Lighthouse N394

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2009-01-04T16:25:00.005+08:00

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What do you taste?

2008-12-03T08:46:00.003+08:00

According to legend, a young man while roaming the desert came across a spring of delicious crystal-clear water. The water was so sweet he filled his leather canteen so he could bring some back to a tribal elder who had been his teacher. After a four-day journey he presented the water to the old man who took a deep drink, smiled warmly and thanked his student lavishly for the sweet water. The young man returned to his village with a happy heart.

Later, the teacher let another student taste the water. He spat it out, saying it was awful. It apparently had become stale because of the old leather container. The student challenged his teacher: "Master, the water was foul. Why did you pretend to like it?"

The teacher replied, "You only tasted the water. I tasted the gift. The water was simply the container for an act of living-kindness and nothing could be sweeter."

Self-motivation without gratitude is impossible. Our energy is "sapped" when our entire focus is on what's wrong instead of what is right with our lives. One of our greatest challenges is to live and love in spite of pain and disappointment...to find gratitude in the midst of it all.

"Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow."

Favour Of God

2008-11-16T22:51:00.001+08:00

What is divine favour?
Favour is defined as goodwill, a positive attitude towards another person or to be pleased with someone or to be a delight to someone or acceptance by someone.

Favour by its nature cannot be earned; it is a gift given and operates under the generosity of the giver. Its limits, effectiveness and extravagance are linked to the authority and the position of the giver.

The source of divine favour is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. When He favours you no one can do anything about it.
He has the power to ensure that you fully enjoy the benefits of His favour. Grace is defined as God's special favour that He has bestowed upon us because of His Son Jesus Christ. In fact Jesus brought the favour of Heaven on earth. John 1:14 describes Jesus as being "full of grace and truth" and goes on to say that those who have believed on Him have received grace upon grace. To receive Jesus is to walk into special favour.

The nature of Divine favour
Divine favour brings you into the abundance of God, under His protection and preservation. It gives you access to the presence, privileges and power of Heaven. His special favour has the ability to lift you from any form of oppression and bondage and set you up for freedom, joy and blessings.
Luke 4:18-19, Ephesians 1:5-8. - The nature of God's favour is such that once you become a benefactor you cannot keep it to yourself; you will want others to enjoy it. It is contagious!

You are God's favoured child
Every Christian should live, enjoy and operate under God's favour. How come some don't seem to experience it at all and others only partially. But James 1:5 teaches that God does not play special favourites with His children. Why is there a gap between what the word of God says we are and what we experience? The solution lies in our ability to recognise God's favour over our lives and growing in it.

Mike Murdock wisely states that "what you fail to recognise, you stop celebrating, what you stop celebrating, you stop rewarding, and anything you stop rewarding will exit (become dormant) your life". Do you recognise that when you received Christ Jesus you literally walked into divine favour? Ephesians 1:5-8 & John 1:14.

Growing In divine favour
In Luke 2:52 we are told "Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and men". If Jesus our Lord grew in favour then we will need to grow in it as well. How do we grow in favour you might ask?
We grow in divine favour by:

1. Acknowledge that we are favoured. - For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favour as with a shield. Psalms 5:12, 85:1 and Ephesians1:5-8.

2. Ask for it through prayer from the Lord - Psalm 106:4, 119:58, Exodus 33:12.

3. Believe you receive when you ask and be thankful. James 1:5-6

4. Live in and practice His presence daily by depending on the Holy Spirit.

5. Seek God's wisdom- "For whoever finds me (wisdom) finds life and receives favour from the Lord". Proverbs 8:35.

6. Walk in obedience before the Lord. Get to know His mind and instructions for you and do it with the help of the Holy Spirit. Isaiah 1:19.

7. Let God change your attitude and mindset. A bad attitude will drive out people God has positioned in your life to favour you. Most of the time God uses other people to favour us.

What prevents us from experiencing God's Favour?
God's favour over our lives attracts enemies within and without us to prevent us from enjoying what is rightfully ours.

1. Pride - pride by nature deprives us of God's help. A prideful person walks in an independent spirit. A prideful person will forfeit God's grace. 1 Peter 5:5. Learn to depend and trust God even in the small things. Proverbs 3:3-5.

2. Satan - he will use every means to deceive us to think we are not favoured. We need to oppose them with the weapons of the Holy Spirit.
1 Peter 5:5 ; 9, and Ephesians 6:10-18.

3. Strongholds - Strongholds are bad attitudes and mindsets that bind us because we have practiced them over long period. We need to corporate with God to deal with them by the renewal of our minds and transformed lives.
Romans 12:1-2 and 2 Corinthians 10:3-6.

4. Limited revelation - when we refuse to study and know the word or if we fail or refuse to carry out earlier instructions given to us by God. Revelation will cease until we learn to obey. 1 Samuel 13:11-14.

5. When we fail to practice the grace of giving and receiving and instead become greedy. Malachi 3:9-10.

What are some of the benefits of the Lord's favour?
When the divine favour is on you it manifests itself in tangible ways. You can't touch favour itself but you can see its results in your life.

Divine favour brings divine protection. - Psalm 5:12
Divine favour gives you God's strength. - Psalm 30:7
Divine favour gives you victory over all your enemies. - Psalm 44:3(KJV)
Divine favour will preserve your life in Christ. - Job 10:12 (KJV)
Divine favour brings domestic or family blessings. - Proverbs 18:22, 19:14, Psalm 128.
Divine favour brings divine elevation. God Himself becomes the lifter of your head. - Psalm 89:17.

Conclusion
Divine favour is the means by which God reveals His glory in our lives and makes our lives attractive to the world. Ps 89:17. Divine favour gives clear and loud message to the world that God is with His people.

Psalm 102:12-17
But you, O LORD , sit enthroned forever; your renown endures through all generations. You will arise and have compassion on Zion, for it is time to show favor to her; the appointed time has come. For her stones are dear to your servants; her very dust moves them to pity. The nations will fear the name of the LORD , all the kings of the earth will revere your glory. For the LORD will rebuild Zion and appear in his glory. He will respond to the prayer of the destitute; he will not despise their plea.

Effect of words on water

2008-10-20T14:15:00.003+08:00

Last weekend, pastor shared on the profound effects of words, music, pictures and even thoughts have on water causing it to form beautiful crystal or otherwise. To read more on this interesting study by Dr. Emoto, click here.

So, let us all be more conscious of our words and thoughts!!

Janice Graduation Photos

2008-10-09T22:02:00.006+08:00

Kelly n her mummy

Wif Mummy
Wif Kelly
Wif Mr Lye

Ophelia Wedding

2008-10-09T08:52:00.006+08:00

Wow...Isn't Ophelia beautiful. I wish I can be like her...isn't every gals dream? Her wedding is so grand wif lots of supportive frends n neighbours n relative to attend her wedding.

Her gown is so beautiful including the evening wear. She is one of the sweetest bride I ever met.

All the best to u Ophelia N I look forward to see u coming back from Korea trip.

Fruits Of The Holy Spirit

2008-08-25T17:02:00.002+08:00

The fruits of the holy spirit consist

Love
Joy
Peace
Long-suffering
Gentleness
Meekness
Goodness
Temperance

Did any of you lack of this important fruits from the holy spirit? Going through a trial and testing was not a pleasing exprience. A father loves a child so much that would he wants the child to remain rotten? A spolit child will not be able learn so much if he is in a daddy or mummy aporon. why? Thats becos he is in his comfort zone. One thing I have learn during trials n tribulation is that we as a believer must have all these fruits of the holy spirit. Things change n situations change, people will change but God's love never change. A man has lost his job and was unable to provide a steady income to his family as he is a sole breadwinner. All of his life he has be faithfully given his time n money to God. A bad news came that he was retrenched . The very thing natural thoughts came to his mind WHY ME? He is reaching late 30s...and he nds a job to put bread n butter on his table. His fleshly thoughts says How pple will look at me? I'm not highly educated?My children needs me bring them to schools.?? Did any of you desire promotion and was bypass away from u? A thousand WHYS n reasonings was throw back to God..WHY ME? I learn a lesson and God has spoke to me during my quiet time. "I have chosen you" . Jesus say" Many are call" but few were chosen. how many are willing to be call n be willing to be chosen? Chose what? loss more before u can win. Going thr fire of testing to be a purify gold. Are you willing to be be tested in loneliness? unanswered prayer? mistaken by pple? find a relationship? reputation at risk? step down in leadership?

Jesus was a perfect man that endure all temptation that all men has gone thr...betray, rejection,loneliness, unbelief from pple, challenge by pharisees and scribes . Before the cruxification he was in great distress.( He was a 100% man n God) He knew that he has to bear the sins of this world n phyiscal pain. Jesus sweat profusely and his sweats comes out from the tiny veins of blood vessels. Historian has describe that he was in great stress before all the beating began. When Jesus was beaten by a roman soldiers, His face was beaten..(not a gentle beating) he took away his dignity, He was scourge. two types of stripping weapons, one was a leather that will leave a mark but the other was the one made of bones n nails. he was beaten by bones n nails. The flesh was ripped off. by the time he reach the cross he was unrecognisable as human being. His face was not recognised as human till he reach the cross . Jesus was risen up till third day. where did Jesus went? He went to the bottom pit of lowest hell where he bore all sins n sickness of this world . He was lonely cos he was separated from God -loneliness.
Till the third day he rose again n Jesus has hold the key of life n death. He told his disciple to make disciple from all nation of this world and he will gave us the holy spirit. Today are u willing to produce the fruits of the holy spirit. Can we love the unloving? If we continue to walk closely wif God n not be conformed by tis world but by the renewing of our mind thr Gods word. Success will come n your desire will be met if we continue grow in the Lord n develop all this fruits of holy spirit to glorify HIM. Amen

Love-The first of the manifestations of the Spirit is love, the key to all the others. Along with temperance (self-control), love is bookend that helps hold the other fruit in place. Its divine characteristics are detailed in I Corinthians 13. It is a love that surpasses human understanding and causes a person to be filled with the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:18-19). This supernatural love is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5). The spiritual fruit of love is not just a feeling or an emotion, but rather it is a decision. This fruit of the Spirit causes us to make a decision to love even when we don't feel like it. Paul writes in Philippians 1:9 : "And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more." The word abound means "to grow." God wants our love to grow so big that it will chase people down and overtake them. When we walk in the love of God, everything else will fall into place.

Joy-is defined as "cheerfulness or calm delight;" however, it has nothing to do with your emotions. Joy is something that is manifested in the spiritual realm; it is a supernatural joy that gives spiritual strength (Nehemiah 8:10). The Psalmist and the Prophet Isaiah both refer to it as the joy of salvation(Psalm 51:12; Isaiah 12:3). It is divine joy that results from an experiental knowledge of God's Word (John 15:11; Jeremiah 15:16).

Peace-We must learn to maintain peace in three important relationships: with God, with our fellow man, and with ourselves. We maintain peace with God by believing and trusting Him. We maintain peace with our fellow man by not allowing strife to be a part of our relationships with other people. We maintain peace with ourselves by refusing to live in guilt or condemnation thus recognizing that God is greater than all of our sins. This kind of peace doesn't come through drugs, alcohol, sex, wealth, or entertainment. It is a supernatural (not worldly) peace that is a gift of God (John 14:27). The spiritual fruit of peace results from being justified by faith (Romans 5:1). and loving God's law.(Psalm 119:165) This is a peace that surpasses all human understanding, and it keeps your heart and mind through Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7)

Long-suffering-Longsuffering is love on trial. It enables you to forbear and forgive others (Colossians 3:13). As with the other manifestations of spiritual fruit, you can't produce it in yourself. The ability to be longsuffering comes from the Holy Spirit (Colossians 1:11) and by loving God's law. (Psalm 119:165) Longsuffering is also be referred to as patience. Patience is being mild, gentle, and constant in all circumstances. The real test of patience is not in waiting, but in how one acts while he or she is waiting. A person who has developed patience will be able to put up with things without losing his or her temper. Scripture tells us in James 1:4 "But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting (lacking) nothing." Reaching this point is definately a process which takes a lot of practice. However, we can learn to enjoy life where we are while we are waiting for what we desire.

