Friday, October 23, 2009
To those who hold an offense against me
I'm imperfect . forgive me . but if you won't, it's okay . I'll forgive you for that .
Friday, September 04, 2009
A Leader's Prayer
People are hurting, All around me
Juniors in their growing up years
Girls who look for meaning through relationships and emotions
Boys who constantly seek their worth in unworthy places
People are hurting, life is weary
young men in camps, drained by dry routine
still some in streets and campuses lusting away
at young ladies who loose themselves, seeking Pleasure's good opinion.
Father, hear me now. You sent me to them as leader and light.
How may I prove healer as you are to broken hearts and undone self-esteems
Satisfier of empty cravings and affirmer of beauty?
Create in me a servant's heart.
Widom in me, deeds of lovingkindness, I beseech.
Daunting tasks may be, still calling be mine privilege.
Juniors in their growing up years
Girls who look for meaning through relationships and emotions
Boys who constantly seek their worth in unworthy places
People are hurting, life is weary
young men in camps, drained by dry routine
still some in streets and campuses lusting away
at young ladies who loose themselves, seeking Pleasure's good opinion.
Father, hear me now. You sent me to them as leader and light.
How may I prove healer as you are to broken hearts and undone self-esteems
Satisfier of empty cravings and affirmer of beauty?
Create in me a servant's heart.
Widom in me, deeds of lovingkindness, I beseech.
Daunting tasks may be, still calling be mine privilege.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
National Day
I love my country.
During school days,
National day songs were cheesy (they still are, to some extent)
Singing the national anthem and saying the pledge were a bore
National Day Parades were lame except for fireworks.
I received an education nonetheless, and a world-class one at that.
During National Service,
I had more reasons to dread being a Singaporean
"Serving the nation" was the farthest from doing noble things
The nation that I suffered for seemed the least grateful in many occasions
Still the truth persisted - through young men like me I enjoyed our peace and wealth.
However, when I think back and consider the bigger picture...
When I think about my family and relatives that form the basic support of my life
The people I love dearly in Kum Yan Church, and my friends I've made throughout my life
The girls I've had a crush on etc..
Surely they are worth something!!
Where else can I get a close-to-similar experience?
Beyond myself and in honour's sake
This land that I was born to live somehow bears my soul whereupon to die in selfless ardency
For the Nation - God besides - that bears my identity
Shall inherit my soul's utmost devotion.
God Bless Singapore!
Majulah Singapura!
During school days,
National day songs were cheesy (they still are, to some extent)
Singing the national anthem and saying the pledge were a bore
National Day Parades were lame except for fireworks.
I received an education nonetheless, and a world-class one at that.
During National Service,
I had more reasons to dread being a Singaporean
"Serving the nation" was the farthest from doing noble things
The nation that I suffered for seemed the least grateful in many occasions
Still the truth persisted - through young men like me I enjoyed our peace and wealth.
However, when I think back and consider the bigger picture...
When I think about my family and relatives that form the basic support of my life
The people I love dearly in Kum Yan Church, and my friends I've made throughout my life
The girls I've had a crush on etc..
Surely they are worth something!!
Where else can I get a close-to-similar experience?
Beyond myself and in honour's sake
This land that I was born to live somehow bears my soul whereupon to die in selfless ardency
For the Nation - God besides - that bears my identity
Shall inherit my soul's utmost devotion.
God Bless Singapore!
Majulah Singapura!
Monday, April 13, 2009
breaking free
update! update!
sorry for the long break. totally retired from writing for a while, because i really couldn't find the purpose in blogs. well, it seems, now i have!
one thing that has been on my heart is the familiness of JYC - is it genuine or superficial? that being said, i totally DO NOT doubt those who truely love JYC and have devoted themselves to making it a warm place for people to come. however, because people aren't perfect, hurts do arise from wrong/imperfect/incomplete relationships.
relationships. that's the key.
from a leader's perspective, it's really good seeing friendships formed and people getting to know one another better. however, i feel that there should be more 'breaking out of the circle' amongst people who have their own group.
yes, it's good to have friends who are closer than the rest, and rightly so. BUT this should not lead to an explicit display of cliques whilst in church. very often, i get people saying, "oh, but it's so-and-so's group that's going for lunch at waterloo, and it'll be wierd if i tag along" and the like. granted, it really is awkward when we first hang around people whom we normally don't. however, we should not let such awkwardness get in the way of us reaching out. we need to face our fears of being the one to break through the ice in the persuit of building relationships that last.
ESTABLISHING GOOD RELATIONSHIPS WITH A BROTHER OR SISTER IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN BEING COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN CIRCLE.
think about it. unless God calls us to leave, we'll all be seeing one another for the next 30, 40, 50 years in KY! surely you won't wanna let such childish and damaging habits inhibit us from being truely free to love one another?!
i say that for myself as well. i haven't been perfect at exercising this very important principle. rather, i often fail. but i have learnt that comfort, when exceedingly sought, becomes poison. and i now want as many people to know it!
let us all be deliberately inclusive, with the purpose of making lifelong friendships. it is in our very nature to remain comfortable in our exclusive 'club', and we need to battle that nature, or it can well destroy JYC.
no more "them" and "us". let us be one.
sorry for the long break. totally retired from writing for a while, because i really couldn't find the purpose in blogs. well, it seems, now i have!
one thing that has been on my heart is the familiness of JYC - is it genuine or superficial? that being said, i totally DO NOT doubt those who truely love JYC and have devoted themselves to making it a warm place for people to come. however, because people aren't perfect, hurts do arise from wrong/imperfect/incomplete relationships.
relationships. that's the key.
from a leader's perspective, it's really good seeing friendships formed and people getting to know one another better. however, i feel that there should be more 'breaking out of the circle' amongst people who have their own group.
yes, it's good to have friends who are closer than the rest, and rightly so. BUT this should not lead to an explicit display of cliques whilst in church. very often, i get people saying, "oh, but it's so-and-so's group that's going for lunch at waterloo, and it'll be wierd if i tag along" and the like. granted, it really is awkward when we first hang around people whom we normally don't. however, we should not let such awkwardness get in the way of us reaching out. we need to face our fears of being the one to break through the ice in the persuit of building relationships that last.
ESTABLISHING GOOD RELATIONSHIPS WITH A BROTHER OR SISTER IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN BEING COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN CIRCLE.
think about it. unless God calls us to leave, we'll all be seeing one another for the next 30, 40, 50 years in KY! surely you won't wanna let such childish and damaging habits inhibit us from being truely free to love one another?!
i say that for myself as well. i haven't been perfect at exercising this very important principle. rather, i often fail. but i have learnt that comfort, when exceedingly sought, becomes poison. and i now want as many people to know it!
let us all be deliberately inclusive, with the purpose of making lifelong friendships. it is in our very nature to remain comfortable in our exclusive 'club', and we need to battle that nature, or it can well destroy JYC.
no more "them" and "us". let us be one.
