'an uncommon calling;

Ultimately, it's for?

2010-03-29T01:21:00.002+08:00

We must never lose track of our ultimate goal and vision. Why are we doing outreach and discipleship? Why are we cultivating strong communities and strong local leadership? And why are we going all out for ID2010 this year? Why are we doing all these?

Most of the times, we follow the goals and visions set by our shepherds, leaders, or even pastors. And to come to think of it, we just follow it blindly. And to tell you the truth, I'm a victim of this too.

But when I seriously got hold of my thoughts and started thinking, I realized that there is something that we must never lose sight of. And that's our ultimately aim, ultimately goal and the ultimate prize - The Great Commission.

Why are we doing lifegroups? Services? Events? Games? Outreach? Meetings?... It's for The Great Commission. And if our pastor is leading us to this ultimate goal, then I'm game for it! And I'll be the first to offer my allegiance to him. And if our DLs, SDLs, ULs, LGLs... is leading us to this ultimate goal, then I'll also be the first to follow him.

"follow me as I follow Christ..."

So what is your decision?

Pray for 12, persevere till 16

2010-03-19T09:50:00.003+08:00

Sounds like a real catchy title eh? Actually, this refers to our faith level in God. And if I were to revise the title a little bit, I would call it, "Pray for 12, persevere till 16 and more..."

I came up with this phrase when I was waiting for someone at a MRT station one day. We were supposed to meet at 8.30 a.m. but he didn't arrive on time, so I gave him several morning calls. And you've guessed it right! - I called him 12 times! But let me explain the process of the morning calls.

When I called for the 5th time, I prayed and asked God to intervene and get him to answer the phone on the 12th time. And as I called for the 6th time, 7th time, 8th, 9th..., I kept praying and kept focusing for the 12th. But when I arrived at 12th, he didn't answer. So it kept me thinking. Didn't the bible mention that as long as we have a faith that is as small as a mustard seed, we can move mountains?

But at the end of my thought process, I came to a conclusion that perseverance is key. Faith isn't just our demands to God or blatant and outrageous commands to Him. But it is by grace that God has given us this privilege to communicate and pray and ask him for requests. And many a times, God wants us to pray to him with that level of understanding coupled with the prayer requests that we have. We don't command God what he has to do. We just pray and persevere like how Jacob did.

And yes, he answered my phone call at the 16th time.

We've proved a point today

2009-08-31T00:13:00.005+08:00

Nobody expected us to make it through. But today, we proved a point to the rest. The youth can be powerful. With a strong goal and purpose in mind, nothing is impossible.

Why are we called Feet Washers?
1. We want to shine forth Christ likeness on and off the pitch.
2. No matter how tough circumstances may be, we want to strive to do it (with our best).
3. Feet Washers aren't quitters.

I believe our team has brought across a strong point to the rest throughout this whole HPL. Although it's just soccer, we want to glorify God in all aspect. The blue jersey with silver words isn't just an ordinary jersey anymore... It's the jersey of the Feet Washers.

And it's something to be proud of.

Finally, thank you Jesus for everything you have done for us!

Got this from Ps Jeff's blog

2009-08-09T17:56:00.001+08:00

What a wonderful song... Just a guitar, a microphone and a few people to create such a melody. I'm impressed!

Prayer request

2009-05-26T12:15:00.002+08:00

Lord, as I embark on theis fasting & prayer journey, help me with these few requests:

1. My relationship with you

2. Masquerade ESS

3. Unstoppable Camp

You know my heart requests even before I put them to my mouth... Help me to fufill them, Lord.

Deadlines? Busy? No time?

2009-05-06T22:22:00.002+08:00

It's been a very long time since I've blogged. I think it's mainly due to the lack of time to reflect. And I think that is a very very bad habit.

As my life enters the final stage of Polytechnic life, it seems that time is a rare commodity. Life becomes more hectic and busy, schedules are tighter than usual. It is at this point where reflection seems so less significant to me. With this significant drop in reflections, I sensed the decrement of my spiritual awareness too.

I am melancholic by nature (that means I usually reflect and think a lot). In my first 2 years in Poly, I think a lot. Every time I am on a bus, eating, or even in the school toilet, I would think deeply. And the heaviest part of my reflection is when I am having my bath. For me, bath times are reflection stations.

But in this year, I realized the drop in initiation for my daily reflection. It seems so different when I don't reflect on my daily journey with people around me, and God. Without it, I might even cause myself to sin. I wouldn't want this to happen. I want to be righteous before God. And this is when I decided to do something about it.

Just 2 days ago, I specifically bought a blue journal for my quiet time and for my reflections. This book is meant for penning down my thoughts and feelings over situations in my life. In the first page of the journal, I wrote down the sins that I've committed in that day (It was a long list...). And in the following day, I aim to decrease the number on that list.

Sounds like a good deal to me. I learnt something from this- don't let anything stop you from hindering your spiritual walk with God, even if tight schedules doesn't allow you to. It takes deliberate effort to groom your spiritual walk.

"I aim to be righteous before God..." -Marcus (in a hectic and busy world).

Thanks!

2009-03-31T23:41:00.003+08:00

Hey! It's been a really long time since I've blogged! And I'll take this time to thank God for a couple of things.

I want to thank God for:
1. blessing me in my studies.
2. making the Northeast Shepherd's Retreat a success.
3. giving me an opportunity to sing on stage.

Jesus, thank you so much for blessing me.

To Lead

2009-02-01T01:37:00.002+08:00

"Where do you want the group to be? Where are you at now? How are you going to get there." - PS Jeff

The reason why we are Christians

2009-01-30T16:46:00.001+08:00

Yes we can

2009-01-29T21:52:00.003+08:00

"What do I want the group to become?"
"Where do I want the group to be?"

These questions made me realize the importance of a leader. At the end of the day, who's going to be accountable for the unit? Definitely, the unit leader. On my way home from Serangoon, I gave a serious thought to these questions. Where do I want the group to be in the future? What do I want the group to become? As I pondered through, one sentence reminded me of my ex-school's 'motto'. - "From boys to men; men of grace, wisdom, polish and stature; in favour with God and man."

Now I know where I want to bring my people. Now I know where to lead them. I'm going to nurture a group of boys, to become a group of spiritual men. I want to rise up a generation of God fearing men, ready to serve and ready to lay down their lives for the gospel.

But now the prominent question that comes to mind - How?

Goodbye Part 2

2009-01-15T00:05:00.002+08:00

Reflection: Life is really unpredictable and vulnerable. Our lives here on earth may just pass like dust in the air. The bible describes our lives here on earth as dust being blowed by the wind. And what comes to mind is, "What am I going to do with this life?"

Going through this process of seeing someone pass away really makes me think... How can I impact people with this short span of time? (And by the way, time isn't a constant here. It is an unknown factor)

So think about it, compare this 'time' with eternity. It makes the whole equation seem negligently small. To add on to that, this 'time' is an unknown, a variable, a mystery. With these factors chasing against us, "What am I going to do with this life?"

"Only one life and soon it will pass, but only what's done for Christ will last..."

I've made up my mind. Whoever is still on this earth (family, friends, etc), I will give my best to serve them, and to show them the Way. I'm going to spread the love of Christ to them.

Goodbye Part 1

2009-01-14T23:02:00.002+08:00

As the wooden coffin slide past the doors, our heart was overwhelmed with all the last goodbyes filled with heart-wrenching emotions of wanting him to stay longer. Every second, the wooden 'case' slides further and further away. Until a point when our hearts couldn't take it anymore. Tears streamed down our faces...

"Goodbye..."

It was truly a difficult moment for me to savor because I grew up together with him. Since young, I stayed at his house for days! He'd always bring us to the airport to have fun. And now, he's taken a step ahead. I'd really love to have him at my wedding in the future. I'd really love to have him raise my children. But all these wishes couldn't be fulfilled anymore...

