Joum Reap Su'er! Sok Sobai Dtey? (Hello! How's everybody? - Khmer)
I'm back from Cambodia! Once again! This ends my 5th trip to Cambodia! And I must say this is the most adventurous (according to my experience) trip that I had. Had earlier flew in into Ho Chi Minh with Daniel on 6 Dec. This is my first time flying out of Singapore for a holiday trip on my own with a friend (those trips to Malaysia, no count). And really blessed! Known Daniel for so many years, we never got to go travelling together. Even for Mission trips, we've nvr been on the same trip. The year when we were supposed to go on the same trip, he had to 'cripple' himself. Haha! And indeed it's such a joy and blessing to travel with him.
When we were in HCM, we met up with Claudia. Really thank God for Claudia because she really took the effort to arrange for our accomodation and our MUST have FOOD! By God's love and grace, one of Claudia's colleague was back hometown and we got to stay at the colleague's apartment. Woo hoo! Daniel and I kinda roam the streets and tried some local delights (hmmm... delights??) And Claudia during her free time would bring us to places with wonder food. Haha! So for those who are concern and been praying for her, trust me, she is doing so well over here, but please do not stop praying for her! : )
As for me, I found this food that I cannot resist in HCM. The roadside "Subway". Woo hoo! It's basically, baguette with fillings. They had some meat fillings or egg. I personally love the egg. I think during my stay there, I ate about 4 1/2. And it's cheap! About 50 cents for a 5 feet. My goodness! : ) Well! I will update more on the trip with photos on a later postings.
So after my 3 days stay in HCM, my real adventure was about to start. My lone journey to Cambodia. I've nvr done such things before. I've always wanted to but I nvr got the chance and my parents will surely be nagging at me. Haha! I'm 26 and I'm a guy! Let me live wild! Hehehe! Even as I sat on the coach, I was filled with mixed feelings. The excitement, the joy, the enthusiasim of the journey and going to Cambodia were clouded with the anxiety of worries (most of them are silly). What if I took the wrong coach? What if this coach is a 'black' coach? What if the coach was a tool of the terrorists or rebels? (bus-bomb) What if this what if that? Ai yoh! I must be too 'koo koo' in my mind alreadi lah! Haha!
Well the 6 hours ride was pretty smooth sailing! Before I knew it, I was in Cambodia! The next thing was to get to church compound. So I got a BMW Motordob and tried my best means to show him where I want to go. Without fail, they never know the Street Number. And my best recognition of the Church was the Goldengate Hotel and it was something that they knew. So after another 5min of ride, I was in CCOP! Sorsal Preyong M'cha! (Praise the Lord! - Khmer)
So proud of myself! I, by myself, make it to Phnom Pehn, alive. Hehehe!
And during my 16 days stay in PP, it was such a blessings. I was so well taken care of. Everybody was treating me so nice, like I am part of their family. I felt as if I was really a Khmer! Yes! OK FINE! A KHMER WHO CAN'T SPEAK KHMER! I'm learning ok! I had been to Cambodia so many times but I nvr got a chance to get to know the CCOP staff. I can't even remember some of their names. Now I do! And really have to thank Kareng Bulu for her good care of me this little brother. And also these trips, I get to know a few more new friends from S'pore! Got to know the COGs Team! Interesting bunch of pple! Especially the Team Leader! Uncle Pak Chi (hope i spell it correctly) Serious and stern looking but can be very easy going and funneh! His 'China thermometer'! Joke of the the week! Will take more on next postings. Then also got a chance to know Shuling and Shirley, 2 young fine ladies who have great love and passion for the Khmers! Then I also get to meet the SJSM Team! Had the chance to work with them a fair bit. High powered pple but yet with humility to serve the pple of Khmer! Indeed this trip had been so fruitful! So fruitful, my tiny winy brain cannot contain them! : p
One thing for sure, nothing is going to stop me from visitng Cambodia! Next year! Siem Reap and PKH! Would want to go in April or slightly later but den horh, it is the hottest period! Wait later! I get heat stroke again! Haha! Well! See how! Anybody keen to join me! Pls don't hesitate!
Preyong srorline Kampuchea! (God loves Cambodia)
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Phobia
Everybody has phobia. I have and had a lot of phobias. When I was young, I was afraid of the dark. I couldn't sleep with the lights off. So I would resort to having the lights on when I go to bed. It didn't work too well because my parents kept telling me off for not switching off the lights when I sleep. So I changed my approach. After I off the lights, I would quickly jump into bed and throw my blanket over me, from head to toe. Come to think about it, it was quite silly. What's the point of covering myself with the blanket. It's like the ostrich sticking its head into the ground when it is afraid, thinking that by not able to see, the problem will disappear. And the blanket approach didn't last long. My dad would find me cover with the blanket and he would tell me off, saying that I would suffocate myself. So I was left with no choice. I had to deal with the issue - the issue of darkness. So one night, I decided I would just be brave and face the darkness. Initially, it was pretty awful. The mind started to play tricks. It seemed that every second or other, there would be a noise. But I guess with many more such brave attempts, I slowly outgrew my fear of the dark. Now, there will be times I will stare blankly into the darkness of my room and (anticipatingly) hope that I can see some 'interesting' thing. Haha!
Another phobia of mine is claustrophobia. It is a symptom of panic when enclosed in an area. I never knew why I had such a phobia as I never had a bad experience. But I know I have it since young. So far, I haven't been too badly affected by this phobia except for 1 incident. I remembered when I was in Secondary school and we had an excursion to Science Centre. In the exhibition, there was this maze which was make up mirrors. So when you stepped into the maze, all you see was reflections. After walking through the maze for a while, I started to feel claustrophobic. So I accelerated my steps. Bad choice. It worsened my condition as the reflection from the mirror make me feel like I was trapped in the mirror. By the time I exited out of the maze, I was hyperventilating. And my mind was badly traumatised. When somebody talked to me or if I do an action, everything seemed to have a time lapse before my brain received the full signal. NO JOKE! I thought I was gone. haha!
Fear of heights. One phobia that I have not fully overcome. I remembered when I was young, I hated crossing the overhead bridge. It was too scary for me. But sadly, I had to use the bridge often. So I engineered the best way to cross the bridge in the quickest way. When I hit the top of the bridge, I would aline myself in the middle and make a 50m dash. haha! So funneh siah! My family would always tease me over this little run of mine. Slowly, I outgrew but yet it was not fully overcome. In my army days, I had difficulties crossing the Jacob's Ladder. I was stuck at the peak and it was so humorous to think about it because all the Specialists and Officers were afraid that I slipped and were very 'nice' and 'caring', encouraging me to take my time and cross the ladder. I doubt I would ever overcome this fear. Bungee jumping???
Fear of the sea. I dun know if there's a scientific term for this type of phobia. Initially, it was fear of water. I had 2 drowning incidents when I was young. Thankfully, my mum send me for swimming lesson after the incidents. I overcome the fear of water. However, I still cannot overcome the fear of the sea. Even though I know I can swim, I know that the sea cannot anyhow play play one. Especially when there are currents. So when I take boat, I won't really dare to stand at the side. Looking at the sea makes me feel like it will swallow me any moment. And every waves that sweep towards me seem to be enticing me make the leap into the water. Eeerrrieeee.
How do we overcome phobia? Sometimes, the best way is to deal with it face to face. Like fear of water. The best way is to experience what water is like. Go into the shallow water first. And once comfortable, slowly, move to a deeper area. It has to be progressive. But what if something bad happen along the way. What if you were starting to feel confident in the deeper water, and somebody come along and start to push you into the water? It may cause the person to have deeper fear of that element.
Another phobia of mine is claustrophobia. It is a symptom of panic when enclosed in an area. I never knew why I had such a phobia as I never had a bad experience. But I know I have it since young. So far, I haven't been too badly affected by this phobia except for 1 incident. I remembered when I was in Secondary school and we had an excursion to Science Centre. In the exhibition, there was this maze which was make up mirrors. So when you stepped into the maze, all you see was reflections. After walking through the maze for a while, I started to feel claustrophobic. So I accelerated my steps. Bad choice. It worsened my condition as the reflection from the mirror make me feel like I was trapped in the mirror. By the time I exited out of the maze, I was hyperventilating. And my mind was badly traumatised. When somebody talked to me or if I do an action, everything seemed to have a time lapse before my brain received the full signal. NO JOKE! I thought I was gone. haha!
Fear of heights. One phobia that I have not fully overcome. I remembered when I was young, I hated crossing the overhead bridge. It was too scary for me. But sadly, I had to use the bridge often. So I engineered the best way to cross the bridge in the quickest way. When I hit the top of the bridge, I would aline myself in the middle and make a 50m dash. haha! So funneh siah! My family would always tease me over this little run of mine. Slowly, I outgrew but yet it was not fully overcome. In my army days, I had difficulties crossing the Jacob's Ladder. I was stuck at the peak and it was so humorous to think about it because all the Specialists and Officers were afraid that I slipped and were very 'nice' and 'caring', encouraging me to take my time and cross the ladder. I doubt I would ever overcome this fear. Bungee jumping???
Fear of the sea. I dun know if there's a scientific term for this type of phobia. Initially, it was fear of water. I had 2 drowning incidents when I was young. Thankfully, my mum send me for swimming lesson after the incidents. I overcome the fear of water. However, I still cannot overcome the fear of the sea. Even though I know I can swim, I know that the sea cannot anyhow play play one. Especially when there are currents. So when I take boat, I won't really dare to stand at the side. Looking at the sea makes me feel like it will swallow me any moment. And every waves that sweep towards me seem to be enticing me make the leap into the water. Eeerrrieeee.
How do we overcome phobia? Sometimes, the best way is to deal with it face to face. Like fear of water. The best way is to experience what water is like. Go into the shallow water first. And once comfortable, slowly, move to a deeper area. It has to be progressive. But what if something bad happen along the way. What if you were starting to feel confident in the deeper water, and somebody come along and start to push you into the water? It may cause the person to have deeper fear of that element.
Monday, November 12, 2007
Hai Sians (Seafood?)
Hai Sing High, now know as Hai Sing Catholic, was my Secondary School. I still could remember all those years in school, the fun, the laughter, the crazy things we do, the struggles, the friendship, everything was a part of me. I guess that was one of my best 4 yrs spent in school. I do enjoy my other years of school but just that Secondary was like my highlight. Primary school was fun but I guess I was a crybaby and timid boy so most of the time I was spending worrying over everything. Then JC was fun too, had alot of friends but for me most of the time was struggling to climb out of the red zone.
Secondary was fun becoz it was a transition from a little boy to a youth. It seemed like suddenly the world was more than it meets the eyes. There were so much more things to explore. (especially girls... ops! haha!) And I really thank God for friendship that was formed during Secondary sch. I have to admit that I was very not active with the activities they organised but yet they have been very gracious and accepting. Even after 10 yrs we left sch, we were still meeting up. It is very interesting and funny to think back 10 yrs ago on the things we do. When we were in Sec 1, we formed our different sects in the class. The girls had 3 sects and the guys had 4 sects. And within the sects we had like a Family Tree. And it can get very complicated. Like Girl A could be Boy B's daughter but because Girl A is like linked to Boy C and happened that Boy C is a 'brother' of Boy B, the whole relationship gets messed up. So extrapolate this results to a class of 40. You can see how messy we all are. The girls didn't have name for their sects but the guys did. One of the sects is called the "Roller Hawks" because they roller blade and rollerblade hockey was the in thing at my time. Another sect was called the TERA because they are made up of 4 memebers and they used the 1st initial of their name to form the word TERA. My sect is called the SPECS. 5 of us and we are called SPECS because we all wear specs. Haha! Lame I know! But I'm proud! The last group was a very mean and sad case. I guess we were all immature and insensitive at that age. Those who were not in any particular sect was defaulted into the last sect, known as the Turtle Tribe. I dun know who came up with the name (i suspect it was me! : p) but come to think about it, it's funny but mean. (i was a part time meany in class; yes i can be very mean) After Sec 2, we broke into our different streams but yet we never forget our friendship. Up to now, TERA, SPECS and the 12 girls sects are still meeting up. Really thank God for these wonderful friendship. And it is also amazing lah!
One of the guys from the Turtle Tribe and one of the sister of the12 girl sects were hitched together since Secondary Sch. And they just got married a few months back. Haha! Den also one of the brothers in my sect is attached to one of the sister in the 12 girls sects. Wuaahahahaha! It cannot get any better. Interesting! Will there be more interesting things? We shall see!
Let's talk abit more about my sect, the SPECS. I cannot exactly how our sect formed. I did remember the 1st day of sch in our class, the form teacher told us to go walk around and introduce ourself. I remembered I walk to these guy who was like way too tall den the normal sec 1 boys like us. And then the next thing I knew was that he became our Da Ge (big brother). Our Big Brother - Chan Kah Seng. He is 2 yrs older than all of us. His parents open Wan Tan Mee at Pasir Ris Central. Very good! Must go and try. And presently he is married to his wife who is pregnant with twins, 1 girl 1 boy! Wow! Amazing.
And my 2nd Brother - Yong Kian Leong. Humorous is an understatement for him. Without fail, at all circumstances, he will crack your mouth open. Best known for his unbeatable tongue. But you will once in a while see the quiet side of him as well.
And 3rd Brother - Choo Xianjie. Oh that's me! haha! What do i say about myself?
4th Brother - Toh Meng Lee. The arty farty one. Haha! Creative juice flowing in every part of his body. Adventurous. He is the 1st among us to go abroad to work. Quiet but when he opens his mouth, your mouth will also be wide open. Haha!
5th Brother - Chai Jian Wei. Though the youngest, do not underestimate him. One of the brainy. Can be quiet but once open mouth...... you know the results. (i guess that's one of the trademark of the SPECS) He is the one who is attached to one of the sister in the 12 girls sect. It was so low-profile that we only knew it when they were holding hands. Yup! He has his ways with the girls. Muahaha!
A quick run through of my sect. Presently only me and my 2nd brother is free agent. The rest are taken. Interested, pls apply. Muahahahahaaha!
Well! Secondary is the best time in my life. If I can, I would want to go through again. And I missed the Canteen food. Haha!
