MIKE LEO ~ EXPect the UNexpecTED~

“Why can’t you be like Jesus?”

2011-10-30T22:26:00.001-07:00

“Why can’t you be like Jesus?” Ever asked yourself that question? It’s probably easier to say “What would Jesus do?” than to actually do what He would do. But isn’t that what being a Christian is really all about? I think we all struggle with that cycle at some point in our Christian walk. Let’s break that cycle and start where Jesus did.

Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Some people define Christianity as a disciple or a follower of Christ…but in one word, it’s being a SERVANT.
True Christianity is in giving, not getting.

Albert Schweitzer, a doctor who became a missionary said, “I don’t know what your destiny will be, but one thing I do know and I have truly discovered the only ones among you who will really be happy and satisfied are those who have sought and found how to serve others.”

Are you serving God? Are you serving your family? What about your colleagues? Your friends? How about your ministry?

With all the cares and busyness of the world we live in, it’s really easy to forget about what’s happening around us and focus in on what’s happening to us. Let’s see what Jesus did to become a better servant (Illustrated in Isaiah 52:13-14 & 53:1-7)

1. Put God First in Our Lives: We can’t be lord of our own lives. We’re going to have to serve somebody. If it’s not God, it’s going to be someone or something else. Jesus put God first over and over throughout his ministry. he would always take time to pray even in the midst of his busy schedule (and he was preparing to die for the sins of the world).

2. Protect My Attitude: First you have to have the right attitude. William James said, “The greatest discovery of my generation is that you can alter your life by altering the attitude of your mind.” Jesus made it a priority to keep the right attitude. Even when he could of complained, he kept his mouth shut.

3. Plant Seeds of Love and Kindness: When’s the last time you showed appreciation? Do you thank people for the little things? Jesus always took the time to leave a lasting impression on people with the little things.

4. Give Your Life Away: Once we give up our life, we will actually find the life that God has for us. Jesus paid the ultimate price for all humanity by giving his life as a ransom for many.

Life lessons…

2011-10-02T19:11:00.000-07:00

Life lessons…

2011-09-25T19:09:00.000-07:00

Life lessons…

2011-09-18T19:07:00.000-07:00

Life lessons…

2011-09-11T19:06:00.000-07:00

Misconceptions about food and diets

2011-09-06T21:25:00.001-07:00

Q: Doctor, I’ve heard that cardiovascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true?

A: Your heart only good for so many beats, and that it... Don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually. Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by driving faster. Want to live longer? Take nap.

Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake?

A: No, not at all. Wine made from fruit. Brandy is distilled wine that mean they take water out of fruity bit so you get even more of goodness that way. Beer also made of grain. Bottom up!

Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio?

A: Well, if you have body and you have fat, your ratio one to one. If you have two bodies, your ratio two to one, etc.

Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program?
A: Can't think of single one, sorry. My philosophy is: No pain...good!

Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you?
A: YOU NOT LISTENING! Food are fried these day in vegetable oil. In fact, they permeated by it. How could getting more vegetable be bad for you?!?

Q: Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle?
A: Definitely not! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only be doing sit-up if you want bigger stomach.

Q: Is chocolate bad for me?
A: Are you crazy?!? HEL-LO-O!! Cocoa bean! Another vegetable! It best feel-good food around!

Q: Is swimming well for your figure?
A: If swimming good for your figure, explain whale to me..

Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle?
A: Hey! 'Round' is shape!

Well... I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets.

Life lesson…

2011-09-04T19:05:00.000-07:00

Life lessons...

2011-08-28T19:04:00.000-07:00

Life lessons…

2011-08-21T19:09:00.001-07:00

Life lessons…

2011-08-21T19:00:00.001-07:00

Effective prayer

2011-08-20T22:35:00.000-07:00

Contrary to what many believe, the Bible doesn’t encourage long prayers.

Instead, the effectiveness of one’s prayers is emphasized. An effective prayer life indicates we are praying for the things God wants us to pray for.

That means that our prayer life is a reflection of our relationship with God.

How effective are your prayers?

Matthew 6:5-9 [The Message (MSG)]

Pray with Simplicity

⁵"And when you come before God, don't turn that into a theatrical production either. All these people making a regular show out of their prayers, hoping for stardom! Do you think God sits in a box seat?

⁶"Here's what I want you to do: Find a quiet, secluded place so you won't be tempted to role-play before God. Just be there as simply and honestly as you can manage. The focus will shift from you to God, and you will begin to sense his grace.

^7-13"The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They're full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don't fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply. Like this:
   Our Father in heaven,
   Reveal who you are.
   Set the world right;
   Do what's best— as above, so below.
   Keep us alive with three square meals.
   Keep us forgiven with you and forgiving others.
   Keep us safe from ourselves and the Devil.
   You're in charge!
   You can do anything you want!
   You're ablaze in beauty!
      Yes. Yes. Yes.

Is church anti-gay?

2011-08-17T22:18:00.001-07:00

Church was founded on the idea that people matter to God. All people. All people of all backgrounds, all colors, ethnicities, and sexual orientation.

The mat at every door on the church has always read “Welcome.” And sine the beginning, the church have flung the doors open to the widest array of humanity I have ever witnessed in the global church. And thousands--tens of thousands--have come to learn the teachings of Jesus.

So to suggest that the church checks sexual orientation or any other kind of issue at our doors is simply not true. Just ask the hundreds of people with same-sex attraction who attend church every week.

Now what is true is that the church challenge homosexuals and heterosexuals to live out the sexual ethics taught in the Scriptures--which encourages full sexual expression between a man and a woman in the context of marriage and prescribes sexual abstinence and purity for everybody else.

But even as the church challenge all people to these biblical standards, the church do so with grace-filled spirits, knowing the confusion and brokenness that is rampant in our fallen world. The church honors the journey of everyone who is sincerely attempting to follow Christ.

Humour: Kids & School

2011-08-14T21:41:00.000-07:00

"Mark," said a teacher, "you aren't paying attention. Are you having trouble hearing?"
"No, teacher," replied the pupil, "I'm having trouble listening."
----------------------------------
"Why were you late?" asked a teacher.
"Sorry, teacher," responded the pupil, "I overslept."
"What?" said the teacher, "You mean you need to sleep at home too!?"
----------------------------------
A teacher picked up a phone call.
"Hi, it is Mrs. Brown?"
"Yes, speaking." replied the teacher.
"My son has a bad cold and won't be able to come to school today."
"Oh I see, who is this?"
"Well, this is my father speaking."

Coca-Cola Slogan

2011-08-09T19:16:00.001-07:00

Here is a list of slogan of Coke since 1904 until today:

1904 - Delicious and refreshing.
1905 - Coca-Cola revives and sustains.
1906 - The great national temperance beverage.
1908 - Good til the last drop
1917 - Three million a day.
1922 - Thirst knows no season.
1923 - Enjoy life.
1924 - Refresh yourself.
1925 - Six million a day.
1926 - It had to be good to get where it is.
1927 - Pure as Sunlight
1927 - Around the corner from anywhere.
1928 - Coca-Cola ... pure drink of natural flavors.
1929 - The pause that refreshes.
1932 - Ice-cold sunshine.
1937 - America's favorite moment.
1938 - The best friend thirst ever had.
1938 - Thirst asks nothing more.
1939 - Coca-Cola goes along.
1939 - Coca-Cola has the taste thirst goes for.
1939 - Whoever you are, whatever you do, wherever you may be, when you think of refreshment, think of ice cold Coca-Cola.
1941 - Coca-Cola is Coke!
1942 - The only thing like Coca-Cola is Coca-Cola itself.
1944 - How about a Coke?
1945 - Coke means Coca-Cola.
1945 - Passport to refreshment.
1947 - Coke knows no season.
1948 - Where there's Coke there's hospitality.
1949 - Coca-Cola ... along the highway to anywhere.
1952 - What you want is a Coke.
1954 - For people on the go.
1956 - Coca-Cola ... makes good things taste better.
1957 - The sign of good taste.
1958 - The Cold, Crisp Taste of Coke
1959 - Be really refreshed.
1963 - Things go better with Coke.
1966 - Coke ... after Coke ... after Coke.
1969 - It's the real thing.
1971 - I'd like to buy the world a Coke. (basis for the song I'd Like to Teach the World to Sing)
1974 - Look for the real things.
1976 - Coke adds life.
1979 - Have a Coke and a smile (see also Mean Joe Greene)
1982 - Coke is it!
1985 - America's Real Choice
1986 - Red White & You (for Coca-Cola Classic)
1986 - Catch the Wave (for New Coke)
1989 - Can't Beat the Feeling. (also used in the UK)
1993 - Always Coca-Cola.
2000 - Enjoy.
2001 - Life tastes good. (also used in the UK)
2003 - Real.
2005 - Make It Real.
2006 - The Coke Side of Life (used also in the UK)
2007 - Live on the Coke Side of Life (also used in the UK)
2009 - Open Happiness
2010 - Twist The Cap To Refreshment
2011 - Life Begins Here

Here’s a story you may be interested

Click here for the link to this video clip. You may find something interesting about Coca-cola

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10 steps to resisting evil and online temptation

2011-08-08T21:28:00.001-07:00

For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. – James 1:13-14, NIV

Like a modern-day postcard of James’ letter to the 12 tribes, this picture communicates profound wisdom. The message is increasing relevant and desperately needed in this wired world. If you spend a good portion of time on the Internet, how you receive and respond to it may be the difference between living out your faith online and losing it.

Your ears, eyes, and mouth are portals to the soul and every day, you decide how to regulate what goes in and what comes out. How many times have you done an innocent Google search and among the results you find something far different from what you intended? Exactly.

The Real Danger

You need to understand dear one, you’re only a click or two away from content that is dangerous and deadly. When you entertain temptation online, the enemy drags you to the place where evil desires are conceived, sin is born, and destruction follows.

For example, consider the impact of Internet pornography. It delivers one of the deadliest assaults with its gripping addiction. The consequences include abnormal desires, wrecked relationships, fallen leaders, and shattered lives. The research on pornography released several years ago is painfully disturbing. It’s heartbreaking to sort through the statistics. And even though in June of 2011, it was reported that social media activity has displaced porn as the top online activity - don’t be deceived or fooled. The dangers remain real and more life-threatening than ever.

The Response

No different from any other mission field, when you’re online you must be aware of the terrain and fully present to avoid the traps.

Take action now.
Ask the Holy Spirit to build a firewall of protection around you and your family.
Execute this ten-point power plan for resisting evil and overcoming temptation.
Memorize these scriptures and be infused with Divine power and strength.

The Plan

#1. Know the Word. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. – Psalm 119:11

#2. Clean house. Therefore get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is prevalent and humbly receive the word that was planted in you, which can save you. – James 1:21

#3. Confess sin. He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy. – Proverb 28:13

#4. Receive forgiveness. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. – I John 1:9

#5. Profess faith. Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus theSon of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. – Hebrews 4:14-16

#6. Suit up. Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. – Ephesians 6:10,11,16

#7. Stand guard. Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. I Peter 5:8,9

#8. Submit and resist. Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you – James 4:7

#9. Sprint to the exit. So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it. – I Corinthians 10:12,13

#10. Give praise for the victory. God is greater than all evil. You, dear children, are from God and have overcome them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. – I John 4:4

How are you guarding your heart and resisting online temptations?

2011-07-31T20:32:00.001-07:00

MEANING:

Shekinah is a verb which means the DWELLING, INHABIT or SETTLING in Hebrew.

It can also function as noun which means resting place, sanctuary, living place or dwelling place.

When it is used to refer to God, it means the dwelling or settling presence of God especially in the Tent of Meeting and Temple in Jerusalem.

It also signifies the divine visitation of the presence of God on earth or among His people.

Shekinah is derived from the root word ‘shakan’ (to dwell)

Exodus 40:35
“Moses could not enter the Tent of Meeting, for the cloud rested [shakhan] upon it, and the glory of the Lord filled the Tabernacle”

Shakan can also mean ‘nest’ [shokhan] as in a living place where someone or something can inhabit. But not every word ‘nest’ found in the Bible is translated from ‘shokhan’

Psalm 104:12
“The birds of the air nest [shokhan] by the waters; they sing among the branches”

NOT FOUND IN THE BIBLE:

Just like the word “Trinity”, the word “Shekinah” is not found in the Bible, but it’s a Hebrew expression of the tangible presence of God. It is found in many extra Biblical writings (writing about the Bible which doesn’t have the same authority as the Bible).
The first occurrence of this word is found first in the Chaldee Targums, some scholars dated before the time of Jesus, where it is used by the Jewish writers to express what they understood to be the very presence of God.

