Day 24 - John 14:15
Let me teach you all a bit of logic (which is a branch of philosophy and maths). Some sentences have the following structure: "If P then Q", where P and Q are statements.
For example, "If it rains, then water will fall from the sky." In this case, P is the statement "It rains" and Q is "water will fall from the sky". Get it? Quite simple right?
The contrapositive of an "If P then Q" statement has the form "If not Q then not P". Basically you reverse the P and Q and consider the negatives of the statements.
A contrapositive of a conditional statement is known to be equivalent to the original statement, ie they have the same truth value and they mean EXACTLY the same thing. (Whether or not the statement is rediculous is not the issue here)
Now apply that to the following verse which appeared quite a number of times during the retreat.
"If you love me, obey my commandments" - John 14:15
The contrapositive of the above statement is "If you do not obey my commandments, then you do not love me". From a logic standpoint, those 2 statements are equivalent. Scary isn't it?
Everytime we disobey the Lord, everytime we sin, everytime we do something that does not please the Lord, we are saying, "I do not love You". At ONE Camp, Dave put it in a much more explicit manner, that everytime we sin we are actually saying, "God, I hate You".
That is the extent of sin. We have all sinned and so we are actually haters of God, and death as a punishment is just. Then why do we not die but instead have eternal life?
It because of the blood that Jesus shed for us on the cross. His grace and His mercy towards us. We cannot earn salvation for ourselves, we cannot get to heaven without the covering of His blood.
Thursday, December 30, 2004
Wednesday, December 29, 2004
40 day challenge (day 23)
Day 23 - For those who died
Not been able to post the last few days due to the Leadership retreat, but to those who were in attendance, I have said a lot of what I would have said on this space. Maybe I will blog it some other time. Today I want to talk about something else.
I have to admit that I only found out about the Tsunami disaster yesterday when I sneaked off to the kopitiam during QT to go and eat some extra food. (ooops) Then I saw the Straits Times, initially I thought it was a terorist attack. Until I went back to church and read the article for myself.
As I blog now, 60,000 are confirmed dead or missing. Washed out to sea, or simply buried under the beach, some of them may never be found again. 60,000, that is 15 times more than the 9/11 attack.
But in the midst of all this I really ask myself, why was Singapore physically unaffected by the tsunami? Why were we not hit at all. Yes there are Singaporeans dead or missing, but the numbers are nothing compared to what is going on in Sumatra, an Indonesian Island VISIBLE from East Coast Park!!!!!
That is how near we were to the quake, but we did not feel it. That is how close Singapore is to all the death and destruction, but we have none of that ourselves (or least not that magnitude).
There is a pattern you know, Singapore was pretty much unscath in the Asian Economic Crisis, we were not as badly hit by SARS when compared to other Commercialised cities like Hong Kong. And now this.
While the Economic Crisis, and the SARS you can possible say that is was due to good management by our government. This natural disaster, you cannot. PAP truly had no hand in saving Singapore this time round. It was the grace and mercy of God.
That's why some of us feel unaffected by it. That is why some of think is very far away but in reality some of the serious impact zones are only 1 or 2 hours away by plane.
We are blessed so that we can be a blessing to others. That's what Jesus implied when He told Peter to feed His lamb, and tend His sheep.
You all have a chance to do something for the flood victims. The church will be collecting money this Sunday for the victims, and the youth have been tasked with manning a booth to collect the money. I will need at least 4 volunteers to work over both services. If you can offer your help, please tag me.
Not been able to post the last few days due to the Leadership retreat, but to those who were in attendance, I have said a lot of what I would have said on this space. Maybe I will blog it some other time. Today I want to talk about something else.
I have to admit that I only found out about the Tsunami disaster yesterday when I sneaked off to the kopitiam during QT to go and eat some extra food. (ooops) Then I saw the Straits Times, initially I thought it was a terorist attack. Until I went back to church and read the article for myself.
As I blog now, 60,000 are confirmed dead or missing. Washed out to sea, or simply buried under the beach, some of them may never be found again. 60,000, that is 15 times more than the 9/11 attack.
But in the midst of all this I really ask myself, why was Singapore physically unaffected by the tsunami? Why were we not hit at all. Yes there are Singaporeans dead or missing, but the numbers are nothing compared to what is going on in Sumatra, an Indonesian Island VISIBLE from East Coast Park!!!!!
That is how near we were to the quake, but we did not feel it. That is how close Singapore is to all the death and destruction, but we have none of that ourselves (or least not that magnitude).
There is a pattern you know, Singapore was pretty much unscath in the Asian Economic Crisis, we were not as badly hit by SARS when compared to other Commercialised cities like Hong Kong. And now this.
While the Economic Crisis, and the SARS you can possible say that is was due to good management by our government. This natural disaster, you cannot. PAP truly had no hand in saving Singapore this time round. It was the grace and mercy of God.
That's why some of us feel unaffected by it. That is why some of think is very far away but in reality some of the serious impact zones are only 1 or 2 hours away by plane.
We are blessed so that we can be a blessing to others. That's what Jesus implied when He told Peter to feed His lamb, and tend His sheep.
You all have a chance to do something for the flood victims. The church will be collecting money this Sunday for the victims, and the youth have been tasked with manning a booth to collect the money. I will need at least 4 volunteers to work over both services. If you can offer your help, please tag me.
Saturday, December 25, 2004
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas with love
She leaned with her head on the window
Watching evergreen bend in the snow
Remembering Christmas the way it had been
So many seasons ago
When children would reach for their stockings
And opened the presents they found
The lights on the tree would shine bright in their eyes
Reflecting the love all around
This year there's no one to open the gifts
No reason for trimming the tree
And just as a tear made its way to the floor
She heard voices outside start to sing
Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here
Merry Christmas if even just one
May the joy of the season surround you
Merry Christmas with love
Carolers sang as she opened the door
Faces of friends in the crowd
And all of the shadows of lonely reminders
Driven away by the sound
Now the heart that for years had been silent
Was suddenly filled with a song
As she clung to their hands like a child in the night
She found herself singing along
Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here
Merry Christmas if even just one
May the joy of the season surround you
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here
Merry Christmas if even just one
May the joy of the season surround you
Merry Christmas with love
(Performed by Clay Aiken)
I remember many years ago Su Min singing this song for caroling. I wasn't involved much with the ISS or MYF then. The melody has always been stuck in my head, didn't know that Clay Aiken covered it till I was searching for it on the net.
Christmas always gives me a feeling of lonliness; now I know why. Jesus came into the world not in some posh palace but in a manger. He was ushered into the world not by angels or princes and kings, but by dogs, pigs, horses etc. His was a lonely birth in some obscure town.
It was a really quiet Christmas Eve for me, for once thankfully. No caroling, no partying, just some time alone most of the day to contemplate. Results came out, they were okay. Thank God. Honours? Maybe.
Merry Christmas to all.
The Lord bless you and keep you
The Lord make His face to shine upon you
And be gracious unto to you
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you
And give you peace.
She leaned with her head on the window
Watching evergreen bend in the snow
Remembering Christmas the way it had been
So many seasons ago
When children would reach for their stockings
And opened the presents they found
The lights on the tree would shine bright in their eyes
Reflecting the love all around
This year there's no one to open the gifts
No reason for trimming the tree
And just as a tear made its way to the floor
She heard voices outside start to sing
Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here
Merry Christmas if even just one
May the joy of the season surround you
Merry Christmas with love
Carolers sang as she opened the door
Faces of friends in the crowd
And all of the shadows of lonely reminders
Driven away by the sound
Now the heart that for years had been silent
Was suddenly filled with a song
As she clung to their hands like a child in the night
She found herself singing along
Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here
Merry Christmas if even just one
May the joy of the season surround you
Merry Christmas
Merry Christmas to all who may dwell here
Merry Christmas if even just one
May the joy of the season surround you
Merry Christmas with love
(Performed by Clay Aiken)
I remember many years ago Su Min singing this song for caroling. I wasn't involved much with the ISS or MYF then. The melody has always been stuck in my head, didn't know that Clay Aiken covered it till I was searching for it on the net.
Christmas always gives me a feeling of lonliness; now I know why. Jesus came into the world not in some posh palace but in a manger. He was ushered into the world not by angels or princes and kings, but by dogs, pigs, horses etc. His was a lonely birth in some obscure town.
It was a really quiet Christmas Eve for me, for once thankfully. No caroling, no partying, just some time alone most of the day to contemplate. Results came out, they were okay. Thank God. Honours? Maybe.
Merry Christmas to all.
The Lord bless you and keep you
The Lord make His face to shine upon you
And be gracious unto to you
The Lord lift up His countenance upon you
And give you peace.
Friday, December 24, 2004
40-day Challenge (day 18)
Day 18 - Christmas Eve
Posting this before I leave for dinner and candlelight service, so I'm actually early for once!
So many have asked me over the years, what do you want for Christmas? In my early years it was a transformers toy, then it became a computer game and later it became a new guitar. In recent years I just tell my relatives to give me ang pows.
But in the last two years I've answered that question with, "What I want for Christmas, money cannot buy." Obviously, you know what I am talking about. It's all about love!!!
Some say Christmas is about presents, good meals, Christmas trees and a time to catch up with family. Well, I say, Christmas is about presents, its about the Present that was sent by God above, sent here to die on a tree so that we can spend eternity catching up with our fellow brothers and sisters.
Yes Christmas is all about love, love sent by God above, to show us how to live and to show us that we cannot live by our own power. That is the greatest gift of all. It's all about love, love that was hung on the cross for all to see.
I read the following poem on a friend's blog, I thought I post it here.
I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, no. Its not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, no. His spirit is whole, his body is temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, no. Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is learned.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, no. I give you blessings, happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, no. Suffering draws you away from worldy cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, no. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, no. I gave you life so that you might enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me love others as much as He loves me.
God said... ahhh, finally you get the idea.
Posting this before I leave for dinner and candlelight service, so I'm actually early for once!
So many have asked me over the years, what do you want for Christmas? In my early years it was a transformers toy, then it became a computer game and later it became a new guitar. In recent years I just tell my relatives to give me ang pows.
But in the last two years I've answered that question with, "What I want for Christmas, money cannot buy." Obviously, you know what I am talking about. It's all about love!!!
Some say Christmas is about presents, good meals, Christmas trees and a time to catch up with family. Well, I say, Christmas is about presents, its about the Present that was sent by God above, sent here to die on a tree so that we can spend eternity catching up with our fellow brothers and sisters.
Yes Christmas is all about love, love sent by God above, to show us how to live and to show us that we cannot live by our own power. That is the greatest gift of all. It's all about love, love that was hung on the cross for all to see.
I read the following poem on a friend's blog, I thought I post it here.
I asked God to take away my habit.
God said, no. Its not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
I asked God to make my handicapped child whole.
God said, no. His spirit is whole, his body is temporary.
I asked God to grant me patience.
God said, no. Patience is a byproduct of tribulations; it isn't granted, it is learned.
I asked God to give me happiness.
God said, no. I give you blessings, happiness is up to you.
I asked God to spare me pain.
God said, no. Suffering draws you away from worldy cares and brings you closer to me.
I asked God to make my spirit grow.
God said, no. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life.
God said, no. I gave you life so that you might enjoy all things.
I asked God to help me love others as much as He loves me.
