Honestly, I cannot believe it is only 1pm. Because I've been up for about 7 hours already. Yeah... and what a day it has been already. Woke up did my QT, went to the gym at SSC. WALKED HOME from SSC, yeah... 10km. Took much less time than I expected, 2hours. Just felt like I needed a long walk, and some time alone to talk to God.
Woke up this morning, and as I was praying, God told me He was going to show me that He is still here, that He is still in control. Told me it was going to rain heavily; but as I walked home, I would have blue skies all the way home. God is still here, always and forever. It started raining like crazy after I left home, but as I started my walk home, the rain disappeared, and at the end of the walk, it was hot sunshine and clear blue skies. I've uploaded some pictures to my flikr, the commentary is there as well.
As I walked home, I prayed, asked God why I was feeling the way I was feeling, why I was even on this long walk home. Then He asked to think back to 10 years ago, to an incident when I was on a long walk as well. I went, "huh?". Then I remembered.
I was in secondary 2, in the Red Cross, attending the HFIC camp; it was March 1995. On the first night of the camp, we departed the Red Cross camp site (in Siglap) at about 10.30pm and walked to East Coast Park (think route march), somewhere near SAFRA resort. We reached at almost 12am. I was very sleepy and the late night was causing my temperature to rise. And the thought of walking back to Siglap frightened me. And as expected, on the way back, I fell about 30 minutes behind my coursemates. My officers were accompanying me right at the back of the pack. Concerned that I was sick and extremely tired, they offered to allow me to take a taxi back to camp. But I decided to soldier on, and finally reached back to campsite at about 2am.
Then the Lord said, "You did not give up then, don't give up now." Thanks God! I really needed to hear that. I don't know what the outcome might be; but I'm not giving up, not till the Lord tells me to.
It's been an hour since I returned home, and I'm not tired. Feel quite energized actually. Did not want to go to school today, but will leave soon. Going to complete that Science of Music composition project. Won't return home till I get the skeleton of the last 20 seconds done.
Monday, October 31, 2005
311005
verses read: Acts 18:1-11, Proverbs 4:25-27
prayer: 15 minutes
Paul goes to Corinth, where he stays for one and a half years. During this time he supports himself by being a tentmaker. Silas and Timothy join him during this time. While he preaches the Gospel here, the Jews reject the message. So he preaches to the Gentiles, and many come to belief! And God tell him not to be afraid and to continue preaching!
Sometimes, we pray and ask God for His favour in areas of our life. God can choose to say yes, no or wait. But God always answers prayers. But it's strange that when sometimes God says yes, we are not happy still. Because, while our prayer has been answered, along with the "yes" comes a lot of thing which we do not want. It's a mystery. But I know that God wants us to know that He is sovereign, and whatever He does is for our good.
I've learned to stop avoiding the bad things that come my way; because sometimes, these bad things are a result of my answered prayers. Just going to take them head on and grow in faith, so that God's work can be fulfilled.
prayer: 15 minutes
Paul goes to Corinth, where he stays for one and a half years. During this time he supports himself by being a tentmaker. Silas and Timothy join him during this time. While he preaches the Gospel here, the Jews reject the message. So he preaches to the Gentiles, and many come to belief! And God tell him not to be afraid and to continue preaching!
Sometimes, we pray and ask God for His favour in areas of our life. God can choose to say yes, no or wait. But God always answers prayers. But it's strange that when sometimes God says yes, we are not happy still. Because, while our prayer has been answered, along with the "yes" comes a lot of thing which we do not want. It's a mystery. But I know that God wants us to know that He is sovereign, and whatever He does is for our good.
I've learned to stop avoiding the bad things that come my way; because sometimes, these bad things are a result of my answered prayers. Just going to take them head on and grow in faith, so that God's work can be fulfilled.
Sunday, October 30, 2005
Games Day Pics!!!
BUAHAHAHAHA!!!!
In my opinion, the games committee did one heck of a job today! Not to mention Ryan shamelessly ripping ideas from VCF camps! But anyway, well done! Left the comments open for anyone who wants to say anything to them!
In my opinion, the games committee did one heck of a job today! Not to mention Ryan shamelessly ripping ideas from VCF camps! But anyway, well done! Left the comments open for anyone who wants to say anything to them!
301005
verses read: Acts: 17:16-34, Proverbs 4:23
prayer: 10 minutes
This passage is quite cool! I learned about the Epicureans and the Stoics in PH1101E. And Paul argues and reasons with them about God and Jesus Christ in this passage. Very interesting. Some accept the Gospel. But some still reject it, but rather than just throw him out of the city again, they mock him, but then they say they want to listen more! Yup, I guess that's the nature of philosophers.
Yesterday was weird. Had worship practice in the afternoon, first girl group to lead today. They will do fine. But then, I had the evening free. First time in ages that my Saturday evening was free. Did a bit of music composition. I'm sure it's passable, not sure if it's scorable.
Today is a brand new day. It's Sunday. Waking up early is starting to get easier. There are so many questions that we have in life, we wonder when God will answer them. But then, God doesn't owe us any answer, in fact, we owe Him our lives. I think more than trying to interpret the Word, trying to figure out what goes on. God just wants us to obey Him. But sometimes, obedience means that we have to do something that we do not want to do. And that's when things get all confusing and painful.
The picture of Jesus at the Garden of Gethsemane is quite apt I guess; He prayed till He sweated blood. It's a picture of the Son of God trying to do the will of His Father. And if the Son of God had so much difficulty doing the will of God, what more mere mortals like us. But the more important thing is that Jesus obeyed, and it was by his Stripes that we are healed today.
prayer: 10 minutes
This passage is quite cool! I learned about the Epicureans and the Stoics in PH1101E. And Paul argues and reasons with them about God and Jesus Christ in this passage. Very interesting. Some accept the Gospel. But some still reject it, but rather than just throw him out of the city again, they mock him, but then they say they want to listen more! Yup, I guess that's the nature of philosophers.
Yesterday was weird. Had worship practice in the afternoon, first girl group to lead today. They will do fine. But then, I had the evening free. First time in ages that my Saturday evening was free. Did a bit of music composition. I'm sure it's passable, not sure if it's scorable.
Today is a brand new day. It's Sunday. Waking up early is starting to get easier. There are so many questions that we have in life, we wonder when God will answer them. But then, God doesn't owe us any answer, in fact, we owe Him our lives. I think more than trying to interpret the Word, trying to figure out what goes on. God just wants us to obey Him. But sometimes, obedience means that we have to do something that we do not want to do. And that's when things get all confusing and painful.
The picture of Jesus at the Garden of Gethsemane is quite apt I guess; He prayed till He sweated blood. It's a picture of the Son of God trying to do the will of His Father. And if the Son of God had so much difficulty doing the will of God, what more mere mortals like us. But the more important thing is that Jesus obeyed, and it was by his Stripes that we are healed today.
Saturday, October 29, 2005
IT'S OUT!
That is... the department of mathematics lecturer list! As well as the timetable for math modules! That's if you care...
291005
verses read: Acts 17:10-15, Proverbs 4:18
prayer: 20 minutes
The company are forced out of Thessalonica and they come to Berea. The first thing they do is to go and preach the Gospel. They were just so focused on spreading the Word! The Bereans were more receptive and many believed. But once again, Paul was forced to leave the city, and he went to Athens. But Silas and Timothy stayed behind. Interesting to note that Athens and Berea are quite a distance apart; you cannot really gather that by just reading the passage, you have to look at a map, then you will know how far Paul had to flee. Must have been really hard to do so.
Yesterday was an up and down day. There were some bright moments, there were some dark moments. Lost my pencil box... again! This is the second time this year. Oh well... thanks to me losing it earlier (and finding it again) I have a full spare set of stationery stashed somewhere, so don't have to spend money to replace again. Had LG yesterday, brings the lessons learnt in Acts to a more personal level. And the study begins with a hard topic! But one that cannot be ignored! And that is the person of the Holy Spirit, and His centrality in the book of Acts.
prayer: 20 minutes
The company are forced out of Thessalonica and they come to Berea. The first thing they do is to go and preach the Gospel. They were just so focused on spreading the Word! The Bereans were more receptive and many believed. But once again, Paul was forced to leave the city, and he went to Athens. But Silas and Timothy stayed behind. Interesting to note that Athens and Berea are quite a distance apart; you cannot really gather that by just reading the passage, you have to look at a map, then you will know how far Paul had to flee. Must have been really hard to do so.
Yesterday was an up and down day. There were some bright moments, there were some dark moments. Lost my pencil box... again! This is the second time this year. Oh well... thanks to me losing it earlier (and finding it again) I have a full spare set of stationery stashed somewhere, so don't have to spend money to replace again. Had LG yesterday, brings the lessons learnt in Acts to a more personal level. And the study begins with a hard topic! But one that cannot be ignored! And that is the person of the Holy Spirit, and His centrality in the book of Acts.
Friday, October 28, 2005
when a picture speaks a thousand words...
Saw a picture yesterday. Brought a big huge smile to my face! It was a picture that brought great happiness to me, and within me began to spring up a fountain of joy! I was really happy to see that picture. But the strange thing is, if I had seen that picture a year ago, it would have been a drastically different reaction. Would have been probably in tears, been angry and devastated. But what a difference a year makes. Imagine what 2 and a half years of prayer can do.
The picture was a picture perfect (pardon the pun) example of the transforming power of God's redeeming love, the transforming power of the Gospel. Of how God can cause changes in us, to love the unlovely, to love the people we once hated and to love them unconditionally. That was how God showed His love to us on the Cross.
Unfortuantely for me, I only came to realise this power a year ago, of how much power the Holy Spirit has. Perhaps, only now do I realise what, "Life transformation through prayer and discipleship" really means. I've prayed for others to change, but forgotten to pray about myself. But now only after spending every morning in God's presence, do I come to realise what He wants me to do; where He wants me to change.
Fear is the opposite of faith.
Faith is the opposite of fear.
Learned that at J21 two years ago. It seemed that I knew how to have faith in my spiritual battles, how to have faith in my physical ones. How to fight, how to defend myself. But I am a weakling when it came to my emotions. And I was always afraid to hurt others, and so I always took the easy way out, and let others have their way over what I really wanted. Lost my backbone in that area. I do not know what God has in store for me, but I know it's His plan. My only problem is that sometimes, I do not know if what I expect the outcome to be is actually what He has planned. I can only pray and discern.
