A Little Kindness Goes A Long Way

I just came back from lunch with some of the church staff. We went to Heartland Mall Hawker Centre for our meal.

Just when we found our table, I noticed an old man, probably in his early 70s, scouring the area as if he was looking for some things. After that, I went to order my food. When I went back to the table, he was no where to be found.

After lunch, the staff and I went to a bookstore to buy some stationeries. We shopped around the mall for a while.

When we were on our way back to the car, I detoured to the hawker centre planning to buy some pancakes for tea later. As I was doing that, I met the old man again. What I saw made my heart sank. He was basically waiting for customers to finish their food and when he saw leftovers, he would eat them even if it means only some meat left on the bones of the chicken.

Every one else was looking at him with this disgusted look but he was not affected. I could tell he was very hungry. I think trying to fill his stomach meant more than being bothered by what people thought of him.

I was moved to buy some food for him to eat. In the end, I got him a packet of chicken rice and went around the hawker centre looking for him. I managed to and gave him the packet of food. He bowed his head when he collected the food from me, looked up slowly, gave a faint smile and thanked me. I smiled back and asked him to eat while the rice is still warm. I pray that packet is enough to last him through the day.

When I bent down to pass the uncle his food, I also noticed that his right shin was bruised quite badly. I decided to buy some bandages and antiseptic lotion so that he can clean them. Again he smiled and thanked me.

I prayed for him as I walked away and hope the next day and the following - basically every day - someone would provide for him at least some food to eat. I also asked the Lord to heal his wound. I hope it will not get affected.

I left the hawker centre with one lesson learnt - look around whenever I am eating out. If there is someone who does not have the means to buy his own food, perhaps I should not just look at him or her and and show pity without doing anything else. The least I could do is buy some food for the person to eat. It may only last him a day but that is better than for him to go through it hungry.

I am sharing this not to boast about what I did but I am challenging all who read this blog to do something. A $3 meal may not be much to most of us but it may mean a lot to some who cannot even afford one.

May the Lord show His mercy and grace to these His creation - sometimes they need His blessings more than most of us.

"For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death." Psalm 72:12-13

"He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God." Proverbs 14:31

"He who is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward him for what he has done." Proverbs 19:17

Setting My Heart And Mind On Things Above

After I finished preparing the Youth Ministry lesson at Coffee Bean, I decided to head for MacRitchie Reservoir to spend some time with the Lord. It was drizzling but I decided to go anyway.

I found a shelter near the canoeing centre. I basically sat there, observing the droplets of water all around me. The weather was cool. I took out my Bible, journal, turned on my laptop and basically read what had happened in my life for the past one month.

My conclusion for the month of April is this - it has been a mentally and emotionally-draining period for me. I had to deal with a major conflict in my life which is still ongoing; had to go on an oversea assignment which opened my eyes to a whole new understanding of suffering; battling certain thoughts and emotions involving people; breaking promises that I have made to some people; dealing with disappointments; overcoming some shortcomings in my life so that I do not stumble people; the need to allow others to understand me better; meeting some of the less fortunate by chance in this properous nation of Singapore.

Just as much as I struggled through the month, I am also thankful to God for teaching me many lessons to deal with the above-mentioned; for allowing me to find rest in my short weekend trip to Malacca; for the times of fellowship I had with friends over meals; for the moments of solitude and communion I had with the Lord; for the encouragements that some friends had given me.

After reading the above accounts of my life, I read God's Word and He gave me a passage from Colossians 3:1-17. It was a passage so relevant to what I was feeling when I was doing my monthly evaluation.

Some of the lessons I learnt:-

a) I was encouraged to set my heart and mind on things above and not on earthly things (vv 1 & 2). I guess it is good to do that as it allows me then to see things in perspective - that God is greater than all the earthly things in and around me.

It also reminded me to put Him first in all I do. If I allow earthly things to control me, then it is so easy to fall into the lures of this world. When that happens, God will slowly disappears in my life because everything else becomes more important than Him.

That is why the subsequent verses urged the readers to put to death whatever belongs to the earthly nature (vv 5-10).

b) The other reminder was the need for me to do what is pleasing in God's sight (vv 12-15). What struck me was the need for me to bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances I may have against one another. I basically need to put on the love of God in my life and always let the peace of God rule my life (vv 15a). I also need to always be thankful for everything (vv 15b) - sometimes it is tough but I have to keep practising this so that it allows me to see things in a more positive manner.

c) Like this passage that has struck me and brought encouragement to what I am going through now, I need to continue to let the Word of God dwell in me richly - not only for my own benefits but for others as well (vv 16).

d) Many times I find discontentment and dissatisfaction in some of the things I do. This is simply due to the fact that I am doing them for personal glory and recognition. This mindset has to change. Instead I need to do everything, whether in word or deed, in the name of the Lord (vv 17). When I am able to practise this, it will then allow me to always be thankful at all times.

After meditating on God's Word, I just kept quiet and went to God in prayer. It was refreshing to the soul and I praise the Lord for challenging me to do a few things this month - basically letting what I have learnt to overcome the struggles I am going through.

I also took the time to share with God the burdens of my heart concerning people and ministries. He is the only One who can help me but I also asked the Lord to grant me patience and perseverance. Some of the things I asked for, sometimes I hope they would be answered immediately but it is not always the case. That is why I need to learn to let God answer my cries in His time.

I guess that is all for my monthly evaluation. Tomorrow a few of my brothers and sisters are going to Phuket for a short weekend getaway. I pray they will have fun and great fellowship with one another. I am supposed to join them but chose not to due to some commitments I have made and other factors.

I also felt bad not joining another group of siblings-in-Christ yesterday for a time of fellowship. Initially I told them I would join them but had to back out as I had to assist in conducting the wake. Even if there was no wake, I also could not join them as there was also the Leaders' Prayer.

Well, time for me to stop here. It has been a thought-provoking day for me. Thanks be to God for the insights He has given me.

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Here there is no Greek or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:1-17

Conflicts Should Not Paralyse Me

This morning I wanted to watch the AC Milan-Manchester United match but as always, I overslept and woke up only at 6am. I was hoping for a Liverpool-Manchester United final but it was not to be. Just messaged my dear friend's sister to send her my sympathies.

