BU4 DUMC Cell Group

Arrival of Ethan Chong

2009-04-24T09:24:00.000-07:00

G'day All,

Just a quick note..

Terence & Emily Chong our beloved cell leader have not graduated to being parents with the birth of a healthy Ethan Chong, born at 2.52pm, weighing in at 2.92 kg on the 24th of April 2009.

Mommy, Baby are resting.. .while Daddy is taking it all in :D

Congratulations once again.. Join us in prayer and thanksgiving to the Lord for this new arrival of another Creation of God.

The Lord bless you all abundantly.

My Journal for 20 April 2009 - Anson's Entry

2009-04-20T10:08:00.000-07:00

Scripture: Nehemiah 6-7:3

*Hanani – means God is gracious

Observation & Partial Application:

Tobiah/Sanballat/Noadiah were causing lots of confusion as mentioned in the earlier part of Chapter 6 of Nehemiah, but in spite of all this intimidation, Nehemiah looked up to the Almighty God at every single cost (6:9) and was able to answer boldly against all these nonsensical intimidation against the rebuilding of Jerusalem's wall (6:11) because God's hand was truly upon Nehemiah.

Yes, the wall was fully done up by day 52 – verse 15 explains that the enemies and the surrounding kingdoms were terrified NOT BECAUSE OF MERE STRENGTH OF MEN but rather, the STRENGTH OF GOD ALMIGHTY.

Chapter 7:1-3 can strongly be equated to the typical contemporary worship team that in days of old, were a DEAD SERIOUS MATTER – they held a SERIOUS position alongside keepers of the gates of Jerusalem's wall. Not much was said about Hanani/Hananiah but through God's word, he rightfully was appointed as the commander of the citadel because of his unwavering faith in the Lord God Almighty. Just like the citadel needing an RIGHTEOUS and RELIABLE (R & R) commander, so do nations need rulers and governors and heads of state, as well as companies and corporations who need leaders who are likewise with Hanani.

RESPONSE:

Dear Lord, I pray, entrust and commit myself to You for You alone are always the source of wisdom as You were to Nehemiah, and Lord, looking at every single area of my life (even the tightest of circumstances), let not my soul be downcast to my point of worry and agitation, but instead put its trust in You alone, the Rock of my salvation. In Your precious name, Lord Jesus I pray. Amen.

Journal Entry 16th April 2009: What if I am called to do something else?

2009-04-16T10:19:00.000-07:00

Scripture:
Neh 3:5,27
5 The next section was repaired by the men of Tekoa, but their nobles would not put their shoulders to the work under their supervisors.
27 Next to them, the men of Tekoa repaired another section, from the great projecting tower to the wall of Ophel.

Observation:
Men of Tekoa? Who were they?
I'm reluctant to reflect on this not because it pokes a needle in my side.. but more that I remember Snr Pastor sharing something about this. Probably it's his influence in my life. eh?
However my observation may be different.
Who were they?
the Men of Tekoa were a motivated entrepreneurial group that rebuilt an important section of Jerusalem while simultaneously protecting their families in a time of conflict.

Throughout this chapter of Nehemiah, it records many ppl involved in the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem. Firstly financed by a pagan king, secondly, overseen by a cupbearer, built by NOT wall builders, but carpenters, diamond makers, goldsmith etc etc.

And they built it in record time!

Application:

I ask myself this question.. if the men of Tekoa and all the other ppl could build the wall which is out of their field of "expertise", did they do it with passion or without passion. The Men of Tekoa did.. they did 2 things instead of one.
So I believe if they have passion, knowing the purpose of building the wall, even though it's not their field of expertise, they put their heart mind and soul, and body into it. Spear in one hand, Trowel in another...
Do I work as hard on God's call in my life as hard as I work?

I seriously do want to. I thank God for Vineyard, thank God for what he wants me to do.. at the same time..I am scared lah.. heheheh

Response:

Lord cast out all fear in my next step, as I endeavor to respond to YOUR call in my life. Whom you call you will equip and as I remain in You.. I know I will be equipped.

Journal Entry 14 April 2009 : Want Something? Build Relationships

2009-04-14T10:00:00.001-07:00

Scripture:

Neh 2:4-5
The king said to me, "What is it you want?"
Then I prayed to the God of heaven, 5 and I answered the king, "If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my fathers are buried so that I can rebuild it."