God said... ahhh, finally you get the idea.
40-day Challenge (day 17)
Day 17 - Back to Basics
When I opened this series I made mentioned about some tough questions like, "why are there so many denominations?" etc. For those of you who are reading the Gospel of John, or are supposed to at least, the answer is there (in an abstract manner). And since today is day 17, the answer is actually in John 17!
Coming from the VCF, and its interdenominational setting has been one of the best experiences in my walk so far. Bishop Solomon once came to NUS to give a sermon and he touched a bit on the interdenominational issue experienced by all the campus ministries.
Most people tend to look at the differences between the denominations but forget the similarities. That is what the devil wants us to do.
But at the heart of the various doctrines of the denominations, is the dogma, the uncompromisables, the teachings that are the same; the Gospel. At the end of the day, you can dispute all you want about doctrine but the message of the Gospel must be much louder than all the differences. That is the unifying factor.
My own view is that the various denominations separated for historical reasons. And later came to incorporate many different styles of worship. Why? So that as many as possible will believe. Now, at the end of the times, we see everyone across the denominational lines coming back together again.
God is greater glorified when the differences are put aside and all believers come together in one voice to glorify Him. We see that happening now! Exciting isn't it! Read John 17, that was Jesus' hope for the world, His disciples and for the body of believers.
When I opened this series I made mentioned about some tough questions like, "why are there so many denominations?" etc. For those of you who are reading the Gospel of John, or are supposed to at least, the answer is there (in an abstract manner). And since today is day 17, the answer is actually in John 17!
Coming from the VCF, and its interdenominational setting has been one of the best experiences in my walk so far. Bishop Solomon once came to NUS to give a sermon and he touched a bit on the interdenominational issue experienced by all the campus ministries.
Most people tend to look at the differences between the denominations but forget the similarities. That is what the devil wants us to do.
But at the heart of the various doctrines of the denominations, is the dogma, the uncompromisables, the teachings that are the same; the Gospel. At the end of the day, you can dispute all you want about doctrine but the message of the Gospel must be much louder than all the differences. That is the unifying factor.
My own view is that the various denominations separated for historical reasons. And later came to incorporate many different styles of worship. Why? So that as many as possible will believe. Now, at the end of the times, we see everyone across the denominational lines coming back together again.
God is greater glorified when the differences are put aside and all believers come together in one voice to glorify Him. We see that happening now! Exciting isn't it! Read John 17, that was Jesus' hope for the world, His disciples and for the body of believers.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
40-day Challenge (day 16)
Day 16 - Back to basics
Its time for MORE LINEAR ALGEBRA!!! Ok... anyway, another use of a basis (see below if you are lost) is the idea of projection. But I will spare all of you from a mathematical example and give you all something a little easier to understand.
Imagine the foundation foundation of a building. Without a foundation, you cannot build anything on it (Here I am not talking about the strength of the foundation, but just its existence). Only with the foundation in place can you build something (easier to understand than coordinate geometry right?).
A basis is like the foundation of a building, with the basis in place, then can you build up whole coordinate systems and do funky stuff like projections and conical forms etc.
Relating this back to the Gospel; it is of utmost importance that we use the Gospel as the basis of our Christian faith. Not a set of experiences from a camp or a set of verses pulled out of some part of Bible but the Gospel for all its truth. For any other things don't make much of a foundation, and like the foolish man, our lives can be drowned so easily when the floods set in.
But that's not the end. Lay your foundations then start building up pillars to support the rest of the building. These pillars are also important in supporting your life but are useless without good foundation.
What are these pillars? Well, they are captured in our creeds. These are the things which cannot be compromised and they are all build upon the Gospels. For without the Gospel, they are mere words.
The Nicene Creed
We believe in One God
The Father, the Almighty
Maker of heaven and earth
Of all that is, seen and unseen
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ
The only Son of God
Eternally begotten of the Father
God from God, Light from Light
True God from true God
Begotten, not made
of one Being with the Father
Throgh Him all things were made
For us and for our salvation
He came down from heaven
By the power of the Holy Spirit
He became incarnate from the Virgin Mary
and was made man
For our sake He was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
He suffered death and was buried
On the third day he rose again
In accordance with the Holy Scriptures;
He ascended into Heaven
And is seated at the right hand of the Father
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead
and His Kingdom will have no end
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of Life
Who proceeds from the Father and the Son
With the Father and the Son he is worshipped and glorified
He has spoken through the Prophets
We belive in one holy catholic and apostolic Church
We acknowledge one holy baptism and the forgiveness of sins
We look for the ressurection of the dead
And the life of the world to come. Amen.
PS: For those of you who might be confused, please check the real meaning of the word "catholic" at www.dictionary.com. It is not refering to the Roman Catholic Church.
Its time for MORE LINEAR ALGEBRA!!! Ok... anyway, another use of a basis (see below if you are lost) is the idea of projection. But I will spare all of you from a mathematical example and give you all something a little easier to understand.
Imagine the foundation foundation of a building. Without a foundation, you cannot build anything on it (Here I am not talking about the strength of the foundation, but just its existence). Only with the foundation in place can you build something (easier to understand than coordinate geometry right?).
A basis is like the foundation of a building, with the basis in place, then can you build up whole coordinate systems and do funky stuff like projections and conical forms etc.
Relating this back to the Gospel; it is of utmost importance that we use the Gospel as the basis of our Christian faith. Not a set of experiences from a camp or a set of verses pulled out of some part of Bible but the Gospel for all its truth. For any other things don't make much of a foundation, and like the foolish man, our lives can be drowned so easily when the floods set in.
But that's not the end. Lay your foundations then start building up pillars to support the rest of the building. These pillars are also important in supporting your life but are useless without good foundation.
What are these pillars? Well, they are captured in our creeds. These are the things which cannot be compromised and they are all build upon the Gospels. For without the Gospel, they are mere words.
The Nicene Creed
We believe in One God
The Father, the Almighty
Maker of heaven and earth
Of all that is, seen and unseen
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ
The only Son of God
Eternally begotten of the Father
God from God, Light from Light
True God from true God
Begotten, not made
of one Being with the Father
Throgh Him all things were made
For us and for our salvation
He came down from heaven
By the power of the Holy Spirit
He became incarnate from the Virgin Mary
and was made man
For our sake He was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
He suffered death and was buried
On the third day he rose again
In accordance with the Holy Scriptures;
He ascended into Heaven
And is seated at the right hand of the Father
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead
and His Kingdom will have no end
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of Life
Who proceeds from the Father and the Son
With the Father and the Son he is worshipped and glorified
He has spoken through the Prophets
We belive in one holy catholic and apostolic Church
We acknowledge one holy baptism and the forgiveness of sins
We look for the ressurection of the dead
And the life of the world to come. Amen.
PS: For those of you who might be confused, please check the real meaning of the word "catholic" at www.dictionary.com. It is not refering to the Roman Catholic Church.
Tuesday, December 21, 2004
40-day Challenge (day 15)
Day 15 - Back to basics
In linear algebra (sorry); matrices and all that stuff, you will across a very useful "object" called a basis. Generally, a basis is like a coordinate system. That is any "point" in a system can be expressed as a linear combination of the vectors in the basis. (BLUR???)
Example, in the normal 2-dimensional Euclidean plane (the normal cartesian plane), the coordinates (1,0) and (0,1) form a basis for the plane. That is, any point (a,b) can be expressed as (a,b) = a(1,0) + b(0,1). Get it??? Or still confused?
So, with that in mind, what is the basis of our faith? What is the most essential teaching from which all other teachings are built upon? The answer is simple, it is the Gospel.
In 4 days, we celebrate Christmas. Why does Christmas exist in the first place? It is because Jesus was sent down from the heavens to like a perfect life for us. To be an example and to be the final atoning sacrifice for sinners like all of us.
But more than that, Jesus rose from the dead. He conquered death; and because of that, the penalty of sin has no more hold on us; if and only if we put our faith, hope and trust in Jesus.
“But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Therefore remember from where you have fallen; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place – unless you repent” – Revelations 2:4-5
That verse has been ringing in my head for over 3 months. It was a warning that God gave me about the Youth Ministry; and it has been confirmed through my conversation with some of you and with what pastor said to the YM com as well as what some VCF friends said to me. (I actually prepared a very long article for this blog; but I decided not to publish yet.)
Have we forgotten our first love? I think so. Have we gotten caught up in the all the inner workings of the YM that we have forgotten the most central thing that is supposed to keep us going? I think we have.
We need to go back to basics. And return to the Gospel; the basis of our faith.
In linear algebra (sorry); matrices and all that stuff, you will across a very useful "object" called a basis. Generally, a basis is like a coordinate system. That is any "point" in a system can be expressed as a linear combination of the vectors in the basis. (BLUR???)
Example, in the normal 2-dimensional Euclidean plane (the normal cartesian plane), the coordinates (1,0) and (0,1) form a basis for the plane. That is, any point (a,b) can be expressed as (a,b) = a(1,0) + b(0,1). Get it??? Or still confused?
So, with that in mind, what is the basis of our faith? What is the most essential teaching from which all other teachings are built upon? The answer is simple, it is the Gospel.
In 4 days, we celebrate Christmas. Why does Christmas exist in the first place? It is because Jesus was sent down from the heavens to like a perfect life for us. To be an example and to be the final atoning sacrifice for sinners like all of us.
But more than that, Jesus rose from the dead. He conquered death; and because of that, the penalty of sin has no more hold on us; if and only if we put our faith, hope and trust in Jesus.
“But I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Therefore remember from where you have fallen; or else I am coming to you and will remove your lampstand out of its place – unless you repent” – Revelations 2:4-5
That verse has been ringing in my head for over 3 months. It was a warning that God gave me about the Youth Ministry; and it has been confirmed through my conversation with some of you and with what pastor said to the YM com as well as what some VCF friends said to me. (I actually prepared a very long article for this blog; but I decided not to publish yet.)
Have we forgotten our first love? I think so. Have we gotten caught up in the all the inner workings of the YM that we have forgotten the most central thing that is supposed to keep us going? I think we have.
We need to go back to basics. And return to the Gospel; the basis of our faith.
This day 7 years ago
Well, since bunny bert (or is it kiki) shared about his life changing experience last year, I promised to share mine. Its been 7 long years since that day when I finally asked Jesus into my heart. What happened on 21 Dec 1997? Actually, the question to ask is "what happened on 19 Dec 1997?"
I had just gone through the ISS Adventure camp 1997 (retro eh!), it was great fun! And Ryan was my canoeing buddy! And guess what! We actually sank... well sort of. Been a long time since we had one of those types of camps!
One day after the camp ended, Singapore was given a rude shock. MI185 crashed into the Musi River in Palembang Indonesia. 103 people lost their lives, but mine was saved. I did not know anyone on that flight and in all honesty the crash itself had little impact on my "born again" experience.
2 days after that on 21 Dec. I was at the indoor stadium for a Christian concert; it wasn't supposed to be overtly evangelistic in nature. But due to the events of 19 Dec, the speaker (I still remember his name, Benny Perez) was convicted by the Holy Spirit to give a super evangelistic, hail fire and brimstone kind of message. But it was the altar call that freaked me out.
