Monday, April 23, 2007
Nasi Lemak
Camera not very good lah but the essence remains! Home cooked nasi lemak. Brought back pandan leaves & otah from Singapore. Invited Cedric & Jean (beijing Singaporeans) to "contribute" ikan billis and their sambal chilli!
Nasi Lemak International style
1. Thai Rice with Pandan leaves (flown in from Singapore)
2. Fried Egg (beijing organic egg)
3. Otah (flown in from Singapore)
4. Ikan Billis (flown in from Thailand)
5. Chicken Wings (Carrefour .... so does it make it French?!)
6. Sambal Chilly (HK receipe)
水煮活鱼 : 俏江南(国贸总店)
Pst Tan was asking me for recommendations to eat 水煮活鱼 and this is the place i found. Reasonable price and really good!
Website : http://www.dianping.com/shop/508232
俏江南(国贸总店)
口味 20 环境 22 服务 19 人均 ￥122
别名: South Beauty地址: 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸西楼2层L220号
电话: 010-65050809 65052288—80220
分类标签
商务宴请(32) 川菜(32) 朋友聚餐(18) 情侣约会(9) 宴请(6)
商户简介
“精品”川菜馆。出品是“改良”过的川菜，“形式大于内容”，味道也就“那么回事儿”。相比之下“更值得推荐”的是环境和服务——“小桥流水”，“舒适幽雅”，整体给人的“第一印象很好”；服务生大都“彬彬有礼”，“热情”而“周到”。价格走的是“高端路线”，适合“宴请”。
推荐菜 [发送到手机]
江石滚肥牛(28) 摇滚沙拉(14) 石烹豆花(12) 豆花(12) 鸡丝凉面(12) 回锅鱼(11) 晾衣白肉(10) 樟茶鸭(9) 麻酱油麦菜(9) 手撕鸡(7) 毛血旺(7) 水煮鱼(4) 鱼唇汤(2)
Website : http://www.dianping.com/shop/508232
俏江南(国贸总店)
口味 20 环境 22 服务 19 人均 ￥122
别名: South Beauty地址: 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸西楼2层L220号
电话: 010-65050809 65052288—80220
分类标签
商务宴请(32) 川菜(32) 朋友聚餐(18) 情侣约会(9) 宴请(6)
商户简介
“精品”川菜馆。出品是“改良”过的川菜，“形式大于内容”，味道也就“那么回事儿”。相比之下“更值得推荐”的是环境和服务——“小桥流水”，“舒适幽雅”，整体给人的“第一印象很好”；服务生大都“彬彬有礼”，“热情”而“周到”。价格走的是“高端路线”，适合“宴请”。
推荐菜 [发送到手机]
江石滚肥牛(28) 摇滚沙拉(14) 石烹豆花(12) 豆花(12) 鸡丝凉面(12) 回锅鱼(11) 晾衣白肉(10) 樟茶鸭(9) 麻酱油麦菜(9) 手撕鸡(7) 毛血旺(7) 水煮鱼(4) 鱼唇汤(2)
Saturday, March 03, 2007
his absence brought HIS PRESENCE
I have been so occupied the last 10 weeks. I concluded 2006 with my family and kickstarted 2007 with fireworks, celebrating the lunar new year in style with fireworks (not crackers!) in Beijing. Much as gone into the 10weeks and it would be injustice just to let a great testimony pass without sharing it with you who is reading this right now of all that has happened (well at least in brief) during christmas 2006.
Going back to Singapore during christmas was a planned holiday. We had originally planned to go back to do so much...kickstart golf sport with a 4-lesson session, catch up with everybody in church, enjoy continuous lunch, coffee, dinner, suppers and roti-pratas catchup sessions with everybody back home with a roundup of attending ryan & andrea's wedding. In between, what was most important was to visit my grandfather who has been critically ill since late october. While we prayed and believed God for a miracle but at the same instance, we are just as mentally prepared for the Lord to do what is best deemed fit because we know that regardless of what the outcome maybe for grandfather, God knows the best. Indeed His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts supercedes ours. Grandfather passed away on christmas eve, 24th Dec 2006 and went back to be with the Lord in Heaven....To comfort my mom, I told her that grandfather had found favour in God's eyes so much so that Jesus wanted him to be in heaven celebrating christmas with the angels....until today, i believed that was more than a comfort, that was the truth.
I vividly remembered receiving a call from my mom at work at about 1225pm and the moment i heard her trembling voice, i knew exactly what she was about to say. There was tremendous amount of tension, stress and everybody was apparently grieved. Some handled it at their stride but there were many insensitive exchange of words which unfortunately I became a part of in one of the conversations. However, all things worked together for good....by applying God's grace and wisdom in those situations helped and things turned around. By withholding our opinionated criticisms, extending grace and forgiveness, i am amazed at how it was able to resolve all unhappiness and conflicts in the family. My distraughted aunt came to me at the 3rd day of the wake to apologise but more than that she being an unbeliever gave the Lord the glory , believing that the Lord has given us the wisdom to know how to handle the situation most rationally and in love instead of being judgemental. For that, God deserves the praise.