Back to the picture I saw. Its a picture of what waiting on the Lord's timing can do. Its a picture of what the transforming power of the Holy Spirit can do. It's a picture of what it means to count the cost. Its a picture of what true unconditional love is. And it's a picture that now inspires me.
Dear Lord, I do not know the plans You have for me. But I know that You have a plan for me. And because of that, I will seek You at all times. Lord, please help me follow Your footsteps, and tell me when I've overstepped them. Your plan is always good for me; though I may not see that sometimes. But I am going to trust in You. You have put so many things in motion that I cannot see them until You reveal them in Your time. So Lord, I wait upon Your Spirit, let it be my guide. Lord, You know the desires of my heart. So Lord, till the day You choose to shut the door, I will not give up without a fight. Thank You Lord for Your mercies. Lord, let Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
The picture was a picture perfect (pardon the pun) example of the transforming power of God's redeeming love, the transforming power of the Gospel. Of how God can cause changes in us, to love the unlovely, to love the people we once hated and to love them unconditionally. That was how God showed His love to us on the Cross.
Unfortuantely for me, I only came to realise this power a year ago, of how much power the Holy Spirit has. Perhaps, only now do I realise what, "Life transformation through prayer and discipleship" really means. I've prayed for others to change, but forgotten to pray about myself. But now only after spending every morning in God's presence, do I come to realise what He wants me to do; where He wants me to change.
Fear is the opposite of faith.
Faith is the opposite of fear.
Learned that at J21 two years ago. It seemed that I knew how to have faith in my spiritual battles, how to have faith in my physical ones. How to fight, how to defend myself. But I am a weakling when it came to my emotions. And I was always afraid to hurt others, and so I always took the easy way out, and let others have their way over what I really wanted. Lost my backbone in that area. I do not know what God has in store for me, but I know it's His plan. My only problem is that sometimes, I do not know if what I expect the outcome to be is actually what He has planned. I can only pray and discern.
Back to the picture I saw. Its a picture of what waiting on the Lord's timing can do. Its a picture of what the transforming power of the Holy Spirit can do. It's a picture of what it means to count the cost. Its a picture of what true unconditional love is. And it's a picture that now inspires me.
Dear Lord, I do not know the plans You have for me. But I know that You have a plan for me. And because of that, I will seek You at all times. Lord, please help me follow Your footsteps, and tell me when I've overstepped them. Your plan is always good for me; though I may not see that sometimes. But I am going to trust in You. You have put so many things in motion that I cannot see them until You reveal them in Your time. So Lord, I wait upon Your Spirit, let it be my guide. Lord, You know the desires of my heart. So Lord, till the day You choose to shut the door, I will not give up without a fight. Thank You Lord for Your mercies. Lord, let Your will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.
281005
verses read: Acts 17:1-9, Proverbs 4:14-15
prayer: 10 minutes
Paul and Silas are forced to leave Philippi and they come to Thessalonica where they continue to preach the Good News. Once again, they face opposition and persecution and are forced to leave the city again. But at the end of it all, many believed and the Words still spreads!
Well, yesterday was my "free day"; by right had one lesson, an 8am lecture. But by left, its webcast! (Not that I watch it anyway.) Completed my philosophy essay, took me less than an hour actually, and its pretty short, 3 pages only. I realise that the blog posts were a lot harder to do than the essay itself.
There is LG tonight, 1 proper Bible study session. Should be interesting.
prayer: 10 minutes
Paul and Silas are forced to leave Philippi and they come to Thessalonica where they continue to preach the Good News. Once again, they face opposition and persecution and are forced to leave the city again. But at the end of it all, many believed and the Words still spreads!
Well, yesterday was my "free day"; by right had one lesson, an 8am lecture. But by left, its webcast! (Not that I watch it anyway.) Completed my philosophy essay, took me less than an hour actually, and its pretty short, 3 pages only. I realise that the blog posts were a lot harder to do than the essay itself.
There is LG tonight, 1 proper Bible study session. Should be interesting.
Thursday, October 27, 2005
amusing...
courtesy of Joel... anyway, quite obvious where the fallacy is. But amusing nontheless...it's a proof that all numbers are equal in case you are wondering what it's all about. Originally taken from bash.org
271005
verses read: Acts 16:16-40, Proverbs 4:13
prayer: 10 minutes
Paul and Silas are jailed for healing a girl. But even in jail they preach the Gospel and one of the guards and his family accept the message and are saved! More than that, they did this after they were flogged, I doubt it was as bad as a normal Roman flogging, but would still have hurt. Yup, that was the extent they went to in order to preach the Good news!
Well, yesterday was a pretty normal Wednesday. Started doing my topology assignment early rather than late. This week's assignment is tough! Anyway, have my philosophy essay due tomorrow as well. At least today is a free day, so will have lots of time to do work!
prayer: 10 minutes
Paul and Silas are jailed for healing a girl. But even in jail they preach the Gospel and one of the guards and his family accept the message and are saved! More than that, they did this after they were flogged, I doubt it was as bad as a normal Roman flogging, but would still have hurt. Yup, that was the extent they went to in order to preach the Good news!
Well, yesterday was a pretty normal Wednesday. Started doing my topology assignment early rather than late. This week's assignment is tough! Anyway, have my philosophy essay due tomorrow as well. At least today is a free day, so will have lots of time to do work!
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
reason?!?!?
To anyone who wants to take PH1101E: Reason and Persuation... please take PH2210: Logic before hand... it will make life a lot easier... hehe! Well, this module is driving me a little nuts... thank God I took 2 other philosophy modules before hand... to prepare myself! Interesting thing is that this module has a blog, and students are required to make 2 blog posts during the course. The 3 posts are counted in the final grade... this was one of my posts:
Just some thoughts on the statement, "I think, therefore I am". What exactly does Descarte mean by "I am"? Is he refering to existence? I'm assuming he does mean it that way, ie. "I think, therefore I exist". (Which seems reasonable to me)
But then, won't that be begging the question, "What does it mean to exist?". To exist in the world physically or to exist not as a sentient being, but as some "thinking machine" somewhere?
To imagine this scenario, we can look at "The Matrix" movie, in which there were sentient beings, capable of independent thought and not controlled by the Matrix itself. One such "being" was the Merovingian. In the movie they were refered to as "programs" but yet they acted as though they did not follow some algorithmic programing. This is kind of like an example to my hypothesized "thinking machine" above.
But then, since these "thinking machines" can think, they must exist, by Descartes proposition. However, it is entirely possible that these "thinking machines" do not exist in a physical state. And if something does not exist in some kind of physical state, can we really say it exists?
Suppose we allow that things that might not have a physical form can still exist. Then we would have to allow that a mind can exist without a body (some physical housing). However, wouldn't a mind not be able to exist if there is no body?
Yah... as you can tell.. I'm confused myself just trying to read what I wrote!
PS: Check out some of the new pics in flickr... Kelvin Tan totally peng san during science of music lecture...
Just some thoughts on the statement, "I think, therefore I am". What exactly does Descarte mean by "I am"? Is he refering to existence? I'm assuming he does mean it that way, ie. "I think, therefore I exist". (Which seems reasonable to me)
But then, won't that be begging the question, "What does it mean to exist?". To exist in the world physically or to exist not as a sentient being, but as some "thinking machine" somewhere?
To imagine this scenario, we can look at "The Matrix" movie, in which there were sentient beings, capable of independent thought and not controlled by the Matrix itself. One such "being" was the Merovingian. In the movie they were refered to as "programs" but yet they acted as though they did not follow some algorithmic programing. This is kind of like an example to my hypothesized "thinking machine" above.
But then, since these "thinking machines" can think, they must exist, by Descartes proposition. However, it is entirely possible that these "thinking machines" do not exist in a physical state. And if something does not exist in some kind of physical state, can we really say it exists?
Suppose we allow that things that might not have a physical form can still exist. Then we would have to allow that a mind can exist without a body (some physical housing). However, wouldn't a mind not be able to exist if there is no body?
Yah... as you can tell.. I'm confused myself just trying to read what I wrote!
PS: Check out some of the new pics in flickr... Kelvin Tan totally peng san during science of music lecture...
right...
Ber has requested that I put this on my blog:
http://mm.dfilm.com/mm2s/mm_route.php?id=2638942
so check it out... it Ber making a fun out of himself... hehehe....
http://mm.dfilm.com/mm2s/mm_route.php?id=2638942
so check it out... it Ber making a fun out of himself... hehehe....
261005
verses read: Acts 16:11-15, Proverbs 4:7-8
prayer: 10 minutes
Looks like the passages I am reading every morning is getting shorter and shorter! Oh well, the next section is a much longer one. But, it's getting easier and easier to wake up so early in the morning to read and do QT, need to get use to it, will be on this kind of timetable for the rest of my life if the Lord allows!
This passage is Paul, Silas, Timothy and Luke sailing to Philippi. There they meet Lydia, and she converts. And shows her hospitality to the company. One thing that struck me while reading the places where they visited and looking at the map of the area is that these places were real! And the experiences of the disciples were so similar to what happens today in fact!
Anyway, today is a new day. Yesterday has passed, we can only look back and draw lessons from it. We cannot re-live it again, no matter how hard we pray. So, yesterday was a good day! Got back my science of music test. Did well again. Thank God! This one not S/U, so every point counts! Tonight is CG again. Will be there!
prayer: 10 minutes
Looks like the passages I am reading every morning is getting shorter and shorter! Oh well, the next section is a much longer one. But, it's getting easier and easier to wake up so early in the morning to read and do QT, need to get use to it, will be on this kind of timetable for the rest of my life if the Lord allows!
This passage is Paul, Silas, Timothy and Luke sailing to Philippi. There they meet Lydia, and she converts. And shows her hospitality to the company. One thing that struck me while reading the places where they visited and looking at the map of the area is that these places were real! And the experiences of the disciples were so similar to what happens today in fact!
Anyway, today is a new day. Yesterday has passed, we can only look back and draw lessons from it. We cannot re-live it again, no matter how hard we pray. So, yesterday was a good day! Got back my science of music test. Did well again. Thank God! This one not S/U, so every point counts! Tonight is CG again. Will be there!
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
The past belongs to the Lord
A journay of a thousand miles, begins with a single step. Almost seems like yesterday, but actually was more like about a year ago. The first meeting to set the BCE in motion was held around this time last year. I still remember how we were like, "still got 5 months to go". Yeah...those 5 months were some of the most trying ones for me. Oh well... the musical was 7 months ago. So fast, so many things have happened since.