Anyway, since I was up and decided not to go back to bed, I went for a run instead. I needed that as I have been eating a lot lately. I also took the time to speak to the Lord further about what I wrote in my previous blog. It was refreshing. Thanks be to God for that!

Before I went for my driving lesson, I called my colleague, whom I had a conflict with yesterday, to apologise to him about yesterday. Though it was not my fault for being late, I wanted to make things up with him for being rather cold and hostile towards him. I am glad both of us got our differences settled and it was truly a great release.

Driving class was okay. The instructor was quite chatty so we talked about almost everything under the sun but the main topic was on soccer and of course the Manchester United's defeat was brought up. He shared how and why the Red Devils lost and I was smiling as I listened. Mr. Lim was quite comical in the way he analysed the match. I could not contribute much as I did not watch it. Anyway, that made the time fly faster and driving more fun. :)

I am now in Ngee Ann City Coffee Bean. I am here to prepare for the Youth Ministry (YM) lesson. Though the voice is still rattling on in my mind about all the hypocrisy and problem I am having with a dear sibling, I have told the Lord I am not going to let this stop Him from using me to share His Word to the rest in YM. I also have no qualms telling my younger siblings-in-Christ that I am currently facing this situation as it is part and parcel of life that one faces conflicts with people at certain points of his life. Does this mean I am going to be paralysed by them each time I have a problem with someone? Definitely not! By saying this, I do not mean that I am not going to care about the conflict. I am still dealing with it except that my life has to go on, with an extra load on my shoulder.

I am still praying that one day the Lord will help my dear sibling and I to overcome the conflict. I believe reconciliation and restoration will come in God's time and when both of us are ready to confront each other with our differences, hurts and grudges. I am ready to do that because it is the right thing to do and also for me to learn from my mistakes. I will continue to pray and hope. I know the Lord will not fail me.

Before I came to the cafe, I was looking at my watch and realised that time has stopped literally. I was shocked how come it was still so early when in my mind I thought otherwise. I had to go to a watch shop to have the battery changed and did not know it would cost so much to have the lithium cell replaced. Anyway, glad to know time is running again. Following on to what I shared last night about numbering my days, I know one day my time will be up but I hope I will not be shocked about it but instead be ready for it when it happens.

Alright, I shall key off for now. Time to prepare for the YM lesson. May the Lord be my guide.

"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary..." Matthew 5:23-25a

Numbering My Days

I assisted my Pastor-in-Charge in conducting a wake tonight. It was for a dear sister-in-Christ's grandfather who passed away yesterday. The passing was unexpected for the family.

I was in church in the afternoon to prepare the Youth Ministry (YM) lesson for this Sunday when my Pastor asked whether I could assist. I agreed to it as I wanted to minister to the family. I hope I did.

Though it is always sad to attend a wake, knowing that a loved one has left this world, it is also a time for one to ponder on life.

My pastor reminded the family and all present to number our days while we are still alive. She challenged every one to consider what are the important things in life. She warned that sometimes the way we live make it seems as if life here on earth is forever. But she reminded every individual that it is not to be and life can end as early as before the next minute. Be it young or old, every one should not take life for granted.

I was told that the average age of a man is 72 years. As I am 35 now, I roughly have 37 years left of me. Multiply that number by 365, I basically have 13505 days. Well, that is how much I am left with in my pilgrim's journey.

I give thanks to God for this timely message because the whole of today I have not been feeling that great.

The day did not start well. It began with disappointment and frustration. I was supposed to meet my colleague immediately after the Liverpool-Chelsea match to discuss on some articles that we were supposed to do. As the deadlines are drawing near, we needed to rush them. My colleague assured me that he would be able to make it when I asked him a couple of times whether he was certain since our appointment was so early in the morning - 6am.

When I reached the office, he was not there. An hour later, he was still not in sight. I called and messaged him but to no avail. He finally came and that was at 9am. Three hours late. He apologised and said he overslept. He knew I was frustrated. I could have used those hours of waiting to sleep as well since I stayed up to watch the match but chose to forgo them just so we could meet up.

Anyway, I left it as it was and went on with my work.

The next struggle came when I was in church trying to prepare the lesson for this Sunday. Suddenly my whole mind was in turmoil.

The crux of the topic is on resolving conflicts. The whole time when I tried to start the lesson preparations, there was this accusing voice that kept saying to me, "Andy, how are you going to teach this lesson when you are currently in conflict with a sister? Do not kid yourself and be a hypocrite! You should have chosen to go for the Phuket trip this weekend with your friends instead of teaching this lesson!"

For an hour and a half, I just stared into my computer and nothing came out of my mind. I messaged a dear friend to pray for me as I needed some prayer support.

Well, since morning till the time I was struggling with the lesson plan, I felt really lousy. Sometimes I asked myself why am I so stupid to do things for people and sacrificing part of me when I could choose not to bother at all?

I also wondered if I have chosen to live my life in a more low-key attitude, maybe that would minimise potential tensions with people because the more prominent I am or pro-active I become, then the chances of conflicts are higher.

I also questioned whether sometimes I am being taken for granted by others. Here I am trying to make people happy but in the end, I got treated negatively.

Anyway, I share the above thoughts because those were precisely the things I was struggling with. I do not necessarily subscribe to them. I also did not write them to boast about the things I do. Just that at that point when I was feeling lousy, all these thoughts just came to mind.

Well, that is why I am thankful for the message my Pastor shared during the wake. At the end of the day when I have counted my days and realised there is not much time left, all the struggles I shared above pale in comparison with pursuing what is vital - that is to continue to do what God wants me to and not let disappointments cause me to doubt about the role God has given me.

So, how is my pilgrim's progress report? Well, once in a while, it has been stalled by the doubts and struggles of life but it is still moving along because it has to. I basically need God to continue spurring me on - sometimes I need Him to kick me in the butt so that I can wake up my ideas and move on.

Long sharing for today's blog. Thanks be to God for this day especially for the lesson learnt!

"Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God. You turn men back to dust, saying, "Return to dust, O sons of men." For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night. You sweep men away in the sleep of death; they are like the new grass of the morning - though in the morning it springs up new, by evening it is dry and withered. We are consumed by your anger and terrified by your indignation. You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence. All our days pass away under your wrath; we finish our years with a moan. The length of our days is seventy years — or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. Who knows the power of your anger? For your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you. Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. Relent, O LORD! How long will it be? Have compassion on your servants. Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days. Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble. May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children. May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us — yes, establish the work of our hands." Psalm 90

Choices! Choices! Choices!

I came back not too long ago from a movie and dinner outing with some friends. All 6 of us went to watch Spiderman 3 at Prince 1 Theatre and then to Gluttons' Bay for our meal.

I got to know one new friend today - she is a roller-blading buddy of my dear friend. I enjoyed the time of fellowship with every one. As the rest did not know one another that well, my dear friend and I tried to make every one comfortable by initiating conversation and all. I asked the Lord to help me and I am thankful He guided me along the way.

Before I went for the movie, I was with a group of students and ex-students from the university playing rugby. Since all of them had finished their exams, they called me last night to join them for a friendly match against another group of ruggers. I went along as it has been a while since I met most of them. I did not play much - first of all, I am not supposed to play contact sports anymore due to an injury to my kidney in 1998. Secondly, I did not want to aggravate my weak left knee. I enjoyed the short time on the field though - really reminisce those times when I used to play regularly. I also had a great time catching up with every one.

Well, some of them are still not sure what they would like to do with their lives and careers. In the course of our conversations, I tried to advise accordingly.

Some are considering relationships but are not confident. Though I am no expert in this, I tried as best as I could to listen to their fears and gave them some points to ponder upon:-

1) One should not enter into a relationship just because they are pressured to do so from peers or parents or relatives;

2) One should go easy - develop the friendship first before entering into a serious relationship;

3) To those who are Christians, I encouraged them to pray about the individuals whom they are interested in. I also told them to consider the God-fearing aspect of the persons.

4) I advised them to go on group dates first (like today's rugby get-together) should they be nervous or unsure.

Well, like I said, I am not a guru in this since I myself have not been successful in winning the heart of the lady I love. Just as much as I gave advice, I also am still learning.

I am actually quite tired but I am going to stay up to watch the Liverpool-Chelsea Champions League Semi-Final Second Leg match at 2am later. Though Liverpool was beaten 0-1 in the First Leg, I hope they will bounce back later and win the match to go into the Final.

Anyway, before I end, I want to share a thought that I gathered while watching the Spiderman movie. Towards the last part of the show, one of the characters mentioned that the choices made by an individual will make him to be what he is.

To a very much extent, I agree with that but I would like to add on (in my opinion as a Christian) another point - the choices must also be guided by God since He knows what is best for us.

The problem is that most of the time, we refuse to listen to Him and in the process wrong choices are made. When that happens, the consequences are for us to bear but it is never the end of the road. We can always invite God back to our decision-making and He will gladly help us from where we left off.

I guess that is all I have to say.

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

The Lord Protects!

Something happened when I was going through my driving lesson this afternoon. At around 1:45, while I was at the junction of Ang Mo Kio Avenue 9, Yio Chu Kang Road and Lentor Avenue, two cars behind mine banged into each other and narrowly missed the car I was in by about 5cm.

It was so loud that it gave me a scare. The boot of the car directly behind mine was bashed up quite badly and the bonnet of the other vehicle was equally bad. The lady driver in the car behind was very shaken but I thank the Lord both drivers seemed okay.

My instructor and I came out to see whether every one was fine. After he checked our car, he asked me to drive on. Since he was the instructor I just did what he said. As I drove on, I just said a quick prayer for the two drivers and hoped the Lord will help them in the settlement of the damages caused.

It was such a close shave. When I heard the bang, I instinctively gripped my steering wheel so tightly. I do not know why I did that though. Anyway, thanks be to God again.

After going back to the driving centre, I wanted to have my lunch but I was still quite shaken by the near-miss accident that I did not feel like eating anymore. I basically walked around Ang Mo Kio Hub, bought some groceries and headed home.

I guess that is all I have to share for today.

"I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8

When Unsure, Seek God

I just finished ironing a basket-load of clothes. Though very tiring after a while, it felt good seeing all the nicely-pressed shirts and slacks. Coincidentally when I was messaging my dear friend to ask how she is feeling now, she was also doing some ironing. She said she is feeling better and was strong enough to do some housework rather than staring into blank space like yesterday when she was feeling weak. I am glad she went to see the doctor and was prescribed some medications for her tummy.

When I was doing the ironing, I was praying for some people and also the things that I will be doing this week. I am going to teach at the Youth Ministry again this Sunday. I have yet to plan the lesson and the approach to it. As many of the Youth Ministry Mentors will not be around as most of them will be away on holidays, I think I will most probably conduct a mass session instead.

My heart is still burdened for some siblings-in-Christ especially for their walk with God. One of them is specially closed to my heart but for the past few months things are not going well between us. This has been a burden for me but I find comfort each time I leave my dear sibling into God's care through prayer. This is the least I can do.

I also prayed for God's healing on my dear friend and others who are unwell. I know all of them will be healed in no time.

Though God has been teaching me many things this year, there are also areas where I am still seeking Him for counsel, wisdom and understanding. For example, the rift between my dear sibling-in-Christ and me. I still do not know exactly why we have drifted so far and why there is still no reconciliation. It hurts to see us like total strangers now. I desire to know what went wrong so that I can learn from it. I hope I will be given a chance to do so. For now, I cannot do much except to pray daily for God to make it happen one day. It is a heavy burden I am carrying on my shoulders and it will never be off-loaded till it is resolved.

Well, these were some thoughts I had while doing the housework. Time for me to end here as I need to go for my driving lesson.

Till I blog again, have a blessed day ahead!

"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see." Hebrews 11:1

"Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God." Psalm 43:5

What Is God's Calling For Me?

Today has been a super-long and tiring one for me but thanks be to God for pulling me through all the hectic schedules.

There are just so many things to thank the Lord for:-

1) I attended the Youth Ministry session this morning where a missionary from Uruguay came to share her testimony. Her name is June Chua.

She was called to serve in the mission field when she was studying in the United Kingdom. She began to ask God about the purpose of life on earth when a dear friend of hers was murdered when she was running alone in MacRitchie Reservoir several years ago.