The dialect church pastor from Church of Singapore (COS) touched my mother and her 8 siblings so deeply simply by being there every night at the wake. He did not just conduct another regular funeral service but he demonstrated his pastoral love and genuine care by going the extra mile ... from finding a columbarium for the ashes placement to reaching out to my uncles, aunties and cousins who were there individually by spending time fellowshipping with them nightly. And because they were all so ministered and touched by the ministry of COS, all of them attended the first service in Jan 2007. What a phenonmenal start to the year by spending the first sunday of the year in church, as a family. I don't know about you but I was so blessed just thinking about it even right now. My first uncle who is the most hardened and staunched taoist gave his heart to Jesus after the 2nd weekend service and as I am writing this blog right now, he is preparing to give his conversion testimony in church tomorrow at service. We were thrilled just celebrating his salvation. Now there are 4 of them saved...my mom, aunt betty, uncle lawrence and first uncle, I believe all my other uncles and aunties will come to know the Lord very soon. Act 16:31 is coming to pass very soon. Praise the Lord
Yeah and before i forget........... to those who came to my grandfather's funeral wake...thanks so much. Your presence meant so much to me, joshua and my family.
Grandfather may be absent today physically in our midst but his passing away brought God's presence into the family. That in itself is something we can rejoice despite us missing him deeply. Having shared all, what can i say but God is good all the time & all the time, God is good.
Going back to Singapore during christmas was a planned holiday. We had originally planned to go back to do so much...kickstart golf sport with a 4-lesson session, catch up with everybody in church, enjoy continuous lunch, coffee, dinner, suppers and roti-pratas catchup sessions with everybody back home with a roundup of attending ryan & andrea's wedding. In between, what was most important was to visit my grandfather who has been critically ill since late october. While we prayed and believed God for a miracle but at the same instance, we are just as mentally prepared for the Lord to do what is best deemed fit because we know that regardless of what the outcome maybe for grandfather, God knows the best. Indeed His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts supercedes ours. Grandfather passed away on christmas eve, 24th Dec 2006 and went back to be with the Lord in Heaven....To comfort my mom, I told her that grandfather had found favour in God's eyes so much so that Jesus wanted him to be in heaven celebrating christmas with the angels....until today, i believed that was more than a comfort, that was the truth.
I vividly remembered receiving a call from my mom at work at about 1225pm and the moment i heard her trembling voice, i knew exactly what she was about to say. There was tremendous amount of tension, stress and everybody was apparently grieved. Some handled it at their stride but there were many insensitive exchange of words which unfortunately I became a part of in one of the conversations. However, all things worked together for good....by applying God's grace and wisdom in those situations helped and things turned around. By withholding our opinionated criticisms, extending grace and forgiveness, i am amazed at how it was able to resolve all unhappiness and conflicts in the family. My distraughted aunt came to me at the 3rd day of the wake to apologise but more than that she being an unbeliever gave the Lord the glory , believing that the Lord has given us the wisdom to know how to handle the situation most rationally and in love instead of being judgemental. For that, God deserves the praise.
The dialect church pastor from Church of Singapore (COS) touched my mother and her 8 siblings so deeply simply by being there every night at the wake. He did not just conduct another regular funeral service but he demonstrated his pastoral love and genuine care by going the extra mile ... from finding a columbarium for the ashes placement to reaching out to my uncles, aunties and cousins who were there individually by spending time fellowshipping with them nightly. And because they were all so ministered and touched by the ministry of COS, all of them attended the first service in Jan 2007. What a phenonmenal start to the year by spending the first sunday of the year in church, as a family. I don't know about you but I was so blessed just thinking about it even right now. My first uncle who is the most hardened and staunched taoist gave his heart to Jesus after the 2nd weekend service and as I am writing this blog right now, he is preparing to give his conversion testimony in church tomorrow at service. We were thrilled just celebrating his salvation. Now there are 4 of them saved...my mom, aunt betty, uncle lawrence and first uncle, I believe all my other uncles and aunties will come to know the Lord very soon. Act 16:31 is coming to pass very soon. Praise the Lord
Yeah and before i forget........... to those who came to my grandfather's funeral wake...thanks so much. Your presence meant so much to me, joshua and my family.
Grandfather may be absent today physically in our midst but his passing away brought God's presence into the family. That in itself is something we can rejoice despite us missing him deeply. Having shared all, what can i say but God is good all the time & all the time, God is good.
Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Demilitarized Zone (DMZ)
Some photos we took at the DMZ. See, i am getting lazy writing but phots & pictures paint a thousand words!!! Bear with me, i will be back with more updates hopefully soon!
Thursday, January 18, 2007
龙庆霞冰雕
Trying to look good and pose in the enclosed heated car before i get all wrapped up when i step into the ice-snow mountain!
This is how cold it is! Josh is all wrapped up like South-park kenny!! haha!!
He looks so cute, doesn't he!
These are real snow & it is literally a frozen snow mountain! If you stare hard into the photo, 江泽明did the opening for this tourist attraction. It is about 2hrs drive from where we live. It may be a long drive but was a comfortable ride with the heating system in the car, i have absolutely NO complaints!
These are real ice cravings and it was so well made. You see the houses of 三只小猪! What's more, they craved a condensed version of disney land inside the mountain! And everything is life-size!
