Beit Parach - House of Breakthrough

Ariel - 2 Months and 2 Weeks old

2008-11-27T10:51:00.003+08:00

Sunday, 16 November 2008

@ Antioch Network Community

BrainOlympics at BURA Family Carnival 2008

2008-11-27T09:47:00.007+08:00

Setting up the stall

Puzzle 1 - Form the Letter 'M'

Puzzle 2 - Form a small Square with 4 pieces

Then, form a bigger Square with 5 pieces.

Can't form the puzzle? Buy one for RM 1 to try at home.

Mental Decathlon
Get 5 and above correct to win a prize.

Other puzzles

First 'customers'

The family that stayed the longest.

Demonstration by one of our 'regular customers' -

Completing the Rubic Cube in 1 minute!

Praise the Lord for the contacts we made!

We will be organising a tea-party cum puzzle-solving on 13 December 2008.

All are welcome to join us!

Ariel @ BURA Family Carnival

2008-11-21T16:02:00.003+08:00

Beautiful Ariel

Age: 2 months and 1 week young

(Sunday, 9 November 2008)

Beit Parach's Retreat 2008 @ Fraser's Hill

2008-10-29T22:26:00.004+08:00

(1 - 3 October 2008)

September Birthdays and Anniversary

2008-09-28T22:38:00.004+08:00

For David

For Ariel

Lee Fun

Aunty Sue

Uncle Chan and Aunty Chan's Anniversary

Seng Chor and Christine's Anniversary

Sunday, 28 September 2008

The Lee's Residence

Sue's Birthday

2008-09-08T22:45:00.000+08:00

Durian Cake

8 September 2008

Ariel Chan Xin Yi

2008-09-02T21:01:00.001+08:00

Ariel Chan Xin Yi

Tuesday, 2 September 2008

8:31 am

3.515 kg

Assunta Hospital

Ariel was dedicated to the Lord on 5 October 2008

Antioch Network Community

Popiah Night and "Who is Jesus?"

2008-07-28T16:56:00.005+08:00

The Adult Alpha course continued at the home of Seng Chor and Christine last Saturday, 26 July 2008. The title of the talk was "Who is Jesus?"

Anid and Tony came. It was a great time of popiah and fellowship. Our oikos found the talk interesting. Praise the Lord!

Popiah Skin

Bean Sprouts and Cucumber

Egg, Small Prawns and Green Beans

Lettuce

Nuts

Parsley

Chinese Sausage, Fried Onion, Prawn, Fried Bean Curd

Radish

Sauces - Nyonya, Chilli, Sambal and Sweet Sauce

Alpha Introduction dinner

2008-07-28T16:46:00.003+08:00

(Extacted from Dolly's Email)

Our Growth Group had our first Alpha Course Introduction dinner on Saturday, 19 July 2008.

At first we only had one confirmed oikos... later it turned out to 6 (the last was Yung Ling's friend, Kristen. On the evening itself the friend had a headache and Pei Lu's contact (Mr Chok) also decided not to come. But Anid and Tony came ... I think they were very much at home. Melvin and Melissa were very late (but better late than never!).

Praise the Lord we managed to show Nicky Gumbel's talk on 'Is there more to life?' Let's pray that the Word that has gone forth will be seed sown in their hearts... (Isaiah 55:10-11)

For dinner, we had Fried rice, Hokkien mee, Chicken curry, Mixed vegetables and House of Fishball. For dessert we had water melon & durian tart!

We are thinking of serving different types of cuisine each week (Italian, Indian, Steamboat? BBQ? Nasi lemak, etc) if we can get cooks or sponsors. So you see although you may not be physically present, you can play a part by praying, inviting, cooking, giving, etc.

Raymond's Farewell

2008-07-22T17:09:00.003+08:00

Extracted from Dolly's email (with minor modifications) ...

There were altogether 20 of us (including Raymond, his friend and 2 'associate members' i.e. temporarily imported from other Growth Groups & Joel, Jordan & Reuel) at Raymond's farewell on Sunday, 13 July 2008. The dinner was held in Loong Foong (actually not very befitting a Master Chef... oops!) but I guess it was more the fellowship... which continued at the Chans. Raymond shared a bit - he will be leaving for Dubai this Friday, 25 July.

The opportunities to learn and advance (accelerate?) in his culinary expertise are there... Praise the Lord for at least 2 familiar faces there (ex-colleagues).

We had quite an awesome time of prayer! From reminders to persevere to promises that God would make him a fisher of men to a higher level of faith, etc..... (oops sorry, I can't remember but I know they were just wow!!)

Do remember our brother in your prayers.

Youngest Guitarist at ANC Camp 2008

2008-06-12T22:43:00.002+08:00

Grouping @ ANC Camp 2008

2008-06-12T22:34:00.002+08:00

Uncle Chan 87th Birthday

2008-06-12T22:30:00.002+08:00

19 May 2008

Beit Parach

2008-04-23T20:11:00.002+08:00

Beit Parach encompasses faith (& therefore prayer) blessing (& fruitfulness).
It means

to bud, sprout, send out shoots bloom
to cause to bud or sprout

to show buds or sprouts
to break out (of leprosy)

to fly

The righteous are those who live in awe of the LORD, who love, honor and trust Him. They declare His lovingkindness in the morning and His faithfulness every night (Ps 92. 2). By faith they have been planted—transplanted into the house of the LORD, to bear fruit in His courts. That is, they have come to a new place in their life, not by their own striving, but by a work of the Lord. That in itself is a breakthrough. The psalm writer uses the analogy of the palm tree. A full-grown date palm can bear three or four hundred pounds of fruit, and in some cases even up to six hundred pounds. That’s abundance!

To live in house of the Lord and dwell in His courts is a rich life indeed. It is delighting in His law and meditating in it day and night (Psalm 1:2). Those who do are like trees that have been planted beside rivers of water, always bringing forth their fruit in season. Their leaf shall not wither, and whatever they do shall prosper (Psalm 1:3). They enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise (Psalm 100:4). They dwell in the secret place of the Most High and abide under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1), and in His presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11).

This is the breakthrough that lasts forever, for even in old age they shall still bear fruit. They shall still be fresh and flourishing. The Hebrew word for “flourishing” in this case means to be green and new, even luxuriant. It is the picture of health and prosperity, and it declares that the Lord is upright. This speaks of the Lord's Blessing!

Who are the righteous ones? Those who live by faith, just as Abraham believe God “and He accounted it to him for righteousness” (Genesis 15:6). Even as the prophet declared, “The just shall live by faith” (Habakkuk 2:4). The apostle Paul said, “God made Jesus, who knew no sin, to be sin for us, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

Faithpoint:
God has breakthrough for all those who love and trust in Him, for those who delight in His Word and meditate on it continually. They will enter His courts with praise and live in His house forever. It is a breakthrough that will last forever—the breakthrough of the righteous.

