, spending about the entire day traveling from Nee Soon Camp to Pasir Lebar Camp, and back, twice. Had a good chat with Chuanyi, nearly falling asleep due to nice cool breeze of the aircon. =)

Then in the afternoon, i tagged along with Ezekiel's tonner. (Yay! I love traveling with Eze! There's free food!) And the whole idea for a V-Com to keep his driver awake is to constantly hold noisy conversations with him. It's good training for those who don’t usually talk, coz you'll try to find something to talk about, no matter how introverted you may be. So we talked about the usual stuff - God, church, friends, our love life (or the apparent lack of it), and all the other nonsense that we can think of....

And then it started to drizzle! Yay! I looked silly smiling to my self, as my driver can testify.

But that's not the point.

People say that being a V-Com is boring job; there's nothing you can do but just talking and staring into space. I beg to differ. I enjoyed the view, as we zoomed past the heartlands and into the city. Even as we talked up a storm and laughed about almost everything under the sun, there was this moment when I was simply quiet. It's not that I've ran out of topics, but rather, thought begun to flow into my mind.

Strange eh? It only happens when I'm still and quiet, then thoughts that somehow seem to be embedded deep down in me would often surface. Perhaps that's the reason why sometimes I should really just... stop doing so many things! And just keep quiet....

Anyway that's when Eze wanted to play this game (well, it's not exactly a game...). He'll read out names of certain individuals of our platoon, and I must tell him what the first word that comes to my mind is. It was simply hilarious. Dahua generated the words "Little boy", and Jacky became "Reservist".

That was the moment when I really slowed down and kept real quiet. What would people think when they hear the name "Dominic"?

Nice guy? Irritant? Tyrant? Efficient? Soldier?

A Christian?

Have I really lived a life that shows Christ? I know I've been very weak in the evangelism part, and that's really where I'm asking God to show me the real conditions of the hearts of my friends, beyond the smiling faces I know hides a heart that is broken and without hope. I don't want to be remembered for all my antics; I don't want to be remember as "Wah Dom ah, that war freak/history freak?". No way.

I want to be remembered as someone who walked humbly before His God, who dedicated his entire life to the service of Jesus. Actually, it would be nice that when I fade into eternity, marked on my tomb stone will just be the words,

Dominic Ng
1984 - ????
A Christian

I don't really care if people would remember me for what I can do, or what I have done. Many men down the centuries have sought to carve out their names into immortality on the parchment of time. But I'll always remember the words that Jason Upton said,

"Those who build kingdoms and establish thrones; heaven does not know their names..."

So on a rainy tonner-ride back to camp, I sat there staring at the passing view of HDBs and factories, and I said a little prayer for myself.

I want to be part of a Nameless, faceless, generation, like my forebears who gave their lives for Christ's Kingdom.

I'm sure they're feasting and singing in somewhere heavenly...

... and I'm looking forward to joining them. =)

Precious Moments.

On Thursday I had to settle some stuff arrowed to me by my superiors in camp. And being the ex-logistic spec, I gladly offered my expertise and services to them, since the guys who took over were shorthanded and busy. My task was to organize a group of guys to head down to various locations to collect some important supplies. And so in our typical MRF efficiency, I organized the groups, appointed the ICs, arranged for the relevant tonners blar blar blar. Thank God everything went smoothly with no major hiccup.

And I met a couple of old friends from the place (Louis happened to be based there) where I collected my supplies, and we reminisce about the good old days of Combat Medic Course P022.

And as we got ready to leave that place, the clouds started to collect, and I’m sure I could smell the rain in the air. So in double quick time, we packed everything, and left the camp in the hope to escape the rain.

I hopped on to the back of the tonner with Jacky (my IPE spec), wanting to get a breath of fresh air instead of the aircon in the driver’s compartment. As we were traveling on the black gravel roads of the SLE Expressway, the evening sky of Bukit Panjang turned a hazy black, shimmering with the warm glow of the descending sun. It was a beautiful sight to behold. And as I sat there, simply gazing at the clouds and allowing the strong wind to blow it’s aroma of the evening scent onto my face, small trickles of rain fell upon my face.

It began to rain.