This is how cold it is! Josh is all wrapped up like South-park kenny!! haha!!
He looks so cute, doesn't he!These are real snow & it is literally a frozen snow mountain! If you stare hard into the photo, 江泽明did the opening for this tourist attraction. It is about 2hrs drive from where we live. It may be a long drive but was a comfortable ride with the heating system in the car, i have absolutely NO complaints!
These are real ice cravings and it was so well made. You see the houses of 三只小猪! What's more, they craved a condensed version of disney land inside the mountain! And everything is life-size!
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Joshua
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We were fellow CG member in S12 (haha...way back in 1998!)
My best friend
My soul mate
My much rational, much intelligent, much BETTER half!
My dearest husband!
Four wonderful and happy years of marriage & many more to come!
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Do not despise the days of humble beginning!
My second day learning golf today with Josh at Seletar Country Club and I must say that I am really not an athletic! He is definitely a much better player than me. Better ball sense & greater aptitude with sports. Attributing it back to days in ACS where he was trained to "bend his knees" (yeah, Jo will tell me that I should have persisted in tennis 7 yrs ago but nah....) and swing the ball but you know what i think? It is really his ability to coordinate himself through the many years of experience playing arcade games, nintendo, computer games, PS2 and now his favourite PSP! I am one person who can't "jump, run and shoot all at one go!" No surprises for the 5x required for me to pass my driving exams to get that precious license. Sorry no auto-car learning 10 yrs ago! Yes, well at least I am a confident manual car driver today & I can proudly profess to be a good driver! So.................golf is here to stay & I am determined to get the strokes right. My back swing & Full front swing. I got my first pair of golf gloves yesterday as well! Must persist & ensure I master the game. Yeah, once again I am reminded never to forget the days of my humble beginning when i first started learning driving. If i can succeed in driving, I can suceed in golf. Nothing is impossible!
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Partially right vs Completely wrong
Lessons Learnt & thereby, ReVelATion unfold...
Person A says this "I rather not speak because if I keep quiet, at least nobody will know that I am ignorant but the moment I speak, my ignorance is exposed." Then I heard this from another somebody (Person B) who said : "I rather be partially right than completely wrong."
Most people choose to be Person A simply because it is more comfortable, convenient, being laid back is the acceptable norm & appeared to be less risky. What they fail to see is that in that comfortable & secured zone, you are almost 100% unlikely to progress further in life and more importantly, you are definitely prideful. No pain, no gain. Well, as I thought through...you know what, it is more exciting to be Person B. Person B lives a colourful life. He tries more things, fails more times but also achieve greater heights. Most likely more humble than "A". You are open to new ideas, constructive corrections and you are not afraid to make mistakes & laugh at them when they happen from time to time. It is like exercising our faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God because God desires adventure with us, teaches & coaches us through lives ups & downs. He expects us to do the Free Fall on HIM because HE is sure to "catch" us. When we succeed, He is glorified but when we fail, God ensures that those experiences are not wasted either....Therefore a faith proclaiming, bible believing christian is a type B, person B or whatever you wish to term it.
Sometimes we drawback especially when it comes to issues where we are not the subject matter experts or the guru. Being asians, many times we have to be provoked and challenged to speak our mind and share our comments in a public forum. Does that explains why it is usually the australians and americans (in short caucasians) who are vocal and the asians (chinese especially) lay low just in case "mah lu". Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
The bible tells, teaches, reminded, admonished us this everlasting principle :
1. Be quick to listen
Revelation : pay attention & be sharp in the mind and in the spirit
2. Be slow to speak
Revelation : THINK before you speak. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Your words reveal your character. I cannot elaborate enough on this...
3. Slow to wrath
Revelation : Even when you are found to be "not that right" or even wrong, don't "wrath" and be upset with others or even yourself. Part of learning involves making mistakes.
Once again, Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
As I write, I am REMINDING myself.
Person A says this "I rather not speak because if I keep quiet, at least nobody will know that I am ignorant but the moment I speak, my ignorance is exposed." Then I heard this from another somebody (Person B) who said : "I rather be partially right than completely wrong."
Most people choose to be Person A simply because it is more comfortable, convenient, being laid back is the acceptable norm & appeared to be less risky. What they fail to see is that in that comfortable & secured zone, you are almost 100% unlikely to progress further in life and more importantly, you are definitely prideful. No pain, no gain. Well, as I thought through...you know what, it is more exciting to be Person B. Person B lives a colourful life. He tries more things, fails more times but also achieve greater heights. Most likely more humble than "A". You are open to new ideas, constructive corrections and you are not afraid to make mistakes & laugh at them when they happen from time to time. It is like exercising our faith. Without faith it is impossible to please God because God desires adventure with us, teaches & coaches us through lives ups & downs. He expects us to do the Free Fall on HIM because HE is sure to "catch" us. When we succeed, He is glorified but when we fail, God ensures that those experiences are not wasted either....Therefore a faith proclaiming, bible believing christian is a type B, person B or whatever you wish to term it.