Monday, September 08, 2008
Mike Guglielmucci
When I heard it, I cringed. "No! Not again! Please... Why?"
It was a nostalgic cry... I had a similar cry when word about Todd Bentley's case reached me.
Embarrassment. Foolishness. Disgust. Shame. The list goes on.
Why in the world would such a shame occur in the presence of God and his people, and among the top leadership at that? How can we thereafter have any credibility? How can His holy presence tolerate deception? Is His presence even with us?
But wait. There must be more to this. Before I let the emotions in, I've got to see what my Father is doing. That's right, He's doing something. He isn't surprised, and those to whom His heart is revealed don't have to be either.
Yes, the disappointment, anger, sadness, and all the other Godly responses to such a shame have their place, and rightly so. Still, we ought to turn to our Father and observe His works before cynicism catches up with us.
Here's what I've learnt about Todd's and Mike's incidents:
It's not about rallying. The number of lives you manage to impact is not a measure of your faithfulness, and neither is the number of followers you win a measure of spiritual success. Only 11 men carried the legacy of Jesus himself. John 6 couldn't be clearer. Jesus detested fans. He knew the crowd couldn't take the truth, and He gave it to them anyway, knowing that they'll leave. And we're called to follow Him.
That perhaps reminds us of the condition of the Church today.We're more focused on winning converts than making disciples. We're more concerned about whether our cell members turn up for cell than whether the same old beggar who lives down the street has had her dinner. We spend thousands of dollars on concerts, conferences and tours, and our poor neighbours remain poor.
And now, this.
I'm disappointed that it had to happen. It just shows the severity of the lack of the fear of the Lord in the Church. Had we revered God as the first Christians did, Mike and Todd would either have fallen dead right away like Ananias and Sapphira, or they wouldn't have been tempted astray if they themselves carried such godly fear in their hearts. Reverence for God - that is a true measure of one's spiritual understanding. God cannot be mocked. He will only come in His glory if His people are ready to submit to His kingship. Obviously, we still have a problem there.
However, I'm thankful that the deception finally came to light. Darkness is exposed, and justice is served. That's another glimpse of His Kingdom. Thank God He didn't allow Mike to lead us on. Alas! A God who says "Enough!"
While some mock us, and others cast doubt; while the faithful cry out, and those who are in it for selfish reasons dessert us; when the world accuses us and we can't help but agree - God is doing something. Let the world say what it wants to say, let the fans of Church leaders leave, let the media slice it's share of the pie... And let the children of God turn to their Father and see only what He is doing - that the Church be purged of it's iniquities and be refined by fire, and move one step closer to perfection.
It was a nostalgic cry... I had a similar cry when word about Todd Bentley's case reached me.
Embarrassment. Foolishness. Disgust. Shame. The list goes on.
Why in the world would such a shame occur in the presence of God and his people, and among the top leadership at that? How can we thereafter have any credibility? How can His holy presence tolerate deception? Is His presence even with us?
But wait. There must be more to this. Before I let the emotions in, I've got to see what my Father is doing. That's right, He's doing something. He isn't surprised, and those to whom His heart is revealed don't have to be either.
Yes, the disappointment, anger, sadness, and all the other Godly responses to such a shame have their place, and rightly so. Still, we ought to turn to our Father and observe His works before cynicism catches up with us.
Here's what I've learnt about Todd's and Mike's incidents:
It's not about rallying. The number of lives you manage to impact is not a measure of your faithfulness, and neither is the number of followers you win a measure of spiritual success. Only 11 men carried the legacy of Jesus himself. John 6 couldn't be clearer. Jesus detested fans. He knew the crowd couldn't take the truth, and He gave it to them anyway, knowing that they'll leave. And we're called to follow Him.
That perhaps reminds us of the condition of the Church today.We're more focused on winning converts than making disciples. We're more concerned about whether our cell members turn up for cell than whether the same old beggar who lives down the street has had her dinner. We spend thousands of dollars on concerts, conferences and tours, and our poor neighbours remain poor.
And now, this.
I'm disappointed that it had to happen. It just shows the severity of the lack of the fear of the Lord in the Church. Had we revered God as the first Christians did, Mike and Todd would either have fallen dead right away like Ananias and Sapphira, or they wouldn't have been tempted astray if they themselves carried such godly fear in their hearts. Reverence for God - that is a true measure of one's spiritual understanding. God cannot be mocked. He will only come in His glory if His people are ready to submit to His kingship. Obviously, we still have a problem there.
However, I'm thankful that the deception finally came to light. Darkness is exposed, and justice is served. That's another glimpse of His Kingdom. Thank God He didn't allow Mike to lead us on. Alas! A God who says "Enough!"
While some mock us, and others cast doubt; while the faithful cry out, and those who are in it for selfish reasons dessert us; when the world accuses us and we can't help but agree - God is doing something. Let the world say what it wants to say, let the fans of Church leaders leave, let the media slice it's share of the pie... And let the children of God turn to their Father and see only what He is doing - that the Church be purged of it's iniquities and be refined by fire, and move one step closer to perfection.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
My answer to a non-believer's question about marriage
okay. I'll attempt this, but it's only my opinion.
As a Christian, I believe marriage is a representative of a higher union - that between God and the Church.
Sex is an expression of love between a couple, and the setting that the Bible proposes within which the highest pleasure can be achieved is a Covenant.
A covenant is a promise, or a contract. And that is what marriage is. I do not know why this is so, but I trust this prescription, because that's what faith is about anyway - trust.
I trust that it is in God's character to give us the best, and not prevent us from having fun. Perhaps one reason he hates sex outside a marriage covenant is because it distorts the picture He wants us to see - the picture of One God and One Church, reflected in the union between one man and one woman.
And just as he would never leave us (the Church) or forsake us, so would a married couple never leave or forsake each other.
Just as he was committed to this love unto death (in the person of Jesus), so do couples vow "till death do us part".
Just as the union between God and man springs forth pleasure, so also the union of a couple (in sex).
Now, it is in this pleasure which flows out of the union between God and the Church that we doubt (myself included). The reason why people desire sex so much is because that is the highest pleasure available to man, so, the more the better! Yet, the Bible says that there is a higher pleasure, and that's in exploring God's character out of the obedience to his prescriptions.