Observation:
Nehemiah was a cupbearer and the King could have ignored Nehemiah's "emotional state" yet, the King didn't, the King had concern for him. Probably Nehemiah did build this fantastically trusted relationship with the king, since Nehemiah did perform tasting of all the food/drink before the King.
In that short moment, Nehemiah "prayed".. what was his prayer? we don't know, but I am sure he didn't burst forth in tongues.

It sure teaches us that in every situation that is a reason and a need for prayer.
A prayer he believes that the King will be moved to honour, shows the trust of the King in Nehemiah (probably due to relationship built over the years), in actual fact later... the King provided for the building of the walls.

And it sure shows how much confidence Nehemiah has in God to use him to build the walls! A Cupbearer building walls??!?! Indeed the faith of Nehemiah.

Application:

We're all asking God for one thing or another, have we prepared in our hearts what we should ask for. Are my motives in check before I ask? Have I built that trust and close relationship with God so that I know for "whatever I ask in His name He will grant it" ?

Asking and knowing what you receive is always based on relationship, between anyone, God, myself, and to others.

Response:
Lord help me build my relationships with those around me, so that I know what to ask of You for them.

Journal Entry 12 April 2009 : Easter Sunday, You Call Me By NAME!

2009-04-12T09:51:00.000-07:00

Scripture

Mk 16:7
7But go, tell his disciples and Peter, 'He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.' "

Observation:

I find that as I have read this scripture and heard it being read so many times.. it's a bit dry to me. but, I have a question.. why say " Disciples and Peter" ? What is that distinction that the angel was saying? Is it perhaps a special reminder for Peter about his self-abdicated state of leadership amongst the disciples?

Peter must've still been grieving in guilt. And this was the beginning of his reinstatement.

Application:

God continues to share his care for Peter, as he does each day for all of us. As His children who may have strayed, said the wrong thing to offend someone, to lie, to deny truth etc etc. He says.. come back all's fine. Just don't do it again..
I need to continue to seek God as my forgiving saviour, who reinstates me and learn from these daily mistakes. He neither condemns me, nor does he want to be separate from me.

Response:

Lord thank you for being just you! For loving me, loving us so dearly, that you call me by NAME!

Upcoming Street Ministry & Easter & Good News!

2009-04-10T23:17:00.000-07:00

Just an announcement for the cell and readership. :)

As part of ongoing teambuilding and relationship building, we're always looking forward to outreach service based activities, to help ourselves and in any little way helping others.

Tomorrow is Easter Sunday (12th April), and the cell (probably a small group) will be going to Carey Island to meet with the Christian community there (the Mahmeri folks) who will be celebrating Easter.

The team departs from Dream Centre at about 2pm. for more details email Terence Chong. :)

on the Saturday, 2nd of May afternoon , we're once again going to Urban Street fellowship on the 2nd of May. Program is still the same.. serve and hopefully connect with people there.
Details please email Paul.

Terence will be busy around that time as he and his wife will be expecting their first baby!!! So continue to pray for them.

That's all for now.. take care and God Bless

Journal Entry 10 April 2009 : Good Friday.. Wisdom to answer ? Focus on the task ahead

2009-04-10T23:03:00.000-07:00

Scripture

11Jesus answered, "You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin."

12From then on, Pilate tried to set Jesus free, but the Jews kept shouting, "If you let this man go, you are no friend of Caesar. Anyone who claims to be a king opposes Caesar."

Observation

Jesus always spoke the truth for He knew what He was to endured, as He had already accepted the "cup of suffering".. This cup was offered to be taken away so many times.
The pain He felt at that time would have been already excruciating, and I'm sure the temptation to give up would be great.

But Christ held on to His belief and answered in wisdom. v11

Pilate had a "chance" to redeem himself, however he didn't. Thank God he didn't but at the same time it shows the character that Pilate was. A People pleaser. How many times have we become a people pleaser? and compromised on doing the right thing.
In this situation doing the right thing would actually have been the wrong thing. I believe that this teaches us to have a bigger picture on things.

Application:

Efficacy is the word. Doing the right thing with the right motive at the right time to achieve the desired result. Christ, didn't just "allow" himself to be led to the "cross" but he plotted that this would be the death to experience as according to scripture. I admire Jesus' resolute to the goal. He knew he too would rise form the dead, but that separation from God was too much too bear. What about myself? Am I able to suffer for my faith. I scaredly and sadly say no. But I do want to have this mindset.

Response:
Lord let my heart respond as ho you'd want me to respond. Amen

Journal Entry 7th April : No shortcuts.. Just Follow Jesus!

