I have been in the youth ministry for a while now and I was talking about this recently with a friend and he remarked that I can't possibly still be in the youth ministry when I'm 50. I must read the signs, and know when to go. So that thought has stuck in me since then, and I happened to mention this to another friend two days ago and she doesn't see it that way. One thing she told me before that I remember to this day is that when we become leaders, God gives us an extra measure of grace and wisdom that others don't have. So I will use that measure of grace and wisdom to know when to exit gracefully... but while waiting for that event to happen.... hehe, let's talk about other stuff. Besides, I am not even in my 40's yet, don't say 50 loh.. oh wait.. the guys tell me I'm forever 16 in their books and that.... IS AWESOME!
You think that when you become a youth leader you are supposed to give of yourself; your time, car, money and sanity. Tick all the boxes above, for that IS what you are supposed to do, and more. You wear many hats and sometimes it's all at the same time; become a driver, a counsellor while driving, a planner, game master, sharing the Word and if you know how to sing or play an instrument, even better! Helps also if you know how to cook and feed hungry mouths. So, anyone wants to be a youth leader? Come and see me!
But time and again, God has shown me that while giving of myself into the ministry, I also receive. The past 2 weeks have been a stressful one for me, mainly at work because it's audit time and I have to get my accounts ready. Then I have had to juggle schedule in organising parties and do Christmas shopping, the general busyness that December brings. After an especially grueling day, I was really frazzled and I looked forward to spending some time with the youths by going to drama practice. I told some of them I needed to de-stress and true enough, spending time with the youths really does the trick. We laugh at lame jokes, tease each other, try and outdo each other in some crazy stunts, welcome friends back for the holidays, go yam-cha (and hope we don't get calls from parents ordering us to go home!). By the time I got home, I was tired but relaxed, happy to be able to laugh and joke with the youths.
So thank you, to those who are youths and those who call yourselves youths, thank you for sharing your life with me, thanks for the laughter, the jokes (even the lame ones, but please, a small measure goes a long way), the creativity, the love and joy. Thanks for being in the youth, don't stop coming and continue to ask others to come and join. Some are unable to be home for Christmas so make sure you go to church for services and remember why we celebrate Christmas... Jesus! Have a blessed Christmas.
Friday, December 24, 2010
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Youth Awakened - Truth Or Dare
Sorry for not updating this for a while, we've been busy on FB! Anyway, just wanted to inform you that the CCL youths are organising this event in September; Truth or Dare and we have also set up a blog (address below) so from now till the event, we will be writing more in that blog. However, our youth meetings are continuing as normal and our prayer requests are also updated.
We thank you for reading our news and that you'd continue to do so! We will be back after Truth or Dare. Blessings!
http://ccltruthordare2010.blogspot.com
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Wisdom from Little Animals
Four things on earth are small,
yet they are extremely wise:
Ants are creatures of little strength,
yet they store up their food in the summer;
Coneys are creatures of little power,
yet they make their home in the crags;
Locusts have no king,
yet they advance together in ranks;
A lizard can be caught with the hand,
yet it is found in kings' palaces.
Proverbs 30:24-28
Last Sunday's sermon was from this passage, but since I overslept last Sunday and didn't go to church, I only heard the sharing from Cell group tonight. It's stuck in my mind because here we are, always being told to look up to the great men/women of this earth, be it Gandhi, Einstein, Billy Graham, Mother Teresa etc.. yet this wise man who wrote this points us to 4 creatures.. small ones at that! Mind boggling.
The ants.. small little creatures yet they work hard. You have a picnic, they carry your potato chips away to store. They work hard in the summer so that they have food to eat in the winter. They don't put off to tomorrow what they can do today. They know the timing of things.
For us, the 'preparation for winter' is to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. Now is the day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2). If we have done that, then we must also work hard to equip ourselves for difficult times by storing God's Word in our hearts.
Coneys.. are like the size of a guinea pig and they are vulnerable to attacks from predators. So they know their own strengths and weaknesses. As long as they hide under the rocks, no eagle can get to them. The eagle would have to rip the whole mountain of rocks to get to them! But if they get out onto the plains, it's dead meat!
Likewise, we are like these coneys, vulnerable to diseases, depression, temptation, name it, we're exposed to it. So where is our strength? In the Lord, of course. Like coneys, they did not make the mountain, but they know how to use it. So we don't have the strength ourselves, but our God have that strength! Be strong in the Lord, the Bible tells us, and in His mighty power (Eph 6:10)
Locusts.. one locust can't do much, but when they get together, they can create havoc and devastation to crops over a vast area. Farmers fear them. They know when they do things collectively, they make an impact.
Christians can make an impact like these locusts when we come and work together, and pray together. Let us come together and contribute to the unity of the church.
Lizards.. they're creepy, slimy, cold blooded and you will forever remember the occasion should one fall on you.. urgh! They're everywhere! You can't get rid of them (sorry Van!) and they can be found in kings' palaces.
Think of the people who are not lovable, and you might one day see them sitting next to you in our King's palace! And we might be like that lizard ourselves, not lovable nor desirable, but by God's grace we can live in heaven as sons and daughters of God.
yet they are extremely wise:
Ants are creatures of little strength,
yet they store up their food in the summer;
Coneys are creatures of little power,
yet they make their home in the crags;
Locusts have no king,
yet they advance together in ranks;
A lizard can be caught with the hand,
yet it is found in kings' palaces.
Proverbs 30:24-28
Last Sunday's sermon was from this passage, but since I overslept last Sunday and didn't go to church, I only heard the sharing from Cell group tonight. It's stuck in my mind because here we are, always being told to look up to the great men/women of this earth, be it Gandhi, Einstein, Billy Graham, Mother Teresa etc.. yet this wise man who wrote this points us to 4 creatures.. small ones at that! Mind boggling.
The ants.. small little creatures yet they work hard. You have a picnic, they carry your potato chips away to store. They work hard in the summer so that they have food to eat in the winter. They don't put off to tomorrow what they can do today. They know the timing of things.
For us, the 'preparation for winter' is to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour. Now is the day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2). If we have done that, then we must also work hard to equip ourselves for difficult times by storing God's Word in our hearts.
Coneys.. are like the size of a guinea pig and they are vulnerable to attacks from predators. So they know their own strengths and weaknesses. As long as they hide under the rocks, no eagle can get to them. The eagle would have to rip the whole mountain of rocks to get to them! But if they get out onto the plains, it's dead meat!
