Today's Readings:
Job 9:1-12,14-16
Ps 88:(3) 10bc-15
Luke 9:57-62
http://www.usccb.org/nab/100108.shtml
Audio:
http://ccc.usccb.org/cccradio/NABPodcasts/08_10_01.mp3
How much are you willing to lose?
In today's first reading, because Job had lost nearly everything that was dear to him, he is now in danger of losing his trust in God. Isn't that how we feel when bad things happen to us? We wonder why God has let us down. We think he's being unfair and cruel. It feels like his love has abandoned us, and we choose to trust in our feelings instead of what we cannot see, hear or feel from the Lord.
God never abandons us. The fact is, WE need to abandon everything that is not Godly.
This does not mean that all of us are called to give everything away and embrace poverty in order to be holy, like some of the Saints have done. There are other ways to abandon everything to God, namely, by considering everything as less important than Jesus. Everything is less important than our obedient dependence upon God.
Even those activities that God has called us to do, and even the possessions he has provided for us through our jobs, and even the people he has given to us in relationships: All must be abandoned into an awareness that God is more important.
God and me alone — that's true holiness. From this intimate friendship springs everything else: our families, our friends, our ministries, our jobs, our homes, our possessions, etc. Whatever is good and right for us, whatever will enhance our friendship with God, whatever is a gift of his love for us, these come from the solitude and solidarity of our unity with God.
Job protected himself from a loss of faith by recalling God's awesomeness. He realised that nothing truly matters except God, for he is far greater than all else. He recognised this awesomeness in the vast difference between God and himself: "If I appealed to him and he answered me, how amazing that he would hear my words!" Humility put his terrible situation into the right perspective.
Nothing really matters but God. We can lose everything, and as long as we still have God, we are doing exceedingly well. It might not feel that way, but it's the reality.
Today's Gospel passage reminds us that we have to lose (abandon, sublimate, reduce in priority) everything earthly to follow Jesus, who gave up his home, his career in carpentry, and his earthly life for our sake.
If we look back and miss what we've given up, wishing to once again make them a higher priority than Jesus, we break our unity with him. Who, then, are we following? Where will it lead us?
We must keep our eyes on Jesus. By abandoning everything into his hands, he gives back to us whatever truly is right and good.
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© 2008 by Terry A. Modica
Friday, October 03, 2008
I opened my mouth to speak and no words come out of my mouth...
Yes folks, its husky Rachel for the past 1 week. In fact today it has made a turn for the worst. No voice at all...absolutely none. I thought that the one day break would do me good but nooooo....Not even the microphone can help me in anyway...I am in pain today as I have to scribble everything on the white board as instructions.
Help me Lord, Help me...
Help me Lord, Help me...
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Lost my voice!
hey hey yes...I was supposed to blog about my India trip...too tied up with work...fell sick again :( lost my voice totally first time in my teaching career!
Had to rely on a mike to speak and teach on Friday. I had really hard time making myself understood the last few days...can't believe the day has come..showdown.
Collected back the work that I gave out the kids, could you believe it when the kids are nodding furiously over what you have taught them and when you mark them its all rubbish? sigh...
get my voice soon ya...coughed till I can't sleep the past few night..yes it will be over soon...
Had to rely on a mike to speak and teach on Friday. I had really hard time making myself understood the last few days...can't believe the day has come..showdown.
Collected back the work that I gave out the kids, could you believe it when the kids are nodding furiously over what you have taught them and when you mark them its all rubbish? sigh...
get my voice soon ya...coughed till I can't sleep the past few night..yes it will be over soon...
Monday, September 15, 2008
Sunday, August 31, 2008
My Yearbook
Found a funny website where you could upload a photo of yourself and create some really vintage looking pics! Had a good laugh after looking through them...www.yearbookyourself.com
me circa 1954...
me circa 1962
me circa 1964
me 1972
This one takes the cake! me circa 1982
me circa 1954...
me circa 1962
me circa 1964
me 1972
This one takes the cake! me circa 1982
Thursday, August 28, 2008
In India
I don't know why everytime, i go off with a trip with to developing countries I would fall very sick. Vomitted at the school staffroom today. So funny, due to language barriers with the staff, they could not understand what I had wanted. Was so sick that I could not eat for the whole day...India's learning experience is great! will blog more...watch this space...:)
Sunday, August 17, 2008
What's in a gift?
