Running with a God-given dream

Switched

2011-08-02T11:50:00.000+08:00

In case you have stumbled upon this blog, or have been eagerly awaiting for new posts - I'm here to inform you that I have moved to a different location: www.joashchan.tumblr.com.

It's more photos than anything. But I'll still do some writing. You can still browse through this blogspot of mine, I will still leave it here to serve as reminders to my future self.

Ok thank you!!

Starting The Year Right

2011-01-13T16:05:00.001+08:00

In my previous post, I highlighted some of my 'first' moments with New Life & LifeXtreme. But I believe the most significant one yet will be coming this Saturday at 4pm - youth prayer meeting. Last Sunday, I launched LifeXtreme's Prayer Month 2011. Lately, I just felt God calling us into a time of prayer as He dropped scriptures into my heart.

In Matthew 6:25 - 34 Jesus tells us not to worry, and boy, how tough that can be!! Everyday my heart is troubled with worry - in spite of having experienced God's faithfulness & goodness. John records that Jesus calls us to abide in Him, otherwise we will accomplish nothing. It has indeed been a struggle for me as I battle through, holding onto God & waiting patiently for Him to swoop in and save the day. Circumstances & words get in the way of us wanting God's kingdom & His ways - as we have books & websites & other churches & ideas & formulas to tell us what needs to be done to build an awesome, exciting, attractive youth ministry.

But above all else, I'm desperate for God. Better He than I to come save the day. Lives, dreams & great potentials are at stake and I do not want to be in the way of God's movement. I desire His Kingdom, not my ministry. All I trust is what God says; all I do these days is depend upon Him; all I hope is a miracle from above.

Oh Lord, haste the day!!

Well 2010

2011-01-13T15:37:00.001+08:00

There has been many 'first' for me in 2010 with New Life Restoration Centre, Shah Alam, especially over the Christmas & New Year period.

There was my first time participating in New Life's combined youth camp. Only 5 of us represented our church, but I'm grateful for the intimate moments we could share with Olivia, Tracy, & Mun Hong. Personally, it was my first youth camp as a full time minister. It was also there that for the first time, May & I had our youths celebrating our wedding anniversary. Precious moments indeed.

Producing the Christmas skit was another 'first' worth highlighting. It was nerve-wrecking to be working with an entirely new cast, with extra difficulty due to the shape of our church hall. But God took us through with relative ease, and we certainly had a good time. Thanks to Mun Hong, Justina, Grace, Brian, & Chris. I look forward to more skits together.

I've always wanted to lead a carolling team & this time I knew I had to seize the moment. We were close to not having carolling had I not said 'yes'. Christmas is always odd without carolling & I'm so glad we did it. It was a personal victory for me, & I believe there were several other breakthroughs too.

Mere hours away I was very anxious as we only had 1 practice with half the team. Miraculously a group of youths hung around to do some office work & we ended up practicing the harmonies for our Christmas carols. What joy.

New Life's New Year Service was very special too. I never expected such an opportunity to come my way so soon, but it would be the first time I songled for such a large crowd. Practices were tough & we still had glitches at the event, but it was a moment to savor indeed.

2011-01-07T16:20:00.000+08:00

Don't Leave God Out

2010-12-28T14:40:00.001+08:00

Reading this post by Martin Smith of Delirious? just makes me feel that I'm having a conversation with a friend. For me, the core message is simply "DONT LEAVE GOD OUT!!". Well, maybe because this has been ringing in my head for the past few months, and the ringing is getting louder these days.

Coming to a new church & taking on both music & youth ministries, I feel excited and nervous at the same time. It's exciting because I get to take everything that I've learnt over the past years and start afresh; nerve-wrecking, because in spite of all good intentions & careful planning, there's no way of assuring you won't get off on the wrong foot!!

But I am thankful for God's assurances. As we dive into the deep end & commit ourselves to projects & people, I keep getting the feeling that I've made the right decision. I'm right where God wants me to be - now all I need to do is to get Him involved. In the midst of (too many) unknown factors, I have a firm belief that God is the one who has led me here. Now, I must get Him involved. Apart from Him, I am nothing - in fact, God must take center stage!!

We can make our youth ministry attractive & cool & fashionable & awesome, but without Jesus being the center of attention, it's all for noughs. What's more relevant & necessary than the love of God & the words of eternal life? Offerings & excellence are great; yet God delights in hearts that are humble & broken before Him, with voices that say "God, without You, I am nothing; I don't ever want to leave You out".

My prayer is that God will rain down upon all I am and everything I do, washing away all trace of me and leaving behind only all of Him.

The video is Delirious' performance along with Hillsong Church Choir. Simply superb!!

A Case for Naive / Innocence

2010-10-21T12:06:00.001+08:00

I wish we would let our guards down and learn to trust each other again; I wish we stop second-guessing people's intentions even before we get to know them. I wish we can accept & give kindness without hesitation or doubt.I wish we can share our honest feelings (positive or negative) without fear of being judged or rebuked.

I know that in present times, it's really dangerous to be innocent or naive. There have been stories after stories of evil revealing it's ugly head at the end of something that began with sincere, good intentions. Misplaced trust that leads to tragedy. Even places of supposed security & refuge aren't safe any longer

However, it's sad when we have to live in fear & worry like that. I've worried for friends who were overly naive with obvious dangers, but now my heart aches for them as they become cynical & doubtful towards people. I'm afraid that we often hide behind 'wisdom' in fear, & we forget to live with pure hearts. I think that it hinders us from doing good & receiving goodness.

I wish I can give compliments without people questioning if I have hidden motives or agendas. I feel like if I want to praise someone's beauty, I have to first say "I'm happily married & I'm not looking to get anything from you; I just hope to make you smile by telling you how beautiful you are"... Can't we just give compliments anymore?

Why must we first question each others' integrity? Why can't we take others' words at face value? The worst part is when we question someone's intention or integrity, we ask everyone else instead of immediately questioning the person in question. We would say "oh how can I trust that person's answer" and we use that excuse to spread unfounded doubts & cause others to also second-guess the individual in question.

I want to be able to impart wisdom or teach without having to tiptoe around people & guard their feelings. If both the teacher & the student are of a pure heart, there wouldn't be a problem where people get offended / hurt / wounded. When I first started off as youth leader, I had people older than me & I feared being their leader because I assumed that they will think of me as a small kid. 8 years on, one of them just told me that I'm one of the wisest people she knows. How much wasted precious time & troubles that could have been avoided had I learned to not assume people's thoughts?

In a nutshell, our first instinct is to not trust - be it due to wisdom / fear / judgement. I believe if we have a pure heart, our first instinct is to trust & rely on the Holy Spirit to give us wisdom when necessary.

Failures. God loves.

2010-09-15T11:22:00.001+08:00

John 13:37 - 38
Peter asked, "Lord, why can't I follow you now? I will lay down my life for you." Then Jesus answered, "Will you really lay down your life for me? I tell you the truth, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times!"

Peter made a promise he couldn't keep. There was no doubting his love & devotion towards his master - he was sincere, but weak. And we are all no strangers to Peter's story here, aren't we? We, too, have made promises to God & have failed miserably at keeping them. In fact, I could make a list here & I'm certain that you could identify with at least 2 of them.

Maybe it was at youth camp, or at your church's watchnight service, where you made a decision to finish reading the bible next year; or did you make a determination to give 15 minutes of your day for quiet time / devotion, reading at least 1 chapter a day & to pray? We were sincere & truly desired to live our lives pleasing to Him, but then life happened & those promises were either forgotten or given up on. Sincere, but weak...

I want us to be reminded that in spite of our failures & weaknesses, Jesus still loves us.

1. He reminds us -
You'll be bumped out if you've made a powerful declaration of love only to be declared that you'll fail, just like what transpired between Peter & Jesus. But I want you to put yourselves in Jesus' shoes (or rather, as my youth member correctly points out, sandals). He was going to the cross, with the knowledge that one of his disciples will betray Him, another one will deny Him 3 times, & only one will be present as Jesus hangs upon the cross. It must have hurt like hell.

Yet in that moment, Jesus still cared for Peter. Basically He says this: "Peter, I know you're sincere. But let me tell you beforehand - you'll fail. It's alright. When the rooster crows, know that I am reminding you that you have failed & need to repent & turn back to Me." The gospel of Luke recorded Jesus saying more:

Luke 22:32
"But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”

You can probably think of an example in your workplace, or maybe in church. Somebody always fails to do as he / she says, or keeps repeating the same mistake over & over again. Are you gonna trust that person again? Will you even bother saying anything at all? In spite of Peter's failures & in spite of Jesus' pain, He still entrusted Peter with great things.

2. He doesn't withold His blessings from us -
John 14 picks up right after Jesus predicts Peter's denial. Check it out:

John 14:1 - 3
"Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am."

There are so many beautiful things about this scripture. He comforts Peter & the disciples. He urges them not to rely on their own strength, but upon Himself. He promises them a place in the Father's house. In the Last Supper itself, we can find many valid reasons for Jesus to just forget about Peter & all the disciples. Yet He still loves them. He loved them till the very end (John 13:1).

Many says that John's gospel can be split into 2 halves, with the 2nd half beginning from John 13. That view makes sense to me, as John 13 begins with a declaration of Jesus' love towards His disciples - & that truth was beautifully expressed by the beach where Peter's restoration took place (chapter 21). Peter was fishing, something that Jesus called him OUT OF. So, basically, he had backslide. Yet Jesus was there, reaching out with hands of forgiveness - forgiveness that would empower Peter to later do great things.

I suppose what I'm trying to say is that we will constantly fail in our attempts to do what God desires of us. Even if we manage, it's hardly ever 100%. Besides, everything good that we do, is because of God's grace, God's empowerment, God's guidance, God's provision anyways. Bottom line - it's not about us. It's not about us getting things right - it's about a journey of knowing a God who loves us unfailingly & unceasingly.

Our failures / sins should not be reason for us to fall into guilt & condemnation. Rather, our failures should serve as reminders of how much He loves us. Draw near to Him.

He loves us, oh how He loves us...

2010-08-17T10:46:00.000+08:00

What a great honour it was to be invited to preach on Methodist Youth Fellowship Sunday. This is actually my first time attending a Youth Sunday. Hope that the youths & youth leaders were blessed (and that I get invited again).