June married a man who was once a drug addict but God changed his life when he attended a Benny Hinn Rally. She was sharing that when the Holy Spirit falls upon the life of a person, he would be completely changed inside-out. Her husband never turned back to drugs again and they have been happily married for 17 years with two teenage kids.

In the course of sharing about her growing up years, June encouraged the youths that there are two major decisions that they should not compromise when they are at a stage in life where they are considering about marriage and their future: one is that their life-partner must be a God-fearing man or woman - a person after God's own heart; two is the need for the individual to seek the Lord as to what He really wants him or her to do with his or her life - a goal; a purpose. I hope I got them right. The two points she mentioned hit me hard because they are truly vital in one's life.

Anyway, when June and her husband were praying as to where the Lord might want them to serve as missionaries, they were prompted to go to Uruguay.

They rented a shop space and started inviting people living in the streets into their church. Many of them are HIV-positive. Though a couple of them died after a while, the couple were thankful that they left this world knowing God at least.

The above-mentioned were some of the points that spoke to me. I had to leave early for the Worship Team rehearsal so I did not get the chance to listen to the rest.

The thing that hit me about the life of our missionary-sister is that there is joy in all that she does though the tasks entrusted to the missionary couple can be very daunting at times. This was my conclusion as I reflected on the testimony shared - when one obeys God's call; He will provide for the person all the way.

2) The praise and worship session at the 11:15am service went well. Praise the Lord! I do not know about the rest but at one stage, I cried as I sang because I felt God healing my heart. During the Youth Ministry session, I became down-trodden suddenly. I asked God to heal me and not let this affect my service to Him as a worship-leader. Well, He truly answered my prayer and lifted my spirit. I want to give God all the glory for all that had happened during the service.

3) The mission training session immediately after the service was also an enriching one for me as I shared with the team about the history of missions in the Methodist Church and also in the local church. The team members were spontaneous in the sharing. I believe God will use each and every one of them powerfully when they go forth to the land of Cambodia that God has called the church to.

Well, these were the three things that I was involved in back to back from early in the morning to the later part of the afternoon. I thank God for the fish burger that was provided to me by a brother-in-Christ. Though I got to eat it only at 4pm, I was still thankful there was at least something to sustain me physically.

A dear friend of mine is down with stomach flu. I hope she will feel better after seeing the doctor tomorrow. For now I pray the Lord will sustain her physically tonight as I know the uncomfortable feeling of being sick - not really an experience one would want to go through.

Actually a couple of my other friends are also down: my dear friend's sister is having a bad tummy; my Pastor-in-Charge is down with food poisoning; another has rashes all over his body, another is feeling a little weak. I pray the Lord will heal each and every one of them real soon.

I went for a run in the evening with the MacRitchie Running Fellowship (MRF). We did about 8km but I did not finish the whole route. Sigh. In the halfway mark, my left knee was a little painful and I also felt kind of weak - maybe because I did not eat sufficiently. Anyway, I decided to brisk-walk instead and I thank the Lord I still managed to reach the finishing point.

It was dinner next. The MRFers celebrated a brother's birthday and we went to Thomson Plaza's Swensens. It was a great time of fellowship as we feasted.

Well, I am glad I am finally home. I am looking forward to a good sleep tonight. I hope the Lord will refresh me during my slumber.

Time to end here. God is good, all the time; all the time, God is good!

"Therefore, my brothers, be all the more eager to make your calling and election sure. For if you do these things, you will never fall, and you will receive a rich welcome into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:10-11

We Know Ourselves Better By The Day

I attended the Paya Lebar Methodist Girls' School's (PLMGS') Kaleidoscope Concert in their new auditorium this afternoon at 3:30pm. It was one of the best school concerts I have ever attended. If there are any PLMGS girls reading this blog, well done! I could see the effort and pride in all the performers.

I enjoyed, most, the tribal dance segment performed by the Dance Club. It was energetic, full of colours and very well-choreographed movements.

I have never enjoyed Chinese Orchestra before but the Guzheng Duan performance was also great - such intensity! They have changed my impression of Chinese classical music.

I also learnt a couple of things about harps when another group of girls did a rendition. I realised it is not just about plucking the strings but having to adjust certain levers as well while playing. Wow!

I was there with a dear friend and two other youths. I must thank them for the invitation - if not, my Saturday would have been uneventful.

After the concert, I had dinner with my dear friend at a Japanese restaurant in a hotel near town. It was fun as we fellowshipped over food. The time spent also allowed us to understand each other better though we have been friends for a couple of years already.

I learnt from our conversation that one should not stereotype another in a relationship or take for granted that once you know a person, the knowledge of him stops there. I think developing a relationship is always ongoing. One may be surprised to know more about another friend as time goes by. Be it good or bad traits, both parties should affirm and correct one another along the journey.

I got to know my friend better tonight and I am grateful to her for telling me more about her impression of me. I cherish that because it allows me to know myself better and to overcome any shortcomings.

Anyway, I am not ashamed to share this - Andy Chew talks too much and I am learning when I should talk less and be sensitive to the people I am in contact with. I was telling my friend that when I was with her, I knew at certain times she wanted to be quiet and I managed to get myself to shut up. There were occasions when I failed though. Hee. :)

Since I am on the topic of relationship, I do regret those broken friendships I have experienced in my pilgrim's journey. I have shared this before in my previous blogs - I long for reconciliation but the other party must be willing to allow me to seek forgiveness from him or her and give me a chance to learn and change. Every day I pray about this and I hope in God's time, He will make them happen. I really do not wish to die one day and realise that I have unsettled business with my friends. It is regretful and painful and I guess this is one thorn I have to bear as I experience the adventures of life.

Okie, time to stop. Praise the Lord for this day. I pray my dear friend will feel better physically when she wakes up tomorrow. She was unwell during the meal.

Long day for me tomorrow but everything is going to be alright in Christ.

"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love." Ephesians 4:2

"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Ephesians 4:29

"Listen to advice and accept instruction, and in the end you will be wise." Proverbs 19:20

What Should I Bring Before God In Worship?

I am very thankful to God today for all that He has done for me. I went to church in the late morning to prepare for the worship and mission training sessions for Sunday. It was truly by God's grace all these went smoothly because I still had a lot to do though I started yesterday.