This is a question that closely ties with the highly successful book - The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman. I think this is not just a ladies thing. I really do value special dates and occasions a lot. I was having quite a lot of expectations over the weekend for my birthday but mostly I just wished for a simple sms.
Was very happy that most of my friends sent me messages to encourage me of my birthday. Was sad that one particular one did not...What had happened that had caused us to come to this stage? I was upset, I was totally affected.
That was when I suddenly remembered my Dad's golden words. "Do you really expect everyone to give u a gift? Sometimes, the gift you received may not be what you really need or wanted. So then, what for a gift, rather than the gift of the person's presence and well-wishes?"
I was jostled out of my socks. Such was the shallowness of my character. To expect a physical gift as an expression of love from my family and friends? But I really do think one of my love language is really Gifts. Experiencing love through receiving gifts.
I told God that, hey God You, in Your Almighty power, help me manage and handle my expectations. I cannot take it anymore. I went with a relaxed heart to meet them and although the response I got from them was really not what I had expected. I was thankful and glad for their response. Give thanks to the Lord that for every one that you yearn and hanker after for attention, God grants and gives lovingly 30 others who would really remember you and care for you.
Relax, leave it in God's hands, the power of presence really surpasses and outweighs the physical receiving of presents! :)
Was very happy that most of my friends sent me messages to encourage me of my birthday. Was sad that one particular one did not...What had happened that had caused us to come to this stage? I was upset, I was totally affected.
That was when I suddenly remembered my Dad's golden words. "Do you really expect everyone to give u a gift? Sometimes, the gift you received may not be what you really need or wanted. So then, what for a gift, rather than the gift of the person's presence and well-wishes?"
I was jostled out of my socks. Such was the shallowness of my character. To expect a physical gift as an expression of love from my family and friends? But I really do think one of my love language is really Gifts. Experiencing love through receiving gifts.
I told God that, hey God You, in Your Almighty power, help me manage and handle my expectations. I cannot take it anymore. I went with a relaxed heart to meet them and although the response I got from them was really not what I had expected. I was thankful and glad for their response. Give thanks to the Lord that for every one that you yearn and hanker after for attention, God grants and gives lovingly 30 others who would really remember you and care for you.
Relax, leave it in God's hands, the power of presence really surpasses and outweighs the physical receiving of presents! :)
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Count your blessings :)
I am greatly BLESSED.
This year, the Lord has worked wonderful miracles in my life. I have been healed miraculously of 2 major illnesses in my life. Even until last Thursday, I was setting up for the Sport's Station for my school when I reached home, my whole body outbreak in patches of very itchy red rashes. Cantonese say,"Feng Mo" It did not go away and I was so upset because I had promised my friend that I would go to school early in the morning to help him setup. I scratched until scratch marks could be seen. Amazingly, after a trip to the doctor at 9 plus that night, the rashes vanished without a trace. Thank God for His wonderful Grace again!
Thank God for my family and friends who are always so supportive and always standing by me through my ups and downs. You have friends who put up with your nonsense and how you always seem to show your temper and let them down but they still forgive you? Well, true and rare buddies in church. Thank God for Jeannie, Sarah and Mingzhu and CC. My mum, who unceasingly cares every nitty gritty detail in my life. My sisters who provide me with much joy and laughter!
Thank God for my dad, for providing me every day unceasingly transport to school so that I would reach school first thing in the morning. For being the great source of advice and a good listening ear. I am so thankful for him. I should have spoken to him earlier to know about more truths than to just wander off in my own dreamworld of expectations! Actually, if not for my dad, I would not have realised how lofty my expectation of people are and how miserable I could have been if I have not learnt to let go and relax and place it in the Almighty's Hands. Thank God for you Pa!
Thank God for all the little blessings. For every little thing that seems to weigh us down, there are at least 20 blessings that seems to outweigh it all, I told CC the other day. Was in my tantrums again, but I realise that once I started to give thanks for all the people that were blessed into my life versus the little bad things that I hang on to. There's no competition. Bo Beh Chao.( No horse run) God is so interested in my life, your life that would He not at the most appropriate time, release upon you and me His wonderful and unsurmountable blessings, such that you are literally blessed out of your socks? I learnt the hard way, rather than to complain and mumble, use the heartaches and pain to trust in the Lord and lean on Him with all my strength. It all boils down to a decision, how much do you want to love and trust God to put the same love and hope into people?
