Another person whom I would take my hats of for the year would be my dear friend Liz Mah. Liz was diagnosed with 4th stage lung cancer back in June and not long after that, she started a blog called “Liz’s Adventure”!
If it were up to me, I would call mine “My Suffering Journal” or “My Last Words!” But, to call it an adventure!? Who in their right mind would classify cancer as an adventure! However, Liz knew exactly what she was on to. This was God’s adventure for her and she took it up with great faith! Now, nearly 6 months on, the tumours in the rest of her body such as the skull and liver, had miraculously disappeared. The main tumour in her lungs has also reduced in size significantly.
Throughout this period, she has been an inspiration and encouragement to many. Her perception of God had prompted me to ask God for the impossible, like healing my sinus!
Indeed, He is our Creator and our Healer. Whether we perceive it or not, He has our best interests in mind. To be totally drenched in His love and words during such challenging times have made Liz to be a stronger person. I felt so privileged to be able to witness her journey with God.
But thanks be to God, who always leads us in triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of him. For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. (2 Corinthians 2)
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
The Prodigal Husband
As the year is coming to a close, I can’t help but think about the people who had made a significant impact on me during the year.
A few months ago, I attended a talk organized by the ladies of Canning Garden Methodist church in Kampar. Pastor Lee Choo shared about this sister in her previous church who had a wayward husband. Her husband started cheating on her not long after they were married. In fact, when she had a miscarriage, her husband was with someone, somewhere else. The infidelity lasted for more than 18 years! Over the course of time, pastors and friends had advised her to leave him, seeing no signs of improvement in their marriage. This lady however reminded her confidents that what God had joined in marriage, let no man (including herself) separate!
I felt heartbroken for this godly lady, and at the same time gasped at such faith and perseverance. If I were her, I would have thrown in the towels, years ago. Afterall, God cannot change an unrepentant heart, no? After many years when their children have grown up and left home, the prodigal husband returned! He had finally come to his senses and sought his wife’s forgiveness, who in return, willingly accepted him again!
This is incredible! What a miracle! But God, why did you only answer her prayers after so many years? The poor wife has wasted so much time and shed so much tears on him! But wait a minute, it was not only the wife who was waiting, God was waiting too. His heart was broken to see someone whom He dearly loved, strayed away. God was weeping alongside with this lady. I felt inspired by His love and at the same time, ashamed by my judgmental views. I may not be an adulterer like this man but surely, I led a fallen life before coming to Jesus too. The turn of events would only occur when we allow Him to work in our lives.
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (1 Corinthians 4)
A few months ago, I attended a talk organized by the ladies of Canning Garden Methodist church in Kampar. Pastor Lee Choo shared about this sister in her previous church who had a wayward husband. Her husband started cheating on her not long after they were married. In fact, when she had a miscarriage, her husband was with someone, somewhere else. The infidelity lasted for more than 18 years! Over the course of time, pastors and friends had advised her to leave him, seeing no signs of improvement in their marriage. This lady however reminded her confidents that what God had joined in marriage, let no man (including herself) separate!
I felt heartbroken for this godly lady, and at the same time gasped at such faith and perseverance. If I were her, I would have thrown in the towels, years ago. Afterall, God cannot change an unrepentant heart, no? After many years when their children have grown up and left home, the prodigal husband returned! He had finally come to his senses and sought his wife’s forgiveness, who in return, willingly accepted him again!
This is incredible! What a miracle! But God, why did you only answer her prayers after so many years? The poor wife has wasted so much time and shed so much tears on him! But wait a minute, it was not only the wife who was waiting, God was waiting too. His heart was broken to see someone whom He dearly loved, strayed away. God was weeping alongside with this lady. I felt inspired by His love and at the same time, ashamed by my judgmental views. I may not be an adulterer like this man but surely, I led a fallen life before coming to Jesus too. The turn of events would only occur when we allow Him to work in our lives.
Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (1 Corinthians 4)
Monday, December 21, 2009
Lion's Tail
One of the amazing lessons that I have learnt from Clarissa is: “If something is aggravating you, keep away from it!” Not long after Lion was diagnosed with “eating its tail” syndrome, Tiger began to show similar sign as its beautiful tail was spotted with a small hole. Immediately, Clarissa separated the two fish and banned them from fighting.