Personally, I wouldn't say that I'm already there, but I've had a taste of it, and it's the thing that keeps me out of sexual sin! Say, when I'm tempted somewhere in the internet, there is a greater surge of desire that causes me not to go there, and that's when I think of my Christian brothers and sisters - times when I could be among them and enjoy the purest, most innocent, and most honest fellowship I've ever had. I know full well that when I engage in this sin, I would compromise on my purity, innocence and honesty, and thereby losing that spiritual bond the next time I'm among them. It will take me a while to recover.
Having these 2 desires to choose from, the immediate pleasure pales utterly in the light of the relational/spiritual one.
So, it's a higher pleasure vs lower pleasure thing, rather than pleasure vs religious rules, which many non believers, and even some believers, tend to believe.
So, if marriage then becomes a parameter rather than a desire, then my answer is - you're missing the point. I might even encourage you to go have all the sex you want, if you really believe that's what brings you the most pleasure and gives meaning to life. But I'll still offer an alternative - Jesus Christ. Wierd? Stupid? Irrelevant? Millions testify otherwise, if not by words then by actions, or even in death.
Peace.
As a Christian, I believe marriage is a representative of a higher union - that between God and the Church.
Sex is an expression of love between a couple, and the setting that the Bible proposes within which the highest pleasure can be achieved is a Covenant.
A covenant is a promise, or a contract. And that is what marriage is. I do not know why this is so, but I trust this prescription, because that's what faith is about anyway - trust.
I trust that it is in God's character to give us the best, and not prevent us from having fun. Perhaps one reason he hates sex outside a marriage covenant is because it distorts the picture He wants us to see - the picture of One God and One Church, reflected in the union between one man and one woman.
And just as he would never leave us (the Church) or forsake us, so would a married couple never leave or forsake each other.
Just as he was committed to this love unto death (in the person of Jesus), so do couples vow "till death do us part".
Just as the union between God and man springs forth pleasure, so also the union of a couple (in sex).
Now, it is in this pleasure which flows out of the union between God and the Church that we doubt (myself included). The reason why people desire sex so much is because that is the highest pleasure available to man, so, the more the better! Yet, the Bible says that there is a higher pleasure, and that's in exploring God's character out of the obedience to his prescriptions.
Personally, I wouldn't say that I'm already there, but I've had a taste of it, and it's the thing that keeps me out of sexual sin! Say, when I'm tempted somewhere in the internet, there is a greater surge of desire that causes me not to go there, and that's when I think of my Christian brothers and sisters - times when I could be among them and enjoy the purest, most innocent, and most honest fellowship I've ever had. I know full well that when I engage in this sin, I would compromise on my purity, innocence and honesty, and thereby losing that spiritual bond the next time I'm among them. It will take me a while to recover.
Having these 2 desires to choose from, the immediate pleasure pales utterly in the light of the relational/spiritual one.
So, it's a higher pleasure vs lower pleasure thing, rather than pleasure vs religious rules, which many non believers, and even some believers, tend to believe.
So, if marriage then becomes a parameter rather than a desire, then my answer is - you're missing the point. I might even encourage you to go have all the sex you want, if you really believe that's what brings you the most pleasure and gives meaning to life. But I'll still offer an alternative - Jesus Christ. Wierd? Stupid? Irrelevant? Millions testify otherwise, if not by words then by actions, or even in death.
Peace.
Monday, May 05, 2008
I am not ashamed
Looks like I'm going to be rejected again. People are getting their University letters. I've only gotten letters of rejection in past years. It'll probably come again in a week or two. The life that I dreamed of, the education I wanted, all my hopes and enthusiasm...
Dashed. I don't know if I should cry.
However, I am reminded of a declaration I once heard, so I looked it up again. I've found it to be a really great encouragement. It's titled "Fellowship Of The Unashamed".
Fellowship of the Unashamed
(The last words of an African martyr)
I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The descision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.
I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.
I'm finished and done with low living, sight-walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, mundane talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.
I won't give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I've preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ.
I must go until He returns, give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes. And when He comes, He will have no problem recognizing me. My colors will be clear. "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ."
--Extreme Devotion, Voice of the Martyrs, page 150
Yes.
I don't need good education, good job, or a good pay....
Neither a girl whom I can marry, a family, a house, or a car...
I don't need intelligence, looks, good speech or any other talents, and I don't have to be recognised for them.
I once said all I needed was Jesus. I shall now mean it.
I shall boast nothing of myself - no gifts, no power, no wisdom. In Christ alone will I place my pride.
For "I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ."
Dashed. I don't know if I should cry.
However, I am reminded of a declaration I once heard, so I looked it up again. I've found it to be a really great encouragement. It's titled "Fellowship Of The Unashamed".
Fellowship of the Unashamed
(The last words of an African martyr)
I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The descision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.
I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.
I'm finished and done with low living, sight-walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, mundane talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.
I won't give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I've preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ.
I must go until He returns, give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes. And when He comes, He will have no problem recognizing me. My colors will be clear. "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ."
--Extreme Devotion, Voice of the Martyrs, page 150
Yes.
I don't need good education, good job, or a good pay....
Neither a girl whom I can marry, a family, a house, or a car...
I don't need intelligence, looks, good speech or any other talents, and I don't have to be recognised for them.
I once said all I needed was Jesus. I shall now mean it.
I shall boast nothing of myself - no gifts, no power, no wisdom. In Christ alone will I place my pride.
For "I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ."
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Being a Spiritual Leader
I have been a JYC (Church Youth) leader since 18.
"Leader" was a word I tried to avoid using upon myself, in the name of "humility". I used to think calling myself a leader was a form of lifting myself higher than others. Hence, in the past, I'd describe myself as a "big brother" to some younger teens. Little did I realise that leadership had a totally different meaning than what I thought it had.
As I went through NS, I understood a little more about leadership - a leader was someone who had the ability to lead, and the character to gain his/her followers' trust. However, the best picture of a leader, I have come to realise, lies none other than in the person of Jesus Christ.
The attributes of His leadership have little for what any secular-minded person can boast about - humility, long-suffering, servanthood, loving one's enemies, compassion, forgiveness, turning the other cheek, going the extra mile, faithfulness, self-control... the list could go on. Nothing about power or abilities. Just plain attitudes. What's more, a mind-blowing 1/3 of today's world claim to follow him.
Not that everyone of them follows him totally. In fact I think many are just Christians in name only. My point is that these qualities (of Christ) are the ones that are worthy of leadership, as can be seen by the number of his followers (which is still quite considerable even after you cut off the not-so-faithful believers). These traits are not of loft or might, but of weakness. It's no wonder Paul said, "I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses." (2 Cor 12:5) Real leadership, I learnt, isn't about showing others how much I can, but how much I can't. (Not that Jesus couldn't, He could, but He chose to give that up and came down to our level.)