(Adapted from The Faith Log)

Juggling Act

2008-02-23T22:17:00.003+08:00

Chinese New Year 2008 Gathering

2008-02-22T11:13:00.001+08:00

17 February 2008

Happy Anniversary!

2008-01-25T21:53:00.000+08:00

23 January 2008

24 January 2008

Welcome, Joel Lai

2008-01-17T16:25:00.000+08:00

Joel Lai was born on Tuesday, 15 January 2008 at 2230 pm.

He weighed 3.2 kg (7.1 lbs).

It was a supernatural birth.

Praise the Lord!

Congratulations to Nai Kyn and Yoke Teen!

The Vow of Simplicity

2007-11-27T07:24:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 25 November 2007
(Creative Teaching using Crossword Puzzle by brother Nai Kyn)

Definition of simplicity:

(Down)
Simplicity means…

Unity of heart and singleness of purpose (Matt 6: 22)

Joy in God’s good creation - Oscar Wilde once said that people do not value sunsets because they cannot pay for them. Not so for us!

Contentment and trust (Phil. 4: 6)

Freedom from covetousness (Acts 20: 33)

Modesty and temperance in all things – our lives should be marked by voluntary abstinence in the midst of extravagant luxury (Titus 1:8)

To receive material provision gratefully - We are not rigid ascetics who cannot abide a land flowing with milk and honey. Rather, we rejoice in these gracious provisions from the heart of God.

Using money without abusing money – We use money within the confines of a properly disciplined spiritual life.

Availability - We have the time and energy to response to human need.

Giving joyfully and generously (2 Cor. 8: 5)

Richard Foster’s 10 Controlling Principles on our attitudes towards money:

(Across)

Buy things for their usefulness rather than their status (practicality)

Reject anything that is producing an addiction in you (given over habitually to)

Develop a habit of giving things away (practice that is hard to give up)

Refuse to be propagandized by the custodians of modern gadgetry (devices/tools)

Learn to enjoy things without owning them (possessing)

Develop a deeper appreciation for creation (setting high value on)

Look with a healthy skepticism at all “buy now, pay later schemes (another time)

Obey Jesus’ instructions about plain, honest speech (do not lie for gain)

Reject anything that will breed the oppression of others (treat with harshness or injustice)

Shun whatever would distract you from your main goal (take attention away)

November Birthdays

2007-11-26T06:34:00.001+08:00

Nai Kyn - 18 November

Melissa - 19 November

Selvi - 22 November

Aaron - 25 November

Chocolate birthday cake - baked by Aunty Dolly

Nai Kyn's and Selvi's Birthday Celebration

2007-11-19T18:44:00.000+08:00

The GG celebrated the birthday of Selvi and Nai Kyn at Yuen Steamboat Restaurant on Sunday, 18 November 2007

Any Treasures for Me

2007-11-19T08:30:00.000+08:00

(By brother Nai Kyn)

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6: 19 – 21)

On Sunday (11 November 2007) we were being challenged again to rethink about the way we used our money and other possessions we have. Two bible passages have been used as the basis of our discussion: Matthew 6: 19 – 21, 24 and Luke 16: 1 – 9, 13. Due to the limitation of space, I would like to just share a little thought on the passage found in Matthew (Maybe we can consider a sequel for the passage from Luke if this one successfully makes it to the ‘Box Office’).

The passage in Matthew is one that many of us are familiar with where it was recorded for us as part of the famous sermon that Jesus gave to his disciples known as the Sermon on the Mount. This is the passage where Jesus was teaching about the right attitude the disciples should have with regards to their earthly possessions.

It is interesting to note here that Jesus did not ask his disciples to quit storing up treasures. There is nothing wrong with the attitude of desiring something that is good and valuable. In fact, I believe that God has programmed within us the ability to appreciate what is valuable and to differentiate it from what is not. The problem we have today is that our ‘software’ has been corrupted by a virus called ‘sin’. ‘Sin’ invaded our system and confuses our judgment on the value we place on the things around us. Throughout history, many have tried to fix this ‘bug’ by introducing negation ‘anti-virus’. As a result, various schools of asceticism that emphasize on denial and disassociation with what has been mistakenly interpreted as valuable are born. The result is promising but somehow imperfect.

In saying “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, … But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, …”, Jesus was pointing to us what the real problem is. Many of us including myself spent very little time pondering about the kind of treasures we could inherit in heaven so much so that our attitude toward these treasures is one that is of indifference. Some of us resort to think that doing so is a waste of time since such an idea is so abstract and unfathomable. The situation is further complicated since the bible does not provide clear indication of what these treasures are like (or are we just been fed by an unbalance diet of our church education system that put so little emphasis on the teaching of such nature?).

I want to think that when I do my best to please God on this side of heaven, God will be truly pleased. I also know that one cannot do this without first checking his or her motives because God sees the heart rather than just our actions. Nevertheless, I am not satisfied to believe that when God is pleased with me He does not use heavenly treasures to reward me. Neither do I believe that all of us will be rewarded equally in heaven regardless of how we have served Him here on earth. This really goes against the teaching I have come across in the various parts of the bible (Matthew 24: 45 – 51; Matthew 25: 14 – 30; 1 Cor 3: 10 – 15).

Therefore, do I really see myself storing up treasures in heaven? Or am I saying that all I need to do is abstain from storing up treasures on earth but settle for a mediocre workmanship on church ministry and leave to God on whatever heavenly treasures He chose to reward me since I have totally no idea and do not want to spend too much time thinking if there are really such thing as treasures in heaven?

Finally, how do I apply the truth that says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”?

I arrive at the conclusion that if I really believe that there are such thing as treasures in heaven and that not everyone will be rewarded equally, I better make sure that each time I serve I give 100% of my commitment to it. This of course would have to be done on top of my pure motive and intimate relationship with God. May our heart be so enthralled by the treasures He has prepared for us in heaven!

Introduction to Money, Sex and Power

2007-08-27T10:59:00.000+08:00

The Challenge of the Disciplined Life
Christian Reflections on
Money, Sex & Power (MSP)

By Nai Kyn
(Based on the book by Richard Foster)

Why Money, Sex & Power (MSP)

Inseparably intertwined – interlacing connections

Need is great – fresh articulation of what it means to live faithfully with regard to MSP

Historically, spiritual revivals have been accompanied by a clear, bold response to the issues of MSP – ethically potent spiritual experience

Social Implications

MONEY

Social Dimension - Business

Negative Implications - Oppression

Positive Implications - Blessing

SEX

Social Dimension - Marriage

Negative Implications - Alienation

Positive Implications - Intimacy

POWER

Social Dimension - Government

Negative Implications - Tyranny

Positive Implications - Liberty

Transformed by God’s Power

Inherently within the institutional structures themselves are destructive forces that need to be transformed by the power of God if they are to benefit human society
(Ephesians 6: 12)

Historic Vows

Monastic Movement (Renouncement)

MONEY

Poverty - Detachment

Chastity - Vacancy

POWER

Obedience - Service

Puritan Movement

MONEY

Industry - Sanctity of work/Vocation is a calling; Moderation in work/Anti-workaholic

Faithfulness - Companionship

POWER

Order - Mutual commitment of support & accountability

Our Time?

