Living The Faith Starts At Home

Mum is sick again - she is down with urine infection and because of that, she is having a fever and feeling cold at the same time. Dad brought her to see the family doctor and was prescribed antibiotics to counter the infection. This medication adds on to the many which she has to consume every day.

When I was told by grandma over the phone that mum was down, I felt very frustrated! I questioned God as to why this must happen to mum again and in the process cause many inconveniences and anxieties to the rest of the family members.

As I remained quiet, hoping for an answer, I realised it was a selfish cry because it was not so much due to my concern for mum which made me question God but more so the dreadful thought of having to handle her medical issues again. Of course this means I have lesser time for myself again after just two weeks since her discharge from hospital.

The above revelation of my inward looking thought taught me to not be too quick to question God every time something unpleasant happens but instead to be still and just search my heart regarding the things I say to God and to know that He is GOD.

Before writing this blog, I spent some time praying. During the conversation with my Abba Father, He revealed to me another thing which I was challenged to do - that is the need for me to live out my faith as much as possible at home.

I have to confess that I have not been doing much, as in openly, simply because it is something that the family is not used to though 4 out of 5 are Christians. We do not pray together; say grace before meals; read the Bible together; ask one another about what we have learnt from the Bible and the weekly sermons; embracing one another with the love of God.

Yes, I can use excuses like we are Asians; that this is not a practice of the family; that this can cause awkwardness; that we have to be sensitive to my brother who is a pre-believer; etc. At the end of the day, dad, mum, grandma and I have to acknowledge that our faith in God must start at home. What we practice in church must also be lived out at home and since I know this now, it has to start with me.

Well, not easy, sad to say, but I will give it a shot from tomorrow onwards. I will not be too aggressive but I shall take baby steps and see how it goes from there.

Thanks be to God for allowing me to learn more lessons today. :)

Sleeping time. Good night!

"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:8-9

Serve Whole-heartedly

It has been 5 days since mum was discharged and I am glad that she is recuperating well at home. She has been moving around quite a bit. Though I am concerned that she may be overworking herself, I am also relieved that she is at least up and about. I guess she has to do everything in moderation and I will try my best to remind her.

I am still trying to re-energise myself after a hectic two weeks of trying to handle matters at home. Frankly I still feel drained. It does not help that this week will be quite busy with my cousin's wedding and also with matters concerning the Missions Ministry. I am trying my best to get back in momentum concerning this area of responsibility that God has entrusted me with.

One of my weaknesses is trying to handle things by myself and forgetting many times that there is a Committee available to assist me. Today a dear brother from the Committee asked how I was and I guess he is willing to share a load of what I am bearing now. I am encouraged by that and I also praise God for sounding off to me that I need to let go and allow others to help me.

I need prayers from all of you who are reading my blog. I was telling my Pastor-in-Charge that there are many times I want to do a lot of things for God and His people but I just do not have the time to give my all as I have other commitments (like that of home and work matters) to handle as well.

One thing she reminded me of hit me - yes, there are many commitments in life but when we offer God our time for church ministry, it should not be the leftovers. That is so true. I guess I am at this point of my journey where I need to learn to set aside time deliberately for ministries so that they will not be neglected. Easy to say but hard to practice. No matter what, I will try to adapt and change accordingly. :)

Well, a new week has arrived and I will look forward to it no matter what the challenges may be. I know God is still leading the way. I just pray I will have the faith to follow Him.

Oh yah, yesterday I witnessed a vehicular accident right before my very eyes - while a dear brother-in-Christ was giving me and my God-sister a ride home, a car suddenly jammed its brakes along the main road, spun and came to a stop when it hit a side-barrier.

My brother-in-Christ stopped the car by the side of the road and we went to make sure the driver was alright. Thank God he was but his car was quite a wreck. After confirming that he was completely fine, we went on with our journey.

It was quite an experience for me.

Anyway, time to sleep. It has been a tiring day after being at church in the morning; at Botanic Gardens in the afternoon with my God-sister, her sister and nieces; at MacRitchie Reservoir with the running gang. I enjoyed the time of fellowship though. It was refreshing and encouraging.

I enjoyed the time at Botanic Gardens as I was engrossed with my macro-photography where I took many shots of a dragon-fly at very close range (photos attached). It allowed me to admire the beauty of God's creation simply by an insect. :) I also took a picture of a moth when I was at MacRitchie Reservoir (photo also attached).

Good night, everyone and have a blessed week ahead!

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free." Ephesians 6:7-8

Restoration In Progress

Mum was discharged from hospital yesterday after being admitted last Thursday. Praise God everything, as in the tests carried out on her, turned out well except for the kidney stone. Her glucose level is still a bit high but definitely much lower than last week. Her blood pressure has gone back to normal.

Well, I praise God for seeing mum through the six days in the Singapore General Hospital. She rested well during this period and I guess that helped.

I am also happy mum is adapting well since coming home. In fact this morning she made an appointment with the hairdresser to have her hair set. :)

I guess that is a good sign. What I am praying now is that mum will be more careful of what she eats and drinks from henceforth. She over-indulges at times but now she must know that she cannot if she does not want to be admitted again.

I am tired - physically, mentally and emotionally. I hope to be restored soon so that I can get back with my own life - there are much to do yet no time and energy for that.

No matter what, God has always been good and I know He will keep me and all at home going! :)

"Your righteousness reaches to the skies, O God, you who have done great things. Who, O God, is like you? Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up." Psalm 71:19-20

God Is Good To Mum And All

I am glad and relieved that mum will be coming home tomorrow after staying in hospital for almost a week. Praise the Lord that so far most of the results for the tests carried out have turned out good except for the kidney stone.

Mum's sugar level has dropped to 7.4 which is the best since her admission. Well, I am praying now that she will be careful in what she consumes when she gets back to the routines of life again. I guess I will have to keep reminding her and also to ask dad to keep a look-out since they are always together.

I did not see mum today as I needed to do something for my brother at his shop. He went to the hospital in the evening and it was there that he got all the updates.

In anticipation of mum's discharge from the hospital, I did some housework just now - mopping the floor and washing all the fans in every room and in the hall. It was tiring but it was all worth it.

I went to watch a movie with my God-sister at Orchard Cineleisure. It was this show entitled, "Defiance" - a story about how some 1200 Jews were saved from the atrocities of the Germans and how they fought for their freedom by protecting themselves.

The one thing that kept coming back to me while watching the show was this - that man in general is sinful and that is why God sent His Son to die for all and not some. Yes, though the Jews were oppressed by the Nazis, their actions also sometimes showed the down-fall of man by killing Germans in the name of vengeance and stealing from farmers in the name of saving themselves against starvation.

One phrase I learnt from the main actor (wordings may not be exact but here's the gist of it) - "though we may be hunted by the Germans like animals but that does not mean we have to be like animals by killing unnecessarily." Easy to say but hard to practise especially in a war context but we should all try not to live lives like animals because others are treating us like one.

Anyway, I am tired.

It has been a restful day! Praise God!

Yay! Mummy is coming home! :)

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Romans 12:18-20

One Step At A Time

It has been a few days since I last blogged. I have been busy and tired with having to run to and from hospital, visiting mum; frustrated with matters of the household as there are much to be done but no time to attend to all; trying to stay positive so that others at home like grandma and dad do not worry unnecessarily.

Sometimes I just needed to get out of the hospital and home just to retain certain sanity and it helps by doing some activities like photography (quite therapeutic, I must say, taking shots of nature and people, allowing me to see things in fresh new perspectives and of course communing with God as I go along) and doing a bit of shopping of groceries and visiting the bookstores and pet shops.

I am supposed to lead worship this coming Sunday but looking at the amount of things I have to handle at home, I had to make a selfish decision by requesting for someone else to replace me. Preparing for worship session takes time and lately it is not easy for me to have that luxury to sit down and seek God in considering the flow of the session and the songs to be used. The Worship Team have been supportive and accommodating and I praise God for my siblings-in-Christ serving alongside me.

Just yesterday I realised I have neglected also the Missions Ministry which I am committed to as a chairperson. It is my prayer that I will adapt to the current situation I am in and at least spare some time to deal with this area of ministry and not lay it dormant.

