God Teaches; We Practice

Today has been an eventful day for me. Yesterday I learnt the need to pray in the midst of curiosity and just now I had to put the lesson to practice.

I was with my sister along Millennia Walk towards one of the entrances to the racing ground when we saw this tourist lying on the grass patch. His girlfriend was with him. As we were walking towards the couple, I could see blood dripping from his forehead. His shirt had bloodstains as well. The lady with the injured man did not know exactly what to do.

I decided to help since I have some knowledge in first aid when I was in the army. We had to use a stack of tissue papers (the best we could find then) for the lady to apply pressure on the gash. While she did that, I had to make sure the man remained conscious by talking to him. I also needed to dab some water on his lips to ensure that he does not dehydrate. I also asked the gentleman to wriggle his toes and fingers ensure better blood circulation.

Medical assistance arrived 15 minutes later. By this time, I was the one applying pressure on the man's wound as his girlfriend's legs were numbed from the squatting position she was in. The medic examined the wound which I could also see. It was deep.

The ambulance came a while later and the tourist from New York was sent to the hospital to have the gash stitched up. I stayed back to help supply the police with some information needed for further investigation.

After that, my sister followed me to the restroom to have my hands washed as there were blood on my fingers.

I am actually quite proud of my sister - though she is scared of the sight of blood, she was near enough to assist with the constant supplies of water and tissue papers when needed. I am glad that she did not faint. Hee. :)

Anyway, throughout she prayed for the man and his girlfriend. I also did that when I was attending to the tourist whom I could tell was drunk. He was reeked with alcohol.

This was just one incident we encountered. The other was when we were done with watching the race - we were in basement one of Raffles City when we witnessed a fight between three ladies and a couple. I guess it was over a staring incident. The three ladies threw containers of soft-drinks at the couple and an argument ensued.

I decided to report the incident to the shopping centre's receptionist who in turn got the securities to handle the case. I pointed the relevant parties to them and they took over from there.

Again, I prayed for the five individuals involved as my sister and I left the scene.

Wow! What a dramatic evening we had! :)

Anyway, I enjoyed the time spent in church the whole morning and early afternoon though I have to admit that I was exhausted after everything was over.

The Missions Ministry's Exhibition went well; the worship I led also went smoothly; and the first missions training session turned out fine in the end. All thanks and praise to God! Glory to Him as well.

Okie, I will share more in the next blog. I am tired and shall go and sleep now.

Have a blessed week ahead!

Pray In The Midst Of Curiosity

I was thinking of going for the Formula One qualifying rounds but in the end I decided against it. Tomorrow I need to be in church early to set up the Missions Ministry's Exhibition booth at the Plaza. I also need to prepare for the praise and worship session which I am leading at the contemporary service.

Well, yesterday's worship team rehearsal went pretty well. After taken a break from worship-leading for a couple of months, I have to confess that there were some inertia. I basically felt the need to be oiled as I sensed a bit of rust in me. Haha. :) Praise God though after the second run of the practice, the team members were able to find their momentum and the flow of the songs felt better.

I was telling the Lord just now that I have prepared all that I can. What I can do now is basically for Him to use me as He deems fit. I hope when I am in the midst of leading that I will not let my own wisdom come in the way. Sometimes I do fall into that and I pray I will just fix my eyes on God and nothing else.

I rested well in the afternoon after I went out with my sister in the morning for breakfast. We also went to the Animal Resort along Jalan Kayu and the Ericsson Pet Farm in Pasir Ris with her youngest sister and two nieces. It was fun as we fed the animals. The dogs were all so cute. I cannot deny that I was thinking of getting another doggy but of course it is easier said than done. :)

I was so tired that I slept from around 4 to 8pm. Haha. I know... I felt like a pig when I woke up. :(

I feel fresh now though. After dinner I ironed some clothes and also did some more preparations for the worship session. Praise the Lord for having guided me through this day.