As a cynic, I said “You know, you have to accept at some point that Lion may have a permanent half eaten tail and is unlikely to stop chewing its tail. Maybe, I have to buy a new fish for Joseph soon and forget about this one.” “What is going to happen to Lion?” she asked curiously. “Maybe I will just throw him into a drain…” I said, tailing off, not knowing whether immediate or slow death of a one inch fish should be explained to a 7-year old.
However, Lion’s tail began to grow. After 2 weeks, its tail is only one-quarter incomplete (as opposed to half eaten). Clarissa had been faithfully and dutifully changing the water in the tanks and feeding them every day. Lion now has a small tummy while Tiger’s tail is fully healed. I was amazed that under a child’s care, the fish were doing much better than before.
This same lesson is applicable to my life. If I had allowed anger to build up, not only does it affect me, it also affects people around me adversely. On the other hand, if I had made the choice to distant myself from anger and embrace reconciliation, healing will take place, both externally and internally. Ultimately, healing requires supernatural intervention, specifically, God’s intervention. Only God can take away our hurt and angry hearts and replace them with love and trust, so that we are whole and complete again.
I appreciate the simple lesson behind these 2 fighting fish. If they could recover under a child’s loving care, how much more for us, when God our creator, began His surgical work in our hearts?!
As a cynic, I said “You know, you have to accept at some point that Lion may have a permanent half eaten tail and is unlikely to stop chewing its tail. Maybe, I have to buy a new fish for Joseph soon and forget about this one.” “What is going to happen to Lion?” she asked curiously. “Maybe I will just throw him into a drain…” I said, tailing off, not knowing whether immediate or slow death of a one inch fish should be explained to a 7-year old.
However, Lion’s tail began to grow. After 2 weeks, its tail is only one-quarter incomplete (as opposed to half eaten). Clarissa had been faithfully and dutifully changing the water in the tanks and feeding them every day. Lion now has a small tummy while Tiger’s tail is fully healed. I was amazed that under a child’s care, the fish were doing much better than before.
This same lesson is applicable to my life. If I had allowed anger to build up, not only does it affect me, it also affects people around me adversely. On the other hand, if I had made the choice to distant myself from anger and embrace reconciliation, healing will take place, both externally and internally. Ultimately, healing requires supernatural intervention, specifically, God’s intervention. Only God can take away our hurt and angry hearts and replace them with love and trust, so that we are whole and complete again.
I appreciate the simple lesson behind these 2 fighting fish. If they could recover under a child’s loving care, how much more for us, when God our creator, began His surgical work in our hearts?!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Fighting Fish
Clarissa had been pestering me about getting a fish for keeps but my answer had always been negative until recently. “Mum, you need to get a fish for us, for performing in the VBS concert…please?” she asked with an angelic smile.
From memory, I recalled that there is a newly opened pet shop near my office. When we reached the shop, our eyes were glued to the multi-coloured, graceful fighting fish. Colours that I would have difficulty in blending for my boomerang project weeks ago, could be seen on an-inch long fish, looking splendid and natural. Their dull, lethargic bodies would be transformed into rainbow coloured with numerous tones, while their heads doubling in size when the barrier between the fish tanks is lifted. Within minutes, Joseph had selected an off white body matched with red fins, named Lion; Clarissa settled for a dark red fish with a tint of purple and blue, named Tiger!
As soon as we got home, Lion and Tiger were placed next to each other to display their hidden glory. After 2 days, Clarissa came to inform me that Lion was sick. His tail was showing signs of being damaged! Despite the torrential rain outside, I drove to the pet shop seeking for advice. “Your fish is eating his own tail” came the prompt reply. “What? Why? What do I do?” I asked in surprise. “Your fish is overly aggressive and angry. As a result, he ends up eating his own tail!” He said. “In fact, you could throw him away and get a new one! Its unfortunate that your fish turned out this way, but I assure you, not all fish behave the same way.”