Gentleness -The Apostle Paul illustrates gentleness by the example of a mother nourishing her children (I Thessalonians 2:7). Gentleness is a quality that makes you great in God's sight (II Samuel 22:36).

Goodness- is holiness put into practice and results from knowing God. Once you have this knowledge, goodness is supernaturally produced in you (Romans 15:14) Goodness enables you to do good to those who hate you (Luke 6:27) as well as those of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10). It is the goodness of God that leads men to repentance. That's why we need to be good to people. Our witness won't have any power unless we are kind. We are called to be light in a dark world, and we must make up our minds that we are going to shine!

Faith-Faith is a gift and also a manifestation of the fruit of the Spirit. The gift of faith is imparted from God through the Word, but the fruit of faith is produced by the Holy Spirit. The gift of faith can move mountains, but the fruit of faith is what is required for daily living. The fruit of faith enables us to walk and live by faith (Romans 5:2). Without this kind of faith, it is impossible to please God(Hebrews 11:6). According to The 1828 Webster's Dictionary, faithfulness means a "firm adherence to the truth and to the duties of relationship with God; adhering to your duties; loyalty; constant in performance of duties or services." Being faithful is not always easy; it requires making a decision and then sticking to it no matter what regardless of what are feelings tell us. However, when we are faithful and do what God tells us to do, we will be rewarded; for the Bible says that if we're faithful over little things, God will make us rulers of much.

Meekness-Meekness is not "weakness", but rather a slave-like submission to God. Your spirit is free from rebellion and pride. It is the hidden man of the heart - a meek and quiet spirit - which is greatly valued by God (I Peter 3:4). Meekness or humility is defined as "freedom from pride and arrogance; modest estimation of our own worth." Humility or meekness is the opposite of pride. The Bible says that God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble (I Peter 5:5) , and it is the meek which will inherit the earth (Psalm 37:11).

Temperance-Temperance means self-control. It is control over the whole man (spirit, soul, and body) which enables us to live a victorious life(I Corinthians 9:25). A person who has self-control is mild and calm, avoids extreme behavior, and exercises self-restraint in both actions and speech. Although restraint and self-control aren't easy, they are necessary if one ever wants to operate in the fruit of the Spirit. After all, temperance and love are the bookends that hold all the other fruit in place.

What we did on Sat's FOP

2008-08-04T10:29:00.002+08:00

Janice's wearing Winnie's glasses.

Doing the "flower" pose.

两朵花. 2 flowers!

Now 三朵花...

The more the merrier.

V signs.

Dunno what pose also, but it was fun!

Ling Ling & Winnie's Birthday

2008-07-24T14:39:00.000+08:00

We have two not 同年, but 同月, 同日生, same birth date, sisters in the cell group. Double celebrations!

The birthday gals singing to each other...

...blessing each others. Okay, the whole cell group blessed them too!

Ling Ling & Winnie - almost "金兰" 姐妹 (sworn sisters?), haha.

With their partners.

Birthday gals sharing their birthday wishes for the year.

What's so amusing?

Hmmmm....

I wish for...

Ling Ling shared her birthday wishes - a life God wants her to live and good health. Please continue to pray for her!

The surprise element - durians! There's where the smell was coming from all this while.

Yummy king of the fruits.

Birthday cake and durians - an unlikely combination.

Wrong answer! "Punishment" was eating durians.

Winnie taking on her punishment quite happily as we can see....

What's coming up next?

Presents!! See the eager look on Ling Ling's face, hehe.

Finally, here's my present!

Think the birthday gals were happy with their gifts.

Another surprise - flowers from Hai Song...

... and flowers and kiss from Daniel! Those under 18 please go to next picture. Haha, good thing we are in an adult cell group.

Finally, after all the excitement, the cake was being cut. Happy birthday, Winnie and Ling Ling!

2008-07-10T10:08:00.001+08:00

Our CG personality!

Today is the our first CG meeting and I am truly very excited. The bible says in Prov 28:19 that w/o a vision, the people perish, so I want to start the cg right and share with you the vision that I have for N394. I was asking God, what vision does He want me to cast tonight at my first cell group meeting and as I prayed, I felt God impressed in my heart, the word ABS. Just like everyone has his unique personality, a cg also has its unique personality. So what does ABS stand for ?

1. Audacious -
We wanna be audacious. To be audacious is to be fearless, daring or unrestrained by any sense of inadequacy. AR Bernard said in the business breakthrough dinner 2 years ago that audacity is the key to success. If we want to succeed, we need to have guts, we need to be fearless. You can’t breakthrough if you always think within your limits. In prayer, we want to overcome the barrier of being TOO CAREFUL, too reserved, too safe. Sometimes, without knowing it, we’ve reduced our prayers to what we think is safe, to something so small that even if God didn’t answer, it wouldn’t make a difference! So we need to be people whom dares to dream. Those in my previous CG, last year end, when pastor preached about the 4th dimension, tapping on the power of imagination. I shared with you I made myself visualize my boss singing praises of me, tapping on my shoulder saying job well done to me. At that time, 6 months in my job, I was the bottom of the team on the scoreboard with the least sale. Today, after 6 months since then, I am now 3rd on the score board, amongst a team of around 25 people. I felt inadequate last year, yes, but I had the audacity to dream, because the bible said as the man thinketh, so is he, so I shaped my thinking, and things around me changed accordingly.

2.Bonding -
We want to be people whom are bonding. When a team is strongly bonded, it moves as one. It is effective, efficient and enjoyable. Imagine together with me, that if everyone has a bonding mindset, when a new friend visits the CG, the members automatically just want to bond with the person, finding common grounds with the person, go dinner with him, go movie with him, very likely, in no time, the person would be integrated into the CG and the CG will grow. And when a CG is bonding, enemies will find it hard to penetrate.

3. Spirit-sensitive -
To balance it, we need to be “S”, spirit sensitive. Yes we want to be audacious, dare to take risk, but only on things that we clearly hear from God. If God say “GO”, we go, never hold back. To hear clearly from God, we need to be spirit sensitive. For that to happen, we need to develop consistent spiritual habits, having your own daily quiet time. Prayer and fasting is part of your lifestyle, when the church calls for an overnight prayer meeting, the cell group will rise up excitedly and say “let’s go” rather than take a back seat.

So my vision for the CG is that we will become people whom are audacious, risk takers in the marketplace, yet spirit sensitive, obedient to the things of God. We will be people whom are bonding, that as we carry out the great commission to bring in the lost, we will be able to connect with them and integrate them into the house of God.

Fish and durians

2008-07-06T21:46:00.006+08:00

Fishies at Qian Hu.

Look at the fishes below!

Enjoying the fish spa at Qian Hu.

Ling Ling decided not to feed the fish anymore.

The fishes are bitting!

Waiting impatiently for the durians at Toa Payoh.

Yummy, give us more...

Obviously everyone enjoyed their durians!

Ultra sweet moment for the new couple.

June's birthday celebration

2008-06-15T14:44:00.002+08:00

Jordan's Birthday

2008-06-02T14:41:00.003+08:00

God's Hands

2008-05-28T15:30:00.002+08:00

-- Author Unknown

Wishing to encourage her young son's progress on the piano, a mother took her boy to a Paderewski concert. After they were seated, the mother spotted a friend in the audience and walked down the aisle to greet her. Seizing the opportunity to explore the wonders of the concert hall, the little boy rose and eventually explored his way through a door marked "NO ADMITTANCE."

When the house lights dimmed and the concert was about to begin, the mother returned to her seat and discovered that the child was missing.

Suddenly, the curtains parted and spotlights focused on the impressive Steinway on stage. In horror, the mother saw her little boy was sitting at the keyboard, innocently picking out "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star." At that moment, the great piano master made his entrance, quickly moved to the piano, and whispered in the boy's ear, "Don't quit. Keep playing."

Then, leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in a bass part. Soon his right arm reached around to the other side of the child and he added a running obligato. Together, the old master and the young novice transformed a frightening situation into a wonderfully creative experience. The audience was so mesmerized they couldn't recall what else the great master played. Only the classic "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star."

That's the way it is with God. What we can accomplish on our own is hardly noteworthy. We try our best, but the results aren't exactly graceful flowing music. But with the hand of the Master, our life's work truly can be beautiful. Next time you set out to accomplish great feats, listen carefully. You can hear the voice of the Master, whispering in your ear, "Don't quit. Keep playing."

----------

Feel His loving arms around you. Know that His strong hands are there helping you turn your feeble attempts into true masterpieces.

Remember, God doesn't call the equipped, He equips the called. And He'll always be there to love and guide you on to great things. Life is more accurately measured by the lives you touch than the things you acquire.

Time for laff - Relac la

2008-05-19T10:24:00.004+08:00

Some riddles to guess on a Vesak day! Scroll down for the answer :) Simply booooo if u find it lame....

Riddles set
1. What grows when it eats, but dies when it drinks?
2. What stays where it is when it goes off?
3. A cabbage, a tap and a tomato had a race. What happened?
4. Why did it take six boys to take the lady across the street?
5. Why did the chicken cross the road?
6. Why do gorillas have big nose holes?
7. What has no hinges, what has no doors but hides a golden treasure inside?
8. Why didn't the skeleton cross the road?
9. Why do chickens watch TV.?
10. Why did the chewing gum cross the road?
11. What has four legs and no eyes?
12. Why can't cats use computers?
13. What part of a tree is a cat afraid of?
14. Where is the best place to get your hair cut?
15. Before Mount Everest was discovered, what was the highest mountain on Earth?

Riddles set-2 Answers
1. A candle.
2. An alarm clock
3. The cabbage was a head, the tap was still running and the tomato was trying to ketchup.
4. Because she did not want to go.
5. To prove that he wasn’t a chicken (coward).
6. Because they have big fingers.
7. An egg.
8. He didn't have the guts.
9. For hentertainment.
10. Because it was stuck to the chicken’s leg.
11. A table.
12. Because they keep chasing the mouse.
13. Its bark.
14. On your head.
15. Mt.Everest

A Testimony!

2008-05-09T23:56:00.003+08:00

Hi all, its been so long...ong that I last posted something on our cell group blog. Just wanted to share a testimony that I hadn't got a chance to share during cell group meeting.

This weekend is Mother's Day! And about 2 weeks ago, we were all given invitation cards to invite our mothers and friends who are mothers for this event. Well, in the last service, Pst Tan spoke about being spiritual adoption, that is being pregnant with a vision for our loved ones, friends and collegues to be saved. He shared about how we should start conceiving the salvation of our loved ones in our spirit by committing to pray for them everyday until their salvation becomes a reality.

Well I decided to start conceiving and imagining my mum, my younger sis, my parents-in-law and my 2 brothers-in-law coming to Christ, praying for them everyday since then. Last Sun morning, I felt led to write some heartfelt words on the Mother's Day invitation card, one for my mum, and another for my sis. I then took the courage to give them the invitation cards the next day at my mum's place before I left. And when I returned on Thurs night, I felt something broke in the atmosphere and it was unlike the usual routine dinner gathering. There was an air of liberty and joy throughout the entire fellowship! Although they are not coming for the service yet, I felt that I have entered into a greater intimacy and connection with them, and their hearts were more open than before.

It's the power of prayer, as Dr Kim says, Holy Spirit can give us the power to build relationships - even with our family members whom we are so familiar with. Holy Spirit can anoint us to be sensitive, wise and a fun person to hang around with! At the same time, He can soften the hearts of our loved ones such that they can receive and feel the love of God that is in our hearts.

It's also the power of obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit! He gives us strategies and ideas to open up hearts and as long as we hear and obey, it will bring us a step closer to the breakthrough we desire in our hearts. The Holy Spirit knows the exact doorway to the hearts of our loved ones.

I have witnessed the power of prayer in just days of praying for my family, and until they are all physically birthed into the kingdom of God, I am committed to impregnate them in my spirit through prayer!

May all our loved ones experience a walk with our Lord Jesus Christ in this lifetime, while they are yet healthy and strong!

Hallelujah!

Carrot, Egg or Coffee Bean

2008-04-29T17:33:00.002+08:00

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water. In the first, she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs and the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what do you see?"
"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.

She brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they got soft.She then asked her to take an egg and break it.

After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg.

Finally, she asked her to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled, as she tasted its rich aroma. The daughter then asked. "What's the point, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity--boiling water--but each reacted differently.