2010-08-04T13:09:00.001+08:00

Just look at the leaves on the trees. It has to be a Master's touch.

26th & 27th June

2010-07-12T22:13:00.000+08:00

What a significant weekend in our lives!! TOUCH were so kind to throw us this 'Joash & May Appreciation Night' that Saturday. It was a night full of fun & laughter, which for me was the best way to say goodbye. No tears, as we were there to celebrate our friendship & God's faithfulness in our lives; no tearful goodbyes, as we will continue to love & support one another - our lives will always be knitted together.

That night, I was really proud of TOUCH. The growth I saw in some of them - it was as though a year has passed. How comforting to know that a positive change had caused them to rise up & grow. Surprises came mostly from the girls - Rabeeka can finally sing & play guitar at the same time!! Loved that malay song the girls sang, very well done. Completely amazed by how Dawn, Joanna & Shekinah were willing to sing for us - touching indeed. The guys pulled out some stops as well - who knew Ken Chung would be my favourite MC!! And what about that epic Ultraman dance? Totally digged the straight faces!!

Of course we won't forget the notes & letters that individuals have written to us. I hope that when TOUCH invites us back for youth service, we'll be able to present to you all a scrapbook as well.

Then came Sunday, where Pastor David (my uncle) officially introduced us & welcomed us into New Life Restoration Centre, Shah Alam. Conversations in the past month had left me wishing that I've come several years earlier - so that we were integrated with these good people & know the works God has done among them. Stepping into Joash Tan's shoes is a daunting task indeed. I am way less awesome than he is (I'll never get near), but good thing the health of the youth ministry will very much dependant upon the awesomeness of Jesus.

I started work since July 1st, & everyday I'm completely relying on God's grace & guidance to be a blessing to the church. Would you please keep praying for us?

New Beginnings

2010-07-06T15:27:00.001+08:00

Dear friends, I am pleased to be able to finally announce that I have entered into full time ministry with New Life Restoration Centre, Shah Alam.

Full time:
What a crazy & amazing journey it has been. Growing up as a PK, I've always been reluctant to work as a pastor or full time minister. Then came working life, which helped me discover that I really want to spend my life living out Galatians 5:6 - to express faith through love (sorry but I can't think of a simpler way to explain it). So I ventured into working freelance in the year 2007 to have more time for ministry. But that turned out to be a wild wild journey of self-discovery (I must have driven May crazy!!) that led me to this decision.

Leaving FCC:
It came pretty suddenly for the church, but May & I knew for quite a while that we had to move away from FCC in order for everybody involved to move forward. I had to move into another phase of my walk, and TOUCH had their road ahead of them too. I had to let go of a ministry I've come to be perhaps too familiar with; and TOUCH had to release me in order to begin fulfilling their God-given potentials & calling.

NLRC, SA:
When my uncle enquired about my availability to serve in the church he founded, I just felt that God was opening this door for us. Moving to Kota Kemuning is a big adjustment for us, but the peace of God has been steadily with us. Officially, I start here on July 1st; but since mid May we've had opportunities to get to know many new friends. In a way, it felt like home right from the beginning - I have many relatives in this church, & it is in a children's camp organized by my uncle & aunty that I've became a Christian at the age of 7. =)

Okay that's all for now. I'll be blogging more of what transpired. But if you're anxious to know, let's just meet on facebook. Or at a coffee place - your treat =)

2010-06-19T15:06:00.001+08:00

In the past 2 months, I've had the privilege of meeting 3 other Joashs. All of them showed amazing qualities & really likable personalities. I keep thinking about how I wish I was more like them. These other Joashs really inspire me to be a better person - a better Joash.

One of them is Joash Wee. I incidentally met him in Kuantan while on holiday. He was visiting relatives. And though we were only together for less than 5 minutes, I was sincerely drawn to him. Something about his charm & charisma, things I wish I had in reserves. Unfortunately, tragedy struck & he passed away - just mere 3 days after I've met him.

As news passed on via facebook, it turned out that some of my friends actually know this Joash personally. And I would like to say, to those whose lives have crossed paths with Joash Wee, that even in the short time I was with him, I was blessed. So I'm sure you all had great moments with him. He somehow inspired me to be better, and now even more so in his death.

2010-05-19T15:01:00.000+08:00

I was thinking about the purpose of doing the things we do... youth service, cell groups, mentoring relationships... It's not to train another generation to run the youth group. Rather, our responsibility is to raise up people who love God & love people. The end goal, is that we will all be good & faithful servants, good stewards with the gifts & people that He has entrusted us with. And along the way, I believe we're suppose to really enjoy ourselves, don't ya think? =)

Double Rainbow

2010-04-30T14:40:00.000+08:00

The promises of God are 'Yes' and 'Amen'.

2010-04-23T02:02:00.000+08:00

And here's what my wife can do. Better than Subway sandwiches - way cheaper & you can enjoy the entire process.

I'm truly grateful for May. She's the one thing (apart from God) constant in this messy life of mine. I regret many decisions in my life, but she's one wise decision I can be proud of for life.

2010-04-07T22:25:00.002+08:00

Something beautiful that came about after a night of thunderstorm. My God can do that. He will do it for all those who believe in Him.

Brothers' & Sisters' Appreciation Day

2010-03-29T21:52:00.000+08:00

What better way to show your appreciation towards someone than to make him / her laugh at your expense?

Flying Without Wings from Joash Chan on Vimeo.

More than 4 hours of recording, and about 13 hours of editing.

Cameron Highlands

2010-03-23T00:33:00.002+08:00

2 days 1 night is kinda short for a trip like this, but I'll take what I can get. And we were so fortunate that Lemuel, Melanie & Mikayla took us along for this (Osbourne caught up with us late at night). Everywhere we went & everything we did were so much more enjoyable with good company.

If it were up to me, I wouldn't have gone to places like strawberry farm or the butterfly park, but Mikayla made every moment precious & necessary. There are so many things I love there - the cool weather, the beautiful scenery, the fresh vegetables, the night market, strawberry ice creams... and did I mention the cool weather? Perfect for BBQ (which we did do on our first night).

Seriously, I wish I had more reason to stay in Cameron Highlands, or at least go there more often. Last year, Pastor Leong of Taman Lakeview was saying that he was going to retire, & I asked if I could take his place as caretaker of the campsite - and I wasn't joking. Perhaps if they could cut short the journey to an hour, or if I had a driver & a nice car, or a helicopter... Or if I had a job that requires me to be in Cameron Highlands half the time... It feels strange needing to be in KL.. Is this my comfort zone, or is this where I'm suppose to be?

Anyways, I do hope to be going up there again in June. Maybe stay up there for like 10 days or something. Nonetheless, I'm really grateful for this trip. It felt like a fulfillment of Psalm 37:4 - 'Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.' These few years, there's really nothing I could depend on except God. Circumstances came our way & forced it upon us, really. But we've experience the grace & the beauty of depending on God for everything. He has come through for us every time. And little by little, step by step, He is drawing us unto complete dependence upon Him.

2010-03-17T02:31:00.000+08:00

Not too long now, I'll be away from all the city stress, escaping to Cameron Highlands. It'll be a short trip, but I'm looking forward to a great time of enjoying friends & the presence of God.

God, you really know the desires of our hearts...

2010-03-12T17:21:00.000+08:00

Was doing some experimenting with my video camera (preparing for Brothers' & Sisters' Day) when I stumbled upon photos taken from youth camp last year.

Ahh. Miss feeling the cool breeze & hot sun at the same time. Cameron Highlands is a really really nice place. In my ideal world, I would be living there, away with all the rush - working from home (must have internet!!), traveling down to KL on occasions for work & play. Of course my family & my close friends will be there as well, forming a community that just wants to enjoy each other & God's radiance.

Here's a photo of me taking myself too seriously...

And then here's one where I just go wild. I wonder why I did that at all.

2010-03-07T01:56:00.000+08:00

A job well done by Lee Ken Chung, stepping up to preach as we always knew he could. A humble but great man of God. Looking forward to hear more of his sermons & then some from Joseph Teng too. =)

2010-03-06T01:48:00.000+08:00

Photo taken at IKEA, as the TOUCH Core met up to plan for the year 2010.

Conversations over coffee are deeply cherished indeed.

All my good videos

2010-02-27T11:42:00.001+08:00

Here are videos that I've done & uploaded online.

1. Documentary: Johor Flood

A documentary of the Johor floods of December 2006 & January 2007, taken in Batu Pahat. 2. Celebration of JoyYoung & Veron celebrates their 22nd wedding anniversary. 3. Mothers' Day VideoA video I made for my church's Mothers' Day event.

4. Emmanuel Chan's music video

5. My Awesome Job - Benjamin Teng

More to come....

First Day of Chinese New Year 2010

2010-02-14T23:07:00.001+08:00

Here's what I had for breakfast. And it was awesome as always!!

A new member of our family. Hope to have a couple more next year...

The master chef herself. We always love going to her house for food.

I really enjoy the company of my relatives. They are honest, sincere, kind, and generous all the time!!

In Loving Memory of Uncle Peter Choy

2010-02-09T16:43:00.000+08:00

I thank God & Uncle Peter that through his life & even in his death, I have been tremendously blessed.

I am grateful to have attended the wake services these past 3 days. I could only imagine how it feels to lose a father, & I was ready to mourn with them. Sure there was mourning, but there were much peace, love, joy, & comfort also. I'm amazed that in spite of their sorrow & pain, the Choy siblings were able to give joy by choosing to encourage & appreciate others instead. It's a great reflection & representation of the love of Jesus.

Jesus, after the Last Supper, spent much time & words to comfort the disciples. They were sad for Jesus was leaving them. And the one who was going to endure the most pain & suffering - was Jesus. Yet, in spite of that, He chose to encourage & comfort the very people who were going to abandon Him. Even on the cross, where physical suffering was at its peak, Jesus managed to attend to his mother's needs by asking John to take care of her.

The Choy siblings - Simon, Carina, Norman - reminded me of these acts of Jesus. My soul has been powerfully impacted. And for that I am forever grateful.

This is me I've been working on

2010-01-19T15:42:00.000+08:00

Assembled a team of friends to play as my brother's wedding band. Yes, I will be playing my first live gig along with Andrew & John Chew, Ken Chung, and Samuel Young.

This is me pretending to be John Mayer.