I won't go into the details; it is all recorded in my extra long testimony. But, to those of you who were at Synerg!z and got freaked out by all the speaking in tongues... well that day was the day I freaked out. Anyway, hundreds of people responded to the altar call, I had never seen anything like that in my life. (I wasn't one of them if you are wondering)
But that afternoon was only blow number one. Later that night, my cousins invited me to their church's concert; and basically, the same thing happened. I was stunned very silent by the end of that night. I took a ride home in their church van and walked home from there.
And in the short 10 minute walk from that church to home (with a mushroom swiss in my mouth) I asked Jesus into my heart. I had seen enough, the skepticism was over; I finally knew with 100% certainty that God was real. No sinner's prayer, no kneeling, no jumping, no crying, no altar call; just silence and awe.
7 years have passed really quickly; and its is only by His grace that I am still here today. JC, NS, NUS; it has not been an easy walk (or crawl); but at least I am still moving foward.
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. The you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:1-2
I had just gone through the ISS Adventure camp 1997 (retro eh!), it was great fun! And Ryan was my canoeing buddy! And guess what! We actually sank... well sort of. Been a long time since we had one of those types of camps!
One day after the camp ended, Singapore was given a rude shock. MI185 crashed into the Musi River in Palembang Indonesia. 103 people lost their lives, but mine was saved. I did not know anyone on that flight and in all honesty the crash itself had little impact on my "born again" experience.
2 days after that on 21 Dec. I was at the indoor stadium for a Christian concert; it wasn't supposed to be overtly evangelistic in nature. But due to the events of 19 Dec, the speaker (I still remember his name, Benny Perez) was convicted by the Holy Spirit to give a super evangelistic, hail fire and brimstone kind of message. But it was the altar call that freaked me out.
I won't go into the details; it is all recorded in my extra long testimony. But, to those of you who were at Synerg!z and got freaked out by all the speaking in tongues... well that day was the day I freaked out. Anyway, hundreds of people responded to the altar call, I had never seen anything like that in my life. (I wasn't one of them if you are wondering)
But that afternoon was only blow number one. Later that night, my cousins invited me to their church's concert; and basically, the same thing happened. I was stunned very silent by the end of that night. I took a ride home in their church van and walked home from there.
And in the short 10 minute walk from that church to home (with a mushroom swiss in my mouth) I asked Jesus into my heart. I had seen enough, the skepticism was over; I finally knew with 100% certainty that God was real. No sinner's prayer, no kneeling, no jumping, no crying, no altar call; just silence and awe.
7 years have passed really quickly; and its is only by His grace that I am still here today. JC, NS, NUS; it has not been an easy walk (or crawl); but at least I am still moving foward.
"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your lives as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God - this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. The you will be able to test and approve what God's will is - His good, pleasing and perfect will." - Romans 12:1-2
zun gui de jun wang
zun gui de jun wang
ni zhi dao wo ai ni
ni zhi dao wo xu yao
geng duo ren shi ni
yuan chao guo wo xiang xiang
wo xiang yao dui ni shuo
ze xie hua bu shi jia
wo yuan wei ni huo
wo yuan yi sheng geng shui
zun gui de jun wang
wo bie wu suo qiu
wo zhi yao yu ni tong xing (x2)
ye shu ni shi wo sheng ming de jiu zhu
cong yong yuan dao yong yuan wo xuan shang
wo quan xing zhan mei
GASP!!! A chinese song on my blog??!!??!! Actually it the chinese translation (in hanyu pinyin) of a very familar english song. Try to guess which one it is? The first line is probably a give away! hahaha....
ni zhi dao wo ai ni
ni zhi dao wo xu yao
geng duo ren shi ni
yuan chao guo wo xiang xiang
wo xiang yao dui ni shuo
ze xie hua bu shi jia
wo yuan wei ni huo
wo yuan yi sheng geng shui
zun gui de jun wang
wo bie wu suo qiu
wo zhi yao yu ni tong xing (x2)
ye shu ni shi wo sheng ming de jiu zhu
cong yong yuan dao yong yuan wo xuan shang
wo quan xing zhan mei
GASP!!! A chinese song on my blog??!!??!! Actually it the chinese translation (in hanyu pinyin) of a very familar english song. Try to guess which one it is? The first line is probably a give away! hahaha....
40-day Challenge (day 14)
Day 14 - Back to basics
This is to lead into the leadership retreat next week. For those who aren't going, don't worry; I gurantee that it's going to be pretty boring. Anyway, back to basics; that is essentially going to be what I am going to talk about the next few posts.
Every been asked questions about Christianity that you cannot answer? Why are there so many denominations? How do you explain creation vs evolution? Do dinosaurs really exist? blah blah blah...
But are those questions really important? In my honest opinion; THEY ARE! But are they essential for the Christian faith... ah... I don't think so. But if they are not imporatant to Christianity, then what is?
"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." - 1 Peter 3:15
What is this hope? If you read the rest of the passage in 1 Peter; you will realise that this hope is not about life, but death and suffering. That is the basis of the Christian faith; the Gospel.
This is to lead into the leadership retreat next week. For those who aren't going, don't worry; I gurantee that it's going to be pretty boring. Anyway, back to basics; that is essentially going to be what I am going to talk about the next few posts.
Every been asked questions about Christianity that you cannot answer? Why are there so many denominations? How do you explain creation vs evolution? Do dinosaurs really exist? blah blah blah...
But are those questions really important? In my honest opinion; THEY ARE! But are they essential for the Christian faith... ah... I don't think so. But if they are not imporatant to Christianity, then what is?
"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect." - 1 Peter 3:15
What is this hope? If you read the rest of the passage in 1 Peter; you will realise that this hope is not about life, but death and suffering. That is the basis of the Christian faith; the Gospel.
Monday, December 20, 2004
40-day Challenge (day 13)
Day 13 - That's why He came
That's why He came; but what do WE do about it? I would like to address this specifically to the new SGLs next year. As all of you noticed, I did not attend the SGL meeting on Sunday. Why? Simple; I am not an SGL next year. For those of you who want to know why; it's because I am going to help the BB and GB next year.
So as an outgoing SGL, let me share my experiences with you all. (In case some of you are wondering, NO I am not leaving the youth, I am still going to lead One Voice and I am still going to be in the YM com... so those who were hoping that I will disappear... hehe.. too bad!)
The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." - Matthew 25:40
It has been a long tiring year for me as an SGL. I was given one of the toughest groups in the YM. So much so that 2 senior YM leaders had to take charge of the group; Cheryl and myself. 2 ministry heads as SGLs of the same group... must be quite serious right? Not just that, we requested for not just 1 assistant SGL but 2! Xin Ying and Sheldon. (Shel... back me up here...)
So what was wrong with my group? Well, for one, most of the members were not really involved much in the YM, they were the super quiet don't talk type (with the exception of one who is the complete opposite).
But hey... as a leader do I complain that my group was pain to deal with? It was full of people that obviously had difficulties getting along. The whole group did not bond at all throughout the year. Yes, I made some noise during meetings, but not to change my group or certain members of the group but rather for the remaining SGLs to have a little "mercy" on my group.
As a leader do I give up on my group? No. Because these are the people whom God will use to shake the youth one day. For when they change, their change will be more drastic than the rest of the "more involved" youth.
I know some of you would wish to "craft" your own SG next year. Choose a specific lot of people who you think are easy to deal with and people whom you think you will get along with. All I can say is that you are taking the easy way out.
Remember my post below, Jesus did not take the easy way out. He could have abandoned evil sinners like us just like they way that I could have abandoned my group. But He did not; instead He chose the cross.
I hope you will all remember that as you take on the postition of an SGL next year. You may not like the SG you are given; but DO NOT give up on them. Love them, like Jesus loved you.
That's why He came; but what do WE do about it? I would like to address this specifically to the new SGLs next year. As all of you noticed, I did not attend the SGL meeting on Sunday. Why? Simple; I am not an SGL next year. For those of you who want to know why; it's because I am going to help the BB and GB next year.
So as an outgoing SGL, let me share my experiences with you all. (In case some of you are wondering, NO I am not leaving the youth, I am still going to lead One Voice and I am still going to be in the YM com... so those who were hoping that I will disappear... hehe.. too bad!)
The King will reply, "I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me." - Matthew 25:40
It has been a long tiring year for me as an SGL. I was given one of the toughest groups in the YM. So much so that 2 senior YM leaders had to take charge of the group; Cheryl and myself. 2 ministry heads as SGLs of the same group... must be quite serious right? Not just that, we requested for not just 1 assistant SGL but 2! Xin Ying and Sheldon. (Shel... back me up here...)
So what was wrong with my group? Well, for one, most of the members were not really involved much in the YM, they were the super quiet don't talk type (with the exception of one who is the complete opposite).
But hey... as a leader do I complain that my group was pain to deal with? It was full of people that obviously had difficulties getting along. The whole group did not bond at all throughout the year. Yes, I made some noise during meetings, but not to change my group or certain members of the group but rather for the remaining SGLs to have a little "mercy" on my group.
As a leader do I give up on my group? No. Because these are the people whom God will use to shake the youth one day. For when they change, their change will be more drastic than the rest of the "more involved" youth.
I know some of you would wish to "craft" your own SG next year. Choose a specific lot of people who you think are easy to deal with and people whom you think you will get along with. All I can say is that you are taking the easy way out.
Remember my post below, Jesus did not take the easy way out. He could have abandoned evil sinners like us just like they way that I could have abandoned my group. But He did not; instead He chose the cross.
I hope you will all remember that as you take on the postition of an SGL next year. You may not like the SG you are given; but DO NOT give up on them. Love them, like Jesus loved you.
PRACTICE!!!!!
TAKE NOTE!!!
We WILL be having a final practice / meeting for this year after all!! I know this comes a little late, but please try to attend! We will meet on 21 December Tuesday. In church at 5pm. Apparently there is a carolling practice before that... I have no idea what that is about... ask Nick for more details.
This practice is for the last Sunday of this year... there is extended worship. Let's rock the house down!!
We WILL be having a final practice / meeting for this year after all!! I know this comes a little late, but please try to attend! We will meet on 21 December Tuesday. In church at 5pm. Apparently there is a carolling practice before that... I have no idea what that is about... ask Nick for more details.
This practice is for the last Sunday of this year... there is extended worship. Let's rock the house down!!
Sunday, December 19, 2004
4--day Challenge (day 12)
Day 12 - That's why He came
That's why He came
For every broken heart in need of mending
For every lonely child who needs befriending
For every time the innocent will every need defending
That's why He came
To do the perfect will of God, His Father
To face His death just like a lamb to slaughter
So He could pour out life, like living water
That's why He came
That's why He came
For all the lost and lonely
That's why He came
For all the questions only love explains
And so that when we need Him
We can call upon His name
To bring His light into darkness
And His healing to our pain
To bring us hope when it seems hopeless
That's why Jesus came
That's why Jesus came. For the lost, the broken, the lonely, the fatherless, the motherless, the helpless, the sick, the poor, the broken hearted, the loveless, the captive, the hurt, the wounded, the lame, the hungry, the impoverished, the dying; us.
He did not choose the easy way out. He chose the hardest way out; death on the cross. The Bible tells us that Jesus could have summoned legions of angels to His aid when He was arrested (Matt 26:53). But He did not.