Sometimes we drawback especially when it comes to issues where we are not the subject matter experts or the guru. Being asians, many times we have to be provoked and challenged to speak our mind and share our comments in a public forum. Does that explains why it is usually the australians and americans (in short caucasians) who are vocal and the asians (chinese especially) lay low just in case "mah lu". Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
The bible tells, teaches, reminded, admonished us this everlasting principle :
1. Be quick to listen
Revelation : pay attention & be sharp in the mind and in the spirit
2. Be slow to speak
Revelation : THINK before you speak. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks. Your words reveal your character. I cannot elaborate enough on this...
3. Slow to wrath
Revelation : Even when you are found to be "not that right" or even wrong, don't "wrath" and be upset with others or even yourself. Part of learning involves making mistakes.
Once again, Our attitude needs to change. It really depends how we see ourselves in the mirror. Just as the greatest deception is self deception, Our greatest enemy is ourselves.
As I write, I am REMINDING myself.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Happy birthday to me
"More precious than silver, more costly than gold..." No riches on the earth compares with having a relationship with Jesus my King, my Lord, my best friend. This was (yes, literally "was" now that I am no longer a cgl) my favourite worship song during the years when I led cell groups. God never fail to show up tangibly everytime we sing this song with tears in our eyes. This seemed to be the special song for E154. This song touches God's heart deeply just as it touches our heart.
Strangely, I do feel a sense of loss recently. I missed being a cell leader, I miss leading worship and getting into the presence of God together with my members. I miss the late night counselling and early morning bible study appointments i used to have with shirley and lunch time appointments with jo, kat, lydia, tricia, cin and sharon. Boy, how I miss serving the Lord with my church family in city harvest. My heart leapt with excitement this morning when Pst Kong shared abt having 5 services during christmas in anticipation of 40,000 people congregating together this christmas. Deep within my spirit, I knew God will come through for us again. Well, truth is...He never let us down so this time is no exception.
As I reminsce the good old times, I know strongly in my spirit that the Lord speaks to me of His calling over my life. His calling over my life is irrevocable. I always enjoy worship, leading worship and being in worship. It is in worship where I feel totally at peace and engulfed in His love.
It was my birthday yesterday. I turned 32 and for the first time in years, I spent my birthday quietly with yes, no members. I felt completely satisfied because my best friend, husband and soulmate is by my side. Nobody takes the place of Joshua in my life. I love him with all my heart. Josh is the best gift God has given to me. Then, I realise...i missed my members. Just when I felt the "loss", all the birthday sms greetings came through on my mobile phone. One after another, I felt so blessed and so loved. I felt that it is God's way of reminding me of His unfailing & faithful love. Truly those years of sowing my life to serve Him has been reaped a harvest that remain. Just meditating on that warmed my heart.
What do I wish for this birthday? I made my wish. 3 things : (1) my grandfather to be healed of lung cancer (2) Josh to be able to see every single day of his life (3)....for me to know and for you to find out.
Never mind the number or the content of these birthday wishes because I know the Lord I love, serve and live for will be faithful.
Happy birthday Cindy.
Strangely, I do feel a sense of loss recently. I missed being a cell leader, I miss leading worship and getting into the presence of God together with my members. I miss the late night counselling and early morning bible study appointments i used to have with shirley and lunch time appointments with jo, kat, lydia, tricia, cin and sharon. Boy, how I miss serving the Lord with my church family in city harvest. My heart leapt with excitement this morning when Pst Kong shared abt having 5 services during christmas in anticipation of 40,000 people congregating together this christmas. Deep within my spirit, I knew God will come through for us again. Well, truth is...He never let us down so this time is no exception.
As I reminsce the good old times, I know strongly in my spirit that the Lord speaks to me of His calling over my life. His calling over my life is irrevocable. I always enjoy worship, leading worship and being in worship. It is in worship where I feel totally at peace and engulfed in His love.
It was my birthday yesterday. I turned 32 and for the first time in years, I spent my birthday quietly with yes, no members. I felt completely satisfied because my best friend, husband and soulmate is by my side. Nobody takes the place of Joshua in my life. I love him with all my heart. Josh is the best gift God has given to me. Then, I realise...i missed my members. Just when I felt the "loss", all the birthday sms greetings came through on my mobile phone. One after another, I felt so blessed and so loved. I felt that it is God's way of reminding me of His unfailing & faithful love. Truly those years of sowing my life to serve Him has been reaped a harvest that remain. Just meditating on that warmed my heart.
What do I wish for this birthday? I made my wish. 3 things : (1) my grandfather to be healed of lung cancer (2) Josh to be able to see every single day of his life (3)....for me to know and for you to find out.
Never mind the number or the content of these birthday wishes because I know the Lord I love, serve and live for will be faithful.
Happy birthday Cindy.
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Solution Provider
I was reminded : If I am not part of the solution, I am part of the problem.
Therefore, I must be a solution provider! In every problem, there are opportunities for me to once again demonstrate myself as the light & salt of the world. I refuse to complain, lament or even mope over the issues. Time to move on, get going & as I step out in faith (& lots of grace & wisdom from God), I know the Holy Spirit will be my partner. God never lead me this far to let me down. He is good. If there is no team spirit, I create one. If there is no unity, I be the first to stay united. If there is no synergy, I be the catalyst. I can make things happen.