MONEY

Reject the modern mania for wealth without a morbid asceticism

Affirming sexuality without encouraging promiscuity

POWER

Bringing authority and submission into proper balance

An Unholy Trinity

“the craving of the sinful man”

Greed

“the lust of his eyes”

Lust

“the boasting of what he has and does”

Pride

‘Road-blocks’ Ahead?

Double-mindedness (Matthew 19: 16 – 22)

Confusion due to immaturity (Ephesians 4: 14)

Blinded spiritually (2 Corinthians 4: 4)

Questions for Discussion

Has the Church given adequate, or inadequate, instruction on the issues of MSP?

What can we learn from both the Monastic Vows and Puritan Vows on the issues of MSP?

Of the three ‘road-blocks’ mentioned, which ones are you struggling with w.r.t the issues of MSP?

First Combined Meeting

2007-08-27T10:27:00.000+08:00

Dolly's and Seng Chor's Growth Group (GG) Meeting had the first combined meeting on Sunday, 26 August 2007 at the home of Roy and Selvi. We are now officially one GG.

Dolly baked bread pudding and cinnamon roll for breakfast. It was superbly delicious!

Aaron led the ice breaker. Each one had to choose a person from the previous GG and share what we like most about our previous GG. Then, one person from each pair shared to the whole group. Interesting.

Next, Selvi led the worship with the theme - My King. The Lord's Name was glorified and we were blessed.

Our first mini-sermon on Money, Sex and Power was conducted by Nai Kyn. It was a good introduction - simple and concise. We ended with a time of discussion and prayer.

Check out the cool PowerPoint slides!

Praise the Lord!

DSC Growth Group

2007-08-27T10:23:00.000+08:00

"We combine to give birth..."

Nai Kyn

(On the merging of Dolly's and Seng Chor's Growth Group)

Sexuality and Spirituality

2007-08-23T16:56:00.000+08:00

By Lai Nai Kyn
Bandar Utama Chapel
15 July 2007

The Reality of Our Sexuality
• Our Sexuality is a Vital Part of God’s Creation Plan
• Our Sexuality reflects the Image of God

The Celebration of Our Sexuality
• LOVE’S INTENSITY & RESTRAINT
• LOVE’S MUTUALITY & PERMANENCE

The Distortions of Our Sexuality
• Pornography
• Sadism and Masochism
• Sexism
• Homosexuality

Our Response
• Truth
• Grace (Genesis 3: 21)
• God’s Power (P.H.D.)

Wealth Creation and the Christian

2007-08-21T17:11:00.001+08:00

A series on Money, Sex and Power

AARON YONG
Bandar Utama Chapel
19 August 2007

Sermon Outline
 What is Wealth Creation?
 What does the bible has to say about wealth creation?
 How should a Christian respond and approach wealth.
 Living the 5 Principles.
 Some practical ideas for BUC

What is Wealth Creation?
Creating wealth from nothing?
Start with what you already have and make more from it?
Return on investments or increasing your passive income?
Multiple sources of income?

If Wealth Creation is your focus,
If wealth is the centre of your life,
you choose friends because of their economic status or influence.
If wealth is the centre of your life,
your self worth is determined by your net financial worth.
If wealth is the centre of your life,
your family becomes a liability and an economic drain to you.

Quotes on Wealth
"Money has not made a man happy yet, nor will it.
The more a man has, the more he wants.”
- Benjamin Franklin

3 School of Thoughts about Wealth
 Wealth as an Offence to Faith
 Wealth as an Obstacle to Faith
 Wealth as an Outcome of Faith

A Relevant and Integrated Approach to Wealth Creation
 Taking Responsibility
 God is still the source of our wealth
 Show accountability
 Magnify God’s glory through all your wealth creation activities.
 But Godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment.

Principle # 1:
We were created in His image to be the care taker of the earth and that includes “wealth”.
Know your responsibility.

Principle # 2:
“Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness, and all these shall be given unto you as well.”
Matthew 6:33
Know God’s Will in your life.

Principle # 3:
Be a Cheerful Giver.
“Each man should give what he has decided in His heart to give, not reluctantly nor under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
2 Corinthians 9:7

Principle # 4:
Be Accountable.
The hardest thing to do is to be in charge of wealth. We are accountable for the wealth that God has entrusted to us.

Principle # 5:
Be a Wealth Creator for Kingdom Business.
Create wealth to sustain those in ministry and use this as a platform for Kingdom business.

CHRISTIAN RESPONSE TO MONEY, SEX & POWER

2007-08-15T16:27:00.000+08:00

By Elder Wong Wing Cheong
5 August 2007
Antioch Centre

Problem / need / question:
 We want to love God
 Struggling with loving God and loving this world
 Are we trapped? How can we cope?
 You can be free

PURPOSE:
 Encouragement
 to diligently explore, consider and take action
 on what God is saying
 on the issues of Money, Sex and Power;
 rejecting the destructive influences and
 faithfully take on the challenge to embrace and multiply their creative attributes
 as intended by our Creator God.

Why Money, Sex & Power?
 Inseparable in every day life – It’s real
 Issues inseparably inter-twined
 Upheaval in our culture
 Our bold responses  Spiritual Revival
 It’s related to Radical Discipleship

The Destructive Potential of Money – 1 Timothy 6:6-10
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. 8 But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. 9 People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many grieves.

The Destructive Potential of Sex – Galatians 5:19-21
19 The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; 20 idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions 21 and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.

The Destructive Potential of Power – Acts 8:18-24
 18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money 19 and said, "Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit."
 20 Peter answered: "May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21 You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23 For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin."
 24 Then Simon answered, "Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me."

An Unholy Trinity – 1 John 2:15-17
15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 16 For everything in the world—the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.

Do not love the world or anything in the world
 It’s a Command
 "Do not love the world or the things in the world."
 First argument: Love for the World Pushes Out Love for the Father
 Second argument: The World Is Passing Away with Its Lusts
 Third argument: The man who does the will of God lives forever

Applications
 Vows of simplicity, fidelity & service
 God prospers me not to raise my standard of living, but to raise my standard of giving.
 Resurrected power of Jesus to free those under the destructive powers of Money, Sex & Power

Isaiah 61

The Year of the LORD's Favor
 1 The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me,
because the LORD has anointed me
to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted,
to proclaim freedom for the captives
and release from darkness for the prisoners,

 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor
......

A person who is attached to riches, who lives with the worry of, is actually very poor. If this person put his money at the service of others, then he is rich, very rich. He is rich owes nothing.