Today, I'm not hesitant to say that I'm a leader. I acknowledge the authority I carry, and by that authority I lead in my weakness. In that, I have come to realise that I need grace all the way. So since grace is found in every area of my life, it accomplishes God-sized things through me. No, I'm not perfect. In fact I'm a far cry from perfection. I am unworthy and undeserving. But that's the beauty of it - that God would use the lowly things to do marvelous things.
"He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."
- 1 Cor 1:28-29
In the end, leadership is all about humility.
"Leader" was a word I tried to avoid using upon myself, in the name of "humility". I used to think calling myself a leader was a form of lifting myself higher than others. Hence, in the past, I'd describe myself as a "big brother" to some younger teens. Little did I realise that leadership had a totally different meaning than what I thought it had.
As I went through NS, I understood a little more about leadership - a leader was someone who had the ability to lead, and the character to gain his/her followers' trust. However, the best picture of a leader, I have come to realise, lies none other than in the person of Jesus Christ.
The attributes of His leadership have little for what any secular-minded person can boast about - humility, long-suffering, servanthood, loving one's enemies, compassion, forgiveness, turning the other cheek, going the extra mile, faithfulness, self-control... the list could go on. Nothing about power or abilities. Just plain attitudes. What's more, a mind-blowing 1/3 of today's world claim to follow him.
Not that everyone of them follows him totally. In fact I think many are just Christians in name only. My point is that these qualities (of Christ) are the ones that are worthy of leadership, as can be seen by the number of his followers (which is still quite considerable even after you cut off the not-so-faithful believers). These traits are not of loft or might, but of weakness. It's no wonder Paul said, "I will not boast about myself, except about my weaknesses." (2 Cor 12:5) Real leadership, I learnt, isn't about showing others how much I can, but how much I can't. (Not that Jesus couldn't, He could, but He chose to give that up and came down to our level.)
Today, I'm not hesitant to say that I'm a leader. I acknowledge the authority I carry, and by that authority I lead in my weakness. In that, I have come to realise that I need grace all the way. So since grace is found in every area of my life, it accomplishes God-sized things through me. No, I'm not perfect. In fact I'm a far cry from perfection. I am unworthy and undeserving. But that's the beauty of it - that God would use the lowly things to do marvelous things.
"He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, so that no one may boast before him."
- 1 Cor 1:28-29
In the end, leadership is all about humility.
Monday, February 18, 2008
The Art Of Courtship
It is kinda sad that Christians today play the dating game (i.e. short-term feeling-based relationship). In the name of experience, "love", and other reasons, people who claim to love God have become lovers of man. What many fail to realise is that God has meant Himself to be the centre of every relationship (romance, friendship etc). Every relationship is an opportunity for the Christian to display God's love.
A typical couple would naturally base their relationship on their fondness of each other. The substance of the bond is the feelings. These feelings are expressed through candle-lit dinners, enchanting star-gazings, sentimental strolls and other romantic things couples do. These backdrops are wonderful. Indeed, they're so wonderful beyond reality. And when reality finally hits, it seems that this typical couple are complete at a loss. They've been doing all the romantic things as if they are the only things couples do. Thing is, candle-lit dinners don't prepare one for quarrels, and star gazing doesn't help one respond to financial difficulties. Romantic experiences are not bad in themselves, but they are a recipe for disaster if relationships revolve around them.
I am in total disagreement of the dating game for Christians. Firstly, God ordained marriage, not dating. Dating isn't supposed to be an end in itself. Rather, it is supposed to facilitate a wholesome marriage. The dating game abuses this sacred purpose. Secondly, in summary of my previous paragraph, the dating game does not benefit anyone in terms of preparing for a future life partner. Thirdly, the dating game is selfish. To gain experience, to feel good, to learn more - these are but persuits for the self. It has no consideration for the other party. Fourthly, it does not honour one's future life partner. Though one may remain a virgin even after all these relationships, emotional exchanges have been made. A part of one's heart and history has been offered to another person who didn't end up to be the one. (There are many more that I can think of, but I'll leave it for now.)
Alternatively, the Bible paints a radically different definition of love, and love cannot be better expressed than in the person of Jesus Christ himself. The Christian must believe this. He's got his own flesh and blood as food in place of a candle-lit dinner; a road to suffering instead of a romantic stroll; a stunning and seemingly offensive message to preach rather than sweet lovey-dovey words to whisper. In the same way, Christians ought to practice love in the form of the example set by Christ. I am totally convinced that we all need to realise this.
I believe that in this day and age, Christians have to be more vigilant and radical than before, for these are evil times. It is not enough to simply save sex for marriage and be equally yoked. We have to be radically committed to being pure not just physically, but also emotionally, mentally and spiritually. This world desperately needs some demonstration of real love, because salvation is at hand. We might still make it to heaven while we continue in our mediocre ways, but the salvation of others is at stake. Bible says that it is by our love that others will see that we are truely Christ's diciples. Through loving one another, others will be able to have a glimpse of God, and hopefully they will turn and believe.
While pain and suffering seem to be the last thing to be associated with the world's definition of love, they are the essence of God's kind of love. God's love begets sacrifice - there is a price to pay in order to express such love. In the context of a romantic relationship, truely loving someone means being responsible for one's part of the relationship; honouring one's partner; being committed emotionally, financially, and in all other practical ways; being ready to give up one's own way of life for the betterment of the relationship etc. At the very core, God's love is about being selfless. It is about desiring the highest good of the other party, and then being willing to pay the price for that good to happen.
Briefly, with more specific roles, men should imitate the boldness and humility of Christ. He was ready to defend his church with his life, and also humble enough to lay it down on his own accord. Similarly, men should be aggressive in defending the women and standing up for them, while also being ready to turn the other cheek when it comes to defending their own rights. Women, on the other hand, should desire to be the sustainer that God created Eve to be - one who encourages, supports, and has the capacity for her man's sorrows.
This should be the type of courtship Christian couples engage in. Imitating God's love in a relationship, making God the centre of it all - such is His art of courtship.
"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." - Jn 15:13
A typical couple would naturally base their relationship on their fondness of each other. The substance of the bond is the feelings. These feelings are expressed through candle-lit dinners, enchanting star-gazings, sentimental strolls and other romantic things couples do. These backdrops are wonderful. Indeed, they're so wonderful beyond reality. And when reality finally hits, it seems that this typical couple are complete at a loss. They've been doing all the romantic things as if they are the only things couples do. Thing is, candle-lit dinners don't prepare one for quarrels, and star gazing doesn't help one respond to financial difficulties. Romantic experiences are not bad in themselves, but they are a recipe for disaster if relationships revolve around them.
