Hobbitting in Sheepland!

Parents Job Description

2011-02-01T13:38:00.003+13:00

What great wisdom for us as parents... Just copied and paste the below from Rhema website

'...teach them diligently to your children...' Deuteronomy 6:7 NKJV

Abraham had a nephew called Lot who succeeded in business, but lost his family. How come? Because: (a) he had the wrong emphasis - he placed material success above spiritual success; (b) he had the wrong environment - he thought his children could live in Sodom and not be affected by it; (c) he had the wrong expectation - he thought he could change his surroundings by compromising with them; (d) he set the wrong example - he thought his family would follow his instructions; instead they followed his lifestyle; (e) he had the wrong relationships - he didn't realise, until it was too late, how much Sodom had influenced his family (Genesis 19:4-5).

If you think you can live by the world's rules and expect your children to follow God's, you're kidding yourself. Instead of preaching about the shoes you want your children to fill, walk in them! Lead by example. Outside of your influence as a parent, the four greatest influences in your child's life are their peers, the internet, media and music. And all four are either working for you or against you. You say, 'But I'm really busy right now.' Get un-busy! Rethink your priorities.

Your child's character is being moulded each day; the question is, by whom? God's Word clearly states that these six things constitute your job description as a parent: (1) Instruct them (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). (2) Train them (Proverbs 22:6). (3) Provide for them (2 Corinthians 12:14). (4) Nurture them (Ephesians 6:4). (5) Discipline them (1 Timothy 3:4). (6) Love them (Titus 2:4). The truth is, you have no greater responsibility!

Dancing with Cinderella

2009-11-17T14:45:00.008+13:00

Most weekdays after dinner, I try to spend some time with the kids playing... either creating a safe environment for Ethan to do some 'fighting' with me, allowing him to exert all his energy gathered from watching Cartoon Network current favourites like Ben 10, Batman etc or we put on some funky dance music and we will dance ourself crazy (not a pretty sight though!). Obviously, in all these activities, Caitlyn will also be there.

One evening, Ethan decided to ask for some time playing a computer game about words as he recognizes his school has the same game. So, after setting up the game for him, I put on some Bee Gees for Caitlyn and I to dance ourself crazy again. After 'Saturday Night', 'Night fever' and 'Tragedy', the slower tracks came along. She was swaying to 'First of May' (while me sitting on couch catching breath) when she suddenly came to me and asked to be carried. I picked her up and started swaying to the song and than she just hugged me tightly and put her head on my shoulder. When the song finished, she asked for it again and she just would not let go.

I was thinking to myself that this is a precious moment that I will not want to forget. I briefly put her down and told Kellie to stop doing the dishes and joined us for the beautiful moment. Caitlyn was hugging both of us tightly and we were all swaying to the song for the 3rd time. What was going on in her head, I do not know... and what was going on in my heart at that time, is indescribable.

Than I remember this song by Steven Curtis Chapman. Enjoy...

Mama's Baptism

2009-10-02T14:43:00.005+13:00

Another highlight of our trip in Malaysia 2 months ago. Mama as affectionately being called by all her children and me as the son-in-law, went through her baptism. Needless to say, we were overjoyed witnessing her commitment to Jesus and hearing her public speak. We have been telling her about the good news of Jesus since Papa (Kellie's father) salvation just before he passed away 5 years ago. Mama felt obligated to take care of the idols at home but I guess Jesus won her heart over. She decided late last year that she does not need to perform religious duty to the idols any more but to have a meaningful relationship with Jesus. What a glorious decision that has an eternal impact!

Growing Kids God's Way

2009-07-28T16:43:00.007+12:00

When Kellie and I were praying for a ministry where we both can be involve, God pointed us to the path of facilitating Growing Kid's Gods Way. This used to be very popular with the church few years back but no one is facilitating it anymore. So I did some research on the program and was very disturbed on the negativity about the course posted on the internet. After speaking to Ps. Ken, we understood that it's just a current generation trend to attack anything that is good coming out from the bible.

With the resources available from church office, Kellie and I sat through it ourselves and immediately felt the impact it has on both our kids. We can see how their character has grown and us, as husband and wife to have the same mindset in bring up the kids. We wouldn't say that we are expert parents now, but it has definitely given us much tools and wisdom in dealing with the daily challenges that only a parent will know.

Yes, it's a long 17 weeks commitment, but how many of us have attended parenting seminar … while it provides great guidelines and information, we sometimes find ourself going back to our ways of doing stuff because we are comfortable with it. This is not a band-aid solution where we provide a quick answer to a certain problem but it makes us accountable to one another to see changes in the way we handle parenting. The program is also not time based or cultural based but bible-based. It is designed to take parents through the process of building a loving family unit by raising morally responsible children.

Last week, we'd just finished facilitating our first group of 5 couples and it gave us tremendous joy to hear the testimony from these parents on how it has positively impacted their families. The comments they are getting from their extended families on how they see those children change for the better made all those week nights investment so worth it.

We are looking forward to start another group next week, and we pray that the same blessing can be imparted.

Click here for the celebration dinner

On a lighter note, found a funny description for anyone who's up to be a daddy or mommy.
------------------------------------------------------

PARENT- Job Description

This is hysterical. If it had been presented this way,
I don't believe any of us would have done it!!!!

POSITION :
Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma
Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop

JOB DESCRIPTION :

Long term, team players needed, for challenging,
permanent work in an
often chaotic environment.
Candidates must possess excellent communication
and organizational skills and be willing to work
variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends
and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.
Some overnight travel required, including trips to
primitive camping sites on rainy weekends and endless sports tournaments in far away cities!
Travel expenses not reimbursed.
Extensive courier duties also required.

RESPONSIBI! LITIES :

The rest of your life.
Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily,
until someone needs $5.
Must be willing to bite tongue repeatedly.
Also, must possess the physical stamina of a
pack mule
and be able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat
in case, this time, the screams from
the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.
Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges,
such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets
and stuck zippers.
Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and
coordinate production of multiple homework projects.
Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings
for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.
Must be a willing to be indispensable one minute,
an embarrassment the next.
Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a
half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.
Must always ho! pe for the best but be prepared for the worst.
Must assume! final, complete accountability for
the quality of the end product.
Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and
janitorial work throughout the facility.

POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION :

None.
Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills,
so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE :

None required unfortunately.
On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.

WAGES AND COMPENSATION :

Get this! You pay them!
Offering frequent raises and bonuses.
A balloon payment is due when they turn 18 because
of the assumption that college will help them
become financially independent.
When you die, you give them whatever is left.
The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that
you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do m! ore..

BENEFITS :

While no health or dental insurance, no pension,
no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and
no stock options are offered;
this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth, unconditional love,
and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.

Forward this on to all the PARENTS you know, in appreciation for everything they do on a daily basis,
letting them know they are appreciated
for the fabulous job they do...
or forward with love
to anyone thinking of applying for the job.
** AND A FOOTNOTE 'THERE IS NO RETIREMENT -- EVER!!!

Chilli Padi Caitlyn

2009-07-02T16:03:00.005+12:00

Cute as she may be, my daughter is a real Chilli-Padi. Now at the age of 2 and just above 9kgs, she's consider real petite. But my oh my, she's a real fighter. We can already see that in her temperament at home but one incident really cements it.

We were swimming in the 'adult' pool at mum's condominium one evening when Ethan decided to go back to the kiddy pool to have a play. After a while, Ethan was surrounded by some older boys and splashing rather rigorously at him. I decided not to intervene for a moment to see how Ethan would react to this bullies but Caitlyn would have none of it.

She was screaming 'NOOO...' at the bullies and started climbing out of the adult pool. I had one eye on Ethan in case things get out of hand and the other on her. After getting out of the pool, she went towards the kiddy pool, picked up some floating toys and started throwing it at the bullies, while continuing her scream at them.

Just before I decide to intervene, one of the bully's mom came over and stop the whole incident, sending the bullies out of the pool. As horrible a father as I am, I thought the whole scene was quite amusing.

We've also heard report from Sunday School teachers that Caitlyn will actually defend her brother when his toys were snatched from him.

For any Caitlyn future interest reading this post, remember, you've been warned!

Bangkok Trip 2009

2009-06-29T14:00:00.001+12:00

Thanks to mum agreeing to take the kids for a couple of days, Kellie and I managed to have a little rendezvous in Bangkok and Chiang Mai for 5 days.

Had numerous Thai Massage and even did a 1/2 day spa in Chiangmai but the highlight must be the trip to Elephant Nature Park.

The Elephant Nature park is not the normal tourist place that feature elephants ride, painting etc. It's more a save haven for elephants that have been saved from their previous abusive lifestyle and nurture back to health.

Bathing the gentle giants the river is a really awesome experience. Yes, I had my 2nd thought when I was about to enter the river and saw the elephants pee-ing and dumping their waste but once you are in there, it was simply amazing being beside the elephants.

Check out more photos here

Malaysia Home Trip 2009

2009-06-27T15:45:00.010+12:00

Had a wonderful 3 weeks home trip back to KL. After being away so long, I wasn't expecting us to enjoy ourself so much but it was really a good time. Food was great, families and friends were even better. I find myself sleeping after 1am most of the night because I wanted to maximise my time there but needeless to say, my body didn't take it too well. Had some horrible sore throat after a couple of days but Manukau Honey (UMF20) save the day.

Celebrated Caitlyn's 2nd birthday and it was quite wonderful especially for Kellie's mum and siblings seeing her for the first time. Though it's good to have the party outdoor to give the kids space to roam around, but I have to remember that KL humidity does not always make that a very nice experience.

Another memorable event was when I had the 2 kids in the car on the way to pick up Kellie, the car decided to just turn-off by itself in the middle of a very busy highway, in a very intense hot afternoon. Caitlyn was crying in the car that was quickly turning into a sauna room but Ethan was still asleep with a sweaty head. A police traffic and another good samaritans helped me pushed the car to the side before Ken coming to switch car with me. I brought the family home while he waited for the tow-truck to whisk the car to a workshop

Malaysia will always be our home. Yes, there are many challenges bringing up a family and work ethics are different and much tougher, but if God were to bring us back, I don't think we will be too hesitant.

More photos for the home trip here

Me & My daddy Camp 2009

2009-06-26T11:30:00.007+12:00

An awesome camp design for father and child. Was back in Malaysia just in time to find out that http://www.communityatheart.info//index.php?option=com_frontpage&Itemid=1 is running this camp again. This has been running for the past 7 years and this time, Ethan is old enough (just barely and after much persuasion to allow us to join). The purpose of the camp is to

INSTILL the importance of quality and quantity time between father and child.
IMPART practical steps for bonding and creating memories together.
INSPIRE fathers to actively build a strong relationship with their child.

Check out more camp photos here

Boleh Land... Yes We Can!