"In quietness shall be your strength"
A very different birthday, but the gentle serenity of it all is really unlike the crowd-loving me. I really enjoyed it. May all birthdays be like this. Cosy and nice.
This year, the Lord has worked wonderful miracles in my life. I have been healed miraculously of 2 major illnesses in my life. Even until last Thursday, I was setting up for the Sport's Station for my school when I reached home, my whole body outbreak in patches of very itchy red rashes. Cantonese say,"Feng Mo" It did not go away and I was so upset because I had promised my friend that I would go to school early in the morning to help him setup. I scratched until scratch marks could be seen. Amazingly, after a trip to the doctor at 9 plus that night, the rashes vanished without a trace. Thank God for His wonderful Grace again!
Thank God for my family and friends who are always so supportive and always standing by me through my ups and downs. You have friends who put up with your nonsense and how you always seem to show your temper and let them down but they still forgive you? Well, true and rare buddies in church. Thank God for Jeannie, Sarah and Mingzhu and CC. My mum, who unceasingly cares every nitty gritty detail in my life. My sisters who provide me with much joy and laughter!
Thank God for my dad, for providing me every day unceasingly transport to school so that I would reach school first thing in the morning. For being the great source of advice and a good listening ear. I am so thankful for him. I should have spoken to him earlier to know about more truths than to just wander off in my own dreamworld of expectations! Actually, if not for my dad, I would not have realised how lofty my expectation of people are and how miserable I could have been if I have not learnt to let go and relax and place it in the Almighty's Hands. Thank God for you Pa!
Thank God for all the little blessings. For every little thing that seems to weigh us down, there are at least 20 blessings that seems to outweigh it all, I told CC the other day. Was in my tantrums again, but I realise that once I started to give thanks for all the people that were blessed into my life versus the little bad things that I hang on to. There's no competition. Bo Beh Chao.( No horse run) God is so interested in my life, your life that would He not at the most appropriate time, release upon you and me His wonderful and unsurmountable blessings, such that you are literally blessed out of your socks? I learnt the hard way, rather than to complain and mumble, use the heartaches and pain to trust in the Lord and lean on Him with all my strength. It all boils down to a decision, how much do you want to love and trust God to put the same love and hope into people?
"In quietness shall be your strength"
A very different birthday, but the gentle serenity of it all is really unlike the crowd-loving me. I really enjoyed it. May all birthdays be like this. Cosy and nice.
Quiet but memorable birthday
Came back from Potluck at Jeannie's place
Jeannie and Sarah's treat at Sun with Moon Jap Restaurant
With CG at Sakae Teppanyaki at Plaza Sing
With Mingzhu
Yes, I have turned a year older....BUT I am still 20-something mind you...heee heee. Chose to keep a relatively low key this year to spend with a few close friends. It's more meaningful this way. Can really share more and talk more. I have been on an EATING SPREE the last weekend!
8th August (Friday)
Lunch went with Cindy, Pat, Shanice and KX to eat at Sakura Buffet Restaurant at Tampines.
Night time was Marsli and ALbert's wedding, good food, great company!
9th August - Saturday
Lunch celebration with family at Poh Kee Seafood Restaurant, this really good restaurant off Tiong Bahru Market.
Night time - Potluck at Jeannie's place, lovely Chocolate "Smores" Ben & Jerry! Thank you!
10th August - Sunday
Lunch at Sun with Moon and Sakae Teppanyaki! I can really eat I tell you
11th August - Monday
Lerk Thai!
phew! 4 continuous day of straight eating and eating! I gained back a few if my lost 10kg I think.
Many thanksgiving points. Shall blog more about them in detail later ...:)
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Sick for the past 2 weeks!
This has to be another stretch of time when I am absolutely sick and not able to function well.
It had started last Friday 25th July with a bad sore throat on tow. By Saturday morning, I had developed myself a nasty cough and fever. Remembering my bad cough stint 5 years ago when it had developed into bronchitis. Very bad situation. Went to see doctor and was even too weak to go church that weekend.
Tried to go to work on Monday and Tuesday but by Tuesday morning 29th July, I lost my voice after the first two periods! It was really terrible. Hoarse voice plus stuck and runny nose. I took half day off to see a doctor and finally got my MC. But stress overwhelmed me and I was afraid to take the take off to rest. Sigh....dragged on for the next few days till today finally made my way to church after two weeks!