Some people watch things happen
Some people wonder what happen
Some people make things happen....I want to be that somebody
I can make a difference.
I am happy again!
Therefore, I must be a solution provider! In every problem, there are opportunities for me to once again demonstrate myself as the light & salt of the world. I refuse to complain, lament or even mope over the issues. Time to move on, get going & as I step out in faith (& lots of grace & wisdom from God), I know the Holy Spirit will be my partner. God never lead me this far to let me down. He is good. If there is no team spirit, I create one. If there is no unity, I be the first to stay united. If there is no synergy, I be the catalyst. I can make things happen.
Some people watch things happen
Some people wonder what happen
Some people make things happen....I want to be that somebody
I can make a difference.
I am happy again!
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Wisdom is knowing who is your Source
James 3: 13 " who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom"
Earthly wisdom is demonstrated by being devious, overbearing, domineering and most of all, self seeking..the bible tells us that this type of wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, sensual and demonic. For where envy and self seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But on the other hand, the wisdom that is from heaven is first PURE, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy...
So often, it is almost effortless for us to be filled with envy and become self centred in our lives. When we see others with a wonderful job, great family, pay raise ...basically enjoying better things and seemingly God has given them more at "our expense", the feeling of envy begin to rise. How true it is that true wisdom is first pure. God expects us (me, as I am writing this...i am reminding myself!) to seek for purity. Purity in intent, thoughts and actions. We may smile and rejoice on the outset but deep within our hearts, we can become envious or even bitter sometimes so subconsciously. I believe that is when God tells us repeatedly that we have to guard our heart which is the wellspring of life....out of it flows issues of life. Heavenly wisdom is one where we exercise gentleness, humility and grace through our actions and words as we represent Jesus. Are we too casual in saying that "Thank God for wisdom" when the resulting action of that "wisdom" fails to fulfil the biblical definition of heavenly wisdom as in Jas 13:17? Think about it....The next time we ask God for wisdom, the bible tells us HE will give it to us lavishly, check against these qualities and ask " Is my action which is performed out of the wisdom of Christ, is it done in purity, gentleness, grace and bear fruits that will remain?" Else, more likely it is just fulfilling your self seeking desire...which regretfully is not a result of Godly wisdom.
As you check your hearts, I am checking mine.....
This coming weekend is Arise & Build pledging weekend. Since weeks ago, I have began check my heart. The amount I am pledging is never derived out of my own wisdom (sheer calculation of income minus expenses and cost of living and some savings...). I don't want to give for the purpose of seeking anything else from God. I give because I want to bless the Lord. He knows my greatest and only desire so there is no need to give more $ just to "arm-twist" Him to release from heaven because i cannot manipulate the Lord anyway!
He gives and bless as He will and I just simply trust that He is indeed a God of More than enough. He has blessed me with more than what I could ever think or imagine all these years. There is no means to even compute the accumulated blessings the Lord has given me. It came in the form of a fulfilling marriage, favour, great family, wonderful friendships, success in career, material possessions, peace of mind, tranquility in my spirit and more importantly, the priviledged friendship i have with my Jesus. Much as it is not a bed of roses (there are great disappointments, sense of loss and uncertainty) but surely, God has been showing me that in the midst of being pricked by the thorns of life, I can always focus on the roses. Life is a matter of perspective and I choose to always (it is a conscious and hard effort honestly!) focus on those roses.
Earthly wisdom is demonstrated by being devious, overbearing, domineering and most of all, self seeking..the bible tells us that this type of wisdom does not come from above but is earthly, sensual and demonic. For where envy and self seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But on the other hand, the wisdom that is from heaven is first PURE, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy...
So often, it is almost effortless for us to be filled with envy and become self centred in our lives. When we see others with a wonderful job, great family, pay raise ...basically enjoying better things and seemingly God has given them more at "our expense", the feeling of envy begin to rise. How true it is that true wisdom is first pure. God expects us (me, as I am writing this...i am reminding myself!) to seek for purity. Purity in intent, thoughts and actions. We may smile and rejoice on the outset but deep within our hearts, we can become envious or even bitter sometimes so subconsciously. I believe that is when God tells us repeatedly that we have to guard our heart which is the wellspring of life....out of it flows issues of life. Heavenly wisdom is one where we exercise gentleness, humility and grace through our actions and words as we represent Jesus. Are we too casual in saying that "Thank God for wisdom" when the resulting action of that "wisdom" fails to fulfil the biblical definition of heavenly wisdom as in Jas 13:17? Think about it....The next time we ask God for wisdom, the bible tells us HE will give it to us lavishly, check against these qualities and ask " Is my action which is performed out of the wisdom of Christ, is it done in purity, gentleness, grace and bear fruits that will remain?" Else, more likely it is just fulfilling your self seeking desire...which regretfully is not a result of Godly wisdom.
As you check your hearts, I am checking mine.....
This coming weekend is Arise & Build pledging weekend. Since weeks ago, I have began check my heart. The amount I am pledging is never derived out of my own wisdom (sheer calculation of income minus expenses and cost of living and some savings...). I don't want to give for the purpose of seeking anything else from God. I give because I want to bless the Lord. He knows my greatest and only desire so there is no need to give more $ just to "arm-twist" Him to release from heaven because i cannot manipulate the Lord anyway!