2009-05-21T16:12:00.003+12:00

Probably it's just a coincidence that the Malaysia Flag and the US flag look similar. Probably just a co-incidence that our national anthem sounded like a Hawaiian Melody. Probably Obama and Mahathir are good friends because our Mahathir champion-national cry is 'Malaysia Boleh' (Malaysia Can...) and Obama champion-national cry is 'Yes we can'...

O Whatever... I'm just glad that we're going to be home to Malaysia next week. Can't wait to be with our families, friends, food and fun. Can't wait to worship in the different ECF services

Writtng Christian Songs for Money

2009-04-19T15:17:00.010+12:00

12 of the most popular current Christian song writer embark on this project to come out with an album CompassionArt. Their vision and mission is for every amount made from this album, being the sales of the album or the songs royalties, will be going to one of their nominated charities. No one take a cent, not the songwriters, not the singers, not the producer, publishers, managers or even the recording studio, which in this case, turns out to be the Abbey road studio (think 'Beatles'). 'This will be the only time that we are writing worship songs for money' Darlene was quoted saying in the album teaser. It's an amazing vision and project.

These 12 songwriters; Martin Smith (the brainchild of the project), Israel Houghton, Darlene Zschech, Steven Curtis Chapman, Michael W Smith, Graham Kendrik, Tim Hughes, Paul Baloches, Matt Redman, Chris Tomlin & Stu G and Andy Park came out with 22 songs within a week of retreat in Scotland all for the cause of charities. 15 songs made up the albums that include other singers like Cece Winans, Kirk Franklin and Tobymac among others. Matt Redman put it simply by saying that "Some songs touches the heart, some touches the ears, but these songs will touch lifes".

Israel Houghton sums it all up perfectly... "It's impossible to call ourselves worshippers and not be moved in the area of Justice".

Luke 6:46 "Why do you call me, `Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say? I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice. "

Wizard and Kangaroo meal in OZ!!

2009-04-06T19:50:00.003+12:00

Found out last Friday that I'm to be in Sydney this week for 3 days. Maybe it's age or maybe the novelty of travelling is gone. The buzz and excitement of going to a place that I haven't been since 10 years ago is gone. It also doesn't help knowing that I'm leaving 2 sick kids with Kellie behind. Thank God for his grace to our family.

Woke up at 4am this morning to catch the flight. After a short nap, decided to try to finish the book Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference?by Philip Yancey (one more chapter, yay!). Interestingly, the guy who sat beside me began to take interest and we asked me about the book and why I'm reading it. I explained that this book is not a 'step 1-2-3' on how to pray, but a very good perspective on the dynamic of prayer, the impact of prayer and the importance of prayer. He than started talking to me about a course that he's conducting. He gave me a business card and he's title is 'Licensed Wizard'. Wow, Ethan will be pretty impressed that I actually met a wizard but alas, he didn't have that pointed hat, long beard and magic wand.

As he try to explain his course to me, I try to make him think about why he's conducting the course. Our conversation came to a stalemate and as we left the plane, somehow I know that this is not the last I will hear from this wizard!

Went to the city after work to take in some site seeing. Of course, have to make an obligatory visit the Sydney opera house and enjoy the walk at Circular Quay with the Opera house and the harbour bridge as your backdrop. Tried to take some pictures but there's really no inspiration for it. Found a nice spot, put on my worship song and spend time praying... thanking God for His faithfulness and His grace. My heart swell with much appreciation for Kellie and send her a text to encourage her.

Found a nice Italian restaurant by the harbour and had kangaroo meat. I must say that it was really nice, much nicer that I expected it to be. However, someone wise once told me that it's nicer to eat salted fish with family than eating Peking duck alone. Alas how true... I'm missing my family already.

EveryNation Leadership Institute (ENLI)

2009-02-16T10:58:00.001+13:00

If I've not done my ENLI, I would have signed up (and also probably throw away my TV!!!) after listening to this message. Even if you are not planning to sign up for this leadership course, go listen to the message. If you are really convicted, you will see a change in how you spend your time and resources.

Love her at all times...

2009-02-13T09:53:00.002+13:00

I remember this from a blog that I'm following

"HOWEVER, one of the things the Lord has been showing me lately in Ephesians 5:25 is that I am to love Lucretia like He loves the church…has their ever been a time that He didn’t pursue the church? Even when she doesn’t respond–He still pursues. Even when she ignores–He still pursues. Even when she dishonors Him–He honors her. Love her as Christ loves the church–AT ALL TIMES!"

Good to know that God hasn't stop pursuing his church
Good to know that Kellie is in my life

By the way, check out this hilarious Valentine music video

Poor Knights Islands Diving

2009-02-04T11:21:00.001+13:00

Told the dive master that my last dive was 3 years ago but when I was filling in my dive log book, I saw the last log was way back in 2002, a good 7 years ago. I’m really glad that Simon and I went to Poor Knights Island for the dive as it has been on my to-do list in Sheepland after reading that it’s suppose to be one of the top 10 dive site in the world.

Needless to say, on the first dive, though confident, it took me a while to get acquainted to being underwater again. Visibility was great; around 15m and fishes were abundant. The great big difference is the missing corals. Corals don’t grow well over here because of the temperature but instead, I was diving with sea weeds. Also as expected, missing are all the colourful tropical fishes from back home but instead, there were lots of snappers and kingfishes. The labyrinth like underwater landscape also made it an excellent diving experience as we go through small channels and tunnels. Lots of blue mao moa fishes there sheltering from the current and we also saw lots of flat jellyfishes. The dive master told us later that those are actually infant jellyfishes that will bring out to be individual adult jelly fish. The dive lasted only about 30mins as Simon (he himself has not dived for 2-3 years) was chomping the air like crazy.

After a good rest, the second dive was at Nursery Cove.The name was from the fact that this is the place where injured fishes normally come to for rehabilitation .Again, the labyrinth like landscape was an amazing dive experience. We went through a tunnel where the 3 of us squeezed into and we just stopped and turned around to watch all the happening around and above of us. Just imagine you sitting at the bottom of a swimming pool looking around and up, now add all the beautiful fishes around you. We also saw crayfish and moreton bay bug but alas, it's a marine reserve, we can't take anything home.

This time, when Simon ran low in air, the dive master took him back to the boat while asking me to wait underwater. When he came back, he signalled me to do exploring myself while he keeps an eye on me. I was a little hesitant in the beginning because I’d gotten lost diving before and it was a scary experience. As I was exploring, I kept looking back ensuring that he’s still following me but after a while, it was fun because I can just look anywhere I want without always looking in front to make sure the dive master didn’t leave me.

It was good but I wouldn’t put it close to Pulau Sipadan as the great dive. Maybe I need to explore more dive sites around the island to fully appreciate the greatness. I didn’t even take any photos as I think I’d lost my love for photo-taking since my manual SLR days, so for more photos and a nicer write-up on this island, check out this guy blog on it.

Goodbye my Friends!

2008-12-19T05:58:00.001+13:00

Came to office this morning and was given 4 farewell cards to sign. Hmmm... indeed it's a sad day in the office (company just went through redundancy) and as I was signing the cards, I remembered this article that I came across few years back. Thought of posting this to remember all my friends that are leaving today.
p.s. - Sorry, could be a long read but it's a good one...

*******************************************************
Sumiko's Tan's Article from Straits Times
SUNNY, one of my dearest friends at work, will leave The Straits Times next month for greener pastures. He is not my first friend from the office to say goodbye.

Over the years, there have been a handful of colleagues who became friends. In recent times, at least three others have also left. When Sunny told me that he was leaving, I moaned: 'With you gone, I will have hardly any friends left in the office!'.. Which set me thinking: At what point does an acquaintance or colleague become a friend? And, to take a step back, what is this concept called 'friendship' anyway?

Indeed, what makes you click with one person and form a friendship with him, but not some other? If a friend is defined as someone I feel completely comfortable calling up at 3 am to bail me out of trouble - and Sunny will do so - then, alas, I don't have that many friends.

Other than family members, I can count on just one female friend and three, at best four, male friends. But then, maybe that's plenty. As someone once said, one friend in a lifetime is much, two are many, three are hardly possible.

FRIENDSHIPS are different from relationships - and thank goodness for that. You can be great chums with your partner, of course, but a relationship is so much more complex. It is not only about that enrapturing feeling called love, but - if you are unlucky - also a host of murky emotions like jealousy, resentment, anger, pain and despair.

Friendship is simpler and fills you, mostly, with harmless Type B emotions - kindliness, fondness, warmth and cordiality. With a lover, you make demands and have expectations. But with a friend, you're cool. You don't really owe him anything, or have to explain much, because, ultimately, you demand nothing more from each other than pleasant company and an occasional listening ear.

Love, I read somewhere, is blind, but friendship closes its eyes. How true. THE older I get, the more I value friends. Yet, ironically, I find that it is now not only harder for me to maintain old friendships, but also to form new ones.

When I was in school, friendships came naturally. My friends and I moved in a pack - we ate, studied, gossiped and partied together. We exchanged secrets and gifts, sent cards and gave treats. Our friendships were firm, and sweet.

Coming from an all-girls school, I didn't get to make male friends until I was in junior college. Initial shyness aside, I found that it was possible to have a platonic relationship with a guy, and that they made equally good friends.

By the time I went to university, I was already attached, and had little time to make new friends, male or female. Then came working life. Through sheer proximity and the amount of time spent together, it was inevitable that some colleagues became more than co workers. What is it that allows you to become friends with some people, and not others? Shared experience is one requisite, and the sharper it is, the better.

For Sunny and I, it was our years spent pounding the same beat, politics. That X factor called 'chemistry' is another, and I suppose this explains how you can be firm friends with people who are very different from you.

THE saddest thing about friendship is that it can die. It doesn't come with a lifelong guarantee. Distance is one killer. Unless you are diligent in keeping in touch with a friend, being far away can drive a wedge in your relationship. Changes in circumstance is another.

It has been said that a friend in power is a friend lost, and I have found this to be true. When a friend moves up in life, he will become too busy for you, while you don't want to risk rejection by trying to keep in contact with him.

Marriages have also caused friendships to fade as your spouse might not take to your friends. Then there are friendships that die because they have simply run their course.

I had a close female friend whom I had known since we were both 17. About four years back, after 16 years of keeping in touch through the mail, long hours on the phone and giggly lunches, our friendship died. Just like that. There was no quarrel, no disagreement, no underlying unhappiness or animosity or hurts. The plug was just pulled. The last time we saw each other was at lunch - in fact, it was to celebrate her birthday. We were our usual loud selves. After the meal, we gave our usual hug, said our usual cheery goodbyes and made our usual promise to meet again. We didn't call each other for weeks (which was normal, as we were both busy), then months (which began to feel a bit strange, but nothing to be alarmed about), then, yes, years (by then, it was too late to resuscitate the friendship). We did talk once, last year, when my father died and she called. I was grateful to hear from her and I know it took a lot for her to pick up the phone after so many years. I wish nothing but the best for her, and I am always glad to hear from mutual friends that she is well. Yet, I know that if we were to bump into each other today, it would feel awkward.