Still remember in 2003, when I was involved in my first musical, held on Valentines Day. That year would also pass very fast, God Factor Camp, the two camps in church that December (music min retreat and LTC). Hard to imagine that was 2 years ago. Still seems like yesterday.
Can still remember the day I ORDied. The massive party just the night before with my primary 6 classmates. Could not sleep that night, but was wide awake when I went to work the next day to collect my pink I/C. Can still remember a few days later going to NUS to take my advance placement credits test to exempt me from some modules. It was 1 July 2002, SAF day and it was raining like crazy.
Still remember, the first few months in NUS, had two physics projects to complete, was rushing through them everynight; sleeping at 4am and waking up an 7am to come to school to continue the work. In between that, was sitting in the committee for the Sunday School Camp at Camp Christine, and was handling the youth carolling for "Christmas in the East". Now, I am already in the last few months before leaving NUS.
I always like to sit back; and sometimes think about the past. Remember the "good old times" of my childhood. Will still imagine myself swimming at the old swimming pool at SSC, the tiles had this yellowish tinge to it, and that big diving platform was still there. Can still remember myself sometimes staring out of the balcony of the old Bedok Reservoir home look at the old "dragon head" playground and the PIE.
Can still remember the good old days at Amber Park, when we first all bought mountain bikes and will go cycling everyday, and play badminton in the lift lobby as though there was no homework to be done. How we will go to each others houses to watch the 6.30pm cartoons. And during weekends we will play nintendo or sega. How during the holidays we will wreck havoc in the condominuim and really drive the security guards nuts!
Time can pass so fast. Christmas is in exactly 2 months time. And I will be celebrating my 25th Birthday in slightly 4 months. Imagine, one quarter of a century old. Doesn't really seem that long.
But now I know. It's time to look on foward rather than backward. History can give us lessons, but history cannot be replayed. So perhaps it time for me to stop looking at the past. Don't look back. The past now belongs to the Lord. It's time to look foward. A journey of a thousand miles does indeed begin with a single step. But often this is the step that many fear to make; but unless it is taken, the journey cannot begin.
So Lord, I'm leaving the past behind, to look ahead at a brighter future; one with You as my guide. I don't know about the future. But I know you are holding my hand.
Still remember in 2003, when I was involved in my first musical, held on Valentines Day. That year would also pass very fast, God Factor Camp, the two camps in church that December (music min retreat and LTC). Hard to imagine that was 2 years ago. Still seems like yesterday.
Can still remember the day I ORDied. The massive party just the night before with my primary 6 classmates. Could not sleep that night, but was wide awake when I went to work the next day to collect my pink I/C. Can still remember a few days later going to NUS to take my advance placement credits test to exempt me from some modules. It was 1 July 2002, SAF day and it was raining like crazy.
Still remember, the first few months in NUS, had two physics projects to complete, was rushing through them everynight; sleeping at 4am and waking up an 7am to come to school to continue the work. In between that, was sitting in the committee for the Sunday School Camp at Camp Christine, and was handling the youth carolling for "Christmas in the East". Now, I am already in the last few months before leaving NUS.
I always like to sit back; and sometimes think about the past. Remember the "good old times" of my childhood. Will still imagine myself swimming at the old swimming pool at SSC, the tiles had this yellowish tinge to it, and that big diving platform was still there. Can still remember myself sometimes staring out of the balcony of the old Bedok Reservoir home look at the old "dragon head" playground and the PIE.
Can still remember the good old days at Amber Park, when we first all bought mountain bikes and will go cycling everyday, and play badminton in the lift lobby as though there was no homework to be done. How we will go to each others houses to watch the 6.30pm cartoons. And during weekends we will play nintendo or sega. How during the holidays we will wreck havoc in the condominuim and really drive the security guards nuts!
Time can pass so fast. Christmas is in exactly 2 months time. And I will be celebrating my 25th Birthday in slightly 4 months. Imagine, one quarter of a century old. Doesn't really seem that long.
But now I know. It's time to look on foward rather than backward. History can give us lessons, but history cannot be replayed. So perhaps it time for me to stop looking at the past. Don't look back. The past now belongs to the Lord. It's time to look foward. A journey of a thousand miles does indeed begin with a single step. But often this is the step that many fear to make; but unless it is taken, the journey cannot begin.
So Lord, I'm leaving the past behind, to look ahead at a brighter future; one with You as my guide. I don't know about the future. But I know you are holding my hand.
251005
verses read: Acts 16:6-10, Proverbs 4:5-6
prayer: 15 minutes
Pastor told us to write down the amount of time we spent in prayer as well. Of course it doesn't make much sense to put that number down so early in the morning, so the figure that I post today is for yesterday. I can hardly believe that I actually spent that amount of time in prayer, but we were asked to time ourselves, so that's what I did.
That passage in Acts is yet another short one. But so interesting! A few times the Spirit of God stopped Paul, Barnabas and Timothy from entering places to preach, and eventually directed them to Macedonia. The most interesting thing I found was that from verse 10 onwards, the writer of Acts, starts addressing the company as "we". This implies that he joined the company at Macedonia. Never knew that, until I read the study Bible. Really, God reveals so many new things at every reading of the His Word!
Yesterday was something... Received my first philosophy essay back. Scored 24/25. But since I took that module S/U, doesn't really matter to me. Anyway, I'm playing cheat, this is my 3rd philosophy module, so really don't need to work hard for it. Got my last essay for the semester due on Friday, today going to spend my free time working on it.
Well, it's Tuesday again, won't have the car, but will try make it for Sunset Prayer. After that, it's another long ride home on the bus. But I guess I would need that time, to reflect on what God has done.
prayer: 15 minutes
Pastor told us to write down the amount of time we spent in prayer as well. Of course it doesn't make much sense to put that number down so early in the morning, so the figure that I post today is for yesterday. I can hardly believe that I actually spent that amount of time in prayer, but we were asked to time ourselves, so that's what I did.
That passage in Acts is yet another short one. But so interesting! A few times the Spirit of God stopped Paul, Barnabas and Timothy from entering places to preach, and eventually directed them to Macedonia. The most interesting thing I found was that from verse 10 onwards, the writer of Acts, starts addressing the company as "we". This implies that he joined the company at Macedonia. Never knew that, until I read the study Bible. Really, God reveals so many new things at every reading of the His Word!
Yesterday was something... Received my first philosophy essay back. Scored 24/25. But since I took that module S/U, doesn't really matter to me. Anyway, I'm playing cheat, this is my 3rd philosophy module, so really don't need to work hard for it. Got my last essay for the semester due on Friday, today going to spend my free time working on it.
Well, it's Tuesday again, won't have the car, but will try make it for Sunset Prayer. After that, it's another long ride home on the bus. But I guess I would need that time, to reflect on what God has done.
Monday, October 24, 2005
another 24th...
but this one seems different yet familiar...
Beautiful in my eyes
You're my peace of mind, in this crazy world
You're everything I've tried to find
You're love is pearl
You're my mona lisa, you're my rainbow skies
And my only prayer is that you realise
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
The world will turn and the seasons will change
And all the lessons we will learn will be beautiful and strange
We'll have our fill of tears, our share of sighs
My only prayer is that you realise
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
You will always be beautiful in my eyes
And the passing years will show
You will always grow
Every more beautiful in my eyes
When there are lines are upon my face, from a lifetime of smiles
When the time comes to embrace for one long last while
We can laugh about how time really flies
We won't say goodbye, cause true love never dies
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
You will always be beautiful in my eyes
And the passing years will show
You will always grow
Every more beautiful in my eyes
(C) By Joshua Kadison
Yeah... it's not goodbye, because true love never dies. Yet it is hard to let go.
You know these songs of love that we sing are so much more than just sweet songs, they really are weapons of warfare. So it's true, when we are singing we're doing mighty battles in the heavenlies. And sometimes in battles, people get hurt.
There are people in this house, maybe you have been in some spiritual battles, and maybe you've been wounded. The Spirit of God's love is here tonight, to heal you, to restore you, to renew you. - Bob Fitts
Praise to the Lord
In these battle Lord, You are my peace
When I am broken Lord, You are my strength
You're my strength, You're my love
You're my life, You're my joy and my song in the night
How I marvel at your mercy
And I sing
Praise, praise to the Lord
Praise, praise to the Lord
For He is good and merciful
His love is great, He's so wonderful
My Lord
(C) Bob Fitts
Beautiful in my eyes
You're my peace of mind, in this crazy world
You're everything I've tried to find
You're love is pearl
You're my mona lisa, you're my rainbow skies
And my only prayer is that you realise
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
The world will turn and the seasons will change
And all the lessons we will learn will be beautiful and strange
We'll have our fill of tears, our share of sighs
My only prayer is that you realise
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
You will always be beautiful in my eyes
And the passing years will show
You will always grow
Every more beautiful in my eyes
When there are lines are upon my face, from a lifetime of smiles
When the time comes to embrace for one long last while
We can laugh about how time really flies
We won't say goodbye, cause true love never dies
You'll always be beautiful in my eyes
You will always be beautiful in my eyes
And the passing years will show
You will always grow
Every more beautiful in my eyes
(C) By Joshua Kadison
Yeah... it's not goodbye, because true love never dies. Yet it is hard to let go.
You know these songs of love that we sing are so much more than just sweet songs, they really are weapons of warfare. So it's true, when we are singing we're doing mighty battles in the heavenlies. And sometimes in battles, people get hurt.
There are people in this house, maybe you have been in some spiritual battles, and maybe you've been wounded. The Spirit of God's love is here tonight, to heal you, to restore you, to renew you. - Bob Fitts
Praise to the Lord
In these battle Lord, You are my peace
When I am broken Lord, You are my strength
You're my strength, You're my love
You're my life, You're my joy and my song in the night
How I marvel at your mercy
And I sing
Praise, praise to the Lord
Praise, praise to the Lord
For He is good and merciful
His love is great, He's so wonderful
My Lord
(C) Bob Fitts
241005
verses read: Acts 16:1-5, Proverbs 3:30
Trying to change my QT timing, from late night to early morning. Not easy, since I am quite a nocturnal person. But I guess if I want to teach, I won't have much choice, so better get used to doing this now.
On with the short passage I read in a half comatose state... Paul and Silas continue on their mission trip. And along the way, Timothy joins them. I realise that having a map to see where they went really helps a lot! Also, this really slow pace of reading the Bible is really good! Can see a lot of things in greater detail and suddenly, I realise a lot of things that happened way back in the first church still happens today. And these are not necessarily desirable things actually.
