Truly a God-send

I never imagined this was ever possible to happen to me. To others, yes. To me, well, not very high chances lah… But I really didn’t expect this to happen this Thursday.

Since I listened to Ps Keith’s sermon last Sunday about the importance of Christians to have a vision which propels us forward enthusiastically into each new day, I have begun to wonder every morning, why many of us (including myself) are so lacking in inner joy and living our days aimlessly, with little or nothing to really look forward to in life.

That morning is just like any other, which left me feeling empty, so I decided to sing a worship song to God to distract myself from thinking negatively. As I walked to the office, I wondered what would be that day’s highlight or would it be that morning’s meeting with the company Studio You Pte Ltd. This is the playback of what happened a few days earlier…

A few days ago, this lady by the name of Lois sent me an e-mail to enquire about the ENABLE fund which SNEF administers for companies who are willing to hire People With Disabilities (PWD). That was followed up with my reply e-mail and thereafter a call, in which a meeting was arranged for me to meet up with her to discuss more about how this funding scheme could benefit her company.

Normally I do not often take the additional effort to search for a company’s website to find out more before the meeting, coz I would usually have already asked over the phone or e-mail. But this time, I just felt a curiosity that probed me to search out this website… which I did… and through reading this website, it made me tear a little bit. It was touching, about how Lois struggled through tough times while keeping her faith in the calling that she received from God.

For those who would like to read her website, it is at http://www.you.com.sg.

This Thursday morning, I was to meet with her to share about the ENABLE fund for hiring people with disabilities. I had some difficulty finding the place as it was located at a side of Geylang which I and the taxi driver could not easily locate. Finally, I managed to see a familiar sign board and alighted from the taxi, only to find myself being directed to different directions by two different men.

As I was walking around, searching for the place, I turned round a corner and saw this lady walking up to me. I asked if she is Lois and with a sigh of relief, we introduced ourselves and walked to her office.

While walking to her office, I noticed that this is a rather run-down place, in terms of typical corporate office standards. There were wooden doors everywhere, some of them looking old and with their paint wearing off. In my mind, I was thinking – hmm… it is not easy working in a place like this… especially when corporate executives are used to working in high rise buildings, with lots of clear glass doors, fully air-conditioned walkways, nearby cafés and structured office work cubicles.

Suddenly my mind rang out, “Wait! Didn’t I recall seeing on the map that the YWAM (Youth With A Mission) building is situated right next to this building?” In my hope to strike up a conversation, I casually asked, “Is there a YWAM building located around here?”

Believe me, Lois looked surprised. She looked really surprised that someone would ask this question… or perhaps I read her facial expression as more like, “How would you know of this place, when this is such a secluded spot in Geylang?”

Lois turned to ask me how did I know of this place, so I paused for a moment, thinking whether it was a wise move to start sharing that I’m a Christian, when this is an official ‘business’ meeting. Well, it turned out that I did share that I am a Christian and Ross Tooley (from YWAM) came to speak at my recent church camp. Lois said, “Oh, that’s good!” And indeed, that question was successful in making initial conversation and I felt the ‘ice’ breaking after revealing that we are of the same faith.

As I entered her office, I observed that it was a humble dwelling; a simple office which showcased and allocated more space for the glass display cabinets than the actual space for her work station.

Lois asked if she could offer me a drink, which I obliged. It so happened that I glanced at her refrigerator as she opened its door to get me a cold drink… and I noticed that her refrigerator was rather empty with merely a few bottles of mineral water. My thoughts went like, “Wow… this is indeed humble living…”

Lois brought me on a short tour around her small office and studio, where I was introduced to 3 young people with intellectual disability. They were 3 of the 6 PWDs hired by Lois to work on making gifts for sale at shops around Singapore. In fact, the business is so good that Lois was hoping to hire more PWDs and give them a chance to work, but could not because of the lack of funds.

I was so carried away that I had forgotten to exchange my name card with Lois; and that was what we next did, before sitting down at the small table to discuss about the grant. It was fruitful discussion and I learnt about the nature of the business.

In the early years, Lois started this business because she prayed and asked God what He wants her to do with her life. God directed her to look to her interest, which was drawing and painting. And God specifically told her to hire PWDs to help her in this business; to give these people a chance to work and earn a living; in other words, to care for them.

After her struggle with doubt, Lois decided to take the leap of faith to start this company from scratch. It was a difficult time and I cannot describe this any better than how Lois herself shared over her website. She didn’t have any money at all, but she made her decision to obey God and trust Him to provide.

Several times over the past 5 years, she had met with tough obstacles in life that made her want to close this business. In fact, the SARS period was so bad that it affected her business for a whole 6 months! All these years, she has been running this business on her own and it has been very draining, both physically and financially.

She really wanted to give these PWDs an opportunity to work, but at a period of time, she had to let a few go because she just didn’t have the money to keep them on the job. My heart just went out to her, as she shared about how she would plow the business’ earnings into the small few hundred dollars income of these PWDs and giving them CPF even though she is not required to. In some months, she would go without a salary, as she does her best to help these PWDs continue to work and earn a living for themselves.

Lois shared that in her despair, she cried out to God for help and after years of prayer, God finally answered her prayers by allowing this grant to be introduced by the Government to help companies who are keen to hire PWDs.

This has been something that she has been praying for over the past few years and finally her prayers have been answered! She exclaimed excitedly that she felt as if this grant was designed just for her business and I was a God-send! Through me, God has answered her prayers!

I never felt so honored to be used by God. Nobody has ever told me that I was a God-send in their desperate time of need. She was overjoyed and I was just bursting with joy inside of being able to help, especially in this area of ministry.

Earlier that morning, I was just asking God about what I can look forward to each day when I go to work… and sometimes I have to handle companies who are crafty and try to work their way around the loopholes, so as to get more funding. Thus, I am really glad to have met Lois and upon seeing her passion, made me feel that if these PWDs can do this; God has given me an able body, so I can do more for Him!

Of all the projects that I have done so far in my job, I can foresee this project with Studio You Pte Ltd to be most satisfying, because it is really helping a company committed to train and employ PWDs and also being a testimony of helping a fellow sister in Christ fulfill her calling in life.

What really amazed and inspired me is Lois’ courage to heed God’s calling, go ahead and persevere despite many tough trials; holding the fort of this selfless giving of an opportunity for PWDs to have a chance to work. So that these PWDs can also find fulfillment and meaning in their lives.

After the discussion ended, Lois asked if I want to have lunch… so off we went to eat at this famous beef kuay teow stall nearby.

During our chat, I discovered much deeper as to why and how Lois came to start up this business. This is no secret to hide, for her story is listed on her website as a testimony for all to read.

Lois’ was previously a reporter at SPH. When she received a calling from God, she decided to obey and attended a 6 month Discipleship Training Program organized by YWAM. This program brought her to places around the world, where she had a chance to learn how to evangelize, both in theory and in practice.

When she returned, she found her Dad to be ill and took care of him for a year. After that, she asked herself what she should do with her life and that was how God directed her to start this business for the PWDs; which is still what she faithfully did till this day, sometimes even working for 7 days a week.