I submitted all of the above-mentioned to God when I was worshipping Him at the service. I was prompted to do two things: to take one step at a time to deal with the numerous responsibilities and tasks mentioned; to keep in constant step with God by reading His Word so that it continues to fall on good soils and in prayer.

Well, after all the yada yada... praise God mum is feeling better now. She gets tired easily but she is definitely much stronger as compared to the day she was admitted. I requested of the doctor to do a full medical examination on her so that nothing is missed out since mum is an ex-stroke and cancer patient.

Just today I was told mum has a kidney stone which will be blasted some time this week with laser treatment. I guess by tomorrow more results will be released for the other tests done on her.

I am grateful to God for His grace and mercy on mum. The doctor told me the other day that if mum had delayed her admission by another day, she would have suffered a massive stroke and the condition would have been irrevisible. I was relieved to hear that. Truly all thanks and praise to the Giver of life for His goodness!

I shall end here. Need to do some ironing now. :)

ONE STEP AT A TIME!

"Again Jesus began to teach by the lake. The crowd that gathered around him was so large that he got into a boat and sat in it out on the lake, while all the people were along the shore at the water's edge. He taught them many things by parables, and in his teaching said: "Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, multiplying thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times." Then Jesus said, "He who has ears to hear, let him hear." When he was alone, the Twelve and the others around him asked him about the parables. He told them, "The secret of the kingdom of God has been given to you. But to those on the outside everything is said in parables so that, "'they may be ever seeing but never perceiving, and ever hearing but never understanding; otherwise they might turn and be forgiven!'" Then Jesus said to them, "Don't you understand this parable? How then will you understand any parable? The farmer sows the word. Some people are like seed along the path, where the word is sown. As soon as they hear it, Satan comes and takes away the word that was sown in them. Others, like seed sown on rocky places, hear the word and at once receive it with joy. But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away. Still others, like seed sown among thorns, hear the word; but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful. Others, like seed sown on good soil, hear the word, accept it, and produce a crop—thirty, sixty or even a hundred times what was sown." Mark 4:1-20

God's Healing Grace

I just came back from the hospital. Mum was admitted this afternoon as she was trembling badly and incoherent in her speech and action. We brought her to our family doctor and her blood pressure was abnormally high.

As mum was a stroke patient, the doctor suggested that we send her to the Accident and Emergency Department so that further tests can be carried out.

The initial results showed that mum's sugar level is very high and there is some anomaly in her blood. More tests will be carried out tomorrow to ascertain the actual problem.

This whole incident happened when I was out running some errands. When the family doctor called me, I got a shock and immediately rushed to the clinic to fetch mum to the hospital. As I feared the worst, I messaged a couple of my siblings-in-Christ to intercede for mum.

All thanks and praise to God for answering all our prayers as mum's condition seems to have stabilised when the doctors treated her.

Well, I am tired. Tummy is still not too good.

I covet continued prayers for mum from those reading my blog and are my fellow siblings-in-Christ.

"Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone happy? Let him sing songs of praise. Is any one of you sick? He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven. Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:13-16

Diarrhoea Galore

I thought I had recovered from a mild food poisoning a few days ago but I was wrong. I woke up this morning, feeling very weak and my tummy was churning. Last night after dinner I already felt weird as in having that bloated feeling. I took some medication and went to sleep.

I recovered from the bloatedness but diarrhoea came next and I had to visit the toilet several times. After all that purging, I felt like a prune and had to hydrate myself by consuming lots of water and istonic drinks.

I basically slept through the day. In the afternoon, fever set in but it has subsided since.

I am feeling much better now (though weak) after taking several courses of charcoal tablets. My stools are hardening too so that is a good sign, I guess.

My doggy played nurse today by keeping me company. She was sleeping next to me almost all the time and licking me whenever I tossed around in bed. Haha.

Well, that sums up my day. Praise God for sustaining me till now. :)

Friends Forever

I shall keep this short as I am feeling unwell from a case of mild food poisoning. I do not know which food I ate that caused me to have diarrhoea. Over the weekend, it was really pigging out time with mainly the MacRitchie Running Fellowship. I think we should now call ourselves the MacRitchie Eating Fellowship. Haha.

On Saturday, the gang met for a Lunar New Year Feast at East Ocean Restaurant in Shaw Towers. Yesterday we had fried spring chicken at Arnold's in City Plaza. In the evening I had dinner with my God-son and his family at IKEA.

I enjoyed the time of fellowship with these my siblings-in-Christ. We have been friends for more than 10 years already. It is my prayer that we will continue this friendship for as long as possible and that this group will grow deeper in building each other up in the faith.

On Friday I went to the Flower Festival in Sentosa with my sister. We took a lot of pictures of the wide varieties of flowers featured. We also watched the Chingay Festival at the viewing gallery in Marina Square. I won two tickets in a contest organised by the People's Association.

We were initially thinking of buying two tickets from another friend but since I won them, we cancelled our reservation which I felt bad doing that. Frankly, I would rather buy the tickets as the location for those is much better than the one my sister and I were at.

Anyway, we also took a lot of pictures at the event though I do not particularly like night photography due to the absence of light.

That said, the above-mentioned affirmed in me my love for photography. I will spend a considerable amount of time in 2009 to better myself in this skill and to use it to encourage the people around me. :)

Well, time for me to end here. I shall sleep now and hopefully by tomorrow I will be well.

Good night, all and have a blessed week!

Be Objective And Not Reactive

I had wanted to blog yesterday but after coming back from my cousin's wedding function in Malaysia, I was too tired to do anything else.

I was also fuming mad when the car I was in with my parents and uncle was stuck in a massive jam from just after the last toll-booth in Johor Bahru to the Second Link checkpoint! We arrived at the toll-booth at 6pm and we only got passed the Singapore Immigration at 8.30pm! Can you believe that - two and a half hours in a jam?! Man!

Actually it was not the jam that caused the fuse in me to explode; it was the ugly sight of many Singaporean drivers which just irked me!

My car was in the third lane and next to us was the road shoulder. As the jam got worse, that was when cars behind mine started using the road shoulder to jump queue. They were way ahead of us because of that and they were also the cause of the jam as they had to filter back to the third lane when nearing the Singapore Immigration due to the police officers who were present to direct traffic. Cars like mine in the end could not move due to this insensitive act.

I have to confess that massive jam like the one I was in can cause the dark side of an individual to manifest inself. Mine did - from being frustrated, I got angry and then it led on to judging and swearing at those ugly drivers!

It came to a point where I sensed a voice in me asking me to just quieten down and spend some moment in silence rather than to keep making unedifying comments.

I did that and there was one lesson I learnt. This phrase kept flashing in my mind - "Be Objective and Not Reactive!"

It kind of made sense to me when I pondered on these words.

I guess if I had not reacted to the situation when I witnessed what some of the above drivers did, I could have prevented anger to take the better of me. Instead of cursing and swearing and also judging, I could have been objective about the matter and prayed for these individuals.

If I had been objective when I was caught in the jam, I could have used the two and a half hours to bond with my parents and uncle instead of reacting to the similar judgmental comments they were making of those who flouted the law.

My blood pressure would have been stable if I had been walking in the Spirit because one who is in step with God will not react the way I did but would be still and know that God is still God and spend the time worshipping Him, rather than making ungodly remarks.

That was a rebuke to me! This encounter reminded me of a blog I wrote not too long ago where I said something about having to get myself back on track with God again. I guess I need to do that now!

Anyway, the wedding event went well. I took some shots with my new camera. Well, I am still learning by the day about wedding photography. This is one area I am most interested in and I hope the Lord will teach me more of the techniques and approach and improve as I go along.

I told a dear brother this afternoon that I would not go to Segamat again because the town is so dead and the ride long. If I had to go again, it would be to eat the kolo mee that people are raving about and of course, the Segamat durians! Both I did not get to eat as the shops were closed due to the Lunar New Year holidays.

I returned my sister's two rabbits just now. I will miss one of them more than the other. The younger one gave me a hard time by always toppling the pee-tray daily and soiling the whole cage. If she had stayed any longer at my place, I think Princess (the name of the younger rabbit) will be in my cooking pot served as stew. Haha.

My doggy and I will miss Prince (the name of the bigger rabbit) as he is just so adorable, friendly and considerate!

Haha. Okie dokes, time to go.

Good night, all!