We've had 2 rehearsals thus far. I've really been slacking musically for many years now. 7 years ago, I was teaching Andrew to play the acoustic guitar and my skill level is still stuck there. I can still fake it behind an acoustic guitar, but now it seems appropriate that the student become the teacher. As for singing, even the drummer sings better than I do. I actually don't intend to be the main singer in my own band, but I do want to improve on my vocals.

Gotta go for classes...

A book?!

2010-01-11T00:17:00.001+08:00

We were watching a DVD in church today. The speaker was talking about how we can save a lifetime of mistakes by learning from others' mistakes. He mentioned that he found a book written by a missionary, that records all the life lessons he had learned throughout his ministry. And this speaker shared that that book saved him 20 years of mistakes.

At that point, I was imagining myself writing down all my regrets & mistakes into a book. And when the time is right, I will pass it onto my children & they will avoid their old man's troubles. I was going to be a life-saver & will be forever appreciated.

What a dumb idea!! I immediately thought the next instants. I don't want to be the idiot who made so many mistakes that could fill into a book!! I certainly don't want my children to remember me for my mistakes!! I want my life to be a good example for them to follow - hence, I must learn from others' mistakes. Gotta dive into reading again.

In the year 2010

2010-01-07T22:05:00.002+08:00

I've been doing a whole lot of reflecting these past 3 months. My 25th birthday was the thing that propelled me into that danger zone. Yes, reflections are dangerous - most of the time you get depressed thinking about the past (unless your life is perfect). Then you have a 50 / 50 chance of coming out alive, or dead inside. Even then, how many would have the courage & determination to actually make changes - changes necessary for us to survive our next reflection.

25 is half way to 50. And halfway has kinda been the story of my life (so far). I've managed to trace it way back to my primary school years. I inherited my parents' gift in art, but I only went for a few drawing classes in school. That was my first drop-out, I guess - at the age of 9. Then there was sports. I represented my school in table tennis & badminton. I was good in basketball too. And even though my class lost in the finals, my teacher still recommended me to join a local basketball team - I turned that down. Eventually I quit badminton at 14, to focus on table tennis & 'bola baling'. But all that came to an end when I quit school at 16.

Picked by guitar when I was 12, and that's where my music journey began. But I never had the willpower to learn everything my brother was willing to teach - guitar, drums, keys. In Form 2, I started playing football with the neighborhood kids. But SPM, part-time jobs & college would severe me from playing football regularly - and with that, I lost my speed & dribbling skills. Studied business administration as I didn't know that my real passion was (still is) in mass communications, even that I only got a diploma to show for. In all these, I feel that I've failed my teachers.

I've never been one to have new year resolutions, but after all that reflection, I know I must plan for the year 2010. My only have one new year resolution: to focus on the things I believe I can improve & excel in, and let go of time-wasting activities. And here, I'm going to list down the things I want to focus on / achieve in the year 2010 - firstly to remind myself & allow others to remind me. Secondly, is because I know I cannot work alone in achieving these goals - I need my friends.

Here goes:
1. Drama / movie production - targeting the Easter & Christmas period.
2. Improve musically - mainly on vocals, guitar, & drums.
3. Improve in cinematography & pick up photography.

Trusting God all the way for peace, joy, strength, & love to live through the year.

Every Soul Needs A Saviour

2009-12-18T07:06:00.003+08:00

I can't fulfill the law. I can't perfectly keep the ten commandments. Not even the two which Jesus said sums up the whole law. There's no way I can get to heaven based on my merits in law-abiding. Thankfully there's Jesus. I can abide in Him. He draws me. I am safe in His arms.

Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arm...
Leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arm...

is it just me

2009-12-12T22:26:00.002+08:00

or have you ever had that feeling you might be in trouble for saying something wrong about an hour ago, even with no recollection of whatever you have said at that time?

Cause I just had that feeling, but I can't even remember what I've said.

Small update

2009-12-02T16:38:00.004+08:00

After being jobless for 3 months, there was a sudden influx of paying jobs for me - 1 corporate video & 2 wedding videos. The photo above is of Boon Yong & Poo Chan, whose wedding video I've finally handed to them last night. It was a real pleasure making videos for all my clients. I'm satisfied with my work & I hope they will be pleased as well. Though it was a long 2-month period, in which there was a point in time where I wanted to quit editing videos, I'm glad I've pulled through with better skills & wider knowledge. The money I've received couldn't match the effort & time I've invested into these videos, but these experiences have given me confidence much more valuable than money - I know I can do it, I know how I can be better & I'm sure I can make my customers happy.

There is another video editing work that I must complete (GetLife:TOUCH Camp 09), but right now I'm looking forward towards using my other talents. For Christmas, I'm working together with Benjamin Soo on musical performances for TOUCH Christmas on December 26. I love performing songs & I'm excited to do Christmas songs' covers with the youths. There's also something on the cards for Easter - I won't say too much about now as not everything is finalized. But it's an opportunity to get back to drama / skit once again. I'll reuse the RE:TUNE (remember?) storyline - only this time it'll be bigger, grander. If that goes really well, I'll definitely make it into a movie =)

That's all I have right now. Will write more soon.

Discover You (an original song)

2009-11-04T11:12:00.000+08:00

Which well do you draw water from?

2009-10-15T12:20:00.005+08:00

This post is meant as a follow up to this one.

I've come to an age where statistically, 80% of my peers will lose their excitement in attending church services & serving God, resulting in a few eventually walking out of the church & even the faith. Those that remain will spend a lot of their time in church with 2 things - talking about those who left; and wondering why they stayed.

Did the church change? Or did we?

I believe one of the key contributing factors of this sad situation is misplaced expectations. Perhaps for far too long we have placed our expectations of Jesus upon the church. How did that happen? How did we replace Jesus, our covenant keeping God, with the earthly, imperfect church? Unconsciously & unintentionally, we, with 2nd-hand faiths, allowed ourselves to rely & depend upon the church to feed our spirituality. And due to that dependency, our personal relationship with Jesus Christ became an exact duplication of the spiritual atmosphere of the church.

The corporation worship affects our personal worship lives;

Prayer meeting affects our prayer lives;

Church events generates our spiritual highs & lows;

The pastors' sermons become our only source of food & water;

Church members' responses & actions determine how joyful it was to serve God that Sunday;

Church cliques are our great basis for sense of belonging & self-esteem, self worth;

I've been there - for a very long time, I might add. Nowadays I still have such struggles. Should it be that way? Hell no!!

You want to experience Jesus? Get your sources right. Which well do you draw water from? Don't you know He has given you a fountain?

"Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again,
but whoever drinks of the water I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."
- John 4:13 - 14.

None But Jesus

2009-09-18T15:31:00.002+08:00

This post is specially for those who don't feel happy being in church anymore. I see you, & I feel you. You're not alone in this. There are people saying healing & joy has come, but you're not feeling it; you're not believing it. I'm with you. I hope this post will encourage you & bless you.

It took us a while to decide if we're going to church camp or not. It wasn't a small decision for us - my wife & I had nights where we would just be crying on our bed as we talked about it. The past year had been a wild journey for us. The only reason we survived through it was because we hung on to the knowledge that in all of the storm, God is with us. And indeed He was.

You see, I used to be associated as the pastors' son. I hated every generalization that came with it, but at the same time I was proud to be the pastors' son. When my mom preached about Sons vs Servants, I immediately (wrongly) took on the identity as a son in the house - I became the son of the church. And when my father resigned from the church, I thought I had nothing left but to be a rebel.

But God has pulled me out of that now. He's taken me on a journey, teaching me about our adoption as children of God. I'm not a son of the church. I am a child of God. You see (again), if we base our identity in anything other than our position in God, we will crumble. If our source of life, joy, strength & hope is anything other than Jesus Himself, we will run dry.

If you let me, I could think of so many reasons to walk out of the church & just plant myself somewhere else. No church is perfect, but at least it'll be a new start - I'll be appreciated, I might get paid for my service, and it'll be years before anyone realizes what an idiot I am!! So why are we still in FCC, serving in the youth ministry & music team? Well, there's only 1 reason really - God hasn't said anything yet. And until He does, I must be faithful with the gifts & the responsibilities entrusted to me. As long as I'm still here, I will love the local church & the people in it. It's not because there's a new pastor or a new church board, or that the youth ministry is growing - it's simply listening & obeying to voice of the One whom I belong to.

I guess what I'm trying to say is this - FIX YOUR EYES ON JESUS. Do not depend on anyone or anything else. Desire to know His love for you & respond accordingly, & everything else will be an overflow out of that relationship.

Good Friends

2009-09-18T15:20:00.000+08:00

Pictures above were taken on August 31, 2009. Just 2 days after our youth camp, we headed back up there for a time to just be. Took me a while, but now I realise that the group that went were basically the TOUCH Core with Rachael & Rabeeka. More importantly, they are my closest friends. I am pretty much a pain in the butt, but they accept me as I am. And I don't know how they do it - whether they cast some magic spell or just be a really good friend to me - somehow they make me want to be a better person. I have grown & changed (perhaps at too slow a pace, but still... ) and they played no small part.

So, thank you.

Clear Blue Skies

2009-09-02T12:34:00.003+08:00

GetLife09 was awesome!! So awesome that it has restored my faith in camps. Thank God for open heavens at youth camp '09 & beyond.

Looking back now, God's hand had been with us all along. Yes, there was a dark cloud hovering above us - but our God is King above the storms, & He is Emmanuel, God with us. Throughout the camp, we prayed for open heavens & praise be to God for answering our plea. I praise God for the work He has done amongst us in this youth camp. Lives were touched, & 1 soul was added to the Kingdom!! YAY!!

1 thing that amazed me was that everybody that should have been at GetLife09 were there. And I'm happy to have witnessed the display of excellence by all campers, especially in the 3 days Amazing Race. Kudos to the camp committee for creating a race that drew the best out of everyone, & congratulations to all participants for their passion & enthusiasm.

There's really no telling what this generation can do in God - the sky's the limit. And personally, it's both comforting & scary. Comforting, because I know that this generation is in God's hand & God will use us to do great things; scary, because as a leader, I have the responsibility to lead without overshadowing or hindering the growth of each individual - finding that balance has been a challenge I knew I had to face. But this is a sign of critical mass, a place where small moves will determine if we leap ahead or fade away.