The Worship Team rehearsal was refreshing. Usually we would rush into the practice but tonight we spent about 20 minutes sharing about the Word on sacrifices to God which are simply a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart. That is all the Lord asked for when we come before Him in worship and it was a good reminder for the team.

Sometimes we feel that we have to play sophisticatedly in order for the worship to be good. It is always a great thing to be creative but what is more fundamental is the need for all to know the reasons we are doing it. Sometimes we may fall into the trap of glorifying self than God. It is so easy to do that which was precisely the cause of Lucifer's (Satan's) fall when he wanted to take the glory away from God to himself.

We still ended the rehearsal on time. I could see every team member leaving the Worship Hall still joyful and refreshed. Thanks be to God! It was also encouraging to see a brother from the Youth Ministry team playing the drums. He struggled initially but at the end of it all, God guided him and he blended in well with the rest. Hallelujah! :)

I shall end here. Looking forward to the weekend though it is going to be a long one on Sunday. Tomorrow should be fun as I am going to attend a concert in Paya Lebar Methodist Girls' School and then after have dinner with a dear friend.

To God be the glory for today!

"O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise. You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." Psalm 51:15-17

When Down, Look Up

I wanted to run this morning but it was raining.

Anyway, I went for my driving lesson. While I was at the wheel, I was just wondering to myself whether all these effort of trying and trying and having spent so much money is worth it at all at the end of the day. An older sister-in-Christ failed her test yesterday and it was her second try.

Of course it is good to have that green-coloured card, which I believe is one of the most expensive plastic one can ever own in Singapore, but if I have to spend so much (be it effort or money) to obtain it, should I reconsider pursuing it and channel the resources to other purposes instead?

Anyway, I was sharing with the instructor the above-mentioned throughout the 100 minutes we were together. He was probably dying listening to my blabbing. Poor guy! It was quite funny when we arrived at the centre that he told me not to give up since I have already come so far. He asked me what were some of the problems I faced and told me to be "zai" ("calm"). Mr. Ong could have walked off after suffering in my presence for so long but he took the effort to help me. I appreciated that lots.

Next, I went to the Coffee Bean outlet in Ngee Ann City to prepare two things: the worship session that I am leading at the 11:15am service; and the mission training session that I am facilitating after that. This Sunday is going to be packed for me.

Anyway, I found it hard to focus initially. My mind was thinking of a few people and stuff. In the end I just spent some time in prayer. It was weird to pray in a crowded place but I needed to. I did not care whether people found me weird or not but at that time, I needed God to help me.

Well, it did help and I spent the next three hours writing my thoughts down. I have not finished the preparations but by tomorrow I should be able to, by God's grace.

I sensed the devil is going to use a few things that I am struggling with now to distract me from what I am to do this week especially Sunday. I guess I need to be on my guard. It is quite draining but for the sake of the ministries I am doing, I have to be extra careful.

I came back in the evening and since the weather was fine, I decided to go for a run. It was refreshing. I am working hard to exercise on a regular basis so that I can stay healthy and lose the extra pounds - I hope the Lord will help me press on because there is always this inertia to do so.

When I was done with that, I went up to my flat to bring my dog down for a walk. She was quite funny when she saw me entering the door. She basically went to the table, took the harness and dropped it where my feet were. This is the first time she is doing this and I was quite amused by her action.

Oh yah, yesterday was mum's birthday but since we celebrated on Monday already, there was nothing on except for dad spending time with her out somewhere. I did buy something for her though - I got her favourite mango cake and she was quite surprised when she saw it as she entered the flat. Glad she enjoyed it.

Okie, time for me to keep quiet. I talk a lot today. Pity Mr. Ong and all who will be reading today's blog. Sorry. One of those days! :)

Thanks be to God, anyway!

"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

Drawing The Line

I am facing a dilemma at work where I find it hard to accept an approach by a colleague who is of the same gender. It has been going on for a while already but I have not been confrontational with him as I do not wish to put him down for his actions.

Just as much as I would like to accept his personality, I think a line needs to be drawn and I am that close to telling him my stand. Eventually I will and I hope he gets the message.

It is not easy to deal with this - just as much as I accept my colleague as who he is, that does not mean I accept his lifestyle. I have hinted to him before that I am not interested but obviously it was not clear enough.

I spoke to another colleague who was approached before and I think it is important to have another party around should there be a need to confront. It is a dirty job but if there is a need to, I guess I will.

I hesitate in blogging this but I decided to do so to make it clear that I do not condemn my colleague. Just that if it becomes too awkward a situation, I have to stand my ground and let him know my uneasiness.

I shall leave it as that for now. I guess I need a lot of grace here. I could have been blunt but it is a wrong thing to do. May the Lord be my help in dealing with this situation.

Anyway, this afternoon I met a dear sister-in-Christ for a late lunch in Marina Square. Though it was just an hour of fellowship, I praise the Lord for the time spent in catching up with her. She treated me to a complimentary dessert of two scoops of ice-cream at her work-place. They were delicious. After that, we went to have sushies. It has been a while since I had Japanese food so it was nice to chomp down all my favourite flavours.

I had to run some errands in the heart of the business district after the meal and in the evening I met another friend at my place. We needed to get some stuff done and I praise the Lord all went well.

I am actually very tired now but I will probably stay up all the way to watch the Chelsea-Liverpool Champions League semi-final match later at 2am. I wanted to watch this morning's Manchester United-AC Milan match but decided against it as I needed to work. I was disappointed the Red Devils won in the first leg and I am sure one of my younger sisters-in-Christ is very happy now that her favourite team won. If she is reading this blog, I think she would know I am referring to her. :) Congratulations, anyway! At least for now. Hee.

Alright, I guess that is all for now. An eventful day indeed for me - very draining though, physically, emotionally and mentally.

No matter what, thanks be to God!

The passage below may not necessarily be in line with what I shared in the opening paragraphs but I still find it appropriate. I basically need to be wise in the way I act toward outsiders and also to let them know about my beliefs as a Christian. Though they may not accept them, at least they know where I stand. They may question but this is where I need God to give me the grace to answer their doubts and not judge them for our differing views on certain matters.

"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone." Colossians 4:5-6

Got Problems? Go To God.