But as I'm reflecting on these 5 days spent with him while he's in the wooden 'case', I felt God's peace, assurance and His heart for mankind. Throughout this whole experience, God has brought the Loke family closer together. Like yeast in a batch of dough, God is molding the family to become fine, sweet bread. I'm really very amazed by how God works. Whenever God wants to use someone powerfully, He'd always demolishes our ego, pride and self-esteem. Once through with that, He would raise us up on eagle's wings. One example, my dad.

To cut the whole story short, I felt that God is going to do a great work in this family! My father's heart was softened by the encouragement and the support he received from the church. (There's nothing like the church, when the church is working right. - Bill Hybels) I really do hope that one day, he will come into the sheep pen too.

And surely, at the end of the day, I can boldy declare, "me and my household will serve the Lord!"

Nothing even comes close.

2008-12-30T23:24:00.002+08:00

When I read this cartoon, I was reminded once again by one of the Bill Hybels' video I watched not too long ago. Bill Hybels said this - "Nothing beats the church when the church is functioning right!" Indeed, that's really true.

I really admire his conviction for God. I recall clearly what he said - "If you could find anything, anything in the world that can be more fulfilling and life promising than the church, please tell me and I will join you! But if you can't, better give your best to the church."

It's really true. Nothing else beats the church when the church is functioning right!

Imagine the church helpng the poor. Imagine the church at her best. Nothing would even come close to it!

The Power of Believing

2008-12-04T23:40:00.003+08:00

Just yesterday, I was once again in awe of God's characteristics - His patience, love, trust and believe. When I was thinking of all the evil that humans all over the world are doing, I am simply amazed by God's hope in all of us. No matter what we do, God is always believing in us; He is always having a heart of hope towards us. He never gave up on us. He never even thought of our failures. But instead, He chose to look at our strengths. And indeed, we can exclaim how 'great is our God!'

And this made me wonder... How am I treating my people/sheep/friends around me? Am I trusting/believing in them the way God sees them as? Am I taking up the courage to love them to the best? Am I the shepherd who looks at their flaws rather than their strengths? Or am I the shepherd that God called me to be - the one who believes and persevere in those in his hands... These are the few questions that came to mind.

It took me a while to think and reflect on my past mistakes, errors and 'boo-boos' that I've made before. And I've came to the conclusion that I will never ever give up on anyone under my care. No matter what background they may come from, no matter what they have done, no matter how lousy they are, I will never stop believing in them! Although God's standard of trust towards us is limitless, I will still, with my limited heart and strength, will find the courage in God to believe, to hope, and to trust those under me. If I'm a pianist, I wouldn't care much about the croud's applause. But I would want to hear the affirmation from my teacher... If I'm a soldier, I would want to hear praises from my commander... If I'm a sportsman, I would want to hear words of encouragement from my coach...

And surely, at the end of the day, I hope to hear praises from my Master - "Well done, good and faithful servant..."

CLASSIC FACE WARPS!

2008-11-19T22:54:00.005+08:00

Cheehwee.
Me.
Me.
Sunny.
Chantel.
Gideon. (Oh my...)
Ruiyong.
Sunny.

These pictures are a classic! The moment I look at these photos, I can't help but to giggle and to snigger.

"How badly do you want to be..."

2008-11-16T11:41:00.002+08:00

Nike - "How badly do you want to be a footballer?"
Us - "How badly do you want to be a history maker?"

Help!

2008-11-11T19:37:00.002+08:00

Well, my blog can be for advertisements too right?

I'm having a module called Events Management, and we're supposed to organize an event to PASS this module. So I'll be needing all the help I can get. All the information is shown in the picture above. And if you're interested, please drop me an SMS, email etc. Thanks!

My email is: marcusloke175@hotmail.com

Impressive!

2008-11-09T12:17:00.006+08:00

Before

After

Presenting to you, Lumpy!

Back to my post, I'm seriously very impressed by God. While eating dinner with Lumpy and a few others yesterday, we came upon a topic that couldn't be brought up with essence, without the person that had gone through it together with you - your childhood in church.

We dug up, and brought up many wonderful, funny, and scary things that happened long ago in our time under Sunny Leow (he was only a CL then). There was once when Jun Hong, s***-ed in his pants, there was once when Sunny scolded everyone in worship, once when we played soccer in RC and spoilt the wooden lamp... (Sunny and Lumpy did it! I was JUST WATCHING! XD)

Actually, apart from all these funny moments, I've seen the transformation power of Jesus in the lives of many in the group. Many of us were jokers and slackers before, but now we are serious about the Kingdom, and are going to be more serious in the future!

CG08! We can't give up! A little more to go!

P.S. Don't you think Donavan looks great with the new makeover?

Now I know

2008-10-20T00:52:00.002+08:00

After a series of making tough choices, I now realize what I must grow in - Courage.

All these while, I thought I was courageous. But I wasn't. I was very afraid of failures. I knew of this only when I was told to lead this year's camp games. When I received news that I was supposed to lead it, my first reaction was, "Oh man..." And instantly, I knew what were my growth points...

To be truthful, leading games was like a chore. But during the church prayer meeting on Friday, God reminded me of courage. And on Saturday, Gideon taught us about the attitude of Nehemiah. Being bombarded by these truths from God, how can I not be moved?

And now, the conclusive question remains - Will I take the plunge?

Barack Obama - "Yes, WE CAN!"

Marcus Loke - "Yes, I WILL!"

Overview of Hong Kong Trip

2008-10-08T10:04:00.012+08:00

Hong Kong Trip - Relaxation.

Back in Singapore - Back in the game!

Hong Kong Holiday

2008-10-01T22:13:00.002+08:00

Bye everyone! I'll be leaving tomorrow at 7a.m. Please take care of yourselves and behave! (especially Nigel Chia! HAHAHAHA!)

See you on Tuesday!

Northeast B's Blog!

2008-09-30T23:47:00.003+08:00

Finally! The NEB blog is up! It's at

http://boystomen-neb.blogspot.com

2008 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix

2008-09-29T01:16:00.003+08:00

The adrenaline was pumping, and the sound of the Formula 1 engines revving as the 5 red lights illuminates... And here we are, the first ever night race in history!

Thank God! (phew...)

2008-09-28T09:47:00.004+08:00

During the HK LC, the 4 of us (Daryl, Gabriel, Randy and me) missed our flight back to Singapore. Imagine with me; 4 brothers, below the age of 18, not enough cash with us, the only batch of Y-Hope left in HK, and the climax - missed our flight. Would you be afraid?

We were...

But our first instinct for SOS was to pray. (and I'm so thankful we prayed! I'll elaborate)

After praying, we called up the airline company for the next available flight back. The next flight was at 8.15 p.m. and we are only allowed after 3 p.m. to book over the phone. (book 6 hours before a flight?)

So I prayed and hoped for available seats. And we were granted of our request!

But here's the amazing part. When we boarded the plane, it looked full. but there were exactly 2 rows of empty seats waiting for us. And that was exactly what we were praying for.

See how much prayer works? I'm glad I prayed.

We are serious about it!

2008-09-19T01:32:00.003+08:00

"Widen your horizon! Widen your perspective! Widen your thinking! We can do it because we have a big God! One day, Y-Hope is going to be able to occupy the Singapore Indoor Stadium!" - This was what I challenged the group on wednesday.

Actually, we've come to the last segment of the caregroup - ending praise. We were singing, jumping, clapping and praising! The guys were crazy! I remembered playing a couple of praise songs before I came to a halt in strumming...

And this was when God spoke in the most of awkward situations.

I saw a picture of the Indoor Stadium. And clearly, I saw people; youths; Y-Hope praising and worshiping! As the worship leaders started to sing the verse, the people followed in unison. Not long after, the chorus was sung, and the people convicted. Convicted of what? - Missions! Church Planting! I'm sure this is God's heart cry and desire.