Before I go, just a thought for all to consider. When we were driving along the East Coast Park Expressway (ECP), we saw an accident where this car was totally smashed up in the front - the worst part was where the passenger side is.

Prior to reaching the accident scene, we were informed about it by the digital display boards along the highway. Though we could have detoured to another route to get to our destination, I told my sister that we would still use the ECP so that we can catch sight of the crash.

I do not know whether it is right for me to generalise this but I think most of the time we are curious to see how bad an accident can be when we know that there is one ahead. The questions I had this morning were these - after seeing the accident, what then? Should I start commenting as to whose fault it is; as to how lousy the brand of the crashed car is; whether the driver or passengers died?

The lesson I learnt has got to do with prayer. I guess whenever we witness an accident scene, we should stop asking all the questions above. Instead we should pray for the victims and hope that the Lord will sustain their lives and also to comfort the families especially when there is a death involved.

Okie, I need to go and sleep now. Long day tomorrow!

"I will exalt you, my God the King; I will praise your name for ever and ever. Every day I will praise you and extol your name for ever and ever. Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. One generation will commend your works to another; they will tell of your mighty acts. They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works. They will tell of the power of your awesome works, and I will proclaim your great deeds. They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness. The LORD is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The LORD is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made. All you have made will praise you, O LORD; your saints will extol you. They will tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might, so that all men may know of your mighty acts and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations. The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made. The LORD upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food at the proper time. You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing. The LORD is righteous in all his ways and loving toward all he has made. The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them. The LORD watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy. My mouth will speak in praise of the LORD. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever." Psalm 145

God Is Always Full Of Surprises!

Half of the one-week varsity's recess is over. I thought I am able to find some time this week to catch a breather but from the look of my current situation, it does not seem to be so.

Since Monday, I have been typing countless reports (many more to go) and replying loads of emails concerning work; as for ministries in churches, I have been drafting pages upon pages of articles for the Missions Ministry Newsletter. I have also been pondering on what I need to do for the worship session for this Sunday's service.

So many things to handle and it does not help when certain plans did not turn out the way I want them to be. When I dwelled on them and tried to deal with the problems in my own strength, what came next were frustration and anger. Sadly, because of this, some of my closer friends became victims in whom I vented my frustrations on.

To make matters worse, my tongue has an ulcer and my lower gum is infected. It hurts each time I open my mouth to speak.

I guess this is one way God is helping me to be still. I guess He wants me to stop complaining and whining (shut up, that is!) and just be still and know that He is God; that He can help me with my problems.

Well, a reminder for me this week - no point getting affected by the obstacles and setbacks of life. Ultimately God will make a way and all will be well again.

There is truth in this because He surprises me once in a while by solving the problems for me without me doing anything at all.

The newsletter that I have to prepare is now short of one article only and I should be able to receive it by tonight; initially my Pastor-in-Charge told me she was unable to write an article I requested for but when I checked my email just now, she managed to do so in spite of her busyness and having to deal with some emergency matters at home.

My God Almighty is One who never fails to surprise His children. Each time I experience that, it brings a smile on my face and I could feel the heavy load being lifted off my shoulders.

Well, all thanks and praise to God!

I shall stop here and carry on with my work! Suddenly I feel a boost in me, like that of a Formula One racing car, ready to conquer the circuit of this week's schedules!

Vroom! Vroom! Time to go!

"Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has gone through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet was without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need." Hebrews 4:14-16

Be Filled With The Correct Spirit!

I am very tired now. It is already past midnight and I have a long day ahead later in church. I needed to share something which I learnt last night. I do not want to procrastinate writing this lesson down for fear that I may forget. Anyway, this is a personal interpretation on my part so no need to subscribe to the way I see this issue I am bringing to light.

I think for those of us who read the Bible, there are many occasions where we come across verses warning about drunkenness. I have heard many (myself included) who have read about these passages, arguing and wondering when is it that one becomes drunk and where to draw the line.