And therefore, now more than ever, is our time to do that one thing that's needed, that one good, noble thing - to sit at the feet of Jesus, to draw joy, peace, strength; to get life from the everlasting source.

Get life, till our cups overflow.

Riding The Storm

2009-08-24T00:28:00.003+08:00

Yes I still do see the dark cloud hovering over the sky. As our youth camp approaches I begin to see a storm brewing. But that's not going to intimidate us. Our God is bigger, stronger, tougher, greater... We just gotta keep praying & keep praising until we see a clear blue sky and then do some more praying & praising.

Here are some photos of the hardworking youth camp committee - just riding the storms & enjoying the moment in Jesus:

Here's Jacklyn after an all-nighter in Megah Court. Notice how small her car is!!

Later we also worked in the church office. Thank you Aunty Agnes for helping out!!

2 more days to go!!

Dark Cloud? No Problem.

2009-08-23T15:51:00.000+08:00

On Friday, as I was preparing for the youth service the next day, a picture dropped into my thoughts - it was a dark cloud hovering over the sky. & with that, I begin to have a clearer understanding of the things that I've been experiencing for a long while now.

You see, I've been noticing a lot of strange behaviour. There was something weird in the spiritual atmosphere, but I couldn't pin-point what it was. Somehow people around me (even myself) are making senseless decisions, acting & behaving senselessly. Often times I find myself reflecting upon incidents & situations, and later say "that doesn't make sense" - that has been my catch-phrase for the longest time.

If I begin to tell you all the happenings that have led me to such conclusion, you would probably find logical explanations for all of them - and you would be right. I could too. But something was tugging my heart, leading me to believe that there are movements beyond the logical that we can't see. The church word to use here is spiritual discernment.

I shared that picture of a dark cloud with the youths. I believe God showed me this picture, not for me to be fearful of it, but that I will cling onto faith - to use all the things provided unto us on the cross of Calvary & somehow punch a hole through that dark cloud. And so we sang, like Paul & Silas in shackles, believing that as we open our mouths & declare the praises of God & His Kingdom, He will open the heavens & stay. And when God comes, you can be sure that the earth will tremble, & dark clouds be pierced.

Either led by the Spirit or just me running out of a song to sing, I asked the youth if anyone had a song in their hearts. Justin gave a fast song - a song that declares that Jesus is good, & in His presence we have nothing to fear. I thank God for that song, for it assures me that whatever storms we're facing or dark clouds hovering over our lives, we have God as our anchor, we have Jesus in the boat with us. Amen & amen.

Recap: Parents' Appreciation Day 09

2009-08-13T22:52:00.000+08:00

Only July 26, 2009, TOUCH had its 2nd Parents' Appreciation Day, an event where we host the parents of our youth members for a night of fun, entertainment & a whole lot of appreciation. Here are my highlights of the night:

1. Ushers who formed an aisle to cheer the parents' as they walk in. That clearly set the mood for the rest of the evening.
2. Games - brilliant ideas from Joseph.
3. All the speeches - done by Anndrea, Rachel, Dawn, & Justin. Dawn's is my favourite.
4. Loved the duet by Jacklyn & Jezreel. Hope to hear more from both of them.
5. Rabeeka Raj's performance - glad I could assist with the guitar.
6. 1, 2, 3, 4 by Daniel, Justin, Jezreel & Ben. Great song choice.
7. Yet another amazing job by the kitchen staff.

Read about our previous PAD here

The One After The Other

2009-07-27T14:46:00.004+08:00

Parents' Appreciation Day has come and gone. My thanks & congratulations to all TOUCH members who were involved that day. The ushers, the food, kitchen staff, performances, speeches, games - you were all exceptional in your work. I'm proud of each and everyone of you. I also want to thank the parents for their participation & patience throughout the event. I'm especially glad to have had the opportunity to address the youths & parents together. And of course, my deepest appreciation goes to our TOUCH Core leaders, especially Jacklyn Kang.

Will recap on PAD 09 as soon as we have the video & photos ready. But now, we can finally look forward towards...

Reflecting on John 10

2009-07-20T18:26:00.001+08:00

I did not expect preaching on this chapter could be so important for my soul. I took 2 youth services to complete John chapter 10, & on both those Saturday nights, I found myself crying myself to sleep as I reflect upon the words of Jesus. It was as if I was part of the audience, as if I was preaching to myself - only that the words sunk in hours after the service.

On a personal level, 2 things really got hold of me. Firstly, is how much Jesus values my life. In verse 3 & 4, Jesus said that He, the Good Shepherd, calls us by name & goes before us. Verse 29 & 30 paints a picture of us as a gift so precious that both The Father & The Son are united towards the efforts of ensuring that this gift is never snatched out of their hands. These verses tell me that my life, my very existence is extremely precious to Him; that we are not random accidents or the result of the Big Bang, but clearly created, chosen & called unto His purposes.

Secondly, are the many provisions He has given unto us. Verse 17 & 18 basically tells us that Jesus had the right, the authority, & the freedom to whatever He wanted to do - yet being in perfect oneness with the Father, He chose to die for our salvation & freedom. He wanted us to enjoy the abundant life so badly, that He willingly laid down His own. And through the perfect sacrifice by the perfect One, we receive our son ship, & all good things as our inheritance. He empowers us with all these things, because He wants us to unleash the potential He has placed in us - & thus fulfilling the purposes He has set for our lives.

Having these truths, how can we not view our lives differently? Trials, difficulties, circumstances of past & present - in all of it, He's there. No wonder Paul could boldly write Romans 8: 30 - 39.

³⁰ Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.

³¹ What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? ³² He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? ³³ Who shall bring a charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. ³⁴ Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, and furthermore is also risen, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us. ³⁵ Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? ³⁶ As it is written:

“ For Your sake we are killed all day long;
We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”

³⁷ Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. ³⁸ For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, ³⁹ nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Parents' Appreciation Day 09

2009-07-20T11:02:00.002+08:00

TOUCH's Parents' Appreciation Day is here again & I'm getting really excited about it. Things are starting to fall into place & at the moment, we have 22 adults confirmed to attend this event. We do hope for more parents to make it, as we have really great performances lined up to bless our parents. Yesterday while we had our final briefing, I just sense the excitement from those performing special numbers. What pleases me also is that this year we won't be re-using the songs from Mothers' Day & Fathers' Day (last year we used our Sisters' Day & Fathers' Day songs), as those songs were really unique & special, and should remain as such. There's even a possibility of yet another original song!! That would be great addition to an already wonderful event.

Do pray for me as I will once again be giving a speech as youth leader. I rarely get an opportunity to speak to an adult audience over the pulpit (so far this is my 2nd time). But I really desire to be a blessing to them through my words & also let them experience a little of TOUCH. I hope I succeed.

Daddy oh Daddy

2009-07-07T20:08:00.004+08:00

Very privileged to have written this song with along this group - Joseph, Esther, Anna, Jacklyn, Chi Wing & Lynn Yen. All of them wrote their own parts & thus made the song extremely unique. Not forgetting also May & Ken Chung for helping to compose the initial format, chorus & melody.

I think this song will be remembered for many years to come.

The Youth Is The Church Of When?

2009-07-03T16:20:00.001+08:00

No, no tomorrow. The youth is part of the church, along with the elderly, adults, & children. Together, we are all part of the church today. Get it straight. When you (especially the leaders of the church) think that the youth is the church of tomorrow, what do you have now & will always have? An adult church. Having such a mindset actually hinders the growth of the church. The adults will be thinking 'Ah, they're just youths, they can't do it yet'. & the youths will be thinking ' Ah, someday when I'm 40 I'll reach my God-given potential' - this causes the church to be ineffective as people with the right gifts are not placed at the right positions, as people of age & supposed maturity level assume roles out of necessity.

Why not now? Why can't a youth lead prayer meeting? Why can't they preach on Sunday or in cell service? Why aren't they nominated into the church board?? Why can't they have a say in the way church should be? Are we despising our youths? Are we letting young people despise their youth?

No matter your age, you have a purpose & a role to play in the local church. Get clear directions from God, humble & equip yourselves, rise towards your God-given potential & take your place in the Kingdom of God. Let us unite to build the church, TODAY.

Power Of The Spoken Word

2009-06-12T15:37:00.005+08:00

Growing up in church & having my parents as pastors of the church, I did not realise the impact of the words delivered from the pulpit can have upon the spiritual well being of the church & its members. My parents were diligent in preparing their sermons, but I never understood what the fuss was about. I could preach too. I've been preaching & teaching since I was 15 years old (1o years!! Already?). I understood how we must communicate effectively & make sure it's not boring, so that the audience doesn't waste their time listening to you. I tried to be as diligent as my parents - do more research, meditate, be way more humourous, & make sure the people under my care learnt something that day.

My little collection of books... (most are from my dad)

Nowadays I still preach, & all these virtues have stuck. But ever since my father's sabbathical and subsequent resignation, I began to understand the measure of urgency that comes with being a preacher. For me it's like this - You don't know how white, white is, until you see how black, black can be. & that's all I'll say for now, lest I offend the little people. But suffice to say, I now know how good my parents actually were, & how much more I need to up my game.

Since last year, I began to teach from the book of John. Why the Gospel of John? Well, for one, I like it that I can create jokes from it. Another big reason is that my dad has this HUGE commentary of the Gospel of John. But most of all, it's the red letters - the spoken words of Jesus Himself. On a personally level, I discovered so much about this faith that I possess. & I believe my youth members are more mature in the faith as a result.

With that said, I will be posting my sermons on this blog of mine, in hope that as I share my findings, people will find out about this awesome person we know as Jesus. & I invite you all to be part of this amazing journey of discover Him.

The Many Faces Of May

2009-06-01T00:46:00.002+08:00

Here's a special blog post decidated to the girl who makes me laugh - even in her sleep. I love you, May Wong (Chan) Mei Chin.

A Return Behind The Mic Stand

2009-05-29T16:10:00.003+08:00

On Mothers' Day last month, I had the privilege to songlead in Lemuel's church (I guess we'll have to refer to him as Pastor Lemuel now). My mom was invited to preach that Sunday, & initially I was charged to be her driver. But then something came up & somehow I was invited to songlead. The church was also short of musicians that day, so I immediately seized the opportunity to ask my favourite keyboardist, Ken Chung, to come along. It was great to receive an immediate positive response from him.