Now I see the power of dreams. I can imagine how much more God can do in this world! I see the power of faith and expectation! I see a generation, rising up to take their place in the society! I see people, moving into deeper waters! I see people, going for the big catch!

I see the youths changing the world!

And to achieve this dream, it starts with everyone's individual effort. If you want to change the world, first change your nation. If you want to change you nation, first change the people. If you want to change the people, first change the youths. If you want to change the youths, first change yourself. All in all, it all comes down to our small little effort in contributing to the bigger goal. (Think global, act local!)

That is my dream...

Thank You!

2008-09-14T22:17:00.003+08:00

Thanks to Gideon, Sunny, Freedy, Ruiyong and Chantel for the dinner, the gift and the affirmations! Personally, I treasured the affirmations more than the rest.

Hong Kong LC 2008

2008-09-09T21:30:00.067+08:00

In Hong Kong from 3 Sep - 8 Sep '08.

Something shocking happened! We missed our flight back to Singapore!

LOOK HERE!

2008-09-03T01:03:00.002+08:00

Off to LC in Hong Kong from 3 September to 8 September.

It's here!

2008-09-01T00:03:00.003+08:00

2 groups of people that I would like to thank God for:

1) Those people that encouraged me with those birthday messages.

2) My dad! (For buying 4 iPhone 3Gs and giving 1 to me.)

Retreat at the break of dawn

2008-08-29T21:56:00.011+08:00

Yesterday, I wanted to attempt something different apart from my usual morning routines - I've decided to cycle at the East Coast Park! Miraculously, I managed to wake up at 6.30 a.m. and immediately, I packed my bible, handphone and my wallet into a small bag pack to head off cycling.

During the 'trip', I was reminded of God's glory when I took a glimpse at the horizon (although it was blocked by ships), and I was amazed of God's power when I stared at the sea. In simple, I am drawn closer to God when I marvel at his creation. After being in awe of God's beauty, I took a break at a nearby pavilion and started my day by, prayer...

"... In Jesus' name, Amen."

By then, I was refreshed and ready to get home to start my day!

But instead of going home, I went to buy 4 packets of 'Meepok' for my household and myself. (Gosh! I was so proud of myself!)

After that, then I went home.

Italian Soccer Training

2008-08-27T23:04:00.003+08:00

Hilarious!

Pioneering/Outreach at Montfort

2008-08-26T10:37:00.006+08:00

From today onwards, there will not just be these 2 people pioneering Montfort.
SA dudes on a mission to offer assistance to Montfort!
:D

From yesterday onwards, the whole SA coreteam has dedicated their lives/time to pioneer Montfort! And this is the kind of unity I want to bring to this whole group. They must understand that the Montfort group and the St. Andrew's group are not segregated, but they are as one.

Even if we don't see converts from Montfort (TOUCHWOOD! I'm not trying to be faithless here...), I will still be glad because the group has been united in a common goal. - Pioneering Montfort!

One of The Leader's Big Three: Courage.

2008-08-24T15:14:00.008+08:00

"One ought never to turn one's back on a threatened danger and try to run away from it. If you do that, you will double the danger. But if you meet it promptly and without flinching, you reduce the danger by half. Never run away from anything. Never!

Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.

Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities... because it is the quality which guarantees all others." - Winston Churchill

I'm not going to give up on the lives that God has bestowed upon our group, especially the people from the Montfort group. Together with my careleaders, we are going to pluck up the courage to love them, care for them, and not to give up on them. During the ESS, we worked so hard to pry those new believers out from the devil's clutches.. Are we willing to allow them to fall back to the kingdom of darkness? Or are we at least going to put up a fight for the devil?!

It's always been my fear to face rejection from people. That's why I'm going to start being courageous to lead myself to do it - to dare to love all those 'not-so-lovable' people. And in the future, I hope I can be someone like David, who dared to take risks on a much BIGGER scale. (I'm sure David isn't Singaporean).

And when that day happens, I will say this to God, "Come on! Bring on the Goliath!"

Pray together with me

2008-08-19T19:25:00.004+08:00

There's a few people that I would like to pray for - mainly the new believers and my team.

New Believers: Coreteam:

Eugene Cheehwee

James Gabriel

Kiawei Aaron

Zechariah Enting

Kevin Chester

Andy Shipeng

Kevin Daryl

Fadli Richard

Darryl

Jasper

Randal

I strongly believe that everyone on this list is important to God, whether they are new believers or shepherds. And I strongly want to cultivate the habit of praying more for my group. This blog post, will help me remind myself to pray for them.

PS: If you're from NEB, promise me you'll pray together with me for them.

Singapore ends 48-year Olympic medal drought

2008-08-16T01:36:00.003+08:00

Well, the picture says it all.

A generation that...

2008-08-09T23:29:00.002+08:00

fears nothing but God, and hate nothing but sin - that is what I want to see!

I wasn't my usual self today. After the pioneers 'retreat', I went separate ways from Gideon, Sunny, Ruiyong and Chantel. While walking to the bus stop, this was the point when I was totally different. Instead of walking hastily, I walked very slowly, dragging my feet along with me... And this was when my true emotions was shown.

Today, I seemed happy to many people, but I wasn't. Deep down in the recesses of my heart, I was sad and burdened for the Montfort group. While walking to the bus stop, I kept praying for them, I kept interceding for them, I kept asking God for help... You see, the Montfort group is very young, and recently, a few things just happened that blew Daryl's feet off the ground. When I heard about it, I was thrown off the edge too. - And this is the reason why I'm so burdened for them.

But thankfully, Sunny seemed to know how I was feeling although I didn't mention it to him. And he sent me a SMS to encourage me. Well, I'm really thankful for that.

This is the time when I really want to stay strong in God! I'm going to believe in God for CHANGE!

Change

2008-08-08T00:15:00.005+08:00

Okay, I've got to admit - I'm obsessed with Obama. But the truth is, I'm more amazed by his speeches. I'm really impressed by the phrases that he uses. And not forgetting his conviction for 'CHANGE'...

For my 2 cents worth of thoughts, "What if I can influence the world as much as him?"

"hmm..."

CHECK THIS OUT!

2008-08-03T19:28:00.002+08:00

I loved what he said in the last part. Just listen and hear. :D

"We've been warned against offering the people of America false hope, but in the unlikely story that is in America, there has never been anything false about hope!"

FOP

2008-08-03T12:32:00.003+08:00

On friday, I went to the Festival of Praise together with Daniel and others. The moment I got there, I set 3 objectives:

1. Thank God for the converts!

2. Pray for growth in terms of wineskins.

3. Learn from Daniel!

And guess what? I fulfilled all the 3 objectives, especially the 3rd objective.

Something that I learnt from Daniel:

"Every praise and worship leader should have their own leading technique and style because God made each and everyone of us different and unique. And if we have our own different leading style and technique, we can bring out a different face of God during worship..."

Actually, I really want to improve on my leading skills; not just in worship, but in leading my group too! I want to grow! I'm ready for change, so God, you've got to mould me.

Apart from that, I want to grow in my reading life.

"Not all readers become leaders. But all leaders must be readers." - Harry Truman

What's your purpose?

2008-07-27T00:16:00.002+08:00

You know, something struck me during service today. It was one sentence that Pastor Shirley mentioned on stage that really made me think...

"What's your life purpose on planet earth? In your lifetime, do you just want to eat, sleep, and eventually die of old age? If that's the case, aren't we no different from animals? Human beings are not created for 'that' cause! We are wonderfully made and created for something else greater! - And that's living for someone else bigger. Well, if you're thinking on the same line with me, that's right, it's Jesus!"