IF I value friendship so much, why don't I just go forth and make more friends? It is easier said than done. People my age and older are busy with careers and family. I have fewer things in common with those younger. But the fault is mine.

At my age, I lack the energy and enthusiasm. Starting and maintaining a friendship might be far less arduous than a relationship, but it still requires effort. Do I have the strength for that on
top of the other demands in my life? So, next month, I say goodbye to Sunny and I am left
with one friend fewer at work.

British writer Virginia Woolf once said: 'I have lost friends, some by death - others by sheer inability to cross the street.' Should I spot Sunny - and my few remaining friends - on the street, I trust I can muster the energy to walk up to them and say 'hi'. For, really, that is all it takes to keep a friendship alive.

Fate determines who comes into our lives. The heart determines who stays...

Why Daddy???

2008-12-18T06:53:00.003+13:00

Why Daddy? This is the most common phrase I get from Ethan nowadays. Seems like every kid and parents need to go through this phase where everything that you say or instruct, the ‘why…’ question is the standard answer. (We are teaching the kids ‘first time obedience’ & 'Yes daddy'… still WIP)

Recently, while watching a National Geography program with Ethan on Dubai building ‘The world’ documentary, here’s the conversation trail...
Daddy, why are they throwing sand on the sea?
Because they want to stop the wave from coming in…
Why the wave coming in?
Because the wind is strong…
Why the wind is strong?
… I was lost (coz' I didn’t pay attention during science class, that’s why!!!) with answer and tried distracting him with other stuff

I finally got myself busy past 2 weeks and put up some pictures and decorations on our boring walls. This trigger another ‘WHY’ session...
Daddy, why you put up that cross on the wall?
Because we want to remember Jesus was on that cross…
Why was He on the cross? Why daddy?
Because we are naughty and God wants to cane us but Jesus decided to be cane for us instead by staying on that cross…

I was expecting a ‘Why God wants to cane us…’ but instead, he quiet down for a moment and said, ‘Oohh…’ I wonder if Ethan really grasp the meaning of it but I sure hope more ‘why’ will come from the kids on these subject.

For this Christmas, maybe he will ask
Daddy, why do we have Christmas?
Because we want to remember that Jesus was born on this day…
Why was He born?
Because God love us so much that this is His Gift for all of us...
Why God want to give us Gift?
Because we don’t know God for a long time, and God wants to use this Gift to know us again...
Why we don’t know God for a long time?

Can you help answer that last question?

Merry Christmas

Praying & Piano?

2008-11-20T09:59:00.002+13:00

I usually try to spend some time reading the bible and praying before I crawl out of bed in the morning. Lately because the sun has been coming out much earlier (like 6am!!!!), sometime the kids will be woken up and I will get distracted. Well, not to blame it entirely on the kids, my mind do wonder off quite a bit during those time of prayer. It has become increasingly frustrating as I struggle to keep my conversation with God, so when Ethan comes into the room in the morning, I usually just give up and will start my day from there.

After reading this blog on 'How to overcome distraction when Praying', when Ethan came into the room yesterday morning, I asked him to jump onto the bed and I decided to cuddle him and started to pray for him. I asked God to help me nurture this boy and show me what gift that He has given Ethan. I left it at that.

Last night, in our church leadership meeting, Dave came up to Kellie and I and said that God showed him that Ethan is playing the piano or keyboard skillfully. Dave mentioned that God wants him to tell us that Ethan is gifted in this area and he will be a quick learner.

I was standing there grinning and say... Thank you God for a quick answer to my prayer.

Phantom and Israel Houghton

2008-10-31T11:47:00.002+13:00

Went for Phantom of the Opera last week with Kellie and it was awesome. Though this is my second time watching the musical, it's still fantastic. The main cast of Christine and the Phantom was amazing. More than the musical, Kellie and I also enjoyed a rare date night where we can stroll slowly on the streets and eat ice cream without needing to share with kids and worrying about the mess.

Two days later, I was in another concert. This time, it's with the 2 kids (Kellie was having her discipleship) and we were there for Israel Houghton. He's a multiple gospel grammy award winner and really huge in New Zealand. Nearly all the churches uses his songs.

Well, we were there at 7.30pm but he didn't really come on till like 9.00pm. Before that, it was performance by some local artist. Though it was not bad, the kids got really tired when Israel came on. Just after the first song, Ethan was asking to go home (thankfully without any tantrum). Don't know how I manage to make him stay till 10.30pm without much fuss while Caitlyn was sleeping on my tummy (I always know there's a reason for it!)

Israel was no doubt a very good worship leader and a very annointed one too. He ushered in the presence of God effortlessly but I was quite distracted the whole time. Everytime he uses his own songs, the audience will clap wildly, doesn't matter if it's a fast or slow song. It shouldn't really be a problem if we treat this as a concert but in a worship settings, I found myself distracted. When he doesn't use, the audience just seems to quiet down and listen. Are the people there worshipping God or are they worshipping the person?

I thought it was just me being 'critical' but in the workshop the next day, it was very interesting that Israel made mentioned that 'don't clap or cheer for the sake of doing it, do it when you know why you are doing it', and he used the previous night as an example. He said we must break the yoke of performance. He went on to give a very solid teaching based on Isaiah 49:2-3. It's about being selected to serve God; needing to be sanded to hit the target and needing to settle to blossom.

He states that God wants to focus on
- the set behind the sound
- the life behind the team
- the song behind the melody
- the story behind the show

He finished the session with some Q&A and I can truly say that I'm really blessed by this successful yet humble servant Grammy award winner.

Managers or Leaders

2008-09-05T05:53:00.003+12:00

I've been in both position, a manager and a leader. The former is always in a secular work environment and the latter in a church environment (you don't really hear a church leader being addressed as 'manager').
I'm not sure if we should differentiate the 2 so clearly, but this article does point out that it plays quite a different role. It suggests

The manager administers; the leader innovates.
The manager is a copy; the leader is an original.
The manager maintains; the leader develops.
The manager focuses on systems and structure; the leader focuses on people.
The manager relies on control; the leader inspires trust.
The manager accepts reality; the leader investigates it.
The manager has a short-range view; the leader has a long-range perspective.
The manager asks how and when; the leader asks what and why.
The manager has his or her eye always on the bottom line; the leader has his or her eye on the horizon.
The manager imitates; the leader originates.
The manager accepts the status quo; the leader challenges it.
The manager is the classic good soldier; the leader is his or her own person.
The manager does things right; the leader does the right thing.

Furrther down, it states that both roles are complementary to one another.

“Leadership and management are two distinctive and complementary systems of action…… Both are necessary for success in an increasingly complex and volatile business environment.”
“Most U.S. corporations today are overmanaged and underled.”
“Strong leadership with weak management is no better, and is sometimes actually worse, than the reverse.”
“Management is about coping with complexity….. Without good management, complex enterprises tend to become chaotic… Good management brings a degree of order and consistency…."
"Leadership, by contrast, is about coping with change…. More change always demands more leadership.”
“Companies manage complexity by planning and budgeting, by organizing and staffing, and by controlling and problem solving. By contrast, leading an organization to constructive change involves setting a direction (developing a vision of the future and strategies to achieve the vision), aligning people, and motivating and inspiring them to keep moving in the right direction."

With this, I believe that it's really down to the situation or position that I'm put in. For example, I've been in church situation where I'm not expected to lead, but just to manage and some higher leadership doesn't really appreciate if I try to stir the boat too much because we are not in a season of change (yes, some may dispute this but every church culture is different). I've also tried to be a leader in a work environment but it's not always appropriate (based on my own experience) or appreciated by my bosses. On the other hand, at times, I'm expected to lead at work beside just managing the team. I need to stir my colleagues to a different course because where we are is just not working.

No matter how, I just prayed that God will give me the wisdom to handle the roles that He's entrusted me with. Doesn't matter if it's work or church. In fact, there shouldn't be a difference because it's people we are dealing with.

Personally, I will like to lead more than to manage because I like to develop people that I'm working with. This article makes me believe that if we are genuinely interested in the developement of people, people will want to follow you. Before I move to New Zealand, I remember saying my bye bye in ECF, that I'm so thankful because the church took the time and effort to build me up. No matter how many mistakes I made, they've just continued to correct and support, not giving up on me.

What about you, manager or leader?

Comics on China Recent 2008 Earthquake

2008-08-16T05:55:00.002+12:00

Got this in my email and I think it's worth posting... a good reminder to myself on what true heroes are. It's probably over-melodrama but I think it's still one of the most touching comic strips that I've seen. Hmm... not sure, being a parent myself, it gives a grief feeling that I cannot explain especially those relating to children below.

Sorry if the picture below seems blur, but trust me, it's worth clicking on it to enlarge and have a read...

Lost Generation (or Not)

2008-04-29T09:37:00.000+12:00

This is simple but I think it's effective.

Angry Shrek vs Innocent Puss

2008-04-18T05:54:00.002+12:00

My morning routine is, Ethan wakes me up (yup, you read it right, my son wakes me up!!!) and I will brush his teeth, change his cloths and gives him cereal for breakfast. Than I will sort myself out for work before joining him.

This morning, he was playing with his cars more than eating and it was getting late. I was running out of patient and I turn to him and gave him a stern warning (looking like an angry Shrek) asking him to quickly finish up because it was getting late.

He turned and look at me with this wide open watery eyes and a little pout. My heart melts... I wanted to smile but I have to keep my expression to make my point across. This is not the first time he did that to me. Many times, I will have to turn away and smile before composing myself to continue with the disciplining.

For Kellie and I, the biggest challenge to parenting is being consistent. Many times we feel we should just give in to the kids demands or tantrum because it will be easier, but trust me, being consistent with the boundaries that we have set paid great dividends.

Thank God that He's a fair, just and consistent God. If God keeps giving into our demand and little tantrum, than we will become God, not Him. Our kids will end up detecting our life and that will be stressful.

Proverb 22: 6 - Train a child in the way he should go,and when he is old he will not turn from it.

Cool Ms Word Animation

2008-03-06T15:24:00.002+13:00

This is brilliant... didn't realize you can do this with microsoft word. Click on the icon below and enjoy...

Looking forward

2008-01-19T10:11:00.001+13:00

I think I can safely say that the last quarter of 2007 has been one of the most challenging season of our family life. Caring for Caitlyn in her first 6 months proves to be real challenge without any help from family (thank God for mom for being here for an entire month in July!) and me managing a project that has all the recipe of a typical Malaysia SAP project (except maybe user's commitment) nearly drove us up the wall.