2009-04-07T11:32:00.001-07:00

Scripture
Jn 12:27-28
27"Now my heart is troubled, and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour'? No, it was for this very reason I came to this hour. 28Father, glorify your name!"

Observation:
"Now my heart is troubled" .. what's this mean?
Jesus troubled? Why not? He was man after all. But since he knows all that's going to happen why be troubled?
After all, He's gonna be ressurected.
But I do believe being human at the same time, he knows what it's like to experience pain.. even more excruciating pain. Even at the last moment He said "Let this cup of suffering pass over me"
He still had a choice to avoid the suffering, but He still chose the Father's will over his own comfort, suffering, and even His own glory.

Application:
Do I take any shortcuts when faced with troubled times? Do I push the buck when the going gets tough?
I am tempted many times, and even considered them. I want this verse to be a reminder to me about such times and say "Father Glorify Your Name" .. not that I become a dumb sacrifice, but a meaningful sacrifice. The Lord will surely rescue me and turn the situation around. Commitment to a daily life of seeing beyond the present.. Live for the eternal treasures

Response :
Lord thank you for your your example in life. If it had not been for you all of us would perish, because we would not have a role model like you. Thank you Lord.. teach me to gain perspective like yours!

Journal Entry 6th April 2009 : Miracle or Miracle Maker?

2009-04-06T07:16:00.000-07:00

Scripture
John 12:9
Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead

Observation:

I seem to be asking myself about my motivation and people's motivation. Even today I asked about what's our motivation in evangelism. Do we seek it for our Glory, God's Glory, for ppl to love us or for God's love towards them?
We must be careful not to be overzealous in sharing God's word that it becomes offensive. Yes, God's word is not offensive, it's us who makes His word offensive. If something is offensive, it should be our delivery, or a hard heart.
Anyway, people came to see the miracle maker (Jesus) , or the miracle (Lazarus) or both. How often are ppl enthralled by a flashy show? How often are we?

It's just like today we seek the gift and not the giver... How do we as His ppl remind ourselves of this important fact and motivation.
I see the difference in
a. Lazarus, Mary & Martha had a relationship with Jesus
b. The ppl who came to watch the spectacle did not..

At the same time it is an attraction factor.. an invitation to get to know Him.. and not just stand there to be enthralled. Walk into God's presence and expect a touch from Him.

Application:

I must see beyond the gifts and things I've received from Him. I must build this relationship with Him. That even as "miracle" after miracle that I experience with Him, is enough evidence of a wonderful God. And how it can be a testimony to invite them into this marvelous relationship with Him. My life motivation, must be simple pure and easy to understand, that they will be drawn to my wonderful Lord Jesus Christ

Response:
Just a closer walk with thee, grant this Jesus is my plea, daily walking close to thee.. Let it be dear Lord let it be.

Journal Entry 31 March 2009 :What's My Intimacy Level?

2009-04-02T18:19:00.001-07:00

Scripture
Heb 10:22
Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us fom a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water

Observation:

God continues to call us to draw near to Him. There is a whole theme of union with Him throughout the Bible. The Communion, The Cleansing, His Glory is also ours etc etc.

He asks for our sincerity, as true & close friend, like a person whom we turn to at all times.

The song "Yesus (Kau Sahabatku)"

Whom do I turn to in troubled times? Am I hungering for God (as this true friend) that there's this desire to commune and communicate with Him daily.
We should know that His words and counsel are always wise and just right for us.

Application:
Sadly my time with Him is not as intimate as I'd like it to be.My journalling affair has dropped from a daily affair to about 3 times a week. It shows that I am not intentional with my time with Him. The intimate times with the Lord isn't like the times I spend with my wife each night before I sleep.
Journalling has become a mere reading and not writing it down. I think some of the things do crowd different times in my life. Like work, a hectic work schedule.
Perhaps waking up earlier in the morning is a better option for me. Or At night 1130 to 1200 (before I catch my Retro shows .. heheh)

It is an intentional time to journal because mornings is not the time when my Brian is working.

Because I MUST agreed that in HARD times, what stands out most apparently is our character that is built in the times spent before. This exercise/tool of journalling is building the bricks for our character as we reflect each day. It is God's direct word for me.

Response:
Lord... help me journal EACH and EVERYDAY!

Journal Entry 29th March 2009: A Clean Conscience

2009-04-02T03:46:00.000-07:00

Scripture:
Heb 9:14
How much more, then, will the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself unblemished to God, cleanse our consciences from acts that lead to death, so that we may serve the living God.