Actually, I decided to post about Hai Sing was because I remembered singing this hymns during Morning assembly. But I couldn't fully remember the lyrics. The tune attracted me at that time. Now as I read the lyrics, it is so meaningful but I just can't recall the full lyrics. I am appealing to anyone who can help me fill in the missing parts. Thanks!
SPIRIT WINGS (if i didn't remember wrongly)
Some birds live in cages
They sing a quiet song
And like them
I could sing for only You
But Lord Your love release me
To sing a different song
And soar above
The captive life I knew
Chours:
Spirit Wings
You lift me over all the earth bound things
And like a bird my heart is flying free
????????
????????
You lift me up
????
????
You carry me on Your Spirit Wings
Secondary was fun becoz it was a transition from a little boy to a youth. It seemed like suddenly the world was more than it meets the eyes. There were so much more things to explore. (especially girls... ops! haha!) And I really thank God for friendship that was formed during Secondary sch. I have to admit that I was very not active with the activities they organised but yet they have been very gracious and accepting. Even after 10 yrs we left sch, we were still meeting up. It is very interesting and funny to think back 10 yrs ago on the things we do. When we were in Sec 1, we formed our different sects in the class. The girls had 3 sects and the guys had 4 sects. And within the sects we had like a Family Tree. And it can get very complicated. Like Girl A could be Boy B's daughter but because Girl A is like linked to Boy C and happened that Boy C is a 'brother' of Boy B, the whole relationship gets messed up. So extrapolate this results to a class of 40. You can see how messy we all are. The girls didn't have name for their sects but the guys did. One of the sects is called the "Roller Hawks" because they roller blade and rollerblade hockey was the in thing at my time. Another sect was called the TERA because they are made up of 4 memebers and they used the 1st initial of their name to form the word TERA. My sect is called the SPECS. 5 of us and we are called SPECS because we all wear specs. Haha! Lame I know! But I'm proud! The last group was a very mean and sad case. I guess we were all immature and insensitive at that age. Those who were not in any particular sect was defaulted into the last sect, known as the Turtle Tribe. I dun know who came up with the name (i suspect it was me! : p) but come to think about it, it's funny but mean. (i was a part time meany in class; yes i can be very mean) After Sec 2, we broke into our different streams but yet we never forget our friendship. Up to now, TERA, SPECS and the 12 girls sects are still meeting up. Really thank God for these wonderful friendship. And it is also amazing lah!
One of the guys from the Turtle Tribe and one of the sister of the12 girl sects were hitched together since Secondary Sch. And they just got married a few months back. Haha! Den also one of the brothers in my sect is attached to one of the sister in the 12 girls sects. Wuaahahahaha! It cannot get any better. Interesting! Will there be more interesting things? We shall see!
Let's talk abit more about my sect, the SPECS. I cannot exactly how our sect formed. I did remember the 1st day of sch in our class, the form teacher told us to go walk around and introduce ourself. I remembered I walk to these guy who was like way too tall den the normal sec 1 boys like us. And then the next thing I knew was that he became our Da Ge (big brother). Our Big Brother - Chan Kah Seng. He is 2 yrs older than all of us. His parents open Wan Tan Mee at Pasir Ris Central. Very good! Must go and try. And presently he is married to his wife who is pregnant with twins, 1 girl 1 boy! Wow! Amazing.
And my 2nd Brother - Yong Kian Leong. Humorous is an understatement for him. Without fail, at all circumstances, he will crack your mouth open. Best known for his unbeatable tongue. But you will once in a while see the quiet side of him as well.
And 3rd Brother - Choo Xianjie. Oh that's me! haha! What do i say about myself?
4th Brother - Toh Meng Lee. The arty farty one. Haha! Creative juice flowing in every part of his body. Adventurous. He is the 1st among us to go abroad to work. Quiet but when he opens his mouth, your mouth will also be wide open. Haha!
5th Brother - Chai Jian Wei. Though the youngest, do not underestimate him. One of the brainy. Can be quiet but once open mouth...... you know the results. (i guess that's one of the trademark of the SPECS) He is the one who is attached to one of the sister in the 12 girls sect. It was so low-profile that we only knew it when they were holding hands. Yup! He has his ways with the girls. Muahaha!
A quick run through of my sect. Presently only me and my 2nd brother is free agent. The rest are taken. Interested, pls apply. Muahahahahaaha!
Well! Secondary is the best time in my life. If I can, I would want to go through again. And I missed the Canteen food. Haha!
Actually, I decided to post about Hai Sing was because I remembered singing this hymns during Morning assembly. But I couldn't fully remember the lyrics. The tune attracted me at that time. Now as I read the lyrics, it is so meaningful but I just can't recall the full lyrics. I am appealing to anyone who can help me fill in the missing parts. Thanks!
SPIRIT WINGS (if i didn't remember wrongly)
Some birds live in cages
They sing a quiet song
And like them
I could sing for only You
But Lord Your love release me
To sing a different song
And soar above
The captive life I knew
Chours:
Spirit Wings
You lift me over all the earth bound things
And like a bird my heart is flying free
????????
????????
You lift me up
????
????
You carry me on Your Spirit Wings
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Words of Wisdom
Suddenly remembered 2 things that I heard someone else mention and I thought it was very important. Was afraid that I forget, so I decided to post it and also may it be a blessing to those who read it.
"Speak your mind! But mind what you speak!"
"You can count the number of seeds in a fruit. But you cannot count the number of fruits in a seed."
黑夜的彩虹 (Revised Version)
黑夜的彩虹
Key: E
词曲： 顯杰
Verse 1:
冬天 雪飘落
花朵枯而掉落
黑暗 的吞没
使我不知所措
寻寻觅觅
没有着落
但我心中
有个希望
不停紧握
Chorus:
黑夜的彩虹
我再也不迷惘
只因祢是我
唯一的希望
赐我力量
赐我平安
赐给我自由
黑夜的彩虹
Verse 2:
狂风和暴雨
吹走我的信心
黑暗的侵袭
使我措手不及
心灰意冷
想要放弃
但我心中
有个希望
不停紧握
Coda:
虽然 雪飘落
但心中有一盏火
黑暗 虽吞没
但祢是我的彩虹
我唯一的希望
黑夜的彩虹
Sunday, October 28, 2007
I WROTE MY OWN ENDING! IRONY!
These are abstract of my previous posts (with dates). A little story I tried to write.
Monday, February 13, 2006
The Flower, The Butterfly and The Bee
The flower stood in the midst of the field. As the wind blew, the flower swayed to the rhythm. And the flower fell into bits and pieces of its memory. It still remember the days when there will be a butterfly which will frequently fly past and ocassionally pay a visit to the flower. The butterfly was gorgeous and the flower was deeply attracted to it. But not long after, the butterfly flew by lesser and eventually it disappeared. The flower was disappointed and waited day after day, hoping that it will have a glance of the butterfly. And again it was disappointed. And its memory of the butterfly is also fading but it still refuse to give up. Meanwhile in this tiring waiting, the flower was also visited by this bee, a hardworking and talented bee. Everyday, without fail, the bee will pay a visit to the flower. The flower is amazed by the capability of the bee. However, its memory of the butterfly, though vague, is still holding on to the flower. What should the flower do?
(Ending Number 1)
Thursday, August 24, 2006
Monday, February 13, 2006
The Flower, The Butterfly and The Bee
The flower stood in the midst of the field. As the wind blew, the flower swayed to the rhythm. And the flower fell into bits and pieces of its memory. It still remember the days when there will be a butterfly which will frequently fly past and ocassionally pay a visit to the flower. The butterfly was gorgeous and the flower was deeply attracted to it. But not long after, the butterfly flew by lesser and eventually it disappeared. The flower was disappointed and waited day after day, hoping that it will have a glance of the butterfly. And again it was disappointed. And its memory of the butterfly is also fading but it still refuse to give up. Meanwhile in this tiring waiting, the flower was also visited by this bee, a hardworking and talented bee. Everyday, without fail, the bee will pay a visit to the flower. The flower is amazed by the capability of the bee. However, its memory of the butterfly, though vague, is still holding on to the flower. What should the flower do?
(Ending Number 1)
Thursday, August 24, 2006
As time passed, the memories of butterfly faded with the passing seasons. The flower stood where it was and will be daily sunned and showered with love. The flower stood firm and grew daily. At the same time, the bee will also without fail return to the flower. The friendship between the flower and the bee grew. Once in a while, when the bee visit the flower, the bee will take a rest on the petal and both of them will talk - talk abt anything under the sun. The flower was really comfortable to be with the bee. One day, a heavy storm blew over the field. The flower stood where it was braving the storm. The flower knew the bee was not coming and so it could just glimpsed over to the tree where the bee is living in. And to the flower's shock, the bee was with another bee. The flower was saddened. The next day, the bee came to visit the flower and this time, the bee introduced its fren bee to the flower. The flower was totally devastated........ You want to know wat the flower did?......................It invited both bees into the flower and close up its petal, and slowly let them suffocate and die a miserable death. Oh! I forgot to mention. The flower is actually an insect-eating flower. Muahahahhahaahahhahhahaha.
(Ending Number 2)
Friday, December 29, 2006
The flower stood there waiting and waiting. The flower still remembered the butterfly paying visits to the flower. The bee had always without fail been visiting the flower as well. The flower is confused. None of it make sense. At one point, the flower looked up into the sky. It saw the sun which governs the day and the moon which governs the night. After many days and nights looking at the sky, the flower was enlightened. The flower has an answer to its problem. It's neither the butterfly nor the bee. There is an even greater thing installed for the flower. As the flower continue to wait in anticipation, the flower petals start to wither. The flower was gone. However, at the end of the withered flower, a small fruit starts to grow. As the fruit grew, it knew that in it contains the seeds that will bear more fruits it can imagine.
If I had known... God's sense of humor.
黑夜的彩虹
黑夜的彩虹
Key: E
词曲： 顯杰
Verse:
Key: E
词曲： 顯杰
Verse:
冬天 雪飘落
花朵枯而掉落
黑暗 的吞没
使我不知所措
Pre-Chorus:
寻寻觅觅
没有着落
但我心中
有个希望
不停紧握
Chorus:
黑夜的彩虹
我再也不迷惘
只因祢是我
唯一的希望
赐我力量
赐我平安
赐给我自由
黑夜的彩虹
Coda:
虽然 雪飘落
但心中有一盏火
黑暗 虽吞没
但祢是我的彩虹
我唯一的希望
黑夜的彩虹
Rainbow in the darkness. No matter how dark it is, I know You are there for me and Your promise to me is faithful. It is my wish to get out of the darkness but it's just too hard, just too tired, just too scared, just too hurt. I know You are the Light that will lead me out of the darkness but as for now, one step at a time. One step at a time. Lord, give me the strength to overcome my pschological barrier, give me peace that whatever I do, I will be holy for You, give me freedom that I will not be entangle with things that draw me away from You. Lord, be my Rainbow, be the Light and hope of my life. This is my prayer!
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
Humor
New school semester:
At the first week:
At the second week:
Before the mid-term test:
During the mid-term test:
After the mid-term test:
Before the final exam:
Once know the final exam schedule:
7 days before final exam:
6 days before final exam:
5 days before final exam:
4 days before final exam:
3 days before final exam:
2 days before final exam:
1 day before final exam:
A night before final exam:
1 Hour before exam:
During the Final Exam:
Once walk out from the exam hall:
After the final exam, during the holiday:
This is so funneh! Found it off somebody's blog. (actually found it on this blog which belongs to this guy whose name is also xianjie) Once I saw these, I just couldn't stop laughing at it. So comical. Really thank God for humor. Humor is so important especially for me.
During the Great Depression time, humor was one of the things that keep people going on. That's how Charlie Chaplin came about. It brought joy and humor to people, helping them to forget or at least be distracted away from the sad side of life.
I guess that is a reason why I like to make a 'mockery' of myself. In itself, it's a humor but yet it is how I cover up my fears, my low-self esteem, my miseries, basically those parts of me that I never wanted to be part of me. That explains why I can act so immaturedly at many times with my self-mockery humor. Dun ask me to be more matured for maturity is not measured by what I do or say during 'peaceful' times but rather how I react sensibly and considerably during tough and difficult times.
At the first week:
At the second week:
Before the mid-term test:
During the mid-term test:
After the mid-term test:
Before the final exam:
Once know the final exam schedule:
7 days before final exam:
6 days before final exam:
5 days before final exam:
4 days before final exam:
3 days before final exam:
2 days before final exam:
1 day before final exam:
A night before final exam:
1 Hour before exam:
During the Final Exam:
Once walk out from the exam hall:
After the final exam, during the holiday:
This is so funneh! Found it off somebody's blog. (actually found it on this blog which belongs to this guy whose name is also xianjie) Once I saw these, I just couldn't stop laughing at it. So comical. Really thank God for humor. Humor is so important especially for me.
During the Great Depression time, humor was one of the things that keep people going on. That's how Charlie Chaplin came about. It brought joy and humor to people, helping them to forget or at least be distracted away from the sad side of life.
I guess that is a reason why I like to make a 'mockery' of myself. In itself, it's a humor but yet it is how I cover up my fears, my low-self esteem, my miseries, basically those parts of me that I never wanted to be part of me. That explains why I can act so immaturedly at many times with my self-mockery humor. Dun ask me to be more matured for maturity is not measured by what I do or say during 'peaceful' times but rather how I react sensibly and considerably during tough and difficult times.
Blink Blink!
After going to church, I left for East Point Mall to run some errand. As I was walking through East Point Mall, I had a glance of a very familiar face. Was that Evelyn Tan? Arggghhhhh! I thought so but I needed to run an errand so I couldn't go and 'stalk' her. Hahahhahaha! So after finishing my errand, I went back to East Point Mall and there she was at the foyer. Muahahaha! I walked closer to just make sure it was really her. And indeed it was her. YEah! Ok! Let me clarify. This is not some kind of lustful or fantasy hobby. It is just that I really admire her for her ability to act and yes I must say she is attractive (in a positive way).
Well! She is married to Darren Lim, also an actor. I heard a story about them lah. Not too sure how true but if it's real, I'm not surprised. Darren Lim had a hard time chasing her not because she was playing hard to catch. Rather at the initial stage, Evelyn was a Christian and Darren wasn't. So she had a reservation. Even after Darren Lim converted, it was not an easy for him as he had to 'prove' his conversion authentic. So only time will tell. So eventually, after many years, efforts paid off, both are happily married with a child. Yeah!....