"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold." Ephesians 4:26-27

It Will Only Get Easier

Happy Lunar New Year!

I need to sleep soon but thought before I do that, I shall blog about the first day of the festive celebration at my home.

As mentioned yesterday, my relatives came over and from 10am onwards, I had to entertain a steady stream of guests. During lunch-time, I had to do a bit of cooking as there was not enough food to feed the many hungry individuals.

What I did in trying to connect with my relatives who came by was to tell them that I would say grace before we partake the food. I did ask whether any of them minded the idea and no one objected.

I basically thanked God for the food and said a prayer of blessings upon all present. After that we started the time of feasting.

Well, there was a certain apprehension when I proposed the idea of saying grace. I told God to take care of the rest and He did indeed. Now that I have done it, I have to say it is not that difficult to include the element of my faith to those who may not even know who Jesus is. :)

Around 2pm, I had to excuse myself from the gathering to head for Mustafa Centre to buy some groceries as the stock in my two refrigerators are running dry.

While I was looking around for a certain kind of vegetable outside the shopping centre, I bumped into this elderly Chinese couple who were collecting discarded cardboards. The lady was hunched quite badly and she was very dirty.

As I was walking towards them, I had this nudge in me to send them my new year greetings. I also knew that I had to at least shake their hands. I have to confess that there was a little hesitation. I whispered a prayer and asked the Lord to help me get out of my comfort zone and not care about anything else except to bless this couple. I also had this fear that they might think I am mad to wish them since we do not know each other at all. That I submitted to God as well. :)

Off I went to shake their hands and I also passed them a red packet each. The lady asked me why I did that. I basically laughed and answered in Hokkien, "Aunty ah, tern lang jiah lor!" ("Aunty, it is the Lunar New Year!")

She smiled. After a short conversation, we went on our separate ways.

I have to say as you keep making more connections with people, the next one becomes easier. Soon you will realise it becomes a part of you! Yay! Praise God!

Okie, time to stop here and sleep.

Hope all of you reading my blog had an enjoyable time today!

Good night!

"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong. Do everything in love." 1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Operation Connect

It feels weird not having reunion dinner with my extended family on the eve of the Lunar New Year. Well, this year is slightly different because one of my cousins cannot make it tonight as she is getting married on Tuesday in Malaysia. My family held the gathering two days ago before she left for Segamat with her fiance.

I cooked dinner just now for every one at home though. I did hot and sour soup; another round of yusheng (my fourth already); steamed kailan with abalone in oyster sauce; steamed pomfret with salted vegetables, tomatoes and sour plums; and wantons with sesame oil and fried shallots.

After that, I had to do some house-work: changing the curtains in grandma's room; ironed some clothes; bathed all the animals in my house - one lawry, one dog and my sister's two rabbits (man, I felt like a pet groomer and it was no joke!!!); mopped the house.

Thank God that I am done with the above-mentioned and looking forward to a good night's rest later!!! :)

I had initially planned to go to Chinatown to join in the festive celebration but after mulling over it, I decided I should just stay at home. The whole place will be so packed and I think it would be tough for me to take any nice shots of the fire-crackers.

Anyway, I am too exhausted to do anything else basically. :)

Tomorrow onwards will be busy for me. My relatives will be coming to visit grandma. The whole day will probably be entertaining guests - serving drinks, snacks and even lunch. Then in the evening I have to visit my grand-aunty at her place. It will probably be another round of eating and talking.

I hope to have an early night tomorrow. The following day I have to leave for Malaysia at 7am to head for Segamat to attend my cousin's wedding. I am also doing photography for the couple. I guess it will be another tiring day. Haha.

Well, while I was doing my house-work, I took the time praying. I basically asked the Lord to use this Lunar New Year to help me connect with the people whom I will be in contact with. It is going to be challenging (based on my own human ability and wisdom) but God may prove me wrong. I guess with Him, I can do all things! ;)

I hope to share some interesting testimonies in a couple of days' time of any encounters in the course of this Lunar New Year.

I shall rest now.

A God-blessed Lunar New Year to all of you! :)

"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." 1 Peter 4:8-10

Be On Your Guard, Andy Chew!

While I was ironing some clothes just now, I was reflecting on how my life has been in this new year of 2009. One alarm bell sounded off loudly from within me and it was basically a warning - "Be On Your Guard, Andy Chew!"

Why so? Well, lately I have been rather complacent in the way I live my life - easily agitated when things do not turn out the way I hope they would; snapping at my family members (especially at my parents) when they do not heed my advice; not reading God's Word as regularly as I should; not being conscious of the way I speak especially when certain undesirable words are mouthed when reacting to a certain situation.

I am disappointed as I pondered on the above-mentioned. I just have to be on my guard. If not, the devil, who prowls like a roaring lion, will devour me easily and happily.

This week will be a busy one for me as I have to do a lot of house-work in preparation for the Lunar New Year. Of course, in the midst of the spring-cleaning, it does not help when sometimes I would blow up at every one at home for always being so untidy and keeping things which are useless hence making the place like a rubbish dump.

I guess I am exhausted in all sense of its word - physically, mentally and emotionally. It is my prayer that God will help me handle matters at home more calmly and sensitively though sometimes I needed to make a point at home so that there is a certain order.

Anyway, these are my struggles lately and I know God is trying to teach me some lessons from here. I covet your prayers for those who are reading my blog that at the end of the day, God's name be glorified and the people around me edified.

Time for me to key off. Till the next time, God bless and good night!

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings." 1 Peter 5:7-9

Gratitude And Kindness To All

I am so happy that my doggy is peeing and pooing on the new pee-tray. Yesterday I was at a pet shop in Telok Kurau, owned by a brother-in-Christ. He was the one who taught me a trick which worked almost instantly. He said my doggy needs to be confined in a smaller area so that she has no choice but to go up the tray to do her business. It is basically an instinct for her not to do it on her sleeping area, no matter how small that space is.

Well, I came home, took out one side of the metal grill and pushed it in to as close to the tray as possible and as mentioned above, it worked. Instantaneously, this princess of the house had no choice, went up on the tray and relieved herself.

I guess I will continue to train her for the next few days though my parents felt pity on her having to sleep in such a small area. Well, I explained to them that it is for the doggy's good and ours since we cannot always be cleaning her urine and faeces everywhere and every time in the house. Haha.

Yesterday was a tiring day as I was again doing more shopping: I got some new clothes for myself in anticipation of the imminent arrival of the Lunar New Year; I also needed to get some household items and foodstuffs for the festive occasion which can be a big thing for my family since grandma is staying with us.

I was very grateful to my sister who drove me around when we did the grocery-shopping at Giant Supermarket in Tampines.

Oh yah, I had a pleasant encounter with a janitor when I was at Vivocity. As mentioned in my earlier blogs, I make it a point to thank all personnel in the service industry for what they are doing for shoppers/customers like me. Yes, they are paid to do their job but that does not mean I should not show my gratitude for their services rendered.

Anyway, as I walked out of the toilet, I saw this janitor who is Chinese-speaking. I thanked him as I left and his response showed me how he has been taken for granted, I guess, almost all the time. He told me that never once has someone thanked him for a lowly job he is doing. My encouragement to him in Mandarin (surprised! surprised!) was this, "Brother, what you are doing is as important as any other job in this world." We smiled and departed our ways. I prayed for him as I walked away. May God grant this gentleman satisfaction and purpose in what he does.

I also thanked an elderly cleaner at IKEA foodcourt as he was clearing the table for my sister and I. My heart sensed that he did not feel comfortable in what he is doing as his head was always down as if he did not want people to know who he is. As he lifted his head to ask me whether he could clear two plates next to me, I quickly looked into his eyes and said "thank you." He smiled and went on with his work. I do not know how much those two words meant to him but I trust that God has affimed in him that he is doing just fine.

Make a deliberate attempt the next time you visit a shopping centre or a foodcourt or a hotel or an airport or a hospital or a school to thank the person who is serving you. Your gratitude shown to these individuals will affirm in them that what they are doing is vital and important. It should also make their day because they are definitely bound to encounter ugly shoppers/customers who always feel they have the right to everything. Though I make it a point to be grateful, I have to confess that sometimes I fall into that customer-is-always-right mentality and probably have hurt someone along the way.