The carrot went in strong, hard and unrelenting. However after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior. But, after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened.
The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water they had changed the water.

"Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?"

Think of this: Which am I?

Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity, do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength?

Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff?

Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and a hardened heart?

Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you.

When the hours are the darkest and trials are their greatest do you elevate to another level?
How do you handle Adversity? ARE YOU A CARROT, AN EGG, OR A COFFEE BEAN?
Don't tell GOD how big your storm is. Tell the storm how big your GOD is!

God explained

2008-04-22T09:23:00.001+08:00

It was written by an 8-year-old named Danny Dutton, who lives in Chula
Vista , CA . He wrote it for his third grade homework assignment, to
'explain God.' I wonder if any of us could have done as well?

[ .... and he had such an assignment, in California , and someone
published it, I guess miracles do happen ! ... ]

EXPLANATION OF GOD:
'One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the
ones that die, so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth.
He doesn't make grownups, just babies. I think because they are smaller
and easier to make. That way he doesn't have to take up his valuable time
teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and
fathers.'

'God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of
this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times
beside bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because
of this. Because he hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of
noise in his ear s, unless he has thought of a way to turn it off.'

'God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps
Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting his time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have.'

'Atheists are people who don't believe in God. I don't think there are any
in Chula Vista . At least there aren't any who come to our church.'

'Jesus is God's Son. He used to do all the hard work, like walking on water and performing miracles and trying to teach the people who didn't want to learn about God. They finally got tired of him preaching to them and they crucified him But he was good and kind, like his father, and he told his father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and
God said O.K.'

'His dad (God) appreciated everything that he had done and all his hard work on earth so he told him he didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So he did. And now he helps his dad out by listening to prayers and seeing things which are important for God to take care of and which ones he can take care of himself without having to bother God. Like a secretary, only more important.'

'You can pray anytime you want and they are sure to help you because they got it worked out so one of them is on duty all the time.'

'You should always go to church on Sunday because it makes God happy, and if there's anybody you want to make happy, it's God!

Don't skip church to do something you think will be more fun like going to the beach. This is wrong. And besides the sun doesn't come out at the beach until noon anyway.'

'If you don't believe in God, besides being an atheist, you will be very lonely, because your parents can't go everywhere with you, like to camp, but God can. It is good to know He's around you when you're scared, in the dark or when you can't swim and you get thrown into real deep water by big kids.'

'But...you shouldn't just always think of what God can do for you. I figure God put me here and he can take me back anytime he pleases.

And...that's why I believe in God.'

Interesting article "Thou Shalt Offend Pharisees"

2008-04-04T01:19:00.001+08:00

As a leader you need to have the courage to be yourself and offend the Pharisees in your life. I think we know a lot less about Jesus than we think we know. Or we've accepted a lot less about Jesus than we'd care to admit. We never get beyond the sanitized Sunday school version OF the rationalized left-brain version. We're comfortable with left-brain Jesus. He's logical and predictable. But we don't know what to do with right-brain Jesus. He's a little too counter-intuitive for comfort. He's a little too unconventional, unpredictable and unorthodox. Jesus was anything but orthodox.
Don't get me wrong, certainly no one was more orthodox in belief. After all, Jesus didn't just know the truth; He was the Truth. But Jesus was as unorthodox in practice as He was orthodox in belief. That is why the Pharisees—or "Phari- razzi" as I like to call them—wanted Him dead. They couldn't handle the Truth.
In the words of author Dorothy Sayers: "To do them justice, the people who crucified Jesus did not do so because he was a bore. Quite the contrary; he was too dynamic to be safe. It has been left for later generations to muffle up that shattering personality and surround him with an atmosphere of tedium."
The Pharisees couldn't conceive of a God that touched lepers or washed feet. They didn't have a cognitive category for a Messiah that healed on the Sabbath, befriended prostitutes or partied with tax collectors. Jesus was too unpredictable, too unconventional and too unorthodox for their theological taste. Jesus didn't fit into their pre-existing notions, so the "Pharirazzi" instigated His crucifixion. After all, crucifying someone else is much easier than changing yourself.
One thing is sure: Jesus offended the Pharisees. He did it with great consistency. He did it with great intentionality. Jesus disrupted routines, violated expectations and challenged assumptions. That is what unorthodox leaders do. And nobody did it better thanJesus.
Jesus wasn't just out of the box, He smashed the box to smithereens. He was the quintessential nonconformist.
So here's a thought: if you're following in the footsteps of Jesus, you'll probably offend some Pharisees along the way. In fact, let me take it a step further: If you aren't offending Pharisees, you're probably offending Jesus.
To Offend or Not to Offend?
We rarely think about it or talk about it, but one of the most important leadership decisions you'll ever make is deciding who to offend. Trust me, you're going to offend someone. The only question is who?
I have to remind myself of this all the time. No matter how good a leader you are, someone is going to take offense at you. So who are you going to offend?
Jesus decided to offend the Pharisees.
Frankly, I've never had any unchurched people complain about our ministry methodology at National Community Church (NCC). They don't care about things like church government or expository preaching. They don't care about order of service or mix of worship music.
I'm not saying those things aren't important. They are. But the unchurched people who attend NCC are just grateful for a place where they found God—or, more accurately, where God found them.
The only complaints about the way we do church come from people with church backgrounds. In fact, it seems like the more church history someone has the more potential for problems there are.
Don't get me wrong, some of our best leaders have the longest church tenures. And I'm certainly not suggesting that NCC is beyond criticism. I see imperfections everywhere I look—especially when I look in the mirror. But I've discovered that many of those complaints trace back to one root cause: NCC isn't doing church the way their old church did.
Early on in my pastoral ministry, I learned an important leadership lesson: all the churched people who walk through our doors already have an internal picture of what our church should look like. That internal picture is based on whatever their last church looked like.
There is the temptation to try to be all things to all people. But if you try to become what everybody wants you to be, you'll become somebody you don't want to be. Eventually, you won't even recognize you.
Without clear vision and deep convictions, pastors become conformists and contortionists. We try to meet everybody's expectations. We react to the whims and wishes of the people—often the whiners and complainers—instead of getting a vision from God and going for it. What a miserable existence It is hard enough trying to be yourself, let alone trying to be who everyone else wants you to be.
I think a lot of pastoral problems would be diffused if we acknowledged this simple fact: We need lots of different kinds of churches because there are lots of different kinds of people. Our "churchprint" ought to be as unique as our fingerprint.
Be Yourself
Not long ago, I had a conversation with a pastor-friend. He told me he was resigning from his church, and I'll never forget his reason: "I don't feel like I can totally be myself."
I wonder how many pastors feel that way. When my friend told me why he was jumping ship, I had a mixture of emotions. I felt bad for him. I also felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for a church where I have the freedom to be myself.
Life is too short and leadership is too challenging to try to be two people! At the end of the day, I'd rather be disliked for who I am than liked for who I'm not.
There comes a moment in every leader's journey in which he must accept himself for who he is. That doesn't mean he stops changing or growing or learning. It simply means he comes to terms with who he is and who he isn't. That is the essence of authenticity.
As I reflect on my leadership journey, I see a subtle yet significant shift in my approach to ministry. When I first started out, I was trying to be a pastor. A decade later, I'm trying to be myself. I wish it wasn't true, but all too often, trying to be a pastor gets in the way of trying to be yourself.
Every once in a while an emerging leader will ask me the $64,000 question: If you could give one piece of leadership advice, what would it be? There's no perfect answer, but I have a two-word one: Be yourself.
The rarest form of courage is the courage to be yourself. That is the example Jesus set. He wasn't afraid of offending Pharisees. We must follow in His unconventional, unpredictable and unorthodox footsteps. Jesus wasn't just revolutionary. He was The Revolutionary.
In the words of popular Christian thinker Francis Schaeffer: "One of the greatest injustices we do to our young people is ask them to be conservative. Christianity is not conservative, but revolutionary. To be conservative today is to miss the whole point, for conservatism means standing in the flow of the status quo, and the status quo no longer belongs to us. If we want to be fair, we must teach the young to be revolutionaries, revolutionaries against the status quo."
Deep down inside, I think all of us dream of being part of a revolution.
Consider this your invitation.

Random photos

2008-03-08T12:13:00.005+08:00

Finally, a group photo with our CGL, Yalan.

Proper group photo.

It's a bird, it's a plane, it's...

Janice, Kelly, Fann and Eunice.

All the women come together!

Sisters act! Of love.

Divine Valentine

2008-02-14T14:41:00.003+08:00

A Valentine may play a love song for you, but God sings you the sweetest love song in the universe.
The Lord your God...will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing. ZEPHANIAH 3:17

A Valentine may give you flowers, but God sent you the most beautiful rose of all, Jesus.
I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys. SONG OF SOLOMON 2:1

A Valentine may take you out to dinner, but God has invited you to the most amazing feast ever given.
Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb! REVELATION 19:9

A Valentine may bring you chocolate, but God provides you with something even sweeter, His Word.
How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! PSALM 119:103

A Valentine may love you for a lifetime, but God loved you before you were born and will love you for all eternity!
Yes, I have loved you with an everlasting love. JEREMIAH 31:3

A Father's love letter to us

2008-02-10T21:35:00.000+08:00

Father's Love Letter
The Cry Of A Father's Heart From Genesis To Revelation

My Child...

You may not know me, but I know everything about you
...Psalm 139:1

I know when you sit down and when you rise up
...Psalm 139:2

I am familiar with all your ways
...Psalm 139:3

Even the very hairs on your head are numbered
...Matthew 10:29-31

For you were made in my image
...Genesis 1:27

In me you live and move and have your being
...Acts 17:28

For you are my offspring
...Acts 17:28

I knew you even before you were conceived
...Jeremiah 1:4-5

I chose you when I planned creation
....Ephesians 1:11-12

You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book
...Psalm 139:15-16

I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live
...Acts 17:26

You are fearfully and wonderfully made
...Psalm 139:14

I knit you together in your mother's womb
...Psalm 139:13

And brought you forth on the day you were born
...Psalm 71:6

I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me
...John 8:41-44

I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love
...I John 4:16

And it is my desire to lavish my love on you
...I John 3:1

Simply because you are my child and I am your Father
...I John 3:1

I offer you more than your earthly father ever could
...Matthew 7:11

For I am the perfect father
...Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand
...James 1:17

For I am your provider and I meet all your needs
...Matthew 6:31-33

My plan for your future has always been filled with hope
...Jeremiah 29:11

Because I love you with an everlasting love
...Jeremiah 31:3

My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore
...Psalms 139:17-18

And I rejoice over you with singing
...Zephaniah 3:17

I will never stop doing good to you
...Jeremiah 32:40

For you are my treasured possession
...Exodus 19:5

I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul
...Jeremiah 32:41

And I want to show you great and marvelous things
...Jeremiah 33:3

If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me
...Deuteronomy 4:29

Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart
...Psalm 37:4

For it is I who gave you those desires
...Philippians 2:13

I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine
...Ephesians 3:20

For I am your greatest encourager
...2Thessalonians 2:16-17

I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles
... 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you
...Psalm 34:18

As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart
...Isaiah 40:11

One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes
...Revelation 21:3-4

And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth
...Revelation 21:3-4

I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus
...John 17:23

For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed
...John 17:26

He is the exact representation of my being
...Hebrews 1:3

He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you
...Romans 8:31

And to tell you that I am not counting your sins
... 2 Corinthians 5:18-19

Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled
...2 Corinthians 5:18-19

His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you
...I John 4:10

I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love
...Romans 8:31-32

If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me
...I John 2:23

And nothing will ever separate you from my love again
...Romans 8:38-39

Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen
...Luke 15:7

I have always been Father, and will always be Father
...Ephesians 3:14-15

My question is...Will you be my child?
...John 1:12-13

I am waiting for you
...Luke 15:11-32

Love,
Your Dad.
Almighty God

Our Life Has A Purpose

2008-02-04T18:47:00.000+08:00

Have you wondered why are you here on earth? And what's the purpose? Surely the inventor ( God ) who invent something knows how to operate it and know the function and its purpose. The invented master piece won't know their own purpose unless the inventer explain to the master piece what his or her use. In Genesis 1:27, it says He create us in his image, and Jer 29:11-14, For I know the thoughts that I think towards you says the Lord almighty, thoughts of peace and not of evil to give you a hope and a future, and you will come to me and pray and I will listen to you. Our life is never a waste and God won't waste it either. Our daily experience includes our interest and hobbies, good or worse was never a waste of time. A story of a woman, she was born with slow learning ability and dosen't have a good social life, since young she has been struggling with both her homework and social life. She was constantly scorn and mock by her peers for her looks and slow learning .Going to school was a struggle for her as there is a lot peer pressure around her, her form class teacher often called her parents down as they find her a problematic child whom dosen't has a good learning ability and often failed in her form 1 tiil form 6. Much later the form teacher has given up hope for the child and label her as "retarded".