Delightfully, I allowed the rain upon my face to flow down without swiping it away, enjoying very moment of it. To those who think I’m crazy, here’s the truth – I simply love rain. And as I sat there, gazing out into the evening sky, with the sun slowly diminishing in it’s fiery glory, and with the rain falling from what seemed like heaven, only one word can describe the feeling.

Breathtaking.

I sighed, and wondered how many times in my life have I ever experienced such a surreal moment. I sat back, simply surrendering to the image which beholds me, and just marveling at God’s wonderful creation, and how He had blended all the elements into such a beautiful tapestry of colours among the clouds.

Sometimes I have this selfish thought. It seems as though God had arranged all these to put a smile on my face. Especially in this trying times, as I face the harsh reality of being an adult, with all the responsibilities that are staring back at me like a dead carcass of some sort, it’s cold eyes piercing my soul, as though it knew my greatest unspoken fears. Its claws reaching for my sanity, trying to tear me apart slowly.

The image that was before me was an encouragement.

For all that is holding me back from the edge is God.

Such trying times, I guess, is God’s way of telling me, “Hey, You gotta stop, think about life, think about what really matters.” I’m saying this because for the past few days these were my thoughts. As I lay there on my bed these were constantly on my mind. What really mattered in my life? What’s my purpose and which direction am I exactly heading to in life? Such questions sometimes cannot be answered so easily.

Then questions about ministry popped into my head. Am I doing enough in my cell? Am I doing enough in the ministry? Have I impacted anyone’s life or influenced someone for Christ’s sake? Have I spent enough time in plowing the ground and planting the seeds in others? I’m always afraid that on the Day of Judgment, as I stand before the King, in my hands are only little pieces of what I have done for Him.

And the time has come for me to make a decision that I have not made in recent years. A choice has been issued out to me, to serve in a new area, a new cell. To face my past fears and failures, to stare right into the eyes of my weakness and inabilities, and at the end to decide whether if, just maybe, God indeed is the God of many chances. I know He is. =) And He’s into the business of picking up those who have fallen by the wayside up, and restoring them. It’s a very, very hard decision to make, since accepting the call to a new cell would mean leaving MAD.

And I love MAD.

If there’s one thing that I cannot stop thanking God for, it’s my brothers in MAD. As I sat facing my desk, penning my thoughts down into my journal, I couldn’t help but remember and laugh at the many fun times we shared in MAD. As I sat there in the dim shroud of my table lamp, I couldn’t help but shed a drop of tear to think that if I were to move on, I will have to leave all these behind. MAD has been my greatest blessing. Some find their delight in money, some in their successes or what they have achieved in life, I’ll just smile back, because I’ve been given the greatest blessing of them all, even surpassing all the material wealth or fame – I’ve been given brothers, trustworthy and upright, not the sort that would stain the back of your shirts red with politics and all that nonsense. Brothers whom I say I’m proud to serve side by side with, fantastic cell leaders in Shaun and Jachin, and like-minded soldiers who are willing to sacrifice many a Saturday afternoons to gather in all humbleness of heart to seek the face of a mighty God to move in MAD and in the ministry…

Sigh.

But still…

I have to move on. For it’s not my choice that dictates, but the Will of God. For I heard Him tenderly assuring me in the stillness of the night that He’s given me a talent, and instead of burying it, I must allow the talent to grow, to risk it all for the sake that I may live in the centre of His loving Will. That all the fears I have deep down will melt in the truth that You, O LORD, You enable the willing. Give strength to those who are weak, assurance to those who fear.

I want to hold His hand once again, to gaze at His rain of glory upon my life. Hold on to Him, and watch the lightning flash past before my very eyes, with each blast of thunder echoing His dominion over this little earth, whispering His love over all humanity.

It’s His love.

This will be my banner, as I scale new heights again.

“No fear shall sully thee, ye hearts brave and true.”

War in the Middle East - Part Two.

As the events unfold in the Middle East, I would like to spend some time to explain Jason’s questions. (Ha I’m really glad that someone asked me a question!)

“How true is it that the "entire aim" of Israel is to create a 'buffer zone' so tat missiles can't hit them?”

I would not say that the main aim of Israel’s incursion into the Lebanon is to create. “Entire” would be a wrong choice of word to use, so I apologize for the earlier post. Here’s a brief summary of what I do know regarding Israel’s aims in Lebanon.