Here's a makeover photo of her....
Well! She is married to Darren Lim, also an actor. I heard a story about them lah. Not too sure how true but if it's real, I'm not surprised. Darren Lim had a hard time chasing her not because she was playing hard to catch. Rather at the initial stage, Evelyn was a Christian and Darren wasn't. So she had a reservation. Even after Darren Lim converted, it was not an easy for him as he had to 'prove' his conversion authentic. So only time will tell. So eventually, after many years, efforts paid off, both are happily married with a child. Yeah!....
Here's a makeover photo of her....
Thursday, October 18, 2007
House of the LORD
On Wednesday, I went to church to play guitar for Chapel Service. During the Scripture Reading, Psalm 27 was being read. As it was being read, I remembered I wrote a song based on this chapter.
I wrote this song last year. I was in the chapel and a tune came into my head. I noted down the melody. I didn't have any inspiration on the words so I decided to take up the Bible to look for something that I could use as inspiration. And Psalm 27 spoke to me.
If the Lord is my Saviour, who should I be afraid of. If the Lord is the stronghold of my life, who can tear my life apart. As I dwell in the house of the Lord, I know I am in safe hands.
HOUSE OF THE LORD
Date: 10 Nov 2006
Composer: Xianjie
Inspiration: PSALM 27
Key: D#
Verse:
The Lord is my light and my salvation
Of whom shall I fear
The Lord is the stronghold of my life
Of whom shall I be afraid
Pre-Chorus:
When my enemies and foes attack me (they stumble and fall)
Though an army besiege me (my heart will not fear)
Though war breakout against me
Even then
Will I be confident
Chorus:
One thing I ask of the Lord
This is what I seek
To dwell in the house of the Lord
He'll keep me safe in His dwelling
O Hide me in His shelther
And set me high upon a rock
In the house of the Lord
Coda:
In the house of the Lord
In the house of the Lord
In the house of the Lord
I wrote this song last year. I was in the chapel and a tune came into my head. I noted down the melody. I didn't have any inspiration on the words so I decided to take up the Bible to look for something that I could use as inspiration. And Psalm 27 spoke to me.
If the Lord is my Saviour, who should I be afraid of. If the Lord is the stronghold of my life, who can tear my life apart. As I dwell in the house of the Lord, I know I am in safe hands.
HOUSE OF THE LORD
Date: 10 Nov 2006
Composer: Xianjie
Inspiration: PSALM 27
Key: D#
Verse:
The Lord is my light and my salvation
Of whom shall I fear
The Lord is the stronghold of my life
Of whom shall I be afraid
Pre-Chorus:
When my enemies and foes attack me (they stumble and fall)
Though an army besiege me (my heart will not fear)
Though war breakout against me
Even then
Will I be confident
Chorus:
One thing I ask of the Lord
This is what I seek
To dwell in the house of the Lord
He'll keep me safe in His dwelling
O Hide me in His shelther
And set me high upon a rock
In the house of the Lord
Coda:
In the house of the Lord
In the house of the Lord
In the house of the Lord
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Do not take IRON pills and ask Y!
IRONY! We or rather I watch alot of drama serials on the TV. And many a time, I will laugh off at the stupid plot and comment, "How can such thing ever happen? Too drama already lah! If really happen to someone, that someone really 'suai kia' (unlucky kid). " And many a time, I was laughing in advance at myself.
My life is too filled with drama and I don't know why. "Suai"? Nah! I dun believe in luck. Then why it happens on me? I don't have an answer. But I know the Lord teaches me through all these episodes of drama. So honored. I am the main actor of this "X.J Drama Series". Haha!
Today, once again an irony of life happen right in front of my face. I was supposed to report for my reservist. The MINDEF revocating me to a driver. When I reached the camp, I had to fill in a form. We were all told to declare any medical condition. So I thought since I was diagnosed with slight colour deficiency, I better declare just for precaution. In fact, I was quite happy I was in this course. ARMY give me free licence. Take lorh! So after filtering out the forms, the administrative officer started to call out name
The first group was those who don't have uniforms. I've no idea why they dun have uniforms. Don't tell me they assume that after ORD, they can dispose them off. So there were 2 of them. And the AO told them to go this far far away camp in the North East to buy their uniform. I nearly dropped to the floor laughing. I was speculating that in their mind they were cusing and swearing. Want to get out of course, try harder siah!
So the next group was those who had medical condition. Another classic. After gathering them, the AO told them they had to go to a very far away camp in the North (Choa Chu Kang) to see the Medical Officer. Wahahahahaha! I nearly cracked a hole in the floor. At that moment, many of them started to comment that the medical condition was history. Haha! Nice try siah! But they all still had to go. I couldn't help but to think that all these people just want to 'chao keng'.
Unexpectedly, my name was the last to be called. I wondered why! The AO asked me about my colour deficiency and I told her that I was diagnosed during my enlistment checkup. I told her shouldn't be a problem but she insisted that I go for Medical Review. This time round, I nearly drop to the floor. Wah! From the east all the way to the west. Xian 1/2! Waste my time and money. I dun mind taking this course siah! I shouldn't have bothered to declare. Thkfully a few of us shared cab.
So there were about 11 of us who went to see the MO and all of us were deemed unfit for the course. The MO even said that I shouldn't be driving at all with my colour deficiency condition. Hahha! Anybody still want to hitch a ride when I'm driving???? And I also learn one valuable lesson this afternoon. Not to be so quick at judging people. To be honest, all the rest who went to see the MO were all genuine cases.
So this prematuredly end my 1st reservist. WoohoooO! Freedom!
But Choa Chu Kang far siah! (Haha! Maybe shd have tried visiting somebody!!! ^.^")
My life is too filled with drama and I don't know why. "Suai"? Nah! I dun believe in luck. Then why it happens on me? I don't have an answer. But I know the Lord teaches me through all these episodes of drama. So honored. I am the main actor of this "X.J Drama Series". Haha!
Today, once again an irony of life happen right in front of my face. I was supposed to report for my reservist. The MINDEF revocating me to a driver. When I reached the camp, I had to fill in a form. We were all told to declare any medical condition. So I thought since I was diagnosed with slight colour deficiency, I better declare just for precaution. In fact, I was quite happy I was in this course. ARMY give me free licence. Take lorh! So after filtering out the forms, the administrative officer started to call out name
The first group was those who don't have uniforms. I've no idea why they dun have uniforms. Don't tell me they assume that after ORD, they can dispose them off. So there were 2 of them. And the AO told them to go this far far away camp in the North East to buy their uniform. I nearly dropped to the floor laughing. I was speculating that in their mind they were cusing and swearing. Want to get out of course, try harder siah!
So the next group was those who had medical condition. Another classic. After gathering them, the AO told them they had to go to a very far away camp in the North (Choa Chu Kang) to see the Medical Officer. Wahahahahaha! I nearly cracked a hole in the floor. At that moment, many of them started to comment that the medical condition was history. Haha! Nice try siah! But they all still had to go. I couldn't help but to think that all these people just want to 'chao keng'.
Unexpectedly, my name was the last to be called. I wondered why! The AO asked me about my colour deficiency and I told her that I was diagnosed during my enlistment checkup. I told her shouldn't be a problem but she insisted that I go for Medical Review. This time round, I nearly drop to the floor. Wah! From the east all the way to the west. Xian 1/2! Waste my time and money. I dun mind taking this course siah! I shouldn't have bothered to declare. Thkfully a few of us shared cab.
So there were about 11 of us who went to see the MO and all of us were deemed unfit for the course. The MO even said that I shouldn't be driving at all with my colour deficiency condition. Hahha! Anybody still want to hitch a ride when I'm driving???? And I also learn one valuable lesson this afternoon. Not to be so quick at judging people. To be honest, all the rest who went to see the MO were all genuine cases.
So this prematuredly end my 1st reservist. WoohoooO! Freedom!
But Choa Chu Kang far siah! (Haha! Maybe shd have tried visiting somebody!!! ^.^")
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Cambodia 07
On the 15 Sep (Sat), I had agreed to help the Khmer staff in the Children Ministry works in Kampong Speu. It was their bi-weekly ministry work in Kampong Speu. Since I was so free, I thought it was good for me to witness how they ran their CM and also in the hope that I was of any help. The start off was early. I had to be in church by 7.30am. When we set off, there were Nita, Lina and another lady (i think it was Raj's wife - Raj is one of the driver in CCOP) I was sitting in the front with Raj. I think we travelled for nearly an hour before coming to a stop at the church in Kampong Speu. It was a simple one room house with a shelthered shed as the hall. This is also where Pastor Joshua stays. And it was also my first time seeing his wife. I was actually very delighted for Pastor Joshua because I did remember that 6 yrs back, the concern was for him to get married quickly so that he could concentrate on his work in church. Hahaha! And now he is going to be a father very soon. I was told that his wife was Raj's daughter. Wahahaaha! Wah!
At the church, we picked up some people and children before setting off to the 1st venue. We travelled for about a good 1/2 hour. And it was my mistake not to go 'bong kun' (toilet in khmer) at the church compound. I was having high tide and the vehicle had to go through this stretch of dirt road, filled with potholes. My goodness! With every bump, it was antangonising for me. Haha! Finally, reached the place and I quickly found a good spot. (in the 'ulu ulu' area, the toilet is everywhere. just make sure you find a good spot) Under a good shelthered area, a piece of ground sheet and that's all it takes to have a CM. The children swamped over. There were easily 40 children. Nita and Esther (one of the youths in Kampong Speu) started off with worship. No instrument compliment, no fanciful things but just purely voices and actions and the children are worshipping the Lord. How amazing. Simple but yet so powerful. And after the worship, Nita taught on the story of Samson. Though I didn't know what she was saying but the children were very attentive. And at the end of the session, goodie bags and clothes were distributed. We break for lunch before moving to another 2 more areas. The girls were joined by another youth by the name of Sa Vey (my spelling) who is the elder sister of Esther.
I remember Esther during the Youth Camp. She and another girl were presenting their discussions answers. And both of them were very comical which made the session very interesting. A very bubbly and yet very comical young lady.
Sa Vey on the other hand seemed to be the quieter one. But she was very friendly. She just came up to talk to me. Can see that both she and her sister have a great passion for the children. She just finished her high school and I believe very much she does want to further her studies. But I am afraid it will be quite unlikely. The norm is to complete high sch and start working.
As for Nita, I think she has matured a lot (from my previous observation). I remembered I knew her about 4 years back. Back then, she was still a bit shy shy and wasn't very confident. Even as she taught on this day, I saw she taught with passion, with authority, with love, with confidence.
I really thank God for all these ladies who have put in so much effort and commitment to spread the love of God. May the Lord continue to bless them richly.
While talking to Sa Vey, she was saying that she learnt about Singapore in her school and she was saying that Singapore is a very good country. At that moment, I just agreed with her. When I was on my way back, I was thinking very hard what she said. A good country. What makes a country good? The prosperity, the safety, the infrastructure, the government, the living standard? I must say in terms of all these, we are definitely at a high standard. But if these are to be our considerations for a country to be a good country, then Cambodia has fallen way short of it. So is Cambodia a bad country? No! So, what then makes a country good? If it's not the physical or tangible things, then what is it? I was thinking hard until the Lord spoke. A country is good because of His goodness, regardless of how prosperous or poor the country is. So Singapore is good because the Lord is good to Singapore. So is Cambodia a good country? Yes, because the Lord is good to Cambodia.
My point at drawing this lesson is that our mind is still very much thinking like the world. Our thinking and consideration are very tilted to what we have and what we see. And we tend to hold on these things very dearly. And we do this, we find ourselves very unwillingly to let go and follow where the Lord leads us. Let us not look at the things we want, we have but let us look at the goodness of God for He will never shortchange us.
Where the Lord leads me, I will follow.
Not my will but Yours be done!
At the church, we picked up some people and children before setting off to the 1st venue. We travelled for about a good 1/2 hour. And it was my mistake not to go 'bong kun' (toilet in khmer) at the church compound. I was having high tide and the vehicle had to go through this stretch of dirt road, filled with potholes. My goodness! With every bump, it was antangonising for me. Haha! Finally, reached the place and I quickly found a good spot. (in the 'ulu ulu' area, the toilet is everywhere. just make sure you find a good spot) Under a good shelthered area, a piece of ground sheet and that's all it takes to have a CM. The children swamped over. There were easily 40 children. Nita and Esther (one of the youths in Kampong Speu) started off with worship. No instrument compliment, no fanciful things but just purely voices and actions and the children are worshipping the Lord. How amazing. Simple but yet so powerful. And after the worship, Nita taught on the story of Samson. Though I didn't know what she was saying but the children were very attentive. And at the end of the session, goodie bags and clothes were distributed. We break for lunch before moving to another 2 more areas. The girls were joined by another youth by the name of Sa Vey (my spelling) who is the elder sister of Esther.
I remember Esther during the Youth Camp. She and another girl were presenting their discussions answers. And both of them were very comical which made the session very interesting. A very bubbly and yet very comical young lady.
Sa Vey on the other hand seemed to be the quieter one. But she was very friendly. She just came up to talk to me. Can see that both she and her sister have a great passion for the children. She just finished her high school and I believe very much she does want to further her studies. But I am afraid it will be quite unlikely. The norm is to complete high sch and start working.
As for Nita, I think she has matured a lot (from my previous observation). I remembered I knew her about 4 years back. Back then, she was still a bit shy shy and wasn't very confident. Even as she taught on this day, I saw she taught with passion, with authority, with love, with confidence.
I really thank God for all these ladies who have put in so much effort and commitment to spread the love of God. May the Lord continue to bless them richly.
While talking to Sa Vey, she was saying that she learnt about Singapore in her school and she was saying that Singapore is a very good country. At that moment, I just agreed with her. When I was on my way back, I was thinking very hard what she said. A good country. What makes a country good? The prosperity, the safety, the infrastructure, the government, the living standard? I must say in terms of all these, we are definitely at a high standard. But if these are to be our considerations for a country to be a good country, then Cambodia has fallen way short of it. So is Cambodia a bad country? No! So, what then makes a country good? If it's not the physical or tangible things, then what is it? I was thinking hard until the Lord spoke. A country is good because of His goodness, regardless of how prosperous or poor the country is. So Singapore is good because the Lord is good to Singapore. So is Cambodia a good country? Yes, because the Lord is good to Cambodia.