God is rich emptied himself. Nowadays people want to live with the poor but they want to be free to dispose things as they wish. To have this freedom is to be rich.

Beautiful, and Food for the Soul

2007-07-31T11:32:00.000+08:00

"Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.

Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.

Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.

Painful moments, TRUST GOD.

Every moment, THANK GOD."

Yoke Teen's Birthday - 15 July 2007

2007-07-17T13:51:00.001+08:00

We celebrated Yoke Teen's Birthday at Pantai Seafood Restaurant. The celebration continued at the home of Roy, Selvi and Reuel.

Uncle Chan, Aunty Chan and David.

The Chans, Seng Chor, Jordan, Uncle Wing and Aunty Sue

Ming Han and Uncle Ho

Aunty Dolly, Ming Li and Aunty Chooi Kuan

Ming Yue, Selvi, Mich and Rach.
Does Selvi's pose look familiar?

The 'star' and her beloved

The food

Pork knuckles

Fish

The cake

Cake + Candles

The radiant 'star'

Need help with the candles?

Making a wish

A gift from Mich, Hui En and some of The Wongs.

Dim Sum

2007-07-13T10:50:00.000+08:00

The GG was blessed by Roy and Selvi with Dim Sum at Damansara Palace.
Praise the Lord!

(Sunday, 8 July 2007)

3rd Wedding Anniversary

2007-06-05T20:07:00.000+08:00

God bless Nai Kyn and Yoke Teen's marriage as they celebrate their 3rd Wedding Anniversary today - 5 June 2007.

Best wishes,
From BUC.

BUC Boot Camp 2007 - Session 5

2007-06-05T17:04:00.000+08:00

THE YEAR OF THE LORD'S FAVOUR

The Year of Rest
Leviticus 25 - A Year of Rest
Sabbatical Year
(Lev 25:1-7, Deut 15:1-11, Ex 23:10-11)
A year of rest for the land of Israel. To be uncultivated for one year.
The wild produce of the land was for the poor.
Brought in release and rest, and was a time when the poor benefited.
Ancient Israel was an agricultural society. So the stipulations would be especially meaningful to the people.

The Year of Jubilee (every 50th Year)
Like the sabbatical year, the land was to be rested or released from work.
God promised to abundantly bless Israel in the 6th year so that there would be enough food for 3 years till the new harvest year.
(Lev 25:18-22)

The Year of Release
The Sabbatical Year
(Ex 21:1-6, Deut 15:1-6, 12-18)
All debts were to be cancelled (interest + capital).
Removed the yoke of bondage to labour. Instead of human effort to get greater wealth, Israel rested for a full year and used up her provisions.
By the 8th year, all Israel would start from zero base together. Creates compassion and desire to look after others’ interests rather than just oneself’s.
The lesson was that all things now bound will be released.

The Year of Jubilee
(Lev 25:13-17,23-55)
The land was released from all ownership free of charge and returned to its original owner (Josh 18-19).
If families had to sell the land it would remain their everlasting inheritance by reverting back to their ownership on Jubilee.
In the Sabbath Year all debts were cancelled. But in Jubilee, slaves were released so that they could return to take possession of they allotted inheritance. Their original inheritance was restored by God!

The Promises of Jubilee
• Rest from ceaseless labour and striving.
• God will abundantly provide for our needs.
• Security comes from God NOT ourselves.
• God cares for and watches over the poor.
• All debts and past mistakes are cancelled.
• All are equal in God’s eyes.
• Total release from slavery.
• FORFEITED DESTINIES ARE RESTORED!

Luke 4:14-21
The Year of the Lord’s Favour
Refers to the full Jubilee through Christ.
It includes:
• The anointing of God’s Spirit
• Good news to the poor
• Freedom for the captives
• Recovery of sight for the blind
• Release for the oppressed

Good News to the Poor and Outcast
• The feeding of the 4,000 and 5,000
(Mat 15:29-39, Luke 9:10-17).
• The forgiveness of sins for the prostitutes and tax collectors (Luke 7:36-50, 19:1-10).
• The forgiveness of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11).
• The healing of the Canaanite woman’s daughter (Mat 15:21-28).
• The ministry to the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4).

Release for the Captives & Oppressed
• The healing of the blind, the deaf, the lepers, the crippled and the paralysed.
• Deliverance from the demon that was mute (Luke 11:14).
• The healing of the woman with the issue of blood (Mat 9:18-22).
• The healing of the crippled woman, …this daughter of Abraham whom satan has kept bound for 18 long years [has been] set free… (Luke 13:10-17)

Forfeited Destinies are Restored
• The healing of the demoniac …the man was sitting there, dressed and in his right mind… Go home to your family and tell them how much the Lord has done for you… (Mk 5:1-20).
• The Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).
• The forgiveness and restoration of Peter (John 21:15-19).
• Saul’s conversion and transformation into the Apostle Paul (Acts 9).
The Anointing of God’s Spirit
• Authority and Participation in God’s salvific work – the sending out of the 72 disciples (Luke 10).
• The Great Commission to the Church
(Mat 28:18-20, Mk 16:15-20).
• The Day of Pentecost (Acts 2) – the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit came.
• Book of Acts – the Church demonstrated the authority and power of God. The Church continued the ministry of Jesus.

The Year of the Lord’s Favour
• There is Rest and Release for the weary and the oppressed.
• God gives His authority and anointing.
• God will abundantly provide for our needs.
• God cares for and watches over the poor.
• All debts and past mistakes are cancelled.
• God heals and restores.
• God gives total release from all slavery.
• FORFEITED DESTINIES ARE RESTORED!

Personal Response
• Declare and affirm that GOD is your ONLY security and provider.
• Repent of all your sins and ask Jesus to cleanse you completely.
• Choose to receive ALL the promises and blessings of Jubilee through Christ – rest, release, breaking of bondages, provision, authority, anointing, restoration of destiny…
• Choose to fulfil God’s destiny for your life – to be a channel of God’s blessing and favour to your family, friends, colleagues, church and community [call them out by name].

Pray for Bandar Utama Chapel
• Ask God to completely transform BUC into harvest warriors for God’s Kingdom.
• Pray for BUC to have a new anointing, new authority, new zeal and new passion to fufil God’s destiny.
• Ask God to anoint BUC with the Spirit of the Lord to continue the ministry of Christ:
– Preach good news and minister to the poor
– Set the spiritual captives and prisoners free
– Heal the sick and deliver the demon-possessed
– Announce the Year of the Lord’s Favour

BUC Boot Camp 2007 - Session 4

2007-06-05T16:50:00.000+08:00

CARRIERS OF GOD'S GLORY

The Glory of God is:
(a) The visible sign of the Greatness of God
(b) A clear sign of the Presence of God
(c) The very person of God Himself

Old Testament Carrier of God’s Glory
The Ark of the Covenant (Exod 25:10-22)
- A visible sign that God was dwelling in Israel's midst.
- Had a covering lid, called the Atonement Cover or Mercy Seat.
- Exodus 40:34-35
- 1 Samuel 5:1-4 – a power encounter.

