My Walk with Christ~Spiritual Journey

Missions

2007-05-09T19:25:00.000-06:00

A lot has been pondering my mind lately...As some of you know, I brought some friends awhile back to Markham, where Oli and the rest of his team shared about their missions trip to Nicaurauga(Spelling). I was really touched by the presentation that I had a lot of questions to ask. I am strongly considering going on next year's mission trip. It's all I can think about...I don't think there will ever be a perfect time to start going on missions.

I've been praying a lot about it, for the Lord to give me a sign over the last few years...I don't know how much more I need...the word "missions" is coming up everywhere. In the conversation on the way home from ice skating, friends going on missions... and that leap of faith I have to take. I think this is the biggest step I'll be taking. Over the next little while, I'll be meeting up to go over the details...I am excited yet at the same time a bit scared.

Does anyone want to come on this missions trip too next March?

I'll try to keep you all posted on this:)

Praise and Prayer

2007-03-14T20:47:00.000-06:00

This week God has really blessed me with so much abudance...it started off as a rough week but He(God) just reminds me of how much love and joy there is in life. Lately, I have been worried about my marks in my Advanced Stats course, it is a prerequisite for CGA and I got my marks back. Praise God! I was honestly expecting to only get a 70% at least aiming for it but ended up getting in the 80's. I praise God also for providing me with wonderful friends that have been there for me these last few weeks when I have been feeling really down. Lord, you know what i need before I ask and You continue to provide....and I thank you. I may have many "friends" but those that you hold dear/cherish are those that are there for you no matter what, even if it's words of encouragement, are listening to me "babble", venting as I call it. You (my friends) will never know how much I'm so glad you're in my life.

Not only school that has made me anxious the last few weeks and worried but also things happening at work. I pray for better communication, patience with my coworkers...sometimes it's been rough...all I can do is pray. Our Fellowship as well is going through some changes, please pray for our group, and Marc as well(acting Chair) while Cliff is away. Pray for our Bible study leaders this week and Open Doors tomorrow. I am excited/nervous about playing/leading worship tomorrow as it's kinda hard to play piano and sing at the same time...but God provides.

The Epistle of James

2007-03-03T12:07:00.000-06:00

Three Kinds of Faith:

I. Dead faith: Substitutes words for deeds...
a. You know the correct vocabulary for prayer and sound doctrine.
You can quote the right verses from the Bible
b. But their "walk" does not measure up to their "talk"

II. Demonic faith: Perhaps to shock any complacent raders, James reminds us that...
a. Even "demons" have a kind of faith!
1. They believe in God (no athesists or agnostics here!)
2. They even believe in the diety of Christ (Mr 3:11-12)
3. They also believe in the existence of a place of condemnation (Lk 8:31)
4. They believe Jesus will be the Judge! (Matt 8:28-29)

b. What kind of faith do "demons" have?
1. We saw that the man with "dead faith" was "touched only in his intellect"
2. The demons are "touched also in their emotions" (note that they "believe and tremble")
3. This is one step above a "dead faith"- it involves both INTELLECT and EMOTIONS

III. Dynamic faith: faith that is based upon the Word of God (Ro 10:17)
This faith involves the WHOLE MAN...whereas:
- Dead faith as mentioned earlier touches only the intellect
- Demonic faith involves both mind and emotions
- Dynamic faith involves intellect, the emotoins AND the WILL!

1. The MIND understands the truth.
2. The HEART acts upon the truth.
3. The WILL acts upon the truth.

True saving faith, then LEADS TO ACTION
a. It is not intellectual contemplatoin
b. It is not emotionalism
c. It is that which leads to obedience in doing good works.

In Summary: It is important that each professing Christian examine his/her own heart and life and make sure that they possess true saving faith, which is a dynamic faith.

"Search me, O God, and know my heart;

try me and know my anxieties;

And see if there is any wicked way in me,

and lead me in the way everlasting."

~Psalms 139:23-24~

Source: Pastor Nelson's Sunday School notes...also the NIV Bible.

Prayer Request

2007-02-20T23:42:00.000-06:00

Tonight, there has been so much going through my mind...

My mom has been feeling very ill and it shows. Please pray for a smooth recovery. I'll be bringing her to our medical clinic near my house to see the doctors.

Please pray for my exam next week, I have to focus and study. It's hard to study when I'm distracted w/ my health, work which I can't seem to detach myself after work. I still think about work right now when I shouldn't be.

Please pray for my Church's ministries and the EMC and their events for this year.

Please pray for our Committee, its leadership, our members, our Spiritual growth and accountability to bring/lift each other up.

Prayer being Answered...

2007-02-05T19:49:00.000-06:00

Praise God!!

Just moments ago, I received an email about a prayer request from my friend...I've been praying for EL since we first met, and the Lord has answered our prayers. Congratulations on your new Job!

Thanks Jeff for suggesting that I write down prayer requests, and give praises when it's been answered. I forget when it's been answered to just give praise and to let others know that God has answered a prayer.

This is my Prayer...

2007-01-18T22:34:00.000-06:00

Last night I attended prayer study at MCAC and I am encouraged by a brother in Christ about keeping a prayer journal/blog, thanks JC. Emphasis of prayer has hit me a lot lately whether I'm at MCAC, OHC....I have the passion to just pray all the time, anytime or anywhere, whether it be over msn, on the phone at 1 or 2am in the morning, through email, lately, the Lord has pressed the importance of prayer in my life. The time is NOW...in such a time like this. This is how we should pray:

"Our Father, in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdome come, your will be done

on earth as it is done in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our debts,

as we also have forgive our debtors.

And lead us not into temptation,

but deliver us from the evil one."