My point at drawing this lesson is that our mind is still very much thinking like the world. Our thinking and consideration are very tilted to what we have and what we see. And we tend to hold on these things very dearly. And we do this, we find ourselves very unwillingly to let go and follow where the Lord leads us. Let us not look at the things we want, we have but let us look at the goodness of God for He will never shortchange us.
Where the Lord leads me, I will follow.
Not my will but Yours be done!
Friday, September 28, 2007
How true? I Wonder!!!
Haha! Well! For all those men out there (including myself), EAT THESE!
Q. HOW MANY MEN DOES IT TAKE TO PUT A TOILET SEAT DOWN?
A. don't know - it never happened
Q: What do you call an intelligent, good looking, sensitive man?
A: A rumor
Q: Why do little boys whine?
A: They are practicing to be men.
One day a housework-challenged husband decided to wash his Sweat-shirt.
Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted to the wife, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"
"It depends," the wife replied. "What does it say on your shirt?"
He yelled back, "Hard Rock Cafe - Singapore."
MY FAVOURTIE:
Dear Lord,
I pray for Wisdom to understand my man;
Love to forgive him;
And Patience for his moods.
Because, Lord, if I pray for Strength,
I'll beat him to death.
AMEN
Q. HOW MANY MEN DOES IT TAKE TO PUT A TOILET SEAT DOWN?
A. don't know - it never happened
Q: What do you call an intelligent, good looking, sensitive man?
A: A rumor
Q: Why do little boys whine?
A: They are practicing to be men.
One day a housework-challenged husband decided to wash his Sweat-shirt.
Seconds after he stepped into the laundry room, he shouted to the wife, "What setting do I use on the washing machine?"
"It depends," the wife replied. "What does it say on your shirt?"
He yelled back, "Hard Rock Cafe - Singapore."
MY FAVOURTIE:
Dear Lord,
I pray for Wisdom to understand my man;
Love to forgive him;
And Patience for his moods.
Because, Lord, if I pray for Strength,
I'll beat him to death.
AMEN
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
If All These Were True
(DISCLAIMER: The statements made below are purely for personal entertainment and have no truth in them nor do they represent my opinions. )
HEALTH Q&A Session:
Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life; is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio? (This my favourite)
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! ... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me
Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape
I am not sure if I will heed the 'advises' but one thing for sure I know is that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19). A healthy body will be able to serve the Lord in a greater capacity.
I want a healthy body. 1 body and 1 fat ratio. (healthier fat ratio, i meant : p )
HEALTH Q&A Session:
Q: I've heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life; is this true?
A: Your heart is only good for so many beats, and that's it... don't waste them on exercise. Everything wears out eventually. Speeding up your heart will not make you live longer; that's like saying you can extend the life of your car by driving it faster. Want to live longer? Take a nap.
Q: Should I cut down on meat and eat more fruits and vegetables?
A: You must grasp logistical efficiencies. What does a cow eat? Hay and corn. And what are these? Vegetables. So a steak is nothing more than an efficient mechanism of delivering vegetables to your system. Need grain? Eat chicken. Beef is also a good source of field grass (green leafy vegetable). And a pork chop can give you 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vegetable products.
Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?
A: No, not at all. Wine is made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine, that means they take the water out of the fruity bit so you get even more of the goodness that way. Beer is also made out of grain. Bottoms up
Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio? (This my favourite)
A: Well, if you have a body and you have fat, your ratio is one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio is two to one, etc
Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of a single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No Pain...Good
Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU'RE NOT LISTENING!!! ... Foods are fried these days in vegetable oil. In fact, they're permeated in it. How could getting more vegetables be bad for you?
Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise a muscle, it gets bigger. You should only be doing sit-ups if you want a bigger stomach
Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy? HELLO Cocoa beans! Another vegetable!!! It's the best feel-good food around
Q: Is swimming good for your figure?
A: If swimming is good for your figure, explain whales to me
Q: Is getting in-shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is a shape
I am not sure if I will heed the 'advises' but one thing for sure I know is that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Cor 6:19). A healthy body will be able to serve the Lord in a greater capacity.
I want a healthy body. 1 body and 1 fat ratio. (healthier fat ratio, i meant : p )
Monday, September 24, 2007
Cambodia 06
This is my 4th trip to Cambodia. Every trip is getting more exciting and challenging for me.
In 2002, I went to Cambodia for the 1st time. I was simply a member. And I was the 1st to stay there for 2 weeks in one trip. Ok not really the 1st. Jenny stayed for 2 weeks as well on that trip. It was fantastic. The feeling was like indescribable. I immediately adapted to the food, environment, the slow-paced style. It was liked I was back home. Haha!
In 2004, I once again returned to Cambodia. This time round, I was leading the team of youths. It was an amazing trip. It wasn't an easy trip as I have to manage the team's, indivduals', mission's and personal needs and expectations. But the Lord was good to bless me with so many Youth Advisors who came along. Haha!
In 2006, I was back in Cambodia again. Now as a Youth Advisor. Haha! My responsibility was getting 'bigger' every subsequent trip. Haha! It was a total new experience, having to refrain myself from not doing too much 'things'. I am more of a 'ground-work' person. Having to 'sit' in a 'high-management' role is not my cup of tea. But then again, it was a good learning experience.
Within every span of 2 years, I have been returning to Cambodia. The love for Cambodia is getting stronger. Do I have to wait another 2 years before making a trip back?
Nah! 9 months later, I was back. This time as an invited speaker for the Youth Camp. I was very honoured. No joke siah! Ask me to share a message at such a grand event. Furthermore, it was an overseas camp. To me it was a very big event. And to expect me to share for 3 1/2 hours (with translation), it was a big task. Back in Singapore, the longest I shared was 1 hour (without translation). But by God's grace, He gave me the words to speak. Indeed, the Lord is good. And I guess I was very encouraged by the youths on how they repsonded to my sharing of my testimony. They commented that they would wait for me to return to finish up the 'story'. Haha! Yup! I'm sure the Lord will help me to finish the 'story'.
Well! Now I am back in Singapore for a week and I am missing Cambodia so much. When will I be able to make a trip back? I hope this year end. Target: 2 weeks. Muahahhahaha!
In 2002, I went to Cambodia for the 1st time. I was simply a member. And I was the 1st to stay there for 2 weeks in one trip. Ok not really the 1st. Jenny stayed for 2 weeks as well on that trip. It was fantastic. The feeling was like indescribable. I immediately adapted to the food, environment, the slow-paced style. It was liked I was back home. Haha!
In 2004, I once again returned to Cambodia. This time round, I was leading the team of youths. It was an amazing trip. It wasn't an easy trip as I have to manage the team's, indivduals', mission's and personal needs and expectations. But the Lord was good to bless me with so many Youth Advisors who came along. Haha!
In 2006, I was back in Cambodia again. Now as a Youth Advisor. Haha! My responsibility was getting 'bigger' every subsequent trip. Haha! It was a total new experience, having to refrain myself from not doing too much 'things'. I am more of a 'ground-work' person. Having to 'sit' in a 'high-management' role is not my cup of tea. But then again, it was a good learning experience.
Within every span of 2 years, I have been returning to Cambodia. The love for Cambodia is getting stronger. Do I have to wait another 2 years before making a trip back?
Nah! 9 months later, I was back. This time as an invited speaker for the Youth Camp. I was very honoured. No joke siah! Ask me to share a message at such a grand event. Furthermore, it was an overseas camp. To me it was a very big event. And to expect me to share for 3 1/2 hours (with translation), it was a big task. Back in Singapore, the longest I shared was 1 hour (without translation). But by God's grace, He gave me the words to speak. Indeed, the Lord is good. And I guess I was very encouraged by the youths on how they repsonded to my sharing of my testimony. They commented that they would wait for me to return to finish up the 'story'. Haha! Yup! I'm sure the Lord will help me to finish the 'story'.
Well! Now I am back in Singapore for a week and I am missing Cambodia so much. When will I be able to make a trip back? I hope this year end. Target: 2 weeks. Muahahhahaha!
Thursday, September 20, 2007
Cambodia 05
Beside getting to know people in Cambodia, I managed to remember the names of the 3 dogs that were guarding CCOP. Haha! Fantastic dogs. So lovely and each has its own characters. They are called Marko (light brown), Buddy (Blackish) and Milo (dark brown).
Marko is an old dog. Can see its aged body lines. But he is the loviest dog among the 3. It will stroll to me and sit beside me, yearning for me to stroke and pat it. And without fail, I will entertain its wishes and it will reciprocrate with a happy and comfortable look. However, it was the timidiest of all. When there's a commotion or raining, it will scramble to a hiding place.
Buddy is a pretty active dog. It is curious and will always follow Milo. Whenever something happen or Milo reacts to an incident, Buddy will follow suit. There was this incident when after Milo had killed a rat, Buddy came and tried to nibble at the dead rat. So funny. And let me warn you first, Buddy don't like pple to stroke or pat its head. It will retaliate with a gentle attempt to bite at your hand.
Milo is the obvious lead dog. It is alert, fast and gives no nonsense. When there's a commotion, it will be the first dog to investigate. It is also responsible. It was raining one afternoon and it spotted a rat. Without much consideration, it leaped an attack on the rat. And the rat had not much chance. So the rat was killed and even while floating on the water, Milo continued to inject its fatal bite at the rat. Wow! Vicious! Haha! However, it is still a very friendy dog.
I really miss them, especially Marko. So nice for Marko to come to me and let me stroke it. So sweet. Let's hope Marko will be strong and able to live longer. I do want to see it when I return to Cambodia on the next trip.
Marko is an old dog. Can see its aged body lines. But he is the loviest dog among the 3. It will stroll to me and sit beside me, yearning for me to stroke and pat it. And without fail, I will entertain its wishes and it will reciprocrate with a happy and comfortable look. However, it was the timidiest of all. When there's a commotion or raining, it will scramble to a hiding place.
Buddy is a pretty active dog. It is curious and will always follow Milo. Whenever something happen or Milo reacts to an incident, Buddy will follow suit. There was this incident when after Milo had killed a rat, Buddy came and tried to nibble at the dead rat. So funny. And let me warn you first, Buddy don't like pple to stroke or pat its head. It will retaliate with a gentle attempt to bite at your hand.
Milo is the obvious lead dog. It is alert, fast and gives no nonsense. When there's a commotion, it will be the first dog to investigate. It is also responsible. It was raining one afternoon and it spotted a rat. Without much consideration, it leaped an attack on the rat. And the rat had not much chance. So the rat was killed and even while floating on the water, Milo continued to inject its fatal bite at the rat. Wow! Vicious! Haha! However, it is still a very friendy dog.
I really miss them, especially Marko. So nice for Marko to come to me and let me stroke it. So sweet. Let's hope Marko will be strong and able to live longer. I do want to see it when I return to Cambodia on the next trip.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Cambodia 04
We reached PKH at about 3pm. Many of the youths had reached PKH. We settled our lodgings and were waiting at the shed. Some of the youths started playing soccer and I joined in. They played quite impressively. Haha! During my stay at PKH, I got to talk with some of the youths. Those names that I could remember were Tan, Bun Rong, Sou Vuth. Tan and Bun Rong are students at PKH. Sou Vuth is a staff at PKH.
On the 2nd day, Rev Edwin shared his message in the morning. He shared about Joshua and his background and how despite of his circumstances, he was still able to find favour in the Lord. And during the night service, an altar call was called and many of the youths responded.
On the 3rd day, it was my turn to share. I had done all my preparations. I wasn't feeling unprepared but I was still unsettled. I was worried if I could be able to share for such a long time. The whole session was about 3 1/2 hours (with translation). I have never shared for such a long session. At most 1 hour. And I was worried if I would make any sense to them. I shared these with Rev Edwin the night before and he told me just focus on what I have to share and the rest leave it to God. And amazingly, even when I broke my sharing into 4 sessions, I had to shorten my last 2 sessions so in order not to exceed the given time. Indeed praise the Lord. And during the afternoon sharing of their discussions, they were able to share from what I had shared with them. I was really very encouraged. And most importantly, many of them remembered my sharing of my testimony. After the sharing, they were all teasing me that I should come back again to finish up the story. Haha! Let's hope so!
But I am definitely grateful to God! When things seem so trialing and hard, the only thing we can do is to trust in God. He is faithful and He will provide ways, means and solutions to our problems. And this episode was really a boost in my trust in God. May I continue to draw strength from the Lord. And my prayer is that what the youths have learnt from the 2 days of lesson, it will not just be head-knowledge but it will be something that they treasure seriously and will apply in their lives. Only time will tell! And let's pray for them that they will all indeed become men and women of Christ.
On the 2nd day, Rev Edwin shared his message in the morning. He shared about Joshua and his background and how despite of his circumstances, he was still able to find favour in the Lord. And during the night service, an altar call was called and many of the youths responded.
On the 3rd day, it was my turn to share. I had done all my preparations. I wasn't feeling unprepared but I was still unsettled. I was worried if I could be able to share for such a long time. The whole session was about 3 1/2 hours (with translation). I have never shared for such a long session. At most 1 hour. And I was worried if I would make any sense to them. I shared these with Rev Edwin the night before and he told me just focus on what I have to share and the rest leave it to God. And amazingly, even when I broke my sharing into 4 sessions, I had to shorten my last 2 sessions so in order not to exceed the given time. Indeed praise the Lord. And during the afternoon sharing of their discussions, they were able to share from what I had shared with them. I was really very encouraged. And most importantly, many of them remembered my sharing of my testimony. After the sharing, they were all teasing me that I should come back again to finish up the story. Haha! Let's hope so!
But I am definitely grateful to God! When things seem so trialing and hard, the only thing we can do is to trust in God. He is faithful and He will provide ways, means and solutions to our problems. And this episode was really a boost in my trust in God. May I continue to draw strength from the Lord. And my prayer is that what the youths have learnt from the 2 days of lesson, it will not just be head-knowledge but it will be something that they treasure seriously and will apply in their lives. Only time will tell! And let's pray for them that they will all indeed become men and women of Christ.