Objects Contained in the Ark (Heb 9:4-5)
(1) Stone Tablets of the Covenant
(2) Aaron’s Staff that Budded
(3) Gold Jar of Manna
(4) Atonement Cover or Mercy Seat

(1) Stone Tablets of the Covenant
- The 10 Commandments. The Laws of God.
- All authority and power are in the hands of God.
- Represent the justice and judgements of God.

(2) Aaron’s Staff that Budded
- Numbers 16 to 17
- Represents Jesus’ Priestly Authority and Jesus’ Resurrection.

(3) Gold Jar of Manna
- Points to Christ, the Bread of eternal life. If any believe in Him, they will never die.

(4) Atonement Cover or Mercy Seat
- The Mercy Seat was placed above the Stone Tablets.
God sees the blood and the Mercy Seat before He sees the Law (the Stone Tablets).
- Mercy triumphs over judgement [James 2:13]
The Throne of Judgement is transformed into the Throne of Grace.

New Testament Carrier of God’s Glory

The Church is God’s representative.

Christians are the carriers of God’s glory.

1 Cor 3:16-17

You are a LIVING carrier, created by God, made in His Image.

Implications For Believers

You are the Temple of God. The NT Ark of the Covenant.

You have the ministry of mercy and forgiveness.

You are God’s Chosen Priesthood bringing healing and wholeness to others.

You bring the Gospel’s power encounter to break strongholds and set the prisoner free.

BUC Boot Camp 2007 - Session 3

2007-06-05T16:47:00.000+08:00

A COVENANTAL GOD

Key Bible references:

Genesis 3

Galatians 3:8
The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: "All nations will be blessed through you."

Joel 2

1 Corinthians 12

Key Points:
The Abrahamic Covenant.
As we have received blessings from God, let us be a blessing unto others.
Keep the Covenant.

Blessed 35th Birthday to GG Leader

2007-06-04T01:04:00.001+08:00

Seng Chor, our beloved GG Leader celebrated his 35th Birthday on 3 June 2007.

Happy and Blessed birthday!

Best wishes,
The Lord's Army - BUC.

BUC Boot Camp 2007 - Session 2

2007-06-01T00:10:00.001+08:00

A LIFE OF HUMILITY
Psalm 131

David’s Life
• Patient
• Endured persecution
• Not corrupted by wealth or power
• Made mistakes but always repented

Saul and David

Similarities	Saul	David
Chosen by God and began humbly	1 Samuel 9	1 Samuel 16
Anointed by God’s Spirit	1 Samuel 10	1 Samuel 16
Started well	1 Samuel 11	1 Samuel 17
Sinner against God, Punished by God	1 Samuel 15 & 28	2 Samuel 11, 12 & 15

Major Differences (Saul vs David)
Saul - Corrupted by Power (1 Sam 22)
David - Remained Uncorrupted (1 Chr 28-29)

Saul - Poor Relationship, Real Relationship (1 Sam 15)
David - False Repentance Real Repentance (1 Samuel 12, 1 Chr 28)

Saul - Died in Disgrace (1 Samuel 31)
David - Finished Well (“A man after God’s heart”)

Wrong Definition – Not Humility
Poor self-image
Low self-esteem
Lack of self-confidence
Being fearful and afraid
Not daring to succeed
(Living a life of failure)

Biblical Definition
Acknowledging that God is the Giver of all things…
…and that your time, talents and treasure belong to God…
…and therefore your life, work and ministry are to be used FOR GOD’S GLORY

A Humble Person Can Be: - For God’s Glory
Gifted and Talented
Confident
Successful
Prosperous
A Strong Leader
Accomplish great things

Like A Weaned Child (v2)
• Is independent yet still relies on his mother
• David (king and mighty warrior) humbly relied on God
• We must humbly rely on God, whether CEO, General, Ruler, Lecturer, Secretary or Student…

Biblical Humility
We acknowledge that everything we have comes from God…
…and is to be used FOR GOD!

BUC Boot Camp 2007 - Session 1

2007-05-31T23:53:00.000+08:00

Relationship not Religion

Hosea 4 – 6

Background

The good times were Israel’s downfall. Israel’s society, religion and politics were deteriorating and degenerating.

Hosea warned of God’s anger and coming judgment if the nation did not repent.

ISRAEL’S NATIONAL SINS
* A Rejection of God
• No faithfulness, love or acknowledgement of God (Hosea 4:1, 5:7)
• Cursing, lying, murder, stealing, adultery and bloodshed (Hosea 4:2)
• No integrity, justice, righteousness or mercy (Psalm 97:2)

* Idolatry
• Exchanged their Glory for something disgraceful (Hosea 4:7-8)
• Prostitution, alcoholism, immorality, fornication, adultery (Hosea 4:10b-11)
• Pagan, sexual rituals and orgies (Hosea 4:14)

Deuteronomy 6:5
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

Deuteronomy 8:10-14; 19-20
When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the LORD your God for the good land he has given you. Be careful that you do not forget the LORD your God, failing to observe His commands, His laws and His decrees that I am giving you this day. [Otherwise] your heart will become proud and you will forget the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery… If you ever forget the LORD your God and follow other gods and worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will be destroyed for not obeying the LORD your God.

CHARACTERISTICS OF ISRAEL’S IDOLATRY
• Worshipped YHWH as well as the Canaanite gods (Hosea 8:2)
• Baal = master, lord or possessor Baal = god of nature and fertility
• No need to be morally upright, righteous or ethical
• Appeasement, bribery, bargaining and barter
• YHWH was combined with the Canaanite pantheon of gods. Breaking of the First Commandment (Exodus 20:3)

GOD’S SHOCKING ANNOUNCEMENT
• God’s covenant = a marriage covenant, a betrothal (Hosea 2:14-16)
• Never been made before by any of the gods of the nations!
• Believers = God’s precious possession, called to proclaim His glory and make His Name known among the nations
• The Church = the “Bride of Christ”Jesus = “Beloved Bridegroom”
• God has made an unbreakable covenant with us – a marriage covenant

IMPLICATIONS
• Hosea 6:6, “For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgement of God rather than burnt offerings.”

• Obedience rather than sacrifice
Ø 1 Samuel 15:22-23
Ø God looks at our hearts and not our actions
Ø Hear and obey (Mark 12:30-31)

• Relationship, not Religion
Ø Christianity is a relationship with the Living God
Ø Not about religion, rituals, rules or regulations
Ø The difference between Sonship and Servanthood
Ø King David – Acts 13:22

(By Alvin Ng)

Boot Camp 2007 Photos (Part 1)

2007-05-31T12:36:00.000+08:00

by firegem1

(Photos were taken by Chaplain Alvin)

Happy Faces from BUC Boot Camp 2007

2007-05-31T10:02:00.000+08:00

(Please click on the photo to enlarge it)

Praise the Lord for BUC Boot Camp 2007!