1. The immediate release of the two captured IDF soldiers by Hezbollah, Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev.
2. The immediate disarmament of Hezbollah
3. An end to the rocket attacks from South Lebanon into Northern Israel.

Israeli artillery striking at Hezbollah positions

The strategic aim of Israel in sending their troops into Southern Lebanon is to create a “Buffer Zone” of at least a few km to stop Hezbollah from using these area as a launch pad for it’s Katyusha and Fajr 3 missiles. For the past 4 days, the Israel Defense Force has been fighting a bitter battle against Hezbollah positions in the South. At least 8 Israeli soldiers died in the fighting (most of these were NSF, young men like you and me).

But a tragedy that shook the world happened. On the 25^th of July, Israeli artillery and air strike hit a United Nation outpost, killing 4 UN soldiers. This mistake gave Hezbollah and the rest of the anti-Israeli nations fresh ammo to hit out at Israel.

Regarding the disarmament of Hezbollah, it’s almost near to impossible. Created in 1982 after the invasion of Lebanon by Israel (which ironically was to root out the Palestinian Liberation Organization or PLO from Southern Lebanon), they’re facing the same prospect of facing one the mightiest military organization in the world as did the PLO back in 1982.

Flag of Hezbollah "Party of God"

But it’s not that easy to root out Hezbollah. Why?

1. They’ve got the support of the people. To keen students of war and political upheavals, winning the psychological war is far more important than winning the physical war. To be able to gain the support of the populace, you would have one of the greatest advantages in your hands. And in this political game, the anti-Israeli voices are much numerous than the pro-Israeli voices (though I must say that these minority voices are strong voices, especially in the American Senate). Hezbollah is widely supported becuase they can dish out what they'd promised - better living conditions, basic social welfare to the common people, clinics, schools, charities, all under the banner of Hezbollah. How can Israel ever fight against such overwhelming support? Win the hearts of the people, you win half the war.

2. Hezbollah is a terrorist organization, a guerilla group that has no allegiance to any state. In 1967, Israel crushed the combine might of Egypt, Syria, and Jordan in a spectacular military offensive in just 6 days. Back then Israel could win because there was someone for Israeli Merkava tanks to shoot at. Now in 2006, they are fighting an “army” that shoots and runs, that hides itself among the populace. In such a war, you cannot win by superior firepower. And in this case, civilian casualties would be very high, since sometimes you can’t really tell the difference between a civilian, or a Hezbollah fighter.

Hezbollah Recruits give the Nazi Salute at their graduation

3. You have to kill the ideology, not the people. What makes Hezbollah and other Islamic terrorist organization unique is in it’s ideology – the complete destruction of Israel and the creation of an Islamic Palestine. And these groups are willing to sacrifice their lives for this idea. Suicide bombings, terrorist incursions, hijackings etc. And when you kill one terrorist, they would be another 10 who are willing to take his place. How can you remove such a group of people who are willing to die in the first place unless you put an end to the ideology that inspires them to? I see the situation as impossible. Hezbollah is definitely here to stay.

“did Iran REALLY supplied their missiles? or did Hezbollah bought them or stole them? is this a fact or your opinion?”

To answer that question, you got to know the roots of the origins of Hezbollah. Formed in 1982 to combat the Israeli occupation in Southern Lebanon, Hezbollah achieved it’s aim in 2000 when Israel announced the complete withdrawal of all her forces from Southern Lebanon.

Below are some points not only on why many believe that Iran has supplied missiles to Hezbollah for use against Israel, but also why Iran is involved in this conflict.

1. Both follow a strict Shiite interpretation of Islam. In fact, Hezbollah was formed by followers of the late Ayatollah Khomeini. It may sound like it’s not a big thing, but in the Muslim world, especially in the Middle East, Islamic denominations are very important. Much blood has been spilled over this. The base has been set for a mutual understanding and a possible alliance in the volatile situation in the Middle East. Hezbollah wants Israel to be destroyed; Iran wants Israel to be destroyed. What perfect companions there make!

2. Hezbollah operatives are trained in Iran by the Revolutionary Guards, especially in the knowledge of sabotage, insurgency and espionage. This is a well established fact.