Some would say just drink one glass of alcohol and that is enough; some others would say till they feel the tightness or the hotness felt on the face; there are yet others who would mention that one will not get drunk simply by drinking water to purge the alcohol out of our system; etc.

Well, when I was in a cab, heading for home, I had a revelation about the above-mentioned. This is it - instead of rationalising how much is enough or thinking of ways to stop one from being drunk, why not just not drink at all? If one does that, then there is no issue of having to battle with drunkenness; there is no need to waste time and effort wondering where to draw the line.

I guess that is what the Bible is trying to teach the readers as well! Not to get drunk means do not drink at all!

Anyway, now that I have shared this thought and being an occasional drinker of wine and beer, I want to consider stopping it once and for all! Not just because of the issue about getting drunk but being a good testimony and not being a stumbling block to others.

I am sorry to say this but I think as a Christian, I have to be harder on myself so that those who are younger or weaker in the faith; those who are not a believer; and those who are looking up to me as an older brother will not think that it is alright to get drunk once in a while or start compromising about drinking just because they see me doing it myself. For their sake, I would rather stop drinking altogether so that I do not have to struggle with this matter at all. It is also a lot easier to answer others when I am being queried.

I hope I make sense here.

Well, I am not trying to have this holier-than-thou attitude. What I have shared so far is a revelation to me which opened my eyes completely and clearly.

You know? I am burdened for those who are reaching the age where they are legally permitted to drink - it is my prayer, especially for my younger siblings-in-Christ, that they will not look forward to that day when all hell breaks loose and boozing happens on their birthdays!

Let us be filled with the correct Spirit - the One with the capital 'S'!

Alright, I feel better now having shared this thought. Time to sleep and get myself ready to worship God later with the rest of my family-in-Christ!

Good night to all!

"Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man." Luke 21:34-36

"The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy. Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature." Romans 13:12-14

"Therefore, since Christ suffered in his body, arm yourselves also with the same attitude, because he who has suffered in his body is done with sin. As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God. For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—living in debauchery, lust, drunkenness, orgies, carousing and detestable idolatry. They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit. The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen." 1 Peter 4:1-11

Bless The Unpopular!

I do not know whether I have shared this before. Even if I did, I guess I will share again. The encounter I had this afternoon stirred something in me which I thought it would be good to share in today's blog.

Ever been to a hawker centre or a foodcourt or a canteen and notice that some stalls are hardly patronised by customers? Most of the time we go for those stalls which have the longest queue or by word of mouth from those who have tried them before. I believe we have at least once commented on those stalls which are void of customers, citing reasons that their food is lousy or that there is probably something wrong with the vendors, etc.

Well, during lunch-time today I decided to buy something from a stall with no queue at all. When I made my order, I could see the smile on the vendor's face. I even chatted with him. When he was busy preparing my dish, I also said a prayer for him that God will bless him with more business. When my food was ready, I paid accordingly and bade the gentleman farewell.

I cannot deny that I had questions as to why other stalls' businesses are so brisk and his so lousy? I even had doubts about the standard and quality of his food. Though I had these thoughts in mind, I thank the Lord anyway and took my first bite. Well, it was not that bad afterall and I enjoyed my lunch tremendously.

After I had my fill, I went to one of the conference rooms to spend some time with the Lord. I needed to seek Him as to what songs I will be using for the worship session at the 11:15am service which I am leading two Sundays from now.

As I was praying, I was moved from then on to bless those stalls which are deprived of customers. I must confess it is not easy for a foodie like me to do that but I will try. If this little action can bless these vendors and make their day and give them a source of income, why not?

I hope those of you reading this blog will also do the same - those popular stalls will have enough income to last them through each month but the less popular ones may not. Consider helping them because they too need to survive. If you still have doubts, think about it further, will their food be that bad that it would kill you. I do not think so. Let us try and allow God to use us to brighten someone's day. :)

Anyway, I had a great time of worship as I played the guitar and worshipped the Lord. It was a time of refreshing for me. As I sought the Lord for directions and songs, they came one after another. Thanks be to Him for that!