I am in total disagreement of the dating game for Christians. Firstly, God ordained marriage, not dating. Dating isn't supposed to be an end in itself. Rather, it is supposed to facilitate a wholesome marriage. The dating game abuses this sacred purpose. Secondly, in summary of my previous paragraph, the dating game does not benefit anyone in terms of preparing for a future life partner. Thirdly, the dating game is selfish. To gain experience, to feel good, to learn more - these are but persuits for the self. It has no consideration for the other party. Fourthly, it does not honour one's future life partner. Though one may remain a virgin even after all these relationships, emotional exchanges have been made. A part of one's heart and history has been offered to another person who didn't end up to be the one. (There are many more that I can think of, but I'll leave it for now.)
Alternatively, the Bible paints a radically different definition of love, and love cannot be better expressed than in the person of Jesus Christ himself. The Christian must believe this. He's got his own flesh and blood as food in place of a candle-lit dinner; a road to suffering instead of a romantic stroll; a stunning and seemingly offensive message to preach rather than sweet lovey-dovey words to whisper. In the same way, Christians ought to practice love in the form of the example set by Christ. I am totally convinced that we all need to realise this.
I believe that in this day and age, Christians have to be more vigilant and radical than before, for these are evil times. It is not enough to simply save sex for marriage and be equally yoked. We have to be radically committed to being pure not just physically, but also emotionally, mentally and spiritually. This world desperately needs some demonstration of real love, because salvation is at hand. We might still make it to heaven while we continue in our mediocre ways, but the salvation of others is at stake. Bible says that it is by our love that others will see that we are truely Christ's diciples. Through loving one another, others will be able to have a glimpse of God, and hopefully they will turn and believe.
While pain and suffering seem to be the last thing to be associated with the world's definition of love, they are the essence of God's kind of love. God's love begets sacrifice - there is a price to pay in order to express such love. In the context of a romantic relationship, truely loving someone means being responsible for one's part of the relationship; honouring one's partner; being committed emotionally, financially, and in all other practical ways; being ready to give up one's own way of life for the betterment of the relationship etc. At the very core, God's love is about being selfless. It is about desiring the highest good of the other party, and then being willing to pay the price for that good to happen.
Briefly, with more specific roles, men should imitate the boldness and humility of Christ. He was ready to defend his church with his life, and also humble enough to lay it down on his own accord. Similarly, men should be aggressive in defending the women and standing up for them, while also being ready to turn the other cheek when it comes to defending their own rights. Women, on the other hand, should desire to be the sustainer that God created Eve to be - one who encourages, supports, and has the capacity for her man's sorrows.
This should be the type of courtship Christian couples engage in. Imitating God's love in a relationship, making God the centre of it all - such is His art of courtship.
"Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." - Jn 15:13
Sunday, December 16, 2007
freedom
08 dec 2007 - O.R.D.
it's been 2 crazy years. 2 years of minimal freedom. 2 years of bondservanthood.
now, i get to come home everyday, shower with warm water, use my computer daily, and most dearly missed - i get to spend time with people who matter to me.
church has become my second home once again. just spending time with people who changed my life - that itself remains lifechanging indeed. playing, doing work i enjoy, meeting people i love..... these things have become so foreign.
in JYC... looking at the sec 3s just makes me wanna cry. i remember spending some time with ruoting before enlisting - she was such a chirpy innocent girl. now she's a changed person, matured and grown (perhaps still growing) up. limxi, quiet and shy; now she's open and expressive. bea was such a cute little girl, and now she's a leader in her own right, caring for younger ones and even leading her peers. (sorry guys, i got to know you all only recently =D no hard feelings okay?) and now that i've got time again, they're all leaving. what have i missed out?
missing out.... it's a difficult thing to accept. nevertheless, i've learnt lessons in these 2 years i coundn't have otherwise. now that it's over, i've got to make these lessons worth the while. 2 years ain't no joke. it's a heavy price to pay. i need God to show me how to live it right.
freedom is so cool. no book-ins, no regiment, no half-baked food (literally hahahaha). i really love this kinda lifestyle. i appreciate freedom. but more importantly, i appreciate the spiritual freedom that Christ bought with his blood - the freedom that can never be taken away. it was with me even throughout the last 2 years, when physical freedom seems bleak.
that is real freedom; it is grace so amazing. such freedom cannot be matched. the freedom i'm experiencing now would be meaningless without that greater freedom inside. that's freedom to smile at the storm, freedom to persevere in hardship, freedom to keep my words pure even when swearing seems to be the norm. freedom to say God is good in the midst of trouble, freedom to thank God in times of need. freedom to have joy amidst frustration.
wow. what a privilege to gain such freedom! what have i done to deserve such grace? it's so real, i cannot deny it's power. i can only stand in awe of the One who gave it all - He died to give me liberty. sin has lost its hold on me, and i have overcome death itself.
i am free indeed.
it's been 2 crazy years. 2 years of minimal freedom. 2 years of bondservanthood.
now, i get to come home everyday, shower with warm water, use my computer daily, and most dearly missed - i get to spend time with people who matter to me.
church has become my second home once again. just spending time with people who changed my life - that itself remains lifechanging indeed. playing, doing work i enjoy, meeting people i love..... these things have become so foreign.
in JYC... looking at the sec 3s just makes me wanna cry. i remember spending some time with ruoting before enlisting - she was such a chirpy innocent girl. now she's a changed person, matured and grown (perhaps still growing) up. limxi, quiet and shy; now she's open and expressive. bea was such a cute little girl, and now she's a leader in her own right, caring for younger ones and even leading her peers. (sorry guys, i got to know you all only recently =D no hard feelings okay?) and now that i've got time again, they're all leaving. what have i missed out?
missing out.... it's a difficult thing to accept. nevertheless, i've learnt lessons in these 2 years i coundn't have otherwise. now that it's over, i've got to make these lessons worth the while. 2 years ain't no joke. it's a heavy price to pay. i need God to show me how to live it right.
freedom is so cool. no book-ins, no regiment, no half-baked food (literally hahahaha). i really love this kinda lifestyle. i appreciate freedom. but more importantly, i appreciate the spiritual freedom that Christ bought with his blood - the freedom that can never be taken away. it was with me even throughout the last 2 years, when physical freedom seems bleak.
that is real freedom; it is grace so amazing. such freedom cannot be matched. the freedom i'm experiencing now would be meaningless without that greater freedom inside. that's freedom to smile at the storm, freedom to persevere in hardship, freedom to keep my words pure even when swearing seems to be the norm. freedom to say God is good in the midst of trouble, freedom to thank God in times of need. freedom to have joy amidst frustration.
wow. what a privilege to gain such freedom! what have i done to deserve such grace? it's so real, i cannot deny it's power. i can only stand in awe of the One who gave it all - He died to give me liberty. sin has lost its hold on me, and i have overcome death itself.
i am free indeed.