He gives and bless as He will and I just simply trust that He is indeed a God of More than enough. He has blessed me with more than what I could ever think or imagine all these years. There is no means to even compute the accumulated blessings the Lord has given me. It came in the form of a fulfilling marriage, favour, great family, wonderful friendships, success in career, material possessions, peace of mind, tranquility in my spirit and more importantly, the priviledged friendship i have with my Jesus. Much as it is not a bed of roses (there are great disappointments, sense of loss and uncertainty) but surely, God has been showing me that in the midst of being pricked by the thorns of life, I can always focus on the roses. Life is a matter of perspective and I choose to always (it is a conscious and hard effort honestly!) focus on those roses.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
approaching WinTEr
Temperature is decreasing gradually as time passes. It is about 10 degrees today. Could have been more bearable if not for the gusty wind.
Meeting Xuling for lunch today. She will be leaving for Hainan afterall.
Gosh! Joshua's parents and auntie could really shop! Glad that they are indeed enjoying themselves in this trip. What's in for them today? Summer palaace, Yiheyuan garden, Hongqiao pearl market for more shopping and time to dash into the dvd shops for more dvds! You cannot believe the dvd list! From cantonese serials to the latest movies .....then again, This is CHINA!
Meeting Xuling for lunch today. She will be leaving for Hainan afterall.
Gosh! Joshua's parents and auntie could really shop! Glad that they are indeed enjoying themselves in this trip. What's in for them today? Summer palaace, Yiheyuan garden, Hongqiao pearl market for more shopping and time to dash into the dvd shops for more dvds! You cannot believe the dvd list! From cantonese serials to the latest movies .....then again, This is CHINA!
Sunday, October 15, 2006
士林夜市
Has been almost 6yrs since I last came to Taipei Taiwan. Touched down early today at 530pm and decided to go take a stroll at 士林夜市, the city famous night market where you can find anything and everything from food, fashion (With 80% woman fashion, it feels more like a "woman's market!), handphone accessories, winter gears, toys, ornaments, imitation products and LV & Prada are must haves'.
I've never seen that many people in my life. Everybody was walking on the road and clearly there was no distinction between vehicles on the road and pedestrians on the pavement. Everybody is walking everywhere....nobody seemed interested with the hectic traffic except for getting the best bargain from the flea market. Unbelievably, I bought 2 pairs of jeans at S$19 each and a belt for S$2.90. I must get the rest of the team to come visit this flea market in one of the next 3 days. Taxi ride was cheap at S$2.30 one-way. When it was almost dinner time, I was reminded of Ammiel's 香鸡排 and sizzling black pepper steak with macaroni and corn soup! I was determined to search it out & I found it hiden at the corner of another bustling street! At S$6.90, I get a set of the sizzling codfish (prefer fish to red meat) hotplate with soup, bread roll and lipton tea. Not bad for that price & it was yummy!
Got back to the hotel to clear some emails, called my parents & josh. Had a good msn chat with Egwin....he is one great guy! Any takers?? just kidding!
Gotta sleep....important meeting coming up tml & my day starts at 7AM. That means I gotta be up by 530AM. Yawn................
It will be a good week ahead!
I've never seen that many people in my life. Everybody was walking on the road and clearly there was no distinction between vehicles on the road and pedestrians on the pavement. Everybody is walking everywhere....nobody seemed interested with the hectic traffic except for getting the best bargain from the flea market. Unbelievably, I bought 2 pairs of jeans at S$19 each and a belt for S$2.90. I must get the rest of the team to come visit this flea market in one of the next 3 days. Taxi ride was cheap at S$2.30 one-way. When it was almost dinner time, I was reminded of Ammiel's 香鸡排 and sizzling black pepper steak with macaroni and corn soup! I was determined to search it out & I found it hiden at the corner of another bustling street! At S$6.90, I get a set of the sizzling codfish (prefer fish to red meat) hotplate with soup, bread roll and lipton tea. Not bad for that price & it was yummy!
Got back to the hotel to clear some emails, called my parents & josh. Had a good msn chat with Egwin....he is one great guy! Any takers?? just kidding!
Gotta sleep....important meeting coming up tml & my day starts at 7AM. That means I gotta be up by 530AM. Yawn................
It will be a good week ahead!
Friday, October 06, 2006
Col 3 :12
"Therefore, as the elect of Christ, holy and beloved, PUT ON tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering;"
We are the chosen elect of Christ. The bible calls us the chosen generation. Because of our position and heritage in Christ, we are already holy & loved by God....Being connected with God in the spirit, we are already holy. The word of God tells us that we are declared to be righteous, holy. We cannot be more righteous, therefore the futility of our works. It is not by works that man is saved, but by the grace of God, so no man can boast. We are loved dearly by God, He calls us His beloved. Nevertheless, we have to consciously WEAR, PUT ON the character of this new person (spirit) in us. The reborn of our being. We have to wear and put on not just once but daily (crucifying of the flesh) tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness and longsuffering. How mind boggling that statement can be. Why do I have to do that if I am already declared holy and beloved by my heavenly Father? Now I understand. We are tri-une, just as God is triune. Spirit, Soul & Body.