In one of Isaac Newton's Physics Laws, it is stated that for every action, there will be an equal opposite reaction. In other words, for every cause, there will be a purpose. So, it is absurd to live a life without purpose! We Human Beings should be living for a purpose, and for someone greater!

We were created because God loves us. He stretched the boundaries of heaven to just try to reach us... And He did! Those outstretched arms of Jesus is the answer! Jesus is the answer, and the solution!

F1!!!

2008-07-20T22:03:00.005+08:00

We are going to the F1 race! We are going to the F1 race! We are going to the F1 race! (chanting continues...)

Finally, my dad received the 4 tickets that he bought for the F1 race in September. I can't wait!

Actually, the reason why I'm so excited are:

1) This is Singapore's first ever F1 race!

2) It's a night race.

3) I love F1.

4) I'm going!

Seriously, I can't wait to be there on race day to watch Kimi Raikkonen and Felipe Massa!

Who is the Solution?

2008-07-16T22:18:00.004+08:00

You know, I've just developed a habit to jump while walking back home from the bus stop. Every time I drop off the bus, I will play the song, 'Solution - Hillsong United'. I've finally found the heartbeat of God in this song.

The phrase in the song that God longs to convey to everyone in the world is, "Woah-oh-oh! God be the solution..."

God IS the solution! Nothing else, nothing more.

A divine moment once again!

2008-07-14T22:58:00.005+08:00

St. Andrew's night life.

During meeting, Gideon quoted this from the bible, "...forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it..." How I interpreted it was this: Only forceful men can advance the Kingdom of God. After meeting, I applied it straight away...

After departing with my guys, I wanted to go home. But on hearing that Cheehwee was at St. Andrew's doing a prayer walk, I rushed down straight away to meet him. While Cheehwee was waiting for me to arrive, he told me he was praying really hard for the school. He really wanted to do more! He felt that more could be done. After a long time of sharing, i concluded that he was discontented with his level of faith and expectation.

[The incidents that are going to follow this is divine!]

Together, we prayed in the canteen. We prayed really really hard for the Holy Spirit to fall in the canteen, so that when ever people step in to it, they can feel the presence of God. And I told God to show us a sign when the Holy Spirit falls in this place. We kept praying in hope of a sign from God...

And finally, He gave us a sign! God dropped us a vision! And guess what, we had the same vision! And we saw the same things in both visions. If you want to know more, you can always ask me. Because if I were to write here, it would be very long.

Aaron's and Gabriel's Water Baptism

2008-07-13T20:51:00.010+08:00

Gabriel is now Daniel, and Aaron is now James. Congratulations to both of them! Really happy to see them being water baptized!

Character

2008-07-12T00:59:00.003+08:00

I loved what PS Jeff said earlier on stage, "Character cannot be taught in a classroom, it can only be taught in the furnace of serving God..."

You see, I really believe in having character, because character moulds a person's life. It changes the person. In fact, this can be linked to prayer! When we ask God to change a situation, God doesn't actually change the situation. Instead, He will first change the person, and once the person is changed, this changed person will then change the situation.

Serving God isn't easy. It's going to be tough. The road is narrow and thin. But walking through figs, thorns and branches in the narrow path will develop perseverance, endurance, strength, CHARACTER.

I anticipate testings from God very soon. As much as I hate to admit it, but I still have to face it! Simply because of what I said earlier - "Character cannot be taught in a classroom, it can only be taught in the furnace of serving God..."

God, bring it on! I'm ready!

Oh boy, what a day it was!

2008-07-09T21:59:00.002+08:00

School ended at 12pm today. Straight after I was dismissed, I rushed down to meet Daryl because we were going to Montfort to meet the caregroup. Our main objective was to meet up with their contacts and to invite them for tomorrow's MCG! Kenny brought a few of his classmates to meet us at the Mcdonald's nearby. So we talked to them and invited them for tomorrow, and I pray that they would be able to come! They must come!

After meeting the guys, I rushed back to Ngee Ann for a St. Andrew's - St. Margaret's Ngee Ann Poly's Alumni gathering. The idea of this gathering was amazing! This gathering was initiated by a Saint and a St. Marg's girl who were studying in Ngee Ann. Together, they set up this alumni. And today was our debut! The purpose of this alumni is to gather all those who were in St. Andrew's and St. Margaret's before, and to come together to organize events, etc.

Since, today was the debut, they catered food for dinner. During dinner, I sat with my 'old classmates' to catch up together. We sat down, joked, laughed, and we reminisced the good old days in the Saint's Village.

All in all, I'm just so glad to be able to meet them again... And I hope that we would be able to meet up more often. Like how the phrase goes, "Once a Saint, always a Saint!"

Blog hopping

2008-07-02T23:28:00.000+08:00

Here's what I took from Zachary's and Nicole's blog:

You can say I’m permanently stuck in the adolescent stages of spiritual maturity, but I still strongly, and firmly believe that my (spiritual) father is the greatest thing that ever happened in human life. And I get so agitated and enraged when He is not credited with the glory and the honor He so rightfully deserves! And all these stems from the fact that He chooses to use us; the undeserving sinful Christians to proclaim His grandiose name. So many times I have seen God being humiliated and minimized, not because He is weak, but because His ambassadors are not faithfully honoring His name!

Perhaps let’s contextualize it for students in examination periods. When a Christian don’t study hard, Christ’s name suffers! When one Christian cheats, Christ’s name is humiliated! When church leaders don’t do well in results, Christ’s ministry is compromised!

When you finally realize that cross you hang around your neck represents so much more honor then you can ever behold, and we the people who are entrusted with its name sake are dragging in through mud, how much more care will we take in the manner which we live our lives!

Change

2008-07-02T09:26:00.009+08:00

waiting for change?

There's this song by John Mayer, 'Waiting on the World to Change'. At first, I loved the song. I loved the beat, and the lyrics. But the more I listened to the lyrics of the song, the more discontented I was. Here's why:

"Me and all my friends

We're all misunderstood

They say we stand for nothing

There's no way we ever could

Now we see everything is going wrong

With the world and those who lead it

We just feel like we don't have the means

To rise above and beat it

So we keep waiting (waiting)

Waiting on the world to change

We keep on waiting (waiting)

Waiting on the world to change

Its hard to be persistant

When we're standing at a distance

So we keep waiting (waiting)

Waiting on the world to change "

We should not wait. Instead, we should be the ONEs who will change the world!

Change the world? First, change Singapore.

Change Singapore? First, change the youths.

Change the youths? First, change the schools.

Change the schools? First, they need God.

Agree?

Perseverance

2008-07-01T23:48:00.004+08:00

Without perseverance, how can we finish the race? How can we finish the marathon? How can we reach the finishing line? How can we stay qualified for the race? How can we make sure we don't get disqualified?

This morning, I met the St. Andrew's workers before school started. And I took some time to pray for them and to encourage them with the verse, 1 Corinthians 9:26-27. (It's about beating our body and making it our slave...) You know, I really want CG08 to be completed in St. Andrew's and in Montfort. And I don't just want to see caregroups in these 2 schools. Instead, I want MORE! I want to build this school upon the rock! In the future, I want these 2 schools to be able to dispatch Godly and Word-centered Saints and Montfortians into the world!

That's why I need to Persevere.

Help me, God.

The Motto

2008-06-22T15:26:00.003+08:00

Going back to my time in St. Andrew's, I would walk past this motto everyday. But it seems to make no sense to me at all...

Now, as I look back, it makes perfect sense!

NEB's culture will be the reflection of this motto!

Feel the conviction?

2008-06-18T21:39:00.000+08:00

Fellowship of the Unashamed
(The last words of an African martyr)

“I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The descision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I won’t look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.

I’m finished and done with low living, sight-walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, mundane talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.

I won’t give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I’ve preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ.

I must go until He returns, give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes. And when He comes, He will have no problem recognizing me. My colors will be clear. “For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ.”