Despite what has happened, the little girl mother didn't gave up on her, she loves her enough to let her try all of her interest and hobbies as she believes that her child was never a retarded. The child has turn to become a woman, but she hasn't found her niche. The young woman mother pray to God and continue to believe that she will become a stable person. In her teenage life, she was unsound as she suffered a very low self esteem and soon she has a breakdown. She found the Lord and gave her heart to Jesus and her mind became a spirit filled christian and all on fire with Jesus. Later the Lord showed her a revelation that the first step is to 1) identify her identity with relationship with Jesus 2) God was thinking of her and pre-plan everything for her . 3) Everything must start wth God and ask from him .She became a stablised person and become a teacher because of her passion and discover her talent in that area. The story tells us that Our life was never a waste. Did we make an effort to explore new things or afraid of new things? Did we seek God? The bible says that Ask and it shall be given.

The chidren of israel was walking in the dessert for forty years and wasted their time which was not what God has intended it to be. He promised the children of israel to enter into the land with milk and honey, He ( God ) also promised each and everyone of us the land of promise filled with milk and honey which was the vision He gave it to you. Our life must always start with God then you will discover your purpose.

Sebas Birthday

2008-02-02T23:30:00.000+08:00

Sebas was singing the b'dae song at fish n chip

Alana, chingling n june

Sebas was listening to our testimonial abt him

Chin, Sebas n xinyou

Sebas Shares his vision

N394

Sebas n mike

Fellowship at Macau

2007-12-16T09:42:00.001+08:00

Just a typical after service fellowship at Macau, when everyone was too lazy to go elsewhere.

Here again, with our very cute Sherlyn! :)

The Christmas Coat

2007-12-12T16:32:00.000+08:00

Christmas is just around the corner and I'd like to share this heart-warming Christmas story I found with all of you.

I remember my first Christmas adventure with Grandma. I was just a kid. I remember tearing across town on my bike to visit her on the day my big sister dropped the bomb: "There is no Santa Claus," she jeered. "Even dummies know that!"

My Grandma was not the gushy kind, never had been. I fled to her that day because I knew she would be straight with me. I knew Grandma always told the truth, and I knew that the truth always went down a whole lot easier when swallowed with one of her "world-famous" cinnamon buns. I knew they were world-famous, because Grandma said so.

It had to be true.

Grandma was home, and the buns were still warm. Between bites, I told her everything. She was ready for me. "No Santa Claus?" She snorted...."Ridiculous! Don't believe it. That rumor has been going around for years, and it makes me mad, plain mad!! Now, put on your coat, and let's go." "Go? Go where, Grandma?" I asked. I hadn't even finished my second world-famous cinnamon bun.

"Where" turned out to be Kerby's General Store, the one store in town that had a little bit of just about everything. As we walked through its doors, Grandma handed me ten dollars. That was a bundle in those days. "Take this money," she said, "and buy something for someone who needs it. I'll wait for you in the car. "Then she turned and walked out of Kerby's.

I was only eight years old. I'd often gone shopping with my mother, but never had I shopped for anything all by myself. The store seemed big and crowded, full of people scrambling to finish their Christmas shopping. For a few moments I just stood there, confused, clutching that ten-dollar bill, wondering what to buy, and who on earth to buy it for. I thought of everybody I knew: my family, my friends, my neighbors, the kids at school, and the people who went to my church.

I was just about thought out, when I suddenly thought of Bobby Decker. He was a kid with bad breath and messy hair, and he sat right behind me in Mrs. Pollock's grade-two class. Bobby Decker didn't have a coat. I knew that because he never went out to recess during the winter. His mother always wrote a note, telling the teacher that he had a cough, but all we kids knew that Bobby Decker didn't have a cough; he didn't have a good coat. I fingered the ten-dollar bill with growing excitement. I would buy Bobby Decker a coat!

I settled on a red corduroy one that had a hood to it. It looked real warm, and he would like that. "Is this a Christmas present for someone?" the lady behind the counter asked kindly, as I laid my ten dollars down. "Yes, ma'am," I replied shyly. "It's for Bobby." The nice lady smiled at me, as I told her about how Bobby really needed a good winter coat. I didn't get any change, but she put the coat in a bag, smiled again, and wished me a Merry Christmas.

That evening, Grandma helped me wrap the coat (a little tag fell out of the coat, and Grandma tucked it in her Bible) in Christmas paper and ribbons and wrote, "To Bobby, From Santa Claus" on it. Grandma said that Santa always insisted on secrecy. Then she drove me over to Bobby Decker's house, explaining as we went that I was now and forever officially, one of Santa's helpers.

Grandma parked down the street from Bobby's house, and she and I crept noiselessly and hid in the bushes by his front walk.

Then Grandma gave me a nudge. "All right, Santa Claus," she whispered, "get going." I took a deep breath, dashed for his front door, threw the present down on his step, pounded his door and flew back to the safety of the bushes and Grandma. Together we waited breathlessly in the darkness for the front door to open. Finally it did, and there stood Bobby.

Fifty years haven't dimmed the thrill of those moments spent shivering beside my Grandma in Bobby Decker's bushes. That night, I realized that those awful rumors about Santa Claus were just what Grandma said they were: ridiculous. Santa was alive and well, and we were on his team. I still have the Bible, with the coat tag tucked inside: $19.95.

Celebration in Orchard

2007-12-09T08:34:00.000+08:00

In order to catch the festive spirit...

... we made our way to the wonderfully lighted-up Orchard road last night after service.

Did Alana meet an old friend?!

June and Janice, beaming away.

Up next, Sebas and Tom...

... and Rebec, Eunice, June and Janice. Cheeeeze!

And the whole cellgroup! Almost. Where is Mike?

The smallest birthday cake ever, for the birthday gal Emily!

God is blessing you now, God is blessing you now. At McDonald's.

Making a birthday wish, or two...

My wish is...

Mike waiting for his kiss. Pity, the photographers weren't quick enough to catch the kissing scene. We need better cameras!

Trying to guess what the present was...

Mike trying to open the present by poking!

Eager anticipation... what is it?

A very unique accessories hanger!

Milke likes the present obviously.

Ehhh, maybe not...

Mike acting cute for Emily...

Opening up the 2nd present...

... a very sweet looking mirror.

And a third present! Yes, we are a very generous cell group that believes in sowing and reaping. Especially reaping, hehe.

A very stylist looking bag.

Emily showing off all her birthday pressies!

With June and Rebec...

Aww, such a lovely, dovely sisterly group.

And of course, everyone else too!

How to Handle Your Difficulty

2007-12-07T09:08:00.000+08:00

Adapted from- Chapter IX How to Handle Your Difficulty, The Amazing Results of Positive Thinking by Norman Vincent Peale.

1. Thank God you have difficulties. It's a sign you are alive.
2. Learn to stand back from your troubles and take a calm survey of them. The best way to do this is through the practice of quietness. In quietness and peace, take a level look at your problems.
3. Use your full mind power to analyze your difficulty. Then systematically chip away at it, bit by bit.
4. Think positively about your difficulty. Believe that you can overcome it. Do this and you are already well on the way to victory.
5. Learn the spiritual-practical method for handling a difficulty.
6. Let persistence work for you. Keep everlastingly at it, and you eventually will be victorious.
7. Grow to the high point where you can look down on your problem and then use your problem to help you grow.
8. Calmly take life as it comes. Deal with your difficulties with controlled emotion and steadily keep on working for victory.
9. Never build a case against yourself.
10. Make use of the available power of the Almighty. Troubles will defeat you without God, but with His help you can handle any difficulty.

The Parable of the Clothes

2007-11-29T17:38:00.000+08:00

Once there was a man who wore a nice suit of clothes. He was proud of the way he looked and felt that he had been a good steward with the money he had been given in his life. He was well respected and looked up to by many.

One day, the man came upon God, and God said to the man, "You have done well. You have been a good steward. But have you dressed yourself the best that you can? Look closer."

And the man looked and saw that his coat was faded and threadbare.

God said to the man, "I have prepared the finest robe of silk and satin, of brocade and embroidery, with the brightest and most splendid of colors. I want to give it to you. Would you like to wear it?"

The man looked at the robe and said, "Oh yes, please Lord, I would like very much to wear such a beautiful garment. What must I do to have it?"

"The way is easy," said God, "Take off the clothes you are wearing so that I may dress you with the finest things."

"But, God," said the man, "If I take off my jacket, they will see that my shirt is ripped and my pants are stained."

And God said, "Take it off."

So the man took off his jacket and revealed that his shirt was ripped and tinged with blood from the battles he had fought in his life. His pants were stained and the cuffs were covered with mud from his long journey. The man said, "I have done as you asked. I am ready for my new clothes."

And God said, "I know that was hard for you. I know it is painful to expose yourself in that way, but your new clothes are not for covering up your imperfections. You must take off the rest of your clothes."

"But God," said the man, "I have worn these clothes for many years. They are comfortable to me. They keep me warm and protect me."

And God said, "Do you believe that your new clothes will be better, warmer, more comfortable, and more beautiful than anything you have ever worn?"

"Yes," said the man, "I believe."

"Then take off the rest of your clothes," said God.

And the man removed his shirt and his pants and stood before God in his undergarments and said to God, "I have done as you asked. I am ready for my new clothes."

And God said, "I know that was hard for you. It was uncomfortable and took a great deal of courage. But the clothes I have prepared for you are fresh and new and will provide for all of your needs. You must take off your undergarments, too."

"But God," said the man, "If I take off my undergarments, I will be naked. I will be ashamed and embarrassed."

And God said, "Do you believe that what I have prepared for you will cover again your nakedness?"

And the man wept.

"Yes, I believe," said the man, "But this is greater than anything you have asked of me. I do not have the strength to do it by myself."

"Then I will send my son to strengthen you and help you," said God.

And God sent his son to help the man, and the man took off his undergarments and stood naked before God.

And God was pleased.

God dressed the man in his new suit of clothes, and the man praised God.

The man then went into the world and was admired by many. And when they asked him how he had received his beautiful garments and where they could get some, too, he led many people to God. The man loved his new clothes and was pleased with what had become of his life. He praised God daily for the beautiful clothes he wore and all he had been able to accomplish.

God saw all this and said to the man, "You have been faithful and a good steward of all that I have given you. I am pleased with what you have done, and I would like to give you far more."
And the man was overcome with joy and said, "Oh Lord, what must I do to receive these additional blessings?"

And God said, "Take off your clothes."

© Margie Remmers 2006

Prayer

2007-11-26T13:10:00.000+08:00

Let’s us keep one another in prayer, that our life will be strengthened.

Many years ago I remembered that I heard that when someone pray for you, it will be more powerful than you pray for yourself. :)

Time With God
26/11/2007
PRAYER

Luke 22:31-32Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat; but I have prayed for you, that your faith may not fail; and you, when once you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.

The power of God is brought to bear in a person’s life when someone prays for them!

It’s easy to focus on the first part of this verse and get all caught up in the idea of God giving Satan permission to sift Simon Peter like wheat. But the outstanding truth of this verse comes next!

Yes, Peter, it is a terrible thing to be “sifted” by Satan, “BUT I have prayed for you”! Jesus knew that praying for Peter was not just “hoping out loud”. He knew that when He prayed for Peter, He was getting actively involved in Peter’s life. He knew that God the Father would respond to His prayer for Peter and that Peter would come through the trial in direct response to His prayers.

Jesus didn’t say, “If you make it through.” No! He said, “When you have turned again, strengthen your brothers.”God’s reminding you today that you can get actively involved in the circumstances of people in your family, or next door, or on the other side of the world, through prayer!