In the spirit, we are one with our Lord. We are accounted and declared as righteous. In the body, we are stewards of all that we have & receive. That includes our temperament and character. Our character is constantly being challenged by our Soul. The soul is soulish, it is carnal & constantly battling against the spirit. Therefore we have to make a conscious choice & decision to wear and put on Christ. Only in Christ, we are complete. Col2:10 "and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principalities and power."
"And I worship you Lord
My life in YOU restored
Here is my heart
Make it your sanctuary
For Nobdoy else but Jesus only you..."
We are the chosen elect of Christ. The bible calls us the chosen generation. Because of our position and heritage in Christ, we are already holy & loved by God....Being connected with God in the spirit, we are already holy. The word of God tells us that we are declared to be righteous, holy. We cannot be more righteous, therefore the futility of our works. It is not by works that man is saved, but by the grace of God, so no man can boast. We are loved dearly by God, He calls us His beloved. Nevertheless, we have to consciously WEAR, PUT ON the character of this new person (spirit) in us. The reborn of our being. We have to wear and put on not just once but daily (crucifying of the flesh) tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness and longsuffering. How mind boggling that statement can be. Why do I have to do that if I am already declared holy and beloved by my heavenly Father? Now I understand. We are tri-une, just as God is triune. Spirit, Soul & Body.
In the spirit, we are one with our Lord. We are accounted and declared as righteous. In the body, we are stewards of all that we have & receive. That includes our temperament and character. Our character is constantly being challenged by our Soul. The soul is soulish, it is carnal & constantly battling against the spirit. Therefore we have to make a conscious choice & decision to wear and put on Christ. Only in Christ, we are complete. Col2:10 "and you are complete in Him, who is the head of all principalities and power."
"And I worship you Lord
My life in YOU restored
Here is my heart
Make it your sanctuary
For Nobdoy else but Jesus only you..."
Thursday, October 05, 2006
I thank God for my parents
Parents came to visit 2 wks ago and left just yesterday. Time seemed to just flew past.. has been 6 months since i moved over to Beijing. It seemed that at times I have began to adapt really well but at times I seemed to feel alienated.
Guess i just felt a sense of loss when they left. There was so much preparation, taking them shopping, sight seeing, going for meals and as usual, my mom will start cleaning up my house and adjusting the loose ends that she sees around the apartment....at times i get upset when she gets too much into the nitty gritty details of housekeeping. I have to constantly remind her that she is here for her holiday and not here to do cleanups but well, she is my mother & I know her too well. When my parents left for Singapore at the airport, tears start streaming down my eyes. I realised how much I'd missed having my parents although I have them with me for full 13 days. Such realisation only dawn upon me when I saw them checking in at the airport. My parents had not had a good holiday together for ages and I am so happy just to be able to have them here in BJ the last 2 wks. We spent so much time together, fellowshipping, doing nothing on certain days, just lazing around but time never seemed to be enough when you are enjoying it. We should do more of this...spending quality time with my families and those whom i love.
Now the house seemed to be so empty and big once again....but it is ok, Josh's family is coming for a week in a fortnight's time....more to come!
Guess i just felt a sense of loss when they left. There was so much preparation, taking them shopping, sight seeing, going for meals and as usual, my mom will start cleaning up my house and adjusting the loose ends that she sees around the apartment....at times i get upset when she gets too much into the nitty gritty details of housekeeping. I have to constantly remind her that she is here for her holiday and not here to do cleanups but well, she is my mother & I know her too well. When my parents left for Singapore at the airport, tears start streaming down my eyes. I realised how much I'd missed having my parents although I have them with me for full 13 days. Such realisation only dawn upon me when I saw them checking in at the airport. My parents had not had a good holiday together for ages and I am so happy just to be able to have them here in BJ the last 2 wks. We spent so much time together, fellowshipping, doing nothing on certain days, just lazing around but time never seemed to be enough when you are enjoying it. We should do more of this...spending quality time with my families and those whom i love.
Now the house seemed to be so empty and big once again....but it is ok, Josh's family is coming for a week in a fortnight's time....more to come!
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Lethargic
Feeling unusually tired the last 2 days. Just could not muster enough energy to focus recently. Bought a new mask product, maybe i should try it tonight while preparing my bible study materials for Friday cell group. I have all the things i want to share in ENGLISH up in my head but to articulate it in chinese in a way where it brings impartation - wow! that's a challenge. I will have to WILL myself to sit down tonight to get the notes drafted.
Yawnnnnnned! Boy! I'm tired at 1509hrs!
Yawnnnnnned! Boy! I'm tired at 1509hrs!
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Autumn
Sept5 marks the start of autumn in China.
Temperature is down at 20 degrees or even lower. Still bright & shinning so it is kinda Nice weather to just take a stroll & finally no more persistent air-con all over me. Time to breathe in some natural air (without the pollution pls). Didn't quite rest after being back from Qingdao. Started work early today at 730am, piles of airtickets to submit for claims & i really have no clue how to do the refunds for unused tickets & finance ain't helpful...i will figure it out somehow, as always!
Had a very good talk with MC, he was in a beautiful mood! I know my directions now...No 6-sigma, just me & my "methodology" and lots of God's GRACE & Wisdom!!