Well, since it's early in the morning, I cannot really post a short reflection on the day that has passed, so will leave that to the next morning instead.
Trying to change my QT timing, from late night to early morning. Not easy, since I am quite a nocturnal person. But I guess if I want to teach, I won't have much choice, so better get used to doing this now.
On with the short passage I read in a half comatose state... Paul and Silas continue on their mission trip. And along the way, Timothy joins them. I realise that having a map to see where they went really helps a lot! Also, this really slow pace of reading the Bible is really good! Can see a lot of things in greater detail and suddenly, I realise a lot of things that happened way back in the first church still happens today. And these are not necessarily desirable things actually.
Well, since it's early in the morning, I cannot really post a short reflection on the day that has passed, so will leave that to the next morning instead.
pass it on...
I guess some of the information in this post would be new to some... anyway, took the following from Ber's blog. (Yup, he updated)
And the following, well, U-liang asked me to continue the chain, well, let's see how far it goes:
1. What are your favourite hymns?
Hallelujah, What a Saviour!
2. Writers that have greatly influenced your spiritual journey?
Joshua Harris (sad... I know)
Darlene Zschech, Vernon Whaley (all books on worship)
3. Clean or shaven?
er... aren't both the same thing? Anyway, I assume it's clean or disheveled or something. I prefer it clean... but due to the amount of facial hair I have, I don't like shaving everyday...
4. MacD or KFC?
KFC! More value for money! But not eaten fast food for ages... and I mean ages...
5. One famous person who shares the same birthday as you?
My brother... I hope...
6. Greatest mystery of the universe?
1+1=2 (in base 10 at least)
It's a mystery... really... if someone did not define it that way, a lot of real analysis would not work...
7. Attached?
I was.
8. Tell me who should do this quiz?
Ber, Denver, Kelvin Tan. Because they hardly update!!!
And the following, well, U-liang asked me to continue the chain, well, let's see how far it goes:
1. What are your favourite hymns?
Hallelujah, What a Saviour!
2. Writers that have greatly influenced your spiritual journey?
Joshua Harris (sad... I know)
Darlene Zschech, Vernon Whaley (all books on worship)
3. Clean or shaven?
er... aren't both the same thing? Anyway, I assume it's clean or disheveled or something. I prefer it clean... but due to the amount of facial hair I have, I don't like shaving everyday...
4. MacD or KFC?
KFC! More value for money! But not eaten fast food for ages... and I mean ages...
5. One famous person who shares the same birthday as you?
My brother... I hope...
6. Greatest mystery of the universe?
1+1=2 (in base 10 at least)
It's a mystery... really... if someone did not define it that way, a lot of real analysis would not work...
7. Attached?
I was.
8. Tell me who should do this quiz?
Ber, Denver, Kelvin Tan. Because they hardly update!!!
Sunday, October 23, 2005
more pics on church... taken using the 6610i
hehe... trying out the camera on the 6610i. Switched phones with my mom, a MUCH cheaper alternative to what I had in mind!
This is a picture of the new classroom next to peace cove. Previously, that was where we used to stack the chairs for peace cove. It was also where the kichen sink was. Anyway, this area has been offically reopened for use.
Another shot of the same classroom. That wooden door you see is a new door leading into peace cove. Next to that wooden door, is the original door of peace cove.
I took this shot from one of the classrooms of the 3rd level. The one next to where we had the SGL meeting this morning. Can you see that cross? The chancel (stage) of the new chapel has that cross as it's backdrop. So can you imagine the orientation of the new chapel?
Well, the next time when I am allowed back into the contruction area, will try take proper pictures of the whole area. Hopefully, it will look clearer as well!
This is a picture of the new classroom next to peace cove. Previously, that was where we used to stack the chairs for peace cove. It was also where the kichen sink was. Anyway, this area has been offically reopened for use.
Another shot of the same classroom. That wooden door you see is a new door leading into peace cove. Next to that wooden door, is the original door of peace cove.
I took this shot from one of the classrooms of the 3rd level. The one next to where we had the SGL meeting this morning. Can you see that cross? The chancel (stage) of the new chapel has that cross as it's backdrop. So can you imagine the orientation of the new chapel?
Well, the next time when I am allowed back into the contruction area, will try take proper pictures of the whole area. Hopefully, it will look clearer as well!
231005
verses read: Acts 15:36-41, Proverbs 3:27
Reading the above passage from Acts, you realise that even Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement and they parted ways. They disputed over Mark, who had previously deserted them. Paul brought Silas on his second missionary journey and Barnabas took Mark on another journey.
Kind of shows us that even back then, there was disagreement and fights among the servants of God. But the passage ends with Paul still travelling around and continuing to spread the Gospel. One thing the Bible does not explicitly say is that later on, Paul does forgive Mark. (Implied from later books in the Bible.) And more than that, from ancient accounts, Mark was also matyred for Christ.
Anyway, today, Sunday was a tiring day for me. After coming home from church, was knocked out. But today, I really thank Kevin (Ang) for leading that song, "Faithful Father". Posted the lyrics on my blog a few days back. Really means a lot to me, after the events of the past week.
Now going to submit an essay (online). Have another essay due on Friday, Philosophy one, and have yet to do the reading. Well, tomorrow is philo tutorial, so will see what new ideas I can get!
Reading the above passage from Acts, you realise that even Paul and Barnabas had a disagreement and they parted ways. They disputed over Mark, who had previously deserted them. Paul brought Silas on his second missionary journey and Barnabas took Mark on another journey.
Kind of shows us that even back then, there was disagreement and fights among the servants of God. But the passage ends with Paul still travelling around and continuing to spread the Gospel. One thing the Bible does not explicitly say is that later on, Paul does forgive Mark. (Implied from later books in the Bible.) And more than that, from ancient accounts, Mark was also matyred for Christ.
Anyway, today, Sunday was a tiring day for me. After coming home from church, was knocked out. But today, I really thank Kevin (Ang) for leading that song, "Faithful Father". Posted the lyrics on my blog a few days back. Really means a lot to me, after the events of the past week.
Now going to submit an essay (online). Have another essay due on Friday, Philosophy one, and have yet to do the reading. Well, tomorrow is philo tutorial, so will see what new ideas I can get!
Saturday, October 22, 2005
221005
verses read: Acts 15:22-35, Proverbs 3:25-26
The passage above relates to the action taken by the apostles in reaction to the "false teachings" that were arising during that time. I stopped short of the start of Paul's 2nd missionary journey. Seems like even then, the apostles had to contend with a lot of "factions" in the early church. Well, all that had it's purpose, eventually.
Anyway, decided not to buy a new phone in the end. Simply exchanged phones with my mom. To a 6610i. At least now have a camera, which she does not use. Having problems configuring the GPRS... grrr...
The passage above relates to the action taken by the apostles in reaction to the "false teachings" that were arising during that time. I stopped short of the start of Paul's 2nd missionary journey. Seems like even then, the apostles had to contend with a lot of "factions" in the early church. Well, all that had it's purpose, eventually.
Anyway, decided not to buy a new phone in the end. Simply exchanged phones with my mom. To a 6610i. At least now have a camera, which she does not use. Having problems configuring the GPRS... grrr...
choosing to hope in God...
Angel in disguise
I woke up this morning feeling kind of blue
When I stumbled out of bed
And dragged my feet across the room
Right outside my front door
Was a rose and note that said
"Somebody loves you!"
But out on the street its starts to pour
And before I get soaking wet
A total stranger runs to
Give me the jacket off his back
I turn around to thank him
But he waves me with a smile
And I can hardly believe my eyes
He puts on a halo and starts to fly
Take a look at the ordinary
Don't need to look for paradise
You could be next to an
Angel in disguise
I met a good friend for lunch
And we had a delicious meal
But I forgot to bring my wallet
I felt like an imbacile
But she was sweet, she gave me a treat
And bought me a chicken sandwich
To take home for tea
But out on the street with nothing to eat
A man and his shopping cart
Go travelling to places, collecting social graces
I give him my sandwich and we chatted for a while
I see a rainbow wash over his eyes
He gives me his halo
And I start to fly!
Don't hide to try to hide from me
I know you're by my side
Everyday can be legendary
Every minute an endless suprise
You could be the next
Angel in disguise
I woke up this morning feeling kind of new!
(C) Words and music by Corrine May
ah... today was a good day. The lectures were good. And A/P Tay actually finished the graph theory lectures. Next week will do problem sets. Fast man! Topology is getting weirder and weirder...
"Anyway, most of the things we study in maths is useless anyway!" - A/P Tay Tiong Seng. That's the quote of the day man!
I don't know what tomorrow will bring for me. But I know my future is in the hands of God. And His plan for me is a good one. I just need to trust in Him. I have a feeling it's not the end of things... I have a new hope for something even greater! And the tears must stop flowing and the strength must keep coming!
Well, been using my dad's 3 year old COMPAQ (a company that doesn't really exist anymore) PDA. Think of getting a new phone. A bit more powerful than usual phone... any recommendations? I have a shortlist:
Nokia 6230i
SE K600i
SE K75oi
O2 Xphone II
This the first time I'm actually buying a phone for the features in addition to the phone itself. All my previous ones were simple $0 phones. hehe... but realised I'm getting a lot more forgetful... need something to actually help me keep my schedule! If I had money... I would really like an O2 XDA mini... but that one is overkill.
I woke up this morning feeling kind of blue
When I stumbled out of bed
And dragged my feet across the room
Right outside my front door
Was a rose and note that said
"Somebody loves you!"
But out on the street its starts to pour
And before I get soaking wet
A total stranger runs to
Give me the jacket off his back
I turn around to thank him
But he waves me with a smile
And I can hardly believe my eyes
He puts on a halo and starts to fly
Take a look at the ordinary
Don't need to look for paradise
You could be next to an
Angel in disguise
I met a good friend for lunch
And we had a delicious meal
But I forgot to bring my wallet
I felt like an imbacile
But she was sweet, she gave me a treat
And bought me a chicken sandwich
To take home for tea
But out on the street with nothing to eat
A man and his shopping cart
Go travelling to places, collecting social graces
I give him my sandwich and we chatted for a while
I see a rainbow wash over his eyes
He gives me his halo
And I start to fly!
Don't hide to try to hide from me
I know you're by my side
Everyday can be legendary
Every minute an endless suprise
You could be the next
Angel in disguise
I woke up this morning feeling kind of new!
(C) Words and music by Corrine May
ah... today was a good day. The lectures were good. And A/P Tay actually finished the graph theory lectures. Next week will do problem sets. Fast man! Topology is getting weirder and weirder...