I was so excited that I quickly shared my thoughts via email with the Worship Team members whom I will be serving with. I am looking forward to a great time of worship with them and also with the congregation when we come before the Lord in praise at the service! :)

Well, it has been a good day though it was packed with meetings.

Time for me to rest and look forward to another day of adventure tomorrow! :)

All glory to God!

"You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16

"Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with the strings and flute, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD." Psalm 150

Building And Strengthening Friendship

I had wanted to blog on Sunday after coming back from Melaka but in the end I did not. I do not know why - after my bath, I started sneezing. It went on and on till I had no choice but to take some medication and sleep it off. I had wanted to do some work that evening but could not.

Yesterday morning my flu was still bad. I took some more flu tablets. Towards the afternoon, it eased up and I feel better now. Praise the Lord! I have never sneezed so much in my life. At some point, it felt as if my nose was really going to fall off. Haha. Thank God it did not. :)

Anyway, the trip was fun though it was just two days away from Singapore. The MacRitchie Running Fellowship (MRF) gang have not done this kind of activity for quite a while already. It is rare that most of us could make it. It was sad that two of us could not make it otherwise it would have been the whole gang coming together for a time of reunion!

All of us have been to Melaka several times already but we still found new gems (new restaurants and shopping places) as we travelled around. The whole two days were spent shopping, eating and fellowshipping. We walked and walked from the moment we arrived. A couple of us love durian chendol so it was our quest to try all of this dessert.

I hardly have chendol in Singapore but in Melaka, I think in a day I had about three or four. The whole trip I had a total of about six different kinds. Haha.

Thanks be to God for His journey mercy as we travelled to and from Singapore. He has also been good in protecting all of us from falling sick during the trip.

I learnt a lesson when I was with my siblings-in-Christ whom I have been friends with for more than 15 years! The lesson was not to take each other for granted. Though we all had fun, there were also moments of tension. The main cause was miscommunication or communication breakdown. Taking each other for granted is also another factor.

When we all got back to Singapore, a few of us while having dinner made an evaluation of the trip. It was during this time of sharing that I felt the need to send everyone an email when I got home: first of all, to thank those who took the initiative to book the hotel and also planning the itineraries; to those who drove, enduring the couple of hours on the road and also ensuring the safety of every one in the cars; to all who brought about the fun and laughter!

I always believe in affirming one another first than to dwell on the negative aspects of a person. After doing that, I sought the forgiveness of every one if I had offended any along the way. Praise the Lord the rest followed suit and I believe all is well now! :)

When I went back to office, thank God the workload was not as heavy as expected. Still busy but not to the point of killing me. Yay! I am actually looking forward to the one-week varsity's break commencing this Saturday!

I hope to take one day off to go on a personal retreat. I am committing myself for another year as the Missions Committee's chairperson. I hope the time spent with the Lord will allow me to listen as to where He wants the ministry to go. I also hope God will show me where I should go in my own life, especially in some of my personal pursuits.

Okie, time to end here.

God is good all the time and all the time, God is good! :)

"How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity! It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on the beard, running down on Aaron's beard, down upon the collar of his robes. It is as if the dew of Hermon were falling on Mount Zion. For there the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore." Psalm 133

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Ephesians 4:2-3

"Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful." Colossians 3:13-15

Patient, I Say!

On Monday I had to help my brother collect some freebies which came along with his newly-acquired notebook. When I reached the shop, there was a long queue. The whole place was a mess actually - the queue system was in disarray; the floor space was small with every one cramped in it; people were shouting everywhere and the staff were being scolded left, right and center because the items which they were entitled to were not available. It did not help that it was raining heavily and many of the customers coming into the shops were drenched. The staff basically experienced hell that day!