DIVINE EXCHANGE!!!

2008-06-15T00:55:00.005+08:00

THE BEST SATURDAY IN MY LIFE!!!

Today, God spoke to a lot of the NEB people. Visions were re-emphasized, goals reminded and God's spirit administered. This was what happened:

(10.00 p.m.)

Sunny, Donavan and I were having our dinner at Just Acia. And the funny thing is, we were joking about a lot of stuff. So the atmosphere at that moment was very 'jokish'. But at one point of the conversation, silence was instilled at our table. Suddenly, the 3 of us observed silence. No one could explain why! And during this silence, God spoke individually... He said, "2 more months to complete CG08. 8 more weeks to do it..."

At this moment, the burden of this message came to me in a big blow. Nothing can describe it! The impact of the message came to me like a rolling boulder. Following this, I looked around. I looked at Sunny and Donavan, and I knew straight away that God gave them the burden of the 3 schools too. (this was divine!) There was no need to speak, but I could somehow feel our spirits communicating with one another. This was when I realized that we do not have much time left...

From that moment on, the 3 of us had a heavy burden for the 3 schools (St. Andrew's, St Gabriel's and Montfort Secondary). Definitely, it was God! And after much wrestling with God in the spirit, God reminded us about our vision of 100 people in NEB! - SA (50 people), St. Gab's (25 people) and Montfort (25 people). God convicted the 3 of us that this is DEFINITELY POSSIBLE!!! And when this happened, we knew that this was a divine exchange from God. We were so so filled with the Spirit! And we cannot contain it! Immediately, we got Cheehwee to come over to our table so that we could share to him about the divine exchange that just took place at our table. After sharing for 10 mins, Cheehwee was also very convicted about it! But the 4 of us still couldn't contain the conviction in our hearts, so we invited the rest of the guys who were at the other table to come over. I believe they caught our spirit. After sharing, we still couldn't contain the conviction in our hearts!

And guess what, Sunny, Donavan, Cheehwee and I called up all of our coreteams who were not with us (some went home already) to meet us at Potong Pasir Mrt so that we could share our convictions, and what God really wants to do in NEB. (We really believe that God wants to grow NEB to be a benchmark in the church! We want NEB to be the most Godly group, the group that is Word-centered and the group that is able to dispatch workers around.)

Before leaving for Potong Pasir, we met Scott on the way and imparted the very same spirit that we were convicted of. I believe he caught our spirit.

(Being very convicted by the Holy Spirit) On the way to Potong Pasir, Donavan, Cheehwee and I shared Christ in the train. We stood in one corner of the train and began to share the love of Christ to the people onboard. Donavan started the sharing, I shared the content and Cheehwee wrapped up with a blessing to the people. I'm just so proud that we managed to do it!

4 of my coreteam turned up at around 11 p.m. 1 ran from home to meet us, 1 took the train and 2 took the bus. When we finally met in the Mrt control station, we shared to the 4 of them about the conviction that we had. Not too long later, one of them cried... (this must be the Holy Spirit! How can a guy cry in a Mrt station?) Anyway, we shared on Hebrews 12:1-2, 1 Corinthians 9:26-27 and Proverbs 28:9. And I believe they caught our spirit.

Not too long later, Nigel arrived. And we imparted the same spirit to him! And I believe he caught it.

All in all, we are going to believe that NEB is going to grow! NEB is going to be never the same again! NEB is going to be the place where people are going to be dispatched to the world! NEB is going to be the most Godly group! NEB is going to be the most Word-centered group! NEB is going to set the benchmark for all guys and girls in church/the world! NEB is going to hit 100!!! We are going to be the first to do so.

We are going to trust and place our faith in YOU LORD! WE BELIEVE, WE BELIEVE!!!

Thank you, Jesus.

OASIS CAMP!

2008-06-09T00:48:00.006+08:00

CAMP CAMP!!! I'm going to give my best to the camp! I really wanna to take this time to equip, learn and to recharge myself for the upcoming endeavors. After this camp, I'm gonna press on with eager feet!

Will be gone for 4D3N.

Blessings

2008-06-07T23:17:00.004+08:00

Just now, Sunny, Lumpy and me had dinner/shepherding at Suntec. We talked, discussed and debated. And we've come to a conclusion that there is a difference between doing QT (quiet time) and seeking God. - "Do you do Quiet Time? Or do you Seek God?"

And now, I'm going to thank God for the blessings that happened yesterday and today.

Yesterday, I arranged to meet Marcus Wong at Shipeng's house to encourage and to challenge him to have faith to come for camp. After a whole afternoon of talking and fellowship, Shipeng prayed for Marcus. (so that he can come for camp) And during the night, Shipeng sent out a sms that made me jump for joy - Marcus is coming for camp!

Today morning, Aaron and I were waiting for a contact at Dobhy Ghaut MRT. The contact promised Aaron that he will call him when he reached. But he didn't... So the both of us frantically dialed our mobiles, in hope that he will pick up his phone. He didn't...

Then, the both of us prayed. After the 1 minute prayer, I started calling the contact again. And this time, he picked up! Although this contact wasn't able to come for service, but at least I saw God working through the atmosphere of FAITH.

Prayer work wonders.

Thank you, God.

Manchester!

2008-06-02T23:06:00.003+08:00

It was 11pm when I took this photo. Just wanted to try out my favourite shirt! :D

RED!

2008-05-30T09:39:00.016+08:00

NORTHEAST CAMP WAS A SUCCESS! (I will post more about it when I get the photos.)

But I would like to affirm Yuqian, Alvin, Yeong Deng, Syekit, Donavan, Karchian, Rachel, and many more who made this camp a success! You guys deserve a clap!

Anyway, my parents are back from their vacation! They bought tonnes and tonnes of chocolates, bags, cologne, shirts, shorts, jackets and many soccer stuff for me! Oh yea!

These are some of the items they bought:

Apart from these materialistic stuff, I really want to give my best for the kingdom. Last CLM, Shirley was talking about god speeding up his work in the world. From many shocking incidents that happened in the world recently, clearly, God is speeding up his work.

In Hebrews 12:1-2, it talks about running with perseverance and faith... And I would really want to respond to it. I want to give my best to God because I want to save people's lives. People ought to come to God! It's the only way...

Let me show you a clip to end off: http://mapsofwar.com/images/Religion.swf

(God is seriously speeding up missions and his work!)

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!

2008-05-22T09:49:00.005+08:00

MANCHESTER UNITED HAS WON THE 2007/2008 CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!!!

But a pity that I didn't get up to watch it... :/

4 days away

2008-05-21T22:33:00.004+08:00

The screening of "Meet the Giants" at Nexus was simply great! It had a lot of biblical references in it. I liked how the coach of the football team followed God and being God-centered all the time. Even in a football game, the coach made his players play for the glory of God, not for his own glory or benefit. In other words, he did all those things for God. Overall, a great movie even for a movie amateur.

On my way home from nexus, I received a message from my parents from Europe! It has been 4 days since I've come into any physical contact with them. In these 4 days, I've only been able to keep in 'cyber' contact with them through sms-ing. Anyway, my mum told me that they would be headed to Milan from Venice... (how I wish that I could be there!!!) PS: 9 more days for their return.

By the way, DAVID ARCHULETA will be the next American Idol!

And, MANCHESTER UNITED will win the Champions League!

Recce at Pasir Ris Park

2008-05-20T15:13:00.014+08:00

Yesterday, the games comm went to check out the location for the june camp games. I've never been there before and thankfully, my first trip there yesterday did not fail me. There were mangrove swamps, pavilions, a tall bird watch tower and a maze. I'm even thinking of bringing my coreteam there. (What I'm gonna do is to drop my coreteam in the maze and let them find their way out *sniggers*)

These are some of the photos

the 'maze'

the bird watch tower

The park

The tree in the park

the pavilion in the park

another pavilion in the park

some ancient looking steps

the geek at the park. :]

"WCA to do DO"

2008-05-04T21:49:00.003+08:00

Yesterday, I've learnt something valuable to my leadership.