3. There were cases when Israel intercepted boatloads of weapons sent from Iran to Hamas, and even Hezbollah. The last major interception in 2003 saw the confiscation of not only arms and munitions, but manuals on rocketry and even a Hezbollah bomb – maker. This clearly shows the intricate working relationship between the terrorist groups in the Middle East, and proof on the establishment of arm smuggling routes.

4. For years, Hezbollah has been firing missiles and mortars into Northern Israel, especially in the region of Galilee. But ever since the conflict started, Israel has endured never-seen before missile attacks that have reached even the city of Haifa. According to Intel, Hezbollah has about 13000 Iranian made Fadj – 3 medium range missiles, and unknown numbers of C-802 missiles. One of such missiles hit and damaged a Israeli missile frigate off the coast of Beirut, killing four sailors. It was radar guided, and homed in onto the ship. Such technology is impossible for Hezbollah to have; clearly it is supplied by Iran. Iran also supplies missiles to Hezbollah via the Beirut – Damascus road.

A Hezbollah Missile hits Haifa.

5. This is classical case of a PROXY war. It happened back then between the superpowers back in the Cold War, with America and the Soviet Union engaging in “war” using Israel and the Arab nations. Now, with the collapse of the Soviet Union, the world is faced with a new threat – the Theocratic nation of Iran. And everyone knows that Iran is a nation hell-bent on destroying Israel, with the latest rhetoric of its President Ahmadinejad to “wipe Israel off the map of the world” proving it. But Iran knows she can’t face a nuclear-capable Israel head on, (that’s the reason many believed why Iran is so keen on exploring nuclear technology – to neutralize the threat of Israeli nuclear warheads.) so Iran engages in what we call a PROXY WAR, using other entities to engage in active combat instead of your own forces. Hezbollah is perfect for Iran to use as a PROXY force. Their ideology is similar, their hatred shared, in fact, Hezbollah has great respect for the Ayotollahs, Iran’s supreme religious leaders. So in summary, Iran hits Israel with Hezbollah, and Hezbollah bears the brunt of the punishment from Israel, and Iran watches from afar and is safe. An attack on Iran from Israel would trigger a massive showdown between the many anti-Israeli states, and bring Israel’s popular and international support down. It would be a blood bath.

So in view of Jason’s questions, I can say that; No, Israel wants to do more instead of only establishing a buffer zone. And yes, it is a proven fact that Iran supplies missiles to Hezbollah to be used against Israel.

Perhaps the next time you see me, we can talk about it.

Or maybe you would see me on CNN being interviewed about the situation in the Middle East. Haha.

Sources:

CNN

BBC Online

Newsweek

Time Online

And various historical books that I've got rotting away on my cupboard.

War in the Middle East - How should we Christians respond to it?

I came across a list of prayer pointers passed to me by a friend today, and on this list was the point 'Pray for the Conflict in the Middle East'.

But do we really know what is going on there?

The current situation in the Middle East is one of great perils. This post was created to inform Christians what is going on.

Here’s a brief summary to you guys and gals who have absolutely no idea what is going on in the Middle East now.

On the morning of 25 June 2006, Palestinian militants crossed the border from the Gaza Strip into Israel via tunnels. They attacked an Israeli outpost, killing 2 IDF (Israel Defense Force) soldiers and wounding another 4. In the process they captured an Israeli Corporal, Gilad Shalit, and they are currently holding him as a hostage to negotiate with Israel.

(Click to Enlarge)

So what exactly as these militants demanding?

All female Palestinian prisoners and all Palestinian prisoners under the age of 18 are to be released from Israeli prisons. Later on they increase their demands to include the release of 1000 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. Many of these prisoners are considered by Israel as guilty, with "blood on their hands". And of course, Israel rejected their demands.

No negotiation.

Israel’s response was brutal (but necessary I feel). IDF Armour and infantry divisions massed at the border. Israel threatened military action unless they immediately release of Shalit.

Of course the Palestinian militant refused. And on the 27^th of June, Israel invaded the Gaza Strip, aiming to free their captured soldier.

The situation was made worse when Hezbollah (“Party of God” in Arab), a terrorist organization situated in South Lebanon, attacked a patrol in Northern Israel, killing 8 soldiers and capturing 2 in the process on the 12^th of July.