Ask God: ”Which two people would You like me to focus prayer on today?” Write their names here, then pray expectantly!

Turning dreams into reality

2007-11-25T08:43:00.000+08:00

Yesterday message from Pastor Tan was about turning our dreams into reality. To achieve that, we have to open ourselves up to God for a new life, and give ourselves to God for a higher life. Pastor Tan used a story of a seed who buried itself in the soil to illustrate this point on dying to ourselves so that we can produce much fruits.

Well, it is never easy to die to oneself. The flesh always resists it at all turns. At least mine do. Early this morning, I found this article on ownership in my mailbox which I thought was so apt! It coincides with the message on dying to self and giving ourselves to God. Maybe God wants to reinforce His point to me. So, posting it here to share with all of you.

P.S. even the verse quoted in the article was the same as in yesterday's message, Matt 10.38-39. Almost eerie, right? :p

A Question of Ownership

by Os Hillman, November 22, 2007

Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. - Matthew 10:39

Otto Koning was a missionary in New Guinea. He worked among a native tribe that had known only their village ways. One of those village ways was stealing from others. When Otto and his wife arrived and moved into a hut, the natives often came by to visit. The Konings would notice that after the natives left the missionaries' home, various household items had disappeared. They saw these items again when they went to preach in the natives' village.

The only fruit Otto could grow on the island was pineapples. Otto loved pineapples, and he took pride in the pineapples he was able to grow. However, whenever the pineapples began to ripen, the natives would steal them. Otto could never keep a ripe pineapple for himself. This was a frustration, and he became angry with the natives. All during the seven-year period in which this took place, Otto preached the gospel to these natives, but never had a conversion.

The more the natives stole, the angrier Otto became. Finally, one day Otto had a German Shepherd dog flown in from another missionary to protect his pineapple garden after other frustrated efforts failed. This only further alienated the natives from him.

Otto took a furlough to the United States and attended a conference on personal rights. At this conference, he discovered that he was frustrated over this situation because he had taken personal ownership of his pineapple garden. After much soul searching, he gave his garden to God. Soon the natives started having problems among their tribe. They discovered that Otto was the reason for their problems because he gave his garden to his God. The natives saw a correlation between what Otto had done and their own lives being affected by calamities in their village. When Otto gave his garden to God, he no longer got angry and was free from worry. The natives started bringing him fruit from the garden because they didn't want any more calamities to come into their village.

The light came on one day when a native said to Otto, "You must have become a Christian, Otto. You don't get angry anymore. We always wondered if we would ever meet a Christian." They had never associated Otto with the kind of person he was preaching about because his message did not line up with his life. Otto was broken in spirit when he realized he had been such a failure.

At the end of seven years, he witnessed his first conversion, and many began coming to Christ once he fully gave his garden to God. The fruit grew so abundant that Otto began exporting it and growing other types of fruit, such as bananas. His village became the most evangelized in the whole region, yet for seven years he had not one convert.

Otto realized something each of us must realize: To gain your life you must lose it, along with your possessions. It was only when he gave all his possessions to God that he became free from them. God measured back to him manifold once He had complete ownership.

Do you have some possessions that you need to give up to God today? Let God have all that you have. Become a steward, not an owner. You will be surprised at how well God can take care of His possessions.

Sacrifice is the road traveled on the journey to your destiny

2007-11-24T02:25:00.000+08:00

Sacrifice Is The Road Traveled On The Journey To Your Destiny.

"Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, 'O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.'"Matthew 26:42 (NKJV)

No one understood the principle of sacrifice more than Jesus. As you see in the verse stated above, Jesus' only road to His divine destiny was the cross, with the ultimate sacrifice – His life! God calls us to imitate Christ and rely on Him as our divine example. God has a plan for every one of us...but that plan is only fulfilled as we willingly surrender our lives. Jesus does not allow anyone to follow Him without them first being willing to give up their life.
Along with several thousands of Palestinian Jewish volunteers, Moshe Dayan (who served as liaison officer with the British in Jerusalem ) helped organize a daring mission during World War II. Sacrificing all comfort and ease, these volunteers (clearly risking their lives) successfully parachuted German Jews into occupied countries, aiding in the return of downed British pilots. A great sacrifice--a wonderful mission: extremely hazardous, nonetheless.
Everything worth pursuit requires you to pay a price. Abraham became a friend of God, but it did not happen until he was willing to sacrifice his son. Paul is known as one of the greatest apostles of all time, but he was harshly beaten, hideously whipped, stoned nearly to death, and brutally persecuted. We all want to reach the destiny God has for us, but only those willing to pay the sacrificial price ever experience it.
Daily Confession
Father, I thank You that You placed within me the same spirit that dwells in Jesus. I understand that the road to my divine destiny requires a sacrificial life. I willingly give up my life to serve You all my days.

Sacrifice Is The Road Traveled On The Journey To Your Destiny

2007-11-24T02:18:00.000+08:00

A champion is not someone whom never loss, but someone never give up. Keep on keeping on.

Champions aren’t made in gym. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them: a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.

Rain? its ok :) because there is rainbow only when there is rain. Out of the rain will paint a beautiful picture. Agree? :)

Prayer before starting work

2007-11-21T13:48:00.000+08:00

I got this meaning powerpoint slide from my Christian colleagues. Thought I will share it with all of you here.

Harvest of vouchers

2007-11-17T16:10:00.000+08:00

Since my last post, I've gotten another sixty dollars worth of vouchers. $40 worth of Metro vouchers and $10 World of Sport voucher, $5 Starbuck voucher and a $5 Old Chang Kee voucher. Now, I'm thinking, had I unknowingly sowed vouchers in the past? I can't remember. But I admit I like to give vouchers as gift. Is it why I'm reaping a harvest vouchers now?

Oh, another thing, I was given a free MP3 player by my dad. Out of the blue. I always want an iPod. Ok, this is not an iPod, just a "plain", normal MP3 player but still. It's a blessing.

I'm still waiting for my big financial blessing. News are already out that there will be a pay adjustment and more bonuses this year. Keeping my fingers crossed.

I hope I am not the only one sharing my blessings and testimonies here. Hope that soon, there will be more postings from you guys about your harvests and blessings from God as you sacrifice and sow faithfully into the His Kingdom! Remember, He is our Jehovah Jireh!

Eurovision 1991 Sweden Carola - Faangad Av En Stormvind

2007-11-17T09:41:00.001+08:00

Hi Guys, this is the video of the winning performance by Carola in 1991 that Fann wrote about.

Powerful Carola

2007-11-16T18:43:00.000+08:00

It was such an uplifting performance by Carola, the Scandinavian superstar at our home church last weekend. Her voice was so powerful and full of the anointing as she lunged out songs like "Invincible" and "I Believe In Love". I loved especially how she would introduce the background of every song, and how the song would relate to her relationship with God.

One thing that impacted me the most was when she shared how Pst Ulf prophesied to her to prepare herself 2 years before she participated in the Eurovision contest, which is liken to the American idol contest in our context today. She shared how one day, she knelt down at her kitchen table in the middle of doing her assignments, and cried out to God that she will surrender everything to Him. Later, she took part in the Eurovision 1991 and emerged as champion.

After that, I went home and did a little "research" at youtube, hoping to find some videos on Carola. To my gladness, I found the video on young Carola's song performance in the Eurovision 1991! I thought it was an amazing song she did... You can watch her winning performance at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGthdv_N8zQ

Here's an even more amazing thing... I found another video announcing the winner for Eurovision 1991. After tabulating the scores, guess what? Carola from Sweden was actually on equal score with another contestant from France. Both scored 46 points! The judges decided to go on votes to decide the champion... then the intense atmosphere of awaiting the results... and finally, the winning champion goes to Carola from Sweden! Exhilaration was in the air as they celebrated the new crowned champion. Catch this at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxlJVGTtCZo&feature=related

I was so moved in my heart because I was reminded of this verse in the Bible...

"Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, When as yet there were none of them."
- Ps 139:16 (NKJV)

God already knew Carola'a destiny even before she became a star. He deposited a talent of singing within her, prepared her and launched her into the entertainment industry through Eurovision. He already knew that she would win the contest not a year before that, nor the year after that, but exactly in 1991. He also knew that Carola would face such a stiff competitor and by the miraculous hand of God, she would emerge champion and begin her life as a secular singer to the influence she holds today in her world.

My mind almost blew off. That means who I will be in 2 years' time.. 5 years' time.. 10 years' time.. 20 years' time have already been fashioned and written in God's book entitled "Book of Fann". Though I can't see all that I would be, but the blueprint has already been established. And as long as I stay close to the Holy Spirit and the Word of God, as long as I keep hearing and obeying the word, I will ultimately see the final product of my life, according to what has been designed for me by God. Made-to-measure, unique and original.

That means there are books in the gigantic library of God entitled "Book of Yah Lan", "Book of June", "Book of Sebastian", "Book of Eunice", "Book of Chingling", "Book of Wai Sin", "Book of Mike", "Book of Emily", "Book of Kasey", "Book of Janice", "Book of Rebecca", "Book of Ophelia", "Book of Claudia", "Book of Celine", "Book of Alana", "Book of Sherlyn", "Book of Alison", Book of Eric", "Book of Helen", "Book of Isabel", "Book of Leslie"..... and many, many others more!

Each is given different gifts, talents and abilites, planted as seeds in different areas of the marketplace. All have a special made-to-measure destiny unique to each's personality, gifts and experiences.

But what we all have in common is this : We are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill that cannot be hidden.

May we all fulfill the destiny that God has given to us, and emitting not a little lesser than the full glory that God has conceived in His mind for us before time begun.

All about Chingling

2007-11-12T09:03:00.000+08:00

Last last Saturday, we crowded into our favorite chi-cha store at Bugis to celebrate Chingling's birthday.

Keep the flame going!

Presents! Wonder what Kasey was sniggering about?

Mind power: Chingling visualizing her presents...

Mhmmm, let me feel and guess.

Mystery gift - what could it be?

A red T-Shirt - our cellgroup's attempt to brighten up Chingling's wardrobe!

Pressie no. 2! Will it be another colorful piece of garment?

It's white! What is it this time?

The cellgroup attempted to re-make Chingline into a more feminine, kawaii look! But don't worry, Chingling! We love you just the way you are.

The time to tell the truth... about Chingling. Tom: she reminds me of a candidate in the Apprentice.

Sebas: Chingling's quite caring. She's always concerned about my "target".
Luke: Chingling is like my kindergarten teacher who always laughed at all the jokes.

Claudia: Chingling's like a sunflower!

Chingling: Am I like that?!!

Janice reminsicing about her neighbour's sister who took care of her when she was young. Just like Chingling took care of her.

Ophelia: Chingling is someone who's passionate about the elderly.
Celine: Like a business woman.

Fann: Chingling is like an egg. Hard on the outside, soft on the inside....

... but when you fried it, you get a sunny-side up!

The birthday gal was obviously amused with the egg description...

Eunice: Referred to Prov 31:25 - Chingling is like the woman who laughs at the days to come.

June saved her views of Chingling for the last.

June: Thought that Chingling was a tough nut to crack, but found out that the tough nut could be quite teachable too!

So, that's the gist of Chingling.

Arise & Build Testimony - Baby Harvest

2007-11-09T14:40:00.000+08:00

I've yet to pay my first pledge instalment but have already received a baby harvest today. Baby because it's just the beginning. The baby will grow, ya know! ;)

Actually right up to the service last weekend, I was still uncertain of how much I want to give and what amount to pledge. Taking the advice from Sebas, I minus off my fixed expenses from my total income and from what's left over, I decided to give a portion to God. However, after writing down my amount in the pledge card, I still didn't feel good about it. It was a substantial amount to me, but the problem was, I didn't feel the pinch. Though I would have to give up somethings after pledging, I was still in my comfort zone. It didn't require any faith from me to give that amount. While people were standing up and praying, ready to drop their cards into the bucket, I was still deliberating and asking, "God, is that what You want from me?!" And there and than, an amount came to my mind which made me go, "Siao!" (that's just how I responded to God, sometimes) Now, this amount requries faith, considering all my bills and instalments. It's financially illogical for me to give that. But suddenly, I felt God asked me, do you trust Me? I took a deep breath. And felt like how Peter must have felt when Jesus asked him to walk on water. Do I trust God enough to step out of my boat? Hey, it's water out there! God, are You crazy?!