Well, it is the weekend again! Yay! And wow! It is already the middle of the first month of the new year! Time flies indeed.

Time to go do some housework.

Have a restful and enjoyable weekend, everybody! :)

"If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 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 13:1-8

Re-Training Is Not Necessarily Bad

I learnt two lessons just a while ago from the interaction with my pets - an Australian Silky Terrier and a lawry. These lessons serve more as a reminder - so simple yet important for me to be mindful of as I continue with my pilgrim's journey.

Last week I changed the pee-tray for my doggy, Sasha. Thinking that she would continue to do her usual toilet business by going on the new tray to poo and pee, I was wrong. Instead she has been doing them on the floor. Till date, she is still not doing them right. Of course, her owner now becomes her maid, having to clean all the poop and urine.

Of course I have been rather agitated and disappointed. Once in a while I would scold her for being so stubborn.

Well, in the course of the above-mentioned, the reminder to me is this - I am basically no different. God has taught me several things from His Word and He expects me to practise what I have learnt but like Sasha, sometimes I am being stubborn and refuse to do what I know is beneficial for me.

I am sure He is disappointed with me at times but I also know He is loving and gracious to give me time to be re-taught and re-trained.

While I was doing some ironing about an hour ago, I reflected on what areas in my life which I need to revise and there are definitely a few. I will not share them here for now but will do so eventually.

As for my lawry, the bird that flew into my home last year, I learnt that when I am in need, I should call out to God for help and guidance, with persistence. Same as my lawry would do - when it notices that the cup containing its food has run out, it will chirp and chirp till it catches my attention and will only stop when I fill the cup with food.

I guess when I call out to God and sometimes it seems like He is taking His time to answer my cries, I should persist and wait upon Him to lead me in the next step.

What I have shared above are two reminders which we sometimes forget easily but our God is good to sound them off to us once in a while so that we do not fall into the trap of being complacent and also being self-sufficient.

Well, Sasha just got on my nerves again - she just puked on my bed while I was playing with her. All her dinner on my mattress. Thanks be to God that I bought a new mattress protector today from the Great John Little Sale in Singapore Expo. Haha... maybe this is one reminder from Him to ask me to change my old protector and bed-sheet.

I guess life is fun afterall in the midst of all the inconveniences and frustrations. :)

All glory to God!

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him." 1 John 5:14-15

Finding Momentum

A dear brother asked me how come I have not been blogging. Well, frankly I have yet to find the momentum since entering this new year of 2009. It is not necessarily bad, just that I need to find time to sit down and really see where God wants me to go for the next 11 months and 17 days. Wow! Two weeks have gone by.

The past 14 days have been dealing with a lot of family stuff - helping my brother with his business; making sure mum watch what she eats since the condition of her diabetes has worsened recently; taking care of the needs of grandma whose memory seems to be fading now that she is 85 years old; assisting my cousin who is getting married at the end of the month; cleaning up the house in preparation for the Lunar New Year; retraining my doggy to poo and pee onto the new tray which I just got for her.

Well, the above-mentioned are enough to tire me out. Of course, on top of all these, there are matters concerning the Missions Ministry which I have to look into. It is not that I am already burning out, just that I need to get some stuff at home and ministry in place so that the road ahead will be easier for me.

Haha. I have not even sat down to consider my resolutions for 2009 but there is one which I hope the Lord will help me - that is my temper. It is still rather short and I need to overcome this so that I will not be a stumbling block to all around me.

I have been finding solace in God daily and those moments have been refreshing and thought-provoking. I hope to begin blogging what I have learnt soon and prayerfully others who are reading my blogs will be blest and encouraged.

Oh yah, last Christmas I got myself a new camera. I sold my old one to fund this new equipment which is amazing. I have been using it regularly since and hope I can bless others by capturing all the precious moments in pictures. :)

Time for me to end here. I pray this will be the beginnning of a regular blogging on my part.

Good night, everyone!

"Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." Proverbs 16:3

Every Year Will Always Be A Good Year!

It is the last day of the old year; eve of the new year. I just read that this year has a leap second - an extra second added to 2008 to complete the cycle of the earth's rotational pattern. Glad I can enjoy this year a little longer. Haha. Just imagine at the countdown we have to say "3, 2, 1, 1... Happy New Year!!!" This is a first for me. :)

This year seems to fly by so fast that I am still lagging behind, wondering what have I actually done in the past 364 days.

First and foremost, all thanks and praise to God for bringing me thus far; for His grace and mercy; and for His sustenance.

I guess there are regrets of the "could haves" and "should haves" but they should not put me down since life is always a learning process. Every step taken in life, though sometimes may put us a few steps back, is still a progress when one does not give up. We always learn from our mistakes.

I am still learning and I am praying that God will continue to be my Teacher so that I can learn from the Best and live my life for His glory and be a blessing to those around me.

I have not really taken time off to reflect and evaluate the year 2008 but there have been some areas which I want to thank God for:-

1) For my family as in how God has sustained mum who is diabetic and how He is controlling her sugar level which went quite high two months ago; for helping grandma cope with old age (I guess she is going through "second childhood") and for allowing her to let go of some unpleasant events which she has experienced in the past; for helping my brother's business to expand even though the economy is not doing well and for allowing me to work quite closely with him in some areas of his work; for dad who is trying to play a bigger role in the family and to see that he can still be a contributing factor to the needs of every one at home. For a while I guess he has been feeling a little insecure now that he is retired and sometimes feels that he is not doing much to meet the needs of his loved ones.

2) For my work where God is opening new options for me but I have decided to put them aside for a moment to care for my family. I am still seeking Him as to the next step I should take in the new year. I am not burdened but excited to see where He will lead me.

3) For the missions ministry in church which I am serving in where I can see God moving powerfully in the lives of the members. I give thanks to Him that more and more individuals and small groups are interested to play a pro-active role in the Great Commission. This is a good sign that the church is moving on in the right way where she should not be too inward looking but more to meet the spiritual and physical needs of her neighbours in this island-nation and across the world!

4) For the relationships with my family and friends from and outside church. Being a human, I have failed some of them and I seek their forgiveness for my shortcomings. Sometimes I want to build closer ties and help those in need but my human ability can only last me that much and in the process, I have disappointed a few of my friends, some of whom I was closed with.

I am also learning to forgive some who have disappointed me. Every time when I struggle with that, I would just look at myself in the mirror and be reminded that we are all the same. Grace which God has shown to me must now be shown to my neighbours. If not, I have not experienced grace at all. It is tough, no doubt about that, but I have to put pride aside and do what is right in the eyes of my God.

Well, prayerfully in the new year, I will be a better friend to another.

Of course when I speak of relationships, another area which I have always been pressured to look into (by my parents, grandma, aunties, uncles and also friends) is that of a life-time partner. There is no doubt whatsoever that I want to settle down one day but as always I will not let pressure cause me to choose someone just out of no where.

There are one or two sisters-in-Christ in mind but I will continue to let God move me accordingly. If He so approves of one of these persons, He will make it happen. :)

Well, I guess that is all for now.

Resolutions I have for 2009 but I shall leave that to another day when I have given careful thoughts to them.

Here's giving all thanks, praise and glory to God for 2008 and here's also looking forward to another brand new year of adventure in my pilgrim's journey. I pulled through 2008 and the past 36 years of my life!

Whether there are more to come, I shall leave that in the hands of God and not take for granted that I still have many years to enjoy or toil (if some might see life that way). :)

Here's wishing everyone a Happy New Year! :)

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

The Light Of Christ Always Shines!

On Monday, I armed myself with my camera and headed for Orchard Road to take some shots of the Christmas light-up. From Tangs Shopping Centre I walked to Plaza Singapura Shopping Centre. Along the way, there were lots of events lined up for shoppers of all ages; people of different races and religions.

I was standing in front of Ngee Ann City Shopping Centre listening to some children carolling. Next to me were these two ladies. As they listened to the carols, they questioned what is there to celebrate when the economy is so bad? What is there to sing when there are many who are down and out?

Then came this afternoon and evening when I heard a couple of people commenting the wet and overcast weather depicting the current situation of the world where there is much doom and gloom.