PS Jeff talked about WCA to do DO. What it really means is this: "Wisdom, Courage and Anointing to do Discipleship and Outreach." As leaders, I believe that this is one of the phrases that can enhance our leadership to our people. Our people deserves to be led WELL! Not just being led around aimlessly, but with, of course, a VISION.

That's why we need the extra dosage of WCA! Without these blessings from God, it's like starting a business without a capital.

And after what PS Jeff has stressed on yesterday, I've decided to re-evaluate my own spiritual life with God during my QT.

Anyway, I'd pray that God would strengthen NEB1 this week! :D

ULM

2008-04-27T23:41:00.003+08:00

Today was my first time going for the youth ULM. Totally enjoyed the worship, discussion and fellowship with the others. Because of the discussion, I've learnt much from the other ULs.

Actually, the fact that I am who I am today is all because of God's grace. I can't thank him much enough! He has placed FABULOUS shepherds over me, blessed my family, and my life. And talking about blessings, I want to thank God for my term break. - youth camp starts from the 9th of June. And thank God that my holidays start on the same day!

All in all, I just want to thank Jesus for bringing me thus far. And I really pray that He can bring me further; not forgetting about being humble and reliant while He's at it.

Something Interesting

2008-04-25T00:33:00.025+08:00

This may sound a bit bad: "JACK!"

IT MUST BE YOU!

2008-04-07T21:23:00.002+08:00

Yesterday, my family and I went for dinner at a Japanese restaurant located near East Coast. During dinner, my father reminded us about his court trial he had the next day - monday. (This court trial has been going on for a period of time).

He shared to us his agony and stress. He said that he couldn't enjoy his birthday (1 Jan) and the Chinese New Year because of this court case in his mind. If he didn't manage to win this court case, he would have to be behind bars; and definitely I wouldn't want that to happen. I simply love my father too much to see him behind bars for something that he wasn't guilty of.

So as my father drove us home from the fabulous dinner we had, my mother initiated us to pray for him. (By the way, my father isn't a Christian). My youngest sister started to pray aloud for him. Followed by my second sister and my oldest sister, then me. Lastly, it was my mum who prayed.

Suddenly, my second sister started to cry... I couldn't hold back mine too. Then, I saw tears streaking down my dad's cheek.

"IT MUST BE YOU! IT MUST BE THE HOLY SPIRIT!"

I believe that the Holy Spirit had begun His work in my father's heart. I've never seen my dad tear before - this is the first time.

Through this, I really hope that my stubborn father can come to accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and Saviour. I really pray that this court case can be a bridge for my father's salvation. Lord, show your miracles! ("In Jesus' name, Amen.")

Counting the cost, and paying the price

2008-03-26T00:14:00.005+08:00

At last! - After a long wait. I've finally received the Appreciation Night photos.

During the appreciation night, we were all refreshed and edified by testimonies of people serving the church with their hearts and soul. And one of the things that I can integrate into my ministry is to serve faithfully no matter where I am placed into. (be it housekeeping or anywhere else...)

Same thing to my pastoral side - I really want to see St. Andrew's and Montfort growing in quality and quantity! Deep down in my heart, I believe that this group will grow! Not because of me, but because of our combined efforts WITH God.

But for God to manifest in the school, the workers must give their best and commit fully to the fufillment of the vision - GMS. That's why I want to serve faithfully no matter what. Since we have already pledged to serve, we have to "Count the cost and pay the price..."

23 March '08, Sunday

2008-03-24T11:33:00.004+08:00

The thing that made my Sunday perfect...

Reading

2008-03-06T09:02:00.004+08:00

One of life's most enjoyable moments is to read.

Recently, I bought this book by Jodi Picoult - Keeping Faith.

"For the second time in her marriage, Mariah White catches her husband with another woman, and Faith, their seven year-old daughter, witnesses every painful minute. In the aftermath of a sudden divorce, Mariah struggles with depression and Faith begins to confide in an imaginary friend.

At first, Mariah dismisses these exchanges as a child's imagination. But when Faith starts reciting passages from the Bible, develops stigmata, and begins to perform miraculous healings, Mariah wonders if her daughter might indeed be seeing God. As word spreads and controversy heightens, Mariah and Faith are besieged by believers and disbelievers alike, caught in a media circus that threatens what little stability they have left."

And i love what Jodi Picoult wrote,"As unscientific as it seems, well, it would be nice to lay the responsibilities and pain on someone else's larger shoulders."

I usually read while taking bus rides, that's why every bus ride is always a fufilling ride.

Prayer Walk

2008-02-27T23:54:00.002+08:00

Oh boy! what a day it was!

With combined forces, Daryl and I went for a prayer walk at Montfort Secondary. By the time we reached Montfort, it was around 8 plus at night, but nothing deterred us from our conviction to pray for the school.

We started out by walking around around the school. Followed by an another round accompanied with prayers of vision and faith. With each step, we prayed hard for the school. Every empty area that we saw was an opportunity for God's work to be manifested, so we invited the Holy Spirit to fall in that place.

We spoke of visions like:
"This upcoming sports hall will be a campsite for our youth camp!"
"This area of the carpark will have station games for our caregroups!"
"This whole block of classrooms will be a venue for caregroups to take place!"
"This area will be a meeting place for all the caregroups in Montfort to meet!"

And this was my personal favourite:
"This school will be opened for the public, not just for Montfortians only..."

To wrap up the night, Daryl and I went up to the 10th story of a HDB flat for a plan view of the school. With the visions in our minds, with outstretched arms and with faith-filled hearts, we PRAYED.

A Smile :D

2008-02-26T00:22:00.004+08:00

Today, I decided to eat my dinner after my meeting at a local food court at AMK HUB for a change. The Fish Soup was absolutely delicious! It is a 'must try' type of food. The soup base had milk in it, that's why i love it! With the milky, sweet and salty taste, my dinner was satisfied.

Another thing that filled my satisfaction was a smile from an auntie cleaning my table.

As she wiped my table, i gave her a 'thank you' accompanied with a smile. To my amazement, she greeted back with a sweet smile! Normally, 'Aunties' from these places do not regard courtesy as part of their jobs. But this aunty... - she truly amazes me!

This is the power of the smile.

Therefore, we should smile more. It has unknown 'power' in it! :D

iPod touch

2008-02-09T18:35:00.000+08:00

it is FINALLY mine!

today, my dad got me an iPod touch.

the moment he called me to tell me the good news, i jumped to the ceiling!

thanks a lot DAD. :D

then, this made me wonder - if my earthly dad could bless me this much, what more can our heavenly Father do! And the best thing He could ever do in all of our lives is to allow Jesus to die on the cross for us... Therefore, let us serve with gratefulness shall we? Let us not be like those who give up halfway and abandon their salvation. But on the contrary, let us give our best in this race!

thanks a lot DADs.

4th Feb '08 Shepherd's Meet

2008-02-04T23:10:00.000+08:00

This goes out to those in the 4th Feb Shepherd's Meet - Remember what you promised when you STOOD up.

Perseverance and Joy.

my cousin's one month celeb

2008-02-03T21:45:00.001+08:00

Denzel and me.
Desiree Kyla

today was the celebration of my cousin's first month on earth. Her name was unique - Desiree Kyla.

what a day it was!

2008-02-03T01:42:00.000+08:00

"SOMETHING IN MY EAR?"

DONAVAN'S PIG TROTTERS! :X

WHAT A CLASSIC! :D

oh boy... what a day it was!

Gonna be alright!

2007-12-20T00:51:00.000+08:00

"I'm going to put my trust in you LORD! I'm going to believe that you will work a miracle in my guys' life!"