Matthew 6:9:13

Lord, often times I seem to always prayer for wants/desires for myself or for others but I tend to forget at times when you have answered the prayers, to say "Thank you" or remember. Taking the time to count my blessings, is what I have been doing lately. Lord, this new year, you have placed an enormous emphasis on prayer...everything begins with prayer. For me, prayer was always at certain times through the day or spontaneous if by myself, a quick prayer...but I realized that I now will pray for or with a friend anytime, whether its over a cup of tea at 2am or in the car, mall, dinner, anywhere.

Answered prayers:
1. Thank you Jesus, for helping my friend BT finding a job...a lot of us have been praying for months, and I praise you for this.
2. Thank you Jesus, for bringing me and my mom closer together, for a long time I have grown apart but thank you for bringing us back together.
3. Thank you, for hitting me w/ a 2X4 on the emphasis of prayer, for giving me the gift of counsellin, encouraging others, just being there for them and praying for them.

Prayer requests:
1. I pray for Pastor Nelson and Jeff who are going to KW, to the U of Waterloo to talk to a Christian Fellowship and teaching them. I pray that you keep them both safe and speak to the students through your servant to help them get to know you better.
2. I pray for the EMC, as we look into ministering to the homeless in TO.
3. I pray for those who are sick, whether it be physical or emotional pain..Lord, have mercy on them and heal them.
4. I pray for the Xara kids, that they all have the passion to get to know you Lord, it is hard after all, being a teenager. Bless the Counsellors, oh Lord, and give them patience and wisdom.
5. I pray for the continual healing of our group...I pray that the friendships that have drifted apart will come together. As this takes time, healing is a slow process...I just pray that you give us all humble hearts and love each other as you have taught us to.
6. I pray that You teach me oh Lord, balancing school, career, Fellowship, Church and friends...I've only started but I still do not know how to balance all these activities. I knew I had to make sacrifices, but is it too much?
7. I pray for EC, it has been awhile since I have heard and I pray that you take care of your child, who continues to learn about You. I pray that you continue to shine your light upon him, surround him with the positive influences he need to grow in you Lord. For knowlege is not enough, you need to believe...with your heart...have a little faith, that's all you need...faith like a child.
8. I pray that my relationship with You, oh Lord, will continue to blossom and grow. At the same time, I pray that our council will also grow to know each other better, depend on each other and continue to work together.

All this I pray in Jesus name, AMEN.

Spirit Led~Are we ready to take a stand? The time is now...Taking a stand in an unpopular time,

2007-01-15T21:34:00.000-06:00

That is the theme for OHC (Oakville Harvest Chapel). Yesterday I went to my friend's Church here in Oakville and I was very moved by Pastor Robbie's sermon. "The Time is Now...to Pray!" Taking a stand in an unpopular time...This is the Church's theme for the next nine weeks. The passage was taken from Nehemiah 1:1-11. Key points:

1. Serious Prayer NECESSITATES a heart that CARES (v.1-4)
Ask yourself this? Do you secretly rejoice in people's bad times? If you're answer is yes, we must pray and ask that God cleanse and change our heart. Teaching us to care for everyone.

2. Serious Prayer BEGINS with ADORATION (v.5-6a)
How should one pray? "Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be thy name..."How amazing He is.

3. Serious Prayer demonstrates a FOUNDATION of CONFESSION (v.6b-7)
No Christian will see progress w/ their relationship w/ God until the he/she has a deeper showdown w/ sin. Sin will alsways spread, the fact that sin will not impact or affect anyone else is zero. True humility is to look at your own plank.

4. Serious Prayer RECALLS the FAITHFULNESS of God (v.8-10)
5. Serious Prayer understands the PLACE for SUPPLICATION (v.11)

Response:
Serious Prayer requires PERSEVERENCE (2:1)
Application: Pray for a broken heart 1. understand the need is now to pray...2. Be committed to perservence.

When you pray...take a deep breath, and thank you(Jesus) for the cross, salvation, and count all the blessings He has showered upon you.

The power of prayer...Thank you for the opportunity to pray. It's amazing how you can focus on nothing but prayer even in a coffee shop. When you are in prayer, nothing around you matters, you hear no distractions, just the words of a heartfelt prayer. AMEN.

Reflections~What does the New Year Bring?

2007-01-03T01:23:00.000-06:00

The transition from 2006 to 2007...Another year has gone =(
It gave me time to reflect on what has gone on in 2006 in my life and it has been a rollercoaster ride. The feelings that I felt are just endless...there has been both sadness and joy, weddings and funerals. There will always be people who hurt you and those that comfort you during those difficult times. How unfortunate, I am a person who can talk to anyone about anything and not be shy except for how I feel. How ironic!! I do thank you those to my special friends that have sat through my stories, been up til 2am to comfort me to tell me everything is ok, or prayed with me when I've been down. No matter what mask I put on, you saw right through me. You saw the pain behind the mask and you cared enough to help me get through those times...I can be stubborn but you tell me the truth, you don't sugarcoat anything and you give me the advice and scripture that I seek. You people know who you are when you read this blog entry.

A close friend of mine recently shared with me that I am always "cheery", is that true? I always have a big smile and turn any situation no matter how doom and gloom around into something positive. I'm thankful for this encouragement. Often, I am reminded that life is short, what's happened is in the past, you can't change it...you can't worry about the future because you can't see it...only live today to its fullest. At times, I think it's the people you're surrounded by that brings out the my best characteristics/best features. The people you hang around with are the ones that will help you develop/mold/shape your character.

I hope this year brings much more happiness, the passion to outreach to my friends, grow closer to God, grow closer to those that I care about.

More to come but time to sleep...3am.

Are you a Disciple of Jesus?

2006-12-27T23:06:00.000-06:00

It's been a long time since I've blogged here...So here I go...

A couple weeks ago, at prayer meeting, we discussed about being a Disciple of Jesus...The statement below was made by Jesus to His apostles shortly before He ascended to heaven:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of hte Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age."

This is commonly known as "The Great Commission" found in Matthew 28:18-20 evidently the goal here is to evangelize to the world about Christ.