It is true that there are many affected by the financial downturn; there is no doubt the next one year or two the economy may be gloomy. But all these should not stop Christians especially to celebrate the birth of Christ, who is the light of the world and to bring the message of hope to those affected.

I know it is tough for Christians to be optimistic during this period because we are humans too but we must not let our understanding and wisdom to blind us from the light at the end of the tunnel where Christ shines brightly. We need to hold His hand and in turn hold our neighbours' hands and walk together. If we can do that we know we will still stand when the storm clears.

It has been 23 years since I knew Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. Not too long but too short either. One thing I can testify in these years of my pilgrim's journey is this: God never fails even at times when we think He does.

From not doing well in my studies when I was younger to having to battle an injured kidney when I was a young man to having to deal with many struggles of role-reversal in my family as a middle-age man, I am still running the race.

It is not my doing and ability that this is happening but Christ my Lord who is in front of me to lead; behind me to encourage; beside me to support; and inside me to give me hope and peace. At times I fell into discouragement and frustration but at the end of it all, joy rests in my heart. Hallelujah!

Jesus is the reason for the season - not our finances; not the economy; not the weather; not the shopping; not our friends; etc.

So here's wishing all who come across my blog a joyous Christmas and a blessed new year! :)

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Isaiah 9:6

Young And Old, God Uses!

I just realised I have not blogged for close to two weeks already. It has been a busy period for me - having to prepare and attend the Youth Camp (4 to 7 December) and also going on a mission trip with the Children's Ministry (10 to 14 December). Both I enjoyed myself thoroughly. Praise God for that!

Interestingly, for both events, I had to take care of the physical welfare of my siblings-in-Christ. There were cases of minor injuries at the camp and food poisoning cases during the trip to Cambodia. At the end of it all, I praise God for being the Healer to the affected ones. :)

I am still recovering from the trip. I have to confess it is tiring to handle 10 children and 14 adults but it was all worth it especially when I have got to know them better from the fellowship we had in the 5 days together.

As I reflect on the above paragraph, I have to say it is amazing to see individuals of different ages and characteristics coming together as a unit to let God use us for His purpose to the Khmer people. It is the love of God, no doubt, which binds us all together. There could have been cases of bickering and clashes but these were put to a minimal because we knew the enemy is not within the group but that of the evil one.

Up till now, I cannot stop praising God for what the team did in Cambodia especially the children. We went to an orphanage and a slum and both places, the children did most of the programmes. As adults, we might think occasionally that these young ones may not be able to do much but from this trip, I can testify God can use these little ones to touch the hearts of many. The youngest in the team is a five-year old girl and in both occasions, she led in the actions of the songs the team members were presenting. Thanks be to God for this dear sister-in-Christ!

The faith factor came in several times during the trip. What do I mean by that? Take for example, the third day when I was informed in the morning that 8 of the members were down with food poisoning and we were supposed to go to the slum, I was contemplating whether we should even carry on with the plans. The team and I prayed and many felt that we should go.

Though 6 of the 24 members stayed in the hotel to recuperate, the rest were able to execute the plans well. One brother-in-Christ, who was one of the 8 affected, chose to go and he shared that what he saw and did at the slum made him well. This is a testimony that God can and will equip and prepare those who are ready to do His work even if there is a physical barrier. Oh yah, adding on to that, two families in the team are still going through a period of mourning but they still chose to go for the trip and I believe in the midst of the pain, God has healed them emotionally as they did His work. :)

Well, I shall stop here for now and attempt to blog more often.

God is always good and His love endures forever!

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." Acts 1:8

Saddened And Overwhelmed

I have just been informed in one evening that two members of the Children's Ministry Missions Team are now mourning the death of their loved ones - one lost her grandfather due to old age and the other lost his father after he collapsed suddenly at home.

My heart goes out to the two team members since these two incidents happen a week before the team leaves for Cambodia.

Whether all these will affect the trip is the least of my concern. I am praying that God will be with my two siblings-in-Christ and their families.

It has been a tiring day for me as I was out with the Youth Camp Committee to buy all the necessary items required for the four-day stay, beginning Thursday, in M.O.E. Adventure Centre.

Praise the Lord we managed to get most of the stuff needed. We headed back to church to drop off the items and also to discuss the camp groupings. I was quite troubled and burdened when the committee was cracking their brains trying to accommodate a difficult request made by a camper who wants to go for the camp but refuses to participate in the activities.

We all prayed for this dear sibling-in-Christ and hope we can be there for this individual.

I am tired but I am unable to sleep - burdened by all of the above-mentioned. I think the word should be "overwhelmed."

Anyway, I shall end here. I am still deciding how to schedule my time tomorrow, having to deal with my work, the matters of the camp and also being there for my two missions team members.

Trials = Praise!

I feel as if I am going to fall sick. I have been sniffing since coming home. I am praying that the Lord will sustain my health as I will be leading worship at the 11.15am service on Sunday. I just took some Vitamin C tablets, hoping to strengthen my immune system.

Anyway, this week has not been a great one for me. Almost everything I did did not turn out well - last week I won a third-generation iPod Nano from some StarHub contest. Yesterday I marked all the songs which I wanted to download onto the gadget. It took me quite a while to filter the two thousand songs in my collection. When I was all set to do the transfer, all the songs I had chosen got unmarked suddenly. That really frustrated me!

This afternoon I went to buy an external hard-disk and a RAM for my sister's notebook. The installation of the RAM was ok but when it came to the hard-disk, a simple process of just plug-and-play became two hours of trying to find where the drive had gone to though it has been detected by the computer and the driver installed. In the end I gave up. I called a brother-in-Christ and after some guidance, the gadget is now working.

On Tuesday, it felt as if the Singapore Bus Service was going against me. After getting some work done with my sister, I accompanied her to the bus-stop so that she could catch a bus home. The first bus came and it was packed. We waited for another 20 minutes and the next bus came. Same thing - it was packed.

I decided that we go to a different stop to catch another bus service. After walking a distant, we arrived at the stop. It was waiting time again - took another 20 minutes for the bus to arrive. My sister boarded while I walked to another location to catch my bus.

I waited and waited and waited and for almost 30 minutes, the bus did not arrive. I checked the information board. It was here I realised that particular bus service stops operation after a certain time of the evening. That almost caused the volcano in me to erupt.

I had no choice but to walk to the next road to catch yet another bus service. Guess what? While walking to the stop, the bus I had in mind zoomed past me. I had to confess I swore out of sheer frustration - not as in vulgarities but still not pleasant words I used.

That evening, it took me two hours to go home from Millennia Walk. :(

On Monday, I took a break from work and went to Malacca with two brothers-in-Christ from the MacRitchie Running Fellowship. We set off as early as 6.30am and we only came back to Singapore past midnight. It was a fun and productive trip as we ate and shopped.

On our way home which was already 9.30pm, I told myself to stay awake throughout the trip so that I could be the extra pair of eyes on the road as it was pitch-dark almost throughout the ride. During dinner time we prayed for journey mercy.

The journey home was ok except towards the end when we were nearing the exit to the Singapore Immigration Point. A Malaysian car overtook us and the brother who was driving just turned his head for a moment to look at that car. The other brother was sleeping in the front seat.

At that short span of time, out of nowhere a lorry came on sight, in front of the car. I shouted for the brother who was behind the wheels to brake. He did and for a distant, the car swerved quite a bit.

Thank God when that happened, there were no cars behind and beside us. I also praise God for the good driving skills of that dear brother of mine who reacted well.

Truly God is good. If not, I would not be able to blog now.

It is tough to focus on what I need to do for this Sunday's service when so many incidents had happened. Anyway, when I was in the train just now, God reminded me that yes, though this week thus far has not been pleasant, it does not mean that it would be so for the next few days. It is a matter of seeing all these as testimonies of how God has pulled me through them. Now I should turn my anger and frustration into praise because I am still here and all the problems I faced earlier have been resolved.

Well, time for me to sleep as I was up watching the Liverpool-Marseille Champions League match from 3.45 to 6.00am. The Reds managed to go into the last 16. Yay!

Good night, everyone!

"Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance." James 1:2

Stop Being Indifferent; Start Caring

I was just reading the newspapers and found out that an article I wrote to the Forum page regarding the recent mauling of a staff at the Singapore Zoo has been printed. I was pleasantly surprised as it was a spur of the moment decision to bring to everyone's attention that it was not a security lapse which led to the death of the late Mr. Nordin but more so his intention to intrude which led to the tigers' attack.