Israel responded by bombing suspected Hezbollah targets in Tyre and Beirut. Israeli fighters streaked across Lebanese skies, delivering it’s deadly load on suspected Hezbollah HQs, weapon stashes, barracks, and other positions close to the border. But in the process, countless civilians have lost their lives.

The entire aim of what Israel is trying to do now is to create a “buffer zone” in Southern Lebanon so that Hezbollah missiles cannot hit targets anymore in Israel.

But to the dismay of the Israelis, Hezbollah now has the missile technology to target cities deep in Israel. 35 civilians have died in the port city of Haifa in Israel from Hezbollah missiles. And the interesting thing is that these missiles are way too advanced for such a terrorist organization to achieve. At least 350 Lebanese civilians have lost their lives in this tragedy.

This is where Iran and Syria comes into play.

(Click to Enlarge)

This is a proxy war for Iran and Syria. They supply the training, the equipment (which in this case is the Iranian missiles) and other essentials to Hezbollah to fight it’s war against Israel. Now Israel knows the involvement of Iran and Syria, but Israel can’t do anything about it. Hezbollah is expandable, and who else better but them to fight a war that Iran wants to avoid openly?

It really breaks my heart to see footage of crying Israeli mothers, begging for the war to stop so that their sons can come home. Mothers weeping over their dead sons and daughters. Fathers searching the rubble for their families. Funerals after funerals, because of so much hate. A particular haunting image was that of a dead child with her teddy bear beside her, her corpse littered on the streets of Beirut...

So here’s the crucial point for us Christians.

We, Bible-believing Christians must:

1. Know that the every word of the Bible is God-inspired, including His promises to bring Israel back and establish them as a nation. Israel is God’s chosen people, His Beloved, and no matter what happens He will watch over them as He has promised. (Psalm 121:4, Ezekiel 34:13)

2. Pray for those in authority. I’ve just watched a footage of an Israeli air raid siren sounding, and I can sense the fear that has enshrouded both Lebanon and Israel. Pray for wisdom for all the leaders involved, that a solution might be established before more civilians are killed.

3. Pray that God’s sovereign will would reign in the Middle East and destroy the work of the enemy. There are many organizations in the Middle East who are hell – bent on destroying Israel, and many of these are claiming to fight “for God”. Pray that any force that opposes the true living God would not prosper.

4. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. (Psalm 122:6) Pray against the forces that seeks to disrupt the peace of the city. Pray that the prime Minister of Israel Ehud Olmert would seek the God of Israel for wisodm to lead this country.
   

So my fellow brothers and sisters, let us not be ignorant in what is happening around us in the world. Some may say "What's the point? All these are so boring.", then sadly you will miss out alot on what Biblical prophecy is working out page by page. Know what is happening! And pray with understanding, not blindly or ignorantly.

May God have mercy over His people - Israel His beloved.

The Minstrel Boy.

The minstrel boy to the war is gone,
In the ranks of death you'll find him;
His father's sword he hath girded on,
And his wild harp slung behind him;

"Land of Song!" cried the warrior bard,
"Tho' all the world betrays thee,
One sword, at least, thy rights shall guard,
One faithful harp shall praise Thee!"

The Minstrel fell! But the foeman's steel
Could not bring that proud soul under;
The harp he lov'd ne'er spoke again,
For he tore its chords asunder;

And said "No chains shall sully thee,
Thou soul of love and brav'ry!
Thy songs were made for the pure and free
They shall never sound in slavery!

Adultery.

Okie, the title is alittle jialart.

But that’s the whole point, to catch your attention to the seriousness of this post.

I’ve been reflecting and thinking about obedience and how so often we are so easily entangled by sin in our lives.

In the quietness of my heart, God spoke to me.

He likened disobedience to Him like adultery, for in the Bible it is written that God is like a husband to His people. And one day God is coming for His bride, which is the Church. Note the capital for CHURCH; I’m talking about the United Church of Jesus Christ, which goes beyond all denominations. As long as you are a disciple of Christ, I’ll be seeing you at the Great Wedding Banquet. Anyway, as I was saying, God is often referred to as Husband, as it is written in Jeremiah.