Cambodia 03
On that Monday early morning when I was leaving Singapore, I was still having the mixed feelings. It was a school day and it was early in the morning. I knew nobody was coming to send me off. The mixed feeling was very real and I guess it didn't help when I seemed alone. (No offense intended; it's just my feelings at that point of time) Still a very big thanks to Andrew Milner, Rev Wong and Leng Leng for sending us off. But I guess if people were to come to send us off, it wouldn't have helped either. I wanted to deal with the feelings. I don't want to run away or find ways to detour it. So I guess it was between me and God. Well! I did feel better after having a good breakfast at MacDonald and focusing on the things I needed to do in Cambodia help greatly.
That day after reaching Cambodia and after lunch, we went back to CCOP. There were quite a few youths who had come from different provinces. They were waiting for the bus that will bring them to PKH. I managed to strike a conversation with another youth.
His name is Chann Thoeurn. He is from the Province Svey Rien. He is presently studying in PKH. He has 2 elder sister and he is the only Christian. He likes English, Maths, Physics and Chemistry. He plays soccer and volleyball. He has also managed to share with me his testimony which I thought was very significant.
Here's the testimony (with his approval to share):
He wanted to learn English badly. However, he had no money to advance in his studies. So he prayed about it. His pastor told him about the school in PKH. So he tried to apply but his application was not approved. He did not give up and he continued to pray about it. 1 month later, he was told that his application to study in PKH was approved.
You may think that it is such a small issue but in fact it is not. Studying in Cambodia is not a guaranteed. Many wants to study more but they cannot because usually due to financial issues. In Singapore, we have the luxury of so many choices of education options that we tend to take it for granted. However, over there, people just want to study so badly. And with this testimony, it amplifies how great our God is. It reflects about who our God is and how He is able to help us in such times. It is a simple but yet powerful testimony. May we be able to draw a valuable lesson, learn to appreciate the luxury we have and most importantly to pray.
That day after reaching Cambodia and after lunch, we went back to CCOP. There were quite a few youths who had come from different provinces. They were waiting for the bus that will bring them to PKH. I managed to strike a conversation with another youth.
His name is Chann Thoeurn. He is from the Province Svey Rien. He is presently studying in PKH. He has 2 elder sister and he is the only Christian. He likes English, Maths, Physics and Chemistry. He plays soccer and volleyball. He has also managed to share with me his testimony which I thought was very significant.
Here's the testimony (with his approval to share):
He wanted to learn English badly. However, he had no money to advance in his studies. So he prayed about it. His pastor told him about the school in PKH. So he tried to apply but his application was not approved. He did not give up and he continued to pray about it. 1 month later, he was told that his application to study in PKH was approved.
You may think that it is such a small issue but in fact it is not. Studying in Cambodia is not a guaranteed. Many wants to study more but they cannot because usually due to financial issues. In Singapore, we have the luxury of so many choices of education options that we tend to take it for granted. However, over there, people just want to study so badly. And with this testimony, it amplifies how great our God is. It reflects about who our God is and how He is able to help us in such times. It is a simple but yet powerful testimony. May we be able to draw a valuable lesson, learn to appreciate the luxury we have and most importantly to pray.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Cambodia 02
I really learnt so much during this trip. It was a total new experience and even a break through in my own spiritual life. I have spoken to more people in this trip than the other 3 trips combined together. Amazing. And it's not just a mere "Hi" and "Bye". Mostly are initiated by Rev Edwin but by being able to listen to their sharing, it really means so much. It is like a stray of light seeping through the little crack in the rock. It is like I am starting to get to know them, their lives, their background, their walk with God. It is so amazing.
The first day that we reached CCOP, Rev Edwin went to speak with a staff and I was left alone. Not really alone. There was another staff around. He was doing the gate duty at the time when we were there. I had 2 choices. Either to happily and comfortabily update my diary or to keep my diary, stand up, move my heavy legs towards him, smile at him, say "JOUM REAP SU ER", sit down, start a conversation, continue with the conversation and who knows what next. Hmmmmmm. It seems like the 1st choice was the obvious easiest choice. Somehow, the Lord convicted in my heart. Why am I here? If my purpose is just to come here and share my message and 'full-stop'', I miss the whole point. I wasn't here just for a task, I was here for the people. There's no point clocking the most number of times coming to Cambodia but yet, I do not even know a single person's lives. I was so convicted that I told God, "ai yah, whatever lah, my skin quite thick and won't lose any meat if I go and talk. If nothing to talk, then You will give me the words to say." So I walk over and had a chat with him.
His name is Vi Bol. He has been working in the church for 4 years. At present, he is waiting for his entrance results into a Methodist Bible School. He says he is from a province which is quite far from Phnom Penh. He has 4 younger siblings and he is the only Christian. He shared with me how he came to know Christ.
Though there's a limitation to how much we can express ourselves in language, nothing is impossible for God. And by knowing them, even if it's just a little bit about them, it helps because we can always keep them in prayer in a very real way. And through this little bits of them, we strive to get to know them even better. And even as I update on the people that I meet, may I ask that we just take some time to pray for them. A short prayer will suffice. And as I update, I will slowly reveal the people I have talked with and may this help us to know more about them.
May the Lord our God continue to help us to pray for one another as a body of Christ, no matter where we are, who are or what we are doing.
The first day that we reached CCOP, Rev Edwin went to speak with a staff and I was left alone. Not really alone. There was another staff around. He was doing the gate duty at the time when we were there. I had 2 choices. Either to happily and comfortabily update my diary or to keep my diary, stand up, move my heavy legs towards him, smile at him, say "JOUM REAP SU ER", sit down, start a conversation, continue with the conversation and who knows what next. Hmmmmmm. It seems like the 1st choice was the obvious easiest choice. Somehow, the Lord convicted in my heart. Why am I here? If my purpose is just to come here and share my message and 'full-stop'', I miss the whole point. I wasn't here just for a task, I was here for the people. There's no point clocking the most number of times coming to Cambodia but yet, I do not even know a single person's lives. I was so convicted that I told God, "ai yah, whatever lah, my skin quite thick and won't lose any meat if I go and talk. If nothing to talk, then You will give me the words to say." So I walk over and had a chat with him.
His name is Vi Bol. He has been working in the church for 4 years. At present, he is waiting for his entrance results into a Methodist Bible School. He says he is from a province which is quite far from Phnom Penh. He has 4 younger siblings and he is the only Christian. He shared with me how he came to know Christ.
Though there's a limitation to how much we can express ourselves in language, nothing is impossible for God. And by knowing them, even if it's just a little bit about them, it helps because we can always keep them in prayer in a very real way. And through this little bits of them, we strive to get to know them even better. And even as I update on the people that I meet, may I ask that we just take some time to pray for them. A short prayer will suffice. And as I update, I will slowly reveal the people I have talked with and may this help us to know more about them.
May the Lord our God continue to help us to pray for one another as a body of Christ, no matter where we are, who are or what we are doing.
Cambodia 01
I really do not know what and how I should update about the Cambodia Trip. It is only a week long but yet the Lord has shown and spoken so much to me. I guess I will need a couple of days or maybe even a week to sort out my thoughts and experience. Well! For an appertiser, I'll start with the daily schedules of my week-long trip.
10 Sep Monday
Morning (Singapore Time)
0640 Check in
0650 Breakfast
0800 Board Plane
0930 Breakfast again
Afternoon (Cambodia Time)
1018 Arrived in Cambodia
Rev Tit Hieng fetched us
Went CCOP
1200 Lunch
1340 Left CCOP for PKH
1500 Reach PKH
Rest
Briefing by Khmer staff to the Youths
Evening
1800 Dinner
1900 Night Service by Rev Tit Hieng
Sweet Dreams
11 Sep Tuesday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Devotion
Breakfast
Teaching by Rev Edwin Tan
Afternoon
Lunch
Small group discussion + Skit Preparation
Games
Evening
Dinner
Night Service by Rev Edwin Tan
Sweet Dreams
12 Sep Wednesday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Devotion
Breakfast
Teaching by Xian Jie
Afternoon
Lunch
Small group discussion + Skit Preparation
Games
Evening
Dinner
Skit Presentation
Sweet Dreams
13 Sep Thursday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Devotion
Breakfast
Youths return back to Province
Set off for CCOP
Afternoon
Check in @ Golden Gate Hotel
Rest
Russian Market
Evening
Dinner @ Anise Hotel
Sweet Dreams
14 Sep Friday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Breakfast
Devotion
Afternoon
Lunch
Went to CCOP to join Staff Meeting
Farewell party for Karen Wong
Evening
Coffee and dessert
Sweet Dreams
15 Sep Saturday
Rise and Shine
Went CCOP
Xianjie joined staff for outreach in Kampong Speu (whole day)
Evening
Dinner
Sweet Dreams
16 Sep Sunday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Prayer
Went CCOP; Rev Edwin preaching at Khmer and English Service
Xianjie visited Church of Good Shepherd
Afternoon
Lunch
1520 Rev Tit Hieng send us to the airport
1730 Board Plane
Evening (Singapore Time)
2040 Reach Singapore
Time really flies. How I wish I have stayed another week! How I wish it will never ends! It is not just about feeling happy or excited being in Cambodia and meeing long-distanced friends. It is like the whole place, the people there are part of me. I am still waiting. Lord, You tell me!
10 Sep Monday
Morning (Singapore Time)
0640 Check in
0650 Breakfast
0800 Board Plane
0930 Breakfast again
Afternoon (Cambodia Time)
1018 Arrived in Cambodia
Rev Tit Hieng fetched us
Went CCOP
1200 Lunch
1340 Left CCOP for PKH
1500 Reach PKH
Rest
Briefing by Khmer staff to the Youths
Evening
1800 Dinner
1900 Night Service by Rev Tit Hieng
Sweet Dreams
11 Sep Tuesday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Devotion
Breakfast
Teaching by Rev Edwin Tan
Afternoon
Lunch
Small group discussion + Skit Preparation
Games
Evening
Dinner
Night Service by Rev Edwin Tan
Sweet Dreams
12 Sep Wednesday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Devotion
Breakfast
Teaching by Xian Jie
Afternoon
Lunch
Small group discussion + Skit Preparation
Games
Evening
Dinner
Skit Presentation
Sweet Dreams
13 Sep Thursday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Devotion
Breakfast
Youths return back to Province
Set off for CCOP
Afternoon
Check in @ Golden Gate Hotel
Rest
Russian Market
Evening
Dinner @ Anise Hotel
Sweet Dreams
14 Sep Friday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Breakfast
Devotion
Afternoon
Lunch
Went to CCOP to join Staff Meeting
Farewell party for Karen Wong
Evening
Coffee and dessert
Sweet Dreams
15 Sep Saturday
Rise and Shine
Went CCOP
Xianjie joined staff for outreach in Kampong Speu (whole day)
Evening
Dinner
Sweet Dreams
16 Sep Sunday
Morning
Rise and Shine
Prayer
Went CCOP; Rev Edwin preaching at Khmer and English Service
Xianjie visited Church of Good Shepherd
Afternoon
Lunch
1520 Rev Tit Hieng send us to the airport
1730 Board Plane
Evening (Singapore Time)
2040 Reach Singapore
Time really flies. How I wish I have stayed another week! How I wish it will never ends! It is not just about feeling happy or excited being in Cambodia and meeing long-distanced friends. It is like the whole place, the people there are part of me. I am still waiting. Lord, You tell me!
Open the Container!
I'm back from Cambodia! So much things and thoughts! I'm not sure if I can finish updating. I guess I'm feeling a bit mixed after this trip. And all I can and want to say is that I cannot contain my silence anymore. I want to say it out loud.
Sunday, September 09, 2007
FEAR
I dun know why but every new trip back to Cambodia always bring me greater excitement but yet also increasing fear. I believe I talked about this before in a pre-trip postings. The feeling is like I am going there for a long period or even for good. It is like alone in a total different culture, language, environment. It seems so taunting. It seems so intimidating. It feels like I have shrunk into a small midget amongst giants. Furthermore, having the responsibility to share God's word, it doesn't help. Haha!
I am not too sure why I am feeling like this or why God is allowing me to feel this way. Maybe to prepare me for the future? I dun dare to look that far! I do have a passion for Mission works. But yet to think about having to make big sacrifices to go to the Fields, I dun think I have the ability or capacity to do it at the present moment. That's why I always give my THUMBS-UP to all the Missionaries. They are really men and women of Christ.
Or maybe the Lord wants me to experience such feelings and teach me to manage such emotions. So in the future, I may be able to empathise and even share and help others to manage such emotions.
Or maybe, I am not even coming back after this trip. Haha! Ok! Lousy joke! (But who knows)
I pray that may this fear arises not because fear of men but rather the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. May the Lord show me the way.
Pray for us. These are Rev Edwin and my schedules.
Monday - Touchdown
Tuesday - Morning: Rev Edwin Sharing
Afternoon: Small Group Discussion/Games
Night: Service conducted by Rev Tit Hieng
Wednesday - Morning: ME
Afternoon: Small Group Discussion/Games
Night: Service conducted by Rev Edwin
Thursday - Afternoon: Break camp/ Return to CCOP
Friday - Not confirmed; Most probably visitation of church members
Saturday - As above
Sunday - Morning: Rev Edwin Tan - Khmer and English Svc
- Evening: HOME SWEET HOME
I am not too sure why I am feeling like this or why God is allowing me to feel this way. Maybe to prepare me for the future? I dun dare to look that far! I do have a passion for Mission works. But yet to think about having to make big sacrifices to go to the Fields, I dun think I have the ability or capacity to do it at the present moment. That's why I always give my THUMBS-UP to all the Missionaries. They are really men and women of Christ.
Or maybe the Lord wants me to experience such feelings and teach me to manage such emotions. So in the future, I may be able to empathise and even share and help others to manage such emotions.
Or maybe, I am not even coming back after this trip. Haha! Ok! Lousy joke! (But who knows)
I pray that may this fear arises not because fear of men but rather the fear of the Lord. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. May the Lord show me the way.
Pray for us. These are Rev Edwin and my schedules.
Monday - Touchdown
Tuesday - Morning: Rev Edwin Sharing
Afternoon: Small Group Discussion/Games
Night: Service conducted by Rev Tit Hieng
Wednesday - Morning: ME
Afternoon: Small Group Discussion/Games
Night: Service conducted by Rev Edwin
Thursday - Afternoon: Break camp/ Return to CCOP
Friday - Not confirmed; Most probably visitation of church members
Saturday - As above
Sunday - Morning: Rev Edwin Tan - Khmer and English Svc
- Evening: HOME SWEET HOME
The LORD is above everything
Who am I to judge who is right or wrong?