Definition of a Disciple:
1. The word "disciple" literally means A LEARNER
2. According to Vine's Expository Dictionary of NT words, it denotes "one who follows another's teaching."
3. But a disciple was not only a learner, he was also AN ADHERENT
4. For this reason disciples were spoken of as IMITATORS of their teachers.

Goal:
1. Stated by Jesus himself: to be like the teacher (Luke 6:40)
2. To be Christ's disciple, is to strive to be like him!
3. According to the aposlte Paul, this coincides with God's goal in the redemption of mankind, that they be conformed to the image of His Son (Romans 8:29)

The Marks of a Disciple:
1. A Disciple is "one who abides in Jesus' words"
2. A Disciple is also "one who loves the brethren"
3. A Disciple is "one who bears much fruit"

The Cost of Being a Disciple:
1. Jesus must come FIRST
2. We must be willing to suffer for CHRIST
3. Putting it simply, we must forsake all to follow CHRIST

The Rewards of being a Disciple:
1. There is the promise of "Future Blessings"
2. There are also "Present Blessings"

The beginning of a Disciple:
1. According ot Jesus, it involves Baptism (Matthew 28:19)
2. Teaching and obedience must follow.

Conclusion:

1. Only those scripturally baptized and demonstrating the "marks" of discipleship, despite the "costs", can truly be called disciples of Jesus!
2. Only they can realistically look forward to the "rewards" of discipleship, and take consolation in the promise of Jesus.

These notes were excerpts from Pastor Nelson's notes "A Closer walk with God" ...hopefully, these notes will help you as well. This is a short summary of his notes, the condensed version=)

Rocky Weekend

2006-11-28T18:51:00.000-06:00

This weekend has been GREAT! Lord, You are my strength, my rock. No matter what gets thrown at me, You never give me more than I can handle. Lord, you heard our prayers, testimonies, this past weekend...the tears, and sorrow that friends go through. I am thankful that you gave me brothers and sisters in Christ to pray with and to pray for. Can't believe I get that emotional that I had tears coming out.

This past Saturday, I stayed at a friend's place in DT (Toronto) for a "Sandwich run." Andrew, Cliff and myself made lunch bags for the homeless in DT. Thanks to Christina for the little encouragement bookmark cards and Alice for drinks and cookies. We were able to prepare approximately 25 PJ sandwiches to help those less fortunate. At first, we were not as successful as it was a warm day but we were able to give them all out. Donald said next time he'll join us and are welcome to use his place anytime.

Yesterday, Today and Forever

2006-11-22T13:22:00.000-06:00

I'm reminded of this song...whenever I go to the non-official Fellowship Blog, the lyrics go like this: "Yesterday, today and forever, You are always the same..." Oh Lord, our God, you are the beginning and the end, the Alpha and the Omega, You never change...Your love is so GREAT! When I am down and troubled, I hear this song and am reminded that You are there for me Lord. Thank you.

My Prayer, oh Lord...

2006-10-29T20:01:00.000-06:00

Lord, I pray for EL...it is You Lord, that brought me to him. You've helped me and guided me in Your path oh Lord, You showed me the way back to you...I pray this prayer for EL:

Father, Abba...You took me into Your humble presence since I was young. You've shown me a glimpse of what this world has become...but most of all, You've shown me that by grace alone, I am saved. You gave me the greatest gift of all, Your Son, Jesus Christ, who died for me...knowing that I am a sinner, with many faults, only You Lord have seen. Yet you have taken me into Your arms and loved me for who I am ...You saved me from eternal damnation.

Lord, I pray for EL...I know he has been troubled lately. I'm not sure what has caused the sadness, but I pray oh Lord that You continue to bless him, be with him, to show him that your love is the greatest love of all. Without You, oh Lord, life would be depressing. I'm happy that he has found you Lord, although he is deeply troubled and seeks Your guidance, I pray that You show him the way. Lord, you used me to help him along the way, and I pray you will continue shower us both with blessings. Lord, use me as a humble servant...teach me and give me patience to help him during this time.

Lord, you brought people into my life for a reason and certain events happen for a specific reason...and at times, I may not understand why...but in time, Your plan is revealed. A chain reaction has started and I pray oh Lord, that at times like these, that we do not forget You oh Lord, that we turn to You each and every time.
In Jesus Christ, we pray, AMEN.

Are you Spiritually Obese, Spiritual porker?

2006-10-29T19:50:00.000-06:00

That is the question...P. Nelson as well as some of my friends from Fellowship have been asking this question, are you Spiritually obese? Are you a "Spiritual Porker" OINK OINK!!? Are you someone that thrives for the knowledge only but doesn't live it in action? Do you just take and not give? Do you just go to Church, or Fellowship but you don't participate or become involved in Church Ministries? At some point in our lives, we will be guilty of this...This is a wake up call for our Fellowship and everyone else...

Beware of becoming Spiritually Obese...It's great to gain knowledge of the Bible but are we truly learning? Are we applying what we've learned to help others? Jesus said, go help those who are sick, share My word with those who need to hear it...to he/she who has an ear to listen, let them hear..." Are we doing this? These past two weeks I have seen the Spirit work through me and the hearts of my friends. The hearts of my friends have opened to hear Your word, oh Lord...I pray you continue to use me and bless me oh Lord...

I pray Lord that you help Emmanuel Fellowship to grow closer together to help further Your kingdom, to encourage one another, to be accountable of each other...to help us to continue to seek Your word, but to share what we've learned to others, let us not be afraid or make excuses, it is You, oh Lord, that gives us the words to say...the words are not from our mouths, but Yours, oh Lord...In Christ name I pray, AMEN.