You see, almost 10 months ago, Ken Chung & I (and also May) made the decision to step down from the music ministry. It wasn't an easy choice - we love playing good music, we knew our calling as musicians, & our band has come a long way. But this was a decision we knew we had to make, & having a friend along made it much simplier. So with the opportunity to return behind the mic stand, I was very pleased to have Ken Chung as a band member again.

We had to practise on Sunday morning itself. Had Jason & Joshua to provide the bass & the drums, while Lemuel played the electric guitar. Yet, in spite of the rush & playing with strangers, both Ken Chung & I felt at ease - it was almost like we never left. I believe that's the anointing of God upon us, confirming & assuring us of our calling once again, and telling us the season to return to the music ministry is near. For that, I am grateful.

I'll have to disagree

2009-05-04T01:03:00.005+08:00

NO - having a pastor who follows God wholeheartedly isn't nearly as good as having Jesus Himself leading the church.

My brain just froze after typing the statement above. Why? Because it's hard to imagine a situation where one has to make such a statement. It's a no-brainer. How can someone compare a pastor to Pastor Jesus, and then say both are just as good? No no no... No no no. NO!!

There are pastors whom I personally know and have tremendous respect for - including my parents and my brother. They are wonderful people who pursue God's heart with great passion. But they are not and will never be just as good as Pastor Jesus. No one will be as good - that knowledge is the starting point for salvation!! Perhaps there are certain aspects of their ministry or their character which are like our Saviour - but never as good as. I would have Jesus Christ as my pastor any day of the week. I'm sure pastors I know will share my preference.

Justice, Compassion, Love

2009-04-17T13:05:00.007+08:00

Micah 6:6 - 8 raises a very important question - one we should ask often - What is pleasing & good in the sight of our God? Is it our giving, our sacrifices, songs, & various acts of service unto him? The answer - act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.

Jesus also spoke on this in Matthew 23:23 - citing justice, faith, & mercy as weightier matters of the law. Yes He did!! According to Jesus, these are more important things that we must not neglect. Paul resounded the importance of the matter in 1 Cor 13:1-3. And it is simply summed like this - without love, nothing we do - be it of good intentions or with great excellence - would matter.

I believe a shift in focus is necessary. The church, collectively, needs that. After all, the church is the body of Christ, purposed & empowered to do good & spread love on this earth. For too long we have been focusing on excelling in the duties we perform within the 4 walls of our building. Even our best 'reaching out' efforts are mostly aimed at bringing people into the church first.

I look at myself, & things I'm supposedly good at - song leading, script writing, teaching... All these are good gifts from God, but so far I've been using them effectively only within a church setting. I can think of so many good things we do within the church, but my brain gets stuck when it comes to schools, neighbourhoods, cafes, community halls, etc. It's not that we don't care - it's that we don't care enough to think more about it.

I'm not saying that excelling in church duties & in-house evangelistic programmes are wrong; I'm asking if those are the only things we know how to do.I'm talking about a shift in focus, a change of paradigm.

John 13:35 - By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.

Beeka

2009-04-16T18:18:00.002+08:00

Rabeeka has been a close friend to May and I. The sleep-overs, car-rides, conversations, mahjong sessions - both our lives have been blessed by her friendship. This picture was taken on Tuesday, where Rabeeka gave us a Korean treat. Although it felt a bit strange (it's the first time she's treating us), it was a memorial occasion & it made me feel really really good (I don't know how else to express my feeling). I thank God for knitting us together.

Restoration

2009-04-14T16:49:00.002+08:00

As I participated in the corporate worship & communion in my home church on Resurrection Sunday, I was reflecting again on an entire year that has gone by - a time of trials and storms indeed.

Compassion, love, mercy, & unity were all severely lacking - basically they were all thrown out the window, replaced by law & rules, condemnation... I won't go into the details of what transpired in these times, but here's what's what in short: My family members were targets of accusations & prejudices coming from the very people we gave our lives to serve; changes were abruptly implemented on the basis of "i have a revelation from God & you're filthy with sin"; and without warning / notice / explanation, I was relieved of my leadership positions. Though now I'm still the youth leader, I've not been serving in the music team since June 08.

While I was reflecting about all that & participating in communion for the first time in 10 months (I refused to partake of an inferior brand of Jesus' blood), I felt God impressed the word 'RESTORATION' onto my heart. I don't know if it's a message also for the church, but personally, yes, I do feel that I've lost many things, & many things have been taken away from me. Yet I'm reminded of the provision available to me through the death and resurrection of Jesus. The blessing outweighs the curse, the joy overcomes sorrow. YES!! I believe.

Be it unto me, according to Your word. I believe.

20 questions

2009-04-04T13:50:00.003+08:00

1. What your ambition?
To be a filmmaker that impacts the community around me positively.

2. Who is more important to you? friends/boys/girlfriends
Friends. I don't care for boys, & I already have a wife.

3. How often do you think of committing suicide?
Once a year I think. But God has His perfect timing...

4. Do you think you have enough confidence?
No. I don't say what I need to say half of the time.

5. How many babies do you want?
2 sets of twins.

6. What is your goal for this year?
Make my freelance job a sustainable one.

7. Do you believe in eternal love?
Yes. No other reason to live without it.

8. Do you want to change your real name?
Only when people continuously mispronounce it.

9. What feeling do you love the most?
When people show concern for my feelings.

10. What are your bad habits?
Procrastinating, speak too slowly, cause misunderstanding.

11. Is there anything you want to tell to people who hate you?
Thank you I appreciate you. Seriously.

12. Do you cherish every friendship you have?
Certainly.

13. What does flying means to you?
Floating in mid air / admiring the view from way up.

14. Who do you love?
What do you need? You're messing up my mind, wasting all my time...

15. Who do you hate?
Hmm... good question. I shall make a list.

16. Describe the person who tagged you in 9 words - Christina.
Beautiful, outgoing, random, adorable, loud, crazy, fun, cheeky, adventurous.

17. What would you really like to do now?
Play football!! I miss playing football!

18. What will you become in the next 10 years?
A father, film maker...

19. Coffee or Tea?
Coffee. IKEA!!

20. What are you wishing for right now?
That I could turn back time.

Great skit performance

2009-03-26T16:40:00.006+08:00

Congratulations to all the cast members for putting on a great performance. It was fun working with you guys. Based on the audience's response, I believe we can make the skit better (back to the writing). Maybe for Easter. What say you?

Big thanks to Josephine for documenting the performance. Check all the photos here.

Introducing The Cast

2009-03-21T13:06:00.000+08:00

Justin & Benjamin are the 2 main characters of the skit. Although rather new to acting, these two have been given the great task of carrying the entire story flow. Great pressure on them but I believe they can pull it off nicely.

Sabrina, Jean, Anndrea... These 3 are considered veterans when it comes to acting. Although only involved in one fourth of the entire story, they are a crucial element.

Samuel & Anna. In my opinion, Samuel has the best role in the skit. If I were to play a part in it, I would take his character, as he's the master of wordplay & his way with words has an tremendous effect on the storyline. But Anna will be there to give him a taste of his own medicine. The skit gets interesting from here onwards.

And finally, introducing Caleb Raj, the HERO!! Even though his lines are little compared to Justin's, Ben's & Samuel's, his actions represent the main message of this skit. Having played mostly comedic roles in the past, Caleb would have to use all his media knowledge to pull this one off.

P.S - I forgot the last time I directed a play / skit. I think I've lost my touch. Must get it back!!

The Last Hurray?

2009-03-19T12:11:00.002+08:00

Finally something to blog about without offending some poor guy's feelings...

I knew 3 weeks is too short a time to prepare for a skit, but saying 'yes' wasn't a difficult decision to make. There was a tugging in my heart & I knew we should do it. Besides, who knows what the future holds for TOUCH & our God-given dreams come April? Could this be our last hurray? I don't know; all I know is we must put on a great performance & deliver the gospel.

Credit to my wife, May, for coming up with the initial idea. And with the help of Justin and Daniel (decided to keep the script writing team tight this time), this one might just be our best script yet!! Everything will be done in just one scene - something we haven't tried before. So it's gonna be interesting...

The greatest pressure will of course fall on the actors & actresses. We only finished the script last Saturday, & our practices will be have be squeezed into the next few days. Adding further to the fact that there's a lot of script to remember (even though it's only 1 scene), this is the first time I'm writing the script without basing on any of our casts. So the actors & actresses will have to really ACT this time - a challenge I believe the cast is more than capable of.

Here are snap shots of my co-writers:

Details of our skit performance are as follow:

Sunday, March 22nd 2009, 5.30pm - 7.30pm.
The Ambassadors International Church KL
Komplex Mutiara 10th floor
Unit 568-10-7
Jalan Ipoh Batu 3 1/2,
51200 KL.

Fix Me

2009-02-28T03:45:00.003+08:00

This whole week I've been reminded, time & time again, that I still have not 'arrived'; that I'm still so un-Christlike in a million ways and that time & age won't get me there. As I step back & observe how people deal with one another, I notice the fact that too often I fail to do what I know is right. I'm a big fat hypocrite - my words are louder than my actions. I am able to tell others what to do yet I fail miserably in behaving correctly. I speak without listening; I teach without applying...

I'm humbled. Holy Spirit searched me out - the verdict: I'm in repair, I'm not together, & I'm a million miles away from getting there.

Yet you still love me? Unbelievable... Mind-boggling.

Would I Get It?

2009-02-20T18:50:00.003+08:00

Here's my application for The Best Job In The World... Check it out... If you like my video, please go to this link & vote. My goal is to at least get to the top 11 shortlisted candidates. & at least top the Malaysian contestants lah... I must own!!

Show Off =)

2009-02-16T11:14:00.005+08:00

This year's Chinese New Year is our first as a married couple. Never mind having to give angpao (red packets with money inside), someone somewhere somehow started this thing where all first timers like May and myself will have to give double - 2 angpaos to every person. I suspect that it all happened when a crazed old uncle drank too much beer... The easy way out was of course divide the originally set amount by 2. May hasn't had a full time job since November, & my freelance jobs give no fixed salaries. So it would only be fair to expect us to give a minimum amount.