I realised that I had not seen my CG members for the past 2 weeks and wow...I was a bit "sair" already to react to the new bits of information and the changes that were going on. Still sniffing and coughing during the shepherd's meeting today. Buay tong ah... Met Jennifer, KX's friend to pass her the notes and books for NIE. Cannot tahan anymore, to meet Jeannie. Went home after that....slumped into my chair...sigh...
My voice is really a few tones down now...hahaha...Husky voice ya...
It had started last Friday 25th July with a bad sore throat on tow. By Saturday morning, I had developed myself a nasty cough and fever. Remembering my bad cough stint 5 years ago when it had developed into bronchitis. Very bad situation. Went to see doctor and was even too weak to go church that weekend.
Tried to go to work on Monday and Tuesday but by Tuesday morning 29th July, I lost my voice after the first two periods! It was really terrible. Hoarse voice plus stuck and runny nose. I took half day off to see a doctor and finally got my MC. But stress overwhelmed me and I was afraid to take the take off to rest. Sigh....dragged on for the next few days till today finally made my way to church after two weeks!
I realised that I had not seen my CG members for the past 2 weeks and wow...I was a bit "sair" already to react to the new bits of information and the changes that were going on. Still sniffing and coughing during the shepherd's meeting today. Buay tong ah... Met Jennifer, KX's friend to pass her the notes and books for NIE. Cannot tahan anymore, to meet Jeannie. Went home after that....slumped into my chair...sigh...
My voice is really a few tones down now...hahaha...Husky voice ya...
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Be Strong!
Be Strong!
===========
You are preparing to enter one of the most difficult periods ofyour life.
Be strong!
When you persevere through this severe trial you will bestronger, more confident, richer, refreshed and better.
Be Strong!
The desire to give up is sometimes overwhelming but don't quit.
Be Strong!
Many of you are now entering the 7 day water portion of 42.
Many of you are just going through a rough time that hasabsolutely nothing to do with 42.
Be Strong!
"I Am Strong!" is energizing and helps to give you power.
Be Strong and remember, YOU are strong!
~A MountainWings Original~
===========
You are preparing to enter one of the most difficult periods ofyour life.
Be strong!
When you persevere through this severe trial you will bestronger, more confident, richer, refreshed and better.
Be Strong!
The desire to give up is sometimes overwhelming but don't quit.
Be Strong!
Many of you are now entering the 7 day water portion of 42.
Many of you are just going through a rough time that hasabsolutely nothing to do with 42.
Be Strong!
"I Am Strong!" is energizing and helps to give you power.
Be Strong and remember, YOU are strong!
~A MountainWings Original~
Friday, July 25, 2008
More on Fasting and Prayer
Fasting and Prayer
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman
06-23-2008
"So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off" (Acts 13:2).
There are times in our lives when major decisions require a concerted effort to press into the heart of God. In Acts, chapter 13 we find a situation in which the disciples were worshiping during a time of fasting. During this time God spoke to them with some specific instructions. It was a strategic time in the church in which Barnabas and Saul were being set apart for the work God had called them. Fasting was an important aspect of hearing from God.
Angie and I have often set aside times of fasting and prayer whenever a major decision has to be made. Fasting is a physical demonstration to God that we are serious about wanting an answer. It allows us to be totally focused on the issue at hand. The physical aspects of fasting contribute to our mind being more in tune with the spiritual dimensions of life.
In 1997, before I was married to Angie, I was troubled over where I was in my life. It seemed nothing was moving forward. I was struggling with whether to rebuild my advertising agency, or focus on the new calling God seemed to be raising up. I assumed my fast would be a few days. However, as each day went by I did not feel I was getting direction. I extended it for a few more days. By the time I was on my fourteenth day I decided to fast for forty days.
It just so happened that the last day of my forty day fast was the first day of a conference I had planned to attend months earlier. That night an intercessor from South Africa came forward with a word of prophecy for someone in the audience. The minute he read his words, I knew they were directed at me because the scripture verse he used had been a passage that God has used consistently in my life during my journey recently.
The next time you have an important decision to make, consider setting aside a time of fasting and prayer to gain clarity on your decision.
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 2, by Os Hillman
06-23-2008
"So, after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off" (Acts 13:2).