2007-05-31T09:49:00.000+08:00

Dear Colonels, Lieutenants, Major, Captain, Sergeant,Quartermaster and all Privates...

Welcome back!

Praise the Lord for a Great, Fantastic, Wonderful, Blessed and Cool.. BUC Boot Camp 2007!

Thank God for His protection and journey-mercies upon all of us. Though we may be feel tired physically but we are refreshed and revived Spiritually! Hallelujah!!

All of you are encouraged to come for PRAYER & PRAISE this Friday at 8.30pm at Antioch. We want to give praise and thanksgiving to our Almighty God for working in each of our lives at the camp.

Please come and share of God's goodness and faithfulness. Let's give thanks and glory to the Lord!

For those who were not at the camp, please also come and join us to praise & worship the Lord.

SEE YOU ON FRIDAY!!!

Yours in His Majesty's Service,

General Gan
(Hahaha!!!)

Birthdays in May

2007-05-31T09:19:00.000+08:00

Our oldest GG member, Uncle Chan celebrated his 86th birthday on 19 May.

Our youngest youth, Rachelle celebrated her birthday on 25 May.

Blessed and Happy birthday to both of them!

DEVILITUDES

2007-05-05T23:57:00.000+08:00

•Blessed are those who are too tired, too busy, too distracted to spend an hour once a week with their fellow Christians in Church – They are my BEST workers

•Blessed are those Christians who wait to be asked and expect to be thanked – I can USE them

•Blessed are the touchy, with a bit of luck they may stop going to church – they are my MISSIONARIES

•Blessed are those who are very religious but get on everyone’s nerves – they are mine FOREVER

•Blessed are the troublemakers – they shall be called MY CHILDREN

•Blessed are those who have no time to pray – they are easy PREY for me

•Blessed are the gossipers – they are my SECRET AGENTS

•Blessed are those critical of church leadership – for they shall INHERIT a place with me in MY FATE

•Blessed are the complainers – I’m ALL ears for them

•Blessed are you when you read this end think it is about other people and not yourself – I’VE GOT YOU!!!

From the " Walking in the Spirit's Power and Authority" Seminar
Pastor Aow, His Arrows
(5 May 2007)

"Where is God now? Where is God when it hurts?"

2007-04-30T15:08:00.000+08:00

GotQuestions.org - Question of the Week

Question: "Where is God now? Where is God when it hurts?"

Answer: The Bible teaches that God reigns over the nations from His holy throne in Heaven (Psalm 47:8; Isaiah 6:1, 66:1; Hebrews 4:16). Even though we know that God's presence is in some sense uniquely in Heaven, the teachings of Scripture also make it clear that God is omnipresent (present everywhere at the same time). From the beginning of Scripture, we see the presence of God hovering over the earth, even when it was still formless and empty (Genesis 1:2). God filled the world with His creation, and His presence and glory continue to inhabit the whole earth (Numbers 14:21). There are many examples throughout Scripture of God's presence moving amidst the earth, interacting with His creation (Genesis 3:8, Deuteronomy 23:14, Exodus 3:2, 1 Kings 19:11-18, Luke 1:35, Acts 16:7). Hebrews 4:13 says, "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must given an account." Jeremiah 23:24 exclaims, "'Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?' declares the Lord. 'Do not I fill heaven and earth?' declares the Lord." Psalm 139 is an amazing study in God's omnipresence.

Where is God? If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, God is with you, beside you, above you, and inside you. God's presence and watchful care never leaves you. If you are not a believer in Jesus Christ, God is right in front of you, inviting you, drawing you, offering you the love, mercy, and grace that He longs to give you. If you are unsure of your relationship with God through Jesus Christ, please read our article on how to " Get right with God." Perhaps a better question than "Where is God?" is "Where are you, in relationship to God?"

Where is God when it hurts? It seems we desire to know the answer to this question most when faced with painful trials and attacks of doubt. Even Jesus, during His crucifixion, asked, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46). To the onlookers of that time, as well as to those who first read the story, it seems that God did forsake Jesus, so we obviously conclude that He will forsake us as well in our darkest moments. Yet, upon continued observation of the events that unfolded after the crucifixion, the truth was revealed that nothing can separate us from the love of God, not even death (Romans 8:37-39). After Jesus was crucified, He was glorified (1 Peter 1:21, Mark 16:6,19; Romans 4:24-25). From this example alone we can be assured that even when we do not feel God's presence in the midst of our pain, we can still believe His promise that He will never leave us nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). "God sometimes permits what he hates to accomplish what He loves." (Joni Erickson Tada)

We put our trust in the fact that God does not lie, He never changes, and His word stands true forever (Numbers 23:19, 1 Samuel 15:29, Psalm 110:4, Malachi 3:6, Hebrews 7:21, 13:8, James 1:17, 1 Peter 1:25). We do not lose heart over painful circumstances because we live by faith in every word that has proceeded from the mouth of God, not putting our hope in what is seen or perceived. We trust God that our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs all the suffering that we will endure on this earth. So, we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, because we know and believe that what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:16-18, 5:7). We also trust God's Word, which says He is constantly working things together for the good of those who love Him and have been called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). Even though we do not always see the good ends to which God is working things out, we can be assured that a time will come when we will understand and see more clearly.

Our lives are like the illustration of a quilt. If you look at the back side of a quilt, all you see is a mess of knots and loose ends hanging out all over. It is very unattractive and there seems to be no rhyme or reason to the work. Yet when you turn the quilt over, you see how the maker has craftily woven together each strand to form a beautiful creation, much like the life of a believer (Isaiah 64:8). We live with a limited understanding for the things of God, yet a day is coming when we will know and understand all things (Job 37:5, Isaiah 40:28 Ecclesiastes 11:5, 1 Corinthians 13:12, 1 John 3:2). Where is God when it hurts? The message to take with you in hard times is that when you can't see His hand, trust His heart, and know for certain that He has not forsaken you. When you seem to have no strength of your own, that's when you can most fully rest in His presence and know that His strength is made perfect in your weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10).

Recommended Resource: Where is God when it Hurts? by Philip Yancey.

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Rebecca's 1st Birthday

2007-04-28T23:49:00.000+08:00

Today is the FIRST birthday of our super adorable youngest GG member - Rebecca.

Blessed and happy birthday to her!

Best wishes,
From all the Uncles, Aunties, Cheh-chehs and Kokos.

2 Boys and 1 Girl

2007-04-19T21:54:00.000+08:00

The 'Balinese' Boys.