For an example: Psalm 74:2 (NIV) “…whom you redeemed-- Mount Zion, where you dwelt [shakanta]” is rendered in the Targum as “This Mount Zion, wherein Thou hast made Thy Shekinah to dwell.”

Therefore, Shekinah is more of an expression of a concept (just like the word Trinity)rather than a word with a meaning.

Example of concept of Shekinah:

· Shekinah may refer as the Spirit of God hovering over the waters of formless and empty earth (Gen 1:2)
· God in the burning bush (Exo 3:1-21)
· The pillar of cloud and pillar of fire (Exo 13:20-22)
· God’s dwelling in the Ark of the Covenant, and inhabited the Temple with His Glory after the dedication offered up by Solomon (2 Chron.7:1,2)
· Dwelling of God with His people (the Israelite) when they wondered around the desert for 40 years, when they go to war and when they settle down in Canaanland
· Presence of God in lives of individuals – e.g. Moses, King Saul, King David
· Jesus Himself as the visible manifestation of God dwelling with men on earth (Col 2:9)
· The Holy Spirit living in the lives of believer in the New Testament

GLORY:

Christianity often see the presence (Shekinah) and the glory of the Lord as being synonymous (identical, the same), as illustrated in the following verse from Exodus;

“And Moses went up into the mount, and the cloud covered the mount. And the glory of Jehovah abode upon mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it six days: and the seventh day he called unto Moses out of the midst of the cloud. And the appearance of the glory of Jehovah was like devouring fire on the top of the mount in the eyes of the children of Israel” (Exodus 24:15-17 ASV)

Sometime, Shekinah is used to represent God Himself.
It talks about God dwelling in His sanctuary (Exo 25:8) or among His people (Exo 29:45)

But there is another word used to describe glory in Hebrew.

‘KABOD’ (glory) is another name synonymous for Shekinah, but Kabod is a term which can apply to both God or human being, such as Jacob (Gen 31:1) or King Solomon (Matt 6:29).

But it will be clear enough when ‘kabod’ is referring to the glory of God.

‘Kabod’ is also be used in the Bible as to refer to thunder, lighting and cloud which signifies God’s presence or His might (e.g. Exo 19:16, Psa 29, 97; Eze 1:4).

Therefore, Shekinah Glory can mean “the glory of the dwelling of God” or “the dwelling of God in glory”. But when you remain true to English grammar, Shekinah functions as adverb to Glory, rendering the meaning as “the glory of the dwelling of God”

THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD

The Shekhinah in the New Testament is commonly equated to the presence or indwelling of the Spirit of the Lord (generally referred to as the Holy Spirit) in the life of believer, drawing parallels to the presence of God in Solomon’s Temple.

In contradistinction with the Old Testament where the Holy of Holies signified the temporal presence of God, from the New Testament onwards, it is the Holy Spirit that reminds us of God’s abiding presence (long-lasting presence).

THE SHEKHINAH IN ISLAM

However, this word سكينة (Sakinah) is mentioned six times in the Qur’an.
It stands for peace, reassurance, calmness, and tranquillity.

SHEKINAH IN HEAVEN

But when we get to heaven, we will be able to see God in His fullness and in all His splendorous glory, and the Shekinah will no longer be veiled (1 John 3:2).

Is Plastic Surgery a Matter of Vanity?

2011-07-21T22:03:00.001-07:00

Plastic surgery is a branch of surgery that deals with the remodeling of any portion of the human body that has been damaged or deformed. The word “plastic” is derived from the Greek word plastikos, which means “to mold.” Hence, it is the remolding and reshaping of body tissues—bone, fat, muscle, cartilage, and skin. It is largely concerned with the reconstructive work of the face and exposed parts of the body.

According to the Microsoft Encarta Encyclopedia, plastic surgery is one of the oldest forms of surgery practiced. Nose-reconstruction operations were performed in ancient India as early as 2,000 BC, when amputation of the nose was a form of punishment.

Around 600 BC, ancient Sanskrit records an Indian surgeon named Sushruta, performing surgical reconstruction of the noses and ears of men who had lost them in war. Skin from one’s cheek or forehead would be removed and sewed onto damaged areas. To this day, this procedure is still referred to as the “Indian Method of Rhinoplasty.”

In ancient Rome, around 100 BC, plastic surgery became an important manner wherein people could better fit into the Roman society. During that time, the aesthetics of the human body was explored heavily in art and literature. Amalgamated with the fact that people bathed in public Roman baths, any abnormality was considered very shameful. A popular operation was the removal of scars from one’s back. These scars were considered dishonorable because they indirectly suggested that a person had turned his back from the field of battle or, worse still, had been “whipped like a slave.”

During the Renaissance, Italian physician, Gasparo Tagliacozzi (1546-1599), became the “father of modern plastic surgery.” In his plastic surgery textbook entitled De Curtorum Chirugiau (1597), he recorded the importance of plastic surgery due to the frequency of fights between men and the emergence of disfiguring diseases.

In modern times, war has become the sole most significant factor in shaping the practice of plastic surgery today. World War I saw hundreds of thousands of young men who suffered severe facial injuries in combat. This resulted in the necessity for doctors to quickly research innovative ways to reshape the faces of soldiers who had experienced severe deformity. From the 1960s, plastic surgery became fully integrated into the medical establishment and has resulted in greater acceptance, both socially and culturally.

There are three branches of plastic surgery:

1.
Plastic Surgery: Correction of disfigurement. This is plastic surgery in its purest form—to fix the malformation that may have occurred congenitally (at birth), such as children born with cleft palates or cleft lips.

2.
Reconstructive Surgery: Restoration of impaired function. This is the restoration of function to a damaged body part and the rebuilding of normal physical contours, like the nose, jaw, ears, or fingers, that are missing or disfigured. The large number of car accidents in modern times has resulted in many patients requiring reconstructive surgery of the face. Cancer patients who have undergone treatment with regards to the face and neck areas may also need reconstructive surgery. Such procedure requires complex technical skills for the grafting of tendons and the transfer of muscles to restore usefulness to the disabled part.

3.
Cosmetic Surgery: Improvement of physical appearance. This is aesthetic surgery performed solely to improve appearances in otherwise healthy persons, to remove blemishes or to change contours. It is also often needed after disfigurement caused by burns, removal of tumors, and reconstructive work.

According to a 2007 survey conducted by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 46 percent of all cosmetic procedures were done by people aged 35 to 50. Ninety-one percent of them were women. The top five procedures of men and women are as follow:

Ranking	Men	Women
1	Liposuction	Breast augmentation
2	Eyelid surgery	Liposuction
3	Rhinoplasty	Eyelid surgery
4	“Breast” reduction	Abdominoplasty
5	Hair transplantation	Breast reduction

There are many positive psychological benefits of plastic surgery. The increased functionality of physical organs improves one’s quality of life. If one is born with congenital defects such as a cleft palate, facial birthmarks, or cross eyes (strabismus), cosmetic surgery can correct the defect and restore appearance to what it should have been. If a person has been victimized by an accident resulting in unsightly scars and deformities, plastic surgery can remove the stigma associated with such defects and allow the person to feel “normal” again.

One must not underestimate the psychological benefits in the correction of a perceived physical imperfection, for its own sake, on an individual. The enhanced physical appearance coupled with greater social acceptance could greatly increase the sense of self-worth for the person. For those who are very conscientious about their appearance, to the point of having damaging psychological disorders, cosmetic surgery, with the addition of proper counseling, can help them obtain the confidence they need to live life happily.

However, as with any surgical or non-surgical procedure, there are inherent risks in plastic surgery:

Risk of procedure going wrong. You may become physically and aesthetically worse off than prior to the surgery.

Risk of infections and complications such as puffiness, vomiting, nausea, allergic reaction to anesthesia, contagion, blood loss, blood and fat clotting, accumulation of fluid, permanent damage to nervous and immune systems, scarring, numbness, dangerous body temperature fluctuations, post-operation pain, bruising and swelling, long-term sagging and deformity.

Risk of the pain involved and the recovery time being greater and longer than expected.

Risk to mental health. Patients who are dissatisfied with surgery may request repeat procedures. “Plastic surgery addicts” may experience severe depression, adjustment issues, family issues, social isolation, and severe anger toward surgeons and nurses.
South Korean Hang Mioku became so addicted to plastic surgery that when surgeons refused to conduct additional procedures, she decided to inject cooking oil into her own face. As a result, her face became severely distorted and virtually unrecognizable. Her case is regarded as one of the worst cases related to plastic surgery in modern history.

Are Christians allowed to have plastic surgery, especially those that are cosmetic or aesthetic in nature? Does doing so mean that you are ungrateful to God for the physical attributes He has sovereignly endowed you with? Is such “unnatural” alteration of physical features an expression of fleshly vanity—the excessive pride of one’s personal appearance?

I know a pastor in my city with an overactive sweat gland (hyperhidrosis), causing him to have sweaty palms and sweaty feet along with a bad body odor. He felt embarrassed by it and had a thoracic surgery procedure done. Was he being vain?

I know an Indonesian church leader with severe drooping of the upper eyelid, a condition known as ptosis. Her pupil was partially covered, blocking the upper part of the visual field. She had corrective surgery done by a plastic surgeon who gave her a beautiful eyelid lift (blepharoplasty). Was she being vain?

I know of several Caucasian pastors who have had hair transplantations done to cure their hair loss. Their plastic surgeons moved skin containing hair follicles from one part of the body to balding parts. Grafts containing healthy follicles that are genetically resistant to balding are transplanted to bald scalp. Are those pastors being vain?

I know of another church leader who had a series of chemical peels to get rid of dark patches of facial birthmarks. Is he being vain?

What about the hundreds of people I know who have done LASIK, a laser eye surgery, so that they don’t have to wear eyeglasses? Are they all vain?

The Bible makes no specific mention of whether or not plastic surgery is allowable, although its practice was already around from antiquity. If it is an outright sin, there would have been ample opportunities to address it in the Holy Scripture. In such cases where there is no clear restriction, they are not issues of right or wrong, sin or righteousness; they are simply matters of personal preferences. As such, you must go according to how you believe the Holy Spirit is personally leading you.

Nonetheless, a common sense approach is needed if you are considering plastic surgery:

1.
Risk: Because there are risks in any surgery, you must weigh the risks involved adequately. Is this procedure absolutely necessary? Have you exhausted all options to improve your appearance or contour? Can you achieve the same results by regularly working out in a gym and wise dieting?

2.
Cost: Because plastic surgery is expensive, you must ask the question, “Can I afford it? Will this procedure get me into a debt I will struggle to repay?”

3.
Physician: It takes at least 11 years of studying and training to be a plastic surgeon. Ask yourself, “Is the doctor I am consulting with board-certified and experienced?” You may need to examine some of his works, and check his track records with other patients.

4.
Perception: Society often views reconstructive procedures, such as a cleft lip operation, more favorably than cosmetic surgeries, like say breast augmentation or a nose job. Although often unwarranted, there are some prejudices upon certain procedures. You must ask yourself, “Am I ready to do this even if people may unfairly judge me?”

5.
Self-esteem: Our self-esteem is the foundation of life. Will going through this procedure help you feel better about yourself and to function better in your life, marriage, career or ministry? If the answer is yes, then the possibility of plastic surgery should not necessarily be shunned. We must be careful not to judge someone who opts for cosmetic surgery as vain, or loving God less than the one who doesn’t.

6.
Emotional void: Many people seek cosmetic surgery to fill up emotional voids within. They already feel ugly about themselves inside, and presume that surgery is the only way for them to receive social approval or attention from others. If that is your motivation, you will be greatly disappointed. No outward alteration of physical features or contours can satisfy the needs of an empty soul.

7.
Aging: Even the best plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills cannot stop aging and the tide of time. You must establish specific limits to surgery, as all body parts that are firmed, lifted, and improved upon, will in due course, wrinkle and sag again. The Bible says that ultimately it is your spirit and soul that is most important. When all else fails, remember what 1 Peter 3:4 says: “Rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God.”