How God worked through me this weekend

2006-10-24T20:08:00.000-06:00

I prayed to God every night before my climb as to why am I doing this? Is it to just raise money for a charitable cause? To witness to my friends? The story is that I was asked to join both teams this year...my company team and my friend's team at RBC. I wasn't sure if my company was going to do it so I joined RBC. I prayed that the Lord use me last weekend to talk about God and explain to them what it means to have God in my life. He has kept His promise...I was able to share about my experiences and my walk with Christ on Saturday evening for a couple hours...talking to wee hours in the morning. I felt the urge to pray right there and then, but it was getting late, so that didn't work...Although, we didn't get a chance to pray with each other, I still prayed for you. You are a Christian, when you accepted Christ into your heart, when you leave your oldself behind, and start a new life w/ Christ. That's the moment, you become a Christian. The baptism in water is a public declaration to the world that you will follow Christ for the rest of your life. It is an act of obedience, as Jesus said, follow in my footsteps...He was baptized in the water, and so should we.

On Sunday, I was able to bring my team from the climb to Church for English service. I was hesitant at first because they've said no before but that morning, I saw the Spirit working in their hearts, opening to hear the teachings of our Lord Jesus. So after the climb as tired as were, skipped breakfast and headed back to Mississauga for Church. The first time for one of them, and the other two haven't been inside a Church in such a long long time. I spoke to them about what they thought, and one of 'em seemed intrigued. Please pray that the Lord continues to work in their hearts...

This is my Prayer request:

2006-10-20T19:52:00.000-06:00

What can I say? So much has happened this week...My prayer goes out to some friends in Toronto...A family I met this summer through hiking has become very ill with cancer. Please pray for her and her family during this difficult time...I am saddened by this news. She's very young, and has a young daughter as well and a husband. My heart goes out to them. A close friend said to me earlier, "It makes us realize that we need to savour each day because our time is precious here. However, our time with God in eternity will be even moreso. " Although I know I've only met them a couple times, I can't help but feel sad. I know our time here on earth is temporary, and that Heaven is going to be wonderful but I think that it's because I feel for her husband and daughter and everyone's lives she's touched. Please pray for my friends...Pray for healing, pray for peace...

This is my prayer request...this is what's important in my heart right now. My other personal prayer requests can wait...my dear friend, if you knew me, you know what they are...

Spirit Led

2006-10-18T22:10:00.000-06:00

Last weekend, my friend invited me to his Church at Harvest Bible in Oakville. It was interesting to hear Pastor Robbie speak again. He is a very passionate speaker. Quite the young Pastor, yet wise and very mature in his Faith.
1.What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit? Ephesians 5:18
"Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit."
Let the Spirit control our life, surrender your life...Ex: His wife Jill was in the hospital, but the nurses were commenting to each other, how she was so joyful, that there was an aura about her. Others will notice....
2. How am I filled with the Holy Spirit?
i.) UNDERSTAND He lives in you. (John 14:17) "the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you."
ii.)CONFESS all known sin. (1 John 1:9)
"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."
iii.) RENOUNCE our own way. (Romans 8:13)
"For if you live acording to hte sinful nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live"
-Choosing God's way, "repentance" is used over 50x in the New Testament. "Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to matureity, not laying again the foundation of repentance form acts that lead to death, and of faith in God." (Hebrews 6:1)
iv.) YIELD to the will of God. (Romans 6:13) "Do not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as those who have been brought form death to life; and offer the parts of your body to him as instruments of righteousness."
- Offer yourself to Christ, He doesn't want 1/2 of you, He wants ALL of you. Like David said in Psalm 143, "Teach me", or in Isaiah..."Here I am, send me"
v.) Walk by FAITH. (2 Cor 5:7) "We live by faith, not by sight" Take ME at your word. Nothing is more hurtful when we continue to look at how much life is like, am I feeling it? He doesn't want feelings, more faith less feelings...

3. How do I know if I am filled with the Holy Spirit? (Esph 5:19-21)
I will be...
1. Joyful (v19)
2. Thankful for everything (v.20)
3. Submissive (v.21)

Something a good buddy asked me while we were walking through God's creation...am I a "joyful" person? I was puzzled at first as to why he'd ask me that...but then I realize...he said, if Christ is in you, then everything you do should be joyful...did I get that right? Everything you do should reflect joyfulness, people should be able to see that in you, regardless whether you're happy or not.

Thankful For Your Fellowship

2006-10-06T22:11:00.000-06:00

Tonight, one of the songs shared at our Fellowship potluck was "Thankful For Your Fellowship." I know some people thought the song was "cheesy" but I really liked it. It goes something like this...

V1: Every time I think of you, my is filled with joy.
I thank God for all you've meant to me.
You have helped me serve the Lord in many, many ways.
We are partners for eternity.

Chorus:
I'm thankful for your fellowship;
thankful for your partnership,
Thankful for the love we share in Jesus Christ.
I'm thankful for the joy we've known,
Thankful for the way we've grown.
I thank God each time I think of you.

V2: God is using you to give this gospel to this land.
Your whole life is serving Him some way.
And I'm sure He'll carry on, His work will not be done.
Until Jesus comes again someday.

The song's lyrics really touched my heart tonight...I'm thankful for you in my life. When you read this, you'll know what I mean. All the words I want to say, are all in the song mentioned above. I'd be repeating myself otherwise. The words and music are by an unknown aritst. Thanks to Pat for leading/sharing this song w/ our Fellowship tonight.

I'm sorry that I've been distant, I'm sorry that I've pushed you away...