Waiting for conference call to start in 2 mins....
This is the Day that the Lord has made, I will REJOICE & be glad in it.
Temperature is down at 20 degrees or even lower. Still bright & shinning so it is kinda Nice weather to just take a stroll & finally no more persistent air-con all over me. Time to breathe in some natural air (without the pollution pls). Didn't quite rest after being back from Qingdao. Started work early today at 730am, piles of airtickets to submit for claims & i really have no clue how to do the refunds for unused tickets & finance ain't helpful...i will figure it out somehow, as always!
Had a very good talk with MC, he was in a beautiful mood! I know my directions now...No 6-sigma, just me & my "methodology" and lots of God's GRACE & Wisdom!!
Waiting for conference call to start in 2 mins....
This is the Day that the Lord has made, I will REJOICE & be glad in it.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Fantastic Week at Qingdao! What a great week!!!
Flew into Qingdao on Sunday & it is Friday today…Tired but felt extremely fulfilled!
I'm flying back to Beijing tomorrow noon time. Has been a very fruitful trip. First ever China region CRM event which marks the new beginning! Nothing of this scale and magnitude and coverage have been done before here in China, such a breakthrough effort. Target was to have at least 3 dealers out of 6 sign up for deployment of sales funnel management in china region but guess how many we have now when we gave the project sheet for dates inputs? ALL 6!!! Unbelievable! God is indeed good. I just felt His presence, favour and strength upon the entire team. Despite the hardwork, there was so much synergy and we had so so much fun. Not to mention that food was forever in abundance! I never knew the complete significance of establishing brand awareness and consistent corporate image until this trip. The colour, usage of background, exact font size of the company logo….everything, there is a process, a methodology…so much details, emphasis and thought put to it.
My boss gave me a pleasant surprise on the opening of the event! He presented me with a bouquet of flowers to appreciate all the hardwork and initiative in putting this event together. Felt so appreciated & it is great working under someone who recognizes your effort, sacrifices and hardwork. And guess what, he took extra effort to find out my favourite flower! Boy! I was so blown away! His favourite catch phrase (being a CRM Manager) : Customer never care how much you know until they see how much you care. Sounds familiar? That is exactly what I learnt under the discipleship of the CHC leadership! Biblical principles of God remains relevant in any circumstance. How applicable that can be! Wow! The hotel management was amazed at how meticulous I went into the planning of this event. Well, once again…I learnt years ago, Details determines destiny. These are all coming back to me & I just felt so blessed & thankful to God in all these years of molding & discipleship. He surely has a bigger plan for my life! Indeed the molding & difficult times of discipleship are not pleasant at that moment of time but when it is put through endurance and time, good seeds will bear good fruits, fruits that will remain.
And guess what!? At the end of the event, another gift presentation by the event owner/sponsor! Wow!
Josh is preaching on sunday at the chinese church. Haha! he is so gang jiong to do it in mandarin. Gotta help him prepare sermon once we touch down beijing! what an adventure with the Lord!
Gotta run...Dinner with team starts at 630pm.
Cheers!!!
I'm flying back to Beijing tomorrow noon time. Has been a very fruitful trip. First ever China region CRM event which marks the new beginning! Nothing of this scale and magnitude and coverage have been done before here in China, such a breakthrough effort. Target was to have at least 3 dealers out of 6 sign up for deployment of sales funnel management in china region but guess how many we have now when we gave the project sheet for dates inputs? ALL 6!!! Unbelievable! God is indeed good. I just felt His presence, favour and strength upon the entire team. Despite the hardwork, there was so much synergy and we had so so much fun. Not to mention that food was forever in abundance! I never knew the complete significance of establishing brand awareness and consistent corporate image until this trip. The colour, usage of background, exact font size of the company logo….everything, there is a process, a methodology…so much details, emphasis and thought put to it.
My boss gave me a pleasant surprise on the opening of the event! He presented me with a bouquet of flowers to appreciate all the hardwork and initiative in putting this event together. Felt so appreciated & it is great working under someone who recognizes your effort, sacrifices and hardwork. And guess what, he took extra effort to find out my favourite flower! Boy! I was so blown away! His favourite catch phrase (being a CRM Manager) : Customer never care how much you know until they see how much you care. Sounds familiar? That is exactly what I learnt under the discipleship of the CHC leadership! Biblical principles of God remains relevant in any circumstance. How applicable that can be! Wow! The hotel management was amazed at how meticulous I went into the planning of this event. Well, once again…I learnt years ago, Details determines destiny. These are all coming back to me & I just felt so blessed & thankful to God in all these years of molding & discipleship. He surely has a bigger plan for my life! Indeed the molding & difficult times of discipleship are not pleasant at that moment of time but when it is put through endurance and time, good seeds will bear good fruits, fruits that will remain.
And guess what!? At the end of the event, another gift presentation by the event owner/sponsor! Wow!
Josh is preaching on sunday at the chinese church. Haha! he is so gang jiong to do it in mandarin. Gotta help him prepare sermon once we touch down beijing! what an adventure with the Lord!
Gotta run...Dinner with team starts at 630pm.
Cheers!!!
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