Likewise, we are like these coneys, vulnerable to diseases, depression, temptation, name it, we're exposed to it. So where is our strength? In the Lord, of course. Like coneys, they did not make the mountain, but they know how to use it. So we don't have the strength ourselves, but our God have that strength! Be strong in the Lord, the Bible tells us, and in His mighty power (Eph 6:10)
Locusts.. one locust can't do much, but when they get together, they can create havoc and devastation to crops over a vast area. Farmers fear them. They know when they do things collectively, they make an impact.
Christians can make an impact like these locusts when we come and work together, and pray together. Let us come together and contribute to the unity of the church.
Lizards.. they're creepy, slimy, cold blooded and you will forever remember the occasion should one fall on you.. urgh! They're everywhere! You can't get rid of them (sorry Van!) and they can be found in kings' palaces.
Think of the people who are not lovable, and you might one day see them sitting next to you in our King's palace! And we might be like that lizard ourselves, not lovable nor desirable, but by God's grace we can live in heaven as sons and daughters of God.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Deep In The Jungle
"Out, out, out!" barks the CO, "on the double, soldier" as you scrambled out of the transport that had stopped in the middle of nowhere. "You got your Basic Kit and your gear, I'll see you back in camp in a week's time, soldier! Try not to get killed!" and as fast as he had dropped you, your CO was gone.
"This is it," you thought, as you take a quick look at your surrounding. You are at a clearing of 50 feet and the sun is starting to show beyond the tree tops. You check your watch, it is 0600. Beyond the clearing, spreading in all directions, are trees. Thick tropical trees that seem to crowd out the sun. This ain't no basic training, you think as you shift your gear on your shoulder. "This is deep s&(*%, you're in deep s*&^%, soldier!" as a wave of panic swept over you and you hurled.
Glad that no one could see you as you threw up, you wiped your mouth with the back of your hand as you threw your gear onto the ground and you followed suit, sitting on the grass still wet with dew. "Ok, think, soldier, what were the instructions?" You dig out your Basic Kit and flip to Ps9. "What did the CO say... v10.. "know him will trust in him, he has never forsaken those who seek." Hmm... you gaze unseeingly at the trees as you thought about that.. "know him will trust in him, he never forgets those who seek."
Time seemed to stop as your thoughts drifted back to the first day you made your way to basic training camp, and the first time you met the CO. You have never seen anyone like him; tough as nails as he challenged you to finish the course, to suck it up and study your Basic Kit even when you're tired and sleepy, but when you faltered at the 6 foot wall, he showed you the trick to get over it, each time. He was patient that way. He challenged you, stretched you, encouraged and taught you all you knew. "He taught me all I knew, I gotta trust him," you tell yourself as you suddenly discovered that it's already 0800.
Scrambling to your feet, you berated yourself for wasting time daydreaming. As you shoulder your gear, you gave yourself a little smile because you have discovered the way out, sorta. "I gotta trust the CO, he didn't put me here if he didn't know I could get outta here." Your eyes again swept over the trees surrounding the clearing and this time, you could just about make out the outline of a path in between the trees. "This is it, soldier, time to put what you learnt to the test," as you tuck the Basic Kit into the front pocket of your jacket and started heading towards the path.
"This is it," you thought, as you take a quick look at your surrounding. You are at a clearing of 50 feet and the sun is starting to show beyond the tree tops. You check your watch, it is 0600. Beyond the clearing, spreading in all directions, are trees. Thick tropical trees that seem to crowd out the sun. This ain't no basic training, you think as you shift your gear on your shoulder. "This is deep s&(*%, you're in deep s*&^%, soldier!" as a wave of panic swept over you and you hurled.
Glad that no one could see you as you threw up, you wiped your mouth with the back of your hand as you threw your gear onto the ground and you followed suit, sitting on the grass still wet with dew. "Ok, think, soldier, what were the instructions?" You dig out your Basic Kit and flip to Ps9. "What did the CO say... v10.. "know him will trust in him, he has never forsaken those who seek." Hmm... you gaze unseeingly at the trees as you thought about that.. "know him will trust in him, he never forgets those who seek."
Time seemed to stop as your thoughts drifted back to the first day you made your way to basic training camp, and the first time you met the CO. You have never seen anyone like him; tough as nails as he challenged you to finish the course, to suck it up and study your Basic Kit even when you're tired and sleepy, but when you faltered at the 6 foot wall, he showed you the trick to get over it, each time. He was patient that way. He challenged you, stretched you, encouraged and taught you all you knew. "He taught me all I knew, I gotta trust him," you tell yourself as you suddenly discovered that it's already 0800.
Scrambling to your feet, you berated yourself for wasting time daydreaming. As you shoulder your gear, you gave yourself a little smile because you have discovered the way out, sorta. "I gotta trust the CO, he didn't put me here if he didn't know I could get outta here." Your eyes again swept over the trees surrounding the clearing and this time, you could just about make out the outline of a path in between the trees. "This is it, soldier, time to put what you learnt to the test," as you tuck the Basic Kit into the front pocket of your jacket and started heading towards the path.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Prayer Meeting
Normally our church prayer meeting is held every Monday night but this week it was held on Thursday and we had a special team from the Sarang Church from Seoul, South Korea. Sarang Church is the biggest church in the world. I had sms all the leaders and asked them to try make it since it was their holidays, and because we don't get visiting teams with us every week.
After the P&W, their pastor shared the Word with us. And it was taken from Psalms 9:9-12. The first two verses leapt out at me, "The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you." The pastor said do not ask the Lord whether He has forsaken us, because he will never forsake those who seek him. Many times it is us who do not seek the Lord, and Satan will keep telling us that God has forgotten us, it's not use calling God. You have to depend on yourselves. And if we believe in Satan's lies, we are deceived and we walk further away from God.
The pastor mentioned that God doesn't always put us on gentle slopes, because on gentle slopes, we don't have to pray earnestly to be able to overcome the difficulties. Sometimes he put us in front of a mountain, so that we may depend on him and pray earnestly and diligently so that we may overcome that mountain. I tell you, those words just strike me to my core. That's why God's Words are living and active and effective!
It was a great prayer meeting. In fact, I encourage all of us to attend prayer meetings, that our faith may be built up and that we may be encouraged.
After the P&W, their pastor shared the Word with us. And it was taken from Psalms 9:9-12. The first two verses leapt out at me, "The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble. Those who know your name will trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you." The pastor said do not ask the Lord whether He has forsaken us, because he will never forsake those who seek him. Many times it is us who do not seek the Lord, and Satan will keep telling us that God has forgotten us, it's not use calling God. You have to depend on yourselves. And if we believe in Satan's lies, we are deceived and we walk further away from God.