Ministry life has also not been too encouraging as nearly everything that I put my hands on did not flourish. God's voice seems vague most of the time and as we struggle to pull through that season, I find myself mostly lost in my own spiritual direction. At times, I've contemplated to move back to Malaysia where things seems to be more in order, help easily available and my place in the ministry is more defined.

Somehow, I still sense that God is saying 'not time yet son, be patient and continue to be faithful'. It brings me back to the time when Jesus was at Gethsemane. Doing what is of God must supersede what we feel. I can come up with multiple excuses, more than justifiable with a young family and a demanding career but it's still just excuses. And I know that I am in no position to say that I don't have time when I've been discipled by this man before and encouraged by this article.

These two men are my heroes of faith, living a life full of purpose Honoring God, Advancing His Kingdom and Establishing His House. I'm determined to go down on my knees and seek God's face in the coming 3 days of fasting and prayer but I'm pretty sure God's purpose for us, no matter where we are is still to Honor Him, Advance His Kingdom and Establish His house.

Inspiring Ballet!

2008-01-16T12:53:00.000+13:00

Ever been in a situation where it's too tough to go on... that you want to give up on your dreams... well, check this out as it inspired me totally!

"I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:12b-13
----------------------------------------
Please read the story first and click on the link at the bottom and enjoy!

When I was in China last month, I saw a Chinese modern dance competition on TV. One couple won one of the top prizes. The lady has one arm and the guy has one leg. They performed gracefully and beautifully.

The lady in her 30s was a dancer and was trained as one since she was a little girl. Later she got into some kind of accident and lost her entire left arm. She was depressed for a few years. It seemed that someone asked her to coach a Children's dancing group. From that point on, she realized she could not forget dancing. She still loved to dance. She wanted to dance again. So she started to do some of her old routines. But by her losing an arm, she also lost her balance. It took a while before she could even making simple turns and spins without falling. Eventually she got it.

Then she heard some guy in his 20s had lost a leg in an accident. This guy also fell into the usual denial, depression and anger type of emotional roller coaster. She looked him up (seemingly he was from a different Province) and persuaded him to dance with her. He had never danced. And to dance with one leg? Are you joking with me? No way.
But she didn't give up. He reluctantly agreed. " I have nothing else to do anyway." She started to teach him dancing 101. The two broke up a few times because the guy had no concept of using muscle, control his body, and a few other basic things about dancing. When she became frustrated and lost patience with him, he would walk out. Eventually they came back together and started training. They hired a choreographer to design routines for them. She would fly high (held by him) with both arms (a sleeve for an arm) flying in the air. He could bend horizontally supported by one leg and she leaning on him, etc.

They danced beautifully and they legitimately beat others in the competition.

I would like to share with you this most magnificent and touching performance I have ever seen! It is a living proof that strong spirit can conquer any physical limitations!

Jacky Cheung World Tour

2008-01-10T22:47:00.001+13:00

Kellie has never been to a concert before and for her birthday, I decided to bring her to Jacky Cheung World Tour Concert. We are lucky considering that the last time he was in New Zealand, it was a dozen years ago.

Myself, this is probably my forth Jacky's concert but I have to rank this as the best. In my opinion, he is probably at his peak in terms of his charisma, dancing, stage entertainment and vocal control. All his songs deliveries were flawless and he shows his range and flexibility with songs of various genre. We were treated to canto-pop, ballads, rock, rock ballads, hip-hop, R&B and musical (he included a section of Perhaps Love).

To be fair, I think you need to be a Jacky's fan to truly appreciate the concert as Jacky spent quite a lot of time engaging with the audience. He took us on a journey of his 23 years of professional singing, his moments of struggles and his joy as a family man. In between, he treats us with all the his different hits that represent those key moments of his life.

Thank you Kellie for suggesting this as your birthday present. It's as much a present for myself as for her because we both enjoyed the evening tremendously.

Christmas gifts or Christmas Giver

2008-01-01T21:57:00.000+13:00

Based on last year experience, we didn't buy much gifts for gift exchange this year. Apart from a few gifts that we wrapped for some Christmas gatherings/parties, we pretty much had a stress free Christmas again. The malls were packed with a lot of stress people finishing off their last minute shopping and my favorite Christian radio station kept reminding us that Jesus is the reason of the season. Yes, it's true, every year we will have that same reminder belting out at our conscious. However, during the Christmas service, as I was standing there enjoying the different performances and worshiping God, God told me that the reason of the season is really not just about Jesus, but me. Yes, you, me and everyone on this earth... we really are the reason of the season. I don't mean it selfishly about the parties and presents (nothing wrong with it though!), but I think God created Christmas for us. We are the reason that Jesus was born into this world, giving us a bridge to reconnect us back to God. We created Christmas to remember Jesus, God created Christmas because He remembers humanity.

Read this great post from Ps. Steve on focusing on the giver not the gift. When my kids are old enough, I will sure to adopt this as our Christmas tradition.

Everything

2007-09-23T21:25:00.001+12:00

Check this out...

I remember when I first started doing drama in ECF, we had a very similar version, played with Michael W. Smith, "A place in this world". This brings back a lot of memories coz' that first drama was about probably 9 years ago.

Watch through it... the passion or more so, the aggression of the actors really brings out the message. It tears me to think that, time and time again, I will be lured away. Without the cross and the faithfulness of God, I'm not even sure if I can complete this journey

Ethan - making of a worshipper

2007-09-01T21:57:00.001+12:00

It has been quite clear that Ethan has a strong interest in music. God gives every person a talent, and as parents, we pray that we will be good steward in nurturing the talents in Ethan. If this is his talent, we have to safe guard it from the corruption of the enemy, and within all our means, ensure that it's nurtured. Prayerfully, he will use it to serve the One that gives it to him in the first place.

Seeing Double??

2007-08-21T21:41:00.001+12:00

Well, well... guess who is Ethan and who is Catilyn? We've heard a lot of comments that Caitlyn looks like Ethan... hehehe... I guess everyone is right!

Now, whoever says that we are created by accident !!!! (Darwin's Theory), that suddenly collision of stuff made everything... well can someone tell me how such 'perfect' kids are made? If it's accident, why the similarity is so strong in my kids? When I think about how every parts in my body or my kids body can function so cohesively, I cannot help but acknowledge that my Creator, the almighty God is a flawless artist

What should a 3 year old know?

2007-08-15T22:00:00.001+12:00

Ethan just celebrated his 3rd birthday. He's really grown for the past one year, not just physically, but as an individual too. Before our eyes, we can see some distinct boyish character being developed and with that, it increases our challenge as parents. I'm not going to write a whole lot about what good parenting here but I came across this email from a 'parenting group' in Malaysia. Well, it's written for 4 year old parents but I believe it's great wisdom to ponder on, regardless of your child's age. Mind you, the 'kiasu' spirit is not only among Malaysian or Singaporeans alike, but over here in kiwi land, it's very prevailing too.

------------------------------
What should a 4 year old know?
By Alicia Bayer

I was on a parenting bulletin board recently and read a post by a mother who was worried that her 4 1/2 year old did not know enough. "What should a 4 year old know?" she asked.

Most of the answers left me not only saddened but pretty soundly annoyed. One mom posted a laundry list of all of the things her son knew. Counting to 100, planets, how to write his first and last name, and on and on. Others chimed in with how much more their children already knew, some who were only 3. A few posted URL's to lists of what each age should know. The fewest yet said that each child develops at his own pace and not to worry.

It bothered me greatly to see these mothers responding to a worried mom by adding to her concern, with lists of all the things their children could do that hers couldn't. We are such a competitive culture that even our preschoolers have become trophies and bragging rights. Childhood shouldn't be a race.

So here, I offer my list of what a 4 year old should know.
1. She should know that she is loved wholly and unconditionally, all of the time.

2. He should know that he is safe and he should know how to keep himself safe in public, with others, and in varied situations. He should know that he can trust his instincts about people and that he never has to do something that doesn't feel right, no matter who is asking. He should know his personal rights and that his family will back them up.

3. She should know how to laugh, act silly, be goofy and use her imagination. She should know that it is always okay to paint the sky orange and give cats 6 legs.

4. He should know his own interests and be encouraged to follow them. If he could care less about learning his numbers, his parents should realize he'll learn them accidentally soon enough and let him immerse himself instead in rocket ships, drawing, dinosaurs or playing in the mud.

5. She should know that the world is magical and that so is she. She should know that she's wonderful, brilliant, creative, compassionate and marvelous. She should know that it's just as worthy to spend the day outside making daisy chains, mud pies and fairy houses as it is to practice phonics. Scratch that-- way more worthy.

But more important, here's what parents need to know.
1. That every child learns to walk, talk, read and do algebra at his own pace and that it will have no bearing on how well he walks, talks, reads or does algebra.

2. That the single biggest predictor of high academic achievement and high ACT scores is reading to children. Not flash cards, not workbooks, not fancy preschools, not blinking toys or computers, but mom or dad taking the time every day or night (or both!) to sit and read them wonderful books.

3. That being the smartest or most accomplished kid in class has never had any bearing on being the happiest. We are so caught up in trying to give our children "advantages" that we're giving them lives as multi-tasked and stressful as ours. One of the biggest advantages we can give our children is a simple, carefree childhood.

4. That our children deserve to be surrounded by books, nature, art supplies and the freedom to explore them. Most of us could get rid of 90% of our children's toys and they wouldn't be missed, but some things are important-- building toys like legos and blocks, creative toys like all types of art materials (good stuff), musical instruments (real ones and multicultural ones), dress up clothes and books, books, books.

Incidentally, much of this can be picked up quite cheaply at thrift shops.) They need to have the freedom to explore with these things too--to play with scoops of dried beans in the high chair (supervised, of course), to knead bread and make messes, to use paint and play dough and glitter at the kitchen table while we make supper even though it gets everywhere, to have a spot in the yard where it's absolutely fine to dig up all the grass and make a mud pit.

5. That our children need more of us. We have become so good at saying that we need to take care of ourselves that some of us have used it as an excuse to have the rest of the world take care of our kids. Yes, we all need undisturbed baths, time with friends, sanity breaks and an occasional life outside of parenthood. But we live in a time when parenting magazines recommend trying to commit to 10 minutes a day with each child and scheduling one Saturday a month as family day. That's not okay! Our
children don't need Nintendos, computers, after school activities, ballet lessons, play groups and soccer practice nearly as much as they need US.

They need fathers who sit and listen to their days, mothers who join in and make crafts with them, parents who take the time to read them stories and act like idiots with them. They need us to take walks with them and not mind the .1 MPH pace of a toddler on a spring night. They deserve to help us make supper even though it takes twice as long and makes it twice as much work. They deserve to know that they're a priority for us and that we truly love to be with them.

What does a 4 year old need? Much less than we realize, and much more.

How Real Men Hug!!!