But our God isn't a minimum God. He's a HOW MUCH MORE God. He's the ever-giving, ever-blessing master, & in Him we do not worry. Consider the fact that I've been without a stable, fixed salary for almost 20 months & have no lack; how about the fact that my family doesn't have much financially, yet we are paying a morgage & God still uses us to bless others; take into account how we did not have any money to get married & yet managed to receive a great surplus from our wedding dinner... That's the awesomeness of our God. How can we, then, give others based on how much we gain from our earthly paymasters?

And so we gave more than what people say we should. It was never about hoping that God will reward us as we obey His voice - we know that God loves us no matter our obedience & our performance, as His faithfulness and loving-kindness endures forever. We just know that He will take care of us, & so there's no need to give in weariness.

Giving certainly feels better than receiving - & that was a reward in itself. But God displayed His awesomeness again (in youth ministry, we accept the term SHOW OFF. We believe God wouldn't mind it too) by providing May with a kindergarten job - it's 10-minutes' drive away, pays decent, & owned by a lovely, generous couple. With that, I have green light to continue in my freelance work. An added bonus is that our beloved friend, Rabeeka Raj, is working alongside May & is actually loving it over there.

I praise Him & will continue to live my life trusting Him. God, You're such a show-off. I like it. Do continue to show off Your awesomeness through our lives. Amen.

The Joy of Youth Ministry

2009-02-03T14:58:00.004+08:00

I was just thinking about how awesome it is to be a youth worker in a local church now. Especially now - in this time of age where youths are despised & generalized negatively (yes even in the church) - it feels awesome to be the few who understands enough to stand by them through this crazy stage of their lives. It's such a great honour, joy, privilege, and responsibility!! Too many people choose to dwell on the little things that supports their childish, unfounded prejudices. With that they miss out on amazing things that God will do in & through this generation, and for that I pity them.

To the people of TOUCH, I want you to know that I love this youth group very much!! I'm so thankful for your trust towards me, allowing me to walk with you & participate in your life journey. I've been amazed by what God has done in your lives & I'm extremely excited about what He plans to do amongst us. The world & even people in the church may despise you - let them be - the important thing is that you don't despise yourselves, because you are the apple of His eye. Don't ever forget that.

Our Honeymoon

2009-01-15T11:53:00.000+08:00

We were only in Kuantan for 3 days 2 nights, but believe you, me - the honeymoon has not yet ended. I'm still loving every moment of married life, & everyday I'm certain of my decision to commit my life to my best friend.

Special thanks to Uncle Charles & Aunty Yook Fun for sponsoring our stay in Kuantan. And also our tour guide, Michel Ong. We had an awesome time there. We love Teluk Cempedak!!

The feeling has officially sunk in

2008-12-16T02:28:00.001+08:00

I've been finding it hard to sleep lately, but tonight's reason for sleeplessness is obvious - I'M NERVOUS!! In less than 48 hours, I'll be married to my best friend & it's mind blowing!! I'm trying to doze off but my adrenaline is pumping like mad. I can't recall the last time I've felt this way. There's just so many things running through my head right now, and here's a peek for you:

1. What's the most suitable song to sing as the gang enters into May's house?

2. Will my pants break if I get on my knees too quickly?

3. Should I crack a joke in my speech, or just be very formal?

4. Gosh it's my first time getting married!! I've never done this before!!

5. What type of condoms should I get? & from where?

6. Perhaps I shouldn't sing that Lee Hom song.

7. I hope this pimple will subside.

8. How can you mend a broken heart? How can you stop the rain from falling? How can you stop...

9. I hope the monsoon will stop when we get to Kuantan for our honeymoon.

Can't wait to start a new life with my love...

The 'HE' Ice Breaker

2008-12-10T05:42:00.001+08:00

Click to Play

A fun ice-breaker introduced by Brian Ong

Naturally 7

2008-12-09T11:33:00.001+08:00

Galatians 5: 1 - 6

2008-12-05T12:24:00.002+08:00

1 Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free,^[a] and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage. 2 Indeed I, Paul, say to you that if you become circumcised, Christ will profit you nothing. 3 And I testify again to every man who becomes circumcised that he is a debtor to keep the whole law. 4You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. 5 For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith. 6 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but faith working through love.

Galatians 5:1-6

If you read in context, the freedom that Paul was talking about is freedom from circumcision, from keeping the law, from being justified by law. Wow!! The audience to whom this letter was adressed somehow had a liberty that isn't really liberty, a freedom that isn't really freedom. It sounds weird, yet many Christians have settled for that sort of 'freedom'. I've been guilty of that myself. That's why the writer had to emphasize on the need to stand fast in the liberty by which Christ has made us free.

Verse 2 & 3 says that if you try to be justified by fulfilling the law, the sacrifice of Christ would be of no profit to you, & therefore, once again, you become a debtor to keep the whole law. And if in case you didn't notice, no one in the bible could keep the whole law, except Jesus. Even Pharisees come to Jesus to ask for a way to enter into heaven, because they KNOW they can't keep the whole law & calm the warth of God. Wouldn't it be foolish of us, to not accept the free gift of God - eternal life by faith in Jesus - & subject ourselves to the punishment of the law?

Verse 4 is a shocker too. It says if you try to be justified by law again, you would have fallen from grace!! How can anyone fall from grace? Isn't grace unmerited favour - given to those who don't deserve it? How far or deep can a man fall that he would completely severed from grace? Could Paul be saying that judgement will fall upon those who think they can keep the law & fulfill it on their own efforts?

Friends, our righteousness comes only by faith in Jesus Christ. And in Him, the only thing that matters is faith expressing itself through LOVE.

More to come...

On Songleading....

2008-11-04T19:10:00.003+08:00

Have you heard the phrase 'If you've never been there before, how can you lead people there?'? Well lately God (or maybe it was just me) dropped a thought in my head about that - "Why not just lead them to Jesus?"

By assuming that only the songleader can lead the congregation into a certain familiar 'place' of God's presence, we are in danger of missing out on the Spirit's leading. Perhaps in that corporate time of worship, Jesus wants to take the church to a 'place' that no one - no songleader, no pastor, no prophet, no intercessor - has ever been before. Wouldn't that be so much more awesome?

If I do ever song lead in church again, I'll assume the awesome, significant, totally cool role of AN USHER, leading the congregation towards The Son. I'm sure He's the best tour guide into The Father's House......

oh no......

2008-10-20T16:52:00.002+08:00

oh my Lord....... I'm 24??!!

Will be back blogging once I get stable internet connection again.... Till then, cheers.

I'm Engaged

2008-09-26T13:07:00.006+08:00

That's right. I popped the question.

Wong Mei Chin (people like to call her Ah May, Mei Mei, May Jie, May Wong) said "yes" on September 20th, 2008, in the presence of our closest friends. You can read the full account here, while I jot down my experience & thoughts here.

I kept waiting for a right moment to ask for May's hand in marriage, hoping for the perfect situation. Things have been rough, you see (that's why I don't blog that often lately). To add to our family's financial instability, my dad & I were released from our jobs under a rather unbelievable situation. It's sad because, I was just starting to find my place in that organization (after an orientation week), & I felt I could really help them for the long run. It was quite devastating, considering that I actually like the job & it was suppose to be my first stable job after 1 year of trying to live a dream.

The church is also in a funky situation at the moment (yes funky is the right choice of words right now), and the dreams we share as TOUCH are under jeopardy too. So you could imagine how last week's youth service turned out to be the youth service of the year. Anyway, I hope this is enough to tell you how my journey of running with a God-given dream is in a bad spot right now. My 24th birthday is just around the corner too, & that feeling of inadequacy is truly overwhelming.

On Friday May wrote me a letter. She assured me that in spite of it all, she knows that we are meant for each other. And she told me that she wants us to be together through happy and sad moments, be rich / poor together, for the rest of our lives. That's kind of the gist of the letter, of course her words were way better. But reading it really reminded me of God's love. I can imagine the day when I get to heaven & see the Dream-Giver face-to-face, & He'll show me the plans He had designed for me even before I was born. And as I look at that plan I'll be going like "Oh my God, how far have I missed the mark!! All that potential & energy & dreams were so under-utilized!!". But in all that, He calls me to look into His eyes & He'll say:

I love you, My son. Enter My joy.

I cried as that picture was painted in my imagination. May's love pointed me towards God's love, the assurance of that unconditional love that makes you wanna give your everything to love right back!!

Being very Spirit-led, I found the words to say & the courage to pop the question. I'm very grateful for the opportunity to do so in the witness of our closest friends. People say there were many wet eyes. I know there was a lot of clapping & the catch phrase of the day was "Man, that was unreal!!". Their excitement & joy for May & I gives me confidence that as we take this journey towards a new chapter of this God-given dream, they will walk with us all the way - gladly, willingly, & lovingly.

Thanks to all TOUCH people who were present that eventful day. Your generosity of love & encouragement is AMAZING.

Good Old Days

2008-09-17T12:28:00.003+08:00

This picture just reminds of the church I once knew.... those were the good old days.

How sad is it when you're a 24-year-old talking about the good old days?

Where I Am

2008-09-11T12:44:00.001+08:00

I'm going through a rough patch in my life right now. Never felt so depressed, defeated, useless before - at least not over such a long period of time anyway. People who never took the time of day to know me are placing harsh and cruel judgments upon me; I had those all my life, but this time these are the very ones that I have to convince otherwise. Otherwise, the foundations that I have built for these God-given dreams of mine, I have to rebuild elsewhere. I've always believed in (& preached on) living life as ONE, but now I'm in this place of my life where, in order for me to live sanely, I have to learn how segregate pieces of my life & cope accordingly.

Deep down my heart cries "I wanna go home. I wanna go home"

I'm learning. I'm learning to count my blessings (so thankful for people who really understands). I'm learning to let go of these dreams & hope in the Dream-Giver alone. I'm learning to accept the things I can't change / affect, & just laugh it off. Maybe I'm learning to really Let Go, & Let God...

Still my heart cries "I wanna go home. I wanna go home"

Let your love be strong
Let your love be strong

Before The Dawn

2008-08-12T16:50:00.002+08:00

Been struggle with a lot of things lately, accompanied with sleepless nights. During these nights I've longed to just cry out to God, but somehow I can't. This song is a product of months of being unable to release my inner voice... I want to share with you, in hope that it will bless you.