Humour: Prophecy

2011-07-18T23:42:00.000-07:00

A man tells his friend, "My grandfather, he knew the exact day of the year that he was going to die. And he was right. Not only that, but he knew exactly what time he would die on that day, and he was right about that too."

His friend is amazed, and says, "Wow, that's Incredible. How did he know all of that?"

The man replies, "A judge told him when he was sentenced to death”

Humour: Contact Lenses

2011-07-11T23:41:00.001-07:00

After a fruitless search, a teenager told his mother that his contact lens was lost.

So his mother went upstairs, and in a few minutes she returned with the lens in her hand.

"Mom, how did you manage to find it?" the teenager asked.

His mother replied, "Son, we weren't looking for the same thing. You were looking for a small piece of plastic and I was looking for RM200 which I paid for your lenses"

2011-07-07T08:52:00.000-07:00

A young adult approached me, gave me a scenario and asked me a question.

There was a Christian lady who approached the pastor of her church, asking the pastor to conduct her wedding. The boyfriend is not a Christian and had never been to church despite many encouragements from the church members for the lady to bring her boyfriend to church.

This couple planned to marry in nine months’ time and had made dinner booking as well as wedding photo shooting. All they need is a church and a pastor to complete their dream wedding.

If the pastor would not conduct their wedding in the church, this couple will leave and find any other church that will marry them. They planned to go to another church, attend the church together weekly for a month or so, and ask the pastor of that church to marry them.

This couple wanted to get marry in the church because it’s their dream wedding.

WILL YOU MARRY THEM? If yes, can you tell me why? If no, can you let me know your reason to do so? As much as you can, relate your answer to the Bible.

Let me know what you think about this scenario and I will let you know what I think.

Night time is your time

2011-07-03T19:39:00.001-07:00

Night time is your time. Exclusively yours.

Think about it. It’s the one time when the phone doesn’t ring, the gas man doesn’t sound his horn, cars don’t pass by your house, friends don’t come calling and your parents aren’t watching over you (unless you work night shift).

So what do most people do with this time? Sleep. Any other activity during the night are mostly negatives.

Some sit up all night watching TV especially during the World Cup football season. Others are stuck into the cyber-world of gambling, pornography, online game, internet chats and endless web surfing after dark. Insomniacs toss in their beds, hardworking students (or last minute students) burn midnight oil into the wee hours of the morning, cramming for exams. Some visits night-clubs, others chat endlessly over “teh-tarik” sessions at mamak stalls. A few read. Some re-read the day’s newspapers in their loneliness.

But I told myself, “there has to be a better way”. And there is. It’s meeting God in an overnight or all-night prayer.

Have you ever considered it? Sounds strange, doesn’t it? It is weird only because we are so conditioned to sleeping, entertaining ourselves (or working) at night, but never to pray. We sense night hours are long (that’s an illusion; overnight prayer is shorter than a working day or school day).

We perceive that in the absence of sleep, we will collapse at work or in school the following day (ask doctors and nurses- they work in shifts in hospital and they will tell you that your body will adjust).

We perceive that if praying in the day is hard, praying at night must be super-impossible (again wrong-it’s easier in some ways because you have less distractions).

Even so, many will ask why torture ourselves fighting sleep just to pray? Good question, especially as we presume sleep to be the most natural thing in the world.

Guess what? Eating is the most natural thing in the world too. But there comes a time when God calls us to come aside from food, to fast and pray. And there are huge returns for doing this.

So would God call us to come aside from sleep to seek Him? He would. And He does. The returns of overnight prayer are equally huge. Jesus prayed all night before He chose His twelve (Lk 6:12). Eleven fulfilled their destinies (In case you are wondering, the twelfth was Judas who betrayed Jesus)

A time of overnight prayer preceded Jesus’ walk on water and stilling the storm (Mk 6:46-51). When Paul and Silas prayed all night, an earthquake struck, prison doors opened (Acts 16:25). Moses’, Daniel’s and King David’s overnight intercessions were life changing. The Bible is full of examples. Next time you can’t sleep, pray.

Better still, plan ahead and join our NuWav Youth Overnight Prayer Meeting. You’ll be amazed at the breakthrough in your life. It will only be but the beginning of a new intimacy.

Click here for more info about NuWav Overnight Prayer

Christian Lightbulb Jokes

2011-06-30T19:03:00.001-07:00

Q: How many charismatics does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: One, since his hands are in the air anyway.
A: Three, one to cast it out and two to catch it when it falls!
A: Twenty one, one to change it, and twenty to share the experience!

Q: How many Calvinists does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: None. God has predestined when the lights will be on.

Q: How many liberals does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: 10, as they need to hold a debate into whether or not the lightbulb exists. Even if they can agree upon the existence of the lightbulb they may not go ahead and change it for fear of alienating those who use fluorescent tubes.

Q: How many Anglo-Catholics does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: None. They always use candles instead.

Q: How many evangelicals does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: Evangelicals do not change lightbulbs. They simply read out the instructions and hope the lightbulb will decide to change itself.

Q: How many Atheists does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: One. But they are still in darkness.

Q: How many Brethren does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: Change?????

Q: How many Pentecostals does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: 10, one to change it and 9 others to pray against the spirit of darkness.

Q: How many TV evangelists does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: One. But for the message of hope to continue to go forth, send in your donation today.

Q: How many campfire worship leaders does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: One. But soon all thoses around can warm up to its glowing.

Q: How many independent baptist's does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: Only one, anymore than that would be considered ecumenical.

Q: How many Episcopalians does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: 10. One to actually change the bulb and 9 to say how much they like the old one.

Q: How many Pentecostals does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: 25. One to screw in the new lamp. Two dozen to bind the powers of darkness.

Q: How many Presbyterians does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: Well, it should require about five committees to review the idea first. If each is staffed with half a dozen members, that's what ... 30?

Q: How many members of the church of Christ does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: 5. One to change the bulb, 4 to serve refreshments.

Q: How many conservative Anglicans does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: Three. One to change it and two to storm out in protest if the person changing it is a woman.!

Q: How many Calvinists does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: None. If God wants the lightbulb changed He will do it Himself!

Q: How many missionaries does it take to change a lightbulb?
A: 10. Five to determine how many can be changed by the year 2000, four to raise the necessary funds, one to go find a national to do the job!

Why you should disable Facebook's face recognition

2011-06-26T22:31:00.001-07:00

Do you know that there is such a thing called “Facebook Face Recognition” technology which is enabled by default in your Facebook account?

Read all about this creepy technology here: click here

It can be useful, but I believe it is potentially dangerous rather than useful.
What happens if someone stalks on you, takes a picture of you, uploads it to Facebook and uses face recognition technology to find out your name and everything else that you put on Facebook?

Here's how to disable the function.
1. Go to Account > Privacy Settings.
2. Click Customize Settings.
3. Click Edit Settings button beside "Suggest photos of me to friends".

4. Select Disabled from the drop-down list.

Although this can help you guard over your privacy, the best defense is to avoiding uploading too much information online. So, be very smart and think twice before you upload any photos, comments, phone numbers or private info on Facebook

2011-06-19T23:21:00.000-07:00

In John chapter 3:22-36, we read that the disciples of John the Baptist were complaining to John that Jesus us getting more popular and more people are leaving John the Baptist in order to follow Jesus.

In response to this, John the Baptist explained that his role is to prepare and points the way to Jesus.

That is to mean that when John the Baptist started his ministry, he knew all along that Jesus will eventually steal the spotlight, the glamour and the people from him. People will eventually go and follow to whom they belong to – Christ.

John the Baptist coined this phrase while teaching his disciple, “He must become more important while I become less important” (NET version). In other Bible version, it reads the following:

NIV - He must become greater; I must become less.

NKJ - He must increase, but I must decrease.

Alkitab - Dialah yang harus makin penting, dan saya makin kurang penting

In other word, John is saying, “it’s all about Him; it none about me”.

You will totally agree with me and praise God in all your heart for the first phrase, “it’s all about Him”. We would raise our voice in praise, our hands in surrender and our heart in awe when we declare “it’s all about Him”!

But what about the second phrase, “it’s none of me”?

Although we totally agree the first phrase, but the second phrase seems to be the competition for the first phrase in our lives.

We acknowledge that “it’s all about Jesus” – nothing else. But many times, we fail to realize that “it’s none about us”.

We always want to be recognized, approved, being noticed, get what we think we deserve in ministry and in Christian living. With this we fail to live up to the second phrase.

When we exalt Christ, we let our self centeredness and self indulgence become a competition to God’s place in our life.

We want to look good but not Jesus.
We want to be successful, but not for Jesus.
We want to worship Him, but it’s for Him.
We want to serve Jesus, but not because we love Him.
We want to give to Him, but not because we are willing.

Often times, we did great things for the Lord only because of the spur of the moment. We will commit wholeheartedly at the time where we are hyped up in camps or in revival services, but fails to live it through our entire lives consistently.

We fail to carry the cross and follow Jesus daily (Lk 14:25). We fail to follow Jesus as His disciple and we fail to put our full allegiance to Him 100%.

Today, while acknowledging that “it’s all about Him”, do you also live out “it’s none about me”? Or are you letting “I” becoming a competition with God’s supreme place in your life?

“it’s all about Him; it none about me”.

Jor-El

2011-06-17T01:58:00.001-07:00

"You will travel far, my little Kal-El. But we will never leave you, even in the face of our deaths. The richness of our lives shall be yours. All that I have, all that I've learned, everything I feel—all this and more I bequeath you, my son. You will carry me inside you all the days of your life. You will make my strength your own, and see my life through your eyes, as your life will be seen through mine. The son becomes the father, the father the son. This is all I can send you, Kal-El." ~ Jor-El

I worship Facebook

2011-05-25T21:26:00.001-07:00

One of the definition of worship is “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind” (Matthew 22:37).

Hence, if we worship God, we will love Him by talking with Him often, spending time with Him regularly, interact with Him consistently and draw near to Him daily. With this kind of lifestyle, it would be terrible to live a day without updating ourselves with Him frequently.

However, I find that some believers claims he loves God fervently but their behaviour speaks otherwise.

They seems to spend more time talking in FB often, spending time in FB regularly, interacting actively in FB, consistently logging on to FB account daily. Without this kind of lifestyle, it would be terrible to live a day without updating themselves with FB account.

However, they have no problem living their days without interacting with God. So, is it fair for me to conclude that these believers worship FB more than God? If so, then it’s a serious sin as stated on the following Bible verses:

Exodus 20:2-7

"I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.

"You shall have no other gods before {3 Or besides} me.

"You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.

You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.

"You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.

Conclusion:

Is FB becoming the thing which you worship – the thing which you spend more time with, interacting more with, drawing closer with and seems terrible if you don’t check on FB?

Is FB becoming an addiction that is affecting the effectiveness of your time management?

Facebook and God – which one are you worshipping? Which one are you following closely?

I want discomfort

2011-05-15T19:57:00.001-07:00

I am always amazed at the Myanmar people who come one hour early just to wait outside the church in order to get a seat despite walking to church under the hot sun.

Bringing their small baby and walking under the hot sun did not deter them from coming to church one hour early every Sunday without fail.

I really wonder why.

Many of us (Malaysian) would not come to church one hour early, let alone be punctual. We will most probably be the latest person to walk into church if our house is within walking distance.

The hall will not be half full when Sunday service starts even when we have good transport (personal car) and service starts at 11:00am – just an hour away from noon.

I really wonder why.

What could be the reason of Malaysian (including myself) being not able to come early to church? (I am not talking about punctual. I am talking about being early).

Perhaps we are too comfortable with all the blessings which God has given us?

Perhaps we think there is no consequence of being late to church but will make re that our parents will send us early to school for exam?

If we are too comfortable with God’s blessing that we neglected God, perhaps it’s time to ask God to give us discomfort in order to give us a wake up call?

If we are to complacent with our life that we take for granted our spiritual life, perhaps it’s time to ask God to give us some hardship in life so that we can draw near to Him again?

Do we really want God to chide us before we become proactive in our daily communion with Him?

I really wonder…..

Why do Christian do baby dedication?

2011-04-27T00:54:00.000-07:00

On 10^th April, I had a full moon dinner and a baby dedication for my 2^nd daughter, Melody Leong. It’s a great evening with lots of laughter and fellowship. On that night, Ps Irene graced the baby dedication and thereafter, everyone went home happily.