He chose death, for our sakes. He chose the hardest way not the easy way. That's why He came; to die for us so that we may no longer have to spend eternity in hell.
That's why He came; what should we do?
That's why He came
For every broken heart in need of mending
For every lonely child who needs befriending
For every time the innocent will every need defending
That's why He came
To do the perfect will of God, His Father
To face His death just like a lamb to slaughter
So He could pour out life, like living water
That's why He came
That's why He came
For all the lost and lonely
That's why He came
For all the questions only love explains
And so that when we need Him
We can call upon His name
To bring His light into darkness
And His healing to our pain
To bring us hope when it seems hopeless
That's why Jesus came
That's why Jesus came. For the lost, the broken, the lonely, the fatherless, the motherless, the helpless, the sick, the poor, the broken hearted, the loveless, the captive, the hurt, the wounded, the lame, the hungry, the impoverished, the dying; us.
He did not choose the easy way out. He chose the hardest way out; death on the cross. The Bible tells us that Jesus could have summoned legions of angels to His aid when He was arrested (Matt 26:53). But He did not.
He chose death, for our sakes. He chose the hardest way not the easy way. That's why He came; to die for us so that we may no longer have to spend eternity in hell.
That's why He came; what should we do?
40-day Challenge (day 11)
Day 11 - Christmas
Christmas is just days away!! Can you remember what we were doing for Christmas last year? All the caroling, eating etc. And after that, we had to prepare the maze for TOFU?? Hard to beleive that was a year ago.
Christmas is really more than just about presents, or about the birth of Jesus. Sometimes we focus so much on the birth that we forget about what happends after that.
Christmas Isn't Christmas
Christmas, isn't Christmas
Till it happends in your heart
Somewhere, deep inside you
Is where Christmas really starts
So give your heart to Jesus
You'll discover when you do
That is Christmas, really Christmas
For You
Jesus brings warmth like a winter's fire
A light like a candle's glow
He waiting now to come inside
Like He did so long ago
Jesus brings gifts of truth and life
And makes them bloom and grow
So welcome Him with a song of joy
And when He comes you'll know
Christmas would have no meaning, no purpose unless we remember Good Friday as well. Jesus was born a helpless babe, and He came not to reign in glory but to die for our sins. And, There would be no reason for Good Friday unless Christmas came first.
These 2 holiday seasons are linked. Let's not forget that even as we celebrate the brith of our Saviour!
Christmas is just days away!! Can you remember what we were doing for Christmas last year? All the caroling, eating etc. And after that, we had to prepare the maze for TOFU?? Hard to beleive that was a year ago.
Christmas is really more than just about presents, or about the birth of Jesus. Sometimes we focus so much on the birth that we forget about what happends after that.
Christmas Isn't Christmas
Christmas, isn't Christmas
Till it happends in your heart
Somewhere, deep inside you
Is where Christmas really starts
So give your heart to Jesus
You'll discover when you do
That is Christmas, really Christmas
For You
Jesus brings warmth like a winter's fire
A light like a candle's glow
He waiting now to come inside
Like He did so long ago
Jesus brings gifts of truth and life
And makes them bloom and grow
So welcome Him with a song of joy
And when He comes you'll know
Christmas would have no meaning, no purpose unless we remember Good Friday as well. Jesus was born a helpless babe, and He came not to reign in glory but to die for our sins. And, There would be no reason for Good Friday unless Christmas came first.
These 2 holiday seasons are linked. Let's not forget that even as we celebrate the brith of our Saviour!
Friday, December 17, 2004
40-day challenge (day 10)
Day 10 - The Gift
I know I am late in this posting, came back home really late from a meeting yesterday. Anyway, been pretty serious the last few posts, so I will tone this one down a bit. Christmas is 8 days away, so here's a start to a Christmas series! I will start it of with the following poem.
The Gift
Christmas trees with gifts beneath
And on the door a Christmas wreath
To get presents and share with friends
Is great fun that never ends
Decorations everywhere
There’s a magical feeling in the air
Excitement fills us the through the season
Christmas is special for many reasons
But in this season
Let’s celebrate the Reason
The birth of The King
Is why we sing
He came down for us to die
For sinful men like you and I
Through the cross He saved our soul
He gave His life to make us whole
Thank You Lord for Christmas Day
On the altar our lives we lay
To You our hearts we lift
To Jesus, The Gift
I know I am late in this posting, came back home really late from a meeting yesterday. Anyway, been pretty serious the last few posts, so I will tone this one down a bit. Christmas is 8 days away, so here's a start to a Christmas series! I will start it of with the following poem.
The Gift
Christmas trees with gifts beneath
And on the door a Christmas wreath
To get presents and share with friends
Is great fun that never ends
Decorations everywhere
There’s a magical feeling in the air
Excitement fills us the through the season
Christmas is special for many reasons
But in this season
Let’s celebrate the Reason
The birth of The King
Is why we sing
He came down for us to die
For sinful men like you and I
Through the cross He saved our soul
He gave His life to make us whole
Thank You Lord for Christmas Day
On the altar our lives we lay
To You our hearts we lift
To Jesus, The Gift
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
40-day Challenge (day 9)
Day 9 - In Spirit and in Truth
I will round of this series with this post. The last few posts I have spent discussing what it is to worship in truth. Now its time to shift focus and see what it means to worship in spirit.
Well I have heard my fare share of complicated answers and doctrines; but what was revealed to me about this is both simple yet complicated. (In mathematics we call it simplex... sorry just had to add that in!!)
Well, to worship in spirit, is to simply worship in truth! Because, the Truth and Spirit are one and the same. And when we worship in truth (look below to see what I mean), our Spirit will automatically worship.
It can (and is) more complicated then that, but I think sometimes we just need to look at the simple things. Someone once told me that the way youth worship is more "raw" and "honest". True. My prayer is that you all continue to do that.
But at the same time when you worship God; remember Jesus and focus on Him. That is the truth, and the object of our worship. And our spirit will follow suit.
PS: If you really really want to know the more complicated issues about worshippping in spirit, come and see me
I will round of this series with this post. The last few posts I have spent discussing what it is to worship in truth. Now its time to shift focus and see what it means to worship in spirit.
Well I have heard my fare share of complicated answers and doctrines; but what was revealed to me about this is both simple yet complicated. (In mathematics we call it simplex... sorry just had to add that in!!)
Well, to worship in spirit, is to simply worship in truth! Because, the Truth and Spirit are one and the same. And when we worship in truth (look below to see what I mean), our Spirit will automatically worship.
It can (and is) more complicated then that, but I think sometimes we just need to look at the simple things. Someone once told me that the way youth worship is more "raw" and "honest". True. My prayer is that you all continue to do that.
But at the same time when you worship God; remember Jesus and focus on Him. That is the truth, and the object of our worship. And our spirit will follow suit.
PS: If you really really want to know the more complicated issues about worshippping in spirit, come and see me
40-day Challenge (day 8)
Day 8 - In Spirit and in Truth
I've spent the last few posts establishing what I feel it means to worship in truth. Now let me contextualise it to the worship team and give an intepretation of this passage with a music bias.
Remember in the earlier post I said that I was told to just observe the youth at ONE camp. Observe the way they interacted, the way they played the games, did the activities, and most importantly the way they gathered for the times of corporate worship.
It is a great joy to see youth jumping around, raising their hands and prasing God with all their might. But yet, as I stood in the auditorium, my heart was troubled. I asked God what was wrong with me. And He replied, they have forgotten their First Love.
Singing songs is a great way to worship God, it comes naturally and easily. Many of you have personally told me that the most comfortable way you worship God is through singing. There's nothing wrong with that. But there is something dangerous about it.
Satan was once the chief musician and worship leader of heaven. He was second only to God. But he fell, and he fell low because of his pride. And that's where the problem lies.
Music is a gift from God. But it is one of the devil's greatest strengths. The devil is a great deceiver, he won't stop you from singing praises to God. But he knows how to use the words of each song to dilute the truth and damper your spirits.
Remember that the next time you sing or lead worship. The words we sing are sometimes too powerful for us to mouth. But we do anyway. It is not a particular song that is badly written. But it is effect on being able to dampen the truth that will throw us into depression.
Next time, meditate on the words of every song you sing. And let the truth of its words shine through.
He said, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the Name of the Lord." - Job 1:21
I've spent the last few posts establishing what I feel it means to worship in truth. Now let me contextualise it to the worship team and give an intepretation of this passage with a music bias.
Remember in the earlier post I said that I was told to just observe the youth at ONE camp. Observe the way they interacted, the way they played the games, did the activities, and most importantly the way they gathered for the times of corporate worship.
It is a great joy to see youth jumping around, raising their hands and prasing God with all their might. But yet, as I stood in the auditorium, my heart was troubled. I asked God what was wrong with me. And He replied, they have forgotten their First Love.
Singing songs is a great way to worship God, it comes naturally and easily. Many of you have personally told me that the most comfortable way you worship God is through singing. There's nothing wrong with that. But there is something dangerous about it.
Satan was once the chief musician and worship leader of heaven. He was second only to God. But he fell, and he fell low because of his pride. And that's where the problem lies.
Music is a gift from God. But it is one of the devil's greatest strengths. The devil is a great deceiver, he won't stop you from singing praises to God. But he knows how to use the words of each song to dilute the truth and damper your spirits.
Remember that the next time you sing or lead worship. The words we sing are sometimes too powerful for us to mouth. But we do anyway. It is not a particular song that is badly written. But it is effect on being able to dampen the truth that will throw us into depression.
Next time, meditate on the words of every song you sing. And let the truth of its words shine through.
He said, "Naked I came from my mother's womb, and naked I shall return there. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the Name of the Lord." - Job 1:21
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
40-day Challenge (day 7)
Day 7 - In Spirit and in Truth
The Greek word for the word "worship" in John 4:23 is proskyneo. Which means (and I do hope all of you know by now) holy reverence. A very deep and holy reverence.
Many people intepret that verse as saying that to worship in truth is to mean what you say. That is, to really live up to the stuff we sing and proclaim. True. But I think there is more than that.
If you look at the context of the verse, Jesus talks about an "old" kind of worship, and then He talks about a "new time" when worshippers will worship in Spirit and in Truth. And there was something supernatural about that encounter. Jesus revealed Himself as the Messiah and through the woman at the well, an entire Samaritan village came to know Him.
What does it mean for us today? Now, Jesus has already died, He has lft us, but He is coming again! I believe that the verse tells us not to just mean what we say or sing but to go further than that.
Remember the Truth is Jesus, and Jesus died for us. I believe to worship in truth also means to remember the reason for salvation. To remember the Cross each and every time we worship God. Whether through our actions or through our songs, we need to reflect the glory of the Cross.
Drawing back to the women at the well, and to Mark 4:1-20 (the passage for today). Its all about evangelism. The passage in Mark is about sowing seeds; not all will believe, some will believe for a short time and some will believe forever.
When Jesus revealed Himself to the women, her transformation was so great that even though she was shunned by the rest of the village, she went back in the heat of the day (it was noontime) and was able to drag out the entire village! Such was the extent of her transformation!
Similarly, I think God chooses to use us sinners to win other souls for Him. So as we worship God, remember the reason for salvation and that it should cause a great transformation is us.