Back to Work

2008-07-31T00:08:00.003+08:00

A year after I left my full time job as a project executive in a big company, I'll be going back to a 9 - 5 job - this time with Habitat for Humanity Malaysia. I've come to know about HFHM setting up its national office through a church member, Aunty Julia. & I'll be joining them as Information Officer. HFHM is a non-profit organization that seeks to eliminate poverty housing and make decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. And since my desire for TOUCH is that in the near future would become an official non-profit organization, this job currently seems like a perfect place to learn and be trained.

I've yet to put pen to paper, but I consider myself to have started work this past Monday. That day, I tagged along to a fishing village settlement far away from the city (because a fishing village has to be by the sea, you see). I wish I could show you some pictures now, but that has to wait until HFHM's involvement in the project is confirmed. You'll have to take my word for it - their houses aren't livable. It feels as if no amount of desperation & effort on their own would get them out of such a situation. Without help from outsiders, they & their future generation will not have the things that you and I have - a decent home, money to spend, education...

After the visit, I just felt overwhelmed by the whole thing, but yet optimistic & glad that I would be able to venture with this tribe on a journey towards wellness & wholeness. These days more & more I am realising that keeping the commandments of Jesus isn't just about not sinning. It's about helping the poor, feeding the hungry, defending the weak... Justice, compassion, righteousness... This is worship, and I am very grateful for my opportunity in HFHM to do just that.

Of Cyber Cafes & PC games...

2008-07-11T13:00:00.003+08:00

Lately parents are very concerned with their kids spending too much time on the PC, in cyber cafes, playing games with friends... & some are talking about how the devil is stealing away our youths through this means & are calling cyber cafes evil. I would like to address this issue here.

First of all, let me say that I'm now blogging from a cyber cafe near my house. The glass doors are so dark that you can't see anything from the outside; the lights inside are rather dim too, the only things bright enough are the computer screens. This cyber cafe uses headphones, so the only noise come mostly from the gamers shouting to each other - sure they are shouting profanities at one another, but I hate the sub-woffers & high volume speakers more.

The absence of internet connection from my house is causing me to make frequent trips to this particular cyber cafe. I see students coming in right after school to play their favourite games. I hear them shout profanities at each other, it's part of their daily lingo - that's really troubling. It's almost as if they don't have parents, so it's ok to say those things they say. & of course the fact that they spend so much time & money on playing in a cyber cafe is no doubt worrying.

But suppose there is no cyber cafe anymore - where would these youths be? A mamak stall, karaoke, a pub, or maybe a back alley somewhere? So we remove all these things just so that they stay home - will they stay home? If a kid spends too much time alone in the room, shall we remove his / her room? Suppose you remove all distractions, will they stay at home? & even so, will they be turn out good, or okay? The fact is that moral decline in our world has always existed - way before there were video games & mamak stalls. To pin this on where your kid spends most time in or what he does is to be totally missing the mark. Cyber cafe, like most things, money for example, are neutral things. It's what you do with these things that separate good from evil.

Oh, have you ever noticed how many people die from road accidents every year? Cars are EVIL. No Christian should ever use a car. EVER. Walk to the nearest church & attend there. Quit your job & work for the bookshop near your house. So many people die of accidents, so surely we must remove cars...

I think what parents want from their children are simple. Obedience, spend more time at home, make effort in their studies, have more healthy activities... Don't fight something negative with a negative action. You're only making things worse. Go to the root & make positive changes, don't just touch the surface & think you can solve everything.

Will write more (and better) after more thought...

As Malaysians Pray

2008-07-07T17:33:00.002+08:00

You could notice how Malaysians' concern towards our nation's political scene by how fast newspaper are being snatched up in the local 7-11. More & more, people are shedding away apathy & beginning to form opinions & eventually, take sides. As price hikes continue to trouble the middle - low income citizens, it's pretty apparent that Barisan National is losing its supporters & Pakatan Rakyat is getting stronger.

As most of the nation (I think) are banking on the new Pakatan Rakyat to save the day, I want to remind Christians to place our hope & faith only in God & God alone. No matter what political opinions you have, this sticks. No matter which political party you think will run the country better, pray that God's will be done in Malaysia. And continue to pray for the current government. Pray for wisdom, fear of God, compassion, justice & righteousness to be upon them.

Recap: Parents' Appreciation Day

2008-07-04T13:00:00.000+08:00

Well Parents' Appreciation Day has come & gone. Apparently the food wasn't great, not up to the parents' standard lah. It's a good thing that several families didn't make it, because we had shortages!! Apart from that, the event went quite well, surprisingly. The planning was rather slow, then hectic at the end, so I didn't know what to expect on the day itself. I discovered one leadership key through this: Do all your worrying & rushing at the planning stage. Once the day comes, just relax & ENJOY. Note down all mistakes made, & make sure they are rectified for the next event.

We kicked off with 2 games, in which the parents just went crazy!! Some of the youth gave feedback that they never thought their parents or the adults in church were capable of such madness... Watching them have fun & let loose was a lot of fun. Haha. Daniel & Anndrea did pretty well as master of ceremony. Once the food came out of the kitchen, the performances began. Daniel & Ben Soo sang their self composed song. "Always There". Ben Soo also sang "Daughters" by John Mayer (with Jezreel & Jason), he did so well someone commented that he reminded him of John... John Denver... Haha.

I thought the speeches were amazing. Jean & Sabrina gave sweet & touching speeches. Then Samuel, Chi Wing, Brian Ong helped lighten up the mood with their humour. I felt they set the tone for the evening lah. Jason, on work & holiday back here in Malaysia after 9 months in London, spoke about being away from family & understanding the weight of a parent's responsibility. Finally I took the stage, addressing the parents as youth leader. All those that spoke before me really gave me confidence, considering that it's my first time addressing the church from a pulpit (well, half of the church anyway). I think I did pretty well. Sadly, Joseph didn't bother to get a second tape, so he recorded only half of my speech. Sad sad... We ended by getting all the families together, I prayed for them & then we took group & family photos.

At the end of it, parents came to me to thank me for my leadership - that's how touched they were!! give me hugs some more... But honestly, for once I really felt that I didn't deserve credit at all. Credit should go to every other person who contributed to the event. It was a group effort. The kitchen staff were organized, disciplined & had good response. Ushers were great too. Everybody did their job & they did well lah. I'm proud of what the youth have done that day.

I believe this event will be a great starting point for partnership between parents & youth workers to better serve the youths - which only means better things are ahead...

The 2 Songs

2008-07-02T17:32:00.001+08:00

Click to Play

Here are the 2 songs written by Benjamin & Daniel Soo. Performed during Fathers' Day. This low quality recording is served as a teaser only. Hope we can make an MTV soon. Hehehe.

Samuel's flip

2008-06-30T22:01:00.001+08:00

Click to Play

Samuel's flip.... An episode from the archives...

New Things

2008-06-21T15:54:00.001+08:00

Almost half a year has passed, & looking back I can see God's hand bringing forth new things in TOUCH. It has to be God, because I can't pin-point a single factor, an incident, or an individual that created all these amazing things for us to experience. We had our Brothers' & Sisters' Day that has created a greater bond, respect, appreciation, & sense of belonging among us. Then for Teachers' Day we connected (1 way or another) with the teachers of SMK Raja Ali. Fathers' Day was Now we're only a week away from another huge landmark - TOUCH's first ever Parents' Appreciation Day.

It's more than the events, really. It's the process of creativity & individuality brought together to make ONE THING happen - there were the cooks, the poets, the songs, the artists... Few years ago there were 2 people (in the same night) who told me that TOUCH will produce an album - as in self-written & produced songs, recorded into a cassett (it was so long ago that CDs weren't common yet!!). At that time I was very skeptical. We had good musicians, singers with good voices - but together we were never convincing. We did a concert or 2, which we thought we did pretty well until we watched the tape recording (VCR!!). Let's just say we've never organized a concert ever since... But our very own Soo Brothers (Ben & Daniel) have written 2 songs thus far & they're really really good. They turned me into a believer - we just might produce an album.

This song-writing duo is but 1 example of the many possibilities for God-glorifying & people-touching that this amazing Dream-Giver is showing us - and I believe He'll continue to open our eyes to the things that He has deposited in our lives. Our part is to be open, available, & really listen closely.

Parents' Appreciation Day Ad

2008-06-17T12:46:00.001+08:00

Click to Play

An advertisement for Parents' Appreciation Day, which will be held on June 28.

Back to My Roots

2008-06-09T10:58:00.001+08:00

warning: incoherrent mumblings...

I've been doing much reflecting lately, choosing not to blog or write or email until I came to a conclusion, or at least an understanding which I'll be temporarily satisfied with. I'm grateful for God's timely intervention in our church camp. I dare not say that I have fully comprehended the things God is trying to say to us, hence the much reflecting.

Still, as the youth leader, I felt compelled to take on the leadership role in helping the youth to move forward in their personal journey, as well as TOUCH's direction. That gave me a greater urgency to study about brokenness, God's presence... Amazingly, even with my limited understanding of the hand of God right now & me feeling inadequet everytime I raise my voice (no pulpit or microphone at youth service) to preach, I sense God helping me through the sermon - as though God was using me to TEACH ME!! At the end of the service, I feel like I'm the one who has gained the most. Haha. Amazing. Yes, God is still speaking. God is still speaking to me.

On a more personal level, I have gained a little headway on what / how God wants me to move forward. I've spent the past week editting the Fathers' Day skit script, which was written by Daniel & team. The storyline is really good, & the script had a lot of good stuff in it. Being able to chip in my ideas into the script just made me feel great to be part of something awesome. Our first practices went really really well too. The talents are truly impressive. I think you'll agree when Fathers' Day come... (or when the video is uploaded to our TOUCH Pictures).

May and I were discussing about this. & it really got me thinking about how before all the videos & dreams of film-making, my passion was really for script-writing. "You think I should start inOCrea again?" - I posted that question to May. Her answer gave me an assurance & put a smile on my face. I think I'm gonna do it.

the rocks

2008-05-23T10:28:00.001+08:00

Click to Play

a community project in conjunction with Teachers' Day.

The Rocks

2008-05-16T02:42:00.001+08:00

In conjunction with Teachers' Day & in our attempt to be a blessing to the secondary schools around Jalan Ipoh, TOUCH will be giving gifts to 120 teachers in SMK Raja Ali. We chose Raja Ali because it's the nearest school from our church., & we chose to bless the teachers because... what better way to penetrate into a school than to first touch the hearts of teachers, right?