2 Boys and 1 Girl - Reuel (middle), Jordan and Rebecca.

(At Antioch Centre, 15 April 2007)

Ministers For God's Purposes

2007-04-19T21:43:00.000+08:00

The Ministry of Reconciliation

11 Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. 12 We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. 13 If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. 14 For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. 15 And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.
16 So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20 We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21 God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

2 Corinthians 5:11-21

Main Points

1) We share the gospel in the fear of the Lord.

2) That is why our motives must be pure.

3) We are committed to evangelism because we have been transformed by the love of God.

4) Indeed we no longer view life from a wordly point of view.

5) God has reconciled the world to Himself through the death of Christ.

6) And He has made us His ambassadors, appealing to the world through us.

7) Therefore we continue to commit ourselves to the ministry of evangelism.

(By Dr Tan Soo Inn)

Easter at Bukit Beruntung

2007-04-12T22:09:00.000+08:00

The backdrop.

Preparing for worship.

The congregation.

Our Baptism candidate - Warren.

Reuel turns 2 today!

2007-04-11T16:27:00.000+08:00

Our charming and handsome toddler - Reuel is 2 years old today!

Blessed Birthday to you, Reuel.
May God continue to watch over you and bless you.

Easter Sunday Sermon

2007-04-11T14:12:00.000+08:00

THE RADICAL DISCIPLE’S POWER & AUTHORITY

Easter Sunday
Jesus is Alive!
He has risen from the death
The Mighty Power of God
Had raised Jesus from the dead

Ephesians 1.18-2.5

==================================================

The Greatness of God’s Power
• Resurrection power is like no other power on earth
– It is unique, and has no possible rival
• It is the kind of power that operates in the midst of death & evil
– Therefore, if you learn to live by resurrection power you can be alive and vital when everything and everyone around you is dead and lifeless
• Resurrection power is irresistible
– Keep on keeping on

==================================================
The Greatness of God’s Power
Paul’s prayer:
You & I (Christians) might keep on experiencing this incredible power of God in our lives

Resurrection power is at work in a disciple who believe
His past,
His present,
& His future!
==================================================
The Consequences of God’s resurrection power at work in us

• The Believer’s PAST: We were spiritually DEAD (2.1)
We were captive to sin (Eph 2.1b, Romans 6.23)
We were under Satan’s control (Eph 2.3b)

Under the control of both sin and Satan—they are powerful allies
We were Dead!

• We were dead but we are made ALIVE!

“. . . but because of his great love for us, God . . . made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions”(Ephesians2.4-5)

We are set free from the prison of death
—so exercise our freedom! Walk free!
Satan is a disarmed and defeated foe (Col 2.15)

• FUTURE
Our confident hope of resurrection from death

“Death has been swallowed up in victory
Where, O death is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law
But thank be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Cor 15. 54b-57)
No longer afraid of death or evil

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentarily troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory far outweighs them all” (2Cor 4.16-17)

Recall Paul’s prayer in Eph 1.18:
You & I (Christians) might keep on experiencing this incredible power of God in our lives

Resurrection power is at work in us who believe presently
not only our past,
& in the future,
but also our present life,

The present consequences of God’s power at work in us

==================================================

Resurrection life as our present experience

“. . . he (God) raised him (Jesus) from the dead & seated him at His right hand . . . far above all rule and authority . . .
and God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms”! (Eph 1.21b-22, 2.5b)

==================================================

The Present Consequences of God’s power at work in us
Alive, we has started to reign with Christ now—we are given authority and power from on high to be God’s kingdom ambassador
• He (Jesus) gave them power & authority (Luke 9.1-2, 10.19, 20)
• Learn to take authority. We are the head not the tail! This is the position we are in—it has nothing to do with our maturity
• It means we carry with us Jesus’ badge of authority
• Jesus has us covered

• The power that keep us keeping on
‘ . . . This all-surpassing power is from God . . . We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed but not in despair; persecuted but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed”(2 Cor 4.7-11)

• The power to overcome the Enemy: “Finally be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power . . . For our struggles are not against flesh and blood but against the powers of this dark world” (Eph 6.10-12)
God has given us power for “victory over the darkness”
The battle is ON & on going!

– Our mind the battle field
Acts 5.3 Satan had filled the heart of Ananias (a believer) to lie to the Holy Spirit. Satan can put thoughts into our mind

– “During supper, the devil have already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot . . ,to betray Jesus” (John 13.3)
• Our mind the battle field
• Some having difficulty concentrating and reading the Bible
• Some struggle with accusing and condemning thoughts
• Some are hearing “voices”
• Some have repeated nightmares or demonic dreams
Are we mentally unsound or are there a spiritual battle going on in our mind?

==================================================

Power to Overcome our Enemy
• Remember your position in Christ (Eph 2.5b)
• God has given us power for “victory over the darkness” (2 Cor 10.4, Luke 9.1-2)
Jesus has you covered
• Satan is a disarmed and defeated foe (Col 2.15)
“And having disarmed the powers and authorities (Satan & his demons), he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross”
but he will continue to lie to us that he has more power and authority over us. The truth—He has no authority and power over us unless WE give him the right

==================================================

JESUS IS ALIVE & THE POWER OF HIS RESURRECTION IS AVAILABLE NOW
-You need a little bit of help to gain the victory. You need not fight the battle alone. We are here to help you with the problem because there is a battle going on for your mind which God has given us the power n authority to win.

(By Elder Christopher Leong, Bandar Utama Chapel)

Uncle Wing Cheong's 50th Birthday Party

2007-04-10T11:24:00.001+08:00

(Celebrated on Sunday, 8 April 2007)

Blessed 50th Birthday to Elder Wing Cheong

2007-04-09T18:34:00.000+08:00

Today is our Elder Wing Cheong's 50th Birthday. We had a simple birthday celebration for him at his very own home, last night.

The programme:

Dinner - roast lamb, cauliflower cheese, egg with tuna, quiche, potato salad, foo chuk, noodle, roast duck, rice
Cake Cutting ceremony - Mango Cake
Showing off birthday presents
PowerPoint presentation - "The Blessed Life of The Wongs"
Question & Answer Session

Uncle Wing Cheong, thank you for your friendship. Thank you for sharing your life with us. May God continue to shower his richest blessing upon you and your family - Aunty Sue, Michelle and Rachelle.

The Birthday Cake!

The lovely couple

The beautiful and happy family (with a sexy look)

The extended happy family!