The Greek word for the word "worship" in John 4:23 is proskyneo. Which means (and I do hope all of you know by now) holy reverence. A very deep and holy reverence.
Many people intepret that verse as saying that to worship in truth is to mean what you say. That is, to really live up to the stuff we sing and proclaim. True. But I think there is more than that.
If you look at the context of the verse, Jesus talks about an "old" kind of worship, and then He talks about a "new time" when worshippers will worship in Spirit and in Truth. And there was something supernatural about that encounter. Jesus revealed Himself as the Messiah and through the woman at the well, an entire Samaritan village came to know Him.
What does it mean for us today? Now, Jesus has already died, He has lft us, but He is coming again! I believe that the verse tells us not to just mean what we say or sing but to go further than that.
Remember the Truth is Jesus, and Jesus died for us. I believe to worship in truth also means to remember the reason for salvation. To remember the Cross each and every time we worship God. Whether through our actions or through our songs, we need to reflect the glory of the Cross.
Drawing back to the women at the well, and to Mark 4:1-20 (the passage for today). Its all about evangelism. The passage in Mark is about sowing seeds; not all will believe, some will believe for a short time and some will believe forever.
When Jesus revealed Himself to the women, her transformation was so great that even though she was shunned by the rest of the village, she went back in the heat of the day (it was noontime) and was able to drag out the entire village! Such was the extent of her transformation!
Similarly, I think God chooses to use us sinners to win other souls for Him. So as we worship God, remember the reason for salvation and that it should cause a great transformation is us.
Monday, December 13, 2004
40-day challenge (day 6)
Day 6 - In Spirit and in Truth
In John 14-17, also known as the Last Discourse, Jesus opens His final teaching before His cruxifiction with a very interesting set of statements.
"Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me. There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know where I am going and how to get there."
"No we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We haven't any idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
Jesus told him, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had known who I am, then you would have known who my Father is. From now on you know Him and have seen Him!" - John 14:1-8
Jesus is the Way, He is the Truth and He is Life. Compare that with what I wrote in the "day 5" post. The Word, the Bible IS the truth. Take a good note of that, for it is a central doctrine of our faith.
So, now that we know that the Truth is Jesus, and that Jesus is the Word, what does it mean to worship in Spirit and in Truth? Well, the 2 instances of the word "truth" here are not used in the same manner, but they are connected! Think about it.
POST SCRIPT
Something extra that I noticed in the 40-day challenge booklet (day 6)...
Intersting to note that what we discussed in SG today is really nicely tied into what is written in the booklet, about forgiveness. Remember, Jesus' death was the final atoning sacrifice. No more sacrifice was needed after that.
And because of Jesus' sacrifice for us, we should forgive another brother or sister who has hurt us. Forgiveness is a discision not a feeling.
In John 14-17, also known as the Last Discourse, Jesus opens His final teaching before His cruxifiction with a very interesting set of statements.
"Don't be troubled. You trust God, now trust in me. There are many rooms in my Father's home, and I am going to prepare a place for you. If this were not so, I would tell you plainly. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know where I am going and how to get there."
"No we don't know, Lord," Thomas said. "We haven't any idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?"
Jesus told him, "I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can come to the Father except through me. If you had known who I am, then you would have known who my Father is. From now on you know Him and have seen Him!" - John 14:1-8
Jesus is the Way, He is the Truth and He is Life. Compare that with what I wrote in the "day 5" post. The Word, the Bible IS the truth. Take a good note of that, for it is a central doctrine of our faith.
So, now that we know that the Truth is Jesus, and that Jesus is the Word, what does it mean to worship in Spirit and in Truth? Well, the 2 instances of the word "truth" here are not used in the same manner, but they are connected! Think about it.
POST SCRIPT
Something extra that I noticed in the 40-day challenge booklet (day 6)...
Intersting to note that what we discussed in SG today is really nicely tied into what is written in the booklet, about forgiveness. Remember, Jesus' death was the final atoning sacrifice. No more sacrifice was needed after that.
And because of Jesus' sacrifice for us, we should forgive another brother or sister who has hurt us. Forgiveness is a discision not a feeling.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
40-day challenge (day 5)
Day 5 - In Spirit and in Truth
So what is the truth? Let's begin right from the beginning of the Bible; the story of creation.
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light." - Genesis 1:1-3
Most of us have probably read that passage over and over again. It may seem simple and pretty easy to grasp; but the amount of theology, or as some of you put it "Bible-ness", contained in that one passage is amazing. It establishes history before time began, it introduces the Holy Trinity and it displays the power of God.
I can only think of one other passage that starts with those same words "In the beginning..."
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart of Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not comprehend it." - John 1:1-4
Do you see a parallel? The Spirit of God, the Word of God and God Himself, are one and the same, They have been there from before the beginning of the world; but more than that and more importantly...
"And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." - John 1:14
The Word of God is Jesus Himself. It was through the spoken word of God ("let there be light") that the world came into being, it was through the word that we were given life. And it is true the Living Word, Jesus that we have been given eternal life.
Think about that... sounds complicated right?
(PS: in all honesty, the amount of space in this blog probably won't be enough to do justice to the amount of things that can be said about those 2 passages. In the VCF, the discussion on those 2 passages got heated to the point where we resorted to drawing venn diagrams!!)
So what is the truth? Let's begin right from the beginning of the Bible; the story of creation.
"In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. Then God said, "Let there be light"; and there was light." - Genesis 1:1-3
Most of us have probably read that passage over and over again. It may seem simple and pretty easy to grasp; but the amount of theology, or as some of you put it "Bible-ness", contained in that one passage is amazing. It establishes history before time began, it introduces the Holy Trinity and it displays the power of God.
I can only think of one other passage that starts with those same words "In the beginning..."
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart of Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness and the darkness did not comprehend it." - John 1:1-4
Do you see a parallel? The Spirit of God, the Word of God and God Himself, are one and the same, They have been there from before the beginning of the world; but more than that and more importantly...
"And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth." - John 1:14
The Word of God is Jesus Himself. It was through the spoken word of God ("let there be light") that the world came into being, it was through the word that we were given life. And it is true the Living Word, Jesus that we have been given eternal life.
Think about that... sounds complicated right?
(PS: in all honesty, the amount of space in this blog probably won't be enough to do justice to the amount of things that can be said about those 2 passages. In the VCF, the discussion on those 2 passages got heated to the point where we resorted to drawing venn diagrams!!)
Friday, December 10, 2004
40-day challenge (day 4)
Day 4 - In Spirit and in Truth
It's quite shameful that as the ministry head for One Voice, I have never done a devotion on the following passage:
But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers of God will worship the Father in Spirit and Truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshippers. - John 4:23
To be honest, I don't really know what it means to worship in Spirit and in Truth. I have heard so many intepretations of this verse, and some obviously dubious ones, that I have yet to discern which are acceptable.
Most tell me that to worship in truth is to mean what you sing, do or say as you praise God. And few make a serious distinction between spirit and truth. Sounds simple. Yes, I agree, but at the back of my mind I realise that there has to more than just that.
Exactly a week ago, ie last Friday, the ONE camp devotion material was on the Woman at the Well; you know, the one with 5 husbands? That is where the above passage is found. I was doing my QT when I felt the Holy Spirit telling me that He was going to reveal what it meant to worship in Spirit and in Truth.
So I was told to just observe the youth as they went about the camp. And over the next few days, more and more of what it means to worship in Spirit and in Truth began to be revealed. There is a lot to say, and it will take a few posts to completely cover it.
So, for starters, ask yourself, what is the Truth?
It's quite shameful that as the ministry head for One Voice, I have never done a devotion on the following passage:
But an hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers of God will worship the Father in Spirit and Truth; for such people the Father seeks to be His worshippers. - John 4:23
To be honest, I don't really know what it means to worship in Spirit and in Truth. I have heard so many intepretations of this verse, and some obviously dubious ones, that I have yet to discern which are acceptable.
Most tell me that to worship in truth is to mean what you sing, do or say as you praise God. And few make a serious distinction between spirit and truth. Sounds simple. Yes, I agree, but at the back of my mind I realise that there has to more than just that.
Exactly a week ago, ie last Friday, the ONE camp devotion material was on the Woman at the Well; you know, the one with 5 husbands? That is where the above passage is found. I was doing my QT when I felt the Holy Spirit telling me that He was going to reveal what it meant to worship in Spirit and in Truth.
So I was told to just observe the youth as they went about the camp. And over the next few days, more and more of what it means to worship in Spirit and in Truth began to be revealed. There is a lot to say, and it will take a few posts to completely cover it.
So, for starters, ask yourself, what is the Truth?
Thursday, December 09, 2004
40-day challenge (day 3)
Day 3 - After ONE
You might be criticized
Its hard to believe that exactly one week ago we were all running like clowns along Orchard Road. Seems like it was yesterday. I'm sure some of the things we did, carolling, crossworlds puzzles, mime etc must have drawn curious stares from the crowds.
The group mentors were pre-informed that Jerry would make an appearance during the concert. It was for that reason that I brought up his example during the Saturday night debriefing. (For those who were in my group anyway) He proclaimed his faith on live television and was criticized by non-Christians and Christians alike. Sad but true.
When Jesus heard this, he told them, 'Healthy people don't need a doctor - sick people do. I have come to call sinners not those who think they are already good enough." - Mark 2: 17
Remember what I told you all about us being the Salt and Light of this earth? Well, it's not easy to be the salt and light of this earth. We get tired, depressed, shot at by the Devil, and of course criticized. Sometimes by our own church friends.
Jesus was criticized all through His ministry; by the pharisees, His parents, even His disciples. But He was obedient to the Father even till death. Don't be discouraged when people criticize your work or your faith. Keep standing on the promises of God and the joy of Salvation. These things cannot be taken away from you.
Tomorrow I will begin to share what God revealed to me during the camp. It's quite long and would probably take about a week to complete.
You might be criticized
Its hard to believe that exactly one week ago we were all running like clowns along Orchard Road. Seems like it was yesterday. I'm sure some of the things we did, carolling, crossworlds puzzles, mime etc must have drawn curious stares from the crowds.
The group mentors were pre-informed that Jerry would make an appearance during the concert. It was for that reason that I brought up his example during the Saturday night debriefing. (For those who were in my group anyway) He proclaimed his faith on live television and was criticized by non-Christians and Christians alike. Sad but true.
When Jesus heard this, he told them, 'Healthy people don't need a doctor - sick people do. I have come to call sinners not those who think they are already good enough." - Mark 2: 17
Remember what I told you all about us being the Salt and Light of this earth? Well, it's not easy to be the salt and light of this earth. We get tired, depressed, shot at by the Devil, and of course criticized. Sometimes by our own church friends.
Jesus was criticized all through His ministry; by the pharisees, His parents, even His disciples. But He was obedient to the Father even till death. Don't be discouraged when people criticize your work or your faith. Keep standing on the promises of God and the joy of Salvation. These things cannot be taken away from you.
Tomorrow I will begin to share what God revealed to me during the camp. It's quite long and would probably take about a week to complete.
Wednesday, December 08, 2004
Hosanna Integrity Warehouse Sale!!!