But yes. I could sit in my comfy little boat or I could step out and have a adventure of a lifetime with Jesus. I wanted the later. So I sat down quickly, dug out my pen, scratched out the old amount and filled in the new. The moment I did that, the joy came. I knew I had made the right choice, done the right thing. I have stepped out of the boat. I'm dancing with Jesus on water! It was exhilrating!

Okay. After the initial high on Saturday, I came back to reality. Welcome back to the world. The world of bills and expenses and instalments. Honestly, I get apprehensive. I wonder when and how God will provide because if He doesn't, I'm gonna sink and drown in the sea of bills.

Well, today out of the blue, I received an email that says that my idea has gotten the 1st prize for the Technology Day contest held in our organization some time back. I couldn't even remember what idea I gave! When I went to collect my prize, I was given an NTUC envelope. Great, must be a $20 voucher inside. $50 at most. But when I counted it, there was $150 worth of NTUC vouchers inside! Wow!

I really want to thank God for His timely providence. Though $150 is not the biggest amount, it's really a substantial amount to me right now, when every dollar counts. I can imagine how much grocery my mum can buy with it. And I believe, this is just the beginning of the harvest. So let us keep believing and not be weary of sowing into the Kingdom of God. For in due season, we shall reap a bountiful harvest!

Guys, You Got To Have This!

2007-11-06T12:58:00.000+08:00

Hi guys, for the past 1-2 years, I have been subscribing to free Daily Success Keys by Dr Robb Thompson, and his daily nuggets have blessed me tremendously. It has helped to keep me in perspective during times when my thoughts and attitude went astray, and also challenged me to move further on the road of excellence when I am doing well.

Here's the latest key that I have received..

CONTRIBUTION

"Each Time You Enter The Workplace, You Must Passionately Pursue What Your Contribution Can be, Never What Your Reward Will Be"

I am so blessed by this attitude that I ought to embrace when it comes to workplace, be it whether I am salaried or commissioned-based.

It means when I step into the office, sit down and look at my tasks to do for the day, the first thing I should not consider is what's in it for me? What kind of reward can I get by doing this? On the contrary, I ought to think from the perspective of a giver. It means how can I serve more with my talents and abilites? How can I contribute more for the betterment of my superior, my department and eventually my company? I am just visualising that if I do that, God will make sure that all my "secret" labour will be brought out to the light, and that it will capture the eyes of my superior and eventually, promotions, increments and commissions will coming running after me!

The heart of the matter will indeed be determined by the matter of the heart, for out of our hearts will flow the issues of life, our geographical boundaries in life.

You can sign up for the free subscription to your email at Dr Robb Thompson's ministry at http://www.winninginlife.org/ and click on Success Key at the left bottom corner.

With a renewed mindset, we can reach a new level of excellence. Let us all rise to greater promotions, increments and commissions in the next 6 months!

We love you Qingling!

2007-11-04T14:56:00.000+08:00

"1,2,3 We love you Qingling!"

That was how we ended yesterday's birthday dinner celebration for Qingling. We celebrated at a not so posh chinese restaurant (a.k.a kopitiam) at Bugis, cos the bday girl likes chinese food. And we ordered a lot, think got at least 10 dish bah, hehe. Simple celebration we had, but I believe it did touch your heart. And the 2 tops, must wear lei, especially the sweet sweet one, I so wanna see you in it lor. Hee, a sweet sweet Qingling in gentle white top, visualise visualise...

You have walked a road less travelled. As I have commented at the celebration, you have displayed boldness and courage to want to walk God's way. It's this attitude that God will honor, the attitude that is totally dependent on Him, a heart sincerely wanting to seek His truth and way. I respect this willingness, and I believe that as you walk with Him, obeying Him to the best of your ability, you will find that place where He wants you to be, there would be a greater level of freedom than that which you are currently experiencing.

I am not a poetic person, so can't really compose a poem to you. Found one which I thought is quite nice, let this be my birthday wish for you gal :)

Another year older, a year of living in the light of the Lord,
A time of changing, a time of growing,
A time of learning to use His Sword

Maturing more as the days go on,
Telling others what Christ has taught you,
Touching hearts as you travel along,
Living love - we can see Him in you.

A miracle is working there in your heart,
A new beginning, He changed you right from the start,
And now you know that there is no turning back,
The grace of God you will never lack.

You're a picture of what our great Redeemer can do,
When you walk in His love, you make an excellent view,
You are changing on the inside, it's really plain to see,
Like a stranger to this world - living for eternity,
Committed to our Saviour, you are resting in His hands,
He planned your future long ago, before your life began.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY QINGLING!!

Terima Kesih

2007-11-04T01:45:00.000+08:00

Thank you N394 for making my day!

I would like to sincerely thank each of you for freely sharing about your views about me. My comments are in my blog. :-) Awaiting for the day of the multiplication of our cell gp.

I read this somewhere - "If you change yourself, you change the world!"

I am a person of destiny, and so are you.

God of all comfort

2007-10-30T21:44:00.000+08:00

Angela, my German ex-housemate emailed me and I thought I like to share her heart-warming little testimony here.

Angela is currently going through a rough patch in life: she has to look for a new place to live because our old apartment is going to be renovated soon; it is problematic in her job with her boss, on top of that she has problem getting along with a rude colleague; her insomnia is not getting any better. But at this low point in life, amongst all her problems and frustrations, God did something for her.

(Translated from German):
"... Yesterday at noon, my colleague insulted me so much so that I said, I will not hear such things anymore and walked off. Sinking in misery, I stood by the edge of the forest when a lady with two horses came by. I looked longingly after her as she passed by. On her way back, I was still sitting there - and she spoke to me, asking if she could do anything for me. I told her briefly about my situation and she asked me, if I could ride. I was so happy and replied, yes! And we rode off (I was lost in reverie). After a while, I found out that she is a believer too. Isn't God wonderful? He knows how badly I felt and sent me this Christian lady (Anke) plus two hours of horse ride (there's a saying:"The greatest happiness on earth lies on the back of horses")! This incident really comforted me in my situation. I wish you such godsend moments from God and strength for the days."

This is just a simple testimony but it really touched my heart when I read it - how God arranged this special moment and ride (a Christian lady with 2 horses passing by, where got such coincidence!? More like divine arrangement!) for Angela at a time when she was feeling very down. Indeed, I am reminded of how caring our heavenly Father is towards us, showering us richly with His comfort when we are down.

2 Cor 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of tender mercies and the God of all comfort. 4. who comforts us in all our tribulation. That we may be able to comfort those in any sort of tribulation through the comfort with which we ourselves are being comforted by God.

Divine Encounter

2007-10-29T13:03:00.000+08:00

Yesterday, Terence's dad's car broke down and we ended up rushing to Expo for prayer meeting in a cab :( But have you gone through days when something "bad" happens but as the train of events follows, you begin to realise that you are actually set up for something divine? Well, yesterday was one of these days for me...

We boarded a cab at Yishun and the cab driver was quite chirpy and chatty but I didn't feel like talking, just wanted to quietly enjoy my ride to Expo for the prayer meeting (wah, so holy ah!). Then the cab driver uncle asked if there's any event going on in expo, and Terence said we are going there for a prayer meeting. The smart driver quickly guessed that we are from City Harvest Church (pretty good impact we made among cab drivers ya?) He then went on to ask that we are 10,000 over strong right? We answered we are now 23,000 strong and he had an astonished look on his face! And he asked how many people are going for the prayer meeting and we told him a good few thousand of us will be there, and this time his jaw dropped..

Later we realised that this uncle is from a Chinese Methodist Church in Yishun. Their church has a vision of reaching the entire Yishun with the love of Christ and have began their work as early as the 90's. In 1994, they set up a day care centre for children providing free tuition for non-Christians in the neighbourhood, and out of this move, almost all the children in the centre received salvation with no objection from their unbelieving parents! The hearts of the parents were so open that the church members could visit the homes of the children freely and offer them prayers over their needs! But after a short 2 years, the church closed down the day care centre. Today, the children have grown up and some of them have just graduated from university. Some kept in contact with the church, some stayed but most didn't attend church anymore.

As I heard this, I am ever more stirred in my heart concerning all the community work that City Harvest is engaging overseas and locally. The work that we are doing cannot cease and should never be taken for granted because they are channels for us to be a blessing to our society, and it is the only way we can begin to reach out to more unbelievers with the love of God by meeting their needs.

Imagine the impact that this Chinese Methodist Church made when they engaged and served the community many years ago, and out of it, they experienced revival and growth not just in terms of bringing more people to God, but their own members were also filled with such passion for lost as they reached out! However, the moment they stopped being an asset to the society, the moment they stopped meeting needs, their church stopped growing and the members lost their passion. Today, hardly a few members or even leaders turned up for their church prayer meetings, that's why uncle was so amazed when he heard that thousands of us would flock to our chuch wide prayer meetings. This uncle is already in his 50's, and yet he was so hungry and kept on asking what is our key to having so many people loving to pray. At the end, he was so enthusiastic that he relunctantly let us alight and we exchanged numbers to meet again because he wanted his son to meet us concerning his ministry with the youths.

Throughout the worship during prayer meeting, my cup was just overflowing. Time and time again, the Holy Spirit reminded me that Jesus said in the word that "My House shall be called a House of Prayer". Revival begins with prayer, substained through prayer, and revival eventually grows to manifest itself in territorial influence. That's indeed how Korea grew to have 40% population who are Christians and having 8 out of 10 largest churches in that one nation! And not forgetting the social impact that Yoido Full Gospel Church had made through their hospice and medical centre etc.

I guess this is how the end-time revival would look like : Spirit-filled social entreuprenurs engaging the marketplace. We will be like the 4-faced creature bearing the face of an OX - able to abase and serve everywhere we are planted ; the face of a LION - able to abound and dare to rise up as a giant in our industries ; the face of an EAGLE - spiritual, led by the spirit, always hearing and obeying the word ; and finally the face of a MAN - totally relevant, contemporary and identified with the world.

Let us all rise up to the call of prayer and social engagement!

Trio of celebrations

2007-10-28T07:41:00.000+08:00

This is how it looked like during our fellowship: can you see the hungry looks on June and Alana's faces?

Janice and Ophelia caught in a candit shot.

Ready, one more time, pose!

Patient looking Sebas and bored looking Chingling waiting for their food to arrive.

Eunice and Fann looking happi!

June taking photo of her sumptious Katsu Don before tucking in.

Alana: still hungry. Gimme one of this, this, this and that.

After all the good food, we were led to a surprisingly, romantic setting for birthday celebrations!

And here are the 3 主角of the nite, yeah!

Birthday gals posing happily in front of their cake.

Dear God, please grant me all my birthday wishes!

So, you want to know our birthday wishes?

I wish for this... and that... Celine and Alana sharing their birthday wishes.

What's up with the grapes? Some kind of after-dinner desserts for the birthday gals?

Eat the grapes, but no hands, please...

Celine, the champion grape eater of the night showing off her grape eating skill.

Next up, Alana and Eunice had a go at the grapes...

Yeah, they've got it!!

Finished! Tasked accomplished. What a fruitful time, indeed.

Looking forward to the presents...

Finally, Celine got her present...

and Eunice too, such a BIG one, somemore.

Rebec presenting the gift to Alana PR style.

Can you see the joy radiating off our faces?!! The joy of receiving!

Alana with her vitality toothbrush for a brighter and more dazzling smile.

Eunice showing off her beautiful Elle gym bag proudly.

... and acting cute with active sportwear...

Eunice all ready to hit the gym!

Celine with all her pressies...

... showing off her lovely precious moment towel...

... and obviously very pleased with it.

And of course, the cake must be cut, so that everyone can finally have a bite after all the fun and excitment.

This Message has Changed My Life

2007-10-25T13:15:00.000+08:00

Hello bro and sis,

Read this passage carefully from top to bottom, it will blessed you. Cheers :)

Life is full of twist and no one tells you life is ever easy. Examples below show how great people with strong mind becomesomeone through time, with many setbacks of course.