On Tuesday when I got a ride home from a colleague, we were stuck in a jam. It was a crawl for all the cars. From one honk, I heard two and then three and then suddenly there was a symphony of honkings. Though speculative but I won't be surprised there were many cursings at that time.

Then came yesterday. I alighted at Jurong Point from campus and decided to head for the supermarket to do grocery-shopping. After getting all the items I needed, I went to the cashier-counters and man, there were long queues everywhere. This time round, the customers were orderly and patient but in front of me, there were these four housewives talking to each other. They were complaining about the foreign workers in Singapore, namely the construction workers and maids. They were making lots of unfounded comments like there were many maids being made pregnant because of their hanky-panky activities with the construction workers. They even remarked that crimes in Singapore have increased because of them.

What topped it off was my encounter along the travelator at Dhoby Ghuat MRT. In front of me were a group of elderly folks. Behind me were a group of undergraduates who were making comments about the old folks blocking their way and all. One of the chaps even shouted at them to make way.

That was the last straw for me. I turned and glared at the young man who shouted. I basically asked him and his friends to be considerate and perhaps not taking the travelator (which is for the sole purpose of transporting commuters from one end of the station to the other without the need to walk) in future if they are that impatient. They kept quiet after that and allowed the travelator to bring them to the end point.

All of the above-mentioned basically hit one negative point in all humans. We are impatient beings, be it towards circumstances or people. Though I am writing about this, I am no angel myself. My friends have seen the dark side of me when it comes to this.

This is not the end. When one becomes impatient, it leads to anger and then to judging and then occasionally violence. At the end of the day by reacting negatively to a circumstance or a person, no one becomes happier. Every one is affected!

Frankly, we all know the consequence but we still allow ourselves to be impatient.

Well, this is one area of my life which I am relentlessly learning to overcome with the help of the Lord.

Back to the incident on Monday at the shop. Amidst all the scuffles, I saw a scene of peace in one section of the shop. There was this lady who was also unable to collect her freebies too. Angry she was not. Patient she was! I basically saw a smile on her face and I was close enough to hear what she said - she told the staff she understood their explanation and since they were unable to do anything about it at that point of time, she would come again another day. The staff smiled back. Both parties were happy. She left, unperturbed by all the noises around her.

I guess we all need to learn to spare a thought for others and not always look at the 'rights' we are so-called entitled to. When we put selfish motives and gains aside, perhaps this world would be a better place to live in; perhaps we would also live longer.

Well, something which I am learning myself.

"A patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly. A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones." Proverbs 14:29-30

"A hot-tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel." Proverbs 15:18

"Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under law. The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other." Galatians 5:16-26

Discernment Vs Legalism

A conversation with a sister-in-Christ, who is the leader of the mission team, made me realised how insensitive I had been when a request was being made regarding the missions training sessions.

I was told by her that a member requested to miss the first two training sessions as the dear individual has been overwhelmed with her commitments in church. I was more concerned on the compulsory attendance at these sessions which in the end made me overlooked the spiritual, emotional, mental and physical needs of this team member.

I guess I need to be discerning in future and not be too legalistic. Though this was a lesson learnt for me, I also sense the evil one at work. The preparations of the mission trip have barely started and the above-mentioned are already happening.

It is vital now that all involved in the mission team begin to intercede for one another. I guess we should not take anything for granted and allow God to lead us accordingly.

Well, what a wake-up call for me! Praise the Lord though for sounding it off.

I left work early as I was feeling quite tired. I will try to sleep early tonight too.

That is all for now. God will make a way!

"The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction." Proverbs 16:21

Being A Relentless Disciple!

I came back from the Young Methodist Leaders' Conference (YMLC) yesterday. I wanted to blog last night but I was so tired that I had to turn in early after checking and replying some emails from work.

All thanks and praise to God for the 4 days spent in Pulai Springs Resort. I went to the conference feeling a little dry but I left having my cup filled and overflowing.