Wednesday, September 05, 2007
Army Open House
It's been a long time! Where should I start......?
Right. Army Open House. AOH lasted for 5 days, and was a really great experience for me. I, being an ambassador, had the privilege of interacting with the public. Also, unfortunately, my regard for Singaporeans has since deteriorated.
I was stationed at one of the information booths, and my duty was to give directions as well as to distribute freebies. My gosh. I couldn't believe it when I saw the way people would degrade themselves and express their ungenerousity just so that they could get their hands on some pretty useless freebies (small souvenir pins, pens and the like). Some would go around asking for more. Some would snatch and push. Some would come everyday just to keep getting stuff. Some cheated in the games; some stole. To me, that's stupid and shameful.
It's annoying to see Singaporeans like that. I mean, we're a first world country! We're affluent compared to our neighbours as well as the world. Need we be such misers? I mean, it's not even food! It's just some little tokens.... cheap stuff!
I'm not saying that people should not want those stuff. It's perfectly okay to want stuff, especially if they are free. However, the way those guys expressed their desperation for such peanuts was simply ridiculous and unacceptable.
Nevertheless, I survived. Thanks to all those who made my day! There were a few visitors who had the best manners in the world. There were also many cute children, whom we, the ambassadors, showered with gifts and free ice-cream coupons. Lastly, of course, there were the beauties stationed at the drinks stalls, tile-painting section and other parts of Family Land (the main hall). Without you, AOH couldn't have been memorable! =D
Right. Army Open House. AOH lasted for 5 days, and was a really great experience for me. I, being an ambassador, had the privilege of interacting with the public. Also, unfortunately, my regard for Singaporeans has since deteriorated.
I was stationed at one of the information booths, and my duty was to give directions as well as to distribute freebies. My gosh. I couldn't believe it when I saw the way people would degrade themselves and express their ungenerousity just so that they could get their hands on some pretty useless freebies (small souvenir pins, pens and the like). Some would go around asking for more. Some would snatch and push. Some would come everyday just to keep getting stuff. Some cheated in the games; some stole. To me, that's stupid and shameful.
It's annoying to see Singaporeans like that. I mean, we're a first world country! We're affluent compared to our neighbours as well as the world. Need we be such misers? I mean, it's not even food! It's just some little tokens.... cheap stuff!
I'm not saying that people should not want those stuff. It's perfectly okay to want stuff, especially if they are free. However, the way those guys expressed their desperation for such peanuts was simply ridiculous and unacceptable.
Nevertheless, I survived. Thanks to all those who made my day! There were a few visitors who had the best manners in the world. There were also many cute children, whom we, the ambassadors, showered with gifts and free ice-cream coupons. Lastly, of course, there were the beauties stationed at the drinks stalls, tile-painting section and other parts of Family Land (the main hall). Without you, AOH couldn't have been memorable! =D
Monday, July 02, 2007
Sore eyes
It's morning! blink blink blink.... My eyes... they're dry..... they're sour.... they're.... RED! And there goes my day.
This is something I live through. I visited and eye specialist earlier this year, and she said that I've got allergic conjunctivitis, which means that my eyes would become red for no apparent reason. I hate it, because it affects my image, and hence my mood. No, I'm not obsessively cosmetic. I'm not in the business of desperately trying to draw people's attention or approval. However, I do mind possessing a seemingly nocuous (allergic conjunctivitis, unlike bacterial or viral conjunctivities, is not contagious) quality that repels people.
So, on days when my eyes act up, I struggle to meet with people, especially during weekends, when it's time to go out. I talk to people looking down, or elsewhere, because I'm afraid I'll freak them out. Many times, I know that people would say that it's alright and stuff, but deep down, I know that people don't just see a guy with sore eyes and think, "Oh, it's nothing." I love people, and I don't like to scare them.
I've been praying for healing, but I have not received it. I believe in miracles, and I believe in the One behind the miracles. I believe He has His reasons for allowing this sickness, and many other bad things, in my life. And all these things are in my life because this is His way of loving me. Sometimes He's gentle, sometimes He's tough. In good times, I enjoy His goodness; in tough times (like when I've got sore eyes), He enjoys coming through. And when the going gets really tough, He whispers, "Just a few more years and you'll be through, past that (finish) line is life anew!"
Yea, so I'm persevering....
This is something I live through. I visited and eye specialist earlier this year, and she said that I've got allergic conjunctivitis, which means that my eyes would become red for no apparent reason. I hate it, because it affects my image, and hence my mood. No, I'm not obsessively cosmetic. I'm not in the business of desperately trying to draw people's attention or approval. However, I do mind possessing a seemingly nocuous (allergic conjunctivitis, unlike bacterial or viral conjunctivities, is not contagious) quality that repels people.
So, on days when my eyes act up, I struggle to meet with people, especially during weekends, when it's time to go out. I talk to people looking down, or elsewhere, because I'm afraid I'll freak them out. Many times, I know that people would say that it's alright and stuff, but deep down, I know that people don't just see a guy with sore eyes and think, "Oh, it's nothing." I love people, and I don't like to scare them.
I've been praying for healing, but I have not received it. I believe in miracles, and I believe in the One behind the miracles. I believe He has His reasons for allowing this sickness, and many other bad things, in my life. And all these things are in my life because this is His way of loving me. Sometimes He's gentle, sometimes He's tough. In good times, I enjoy His goodness; in tough times (like when I've got sore eyes), He enjoys coming through. And when the going gets really tough, He whispers, "Just a few more years and you'll be through, past that (finish) line is life anew!"
Yea, so I'm persevering....
Monday, May 28, 2007
Break
It's been a long time. I mean, since I had a break. The last one I had was in december. I'm currently taking a one week break from army life. Boy, this is awesome. No regiment, no orders, no duties, NO REVEILLE. I wake up when I feel like it, do whatever I wanna do, take meals as and when I'd like, all in the comfort of home. It's really cool. My home is clean, my bed is soft, my room is air-conditioned, my showers have got heaters, my family doesn't give commands etc.