During our sharing over lunch, I shared about myself too and soon we found the conversation moving towards the topic about YWAM. I felt stirred in my heart to join the Discipleship Training Program, but I knew that now isn’t the time yet. But I enquired more and Lois was glad to share with me. She even invited me for this 5 days 4 nights YWAM gathering at Batam in September, which I am considering whether I can go.

I was so hyped up that almost every bit of my heart was calling out to me to join YWAM in training and ministry. It was through my experience with Lois that I felt that I had discovered a reason to go on in my daily life… that making a difference in a way that God has called and equipped me to do, is of utmost crucial to giving glory to Him and giving me fulfillment in life. I really wanted to live for Him and make my energy count for a good cause.

I wouldn’t call it a discovery of a vision yet, coz I am still unsure of which direction to take in my life, but all I knew was that I wanted to move up to the next level in my faith and transformation in Christ. And I want to thereafter inspire and lead others to the same level as I am. Be it playing my role as a brother, son, husband, father or friend, I really want to experience a faith in God that goes beyond what I know and am capable of now.

In fact, I grew even more passionate to the point where, while walking home one evening after work, I prayed and told God that when I go to Heaven to meet Him in the end, I want Him to prepare a work for me to do up there for Him, so that He will be glad and glorified, and I fulfilled in Him.

All these may sound like big talk, but I do hope that I can rise up to the next level of faith and relationship with God. And when I have done so, be able to lead my wife, children and others to Him as well. Dear God, please help me. Amen.

A Book About My Life

I have been toying with this thought for the past 2 weeks. It's just a feeling that I should write a book about my life. Not that I have lived for decades, but it's never too late to start. If I were to wait till I am 70 years old, I wouldn't even be able to see and type this small fonts into my PC!

In fact, I have been having thoughts about becoming a free lance writer, as and when there is an opportunity to do so. I love writing, be it about personal testimonies or about the lives of others. I have read about normal people who write a book just to share about their life and as a testimony... and somehow they were surprised that there are actually people who actually want to read it!

For me, perhaps I am like such category of people, hoping to share a story or two, as a form of expression of myself and a testimony to others, especially my future wife and kids... hoping to live an account for them to remember and live by. And possibly even my grand children who can read about and know their grandfather.

Besides, I am been rather consistent in my Blog, so some parts of my life have already been shared. Maybe I can use these Blog entries for a start... It would be quite an accomplishment and satisfaction to finally publish a book of my own!

Rough Week

It has been a rough week for me. I got scolded by my Dept Head four times in the consecutive four days. Lack or miscommunication is a very real issue when it comes to project work in a team. Furthermore, wrong or misassumptions can be a very dangerous implication that could lead to unhappiness and irritation among project group members.

This morning, as I was working as part of my scheduled working Saturday, I received an SMS from my Dept Head, apologizing for being rough on me this week. I replied that I understood the stress that is placed on each of us, with tight deadlines that we are faced with, as part of our project work. Furthermore, he is the one who has to answer to the Executive Director, so the stress is even greater for him.

I thought about it after replying his SMS and realized that it is not easy for someone who is of higher position to apologize to me. Besides, even if it is odd to apologize face-to-face (knowing the ego of men), it is still an effort which I do acknowledge and appreciate through an SMS.

Oh well, working life is not easy… especially in my job when I have to relate with people from all levels of all sorts of companies, be it from a cleaner, all the way up to Managing Director. Really a people-related job… but I learnt a lot.

Elfie's Sudden Death

My beloved hamster Elfie passed away yesterday. I do not know how it feels like to gasp for its last few breaths before its heart stops beating. But it must have been a scary thing, considering that we only die once in our life. And more so, since Elfie was all alone by itself, while my whole family was out at work.

The night before, I came home astonished to see Elfie lying limply on its side, with absolutely no strength to move at all. After spending about half an hour, it would occasionally twitch its nose, despite its motionless body and slow breathing, as could be seen from the rising of its tiny rib cage. I was so afraid that it would die…

After dinner, I spent almost 45 minutes trying to revive him and even said a short prayer for it. Elfie didn’t even respond when I put him into a very shallow amount of water, in case he was feeling the effects of the excruciating heat from the hot weather during the day. I dried him, as I usually did, with 3 pieces thick of tissue paper and placed him back into his usual cage.

For the next few hours, Elfie still laid very still. After some time, to my great joy and delight, he slowly began to move slowly around his cage! I was thankful, as he began to crawl on my hand, as usual, when I picked him up to ‘sayang’ him. I thought he was recovering and I thanked God for it. Rebecca was relieved too.

The next morning, I popped my head into the balcony to check on him, before I left for work and Elfie still responded to my voice. I felt assured that he would be okay; especially since I had made an agreement with my Dad that his cage would be brought into the hall during the day, so as to avoid the heat of the day.

21st July, Friday. I returned home at night (after meeting Rebecca for dinner) to find Elfie lying as still as before, but this time dead, with its eyes still open. I peered and clapped to see if there is any life left in him, but there was none. His rib cage had stopped moving too. According to my Mum, she came home to find Elfie dead already, so I figured that it must have happened during the day, when nobody in the family was around.

I felt a stronger sense of emptiness that I felt the night before, seeing Elfie lying so still and weak. Up till now, I still have no idea why this happened. Was it really the heat? It couldn’t be the food coz I have always been feeding it with the normal hamster food, with occasional treats. Thinking about it last night, I guessed that it must have been the heat.

It drove home the point that hamsters do not like the sun, especially when it is shining directly on it. Furthermore, it is not advisable to place the hamster into a plastic or glass container because the lack of cage grills causes heat to be trapped and retained in the container, which would affect the hamster. Underlying this, hamsters are nocturnal creatures… so obviously it doesn’t like the sun!

It has been a sad time for me and Rebecca… but more sad for me, coz I have been taking care of Elfie for 8 months now. Furthermore, Elfie was Rebecca’s Christmas gift to me last year.

Both of us decided to buy another hamster to take care, for it is indeed a joy to take care of a pet at home. This idea of having a ‘Fantastic Four’ at my home came into my mind this evening; of which comprising of the husband (me), wife (Rebecca), children and pet. I think this would make a great combination for a warm, cozy and relaxing home together. Definitely something that both of us are looking towards. May God bless us, as we move into this phase together. Amen.

My DISC Results

After reading one of Rebecca’s e-mails recently about her DISC personality profile, I decided to take an online test for myself too. I had taken this DISC test before, but it was 1 – 2 years ago… and I had forgotten my results already.

D = Dominance, I = Influence, S = Steadiness and C = Compliance. This free online test can be found at http://www.mtselect.co.uk/testing/results.htm.

After clicking through a long list of questions, my results showed that I was a high ‘S’ and ‘C’ person. Similar to Rebecca! And my scoring was D = 12, I = 16, S = 40 and I = 32.

The following summary gives a general personality profile of me:

Dominance = 12
People who score in the low range:
~ tend to want peace and harmony.
~ prefer to let others initiate action and resolve problems.
~ are quiet and indirect in their approach to most situations.
~ are usually cautious and calculate risks carefully before acting.

They are generally well liked because of their mild and gentle nature. People will tend to see them as being patient, calm, thoughtful and a good listener.