The time is coming," declares the LORD, "when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah. It will not be like the covenant I made with their forefathers when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them," declares the LORD. – Jeremiah 31:31-32

As God spoke to me, I realized how much He’s hurt by our disobedient actions. Suddenly this thought came to my mind – How would I feel if my wife ran off with another man? How would I feel if my wife was adulterous?

It wouldn’t be a pretty sight.

And then the voice of the Spirit spoke again. “This is how I feel every time you turn away from me and choose sin.”

I was reminded of the story in the Book of Hosea, when He commanded the Prophet Hosea to marry an adulterous woman named Gomer. And though Gomer returned to her old ways, God demonstrated His love for her through Hosea.

Here’s the account:

The LORD said to me, "Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another and is an adulteress. Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes." – Hosea 3:1

I’m simply amaze at how God gives His children second chances. Even though we may walk away from God, choosing to follow the evil ways of our hearts, He demonstrates His enduring love to us again and again. Yet we must not take His grace for granted. I wouldn’t want to test God in this by constantly walking away. He loves me; and I want to love Him back with all that I’ve got.

“But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear him, on those whose hope is in his unfailing love.” – Psalm 33:18

Shabbat Shalom!

Well, it’s not exactly a Friday night, but here am I to talk about one of the most easily forgotten commandment in the Bible.

Found in the Book of Exodus, we read the account which is sacred to all Jews, and yes, even to us Christians – the Ten Commandments. The Shavout (popularly known as Pentecost), also known as Simchat Torah (The Giving of the Law). Despite the joyous event, we also tend to forget that the giving of the Law was marred by Israel’s rebellion by building unto themselves a golden calf. Significantly, to us Christians it’s interesting to know that the 120 disciples who waited in the Upper Room received the Fire of God on the Day of Pentecost. I’m always amazed at how God would often leave His mark in the blueprint of time for the greater things to come.

Anyway, according to Exodus 20:8…

“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.”

What exactly is the Sabbath? Many people have been asking me, and so here am I to explain one of the most neglected, yet the most important commandment given to Moses.

You see, God created the world in 6 days. And on the 7^th day he rested. “God needs to rest?!” Well, the rest mentioned here doesn’t really mean a rest due to exhaustion. Come on, God is all-powerful; He created the world simply by speaking into it. “Let there be!” And so why did the Bible mention that God rested? Read again.

“…For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.”

On the 7^th day, God took time off to enjoy all that He had created. The sky, the sea, the flowers, the breeze, and most importantly – man. It sort of reminded me how Shaun would often gaze upon his aircraft models after he had finished them, and sigh. Ha. It’s the same thing when God created Adam and Eve; He took time to enjoy what He had created.

And unknowingly to many, Sunday is not the last day of the week; Saturday is. So according to the Jewish timetable, the real Sabbath starts on Friday evening at 5pm. (That’s the reason why I usually greet people ‘Shabbat Shalom’ on a Friday night prayer meet in church =P).

The Sabbath starts on Friday 5pm, and ends on Saturday 5pm. And this is where I differ from the traditional Jewish view of the Sabbath. The Jews over the years have created a vast system of do and do-nots, men made rules and regulation that puts a stranglehold on the original idea of the Sabbath. Yes, the Sabbath was meant to be kept with fervent zeal, like how the nation of Israel stoned the man who picked firewood on a Sabbath. Below is the account.

“While the Israelites were in the desert, a man was found gathering wood on the Sabbath day. Those who found him gathering wood brought him to Moses and Aaron and the whole assembly, and they kept him in custody, because it was not clear what should be done to him. Then the LORD said to Moses, ‘The man must die.’ The whole assembly must stone him outside the camp." Numbers 15:32-35.

This only proves the fact that God’s law must be observed! Many people would say that this act was very cruel, this man perhaps only wanted to keep warm on the Sabbath.

But God’s law is God’s law!

That’s the severity of breaking God’s law! This was the same case with Uzzah who was struck dead when he tried to prevent the Ark of God from falling off the cart.

Good intentions are not good enough; God must be feared!

But the Jews have created such a web of rules, it makes keeping the Sabbath such a tiring affair. That was what happened in the days of Jesus.

“Another time he went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there. Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath. Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, "Stand up in front of everyone." Then Jesus asked them, "Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?" But they remained silent. He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored. Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.” Mark 3:1-5

Jesus understood what the Sabbath was truly for, and that’s how we Christians should view too.