2007-07-15T21:43:00.000+12:00

Have been wanting to link to this funny post by Marcus. But I think I will embed the youTube clip in this post. I remember getting into trouble when I tried to hug a mate of mine back in high school after a misunderstanding because it was taboo for men to hug each other if it's not during a sports setting. But now, I get an average of 10 hugs each week from men in the church and friends... Guess time has changed. So, you men, if you wanna be on the save side, just watched the video...

It Isn't Convenient but It's Reasonable

2007-06-24T22:01:00.000+12:00

I preached for the very first time today. Well, officially at least... I did some preaching when I was in Myanmar for mission 2 years back. The title of the message is "It isn't convenient but it's reasonable". If you click on the link, you can actually listen or download the message. I know I can do better but I'm pleasantly bless when one person responded for salvation and a couple more rededicate their service to God. It makes all the preparation worth it.

Pure, Wisdom & Grace

2007-06-19T09:53:00.001+12:00

I was startled by a noise in the bathroom at around 3am. I tilted my head to take a glance and saw Kellie walking out of the bathroom with her head wrapped with a towel (She just had a shower and washed her hair). At this hour, it could only mean that her contractions have started. “Dear, are you ok?” I asked. “Nothing, go back to bed” she calmly said. I rolled over but couldn’t really get back to bed. For the next hour or so, I kept hearing heavy breathing from my wife and when the interval was quite close, I asked if she is ready to go hospital. Finally, at around 4.30am, she said, let’s go to the hospital.

Kellie was very calm and didn’t display any sort of pain that you would normally expect. On the other hand, I was getting anxious, quickly got out of bed and grabbed a few stuff before knocking on my mom’s door to let her know that it’s time. When we were in the car, it was Kellie who told me to be calm and said, “Just pray for me, everything is in God’s hand, we will be ok”.

Two weeks ago, Kellie was reading this book, “Supernatural Childbirth” by Jackie Mize given by Cindy. The book encouraged us to raise our faith to believe for a ‘painless delivery”. Kellie finished the book in 2 days (a miracle by itself) and when she told me about it, I was really skeptical (hei, it’s typical human brain working here). However, she told me to share her faith and that God has always intended childbirth to be painless for women. The curse of labor pain was set upon humanity after Eve falls in Eden, but when Jesus died on the cross, all curses were broken. If only we set our faith on Christ, it is really possible to have an enjoyable delivery.

At the hospital reception, I told the midwife about the whole ordeal but they were quite surprise because the 3^rd June was the exact expected date. We were told that less than 5% of delivery actually falls on the expected date (another claims by the book that all pregnancy should come to full terms). Secondly, seeing my mega calm wife, they had some doubt if she is really in labor.

By the time Kellie climbed on the bed around 5.30am, the midwife said she’s fully dilated and basically told her to push. I think both of us were pleasantly pleased by the timing (due to Ethan’s experience). Caitlyn Chong Hui En (or Caitlyn, Hui En Chong in Ang-Moh-style), was born on 3rd June, at 6.30am. She came out fairly quickly and smoothly and I had the privilege to cut the umbilical cord. The only pain relief that Kellie used was her faith on God and also the gas. Being confident that God was no respecter of people, the author’s words of faith rang out in Kellie’s heart and mind. “If we are redeemed from the curse of the law, then we are. If we are, we are! Jesus said it is done! On the cross. All that He has done is more than enough. Amen!

Caitlyn, meaning pure and Hui En carries the meaning of Wisdom and Grace. We pray that the grace of God will always be upon Caitlyn, that she will walk the wonderful journey of life in wisdom and pureness.

House of Worship

2007-05-08T10:37:00.000+12:00

Yesterday was the last worship practice at our house. For the past 5 months, since we moved the Southside service to morning, the worship team has been using our house for practise on Monday. The guys will moved in drums, keyboard, bass, guitar and some amps to the house at about 6pm and we will start the practice around 6.30pm, normally finishing at about 8.30pm.

We even passed them the house keys and alarm code so that they can use the place when we were back home in Malaysia for a month. Our neighbours were a bit worried during that time because they see Pacific Islanders (locals here have some kind prejudice against the PI) moving stuff in and out of the house and we were not around. So, we made sure that our neighbours know of the practice.

The noise level was also a concern for us, but somehow, (with much control by Joe on the drum), the beautiful sound of worship doesn't travel out to the neighbours. Being able to divide the room by closing the door between the living and the dining hall gives the team a great place for vocal and band practise before coming together at the later end of the session.

We are going to missed having the guys around on Monday evening. A lot of people think that we are making a big family sacrifice for allowing the worship practice to intrude our lives on every Monday evening. However, when we were blessed by God to have this house, we knew that we will use it in any measure we can to serve the purpose of God. Like Ps. Tim always said, it’s a reasonable sacrifice. Besides, what better way to fill the home than with God’s praises.

1AM in Sheepland

2007-05-03T13:21:00.000+12:00

The team is finally here... Yes, 1AM (1 Accord Ministry) recording band is here to launch and promote their second album, SOLD OUT. Kellie and I were involved in the ministry for many years (though not the recording band) and the passion, anointing and commitment of the whole ministry really changed both our life.

1AM launched their first album, Revelation back in 2005 and has many great success. The songs in that album are still in many ways, encouraging and inspiring my own spiritual walk. Some of that album success were

1. Best album of 2005 by www.worshipnotes.org

2. “ You are my all “ has been No.1 in www.sharesong.org song charts
3. “You are my all” in the revelation album chosen as a Cd compilation album in Canada.
4. Top 10 in the Indieheaven Charts

The message of their new album is also truly inspiring and I believe it's a message that kiwis need to hear more than ever. Ever since we reside here, everyone tells us that kiwis have a lay-back culture and there's a spirit of contentment (I AM THE GREATEST!!! mindset)... Sold Out, as the message of the album clearly speaks out... it's time to move on to greater heights and be sold out for Jesus when Jesus has shown that He's sold out for us.

When they were invited by Everynation Christchurch, Ps. John approached me to see if I can coordinate them coming to Auckland. After getting confirmation with Ps. Ken that the dates are ok for them to be around, it starts a long and tiring (not to mention frustrating but I'll leave the details out) process of putting it all together.

But that's ok... like Kel said, if God brings them here, nothing will be able to stop them from blessing this place. With all these obstacles, maybe the enemy just know how much blessing it will be. He said the word God gavet hem for NZ is New Zeal... Trust the purpose of God will be accomplish through this deeply anointed team.

Word became Flesh

2007-04-09T09:12:00.000+12:00

In the beginning was the Word (John 1:1)... The word became flesh (John 1:14). We always say that Christianity is not a religion but a relationship with God. God didn't just stay as God, He came to be like us so that He could serve us. O, hang on, did I just say that God came to serve us? That's a bit out of line, some of you may say but that's exactly what Jesus came to do, to serve humanity, to model to the 'Christian' on what serving is about.

Heard on the radio that in today Christian community, it's sad to say that we have turn the 'flesh' back to 'word'. In other words, we Christian have just been preaching but never really live out of deeds. Sometimes we forget that love is an action as demonstrated by Christ. I think the world has sometimes hear enough of us, they want to see more of us.

When Jesus commanded His disciples (as in all of us Christians) to 'Therefore go and make disciples of all nations,...' (Matt 28:19), He didn't just mean to physically go to all the different nations. I believe the nations also meant 'comfort zone'. Jesus didn't just ask us to be preaching in areas or to people that we are comfortable with, but also to act out His love to even areas that are out of our comfort zone...

Let the Word become Flesh... even to our uncomfortable territory.

EN South Side Guys Outing

2007-03-20T14:38:00.000+12:00

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I'm glad this overnight thing took place after I returned from Malaysia. I was worried that I might miss out this 'male-bonding' session, especially in such a pivotal moment of the church. Back in January, Eddie came out with this great ideas of having an overnight camp with some of the key guys in the church. The purpose is to know one another better and to build stronger relationship as we are deemed the pillars of the church. Well, don't get me wrong, the invitation is open to all men in the church, so, it's not like we are the few chosen privileges.

Somehow, only 11 of us responded. So, on May 16, we all gathered at Manukau Westfield's McDonalds after work and departed in 2 big vans. We reached our 'Butterfly campsite' (what a name for a 'Manly retreat'!!!) in Coromandel after about 1 1/2 hour of driving. Due to the expected rain, instead of pitching tent, Eddie got us 2 cabins. Well, men being men... some of us still pitched up the tents and stayed in there. At least we get to tell our wives that we stayed in tent...

(top - bottom, left - right)
Oliver, Jonathan, Tee, Ps. John, Geoffrey, Ken, Sonny, Eddie, Sale, Joe... (me taking the picture)

click here for the pyramid build up

After pitching the tent, we divided ourselves into 2 groups and spent some time getting to know one another by playing a 'bluff' game; getting other people to guess which statement about ourself is untrue. As you can tell, we are all very Christians :) It was good fun nevertheless. We proceeded to play pictionary and since we are all better actors that painters, we decided to charade the words instead. Some classic acts were Eddie's on peanuts and Sale's on Grizzly bear.

The next morning, the winning group (don't ask me why??) did breakfast and we all had a scrumptious helping. The plan was than to do a 3 hours hike (yaa... men!!!). After 40 minutes, we completed the hike, not that we are all super-fit but we took the wrong path and it turn out to be a short cut. I guess God knows the condition of our health better (and some of our hearts too!!). We proceeded to a beach and played some team building game, finishing off with a run back to the campsite. However, one of us decided to take a short-cut back to the site... bad move Sale!!!!

A few of us plotted to throw Sale into the swimming pool but somehow (I guess we all know the reason now, right Joe?) most of them fell into the pool. Well, maybe it's really God teaching us a lesson on forgiveness ;) The camp owner was kind of jealous we were having so much fun that he came charging down the pool and ask us to leave it alone. Well, Eddie being the great police officer (there were 2 in our midst) went to calm him down. Considering that we should be mindful of not showing the owner too much fun, we checked out, and found a beautiful spot by the beach to have a wonderful BBQ, follow by more sharing, crickets, touch rugby, full contact rugby and a swim in the sea.

More excitement (though it's with much agony) to follow when Ken suddenly developed an allergy. His body started to rash up and all he wanted to do was scratched. We rush to a nearby dairy where there's a nurse and gave him some pills. She told us the nearest hospital is Manukau but thankfully, the rash began to subside, and all he wanted than was to have his ice-cream.

It was a good and fun outing, and prayerfully, these pillars will be of good use to the house.

Gold Coast

2007-03-14T10:52:00.001+13:00

In keeping our family tradition of traveling together as a family, we flew off to Gold Coast with mom and bro after spending 2 days in Auckland. And we all conclude that it was more hype than anything else.

Yes, Gold Coast has its own charms but I guess it's the blazing summer that keeps the fun out of us. All in all, only Ethan and myself went to surfers paradise beach once (just before sunset). Yes, the sand was powdery and the water was great, but with the sun scorching down on you at 36 - 38C, it was really too much for us Malaysian... considering that there isn't really any shade you can hide on.