Influence = 16
People who score in the low range:
~ are usually socially passive.
~ quite frequently have an affinity for things, machinery and equipment.
~ are generally comfortable working alone.
~ frequently have a tendency to be analytical and once they have sorted the facts out they communicate them in a straightforward direct way.
~ tend to take little at face value.

They may well have learned and developed good social skills but they only bring these into play when logic dictates such tactics.

Steadiness = 40 and Compliance = 32
People who score in the average range are likely to possess and display a mixture of the traits and behaviours associated with both high range and low range scores. A well balanced mix of the best of both ranges. People who score in this range are unlikely to be 'extreme' types.

The two extremes are:

Steadiness

Low Range (0 > 30)
People who score in the low range:
~ tend to enjoy change and variety in their work and non-work life.
~ are expansive by nature and tend not to like routine and repetitive work/activities.

They enjoy stretching themselves intellectually and physically.

High Range (69 > 100)
People who score in the high range:
~ are usually patient, calm and controlled.
~ have a high willingness to help others particularly those they consider as friends.

Generally they have the ability to deal with the task in hand and to do routine work with patience and care.

Compliance

Low Range (0 > 30)
People who score in the low range:
~ are independent and uninhibited.
~ resent rules and restrictions.
~ prefer to be measured by results and are always willing to try the untried.

Free in thought, word and deed, they long for freedom and go to great lengths to achieve it. They feel that repetitive detail and routine work is best 'delegated'.

High Range (69 > 100)
People who score in the high range:
~ are usually peaceful and adaptable.
~ tend not to be aggressive.
~ tend to be cautious rather than impulsive.
~ avoid risk-taking.
~ act in a tactful, diplomatic way and strive for a stable, ordered life.
~ are comfortable following procedures in both their personal and business life.

Finally, a summary of a person with high steadiness and compliance; also found at http://www.discusonline.com/UDISC/highsc.html.

High Steadiness and Compliance

'Technical' Profile

Profiles of this kind, showing both high Steadiness and high Compliance, are often referred to as 'Technical'. This term is used in its broadest sense; people showing this type of behavior are suited to jobs such as accountancy, computer programming or engineering, because their approaches combine accuracy and precision with the patience to work at a problem until it has been solved. They are interested in producing quality work, and will often go to great lengths to ensure that the results of their efforts are the best they can possibly achieve.

Calm and rational in approach, this type of person often has a better understanding of personal or emotional issues than might be suggested by their relatively detached demeanor. They are not assertive in style, and will rarely offer input in a group situation, or act in an independent manner.

Relating to Others

This rather passive style often finds it difficult to relate to other people, especially in unfamiliar settings, because they need to know exactly where they stand before they feel able to act. While they value friendships and strong relations with others, this factor is often disguised by an apparently aloof and reserved style. In order to interact effectively with others, this type will look to more direct and outgoing styles to initiate and take control of interpersonal issues.

Common Abilities

As the name 'Technical' suggests, the particular talents and skills of this type lie in the areas of complex systems and procedures. Their high Steadiness lends them patience and a degree of persistence, while their correspondingly high levels of Compliance bring an interest in order and precision. In combination, these factors reflect an individual with strong potential in broadly technical work. Because of their interest in quality and productivity, it is not unusual to find people of this kind who possess special skills or knowledge, especially in the 'technical' areas described.

Motivating Factors

A consequence of the patient, precise style of this type is a need for time to plan and execute their work to a standard with which they can feel satisfied. They will wish to work steadily at a project, and dislike interruptions or distractions from the task in hand. They will also seek certainty, and need to be sure that the work that they are doing conforms to the expectations of their colleagues and managers.

A more subtle aspect to this type's motivation is their enjoyment of positive relations with others. As we mentioned above, this fact is unlikely to be clear from their somewhat reserved and reticent demeanor, but they like to feel accepted by other people, and can be surprisingly open in style in a favorable environment of this kind.

Soothing Our Feet

Ever since the time (about a month ago) that my Mum brought into my room a long container to soak my feet, I have grown to love this excellent method of relieving the tiredness from my aching feet, especially after working and moving around for meetings as part of my work.

Personally, I think this is a great way of soothing my feet and the soothing tingling feeling after this ‘treatment’ just drives me nuts! I just love this relaxing sensation! And it’s very easy – just pour warm water into a long container / pail that is big enough to fit in both feet… and there you go! A relaxing feet therapy at almost no cost at all! To ‘spice’ it up, adding one single drop of lavender oil would top up this wonderful experience! Try it! =)

A Mum’s Prayer

One night, about more than a week ago, Rebecca suddenly called me to share about her nightmare about someone coming up from behind or sideways to stab me, without me knowing. She woke up afraid as she seldom has nightmares. I steadied myself to hear her out, but soon I began to feel afraid. I prayed for us before we put down the phone.

Even though we had prayed, I still felt afraid. So I went to my Mum’s room to share this with her. At first she shrugged off the idea, until I told her about some of my past real life encounters with the spiritual realm. After chatting for awhile, I went back to my room to sleep.

I was still afraid as I prayed and prayed on my bed. After awhile, to my surprise, my Mum came into my room to lay hands to pray for me! At that moment, I felt so overwhelmed with comfort! For that short one minute or so, I felt like a child once again, being prayed for by my mother. After her prayer, my Mum told me not to think about it and go to sleep… which I did.

When I woke up the next day to go to church, I still felt touched by her gesture and sent her an SMS to thank her for praying for me. I just loved the feeling of comfort when my mother prays for me. And this is the first time (I remember) that laid hands to pray for me! I just felt the presence of God come down upon me, giving me so much peace and comfort!

I also recall that when I was a child, I also had nightmares. My Dad would lie next to me on my bed until I fall asleep. Thinking back, it was such a warm and cozy feeling! I really miss being a child to them, now that I have grown up. I hope to be a parent who is able to do next time too… God help me… Amen. =)

Umbrella as a Tool

About a week ago, I made an interesting discovery while walking to office one morning. It was raining and I quickly took out my umbrella after alighting from the bus. As I sheltered myself through the rain, I caught sight of a young female walking hurriedly from the bus stop to seek shelter.

Somehow I felt prompted to offer to shelter her to the nearest building, which was actually my office building. Before I did that, I hesitated because I was a little late for work and I needed to rush to tap my card to register the time that I reported to work. Sheltering a stranger in a rain would most likely slow me down… and I was already a few minutes late.

As thoughts flowed through my mind, I found that I could not help but respond to the strong prompting. Whether this has anything to do with impacting my life or her life, I do not know… even as I am typing this Blog more than a week after this had happened. But who knows… God’s ways are higher than our ways, even though I may not be able to tell, now or ever.

Thus, I turned around and motioned with my hands, whether she would like to share my umbrella. She agreed and I sheltered her to the nearest building. As we walked, I asked where she was headed… coz my mind was half contemplating whether I should help all the way, by sheltering her to where she wanted to go. But deep in my heart, I was panicking coz I was already late.

My heart smiled when she replied that she was working at the same office building as I was! I think that I must have seen her once before, though we never spoke. Suddenly I realized how useful an umbrella could be as a tool to open up an opportunity to speak to someone and hopefully even share about Christ.