"Anyway, most of the things we study in maths is useless anyway!" - A/P Tay Tiong Seng. That's the quote of the day man!
I don't know what tomorrow will bring for me. But I know my future is in the hands of God. And His plan for me is a good one. I just need to trust in Him. I have a feeling it's not the end of things... I have a new hope for something even greater! And the tears must stop flowing and the strength must keep coming!
Well, been using my dad's 3 year old COMPAQ (a company that doesn't really exist anymore) PDA. Think of getting a new phone. A bit more powerful than usual phone... any recommendations? I have a shortlist:
Nokia 6230i
SE K600i
SE K75oi
O2 Xphone II
This the first time I'm actually buying a phone for the features in addition to the phone itself. All my previous ones were simple $0 phones. hehe... but realised I'm getting a lot more forgetful... need something to actually help me keep my schedule! If I had money... I would really like an O2 XDA mini... but that one is overkill.
Friday, October 21, 2005
211005
verses read: Acts 15:1-21, Proverbs 3:9-10
Hard to believe that it is only 10.50am. Normally I will be asleep. But, have to be in school for tutorial today. So, I'm at physics department, waiting for the tutorial to start. Might as well type this in as I wait. I'm changing. Beginning to wake up early rather than late. And starting to do my QT regularly. And starting to do it in the morning rather than at night. And now I know it really makes a big difference.
Anyway, that passage in Acts is about the aftermath of Paul's first missionary journey. Hard to see the timeline, but in reality, something like 3 to 4 years have passed in the 2 preceeding chapters. The passage above is about an old debate. Grace vs Law. But well, the answer is very explicit in the that passage. But strangely, the issue is still being hotly debated till today.
Cos maybe there's another plan
When I still can't see
A little suprise like your love in my life
Funny how, time changes how we see
Yeah... funny how time changes how we see indeed. Those words have a completely different meaning now after four months. But the river runs, and the river hides. And over time, God's perfect will be made known to all.
Hard to believe that it is only 10.50am. Normally I will be asleep. But, have to be in school for tutorial today. So, I'm at physics department, waiting for the tutorial to start. Might as well type this in as I wait. I'm changing. Beginning to wake up early rather than late. And starting to do my QT regularly. And starting to do it in the morning rather than at night. And now I know it really makes a big difference.
Anyway, that passage in Acts is about the aftermath of Paul's first missionary journey. Hard to see the timeline, but in reality, something like 3 to 4 years have passed in the 2 preceeding chapters. The passage above is about an old debate. Grace vs Law. But well, the answer is very explicit in the that passage. But strangely, the issue is still being hotly debated till today.
Cos maybe there's another plan
When I still can't see
A little suprise like your love in my life
Funny how, time changes how we see
Yeah... funny how time changes how we see indeed. Those words have a completely different meaning now after four months. But the river runs, and the river hides. And over time, God's perfect will be made known to all.
Thursday, October 20, 2005
201005
verses read: Acts 14:8-28, Proverbs 3:7-8
Was asked to attend a very interesting meeting this afternoon. I really thank God for the opportunity given to me. And this time, I will seize it will both hands and not let something like that slip past me. Well, I really don't know what will come out of the discussion today, but it was sure heartening to hear all those things.
Perhaps God has given me partial answers to the events of the past few days. Of why things had to happen that way. Well, He ordains all these for His glory and I'm sure He has some kind of plan for me.
The hurt is still there. But it's getting lesser and lesser by the day. I'm sure there will come a time when it cannot be felt anymore. I know God is purifying us for some greater reason.
Was asked to attend a very interesting meeting this afternoon. I really thank God for the opportunity given to me. And this time, I will seize it will both hands and not let something like that slip past me. Well, I really don't know what will come out of the discussion today, but it was sure heartening to hear all those things.
Perhaps God has given me partial answers to the events of the past few days. Of why things had to happen that way. Well, He ordains all these for His glory and I'm sure He has some kind of plan for me.
The hurt is still there. But it's getting lesser and lesser by the day. I'm sure there will come a time when it cannot be felt anymore. I know God is purifying us for some greater reason.
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
191005
verses read: Acts 14:1-7, Romans 8:1-17, Proverbs 3:5-6
Continuing on the story in Acts; Paul and Barnabas preach in Iconium. Not all receive their message, even though there were miraculous signs and wonders. Eventually they were forced to leave Iconium, but that did not stop them from preaching wherever they went.
I guess even in those 7 verses there are 2 things we can learn. Despite signs and wonders and all, there are some who still will not believe the Gospel. And the second lesson: do not give up! Yeah... something that I need to learn. To hope.
There has to come a time when the tears have to stop. And when they do, look foward. Look foward because God has greater things in store. Hope. There is always hope.
Dear God, till the day the door is shut by You, I am still going to carry on hoping and praying for Your favour. And if You choose to shut that door, I am going to hope that You have even better things in store for me. Amen.
Continuing on the story in Acts; Paul and Barnabas preach in Iconium. Not all receive their message, even though there were miraculous signs and wonders. Eventually they were forced to leave Iconium, but that did not stop them from preaching wherever they went.
I guess even in those 7 verses there are 2 things we can learn. Despite signs and wonders and all, there are some who still will not believe the Gospel. And the second lesson: do not give up! Yeah... something that I need to learn. To hope.
There has to come a time when the tears have to stop. And when they do, look foward. Look foward because God has greater things in store. Hope. There is always hope.
Dear God, till the day the door is shut by You, I am still going to carry on hoping and praying for Your favour. And if You choose to shut that door, I am going to hope that You have even better things in store for me. Amen.
181005
verses read: Jer 29:11, Job 1:21
Deviated a bit from my normal reading. The day started quite sucky... but ended well. I am truly at peace now. I know I will have a good night's sleep. God is good all the time, and all the time, God is good! Amen.
Thank God for wise parents. Thank God for godly brothers. Thank God for wonderful sisters. Thank God, for He is the God of love, and He will make all things good in His time.
Deviated a bit from my normal reading. The day started quite sucky... but ended well. I am truly at peace now. I know I will have a good night's sleep. God is good all the time, and all the time, God is good! Amen.
Thank God for wise parents. Thank God for godly brothers. Thank God for wonderful sisters. Thank God, for He is the God of love, and He will make all things good in His time.
Tuesday, October 18, 2005
I don't know what this day will bring, will it be, disappointing or filled with longed for things? I don't know, what tomorrow holds, still I know, I can trust Your faithfulness.
I don't know if these clouds mean rain? If they do, they will pour down blessing or pain? I don't know what the future holds, still I know, I can trust Your faithfulness.
Certain as the rivers reach the sea. Certain as the sunrise in the east, I can rest in Your faithfulness. Surer than a mother's tender love, surer than the stars still shine above, I can rest in Your faithfulness.
I don't know how or when I'll die. Will it a thief or will I have a chance to say goodbye. Now I don't know how much time is left? But in the end, I will know your faithfulness.
When darkness overwhelms my soul when thought of storm of doubts. Still I trust that you are always faithful. Always faithful.
Father, I can't explain this kind of love, this kind of grace. I know, I still break Your heart and yet Yourun to welcome me.
This is my song of praise to You, for who You are and all that you do. From the moment my life began, You have been faithful. You will be faithful, forever faithful.
Father, I love the way You hold me close and say my name. I know, when my life is through my heart will find it's home in You.
Words by Brian Doerksen
I don't know if these clouds mean rain? If they do, they will pour down blessing or pain? I don't know what the future holds, still I know, I can trust Your faithfulness.
Certain as the rivers reach the sea. Certain as the sunrise in the east, I can rest in Your faithfulness. Surer than a mother's tender love, surer than the stars still shine above, I can rest in Your faithfulness.
I don't know how or when I'll die. Will it a thief or will I have a chance to say goodbye. Now I don't know how much time is left? But in the end, I will know your faithfulness.
When darkness overwhelms my soul when thought of storm of doubts. Still I trust that you are always faithful. Always faithful.
Father, I can't explain this kind of love, this kind of grace. I know, I still break Your heart and yet Yourun to welcome me.
This is my song of praise to You, for who You are and all that you do. From the moment my life began, You have been faithful. You will be faithful, forever faithful.
Father, I love the way You hold me close and say my name. I know, when my life is through my heart will find it's home in You.
Words by Brian Doerksen
Monday, October 17, 2005
QED
quod erat demonstrandum
So that's what QED it stands for... translated: "that which was to be demonstrated". Latin phrases sound cool... no matter how stupid the meaning is... for example:
Quidquid latine dictum sit, altum viditur - Whatever is said in Latin sounds profound
haiz... just needed some detressing for a very depressing day...the worse has yet to come...
So that's what QED it stands for... translated: "that which was to be demonstrated". Latin phrases sound cool... no matter how stupid the meaning is... for example:
Quidquid latine dictum sit, altum viditur - Whatever is said in Latin sounds profound
haiz... just needed some detressing for a very depressing day...the worse has yet to come...
You Are
You are
You are the love of my life
You are the hope that I cling to
You mean more than this world to me
I wouldn't trade you for silver or gold
I wouldn't trade you for riches untold
You are, you are my everything
I wouldn't take one step without you
I can never go on
I couldn't live one day without you
I don't have the strength
To make it on my own
Until the world stops turning
Until the stars fade from the sky
Until the sun stops rising
I'll need you in my life
And here's the reason why
I wouldn't trade you for silver or gold
I wouldn't trade you for riches untold
You are, you are my everything
(performed by Ron Kenoly and Darlene Zschech)
You are the love of my life
You are the hope that I cling to
You mean more than this world to me
I wouldn't trade you for silver or gold
I wouldn't trade you for riches untold
You are, you are my everything
I wouldn't take one step without you
I can never go on
I couldn't live one day without you
I don't have the strength
To make it on my own
Until the world stops turning
Until the stars fade from the sky
Until the sun stops rising
I'll need you in my life
And here's the reason why
I wouldn't trade you for silver or gold
I wouldn't trade you for riches untold
You are, you are my everything
(performed by Ron Kenoly and Darlene Zschech)
171005
verses read: Acts 13:13-52
Just to summarise; here Paul and Barnabas begin to preach the Gospel to the gentiles. And many come to believe! Once again, continuing with the previous passage, the Gospel continues to thive and spread despite persecution.
On another note, was asked by church to write an article about blogging for Pentecost Times (church newsletter). Interesting and pretty ironic. 2 years ago, when I first found out about this culture of blogging, I told Daryl Neo that I would never "air my dirty laundry in public". Well, I'm eating my words big time.