2006-09-27T21:51:00.000-06:00

Just like the title says...I'm sorry I've been distant, I'm sorry that I've pushed you away...This summer I've done just that. When I say "you" above there, I mean my "sauga friends." I mean it's not a secret, several people have approached me about it lately. I've thought about some things in life and there were just so much going on this summer that I didn't plan too much. Not that I spent Saturdays at home, bumming around doing nothin, NO!! I actually spent a lot of time w/ Burlington/Oakville friends this summer. Time well invested. One of my friends that I've known for three years, well what do you say? This is a friend of mine of three years but when I thought about it, how much do I really know? It doesn't matter when you first met and how long you've been "Friends", if you don't invest in the time to get to know someone...I realized that some of my other friends wanted to get together with me but I was always too busy for them or when I was free, they were busy. This was the case for my MAC friends. I guess what I'm trying to say, is that I needed to find that equal balance. I needed to spend time with everyone. Trying to spend time with all my friends. With my friends at Church, I see a couple of them on wednesday nites, some on Thursday and some on Sunday with a few saturdays in there too. If I do the calculation right, that's almost half the week. Don't get me wrong, I love spending time with you all, yet at the same time, that doesn't leave me much time to see my other friends in Burlington/Hamilton or my family.

On the otherhand, you can have tons of friends, but how many of them do you cherish? I mean, how many are "truly" your FRIENDS? Something I practiced this summer, spending quality time, investing in my friendships. Whether it's a BBQ, hiking, Jazzfest or any other activity, it was a way in getting to deepen the friendships. I can have tons of friends, but how many FRIENDS go beyond the "safe topics" the "surface" topics? How many will go beyond the call of duty, and give you a call when it's been awhile? How many will ask, can I pray for you? How are you doing spiritually? How many friends will remember what you like or dislike or one of your previous conversations? You can have tons of friends, but how many of those will stand beside you when no one else will? How many friends will ask, I'm concerned about you, are you ok? Something's wrong? How many will stand by you, even though you've pushed them away? Some may not know what I was went through, stress among other things, but it's great to know that you've been praying for me. That's what TRUE friendship is about...That's my definition of a close friend. What is yours?

What is the definition of a TRUE FRIEND? Someone who's dependable, lovable, humble and gentle, be yourself... Am I missing anything? TRUE FRIENDS are not afraid to ask, what's wrong? Something is a "bit off" or you seem distant, why is that? TRUE FRIENDS will tell you how they feel, guide you, give advice when appropriate and care about your well being. He/She will say, let's sit down and pray together and how are you doing spiritually?

What is your definition of a TRUE FRIEND?

A Sharing...

2006-09-27T21:02:00.000-06:00

This past week, one of my old Sunday School students MSN me. He was one of my students since he was in GR1. "Uncle Ben" and I and "Auntie Irene" used to teach him as a child and the other children in Children's Church. For me, I didn't realize at the time the impact I had on the children. My goal, to teach the kids crafts and songs and survive the hour. That was then...

Years later, I taught this student again but now in GR3, 4 and 5. Yes, I taught this class three years in a row. As they were growing, I grew with them. At that time, I was in Post-Secondary...I enjoyed teaching young children about God. Back then, I did not see the seed that I planted into these children. I was just teaching them the basics about God, about His creation and His love for us. I hoped they would remember something I taught these children...

Again years later, we're now in September 2006. A lot has changed. That same student and his friends that I once taught are now in GR9. Wow, time sure flies. I'm starting to feel old now...(LOL)and I'm only in my 20's. This past week, "BH" shared with me that he missed me and asked when I was coming back to Church(HCAC)? Politely, I answered, I miss you all too, you have all grown into the "teenage" years. Since I left in the year, my brother has told me how BH has grown over the years, and with more Christian influence, the right guidance, direction, I will see his baptism one day.

When I think back, he is not the same little BH that I taught back then but to see the young adult that you now have become, I am proud of you. I pray that you continue to seek the Lord, to learn about Him...Learn to put all your Faith into Him. "Less of us, More of Him"

Coming to the Table

2006-09-10T21:45:00.000-06:00

This is the theme for the conference at Toronto Chinese Methodist Church this Friday September 15th at 7:30pm.

"People come to the table to talk, to share a meal, or to just discuss ideas. God's people need to come to the table too, a common table, to be united in the pursuit of God and His purposes. The idea of the coming together of people, churches, and ideas, to a common place and spirit. "

"Within our Asian churches are many different kinds of leaders, different cultures, and different perspectives on the how the church should be run. Our diversity may seem like a challenge, but it is also an opportunity to unify under the common banner of our triune God. This conference will explore how it is that church leaders within Asian churches can better cooperate and realize our purpose in Christ as individuals and churches. This is not unlike the ongoing goal of the Tribe of Issachar which is to empower leaders within Asian churches. "

These are quotes taken from the website...Friday night I believe is the kickoff. If you can make it, you should go. There will also be music provided by SoleDrive, a CBC Christian Band, great music. For Directions and more info, please go to:http://www.tribeofissachar.org/table/default.phtml?type=info

Hope to see you all there.

Blessings.

Spiritual Lives over a cup of coffee

2006-09-02T21:10:00.000-06:00

What a day!! Rain rain go away...come back some other day. Here in Burlington, the weather is just nonstop rain. Good for the grass, just bad when you have plans. Tonight, my friend and I went for a cup of coffee in the evening just to hang out and chill.

Honestly, it was great! Time well spent. Not very often do I get to discuss my spiritual life with friends. Not many actually ask about it either. There are a few friends where we do discuss about our walk with Christ, but it seems a lot of the conversations seem to be more on the surface...safe topics or not related at all. Like, what are your plans for the weekend? or did you hear about so and so?...or just general topics.