The Sabbath is a time for rest, for quiet reflection, a time to pray and be still before God. A time where we enjoy sweet fellowship with God and with our family members. A time where we escape from the noise of life, and make our way to a quiet place where our souls are restored in the presence of our Lord Jesus – the Lord of the Sabbath. This is the only time where you can lay back, relax, and people can’t say that you’re lazy! Haha.

To me, the Sabbath is really unique. I usually spend the Sabbath night (Friday) to pray and prepare myself for Saturday service, especially if I’m serving. It can be quite a challenging thing to do; it really does require a lot of discipline to drop everything, and to seek God. And when I get married, the Sabbath will definitely play a very important role in my family life. I got this concept of what I term as “Shabbat Night”, a time when I’ll spend time with my wife just talking about life. No TV, no distraction. Just the both of us sharing life and what God is doing in our life, and praying for one another and the family. (The Family… that sounds so Godfather…) I guess that’s really lacking in many marriages yeah? They don’t talk much nowadays. And we wonder why marriages are breaking up nowadays. Heh.

So for you peeps who don’t know what the Sabbath is, here’s my brief explanation of it. Keep Friday free, spend time in quiet reflection and prayer. Spend sometime with your family, your spouse, and your kids. Dedicate a day to God and His purpose, and I’m sure you’ll be greatly blessed!

PS: Anyway, the Christians changed the Sabbath to a Sunday – The Lord’s Day, to make that distinction from the factions in the church who advocated a return to observing the law. So don’t stop going to church on a Sunday!

Not Again?!

I went for my major blood test today at the CDC (Communicable Disease Centre). Apparently despite the externally harmless look, my platelet and WBC has dropped significantly again, meaning any small wound would quickly turn to a hemorrhagic monster.

What?! Not again?!

But I look and feel alright! Is this some cruel joke or conspiracy by the Gar'ment to cheat me of my money? (Anyway since I'm in NS, the Gar'ment pays for everything, which would normally cost me around 200 - 300 bucks! Working for the Gar'ment ain't that bad after all. =P)

And so now after receiving the latest news on my blood count, I gotta return to the CDC tomorrow for another series of blood test. (Not again?!)

5 Blood tests.

Perhaps they've found a biological weapon in my blood, and they hope to germinate it for use in NBC warfare. =) (Okie I’m getting pretty lame here.)

Well, the loss of blood has not stopped me from enjoying a fulfilling life these few days. It's hard earned 5 days worth of MC, and staying home makes me feel worse. So I've been taking short walks around, going for swims in order to keep myself active and to fight away the lethargic feeling.

And I've been taking care of my nephew's education for the past few days.

I never realize that teaching can be so fun after all. My little nephew is in kindergarten, and he's been trying out some assessment books. Perhaps it's a curse, but i realized that the males of my bloodline are quite bright; they're just lazy to use their heads. With every difficult question encountered, he'll come running to me, expecting me to give him the correct answer.

Think twice, heh.

I always believed that teaching can only be done with active participation. Instead of staring and answering tonnes of questions that I guess my nephew don't even understand, i would prefer and more enjoyable and interactive learning environment. Truly, as the teaching advertisement goes - the world is my classroom. It was time well spent, as i taught him the nature of the English tongue (despite my inability to completely grasp many concepts), the foundations of forming sentences, and most important to answer questions objectively... Here's an example:

Forming Correct Sentences
Dom: So can you describe my table?

Nephew: Table is five.

Dom: ??? Okie, you got to describe my table, like what's on it, what colour is it...

Nephew: Table is wood.

Dom: Almost there, but you got to use the correct sentencing, like "Your table is....?" My table is what?

Nephew: Your table is five.

Dom: *Puzzled look* Why is my table five? Five what?

Nephew: Your table is five wood.

Dom: Okie let's try another one.... What's on my table?

(He stares for a very very long time at my table, and says "Messy" I couldn't help but give a grin. =p)

Dom: Okie good, my table is messy, so how do you complete the sentence?

Nephew: Your table is messy.

Dom: Gotcha!

(Dom sheds a drop of tear, finally after an hour of learning and criticizing his table, Dom's nephew finally got it. Advance Britannia!)