Then I begin to question: what is it about regimentation that it's so hard to get used to?
I've been serving for about one-and-a-half years now, and I still don't seem to be able to get accustomed to the military lifestyle. I take a while to get awake early in the morning, I don't like following orders, I dread bunk inspections, and I still can't stand cold showers!
Perhaps it's just the way I am. I need lots of sleep, I've got my own way of doing things, I'm not a neat-freak, and I'm warm blooded. No matter how many time's I've done those regimental stuff over and over again, it doesn't change who I am. Looking back, I realise that I've actually been struggling with life for the past one-and-a-half years. I was too busy following regiment that I did not stop to consider the pain that I had. Well, perhaps that was helpful in preventing me from being pessimistic or cynical. But it's still good to know what's better out there so that I don't get stuck in that pathetic ignorance forever. Thankfully, National Service does come to an end.
Anyways, it's good to have a break. Chillin out's cool.
Then I begin to question: what is it about regimentation that it's so hard to get used to?
I've been serving for about one-and-a-half years now, and I still don't seem to be able to get accustomed to the military lifestyle. I take a while to get awake early in the morning, I don't like following orders, I dread bunk inspections, and I still can't stand cold showers!
Perhaps it's just the way I am. I need lots of sleep, I've got my own way of doing things, I'm not a neat-freak, and I'm warm blooded. No matter how many time's I've done those regimental stuff over and over again, it doesn't change who I am. Looking back, I realise that I've actually been struggling with life for the past one-and-a-half years. I was too busy following regiment that I did not stop to consider the pain that I had. Well, perhaps that was helpful in preventing me from being pessimistic or cynical. But it's still good to know what's better out there so that I don't get stuck in that pathetic ignorance forever. Thankfully, National Service does come to an end.
Anyways, it's good to have a break. Chillin out's cool.
Sunday, March 11, 2007
See you later, Aunty May
Each time i attend a funeral, death becomes more of a reality. It hits me hard for a couple of reasons.
Firstly, it is because life becomes different, and that process is difficult. A factor of influence has been taken away, and the sum of influences in my life changes and life takes a different momentum. People disappear. Like, one moment I'm talking to her, the next moment she's totally out of my life. And then I look at the world - life goes on as if what had happened wasn't a big deal. It IS a big deal to me, but the world out there doesn't seem to understand or care. So the next day I go with the flow, doing the things I've been doing. It's so cruel. Why doesn't the whole world just pause for a moment so that I can take time off to settle stuff? Why can't the world just stop running when I need a break?
The second point is my response to the first - life in this world is meaningless. I get stuff, I give stuff. I do stuff, and I undo stuff by doing some more stuff. I gain stuff, I lose stuff. I like stuff, I dislike stuff. I remember stuff, I forget stuff. And when it's my turn to be the object of the funeral, all this stuff counts for nothing. Damn these things! I am meant for SO MUCH MORE! I know it cos I see the capacity in me for things that are infinitely big and eternal. But I have to die.
God loves the world, so Jesus came. Whoever trusts in Him will have ETERNAL life. That's the beauty of the Gospel. It isn't for people who have it going, or so they think. It isn't for people who are great, or so they think. It isn't for people who are safe, or so they think. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is for those who realise that at the end of this road, all their accumulated stuff counts for nothing, and they're desperate for something beyond this temporal existence. It's not just what the Bible says. Our desires confirm that. Our appetite for fairytales confirm that. Worldwide trends confirm that. Terrorism confirms that (the terrorists are desperately trying to earn their place in 'heaven').
The Gospel is so appealing to our intellectual and emotional need because it satisfies us with hope (of something that has not yet come). That even if the Gospel wasn't true, it's still worth believing. But I know it's true, because Jesus came into my life and did something REAL and ETERNAL inside. And there's nothing anyone can say, no argument thrown at me, that will change my mind about that.
So, Aunty May has just accomplished her purpose on earth. She has made the decision to be honest with her need and follow Christ. And because of that I'm sure that I'll see her in paradise, soon.
Firstly, it is because life becomes different, and that process is difficult. A factor of influence has been taken away, and the sum of influences in my life changes and life takes a different momentum. People disappear. Like, one moment I'm talking to her, the next moment she's totally out of my life. And then I look at the world - life goes on as if what had happened wasn't a big deal. It IS a big deal to me, but the world out there doesn't seem to understand or care. So the next day I go with the flow, doing the things I've been doing. It's so cruel. Why doesn't the whole world just pause for a moment so that I can take time off to settle stuff? Why can't the world just stop running when I need a break?
The second point is my response to the first - life in this world is meaningless. I get stuff, I give stuff. I do stuff, and I undo stuff by doing some more stuff. I gain stuff, I lose stuff. I like stuff, I dislike stuff. I remember stuff, I forget stuff. And when it's my turn to be the object of the funeral, all this stuff counts for nothing. Damn these things! I am meant for SO MUCH MORE! I know it cos I see the capacity in me for things that are infinitely big and eternal. But I have to die.
God loves the world, so Jesus came. Whoever trusts in Him will have ETERNAL life. That's the beauty of the Gospel. It isn't for people who have it going, or so they think. It isn't for people who are great, or so they think. It isn't for people who are safe, or so they think. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is for those who realise that at the end of this road, all their accumulated stuff counts for nothing, and they're desperate for something beyond this temporal existence. It's not just what the Bible says. Our desires confirm that. Our appetite for fairytales confirm that. Worldwide trends confirm that. Terrorism confirms that (the terrorists are desperately trying to earn their place in 'heaven').
The Gospel is so appealing to our intellectual and emotional need because it satisfies us with hope (of something that has not yet come). That even if the Gospel wasn't true, it's still worth believing. But I know it's true, because Jesus came into my life and did something REAL and ETERNAL inside. And there's nothing anyone can say, no argument thrown at me, that will change my mind about that.
So, Aunty May has just accomplished her purpose on earth. She has made the decision to be honest with her need and follow Christ. And because of that I'm sure that I'll see her in paradise, soon.
Friday, February 16, 2007
Happy Belated Valentine's Day
As the number of Valentine's Days that I've lived through increase, my impression of this lovely day changes from one that's all about romance to a day that could include friends and family.
I remember that while I was in my mid teens, V Day was the worst day to stay outside. I would go home immediately after school. Obviously, I didn't have a date. Time and again, I told myself that by the following V Day I must have had a date. On hindsight... how stupid.
This year, however, I went out with a bunch of guy friends! They were my army friends. We had half the day off. So we went to town. We did little more than playing lan though... how embarrassing! Still, we kinda had a quality time together and that's what matters.