Tonight though, I had the opportunity to share w/ my good friend about what God is doing in my life.
1. How God is using YiFan and I in Children ministries at our Church. We both felt compelled to serve in this ministry.
2. How I'm in my comfort zone and how I am starting to move out of the "comfort zone"...It's true. How do I go do the "Great Commission" if I'm in my "comfort zone." It was great for him to encourage me=)
3. How time is precious and life is short...making time to spend it w/ everyone not just a certain group.
4. My focus and priority should be God as#1. Nothing less, as he deserves the best and all my attention. At "Havest Bible", I believe the theme they had was "Less of us, more of Him"...I guess I'm at a stage in my life where all my friends are starting to get married, engaged or coupling off and there is pressure on me too. Why am I sharing this? I'd be denying the truth if there was no pressure. BUT the important thing here is where is my focus? My focus should be on God...everything happens for a reason. Earlier this year I'll admit that I've been distracted...My priorities weren't in order. The things that matter most to me, I've either pushed them away or ignore them. My daily devotions and wednesday night prayer meetings have brought me closer to God and to the brothers/sisters in the Church. It was this summer that I realized where my priorites should be.
5. My job may not be as demanding as yours and my life may not be as busy as yours...but I'm also busy w/ other work/Church/gym/etc...Some people see my life as well you can't be that busy, or my life is boring. BUT I tell you, my priorities have shifted...I want to spend more time w/ the people here where I live...also meet new people as well. Does this mean I won't hang out w/ the same people every weekend? Probably so...I'll still hang out w/ them from time to time but right now...or should I say, I enjoyed my weekends in August. I think I've only hung out once or twice on the weekends...not as much as I used to. It used to be 3-4x a week that we all hang out. Maybe some don't even notice the drift. You said it right..."Out of sight, Out of mind." Just like you said...if you're friends are in Toronto, and you're outside of the GTA, they tend to forget to include you at times. The same goes for me. I don't live in Sauga, so obviously, people make their own plans or tend to be closer to those that live closer to them. Like we discussed tonight, would our lives change if I moved to Sauga and you to TO? Our jobs may change, lives may change, but I don't think that I'd be much closer to my friends. If I move out there, it wouldn't be just for my friends...there'd better be a better incentive.

Overall, I must say we had a great chat. I pray that no matter where God leads us in our lives that we never forget each other...that we use our "gifts" to glorify God...people come and go in our lives, there imprints are left in our hearts but those we cherish will never say goodbye, rather until we meet again.

FYI...(For Your Information)

2006-09-02T21:07:00.000-06:00

Just a heads up...you do not need to be registered w/ blogspot.com to leave comments on any of these blogs. You can make up your own name and just comment...You do not need to start your own blog to leave comments. If you want to write/contribute on this blog you will have to register a blog on blogspot.com and email me so that I can add you as a member on this blog.

Thanks and God Bless!

When you are dissappointed in others...

2006-09-01T22:50:00.000-06:00

A couple of my friends are going through this...I myself have gone through this recently too. Yes, it does hurt, but it hurts because you care about the other person(s). If you didn't care about your friends, than why should it matter if he/she hurt your feelings right? You and I also hurt because we're human, it may be harder to tell them how you feel, or how dissappointed you feel...I myself have seeked this advice from JP, yet I still have yet told my friend that I'm dissappointed in him/her. One day, we will have the conversation, but now that it's a month later, is it worth mentioning? Is it better to just forget it and move on w/ my life?

One of my gf's mentioned to me, is FOCUS on God...What would Jesus do? WWJD... Don't lose focus on the one person that loves you no matter what you did/do/or will do and that is God. Often times, we put our hope and expectation on others and when the person doesn't fulfill or meet that expectation you feel really dissappointed, gloomy. Instead, you know that "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God"(Romans 3:23) redirect your focus and attention to God. Find God's purpose for you and live it to the fullest. You know that because no one's perfect, friends will hurt you. If it didn't hurt, than maybe the friend wasn't who you thought he/she was.

Options:
1.Pray for God's guidance, His wisdom to lead me...
2.Maybe it's confront this "friend(s)" and move forward...it's easier when the other party knows.
3.Say nothing, forgive the person and move on w/o telling him/her.

I personally am leaning towards option3...This of course, is my natural reaction/answer. I know that it should be option1 first, yet at the same time, I am leaning towards #3, becuase I don't want the Friend to feel ackward after this discussion. In the past, I've done all three options to different people.

Let me pray about this before I say anymore...

Some passages:
-Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. (Psalm 42:11)
-A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid a man who talks too much. (Proverbs 20:19)
-A gossip betrays a confidence, but a trustworthy man keeps a secret (Proverbs 11:13)

"Watch out for the Devil"

2006-08-28T21:37:00.000-06:00

That was Sunday's sermon was taken form 1 Peter 5:7-11...Four things that keep lion's alert and not become his prey:

1. Humble yourself (v6) "Humble yourlseves, therefore, under God's might hand, that he may lift you up in due time"

2. Be self-controlled(v8-9) "Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around lika a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings."

3. Remain watchful and firm in God's word. (v9) ...An illustration that he used was...there was a couple in South Africa who were camping and were told to keep the fire going even at night, keep some logs there so that the lions don't come. As the hours went by, the couple slept and the fire burnt out. The lion moved in and tore the head off of the husband in front of the wife.
also Rev 2:2-5...when stranglers roam, lion feed...stay in the strength, fellowship, relationship w/ God...don't be a loner meaning don't be by yourself. It's important to be part of the Church and become involved...if you are not part of any group, and alone, the Devil prowls on that.

4. Rely on God's grace to keep you safe. (v10)

Something they said on Sunday...The Devil thought that by killing Jesus that he'd won but when Jesus died and ressurected from the dead, he was dissapointed. Since he was dissapointed, the only way he could attack was attack the "crown of God's creation"...us.

Memory Verse: Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)...Cast your worry to Him...I often need to be reminded of that. There are times that I carry so much burden, that I stress myself out and worried over the smallest things or get upset over those tiny things. This verse will remind me to just do that...Because He loves me so much, there's nothing He cannot do. He'll never give me more than I can handle. Just give my worries to God and He will lift the burdens.

My "Comfort Zone"

2006-08-25T22:34:00.000-06:00

Last night at Fellowship, one of the topics raised was our "Comfort zone"...Are we in our "Comfort zone"? Do we always sit w/ the same people? Do we always talk to the same people? If you're like me, the answer is "YES!!!" It's a fact and I can't deny it. I know I am not the only one because I can also see it w/ in my Fellowship. Soooooooooooo, how do we break the trend?