When I was pondering on all the teaching sessions and workshops I attended, I was challenged to constantly let God water me by reading His Word, praying, being still and fellowshipping with my siblings-in-Christ - being accountable to them, that is. I guess it is true, as mentioned by one of the guest speakers, that one has to constantly feed and fan the flame in the life of a leader-disciple.

I also had a great time of fellowship with my mentor-group. There were ten of them altogether and I praise God for each and every one of these my siblings-in-Christ! Though we did not have much time together as compared to last year's, I still enjoyed the sharing and discussions. We only got to know one another for a short while but we were opened to one another! Praise the Lord!

I guess when people who are like-minded congregate together, two things will happen - God's name being glorified and His people edified! Hallelujah!

Well, though the YMLC has ended, I told my group that my commitment to them will be for one year. I look forward to more fellowship with them over the MSN or Facebook or other means of communications. :)

On the first night of the conference which was Friday (Thursday is not counted as that was for the pastors and mentors to come together for a time of prayer and preparation), the Senior Pastor of Cornerstone Community Church spoke about "Renewing the Wesleyan Flame." At the end of the session, he prayed for the many (about 3/4 of the participants) who came forward to receive the anointing of fire. I was one of them.

I did not get a chance to share this with many but after that night, my body has been feeling warm. It came to a point where I had to ask a dear brother-in-Christ for two panadols which I knew he was carrying in his bag as he was unwell.

Even after taking them, I still felt warm. Though I took the medication as a precautionary measure, the feeling I had was not the kind where I am going to fall sick. There were no other symptoms suggesting that. Anyway, even till now the crown of my head still feel that way but I feel perfectly well. Haha. :)

Well, I would love to conclude that God's anointing of fire is upon me now. I shall take it by faith. :)

On the last night, which was on Saturday, the pastors and mentors had to do a time of ministry for those who were called to full-time ministry, to be consecrated from certain struggles of their lives and also for those who want to be more active in the market-place.

As I had prepared myself for the ministry time, I prayed for a few of the youth leaders. As I went forward to the first person, my body began to tremble and I broke out in tongues. As I went from one to another; as I saw some falling to the ground crying and laughing, tears started rolling down my cheeks. It was not the kind where it felt burdensome - in fact, I felt released! All glory to God for all that He has done!

After everything was over, I felt very drained as I left the conference hall. I had initially planned to fellowship with my room-mates but after washing up and laying on my bed, the next thing I knew it was already morning. That was how tired I was.

The next day, one of my room-mates (who is a second-year theological student) shared with me that doing ministry time can be that exhausting.

Well, I will probably commit myself to be a mentor for the next two years, basically to go through the three-year cycle - this year being the first. I will speak to my pastors about this.

I was tempted to take one more day of leave today but in the end, I still went to work. I was expecting to have a lot to do but in the end it was not that bad. I guess the Lord knows that I am still recovering from the conference. :)

I guess that is all I want to share for now! :) Before I key off, I would like to share the words of this song I fell in love with since last year's YMLC.

One Pure and Holy Passion

Verse:
Give me one pure and holy passion
Give me one magnificent obsession
Give me one glorious ambition for my life
To know and follow hard after You

(Repeat Verse)

Chorus:
To know and follow hard after you
To grow as your dicsiple in your truth
This world is empty, pale, and poor
Compared to knowing you, my Lord
Lead me on and I will run after you
Lead me on and I will run after you

Give me one pure and holy passion
Give me one magnificent obsession
Give me one glorious ambition for my life
To know and follow hard after you

Lord to know and follow hard after you
And to grow as your disciple in your truth
This world is empty, pale, and poor
Compared to knowing you my Lord
Lead me on and I will run after you
Lead me on and I will run after you
Lead me on and I will run after you

Have a blessed week everyone! Live as a relentless disciple of God! :)

"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." 2 Corinthians 9:8

I Am Just An Instrument

I just finished packing for tomorrow's Young Methodist Leaders' Conference. Actually tomorrow is not the commencement of the conference - the pastors and mentors are going a day earlier to prepare. The youth leaders will only arrive on Friday.