Nevertheless, we did some of the rituals of going to Sea world, Movie world and even the famous Steve Irwin's Australia Zoo. The places were all great but after a while, the heat got the better of us, and mostly we end up tired and not really enthusiastic about anything... I guess posing for photos with the different characters was the most smile that we put on. I think my brother made it his mission to visit as many fitness first gyms as possible to make his trip worthwhile.

Food and shopping was ok-ler... Nothing to shout about and the food was either too expensive or couldn't cater for all our different preference. The only highlight for our day trip to Brisbane was meeting with a bunch of ex-ECFers as nearly everything was not in operation on a Sunday. Thankfully, we also drove to Toowoomba, a 2 1/2 hours drive from Gold Coast to meet up with Lavinia for dinner. Good to see her family adapting to the Aussie lifestyle.

Hmm... after this trip, it will be June before mom and brother come to Auckland again. And this time, it's going to be another adventure as a SHE-Chong will be added to the family.

Homecoming 2007

2007-03-13T13:56:00.000+13:00

It was a tremendous trip to be back home in Malaysia for Chinese New Year. It was tiring but extremely satisfying. The anxiety and anticipation began when we were stranded in Changi airport for 3 hours (thanks MAS!!!) and only arrived in KLIA past 1.30AM. Nevertheless, all the frustration and anxiety quickly wane off upon seeing mom and brother greeting us at the arrival hall. A great big hug from mom was all that was needed to make us feel we are finally home.

The next day, we had breakfast with dad, taking in our fill of the different rotis and nasi lemak. Ethan is still enthusiastic with dad (one of our concerns on him not able to relate to anyone back home) and that made dad shed tears again.

Over the next few days, it was a frantic going around with Kellie to settle lots of chores that was long overdue. But every lunch and dinner, we try to make it a point to meet up with friends or relatives and have some of our favourite foods. Mom commented that we were like on a mission to catch up with all the long-lost food... well, kind of true. Thankfully, Ethan still has a Malaysian stomach, taking in all the hawkers and side street yummies without any ill-effect.

Beside food, shopping was also one of our 'to-do' list. We have actually prepared a list of items and were quite gladly that most of the malls were on sale. Kellie also had her 'once-a-year' hairdo and me, hehehe... once a year hair colored :)

Needless to say, being able to catch up with my basketball kaki was one of the highlight for myself, and Kellie truly values her time with her own family. I also spent quite some time with Ken in catching up on KJL outstanding issues and also some stuff that he was managing for me while I'm away.

Besides the 'work', spending time with Ken and family makes the trip even more worthwhile. The highlight was when I brought him to a Thai massage and he was like a small kid trying his first ice-cream. On the way to the place, he cheekily told everyone he met (including MY friends and the receptionist and the masseur) that it was his first time.

Due to the schedule of Feb, we only managed to attend one ECF service. Walking into the church, it feels the same as I walked into my own KL home. Seeing all the church friends does feels like brothers and sisters. Just a bummer that we only managed to catch up with Ps. Tim and some other leaders for a short time.

When CNY finally arrives, it was all relatives... but this time around, it all seems so, errr... peaceful on my side of family (Kellie's side has always been peaceful)... there's no bickering and gossiping about others, just genuine 'good to see you' feel. I guess everyone is too old to be bother anymore or the bad apples are no longer around. We also had a very fruitful time mahjong-ing with Kellie's mom and sisters. Meeting Johnny (Poh May's hubby) for the first time also gave both us a very comforting feeling as he seems to be a good husband.

The month went by so quickly... but we look forward to another week with mom and bro in Gold Coast

Is the Grass Truly Greener on the Other Side?

2007-01-09T09:16:00.000+13:00

Come next month, it will be a year since we have moved to Auckland. We are very excited as we will be GOING HOME as a family to celebrate Chinese New Year with our families and friends? My wife and I have already listed out our shopping list and food-to-eat list.

Going HOME... hmm... I am still saying that Malaysia is Home. Yes, home is where families are, not just the physical presence of a building or structure. As a husband and father now, my home is wherever Kellie and Ethan is. Whenever I come back from work, I feel safe, secure, joyful and the biological clock suddenly switch to a relax mode. Seeing Ethan laughing and jumping around is a sight that I will not want to miss, being able to give Kellie a home-coming kiss and hug is a privilege I will not want to be taken away from but... but, why am I saying that Malaysia is still HOME.

The obvious answer is, families... our very own families are still in Malaysia, and that's what makes it home. I am the lucky guy where mom can afford to fly over nearly every quarter to visit us but it's still not the same. We don't get to see them every weekend anymore, we don't get to sit around dinner tables and enjoyed the best home cooked meals. Kellie doesn't get to lepak with the sisters anymore, talking to her mom and generally just chill out at home. Though we stay in our own house in Malaysia, we look forward to weekends where we get to be just son and daughter to our parents, being pampered and snuggle up to mom when we are feeling a bit worn out by the demands of the world and let down our guards of being the parents that we are now... Over here, we don't get those times...

I've spoken to 2 other close friends that have contemplated migrating but are reluctant to do so as yet because of families... I guess leaving home is never an easy thing for us in our culture... No matter how imperfect Malaysia is, it's still Home.

I've been following Malaysia's happening through some internet media. It's really sad because of the many issues that have cropped up... the uprising of the UMNO agenda against other races, TDM vs Pak Lah, petrol hike (Petronas has record earning a few months after the petrol prices were raised to 1.92/liter... maybe no relation but hmm...), and now the toll hike... Other highlighted cries are the education system and the general cost of living that seems to have a mission to climb Mt. Everest... I'm heartbroken because the country that I'm raised in is in such state... maybe it has always been like this, we never really know until the emergence of internet and 'alternative-news' site. I've always been quite patriotic... praying for Malaysia and her leaders all this while... cheering the Malaysia football team though they were against Brazil or England... brim with proudness when we won the Thomas cup (err... a decade ago) or Nicol David win the world championship.

However, the recent 'awareness' of the country situation has unsettled me quite a bit. Kellie and I moved here in assurance that God want us to take this journey to complete a chapter in our lives. We always feel that we will be moving back to home one day... awaiting for God to point us back again. Unsettle as we may be, but we need to know exactly where God wants us to be. If we are in a 'perfect' place but God is not with us, how will we ever prosper (and I don't mean financially though that's wonderful) in life, how will we ever live out His purpose? Just like Moses negotiation with God, "Exo 33:15 And he said to him, "If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here."

There's a chinese proverbs that says 'every household has a difficult book', I guess no nation is ever perfect. Living here in New Zealand, I realized many things that I never see as a tourist. The political scene is also in an 'ouch' state, the many services that we enjoyed in Malaysia is actually a luxury here (can't believe I'm saying that). PM here openly declares that this is a secular country in contrary to the many believe that NZ is a Christian country and that she also has an 'alternative' lifestyle (you decipher that yourself). Australians have just voted that their PM to be the most embarrassing person of 2006. Also read a long writeup on the fault and incompetence of the British PM when he declared he will step down. Let's not even get to US president (I have tremendous respect for him in that position making those tough decision, how many of us can actually do that). Closer to home, the Singaporeans are complaining about the Lee Dynasty. What am I saying here? If you are living in that country, your eyes are bound to open to its imperfectness and incompetency of its leaders. Is the Grass Truly Greener on the Other Side? Don't take a peep, step over and see... it could be the same color. If Moses is not willing to move out of the Desert to the promised land without God, why would I want to be anywhere if it's not God's direction.

Christmas 2006

2006-12-27T11:20:00.000+13:00

You may notice that there are no photos accompanying this post. Normally with a title like that, you will expect to see some cheery merry Christmas photos but hmmm... I just didn't bother to take the camera out. Now, that may lead you to think that we have a depressing Christmas (could also be due to my dwindling interest in photography) but actually, it's not too bad.

Gone are the hectic practices of preparing for a ECF Christmas production. We were not involved in any big productions that we are used to coz' the church only had the sunday school kids singing and another group of teenagers putting up a 5 minutes skids. So, in all, it was a pretty relaxing Christmas eve service. We also don't see much gifts exchanging and it actually felt weird or out of place when we brought some gifts for some church members. Apparently, gift is for family members and also to a special few. I can get use to this because we will not be frantic in wrapping up presents or end up with a lot of gifts that might sit in our 'gift box' for recycles :P. Ethan, though, has a few gifts from some of our friends and his toys (or cars more specifically) collections continue to grow.

Initially we wanted to have a quiet Christmas day also, but we decided to invite John Yeow (our house agent) for lunch because his wife went back to Singapore. Once we decided to do lunch, we also invited Albert and the family (our insurance/mortgage broker) and Jasmine and Marlo. We stuff ourself with Rojak (yummy!! by Elsie), lamb leg (juicy!! by me), bacon sausages (smelly!! yucks!!! by me), ham (wow!! by John) and other side dishes of salad and mesh potatoes. Also, chatted for a few hours and we threw in some questions like
1) What is your best Christmas gift?
2) What is the legacy you want to leave behind?
3) What is one thing you will change for 2006?
4) What is one thing you look forward to in 2007?
I enjoyed the answers to those question as it allows us to know each other better, not just superficially but to the heart of the person.

After cleaning up, we headed to Ps. John Simpson's house to lepak. Had a half hour disciplining session with Ethan before we left and boy oh boy, he is really showing his will. Anyway, when we were there, more food (though it's dinner time) and we were also given a coffee lessons coz' Mikiko (brought a coffee machine with her) and Sale serves coffees in a cafe. There also had a duel in who serves up the best coffee. We were complaining as we are the beneficial of some really nice smooth coffee. I finally know the differences between a latte and a flatwhite. Also ended the day there watching Seabiscuit.

Project live & Mom's Visit

2006-11-21T08:56:00.000+13:00

November is a good month for us. My first project in New Zealand went live, and nearly without glitches. I took the whole family down to Christchurch for the cut over period, that is, 3 days before the go-live weekend.

Mom decided to fly in for 3 weeks. So, I booked her tickets to Christchurch and all of us bunked into the Studio apartment. It was a very nice arrangement God made for us because with Kellie still in her first trimester, mom presence helped a lot in terms of keeping each other company and helping out with Ethan.

Christchurch was, well, typical Christchurch. Beautiful and serene but highly unpredictable weather. You just can't decide on what to wear on any given day. The sun might be brightly shining in the morning, but before you know it, you will be screaming for your winter jacket... or it might be the other way around.

With me off to work every weekday, Mom, Kellie and Ethan finally exhausted all their excitement in the city. Botanic garden, tourist spots... well, by the beginning of the second week, they just said "Drop us at the mall". Hhahaaaha... they spent a lot of their time catching up on some Chinese Soap opera.