I mean it's great to have close friends to talk to...but at the same time, how can we expect the Church to grow or fellowships to grow if we don't introduce ourselves and say, "hi, I'm so-and-so!", there is always someone out there who needs someone to talk to, pray to or who is looking for a fellowship/small group to go to. I thank God that our Pastor is challenging us to get out of our "comfort zone" and to also become more involved in Church ministries. Whether it's the Children's program, sunday school, or worship service, they are always looking for people. I guess the question is, where is God calling you? What is your Spiritual gift? Where's the talent that God gave you being used? Is it being used or is it dormant? Are we doing our best to serve God? This may mean giving up weekends or your weeknights to help out...but I tell you it's all worth it. Everything we do is to glorify the kingdom of God to do the "Great Commission."

Before you decide what ministry you want to serve in, I suggest praying first. Ask for His guidance, wisdom as to where your talents would be best used. Perhaps, you rather get new people to come to fellowship, you could talk to your co-workers or talk to other people w/ in the English Congregation who are looking to join a fellowship. Perhaps, it could be encouraging those to come to Sunday School for those who don't. There are many opportunites out there. You just have to grab hold of it and DO IT!

This is my prayer...

Psalm 91

2006-08-23T21:06:00.000-06:00

Earlier tonite, Pastor Nelson taught a devotional study on Psalm 91. I'm going to paraphrase what was discussed earlier this evening...This Psalm focuses on security in life, the writer knew that God provides security. One question asked tonite was, what do you hold as security? For many of us, especially for me, my cell phone is one of my securities. I honestly feel naked or "off" w/o it, like tonite.

Short short summary:

Psalm 91:1-2 talks about the security God provides
Psalm 91:3-8 talks about the deliverance God provides. vv5-6 focuses on peace of the believer and not fear attacks at any time. The believer is invincible until his or her time is up. We see the wicked fall around us, but God will sustain us. Nothing can touch us but what He permits, nor can any rebel escape His retribution (v8)
Psalm 91:11-12 Satan quoted these when he tamped Jesus Christ in the wilderness (Matt 4:6) He urged Him to interpret this promise lieteraly. However, Jecus declined to tempt God by deliberately putting Himself in a dangerous situation to see if God would miraculously deliver Him. Story also mentioned in Luke 4:1-13.
Psalm 91:14-16 the assurance God provides. He (God) will not abandon those in distreses. The promises of rescue and honor normally find fulfillment in this life, but they always do the other side of the grave. God normally blesses people who follow His will by allowing them to live longer. This was a special blessing under the Mosaic Law. However, some godly people have died young others have perished at the hands of their enemies as some Christian martyrs. Does this indicate that God is unfaithful and His promises are unreliable?
If we view life as extending beyond the grave, as it does, we should have no trouble w/ these promises. God will grant ultimate deliverance to His own even if He allows them to suffer and die at the hands of enemies in this life. Even those who die young have enteral life.

"In life the Lord may permit many terrible things to happen to his children (cf. Job), as he did to his own Son, our Lord. But his children know that no power is out of God's control." (Vangermerren, p.601)

Mind you, this is a short short summary, excerpts from Pastor Nelson's notes....so I don't have everything on here.

Something I learned in the Old Testament: In the Old Testament, salvation meant long life, living under God's protection...In the New Testament, God provided eternal life through the death of His Son Jesus Christ, who died for our sins.

Weekly Prayer Request

2006-08-23T20:51:00.000-06:00

Hey Peeps,

This week's prayer items:

1. Pray for the Family workshops which MCAC is hosting this coming fall.
2. Pray for the Xara Camp at BYNG Island.
3. Pray for Zoe's retreat near Peterborough.
4. Pray for Vince and Kevin's respective CCF's. For their leadership this coming year in their respective roles in Fellowship.
5. Pray for Alex as he goes to B.C. to do his work-term this fall.
6. Pray for my health, that I get better soon.
7. Pray for our new pastoral/student intern as he adjusts to MCAC.
8. Pray for the English Congregation that those of us in Fellowships get to know the others in our congregation that are not in Fellowships yet. Let us get out of our "comfort zone" and meet the rest of our Church.
9. Pray for my Friend that as he searches for his purpose and meaning in life that he finds you Lord.

A Friend's a Friend forever

2006-08-18T21:07:00.000-06:00

Someone, I thought I'd never see or hear from again has reappeared in my life after being gone for quite sometime. A lot has changed since we last hung out almost two years ago. He only found out through our daily emails that I attend MCAC and not HCAC anymore. Tomorrow, we'll meet up for coffee to just catch up on old times so to speak and to see why he doesn't feel connected to God anymore. I know something unpleasant has happened to him...I can sense the urge for him to share the burden w/ me but not over email or phone. I pray that whatever has happened that God will show him the way. I pray that the words I say tomorrow are not my own but from God. I pray that He will use me to help him deal w/ this "problem" that he's been having. Pray for a safe drive tomorrow as I drive into Hamilton for the afternoon.

A Battle...A Struggle?

2006-08-18T20:32:00.000-06:00

For almost two weeks now, I've been working OT everyday. Lately, I've forgotten to eat lunch or take a break which I'm entitled to 1 hour daily. As my workload is changing and I am honestly trying my hardest to adapt...go w/ the flow. At first, I was overwelmed as I was taking on another person's job as well. While the training was going on, something got forgotten. I can't go into specs but let's just say, I got in trouble b/c of something someone else forgot to do. My lesson learned?? Gotta double check other people's work so that I don't end up getting into trouble again.

What does this have to do w/ my Spiritual life you ask?