Observation:
It is once again this basic truth (Christ shed his blood for us), on which salvation is based upon. He died to make us clean & clean us internally of the past, present and future sins. He also cleans our structure (internally) along with our conscience.
We find ourselves saying (including many people) "I let my conscience guide me"
But have we scrutinised our conscience lately? Is my conscience clean?
Do I serve with a clean conscience or do I SERVE to clean my conscience, because I think I have the capability to repay God of this debt (but in actual fact I can't ever repay it)

Application:

How is God's work pricking my conscience? I have to constantly remind myself that the benchmark for my life is His Word and Law. I need to check my conscience and hear what it says and compare it with the WORD. Is my conscience guided by the Holy Spirit. Does my conscience revel or rebel when the fruits of the spirit are produced or not produced? The result of a clear conscience is marked by the fruit of the Holy Spirit & Not WORKS!

Response:
Lord I want to grow the fruit in my life intentionally. My motivation & conscience needs to be pure. Help me grow in these areas in my surrender to you.

Journal Entry : 25th March 2009 : A Test of My Spirit

2009-03-26T03:55:00.000-07:00

Submitted by Paul Sebastian :D

Scripture :
1 John 4:2,3
This is how you can recognise the Spirit of God. Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God,
But every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world.

Observation:
God continues to call us to tests things/spirits on our own. As Christ lives in us His Spirit shows us how to decipher the good and bad spirits. Peace & Joy should be an overwhelming theme of our lives because He lives. Peace at all times in all circumstances, good and bad times

Application:
What is the proclaimation of my life? Do I accept the whole theme of Christ and all that He has done, doing now and going to do. His life, Birth, Living, Teaching, Miracles, Showing and Applying Truth, Dying, Forgiving, Rising from the dead, Now In Heaven, Intereceeding and Judge.
What I see with my eyes and belief in my heart must testify of His truth, peace and love. To be sure of how my life is being lead, it is a test of my own spirit, my own heart.. He therefore must live in me.

Response (in prayer)
Lord I give you my heart, Let my heart not wander. Let Your truth guide my heart and mind. When I speak the truth, I want to speak it boldly, as people see Your truth being applied, they will see You are the way. And I will be able to testify and atest to Your great work in my life, and stand the tests and not be misguided by the Evil one.

Street Ministry 31 Jan 2009

2009-02-02T17:35:00.000-08:00

Over the past Chinese New Year many of us cell members balik kampung except for those whose Kampung is in Klang Valley, and we were invited by our dear zone pastor, Pastor Soo Seng Fei, to join him in ministering to the street people in the Klang Bus Stand area. (This was our 2nd time coming for Street Ministry)

As many as 70 ppl turned up for this Chinese New Year street gathering.

Here's a few pictures of what we did.

Pastor Seng Fei, Sharing the message, with Boo Seng translating.
a very apt message from John 4:43 - 54

About the healing of the official's son.
He spoke mainly about the need of healing not just of the body but of our spirit and soul.

We too pray that they will receive healing in their lives for the many hurts and hardships they
face each day.

Ppl attending the service listening to the message.

Street fellowship or KL Urban Fellowship service is run every Saturday at 7pm. The service is to share the good news with them and to especially network with them.
Most people come here to look for a place to fill their tummies, receive a little something and enjoy good fellowship.
Those sincerely looking for a job also come here everyday that the centre is open.

It is indeed a tough job giving them what they need and not just handing out food and money to them. Because this ministry intends to help each person get back on their feet again.

We as a cell group went out to help with leading worship and translating the message. We are not well equipped or have the personality/passion (YET) to serve them. We might end up doing more damage than good, because we don't fully understand what is actually good for them.

Our brother Steve Yew (a former street person himself) heads this ministry and I am amazed at his energy, commitment in running this place. We pray that more and more people like him will rise up to serve and improve the living of the persons who need help.

It was good to make a few new friends, though some of them were shy to speak to us. We hope to go back there and see them again and see them get better and regain dignity and independence in their lives.

We arrived at 510pm to setup the place and prepare a simple ice breaker, i.e. for them to look under their chairs to find an angpow just for them.
All angpows contained scripture, with some of them containing some money.

Our team comprised of the following persons
Paul & Emily, Terence & Emily(Mei), Boo Seng & Lizzie, Chin Yee, Anson, Gary & Kyvern, Hanieff

Chin Yee & Boo Seng were involved with translating from Cantonese to Bahasa for the introductions, prayers and message.