The pastor mentioned that God doesn't always put us on gentle slopes, because on gentle slopes, we don't have to pray earnestly to be able to overcome the difficulties. Sometimes he put us in front of a mountain, so that we may depend on him and pray earnestly and diligently so that we may overcome that mountain. I tell you, those words just strike me to my core. That's why God's Words are living and active and effective!
It was a great prayer meeting. In fact, I encourage all of us to attend prayer meetings, that our faith may be built up and that we may be encouraged.
Flying - Part 2
It probably was more a coincidence than planned that many of our senior youths came back last week. Jenny, Vincent, Thomson, Douglas and Mark were all back here, well, Mark has been here for about a month now. But to get all of them back at once is something very rare and it's something I look forward to. And so ngam last week our planned Treasure Hunt didn't materialise (we'll re-schedule, no worries!) so we had this bright idea for our seniors to come do a short testimony during youth. I had told them share something about being away from home, what they have learnt and any advice for the juniors. They just nodded and said 'No problem.'
Vanessa shared first, she was studying Pharmacy first in KL and then in Scotland. What surprised me was that none of them talked about how difficult studying was. Well, Thomson did lah, he told all of us DON'T study medicine, which talks about the subject, but not the studying part. Haha. He said if anyone truly wanted to study medicine to go talk to him! Ok, back to Vanessa. She told us the most difficult thing for her was the finances part and how she really depended on God for help. And our God was faithful, He led her through till she came back, graduated with flying colours.
Next up, Jenny, who is now working in BSI Vision School in Tawau. She said she depends on God more there than in KK, because when she's in KK, she is home, everything is well and taken care of. But when you're away, you have to fend for yourself and that's when you realise how much you need God. Remember I said you're not going to believe me that working life is much harder than studying? Ask Jenny..
Then came Vincent, who's working for Petronas in Bintulu, Sarawak. For all the jokes we heap on him about being in a pithole, he's got himself a Vios! Urgh.. envy man! Haha, but he shared about how he went out of his comfort zone when he went to Terengganu for training, how he had to mix with different people, learning to work and live with them. It isn't easy. But praise God he's settling down in Bintulu and with his car, life has gotten easier. (Sorry man, can't resist that last crack!hehe)
Our medical student Thomson came next and he was also talking about being out of his comfort zone. How he originally planned to study medicine in Russia and just as he was ready to leave for Russia, his parents found a uni in Semeling (say what?) in Sungai Petani (where?) to study medicine. God had his hands on Thomson, though he didn't go to Russia, but God showed him that that wasn't a mistake, that he know the plans he has for Thomson, for all of us. We must have faith.
Doug is reading Law in UK, found life, and love, and faith. He shared how churches there are very secular and they can quote motivational thoughts and sayings from famous singers etc. How he found it difficult to fit into a church but he tries. And he's also bringing his gf to church so they kinda watch out for one another, like a check and balance kinda thing, somewhat.
Mark rounded up the testimony time and he shared how the lack of finances tested both him and his family many times but through it all, God didn't give up on him. And in the midst of his difficulties, he saw how other people were worse off than he is, and that made him realised how blessed he was.
I am so proud to see how far these young people have progressed. Some are just starting out, some are almost at the end of their studies. I praise and thank God for watching out for them, and continues to do so. Fly you guys/girls, fly!
Vanessa shared first, she was studying Pharmacy first in KL and then in Scotland. What surprised me was that none of them talked about how difficult studying was. Well, Thomson did lah, he told all of us DON'T study medicine, which talks about the subject, but not the studying part. Haha. He said if anyone truly wanted to study medicine to go talk to him! Ok, back to Vanessa. She told us the most difficult thing for her was the finances part and how she really depended on God for help. And our God was faithful, He led her through till she came back, graduated with flying colours.
Next up, Jenny, who is now working in BSI Vision School in Tawau. She said she depends on God more there than in KK, because when she's in KK, she is home, everything is well and taken care of. But when you're away, you have to fend for yourself and that's when you realise how much you need God. Remember I said you're not going to believe me that working life is much harder than studying? Ask Jenny..
Then came Vincent, who's working for Petronas in Bintulu, Sarawak. For all the jokes we heap on him about being in a pithole, he's got himself a Vios! Urgh.. envy man! Haha, but he shared about how he went out of his comfort zone when he went to Terengganu for training, how he had to mix with different people, learning to work and live with them. It isn't easy. But praise God he's settling down in Bintulu and with his car, life has gotten easier. (Sorry man, can't resist that last crack!hehe)
Our medical student Thomson came next and he was also talking about being out of his comfort zone. How he originally planned to study medicine in Russia and just as he was ready to leave for Russia, his parents found a uni in Semeling (say what?) in Sungai Petani (where?) to study medicine. God had his hands on Thomson, though he didn't go to Russia, but God showed him that that wasn't a mistake, that he know the plans he has for Thomson, for all of us. We must have faith.
Doug is reading Law in UK, found life, and love, and faith. He shared how churches there are very secular and they can quote motivational thoughts and sayings from famous singers etc. How he found it difficult to fit into a church but he tries. And he's also bringing his gf to church so they kinda watch out for one another, like a check and balance kinda thing, somewhat.
Mark rounded up the testimony time and he shared how the lack of finances tested both him and his family many times but through it all, God didn't give up on him. And in the midst of his difficulties, he saw how other people were worse off than he is, and that made him realised how blessed he was.
I am so proud to see how far these young people have progressed. Some are just starting out, some are almost at the end of their studies. I praise and thank God for watching out for them, and continues to do so. Fly you guys/girls, fly!
Flying
I recently went on a trip to Perth and managed to meet up with Daniel, Joel and Sarah. It was lunch time when we met up so Sarah asked me what was my budget. I only thought about eating a roast beef sandwich so we walked to the end of the block to Subway but when we got there, it was packed! Man... so we decided to walk back where we came from trying to look for a place that wasn't so packed. And we saw our favourite, dependable McD. We could actually see a few places so we hopped in and sat down.
We had a nice lunch as well as catching up with news. They wanted to know what's going on in KK, how are the guys back home, and all the crazy stuff we'd done. Come to think of it, we HAVEN'T DONE any crazy stuff! How boring! We better quit youth and go rock at the Senior Citizen meetings.. am sure they're as bored as we are!