Every one has been talking about the security aspect when what was missed out is the fact that Mr. Nordin was not referred to the management for counselling when he was behaving erratically on the day of the incident. If his mental state of mind had been dealt with, probably he will still be alive today.

I do not wish to generalise this statement which I am going to make but it is likely that many times we, as humans, choose to mind our business and not care about others who are in desperate need that suicide cases happen.

Sometimes we tell ourselves, "Nah! I don't think it is that bad though so and so is behaving this way." Well, this assumption at the end of the day will cause the loss of someone's life. It is hard to swallow but those of us who are guilty of being indifferent is partly responsible should there be a case of death.

Anyway, I hope I am not a pot calling a kettle black. I have to practise this in my life as well - basically to let my friends know that I am their friend. In turn, it is also my hope that when I am in need, my friends will help me too.

Today has been a day of mishaps for me - I fell down while climbing a flight of steps. One of my left fingers is slightly injured, around the nail area. Next, while I was taking a short cut across a field, I did not know I stepped on some poo. It was only brought to my attention when I was at a cafe - the stench was unbearable when I sat down with my God-sister. We checked the floor around us but could not see any poo. After a while, it occurred to me that I had some on the sole of my sandals. It took me a while to remove the yucky substance off. Haha.

Well, that sums up my day. Thanks be to God, no matter what. :)

"Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." Ecclesiastes 4:12

Fire At The Void-Deck

It is 1:17am and I am still wide awake. I am basically recovering from a pretty serious incident which happened about an hour ago at the void-deck of my block. A fire had broken out where some sofas were - those pieces of furniture were placed there for some elderly folks who usually congregate in the day to play Chinese chess.

Before the fire, my brother and I heard some Malay youths playing with sparklers which were making a lot of swooshing noises. We did not really pay much attention to them, thinking that they were just having some fun.

It went on for a while and I got a little more curious as to why these chaps were still up so late in the night. I went to the kitchen and that was when I saw the fire. My brother called the fire service hotline while I ran down to investigate the scene. Two sofa sets were blazing with some home-made chess boxes catching fire as well. The walls and ceiling are covered with soots.

My next concern was my neighbours who live on the second floor especially the apartment which is directly above the fire. I knocked on the door and woke the residents up. One of them ran down with a pail and tried to put out the fire. It took three pails to extinguish the flames.

Not long after, the firemen and police came. While waiting for them, I checked the vicinity and saw several burnt sparkler-rods. I showed them to the investigating officers. After taking down my particulars, I went up to my apartment.

I have some suspects in mind but I am not sure whether they are the ones. I walked around the block and went up to the second level to check whether there were any youths hiding but did not find any. I am sure they are still in the estate - hopefully the police will increase their patrol and bring these arsonists to justice.

My nose and throat are feeling uncomfortable due to the inhalation of smoke but after a quick bath and several gulps of water, they are better now.

The police is still investigating as I type.

Another interesting incident after the last one which I shared about involving some Malay youths breaking fluorescent tubes.

Okie, I think I should try to sleep now.

Thank God there was no injury.

Future Bleak Or Bright - Remember, God Provides!

I have been so busy with work that I do not have time to even blog lately. Though it has been up to my neck doing some research, I thank God that I am still surviving. Praise Him for that!

The economy has not been doing well as we all know by now. There are fears of loss of jobs; a bleak future at least for the next one to two years; salary cut and bonus freeze; etc. As I read the newspapers and listen to the news on the television, one part of me says I should be afraid of the uncertainties ahead but then another part assured me of God's peace - reminding me that no matter how bad situations may be around the world and in my homeland, the Lord will still provide as He has always been doing, even for the birds in the air and the grass of the fields.

Though I have to watch what I spend and not indulge too much in every area of my life, I think life ahead will still be fun and adventurous. In God's time, He will restore everything. I guess it is good sometimes for all to face a little difficulty so that it opens our eyes to see how human we are and how we need to depend on God for our daily needs.

Every morning when I wake up, I thank God that He allowed me to have my three meals the previous day and will do the same in the brand new day ahead.

Lately He has shown me a lot of His faithfulness - be it at what I do daily, at home and even in the ministries I am serving in church.

One very good testimony is that of the Children's Ministry Missions Team. As there will be 10 children and 14 adults going on this trip to minister to the Khmer people and spreading God's love during this Christmas season, one area we needed to work on is in raising a third of the funds needed - that amounts to S$10,000.

It seemed a daunting task especially when the trip is just three weeks away but as God has shown me how He had provided in previous trips, I encouraged the team to pray for this fund. I always tell myself and also the team that if what we are doing is that of God's purpose and for His people, He will surely provide regardless of how short time may be. That said, indeed our Jehoveh Jireh has provided!

In a short span of three weeks, we have raised about S$14,000! Through appeals on the pulpit, selling simple stuff like chocolates brought back from Frankfurt and some photographs which I took over the years as a photographer.

It is comforting to know how God provided us with more especially when a recent need was brought to our attention that some dwellers in a slum need help financially. Now this extra money can be used to feed these hungry souls and provide them some training in sewing skills so that they can make a living for themselves.

Hallelujah and all thanks and praise to God for His goodness! :)

Just now, my family celebrated our Australian Silky Terrier's second birthday! I have to confess that we all forgot about it until my God-sister reminded me. Hee. I felt bad after that and I decided to get my doggy some treats - Sasha had a main course of some turkey and lamb sausages plus some jellos for desserts.

She is now all bloated and satisfied - sleeping under the dining table. I shall play 'fetch' with her later so that she can burn off some of the food she had. Haha

Well, time to go!

God is light and He will brighten up our day always! When discouraged, do not shut your eyes in despair. Keep them open, look up and you will see Jesus - submit to Him your needs and if you have asked anything accordingly to His will, He will provide! :)

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us — whatever we ask — we know that we have what we asked of him." 1 John 5:14-15

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen." Philippians 4:19-20

Once Bitten, Twice Shy

The National Environmental Agency (NEA) just sent me a notice to attend court on 23 December 2008 at 6.00pm to answer a charge of mosquito-breeding or have the offence compounded by paying a fine of S$200 before the date of hearing.

Early last month, a staff from NEA found some lavae on one of the plates holding grandma's flower-pots. As I was the only one at home then, I gave the gentleman my particulars. I did not know that the case is so serious that I have to be summoned to court.

After talking to my lawyer-friend about the options available, I decided to write a letter of appeal to NEA for them to reconsider the charge made. During the period when the offence was committed, grandma was recovering from a bout of asthmatic attack. As she was weak, she was unable to take care of the plants which she has all these while been faithful in doing so.

I hope with this reason, NEA will be lenient enough to let the family off with a warning since this is our first offence committed.

I have to admit that it is a scary thought to be served with a court order. I can picture myself standing before the judge (perspiring profusely) having to defend myself against the charge. An even scarier picture is that of Andy Chew fumbling while being queried and in the end given a more serious charge and sentence.

Well, this incident has taught the family a lesson that it should be a shared responsibility of every one at home to ensure that there are no mosquito-breeding grounds in the vicinity. I guess this is a "once bitten, twice shy" lesson for us. No pun intended.

Oh yah, it just dawned upon me about the earlier picture I gave of me standing before the judge, that one day I would have to stand before another JUDGE and account to Him everything that I have done here on earth. It is my prayer that I live my life in accordance to what God requires so that when I stand before His judgment seat, I would be able to account everything to Him confidently.

Thanks be to God for this reminder.

Okie, time for me to get back to my work.

Praise the Lord for this encounter. May He be merciful and gracious to me.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

"Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. Earth and sky fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what he had done." Revelation 20:11-13

Every Experience That God Gives Us, He Also Provides

Just now I was feeling very burdened over some matters concerning my family. It was so overwhelming that I had to speak to the Lord about these concerns. In the midst of my quietness before God, there was a complaining spirit in me - blabbing that life is bad! Life is full of problems! Life is no life at all!

I guess today is one day when I find it hard to be still before the Lord because of all these noises crying out for attention. Anyway, I am still thankful that I was able to resolve that life is still not bad.