There are times in our lives when major decisions require a concerted effort to press into the heart of God. In Acts, chapter 13 we find a situation in which the disciples were worshiping during a time of fasting. During this time God spoke to them with some specific instructions. It was a strategic time in the church in which Barnabas and Saul were being set apart for the work God had called them. Fasting was an important aspect of hearing from God.
Angie and I have often set aside times of fasting and prayer whenever a major decision has to be made. Fasting is a physical demonstration to God that we are serious about wanting an answer. It allows us to be totally focused on the issue at hand. The physical aspects of fasting contribute to our mind being more in tune with the spiritual dimensions of life.
In 1997, before I was married to Angie, I was troubled over where I was in my life. It seemed nothing was moving forward. I was struggling with whether to rebuild my advertising agency, or focus on the new calling God seemed to be raising up. I assumed my fast would be a few days. However, as each day went by I did not feel I was getting direction. I extended it for a few more days. By the time I was on my fourteenth day I decided to fast for forty days.
It just so happened that the last day of my forty day fast was the first day of a conference I had planned to attend months earlier. That night an intercessor from South Africa came forward with a word of prophecy for someone in the audience. The minute he read his words, I knew they were directed at me because the scripture verse he used had been a passage that God has used consistently in my life during my journey recently.
The next time you have an important decision to make, consider setting aside a time of fasting and prayer to gain clarity on your decision.
Sowing in Tears
Sowing in Tears
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Friday, May 16 2008
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." - Psalm 126:5
The most difficult place to keep moving in faith is the place of extreme pain. Extreme pain, especially emotional pain, can become immobilizing to the human spirit if it is allowed to overcome us. The psalmist tells us there is only one remedy for overcoming painful circumstances that will result in joy. We are to sow in the midst of these times. You cannot do this if you live by feelings alone. It is an act of the will. This act requires that we go outside ourselves in pure faith.
I learned this principle during one of the deepest periods of my life. I had lost much that was dear to me. A mature man in the faith admonished me to reach out to others in spite of my own pain. "Invest in someone else," he said. I did not realize what a place of healing and comfort that would become.
"He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him" (Ps. 126:6). Pain can become a source of joy if we take the first step by planting seed. There is a harvest that will come if we sow in the midst of tears.
TGIF Today God Is First Volume 1 by Os Hillman
Friday, May 16 2008
"Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy." - Psalm 126:5
The most difficult place to keep moving in faith is the place of extreme pain. Extreme pain, especially emotional pain, can become immobilizing to the human spirit if it is allowed to overcome us. The psalmist tells us there is only one remedy for overcoming painful circumstances that will result in joy. We are to sow in the midst of these times. You cannot do this if you live by feelings alone. It is an act of the will. This act requires that we go outside ourselves in pure faith.
I learned this principle during one of the deepest periods of my life. I had lost much that was dear to me. A mature man in the faith admonished me to reach out to others in spite of my own pain. "Invest in someone else," he said. I did not realize what a place of healing and comfort that would become.
"He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him" (Ps. 126:6). Pain can become a source of joy if we take the first step by planting seed. There is a harvest that will come if we sow in the midst of tears.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Monday, July 14, 2008
Whirlwind Night
It was just a lazy Sunday evening. Had woke up early today to reach church to play guitar for Sub District Prayer meet. Shopped like crazy buying up stuff for Ballroom Dance CCA. Cosmetics must be my forte, swept up all the "gim gim" makeup! You have glitter mascara, eyeshadow, body glitter, and lots of other makeup knicks and knacks that are really dramatic to top up my spending up of 272 bucks!
Woo hoo...SaSa loves me i think!
I was marking my compositions when I received a frantic call from SW. She was in bad shape and had high fever and rashes all over her body. There was no one in the area to send her to the doctor. Her parents were out and she was alone in the house. I think my protective instinct over dear SW was just activated just like that. Worried that she may not be able to handle herself and walk, I jumped out of my seat and immediately changed, asking my sisters and called KX to help. Wow, sounds like a cool rescue operation. My sis accessed the website and found some 24-hour clinics and much to my chagrin, some of them are NOT updated.
I think I have the sweetest dad. I told him of my situation that my friend fell ill and needed my help, no questions asked he just said, "Take my car!" Ladies and gentlemen, where can you find a super Dad like that right? So sensitive and caring!