Last evening I went out for a walk with my doggy and I will usually pass Sennett Estate where there is this small like park. Over the months after passing the place several times, I have made friends with some of the children who usually play in the vicinity.

Yesterday I decided to take a seat on one of the benches and took the time to pray about some matters which concerned my heart. Then came Ping En, a 6-year old girl. She loves to play with Sasha. She is now in Kindergarten Year Two located in Calvary Baptist Church. She was on her bicycle when she came by.

After she greeted me, she surprised me by asking this question - "Uncle Andy, are you okay?" Then I asked her, "Do I not look okay?" She replied, "You are not smiling today." What she said next was really what it means to have a child-like faith - "Uncle, you should pray to Jesus when you are sad and He will listen to you." I was encouraged to hear that from her. I told her I would do that. She smiled and played with Sasha while I continued my communion with God.

Ping En lifted my spirit. I guess to overcome one's problems in life, it is sometimes as simple as just surrendering those burdens to Him. The little girl did not tell me anything else except to pray and I guess that is all I need to do.

Many times we complicate our faith by rationalising too much. If a child can look up to his father and knows in his heart his dad will not fail him, he will leave it as that and wait for his father to do what is appropriate without questions asked. I guess as a child of God, I also need to have that mentality.

Before I left, I cheekily asked Ping En whether she would pray for me. She replied, "Sure. I will pray for you when I go to church tomorrow." Then I went on, "But do you know what to pray for me?" She said, "I will just tell God you are sad and He will know what to do after that." I smiled, thanked her and bade her farewell as I went on my way with Sasha.

It is amazing how God used a child like Ping En to teach a man like Andy Chew how simple it is to live my Christian life. Thanks be to God for that.

Time for me to stop here. Got a couple of articles to clear up before I head for town to run some errands.

I wonder what God is going to teach me today as I go through this day. It is always refreshing to learn new things or be reminded of the old things which I sometimes have forgotten.

"Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Romans 12:12

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints." Ephesians 6:18

"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

"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." James 5:13-15

Round-The-Clock Ministry

I went for a run in the morning. I needed to do that for two reasons: one is to burn away some of the fats I have accumulated over the weekend from the feasting in Malacca; two is to spend time with the Lord in prayer and also in silence as I allowed Him to speak.

Actually I was hesitant to run as my chest did not feel right even after a night's rest and still does not even as I write now. Well, I did not push myself hard during the exercise - just jogged round the park a couple of times.

I was just pondering on one main area of an individual's life - relationship. Some things I gathered as I was reflecting on this:-

1) Relationship cannot be taken for granted that once a certain bond is built, it will be so for life;
2) Relationship has to be constantly cultivated;
3) Relationship needs to be renewed occasionally;
4) Relationship needs to have the element of forgiveness because one will always fail the other due to our human shortcomings;
5) Relationship once broken will take a long time to mend but it is possible so long as both parties allow each other to do so;
6) Relationship requires effort;
7) Relationship has to be maintained regularly;
8) Relationship also needs to have the element of trust;
9) Relationship needs to be centered around love;
10) Relationship between two parties needs to have another to hold them together and that is God Himself.

I am sure there are other factors that I may have missed out but these were some thoughts I gathered as I was talking to God about it.

One thing I have to admit though - I always do not have confidence in relationships. I do not know why. Maybe I just do not wish to lose those that I have already built and when I feel this way, I just have this insecurity. I guess it is still a learning process for me in this area.

I was also speaking to God about the worship session that I am to lead this Sunday at the 11:15am service. The passage I was meditating on was taken from Mark 6:30-46 where Jesus fed the 5000 who were following Him.

Though He and disciples were tired from a day of ministry, He did not reject the crowd when they came to Him. Instead, He began to teach them. He did not stop there, Jesus also met their physical needs by providing them food. Of course it was here a miracle happened where 5 loaves of bread and two fish were multiplied to feed the multitudes. After the meal, Jesus instructed His disciples to go ahead first while He dismissed the people. Jesus basically went all the way in His service.

I guess this is what ministry is about. Yes, it is essential for God's servants to rest and be renewed but service to God should always be one where His servants are ever ready to reach out when a need arises. No one should be turned away.

This lesson has humbled me because there were occasions where I just did not feel like ministering and I shunned some people away by giving excuses. It might just be too late if I decide to reach out to them another day.

Well, a good reminder for me especially for this week when I have to serve the Lord and His people. Like I mentioned in the last blog, I have this hunch that some things may not turn out well leading to Friday when the team meets for the rehearsal and on Sunday for the service but I am not going to let this stop me from trusting the Lord to clear the obstacles ahead.

I just sent out the songs to the Worship Team. I hope as we keep each other in prayer, the Holy Spirit will lead and guide us accordingly. I also pray we will encourage one another in our service to the Lord and His people and at the end of it all, God's name be glorified.

I shall end here.

"The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and taught. Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to eat, he said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. But many who saw them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead of them. When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things. By this time it was late in the day, so his disciples came to him. "This is a remote place," they said, "and it's already very late. Send the people away so they can go to the surrounding countryside and villages and buy themselves something to eat." But he answered, "You give them something to eat." They said to him, "That would take eight months of a man's wages! Are we to go and spend that much on bread and give it to them to eat?" "How many loaves do you have?" he asked. "Go and see." When they found out, they said, "Five—and two fish." Then Jesus directed them to have all the people sit down in groups on the green grass. So they sat down in groups of hundreds and fifties. Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke the loaves. Then he gave them to his disciples to set before the people. He also divided the two fish among them all. They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces of bread and fish. The number of the men who had eaten was five thousand. Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethsaida, while he dismissed the crowd. After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray." Mark 6:30-46

Acknowledge God At All Times

My chest feels congested now and it has been for the past one hour or so. I hope it will be okay by tomorrow after a night's sleep.

As I blog, my heart is feeling troubled over a matter but a dear friend reminded me to hope in the Lord. I will do just that. Before I came on this website, I spent some time in prayer and submitted my burden to Him. I guess when my human abilities cannot solve this issue then the only other way is to look up to God for help.

Actually the last sentence is wrong - Even if my human abilities allow me to overcome certain problems of my life, I still need God to help me. He should not be my last resort but instead He should always be my ever-present help in times of need.