As I was packing, I was also praying for the Lord to equip me accordingly. Frankly I am not as prepared as compared to last year's. No matter what, I trust that the Lord will still use me to be a blessing to my siblings-in-Christ. I feel that my walk with Him is still not up to par. I pray my inconsistency this time round will not cause me to stumble any one at the conference.

Well, I guess that is all I can do for now. It has been a hectic week - I have been trying to clear as much work as possible before I go on leave. I had to rush a few reports and also conduct a couple of meetings - thanks be to God that all went pretty well.

The above-mentioned have taken a toll on my body though - I get tired easily and my mind has not been functioning as effectively as I would like it to be. I hope the conference will allow me to find times of refreshing though I have to mentor a group of 10 leaders.

I guess that is all I want to share for now. I am looking forward to the conference. I pray it will be a wonderful time spent as a body - worshipping the Lord through prayer, studying of His Word and fellowship.

Till I blog again, here's wishing all of you God's blessings and a restful weekend ahead!

"Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, and since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."Hebrews 10:19-25

Relevance Of The Gospel In The Present Times

I have been procrastinating blogging my thoughts. It has been a hectic day in office but thanks be to God for pulling me through the Monday blues and allowing me to now change to a lower gear to unwind. :)

A lot of thoughts ran through my mind today and they kind of made my heart heavy and sad. As the title of my blog states, I question the relevance of the Gospel in the present times which we are all living in.

Why this thought? I was basically looking at the people around me especially individuals whom I know. I was also reflecting on my own life. All these persons, including myself, are Christians but I wonder how often God is ever in our lives - be it in thoughts, words or deeds.

Lately my patience has been rather short and naturally people around me got the brunt of my outbursts. Besides me, I know of someone who is at odds with her family; a few indulging in gambling, heavy drinking and smoking; one in a gay relationship; some overly anxious about their future (as in not securing a job even before graduation) till they are so paranoid and driven that they even skip church; many using expletives each time they open their mouths; one whose mindset is so pessimistic and negative; a few who are always complaining and never contented; many who are glued to playing PSP games and giving excuses they do not have time for daily devotions; etc.

All of the above-mentioned still attend church on Sundays and many know the Word of God (through worship services, cell groups; youth groups; various ministries in the church) but on other days, our identity as Christians is covered with a paper-bag - we are all being in and at the same time, of the world.

Whatever happened to Jesus whom we professed to be our Lord and Saviour? Whatever happened to all that we have been taught? Due to all the distractions and frustrations of the world, is the Gospel of no relevance anymore because other things around us are more enticing?

Yesterday during service, the assistant pastor of the church reminded all in the congregation to reflect on this word, "JOY." Is there joy in our lives? If not, is it because God is no more real? Are we being lured away by other persons and/or things?

He urged all to let the joy of the Lord be our strength - to run back to the loving Father whose arms are always opened to receive us. My pastor sang the words of this song...

Joy is the flag flown high
from the castle of my heart
from the castle of my heart
from the castle of my heart.

Joy is the flag flown high
from the castle of my heart
when the King is in residence there.

So let it fly in the sky,
let the whole world know
let the whole world know
let the whole world know

So let it fly in the sky,
let the whole world know
that the King is in residence there.

The above words speak so true of one whose life has Christ in him or her. J.O.Y. - Jesus Occupies You! If Jesus occupies our lives 24 hours a day, then there will always be joy in us. The challenge is - are we willing to let Him fill us all the time?

My answer is I want to. I know I will fail occasionally but I still want Jesus to be in me always!

I guess the above evaluation is timely. On Friday I will be mentoring a group of youth leaders at the Young Methodist Leaders' Conference. If I am not right with God, who am I to lead others? Well, may the Lord be my joy and my salvation!

Time to stop here.

Good night to all and have a blessed week ahead!

"Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." Psalm 51:10-12