Grabbed some 24-hour clinics addresses and dashed out of the house. Reached SW's house in no time. My heart went out to her. Her face and eyes were swollen, rashes and fever raged on. Decided to go to the nearest 24-hour clinic at Rivervale Plaza, but hey, really made a wasted trip! The clinic there had stopped their 24-hour consultation.
Quickly called KX for help, my navigator hehe... was a great help to locate all the nearest clinics and their names for me...Was a bit hestitant to call this clinic at Hougang, but decided to go anyway, had a mini saga at the clinic which I shall not elaborate but suffice to say, I was stunned. The consultation fee alone came out to 83 bucks!!!! Total medical bill came to a whopping 144 bucks! Scary sia...
Thank God the whirlwind ended at around 1:30am in the night. I can't really sleep after that...got up and made pancakes at 4:45am! hahah...crazy me...am zombified the rest of the day today...Thank God for sustaining me.
Had a refuelling session though with the Cindy, Pat and KX at Hougang Suki Sushi :P
It's really worth it after all.
SW, you are in my prayers :) Get well soon!
Woo hoo...SaSa loves me i think!
I was marking my compositions when I received a frantic call from SW. She was in bad shape and had high fever and rashes all over her body. There was no one in the area to send her to the doctor. Her parents were out and she was alone in the house. I think my protective instinct over dear SW was just activated just like that. Worried that she may not be able to handle herself and walk, I jumped out of my seat and immediately changed, asking my sisters and called KX to help. Wow, sounds like a cool rescue operation. My sis accessed the website and found some 24-hour clinics and much to my chagrin, some of them are NOT updated.
I think I have the sweetest dad. I told him of my situation that my friend fell ill and needed my help, no questions asked he just said, "Take my car!" Ladies and gentlemen, where can you find a super Dad like that right? So sensitive and caring!
Grabbed some 24-hour clinics addresses and dashed out of the house. Reached SW's house in no time. My heart went out to her. Her face and eyes were swollen, rashes and fever raged on. Decided to go to the nearest 24-hour clinic at Rivervale Plaza, but hey, really made a wasted trip! The clinic there had stopped their 24-hour consultation.
Quickly called KX for help, my navigator hehe... was a great help to locate all the nearest clinics and their names for me...Was a bit hestitant to call this clinic at Hougang, but decided to go anyway, had a mini saga at the clinic which I shall not elaborate but suffice to say, I was stunned. The consultation fee alone came out to 83 bucks!!!! Total medical bill came to a whopping 144 bucks! Scary sia...
Thank God the whirlwind ended at around 1:30am in the night. I can't really sleep after that...got up and made pancakes at 4:45am! hahah...crazy me...am zombified the rest of the day today...Thank God for sustaining me.
Had a refuelling session though with the Cindy, Pat and KX at Hougang Suki Sushi :P
It's really worth it after all.
SW, you are in my prayers :) Get well soon!
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Bonuses, Bullies and Boo boos...
Ah....bonus is in for us yes...:) Dun envy us, we are covering more than what we are supposed to do. :P Hey I still love my job! It's a calling!
But I wanna thank God for a smooth Lesson observation today. It was supposed to be on Wednesday and I had prepared and went through the lesson with myself so many times that I got very stressed.
Rashes started to break out from my hands. It was postponed to Friday morning due to the Hair for Hope event in school where the principal and 50 other children took part in the event. Normally the Principal and Vice Principal would not make joint "appearance" at my lesson. But suddenly, not 3 but FOUR ppl turned up at my class to see me teach composition.
The two principals, my reporting officer came to observe my lesson and the Special Needs officer to take a look at my autistic child. Yes, you have 4 ppl looking at me teach composition.
Thank you all for all your prayers and your encouragement! The children were participative, they were responsive and they were very willing to take part in the activities and games played. A few glitches I made could be the video on School Bullies which I showed was not too edifying and the kids were actually laughing at it, and my time control...hopefully and prayerfully they would like my lesson. :P
The kids were able to identify with school bullies and some of time could describe in details on what horrible things that had been done to them. To my horror, some of them admitted that they themselves were actually bullies too.
The Holy Spirit was really moving in the kids hearts and in the classroom today. Wow...am amazed at how smooth the delivery of the lesson was. heheh His grace was upon me...din really prepare well enough for the lesson still I feel...
Phew! Can finally sleep well liao...:P
But I wanna thank God for a smooth Lesson observation today. It was supposed to be on Wednesday and I had prepared and went through the lesson with myself so many times that I got very stressed.