But have you ever thought of “why do Christian do baby dedication?”

Is it a ceremony that they need to go through, just like wedding in church or water baptism?

Baby dedication is nowhere found in the Bible. It is not a command by Jesus Christ and it is not a must. It is not a dedication to God so that the baby can go to heaven in case the baby dies before he/she knows the Lord.

So, why do baby dedication?
Most Christian will refer to the Scripture of Hannah dedication Samuel (1 Samuel 1:22). But look what happened to Samuel after the dedication. Did Samuel grow up with Hannah? Samuel was dedicated to the Lord and is to live in the temple (not at home) in order to serve the Lord his entire life.

Baby dedication is not just a religious ceremony. In short, here are the reasons for baby dedication:

1) To thank God for the gift of life

2) To make a covenant before God and before all people that as parent, I will bring the baby up in the Lord

3) To make a commitment before God and before all people that as parent, I will improve and enhance my parenting skill

4) To bring up the baby together with other brothers and sisters in Christ (it takes a village to bring up a child)

The implication:

1) How can I make commitment to God to be a godly parent but doesn’t want to take the responsibility of being a spiritual leader for my baby?

2) How can I be a spiritual leader if I don’t grow in the Word of God?

3) Am I doing my part to nurture the kids in church as we are committed as a church family?

So, in short, baby dedication is my commitment to God that I will bring up this child with godly parenting and to bring this child up so that this baby will choose God when he/she knows how to choose.

By the way, I would like to thank the following:
- all youths for their special gifts
- Wai Chi and Pauline for taking lovely photos on that day

WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN TO FOLLOW JESUS?

2011-04-23T21:35:00.000-07:00

Depending on who you ask, you might get different answers. Some might say, “Going to church regularly.” Others might add, “Being real nice to people,” or “Being a good person.” But today, I’m not asking just anyone, I’m asking YOU.

This time, as I ask it again, think about your answer to:
WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN TO FOLLOW JESUS?

Before you answer (and I really want you to) here’s a couple of things to think about. I want your answer in no more than a sentence. Boil it down to one clear, succinct thought. Also know that as we go with this, you may see someone else’s comment that basically says what you were thinking. It’s ok. Write it out again and put your name to it. If we had 50 responses and only 3 different thoughts, that’s ok.

For those of you reading this in your email or on a blog reader, you’ll need to come to the website to post your comment. I think in most cases you can just click on the title and it will send you to this blog post on the website.

So…WHAT DOES IT REALLY MEAN TO FOLLOW JESUS?

LIFE

2011-04-20T20:56:00.000-07:00

Does life have cheat codes?
Is there short cuts in life?
Anyway, is life a game?

LIFE - you only have one.

Live it seriously, live it fully, live if meaningfully, live it purposefully

WHO AM I?

2011-04-17T21:01:00.000-07:00

One thing that plagues our young generation is that they do not know their identity.

Give a thought to this:

Are you defined by the many 'A's you achieve in exam?

Are you defined by your popularity in Facebook?

Are you defined by how well you dress?

Are you defined by how well you imitate the attitude of TV celebrity?

Are you defined by what kind of house you live in or the kind of car you drive?

The philosopher says, I am what I become
The capitalist says, I am what I own
The scholar says, I am what I know
The moralist says, I am what I do
The existentialist says, I am what I perceive and feel
The radical says, I am not what I reject
The Christian says, By the grace of God I am what I am
I AM LOVED

I AM FORGIVEN

I AM ACCEPTED

I BELONG TO GOD

I HAVE BEEN SET FREE

I AM SECURED

I AM CONFIDENT

I AM ALIVE

I AM YOUR FRIEND

Take time to watch this video and think about the lyric for your life

What does it mean to be saved?

2011-04-10T23:39:00.000-07:00

What does it mean to be saved?

Isn't it more than just a prayer to pray?

Isn't it more than just a way to heaven?

What does it mean to be saved?

It is to show the world heaven

To be formed in His likeness

To show the world what it means to be His

To know that we have a purpose in Him

To be salt on the earth

To be light in the world

FAITH

2011-03-22T21:49:00.001-07:00

Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ (Romans 10:17)

But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by what I do. (James 2:18)

Father or Friend?

2011-03-17T22:53:00.001-07:00

A wise father once said to his son, “If I ever have to choose between being your father and being your friend, I will always choose the role of your father. You will have many friends, but you have only one father”

The Greatest Life-Changing Power

2011-02-27T17:46:00.000-08:00

God and His Word offer the greatest life-changing power, the most amazing promise, and the most unsearchable and unlimited treasures of wisdom and understanding known to mankind.
When His Word comes alive in your heart, you are never the same.
When you taste His truth, you long for more.
When you see His goodness you fall in love with Him.
When you experience His Divine touch of grace, all of life takes on a different perspective.
His Word NEVER returns void, it never fails, and it never fades away.

That Okay Song

2011-02-26T01:07:00.001-08:00

hello malaysians, u okay or not?

That Okay Song

Verse 1
Going downtown going underground
“What’s the best place to get good DVD9’s lah macha?”
Well I kinda know a guy in Chinatown
“Petaling Street? Aisey-man situ selalu kena raid lah beb.”
But my taukay always brings all the prices down
“Okay-lah, but that one if kena saman cannot get diskaun wan.”
It’s all settled coz the guy is from my hometown
“Wah. Eh can help settle mine ah? Dah bertimbun-lah bro.”

Verse 2
Stuck in a car on a highway
“Look at this fella here. Bawa kereta macam jalan bapak dia. Hoi.”
Everyone’s driving like it’s Sunday
“Yang ‘ni pulak sure lesen kopi punya, 100 percent!”
But for real it happens every damn day
“Kesian cik adik ‘ni pulak kena accident. Faster take the nombor.”
Coz we blame it on the floods, the trucks, the traffic lights, and the rempits cutting in lanes left to right

Pre-Chorus 1
Myl. You should grow a misai. Then you’d be a micho.
What the hell is a micho-lah?
“Misai Macho”
Fulamak. Goes well with my kopi jantan-lah.

{Chorus}
Hey, it’s okay.
We gotta live for a better day. (Hey!)
Now we give a little a love and we’re on our way
Kita kaotim everything, parava-illay

You say, don’t play play
Kita mudah lupa but we say “nay”. (Nay!)
Now we got a little love, keep it on replay
You say semua tak boleh, tapi we all okay aje!

Verse 3
“Why the all tak habis-habis reminding us to be grateful. What’s up man?”
Why does it feel like its just a game?
“The same familiar fat faces on billboards, tv, paper, blah, blah, blah”
Same faces, catchphrases and bad cliches
“Check out this lame rhyming rhetorics, man… Hit me Ezra”
Things like… bersabar, jangan cabar, bersyukur, jangan lupa, muda lupa, cemerlang gemilang terbilang.

Pre-chorus 2
How long you going to be away again? Visa dah settle dah?
Dah. My visa can tahan three months.
You going to some tropical paradise getaway kan?
Yeah some damn nice gila exotic place called Kuching and KK

Chorus
Instrumental
Chorus

source: Youtube : That Okay Song by popteevee

20 Tips for Developing Your Walk with God (via @CarySchmidt)

2011-02-21T17:33:00.001-08:00

Does your devotional walk every become routine? Mechanical? Do you ever find yourself going through the motions, but rushing and not really enjoying personal fellowship with the Lord?

Last night in Senior High Bible Study we studied how to conquer “impersonal Christianity”—a Christianity that knows about God but doesn’t really develop personal intimacy with Him. Each of us is responsible for developing our personal walk with God, and in doing so, I challenge you to keep it personal (be transparent before Him, He already knows you), keep it consistent (daily or close to it), and keep it fresh (do whatever you must do to keep from losing interest.)

Along with those three suggestions, here is a quick list of 20 ideas that might help you break out of the mechanical and develop your walk with God in a new way. We handed these out on a card at the end of Bible Study, and I hope they will encourage you:

1. Read the Bible in Places Where You Can Understand It—don’t be afraid to read another passage if you’re getting bogged down in a complex portion of the Bible.

2. Read Good Books about the Bible or Biblical Truths—lose yourself in a good book that contains a lot of scripture.

3. Use a Bible Software or Study Tools to Help You Understand—things like Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary of the Bible is free online. Take advantage of the insight of others.

4. Read the Bible from a Big Picture Perspective—read a whole book or lengthy passage, rather than just a short chapter.

5. Ask God to Teach You Something that You Need—expect Him to answer this prayer and speak to you.

6. Make a Record of the Things that God is Teaching You (Journal)—whether by hand or on computer, write down what God is teaching you.

7. Tell Someone Else Something that God Taught You (Godly Friends)—what a great use of social networking and a great conversation starter with a friend.

8. Talk to God Openly and Take Time to Listen to Him—don’t be afraid to sit quietly before the Lord and listen.

9. Literally Take a Walk with God and Talk to Him—walking will keep you awake and engaged.

10. Make a List of Prayer Requests and Record When They Are Answered—there’s something very special about looking back on all those answers.

11. Listen to Godly Music and Think about the Message—great Christian music will take your heart to a very special place with God.

12. Listen to Preaching or Teaching from Past Events—what a great use for an iPod.

13. Read Biographies of Great Christians—discover how others developed their lives for the Lord.

14. Spend Time with God in Places You Like—the beach? A park? If you enjoy being there, He will enjoy being there with you!

15. Include God on Other Activities of Life—God is with you all day, so He doesn’t mind if you talk to Him while you fold laundry or mow the lawn.

16. Give God the Time You Give to Some Other Form of Media—He’s more important than Facebook, TV, cell phone, and video games all combined!

17. Give God Quiet, Uninterrupted, Unrushed Time—find moments when you aren’t in a hurry and give those to God.

18. Plan Specific Times to Spend More Time with God—have you ever set aside a larger chunk of time just for the Lord? Try a few hours or a half a day some time.

19. Write Out Scripture or Prayers/Letters to God—what a great way to place God’s Word into your heart and to record your walk with Him.

20. Don’t Quit if You Miss a Day—if you missed yesterday, that’s ok… God is still waiting to spend time with you today.

This is a short list, so help me out. What are some ways you have creatively developed your walk with God? Share them below…

ALPHA & OMEGA

2011-02-17T19:33:00.000-08:00

IN CHEMISTRY, HE TURNED WATER TO WINE.

IN BIOLOGY, HE WAS BORN WITHOUT THE NORMAL CONCEPTION;

IN PHYSICS, HE DISAPPROVED THE LAW OF GRAVITY WHEN HE ASCENDED INTO HEAVEN;

IN ECONOMICS, HE DISAPPROVED THE LAW OF DIMINISHING RETURN BY FEEDING 5000
MEN WITH TWO FISHES & 5 LOAVES OF BREAD;

IN MEDICINE, HE CURED THE SICK AND THE BLIND, WITHOUT ADMINISTERING A
SINGLE DOSE OF DRUGS,

IN HISTORY, HE IS THE BEGINNING AND THE END;

IN GOVERNMENT, HE SAID THAT HE SHALL BE CALLED WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, PRINCE
OF PEACE;

IN RELIGION, HE SAID NO ONE COMES TO THE FATHER EXCEPT THROUGH HIM;

JESUS HAD NO SERVANTS, YET THEY CALLED HIM MASTER
HAD NO DEGREE, YET THEY CALLED HIM TEACHER.
HAD NO MEDICINES, YET THEY CALLED HIM HEALER.
HE HAD NO ARMIES, YET RULERS FEARED HIM.
HE WON NO MILITARY BATTLES, YET HE CONQUERED THE WORLD.
HE COMMITTED NO CRIME, YET THEY CRUCIFIED HIM.
HE WAS BURIED IN A TOMB, YET HE LIVES TODAY.
I FEEL HONORED TO SERVE SUCH A LEADER WHO LOVES US!
JOIN US AND LET'S CELEBRATE HIM; HE IS WORTHY.
THE EYES BEHOLDING THIS MESSAGE SHALL NOT BEHOLD EVIL, THE HAND THAT WILL SEND THIS MESSAGE TO EVERYBODY, SHALL NOT LABOR IN VAIN, AND THE MOUTH SAYING AMEN TO THIS PRAYER, SHALL SMILE FOREVER. REMAIN IN GOD AND SEEK HIS FACE ALWAYS.
AMEN
IN GOD I'VE FOUND EVERYTHING!