I guess, with time, people change. Every trial in a relationship has a purpose, to strengthen it. And I guess in order to get into a deeper relationship with someone else, the more severe the trial can be. Overwhelmed.
Just to summarise; here Paul and Barnabas begin to preach the Gospel to the gentiles. And many come to believe! Once again, continuing with the previous passage, the Gospel continues to thive and spread despite persecution.
On another note, was asked by church to write an article about blogging for Pentecost Times (church newsletter). Interesting and pretty ironic. 2 years ago, when I first found out about this culture of blogging, I told Daryl Neo that I would never "air my dirty laundry in public". Well, I'm eating my words big time.
I guess, with time, people change. Every trial in a relationship has a purpose, to strengthen it. And I guess in order to get into a deeper relationship with someone else, the more severe the trial can be. Overwhelmed.
161005
verses read: Acts 13:1-12
This was the passage when Saul was first called Paul. That's an indication of some kind of transformation. God's power can truly transform. Been convicted last few days of some things I need to do; I need to change. That must happen in order to grow into a deeper relationship with the Almighty. Tough.
Had a very long day in church today. 9am to 7pm. Charlie's session on the book of Habakkuk really spoke to me and what prepared me to face the trials ahead. After the whole YM had ended; had another meeting to discuss what will happen next year. Was a very fruitful discussion. Pastor also gave us a tour of the new building. Now have a much better idea on what it's like. Very nice! :)
Well, tomorrow has its own set of problems and challenges. My heart is troubled, yet it is at peace. For the joy of salvation is within me; and that, the world cannot take away from me.
This was the passage when Saul was first called Paul. That's an indication of some kind of transformation. God's power can truly transform. Been convicted last few days of some things I need to do; I need to change. That must happen in order to grow into a deeper relationship with the Almighty. Tough.
Had a very long day in church today. 9am to 7pm. Charlie's session on the book of Habakkuk really spoke to me and what prepared me to face the trials ahead. After the whole YM had ended; had another meeting to discuss what will happen next year. Was a very fruitful discussion. Pastor also gave us a tour of the new building. Now have a much better idea on what it's like. Very nice! :)
Well, tomorrow has its own set of problems and challenges. My heart is troubled, yet it is at peace. For the joy of salvation is within me; and that, the world cannot take away from me.
Saturday, October 15, 2005
151005
verses read: Acts 12
The main theme in the book of Acts is how the Word of God began to spread throughout the world. However, you realise that it only began to do so after the early church was persecuted. Severely persecuted. Acts 12 is about Peter being thrown into jail and his miraculous escape. And how finally King Herod was struck down; and after all this persecution the Word still spread. Stronger than ever.
The main theme in the book of Acts is how the Word of God began to spread throughout the world. However, you realise that it only began to do so after the early church was persecuted. Severely persecuted. Acts 12 is about Peter being thrown into jail and his miraculous escape. And how finally King Herod was struck down; and after all this persecution the Word still spread. Stronger than ever.
141005
verses read: Acts 1-11 (!??!)
Okay... didn't actually read those chapters... actually watched a video of it. But it was word for word from the NIV. And I was reading the Bible itself as the movie played on... so I guess it counts! Had the first LG today; my prayer is that in the coming weeks and months we will grow together in faith and in our grounding of the Word.
A long time ago in England, there was a brother and a sister. They were very poor, but despite that, they loved each other deeply. The brother kept an old family heirloom, a watch. Not those you wear on your wrist, but those you attach to a chain and keep in your pocket. Unfortunately the chain of this watch had been missing for many years. The sister had very beautiful long hair and was the envy of her village. However, she had no comb to straighten her hair.
One christmas, the Sister thought, "Wouldn't it be nice if brother had a nice chain to go with his watch for Christmas? But where will I get the money from?" Then an idea struck her, and she went to a wig shop and asked if she could sell her hair. And so they cut her hair and she used the money to buy her brother a chain for the watch.
But when the brother had returned home and saw the chain, he began to cry. For he had pawned the watch for money to give his sister a comb for Christmas....
Have you even been in a situation where you care and love someone so much and the other person cares and loves you so much that both of you really sacrifice a lot for each other. But as a result of doing so you hurt each other? I guess that really brings a new meaning to loving till it hurts. We will always face hurts and pains in our relationships with other people; but I'm sure these are meant to strengthen rather than weaken the relationship.
Jesus' sacrifice was a ultimate one. He suffered the greatest hurt and the greatest pain so that we can love others the way He loves us. I'm sure that love will find a way; it always has.
Okay... didn't actually read those chapters... actually watched a video of it. But it was word for word from the NIV. And I was reading the Bible itself as the movie played on... so I guess it counts! Had the first LG today; my prayer is that in the coming weeks and months we will grow together in faith and in our grounding of the Word.
A long time ago in England, there was a brother and a sister. They were very poor, but despite that, they loved each other deeply. The brother kept an old family heirloom, a watch. Not those you wear on your wrist, but those you attach to a chain and keep in your pocket. Unfortunately the chain of this watch had been missing for many years. The sister had very beautiful long hair and was the envy of her village. However, she had no comb to straighten her hair.
One christmas, the Sister thought, "Wouldn't it be nice if brother had a nice chain to go with his watch for Christmas? But where will I get the money from?" Then an idea struck her, and she went to a wig shop and asked if she could sell her hair. And so they cut her hair and she used the money to buy her brother a chain for the watch.
But when the brother had returned home and saw the chain, he began to cry. For he had pawned the watch for money to give his sister a comb for Christmas....
Have you even been in a situation where you care and love someone so much and the other person cares and loves you so much that both of you really sacrifice a lot for each other. But as a result of doing so you hurt each other? I guess that really brings a new meaning to loving till it hurts. We will always face hurts and pains in our relationships with other people; but I'm sure these are meant to strengthen rather than weaken the relationship.
Jesus' sacrifice was a ultimate one. He suffered the greatest hurt and the greatest pain so that we can love others the way He loves us. I'm sure that love will find a way; it always has.
Friday, October 14, 2005
131005
verses read: Acts 2:1-13
Continuing on the books of Acts; it's good to read this passage. Especially when you are from a church called "Pentecost Methodist Church". Anyway, let's not focus on that; because, next year will be very interesting with respect to all that.
Let's focus on the part in which the people who had gathered (from the nations surrounding Israel) recognised that what was spoken by the apostles was about God's mighty deeds. I really wonder what it was like that day.
I remember, the EARC participants coming back home and sharing during LPC that at one point of the conference, everyone was encouraged to pray out loud in their native tongue; be it Japanese, Bahasa, Chinese etc etc. And that is really going to be the scene in heaven, and perhaps close to what happened that first Pentecost Sunday.
Anyway, today; had my honours talk. Went pretty okay I guess; except that the normal OHP had failed early that morning and as a result they brought in an OHP that was super bright. To those that were at the talk, I could not see any of you... was blinded by the brightness... seriously... Can put the project aside for the moment and concentrate on the my 2 essays that are due soon! Science of Music as well as a Philosophy essay.
Continuing on the books of Acts; it's good to read this passage. Especially when you are from a church called "Pentecost Methodist Church". Anyway, let's not focus on that; because, next year will be very interesting with respect to all that.
Let's focus on the part in which the people who had gathered (from the nations surrounding Israel) recognised that what was spoken by the apostles was about God's mighty deeds. I really wonder what it was like that day.
I remember, the EARC participants coming back home and sharing during LPC that at one point of the conference, everyone was encouraged to pray out loud in their native tongue; be it Japanese, Bahasa, Chinese etc etc. And that is really going to be the scene in heaven, and perhaps close to what happened that first Pentecost Sunday.
Anyway, today; had my honours talk. Went pretty okay I guess; except that the normal OHP had failed early that morning and as a result they brought in an OHP that was super bright. To those that were at the talk, I could not see any of you... was blinded by the brightness... seriously... Can put the project aside for the moment and concentrate on the my 2 essays that are due soon! Science of Music as well as a Philosophy essay.
Thursday, October 13, 2005
121005
verses read: Acts 1: 9-26
This passage takes place immediately from when Jesus acceded into Heaven. It's about the apostles choosing someone to replace Judas Iscariot. I'm actually curious to the significance of this passage. Anyone care to tell me? (Comments open)
Anyway, been like suffering from insomia last few nights; been sleeping really late and waking up pretty early. I think Joel passed it to me... hmmmph! Anyway, my honours project presentation is tomorrow. I think it's going to be pretty boring, there are something like 10 definitions in the introductory talk alone; going to be tough on those who are not used to all that!
This passage takes place immediately from when Jesus acceded into Heaven. It's about the apostles choosing someone to replace Judas Iscariot. I'm actually curious to the significance of this passage. Anyone care to tell me? (Comments open)
Anyway, been like suffering from insomia last few nights; been sleeping really late and waking up pretty early. I think Joel passed it to me... hmmmph! Anyway, my honours project presentation is tomorrow. I think it's going to be pretty boring, there are something like 10 definitions in the introductory talk alone; going to be tough on those who are not used to all that!
Wednesday, October 12, 2005
111005
verses read: Acts 1:1-11
The LG is finally starting off this Friday. And since we are studying the book of Acts, I thought I start reading this Bible Reading with the Book of Acts as well. These 11 verses contain one of Jesus' last instructions. He tell His apostles to wait in Jeruselem till they were empowered from on high by the Holy Spirit.
And once they receive the Holy Spirit, they were to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. That is the primary purpose of the Holy Spirit. I guess this whole part also fits in nicely to what was discussed over the weekend and the direction to head for next year.
The LG is finally starting off this Friday. And since we are studying the book of Acts, I thought I start reading this Bible Reading with the Book of Acts as well. These 11 verses contain one of Jesus' last instructions. He tell His apostles to wait in Jeruselem till they were empowered from on high by the Holy Spirit.
And once they receive the Holy Spirit, they were to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth. That is the primary purpose of the Holy Spirit. I guess this whole part also fits in nicely to what was discussed over the weekend and the direction to head for next year.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Why marry a bass player?!?!
Taken from Sida's blog
Following ideas drawn from article by Robin Meloy Goldbys as found in Sep 2005 Bass Player
Why should ladies seriously consider a bass player as your partner.
Advantages
Bass Players are inadvertently strong. Do you have any idea how heavy a bass guitar is? A bass player has no trouble picking you up and swinging you around just because he can. Of course he’ll be handy to carry things around the house.