In 1962, four nervous young musicians played their first record audition for the executives of the Decca recording Company. The executives were not impressed. While turning down this group of musicians, one executive said,"We don't like their sound. Groups of guitars are on the way out."The group was called The BEATLES.

In 1944, Emmeline Snively, director of the Blue Book Modelling Agency,told modelling hopeful Norma Jean Baker, "You'd better learn secretarial work or else get married." She went on and became MARILYN MONROE.

In 1954, Jimmy Denny, manager of the Grand Ole Opry, fired a singer after one performance. He told him, "You ain't goin' nowhere....son. You ought to go back to drivin' a truck." He went on to become the most popular singer in America named ELVIS PRESLEY.

When ALEXANDER GRAHAM BELL invented the telephone in 1876, it did not ring off the hook with calls from potential backers. After making a demonstration call, President Rutherford Hayes said, "That's an amazing invention, but who would ever want to use one of them?"

When THOMAS EDISON invented the light bulb, he tried over 2000 experiments before he got it to work. A young reporter asked him how it felt to fail so many times. He said, "I never failed once. I invented the lightbulb. It just happened to be a 2000-step process."

In the 1940s, another young inventor named CHESTER CARLSON took his idea to 20 corporations, including some of the biggest in the country. They all turned him down. In 1947 - after seven long years of rejections! He finally got a tiny company in Rochester, New York, the Haloid company, to purchase the rights to his invention an electrostatic paper-copying process. Haloid became Xerox Corporation we know today.

WILMA RUDOLPH was the 20th of 22 children. She was born prematurely and her survival was doubtful. When she was 4 years old, she contacted double pneumonia and scarlet fever, which left her with a paralysed left leg. At age 9, she removed the metal leg brace she had been dependent on and began to walk without it. By 13 she had developed rythmic walk, which doctors said was a miracle. That same year she decided to become a runner. She entered a race and came in last. For the next few years every race she entered, she came in last. Everyone told her to quit, but she kept on running. One day she actually won a race. And then another. From then on she won every race she entered. Eventually this little girl, who was told she would never walk again, went on to win three Olympic gold medal.

The Moral of the above Stories: Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet.Only through experiences of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired and success achieved.You gain strength, experience and confidence by every experience whereyou really stop to look fear in the face....You must do the thing you cannot do. And remember, the finest steel gets sent through the hottest furnace. A winner is not one who never fails,but one who NEVER QUITS!

In LIFE, remember that you pass this way only once! Let's live life to the fullest and give it our extreme best.

A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation of a higher law...

ATTITUDE is in e MIND's PaiNtBrUsh, it can cOlOur ANY SituatioN. A FRIEND never DeMaNds tat you DO NOT Change, but ReMeMberS e way U Are!

The Star Thrower

2007-10-21T00:08:00.000+08:00

Once upon a time, there was a wise man, much like Eiseley himself, who used to go to the ocean to do his writing. He had the habit of walking along the beach before he began his work. One day he was walking along the shore; as he looked down the beach, he saw a human figure moving like a dancer. He smiled to himself to think of someone who would dance to the day, so he began to walk faster to catch up. As he got closer, he saw that it was a young man and the young man wasn't dancing, but instead, he was reaching down to the shore, picking up something and very gently throwing it into the ocean.

As he got closer he called out, "Good morning! What are you doing?" The young man paused, looked up and replied, "Throwing Starfish into the ocean."

"I guess I should have asked; why are you throwing Starfish into the ocean?"

"The sun is up and the tide is going out and if I don't throw them in they'll die."

"But young man, don't you realize that there are miles and miles of beach and Starfish all along it, you can't possibly make a difference!"

The young man listened politely, then bent down, picked up another Starfish and threw it into the sea, past the breaking waves. "It made a difference for that one."
(Taken and adapted from starthrower.com. Click link for complete version.)

Have we made a difference? Will we make a difference? To that one person out there. To that one life out there. Today's message really stirred up our hearts greatly. Once again, we are being reminded of how it was meant to be. In a world with widening income gap and wealth disparity, we do not want widening spirit gap and love disparity. We are to bring God's presence into the streets. We "put skin" on God, as Pastor Tan so aptly put it. When people look at us and our lives, what do they see? Do they see God in us?

Let us each find our starfish to throw. Let us once again, have a passion of compassion for a world without vision.

The cowboy and the bear

2007-10-15T22:45:00.000+08:00

A cowboy from Colorado skipped church one Sunday to go bear hunting in the mountains. As he turned the corner along the path, he and a bear collided. The cowboy stumbled backwards, slipped off the trail and began tumbling down the mountain with the bear in hot pursuit. Finally the cowboy crashed into a boulder, sending his rifle in one direction and breaking both legs. As the bear closed in, the cowboy cried out in desperation, "Lord, I'm sorry for what I have done. Please forgive me and save me! Lord, please make that bear a Christian."

Suddenly, the clouds parted and a beam of light shone down on the bear. The bear skidded to a halt at the cowboy's feet, fell to its knees, clasped its paws together and said, "God, bless this food which I am about to receive."

A little Birthday Celebration for Eric

2007-10-13T10:48:00.000+08:00

We had a belated birthday celebration for Eric after CG yesterday.

Eric being asked to make a speech.

Opening up the mystery present which was...

... Eu Yan Sang Ginseng Tea! Though the birthday boy looked a bit unenthusiastic. Maybe he needs a boost of ginseng tea.

Another present! Eric looking decidedly happier now.

It's a T-shirt which was probably more well-received by the birthday boy.

Here's Eric with his unique pie cake.

TGIF

2007-10-12T17:16:00.000+08:00

When I first heard of the term TGIF, I thought it one cool term. Thank God it's Friday! Thank you God, indeed. That the long week is ending and weekend is just round the corner. Another alternative for the acronym is Terribly Gleeful it's Friday. Maybe it's for people who doesn't want to acknowledge there's God or thank Him for Friday although they are terribly happy about it being Friday anyway. Whatever.

Recently, I heard of another meaning for this well known acronym: Today God is First. Well, indeed. Does it sound as cool? Probably not. But it has definitely more signifance. Thank God it's Friday is only applicable once every week. And though it does boost your happiness level (I hope it does?!) by a bit, it doesn't really do much for you. Except probably makes you dread Monday more. Whereas TGIF in Today God is First is an everyday reminder of where my priorities should be. Now, whenever I heard or read the term TGIF, I am reminded once and again - Today God is First. In decision making, in my choice of actions, in my list of priorities. And thank God it's Friday, too! :)

Sneak Peek...

2007-10-11T10:07:00.000+08:00

This is how our cell group card look like..

(click to enlarge for clearer view)

hope you guys will like it :D

Surrender to the Lord - for woman

2007-10-10T20:20:00.000+08:00

(Extracted from http://ati.iblp.org/ati/family/articles/family/wivesresponse/part5/)

Esther was surrendered to God’s will and purposes, and she knew that she might have to give up her life to see them fulfilled. She was willing to give her all to obey the Lord and to walk in His ways. I believe this was the most important step Esther took. She said and meant, “If I perish, I perish” (Esther 4:16).

We as women have to come to this point of surrender. We have to be willing to “die” and give up our lives to the Lord, as Esther was willing to die for her family. Every woman’s point of “death” will be different.

For me death came in the area of sexual intimacy. Pornography affected my husband in a different way than it may have affected yours. Paul’s sin made him apathetic and unresponsive. He was constantly dealing with the guilt from his secret sin, and masturbation had made it hard for him to be able to please me in intimacy. For him it was easier to just not go there.
I became very bitter over the years, because I was the one who had to initiate any time we were together physically. Many occasions I experienced the stinging pain of rejection when Paul avoided my advances. This was the most painful part of our marriage. I talk to women every day who are experiencing the same thing. Because of pornography and lust, their husbands have shut down and are no longer sexually active within their marriage. I understand this pain of rejection and how deeply it can hurt.

This was my place of death. I had to come to the place where I said to the Lord and to Paul that if we were never intimate again, I would still continue to love and serve him. My choice to die in that area has brought about the greatest blessings in my life. God called me to die so that in His time He could bring resurrection power to that which was dead. God has restored that part of our marriage, and now we act like honeymooners all the time! It is wonderful!

Ask God, and He will show you where you need to die. Your area of surrender may be different from mine. One woman felt that she was to keep her mouth shut—that was her death. Another was to be sexually intimate with her husband when she hated it, another felt she was to stop interfering with her husband’s discipline of their children, and some women have to die by learning how to confront their husbands about their sin.

I spoke with a woman today who for 23 years has sat back and been quiet and never spoken up to her husband. This woman doesn’t like confrontation and will run from it and avoided it at all costs. As I talked to her, I explained that death for her is probably going to be facing her husband and confronting him over his sin.

As brothers and sisters in Christ we are called to reprove, rebuke, and expose sin in each other’s lives. (See II Timothy 4:2 and Hebrews 3:13.) Holding each other accountable is to be done without hypocrisy and in a spirit of genuine love, and this must come after prayer, fasting, and crying out to the Lord. It must come out of a spirit of love and concern for your family and not out of bitterness for how you have been mistreated.

Don’t say, “Well I can’t do it until I get my attitude right, so I guess I may never do it.” My dear friend, this doesn’t need to take days! Repent of your bitterness, ask God for grace to carry out the plan He is giving you, and move on. Don’t let the enemy of procrastination keep you from doing what you need to do. This really isn’t about you; it’s about your children. Keep reminding yourself of that.

Revelations inspire

2007-10-10T12:03:00.000+08:00

What an interesting revelation from Eunice!

Revelations like this which comes as a rhema, just for you only. How true, the daily things in life, God can speak to us in His voice, give us revelation and wisdom in handling our lives. This shared revelation surely would keep my frustrations to a minimal when it comes to a sardined environment next time. How creative is our God!

Eunice, this is what it meant by walking with Jesus bah. In the little things in life, Jesus speaks to us, and what light it brings to that moment of frustration and pain!

Keep it coming guys, your revelations, it surely inspires me! Our God is a living God!

Eric are you back???

2007-10-10T11:56:00.000+08:00

Hey Eric,

Happy BIRTHDAY!!! I msged you birthday greeting lei, you never reply, are you still overseas in Vietnam or u bizzie replying wishes till hand aching liao?

Anyway, guys, it was Eric's BIG DAY on Monday, 8th October. What's his wish for the year, what's his sentiments towards his life, what do we have for him, we will look out for it when he is back!

Eric, quickly come back..... we are waiting for you.

One more step

2007-10-09T10:36:00.000+08:00

Since starting my new job in town, I've been taking the train to work everyday. And it's been getting on my nerve. The mad rush every morning to secure a spot in the already fully-packed train, elbowing and squeezing my way in with thousand other passengers. Inconsiderate people who stands in the middle and not moves in, people who carries big, bulky bags shoving them in your back, up your face, and other body parts, people who uses a baby pram, carried a luggage, brings along a screaming child, people who stands at the door blocking the way, etc. They irrate the h*ll out of me. Tempers were highly strung and patience stretched to the utmost. Honestly, I am at my meanest and most unloving during the train ride every morning.

One day, while feeling very hostile and out of patience towards my neighbours in the MRT, the Holy Spirit asked me, "What do you think Jesus would do in this situation?" That started me thinking. I imagined Jesus in his robe (sorry, no way I can imagine my Lord in shirt and tie), squeezing alongside with us in the train. What would He do? I imagined him being squeezed and not retaliating. Maybe he would give up his seat. But that was the best my imagination can do. I mean, I WAS already being squeezed. And sometimes I would give up my seat too. What else could Jesus do that is extraordinary? So I told God, no idea. I dunno what Jesus would do. You tell me.

Suddenly, the story of how Jesus got into a boat to preach came to mind. And God asked, why do you think Jesus got into a boat in the first place? [gulp] I never saw it this light before. Jesus gave up his place. He went all the way out to give up his place. When there's no more space on land, he got into a boat.

Matt 13:2 - A large crowd soon gathered around him, so he got into a boat. Then he sat there and taught as the people stood on the shore. (NLT)

Maybe in a train, I can't do that - get into a boat or climb up the pole(!). But at least I can move one more step in, ungrudging, without complaining, with love for my neighbours. Because God has already showed me His best example.