Date: 10-12 December 2004
Time: 10am to 8pm
Venue: 95 Kallang Avenue, AIS industrial building #04-00 (Alby) / #05-00 (Integrity) Singapore 339420
Integrity is the distributor for Integrity products! (DUH!) and Alby is the distributor for Hillsongs and Planetshakers. Those of you who want a lift down tell me early! Will be going most likely on Friday afternoon. The warehouse is walking distance from Kallang MRT.
(My ONE camp group will be pretty familiar with that place...right Ber... ahem!!!)
Those who want more info go to the following addy: www.integrityasia.com.sg
I also forgot to mention, the newest Hillsong / Delirious Album is out. Its called Unified Praise, its really good! Mostly familiar songs:
- Everyday
- Free
- I give you my heart
- Worthy is the Lamb
- I could sing of your love forever
- King of Majesty
- Did you feel the mountains tremble
- Rain Down + My Glorious (diff from planetshakers)
- Majesty (was also on United More than Life album)
- What a friend I've found
- History Maker (its the song I used for the One camp photo powerpoint)
Time: 10am to 8pm
Venue: 95 Kallang Avenue, AIS industrial building #04-00 (Alby) / #05-00 (Integrity) Singapore 339420
Integrity is the distributor for Integrity products! (DUH!) and Alby is the distributor for Hillsongs and Planetshakers. Those of you who want a lift down tell me early! Will be going most likely on Friday afternoon. The warehouse is walking distance from Kallang MRT.
(My ONE camp group will be pretty familiar with that place...right Ber... ahem!!!)
Those who want more info go to the following addy: www.integrityasia.com.sg
I also forgot to mention, the newest Hillsong / Delirious Album is out. Its called Unified Praise, its really good! Mostly familiar songs:
- Everyday
- Free
- I give you my heart
- Worthy is the Lamb
- I could sing of your love forever
- King of Majesty
- Did you feel the mountains tremble
- Rain Down + My Glorious (diff from planetshakers)
- Majesty (was also on United More than Life album)
- What a friend I've found
- History Maker (its the song I used for the One camp photo powerpoint)
40-day challenge (day 2)
Day 2 - After ONE
Will continue from where I left off from yesterday
You are in a Spiritual Battle
I woke up this morning dreaming about my old magic days. I dreamt I was still at Paya Labar MRT station trying to rebuild my old deck and trying to make a comeback. The dream was so strong that when I actually woke up (and was still in a daze) I thought I still had my cards in the drawer. It was only about 2 minutes later that I realised that I had sold my cards over 3 years ago.
Dark have my dreams of late, just before ONE camp I dreamt I was in the matrix and Morpheus asked me if I would like the blue or red pill. On another occasion I dreamt I was being eaten alive by cockroaches *bleah*. Trust me, I rather dream of maths, epsilon or delta, at least I know I am still sane.
Is this a spiritual battle? Maybe, maybe not. Be it a fight with your parents, or some really wierd thing that has happened to you recently; we are all in a spiritual battle of sorts.
"Use every piece of God's armour to resist the enemy in times of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armour of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere." Ephesians 6:13-18
Jesus has already died for our sins, and because of that, even death will have no victory over us. Keep on praying, keep on reading your Bible and keep on remembering the Joy of your Salvation!
Will continue from where I left off from yesterday
You are in a Spiritual Battle
I woke up this morning dreaming about my old magic days. I dreamt I was still at Paya Labar MRT station trying to rebuild my old deck and trying to make a comeback. The dream was so strong that when I actually woke up (and was still in a daze) I thought I still had my cards in the drawer. It was only about 2 minutes later that I realised that I had sold my cards over 3 years ago.
Dark have my dreams of late, just before ONE camp I dreamt I was in the matrix and Morpheus asked me if I would like the blue or red pill. On another occasion I dreamt I was being eaten alive by cockroaches *bleah*. Trust me, I rather dream of maths, epsilon or delta, at least I know I am still sane.
Is this a spiritual battle? Maybe, maybe not. Be it a fight with your parents, or some really wierd thing that has happened to you recently; we are all in a spiritual battle of sorts.
"Use every piece of God's armour to resist the enemy in times of evil, so that after the battle you will still be standing firm. Stand your ground, putting on the sturdy belt of truth and the body armour of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the readiness to preach the Good News of peace with God. In every battle you will need faith as your shield to stop the fiery arrows aimed at you by Satan. Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all Christians everywhere." Ephesians 6:13-18
Jesus has already died for our sins, and because of that, even death will have no victory over us. Keep on praying, keep on reading your Bible and keep on remembering the Joy of your Salvation!
Tuesday, December 07, 2004
40-day challenge (day 1)
Well, for those of you who have taken up the 40-day One Camp challenge, I hope you will really stick to it, and write down your thoughts. Like what Pastor Norman said, find someone to hold you accountable throughout this 40-day period.
For myself, I will attempt to blog all 40-days, let you all know my thoughts and what the Lord has been saying to me. Here it goes:
Day 1 - After ONE
This is what Pastor Norman said on the last day of camp. I will elaborate.
You may feel depressed
I read some of your blogs and most of you are saying that you are already missing camp. Why are you all feeling that way? Parents? Siblings? No band in the morning to wake you up? I know how that feels, been there many times myself.
Remember what the speaker said, God is always there. Jesus has already died for us! And that is the greatest reason to celebrate anywhere and everyday! The Word has already been given, God presence is always with the Word, the Bible. It cannot be taken away.
On the final night of camp we sang "All Day" and there is a line that goes "I will read my Bible and Pray, I will follow you all day." I hope all of you mean what you sing and really read the Bible and pray everyday.
Follow the 40-day challenge and read the Gospels. In fact, you don't have to read Mark as the booklet recommends, you can read any of them, but read them and try to understand what Jesus did for us on the cross.
The Supreme Sacrifice should be cause for celebration not depression.
For myself, I will attempt to blog all 40-days, let you all know my thoughts and what the Lord has been saying to me. Here it goes:
Day 1 - After ONE
This is what Pastor Norman said on the last day of camp. I will elaborate.
You may feel depressed
I read some of your blogs and most of you are saying that you are already missing camp. Why are you all feeling that way? Parents? Siblings? No band in the morning to wake you up? I know how that feels, been there many times myself.
Remember what the speaker said, God is always there. Jesus has already died for us! And that is the greatest reason to celebrate anywhere and everyday! The Word has already been given, God presence is always with the Word, the Bible. It cannot be taken away.
On the final night of camp we sang "All Day" and there is a line that goes "I will read my Bible and Pray, I will follow you all day." I hope all of you mean what you sing and really read the Bible and pray everyday.
Follow the 40-day challenge and read the Gospels. In fact, you don't have to read Mark as the booklet recommends, you can read any of them, but read them and try to understand what Jesus did for us on the cross.
The Supreme Sacrifice should be cause for celebration not depression.
Friday, November 26, 2004
Magic?
This one is for all of you out there who used to play or are still playing Magic: The Gathering. Those who never did, well, hope you don’t get too confused reading this post, because I’m going to use a lot of M:TG terminology.
Been really strange the last few weeks, so many people have asked me either directly or via SMS about my involvement in the game. Well, let me say that it had a profound impact on my life and on what I am doing now. So here is my story.
My Magic “Career”
I have always loved reading fantasy novels, fantasy game books etc. When I was in primary 3 (1990) I started reading a game book series called “Way of the Tiger”. Its about ninjas; really interesting and really rare. I still have 2 books today, but they are in pretty beaten up condition.
I went one step up in Primary 6 (1993) when I started reading the “Lone Wolf” game book series. I still have the first 21 books kept in my cupboard. If I sell them on ebay, I can actually make quite a fortune.
But if that was not bad enough I got involved in Dungeons and Dragons. Not just the novels, but the RPG rulebooks. While most of it was reading material, I actually got down to playing the game towards the end of sec 4. Though only for a short while.
But the one game that I will forever remember is Magic: The Gathering. The very first collectible card game (CCG). It was released in 1993 and till today still has its legions of fans. Just some trivia for all of you, the Singapore Magic community was at one time one of the most powerful in the world. In my opinion, the mechanics of MTG are still the best in the business till today. No other game has lasted longer.
I picked up the game in Sec 2 (1995) while in Tanjong Katong Secondary School. It started of small, just 4 players in my class. Then it slowly spread to nearly the whole school. I was one of the pioneer players in my school. And you can say I was a pretty old school player all along.
I played the game at the height of its popularity, during the glory days of channel fireballs, mana flares and drop-hand decks. I started during the 3rd edition after Fallen Empires had come out and before Ice Age. It was during the days when basic land was actually in normal booster packs and the 10 Dual Lands cost less then $10 each.
My Decks
I started of playing with a “white weenie” deck; fast and almost unbeatable in my school. It worked by simply bringing out super low casting cost white creatures in the first few turns and dealing lots of damage before your opponent could bring out his larger creatures. Then finish him off with a serra angel or something big.
It was a pretty fun deck, but then my friend came along with a deck which worked on a much higher “technology” and soon everyone in school began to copy him. My deck started losing. Out of frustration I created a new deck, “Mass Destruction”.
It was white based, but used cards like Armageddon, Wrath of god, Balance, Neverynal’s Disk to destroy everything on the field of play. It had red for some destructive cards and combined white red defensive cards. It finally used an Island Sanctuary to stop drawing cards and prevent attacks. Then it was a long wait till the opponent ran out of cards.
Eventually, the Alliance expansion came out with pretty funky counterspells and I changed to blue white. White for the destruction cards, blue for the counterspells. It used a huge Ice Cauldron Braingeyser to run the opponent out of cards. That deck lasted till the end of sec 3 (1996).
I played Magic much less in sec 4, but I occasionally ventured out to buy some cards. It was during my sec 4 year that I began acquiring huge cards like Timetwister. But in sec 4, most of my friends had quit playing and most of us were pretty focused on studying for the O levels.
During my sec 4 year, during the times I played; I played a turbo stasis deck. 4 howling mines, 4 stasis, and lots of land. The whole idea was the run the opponent out of cards ASAP. It also had 4 black vices to kill fast. But around this time they restricted the black vice.
During JC, I more or less stopped playing. But I still played occasionally. I had returned to my roots. Spellfire deck; pure red; pure damage. 4 lightning bolts, 4 disintergrates, 4 chain lightnings, 4 fireblast etc etc. Get the idea? Unfortunately it had one major weakness, it lost steam too fast, if I did not win within 4 or 5 rounds, I was a sure loser.
It was during JC that I started to really acquire huge cards. Black Lotus, 3 moxes, many dual lands, 4 psionic blasts etc etc. I started to make a comeback towards the end of JC 2, just before entering the SAF.
And it was during my SAF days that I created my final and most successful deck, turbo counter-fire. It was a base red and blue deck. But it had a total of 4 colours; all except black. It used lightning bolts, disintegrate, shock, psionic blast, shock and chain lightning as its main weapons. Then 4 howling mines for card drawing; the addition of counterspells was a shock to many opponents who thought their stuff could not be countered.
The sneakiest part was the addition of 2 red elemental blasts which countered only blue cards. But since everyone has blue cards in type 1, I thought no harm done! It worked. The final part was 2 wildfire emissaries which had protection from white. In other words, protection from Swords to Plowshares, a standard in type 1 decks.