I was amazed that for a small creature like Lion, his anger could be uncontained and may consume him! When I went home, I told Joseph that Lion must rest and should not be aggravated by being next to Tiger. Although we are much more complicated compared to fighting fish, we are no different when it comes to anger. If our anger goes unchecked, we could also do some serious damage to ourselves and others. Unresolved issues may slowly eat into our soul, edging bits by bits away, just like Lion is slowing losing its tail.
"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. (Ephesians 4)
We need to rid ourselves of anger, including issues leading us to that. Else, Satan would end up having a foot hold in our lives. God is able to turn our anger into something positive, let us turn to Him. I would like to echo what my nephew, Isaac, shared today, after his recent church camp: “God took away my baggage of anger! I felt liberated!”
From memory, I recalled that there is a newly opened pet shop near my office. When we reached the shop, our eyes were glued to the multi-coloured, graceful fighting fish. Colours that I would have difficulty in blending for my boomerang project weeks ago, could be seen on an-inch long fish, looking splendid and natural. Their dull, lethargic bodies would be transformed into rainbow coloured with numerous tones, while their heads doubling in size when the barrier between the fish tanks is lifted. Within minutes, Joseph had selected an off white body matched with red fins, named Lion; Clarissa settled for a dark red fish with a tint of purple and blue, named Tiger!
As soon as we got home, Lion and Tiger were placed next to each other to display their hidden glory. After 2 days, Clarissa came to inform me that Lion was sick. His tail was showing signs of being damaged! Despite the torrential rain outside, I drove to the pet shop seeking for advice. “Your fish is eating his own tail” came the prompt reply. “What? Why? What do I do?” I asked in surprise. “Your fish is overly aggressive and angry. As a result, he ends up eating his own tail!” He said. “In fact, you could throw him away and get a new one! Its unfortunate that your fish turned out this way, but I assure you, not all fish behave the same way.”
I was amazed that for a small creature like Lion, his anger could be uncontained and may consume him! When I went home, I told Joseph that Lion must rest and should not be aggravated by being next to Tiger. Although we are much more complicated compared to fighting fish, we are no different when it comes to anger. If our anger goes unchecked, we could also do some serious damage to ourselves and others. Unresolved issues may slowly eat into our soul, edging bits by bits away, just like Lion is slowing losing its tail.
"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold. (Ephesians 4)
We need to rid ourselves of anger, including issues leading us to that. Else, Satan would end up having a foot hold in our lives. God is able to turn our anger into something positive, let us turn to Him. I would like to echo what my nephew, Isaac, shared today, after his recent church camp: “God took away my baggage of anger! I felt liberated!”
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Where is God?
“Mummy, I can’t see God, how can I believe in Him?” exclaimed my 4 year old in his usually loud voice. “But you see, God lives in our heart. He answers our prayers, makes us better when we are sick, helps us to feel better when we are sad” I replied, using as many simple words as possible. “Where? Where? Tell me where is God?” came the insistent questions.
“Ok, from now onwards, I will pray that God will reveal Himself to you!” I told him, hoping that he will change his conversational topic. My brain was cracking hard to think of some relevant analogies, suitable for a 4 year old but it was completely blank! Clarissa had never asked me that question before although I have no doubt that she had the same question in her heart. However, after years of attending Sunday School, daily prayer and miraculous healing (Big Miracle for a Little Girl), she KNOWS that God exists.
After praying for a week, Joseph and Clarissa attended the VBS at First Baptist Church. As Joseph was only 4, he went to the nursery class. Amazingly, he did his dances at the concert without rehearsal on stage. The best part was, after the event, we went out for ice-cream one day and while parking my car, he said “Praise the Lord! We found parking!” At first, I didn’t realize what he was saying until he exclaimed louder “Praise the Lord! Mummy, why are you not praising the Lord?” What a transformation! Somehow, during VBS’s week, he has met up with God and he knows what praising means! He knows that God exist!
Thank you Lord for revealing yourself to Joseph.