The Environment I Accept Determines The Person I Become. (By Pastor Robb Thomson)

2007-10-08T22:57:00.000+08:00

“But they delight in doing everything the Lord wants; day and night they think about His law. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season without fail. Their leaves never wither, and in all they do, they prosper.” Psalm 1:2-3 (NLT)

By embracing this principle, we understand the importance of maintaining God’s presence. I personally consider the morning hour as the gauge for the rest of my day. I always begin my day by pursuing God’s presence. I then carefully maintain His presence throughout the day. The progress and success of my day is methodically linked to the time I spend with God in the morning. A bowl of salt water sits upon every Passover table. What does it represent? The salty water represents the tears that were shed by those who made the trek to the Promised Land, the environment that would determine that the Jews were truly the people of God. We must surround ourselves with God’s presence, either by listening to the Word of God or playing worship music. Our environment determines our progress, just as getting to the Promised Land determined the progress of the Jews. As Christians, our desire should be to intimately know God, and to possess the character of Christ. To do so, we need to create the proper environment. While a farmer must cultivate the soil before planting seed, we must create an atmosphere in which our life can be shaped into the likeness of our Lord. We must make a commitment to create the environment that assures us of future progress.

Daily Confession
Father, I thank You that I do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand in the way of sinners, or join in with scoffers. My delight and desire is in Your Word, and I habitually meditate and orally recite Your Word day and night.

Blessing from Fann

2007-10-07T20:29:00.001+08:00

This beautiful notebook is a gift from Fann. This is already the 2nd notebook I've received from Fann. Thank yooouuuuuu! Really appreciate it.

Miscelleneous photos

2007-10-06T09:35:00.001+08:00

Sebas and Kasey doing a "drink 100-plus" advert pose here.

Dazzling smiles from Ophelia and June.

Kasey with Ophelia and Rebecca. This is the 2nd photo of Kaseys posing with Rebec and Ophelia. Do I see a pattern here?

James Bond poses??!

Hehe, I found these miscellaneous photos in June's camera and thought they should be shared. Somemore, it's not often we see our bro Kasey so smartly dressed. ;)

Great People in N394

2007-10-06T02:35:00.000+08:00

hello my dear bro and sis,

i agree what June said, from the bottom of my heart, I love the CG and you. i would say that the time being with you every week, praising worshipping God togehter, fellowship, is one of my favorite time, just love to be with your.

You know, no matter whether the person is more spiritual or least spiritual than me, believer or not, younger or older than me, whether is the person man or woman, so long that i can draw something good from him/her, i will learn from that peron (hee... guess who taught me this great thing? Put this into your memory and let it remind you again and again, you will be exalted - "humble will be exalted"). i can learn so much from your, can learn english la, how to be creative la, how to be "I" la, how to be "D" la, so much la... your are great la...... From now till the time comes we mulitply (dont know when, but it will happen, cos its the will of God - fruitful and mulitply), i will want to gather all the good good things so that can pass it on to the new CG.

To be frank, we have our talents but i am really amazed specially by your creativity. Many times, man... i really wonder how your got things done so wonderfully sometimes, its basically solid. Things like this blog, birthday cards, birthday program, present, etc.. wow... blow my mind lei....

i am thinking, if all of us put together all our talents indiviually, to do a project, man.. we will be the champion i think.

Hmmm..... ya hor. shall we do a project ar? hmmm...... ya ya...... good idea good idea... we discuss ok????

this is the first time that i blog, hope i have done well. ha... :p am i also creative???? first time blog also can blog quite well.... ok right??? :p

Mighty Soldier Of KOG

Keep this blog alive!

2007-10-04T17:56:00.000+08:00

Dear n394-ers,

Many thanks to June who contributes a post. Hey guys, this is your blog, okay? It doesn't just belong to Emily and Eunice. If that's the case, we will rename the blog to "Emily & Eunice's blog" (and we will post our own faces on the header!). So, please don't rely on us to post and update the blog while you remain as passive readers.

Invitations have been sent out to all of you with emails addresses, so you have no excuses hor! Please go and check your mailboxes. Feel free to post and share any comments, thoughts, testimonies, photos, pictures, drawings, poems, recipes, self-made MTV video of yourself via youtube, etc... whatever you think is interesting for us, here.

Help us to keep this blog alive! Thank you.

---- End of message from the administrator ----

Photos memories

2007-10-03T21:28:00.000+08:00

Great job Eunice and Emily, you guys did such a wonderful job to the blog site! I find it truly amazing and heartwarming to see these photos for the different occassions. Indeed such memories we shared shall follow us till we grow old, praise the Lord for www!

We are entering into the 4th month of N394. In these few months, the members have gotten to know one another to a greater level and the bonding and unity is hard to miss. I love this cellgroup, every member is unique. I had originally thought that this adult group would be not so rara, signs of aging, haa. Hee, guess I was wrong, the members proved to be even more rara than me. As for some of them, they can be so funny and interesting till i can't stop laughing.

Yes, let this CG be the lighthouse, a place where new believers can come to know Jesus, where backsliders can have their heart reflamed. I'm looking forward and am eager to find out what God has inplace for us as a CG. How would we be when it's Christmas? The indvidual lives, what kind of changes would God have made, what kind of breakthroughs and new opportunities would we have gone through ?

Especially this is the building fund season, where our faith is challenged, all to build God an excellent house, in the marketplace, for the marketplace, to penetrate the marketplace! My 4 yrs in City Harvest, every sacrificial giving brought me big blessings. It was in these 4 yrs, that my career got to the next level, promotion came into place, well paying job, favour at new job. I believe in miracles. Each time I gave and STRETCHED my faith, my faith in God to provide gets more assuring. To me, it's just impossible for God the father not to bless, and I understand with every blessing comes a sacrifice. And the blessings ALWAYS overtakes the sacrifice, if we dare to trust God. The spiritual law of sowing and giving never fades.

My spirit is excited. I have no idea what God is gonna do in my life for the next few months, yet I know that as I give unto His kingdom, He will bring me higher. As I exalt Him, He will exalt me. To each individual's faith, it shall be done. The period of giving is never easy going, His grace we depend on to be faithful till the end. And before we know it, our storehouse would be overflowing with blessings. Let heaven be open over N394, over City Harvest Church!

Mike's Unforgettable Birthday

2007-09-30T12:01:00.001+08:00

Yesterday's was Mike's BIG DAY and the CG had a big surprise in store for him.

Here's the birthday boy with Emily, still blissfully unaware of the fate that awaited him.

Start of the ploy - Mike being crowned king for the night.

King Mike looking regal.

King Mike being robed in ~~table cloth~~ royal garment.

After much bargaining with the CG, Mike had to get 5 customers (instead of the original 10) in the restaurant to wish him Happy Birthday and sign for him on his regal cape.

King Mike finding favors with the aunties at the next table.

Aunty signing for Mike...

King Mike back from his royal mission, showing off his achievements.

After the trial, Mike was given his present! Here's a glimpse of what the CG got for Him. Man, we really love this bro!

Finally, Mike fiound the "real" gift. $50 worth of voucher for his royal spending.

Mike was obviously pleased with his gift.

June with the birthday boy.

Sebas with the birthday boy.

Birthday boy with Kasey in matrix pose.

Mike and Kasey in the matrix...

Luke being carried by the birthday boy.

Rebecca and Mike in cover girl/boy pose.

Mike, playing Casanova with the ladies in the CG.

And of course, the obligatory group photo!

CG in Switzerland

2007-09-23T11:45:00.000+08:00

The other day, we had CG meeting in beautiful Switzerland. Here's the brothers washing their feet in the cooling stream of swiss alps...

And posing in the river...

The sisters posing with the beautiful swiss alps in background...

...in Lorong Ah Soo, Hougang. Yup, courtesy of Sebastian who opened up his house for our cellgroup meeting. There was this wall with Swiss scenery wallpaper and we just couldn't resist the opportunity! Our CG just so love travelling. ;)

Moon Cake Festival

2007-09-23T08:54:00.000+08:00

The fastest pomelo peelers in the CG

We celebrated the Mid-Autumn Festival, aka Mooncake Festival in our cellgroup on Friday. For us, this is not only a time to stuff ourselves with mooncakes but also a time to celebrate the harvest. Yes, a harvest of blessings. A time when we look back and take stock of all the blessings we have received from God.

After the preaching of the word, we celebrated mooncake festival by playing games and eating. What else - mooncakes. We even brought a pot of hot chinese tea along!

Waiting eargerly for the game to start.

Ready, get set, go!

Everyone was very focused on the game...

Lighting up the lanterns...

hanging them up...

without burning down any trees...

Though we did burn a few lanterns in our haste,...

But fear not, no trees were harmed in the process.

And the winning team who finished lighting and hanging 15 lanterns on a tree first!

The opposition team who claimed their tree looked better and nicer..., what can we say?

Playing with fires... or sparkles?

Beauties and the ~~beast~~, boy. Just kidding, Kasey!

Candid shot with everyone still scrambling into positions...

Ready, one, two, pose!

And one more...

and another one...

and yet another one...

I told you, we are a photo-loving CG!

Say cheeeeeze!! With peace sign from everyone. We can be really cheeeesy when we want to.

This last photo was taken after one of us came up with the crazy idea of setting the camera timer first, then have everyone rushed over to the destined spot. And that's what we did. We set the camera's timer, than with 10 seconds to spare, everyone rushed to the slide and clambered up and posed. Flash. And that's the result.

Nick Vujicic

2007-09-09T10:25:00.000+08:00

Nick Vujicic came and spoke in our weekend services. What's so special about Nick is that he was born without limbs. No hands, no legs. Just a stump of a leg or feet which he humorously called his "chicken drumstick". For someone with no limbs, he is just radiating optimism and cheerfulness, always joking and making all sort of "hand-jokes". That he would break his arms or he would run after us. And for someone with no hands, he is a great hugger! Thousands of people queued up after the service just to hug him and be hugged by him.

It was actually through him, through his positive attitude, his cheerfulness in the face of unfavorable circumstances, that the grace of God shone forth and was wonderfully magnified. When we looked at him, and saw what he had achieved (he can swim, fish, ride a horse, play football, completed a bachelor degree, amongst many other things), we saw what God did in him and could also do in us. Thousands of lives were touched that weekend. Many gave their lives to Jesus because of Nick. It was inspiring. It was just awesome. It blew us all away.

After cellgroup

2007-09-01T14:59:00.000+08:00

Chingling and June posing away in sisterly chumminess.

Sisters in the cg, always ever camera-ready.

Stand-in cg leader Kee Peng for the evening with Sebastian.

Miracle happens: Two long-lost childhood playmates in Clementi found each other again in a cg in Yishun after many years!

Pose away! Yup, seems like we are a camera-loving cg.

What happened behind?

The wackiness showing through...

N394's 全家福, or family potrait.

Mike's Testimonies

2007-09-01T03:50:00.000+08:00

When asked if anyone had a testimony, Mike came up with three:

1. He had a tooth infection the other day. Calling up a private dental clinic, he was surprised to get an appointment on the same day when normally, appointments would have to be made days in advance. After his visit to the clinic, he was referred for further treatment at a hospital and suprisingly there was a slot free in the same afternoon for him. While having his treatment, he heard the receptionist turning away people as all slots were taken. So it was really like divine coincidence that he managed to get all this appointments and treatment done on the same day and not have to suffer in pain for a few days.

2. He got accepted into the university although his academic background was irrelevant to the course he applied to. Another friend of his with similiar academic background was rejected, so Mike was grateful to God for this favor.

3. He was appraised recently in his company. Having no direct supervisor, his appraisal was done by the director himself. Although he had heard many negative reports on the increment - minimal to even none, he was pleasantly surprised when he was given an increment higher than what he had expected, even higher than what his other colleague was getting. Praise God for His providence!

Kasey's Birthday celebration

2007-08-26T10:41:00.000+08:00

The whole lot of us headed to Changi Airport after service on Saturday. When we were told that there was a waiting time of 30 minutes at Fish & Co, we switched place and went to the neighbouring Indonesian Restuarant instead.

Here's the brothers all posing away for the camera.

And the sisters, next.

More poses, more smiles...

Man and women in green. What did Mike see?

Kasey, the birthday boy showing the peace sign.

And of course, there's always the obligatory group photo.

And a not so proper one...