That deck stood its own and won me more matches than any of my other decks. It was fast and had the sustaining power. And when I finally quit in 2001, I had a final “ceremonial game” with my friends to end of my “career” so to speak. The deck worked perfectly, and it was the $300 Black Lotus which won me the game. I drew it along with a lot of damage cards to deal a whopping 10 points plus of damage in the final turn. (The final turn was like turn 3 of the game or something, and I and my opponent had less than 10 life combined)
Why I quit
I would love to say that I was convicted of the “evilness” of the game etc so I quit. But that was not the case. The real matter was that I stopped active playing in 2001 because I had joined the Youth Worship Team. And since the YMWT (as it was known then) met on Saturdays and my friends met on Saturdays for magic, I chose to come for YM practices instead.
But after a year of almost not playing magic, I did not feel the need to play the game anymore. I had no more interest in it. I had become more focused on my service to God. I realised then that Magic was just a distraction, I still kept my cards because of the “what if” factor. What if one day I feel like playing again? What if one day the cards would go up in price, and I sell it then! What if?
I finally decided one day in 2001 to give up the game for good. September 11 had just happened and I realised that there was more to life than just the “what ifs”. So I made a deal with my friends, I sold of every Magic Card I owned, save for a few that I still keep in my bedside drawer, for $900. They could keep the rest of the profits. It was a deal they could not refuse, as the cards were worth way more than that.
But with the money I bought my current Yamaha BB1500 bass as well as the Baby Taylor. I have since sold the Baby Taylor, but I used the cash to buy Isaac’s old Les Paul, so I guess it’s a good deal. The BB1500 still sees occasional service in church.
Those of you out there who still have issues in giving up the game, well, pick up a new hobby like me; I started to learn the guitar and the bass. I needed the money. That was a good motivation to sell the cards and finally rid myself of the addiction. It took me 6 years, but I did it anyway.
God’s mercy through it all
Is Magic The Gathering an “evil” or “satanic” game. Those who read my 20 page monster testimony will know the answer to that question. Many of you will disagree, but my answer is no. While it is true that the original set of cards did have demonic references and while it is true that it was one of the main reasons I strayed away from God, it is also one of the main reasons for what I am doing today.
Magic thought me a lot of things. Speed calculation, analytical thinking, exhaustive thinking, probabilistic calculation, logic etc. (Think of a game of chess but with over 6000 different pieces instead or the usual 16 per side.) All vital skills for mathematics.
Magic created by Professor Richard Garfield, a mathematician, and his Ph.D was in combinatorics. A branch of mathematics which relates to problem solving, counting methods (combinations and permutations etc), graph theory and algorithms. It is a very interesting branch of mathematics, and something which I began to have a great interest in lately. I am even thinking of doing an Honours project in this field if I am given the chance.
Although I had strayed away from God during those years, even though I nearly left the church, even though I messed with the “dark side” so to speak. God was still merciful and even when I played Magic, He used it to refine my ability in mathematics and brought me to where I am today.
My Magic years are to a large extent, one of regret. But it is an instance on God’s great mercy towards me. I have never had to ask those “what if” questions. And in fact, giving up Magic lifted a great big burden of my shoulders. I have never looked back since.
Been really strange the last few weeks, so many people have asked me either directly or via SMS about my involvement in the game. Well, let me say that it had a profound impact on my life and on what I am doing now. So here is my story.
My Magic “Career”
I have always loved reading fantasy novels, fantasy game books etc. When I was in primary 3 (1990) I started reading a game book series called “Way of the Tiger”. Its about ninjas; really interesting and really rare. I still have 2 books today, but they are in pretty beaten up condition.
I went one step up in Primary 6 (1993) when I started reading the “Lone Wolf” game book series. I still have the first 21 books kept in my cupboard. If I sell them on ebay, I can actually make quite a fortune.
But if that was not bad enough I got involved in Dungeons and Dragons. Not just the novels, but the RPG rulebooks. While most of it was reading material, I actually got down to playing the game towards the end of sec 4. Though only for a short while.
But the one game that I will forever remember is Magic: The Gathering. The very first collectible card game (CCG). It was released in 1993 and till today still has its legions of fans. Just some trivia for all of you, the Singapore Magic community was at one time one of the most powerful in the world. In my opinion, the mechanics of MTG are still the best in the business till today. No other game has lasted longer.
I picked up the game in Sec 2 (1995) while in Tanjong Katong Secondary School. It started of small, just 4 players in my class. Then it slowly spread to nearly the whole school. I was one of the pioneer players in my school. And you can say I was a pretty old school player all along.
I played the game at the height of its popularity, during the glory days of channel fireballs, mana flares and drop-hand decks. I started during the 3rd edition after Fallen Empires had come out and before Ice Age. It was during the days when basic land was actually in normal booster packs and the 10 Dual Lands cost less then $10 each.
My Decks
I started of playing with a “white weenie” deck; fast and almost unbeatable in my school. It worked by simply bringing out super low casting cost white creatures in the first few turns and dealing lots of damage before your opponent could bring out his larger creatures. Then finish him off with a serra angel or something big.
It was a pretty fun deck, but then my friend came along with a deck which worked on a much higher “technology” and soon everyone in school began to copy him. My deck started losing. Out of frustration I created a new deck, “Mass Destruction”.
It was white based, but used cards like Armageddon, Wrath of god, Balance, Neverynal’s Disk to destroy everything on the field of play. It had red for some destructive cards and combined white red defensive cards. It finally used an Island Sanctuary to stop drawing cards and prevent attacks. Then it was a long wait till the opponent ran out of cards.
Eventually, the Alliance expansion came out with pretty funky counterspells and I changed to blue white. White for the destruction cards, blue for the counterspells. It used a huge Ice Cauldron Braingeyser to run the opponent out of cards. That deck lasted till the end of sec 3 (1996).
I played Magic much less in sec 4, but I occasionally ventured out to buy some cards. It was during my sec 4 year that I began acquiring huge cards like Timetwister. But in sec 4, most of my friends had quit playing and most of us were pretty focused on studying for the O levels.
During my sec 4 year, during the times I played; I played a turbo stasis deck. 4 howling mines, 4 stasis, and lots of land. The whole idea was the run the opponent out of cards ASAP. It also had 4 black vices to kill fast. But around this time they restricted the black vice.
During JC, I more or less stopped playing. But I still played occasionally. I had returned to my roots. Spellfire deck; pure red; pure damage. 4 lightning bolts, 4 disintergrates, 4 chain lightnings, 4 fireblast etc etc. Get the idea? Unfortunately it had one major weakness, it lost steam too fast, if I did not win within 4 or 5 rounds, I was a sure loser.
It was during JC that I started to really acquire huge cards. Black Lotus, 3 moxes, many dual lands, 4 psionic blasts etc etc. I started to make a comeback towards the end of JC 2, just before entering the SAF.
And it was during my SAF days that I created my final and most successful deck, turbo counter-fire. It was a base red and blue deck. But it had a total of 4 colours; all except black. It used lightning bolts, disintegrate, shock, psionic blast, shock and chain lightning as its main weapons. Then 4 howling mines for card drawing; the addition of counterspells was a shock to many opponents who thought their stuff could not be countered.
The sneakiest part was the addition of 2 red elemental blasts which countered only blue cards. But since everyone has blue cards in type 1, I thought no harm done! It worked. The final part was 2 wildfire emissaries which had protection from white. In other words, protection from Swords to Plowshares, a standard in type 1 decks.
That deck stood its own and won me more matches than any of my other decks. It was fast and had the sustaining power. And when I finally quit in 2001, I had a final “ceremonial game” with my friends to end of my “career” so to speak. The deck worked perfectly, and it was the $300 Black Lotus which won me the game. I drew it along with a lot of damage cards to deal a whopping 10 points plus of damage in the final turn. (The final turn was like turn 3 of the game or something, and I and my opponent had less than 10 life combined)
Why I quit
I would love to say that I was convicted of the “evilness” of the game etc so I quit. But that was not the case. The real matter was that I stopped active playing in 2001 because I had joined the Youth Worship Team. And since the YMWT (as it was known then) met on Saturdays and my friends met on Saturdays for magic, I chose to come for YM practices instead.
But after a year of almost not playing magic, I did not feel the need to play the game anymore. I had no more interest in it. I had become more focused on my service to God. I realised then that Magic was just a distraction, I still kept my cards because of the “what if” factor. What if one day I feel like playing again? What if one day the cards would go up in price, and I sell it then! What if?
I finally decided one day in 2001 to give up the game for good. September 11 had just happened and I realised that there was more to life than just the “what ifs”. So I made a deal with my friends, I sold of every Magic Card I owned, save for a few that I still keep in my bedside drawer, for $900. They could keep the rest of the profits. It was a deal they could not refuse, as the cards were worth way more than that.
But with the money I bought my current Yamaha BB1500 bass as well as the Baby Taylor. I have since sold the Baby Taylor, but I used the cash to buy Isaac’s old Les Paul, so I guess it’s a good deal. The BB1500 still sees occasional service in church.
Those of you out there who still have issues in giving up the game, well, pick up a new hobby like me; I started to learn the guitar and the bass. I needed the money. That was a good motivation to sell the cards and finally rid myself of the addiction. It took me 6 years, but I did it anyway.
God’s mercy through it all
Is Magic The Gathering an “evil” or “satanic” game. Those who read my 20 page monster testimony will know the answer to that question. Many of you will disagree, but my answer is no. While it is true that the original set of cards did have demonic references and while it is true that it was one of the main reasons I strayed away from God, it is also one of the main reasons for what I am doing today.
Magic thought me a lot of things. Speed calculation, analytical thinking, exhaustive thinking, probabilistic calculation, logic etc. (Think of a game of chess but with over 6000 different pieces instead or the usual 16 per side.) All vital skills for mathematics.
Magic created by Professor Richard Garfield, a mathematician, and his Ph.D was in combinatorics. A branch of mathematics which relates to problem solving, counting methods (combinations and permutations etc), graph theory and algorithms. It is a very interesting branch of mathematics, and something which I began to have a great interest in lately. I am even thinking of doing an Honours project in this field if I am given the chance.
Although I had strayed away from God during those years, even though I nearly left the church, even though I messed with the “dark side” so to speak. God was still merciful and even when I played Magic, He used it to refine my ability in mathematics and brought me to where I am today.
My Magic years are to a large extent, one of regret. But it is an instance on God’s great mercy towards me. I have never had to ask those “what if” questions. And in fact, giving up Magic lifted a great big burden of my shoulders. I have never looked back since.
Sunday, November 21, 2004
WOW!!!!
HAHA!! Been feeling a little depressed lately.. but the following sure perked me up!! :)
Did you know that the Bible contains 2 rough approximations to the number pi? (Ok, they were both talking about the same object... but hey... interesting right?!)
Both are refering to an altar (called the Sea) which was commissioned by King Solomon to be placed in the Temple of the Lord.
"Now he made the sea of cast metal ten cubits from brim to brim, circular in form, and its height was five cubits, and thirty cubits in circumference." - 1 Kings 7:23
"Also he made the cast metal sea, ten cubits from brim to brim, circular in form, and its height was 5 cubits and its circumference thirty cubits." - 2 Chronicles 4:2
Both give 3 as an approximation to the number pi (do the math yourself, take the length of the circumference and divide it be the diameter). It is pretty good, by ancient stadards. Althought it cannot beat the approximation given by the Chinese Mathematician Tsu Ch'ung Chi which gave pi as 355/113.
