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!
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Monday, April 6, 2009
Journal Entry 6th April 2009 : Miracle or Miracle Maker?
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.
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.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Journal Entry 31 March 2009 :What's My Intimacy Level?
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!
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
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.
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.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Journal Entry : 25th March 2009 : A Test of My Spirit
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.
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.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Street Ministry 31 Jan 2009
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.
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.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
A Christmas With BU4
(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.
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