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.'"(Acts 17)
“Ok, from now onwards, I will pray that God will reveal Himself to you!” I told him, hoping that he will change his conversational topic. My brain was cracking hard to think of some relevant analogies, suitable for a 4 year old but it was completely blank! Clarissa had never asked me that question before although I have no doubt that she had the same question in her heart. However, after years of attending Sunday School, daily prayer and miraculous healing (Big Miracle for a Little Girl), she KNOWS that God exists.
After praying for a week, Joseph and Clarissa attended the VBS at First Baptist Church. As Joseph was only 4, he went to the nursery class. Amazingly, he did his dances at the concert without rehearsal on stage. The best part was, after the event, we went out for ice-cream one day and while parking my car, he said “Praise the Lord! We found parking!” At first, I didn’t realize what he was saying until he exclaimed louder “Praise the Lord! Mummy, why are you not praising the Lord?” What a transformation! Somehow, during VBS’s week, he has met up with God and he knows what praising means! He knows that God exist!
Thank you Lord for revealing yourself to Joseph.
"The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.'"(Acts 17)
Judas Iscariot
I have always had difficulty in understanding why Jesus had recruited Judas Iscariot to be one of His disciples, especially when He had FULL knowledge that Judas would betray Him. I truly wonder how it was like to live with someone whom you knew would betray you.
Sometime ago, I had the privilege to catch a glimpse of such emotions of betrayal when someone I trusted did something that was detrimental to the company.
When I found out, I was amazed at the string of emotions that flew through. My heart which was once filled with respect for this person was then replaced with disappointment, resentment and to a certain extent, hatred. I couldn’t understand myself in this respect as afterall, he was just a colleague.
At that point in time, I was gently reminded by the Holy Spirit of what Jesus had been through. He was with Judas 24/7 and yet he had chosen to show love to him, hoping that he would choose the right path in the end. Showing love under such circumstances involved taking risks. I wondered what Jesus would have done if He were here now.
I need to abandon my ideal that people around me would behave as I had expected them to. In fact, I have to constantly remind myself not to impose my own ideals on them but to allow God to work in them. There is no guarantee that this “Judas” would turn over a new leaf, but I know that God is in full control of his life and there is nothing “Judas” could do that is “out of God’s radar”. I take comfort in this thought immensely as I know that Jesus understands exactly how I feel.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. (2 Corinthians 1)
Sometime ago, I had the privilege to catch a glimpse of such emotions of betrayal when someone I trusted did something that was detrimental to the company.
When I found out, I was amazed at the string of emotions that flew through. My heart which was once filled with respect for this person was then replaced with disappointment, resentment and to a certain extent, hatred. I couldn’t understand myself in this respect as afterall, he was just a colleague.
At that point in time, I was gently reminded by the Holy Spirit of what Jesus had been through. He was with Judas 24/7 and yet he had chosen to show love to him, hoping that he would choose the right path in the end. Showing love under such circumstances involved taking risks. I wondered what Jesus would have done if He were here now.
I need to abandon my ideal that people around me would behave as I had expected them to. In fact, I have to constantly remind myself not to impose my own ideals on them but to allow God to work in them. There is no guarantee that this “Judas” would turn over a new leaf, but I know that God is in full control of his life and there is nothing “Judas” could do that is “out of God’s radar”. I take comfort in this thought immensely as I know that Jesus understands exactly how I feel.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. (2 Corinthians 1)
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Blessing in Disguise
As VBS drew nearer, I noticed that the committee members, teachers and helpers were falling sick, one after another. On the other hand, I have managed to escape from the devil’s radar thus far, which was worth rejoicing for.
On the Saturday before VBS, I had a tummy upset, followed by diarrhea the next morning. In fact, I felt both weak and feverish. “So much for my presumption!” I said to myself. After calling Ray to pray for me, I rang Wee Lee, the leader of our VBS class. To my dismay, Wee Lee shared that she too had been unwell: she had heart palpitations the night before and had to go to the hospital to stabilize her heart beat. Then I realized that we were indeed engaged in a spiritual battle, one that is very real and powerful.
Sunday night, one day before VBS was due to commence, we went to a “back-lane” restaurant off Jalan Raja Laut. Apparently, this place was famed for its steamed fish head and oysters omelette. As I was still recovering from my tummy bug, I refrained from taking the oysters; if not, I would have treated myself to two big bites!