Yet for this instance, the time was just too short to speak much. It was merely a 2 minute walk to the building, so I just didn’t have the chance. Thus, I didn’t say much after asking where she was going; then remained quiet.

She thanked me upon reaching the building and I nodded in acknowledgement. I was late for work… and still wondering how this ‘going the extra mile’ would constitute anything at all, except showing a little kindness of sharing an umbrella. But it opened up my mind to realize that there are actually little things that we can use to reveal opportunities to strike up a conversation with someone, even if it was just one or two sentences. Hmm…

Seizing the Opportunity

God has been faithful… and once again, He has given me an opportunity to testify about His work in my life.

This morning, I had the opportunity to chat and get to know my colleague Steven during a long taxi ride from office to Sentosa to meet with a company. As our taxi drove pass a school compound, I looked to my left and recognized that it was actually the school compound of SAJC, my junior college which I had spent 2 fabulous years there.

River Valley High has taken over the SAJC compound, much to my despair, as I watched the taxi drive by… remembering the times when I was back in JC. The school compound still looked the same as before, except that it no longer was the JC which I learnt many precious lessons in the earlier days of my life.

Turning aside my unhappiness, I decided at the spur of the moment to share with Steven about how I was declined a place in this school, but God miraculously provided a way for me to re-enter SAJC after spending 3 heart-melting months with a group of Christians from SFC.

After a few sharing, Steven still looked expressionless… but I reassured myself that it was a good effort that I mustered up courage to testify of God’s goodness and plan for my life. It was one step taken to be bold about sharing about what Christ has done in my life… and how I have been transformed over these years.

I am not perfect (in fact, far from perfect), but nevertheless, it would be a complete lie if I or anyone can say that I have not changed any bit all these years, for the change in me has been gradual, with ups and downs, yet significant enough for me to recognize God’s hand at work in my life.

One Chance Each Day

The past 3 days have been good, for God has honored my faith and choice to testify about Him in my life. Since last Sunday night, when I sat and prayed on my bed, making a conscious and intentional decision to re-commit my life to God, telling Him that I want to love Him and asking Him to give me just one opportunity each day to testify of His goodness or reflect a part of His character… God has indeed let this come to pass!

And since then, each day when I live through, I have been presented with one opportunity to testify or reflect His characteristic to my colleagues. Strangely, I begin to feel a warmth in my heart that I have not felt in a long time. A warmth that just comes forth from the willingness and joy of putting Jesus first in my life.

Thinking back, I have unconsciously begun to practice the ‘JOY’ example which Uncle John had shared with me last week. In order - J = Jesus, O = Others, and Y = You. By choosing to put Jesus first in my life and staying in view of His commandment to share about Him, I have slowly began to experience a quiet sense of joy which I just love! Praise You, Almighty God!

Having Faith in a Miracle

Ever since last Sunday when I made a commitment to God to begin serving as a befriender in church, my life has begun to change bit by bit. Firstly, it was my intentional effort to refrain from opportunities that I may fall into sin. Secondly, it was a growing keenness in wanting to share and bring others to know Christ.

That Sunday, when Uncle John shared about the opportunity to sign up for an upcoming ALPHA course to learn how to share the gospel to non-believers, my heart was hesitant, as I wasn’t sure whether I should go for it… or whether I should just sign up at the spur of the moment. So I chucked this thought aside in my mind and stepped into a brand new work week.

I have the habit of reading a book on the bus journey to work every morning. This Monday morning was no different, except that I was reading another book also written by Rev Ross Tooley titled ‘Following Jesus’. When I bought 1 of his book during the recent church camp, somehow I felt an urge to place an order for his other 3 books (1 book was written by another author John Sherrill). At that time, I wasn’t really sure why I did that, except that perhaps I wanted to ‘hear’ more from him, after listening to his inspiring sermons during the recent church camp.

As I began to read this book, I began to start missing him… and miss hearing his sermons. He is really a fatherly figure which just listening to him share God’s word, makes me feel secure, comforted and very at ease. I recalled the scene of him waving to me and Rebecca from the window seat of the other coach, as our buses drove to our church camp site. At the back of my mind, I seriously wondered if I would ever see him again in my life.

That morning on the journey to work, I read the first 4 chapters of his book… and though simple to read and understand, I couldn’t tell if it was impacting my life in any way, except that I enjoyed reading about his spiritual testimonies. Little did I know that a small change had started to stir within me.

Before I left the office at about 7:45pm, I decided to check my personal e-mail. One of the e-mails which I read was sent by Uncle John, reminding us about the ALPHA course and that those interested could contact him to register. At that moment, my heart stirred as I read the e-mail… I didn’t know why, but I decided to brush the thought aside, while I read the other e-mails.

The stirring thoughts refused to budge… and I found myself struggling with the decision to whether or not to go for this ALPHA course. I searched my heart and realized that it was urging me to go, so I decided to take step of faith to go for this upcoming ALPHA course. Once I set my mind on it, the feelings of excitement slowly flooded in… I couldn’t comprehend it.

So I looked at my calendar and to my horror, the date of the course was on the Saturday that I was roster to work! I calmed myself down as I decided to ask my department colleague sitting next to me, requesting if he would be kind enough to swap his Saturday duty with me, so that I could attend this seminar. He said that he wasn’t sure and could only give me an answer tomorrow. I tried not to think about it and left the office.

By the time I had boarded the bus; my interest in attending this course had increased even more. I began to feel so compelled to go because now I felt it strongly in my heart that this is something that I want to attend and learn from. This is what I wanted. So in my next desperate effort, I sent an SMS to another department colleague, asking if she is willing to swap Saturday duty with me. She replied that she has already made an appointment and apologized. My heart sank after reading her SMS reply.

For the whole evening, this thought was unsettled in my mind as I was worried if I could find someone who would be kind enough to swap Saturday duty with me. My thoughts swirled to pessimistic thoughts like maybe some of the colleagues are selfish and don’t want to help me… and how hurtful I would feel, if I had asked all my colleagues even from other departments and not a single one of them is willing to help me.

In another desperate effort, I sent another SMS to my Dept Head, asking if he would be willing to swap Saturday duty with me. For the next few hours, there was no reply… and I was feeling disheartened. I really wanted to go for the ALPHA course. Even though I have no idea what kind of sessions it would be, I just felt very strongly that I wanted to go for this course.

My thoughts swayed to what I read from a previous book also written by Rev Ross Tooley… and he shared about how he wanted to earn and save up enough money to buy a ticket to board a slow moving boat to a country to evangelize as a missionary. He worked hard, but each time he earned some money, God urged him to give part of it away to someone in need.

The final day came when this boat would be leaving for this country… and Ross didn’t have enough money. He had some money, but it was short of a few dollars and he didn’t have anyone to turn to. Similarly, he encountered pessimistic thoughts like why did God ask him to give away some of his money and now he ended up with not enough to buy a ticket to board this boat.