TAX TIME....!!

2011-02-10T18:57:00.001-08:00

A tax assessor came one day to a poor Christian to determine the amount of taxes he would have to pay. The following conversation took place:

"What property do you possess?" asked the assessor.
"I am a very wealthy man," replied the Christian.
"List your possessions, please," the assessor instructed.

The Christian said:
"First, I have everlasting life, John 3:16
Second, I have a mansion in heaven, John 14:2
Third, I have peace that passes all understanding, Philippians 4:7
Fourth, I have joy unspeakable, 1 Peter 1:8
Fifth, I have divine love which never fails, 1 Corinthians 13:8
Sixth, I have a faithful wife, Proverbs 31:10
Seventh, I have healthy, happy obedient children, Exodus 20:12
Eighth, I have true, loyal friends, Proverbs 18:24
Ninth, I have songs in the night, Psalms 42:8
Tenth, I have a crown of life, James 1:12"

The tax assessor closed his book, and said, "Truly you are a very rich man, but your property is not subject to taxation."
I pray that all of us will have this kind of tax free "wealth."

Secret to Weight Loss

2011-01-23T18:30:00.001-08:00

If you want to loose weight, you need to eat six meals a day.

YES, you heard me right. SIX meals a day!

It doesn’t make sense, does it?

Most people will eat less, or perhaps once or twice a day in order to lose weight.

How can eating six times a day make you lose weight?

Many (ladies especially) will use the ‘common sense’ method eat less, burn more calories, create a caloric deficit strategy to loose weight.

It actually doesn't make sense if you take every biological factor into consideration.

If you are eating only one meal per day, take more fruit & yoghurt, go jogging occasionally, you will hardly loose any gram (let alone kilogram)

If you really wanna loose weight, you need to eat more often and involve in weight training’ NOT starvation strategy. For your info, weight train is not about building muscle in order to make guys look macho or girl looks tomboy.

Here’s a simple explanation of some basics about losing weight:

Why Must I Eat More Often When I Wanna Lose Weight?

Short explanation:

Your body will not want to burn fat if it’s in a state of hunger. The body will usually go into this state after 4 hours (or maybe fewer) without when you are really really STRAVING.

Long nagging explanation:

You see, the body has many priorities, such as staying lean, skin replacement, immunity system, reproduction capabilities, muscle building, fat burning, survival and etc. From that list, survival rates as the highest priority among them all because your body is geared toward endurance and making sure that you are alive.

Guess which priority is at the bottom?

Muscle building and fat burning! In fact, your body will store more fat than burning it because it wants to create a good reservoir of energy in case of starvation.

So you see, until you ensure your body that it will survive and it is free of illness, it won’t even care about building muscle or burning fat at all.

So, what type of body is able to survive the longest without food?
Answer: The one with loads of stored up calories (fat) and very slow metabolism (low in muscle mass) - which is exactly what we DON’T want!

So how does this relate with eating more often?

You see, if you eat more often, your body will not be so concerned about survival because it knows that you are giving it supplies (food) every few hours.

Thus, it will not bother keeping fat levels high and muscle levels low.

This will make it easier to burn fat.

So THAT’S why eating one meal a day is the worst thing you can do in trying to burn the fat!

Why Must I Weight Train When I Want to Lose Weight, Not Build Muscle?

Weight training will help to increase muscle mass and therefore, increases metabolism, and making it easier to lose weight. Plus, it gives ladies a healthy look instead of the skinny look after losing the fat. As for men – macho!

And again, ladies, don’t worry about becoming bulky because you don’t have the testosterone level to become so. You need lots of testosterone to become bulky!

So what's the lesson for the day?

Sometimes, the most bizarre thing is the truth of it all.

Please don’t hate me for saying this but I have to - your efforts could have been more efficient if you weight trained.

Worship & Peer Pressure

2008-06-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

I observed on common phenomenon in First AG and in HUGE Camp.

At the beginning of a worship session, only about five or ten percent of the youth might have raised their hand in worship. However, by the end of the worship session, probably almost ninety percent do. WHY?

I believe that this is due to PEER PRESSURE subconsciously. Peer pressure always has an effect. It can be both positive and negative. We look at those peers on our left and on our right and let those people influence our behavior. If they are raising their hand, we are almost sure to feel comfortable and brace to raise ours also. But we always would like to wait for others to do it first.

I personally believe that youth are scared to praise God when their friends are around them because deep down most people really do care about what others think, more than what God thinks.

Praise and worship, however, aren't about how we look when on the outward when we worship God. It's about entering into the throne room of Heaven, it's not about the left and right, it's about the up and the down. The next time when you worship, focus on God.

What is mission in this word below?
WORSH_P

Too Much Comfort

2008-06-02T19:09:00.000-07:00

First Assembly worked together with an ethnic Myanmars group in our community for them to have a place of worship. It started June 1st and will run for three months before another evaluation made. The estimated number of Myanmars who will attend this weekly worship service at 3:30pm is about 300 people. Most of these Myamars are refuges.

When I went down from the main hall to car park on Sunday, my attention was drawn to the crowd just outside the church main gate. There were unusual huge crowds assembled at 2:45pm when I realize that these were the Myanmars. Some ruggedly dress while others are with long sleeves and tie. Still, many women are with children. A rough estimation would number them at least 80 people.

It really amazes me that these people are actually waiting for church service!
This scene triggered hundreds of thoughts in my heart as I took a 30mins drive home. Why these Myanmars came so early for service? How did so many of them get to know about the service in our church? Why 300 men, women and children still manage to get their way to First Assembly despite constant harassment from the police in their journey? And these questions led to more questions.

Today, I have yet to have any answers for all these questions looming in my head, but one fact remained – the Myanmars got to know about the service in our church and came early with great numbers despite the harassment from the authority.

It reminded me of the early church in the book of Acts harassed by the Roman government when they assemble at home and in temples, but yet the Bible says, “they grew in numbers”. It also reminded me of the persecuted churches in China that grew so rapidly.

Upon these, I really felt like Nehemiah. He wept for his nation when he heard about the devastation news of Jerusalem in ruin. He did not weep for the circumstances that they are in, but for the sins and the procrastination of the people living in the ruin.

I grew up in First Assembly since I’m 5 years old and never in my 25 years in this church have I seen such large number of people waiting to attend a Sunday Service. My heart was so immune to the fact that people still come late although our service starts at 11am, while other church flourished even though their service starts at 7am or 5pm on Sunday. I believe that only God knows as to why people still come late for service every Sunday.

However, the Scripture records that churches thrive when they are persecuted and it happens today when we look at China and Russia. People cherish the reading of the Word and the assembly of worship more. It seems that persecution is what it takes to have thriving churches.

A glance at the members of First Assembly would roughly estimate that they are from middle or lower middle class income. Many have a car (or more), a good job (with a good pay), a family; affording holidays every quarter of the year and is able to send their child for at least a decent education. God has been so good to the preceding faithful generation that the blessings flow to this generation.

However, are these blessings producing attitudes of gratitude and faithfulness? Perhaps the comforts that we have had made us content with live and with God. The book of Judges Chapter 2 records that it only takes one generation after Joshua’s leadership to forget all about what God has done and did evil in the eyes of the Lord by turning against Him.

Although it is a scary thought, but I never found the courage to pray for persecution to take place in First Assembly in order to our members to appreciate the Word of God and the assembly of worship more.

The Unlikely Superheroes

2008-05-30T01:41:00.000-07:00

"The darker the times, the more urgent our collective need for super-powered fantasy figures to dig us out of our hole. But unlike yesterday’s superheroes who were strong, squeaky clean, super-endowed men and women, today’s audiences tike their superheroes to be flawed: the more messed up the better"

Underpants on constant display, unflattering tights, stupid flappy cape, implacable enemies, zero sex-life, a tortured past and the nagging frustration of having to save the world on a daily basis but never being able to claim credit under your true identity: who in their right min would want to be a superhero?

Nonetheless, the superheroes are racing up against each other to the big screen. Although all these are fantasies and fictions, it does depict our real world in some sense.

I observed that of the many superheroes shown today, none were same in their characteristics as they were first created back in the 90’s.

The director of ‘Superman Returns’ shows our man of steel’s constant battle in his love life with Lois Lane and brought in that he had a child without marriage. Christian Bale depicts our Dark Knight’s hinterland life in ‘Batman Begins’. Our friendly neighbour Spiderman gave up his super identity amidst pressure and love in “Spiderman 2”. I can’t end this list without mentioning Iron Man’s carefree attitude that coupled with his alcoholism. Only God knows what holds for the upcoming ‘Incredible Hulk 2’, ‘The Spirit’, ‘Watchman’, ‘G.I. Joe’, ‘X-Men Origins: Wolverine’ and many more.

This portrayed superheroes not as magnificent, selfless, crime fighting role models, but as warped, sexually confused sociopaths whose powers had brought them little but misery and psychological damage.

You can detect the widespread influence it has had in modern television series such as Heroes. Here, no matter how apparently thrilling and delightful and useful their superpowers, the character their superpowers, the characters are contractually obliged to see them as a curse, never as a fun party trick. Either that, or the powers they have are really horrible ones, like the poor Guatemalan girl who can’t help weeping black tears of death which kill even nice people who are trying to save her.

So, today’s audiences like their super heroes to be flawed: the more messed up the better. All of which, of course, gels perfectly with how so many modern viewers like to think of them selves: as amazing, special people with truly unique talents which yet astonishingly have gone unappreciated by a foolish, uncaring world.

What’s my point after such long winded facts?

1) God has given us gifts that are to be used for the unity of the body of Christ and for edifying others. These gifts are meant for the good of those who loves God. Believers are to exercise their giftings with passion and love, never with complaints or burdensome. These cultural flaws in the cinema may creeps into our subconscious mind about our attitude in service and ministry. Let’s see how this sub-culture will affect both the golden rule of “loving others as thyself” in long run and also the ‘selflessness’ attitude taught in the Bible.

2) Although no one is perfect, that does stop us as believers to be holy and acceptable in the sight of the Lord. Although we have sins in our lives, God still uses our life testimonies for His glory. Although we have a horrible past, it should never deter us to use God’s gifting in our lives We are to change and be transformed by God’s Word and His Spirit, but never to stay still with our own strength or will power. Sounds like what these superheroes are doing in the big screen?

3) “With great power, comes great responsibilities”. I liked this catchy so much because it resonances Biblical truth. As we are equipped with great powers from on high, we are to exercise it great care and great concern. We are not to toy around or even sit on it. It is never for our selfish gain nor for our own greatness.

Perhaps we need to really salute those ‘real’ superhero who stayed true to their calling and their responsibilities through thick and thin.

The B.I.B.L.E. Tag

2008-05-28T03:09:00.000-07:00

1) How many book have you read in the Old Testament?
39

2) How many book have you read in the New Testament?
27

3) The book(s) in the Bible which I like to read the most
Proverbs, Luke and Acts

4) Who is my favourite male character(s) in the Bible and why? (other than Jesus)
King Solomon. Cause he is the wisest man on earth

5) Who is my favourite female character(s) in the Bible and why?
Queen Esther. Cause she risked her life for her people and her nation

6) My favourite Bible verse(s) is/are…
Jer 29:11

7) How many versions of Bible do you have?
NIV, TNIV, NKJV, KJV, NLT, ESV

Finally, a swim!

2008-05-27T01:58:00.000-07:00

These are the photos of Miracle, Michelle and myself swimming for the very first time this year.

I think she have a liking fior waters and she can kick in the pool.

Here in my home

2008-05-26T09:16:00.000-07:00

I got this video clip while browsing thru Kelly punya blog. It is very cool. Take some time and have a look at their creativity and message - although nothing to be shouted about

Michelle's new blog

2008-05-22T23:17:00.000-07:00

hey, Michelle's new blog is as follow:

www.mitmitoto.blogspot.com

How many Christians does it take to change a light bulb?

2008-05-22T20:46:00.000-07:00

Amish: What’s a light bulb?

Baptists: At least 15 - One to change the light bulb, and three committees to approve the change and decide who brings the potato salad and fried chicken.

Charismatic: Only 1 - Hands are already in the air.

Episcopalians/Anglicans: 3 - One to call the electrician, one to mix the drinks, and one to talk about how much better the old one was.

Lutherans: None - Lutherans don't believe in change.