Well, to be honest, it’s really fun to watch him figure out things, and I weep for him – the Singapore Education System has made him a non-risk taker at such a young age. While answering the simplest question, he always checks with me. And I’ll just tell him the same thing over and over again…

“Just write! There’s no right or wrong answer!”

There was an assignment where he had to imagine he had a dog, and he had to give his imaginative dog a name, and he asked me “How to do huh? What is the correct name?”

“It’s your own imaginative dog; you can give it any name you want.”

“Spot? How bout Spot?”

“Yes, Spot’s a good name.”

“Really? Spot really can ah?”

“Yes! Yes! It’s your dog!”

Sigh, the Singapore education system has robbed him of the power to imagine.

And I now seek to restore that beautiful thing that should accompany him in his childhood years.

Dengue

Decreasing blood platelets. Drop in White Blood Cell count. Rashes.

All this proves that I've caught Dengue.

And I'll be snoozing the next 5 days away at home.

Ain't so bad afterall..............................

Israel. War of Independence. Six Day War. War of Atonement. Operation Peace For Galilee.

What's wrong with me? What's with me and history?

Guess I've been watching too much documentaries while on mc.

41 Degrees.

I'm having a fever now. 41 degrees and 3 days of MC.

Can't really type anything substantial here due to my overheated brain. I'm pretty sure millions of my brain cells are murdered.

I can't sleep; I've got no mood to eat - all I can do now is to watch all the documentaries that I have on my computer. Nothing beats watching historical documentaries on a hot Wednesday afternoon with the aircon on. =)

The doctor gave me powerful drugs, the kind of stuff that can knock you down immediately upon consumption. But interestingly I'm still awake, though i feel very very weak now.

Prayed last night for my fever, thank God i survived the night. I really couldn't sleep at all, the heat was killing me, my heart-rate increased to an insane level and I felt totally weak. Seriously, I had the feeling that I was going to die; He preserved me.

And thank God for a mother's love and care.

Now, I must seek to rest. I need the strength back.

Fire Conference 290606 - 010706

Even Greater - Fire Conference Singapore 2006. It's my privilege to be able to attend the Fire Conference, under the leadership of the great evangelist Reinhard Bonnke (who happens to be German.) I don't usually like to term someone a great man/woman of God, i would prefer to use the term an obedient servant of God who answered the Master's call. =) Nevertheless he's a man used powerfully by the Lord.

I like Reinhard Bonnke alot, since the time when i saw his video clip. What strikes me the most were his simple messages that he preaches, its soooo simple, yet it's impactful. And he's zeal and passion for soul winning sucks you in literally, you feel like standing up, beat your fist in the air, shouting "Amen! Hallelujah!" too.

His message was on how a mighty God uses weak people in the Bible (I bought a copy of it) during the Plenary Session 1. And there was this Worship Evangelism teaching session held in the afternoon on the 29th of June, taught by Paul Baloche and his team. Learnt quite a few interesting things about the technical aspect of leading worship, and not to forget the spiritual parts!

The Miracle Service itself held on the first night was a miracle service indeed for me personally. God dug out some old fears that had been so embedded in my heart; i thought it was just a part of me all the time! The sermon was on the parable of the lost talent, and Rev. Reinhard mentioned that sometimes we bury our talents due to fear of failure etc, and that we would rather keep it buried than risk it.

"Risk that talent for God!" He screams into the mike, "Even if you lose it, the Master can give you another talent! At least you tried!"

At that moment my heart tore. It's true, past failures had piled up in my heart over the years in ministry, and the frustration and disappointment had haunted me for a long time. That night i lifted up my hands, and I cried out that God would use me once again. I'll never be ready in my credentials, but I'm willing, and God doesn't care about the ability, He cares only for the availability!

Hallelujah!

The next and final morning session held on the 1st of July was the empowering and anointing service. Once again Rev Reinhard mentioned words that I’ve never thought about. We sometimes cry out for a new anointing of the Spirit, but we fail to realize that God has already anointed us before! We could look back and re-energize that anointing! Take it off the shelf and go out and use it. We can only see the power given to us displayed when we start moving out and do the works that the power was originally given to accomplish. Whao, I was really challenged.

And i pray that as i received the fire, I’ll go out and do something about it.

Plunder Hell, populate Heaven!