He was downcast, but decided to pray in faith, pack his bag and travel to the harbor to board this boat, even though he was (if I remembered correctly) about $16 short. During the early days, $16 was a lot of money. To cut the long story short, it turned out that God did provide him with a means to board this boat, even though he didn’t have enough money… and he was on his way to that country to serve as a missionary!

I recalled Rev Ross’ testimony of how God provided for him, including many other instances, especially for someone like him who has served for over 40 years as a missionary, without drawing a salary… and God never let him starve.

His testimony gave me hope and I prayed earnestly that Monday night, with still no reply from the SMS that I had sent to my Dept Head. He was the last person in my department that I could ask. If he refused, then there will no one else in my department whom I could swap my Saturday duty, coz the rest of them are also scheduled on the same working Saturday as I was.

I sent an SMS to Uncle John, telling him that I wanted to go for this course, but I had Saturday duty and I am trying to find a colleague who would be willing to swap duty with me. I sent an SMS to Rebecca to pray for me too.

That night, I sang a few worship songs and prayed. And when Rebecca sent me an SMS to encourage me to pray for miracle, I went on my knees to pray, asking God to open a way for me, so that if it is His will, I will be able to attend this course and learn how to better share about Christ with non-believers, be it at the workplace or elsewhere. I prayed in faith that God would grant me my heart’s desire.

If looked upon from a different angle, this may seem like any normal Christian seminar, so why am I putting myself through all this just because of a course like this? I don’t even know what exactly would be taught at this course! Yet all I knew was that my heart felt warm and I wanted to learn how to better share Christ with others.

I went to sleep and woke up the next morning, still without any SMS reply from my Dept Head. I was still thinking about it on the bus to work, while reading Rev Ross’ book again on the bus. In my mind, I was all ready to apply for half day leave, if there is no one else willing or able to swap Saturday duty with me. Why I am willing to sacrifice half day of leave just because of this course, I still did not know… but I knew that the prompting still urged me to go for this course.

Nearing the bus stop that I would usually alight, I decided to stop reading the book because Ross’ testimony was too inspiring and it overwhelmed me so much so that I had to put down the book. Besides, I was nearing my office, so I should get ready to go down the bus. After keeping the book into my bag, I suddenly felt a sense of overwhelming presence just envelope me!

Tears began to appear at my eyes because I just felt so moved from what I read from Rev Ross’ book. I looked outside the window and blinked and blinked, trying to clear the tears by blinking so that the other commuters in the bus wouldn’t wonder why this guy suddenly started to tear after putting down his book.

Right after the tears had cleared, I immediately received an SMS in my mobile phone. Looking at it, I saw that the SMS was from my Dept Head! I hesitated, not knowing how I would react when I opened and read his SMS. I clicked the button and the message read, “Ok. Put up the form.” Short and sweet.

At that moment, tears began to form at my eyes again and I returned to my blinking at the window, occasionally looking here and there, so that the drivers in the cars next to the bus would not look up and wonder why this guy is tearing while looking out of the bus window…

I just felt so touched because God had answered my prayer! I had to wait all night to receive this SMS, but when I finally received this answered prayer, it was so overwhelming that I started to tear again! I was so thankful to God for answering my prayer for I had prayed hard the night before.

I quickly took the opportunity to display a testimony to my Dept Head by sending a reply SMS stating, “THANK YOU! God answered my prayer! =)” And later my Dept Head sent back an SMS with a smiley face indicating his acknowledgment!

While walking to office, I sent another SMS to my other colleague, telling her that God has answered my prayer after I had prayed hard last night. She responded happily too. I did the same verbally to the colleague who was seated next to me at my desk area. He didn’t show any signs of being happy, but I am glad that he knew why I am going through all these trouble, so that I could attend a Christian seminar.

I really thank God for answering my prayer and through the process; I had testified to two colleagues that God had answered my prayer and two other colleagues that I am going through this hassle so that I could attend a Christian seminar! I really hope this could be a start for repeated influence and impact as a Christian in my workplace. To God be the glory! Praise the Lord! =)

My Next Step into Befriending

After stepping down from serving in the Youth Ministry about 1 month ago, I took my next step of faith to give myself a chance to serve in the befrienders ministry. I am encouraged by Uncle John’s passion and joy in welcoming visitors into the church, as well as sharing the gospel with colleagues and inviting them to church.

This example reminded me of a phrase that I had read in Rev Ross’ book titled ‘Following Jesus’ stating – “You can teach what you know, but you only reproduce what you are.”

As I begin this new area of ministry, I pray that God will teach and guide me as I commit myself to serve Him in this area. Amen!

No Dumping!

I passed by a sign while going for lunch this afternoon. It reads ‘No Dumping’… but I misread it as ‘No Dumpling’! Hahahaha… I really had a good laugh… =)

From Yellow to Green Light

It was 7th July 06… and I had arranged to meet up with Rebecca’s Dad for dinner that evening near our workplace. After much contemplation for quite some time, I finally managed to gather my boldness to speak with him about my relationship with his daughter, Rebecca.

I wasn’t scared, but more of cautious about how I should approach this topic with him, for this is the first time that we will be discussing this issue officially and clarifying any issues face-to-face at the dinner table.

I didn’t really rehearse what exactly to say… and looking back, 99% of the words that came out of my mouth were not even planned at all. I am just so surprised how this turned out, especially with both of us feeling tired after a long day of work.

In fact, I was afraid that he would be too drained to discuss this, but I had already did my best to consider this by choosing Friday coz it was the last day of the work week, thus trying to bank on the realization that both of us can forget about work till Monday comes again. Thankfully, the dinner and discussion went well… and both of us seemed rather at ease during the chat.

My other reason for not really rehearsing is because I wanted my words to come forth as honest and natural from my heart. I didn’t want to plan for it as if I was preparing to make a presentation to some corporate client or think up a strategy to twist things around to work for my benefit. I don’t do this kind of thing… and even if I could, I wouldn’t want to do it… coz I sincerely want their blessings for me to be with Rebecca. Relationships should not be about cheating or scheming. I just want to be myself, honest and true to people. I don’t want anything to be covered up. I want to lay out all my cards and seek their approval honestly.

And that was what I did. The dinner and chat with Uncle John at Ah Meng Café lasted from 8pm to 9:30pm. Thereafter, he needed to go home coz he promised to bring Amos downstairs to play basketball.

As like any normal conversation, it began with the casual talk about work, family, etc. Uncle John asked me how I find my work and whether I enjoy it. I said that I do enjoy my work (though later on I did mention that I hope that I would get a pay increment at the end of my probation).

Uncle John asked if I am planning to further my studies and I said no because further education is too expensive and it doesn’t guarantee a job, neither does it necessarily equip me to do my work better, since business degrees are still general and management in nature, rather than technical or skill related. I don’t see the point and I prefer to have better use for my money.

Uncle John also asked whether I read books and what kind of books that I read. I shared that I read both fiction and non-fiction, be it Christian and general topics. Among other topics, I mentioned that I am particularly keen about military books such as books on the Vietnam War. Partly it is due to a bit of influence from my Grandfather and my Dad… this is what I shared… but this could also be attributed to the nature of movies that I watch too, for example Rambo, etc.