Rashes started to break out from my hands. It was postponed to Friday morning due to the Hair for Hope event in school where the principal and 50 other children took part in the event. Normally the Principal and Vice Principal would not make joint "appearance" at my lesson. But suddenly, not 3 but FOUR ppl turned up at my class to see me teach composition.
The two principals, my reporting officer came to observe my lesson and the Special Needs officer to take a look at my autistic child. Yes, you have 4 ppl looking at me teach composition.
Thank you all for all your prayers and your encouragement! The children were participative, they were responsive and they were very willing to take part in the activities and games played. A few glitches I made could be the video on School Bullies which I showed was not too edifying and the kids were actually laughing at it, and my time control...hopefully and prayerfully they would like my lesson. :P
The kids were able to identify with school bullies and some of time could describe in details on what horrible things that had been done to them. To my horror, some of them admitted that they themselves were actually bullies too.
The Holy Spirit was really moving in the kids hearts and in the classroom today. Wow...am amazed at how smooth the delivery of the lesson was. heheh His grace was upon me...din really prepare well enough for the lesson still I feel...
Phew! Can finally sleep well liao...:P
Monday, July 07, 2008
40 Day prayer and fasting
Our Sub District had called for a corporate prayer and fasting for 40 days last 2 weeks starting on the 30th June 2008.
So many things had happened since school started and I really thank God for answering my prayers and for bringing through all the things that had happened.
23rd June 2008
First day of school - Wham! Bam! start to Term 3 of 2008. Lotsa things happening and the kids are pretty sedated..quite glad though as it made teaching rather easy. Things moved and progressed and the Lord had really answered my prayers on a breakthrough in some things.
The call came. We had a long talk, one and a half hours! Sort of expected that things would turn out that way. But hey, how come I sense this strong sense of peace over me? Is it that I have been fasting and praying throughout these 6 months that my faith and trust in the Lord has increased?
Romans 8:28 - "God works for the good of those who love Him and who have called according to His purpose."
Talked about this verse many times, but ever since the Lord had spoken to me so many times about this person, I am hanging on! I am NOT giving up.:) It's tough but I would let the Holy Spirit lead, guide and direct. Things are certainly easier now that my burden is over and on His shoulders instead of mine. I have spoken my thoughts and feelings...let God intervene.:)
2nd July 2008 (Wednesday) - 3rd Day
Meeting time, struggle time. The 3rd day of our Corporate Prayer and fasting and I am even more expectant to hear from God and see Him move in my life. I was just wondering about all these, muttering the prayer under my breath. Thinking how I should carry on in relating to him when suddenly, Mary showed me this passage from the book "The Prayer of Jabez" It was like a direct call from the Lord!
"If you keep an expectant watch, God's intervention will be unmistakable. Whether it's the provision of millions for a worthy cause or the firm, gentle shifting of a loved one's heart - God will do before your eyes what you could never have done without His intervention."
I was jostled out of my seat. I was there so touched and shaken by this message! You know the kind of feeling when you had just finished your prayer and immediately God speaks? It's like you are dialing for God on the phone and God answers! Woa!
I know it is Him speaking to me about him...I know it and I will trust and hold on expectantly no matter how seemingly different things may be. I know the Lord is really moving. What a big assurance! My confidence is certainly boosted by the Lord and not what people say. Expectant watch...carry on praying, waiting and trusting and watch the Lord move in the hearts of all those whom we are praying for.
4th July 2008 (Friday) - 5th Day
Almost immediately, the Lord touched my life again this morning.
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Galatians 5:6b
We claim that we have faith in the Lord. Circumstances always seem to put us all down, we are amazed at the ways in which God works, certainly much higher than our ways. If we have faith in God, we carrying on loving. We express this faith in our Lord Jesus through showing love to people around us. Yes, have faith in God.
5th July 2008 (Saturday)- 6th Day
Received this sms from Wils "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Wils had enc me that the Lord had brought this verse to him while he was praying for me. Thank you prayer warriors!
I can really wonder at myself how many times I struggled and grappled with the idea of giving up and fear of facing the unknown. This is another assurance from the Lord from what I have already received from Him about this matter which I have been praying about. This verse really boosted me up. I will be strong, I will be courageous, lead me O Lord, out of my disbelief and let me wait in strong expectancy at Your hand in all these situations...Help me to rest in Your loving arms and I desire rest and peace in the inmost parts. Lead me to make the correct decisions. Amen!