I am nothing but a servant of God.
And yet He loves me as His own child.
How great is His love for us.
I do not live my life as if I do not have a future.
I live a life for the One who gives me life.
He is above everything.
My feelings, my expectations, my ambitions, everything that is of me.
There are things that may seem hard to let go but in fact, it is not that hard.
If we can see that the Lord is above everything, there is nothing He cannot give us.
By letting go and letting God, we soar above everything with Him.
However, yet a wound is a wound. The wound may have stopped bleeding but it needs time to heal.
In His word, it is said, "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35
The Lord first loves me. I have no rights but yet I enjoy His unconditioned love for me. How can I then not recipocrate His love to others if I am called His disciples.
My only prayer is that the Lord teaches me to love more.
This tune and words were impressed upon me a year ago. It now serves a timely reminder to myself about God's unconditioned love for us.
FOR YOU
We may have hurt each other with our words and what we've done
We may have carried with us pain and shame
Life is all about moving on in God's grace and love
So let us look to Him,
The God of love
Who forgive and heal our pain
Jesus Christ, pour oil on our fire
Let the flame burn for You
Just for You
Standing hand in hand
We run the race
As we reach the line for You
Jesus Christ, pour oil on our fire
Fan the flame in us
Just for You
Our love for You is revealed in the love for one another
I live for You
I am nothing but a servant of God.
And yet He loves me as His own child.
How great is His love for us.
I do not live my life as if I do not have a future.
I live a life for the One who gives me life.
He is above everything.
My feelings, my expectations, my ambitions, everything that is of me.
There are things that may seem hard to let go but in fact, it is not that hard.
If we can see that the Lord is above everything, there is nothing He cannot give us.
By letting go and letting God, we soar above everything with Him.
However, yet a wound is a wound. The wound may have stopped bleeding but it needs time to heal.
In His word, it is said, "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:35
The Lord first loves me. I have no rights but yet I enjoy His unconditioned love for me. How can I then not recipocrate His love to others if I am called His disciples.
My only prayer is that the Lord teaches me to love more.
This tune and words were impressed upon me a year ago. It now serves a timely reminder to myself about God's unconditioned love for us.
FOR YOU
We may have hurt each other with our words and what we've done
We may have carried with us pain and shame
Life is all about moving on in God's grace and love
So let us look to Him,
The God of love
Who forgive and heal our pain
Jesus Christ, pour oil on our fire
Let the flame burn for You
Just for You
Standing hand in hand
We run the race
As we reach the line for You
Jesus Christ, pour oil on our fire
Fan the flame in us
Just for You
Our love for You is revealed in the love for one another
I live for You
27He answered: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind'[c]; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.
Matthew 10:27
Matthew 10:27
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Bye Bye
Bye bye, Claudia! This morning went to send Claudia off at the airport. Wah! So early siah! Suppose to meet her at the airport at 6.15am. #_# Alarm set at 5.15am. Just didn't want to wake up. So early siah! Stayed in bed till 5.20am den managed to drag myself off bed. So reached T1 at about 6.20am. There were me, xu en, Joanne and Xin Ling.
Haiz! Going to miss her. Haha! She will be back only during next year Chinese New Year. SO long! I am planning to go Vietnam year end to visit her. Anybody interested? Hehehe!
So after sending her off, went to have a QUICK breakfast. The coffee auntie really slow siah! I think I queue for at least 10min to just get 1 ICE MILO and 1 ICE HORLICKS! Auntie, buck up can or not! : p So after that went home and was so tired so went to sleep.
Something interesting happened during my sleep! I dreamt that I was trying to wake up from my sleep. The 'me' in the dream was consciously awake but the eyes just refused to open. So was like struggling to open the eyes but cannot. Den try coaxing myself to relax but the eyes still won't opened. Den tried screaming for help but couldn't say anything. Tried moving my body but also cannot. Wah! Freakish siah! It's like I was totally blind and paralysed. Thankfully, somehow or rather, the dream drifted away. The funneh thing is when I woke up from my real sleep, my eyes were very wet and soggy. And my right eye was sored. Darn! `.* Arrrhhhhhhhhhh! So impossible. Did I have that dream becoz my eye was turning sore or was it becoz of the dream that my eye turn sore? hahaha!
Sometimes SILENCE can be so deafening!
Haiz! Going to miss her. Haha! She will be back only during next year Chinese New Year. SO long! I am planning to go Vietnam year end to visit her. Anybody interested? Hehehe!
So after sending her off, went to have a QUICK breakfast. The coffee auntie really slow siah! I think I queue for at least 10min to just get 1 ICE MILO and 1 ICE HORLICKS! Auntie, buck up can or not! : p So after that went home and was so tired so went to sleep.
Something interesting happened during my sleep! I dreamt that I was trying to wake up from my sleep. The 'me' in the dream was consciously awake but the eyes just refused to open. So was like struggling to open the eyes but cannot. Den try coaxing myself to relax but the eyes still won't opened. Den tried screaming for help but couldn't say anything. Tried moving my body but also cannot. Wah! Freakish siah! It's like I was totally blind and paralysed. Thankfully, somehow or rather, the dream drifted away. The funneh thing is when I woke up from my real sleep, my eyes were very wet and soggy. And my right eye was sored. Darn! `.* Arrrhhhhhhhhhh! So impossible. Did I have that dream becoz my eye was turning sore or was it becoz of the dream that my eye turn sore? hahaha!
Sometimes SILENCE can be so deafening!
Monday, August 20, 2007
Weekend Away
Haha! I was away in Malaysia over the weekend. It is a long story how I ended up there!
On Friday, I went to church and Pastor Ngaim Koy came up to me. He was like very 'desperate' and he asked me if I could go with the Alpha team to the Alpha Weekend Away because there was no musicians. I was kind of reluctant because I tot of chilling out with frens over the weekend to celebrate my birthday. I was struggling. On one hand, I really dun mind going to help out but on the other hand, I also really want to have fun. Even though, I finally agreed to going, my emotions still weren't really settled. It was a bit too last minute. And Sandy told me the Lord delights in a joyful giver. So yup! I tried to cheer myself up by thinking about the nice things I can do at Malaysia.
So Saturday came, and took William's car. Was travelling to JB, Sofitel Palm Resort. Reached there about 1.50pm and was late for lunch. Had to kinda of quickly settle lunch in 25min. There was smoked salmon. ARHHHH! I just had to gobble it up. Cannot sit down and enjoy. Haha! Den the group was playing Ice Breaker alreadi when i got there. They were playing the Beauty, Hero and Beast game (similiar to sisscors, paper, stone) Den I was dragged to play. I played 3 rounds and I won both rounds. I'm just too good! Muahaha! Den Hui Jun led worship. Den Lydia shared the message. After that, was dinner. Wooo hoo. Had a chinese sitdown course meal. The food was superb. Fantastic dinner. Den Hui Jun said something that I can't remember but it make me blushed like mad.
Den night time the groups break up into individuals accompanied by a leader for Confession time. So I was like free and den I went back to my room. By the way, I had a whole room to myself. Wooo hooo. I soaked in the bath tub for 1/2 hour before watching soccer. Den later chilled out with William and Xiao Feng at their open cafe. Ordered a coconut mocktail. Horrible! How could they put such a horrible drink on the menu! (angry) Den went back to room, watch a bit more of soccer b4 turing in to bed.
Next morning woke up den went for breakfast. Good breakfast. I love the eggs. 2 sunnysideups and 1 omelette. Muahaha! High in cholestrol! Who cares! Haha! Den the next session where Pastor Ngiam Koy and the leaders prayed for those who wants to bless with the giftings of the Holy Spirit. So after this, had a testimony session where many shared about how and what God has done in their life. Really very touching and all glory goes to God!
So after all this, we all suppose to check out of our room. So I enter my room and took off my slippers. Den I heard a beeping sound from the door. So I exited out of the door and tried entering the room. But guess what, the door refused to open. Classic siah! I was locked out of the room, barefooted. I was told by one of the cleaner that the door's mechanism battery flat. Great! So I walk barefooted to the front desk to ask for help. So they got the mechanics and got it fixed in 5 min. Then quickly I packed everything and checkout and went for lunch.
Half way thru the lunch, a cake was presented on my table. Haha! So touching. They got a cake to celebrate my birthday. Nearly wan to cry. They also celebrated Xiao Feng's birthday. Den Pastor Ngiam Koy said a prayer for us. Then he prayed about 'something' and everybody was like replying with loud amen. So pai seh! And I once again blushed very badly. Kena teased by so many peopel. Haiz!
Dun know why I blushed so easily? It is so bad for the brain. The blood that gushes up to the brain. Haha!
I really enjoy this Alpha away. I could have chosen to stay in S'pore and celebrated over the weekend but it was really worthwhile to go. Seeing God's hands at work and also fellowship with family in Christ.
On Friday, I went to church and Pastor Ngaim Koy came up to me. He was like very 'desperate' and he asked me if I could go with the Alpha team to the Alpha Weekend Away because there was no musicians. I was kind of reluctant because I tot of chilling out with frens over the weekend to celebrate my birthday. I was struggling. On one hand, I really dun mind going to help out but on the other hand, I also really want to have fun. Even though, I finally agreed to going, my emotions still weren't really settled. It was a bit too last minute. And Sandy told me the Lord delights in a joyful giver. So yup! I tried to cheer myself up by thinking about the nice things I can do at Malaysia.
So Saturday came, and took William's car. Was travelling to JB, Sofitel Palm Resort. Reached there about 1.50pm and was late for lunch. Had to kinda of quickly settle lunch in 25min. There was smoked salmon. ARHHHH! I just had to gobble it up. Cannot sit down and enjoy. Haha! Den the group was playing Ice Breaker alreadi when i got there. They were playing the Beauty, Hero and Beast game (similiar to sisscors, paper, stone) Den I was dragged to play. I played 3 rounds and I won both rounds. I'm just too good! Muahaha! Den Hui Jun led worship. Den Lydia shared the message. After that, was dinner. Wooo hoo. Had a chinese sitdown course meal. The food was superb. Fantastic dinner. Den Hui Jun said something that I can't remember but it make me blushed like mad.
Den night time the groups break up into individuals accompanied by a leader for Confession time. So I was like free and den I went back to my room. By the way, I had a whole room to myself. Wooo hooo. I soaked in the bath tub for 1/2 hour before watching soccer. Den later chilled out with William and Xiao Feng at their open cafe. Ordered a coconut mocktail. Horrible! How could they put such a horrible drink on the menu! (angry) Den went back to room, watch a bit more of soccer b4 turing in to bed.
Next morning woke up den went for breakfast. Good breakfast. I love the eggs. 2 sunnysideups and 1 omelette. Muahaha! High in cholestrol! Who cares! Haha! Den the next session where Pastor Ngiam Koy and the leaders prayed for those who wants to bless with the giftings of the Holy Spirit. So after this, had a testimony session where many shared about how and what God has done in their life. Really very touching and all glory goes to God!
So after all this, we all suppose to check out of our room. So I enter my room and took off my slippers. Den I heard a beeping sound from the door. So I exited out of the door and tried entering the room. But guess what, the door refused to open. Classic siah! I was locked out of the room, barefooted. I was told by one of the cleaner that the door's mechanism battery flat. Great! So I walk barefooted to the front desk to ask for help. So they got the mechanics and got it fixed in 5 min. Then quickly I packed everything and checkout and went for lunch.
Half way thru the lunch, a cake was presented on my table. Haha! So touching. They got a cake to celebrate my birthday. Nearly wan to cry. They also celebrated Xiao Feng's birthday. Den Pastor Ngiam Koy said a prayer for us. Then he prayed about 'something' and everybody was like replying with loud amen. So pai seh! And I once again blushed very badly. Kena teased by so many peopel. Haiz!
Dun know why I blushed so easily? It is so bad for the brain. The blood that gushes up to the brain. Haha!
I really enjoy this Alpha away. I could have chosen to stay in S'pore and celebrated over the weekend but it was really worthwhile to go. Seeing God's hands at work and also fellowship with family in Christ.
Thursday, August 16, 2007
MUFFIN - BETTER WITH COFFEE OR TEA?
Today went to Plaza Singapura and bought muffin from Carrefour. 3 for $2. Bought a walnut, banana and chocolate flavour. Ate the walnut first. Not too bad. But I think I ate quite a few junk food before hand. So stomach feeling a bit sick from the walnut muffin. Haha! So didn't get to try the remaining 2 favours until supper. Went to watch Jay Chou's The Secret movie. Not too bad. Quite interesting plot (but won't say it's a new concept). The flow was pretty well thought through, though I do believe if I sit down watch again, I'm sure there will be some irregularities. Romance part was quite touching. Thought that if the romance was done more in depth, it will stir more emotions. Well! On the whole, good movie. 7 out of 10. And an extra 1 point if you are Jay's fan.
So coming to Muffin. Does it taste better with coffee or tea? I can read up on it, I can go analyse it, I can go poll the public, I can speculate but I will never know the answer for myself. Unless I try it myself. At least, I know this will be my answer!
So coming to Muffin. Does it taste better with coffee or tea? I can read up on it, I can go analyse it, I can go poll the public, I can speculate but I will never know the answer for myself. Unless I try it myself. At least, I know this will be my answer!
Monday, August 13, 2007
The BEST
Yes! I'm the best. I'm number one! If you want to beat me, you have to try harder! Haha! I'm talking about me being the goalkeeper. Yesterday was one of those game that put me to the challenge. Clean sheet! A few heroic saves! A few good long range crosses! 1 head-on challenge that left me on the ground. I am the man! Muahahahaha! All these to erase away the previous record of 7 goals in 2 matches. Haha!