Nevertheless, there's still a lingering hope in my heart - I've got to be honest - that on 14 February 2008, I'll have a date!
I remember that while I was in my mid teens, V Day was the worst day to stay outside. I would go home immediately after school. Obviously, I didn't have a date. Time and again, I told myself that by the following V Day I must have had a date. On hindsight... how stupid.
This year, however, I went out with a bunch of guy friends! They were my army friends. We had half the day off. So we went to town. We did little more than playing lan though... how embarrassing! Still, we kinda had a quality time together and that's what matters.
Nevertheless, there's still a lingering hope in my heart - I've got to be honest - that on 14 February 2008, I'll have a date!
Sunday, January 28, 2007
What makes a Christian
A series of events have led me to question the meaning of being a Christian. Is it being perfect? Or always having an exemplary conduct?
Such expectations may sound absurd. But, having been attending church since nine months before I was born, I realise that many people I've known do expect me to behave in a certain manner, often that which is more restricted and conservative. Say, I'm not supposed to play pranks or talk about taboo subjects etc...
So, I came to a conclusion.
A Christian is inherently imperfect. I am hopelessly imperfect and utterly in need of remedy. That's why I recognise the need for God; that's why I really need a Saviour! Thus it wouldn't make sense if people expect Christians to be sweeties and Mr. Nice Guys. We really are not! Rather, we're ones who've come to realise that.
However, that's not to say that we can forget about our obligation to do good. I'm just saying that doing good doesn't make us Christians - good deeds don't lead us to heaven. Rather, heaven has come to us freely. And since we've gained something we don't deserve, out of a grateful heart, we would naturally extend the grace which was first extended to us.
Hence, a Christian is as much of a mistake-maker as a non-Christian. The difference is that the Christian has chosen to acknowledge his sins and accepted God (Jesus) as his Saviour, and is thus saved.
(These are my personal thoughts and are the result of my experiences. They do not reflect the stand of the Christian Church or any Christian leader.)
Such expectations may sound absurd. But, having been attending church since nine months before I was born, I realise that many people I've known do expect me to behave in a certain manner, often that which is more restricted and conservative. Say, I'm not supposed to play pranks or talk about taboo subjects etc...
So, I came to a conclusion.
A Christian is inherently imperfect. I am hopelessly imperfect and utterly in need of remedy. That's why I recognise the need for God; that's why I really need a Saviour! Thus it wouldn't make sense if people expect Christians to be sweeties and Mr. Nice Guys. We really are not! Rather, we're ones who've come to realise that.
However, that's not to say that we can forget about our obligation to do good. I'm just saying that doing good doesn't make us Christians - good deeds don't lead us to heaven. Rather, heaven has come to us freely. And since we've gained something we don't deserve, out of a grateful heart, we would naturally extend the grace which was first extended to us.
Hence, a Christian is as much of a mistake-maker as a non-Christian. The difference is that the Christian has chosen to acknowledge his sins and accepted God (Jesus) as his Saviour, and is thus saved.
(These are my personal thoughts and are the result of my experiences. They do not reflect the stand of the Christian Church or any Christian leader.)
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Found!
I lost my 11B (military ID) over the weekend. Thank God Ian found it in his office, along with other stuff that fell off my wallet. About 11 months ago, I had lost my first 11B (hmm I must be a really careless person). Back then, I was worried sick about it, cos I was afraid of what my superiors might have done to me. (oh, I really did lose my 11B then and they did nothing to me.. I just had to pay a replacement fee of $50)
Back then, there was Ian too! He told me not to worry. My superiors could have punished me however they wished, but they couldn't take my life. That was one golden advice I held to throughout my army life thus far. And I thank God, because I know that my life is in His hands. Because He is in control, things don't just happen to me randomly, leaving me to fend for myself and make do with what life throws at me. No, every circumstance is intended for me - the good which he lovingly grants and the bad which He also lovingly allows for my training.
I think that's why Paul rehetorically asked, "If My God is for me, who then can be against me?" Indeed, having God on my side is a win-win situation. Good times bless me and bad times train me. What have I got to lose? Haha! I'm so happy and relieved now that I'm typing without stopping to think.... hahahahaha
Bible talks about how people lose things and later find them, afterward being more careful with the way they keep them. Yea, how timely it is that my mum just gave me a new wallet, which is more secured than my current one! I don't know... things are just happening so quickly =)
All in all, I think I owe everything to God, who owns the universe in the first place. Better than my 11B, I've found One whom I can trust forever.
Back then, there was Ian too! He told me not to worry. My superiors could have punished me however they wished, but they couldn't take my life. That was one golden advice I held to throughout my army life thus far. And I thank God, because I know that my life is in His hands. Because He is in control, things don't just happen to me randomly, leaving me to fend for myself and make do with what life throws at me. No, every circumstance is intended for me - the good which he lovingly grants and the bad which He also lovingly allows for my training.
I think that's why Paul rehetorically asked, "If My God is for me, who then can be against me?" Indeed, having God on my side is a win-win situation. Good times bless me and bad times train me. What have I got to lose? Haha! I'm so happy and relieved now that I'm typing without stopping to think.... hahahahaha
Bible talks about how people lose things and later find them, afterward being more careful with the way they keep them. Yea, how timely it is that my mum just gave me a new wallet, which is more secured than my current one! I don't know... things are just happening so quickly =)
All in all, I think I owe everything to God, who owns the universe in the first place. Better than my 11B, I've found One whom I can trust forever.
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Hello 2007
I've got a special feeling about this year, and I'm pretty excited about it. As I breathed past the new year, I recalled how I started off in the year 2006. It was the worst year of my life - thanks to national service. Don't be mistaken - I'm not anti-NS. In fact I regard NS as an important factor of Singapore's survival. It was the seemingly random (yet all too timely to be arbitrary) s**t (pardon me, I couldn't think of a better word) I was in that tore me apart, all the way till the end of the year, which was when things started to get better. So, by now, all the trials seem to be over.
As some preach, trials come before a blessing. In addition, this is the seventh year of the third millenium (pretty numbers: 7 and 3). Hence optimism =) I might sound utterly superstitious, but the equation seems all too fitting to be false.
Right now, I'm not sure what to expect. But I'm pretty sure things can't get worse. I've plunged rock bottom. There's only one way left.
As some preach, trials come before a blessing. In addition, this is the seventh year of the third millenium (pretty numbers: 7 and 3). Hence optimism =) I might sound utterly superstitious, but the equation seems all too fitting to be false.
Right now, I'm not sure what to expect. But I'm pretty sure things can't get worse. I've plunged rock bottom. There's only one way left.
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