Anyway.... back to the subject of flying.. When I hear the 3 talking about their life there in Perth, discussing which bus to take, connect to where, about living as a student, I was brought back to my own student days in KL and realised that nothing much has changed. It's not nice being away from family, you have to fend for yourself, either be smart or act stupid while living your life away from your parents, you decide. It's just like you hear people saying that working life sucks more than student life but you haven't experienced it so you are attracted to getting your salary, your first car, credit card, etc.. you think working life is way better than student life, I mean, can anything be worse than your guru disiplin, or studying Moral, or Sejarah? One word, YUP!.. there are worse things than them, believe me! There's....and .... But.. you're not going to believe me anyway.. so.. just wait till you start working.... hehe
I am happy to see Daniel, Joel and Sarah living their lives there, adapting, enjoying and more importantly, going to cell groups and church. They also go out lunch after church service, just like we do here. I am happy that they have found friends and are living life. Praise God for his protection on them, and all our friends overseas.
We had a nice lunch as well as catching up with news. They wanted to know what's going on in KK, how are the guys back home, and all the crazy stuff we'd done. Come to think of it, we HAVEN'T DONE any crazy stuff! How boring! We better quit youth and go rock at the Senior Citizen meetings.. am sure they're as bored as we are!
Anyway.... back to the subject of flying.. When I hear the 3 talking about their life there in Perth, discussing which bus to take, connect to where, about living as a student, I was brought back to my own student days in KL and realised that nothing much has changed. It's not nice being away from family, you have to fend for yourself, either be smart or act stupid while living your life away from your parents, you decide. It's just like you hear people saying that working life sucks more than student life but you haven't experienced it so you are attracted to getting your salary, your first car, credit card, etc.. you think working life is way better than student life, I mean, can anything be worse than your guru disiplin, or studying Moral, or Sejarah? One word, YUP!.. there are worse things than them, believe me! There's....and .... But.. you're not going to believe me anyway.. so.. just wait till you start working.... hehe
I am happy to see Daniel, Joel and Sarah living their lives there, adapting, enjoying and more importantly, going to cell groups and church. They also go out lunch after church service, just like we do here. I am happy that they have found friends and are living life. Praise God for his protection on them, and all our friends overseas.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Doing Great Things for God
Every year when we start our youth meetings, I would introduce myself and tell everyone NOT to call me auntie. But each year, there will always be those who do call me that and this year it's no different. It's always those who are not familiar with me and of course, all our parents taught us to be respectful to those older than us, and I am older than you, it's a fact. But should you, for some weird reason after reading this post want to call me auntie, don't you even dare, especially for those who already call me by name! Haha.. call and see if I answer you or not lah!
Anyway, I was talking with a friend just now about ministry and she wondered where I get the patience around you guys. Hehe. She said she won't be able to stand it. That got me thinking about how I came into the youth ministry so many years ago. I can only say God gave me this burden to be in this ministry, that I enjoy being with you all, serving alongside together. I know sometimes I lose my patience (I think each group of youths that come along would have seen me lose my temper at least once or twice) but I know, it is God who sustains me in this ministry. We were just learning last week about how, when we want to achieve great things for God, we need a partnership with God. We also need a personal commitment, and partnership with God's people.
These three things are required when we serve in any ministry and it's also a reminder on why and who we serve. Sometimes as we serve, we lose focus and lose track of what's important. We must always look to the cross and be reminded that the reward of serving our Lord far outweighs the sweat and tears.
There will be events coming up soon that will definitely challenge us in many ways, but we are assured that God will always be with us, and that He only wants good things for us, not to harm us. If you are going through difficulties in life, know that God is in control even in the midst of difficulties. He knows and he cares for you. That is a promise! Praise the Lord.
Anyway, I was talking with a friend just now about ministry and she wondered where I get the patience around you guys. Hehe. She said she won't be able to stand it. That got me thinking about how I came into the youth ministry so many years ago. I can only say God gave me this burden to be in this ministry, that I enjoy being with you all, serving alongside together. I know sometimes I lose my patience (I think each group of youths that come along would have seen me lose my temper at least once or twice) but I know, it is God who sustains me in this ministry. We were just learning last week about how, when we want to achieve great things for God, we need a partnership with God. We also need a personal commitment, and partnership with God's people.
These three things are required when we serve in any ministry and it's also a reminder on why and who we serve. Sometimes as we serve, we lose focus and lose track of what's important. We must always look to the cross and be reminded that the reward of serving our Lord far outweighs the sweat and tears.
There will be events coming up soon that will definitely challenge us in many ways, but we are assured that God will always be with us, and that He only wants good things for us, not to harm us. If you are going through difficulties in life, know that God is in control even in the midst of difficulties. He knows and he cares for you. That is a promise! Praise the Lord.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Our God is Faithful
I am sure many of us have stories to tell of God's faithfulness in our lives. Let me share one of my experience with you. Last year many opportunities came along my way to serve God not just in the youth ministry, but in church events and even on a diocesan level. One of the church events was of course our 40th Anniversary celebrations where I was directing the drama for the dinner. The drama was challenging to say the least because it had to involve people from the 3 congregations and most of them were adults. So I had to learn to direct adults and it was a different experience than directing youths. And just when things were going well, some friction happened that threw me offtrack. I must admit that I almost gave up on the drama, I almost quit. But thank God we managed to pull through and things went well.
After that came the diocesan opportunity; to learn new things and work with different people. But it came almost immediately after the church event, and with the drama 'episode' still fresh on my mind, I turned it down. I felt I cannot do justice to what I had to be responsible for, in truth, I probably was being rebellious and fearful. These happened last year. So anyway, about 2 weeks ago, I was on my way to work when I told God I was sorry I didn't take up this diocesan ministry because of my fears and reluctance. I told him I was sorry I didn't get to serve him in that capacity, and how sad I felt. After all God has done for me, I was only thinking of myself and my comfort, I couldn't even do this for him...
Fast forward one week, I got a call from Pastor Moses about a big event that will be happening in September for the youths, by the youths. When he was speaking, I kept thinking of my prayer last week, how sad I felt for not taking up that responsibility, and here was God giving me another chance to serve him! How faithful is he? Awesome faithful! I do not deny this will be a challenge, and already I can feel the immense pressure, but I am also looking forward to it, of learning new things and experiences. There will always be opportunities for us to serve God wherever we are, in our schools, at home, in church, everywhere. All it takes is our willing hearts to go ahead and do it for God. So let's rise up and seize the day!