So what are these matters I was talking about? Well, mum went for a check-up this morning and the doctor has confirmed that her kidneys are weak due to her diabetic condition. More tests were carried out and the results will be out next week to ascertain the kind of treatment needed.

Then a few days ago, grandma fell when she went out marketing. Thank God she is okay except for a few sores on her back. On top of that she has been troubled by mum's condition and also my cousin's hernia operation. Sometimes it is tough to stay at home and hear her keep mumbling that the family is full of problems. Though it is good for her to release her frustrations but it does not help me when I have concerns of my own concerning everything at home. Who is going to listen to my frustrations?

I think I have shared this before - it is tough to have to take care of three elderly family members.

How then is life still good? Well, for mum's case, at least there is an efficient medical facility in Singapore to take care of her health issues. I guess I just have to trust God to use the doctor who is treating my mum to advise her as to the best treatment she needs to overcome her weak kidneys.

As for grandma, yes, she had a fall but at least she is alright. Yes, she is complaining but if I am not there for her, who would? I guess releasing her burdens to me is better than not doing it at all - at least now I know how else to pray for her.

Many times I told God that it is tough for me to handle three old persons but as I look back, these are the three individuals who took care of me from infancy to what I am now. I guess it is my turn to repay their kindness and love.

God also assured me this when I was trying to be as quiet as I could - since He has preserved the lives of grandma, mum and dad till this age of theirs, surely He would also provide accordingly to meet their needs.

Well, I guess it is more beneficial to approach life's inconveniences with joy rather than being moody about it.

Oh yah, God also reminded me that I need not go through this alone. Having that in mind, I messaged my accountability group members about the above-mentioned so that they can pray with and for me. :)

I shall key off now.

All glory to God!

"Praise be to the Lord, to God our Savior, who daily bears our burdens." Psalm 68:19

My Apologies

When I wrote my previous blog I knew I would have caused some friends to be offended by what I shared because I seemed to be judgmental. Part of me says I need not explain myself further but the other part does not wish to create any rifts or misunderstandings.

All I have to say is there are pockets of friends, who instead of affirming and encouraging, mocked me outrightly when I shared with them about what I have been doing for the people around me.

What I shared in my blog is what I am going through in my life's journey. It is not meant to judge (may the Lord forgive me if I had). Instead it is to cause the readers and myself to ponder on those thoughts jotted down.

I may have done it on someone else and for me, it is an evaluation and a decision I have to take to stop this once and for all, lest I hurt another person by my insensitivity.

That said, I apologised to those who have taken offence in what I published especially the part which I seemed to have generalised "a supposed like-minded company."

The past few days of reflection on this have caused me to make this statement - "Just because I do not practise what others are doing which may be out of ordinary, it does not give me the right to mock them. Instead I should learn from them."

Well, I guess I am going to sleep with a heavy heart tonight but I trust that God will help me through this.

Being A Weirdo For Christ!

Ever had this experience where you shared with your friends what you did for someone which may be out of the ordinary and in return you get this "are-you-sure?" reaction? It is a lousy feeling, I have to say, especially when you are with a supposed like-minded company.

Since last year, I resolved to live my life in a manner where I would want to involve myself in being a light to the people around me. That sometimes means being a weirdo in the sight of strangers especially when you start talking to them about the harmful effects of smoking; about the consequence in selling pirated DVDs; about informing and warning shops not to sell cigarettes to individuals below the age of 18; about encouraging youths not to drink alcohol at void-decks; etc.

In my growing up years I have been taught by my parents to always mind my own business and not get myself into unnecessary problems especially involving myself in other people's lives.

Well, then I was not a Christian but now being one who has known Jesus for more than 20 years, I feel that it is my responsibility to make a difference in this world. As an individual I may not be able to change the whole world but if I can bit by bit, person-by-person, minister as much as I can, then I should.

The results in attempting to transform lives are never encouraging. Out of ten persons you reach out to, probably only two will heed your advice and change. To me, it is better than not doing anything at all and obtain zero returns.

If even one life can be nurtured, thanks be to God for that!

Anyway, I am going to continue to live as a 'weirdo.' Not easy especially when I want to be accepted by the people around me. I guess I shall not be too bothered by this and let God use me accordingly.

It has been a tiring day for me, having made a foolish decision to stay up at 1:30 this morning to watch the Liverpool-Tottenham match. I only slept at 3:30am and had to wake up by 7am so that I could be in church by 8am.

No matter how exhausted I was, I am thankful for having gone through this day of adventure in church.

Okie, I have to go now as my eyes are shutting real soon.

Good night and have a blessed week ahead!

"As you come to him, the living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him — you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For in Scripture it says: "See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone, and the one who trusts in him will never be put to shame." Now to you who believe, this stone is precious. But to those who do not believe, "The stone the builders rejected has become the capstone," and, "A stone that causes men to stumble and a rock that makes them fall." They stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for. But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." 1 Peter 2:4-12

Hey! Are You A Christian?

I have not been blogging for the past one week simply because I was struggling with something which I want to write but do not know how to. The main thing is I do not want to sound as if I am judging but at the same time, it is something which I have been observing for a while. This thought has also made me very frustrated.

Anyway, I have decided to jot these burdens down and hope those who are in agreement with me will pray with me. Whatever I will be sharing is not meant to point fingers at any one but to start us thinking what we should be doing from henceforth.

Ever heard of Christians sharing some of these issues: that there is no meaning in what they do; that one cannot differentiate between a Christian and non-Christian; that when they see something wrong with either a friend or a family member, they do not want to do anything about it lest they are branded a busybody or that these troubled individuals will leech on them; that they do not feel like praying for someone or something?

Coincidentally my accountability group and I were sharing about the above-mentioned and to me that was the last straw. I realised it is time for us to wake up and start getting used to our identity in Christ!

The above issues I mentioned above simply voice down to one thing - we are not living as salt of the earth and light of the world which God has called us to do so.

If we are, then there will be meaning in what we do especially when we are talking about the routines of life - we can break the norms and be different. We can be a counter-culture and not be mundane beings. Yes, the work we do may be the same after a while but what about the people around us - are we getting ourselves involved in their lives? Are we being a testimony to them? If someone is in need or doing something wrong, are we doing something about them? Yes, these are dirty jobs but that was precisely what Jesus did. He cared for those who needed care; He reached out to those who were lost. If we Christians are not doing anything about these, then who will?

Nowadays it is tough to differentiate a Christian from a non-Christian because the former is not behaving like one. We are to be in the world but not of the world. Because of our fears to let others know of our identity as Christians, we do things as the world would; we pursue the temporal and forgo the eternal; we go for the popular and conclude Christianity as something boring; we conform to the patterns of this world instead of being transformed by the renewing of our minds; we dare not change the world for fear that others might think we are mad.

Even in the church, Christians are not supporting Christians. We sometimes bring the world's teachings into the church instead of the opposite - Christians bicker; Christians judge one another; Christians holding grudges against another; Christians do not care for each other; Christians giving up!

How can the church grow if all these are happening? How can we be better beings when we are destroying one another? Instead of rebuking and correcting one another in love, we destroy with much hatred and bitterness. We are not even practising the basic disciplines like that of prayer. Instead we make remarks like I do not like to pray; it is no use praying; etc.

I was challenging myself this morning as I was praying and reading God's Word to start living! Only when I do that will I see the power of God moving in and through me. Only when I know the will of God will I then be able to find meaning in what I do. Only when I die to self, will my eyes then be opened to what eternity holds. Only when I see myself as a pilgrim, will I see this world as just a transit? If I get too comfortable in this earthly home which is only temporary, then my life simply ends here.

How to challenge Christians to start living? I guess it starts with me first, coupled with prayer and see how God moves me from here.

Many times the church is not growing is due to the fact that the people in there are not.

That said, I shared with my accountability group members that I am burning out. Thank God I have not burnt out yet! At least I am aware of this. The next thing which I need to do is to reorganise my life and see which areas need weeding. I also pray that the Lord will guide me through this period of reflection and action. I cannot wait to find more joy in what I do and soar higher like that of an eagle.

Well, I shall end here.

"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men. "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 5:13-16

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:29-31

God Still Provides In Bad Times

The Children's Ministry Missions Team will be going to Cambodia in December to bring some Christmas cheers to the orphans, villagers and also members of the Khmer congregation that my church is supporting.