Methodists: Undetermined - Whether your light is bright, dull, or completely out, you are loved. You can be a light bulb, turnip bulb, or tulip bulb. Bring a bulb of your choice to the Sunday lighting service and a covered dish to pass.

Mormons: 5 - One man to change the bulb, and four wives to tell him how to do it.

Nazarene: 6 - One woman to replace the bulb while five men review church lighting policy.

Pentecostal: 10 - One to change the bulb, and nine to pray against the spirit of darkness.

Presbyterians: None - Lights will go on and off at predestined times.

Roman Catholic: None - Candles only.

Unitarian Universalists: We choose not to make a statement either in favor of or against the need for a light bulb. However, if in your own journey you have found that light bulbs work for you, you are invited to write a poem or compose a modern dance about your light bulb for the next Sunday service, in which we will explore a number of light bulb traditions, including incandescent, fluorescent, 3-way, long-life and tinted, all of which are equally valid paths to luminescence.

Meet Logan, The Sky Angel Cowboy

2008-05-21T04:15:00.000-07:00

"Lif Bomba" or "fire Lift"?

2008-05-19T19:20:00.000-07:00

It was a great Saturday on 17 May because we finally launched a weekly English Youth Service after don't know how many moons ago.

After the launch at 6:00pm, I went to my brother's new house in PJ SS2. His apartment (or condominium) is a new state of the art building. With the usual annoying security guards and signing in upon entering the building, it is also built with access card for taking the lift and the staircase. In other word, my brother need to come down with his access card to activate the lift. This is called "maximum security". However, after a few round the building looking for the hidden visitor carpark, I managed to get on the lift and went up without the access card because I followed a resident into the lift who happen to came down anf fetch her friends. The lift moved as she pressed on the 7th floor. Within no time, we arrive at 7th floor and behold, the door did not move - it was not opening. Then, it danwed on us that we are trapped in that lift!

We rang the security thru the emergency button and notified him about our situation. Shortly thereafter, we heard a few sound of beeps and the display panel showed "FIRE EMERGENCY RESET". Then it made me realized that we are on board a "lif bomba". It is supposeed adjourn to ground floor upon resetting. However, the lift is at stand still after a while. Thus, we rang that security again to notify of the situation. Hence, the security asked, "how many are you in the lift?". Annoyed, we answered "8, including a baby". I was bedazzled by that fact that the guard asked this question when there is a CCTV in the lift that we are stucked with. So, the security responded later that they called the mechanics and they are on their way.

As you would have guessed, nothing happened for the next 20mins. "Tolong sabar sikit. Mekanik sedang datang. Sekejap lagi". These were the standard respond we get each time we rang them up. The air ventilation wasn't that good and Michelle and I took turn to carry Miracle. Thank God to the considerate and good citizen that kept fanning Miracle as though she's a princess. They were very nice people to be stucked in a lift. Then, we phone rang and I told my mom that I'm trapped in the lift at 7th floor, where my brother stayed.

What did I do when I was trapped for 30mins in the lift? I updated my blod with my handphone and pondered about the word "lif bomba". In English, it is called "fire lift". So, it is a lift for the bomba use in case of fire, or is it a lift to be used in case of fire? Malaysia boleh.

The other question I thought of is the usage of access card. Is it promoting maxmimum security or creating more inconveniences? the residence there have to take out with the access card every time there's a visitor in order to fetch them from gorund floor up. Without this card, you cannot open the doors for the fire staircase. So, is such a tight security, how are the firemen gonna get to you and save your house in case of fire?

With those thought in mind, the lift door suddenly crack opened. There, I saw my messiahs, brother-in-law and my dad opening the door. With joy and galdness, we all left the lift without informing the security that we are out and the mechanics are still on their way.

Then, my sister told me that they tried many time to crack open the lift door upon hearing that I'm trapped. They tried to communicate with us from outside also, but I heard nothing from the inside. Then, my sister asked my nephew to pray for divine strength to open the door and behold, the immediate try to open the door afte that prayer worked!

So, the next time you're trapped in the lift, pray that there will be divine strength to open the door. Thanks be to God. Unbelievable.

THE FOUR BLESSED LOOKS

2008-05-19T19:17:00.000-07:00

Look back and 'Thank' God.
Look forward and 'Trust' God.
Look around and 'Serve' God.
Look within and 'Find' God!''I asked God,

'How do I get the best out of life?' God said,
'Face your past without regrets.
Handle your present with confidence.
Prepare for the future without fear!''

'Without God, our week is:
Mournday,
Tearsday,
Wasteday,
Thirstday,
Fightday,
Shatterday and
Sinday.
So, allow Him to be with you every day!'

'Life is short, so forgive quickly.
Believe slowly.. Love truly.
Laugh uncontrollably.

Never regret anything that makes you happy. And have a wonderful journey

Hillsong United

2008-05-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

Good news to Malaysians. Hillsong United coming to town.
Bad news to Malaysians. It costs RM50

"Worth it mah...! They came here playing the songs live woh" you would reply.

An original Hillsong United costs RM43.90 in Canaanland, a bit less than RM50. But it's a live performance, rite?

Well, for your information, Hillsong are making quite a bit og $$ when all their albums. They can actually come on their own, but ...

However, I really wonder why are they coming to Malaysia? To perform for us or to lead us closer to God?

Why youths complains that churches costs a lot when it's only RM20 or less but they will rush for this evetn when it costs RM50?

Well, better for me to stop here cause the YAM committee may chase after me for for 'sedition'. Ha ha ha ....

Remember that in 1997, Don Moen came for a few nights in Stadium Merdeka for FREE.

What does 'Sedition' mean?

2008-05-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

BRAVE NEW WORLD WITH AZMI SHAROM (excerpts from TheStar Online)
The Sedition Act is very open-ended and perhaps it should be done away with. Just what sedition is appears to be in the eye of the beholder.

SEDITION! What does it mean?

The word has been floating around for the past couple of weeks.
Raja Petra the (in) famous blogger of Malaysia Today is being charged with sedition and Karpal Singh the (in)famous MP is being threatened with the charge of sedition.

Raja Petra’s charge is based on an article he wrote about the Altantuya murder and Karpal was supposedly being seditious when he questioned the limits of the Sultan of Perak’s constitutional powers.

But were they being seditious? According to the dictionary definition of sedition, it means words or actions that cause people to rebel against their leaders.

It’s awfully vague, isn’t it? What does “rebel” mean, for instance? Well, looking back into my trusty dictionary, I find that it means to stop giving allegiance to an established government.
Gasp! By that definition, voting against the Government makes you a rebel. Being an Opposition member makes you a rebel. Criticising the Government makes you a rebel.

But wait. Reading on, there is the implication that rebellion means armed struggle. Phew! For a moment there, I thought we were living in a country where close to 50% of the electorate are awful rebels.

However, let’s go back to Raja Petra and Karpal Singh. Their so-called sedition is not dependent on the definition of the Oxford Paperback Dictionary. Instead, we must look to the Sedition Act 1948 (revised in 1969).

Well, 1948. That’s a long time ago. We were not independent then. The Brits were in control. So what we have here is a Brit-made law used initially to control the teeming masses of Malaya from rebelling against the colonial masters.

Gosh. I would have thought such a horrid reminder of the nasty British and their bullying ways would have been done away with as soon as we gained independence.

I guess the Government feels that it still has its uses. Like defending the honour of royalty (as in the Karpal case) or putting them in jail (if Raja Petra, a member of the Selangor royal family, is convicted). Oh, the sweet irony.

Anyway, the Act gives a much more detailed definition than my dictionary. It’s not much clearer, mind you, just more detailed. Since I am lazy, I’ll just paraphrase the relevant parts of the act here.

Sedition means:
(a) To make people hate or feel contempt or disaffection against any ruler or government;

(b) To excite people into changing any legally established matter other than by lawful means;

(c) To make people hate, feel contempt for or feel disaffection against the administration of justice in the country;

(d) To raise discontent or disaffection among the people of the country;

(e) To promote feelings of ill-will and hostility between different races or classes of the population of Malaysia; or

(f) To question the provisions in the Constitution regarding citizenship, Bahasa Malaysia as the national language, the special position of Malays and the sovereignty of the rulers.

However, your words and actions are not seditious if they were:
(a) Intended to show that a ruler has made a mistake;

(b) To constructively show that the government has made mistakes or is in some way defective in law-making and the administration of justice (with the exception of the listed matters in paragraph (f) above);

(c) To make changes in the country through lawful means (with the exception of the listed matters in paragraph (f) above) and to identify, with the intention of removing, any matter that will raise feeling of ill will between the various ethnic groups.

This is the law as it stands. It is not a verbatim reproduction of the Act because, believe me, if you think what I wrote is boring, the actual Act will drive you to tears.

Arguments will be made on both sides to determine if sedition has occurred, and if the case goes to court, then it is up to the wisdom of the judge to decide.

Meanwhile, since we are all intelligent citizens of a democratic country, I see no harm in examining the so-called seditious acts of these two fellows, and seeing if they fit into the definition provided for by this old colonial law.

While you are at it, you may want to see if anyone else has been uttering seditious words. It could be fun. For example, the next time someone questions your citizenship, you can always scream: “Sedition! Sedition!”

The law is very open-ended and perhaps it should be done away with. Just what sedition is appears to be in the eye of the beholder, and this is not a particularly ideal situation.

After all, one person’s sedition is another person’s practice of the democratic right of free speech.

A Tribute for Mothers

2008-05-14T01:15:00.000-07:00

For those who missed last Sunday's special tribute for mother's, here you go...

Time Really Flies

2008-05-09T21:56:00.000-07:00

When you are single, people ask you, "when are you getting a date?"

When you are paktoring, people ask you, "when are you getting married?"

When you are married, people ask you, "when are you giving birth"

When you got your first child, people ask you, "when are you gonna get the second one?"

But when the funeral comes, I will ask them, "when is your turn?"

Click on the image to see more on the photos.

Go Kart!!!

2008-05-07T03:42:00.000-07:00

Kart racing or karting is a variant of open-wheel motor sport with simple, small four-wheeled vehicles called karts, go-karts, or gearbox/shifter karts depending on the design. They are usually raced on scaled-down circuits. Karting is commonly perceived as the stepping stone to the higher and more expensive ranks of motorsports.
Karts vary in speed and some (known as Superkarts) can reach speeds exceeding 160 mph (250 km/h).[1] A Formula A kart, with a 100 cc 2 stroke engine and an overall weight including the driver of 150 kilograms, can accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 4.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 85 mph (140 km/h). It takes a little more than 3 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph with a 125 cc shifter kart (6 gears), with a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h) on long circuits.

Anyone wanna go kart with me? Let's go and beat Leon Lim at his game. ha ha ha....

For more details of this event, pls visit this blog more often...

Divine Healing: Why still take medicine?

2008-05-02T21:06:00.000-07:00

Anyone who’s paying attention to the reading of the four Gospels will realize that miraculous healing was Jesus’ trademark – the lame walks, the blind sees, the mute speaks and the dead risen. Not only Jesus heals, He has given his followers to do even greater things than He.

Healing happens when damage or hurt incurs. For others, it is the desire to be complete again due to disability. When we speak about healing, there are three common aspects: (1) physical restoration of health, (2) inner healing of mental & emotion and (3) spiritual healing.

Here, I want to stress more on physical restoration of health. A hundred years ago, fever causes many deaths, but you don’t even need to lift a finger to heal fever today thru some Panadols. Thirty years ago, chicken pox was a deadly decease, but it’s easily cured today by a simple jab of vaccine. With so many curable deceases, is there anymore room for God to heal today? Or do we cry out to God only when we are inflicted with incurable deceases like cancer or AIDS?

I believe many would interpret “God heals” as “God will heal me miraculously without any natural means of medication”. I believe that in this context, it is not that all true.

The God of wonder created human with the body that has the ability to repair itself when the immune system works. This is called the ‘natural’ healing. In the same way, God also gives us healing through natural processes and through giving us the ability to study and practice medicine. God gives us the ability to understand how our body works and gave us the technology to produce the medicine needed. This is the ‘medical’ healing. We often turn to this healing to aid our ‘natural’ healing or when our ‘natural’ healing fails.

Thus, the main question I want you to reflect is this: why take medicine when God can heal through ‘natural’ healing?