After that came the diocesan opportunity; to learn new things and work with different people. But it came almost immediately after the church event, and with the drama 'episode' still fresh on my mind, I turned it down. I felt I cannot do justice to what I had to be responsible for, in truth, I probably was being rebellious and fearful. These happened last year. So anyway, about 2 weeks ago, I was on my way to work when I told God I was sorry I didn't take up this diocesan ministry because of my fears and reluctance. I told him I was sorry I didn't get to serve him in that capacity, and how sad I felt. After all God has done for me, I was only thinking of myself and my comfort, I couldn't even do this for him...
Fast forward one week, I got a call from Pastor Moses about a big event that will be happening in September for the youths, by the youths. When he was speaking, I kept thinking of my prayer last week, how sad I felt for not taking up that responsibility, and here was God giving me another chance to serve him! How faithful is he? Awesome faithful! I do not deny this will be a challenge, and already I can feel the immense pressure, but I am also looking forward to it, of learning new things and experiences. There will always be opportunities for us to serve God wherever we are, in our schools, at home, in church, everywhere. All it takes is our willing hearts to go ahead and do it for God. So let's rise up and seize the day!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Prayers
Prayers, aren't they a funny thing? You just say them words, anywhere, any language, and it reaches Jesus. We know prayers work, but we don't say them enough, I think. It's powerful, yet sometimes we don't have enough faith to believe that prayers actually work. I mean.. just say a sentence and then things are going to be all right? Seriously? Ah.. but that's the beauty of it, that's faith! Being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.
There are a few prayer points listed on the right hand side box, do spend some time in prayer for our friends who are in need, either personally or their family and loved ones.
Vanessa has been working in Kota Marudu for about 1 1/2 years now, and each Fri evening or Saturday morning, she drives 1 1/2 hours down to KK. She has been faithfully serving in the youth ministry and now, she's going to submit her transfer form, to be transferred down to KK. So let's pray that she will be working in KK very soon.
Aaron L's grandad fell unconscious about 2 weeks ago and is now still in the hospital in KL. He's still being fed through tubes but he's been progressing well that doctors are considering taking the tubes out so he can eat by himself. Do pray that he will continue to recover fast. Pray for his family members as they take care of him, for good health and positive outlook.
Adriel's grandad fell sick while he was on holiday in China, but he's now back home and has recovered. Continue to pray for good health for his grandad, that he will regain his strength physically and mentally.
I have seen both Jenny and Moses in Tawau and Penang respectively and while both of them are fine, continue to remember them in prayers, because it's never easy away from your family, especially if you're very attached to them in the first place. Pray for protection and wisdom as they handle life away from home. And you know there are many of our friends who are also away studying, say a prayer for them too, ok?
There are a few prayer points listed on the right hand side box, do spend some time in prayer for our friends who are in need, either personally or their family and loved ones.
Vanessa has been working in Kota Marudu for about 1 1/2 years now, and each Fri evening or Saturday morning, she drives 1 1/2 hours down to KK. She has been faithfully serving in the youth ministry and now, she's going to submit her transfer form, to be transferred down to KK. So let's pray that she will be working in KK very soon.
Aaron L's grandad fell unconscious about 2 weeks ago and is now still in the hospital in KL. He's still being fed through tubes but he's been progressing well that doctors are considering taking the tubes out so he can eat by himself. Do pray that he will continue to recover fast. Pray for his family members as they take care of him, for good health and positive outlook.
Adriel's grandad fell sick while he was on holiday in China, but he's now back home and has recovered. Continue to pray for good health for his grandad, that he will regain his strength physically and mentally.
I have seen both Jenny and Moses in Tawau and Penang respectively and while both of them are fine, continue to remember them in prayers, because it's never easy away from your family, especially if you're very attached to them in the first place. Pray for protection and wisdom as they handle life away from home. And you know there are many of our friends who are also away studying, say a prayer for them too, ok?
Sunday, March 28, 2010
It's All About Him
Many adults told me that serving in the youth ministry isn't easy, and I have to agree. The first, of course is because of the heartaches that are involved. This ministry has a high turnover, the youths leave after they finish their secondary schooling so the most we have of them would be about 7 years, assuming they join when they're in Form 1. We've lost count of the number of times we've gone to the airport to send them off when they continue their studies overseas.
So anyway, yesterday our planned programme was Buzz Groups (small group sharing)but around 5pm, Ps Ivy called me and asked if we could help to make palm crosses for Palm Sunday, which is today. I told her; 'of course we'll help' and I gotta admit, I was relieved in a way, because I was supposed to be sharing. I was only thinking of myself, that I'll have a break from sharing. But the conversation I had while making palm crosses changed my mind.
One of our leaders asked me why we changed our programme, so I explained and asked him why he asked me that. He said; "one whole week we go through life, when Saturday comes, I can't wait to listen to God's Words and be refreshed." It hit me that I was only thinking of myself, that I didn't have to share, but I forgot about the youths and their eagerness to come and listen. This is what youth ministry is about, serving the youths, meeting their needs. Many times little conversations like this makes it worthwhile, and I forget the toil and effort. If you ask me what have I done in all my years in the ministry, I can only tell you that it's having these meaningful chats with the youths, when they come and tell me something personal, that's what's I've done. It's not about us, and our wanting a break, it's about God, it's all about Him. I am reminded once again what a privilege it is to serve God and His people.
So anyway, yesterday our planned programme was Buzz Groups (small group sharing)but around 5pm, Ps Ivy called me and asked if we could help to make palm crosses for Palm Sunday, which is today. I told her; 'of course we'll help' and I gotta admit, I was relieved in a way, because I was supposed to be sharing. I was only thinking of myself, that I'll have a break from sharing. But the conversation I had while making palm crosses changed my mind.
One of our leaders asked me why we changed our programme, so I explained and asked him why he asked me that. He said; "one whole week we go through life, when Saturday comes, I can't wait to listen to God's Words and be refreshed." It hit me that I was only thinking of myself, that I didn't have to share, but I forgot about the youths and their eagerness to come and listen. This is what youth ministry is about, serving the youths, meeting their needs. Many times little conversations like this makes it worthwhile, and I forget the toil and effort. If you ask me what have I done in all my years in the ministry, I can only tell you that it's having these meaningful chats with the youths, when they come and tell me something personal, that's what's I've done. It's not about us, and our wanting a break, it's about God, it's all about Him. I am reminded once again what a privilege it is to serve God and His people.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
On Facebook
Hey everyone, we finally got a Facebook page. Yes yes, we are very late in setting one up.. but never mind la.. better late than never ok? So check it out! We're under cclyouths lah, what else.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Peace
This week our topic for Buzz group discussion was peace. That God called us to be peacemakers, and how we need this peace ourselves and some steps on how to be peacemakers (pray, listen, explain and bring together. When we broke into our groups, one of the question was on why it is so difficult to have peace and many reasons were given, from; misunderstanding, ego and pride. Some of us also shared their life experiences in mediating conflicts and being involved in conflict. It was really an eye opener for everyone, I think.