Come Monday, I had fully recovered and was glad to learn that Wee Lee was well too. God is good, healing us just in time for the big week. However, I was informed that my brother-in-law had severe food poisoning resulting from the oysters the night before. In fact, he was kept up throughout the night with vomiting that was stopped only after a visit to the hospital. Then I realized how God had used the “minor tummy bug” as a blessing for me. If it were not for the mild diarrhea, I would be lying on my back on Monday.
How am I to see that my present illness is meant to protect me from a more severe one? Only God is able to see that. Thank you God for protecting me, showing me that Your are more powerful than any of the devil’s schemes and most of all, turning a supposedly “bug” into a blessing!
On the Saturday before VBS, I had a tummy upset, followed by diarrhea the next morning. In fact, I felt both weak and feverish. “So much for my presumption!” I said to myself. After calling Ray to pray for me, I rang Wee Lee, the leader of our VBS class. To my dismay, Wee Lee shared that she too had been unwell: she had heart palpitations the night before and had to go to the hospital to stabilize her heart beat. Then I realized that we were indeed engaged in a spiritual battle, one that is very real and powerful.
Sunday night, one day before VBS was due to commence, we went to a “back-lane” restaurant off Jalan Raja Laut. Apparently, this place was famed for its steamed fish head and oysters omelette. As I was still recovering from my tummy bug, I refrained from taking the oysters; if not, I would have treated myself to two big bites!
Come Monday, I had fully recovered and was glad to learn that Wee Lee was well too. God is good, healing us just in time for the big week. However, I was informed that my brother-in-law had severe food poisoning resulting from the oysters the night before. In fact, he was kept up throughout the night with vomiting that was stopped only after a visit to the hospital. Then I realized how God had used the “minor tummy bug” as a blessing for me. If it were not for the mild diarrhea, I would be lying on my back on Monday.
How am I to see that my present illness is meant to protect me from a more severe one? Only God is able to see that. Thank you God for protecting me, showing me that Your are more powerful than any of the devil’s schemes and most of all, turning a supposedly “bug” into a blessing!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
VBS - Sneak Preview
I know that some of you may think that I have been slacked in blogging! Well, I have been preoccupied. When one is pre-occupied, there is no inspiration to write!
Therefore, I have decided to share with you some pictures I have taken in the course of preparing for VBS! If you have not registered your children for VBS this year, don't worry, there is another next year! If your niece/nephew/child has been registered and you are wondering if you should come for the concert day, then you must! Its an event not to be missed! :)
Hundreds of boomerangs made up the country of Australia! and this is only a part of the decor! Here are some decors for the classes, to inspire the kids! Welcome to Australian sea creatures!
Therefore, I have decided to share with you some pictures I have taken in the course of preparing for VBS! If you have not registered your children for VBS this year, don't worry, there is another next year! If your niece/nephew/child has been registered and you are wondering if you should come for the concert day, then you must! Its an event not to be missed! :)
Hundreds of boomerangs made up the country of Australia! and this is only a part of the decor! Here are some decors for the classes, to inspire the kids! Welcome to Australian sea creatures!
For more info, check out http://www.fbcvbs09.blogspot.com/
Transformers – Special Agents (SA)
“Transformers, more than meet the eyes; Transformers, SA in disguise!”
As Lisa ushered me into the secret mission room, she whispered into my ear “this is TOP TOP secret, not to be mentioned to any soul! Not even one word!” Excitement built up as the door opened. I was greeted by a team of Special Agents! Some of them were kneeling on the floor, some were standing and the rest were sitting. All were busy with one mission – preparing for VBS decoration for the big day – Concert Day.
As I looked around, I knew some of them. One of them is working as a lawyer; another, a business consultant, and the one at the far end, I was told is in IT line. Day time, they are professionals in their respective field of work; come night time, they are transformed into special agents in the creative field! They have been slogging every night till late, preparing props, backdrops and many decorative items unknown to me. As I sat down, Sandra gave me an important advice “Through our many days of experience, we realize that to do the aboriginal art effectively, you have to use the round tip of a chopstick!” She was busy “stamping” a sun and its rays on a boomerang! My eyes couldn’t keep away from all the beautiful décor placed all around the room. What creativity! Simply ingenious!