I believe the first misconception we need rid off is that ‘medicine’ healing isn’t God’s way of healing. How we ever thought that ‘medicine’ healing IS God’s way of healing also? This is because He gave us the ability to discover and perfects the medication. We often fail to see this because God’s healing work seems so indirect. Therefore, even though we pray for God to heal us with ‘natural’ healing, we still can take medicine for our ‘medical’ healing to aid our ‘natural’ healing. It’s like God saying, “Hey! You prayed for healing, rite? I will heal you, but it’s thru the medical advancement ability that I’ve given you. So, this medication that you take is also one way I heal you”. I have no doubt that God can certainly heal, but it is the “how He heals” which we need to ponder about. Isn’t medical healing a form of healing from God? Why can’t we take medicine and pray for God’s healing at the same time? Why we need to condemn medical healing for those who are praying hard? Why we always think that it’s either healing thru prayer or healing thru medicine? Do not limit God. He can use both to heal you.

All healing is, in some way, are of divine healing. Medicine is rooted in the understanding of how nature works. It gives a boost to the systems for healing that we already have within us, clearing away roadblocks to restoring health, and does some things that nature does not have the ability to do on its own. We also need to realize that medicine itself has no ultimate healing power. All medicine can do at its very best is to delay death’s inevitable arrival. Thus, medicine’s ability to delay death is also a great gift from God.

In conclusion, why not let prayer partners with medicine to provide us wholesome healing unless God specifically instructs otherwise?

Lord of the Dance

2008-05-02T00:07:00.000-07:00

I found this classic MTV (1997) quite interesting. I would like to challenge you to watch it a few times and put some comments on what you observed about:
(1) What's the purpose of the childbirht scene in the beginning?
(2) Why is there a ballet dance in this MTV?
(3) What's the purpose of the old man's scene at the ending?
(4) How this MTV portay Christian living?
(5) What is the overall message of this MTV?

I an looking forward for you to put some comments about this MTV on this blog.

Here's the MTV:

Swimming in the Holy Ghost

2008-05-01T23:20:00.000-07:00

This is the photo of my last swim with my family - in a children pool. Many swims for their own reason: personal leisure, family time, courship, training, health exercise. I believe you can come up with your own reason for a swim.

Men are created to walk on earth with both of our legs, but since I don't know when , men has tried to conquer the sky as well as the sea. Some would say that flying is good for healthy and some others recommend swimming. As we are concenred about our health, how many actually gave thoughts to their health - both physically and spritually? As a Christian, you would have smelled that I'm going to talk about spiritual health.

If I organize a spiritual swimming test, how many would pass with flying colours? If I hold a spiritual swimming competition, how many would have registered? I thank God that there's no such spiritual swimming test or competition mentioned in the Scripture. However, this reminded me of a great song entitled "DIVE" back in 1999 taken from Rom. 11:33-36; Eph. 3:16-19 .

This song speaks about the flood of the Holy Ghost that will sweeps the life of believers when we take the leap of faith in diving into His waves water. I especially likes the chorus because it truly captures the expressino of a "youthful Pentecostalism" (if there's such a term). I really longed for the time where I would just tell God, "Hey, God! I’m diving in, I’m going deep in over my head, I want to be cought in the rush, lost in the flow,in over my head, I want to go the river’s deep, the river’s wide, the river’s water is alive. So I don't care whehter I will sink or swim, I’m diving into your river of life, river of blessing and river that will wash me clean as a snow"

So, when was your last time for such a swim?

Here's the lyric and the MTV:

[Verse 1]

The long awaited rains

Have fallen hard upon the thirst ground

And carved their way to where

The wild and rushing river can be found

And like the rains

I have been carried here to where the river flows, yeah

My heart is aching and my knee are weak

As I walk to the edge

I know there is not turning back

Once my feet have left the ledge

And in the rush I hear a voice

That’s telling me it’s time

To take the leap of faith

So here I go

[Chorus]
I’m diving in, I’m going deep in over my head, I want to be

Cought in the rush, lost in the flow,in over my head, I want to go

The river’s deep, the river’s wide, the river’s water is alive

So sink or swim, I’m diving in

[Verse 2]

There is a supernatural power

In this might river’s flow

It can bring the dead to life

And it can fill an empty soul

And give a heart the only thing

Worth living and worth dying for, yeah

But we will never know the awesome power

Of the grace of God

Until we let ourselves get swept away

Into this holy flood

So if you’ll take my hand

We’ll close our eyes and count to three

And take the leap of faith

Come on let’s go

Should Christian pray when they eat?

2008-04-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

This question always puts a scratch on my youth’s head whenever they eat.
Why do we need to pray when we eat?
Why do we pray when we eat together but fail to do so when we eat alone or with our family?
How should we pray? Should we always pray before eating?
Do Christians the world over pray before they eat?
Should we limit our prayer to what we are about to eat?
What if the meal was prepared by a really bad cook?
Are there any settings in which prayer would be inappropriate?
Does it depend on whether or not we are hosting the meal as a Christian event?
What if we’re in the company of non-believers?
Do we take into consideration the ratio of Christians to non-Christians gathered at the table? What if I’m the only Christian at the table?
Is it a cultural thing? Do we pray before a Chinese wedding dinner?

These may seem like silly questions, but you know you've asked them all at one point in your life.I can't think of any books dedicated to this subject and I haven't heard any sermons about it.

Some of you are probably thinking, “Of course we should pray when we eat! This is not even a topic to debate!” and others may simple say, “Whatever”. Well, ask yourself why you don’t pray when you go out for ice cream. Does it depend on the quantity of food you are about to consume? Or is it only required at designated mealtimes?

Some of you may not think it’s a big deal at all. If that's the case, then what example are you setting for your children if you sometimes feel like praying before you eat and sometimes you don’t?

This issue may not be as important as the debate over the doctrines of grace, salvation, and baptism of the Spirit or the importance of sound biblical preaching in our churches. But I am curious to know your thoughts on the matter. So, what do you think?

As Christian, we are not performing rituals for ritual’s sake. There is a spiritual significance for water baptism, Holy Communion and other ordinances of the church.

While there are numerous passages in scripture that instructs us to “give thanks”, there is not a single command telling us that this must occur before meals. The closest we have to a command are the examples of Christ saying a blessing or giving thanks when he fed the 5,000 (Matther 14:19), when he fed the 4,000 (Matthew 15:36), and when he broke bread with the disciples in the upper room (Matthew 26:27).

Shout to the Lord on American Idol

2008-04-11T19:55:00.000-07:00

I went to YouTube to watch the American Idol special "Idol Gives Back" that raises money for a number of worthy causes around the world. I think it's great that the show uses its huge platform to help people in need. Their work in Africa and in many parts of the U.S. is very inspiring.
I found out this morning that they closed the show with the eight remaining contestants singing the song "Shout to the Lord." Is that surreal or what? The interesting thing is that they changed the lyrics from "My Jesus, my Savior" to "My Shepherd, my Savior." The funny thing is that a few weeks ago when they were doing Dolly Parton songs I think several singers did songs that used the name of Jesus in them. But then when they do a worship song they leave Jesus out. Hmmm...
I'm not the kind of person that gets worked up about things like this. I'm just curious. I'd love to know what the decision-making process for the producers looks like. Are there Christians involved who are trying to get songs like this on the show? Or to take a more cynical view, do they just realize that a huge portion of their base (and a lot of the people who will be quick to contribute) are evangelical Christians so they throw us a bone once in awhile? But then if that's the case, who made the decision to cut "Jesus" out of the lyrics? Are there factions at Idol who don't like bringing in Christian themes so they had to make this compromise? Ahhh, the intrigue of it all.
One more question: are they even allowed to change lyrics like that? Could Darlene Zschech who wrote the song sue them for gazillions? Or at least demand that they do a whole show where the contestants have to sing only Hillsong tunes?

"But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice."Philippians 1:17-19

When is the best time to sin?

2008-04-07T00:34:00.000-07:00

“What’s the best day to sin?” was a question I asked my youth group.
The answers were incredibly honest, here’s some of the feedback…

Teenager 1 : “Saturday is best because you get to repent on Sunday, yeah! That’s the day I’d pick”

Teenager 2: “No, Monday is better because you have all week to repent.”

Teenager 3: “Nah, I would have to say in the middle, like on a Wednesday, cause you’d feel a bit too guilty doing it the day after church, and Saturday, well that’s just wrong isn’t it.”

All interesting arguments I thought. Obviously, the correct answer is that there isn’t a best day to commit sin. Every day is the worst day to sin, especially today!

Let's Keep on Sinning!

2008-04-07T00:24:00.001-07:00

Ho Kean Seng asked the following:
1) Jesus died for ALL of our sin
2) God will forgive our sin when we ask for forgiveness
3) We are going to heaven anyway
So, why not just continue to sin while we still can when we are on earth?

What say you?

Don't read if you're immature.. .seriously.

2008-04-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

Why do we sleep in church,
But stay awake through a 2 hour movie?

Why can wake up 2:00am to watch football
But can't wake up on Sunday early enough for church?

Why is it so hard to talk about God,
but so easy to talk about sex?

Why are we so bored when we look at a
Christian magazine,
but find it easy to read Magazine?

Why is it so easy to ignore a Godly emails,
Yet we repost the nasty ones?

Why are churches getting smaller,
But bars and clubs are growing?

Think about it, are you going to
repost this?

Are you going to ignore it, cause you
think you'll get laughed at?

I'm so happy and honoured

2008-04-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

My article submitted to TheStar blog was allowed to be published. Furthermore, there's a comment so far in favour of my view. It's being read by Malaysian all over. Aint that cool?

Click <here> to view my article in TheStar Citizen's Blog

Is Sufiah still a dignified human being?

2008-04-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

Although I would concur with the many that reacted to the government’s move in providing aide to this young adult, we should not pass harsh judgment based solely on our self-righteous feeling or on other’s behalf.

I believe she’s the pride of many when she’s identified as a brilliant young Malaysian mathematician who has a bright future. However, it is indeed a pride that turned sour and her high profile has laid the nation’s pride at stake.

Although many agree that she should get her share of rebuke, condemnation and mocking for her shame as opposed to her praise when she’s identified as a brilliant mathematician, we all need to bear in mind these few facts:

We should learn from this incident that a brilliant mathematician does not mean that Sufiah is a brilliant girl who can mange her own life values and life choices. After all, she is a 23 years old young adult who is going through adolescence.

We should also learn that although broken family can produce a brilliant academic person, it doesn’t mean that he or she will be morally right in her life values. I believe that this is one of the major flaws in Malaysian’s education system. Perhaps religious education can contribute significantly in this area.

We need to learn that it is vital that parents strive and thrive to provide for the children instead of opting to leave their children into o broken family.

Whether is she a Malaysian or not, she is still a human being. Although she smeared her dignity, she is still a girl in need of love and care in the aftermath of her mistake. She is also in need of people who hate the wrong she committed but love her enough as a human being. Perhaps we should not be so self-righteous in condemning her. We all can learn from the man who said, “let the man who have no sin cast the first stone” Rebuke is needed as correction, but love is needed all the more to lead her back into the right path. Is there anyone willing for the latter?

*For those who are in the dark of this big news, please click <here>

Connecting with God . . . and not just singing songs

2008-03-28T01:39:00.000-07:00

How to truly connect with God in worship

One of the best lessons I ever learned about how to help others connect with God came through a technical problem that got my sweat glands overproducing until God showed me how to turn it into an opportunity for true worship. It was the quintessential worship leader’s nightmare: in the middle of a song, the projector went belly up. I was tempted to worship the technology: “How can we go on without the projector?” Fortunately, rather than heeding my anxieties, I took a risk and used spaces between lyrics to prompt the group with ad lib vocals. Afterward, I had people tell me that when the projector went down was when they went up—into God’s presence. The words weren’t there to distract them; they just closed their eyes and followed my lead. Sometimes removing the “middle man” of the printed word will bring people face to face with the God to whom they’re singing.

As worship leaders, we want people to worship God and not just sing songs. How can we help others make that critical transition from reciting words—or even singing with great passion—to actually interacting with the Spirit, who wants to transform their lives forever?