Every year in Singapore, many of us receive gifts from friends but frankly, these presents become excess stocks in our already abundant inventory. As for the Khmer people, especially the majority who are poor, a simple gift would be a great blessing to them because they have nothing in the first place.

I praise the Lord for the 10 children and their families who will be accompanying them. In all, including me, there are 24 in the team. I am excited as to what we will be doing at the orphanage, village and my sister-church.

One of the areas in which the team need to pray for is in raising one-third of the total cost for the trip. All these years, previous missions teams did not have much problems obtaining funds from the congregation but I am not sure about this year.

As we all know, the economy has not been doing well at all. The future seems uncertain and every one is trying to tighten their purse-strings.

I have to confess that there were some anxieties when the above thought came to mind. As I spoke to the Lord about this concern I had, I was challenged to place my full trust in Him. If the work that this team is doing is for God and His people, then the funds will pour in eventually. After I submitted those burdens to Him, there was peace and I praise the Lord for that. :)

At around 3pm, I went with two brothers-in-Christ to Changi Coast Adventure Camp to recce the site which the Youth Ministry will be using for the Youth Camp in December. I praise God we were able to gather all the information we need. As I will be planning the outdoor games on the third day with another brother-in-Christ, the above visit has allowed me to have a better idea as to what games we can play. I am excited and I pray the youths will have great fun! :)

Well, I shall end here for now. I am actually quite sleepy - stayed up to watch the Atletico Madrid-Liverpool match. The Reds were leading for 84 minutes of the game but 6 minutes before the whistle, they conceded a goal and the match ended in a draw. I almost died when that happened.

Anyway, praise God I am still alive! Haha. :)

Have a restful evening!

"And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Gold In The Rut!

Ever had this situation where you found it hard to encourage someone in his struggles or rebuke him when you noticed the way he carried himself could be a stumbling block to others when your own walk with God has not been right?

I have been facing this lately and it can be frustrating! It just makes me feel like a hypocrite, yet my intention is genuine in wanting to help the person. There is basically this irritating voice in me that keeps taunting me with accusations like "Are you sure or not?"; "Come on! Quit that holy act of yours! You are no better!"; "A pot calling a kettle black!"

I guess that is the reason why I have not been blogging because I found it hard to share about my pilgrim's journey when I am basically stagnating.

Well, I have just had enough of letting the devil take a foothold in my life! Just now while I was praying, I concluded that all the above sliming from that fallen angel should not put me down but instead, it should encourage me to get back on track again.

It feels good to be taken out of the clutches of Satan's lies and be free again. So what if I had fallen down?! So what if I am down and out but I would like to encourage others still?!

I guess we need to always be mindful that the only way the devil can affect us is to challenge us to go back to THE WAY; THE TRUTH; and THE LIFE! Of course, we know who I am referring to here.

JESUS, of course! :)

Never ever go deeper into the rut should you face the same experience I shared in the opening few paragraphs. Many times Christians fall away because they have been cut down by the poisonous words of the devil.

It is alright to be down for a while.

I always like this reminder - when we are down, the only other way is to look up! That is where we see the hands of Jesus , helping us back to our feet so that we can move on with the adventures of life!

I praise the Lord for this liberation.

It is funny for me to say this but I sure look forward to the next time I fall again. There are probably precious lessons I can learn from there, just like this one I am sharing now.

To God be all glory and praise!

“Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” Psalm 51:12

Fear Not!

Today is the third day that I have been exercising - basically to get myself in shape again after taking a long break due to injuries to my knees. It has been a good feeling having able to work out though I am taking it slow by doing brisk walking first. I will probably do this form of training for the next three months and review from there as to whether I can move on to jogging and after that running.

I took out the Polar Fitness watch which a dear brother-in-Christ gave me two years ago - it has been in the cupboard since the last time I ran which was almost a year ago. I had the batteries changed for both the watch and heart-rate transmitter. It is my prayer that I will be able to exercise regularly from now on.

Anyway, yesterday evening I was walking with my doggy Sasha at the park opposite my home. Towards the end of my exercise, I met an elderly gentleman and his wife. They were doing their stroll. When they saw Sasha, they played with her for a while.

I chatted with them as we walked along. It was good for me as I was cooling down. After a while, Aunty Poh Kim suggested to her husband, Uncle Joe, that they should head home since it was getting dark. She also commented that she does not like being in the ex-cemetery for too long.

I guess Uncle Joe knew that she was afraid of things like ghosts and chided her for being scared. It was here that I got to know they are Christians because Uncle Joe quoted a verse which read, "... the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world." (1 John 4:4b)

Immediately, it reminded me of the same verse that a Lay Ministry Staff from my church quoted when she was conducting the missions training session on "The Khmers of Cambodia." She shared this verse to encourage the missions team not to be afraid of the spiritual forces at work in the land where atrocities were rampant!

Uncle Joe went on to share that if we worship a God who is so great, being the King above all kings and the Lord above all lords, why should we, Christians, be afraid of anything at all? He then added that we should be as fearless as Jet Li! Haha. I think he was referring to the movie which the kung-fu star acted in not long ago. It was quite comical when I heard that.

As I was walking home and pondering on the wise words of Uncle Joe, they did make lots of sense. Many times the fears we have are pointless because the God Almighty whom we worship can help us at all times and at all cost - so long as we call upon Him!

It brought a lot of peace in me as well because lately I have been reflecting on my life and considering what is the next lap in my pilgrim's journey. The uncertainties seem so scary and when I realised I cannot predict the future, I got frustrated and anxious.

It is just so amazing how God brings people whom I do not know at all into my life at the very point when I needed an answer from Him. How can I not testify that this God is real?! Thanks be to Him for that!

The muscles around my legs are beginning to tense up but it feels good. I guess I need to continue to condition them with more exercises and I should be fine after a while.

Oh yah, praise the Lord too that I was able to finish preparing the missions training session which I am conducting this Sunday. There was an inertia this afternoon when I was doing the slides but everything went smoothly after starting on the first slide! :)

Time to go. Just had dinner and have to walk around the house a little.

"I sought the LORD, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears." Psalm 34:4

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Watch The Indulgences!

It has been a rather quiet Saturday for me. Initially I made plans to go out with my sister to do some work at the National Library - she was planning to do her assignment and studying for her test next week while I was going to do some stuff for the Missions Ministry.

All came to naught when something cropped up for my sister and the plans were cancelled. In the end I stayed at home and basically rested. I do not know why but lately I have been feeling very lethargic. I get tired and irritated easily - something that I am trying very hard to overcome but with very little result.

I have been praying about it as well. Probably I may have to go on a personal retreat somewhere and list down some of the issues in my life which may have caused this irritation in me. I want to overcome this as soon as possible as I do not like what I am going to through now to affect the people around me - as in them being my victims whom I vent my frustrations on. I think it is not fair.

Anyway, I think the lethargy is probably due to the unhealthy lifestyle that I have been indulging lately - too much eating and too little exercise. I have been putting on weight quite scarily the past few months and no desire whatsoever to work out that body. It is not out of vanity that I want to get something done about the weight gain but more so being a good steward of this body that God has given me. I think it is high time for me to start watching what kind of food I am eating as well.

Being at home today really helps me to reflect on some areas of my life. One other aspect I need to also be mindful of is the way I have been spending money lately. I realised I have been spending a lot lately - mainly on food. This is another area of stewardship which I need to work on. Some would tell me that it is okay to indulge but I think that is a worldly mindset that I must not entertain.

There are other ways to enjoy life!

I think I shall try to sleep early tonight as I have a long day tomorrow in church. The next few Sundays till before the Children's Ministry Missions Team leave for Cambodia will be packed with training and preparation. Sometimes it can be very tiring but it is something worth persevering for especially when you see God moving in the lives of the team members as they prepare and let God use them to touch the lives of the Khmer people.

A lot of things are still very sketchy but I am confident my God Almighty will make the picture clearer as the weeks draw nearer to the trip.

I shall end here. Praise the Lord for the weekends.

Good night to all and have a wonderful time worshipping the Lord tomorrow in your respective churches! :)

"Someone in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me." Jesus replied, "Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?" Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.' "Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." ' "But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?' "This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God." Luke 12:13-21