Yesterday (Thursday) a bunch of helpful volunteers came over to my humble room to make beautiful paperweights. It took us (9 people if you include Rebecca & I, missing from the picture) 4 hours to complete 52 paperweights, simply because we (by that, I mean they) put our hearts & souls into each one - we want every teacher to be blessed by this small little gift. Tomorrow, we'll hope to finish another 68 more paperweights, while making another 120 handcrafted bookmarks. I hope that tomorrow's bunch will be able to give as much passion & enthusiasm as those yesterday.

Oh, in order to fund this community project & also others to come, we've started selling car stickers with our (new!!) TOUCH logo & our blip.tv link on them. Hopefully as we document our God-given ventures, www.touchpictures.blip.tv will create awareness towards our cause. I've recorded yesterday's paperweight-producing moments, that video will be up soon.

Many thanks to those who have given to help out in this endeavour - your talents, money, time, petrol are well-invested. THANK YOU.

Pleasant Surprise

2008-05-08T17:25:00.001+08:00

Woke up to a pleasant surprise this morning - it was Rabeeka saying "hi" on msn. Turns out National Service is giving them a 1-week holiday, so she's staying at a friend's place. Great thing about it is that there's even a webcam there!! That's why I was able to take a picture of her. She says she has gain weight, apparently they only feed the NS trainees once - once a day, everyday, all day long. Well I say she's lovely as ever.

If you have msn / Skype, do contact her. I'm sure she wants to do some catching up. Oh, try to get her before night falls, better connection during the day wo... Even better if you have webcam, she'll be delighted to see you.

I'm itching...

2008-05-02T09:57:00.002+08:00

Man this picture sure brings back memories... I want to do another one!! Better one!!

LET'S MAKE A MOVIE!!

Community

2008-04-29T17:28:00.003+08:00

Last Saturday I had an interesting & refreshing encounter. I forgot when was the last time I invited some of the youths to stay over at my place. We watched a bit of football, played Boggle, & then settled down in my room (which amazingly can still host 4 people!!). Very intentionally, I kicked off the conversation, trying to make the most of the night. But I found out that they were much more eager to use that time to be involved in a meaningful conversation. And boy, I really admire the openness, transparency, & honesty of those young men. I've never been as opened as they were with my youth leader or in a group. And I don't think it's because I've presented myself as an approachable guy (I try to though). I believe it's a work that God is doing in our young people in FCC. Among many things, we talked about girls, salvation for friends, disappointments, frustrations, hope, heaven, death, dreams & ambitions...

Oh, last Friday's cell meeting was quite cool as well. We celebrated April birthdays with Anna, Chi Wing & Michelle (who wasn't there). Everyone had to think of a question to ask both Anna & Chi Wing, & boy the questions were really interesting & smart. In that time of Q&A, we've really got to know the birthday boy & girl in greater measure - and I felt that it was a really beautiful time.

I really treasure that few hours we connected on a deeper level. I believe God showed us a glimpse of true communion in the fellowship of the body of Christ. & I love this community God has created me in.

Simple Melody

2008-04-29T01:20:00.010+08:00

Just want to share with everyone this simple melody I came up with when I was experimenting with F# key. Give it a try, seriously. Start simple by playing the bass line for F# & G#minor, while hitting any black keys with your right hand. =)

Video was recorded by May with a digital camera, at the Yap residence.

TOUCH Service 29 March 2008

2008-04-01T10:06:00.000+08:00

Always wanted somebody, or even a group, who can document youth service sermons. Thanks again, Phoebe.

Earth Hour 2008

2008-03-27T01:39:00.000+08:00

TOUCH Service 15 March 2008

2008-03-24T18:13:00.000+08:00

Sermon notes courtesy of Phoebe Matthews...

Hands & Feet

2008-03-23T10:07:00.000+08:00

Having a week long holiday from JB, I had no more excuses to not get my jogging shoes. My dad introduced me to this particular shop, he even told a particular salesperson that his son will visit the shop soon!! Haha, such confidence he has that I would take his recommendation!! Anyway, I've been wanting a jogging shoe for a very long time now, but I couldn't never find the pair I liked, until now. These bad boys will accompany on my journey of losing weight...

Another thing I bought this week is this wrist brace. My wrist has been hurting for the past 2 weeks, due to the strain of constantly using the video camera & the mouse (added by the fact that the table we have is lousy). Didn't know full time videography can be hazardous. Haha.

Missing Rabeeka

2008-03-18T22:58:00.008+08:00

Rabeeka has become a very close friend to May & I. She will be leaving for National Service tonight & it's extremely heartbreaking, knowing that we won't be sensing her presence for the next 3 months.

I met her on Saturday styling a brand new (accidental) hairdo. But she looks as lovely as ever, doesn't she? Gosh I think I need a haircut too. And a new face & body. Maybe get a life too...

Will be missing you greatly, Rabeeka!! Will be praying for your safety & welfare as you have a blast in Sabah. Hope you'll find direction & purpose too.

How was worship?!

2008-03-16T11:47:00.003+08:00

"How was worship today?"

Worship is not meant for us. It's meant for God. Hello?? Wake up!! It doesn't matter what we think of the musicians & singers' performance or skill; what matters is that we worship God in spirit & in truth. If you're talking about the music or the songleader's leading, be more specific. Be careful that you don't limit WORSHIP to music & song.

In spirit & in truth - that means worship is not the singing session of Sunday service, nor is it the slow songs. It's pouring devotion unto God, in all areas of our lives - work, serving, giving, playing, etc.

Quick Update on TOUCH

2008-03-10T16:58:00.006+08:00

Sisters' Day has come & gone. Thanks to all the people who helped out in the kitchen, preparation & serving of food & the performances... Josephine documented the whole event on her blog. For videos, you'll have to wait... But you sure can look forward to our next big event:

There are about 40 guys in FCC, but we only have an average of 15 per youth service. Hopefully all of them can come & be a part of our first ever Brothers' Day!!

Perhaps this video will encourage you to come...

Justice, Mercy, Faith

2008-03-07T09:03:00.010+08:00

My mind has been stuck onto this verse in Matthew 23:23 for a long time now... JUSTICE, Mercy, FAITH - Jesus calls them the weightier matters of the law. & a month later I'm beginning to make sense of it all... Here are my thoughts...

Now, justice & mercy. Justice is giving what one deserves, while mercy gives what one doesn't deserve. Perhaps the only way to practise both elements is to do it unto others. Fight for the weak & the ones without voice, champion their cause & stand for their rights; give mercy to those who hurt you, & forgive those who have done you wrong. Faith, is knowing & believing that as we follow God's way of justice & mercy - by forgoing our own - He'll carry us through with His endless supply of love & compassion towards us. Selah...

My desire is to be able to practise justice, mercy, & faith all throughout my life & still have JOY everyday... I pray that God will teach & guide me each step of the way.

I shared this verse with the youth (where I emphasized on Faith) & dear Phoebe was jotting down notes...

Click picture for bigger view

Invitation: Sisters' Day

2008-02-17T14:29:00.003+08:00

For the very first time, TOUCH will be having special events in appreciation of brothers & sisters in this wonderful family we have. First up is Sisters' Day, where the guys will work together to give a memorable evening for the lovely girls of TOUCH. There are some really cool programmes arranged for that special event & I'm really excited. I can't wait to see the smiles on their face. It's going to be amazing.

Girls, you're gonna love us... MUAHAHA....

TOUCH Channel

2008-01-30T01:56:00.000+08:00

Out of random inspiration I've decided that TOUCH should have a youtube channel of its own. Now with http://www.youtube.com/user/touchpictures, our friends who are now overseas can have a glimpse of home. It's just a great way to keep everybody connected lah, you know?

Anyway, this is May's recording (from her digital camera) of 1 part of our youth service, plus some editing from me. This video just shows how much fun we do have in TOUCH (and how sporting Samuel Young is).

Christmas Skit 2007

2008-01-08T17:07:00.000+08:00

Kudos & congratulations to everyone of the production team. It was a great effort, & hopefully time will let us record everything VIDEO - that would be really cool.

Mountain Hiking

2008-01-03T01:41:00.000+08:00

Mountain hiking is an interesting experience. My dad was the one who took me up there for the first time, & it was not a pleasant trip. First, we climbed up to a hilltop where a pylon was situated. And just when I thought we have reached our destination, my dad pointed to the next pylon & it sure looked like a much difficult hike. I almost puked & thankfully I lived to tell the tale.

The 2nd time I hiked up this route was with my 2 tuition students & their younger brother. It was much more easier for me that time, but the kids always looked like they were never going to make it half way. The eldest was constantly expressing his intention to give up, & I could totally relate to him. But I know the hike was achievable & I so desperately want them to experience the victory I felt. These boys had so much gone wrong in their lives, they badly needed a win here.

Now, I'm so proud to say that Clyde & Keith overcame the mountain & they can't wait to go up there again. I believe the key to their success was making small goals & taking it 1 step at a time. & I think it's good advice when making our new year resolutions - small goals, step by
step.

Below are pictures taken when I took my cell group (& 2 proteges) up that mountain on the last morning of 2007.

Happy New Year

My Dad turns 51

2007-12-29T16:15:00.000+08:00

My dad turns 51 today. Here are pictures of him showing off the gift I gave him. It's a bling with a cross that spins!! He once asked me how should he wear it. I told him to just be himself & that he's the only dad I know who is cool enough to wear it.

Mikayla Yee

2007-12-28T00:30:00.000+08:00

I have plenty to write on HUGE 2007. my videography assignment in JB, & our TOUCH Christmas production... But none of that can beat this latest craze...

Mikayla Yee was born to Lemuel & Melanie Yee on December 21st, 2007. May and I were there an hour after her birth, and I must say that it's a privilege to know someone ever since their first day on Planet Earth. It's REALLY REALLY COOL.

Don't know the hospital don't allow videography, but we managed to capture a few precious moments on my video camera (I asked Lemuel if he wants to do a reality show on Mikayla, but there's no answer yet). I would have edited and uploaded the video if I weren't so busy (practicing DOTA). But you can view some videos at the grandpa's website - http://www.thamwan.org/.

All HUGE 2007 Videos

2007-12-28T00:12:00.000+08:00

Alright, guys. Here are all the HUGE videos that were shown during the camp itself. Come February there will be more coming up. So stay tune to this blog =)