But then again, The latter approximation was given only 1500 years ago and is correct to 6 digits, King Solomon's mathematicians approximation is over 4000 years old and is correct to 1 digit. Not bad... King Solomon had pretty good mathematicians! :)
Number theory is fun isn't it!
Once again, I assert that the Bible is a logically and numercially consistent book.
Did you know that the Bible contains 2 rough approximations to the number pi? (Ok, they were both talking about the same object... but hey... interesting right?!)
Both are refering to an altar (called the Sea) which was commissioned by King Solomon to be placed in the Temple of the Lord.
"Now he made the sea of cast metal ten cubits from brim to brim, circular in form, and its height was five cubits, and thirty cubits in circumference." - 1 Kings 7:23
"Also he made the cast metal sea, ten cubits from brim to brim, circular in form, and its height was 5 cubits and its circumference thirty cubits." - 2 Chronicles 4:2
Both give 3 as an approximation to the number pi (do the math yourself, take the length of the circumference and divide it be the diameter). It is pretty good, by ancient stadards. Althought it cannot beat the approximation given by the Chinese Mathematician Tsu Ch'ung Chi which gave pi as 355/113.
But then again, The latter approximation was given only 1500 years ago and is correct to 6 digits, King Solomon's mathematicians approximation is over 4000 years old and is correct to 1 digit. Not bad... King Solomon had pretty good mathematicians! :)
Number theory is fun isn't it!
Once again, I assert that the Bible is a logically and numercially consistent book.
Friday, November 19, 2004
No More Practice
There will be no more practices till further notice for the rest of the year. I will try to squeeze at least one more meeting somewhere between now and 2005.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
We all bow down
Prices and paupers
Sons and daughters
Kneel at the throne of grace
Losers and winners
Saints and Sinners
One day we'll see His face
And we all bow down
Kings will surrender their crowns
And worship Jesus
For He is the love
Unfailing love
He is the love of God
Summer and winter
Mountain and rivers
Whisper the Saviour's Name
Awesome and Holy
A friend to the lonely
Forever His l0ve will reign
He's the light of the World
And Lord of the Cross
(C) Words and Music by Lenny Leblanc
Sons and daughters
Kneel at the throne of grace
Losers and winners
Saints and Sinners
One day we'll see His face
And we all bow down
Kings will surrender their crowns
And worship Jesus
For He is the love
Unfailing love
He is the love of God
Summer and winter
Mountain and rivers
Whisper the Saviour's Name
Awesome and Holy
A friend to the lonely
Forever His l0ve will reign
He's the light of the World
And Lord of the Cross
(C) Words and Music by Lenny Leblanc
Friday, November 12, 2004
Saturday, November 06, 2004
In HIS Time
I wish I never saw you
I wish I never met you
I wish I never knew you
I wish I never fell for you
But it happened anyway
And sometimes I wish you'd go away
Instead I see you everyday
And my mind's messed up like a mountain of hay
How I wish you would not ask
About my bitter sorry past
For I long to say to you
My feelings of love so true
Wish I knew just what to say
I feel more hopeless with each passing day
How I wish you would be mine
O God, please show me the time!
"Look up, my son, and look at me
And the Bloodstained Cross of Calvary
The Bride I died for is mine yet be
Like you, I am waiting, so be like me
How I long to hold you close
Behold your beauty like a rose
The time is not right, be patient, like me
My plan for you, soon, you'll see"
My Father, forgive me for breaking Your time
For taking what's Yours and making it mine
May I always look up and see
The Son, who bled and died for me
And if the Lord above allows
We'll one day make a sacred vow
And then, I will hear you say
Your Whisper, to me, everyday
(OK, I have to admit that even my hair stood on end after reading that. But, you don't call me MUSHY-maro for a reason right?!?! And I'm a maths major not a lit major!)
"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in ernest, you will find me when you seek me. I will found by you," says the Lord. - Jeremiah 29:11-14a (NLT)
How often do we get impatient for waiting for answer from the Lord. It is as though God owes us an answer, when in fact, we owe Him our LIVES! How often do we fail to wait for His timing and get impatient and do things our way, and fail.
Sometimes, we need to look up and see the Cross again. And count our blessings. The Lord told the prophet Jeremiah that He will deliver Israel from its captivity in Babylon and He kept that promise. That is the context of that verse.
In the same way, we have already been freed from our captivity to sin by the Blood of Jesus. The Lord's plan for us, is for good and not evil. But sometimes we equate the blessings that we received to material blessings, money, wealth good girl or boyfriend...
How often do we stop and think that the Lord may choose to bless us in a completely different way?
The Blessings of pain
The Blessings of suffering
The Blessings of loneliness
The Blessings of singlehood etc etc...
All this can be counted as blessings too, for our real blessings are already stored up in heaven. Let us wait on the Lord. Don't make the Lord wait on us. And let's look at the Cross and remember we have already been blessed.
To those of us who are impatient to get into a Boy-Girl Relationship. Wait on the Lord. He will reveal His plan for you in time. Take heart and know this, that the Lord has been waiting for us as well.
We, The Church, is the Bride the Christ. And He has been waiting for us for over 2000 years. Let's be lke Him, and wait patiently for His will.
I wish I never met you
I wish I never knew you
I wish I never fell for you
But it happened anyway
And sometimes I wish you'd go away
Instead I see you everyday
And my mind's messed up like a mountain of hay
How I wish you would not ask
About my bitter sorry past
For I long to say to you
My feelings of love so true
Wish I knew just what to say
I feel more hopeless with each passing day
How I wish you would be mine
O God, please show me the time!
"Look up, my son, and look at me
And the Bloodstained Cross of Calvary
The Bride I died for is mine yet be
Like you, I am waiting, so be like me
How I long to hold you close
Behold your beauty like a rose
The time is not right, be patient, like me
My plan for you, soon, you'll see"
My Father, forgive me for breaking Your time
For taking what's Yours and making it mine
May I always look up and see
The Son, who bled and died for me
And if the Lord above allows
We'll one day make a sacred vow
And then, I will hear you say
Your Whisper, to me, everyday
(OK, I have to admit that even my hair stood on end after reading that. But, you don't call me MUSHY-maro for a reason right?!?! And I'm a maths major not a lit major!)
"For I know the plans I have for you," says the Lord. "They are for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. In those days when you pray, I will listen. If you look for me in ernest, you will find me when you seek me. I will found by you," says the Lord. - Jeremiah 29:11-14a (NLT)
How often do we get impatient for waiting for answer from the Lord. It is as though God owes us an answer, when in fact, we owe Him our LIVES! How often do we fail to wait for His timing and get impatient and do things our way, and fail.
Sometimes, we need to look up and see the Cross again. And count our blessings. The Lord told the prophet Jeremiah that He will deliver Israel from its captivity in Babylon and He kept that promise. That is the context of that verse.
In the same way, we have already been freed from our captivity to sin by the Blood of Jesus. The Lord's plan for us, is for good and not evil. But sometimes we equate the blessings that we received to material blessings, money, wealth good girl or boyfriend...
How often do we stop and think that the Lord may choose to bless us in a completely different way?
The Blessings of pain
The Blessings of suffering
The Blessings of loneliness
The Blessings of singlehood etc etc...
All this can be counted as blessings too, for our real blessings are already stored up in heaven. Let us wait on the Lord. Don't make the Lord wait on us. And let's look at the Cross and remember we have already been blessed.
To those of us who are impatient to get into a Boy-Girl Relationship. Wait on the Lord. He will reveal His plan for you in time. Take heart and know this, that the Lord has been waiting for us as well.
We, The Church, is the Bride the Christ. And He has been waiting for us for over 2000 years. Let's be lke Him, and wait patiently for His will.
Thursday, November 04, 2004
Practice This week
There will be practice this week. 6.30pm in Aldersgate Hall. Jacqui will be leading.
Her songs are as follows:
1) Victory Chant
2) One Way
3) In the secret
4) Breathe
I know quite a number of you have exams and are probably grounded. If you are, please remain that way and study!!!! For the rest, I will take a break from my study on Galatians and have an extended prayer meeting instead.
Her songs are as follows:
1) Victory Chant
2) One Way
3) In the secret
4) Breathe
I know quite a number of you have exams and are probably grounded. If you are, please remain that way and study!!!! For the rest, I will take a break from my study on Galatians and have an extended prayer meeting instead.
Monday, November 01, 2004
An Exam Prayer
10 years ago, while I was in sec1, my Cell Group leader, Mok Pui Kay, gave me the following letter. It encouraged me a lot. May it encourage you all too in this time of exams.
A letter from Your friend... Jesus
This is your word of assurance for the examinations that lie ahead
You have many anxious moments
You have been fearful and dismayed
But hitherto have I helped you
I have not brought you this far to desert you
to leave you, to let you find your own way alone
I have begun a work of faith in you, in your life,
I have watched your progress
I have strengthened you
Thus your confidence and your courage can be quickened by this thought
I have brought you this far and I will see you through
But child, this is how you shall go forth and win the victory -
Not by your might, nor by your power but by My Spirit
You have leaned on your own understanding.
But your understanding has failed you
Therefore I will give you the Spirit of Understanding
You have applied your own wisdom
But your wisdom has not been sufficient
Therefore My Spirit of Wisdom shall rest upon you
Know this :-
That in all you set to do,
My Spirit will empower you and work a miracle for you,
And glory and honour will come to Me
Look not to your lack of wisdom,
Look not to your weakness
But look onto ME!
I remember you are dust and know you are fearful
But I have loved you with everlasting love,
I will continue My faithfulness to you.
Understand this:-
My grace is sufficient for you,
My power is perfected in your weakness,
What is done will be accomplished by the power of My Spirit in you.
You will see tremendous VICTORY wrought by MY HAND.
God Bless all of you who have exams.
Please do note that there are quite a few announcements below as well as an article. Do read once you have the time. There is also a new link. Do check it out.
A letter from Your friend... Jesus
This is your word of assurance for the examinations that lie ahead
You have many anxious moments
You have been fearful and dismayed
But hitherto have I helped you
I have not brought you this far to desert you
to leave you, to let you find your own way alone
I have begun a work of faith in you, in your life,
I have watched your progress
I have strengthened you
Thus your confidence and your courage can be quickened by this thought
I have brought you this far and I will see you through
But child, this is how you shall go forth and win the victory -
Not by your might, nor by your power but by My Spirit
You have leaned on your own understanding.
But your understanding has failed you
Therefore I will give you the Spirit of Understanding
You have applied your own wisdom
But your wisdom has not been sufficient
Therefore My Spirit of Wisdom shall rest upon you
Know this :-
That in all you set to do,
My Spirit will empower you and work a miracle for you,
And glory and honour will come to Me
Look not to your lack of wisdom,
Look not to your weakness
But look onto ME!
I remember you are dust and know you are fearful
But I have loved you with everlasting love,
I will continue My faithfulness to you.
Understand this:-
My grace is sufficient for you,
My power is perfected in your weakness,
What is done will be accomplished by the power of My Spirit in you.
You will see tremendous VICTORY wrought by MY HAND.
God Bless all of you who have exams.
Please do note that there are quite a few announcements below as well as an article. Do read once you have the time. There is also a new link. Do check it out.
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