We had 5 friends with us tonight, Mark and Waltson came back. This Clement told me that he's bringing an Indian friend from India, so I thought, ok, that's nice. I mean, how would I know what friends Clement has right? So ten minutes later, someone gave me a hug from behind! Hahah.. I know that hug anywhere! It's Mark! He came home! Oh.. it's soooooo good to see his face! Then Adriel told me he's bringing a friend but I straightaway looked towards the door and Waltson came in! Man.. I am sooo happy to see them. Abigail and Abraham also joined us. A special mention of course for Waltson's girlfriend Chloe who also joined us (she got scared when we started playing games.. hahaha.. our usual Giants Wizards and Elf game)
Just wanna post something about Adriel now, his grandfather isn't well now and he's presently in China. Do remember his grandad in your prayers, please pray for protection, and journey mercies for his grandad. Pray also for Adriel's whole family and relatives at this time, that God's peace will be with them and His protection too. We talked about peace, let us ask God to fill us with that peace that can only come from Him.
We had 5 friends with us tonight, Mark and Waltson came back. This Clement told me that he's bringing an Indian friend from India, so I thought, ok, that's nice. I mean, how would I know what friends Clement has right? So ten minutes later, someone gave me a hug from behind! Hahah.. I know that hug anywhere! It's Mark! He came home! Oh.. it's soooooo good to see his face! Then Adriel told me he's bringing a friend but I straightaway looked towards the door and Waltson came in! Man.. I am sooo happy to see them. Abigail and Abraham also joined us. A special mention of course for Waltson's girlfriend Chloe who also joined us (she got scared when we started playing games.. hahaha.. our usual Giants Wizards and Elf game)
Just wanna post something about Adriel now, his grandfather isn't well now and he's presently in China. Do remember his grandad in your prayers, please pray for protection, and journey mercies for his grandad. Pray also for Adriel's whole family and relatives at this time, that God's peace will be with them and His protection too. We talked about peace, let us ask God to fill us with that peace that can only come from Him.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Watching Alice
Hey all! This Saturday we're going for our annual movie nite, which is to watch Alice in Wonderland. No, it's not in 3D, as Jeremiah asked.. let's be happy with 2D or 2A or whatever la ok? Speaking about A's.. Aaron Pan scored mighty fine in his SPM! He got 10As and 1B. Everyone give him a clap! Heheh.. congrats Aaron.. go out! celebrate! (but ask your mom for money first.. hehe) His results is the only one I heard of so far.. not sure about the rest.. who else sat for SPM last year?
So back to our movie nite.. take note of the time and place ya?
Meet at Cathay cinema KK at 7.15pm Saturday (13/3) sharp. Movie starts at 7.40pm and will end at 9.30pm. You need only pay RM4 for the movie tickets, popcorn you're on your own ok?
And one last thought about our movie nite, and I don't mean to criticise anyone here ok? Now, in our group this Saturday night will be 2 ASC youths. The reason they are here is because they are worshipping in CCL Sundays so our youths asked them along for movie nite. But all the while, when we asked them to come join CCL youths, they said they are with ASC and they are committed there. So why suddenly on movie nite, they can come to CCL? CCL do not take people's sheep, especially more when they are from another Anglican church. I wish they would make a stand, to choose one church. We welcome you should you decide to join CCL youths, but honestly, you gotta choose man!
So back to our movie nite.. take note of the time and place ya?
Meet at Cathay cinema KK at 7.15pm Saturday (13/3) sharp. Movie starts at 7.40pm and will end at 9.30pm. You need only pay RM4 for the movie tickets, popcorn you're on your own ok?
And one last thought about our movie nite, and I don't mean to criticise anyone here ok? Now, in our group this Saturday night will be 2 ASC youths. The reason they are here is because they are worshipping in CCL Sundays so our youths asked them along for movie nite. But all the while, when we asked them to come join CCL youths, they said they are with ASC and they are committed there. So why suddenly on movie nite, they can come to CCL? CCL do not take people's sheep, especially more when they are from another Anglican church. I wish they would make a stand, to choose one church. We welcome you should you decide to join CCL youths, but honestly, you gotta choose man!
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Don't Forget
Taken from Our Daily Bread
One of my favourite Far Side cartoons is captioned "Superman in his later years." It shows the elderly Man of Steel perched on a window ledge, ready to leap, as he looks back and say, "Now where was I going?"
Forgetfulness happens to us all, and while our occasional lapses may be amusing or annoying, a lack of memory toward God can be disastrous. With the people of Israel poised to enter the Promised Land, Moses challenged them to "remember that the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness" (Deut 8:2) and to "beware that you do not forget the LORD your God by not keeping his commandments" (v. 11)
Forgetting God can spring from:
Testing (vv 2-4) God allowed his people to hunger and then provided manna. When we lack the necessities of life, it's easy to feel that God has somehow forgotten us.
Satisfaction (vv10-11) Abundance or need may produce spiritual amnesia because both cause us to focus on ourselves, not on God who provides.
Pride (vv12-16) If prosperity brings a feeling of self-accomplishment, then we have forgotten God.
Humility, obedience and praise help us remember God's faithful provision and care. Let's not forget to thank Him today for all He's done.
Lest I forget Gethsemane,
Lest I forget Thine agony,
Lest I forget Thy love for me,
Lead me to Calvary.
One of my favourite Far Side cartoons is captioned "Superman in his later years." It shows the elderly Man of Steel perched on a window ledge, ready to leap, as he looks back and say, "Now where was I going?"
Forgetfulness happens to us all, and while our occasional lapses may be amusing or annoying, a lack of memory toward God can be disastrous. With the people of Israel poised to enter the Promised Land, Moses challenged them to "remember that the LORD your God led you all the way these forty years in the wilderness" (Deut 8:2) and to "beware that you do not forget the LORD your God by not keeping his commandments" (v. 11)
Forgetting God can spring from:
Testing (vv 2-4) God allowed his people to hunger and then provided manna. When we lack the necessities of life, it's easy to feel that God has somehow forgotten us.