I've read this article written about goalkeeper a while ago. Very hilarious and yet so true. I cannot remember the writer's name, most probably a freelance writer. He, himself, is a goalkeeper and he was recapturing his glorious and also many of the bitterness of being a keeper. (below statement contains abstract content of the writer)
When we were young and come together for a match of soccer, who is to be the keeper? Everybody wants to have a touch of the ball and plays on the outfield. So naturally, the least capable of all will be entrusted the 'most important role' (that's what the rest always say). Usually, the fat ones are chosen because by the fact they cannot run fast and their shape acts as a natural barrier, they make the 'best' keepers. I cannot remember why I became a keeper but I do remember the challenge, thrill and joy of making saves. That must be the reason why I became a keeper. (ok fine! I was fat too)
I guess as time pass, things does not change - you are still a keeper and your size is still the same or even better, bigger. Once a Keeper, Always a Keeper. Many a times, we are labelled as the easiest job in the game of soccer. We simply stand on the line and make sure the ball does not roll over the line. I wish it was this simple. True keepers do not wait for the ball. They have to be always on the focus, anticipating the ball movement and the whole flow of the game. Any let down of concentration may result in the ball SIMPLY roll over the line. So who says keeper is the easiset job?
And as a keeper, our job is the most undesirable compare to the outfield players especially a striker. A striker can miss 99 shots and score on the 100th tried and pple will lift praises to him. But for a keeper, we can save 99 shots and SIMPLY let in the 100th and we will be condemned as the villian. It is just not fair.
Well, then again, I still love playing as the keeper! Because SIMPLY, I'm the best!
I've read this article written about goalkeeper a while ago. Very hilarious and yet so true. I cannot remember the writer's name, most probably a freelance writer. He, himself, is a goalkeeper and he was recapturing his glorious and also many of the bitterness of being a keeper. (below statement contains abstract content of the writer)
When we were young and come together for a match of soccer, who is to be the keeper? Everybody wants to have a touch of the ball and plays on the outfield. So naturally, the least capable of all will be entrusted the 'most important role' (that's what the rest always say). Usually, the fat ones are chosen because by the fact they cannot run fast and their shape acts as a natural barrier, they make the 'best' keepers. I cannot remember why I became a keeper but I do remember the challenge, thrill and joy of making saves. That must be the reason why I became a keeper. (ok fine! I was fat too)
I guess as time pass, things does not change - you are still a keeper and your size is still the same or even better, bigger. Once a Keeper, Always a Keeper. Many a times, we are labelled as the easiest job in the game of soccer. We simply stand on the line and make sure the ball does not roll over the line. I wish it was this simple. True keepers do not wait for the ball. They have to be always on the focus, anticipating the ball movement and the whole flow of the game. Any let down of concentration may result in the ball SIMPLY roll over the line. So who says keeper is the easiset job?
And as a keeper, our job is the most undesirable compare to the outfield players especially a striker. A striker can miss 99 shots and score on the 100th tried and pple will lift praises to him. But for a keeper, we can save 99 shots and SIMPLY let in the 100th and we will be condemned as the villian. It is just not fair.
Well, then again, I still love playing as the keeper! Because SIMPLY, I'm the best!
Thursday, August 02, 2007
ALL SMILES
Haha! I'm still smiling, to my surprise. Haha! By God's grace. Indeed His grace is sufficient. And I guess the lesson learn is communication. What I intend to say may not be understood by others the intended way. Does that mean we stop talking? No.... the more we should talk. Talk already dun understand, den talk again, dun understand, still talk, talk until understand. Haha! But one thing for sure is God will never misunderstand. Even before we speak or think, He knows exactly what it is.
Lord, thank You for being such an understanding God, even before we speak, You know the heart of our desire. Though things may not turn out the way we intend it to be, one thing for sure is that You are in control. Let it not be my will but Yours be done! Amen!
Lord, thank You for being such an understanding God, even before we speak, You know the heart of our desire. Though things may not turn out the way we intend it to be, one thing for sure is that You are in control. Let it not be my will but Yours be done! Amen!
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Countdown
National Day is coming in less than a month! I am counting down to that day! I dare not say I am very patriotic lah but I still love my country. I thank God for placing me in this peaceful and prosperous country. Honestly, I have not been too keen to watch the national parade after that one year, the whole parade was a history lesson. I know a lot of hard works have been put into it but it is not the kind of thing that will attract nor boost my patriotism in me. Maybe the firework but the rest, hmmmm, nah.
I still prefer the firework. One year in my NS, I helped out with the fireworks and I saw the fireworks like fr 1km away. I just laid on my back and watch the sky being lit up with the colourful flowers of sprakles while feeling the trembles in the ground from the ignition of the fireworks. Wowwwwww.... That's the best firework I had ever seen in my life. After that experience, the rest of the firework display was far fetched from it. Hahaa! But it is still nice to go and watch with frens and closed ones. Haha! Especially when everybody start counting down and anticipating the fireworks.
As I talked about counting down to the firework, I couldn't help but think about relating it to our life. We do many countdowns in our life. As we count down, we anticipate the fireworks after the count of 1. But what if it is not a majestic or even a tiny winy display of fireworks. What if the ignition did not go off? What if the display is called off? Simply put, it never reach our anticipation. I guess somethings it is good to have expectation and anticipation but our focus shd not be just fully on the end product but rather on God, who is Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. Put our trust and faith in Him. For if it is His will, He will open up the right doors, shut the wrong one, tear down walls so that the answer will be right before our eyes. Even if it did not reach our expectation or anticipation, we know that God is in control.
I still prefer the firework. One year in my NS, I helped out with the fireworks and I saw the fireworks like fr 1km away. I just laid on my back and watch the sky being lit up with the colourful flowers of sprakles while feeling the trembles in the ground from the ignition of the fireworks. Wowwwwww.... That's the best firework I had ever seen in my life. After that experience, the rest of the firework display was far fetched from it. Hahaa! But it is still nice to go and watch with frens and closed ones. Haha! Especially when everybody start counting down and anticipating the fireworks.
As I talked about counting down to the firework, I couldn't help but think about relating it to our life. We do many countdowns in our life. As we count down, we anticipate the fireworks after the count of 1. But what if it is not a majestic or even a tiny winy display of fireworks. What if the ignition did not go off? What if the display is called off? Simply put, it never reach our anticipation. I guess somethings it is good to have expectation and anticipation but our focus shd not be just fully on the end product but rather on God, who is Jehovah Jireh, our Provider. Put our trust and faith in Him. For if it is His will, He will open up the right doors, shut the wrong one, tear down walls so that the answer will be right before our eyes. Even if it did not reach our expectation or anticipation, we know that God is in control.
Sunday, July 15, 2007
祢 來 告 訴 我
KEY: F
词曲: 顯傑
望 着 无 月 的 夜 空
情 感 有 一 点 谜 蒙
心 在 飘 浮 没 有 着 落
我 应 该 怎 么 做 祢 来 告 诉 我
望 着 奥 妙 的 海 阔
冷 风 在 耳 边 吹 过
心 像 海 浪 不 停 起 波
脑 海 里 不 知 所 措
该 怎 么 做 祢 来 告 诉 我
(Chorus)
我 对 这 份 情 感 没 有 把 握
我 只 默 默 守 候 只 因 怕 做 错
我 不 想 错 过
主 请 祢 来 领 导 我
我 的 一 切
我 的 未 来
我 的 渴 望
该 怎 么 做 祢 来 告 诉 我
词曲: 顯傑
望 着 无 月 的 夜 空
情 感 有 一 点 谜 蒙
心 在 飘 浮 没 有 着 落
我 应 该 怎 么 做 祢 来 告 诉 我
望 着 奥 妙 的 海 阔
冷 风 在 耳 边 吹 过
心 像 海 浪 不 停 起 波
脑 海 里 不 知 所 措
该 怎 么 做 祢 来 告 诉 我
(Chorus)
我 对 这 份 情 感 没 有 把 握
我 只 默 默 守 候 只 因 怕 做 错
我 不 想 错 过
主 请 祢 来 领 导 我
我 的 一 切
我 的 未 来
我 的 渴 望
该 怎 么 做 祢 来 告 诉 我
Friday, July 13, 2007
Cambodia
I should be going to Cambodia this September. There will be a Youth Camp in Cambodia. Will be held up at Seeds of Hope. Yeah! Really missed that place Had been there 4 yrs ago. Really looking forward to it. Let's hope I can clear my exams and den my project. Haha!
I will be going with Pastor Edwin. And he approach me to speak on one of the session. BGR. Haven't know exactly in wat aspect to talk about. But interesting topic. Honestly, I really quite hesitant even though I have a good level of knowledge and understanding but it's like something that I have no experience and am challenged with. Haha! By God's grace. By Your grace. Have to start to read up more things and plan for the session. Haha! Still very excited!
Got chance want to go and eat the Char Siew Rice. Then hopefully also can see some of those youths that I have known and also Rev Isaiah. Haha! Really miss the place. I thank God for Cambodia for thru Cambodia, I see God's hand at work and also see a bigger picture in life. I love Cambodia alot and I pray that the Lord will continue to stir in me the passion for them and that He will continue to use me.
I will be going with Pastor Edwin. And he approach me to speak on one of the session. BGR. Haven't know exactly in wat aspect to talk about. But interesting topic. Honestly, I really quite hesitant even though I have a good level of knowledge and understanding but it's like something that I have no experience and am challenged with. Haha! By God's grace. By Your grace. Have to start to read up more things and plan for the session. Haha! Still very excited!
Got chance want to go and eat the Char Siew Rice. Then hopefully also can see some of those youths that I have known and also Rev Isaiah. Haha! Really miss the place. I thank God for Cambodia for thru Cambodia, I see God's hand at work and also see a bigger picture in life. I love Cambodia alot and I pray that the Lord will continue to stir in me the passion for them and that He will continue to use me.
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Weekend
It passes so fast and it takes so long to reach the next weekend. Wish it can last longer. Even if it's a minute.
你 (耶 和 华) 來 告 訴 我
就 在 这 时 刻, 我 向 耶 和 华 唱 新 歌。
我 曾 耐 心 等 候 耶 和 华 ； 他 垂 听 我 的 呼 求。
这 首 新 歌 代 表 着 我 对 你 的 祷 告, 我 的 一 切, 我 的 未 来, 我 的 渴 望, 该 怎 么 做, 请 你 来 告 诉 我。
我 曾 耐 心 等 候 耶 和 华 ； 他 垂 听 我 的 呼 求。
这 首 新 歌 代 表 着 我 对 你 的 祷 告, 我 的 一 切, 我 的 未 来, 我 的 渴 望, 该 怎 么 做, 请 你 来 告 诉 我。
Church Service
I thank many of those who always without fail be in the hall or chapel way before the service starts.
I thank many of those who always give their best attention to the whole service even if they have difficulties understanding.
What is a church service to us? Do we have a tendacy to break up the service into different sections? Beginning is worship, then followed by Scripture Reading den Sermon den Prayer, den Announcement den End of service. Church service is simply to help us worship God. People can stroll into the service an hour late. People can have their own chit chat session during Prayer or Announcement time because it has no concern of theirs. People can leave the Holy Communion Service straight after taking the bread and wine without finishing the ritual. I am not saying I am fully free from all this wrong doings but I just cannot understand why people are able to take God so lightly.
Service itself is a worship. It is not to be broken up into the different sessions and in my own delights to choose which one I will pay attention and which one I need not. A pastor is standing on the stage, representing the whole congregation to come before God in prayer and people can take it so lightly and chit-chat, laugh and etc. A pastor is up on the stage making announcement, informing people about news and info and the same problem happen. Why? Because firstly, there's no full fear in God. A man standing up there in the authority of God but yet people can choose to ignore. Secondly, lack of knowledge of God, failing to understand what worship is all about.
If we are just into the comfort and convenience of worshipping God, then we may find ourselves doing all these in vain because it definitely will not draw us closer to God. As Kind David had said, "I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing." Likewise, let's come to the Lord with our best.
I thank many of those who always give their best attention to the whole service even if they have difficulties understanding.
What is a church service to us? Do we have a tendacy to break up the service into different sections? Beginning is worship, then followed by Scripture Reading den Sermon den Prayer, den Announcement den End of service. Church service is simply to help us worship God. People can stroll into the service an hour late. People can have their own chit chat session during Prayer or Announcement time because it has no concern of theirs. People can leave the Holy Communion Service straight after taking the bread and wine without finishing the ritual. I am not saying I am fully free from all this wrong doings but I just cannot understand why people are able to take God so lightly.
Service itself is a worship. It is not to be broken up into the different sessions and in my own delights to choose which one I will pay attention and which one I need not. A pastor is standing on the stage, representing the whole congregation to come before God in prayer and people can take it so lightly and chit-chat, laugh and etc. A pastor is up on the stage making announcement, informing people about news and info and the same problem happen. Why? Because firstly, there's no full fear in God. A man standing up there in the authority of God but yet people can choose to ignore. Secondly, lack of knowledge of God, failing to understand what worship is all about.
If we are just into the comfort and convenience of worshipping God, then we may find ourselves doing all these in vain because it definitely will not draw us closer to God. As Kind David had said, "I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing." Likewise, let's come to the Lord with our best.
Monday, July 09, 2007
Updates
6 July
Still in the midst of recovering from my sprained ankle. Thkfully, it has recovered pretty fast. I can at times walk without the crutch. Then at night, no cell and William and Lydia dropped by to visit me and my mum who happened to have also injured her leg earlier. Really very appreciative of my cell. The love, care, concern, support! So blessed to be in the family of God! Thank you to all who prayed for me. Then Claudia also dropped a oversea call which I didn't manage to pick up and followed by an sms. Haha! So touch!! :)
7 July
Haha! I could walk without the crutch. Haha! Then no need to bring crutch to the church wedding. So pathetic to be in crutch while attending a church wedding. Haha! Today was Larry and Jenny's wedding. Know Jenny since she was in Poly and I have seen her grown alot. From a noisy Ah Lian moved to Youth Ministry den later into helping in Children Ministry and now she becomes a MRS Kee (still as noisy). Haha! May the Lord continue to bless them in this new walk with Him!
After the wedding, we went to Vivo from my request. I haven't been there before. NOt really lah! I did go there b4 but just for a meal and left after. Nvr get to walk around. So went there and parked ourselves at Marsche. Den D.Y and the young girls went to entertain themselves somewhere else. Hehehe! Shared food with Jamie and Sue Fern. Honestly, the food variety so limited and so expensive. Haha! After that, we went to walk around a bit. Surprisingly, my my ankle was still intact. But I know the next day going to be 'buang'. Haha!