While Anson & Paul were on guitars, Emily, Kyvern, Lizzie & Terence were singing, Gary played drums, Mei on Tambourine, Hanieff on Projector slideshow.

We led all the ppl present in worship, with songs like
Segala Puji Syukur (Soraklah), Chin Chia Ho, Goa Ia Sor Chin Ho, Yang Terutama, Kau Tuhan.

We have much to learn about leading people into worship especially in a tongue that is unfamiliar to us.

Yet, we thank God for the responsive hearts.

Pastor led everyone in a time of Word and prayer, and praise God many responded.

We rested that nite, thanking God for the help and opportunities He's given us to see and be more in touch with the people who are less fortunate than us. It brings us back to earth to see that there are many with needs and we should respond to these needs.

Lord Bless you all.

A Christmas With BU4

2008-12-14T18:30:00.000-08:00

(photo taken from Stanley Woo's Facebook)

We had our first Community Event within our neighbourhood. It was indeed an event organised on a short runway. With much help from the BU4 Residents and 4 other cell groups, we managed to pull off the event. Ultimately, we can only attribute this to God's enablement.

We started organising this event when Helen (Tai Ka Che) of the BU4 Resident's Association (BU4RA), called me up surprisingly one day. She spoke to me (Paul) as if she knew me. So I was left confused if I had ever met her.

But Helen, being her friendly self, explained later that she had never met me before. Indeed this was off to a good start.

We the cell jumped at this opportunity to be a part of this Community event to bring Christmas cheer and to share the Peace and Joy of Christ. Like any event, has it's moments that "it's going to happen or not" but.. Thank God it all "jadi" in the end. Because God's on our side.

With participation from Wan Tee, Amy, Andrew + Georgia & Justin's Cell group, we had a sizeable choir. Each group of about 15 ppl (give or take 5) along with a few of the BU4 kids.

On the 13th of December, we proceeded with Caroling at 9 houses in BU4. In spite of the earlier rain, we prayed for the rain to stop and it did. Praise God. We started at 6pm and proceeded to go to the first house after prayer at home. Half-way through it started to drizzle again, and Andrew urged us to pray against it, and the rain stopped. Praise God once again..

On our travels we met many different residents including one house that belongs to our very own DUMC member. :) It was a pleasant surprise.

After caroling was done, we gathered at a street corner under a canopy to fellowship with residents for a Christmas makan. And one final round of caroling with the Residents. About 50-60 residents turned up.

We closed shop at 9pm and went back to our house to pray,rest and recollect. We indeed pray that the many hearts have been touched by the message and caroling. And we will continue to pray for the residents who are facing security issues with the few break ins that have occured in the past few weeks.

Having said that we look forward to more events with BU4RA and believe that God will continue to bless and protect this community and know Him closer and better each day.

More Pictures to Come.

Our Inaugural Post

2008-11-23T09:19:00.001-08:00

G'day and Welcome to our Blog.

BU4 DUMC Cell Group is a blog intended to share with everyone our activities and passions for Christ.

Yup!! We're a Christian cell group that meets every Wednesday night at 830pm in Bandar Utama, PJ.
Most of the time we meet at 59, Jalan Bandar Utama 4/7 unless we have other activities like bowling, movie night, prayer night at church, or even have our cell group meetings at other cell members houses etc etc.

We welcome anyone who's interested to learn more about Jesus Christ or even if you're looking for a social group to join.

We attend church every Saturday or Sunday at DUMC (Damansara Utama Methodist Church)
Sunday 10am -12pm
Saturday 5pm - 7pm

To hear from our beloved Senior Pastor on lessons in living a fruitful and fulfilling Life.

We have about 8 cell members (& growing) and each week we welcome our cell members and visitors to the cell group as it is a pleasure to always make new friends.
We are basically a cell group that's growing from a Young Adults cell group moving on towards the next phase of our lives, marriage and parenting.

We aim to see people transition from one stage to another stage successfully, for change is always constant, and we believe change when handled well gives everyone a springboard to greater heights.

We also have a great time in singing Worship songs to the Lord as an expression of our love to Him. And then share from the Word of God how it applies to our lives and thence to how we can continue to present the Living word to the World in our individual lives as well as a collective group...

Once again.. do pop by or even drop an email at dumcbu4@gmail.com for more information.

Richest Blessings
Paul Sebastian