The Antartic center is a real let down. In mom's word, "we pay so much to see a few penguins in aquarium and go to a big fridge to get our @$$ frozen...". But she was happy as when we were in souvenir shop, the cashier asked if Ethan was her son. And when she said she's the grandma, the cashier started to examine mom's face by touching it and having some close up because she suspects mom has her face lifted before. Suddenly, she said that she might come back to the center just for shopping... hmm...

Weekend proves to be wonderful... we drove to Akaroa, a beautiful French Village. The drive there was like to Cameron and Ethan threw up in the car. After cleaning him up, we stopped by a cafe to enjoy 'the most scenic spot of Akaroa' and sipped coffees. Highlight of the day was the dolphin watching cruise and i was in the water with them. During suiting up the wet suit, I asked for the booties and hand gloves but the lady told me it's not needed for the warm waters... summer = warm waters... that makes sense but as soon as I jumped into the water, my lung was screaming for air because i was gasping in the very very cold water. My hands were numbed and I had to keep them above the water to have any feel of it... ya, right... warm waters... Nevertheless, having dolphins swimming and circling me was really quite a humble experience.

The following weekend, we went to Hammer Springs and jump into the nice hot spa... Learning from our previous experience, we alternate between the cold and hot water so that our body doesn't just fall asleep after the session.

When it was time to go back to Auckland, all of us were glad. Once back in Auckland where home is, everything else seem so familiar and mom spent another week with us before flying off. I even had the opportunity to challenge mom on her religion belief system and prayerfully, God used that session to plant a seed into her heart. It truly is a good month...

Another one on the way :)

2006-10-18T09:27:00.001+13:00

Another Chong is on the way... nope, not my dad or simon or any of my paternal relatives are coming to New Zealand, but we actually made a Chong from scratch :) Yes, yes, Kellie is 6 weeks pregnant. What an exciting and joyous expectants!

Kellie is doing well. So far, not much morning sickness but she does have a highten sense of smell. She keep smelling stuff that non of us can and that sometimes sets her back a bit. Also at this stage of pregnancy, she's feeling tired and having an active toddler to chase is not helping either. But praise God, my mom is coming over next week for almost a month. Nope, not really to help out Kellie but I think mom is missing Ethan too much... So, God really knows how to send help :)

We spoke to a few friends and realised that a lot of them, don't usually break their pregnancy news till after the first trimester. Reason being, only after the first trimester will the pregnancy be stable. I told Kellie that I don't quite agree on that because it means that we are really not sharing lives. We want friends that not only be there with us during joyous times but also during trying times. Especially during trying times, we need the extra encouragement and prayers from family and friends.

I remember how much support and prayer we received from family and friends when Kellie has to go through the operation during her first pregnancy. You see, she has to endure an operation to remove a growing cyst just behind the womb and this was discovered in the first trimester. We were all very worried and without the support of family and friends, it will make the situation worst. It's such a blessing to know that many people are standing with you.

So, while the first trimester is a challenging time for Kellie, we can stand in comfort that God is good and family and friends are always there for us.

The Plea of a City

2006-10-17T10:42:00.000+13:00

In my previous post, I ended by stating that God is beginning to speak to us a family to start the journey that He intended us to have. He has allowed us time to bond as family and settle down into this country. He has allowed us to understand a little bit of the culture in this nation. Looking back, all these are criticial if we were to be of any good use to God. Without a strong family bond, we will eventually break. Without settling in and understanding this nation, we will be frustrated trying to do it the 'boleh-land' way.

Recently, there's a calling for people to help the younger people in Manukau City (south of Auckland, near where we are staying). There's been a rise in crimes and these young chaps are getting involve in gangster, resulting to quite an alarming number of murders. The city is pleading with local churches to do something, and an independent ministry was birth out of it. EveryNation is involved and it’s for anyone who’s willing to commit to a year of ministering to just one kid. The city is also giving $100/month just so we can take the kid for a day-out and it’s a once a week thingy.

Kellie slipped me a paper noting ‘God is answering your prayer on ministering to people’ during the service. I too felt the calling and with a step of faith, I signed up after the service. Suddenly, I began to feel all the stuffs that Zechariah felt, worry, panic and doubtful. I have some questions in my mind, like, what part of my routine must I give up? Ethan's playtime, outing, sports etc... the list goes on. Last night while praying, Kellie gently reminded me, it's about sharing lifes and doing stuff together... that's what discipleship is about. No point talking about the bible for a few hours if the kid doesn't see how life's is worth and that God has a purpose for us. I remember now, 'changing lifes by changed lifes...'

Exo 4:2 The LORD said to him, "What is that in your hand?" ... God, like Moses, use whatever that you have placed in my hand, I will walk the faith...

Being Zechariah

2006-10-01T16:02:00.000+13:00

Well, God was silent for 400 years (since the Book of Malachi to the New Testament in the Bible) and yet, in the book of Luke, we still have a prophet going to the temple doing ‘temple-duty’. I wonder how it must have felt, being called a prophet but not hearing from God at all and doing all this God-stuff because it was a duty that was passed down by generations. You see, Zechariah is a prophet and has been one of the servants in the temple for many many years, just faithfully doing his part. Maybe as a prophet, he knows that though God is silent, it doesn’t mean that He’s not real or not around.

When God finally sent an angel to Zechariah to tell him that he’s going to be a dad, he panic and freaked out. Ok, maybe it doesn’t help because it was Gabriel the Archangel (I can imagine a great shining fierce looking giant with wings starring down at him, maybe God could have sent a gentle ‘boy-band’ looking angel instead) but you can’t blame Him when suddenly the God that you have only heard off suddenly sent one of His best to give you a prophesy. Anyway, once he settled down, he became doubtful because of all the physical (also, scientific logic) evidence. Well, guess what Gabriel did, he turned Zechariah into a mute (don’t ask me why but my wife said that maybe Gabriel didn’t want him infecting his doubt to other people) and were not to speak again until John the Baptist was born.

Hmm… I think I might be going through a Zechariah syndrome lately. Ever since our move to New Zealand about 7 months ago, God’s voice has been pretty vague to me. Like Mr. Z, I too perform my rightful duty of going to church and attending cell (maybe more like trying to attend cell due to the many cancellations), going for worship practices and attending leaders meetings. But somehow, the spirit of God and the voice of God were never as clear.

Instead, our weeknights have been like a nightly dating time where after we put Ethan to bed at 8pm or so, wife and I will spend time watching TV (24, yes!!! in season 3 now), doing some chores and chatting about all kinds of stuff. Weekends are always fun… now that the weather has turn for a better, we usually bring Ethan to the pool or the park, doing groceries, eating out or meeting up with friends and me playing sports. Also included are my faithful attendance to worship practices and of course, Sunday evening service. Family life has never been so close and strong and Kellie has been complaining less about our lack of communication.

But apart from that, that’s it… it basically sums up our routine life here in New Zealand. Nope, not complaining because it’s comfortable and it’s very complacent. It’s so complacent that I recently learned how to do gardening. I planted some vegetables and herbs at our back yard, and up-keep the lawn, things that I would have never done in KL. I guess Mei-Mei’s reaction sums it all up; “Gosh, you are becoming your dad” (My dad is retired and loves gardening and watching TV).

Apart from 'doing' all the God stuff (reading bible, attending service, etc...) one of the key for spiritual growth is to minister, impact life and get involved in discipleship. I haven't been doing any of those and no wonder my spiritual growth is stagnant. The bible warns us about complacency (it's different from 'contentment') and God specifically says that "no fruits, ooppss sorry, need to cut". It always bugs me, what on earth am I doing here? Sure, life is great and fun now, but there got to be more to that.

I'm beginning to sense that God is speaking something to us as a family but am I willing to give up the comfortable routine? Though Gabriel didn't pay a visit, I'm beginning to panic a little and a little freak out and I also doubt if I'm up to it... I'm turning to be Mr. Zechariah... oh God, please don't mute me...

Firm, Constant & Steadfast

2006-08-08T21:36:00.001+12:00

Kellie and I were watching ER recently and in one of the scene, the doctor told the pregnant lady that she needed a causarean for her delivery. She said, "the baby's heartbeat is dropping and the umbilical cord is choking him. If oxygen doesn't get to him, he may suffer neurological damate". I told my wife that is exactly the same statement utter by her gynae during Ethan's delivery.

It's been 2 years since that anxious midnight when I was outside the operating theater while the doctors were performing an emergency operation on Kellie. Moments later, the paediatrician came out and told me that Ethan was blue and they had to pump oxygen to him. He was to be further monitored for fear of neurological damage. Well, in the ER episode, the baby did suffer neurological damage and we began to realise how blessed we are because we just celebrated Ethan's 2nd birthday last weekend.

Today, Ethan is a bubbly boy and brings joy to everyone he meets with his energy and friendliness. We thank God for gifting us with such a wonderful child. Yes, there are times when he's a handful and like every parents, headache and frustration do get to us, but never once, do we forget how much a blessing he is to us and to the many that he comes in contact with.

His name represents firm, constant and steadfastness. In the bible, Ethan is a worship leader. Our own Ethan is showing all those signs with his consistent stubbornness ;) but it's also those qualities that constantly remind us that we should have steadfast faith. He will always request for a praise song to dance to (His current favourite is 'Take it all' by Hillsongs) and will never snug into bed before a prayer is said with him.

We invited some friends over for a little celebration and true to Malaysian style, there were lots of food. Interestingly, all the Asian foods were snapped up leaving behind a big bowl of salad and nachos. I guess even when these chaps have been in this 'kwai-lo' country for so long, Malaysian food will never leave their blood.

Ps. John puts a smile on all the kids' face with his talented skill of shape shifting with balloons and the whole house was literally turn into a little nursery with toys spreading all over the floor. The adults took time to catch up and meet new friends and we did the tradition of birthday song and cake cutting.

We missed the family and friends back home that are not able to celebrate with us but we know that Ethan will always be remembered in their hearts. We thank all that has brought gift and pray that they have been blessed too. Do check out the party's photo.

Mark 10:14..."Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. 15 I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

Middle Child Syndrome... (2)

2006-07-14T13:37:00.000+12:00

Mum called me one day about a business venture that she wants to get in. She said she needed another business partner and was asking me if there’s anyone that would be interested. Mum told me that she’s getting this business in view for me to manage when I return home one day. I’ve always known that Ken wants to be involved in business himself, so I recommended him to mum and they both got on to the business opportunity with Simon.

Things went quickly the next few weeks and now, they are running the whole place. Mum called her ‘feng-shui’ master in to see the place and the master eventually sat down with Ken, apart from some ‘unpleasant’ prophesy and advise, he also told Ken that he should ‘kai’ my mum in order for him to prosper.