After we finished our food and settled down comfortable with our remaining half drunk glass of drink, I took the cue of sudden silence to put forth my main reason for giving him a dinner treat this evening. Partly, it is because Uncle John gave me a treat before I left StarHub at this café, so I wanted to give him a treat too, now that I have found another job. But more specifically, it is because I wanted to take this opportunity to find out about his view towards my relationship with Rebecca for the past 5 years. I hesitated in sharing plainly that we hoped to get their blessings to get married coz I felt that perhaps I should let him speak first, in case there were any differences or misunderstandings that we may need to clarify and sort out.

After I had said that, Uncle John paused for about 1 – 2 seconds before asking me two questions in unison. His first question was “Do you like her?” I said yes… and his second question was “Do you love her?” I said yes without even blinking. Thinking back, I found my response quite astonishing. Its not that I wasn’t telling the truth, but rather it was more of how smoothly and comfortably I answered his two questions in union over just a mere 2 – 3 seconds in total. I guess I must be so convinced that I didn’t even blink or think. Yeah, I do like and love her.

Thereafter, Uncle John began to share with me some of the important attributes that I should have, if I am looking forward to marriage. Firstly, he shared that it is most important that both of us love God. If this criterion is not met, any relationship will be difficult to work out. My guess is that because God is out of the relationship, an ignorant couple will be deliberately shutting Him out of their relationship / marriage… and if this is so, how can God work to change their hearts and ways to make their relationship / marriage better?

Uncle John emphasized that it is not so important whether the other person is the right person for you. But rather, if both people love God, the relationship can be worked out. With that, he asked me to ask myself if I love God. I replied saying that our step towards holiness is a lifetime journey. It isn’t accomplished overnight. To me, what’s important is that I am humble and willing to be changed by God.

He went on to say that money is not the issue when two people consider getting married coz if both people love God, things can be worked out and to live simply. He shared this phrase – “We live simply, so that others may simply live.” Having said that, he altered the phrase into his personal purpose in life, and that is – “We live simply and help other to simply live.” That is his heart and calling, to help others with what God has given him.

One other thing that he shared was about how to have joy. JOY stands for Jesus, Others and You. That is the order in which we should live our life. Thoughtful consideration, be it with people or your own spouse. In addition, he also shared that the reason why Jesus spoke in parables is because only those who are ready will understand. And I believe God will reveal things to me over time too.

Uncle John also said that it is good that we attend talks on marriage coz that was what he used to do with Aunty Molly before they got married. I shared that Rebecca and I want to, but there are very few of such talks nowadays, except pre-marital counseling. But we are reading up on Christian books and will look out if there are such seminars or talks about Christian marriage.

The next issue that Uncle John brought up is about being financially independent of our parents. That we should live according to what the Bible says about a man and a woman leaving their parents and cleave to one another. Likewise, when Rebecca and I are planning to get married, we should plan to start our own home and family… sometimes coming back to visit our parents. He does not encourage us to live with either side of the parents… and I reassured him that we plan to have our own home and my parents also advocate financial independence and not borrowing money from them.

Third and lastly, Uncle John shared that when I marry a person, we don’t just marry this person, but we marry the entire family. This means that it is important to get to know the person’s family and relatives… not to isolate from them. In my case, I should come by to visit Rebecca’s family. I shared that I am keen to do so, except that sometimes it is late and I don’t wish to disturb the family. This is my frank and honest sharing with him. On the other hand, Amos tends to be hyper-active when I am around in the house and would refuse to do his homework.

Uncle John smiled and acknowledged my sharing. I was surprised that he told that when he was courting Aunty Molly, even when it was late, he still made it a point to come into the house to talk to the family members. And for me, I could make an effort to send Rebecca home earlier, so that I have more time to interact with her family. And if Amos is distracted, Uncle John told me that I can actually scold him or tell him to do his homework. Wow… I was surprised that he said that!

As a whole, these are 3 general issues that were brought up and discussed. I am glad that Uncle John approves of me and Rebecca planning to get married. As I sometimes use this example to tell Rebecca - we have passed Phase 1, which is working out our relationship together. Now we have passed Phase 2A, which is getting our parents’ approval and blessings. Thus, we are now at Phase 2B, which is preparing for marriage before finally reaching Phase 3 where we actually become a married couple. May God show us the way to prepare for this… Amen!

Towards A Slimmer You!

With the encouragement and support of me and her family, my sweet Rebecca has finally decided to pursue her long-time dream - of getting slim through slimming treatment! It was quite an experience as I helped her to search the Internet for info and reading up brochures.

Finally, she decided to go for the Expressions slimming package! With the advice from her sister... and support from her Mum sitting right next to her... she got a fabulous package! I'm so glad for her!

Through this process of accompanying her, both of us also learnt more about the sales tactics of these beauty consultants... It has been a fruitful experience! Thank you, God! =)

The Father Heart of God – Our Fruitfulness

This is the last sermon topic for this year’s church camp. Rev Ross didn’t preach what he had initially planned to speak about, but instead re-wrote his sermon just the day before so that he could share with us about his heart-felt concerning about self-talk in our daily lives.

Causes of Wrong Behavior

Rev Ross shared that BEHAVIOUR à EMOTIONS à SELF TALK à WRONG ASSUMPTIONS OR LIES. Often, our underlying issues lie in the wrong assumptions or lies that we have chosen to believe! And some of these lies, can be rather big and serious lies, which Rev Ross terms as ‘King Lies’.

He shared that one of the worse King Lie is that God doesn’t care if we sin because Jesus has already paid for our sins. This can sometimes happen in my thoughts, so it is definitely something that I would want to bear in mind. God help me…

Cheating for the Sake of Money

Rev Ross advised us that if our business needs us to lie or cheat to make money, then change our business! What he said next stunned me…

He said, “You can’t take your Mercedes or swimming pool with you during the Rapture! But if you bring people to God, they will rise with you! Am I weird? I’m not weird!” In his 40 years of ministry, Rev Ross has helped, ministered and trained up many Christians… and till date, 75% of them are still serving God faithfully, some even at far away countries!

I still vividly remember him saying, “I’m not weird!” Yeah, I was inspired by him!

He went on to say, “If you build trust, soon you will make a lot of money… because people trust you! You can’t do business without trust!” Wow… that made a lot of sense to me…

Illustration of Guilt and Sin

Rev Ross also shared this illustration about lust, saying, “Can you imagine Jesus logging into the PC and surfing pornographic websites?” Immediately my mind shouted a loud “No!” Yup, this is not something that I would want to do either.

Understanding the Grace of God

Finally, Rev Ross referred us to Titus 2:11-15 and shared that this grace is not just forgiveness… but this grace is ALSO a POWER that lifts us up above our sins! So that people around you can see and say that this person belongs to God!

Praise God for His wonderful revelations during this year’s church camp! Oh boy, am I looking forward to the one next year! I heard it is in December! Yippee!

The Father Heart of God – Our Fullness

Signs of the End of the Age

When Jesus’ disciples asked Him about the signs of His coming and the end of the age, Jesus replied, saying “And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” (Matthew 24:14)

In addition, Rev Ross also shared another verse in 2 Peter 3:10 that Simon Peter said, “But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare.”

But note the next two verses! It’s a startling discovery for me!