I didn't go to fellowship last week b/c I was so exhausted that I just couldn't focus anymore. I knew if I went, my mind would not be on God but on work. My emotional state that day hit the roof. Everything, that came out of my mouth was not the best choice of words and I was almost crying. Thanks to P, A, D,J, J and others for your emails, msn, phonecalls that nite...I was very touched. I'm thankful to have you all at my side. The love that my Brothers and Sisters in Christ have shown me during this difficult time meant a lot to me. You were there while I needed someone to vent to or to listen to.

God has answered my prayers and carried me through this. These past few days have been much better and next week s/b even better...Boss is on holidays.

I praise God for having you all in my life. You are all truly a Blessing to me!

Weekly Prayer Requests

2006-08-10T18:55:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone,

After last night's prayer meeting, here are a few of the prayer items to pray for:

1. Xara's Praise night at MCAC, saturday at 7pm. Pray for the people involved and the people that will be attending.
2. Xara's BYNG island (Teen's Retreat)
3. Our English Pastor's health...Continue to pray for him and his family
4. Pray for Bonnie's Friend, who recently found out has not accepted Christ yet, that he may get to know Christ. At this time, he is exploring a variety of religions. I got to know this individual through a couple vacations this year.
5. Pray for Eddy and Shirley's upcoming wedding and their plans.
6. Pray for patience and humbleness for myself. I am going through a really rough patch at work right now.
7. Pray for our C&MA Missionaries and their safety for them and their families as they continue to serve the Lord all over the world.
8. Pray for the Joint Zion Fellowships (English Cong) BBQ picnic at Erindale Park. Especially the weather and may the Lord unite all of us together young and old.

May the Lord continue to Shine His light upon us...AMEN!

Sunday's Sermon Notes "Living in Harmony"

2006-08-09T21:18:00.000-06:00

Passage taken from (1 Peter 3:8 - 4:11)
Speaker: Pastor Nelson

"Live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble. Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing." (1 Peter 3:8-9)

To summarize a bit of what I learned on Sunday...about "Living in Harmony":

A. The five qualities to effective interpersonal relationship (V8)
1. "Living in Harmony" implies co-operation when there are individual differences.
2. Be Sympathetic-bearing one another's burdens.
3. Love as Brothers-A special kind of love which goes beyond familiar relatoinship.
4. Be compassionate-means feeling affectionately.
5. Be humble-Putting someon else's interests and needs before his own (Phil 2:3-4)

B. The three levels of payback (V9-12)
1. satanic level -> This is when we return "evil" for "good" revenge
2. human level -> This is when we return "good" for "good"," evil" for "evil"
3. Divine Level -> This is where you reutrn good for evil.

C. The "Small Print" Section:
1. You are blessed even if you suffer for doing good (V13-14a)
2. You should not fear (V14b)
3. Be prepared to give an answer, "Christ is Lord" (V15a)
4. Do this gently and responsibly (v15b)
5. Do God's will (vv17-18)

Finally, Blessing for insults...When someone treats you badly...remember the following:
1. React kindly when suffering ill-treatment.
2. Have the forgiveness attitude
3. Focus on God and the promises of His word.

I'll admit sometimes, that it's easier to act on natural impulses rather than the "right" thing. You could say in the heat of the moment, things are said or done that are hurtful and often forget of the consequences of our actions. Rather, it suddenly becomes ME, ME, ME...I'm sure it's happened to everyone at one point in time if not lately...hehehe.

Goal: Live in Harmony w/ everyone I come in contact with.

A SURPRISED phone call

2006-08-08T20:32:00.000-06:00

About an hour ago, I received a phone call from a Friend I haven't heard in awhile...Thought he disappeared for awhile...Nono...he was just on vacation. It was great to hear from him. Just to chat up and well it's great to receive a phone call just to say "hi" to get to know him better.

Among our many convos tonight, he brought up that he wasn't a Christian and wasn't sure where his life is going or at at this time. I think right now, he's exploring his options and he's open to Christianity. I was so happy to be able to share w/ him tonight a little more about myself and what God has done for me as well.

I explained to my Friend that a Fellowship is a place where people gather to learn about God but also have a mixture of social activities to balance it out. That a "small group" focuses more on bible studies and prayer in a small gathering and a Fellowship is more open to a larger group of people that come together to learn about God. Everyone is at a different stage in their Christian walk and some may be just exploring what life can be like w/ God in it. I found at Fellowships, there isn't as much tension or pressure as a small group. Fellowships are good when people are still discovering themselves because you will also have those that have been Christians for a long time to help encourage those who aren't sure. If Fellowship was just meant for Believers than it would never grow...If you want to learn about God or have an "itch" to explore and find out what Christianity is, come to Fellowship or as he puts it 1-800-bonnie.com (hahaha)

Although, I must admit, tonight's chat was the first chat I've had w/ my Friend about God. I'm really thankful that he called and brought it up. I hope I was able to reassure him on some issues and encourage him to continue to find out more about God. Of course, w/o the added pressure. Of course, I will always be there for my Friend(s) as they are there for me.

I know one thing for sure, if Christ was never in my life, I'd feel so empty and sad, but because of Christ, He has made me glad, given me hope.

The Beginning...

2006-08-08T20:19:00.000-06:00

I started this blog to share with others my journey w/ Christ. Not only my troubles or sorrows but also praises. God has been so great to me, and I want to share that with everyone. Whether I am struggling with something and need prayer support or maybe someone out there needs a hand or an ear for listening.

I have learned so much since I've been at MCAC and I am so grateful for the wonderful Brothers and Sisters of the Church and my mom and brother for their support during the transition. Most of all, I thank God for making me get out of my comfort zone to see what God has in store for me. I'll admit, not everything has been smooth sailing, there has been some rough patches along the way, but God has shown me the way each time. All I had to do, was listen to what He says.

My goal for writing this blog is to help others who may be discovering or exlporing their faith and to encourage those who read this to write their own blog and to share in my struggles.