I could still recall that for the past few years, the VBS decoration at the main sanctuary has been majestic and beautiful beyond description! Some years back, I had the privilege to stand at the peak of a mountain, taking in all its breathtaking view. At that point in time, I was speechless and completely taken away by God’s creation just as I am now.
For sometime, I had struggled with the authenticity of the scriptures. How can God speak through the bible that was supposedly written by man?
“All Scripture is God-breathed (or God inspired) and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” 2 Tim 3:16
The scriptures are inspired by God but penned down by man. Now I have understood better as I marvelled at the beauty of the VBS special mission room. Just as God has inspired his SA to prepare the décor item tiredlessly, He has also inspired His chosen prophets/apostles to pen down His words as instructions for us to live out our lives for His glory.
I can’t divulge how the stage would be like on VBS concert day, but I know it will be breathtaking!
As Lisa ushered me into the secret mission room, she whispered into my ear “this is TOP TOP secret, not to be mentioned to any soul! Not even one word!” Excitement built up as the door opened. I was greeted by a team of Special Agents! Some of them were kneeling on the floor, some were standing and the rest were sitting. All were busy with one mission – preparing for VBS decoration for the big day – Concert Day.
As I looked around, I knew some of them. One of them is working as a lawyer; another, a business consultant, and the one at the far end, I was told is in IT line. Day time, they are professionals in their respective field of work; come night time, they are transformed into special agents in the creative field! They have been slogging every night till late, preparing props, backdrops and many decorative items unknown to me. As I sat down, Sandra gave me an important advice “Through our many days of experience, we realize that to do the aboriginal art effectively, you have to use the round tip of a chopstick!” She was busy “stamping” a sun and its rays on a boomerang! My eyes couldn’t keep away from all the beautiful décor placed all around the room. What creativity! Simply ingenious!
I could still recall that for the past few years, the VBS decoration at the main sanctuary has been majestic and beautiful beyond description! Some years back, I had the privilege to stand at the peak of a mountain, taking in all its breathtaking view. At that point in time, I was speechless and completely taken away by God’s creation just as I am now.
For sometime, I had struggled with the authenticity of the scriptures. How can God speak through the bible that was supposedly written by man?
“All Scripture is God-breathed (or God inspired) and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” 2 Tim 3:16
The scriptures are inspired by God but penned down by man. Now I have understood better as I marvelled at the beauty of the VBS special mission room. Just as God has inspired his SA to prepare the décor item tiredlessly, He has also inspired His chosen prophets/apostles to pen down His words as instructions for us to live out our lives for His glory.
I can’t divulge how the stage would be like on VBS concert day, but I know it will be breathtaking!
Joseph's Little Secret
Recently, we went on a star cruise holiday with my family while Ray stayed behind to look after his “business”. This is the first time that I am on holiday alone with Clarissa and Joseph. As part of their preparation for the holiday (and for my own sanity), I laid down some ground rules such as:-
1. there must be no fighting;
2. no throwing of tantrums; and
3. everyday, they have to spend half an hour doing homework (I know, I am such a kill joy).
“Else, you risk being thrown overboard to be fed to the sharks” I told them (ha ha ha, like I would do that).
Being stuck together for 24 hours a day would inevitably result in some conflicts. This is accentuated when there is no place to hide or get some time-out. On the last night of our cruise, I found Joseph standing in a corner, fidgeting with Clarissa’s new toy: a plastic camera with pre-taken pictures of sea creatures! A novelty that I had granted after our visit to Sentosa Island’s underwater world.
Joseph was trying to pull out the plastic coated film frantically. Then I realized what had happened: While Clarissa was in the bathroom, Joseph had taken the camera, without his che che’s permission and my knowledge, to play with it. Unfortunately, he had inserted the film the wrong way, and it was stuck. I went over and asked him innocently “What are you doing?” “I am trying to pull out the film!” his usual loud voice was replaced with an amazingly soft reply, almost inaudible. “You didn’t ask for permission to play with it right?” I probed further. “No, I didn’t” he replied, with an angelic smile that could make any mothers melt!