Influencing the Day of Jesus’ Second Coming

2 Peter 3:11-12 says, “Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming…”

Speed its coming! The Bible actually tells us that we can quicken the day of Jesus’ second coming! Yet Rev Ross warned as that if we can speed it up, we can also slow it down! I was shocked when I heard this. How do we slow it down? By refusing or procrastinating in sharing the gospel throughout the earth.

A Touching Video Clip

During this sermon, a short few minutes video clip was shown to all of us and the last few words just moved me to tears. I felt strongly that those words were speaking to me. And the ending words were – “Come back to Me… and I will throw the biggest party that Heaven has ever seen. Love, your Dad, Almighty God.”

This video clip was taken from the website ‘The Father’s Love Letter.com’

Sick of Words; See a Life

Rev Ross shared that non-believers are sick of hearing words about Christianity, unless it is backed up with changed lives. I guess that makes all the difference to us Christians. As the Bible says that faith without deeds is dead, so it is if we go around merely preaching the Word, without our lives being transformed by it.

The Father Heart of God – Our Faithfulness

How We Grow Cold To God

Rev Ross shared with us that faithfulness stems from fellowship. In a relationship with another person (be it our friend, parent or spouse), there are two ways that we can do to grow cold to this person. (1) Keep away from the person or (2) Become pre-occupied with other things. Soon, we would find ourselves drawn further and further away from this person. And if this applies to our spouse, being away from him / her could mean risking a higher chance to being tempted or distracted by something or someone else.

The same applies to our relationship with God. We cannot be faithful to God without having fellowship with Him. If we keep away from Him or get ourselves obsessed about other things, soon we will find ourselves falling further and further away from Him. May this be a reminder to all of us.

The Nature of a Relationship

Surprisingly, this could be a point which startles some of us. For the nature of a relationship is communication. Ever try building a friendship or relationship with another person without any form of communication? Its just not possible, for this is the essence of how a relationship is formed, be it with God or Man.

If we are in close fellowship with a person over a period of time, it is possible to know / feel the heart of the person, e.g. when or what makes a person feel sad or unhappy.

Having a Plan for your Family

Rev Ross shared that business people take effort to make their 5 or 10 year plan for their business… but why is this not happening with our families? When I heard this, this firmly impressed on my mind. This is something that I would want to do and commit to God.

The Father Heart of God – Our Intimacy

Rev Ross Tooley began his first sermon that Sunday (18th June) at our church before we set off for Bangi. Thinking back to that day, I was surprised to find myself tearing at the last worship song after listening to his heart-moving sermon.

Similar to most preachers that I have heard, the sermon has its mix of humor and serious issues. Except that for Rev Ross, it was dry humor and his personal life encounters.

Harmony and Fellowship of the Trinity

His first message centered on the Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit; and all 3 lived in harmony with each other. Neither party was lonely which was why God chose to make Man. Rather; it is because the Trinity was experiencing such joy of being together that they wanted to create Man, so that Man can likewise share in the same joy as them!

Rev Ross brought to our attention that this how it should be for us, be it as a church congregation or as a married couple. God created us so that we can share in this joy of fellowship. He went on further to share that because this unity is important, a husband should not be going around serving God, when his wife is unhappy from a disagreement at home.

In other words, the family is also an institution intended by God to also reflect this fellowship, this harmony and this joy. Failing which, we would not be living our life in a way that reflects the true meaning of the Trinity.

In fact, this example is true in the case of Rev Ross, for he actually encountered this incident before with his wife, leaving her crying, while he left to preach God’s word to others. He learnt a lesson and never did that again to his wife. The next time that happened, he kindly requested for another ministry staff to take over the pulpit because he wanted to tend to his wife, even if it took all morning. I was very encouraged when I heard this part of his sharing.

How not to Evangelize / Relate to People

Rev Ross went on to elaborate further that because the joy of fellowship is intended for us to also share in, friendship or relations with people should not be by force. You can make someone your friend by forcing him to be your friend. You don’t have a wife by forcing a woman to agree to marry you at knife point. Likewise, evangelism should not reflect aggressiveness or coercion. In other words, we don’t force people to believe in Christ. For God doesn’t beat us into submission, but He loves us into submission.

A God that Created the Heavens and the Earth

Along his sermon, at times Rev Ross would side track to share a particular life experience that he faced with. One of the stories he shared was a time when he walked past a Chinese idol shop and decided to take a look inside.

He started a conversation with the shop attendant and asked her what the name of a particular idol statue is. She replied that it is called ‘Guan Gong’. Interested to find out more, Rev Ross asked that lady to tell him more about this Chinese god, so she went on for about half an hour, telling him about this god… and that it was one of the gods that the Chinese pray to. If I remembered correctly, this lady also shared that there is a hierarchy among the gods which the Chinese pray to… that some gods are higher than others.

When that lady ended her sharing, Rev Ross took the opportunity to share about the God that Christians believe in and that this God created the Heavens and the Earth… and everything else in it. After sharing for awhile, he stopped to ask that lady about this god that she prays to… this god that is hidden behind two candles. He asked, “Did your god make the Heavens and the Earth?” That lady was silent for she knew that this god did not. And I guess that made a strong impact in that lady’s mind. Amazing testimony!

Laughter was Created by God for a Reason

Rev Ross also shared that medical science has shown that laughter releases chemicals that boost our body’s immune system and helps to fight diseases. This is a God who knows us because He made us and loves us, such that He even gave us the ability to laugh, with good lasting effects!

He said, “Try asking a person how is it like to laugh, when he has never laughed before.” I don’t quite understand what this statement means, but I know that God has us in His mind and even intended something as simple as laughter to be good for our bodies!

Seek Ye First His Kingdom and His Righteousness

This was the verse that spoke to me very strongly when I heard this from Rev Ross’ first sermon at church. In fact, this verse stayed in my mind throughout the entire church camp! Again and again, this verse kept on reminding me of what I should do, and how I should guide my daily thoughts and my worries. And I really thank God for giving me this reminder and impressing it so strongly on my heart.

This verse impacted me because I have been struggling with how to earn and save up enough money to get married by the end of next year. Every now and then when I go to work, I will be thinking about when my pay day is coming, so that I can see my bank account savings increase a little more.

Another thought was my uncertainty of whether I would get any or how much pay increment once I have been confirmed in my job. It’s money, money, money. Not because I’m greedy for money, but I really wish to have this financial stability so that I can finally settle down with Rebecca and give us a good life… even for our saving up for children too.

God reminded me that I should not get carried away with scrapping for every little bit of resources that I can stinge. Instead, God wants me to seek and obey Him… and He will provide for me when the timing is right. I should not lose sight that God is my provider. I’m not a provider for myself or anyone. But through me, God provides for me and others in my life.

What We Should Offer To God

Sometimes it comes down to the basics. Micah 6:6-8 says that God requires us to “… act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Three characteristics - (1) Justice, (2) Merciful and (3) Humility… I think I should really reflect and start praying that God will help me to develop these three characteristics in me.