Thanks be to God for that reminder.

This evening my family and I celebrated mum's birthday. We had international buffet at a hotel in Orchard Road. Though we had a small conflict last night, I am grateful to God that all went well as planned. It was a great time of feasting and celebration. Managed to get dad to serenade mum with the help of the restaurant's roving musicians.

Well, I am happy that my relationship with mum has improved over the years. I will continue to work on deepening our bond and may the Lord help me in this.

I went to church to pass my dear friend and the rest of the staff the pineapple tarts that I bought in Malacca. I am glad they liked the pastries.

I spent the rest of the afternoon preparing the songs for this Sunday's worship. Initially I really struggled to ponder on what the Lord wants me to do. I took some time to pray and worship Him. I borrowed a guitar and basically sang some songs of praise.

Well, in the end I managed to get the list out. I have yet to email it to the Worship Team. I shall wait till tomorrow afternoon to do so. I thought I take more time to seek the Lord as to whether the songs are appropriate. So far, I seem to have peace in the choices I have made.

Praise the Lord for prompting me accordingly and giving me a fruitful and refreshing time of worship.

I do not know why but I have this hunch that a couple of things this week may not run smoothly. I pray the Lord will go ahead of me and grant me wisdom and strength to overcome any obstacles that may come my way. I also pray that His name be glorified in all I do and say.

I shall end here.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging." Psalm 46:1-3

The Flesh Is Weak

I wanted to blog last night but in the end I could not as I was trying to rectify a synchronisation problem between my computer and my Personal Digital Assistant (PDA).

I came home around 7:30pm from my Malaysia trip. I started working on the technical glitch around 8pm. Even till 12am, I was still unable to solve the fault. It irked me quite a bit.

I gave up after that and decided to go to bed. To a certain extent I was caught off-guard again and I have allowed a problem between two gadgets to affect my evening. It was not worth the while but I still fell into the devil's trap.

From being frustrated with two machines, another incident caused me to be agitated with humans next. As I was dealing with the above-mentioned, mum came into my room and told me that she wants to change her birthday celebration from Wednesday to today. As I had plans made regarding work and also reserved a table at the restaurant for the celebration already, I told her I could not and started kicking a fuss.

I could have controlled myself and see whether I can change my appointment for tonight, which in the end was possible, before I kind of snapped. So everything added up to the fire that was already raging in me.

Anyway, I explained to mum in the end why I was in a foul mood and she said it was okay. Well, hopefully tonight she will enjoy herself.

All I have mentioned so far, I knew I could have controlled them and I even reminded myself to be careful and yet I still failed. I guess my flesh is still weak. I pray the Lord will help me as I press on to overcome this area of my shortcoming.

The trip to Malacca was okay. We shopped quite a bit and ate a lot! I had a total of 5 bowls of chendol in that two days spent in the Malaysian state. We had chicken rice balls, mee suah with oysters, Peranakan food like Buah Keluak, pineapple tarts from a famous Peranakan shop (I also bought a couple of boxes home for my family and friends), other Peranakan desserts, etc.

Never have I felt so bloated after each meal but it was a good time spent as the running gang ate and fellowshipped. We did not run but we walked quite a lot. In all I think we covered about 15km. Well, at least that helped burn some of the food we ate.

Praise the Lord for the two days of break.

I am supposed to plan the songs for this Sunday's worship at the 11:15am service. I intend to send the list out to the Worship Team before Wednesday. Currently I do not have the desire to think of them yet. I pray the Lord will help me as I go through this day by prompting me what the church should sing and what I should do as I lead.

I shall get back to work now.

Thanks be to God for the weekend. Looking forward to yet another week of adventure.

"Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak." Matthew 26:41

When Will It Ever Be Good Enough?

This evening as I was going home from church, I was just pondering on this act that I have always been committing which I feel is wrong. I am trying to overcome it and hope the Lord will help me.

Sometimes I have a negative perception of a person to the point where whatever he or she does is never good enough for me. It reaches to an extent where I know the person whom I have prejudiced against may find me proud and judgmental. In the process, I become a stumbling block to him or her.

I share this with regards to the incident I had this morning with my colleague. Though she made it a point to find out from me the exact details, I was still impatient with her simply because I have this negative view of her pertaining to her work performance and efficiency.

In behaving the way I did, I allowed pride to get the better of me and in doing so, I have stumbled her.

I also know of people who have certain impression of me to the point where whatever I say or do, the words and actions are never good enough for them. It is discouraging to be treated this way and yet sometimes I commit this same mistake on others. Here I am trying to overcome the weaknesses and shortcomings of my life so that I do not become a repellent to others and yet I am not given the chance to change for the better.

When then will it ever be good enough? That is the question I am still pondering upon.

I guess seeing people with the eyes of God is the best solution.

Just some thoughts which I have not really concluded. I hope I made sense in what I wrote above.

Anyway, I gave a talk about Cambodia to the Girls' Brigade. I hope they enjoyed it and may the Lord spur some of them to go for the trip at the end of the year. May they be blessed richly.

I shall end here. A group of siblings-in-Christ just called to ask me to join them for supper at Geylang. They want to eat Frog Porridge and Beef Hor Fun.

Though I have to be up early for the Malacca trip with the running gang, I decided to join them for the sake of fellowship. It is always a joy to be in their company.

I guess I will write again when I come back from Malaysia on Sunday night. Have a great and blessed weekend, everyone!

"Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such "wisdom" does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, of the devil. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness." James 3:13-18

Be Sensitive To Others

This morning I went to church to attend the Unusual 24/7 Prayer session with my accountability group. Though I had to wake up very early and was very sleepy (still is), I decided not to let that put me down as I know I would have a refreshing time of communion with my Lord. I actually did and I praise Him for that.

But just a while ago I did something nasty to a colleague of mine. It is quite appalling for me to behave this way especially after a time of prayer earlier.

She basically called to ask me about some work matters. As I was sleepy and was not in the mood to talk about it, I just treated her very coldly during our conversation. A couple of times I kind of snapped at her for asking me to repeat some of the points. I just wanted to get her queries over and done with so that I could just catch a wink or two.