8 July
Went Church in the morning. Vicar talking from a few Psalms. Haha! Can't remember the whole sermon but basically in a nutshell, that in our plan, we need God! God does not expect us to walk with Him in leaps and bounce but He simply want us to take our every next step in faith.
During the JY class, some of us played Risk and we all like so friendly. Haha! After that went to EastPoint eat lunch and went back to church to rest. Then went for soccer. I couldn't play so end up playing basketball. Haha! After that, went to Bedok 85 for makan. Then met Xu En who kindly send us home. Hahaha!
9 July
I had one of the sweetest sleep of my life. No sweet dreams but it seems so light and sweet, like a big stone is tossed away. Thk you so much to those who had lent me your ears and share with me!
Still in the midst of recovering from my sprained ankle. Thkfully, it has recovered pretty fast. I can at times walk without the crutch. Then at night, no cell and William and Lydia dropped by to visit me and my mum who happened to have also injured her leg earlier. Really very appreciative of my cell. The love, care, concern, support! So blessed to be in the family of God! Thank you to all who prayed for me. Then Claudia also dropped a oversea call which I didn't manage to pick up and followed by an sms. Haha! So touch!! :)
7 July
Haha! I could walk without the crutch. Haha! Then no need to bring crutch to the church wedding. So pathetic to be in crutch while attending a church wedding. Haha! Today was Larry and Jenny's wedding. Know Jenny since she was in Poly and I have seen her grown alot. From a noisy Ah Lian moved to Youth Ministry den later into helping in Children Ministry and now she becomes a MRS Kee (still as noisy). Haha! May the Lord continue to bless them in this new walk with Him!
After the wedding, we went to Vivo from my request. I haven't been there before. NOt really lah! I did go there b4 but just for a meal and left after. Nvr get to walk around. So went there and parked ourselves at Marsche. Den D.Y and the young girls went to entertain themselves somewhere else. Hehehe! Shared food with Jamie and Sue Fern. Honestly, the food variety so limited and so expensive. Haha! After that, we went to walk around a bit. Surprisingly, my my ankle was still intact. But I know the next day going to be 'buang'. Haha!
8 July
Went Church in the morning. Vicar talking from a few Psalms. Haha! Can't remember the whole sermon but basically in a nutshell, that in our plan, we need God! God does not expect us to walk with Him in leaps and bounce but He simply want us to take our every next step in faith.
During the JY class, some of us played Risk and we all like so friendly. Haha! After that went to EastPoint eat lunch and went back to church to rest. Then went for soccer. I couldn't play so end up playing basketball. Haha! After that, went to Bedok 85 for makan. Then met Xu En who kindly send us home. Hahaha!
9 July
I had one of the sweetest sleep of my life. No sweet dreams but it seems so light and sweet, like a big stone is tossed away. Thk you so much to those who had lent me your ears and share with me!
Friday, July 06, 2007
My Crutches
hmmmm! Unfortunate, I must say! What a perfect time to sprain my ankle. Decided to go for an evening jog and to be destined by a small but diastrous fruit on the ground. A freak accident. I was jogging and I saw this fruit on the ground and passed by it. I u-turned back and once again came across the fruit. I didn't know why instead of running past it, I stepped on it. And that was the start of the disaster. I stepped on it in an awkward way and it caused my left ankle to sway in a left-right manner. Immediately, I knew my ankle was gone. It was like a bird that flew directly into a full speed plane. I laid on the floor in agony. Thankfully, I managed to drag myself home. And quickly I applied oilment and bandaged it up.
The next day, the foot was better but I needed a crutch to move around comfortably. Praying hard that I will be off crutch by Saturday. Looks pathetic to go for a wedding in a crutch. Haha! Here are some fotos of my pig trotters
Can you see the swell in the ankle? Like pig trotters siah! haha!
Monday, July 02, 2007
FOtos
This is the bouquet that I make for Claudia! Yes! It's one of the Princess series - I name it the Shalom which means peace in Hebrew. In the middle is 3 white roses which represents God as Trinity. Around the white roses are smaller light blue roses which represents the peace of the Lord. The next ring is bigger dark blue roses that represents the Sovereignty of God that He is in control. My prayer to Claudia is that as she moves to Vietnam, the peace of the Lord is with her and that the Lord is in control, taking care of her every needs and protecting her.
Hehehe! One of my flower arrangements that I like alot. Haha! I quite like the way I use the different leaves to create the shape of the arrangement. I must say it's a very unique gift the Lord has blessed me with. And I am not ashamed to show it. Thank You Lord! MuackS!!!!
The wardrobe that I bought from Ikea. I badly needed an extension. My original wardrobe (in the backdrop) is fulled. And the bar is bending like beckham. It will give way any time. So I had no choice but to look for one. Actually thought I may need to spend $100 plus. But I found this. It work perfectly and it only cost $50. Muahhaha! Thank God. Save money so I can spend on other things! Ops! hehe! Retailtheraphy is good for the mind and body! Muahaha!
Sunday, July 01, 2007
Youth Sunday
Haha! To be very frank, I was very annoyed and frustrated on Saturday. Practise so hard then at the end tell me change in flow of service. Then practise so hard on one song then at the end never use. I wasn't angry with people lah but I was just annoyed because being musically declined, it takes me longer to adapt to changes. But I thank God along these years, I am learning to control and manage my emotions. Haha!
Then today at service, I must say I felt so comfortable even though we only manage to practise the day before. And also considering Darren and Natasha playing the first time as a team and also James and Amelia first time on the Sax and Violin respectively. I really enjoy every moment of it. With the violin and sax solo part, it really give a new dimension to the whole worship. I do believe we still have space for improvement but I still must really affirm the whole team. I had a few compliments from the adults. They say the vocals were clear and distinct and the musicians provided a nice mellow feel to the worship. Hehehe! Well done people! There is also suggestion to keep this combination as a band.
Then Pastor Edwin preached about the cost of being a disciple of Christ. Then Rev Wong added on with some sharing which I thought was pretty interesting and funny.
He was having a conversation with his ex- fellow collegue who was a Christian as well. Then his friend ask him when is it the best time to serve the Lord. And he say that the best time to serve the Lord is in the youth because that's the time when one is carefree and don't have to worry about putting the bread on the table. And his friend carried saying that if we missed this chance, there's another better chance to serve the Lord. That is when one just started out in work because as a junior staff, there's less responsibility and will have more time to serve the Lord. Then he carried on saying that if one miss this chance, there's another better chance to serve the Lord. When one is a high authority personnel in the work because one will be experienced, influencial and wise to serve the Lord. Then again he said that if one missed all these chances, there's still a better chance to serve the Lord. When one is lying on the bed, breathing one's last. There is no worries and everybody comes to visit you. It's a good chance to evangelise. It is pretty comical but yet so true. The best time to serve the Lord is now, wherever we are, whoever we are and whatever we have.
Lord, may I be a vessel for Your glory and Your work! Use me as who I am, where I am and what I have.
Then today at service, I must say I felt so comfortable even though we only manage to practise the day before. And also considering Darren and Natasha playing the first time as a team and also James and Amelia first time on the Sax and Violin respectively. I really enjoy every moment of it. With the violin and sax solo part, it really give a new dimension to the whole worship. I do believe we still have space for improvement but I still must really affirm the whole team. I had a few compliments from the adults. They say the vocals were clear and distinct and the musicians provided a nice mellow feel to the worship. Hehehe! Well done people! There is also suggestion to keep this combination as a band.
Then Pastor Edwin preached about the cost of being a disciple of Christ. Then Rev Wong added on with some sharing which I thought was pretty interesting and funny.
He was having a conversation with his ex- fellow collegue who was a Christian as well. Then his friend ask him when is it the best time to serve the Lord. And he say that the best time to serve the Lord is in the youth because that's the time when one is carefree and don't have to worry about putting the bread on the table. And his friend carried saying that if we missed this chance, there's another better chance to serve the Lord. That is when one just started out in work because as a junior staff, there's less responsibility and will have more time to serve the Lord. Then he carried on saying that if one miss this chance, there's another better chance to serve the Lord. When one is a high authority personnel in the work because one will be experienced, influencial and wise to serve the Lord. Then again he said that if one missed all these chances, there's still a better chance to serve the Lord. When one is lying on the bed, breathing one's last. There is no worries and everybody comes to visit you. It's a good chance to evangelise. It is pretty comical but yet so true. The best time to serve the Lord is now, wherever we are, whoever we are and whatever we have.
Lord, may I be a vessel for Your glory and Your work! Use me as who I am, where I am and what I have.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
More Updates
There are so many things but just can't remember in sequence. Haha! Getting old.
After the trip to Wild Wild Wet, my skin has been badly scorched. The skin on my face became so dried that it wrinkled up when i cringed my face. Thankfully, it didn't peel much. At first I thought only my face affected since the rest of the body skin was intact. I was wrong. Next in line was my chest. The skin started to peel off. And it was itchy. Then were the shoulders and my back. So itchy.
Then for this first time went to Vivo City last wednesday. BUt din't get to shop since I was meeting for dinner. Met up with Daniel and Desiree. Then went to this shop called the Carnivore. Fantastic place. Their main dishes are just meats. I hear the 'yes' from all the 'beast' out there. The meats are fabulous. I feel like I ate a cow at the end. Enjoy it siah! Oh yah! I remember, morning went to send CLaudia off. She finally can go to Vietnam. Will miss her. Haizzz. Din't know what to give her so I give her what I do best. A bouquet of paper roses. Took me from midnite to 3am plus den I finish. So tired. Then after the send off, went to Suntec City. Then Joanne went to work and 'SOMEBODY' went to buy cheesecake. Heard that "SOMEBODY" went again to buy cheesecake. I wonder what so 'special' about the cheesecake. hehehe..................
Then friday was interesting. Cell was 3 adults, 1 boy and a toddler girl. Hahaha. Me, william, lydia, daniel and anna. Muahahahaha. The rest all not free. Though it was such a small group but it was still enjoyable. The smaller the group, the more time to share more intimate stuff. Hahaha. Thank God for such wonderful partners in ministry and also mentors.
Then today also very busy. Worship Practise then Patient Svc den attend a wake. Then me, darren, hui xian and joseph waited at Seminar room. Then talked a lot of crap. hahaha. Then got one point I went to make Cup Noodles for everybody. Went into the training room to get hotwater. Happen that some of the church pple there also and a conversation started:
Lady:(spotted my cup noodles) Ai yoh! Eat cup noodles arh!
Me: Yup! Cooking for the youths!
Lady: So poor thing! I think you should go get a wife lah!
Me: Yup! Get a wife. More poor thing. Then I will have to make 2 Cups.
Ok lah! I exaggerated the content of the conversation but more or less this was the content. Does a wife = to having good meal??? muahahhahaha!
It is so easy to rally people to have fun but yet so hard to rally people to do serious stuff.
I really appreciate Darren, Hui Xian and Joseph (and also Ding Yi who would love to come but got caught up with Choir) for turning up at the wake. Though we didn't do much but at least to me it means alot because I know this walk with Christ is never alone. Thank you very much! : )
After the trip to Wild Wild Wet, my skin has been badly scorched. The skin on my face became so dried that it wrinkled up when i cringed my face. Thankfully, it didn't peel much. At first I thought only my face affected since the rest of the body skin was intact. I was wrong. Next in line was my chest. The skin started to peel off. And it was itchy. Then were the shoulders and my back. So itchy.
Then for this first time went to Vivo City last wednesday. BUt din't get to shop since I was meeting for dinner. Met up with Daniel and Desiree. Then went to this shop called the Carnivore. Fantastic place. Their main dishes are just meats. I hear the 'yes' from all the 'beast' out there. The meats are fabulous. I feel like I ate a cow at the end. Enjoy it siah! Oh yah! I remember, morning went to send CLaudia off. She finally can go to Vietnam. Will miss her. Haizzz. Din't know what to give her so I give her what I do best. A bouquet of paper roses. Took me from midnite to 3am plus den I finish. So tired. Then after the send off, went to Suntec City. Then Joanne went to work and 'SOMEBODY' went to buy cheesecake. Heard that "SOMEBODY" went again to buy cheesecake. I wonder what so 'special' about the cheesecake. hehehe..................
Then friday was interesting. Cell was 3 adults, 1 boy and a toddler girl. Hahaha. Me, william, lydia, daniel and anna. Muahahahaha. The rest all not free. Though it was such a small group but it was still enjoyable. The smaller the group, the more time to share more intimate stuff. Hahaha. Thank God for such wonderful partners in ministry and also mentors.
Then today also very busy. Worship Practise then Patient Svc den attend a wake. Then me, darren, hui xian and joseph waited at Seminar room. Then talked a lot of crap. hahaha. Then got one point I went to make Cup Noodles for everybody. Went into the training room to get hotwater. Happen that some of the church pple there also and a conversation started:
Lady:(spotted my cup noodles) Ai yoh! Eat cup noodles arh!
Me: Yup! Cooking for the youths!
Lady: So poor thing! I think you should go get a wife lah!
Me: Yup! Get a wife. More poor thing. Then I will have to make 2 Cups.
Ok lah! I exaggerated the content of the conversation but more or less this was the content. Does a wife = to having good meal??? muahahhahaha!
It is so easy to rally people to have fun but yet so hard to rally people to do serious stuff.
I really appreciate Darren, Hui Xian and Joseph (and also Ding Yi who would love to come but got caught up with Choir) for turning up at the wake. Though we didn't do much but at least to me it means alot because I know this walk with Christ is never alone. Thank you very much! : )
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Have a bite
Well recently, the dengue has been up again. And it has caused quite a concern throughout the island. Checks have been ordered in those areas where there have been high cases of dengue. Education through all medias are being broadcast. One mean is slogan.
"They breed, You bleed"
"Bleed for your country, not the mosquitoes" (ARMY)
Haha! Interesting! So I decided to come up with my own slogan in support of this campaign.
"The only sucker in your life is your boss! Don't add one more"
ok! This is just a joke lah! Everybody let's do a part in helping to rid those pest. Let's make Singapore a clean and safe place to live in!
"They breed, You bleed"
"Bleed for your country, not the mosquitoes" (ARMY)
Haha! Interesting! So I decided to come up with my own slogan in support of this campaign.
"The only sucker in your life is your boss! Don't add one more"
ok! This is just a joke lah! Everybody let's do a part in helping to rid those pest. Let's make Singapore a clean and safe place to live in!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