Satisfaction (vv10-11) Abundance or need may produce spiritual amnesia because both cause us to focus on ourselves, not on God who provides.
Pride (vv12-16) If prosperity brings a feeling of self-accomplishment, then we have forgotten God.
Humility, obedience and praise help us remember God's faithful provision and care. Let's not forget to thank Him today for all He's done.
Lest I forget Gethsemane,
Lest I forget Thine agony,
Lest I forget Thy love for me,
Lead me to Calvary.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Thoughts Of a Youth Leader
You think that being a youth leader would mean that you only deal with youths. While this is true for most part, sometimes you also have to deal with the parents. In all my years in the ministry, I've gone through a period that Thomson called "the dark years" where I seem to have more problems with the parents than with the youths. And I will say that dealing with parents are more terrible, hehe.. that's why I'm in youth ministry instead of adult ministries!
But it's not all doom and gloom, and while I may have gone through a difficult time before, on the whole, they have been lovely and supportive. Last night I went to pick up one of our youth and her mom gave me an angpow. Then today after Sunday service, Adriel treated me lunch on the orders of his mom, hehe. That was very lovely of them and I thank God for their support. It is with the parents support that we are able to serve faithfully and joyfully in this ministry. So I say a little prayer for all your parents for sending you to youth, for supporting us in words and deeds. You may not pray for your parents as often as you should, but just take some time to do so today. After all, the Bible did say to honour your parents!
But it's not all doom and gloom, and while I may have gone through a difficult time before, on the whole, they have been lovely and supportive. Last night I went to pick up one of our youth and her mom gave me an angpow. Then today after Sunday service, Adriel treated me lunch on the orders of his mom, hehe. That was very lovely of them and I thank God for their support. It is with the parents support that we are able to serve faithfully and joyfully in this ministry. So I say a little prayer for all your parents for sending you to youth, for supporting us in words and deeds. You may not pray for your parents as often as you should, but just take some time to do so today. After all, the Bible did say to honour your parents!
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Tradition
Many years ago someone came up with this game that we play with those who are leaving the youth group. You know, sit them on the chair and give them a whole list of questions which they are supposed to answer in 30 seconds kinda thing. So anyway, we've blogged about Jenny leaving us (very soon.. sob)so we decided to play this game with her as well.
So today at my house during the CNY celebration, after we have all eaten our fill, we moved to the living room and got a stool for Jen to sit and we gave her a whole list of questions. And we made things harder for her, in that she has to answer all the questions in 30 sec! Haha.. Of course she didn't manage to, so she was punished.. she had to stand on the stool after that.. and then lie on the floor, walk in a circle, walk backwards in a circle (we get very creative, you see) all the while answering the questions, but Jenny was so sporting and she went through everything. Of course she got stumped at the Princess Monica part, that took a few seconds off her... hehe (my niece wrote on the notepad that Jenny's questions were written, so the Princess Monica thingy was for my niece, not Jenny, but Jen tried to answer also la... hehe)
After that we gave her her presents la.. which were a photo frame and a bag of coffee powder from Starbucks (Tawau has no Starbucks, kesian.. and Jen loves Starbucks Coffee, lagi kesian. Not kesian Jenny loves Starbucks, but kesian she loves Starbucks and there are no Starbucks in Tawau.. hehe.. just thought we clear that up!) Hopefully she will enjoy the coffee because when I bought the coffee, I told the girl I wanted coffee that will knock her socks off.. hehe, so Jen, drink that with caution. Hehe..
So today at my house during the CNY celebration, after we have all eaten our fill, we moved to the living room and got a stool for Jen to sit and we gave her a whole list of questions. And we made things harder for her, in that she has to answer all the questions in 30 sec! Haha.. Of course she didn't manage to, so she was punished.. she had to stand on the stool after that.. and then lie on the floor, walk in a circle, walk backwards in a circle (we get very creative, you see) all the while answering the questions, but Jenny was so sporting and she went through everything. Of course she got stumped at the Princess Monica part, that took a few seconds off her... hehe (my niece wrote on the notepad that Jenny's questions were written, so the Princess Monica thingy was for my niece, not Jenny, but Jen tried to answer also la... hehe)
After that we gave her her presents la.. which were a photo frame and a bag of coffee powder from Starbucks (Tawau has no Starbucks, kesian.. and Jen loves Starbucks Coffee, lagi kesian. Not kesian Jenny loves Starbucks, but kesian she loves Starbucks and there are no Starbucks in Tawau.. hehe.. just thought we clear that up!) Hopefully she will enjoy the coffee because when I bought the coffee, I told the girl I wanted coffee that will knock her socks off.. hehe, so Jen, drink that with caution. Hehe..
Thursday, February 11, 2010
20 Feb - CNY Celebrations
Hey, just a short announcement here about the change of plans for 20 Feb - CNY Celebration.
There won't be any meeting on 20 Feb nite, BUT.. it's been changed to HIGH TEA at my house from 3pm - 6pm. So it'll be open house plus youth meeting ok?
So take note of the change ya?
Date : 20 Feb 2010 (Sat)
High Tea at Caroline's house at 3-6pm
There won't be any meeting on 20 Feb nite, BUT.. it's been changed to HIGH TEA at my house from 3pm - 6pm. So it'll be open house plus youth meeting ok?
So take note of the change ya?
Date : 20 Feb 2010 (Sat)
High Tea at Caroline's house at 3-6pm
Happy Holidays
I believe many people are getting ready to go home for CNY holidays, maybe some are already home and enjoying being at home (or being bored at home, whichever is to your liking, hehe). But whether you will enjoy your trip to your home town or not, at least you are on holiday lah. Make the best of it! No school, no work, can sleep in late, lots of goodies on the table(s), hey, ain't that great?
And if that isn't enough for you, stop to think about those less fortunate than you; those who do not have enough to eat, don't talk about goodies on the table; who are not able to go home for CNY for various reasons and so they celebrate without their families and loved ones; those who are sick and are not able to join in the festivities etc. What I am saying is, count your blessings and remember those who are not as happy as you and say a prayer for them. That should give you a proper perspective on life huh?
So, as you rejoice and celebrate, may I wish you Gong Xi Fa Cai, Happy Valentine's Day and happy holidays. May God's blessings be upon you and your family always.
And if that isn't enough for you, stop to think about those less fortunate than you; those who do not have enough to eat, don't talk about goodies on the table; who are not able to go home for CNY for various reasons and so they celebrate without their families and loved ones; those who are sick and are not able to join in the festivities etc. What I am saying is, count your blessings and remember those who are not as happy as you and say a prayer for them. That should give you a proper perspective on life huh?