This morning, I went for a retreat with God again. ohyeah! The weather was good this morning, so i grabbed my bike and took a cycle to the East Coast Park. -on my way for a cycling adventure.

After a few kilometers of cycling, I decided to stop and rest along the shore of the beach. Suddenly, my mind was given totally to God. (: I gazed at the morning sky, the tranquility of the sea, the calmness of the waters and the wonderful works of my Father...

"BBBBBBBBHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAMMMMMMMM!"

A thought suddenly hit my mind. -"If God is the creator of the earth, God is greater than EVERYTHING in this earth! God is Lord of ALL!"

That's why I've decided to uphold every doubt, every question and every uncertainty to God. I am going to believe that God will settle and solve anything and everything for me! -Just like how the song goes,"I don't need to worry... It's gonna be alright, cos you are in my life..."

Listening to "Gonna Be Alright by Hillsong"

a heart thumping day...

2007-12-18T21:55:00.000+08:00

As time fly by, I realised that 1 year has passed for them. From being naive Christians, to grown up men. And as I wait at the back of the hall, anxiety overwhelms me; from a father that is supposed to be strong and clear headed, to a mother; being worried for their kids. A second seems like a minute, a minute seems like an hour, and an hour seems like...

Finally, the time of truth arrives. I sighted tears of joy and tears of disappointment. Unfortunately for my 'children', they weren't so lucky. As tears flowed from the corners of their eyes, my heart followed suit. But being reminded that I must stay strong, I forced a smile on my face, hoping that tears will not overwhelm my dead cast face.

My heart was all out for my 'children'. But another part of me thought, "If only they have worked a little harder..."

Rest assured, I'm going to do whatever it takes to allow them to chance upon a second chance again.

"I want the best for my them, do what You do best! Lord, please bless them! Show them the way! Amen."

the AFTERMATH of X29

2007-12-14T07:48:00.001+08:00

reasons for strange behaviour:

1. lack of sleep.
2. lack of taupoks!!! ohh, i meant rojaks! :)))
3. too much of enting.
4. it's a y-hope culture.
5. it's after camp! :(((

and oh! here's a pretty phrase that i got from a TV show,"Success is moving on from one failure to another; with enthusiasm." SWEET HUH?!

X29

2007-12-05T12:09:00.000+08:00

CAMP is around the corner! and i'm really praying hard for those people who can't come as of yet. camp is a time where one cannot miss! the fellowship, the games, the fun, the crazy times, the devotion, the teachings, the worship, the atmosphere, the friends, most importantly; GOD.

WE cannot afford to miss camp!

LET'S write our own chapter in X29!

CG!

2007-11-29T08:47:00.000+08:00

CAREGROUP TODAY! WHOO! (:

my timetable.

2007-11-28T11:06:00.001+08:00

went jogging this morning at 7am. whoo! (:

then left for school at 9am.

class starts at 10am. ):

still in class at 11am. ))):

decided to blog at 11.10am. (:

stopped blogging at 11.11am.

HEROS! (:

2007-11-26T16:06:00.000+08:00

OMGOSH!!!!!! I'M ADDICTED TO HEROS. (:

on sunday, my dad bought the whole season 1 of HEROS (dvd). and i watched 5 chapters till 4am in the morning. it was simply addictive. (and ohh, sunny would understand how i feel.)

the story line, the thrill, the climax, the action and most importantly, the EFFECTS, are totally awesome! you might wanna catch it man. (:

heroing soon...

PS: but don't worry God, i'll never neglect you for HEROS. instead, i'll be a HERO for you. (:

(((:

2007-11-25T22:36:00.000+08:00

compare with this:

compare with this:

GLORY GLORY MAN UNITED!

2007-11-19T12:41:00.000+08:00

here are some really really nice pictures i found on the web. :)))

(my favourite)

New Alternate Email

2007-11-18T14:40:00.000+08:00

hello guys!

from now on, please send your mail (personal/work) to my alternte email at marcushosea@gmail.com

don't worry, i'll still be using my hotmail account. this is just an alternate email account for my emails.

thanks,

Marcus Hosea

TWELVE ORDINARY MEN

2007-11-04T19:55:00.000+08:00

finally, im back to blogging! but this time i'll be blogging about my daily learnings from this book called the "TWELVE ORDINARY MEN" by John MacArthur.

i borrowed this book from Alvin last saturday cos our group is now embarking on a really fascinating learning journey together. each of us have to get a book on Christian Doctrines to read and learn! how exciting is it?! GAME ON DUDES!

i've just started reading this book today, and it was really addictive! i tried to slow down, so that i can at least recap what i have learnt. but, i couldnt! it was simply DELICIOUS!

anyway, this was what i have learnt:

when i first started reading this book, a question popped up in my mind. -why did Christ choose the 12 from ordinary backgrounds? why not choose people with great leadership and people from the religious establishment?

and John MacArthur answered this question for me. -Jesus love to choose people who are humble and ordinary. if you are humble God can use you easily because you will tend to rely on Him for strength. -2 Corinthians 12:9. Actually, these is one of the many reasons why Jesus love to choose ordinary people like us.

(Process of choosing the 12 disciples that eventually did things that shook the world.)

Phase 1: Conversion
this is phase one of their calling. it illustrates how every disciple is called first to salvation. We must recognize Jesus as the true Lamb of God amd Lord of all, and embrace Him by faith. This stage of the disciples' call did not involve full-time discipleship. Although they followed Jesus in the sense that they gladly heard His teaching and submitted to Him as their Teacher, they remained at their full-time jobs earning a living through regular employment.

Phase 2: a call to Ministry
This was the occasion when Jesus pushed out from shore to escape the press of the multitudes and taught from Peter's boat. After He finished teaching, He instructed Peter to launch out to to launch out to deep water and put in his nets. Peter did so even though the timing was wrong (fish were easier to catch at night when the water was cooler and the fish surfaced to feed), the place was wrong (fish normally feed in shallower waters and were easier to catch there), and Peter was exhausted (having fished all night without success). He told Jesus, "Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net." (Luke 5:5) The resulting catch of fish nearly sank 2 boats! (v6-7) It was then when Jesus said, "Follow Me, and i will make you fishers of men" (Matthew 4:19). And from then on, they left everything and followed Jesus.

Phase 3: Apostleship
Throughout this phase of training, the Lord Himself stuck closely with them. He was like a mother eagle, watching the eaglets as they began to fly.

Phase 4: Martyrdom
This is the fourth phase of their calling, which occurred after Jesus' resurrection. Jesus appeared to the remaining 11 in His resurrection body and sent them into all the world, commanding them to disciple the nations. This was, in effect, a call to martyrdom. Each of them ultimately gave his life for the sake of the gospel. History records that all but one of them were killed for their testimony. Only John is said to have lived to old age, and he was severely persecuted for Christ's sake, then exiled to the tiny island of Patmos.

Despite the obstacles they faced, they triumphed. In the midst of great persecution and even martyrdom, they fulfilled their task. Against all odds, they entered victorious into glory. And the continuing witness of the gospel -spanning 2000 years' time and reaching into virtually every corner of the world -is a testimony to the wisdom of the divine strategy.

a day at carrefour.

2007-10-10T00:18:00.001+08:00

on saturday, Gideon, Sunny, Donavan, Nicholas, Chee Hwee and me went to carrefour for some 'window shopping'.

YEAH RIGHT! instead, we went there to create trouble. haha. here's why...

taking pictures with the carrefour staffs.

me, nich and sunny.
fishy hands.
me and cheehwee.
me and cheehwee.
a nike dunks? haha.
this was meant to be a nike dunks. =/
this was meant to be asics.
this was meant to be a nike shoe.

WORTHY OF YOUR TIME.

2007-10-08T11:25:00.000+08:00

i found this video on Pastor Jeff's blog. it's really worth watching. it reminds me of God's sacrificial love for us. ENJOY!