Well, naturally I could not sleep as I regretted my actions. I went out to my church's fire escape stairways and spent some time in prayer - seeking the Lord's forgiveness and also to give me the courage to apologise to my colleague for my rude behaviour.

I called and sought her forgiveness for my rudeness. I also explained why I reacted that way but they are by no means excuses for my childish and insensitive actions.

She told me it was okay and asked me to rest. The above incident is obviously one example of being not alert and in the process I have opened an avenue for the devil to lay a foothold in my life. I have also allowed selfish interest of wanting to have some sleep to overtake the opportunity to help a friend who is in need.

Though I did apologise to her, I believe the damage has been done and I know next time she would think twice before calling me to request for assistance.

Many times I wish others would not do this to me but now I am the one doing it to others.

Well, I hope I have learnt my lesson well and shall be careful next time.

I shall end here. Need to prepare for a talk to the Girls' Brigade.

Well, a good rebuke I received from the Lord today. I deserve it!

"It is better not to eat meat or drink wine or to do anything else that will cause your brother to fall." Romans 14:21

"Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God..." 1 Corinthians 10:32

Pray First, Question Later

I just spent some time thanking God for today and also praying for a few people - some I have been praying for a while; some when I sense something may not be right with them at the time when I see or think of them.

I struggle quite a bit about the second group of people because I depend solely on my feelings. I admit sometimes I may be wrong but no matter what, whenever I am prompted to pray for those I am burdened for at a given time, I would just do so. I also struggle whenever I want to take a step further by asking them whether they are really alright. I fear they may give me this "huh?" reaction because my hunches may not be accurate.

Anyway, I guess I will still keep praying for others be it whether my guesses may be right or wrong. I think it is better to pray first and question later because it may be too late if I start rationalising.

I do ask the Lord occasionally to give me a heart of discernment so that I am certain of certain burdens I have for others. I am still learning and seeking. I hope one day the Lord will equip me accordingly.

I had a good run with a dear friend in the late morning at Bishan Park. Since the last run at Marina Bay, I have not been exercising. I am still quite ill-disciplined and also trying to get my momentum. I told my friend I intend to run every alternate days to strengthen my body but I realised saying is one thing, doing it is another.

After washing up, we had a rather late lunch at a Chinese restaurant. I forgot that my friend does not really like dim sum but I hope she enjoyed the food. This is also something I am learning because to be a friend to another, I guess it is important to know his or her likes and dislikes. I enjoyed our conversation though.

We went to Ngee Ann City next to collect a pair of shoes that my friend sent for repair. After that we took a bus to Bugis area where she went for a course while I headed to Sim Lim Square to check out some computer stuff.

As I did not want to lug all my running gears around especially to church which I was heading next, I detoured and headed for home first. I also changed to a more comfortable outfit.

I had to be a church as I needed to chair a missions meeting. As always, I praise the Lord for the unity of minds as we discussed about a couple of issues pertaining to the ministry. Though some may be very daunting, the committee members were still very joyful as we brainstormed together. I did not feel tired or discouraged whatsoever. Instead I am excited of what is ahead and I trust that the Lord will continue to lead and guide us accordingly.

Well, I guess that is all. I praise God for this day of fellowship with my dear friend and also with the Missions Committee members.

Thanks and glory be to God! :) I think I should sleep now as I have to be up by 5am to go for the Unusual 24/7 Prayer session. Looking forward to doing it with my accountability group partners.

"Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load. Anyone who receives instruction in the word must share all good things with his instructor. Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." Galatians 6:1-10

Open My Eyes To The Surroundings

I went to the Blood Bank this afternoon to donate my blood. As I was lying down, having my blood drawn, I chanced upon an old man, probably in his late 50s or early 60s. He was ushered opposite where I was and I could hear his conversation with the nurse.

She was asking the man how he was and he answered by saying that life for him has not been good. No job and no money to get by. He remarked to the nurse that his reason for giving blood was to obtain the free food and drink voucher which he can claim after the donation. I thought he was just joking with the nurse.

I finished earlier than the man and I was at the cafeteria drinking my barley and eating my chocolate muffin. Not long later, the old man came to the cafeteria. The waiter asked him what he wanted for his complimentary food. Thinking that he could order anything, he asked for a plate of mee siam. The waiter told him that was not part of the deal for the food voucher and explained to the man that he could either have a bun or a muffin.

I could tell that he was disappointed. He took a muffin and a glass of chrysanthemum tea and walked slowly to an empty table next to mine. I think this poor man has not eaten much as he was very thin. My heart went out to him as I could tell that he was hungry and having just donated his blood, I knew he needed more than the muffin that was given to him.

As I was leaving the cafeteria, I instructed the waiter to serve the old man a plate of mee siam that he initially wanted and paid for the order. I went off after that. Though I did not get to see how the old man reacted when he saw the order, my prayer as I left the Blood Bank was that his stomach was filled for the day and that the Lord will provide for him through others who know of his plight.

I am sharing about the above-mentioned not to boast about my actions but to remind myself and others that there are people who are like the old man in this prosperous island-nation. It is sad to know of them being neglected. I just hope the Lord will be specially close to these poor souls.

Well, I hope the Lord will open my eyes to more of these persons as I walk along the streets - sometimes a small deed done would mean a lot to them. Sigh.

Anyway, to God be the glory for the above-mentioned. I headed for church after the donation and met some youths for the Unusual 24/7 Prayer Session. It was a fruitful time as I prayed with one of the youths and I am glad he told me he will keep doing it on his own. I could tell he was nervous and not used to praying aloud but the fact that he took up the courage to do so, I believe God will honour him by answering his prayers.

I think so far this event has been a good one especially in encouraging those who have not been praying often to do so regularly.

May the Lord make my church to be a house of prayer and may this be one of the pillars of the church.

I just finished preparing the slides for this Friday. I am supposed to do a presentation on missions to the Girls' Brigade. Initially I was telling my dear friend that there is a mental block - I just could not seem to let the preparations flow. After dinner, I spent some time in prayer and asked the Lord to help me. As always, He did and I just finished the presentation. Thanks be to God! :)

I shall end here. I am actually writing this blog now in church. I shall leave for home now.

"He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God." Proverbs 14:31

"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven. "So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Matthew 6:1-4