Bass players love the curves of their bass guitars, of course they’ll also love those curves of yours.
Bass players need to stretch their hands to reach those frets. Imagine what those hands can do to you.
Bass players are team players. Always there supporting the show. Absolutely no airs. Always ready to change keys to suit you.
Minor Drawbacks
You need to find furniture to match those bass guitars
You’ll have to incorporate the phrase “Watch the bass” into everyday sentences with your children. Example: “Hi darling! Watch the bass. How was school? Watch the bass. What would you like for lunch?”
You’ll perhaps be doomed to MPVs instead of that sporty new BMW Z4 to fit all the music gear.
And no...I'm not advertising for myself. But there are plenty of single, available and willing bass players around, ...just let me hook you with one.
EDIT: decided to make this post a little more shameless by adding this pic:
Was forced to wear that "mormon outfit"... actually... doesn't look so "mormon-ish" in that picture... but at the actual performance I had to wear a black tie... which added to the look. And that corsarge... argh...was forced to wear that too...
But don't you think the bass is a nice intrument... and yah its really heavy! But the BB1500 cannot compare with the weight of the TRBJP... woah... that one is HEAVY! Probably the only one who can jump around in that is Abraham Laboriel!
Following ideas drawn from article by Robin Meloy Goldbys as found in Sep 2005 Bass Player
Why should ladies seriously consider a bass player as your partner.
Advantages
Bass Players are inadvertently strong. Do you have any idea how heavy a bass guitar is? A bass player has no trouble picking you up and swinging you around just because he can. Of course he’ll be handy to carry things around the house.
Bass players love the curves of their bass guitars, of course they’ll also love those curves of yours.
Bass players need to stretch their hands to reach those frets. Imagine what those hands can do to you.
Bass players are team players. Always there supporting the show. Absolutely no airs. Always ready to change keys to suit you.
Minor Drawbacks
You need to find furniture to match those bass guitars
You’ll have to incorporate the phrase “Watch the bass” into everyday sentences with your children. Example: “Hi darling! Watch the bass. How was school? Watch the bass. What would you like for lunch?”
You’ll perhaps be doomed to MPVs instead of that sporty new BMW Z4 to fit all the music gear.
And no...I'm not advertising for myself. But there are plenty of single, available and willing bass players around, ...just let me hook you with one.
EDIT: decided to make this post a little more shameless by adding this pic:
Was forced to wear that "mormon outfit"... actually... doesn't look so "mormon-ish" in that picture... but at the actual performance I had to wear a black tie... which added to the look. And that corsarge... argh...was forced to wear that too...
But don't you think the bass is a nice intrument... and yah its really heavy! But the BB1500 cannot compare with the weight of the TRBJP... woah... that one is HEAVY! Probably the only one who can jump around in that is Abraham Laboriel!
101005
At the retreat, Pastor Aaron challenged us to read the Bible regularly. He gave us a minimum amount; one verse per week. May seem like very little, but to use an analogy he used during the "tithes and offerings" teaching, if we don't learn how to give 10% of whatever little we have now, we will find it difficult to give 10% later on in life. If we don't learn to read just one verse per week now, it will be really difficult to have a more consistent QT when we want to start.
So, for the sake of accountability, I will blog about whatever I read according to the commitment I have promised. And of course over time, rather from being a commitment (hence possibly looked as obligation), my prayer is that this becomes a discipline and second nature. The blog posts on this subject will follow the format above, which is the date in "SAF format".
Anyway, i've committed myself to read at least one verse per day or simply do my QT material. Not that simple actually. Anyway I thought I start simply by with the following verses:
And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there He prayed - Mark 1:35
Earlier this year, when we decided to hold prayer meetings at an insane time, 7.30am every Sunday morning, I found a lot of strength to attend these meetings by drawing upon the example of the Lord Jesus Himself.
If you read this verse in it's context, you will know that it is probably very easy to just look over this verse as it is embedded in some other kind of text. But I think it's important to question ourselves why these "small verses" are there in the first place.
I think this verse shows that Jesus Himself did His "QT". And my prayer as I begin this challenge that Pastor laid down for us, is that I may find inspiration to read the Bible, at least one verse, everyday and meditate upon it.
So, for the sake of accountability, I will blog about whatever I read according to the commitment I have promised. And of course over time, rather from being a commitment (hence possibly looked as obligation), my prayer is that this becomes a discipline and second nature. The blog posts on this subject will follow the format above, which is the date in "SAF format".
Anyway, i've committed myself to read at least one verse per day or simply do my QT material. Not that simple actually. Anyway I thought I start simply by with the following verses:
And rising very early in the morning, while it was still dark, he departed and went out to a desolate place, and there He prayed - Mark 1:35
Earlier this year, when we decided to hold prayer meetings at an insane time, 7.30am every Sunday morning, I found a lot of strength to attend these meetings by drawing upon the example of the Lord Jesus Himself.
If you read this verse in it's context, you will know that it is probably very easy to just look over this verse as it is embedded in some other kind of text. But I think it's important to question ourselves why these "small verses" are there in the first place.
I think this verse shows that Jesus Himself did His "QT". And my prayer as I begin this challenge that Pastor laid down for us, is that I may find inspiration to read the Bible, at least one verse, everyday and meditate upon it.
Sunday, October 09, 2005
here we go again...
The retreat is over. It was much better than I expected. Got quite a lot of things hammered down, and it is really good to see everyone coming to a consensus. Unlike last year, where the discussion broke down at the last hour, I leave the retreat feeling a little more settled. The BBQ was a little crazy, but something I think a lot of us needed to just unwind.
Anyway, on night one, Daryl, AmBer, Ralph, Ryan and myself tried to set a record of sorts. I conjectured that it might have been possible to assemble a 500 piece jig-saw puzzle in 30 minutes. Wanted to try that out with the TOFU team as a possible game to play at TOFU, bad idea... ended up taking 2 hours! But it was good sense of accomplishment... I mean, who ever completes a 500 piece jig-saw puzzle in 2 hours?! Here is a picture of the "masterpiece".
And here are some pictures of the retreat and BBQ... try spot yourself!
Ber won the game of Risk we had just now... he had a commando army, always rolling a 6 when he is defending... sneaky one...
Anyway, found out that Sophie and Ber would be both going on exchange at the same time TO THE SAME UNIVERSITY!!! WOW! God is amazing! That really is something which I did not expect, but it is a blessing and a favour from God. I think that revelation tonight really set a lot of hearts at ease. Amazing!
Well, a new week is upon us. It's going to be another crunch week for me, a test on Wednesday, Science of Music and on Thursday, the Honours Introductory Talk. Was typing down some of my notes for the talk this afternoon, I wonder if I am trying to cover too much in too short a time. Well, have to include something substantial or it won't really be interesting. Anyway, like to quote U-liang:
Anyway, on night one, Daryl, AmBer, Ralph, Ryan and myself tried to set a record of sorts. I conjectured that it might have been possible to assemble a 500 piece jig-saw puzzle in 30 minutes. Wanted to try that out with the TOFU team as a possible game to play at TOFU, bad idea... ended up taking 2 hours! But it was good sense of accomplishment... I mean, who ever completes a 500 piece jig-saw puzzle in 2 hours?! Here is a picture of the "masterpiece".
And here are some pictures of the retreat and BBQ... try spot yourself!
Ber won the game of Risk we had just now... he had a commando army, always rolling a 6 when he is defending... sneaky one...
Anyway, found out that Sophie and Ber would be both going on exchange at the same time TO THE SAME UNIVERSITY!!! WOW! God is amazing! That really is something which I did not expect, but it is a blessing and a favour from God. I think that revelation tonight really set a lot of hearts at ease. Amazing!
Well, a new week is upon us. It's going to be another crunch week for me, a test on Wednesday, Science of Music and on Thursday, the Honours Introductory Talk. Was typing down some of my notes for the talk this afternoon, I wonder if I am trying to cover too much in too short a time. Well, have to include something substantial or it won't really be interesting. Anyway, like to quote U-liang:
If anything, I really wish sometimes that life is like geometry. Nice and straight, curving at right places and heading of to infinity. What’s more, geometry is beautiful.
Nice quote! But I doubt many would understand and appreciate it...
Friday, October 07, 2005
nice short break
Somehow, school hasn't really begun for me. Still feels like the holidays. I guess my evening classes timetable has got to do with that feeling. Anyway, had 3 free days this week due to the cancellation of Science of Music lectures. Well, that module is really fun! And I've got a new melody to try out for the music composition. It's not yet in 7/8, but I am going to morph it into 7/8, just watch!
Honestly, I really wonder who bright idea it was to have a 4 day break rather than a normal 5 day one. It's really confusing, although I admit that it is much better than having no break at all, which was the case in AY 2003/2004. Anyway, to explain how this 4 day thing works, before the break, we count the week starting from Monday, after the break, we count the week starting from Friday. So what happened was that I had an assignment due on week 10. Chronologically speaking, week 10 is next week. But under this system, week 10 does start next week, but it starts on Friday?! Confused?! Oh well, I have to look on the bright side and suddenly my essay has a 4 day extension. Not too bad, but just too confusing.
Today is the start of the YM committee retreat. I am honestly dreading it. I really don't want to attend any of these retreats anymore. And to be honest, I have half a mind to resign from the YM committee in June next year. About time many much more of the younger youth sat in the YM Committee and the older ones like me step away. But well, I still got to do what I am committed to do. I only hope people will be willing to listen with open hearts to avoid a repeat of what happened at last year's retreat.
Have new inspiration for a new video. Based on Ray Boltz's "Thank You for giving to the Lord". (The song can be found in the September 2004 archive.) Been listening to it over and over again the past few days. But in order to do this video, need the cooperation of quite a few people and would need to go back to Koon Seng Road to take pictures. Oh well, someday maybe... perhaps for next year's Youth Sunday.
Honestly, I really wonder who bright idea it was to have a 4 day break rather than a normal 5 day one. It's really confusing, although I admit that it is much better than having no break at all, which was the case in AY 2003/2004. Anyway, to explain how this 4 day thing works, before the break, we count the week starting from Monday, after the break, we count the week starting from Friday. So what happened was that I had an assignment due on week 10. Chronologically speaking, week 10 is next week. But under this system, week 10 does start next week, but it starts on Friday?! Confused?! Oh well, I have to look on the bright side and suddenly my essay has a 4 day extension. Not too bad, but just too confusing.