YEA!!!

2007-10-02T09:40:00.000+08:00

it's been a long time since i've updated my blog. so here goes... :Dme and jingkai!
cheehwee's birthday!

we had a convert from monfort on saturday!!! WOOOOOOOOHOOOOOO! no words can express my joy! we will do our best to retain this new believer! we will welcome him with lots of care and brotherly love. :D

his name is JingKai.

MOVIES!

2007-08-28T12:27:00.000+08:00

yesterday, i watched Hairspray with Gideon at AMK HUB. the show was actually a musical. the show was good! you might wanna try catching it too. :D

BEST JUMPS OF THE YEAR!

2007-08-23T21:51:00.000+08:00

cool isn't it? :D

photography by Nicholas Chew
copyrighted by NEB1.

Just for Laughs. :D

2007-08-23T11:22:00.001+08:00

seriously, what is the similarity between Daryl and Raul? i don't see any. =/

TEEHEEHEE.

SOWING at Hougang!

2007-08-22T23:11:00.000+08:00

enting.
at KFC.

today, we had a soccer event just for SOWING purposes, and EnTing had a contact from monfort! we played soccer at Hougang's street soccer court from 5pm to 6+pm.

after that, Daryl, EnTing and me walked around Hougang Mall looking for sports shops to look around. and i came across all my favourite soccer jerseys! ohh btw, i've got another favourite player other than C.Ronaldo. it's Fernando Torres! :D

anyway, the 3 of us decided to go to Potong Pasir's KFC for a rest since i was supposed to meet them. yep, that's about it.

HAHA!

2007-08-14T18:58:00.000+08:00

Create your own Friend Test here

i dont know why am i doing this test. but since all my caregroup members encourage me to do so, i had no choice but to oblige. :(

SENTOSA!

2007-08-10T10:39:00.000+08:00

Sentosa!

yesterday, we had a men's conference at Yishun Safra Country Club. we had lots of fun games and indeed, we had fun! after the activities, PS Jeff gave us a short teaching on brotherhood in the church, and it was good!

after the conference, ZhiCai, Daryl, MingJang, Zach and me went to SENTOSA for some fun. we tried to suntann, but the sun was hidden. (if only Sunny went with us...)

but on the overall, we had lots of fun swimming, playing soccer and lying on the soft white sand talking etc.

after everything, Enting and me went home in bus 10. as the bus passed by the Esplanade, we had a front view of the NDP's fireworks! it was super duper NICE! as the commuters in the bus 'wow-ed' at the fireworks and dazzle at the slight beauty of the display, the busdriver drove slowly for us. :D

i got home tired , with aches in my lower body and my arms. but as i thought back of my day, all these wouldn't be possible if it wasn't for God who came into my life. without God, i wouldn't be serving in this group and enjoying their fellowship. THANK YOU JESUS!

CAREGROUP

2007-08-04T01:16:00.001+08:00

these are the photos of me and my group after playing soccer after caregroup. :)

caregroup was a little different this week. we had freshies joining us for caregroup! Donavan asnd Issac were the stars for the day! we had lots of fun joking, laughing and fellowshipping with each other during this 2hrs fun-filled caregroup. i will never ever forget this day. :)

but there is just one thing that i will never ever forget. -Issac.
it's his playfulness and his 'primary 4's mentality' that reminded me o my childhood days. he reminded me of my young days when i used to be very playful and etc.

because of this, i pondered, and i realised how much God has changed my life! Thank God! i wouldn't be who i am today if it wasn't for Jesus in my life. :)

thanks once again.

WORTHY OF YOUR TIME!

2007-07-31T18:37:00.000+08:00

sorry, it takes a while to load. But it is simply AWESOME! especially the last part! MUST WATCH!!!

or you might wanna try the original website at http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=ee73e63418003b47d7d5

SATURDAY'S ESS.

2007-07-30T03:23:00.000+08:00

Jesus was GREAT! We had 2 converts! All praise and glory unto God! I really wanna thank God for these 2 converts, Donavan and Issac. (they're brothers by the way.)

Both of them really enjoyed themselves during the service and during the BBQ/soccer event. :) I really wanna pray for these 2 fellow brothers in Christ that they will mature in stature and in favour with Man and God. They will grow in Jesus! AMEN!

We had lots and lots of fun on saturday!

2007-07-04T12:37:00.000+08:00

i really want to do something for NEB1! i really want to have a revival in this group! MONFORT and St. Andrew's MUST have a revival! we have only one life on this earth. well, we aren't as fortunate as the cat. (if you get what i mean)

since we only have one life (and by the way, we only to an average of 70years on earth), why not dedicate it all to Jesus? when Jesus was on earth, He too gave His best even though he was God, even though He was faced with prosecution etc...

how can our small trivial problems and troubles be compared with His nailed scarred hands?

"GOD! i wanna serve you! i wanna have daily prayer with you like how Daniel in the bible did. please help me to become a strong and mighty Christian that leads your people in good and bad times even though there are circumstances that hinder us in our walk with you, AMEN."

NEB1 will grow!!!

2007-07-04T10:20:00.000+08:00

im starting to cultivate the habit of listening to online sermons. Pastor Wayne Cordeiro is the man.

i was downloading online sermons from http://www.enewhope.org/video/videolisting.php and i was listening to "Daniel- one man of prayer". it was great man!

while on my way to school, i listened and enjoyed every single bit of it.

2007-06-26T13:13:00.000+08:00

today was definitely a day that was totally blessed by God! here it goes...

my school ended at 11.10am today, so i decided to go home first before making my way to St. Andrew's to meet my guys. but when i reached home, my bed tempted me. i was really tempted to stay at home to sleep instead of meeting my guys. PS: i was really tired because of training in the morning.

but i decided to step out of my comfort zone and just get out of my house to meet my people. indeed! God blesses his people who does his WORK! i asked God for the bus to arrive the moment i stepped into the bus-stop. it happened exactly according to my prayer request. thank God! God gave me sufficient rest during the 45min bus ride. i woke up being refreshed!

after meeting my guys at potong pasir's macs doing evaluation about the outreach, we played abit of soccer on the field just outside the macs. i couldn't have played if it wasn't for God's strength. yep, we had tonnes of fun!

next, i went down to the NE RC for the D&R08 (death and ressurection by august) meeting with the MONFORTIANS! Huaxiang, Bengliang and me had worship together before Huaxiang started his teaching and agenda with his OWN monfort group.

since i'm not really needed in the meeting, i decided to bless Huaxiang with a meal from the Chicken Wing Rice stall just across the road. then i left for home. i decided to stick along the line of faith again. -i prayed for the bus to arrive as soon as in entered the bus-stop. God's blessing came down again! bus 43 came at the command of God!

indeed, my God is BIG!

2007-06-24T14:54:00.000+08:00

"think globally, act locally." -that's the phrase that ran throughout the service today. we can start impacting other countries by setting an example here in Singapore. testimonies would spread like wild fire, so if you've done something great here, stories of your blessings will travel far and wide to impact people from other nations as well! so let's act locally!

anyway, the monfort side had 2 converts!!! praise the LORD! AMEN HALLELUJAH!!! at last! a breakthrough for the monfortians today!

oh ya, one thing that i wanna apply to my life is how to train someone while on the job. i wanna do "on the job training" for my few sheep under me. i really hope that one day, they will surpass me and lead a caregroup by their own! i will be always looking forward to seeing that day coming to past! (:

2007-06-21T10:14:00.000+08:00

neb is going to have a unit event later at 1pm. at last, we can invite our precious contacts to our soccer event! we booked the St. Wilfred's field at boonkeng just for this soccer event. man, i hope that this turns our GREAT!

i wanna see more lower secondary people coming to know GOD!

Lord, please help me later.