Forgetting the point of this lesson, I took the camera from him and tried to pull it out as hard as I could. As I heard Clarissa turned the door knob, I pulled even harder, whispering a prayer and giving an unconscious shout! Just as she stepped out from the bathroom, I succeeded! Under my breath, I told Joseph not to touch it again, without Clarissa’s approval.
On retrospect, I realize that as grown-ups, we are very much similar to kids. When we sin, we try to cover up by doing good works, donating to worthy courses, making sacrifices to our God(s), praying more etc. The heart of the matter is: when we commit a sin, we need forgiveness. It didn’t matter what we do, our sin still stay. Just as Joseph had tried very hard, he couldn’t solve his problem that resulted from his sin (of not obeying his sister). He needed someone else to stand in for him.
Only Jesus has the power and authority to forgive our sins. As the scripture tells us that Jesus bore our sins on the cross so that we could be whole again. Jesus came so that we could have life, addressing the heart of the issue. Joseph needed Clarissa’s and God’s forgiveness. All of us need God’s forgiveness and before He could forgive, we need to confess to Him - only then we could be set free and be complete again.
1. there must be no fighting;
2. no throwing of tantrums; and
3. everyday, they have to spend half an hour doing homework (I know, I am such a kill joy).
“Else, you risk being thrown overboard to be fed to the sharks” I told them (ha ha ha, like I would do that).
Being stuck together for 24 hours a day would inevitably result in some conflicts. This is accentuated when there is no place to hide or get some time-out. On the last night of our cruise, I found Joseph standing in a corner, fidgeting with Clarissa’s new toy: a plastic camera with pre-taken pictures of sea creatures! A novelty that I had granted after our visit to Sentosa Island’s underwater world.
Joseph was trying to pull out the plastic coated film frantically. Then I realized what had happened: While Clarissa was in the bathroom, Joseph had taken the camera, without his che che’s permission and my knowledge, to play with it. Unfortunately, he had inserted the film the wrong way, and it was stuck. I went over and asked him innocently “What are you doing?” “I am trying to pull out the film!” his usual loud voice was replaced with an amazingly soft reply, almost inaudible. “You didn’t ask for permission to play with it right?” I probed further. “No, I didn’t” he replied, with an angelic smile that could make any mothers melt!
Forgetting the point of this lesson, I took the camera from him and tried to pull it out as hard as I could. As I heard Clarissa turned the door knob, I pulled even harder, whispering a prayer and giving an unconscious shout! Just as she stepped out from the bathroom, I succeeded! Under my breath, I told Joseph not to touch it again, without Clarissa’s approval.
On retrospect, I realize that as grown-ups, we are very much similar to kids. When we sin, we try to cover up by doing good works, donating to worthy courses, making sacrifices to our God(s), praying more etc. The heart of the matter is: when we commit a sin, we need forgiveness. It didn’t matter what we do, our sin still stay. Just as Joseph had tried very hard, he couldn’t solve his problem that resulted from his sin (of not obeying his sister). He needed someone else to stand in for him.
Only Jesus has the power and authority to forgive our sins. As the scripture tells us that Jesus bore our sins on the cross so that we could be whole again. Jesus came so that we could have life, addressing the heart of the issue. Joseph needed Clarissa’s and God’s forgiveness. All of us need God’s forgiveness and before He could forgive, we need to confess to Him - only then we could be set free and be complete again.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
My Temptation
I have a soft spot for handbags, and in particular, Coach handbags. I love the feel of its leather and the smell emitted is not overly pungent, just perfect for my liking. Coach’s design is subtle, soft and practical.
Whenever I walk pass a Coach shop, my legs would turn jelly when I see their newest collection. If there is any billboard that would make me turn my head twice, it would have to be Coach. My admiration for Coach bags started back in my university years. Once, I stepped into Selfridges of London and fell in love with these bags instantly:- The themed display, subtle designs, high quality leather, coupled with the image projected (successful yet down to earth) had won me over, permanently.