True worship from a person to God requires a spiritual connection that worship leaders can’t force, control or manipulate. We have to trust God and God’s work in people. This trust requires us to get into place as doorkeepers in the house party of God (Psalm 84:10) and, along with God, welcome fellow worshipers in to participate. We cannot make worship happen, but with thoughtfulness, persistence and a willingness to take risks we can get people into the house and then help them have the courage to approach the host. Once there, they can thank him for the great party or have that heart-to-heart talk they’ve been needing to have.

Here are some ideas for how to use thoughtfulness, persistence and risk-taking to partner with God in transforming “singers” into “worshipers”:

Calls to worship aren’t just for Sunday mornings. Most churches have some form of a “call to worship.” It may be listed in the bulletin as such and consist of a formal prayer, or it may be a more spontaneous plea—an elder’s passionate testifying to the goodness of God, for example. Regardless, it’s a worthwhile tradition because it recognizes that human beings need to be exhorted to worship God.

Develop a call-to-worship style that works for your context. It may be a relevant Scripture reading, an exhortation from you, or a testimony from a chapter member. It may be a poem or a projected visual image that you ask people to reflect on before the first song. It may be different each week. Thoughtfully consider what will help your group transcend the distractions of their day and entrust their lives to God.

What do these words mean anyway? The call to worship gets people in the front door, but now they need a path cleared so they can actually get to the host. The lyrics we sing aid in opening this path. Help people connect with the words and not just recite them: explain or have them talk in pairs about how a phrase grown stale is still relevant to their lives; read a song’s words before you start it and let their meaning sink in; pray in the midst of a song, while the music continues, and use the lyrics in your prayer. This is where risk-taking comes in. Be willing to try new things so that your followers are engaging with the words and hopefully, through that, with God.

Allow space to confess, reflect, pray and deal. Don’t be the only one to pray over the group during the music—allow group members, individually and in small groups, to talk to God for themselves. Here’s where you need to be persistent. It takes time for most of us to open ourselves to God. Stand firm in your desire to see your friends connect with God and don’t cut prayer times short because you’re not sure if anyone is actually communicating with God. God speaks, but we need to create time and space for him to speak and for us to listen.

Other ways you can encourage conversation with God in the midst of musical worship are to encourage personal confession of sin, then speak assurance of God’s forgiveness, or give the group a topic for intercession. Don’t be afraid of situations in which some might be crying as they allow God to deal with pain in their lives. The Spirit wants to help others in the room deal honestly with him, as well; pray for wisdom and encourage people in that direction. With thoughtfulness, persistence and risk-taking, you can help your group connect with God—and you will experience God more deeply, too.

—Sundee Frazier and her husband, Matt, led the Urbana 2000 worship team. They now live in Pasadena, California. Sundee is a freelance writer.

Jumpstyle!

2008-03-24T18:52:00.000-07:00

JUMP STYLE

Hey!, The adults have their line dancing. Why can't the young adult or the youths have jumpstyle fellowship every Sunday after church? Cool, huh? Can bring friends to church and join this cool exercise.

Why Mom is the best

2008-03-24T18:47:00.000-07:00

Mum's Unconditional Love

1) When you were 1 year old, she fed you and bathed you.

- You thanked her by crying all night long.

2)When you were 2 years old, She taught you to walk.

- You thanked her by running away when she called,

3)When you were 3 years Old, She made all your meals with LOVE,

- You thanked her by tossing your plate on the floor,

4)When you were 4 years Old, She gave you some Crayons,

- You thanked her by coloring on the walls

5) When you were 5 years, She dressed you for the holidays,

- You thanked her by plopping into the nearest

6) When you were 6 years old, She walked you to school.

- You thanked her by screaming,"I am not Going!"

7)When you were 7 years Old, she bought you a baseball

- You thanked her by throwing it through the next-door-neighbours window.

8)When you were 8 years Old, she handed you an Ice-cream

- You thanked her by dripping it all over your lap

9) When you were 9 years Old, she paid for a Piano lessons.

- You thanked her by never been practicing.

10) When you were 10 years Old, She drove you all day, from soccer to gymnastic to one birthday party and to another

- You thanked her by jumping out of the car and never looking back...

11) When you were 11 years old, she took you and your friends to the movies

- And you thanked her by asking to sit in a different row.

12) When you were 12 years old, she warned you not to watch certain TV Shows

- You thanked her by waiting until she left the house

13) When you were 13, She suggested a haircut,

- You thanked her by telling her she had no taste,

14) When you were 14, She paid for a month away at a summer Camp

- You thanked her by forgetting to write a single letter.

15) When you were 15, she came home from work looking for a hug

- You thanked her by having your bedroom door locked.

16)When you were 20 ,she asked whether you were seeing anyone.

- You Thanked her by saying,"It's none of your business"

17)When you were 25, she helped to pay for your weeding and she cried and told you how deeply she loved you.

- You thanked her by moving halfway across the country.

18) When you were 30, she called with some advice on the baby.

- You thanked her by telling, "Things are different now"

19)When you were 40, she called to remind you of a relative's birthday

- You thanked her by saying that you were really busy right now

20)When you were 50, she fell ill and needed you to take care of her .

- You thanked her by reading about the burden parents become to their children.

Why slain in the Spirit?

2008-03-24T01:42:00.000-07:00

Why Christian slain in the Spirit?
Is it Biblical? Where is it found in the Bible?
Why do we need a minister to lay hand in order to slain?
Is slaining in the Spirit a learned behaviour?

HAVE YOUR SAY

Fascinated by Miracle

2008-03-23T22:51:00.000-07:00

On the beautiful Easter morning of March 23, a group of youths went into the Mother's Room and only God knows why they all went in there. However, they were all fascinated Miracle Leong ,my cute little daughter. Words of amazement such as "Look! She can hold the cup!" and "She's so cute when you put the bread into her mouth!" louded throughout the room.
Indeed, I believe that Miracle Leong is going to grow up a fine young lady who will attract and amaze many not only with her outward appearance, but with her inward beauty as well. My prayer is that she will grow in wisdom, in stature and in favour with God and men

Miracle's 3rd Vocab

2008-03-21T13:13:00.000-07:00

Miracle is now 13 months already. Time really flies. Her first two words are "wou wou" and "bird bird". View the video clip below and see whether you know her third vocab or not..

Super Life

2008-03-21T11:32:00.000-07:00

We are not Superman or Superwoman, but we can live a Super life.
What's a Superlife?
It's a life of:
1) Surrender of our lives totally to Him
2) Service to His the people whom He loves
3) Significance of our impact unto the lives of others

You and I can live this Super life unto the Lord. I am living it, are you?

I've been tagged!!!

2008-03-18T07:48:00.000-07:00

Leon Lim told me "You've been tagged!!!" and I responded "What?" with a big laugh in his response. As responsible father, I shall now answer the tagged questions (#1~10) and have the liberty to add few more questions

I shall answer these questions!

Drum rolllllllllll………………………….

1) What is your favourite movie?

Disney's "The Kid" . It really makes you think about your life purposes when you're a kid compared to current days and what your life purposes will be when you're old. Trust me, watch this one.

2) Who is your favourite singer?

I like my voices in the bathroom. Honestly, I listens more to instrumental music, especially jazz.

3) Which song gets you grooving in the morning?

For me, this is the song "ZZZzZzzzzzzz.zzz........"

4) What is your favourite fruit?

Pear, I guess..... I eat everything

5) Who is your best friend (excluding your family)?

None other than my beloved wife. Well, I make many good friends. Some are my core friends, but I don't have a single best friend. Jesus is my best friend.

6) Name one activity you would like to indulge in, in your free time.

Lay down with nice chocolate watching "Mythbusters"

7) When was the last time you laughed so hard till your sides hurt?

Laugh till my side hurts? Can't remember that, but my side hurts after futsal. Sigh... sign of old age.

8.) Do you recall your last dream?

My last dream was one of my school mate came into my church office out of nowhere to proclaim to me that she accepted Christ!!! Who--hoo.....!!!

9) What is your all-time favourite hobby?

Lie down with my wife... ahemm 18SX.....

10) When was your last holiday without the children?

I believe that it was the day when TGV screen Transformers. It was a good break from Miracle and a good date with my beloved.

I’m done!!!!!! But here are some new added questions:

11) What you want to achieve in your life?
To build up leaders that will in turn build more leaders that build leaders

12) What will you imprint onto your tomb stone?

Michael Leong (1979~ ??? )

Vessel of God, servant of all

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith"

13)If God, the Lord Almighty grants you one wish, what will you ask for?
Wisdom

Now I must proceed to pass this legacy to the next generation

1) Wai Chi

2) Sue Anne

3) Phaik Jun

God wants us to vote!

2008-03-06T18:20:00.001-08:00

"It's naive and even irresponsible for a grownup today to get her or his information about foreign policy and war and peace exclusively from the administration in power. It's essential to have other sources of information, to check those against one's own common sense, and to form your own judgment as to whether we ought to go to or persist in war." -Daniel Ellsberg

"Bad officials are elected by good citizens who do not vote." -George Jean Nathan

"Government works best under the glare of public scrutiny. Absent such scrutiny, abuses occur." -Steven W. Hawkins

Protest against Protesters

2008-03-04T01:22:00.001-08:00

I think we should employ these people to go alongside the Hindraf people. At least it brings some balance.... but as they are against people who protest, they are protesting also.... duh....

Right anger?

2008-03-04T00:37:00.000-08:00

It's harder to get angry in the right place to the right person at the right time than to do good.

So, whoy choose to get angry? Let our mouth be an instrument of peace and of grace. Remember, when somebody spat on us, it made us wet, not mad.
It's your choice whether you want ot get mad or show God's love.

Immature Forever!

2008-03-04T00:28:00.000-08:00

You can be young only once, but immature forever.

Thus, are you still on milk or on solid food? Are you growing up or are you still thought you are doing fine when there's no solid nutricion for your mind, your soul and your life?

Why I name my child “Miracle”

2007-08-09T22:48:00.001-07:00

Many asked why I name my child “Miracle”. Was it something which happened during the pregnancy or during the birth process that made me name her Miracle? Some of you don’t even consider miracle as a proper name.

As a Chinese, my wife and I are Christian. Thus, you can call me as Christian Chinese, but the very core of me is still a Chinese.

For this reason, I will still retain the Chinese name for my child and will educate her in Chinese as she grows.

The name I gave her reflects my Chinese ethnicity. Her surname follows after my family. Her name is Xin Yan. In full, her name is Leong Xin Yan. This is her Chinese name, the official name in her birth certificate.

Although her name is Leong Xin Yan, the real meaning of her name is “the heart’s expression” or “speech of the heart”. To many of us, it makes more sense to call her Xin Yan rather than calling her “heart’s expression”.

I also gave the name Miracle. This reflects my belief and my faith as a Christian. I do not regard Miracle as a Christian name as most of you would agree that it is not a name at all. I will not regard it as her English name because we are Chinese.

Why would we want an English name? Is it because we are influence by Christianity which was brought forth by the Westerners? Are we being westernized by our belief in Christendom?

What if I am a Muslim Chinese? Would I have named my child as Fatimah Leong? I don’t think so. What would happen if I live in Japan?

Just as her Chinese name carries a significant in meaning, I also wish to give her a name which has significance as a Christian. I did not give her an English name like Monica or a Japanese name like Michiko. I also did not give her a Christian name like Jesus or John which is found in the Bible.

I gave her a name that reflects Christ – miracle. Just as her Chinese name gives direct meaning in Chinese, I gave her a name that gives direct meaning in Christ.

Therefore, Miracle is not an English name nor was it a Christian name. It is a name that reflects Christ. Just as we have names like Grace, Hope, Faith, Destiny and Joy, Miracle is a name which reflects God’s work of Miracle in my life and it’s my prayer that my child will experience even greater miracle in her life as she grow to know God personally.

Why I am not studying???

2007-08-09T22:47:00.000-07:00

Because :

No Study = Fail ....................... ( I )

Study = No Fail ............................ ( II )

By Combining ( I ) & ( II ) :

=====> ( No Study + Study ) = ( No Fail + Fail )

By Taking ( Study ) as a common factor in the left hand side And Taking ( Fail ) as a common factor in the right hand side

=====> Study ( No + 1) = Fail (No + 1 )

By Dividing both sides by ( No + 1)

=====> Study = Fail !!!!

Unto Me a child is born,

2007-08-09T22:45:00.000-07:00

Unto Me a child is born,

Unto me a daughter is given,

At 2:50am is she born,

Her name shall be called Miracle Leong