My greatest concern has always been this because I know my mum steadfast commitment to this master. My heart broke down to God that night because I’ve not made a difference in my mum’s life on this matter. I felt that I’ve also failed and left Ken to be exposed to a stronghold when he has personally came so close to knowing Jesus. Nevertheless, he assured me that he will not take in strongly the words that were spoken on him but he will proceed with the ‘kai’ so as my mum will feel at peace. He asked for my blessings on the decision because I suspect he’s worried that I might reject him as a ‘kai’ brother because of interference to my family.

Mixed feelings of joy and sadness surround me. Joyful because a good friend is being ‘officiated’ as a family but sadness because it marks a submission to the master’s advise. Ps. Tim told me that we need to continue to pray because only God can ultimately hold a man’s heart.

Today is the day that Ken will be my mum’s ‘kai’ son; a ‘kai’ brother to Simon and I. Being older than me, naturally that made me a ‘middle-child’ now. I’ve always been the big brother; harsh, unreasonable, bossy and proud. (I’ve repented and publicly asked for forgiveness from Simon on my wedding day). Do I have to strive harder now to be noticed? Do I have to scheme to ensure that I’m still in-charged? Do I have to feel insecure that my relationship with mum will be jeopardized?

Naah… because it’s Ken, I know I can fully trust in him. If nothing else, I believe that this symbolic day will only strengthen our relationship. I trust that God put a divine path in our way and that it will be a blessing to others, not just ourselves.

Welcome to the family… we are truly glad for this event. Just don’t call Simon and I… ‘kai-dei’

-- “I thank my God every time I remember you…” – Philippians 1:3

Middle Child Syndrome... (1)

2006-07-14T13:36:00.000+12:00

Today mark another milestone in my life; actually in our family lifes. I'm going to have another brother. Well, not biologically (of course! but who can guess in this time of age) but common to Chinese tradition, there's going to be a 'God'-brother to both Simon and I; a 'God'-son to my mum.

I received the news with much joy and gladness because Ken has always been a very good friend to me; in fact, he already is like a brother to me. Looking back, it was about a decade ago when I first bumped into him as a colleague and his first greeting to me was 'You looked familiar, I must find out more about you'. He smiled and walked away. Needless to say, after only 2 days in a new office environment, that remark sends chills down my spine and I just returned a smile. For the next year or so, I rarely bumped into him, only on occasional office meetings and even on a company trip, we greet like mere acquaintance.

Than as fate would have it, I was assigned to be his ‘apprentice’ (you see, I’m still a young ‘ciku’ by than) in a huge project. He took me under his wings and groomed my skills, both soft and hard skills as a consultant. I was impressed by his work-ethics and his commitment to see me successful. He ‘smacked’ me on the head when I’m slack (or noisy as I usually am) and encouraged me when I’m doing good or when I fall. His mentorship showed me, in many ways how I was not a ‘brother’ to my own brother. He made me realized what a big brother can do to impact the lives of a younger brother.

To the extreme, one day, I even caught him cleaning my messy desk. Well, that was the old tidy-caution-without-kid Ken. Now, I think he has learnt to tolerate sights that might not be so pleasant in his eyes. You see, he has 2 young boys now, active young boys may I say.

Like most consultants in our era, we moved on. He was off as a contractor in another country and I continued to pursue my own career. We kept in touch frequently, and whenever there’s opportunity, we will try to meet up. We see each other grow in our own lifes. I see (not literally!!!) the birth of both his children and he was there at the beginning of my relationship with Kellie till the birth of Ethan. He was also our wedding co-ordinator and I began to show him about Jesus and to Jesus.

Though Ken and family have not embraced the love of Christ, I’m glad that he has caught a glimpse of Christ, not through me, but through a personal encounter when God touched him personally. Mei Ling has also changed her point of view on Christianity and I believe that God is still stretching forth His hand towards this family.

The Hunt is over!!!

2006-05-07T13:33:00.000+12:00

'Dear, need to get ready with Ethan at hh:mm coz' we are seeing another house...' Well, that was pratically my favorite phrase to my wife for the past month or so.

Ever since Kellie and Ethan arrived in March, nearly all our focus was on finding a place to stay. God has been good to us all this while because JH has graciously allowed us to stay with him and Annie for the past 2 months (3 for me) for a fraction of a rental. They even offered to let us stay as long as we have not got a place of our own... so, no hurries. But agreeing with the wisdom from a friend...'finding a house is one thing, settling into a home takes time', we have always been on a look out for our own place.

We started off looking for a place to rent, but in this 'BIG' city of 1.3 million people, rental get snaps up in seconds. No kidding, every time we spot a place that we like, either it's gone by the time I made the phone call; or when I submit the application, the familiar reply of 'Sorry, that place is taken up' will greet me. Little did I realised, Auckland people like to move house. On an average, people here move every 2 years or less! I couldn't fathom that because moving house is one major stress of life which I will try to avoid unless absolutely necessary.

Well, when news of my KL home is on the verge of being sold and some assurance from a friend who's willing to support my finance till the house is sold, we decided that perhaps buying will give us a better options (not to mentioned, 10000000.... times better services from the agents) of getting a place that we like. We rationalized, justified... we squeeze the tight budget and we prayed... finally deciding this is the route that perhaps God will bless us...

Boy, have I just underestimated the 'competition' in getting a place. It proves just as difficult in getting a good place to buy because again, in this 'BIG' city, people like to buy houses You will be able to see tons of open homes for sales on the weekend, and JH has mentioned that Aucklanders just like to spend their time visiting open home. Well, they don't only visit, they actually buy it... and mind you, it's not cheap either. We are talking about a few hundred Ks for a simple home (to be fair, it's near the city), and some are so old, it's comparable to some of the old 'rumah kampung' back home, err… well with the exception that it has a toilet bowl instead of the squat technique.

We have a list of requirements that we wanted for the new house… I wanted a 3 or 4 bedrooms, wife wanted an ensuite, we both wanted brick and tile (not rumah kampung which is popular here). We like some suburbs in the east part of the city, because it’s nearer to the church that we are apart of, has some excellent shopping and a community which I think my wife will like to hang out with while I’m at work. Everyone was basically shocked by our option coz’ it’s so ‘FAR’ from my work place (err… about 15 kms away) and traffic is horrendous (well, about 40 mins drive). Well, we still decided to be there because I wanted my family to be well and happy since they are spending the whole day there while I only spend 1 ½ hour in traffic back and forth. Further, since the church is near there, it will be easier for us to fellowship and get to know people in the community.

Anyway, all in all, we saw about 20 – 30 houses… some of it that we like but can’t afford… the one that we did put an application for, well… you guess it, someone offer a higher price than me. Everytime we put an application, awaiting for the vendor to pick us is liken awaiting for the results of a major exam… so much anxiety…

So, where is God in the midst of all this hunting? I’ve never doubt that God will always provide but sometimes, it’s the timing that I’m worried about. It’s always my puny little self that shortcut what God’s blessing can be… Most of the time, when the vendor rejected our application, it’s actually God’s intervention. We made a lot of those applications emotionally and thus, we compromise on some of the stuff that we wanted… most notably, the school zone, a save location for Ethan to play in, resell value of the house... I’m not a saint, every time when our application is rejected, I get grumpy and it gets to my wife quite a bit too… till she says that I can see the house myself and coz’ she’s tired of packing the baby and driving around house hopping…

One Sunday, the message was ‘When God does not answer prayers…’, I immediately felt the reassurance that God is still looking out for us, that He still has our best interest in His omnipotent mind… so, I submit the whole thing to God, totally… not half heartedly and taking charge again. I told God that the whole house hunt is causing a lot of stress , and I felt too much time is devoted to that, not feeling fruitful at all… Immediately I felt the peace of God coming over, Rom 8:28 “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose”

Well, 2 days later the agent called and told me he found another house. I utter the favourite phrase to wife and she goes… another one! While driving there, I told her, something tells me that this is it, I think God prepares this place for us. We saw the house and immediately love it… good school zone, cul-de-sac, 4 rooms, ensuite, 2 lounges and heaps of other stuffs… only one problem though, it’s 30k above my budget. I told the agent I will only offer what my budget permits and we went for it. Went home, we prayed and this time, we have peace knowing that God is in control.

The next day, the agent called me and said that the vendor wanted a higher offer, and my heart goes… haaii…. But somehow, 2 hours later, the agent called again and say the vendor accepted our offer… 30k below what they are asking for… praise God!!!
The house hunt is finally over and now, we need further grace to move in and start building a home that’s not just for ourselves, but a home that will ‘Honor God, Advance His Kingdom and Establish His House’

The Vine, the Branch & the Fruits

2006-04-26T13:31:00.000+12:00

Not making great progress (in my own definition) after 2 months here seems frustrating... Ps. Tim told me lowering expectations and getting it down step by step will help. He's right (that man is always right!) and I just need to let go and let God...

2 weeks ago, Ps. Jim Laffon was here and one of his message hits me hard. It says many times we are so concern wanting to connect to the branch, we forget to be connected to the vine. The vine is the one that gives life and brings fulfillment, not the branch. Many times we want to do well in church activities and ministries but yet, we forget to be connected with Jesus, the source of everything. That's why we get disappointed and unfulfilled. My encouragement, well, stay connected to the vine and we will see great things happening. We will notice that our discipleships and other ministries will be more fulfilling because it's going to be power/spirit filled.

Well, that message speaks much to me also because I've always considered our time here as a phase that God wants me and family to go through. I begin to see glimpse of that plan but not 100% sure. I get discouraged and frustrated because in this midst of this transition, we are struggling to be plug into the church. I fail to get the best from the service, the worship team and have not even officially attended any cell. Sometimes, we felt lost in the sea of people during and after the service. People popped by with just the usual 'How are you?' on a Sunday. At times, I felt like giving up in trying to get to know people and just stays in the church as a 'spectator' and just go through this few years in that motion. But I know that's not God's plan for me and family, He has greater things install for us. Right now, I think He's telling me to get connected to the vine first, not the branch. He's telling me that it's not the church ministry and activity that is going to sustain me, but Him.

Having say that, does that mean that as long as I spend time with God on my own, I can forget about Church, just be faithful to attend service and disappear after that? No, because the next message that Ps. Jim preach was on 'Feed my sheep'. God says if we truly love Him, that we are to feed his sheep. How do we show our love for God, well, love the church!' Funny-ah, in the end, there's no separation between the vine and the branch, but we must know who we should keep our focus on.

2 nights ago, I was doing devotion on Rom 8:37-39... verse about 'who shall separate us from the love of God'. Well, the bible encourage us that nothing, not situations, demons or anything of this world can do that. But God says that actually there's one thing that can do it... that is OURSELF. We alone have the power to separate ourself from the love of God. Many times, it's not the situations, demons or anything, but we chose to be separated. My prayer is that, we will never exercise that power to separate ourself from His love. Without the vine, there will be no branch, without the branch, there will be no fruits.

I'm in a low season (by definition) , but it's a great time to get in touch with the vine in times like this...