So many things had happened since school started and I really thank God for answering my prayers and for bringing through all the things that had happened.
23rd June 2008
First day of school - Wham! Bam! start to Term 3 of 2008. Lotsa things happening and the kids are pretty sedated..quite glad though as it made teaching rather easy. Things moved and progressed and the Lord had really answered my prayers on a breakthrough in some things.
The call came. We had a long talk, one and a half hours! Sort of expected that things would turn out that way. But hey, how come I sense this strong sense of peace over me? Is it that I have been fasting and praying throughout these 6 months that my faith and trust in the Lord has increased?
Romans 8:28 - "God works for the good of those who love Him and who have called according to His purpose."
Talked about this verse many times, but ever since the Lord had spoken to me so many times about this person, I am hanging on! I am NOT giving up.:) It's tough but I would let the Holy Spirit lead, guide and direct. Things are certainly easier now that my burden is over and on His shoulders instead of mine. I have spoken my thoughts and feelings...let God intervene.:)
2nd July 2008 (Wednesday) - 3rd Day
Meeting time, struggle time. The 3rd day of our Corporate Prayer and fasting and I am even more expectant to hear from God and see Him move in my life. I was just wondering about all these, muttering the prayer under my breath. Thinking how I should carry on in relating to him when suddenly, Mary showed me this passage from the book "The Prayer of Jabez" It was like a direct call from the Lord!
"If you keep an expectant watch, God's intervention will be unmistakable. Whether it's the provision of millions for a worthy cause or the firm, gentle shifting of a loved one's heart - God will do before your eyes what you could never have done without His intervention."
I was jostled out of my seat. I was there so touched and shaken by this message! You know the kind of feeling when you had just finished your prayer and immediately God speaks? It's like you are dialing for God on the phone and God answers! Woa!
I know it is Him speaking to me about him...I know it and I will trust and hold on expectantly no matter how seemingly different things may be. I know the Lord is really moving. What a big assurance! My confidence is certainly boosted by the Lord and not what people say. Expectant watch...carry on praying, waiting and trusting and watch the Lord move in the hearts of all those whom we are praying for.
4th July 2008 (Friday) - 5th Day
Almost immediately, the Lord touched my life again this morning.
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." Galatians 5:6b
We claim that we have faith in the Lord. Circumstances always seem to put us all down, we are amazed at the ways in which God works, certainly much higher than our ways. If we have faith in God, we carrying on loving. We express this faith in our Lord Jesus through showing love to people around us. Yes, have faith in God.
5th July 2008 (Saturday)- 6th Day
Received this sms from Wils "Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9
Wils had enc me that the Lord had brought this verse to him while he was praying for me. Thank you prayer warriors!
I can really wonder at myself how many times I struggled and grappled with the idea of giving up and fear of facing the unknown. This is another assurance from the Lord from what I have already received from Him about this matter which I have been praying about. This verse really boosted me up. I will be strong, I will be courageous, lead me O Lord, out of my disbelief and let me wait in strong expectancy at Your hand in all these situations...Help me to rest in Your loving arms and I desire rest and peace in the inmost parts. Lead me to make the correct decisions. Amen!
Monday, June 30, 2008
30th June - Had a bad day
Yes, its not just the Monday blues...but its a bad day...the Lord has seen me through it and brought me in His arms. I thank God again for all the angels in my life.
I need help, I need sleep, I need prayers.
It's been one week...it hurts...
I need help, I need sleep, I need prayers.
It's been one week...it hurts...
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Is it right?
Is It Right?
============
Cowardice asks the question, ‘Is it safe?’
Expediency asks the question, ‘Is it politic?’
And Vanity comes along and asks the question, ‘Is it popular?’
But Conscience asks the question ‘Is it right?’
And there comes a time when one must take a position thatis neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must doit because Conscience tells him it is right.
~Martin Luther King~
============
Cowardice asks the question, ‘Is it safe?’
Expediency asks the question, ‘Is it politic?’
And Vanity comes along and asks the question, ‘Is it popular?’
But Conscience asks the question ‘Is it right?’
And there comes a time when one must take a position thatis neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must doit because Conscience tells him it is right.
~Martin Luther King~
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