Today is the start of the YM committee retreat. I am honestly dreading it. I really don't want to attend any of these retreats anymore. And to be honest, I have half a mind to resign from the YM committee in June next year. About time many much more of the younger youth sat in the YM Committee and the older ones like me step away. But well, I still got to do what I am committed to do. I only hope people will be willing to listen with open hearts to avoid a repeat of what happened at last year's retreat.
Have new inspiration for a new video. Based on Ray Boltz's "Thank You for giving to the Lord". (The song can be found in the September 2004 archive.) Been listening to it over and over again the past few days. But in order to do this video, need the cooperation of quite a few people and would need to go back to Koon Seng Road to take pictures. Oh well, someday maybe... perhaps for next year's Youth Sunday.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
can't sleep
It's 2.15am and I can't sleep. Too full to sleep. Had a huge dinner to celebrate my Dad's and Sophie's birthday. Went to a place called Melt - The world cafe, at Oriental Hotel. Bascially the buffet spread included Japanese, Italian, Thai, Northern Indian and seafood. And the dessert platter was crazy! They had something called a chocolate fountain! Imagine "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" and you won't be too far off... decadence. Anyway the idea is similar to that of a chocolate fondue, take fruits / marshmellows / waffles on a satay stick and place them in the stream of chocolate... and you get this:
And here is a picture of Sophie and me next to the 2 chocolate fountains. It's those 2 brown colour structures on the left of the picture. The brown stuff is a continuous flow of melted chocolate; looks very much like the chocolate river in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". (Just some trivia, that chocolate river set in the movie was actually real, right down to the candy plants and cornetto trees!)
The scene of the crime...
dinner ended over 4 hours ago and I am still full... gosh.. not eaten so much in a long time! Anyway, I need to sleep, although tomorrow is a free day, still need to get that Topology assignment done, as well as the proof of the Heine-Borel Theorem! Going to count sheep or someting... then again.. the number of sheep in this earth is finite... maybe better to count natural numbers... at least that set is unbounded.
And here is a picture of Sophie and me next to the 2 chocolate fountains. It's those 2 brown colour structures on the left of the picture. The brown stuff is a continuous flow of melted chocolate; looks very much like the chocolate river in "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory". (Just some trivia, that chocolate river set in the movie was actually real, right down to the candy plants and cornetto trees!)
The scene of the crime...
dinner ended over 4 hours ago and I am still full... gosh.. not eaten so much in a long time! Anyway, I need to sleep, although tomorrow is a free day, still need to get that Topology assignment done, as well as the proof of the Heine-Borel Theorem! Going to count sheep or someting... then again.. the number of sheep in this earth is finite... maybe better to count natural numbers... at least that set is unbounded.
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Pictures of church
As promised some new pictures of church. Just taken this morning, 2 October. For the record, all these areas have been reopened.
This is what is left of peace cove. You can't really tell from the picture how much of the hall is left. But only about 70% of Peace cove is left!
The new rooftop open area.
The front view of the building.
This is what is left of peace cove. You can't really tell from the picture how much of the hall is left. But only about 70% of Peace cove is left!
The new rooftop open area.
The front view of the building.
Saturday, October 01, 2005
it was simpler back then...
Improving! HAH!
Anyway, it's going to be a long weekend for me. And a short week next week. Science of music lectures cancelled for both Monday and Wednesday. So I really only need to be in school on Tuesday and Friday next week. Well, have an essay to write as well as that music composition project to complete. Got a song done already, would submit that one, problem is it really sounds like "marching season" by Yanni. But I'm commited to do something a little out of this world and compose a song in 7/8. Sure will be fun.
Anyway, the 3rd floor of church has been reopened! Incredibly it's actually on schedule! God's amazing providence! Will take some pictures when I go to church and post it up here when I get more bandwidth from flickr.
School work I have to do in the coming week, or attempt to complete at least:
- topology assignment
- some parts of my thesis
- science of music essay
- science of music, MIDIcomposition
Well, sounds quite fun!
Children's day... yes today is Children's day. Been a very long time since I celebrated Children's day. Looking back at my childhood days, I remember it being really fun at times, and at other times, really stupid. I still remember in April this year when I returned to Amber Park for the BBQ, it brought back so many memories.
But the sad thing was that all the sand pits were filled in with cement. The old playground has been replaced from a wood and metal frame body to a plastic body with foam flooring rather than sand. So sad. I remember how we would dig large holes in the sandpit, cover them with newspaper and sprinkle fine sand over the newspaper to create traps. How we would race the various school buses from the main gate back to block 14 on our bicycles; and even cycling straight into the swimming pool a few times! (yeah... bicycle, clothes everything!)
Wonder if the children nowadays get to enjoy their childhood like that? Instead of having just one game console (Nintendo) they have a few choices, XBox, PS etc. Instead of having to switch over to Malaysian TV Channels to watch cartoons, they now have a few dedicated chanels on SCV to watch cartoons 24/7 if they so wish. Instead of playing "tetris" on a hand-held computer game device, they can play a few games from their handphones.
I remember meeting up with the old cycling gand at Amber Park. And we have all grown up now, some of them are studying, some have starting working and have decent jobs. And when we looked back at the past and compared it with the present, things just seem to complicated now. I remember one of them saying that "kids nowadays don't have a childhood". Yeah... they are bombarded with so many choices as a child, I really don't know how they can soak up all the pressure and just live the simple lifestyle kids had just 10 years ago. (And even to our parents, that lifestyle must have been complicated enough.)
How times have changed.
half way there...and living on a prayer
To answer Nat: Topology is a branch in mathematics concerned with the study of properties that are preserved through defomations, twistings and stretching. That is really to put it simply. It's a very interesting subject that combines several disciplines in mathematics. The two big ones would be abstract algebra and analysis.
At my level, which is still a low level, I study what is called point-set topology and a bit of (and I mean a little little bit) of algebraic topology. Basically, it's set theory but at a more general and abstract level and how functions "change" these sets. Hopefully that helps. I've added a new link below, to a site called Mathworld; you can check it out if you are interested.
Anyway, my day wasn't too bad... the test were alright. Problem was I kind of mis-read a question in my Graph Theory test, I proved something which although is significant, wasn't what was required in the questio. :(
Topology was a little better. Nice balanced paper, some questions were pretty obvious some were not obvious. But overall it was doable. Anyway, still have one more midterm to go, Science of Music in two weeks time. Then my introductory talk another essay, a MIDI composition project and the end of term test of physics. Then it's exams.
It's October already and half the semester is already gone. This year has really passed really fast, a whirlwind. It really seems like yesterday when I was involved in frantic preparations for a musical. Hard to imagine that was 6 months ago.
Two months ago, I tried to bring the point that "what is here today can be gone tomorrow" during the One Purpose Race. Unfortunately that station at Parkway was never reached due to lack of time. Anyway, the game was supposed to have the teams figure out the tenants of 6 locations in the late 1980/1990s period. These locations included the old Toy 'R Us, National Library, Long John Silver, Yaohan (anyone remember that??) etc.
The point I was trying to bring across was that people like places can fade away into memory. Those who are here today might suddenly be taken away tomorrow. We do not know how many of our friends may just be taken away from us when we least expect it. Worse still, how many may go without the covering of Jesus' blood. That is actually quite a sombering thought.
Before we know it, 9 months of this year has just whizzed us by. And in 3 months time a new year will begin and the whole cycle begins again. CORS will start again *groan*, timetables will get packed again, some of us are headed for NS, some of us are headed out of NS and into Uni or the working world.
Have you ever asked if there is any meaning in this life?
People Need the Lord
Everyday they pass me by
I can see it in their eye
Empty people filled with care
Headed who knows where?
On they go through private painL
Living fear to fear
Laughter hides their silent cries
Only Jesus hears
People need the Lord
People need the Lord
At the end of broken dreams
He's the open door
People need the Lord
People need the Lord
When will we realize?
People need the Lord
We are called to take His light
To a world where wrong seems right
What would be too great a cost
For sharing Life with one who's lost
Through His love our hearts can feel
All the grief they bear
They must hear the Words of Life
Only we can share.
(C) Words and music by Steve Green
(Please pardon the chessy title of this post)
At my level, which is still a low level, I study what is called point-set topology and a bit of (and I mean a little little bit) of algebraic topology. Basically, it's set theory but at a more general and abstract level and how functions "change" these sets. Hopefully that helps. I've added a new link below, to a site called Mathworld; you can check it out if you are interested.
Anyway, my day wasn't too bad... the test were alright. Problem was I kind of mis-read a question in my Graph Theory test, I proved something which although is significant, wasn't what was required in the questio. :(
Topology was a little better. Nice balanced paper, some questions were pretty obvious some were not obvious. But overall it was doable. Anyway, still have one more midterm to go, Science of Music in two weeks time. Then my introductory talk another essay, a MIDI composition project and the end of term test of physics. Then it's exams.
It's October already and half the semester is already gone. This year has really passed really fast, a whirlwind. It really seems like yesterday when I was involved in frantic preparations for a musical. Hard to imagine that was 6 months ago.
Two months ago, I tried to bring the point that "what is here today can be gone tomorrow" during the One Purpose Race. Unfortunately that station at Parkway was never reached due to lack of time. Anyway, the game was supposed to have the teams figure out the tenants of 6 locations in the late 1980/1990s period. These locations included the old Toy 'R Us, National Library, Long John Silver, Yaohan (anyone remember that??) etc.
The point I was trying to bring across was that people like places can fade away into memory. Those who are here today might suddenly be taken away tomorrow. We do not know how many of our friends may just be taken away from us when we least expect it. Worse still, how many may go without the covering of Jesus' blood. That is actually quite a sombering thought.
Before we know it, 9 months of this year has just whizzed us by. And in 3 months time a new year will begin and the whole cycle begins again. CORS will start again *groan*, timetables will get packed again, some of us are headed for NS, some of us are headed out of NS and into Uni or the working world.
Have you ever asked if there is any meaning in this life?
People Need the Lord
Everyday they pass me by
I can see it in their eye
Empty people filled with care
Headed who knows where?
On they go through private painL
Living fear to fear
Laughter hides their silent cries
Only Jesus hears
People need the Lord
People need the Lord
At the end of broken dreams
He's the open door
People need the Lord
People need the Lord
When will we realize?
People need the Lord
We are called to take His light
To a world where wrong seems right
What would be too great a cost
For sharing Life with one who's lost
Through His love our hearts can feel
All the grief they bear
They must hear the Words of Life
Only we can share.
(C) Words and music by Steve Green
(Please pardon the chessy title of this post)
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