I am not trying to advertise for Coach as I believe that each of us has our own idols. Ray goes goo gaa over cars, especially luxurious sports car. With such love in our lives, it is difficult to keep our focus in God, sometimes.
“I don’t want you to forget, dear brothers and sisters, about our ancestors in the wilderness long ago. All of them were guided by a cloud that moved ahead of them, and all of them walked through the sea on dry ground. In the cloud and in the sea, all of them were baptized as followers of Moses. All of them ate the same spiritual food, and all of them drank the same spiritual water. For they drank from the spiritual rock that traveled with them, and that rock was Christ. Yet God was not pleased with most of them, and their bodies were scattered in the wilderness.
These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, or worship idols as some of them did. As the Scriptures say, “The people celebrated with feasting and drinking, and they indulged in pagan revelry.” And we must not engage in sexual immorality as some of them did, causing 23,000 of them to die in one day.
Nor should we put Christ to the test, as some of them did and then died from snakebites. And don’t grumble as some of them did, and then were destroyed by the angel of death. These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age.
If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”1 Corinthians 10
When God delivered the Israelites out of Egypt, it was nothing short of miracles after miracles. Food was provided, literally from the sky, as the people had to keep moving in order to reach their Promised Land; Water was supplied as and when required; Pillar of cloud appeared during the day to guide their ways so that they will not be lost; Pillar of fire appeared at night for their protection; Parted the Red Sea when the people reached the edge of the water, pursued by the Egyptians. Yet, the people were not satisfied with God! They were swayed by other loves in their lives, which on my hindsight is insignificant compared to God himself!
Despite my love for material stuff, I must be careful not to lose sight of God, His commandments and promises. Its one thing to enjoy His creation and providence; but quite another to make an idol out of them! Indeed, may I be constantly reminded by Israelties, so that I will not fall like they did.
Whenever I walk pass a Coach shop, my legs would turn jelly when I see their newest collection. If there is any billboard that would make me turn my head twice, it would have to be Coach. My admiration for Coach bags started back in my university years. Once, I stepped into Selfridges of London and fell in love with these bags instantly:- The themed display, subtle designs, high quality leather, coupled with the image projected (successful yet down to earth) had won me over, permanently.
I am not trying to advertise for Coach as I believe that each of us has our own idols. Ray goes goo gaa over cars, especially luxurious sports car. With such love in our lives, it is difficult to keep our focus in God, sometimes.
“I don’t want you to forget, dear brothers and sisters, about our ancestors in the wilderness long ago. All of them were guided by a cloud that moved ahead of them, and all of them walked through the sea on dry ground. In the cloud and in the sea, all of them were baptized as followers of Moses. All of them ate the same spiritual food, and all of them drank the same spiritual water. For they drank from the spiritual rock that traveled with them, and that rock was Christ. Yet God was not pleased with most of them, and their bodies were scattered in the wilderness.
These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, or worship idols as some of them did. As the Scriptures say, “The people celebrated with feasting and drinking, and they indulged in pagan revelry.” And we must not engage in sexual immorality as some of them did, causing 23,000 of them to die in one day.
Nor should we put Christ to the test, as some of them did and then died from snakebites. And don’t grumble as some of them did, and then were destroyed by the angel of death. These things happened to them as examples for us. They were written down to warn us who live at the end of the age.
If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall. The temptations in your life are no different from what others experience. And God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”1 Corinthians 10
When God delivered the Israelites out of Egypt, it was nothing short of miracles after miracles. Food was provided, literally from the sky, as the people had to keep moving in order to reach their Promised Land; Water was supplied as and when required; Pillar of cloud appeared during the day to guide their ways so that they will not be lost; Pillar of fire appeared at night for their protection; Parted the Red Sea when the people reached the edge of the water, pursued by the Egyptians. Yet, the people were not satisfied with God! They were swayed by other loves in their lives, which on my hindsight is insignificant compared to God himself!
Despite my love for material stuff, I must be careful not to lose sight of God, His commandments and promises. Its one thing to enjoy His creation and providence; but quite another to make an idol out of them! Indeed, may I be constantly reminded by Israelties, so that I will not fall like they did.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)