So, as you rejoice and celebrate, may I wish you Gong Xi Fa Cai, Happy Valentine's Day and happy holidays. May God's blessings be upon you and your family always.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Farewell - Part 2
Hey hey, wasssuupp! Sorry haven't been very active this past few months. Will try to write more often, ok? Please bear with us.
Ok, first biz of the day, Jenny is leaving us. Gasp! What? Jenny? But, but, but.. Jenny? How can she leave us? Who's going to lead us now? Sad to say, this isn't some sad, lame joke I'm pulling on you (that's Clement's department... hahahahah) Jenny will be leaving us to work in the Anglican school called BSI in Tawau. Yes, she is a graduate teacher now (with a GPA of ... hehe, you have to get that from Jenny herself) and she has taken up a teaching position in Tawau. She felt God has opened this door for her and so, she'll be leaving us after CNY. She will be teaching 4 subjects (this news just in), English, BM, History and Moral.
Jenny has been a youth leader in CCL for many years now, and not just a youth leader, I'd say she's been a rock for many of us, who look up to her for her passion in serving, her never say die attitude and her joy in being in the P&W team week in week out, Chinese service, English service (BM service ever ah Jen?) name it, she's helped before. And not just in P&W team, she's involved in Children, Youth and Young Adults Cell. I call her supergirl, don't you think this suits her? Hehe.
Sigh, I will miss her, not just because she's serving in youth, but because she's my friend. We have so much fun serving together, laughing and talking crap and generally having a great time. We wish her God's blessings as she embarks on this new exciting journey of faith, Tawau isn't that far but it's still a distance. We pray she will settle in fast, and things will just move smoothly. Thanks Jenny for all your sweat, tears and love in youth and we wait for the time where we can serve together once again! God bless.
Ok, first biz of the day, Jenny is leaving us. Gasp! What? Jenny? But, but, but.. Jenny? How can she leave us? Who's going to lead us now? Sad to say, this isn't some sad, lame joke I'm pulling on you (that's Clement's department... hahahahah) Jenny will be leaving us to work in the Anglican school called BSI in Tawau. Yes, she is a graduate teacher now (with a GPA of ... hehe, you have to get that from Jenny herself) and she has taken up a teaching position in Tawau. She felt God has opened this door for her and so, she'll be leaving us after CNY. She will be teaching 4 subjects (this news just in), English, BM, History and Moral.
Jenny has been a youth leader in CCL for many years now, and not just a youth leader, I'd say she's been a rock for many of us, who look up to her for her passion in serving, her never say die attitude and her joy in being in the P&W team week in week out, Chinese service, English service (BM service ever ah Jen?) name it, she's helped before. And not just in P&W team, she's involved in Children, Youth and Young Adults Cell. I call her supergirl, don't you think this suits her? Hehe.
Sigh, I will miss her, not just because she's serving in youth, but because she's my friend. We have so much fun serving together, laughing and talking crap and generally having a great time. We wish her God's blessings as she embarks on this new exciting journey of faith, Tawau isn't that far but it's still a distance. We pray she will settle in fast, and things will just move smoothly. Thanks Jenny for all your sweat, tears and love in youth and we wait for the time where we can serve together once again! God bless.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Farewell
One of the hardest part about being in the youth ministry is letting go. We all know youth ministry has a high turnover, meaning the amount of time we spent with each youth is probably only about 6-7 years the most, assuming they start coming to youth when they enter Form 1. And while we try and mingle and talk to everyone, we're bound to be closer to a few. And when they leave us for further studies, it really tears at the heart to see them leave. I have written about this before, so I won't elaborate further.
But today, Moses left us to go Penang for his further studies. He will be reading Law there. So Jenny, Clement and I went off to the airport to send him off and we also saw Matthew there. We managed to spend an hour or so together since his flight was retimed to a later time. While there may not be tears when we parted, believe me when I say we will miss him. He's a sporting guy, always game for everything, always supportive especially in the P&W. He sings, he composes, he plays the guitar, he's just a all round friendly guy.
We may be parted, but we will always have the friendship, so Moses, take care of yourself, don't get distracted (ahem!), remember to go church, youth/cell group and we will see you when we see you! God bless, man!
But today, Moses left us to go Penang for his further studies. He will be reading Law there. So Jenny, Clement and I went off to the airport to send him off and we also saw Matthew there. We managed to spend an hour or so together since his flight was retimed to a later time. While there may not be tears when we parted, believe me when I say we will miss him. He's a sporting guy, always game for everything, always supportive especially in the P&W. He sings, he composes, he plays the guitar, he's just a all round friendly guy.
We may be parted, but we will always have the friendship, so Moses, take care of yourself, don't get distracted (ahem!), remember to go church, youth/cell group and we will see you when we see you! God bless, man!
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Fly High
You might or might not notice the changes in this page. We had a youth leaders meeting this afternoon and we've decided that this year, our theme for the youth will be FLY HIGH. This is the same theme the church used for our 40th Anniversary last year and it is fitting for us. So look forward to some more changes coming our way this year.
Today was AD JY's last sermon in CCL and I think it's a fitting one for us. One of his points was we must have a forward looking perspective, in short, to forget the past, focus on the future and press on the present. We may have done well in the past, that's great but let's not become complacent and get stuck in past glories. Let's move forward and focus on the future.
He also told us to have a healthy spiritual lifestyle, which is to live in harmony with one another, to rejoice in all circumstances, pray for ourselves and intercede for others, trust in God and be generous in our giving, of our time and our riches.
Let us start this new year on a positive note. Youth meetings will resume this coming Saturday, so spread the word, and make sure you're on time, 8pm Saturday 16 Jan, Omega Hall! Cya'all!
Today was AD JY's last sermon in CCL and I think it's a fitting one for us. One of his points was we must have a forward looking perspective, in short, to forget the past, focus on the future and press on the present. We may have done well in the past, that's great but let's not become complacent and get stuck in past glories. Let's move forward and focus on the future.
He also told us to have a healthy spiritual lifestyle, which is to live in harmony with one another, to rejoice in all circumstances, pray for ourselves and intercede for others, trust in God and be generous in our giving, of our time and our riches.
Let us start this new year on a positive note. Youth meetings will resume this coming Saturday, so spread the word, and make sure you're on time, 8pm Saturday 16 Jan, Omega Hall! Cya'all!
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