Fellowship Is Love

Rev Ross pointed out that we may not have a lot of money, but if we have a lot of friends, we are richer than a rich man. What’s the point of having a lot of money, but all enemies? For God’s gift to us is fellowship and fellowship is love. And He desires us to share in the joy of fellowship and love. I really hope to embrace this, as one of my weakness is resentment from being hurt by people, even Christians. Dear God, please help to change me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Clinging Onto Heavenly Bliss

Many and countless thanks to our Heavenly Father for allowing me to attend this year’s church camp from 18th – 22nd July 06 at Hotel Equatorial at Bangi (near Kuala Lumpur). It has been the most fruitful and amazing experience of hearing the revelation of God’s truth and soaking in the presence of our Almighty God.

From the bottom of my heart, I would never trade any of these 5 days of church camp for any other 5 days which I had over the past few months. I meant this during the camp and I still mean it, despite it being several days after returning back to Singapore and resuming for hectic working life.

By God’s grace, the speaker, Rev Ross Tooley (from New Zealand) made a tremendous impact in my life. A man of 60 years of age and a father of 4 children, 3 of them grown up and 1 still 15 years old; his sharing through his sermon sessions have been most inspiring to me. Rev Abel Thomas was there too with his wife, but they were rather aloof… letting Rev Ross ‘run the show’… after all, they were invited guests and Rev Ross is the camp speaker.

Two-Morning Informal Mentorship

Lastly, I gave myself the opportunity to be a short two-morning informal mentorship with this young chap by the name of Kenneth. I can’t remember if he is in Sec 2 or 3... And I don’t recall seeing him in the Youth Ministry either. But then again, I have always had problems recognizing faces and names, so I’m not at all surprised. Hmm…

It was just two early morning sessions of QT together before breakfast, but I was glad to have experienced this mini-mentorship with him. He’s very quiet though, and not very interested in the group games too… just like how I was when I was his age. In fact, even at this age, I’m still not very interested in ball games. It’s just my preference. I prefer a different type of sport… individually challenged kind.

Still Relatively A Stranger To Adults

Although there were still many church members whom I do not yet know… and by far, this is one aspect which makes me feel uncomfortable at times, especially when I get cold or ignorant stares from certain people. Perhaps this could be because some people respond defensively or ignorantly towards people whom they do not know, thus regarding me as some sort of a stranger.

In fact, a few adults have come up to me and asked why they have never seen me before in the church! And my typical answer would be because I don’t attend the second church service, which comprise mostly of adults. Oh well, I guess there is bond to be occasional interpersonal issues like this, when it comes to people, after all, everyone is different and each perceive others differently.

Difference From The Last Church Camp

Nonetheless, I got to talk a little more with Rebecca’s Dad in this camp and made friends with this young secondary school chap who was assigned to be my room mate! He has just received Christ and shared with me that he is very keen on bringing his other family members to church! Praise the Lord!

On the other hand, I also got to spend a lot more time with Rebecca, compared to the last church camp that was two years ago at Damai Laut. At that previous church camp, I could only spend time with her occasional during meal times, just a short while before we went back to our own rooms to rest for the night, as well as the short 2 hours jungle trek together with the other Young Adults.

This time, it was A LOT different! I suppose God saw that I would be lonely and still have some difficulty making friends with so many strangers whom I do not yet know. So this time, Rebecca and I had the chance to sit next to each other during the coach ride, attend the same discipleship group, occasional together eat at meal times, attend the sermon sessions together, go on a massive shopping trip at KL Mega Mall for 4 over hours, as well as chat outside her room and at the hotel lobby every night! How could I ask for any more than this? In addition, I managed to get to know a few more adults… and even managed to request for prayer from the speaker before we left for Singapore!

Taking Holy Communion As A Couple

In addition, Rebecca and I had the privilege of going forward for Holy Communion together and be prayed for by our Sri Lankan Pastor – Rev Sunil and his wife! It felt like a new experience, almost as if we were standing before God, while the pastor prayed and blessed our marriage. In fact, my thought was confirmed when Rebecca and I happened to be sitting at the lunch table with that same pastor and wife! He asked when our ‘big day’ is and I replied, “When God provides the money.” Upon hearing that, Ps Sunil laughed and said, “Don’t worry, if you want to get married, get married and God will provide the money!”

I was very glad to hear that my church pastor approves and in fact, encourages Rebecca and I to get married! I mean, after all, we are not very young anymore and have been in a stable relationship for more than 5 years. But up till today, I’m still pondering about my pastor’s words about us going ahead to get married and let God provide us with the money. Is that supposed to be a hint to trust God, since He is the One who instituted and intended marriage between a man and a woman? Plus my parents approve of this, Rebecca’s parents approve of this, my church pastor approves of this, our relatives approve of this… so its clear already, isn’t it? Coz Rebecca and I are serious about each other. Okay then… let’s move ahead with our plans!

First thing first – the HDB flat. Come to think of it, it’s quite exciting to embark on this new journey together and it would be indeed thrilling to look forward to planning and organizing this event of our lifetime together! May God guide us with His wisdom and bless us with His manifold blessings! Amen!

Nonsensical Skit Script

Finally, another highlight of this year’s church camp was my group who acted out a horrendously ‘nonsensically confusing’ script which totally doesn’t make sense! We finally, after much discussion, decided to call our group ‘The Incredibles’. Plus our group cheer was odd too… and I received a few comments that we sound like we are saying out a Maori cheer. Hmm… but it was an experience. At least now I know that I cannot act for nuts! Hahahaha…

Staying In The Presence of God

Upon reaching home, I just felt like I have left Heaven and returned back to Earth! How much I just long to wake up early every morning, have a quiet and short morning devotion, sing praises to God amidst the church congregation, listen to a 1-2 hours inspiring sermon! I wasn’t really keen about the games and neither was it really about feasting on hotel buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner; but I really looked forward to just singing in the presence of God and soaking myself in God’s inspiring truths and revelations! I just didn’t want to leave His presence! How I wish I could do this every single day of my life!

Away From Mobile SMS and Calls

I didn’t use my mobile phone for any of the 5 days of church camp and I felt most thrilled about it! Plus, I didn’t have to face any PC which would strain and affect my eyesight too. During the church camp, there were several occasions when I just teared for joy from seeing familiar faces coming forward for prayer, especially those who were pretty messed up and wanted a change of heart.

A God Who Can Change Hearts

I also teared when a mother came forth to speak to the congregation, telling them that God touched her heart and right then and there, she publicly apologized to her husband and daughters for her hurtful words said all these while. When I saw that, I really teared and my heart just melted. At that point of time, I knew in my heart that it is INDEED God who can change hearts. There is no one too sinful or problematic that God cannot change and turn things around… even for a mother with several children and inflicting many years of hurt and pain.

Just like the song goes… “There is no problem too big, God cannot solve it. There is no mountain too tall, He cannot move it. There is no storm too dark, God cannot calm it. There is no sorrow too deep, He cannot sooth it.” Praise the Lord, O my soul… for You are good and worthy of praise!

Over my next few Blogs, I will share about these precious and treasured lessons which have stayed in my mind since those few days when the words strongly ministered to my heart. I have indeed begun to perceive my life in a different way now. All thanks to our loving Heavenly Father who has made this possible for me.