Radical Disciple & His Cross

2007-04-03T11:07:00.000+08:00

(Sunday Sermon at Antioch Centre by Elder Christopher Leong)
Sunday, 1 April 2007

 Today is Palm Sunday
– The start of the Passion Week
– The day Jesus entered into Jerusalem riding on a donkey, not on a horse or chariot)
He came as the King of peace
– In 5 days time, Jesus would be crucified on Good Friday
 The message of the cross was foolishness to the Greek & a stumbling block to the Jews (1 Cor 1.23)

==================================================

The Call to Radical Discipleship
 Why radical discipleship?
 Jesus is a Radical
– Who being in very nature God
. . . made himself nothing
. . . taking the very nature of a servant
. . .he humbled himself &
. . .became obedient to death—
. . . even death on a (Roman) cross! (Phi 2.6-8)

==================================================

Jesus the Radical LORD called us
to take up our cross
and followed Him

Luke 14.25-35

==================================================

The Radical Disciple & His Cross

Large crowds were travelling with Jesus (v.25)
Being a member of a crowd or being a radical disciple of Jesus?
Three Things distinguished a Radical Disciple of Jesus

==================================================

3 Crucial Areas of Our Life

Personal Relationship (Luke 14.26)
Personal Goals & Desires (Luke14.27)
Personal Possessions (Luke 14.33)

==================================================

Realignment Our Priority

If anyone comes to me and
does not hate his father and mother,
,his wife and children, his brothers and
sisters—yea even his own life—he CANNOT be my disciple
(v.26)

Putting Jesus and His agenda, His mission, our top priority
Today who compete with your loyalty to Jesus?

==================================================

Releasing Our Goals & Desires

 Whoever does not carry his own cross and come after Me cannot be my disciple (v.27)
 In the times of Jesus, there is not mistaking to any passer-by that a person carrying the Roman cross is heading—it meant certain death
 “The subject is commitment, a high level of consecration on the part of those who wish to be disciples of Jesus”
 The eg. of Abraham in the OT (Gen 22.1-2)
– Dying to our own dreams and desires
– To find God’s true destiny for yours and mine
The film-Armageddon (calling a select group of men and woman to give up their own ambition in order to save the earth from being hit by a huge meteorite)

==================================================

 As you think through the major decision you have made, have they please the Lord or fed your ego.
 Have you taken your goal before the Lord for His approval? Are you willing to change?

==================================================

Relinquishing Our Possessions

“So therefore, no one of you can be my disciple who does not give up all his own possessions” (Luke 14.33)
Things! These takes so much of our times and energies
Things must not allowed to possess us, i.e. to be our Master or become our idol
We become slaves to them—their wish is our command

==================================================

BE FREE & CLAIM YOUR DESTINY
 Realigning Our Priority
 Releasing Our Goals & Desires
 Relinquishing Our Possessions
 Why?
 The Time is Near!
 The World will be Destroyed
 Jesus is Coming!
 A New World Coming

==================================================

"Father, I want to know Thee, but my coward heart fears to give up its toys. I cannot part with them without inward bleedings, and I do not hide from Thee the terror of parting. I come trembling, but I do come.
Please root from my heart all those things which I have cherished so long and which have become a very part of my living self, so that Thy may enter and dwell there without a rival. Then shall my heart has not need of the sun to shine in it, for Thyself shall be my light, and there shall be no night there”

Blessed Birthday to Roy

2007-03-26T10:28:00.000+08:00

Today is Roy's 30th Birthday!

Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to Roy!
Happy Birthday to you!

Hip! Hip! Hooray!
Hip! Hip! Hooray!
Hip! Hip! Hooray!

{
Followed by 30 gun shots -
Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!
Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!
Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!Bang!
}

With love,
From GG members and all at BUC.

Blessed Birthday to Uncle Lim

2007-03-10T16:00:00.000+08:00

If Uncle Lim is still in this earthly life, he would be 88 years old today.

Happy Birthday to Uncle Lim!

A Compilation of Eulogies in Memory of Uncle Lim

2007-03-10T15:55:00.000+08:00

As one of the senior member of our GG, I have known Mr Lim Kwan Hooi for nearly 8 years. We were quite closely acquainted with each other and I have found him to be a very simple unpresumptuous person, very friendly and kind and helpful. He was always humble and ever ready to lend a helping hand and a listening ear.

He was also very devotional and religious in his outlook and taking in an active part in our singing songs of praise to the Lord and in our study and discussions on the Word of God.

Uncle Chan

=================================

Uncle Lim is proud of his children and grand children by the way he talked about them – their lives and achievements. I believe God has placed Uncle Lim in our Growth Group so that we can learn to take care of the elderly. At times when he was unwell he still wants to come to our Sunday gatherings. In the past few years, he did what he can do best, that is to be faithful in attendance. We are humbled. Our GG will miss him.

Wing Cheong

=================================

Uncle Lim was a man of few words. When asked during many of our growth group meetings, “Uncle Lim, anything to say?” His reply most of the time was “I have nothing to say.” For me, his presence in our Growth Group and Church said it all… His desire to listen and to know God and to be with God’s family. To see his presence week after week brought joy to us all.

Uncle Lim, your presence will be truly missed.

Sue Ling

=================================

Uncle Lim is someone who enjoy being in the company of people. If given a choice, I believe he would go all his way out to join us in whatever events we organize. In some ways he is an adventurous person. He always liked to share with me and my wife about his younger days of traveling to different countries.

I still remember once we had a GG outing at the Lake Garden. We were at first a bit concerned if we should bring Uncle Lim along. On one hand, we tried not to exclude him but on the other hand we were very concerned about his mobility and health condition. Nevertheless, since he insisted to come along, we brought him along. That itself spoke clearly how much he desired to be in fellowship with all of us in the GG and we were greatly encouraged by his determination and enthusiasm. Although the outing ended abruptly half way with a little bit of drama, we were glad to have organized that short and 'adventurous' outing as a GG, more so especially with Uncle Lim around. Later we found out that actually Uncle Lim was not feeling too well that morning but he didn't want us to know so that he could still come along with us.

I guess Heaven would be such a wonderful place for Uncle Lim. Not only he gets to meet our Lord Jesus who will ultimately satisfy the deepest desire of his heart, I believe there would be plenty of 'going places' there as well to mesmerize such an adventurous heart of Uncle Lim. More so especially when Uncle Lim is no longer to be bound by his previous physical limitation any more.

We will see you soon again Uncle Lim, in the "Ultimate Garden of Eden"!

Nai Kyn

=================================

I will always remember Uncle Lim as someone who is kind, warm-hearted, generous and thoughtful. Whenever he sees me, he will ask me in Hokkien "Did you go back to Sitiawan or not?" He will ask me about my hometown, my family and chats with me about the places he visits during his younger days.

His presence in coming faithfully to church and Growth Group meetings encourages me and I'm so glad to have known him as my friend and GG member always and forever.

Goodbye, Uncle Lim. I will miss you.

Yoke Teen

=================================

Uncle Lim
A good man
A simple man
A faithful man

After every Sunday celebration service in Antioch Centre, Uncle Lim would sit by the table near the entrance to wait for Soon Thye to pick him up. I would normally approach him to strike a conversation with him. During one of our conversations, he asked me where I was from and I told him that I was from Malacca. We talked about my family, Peranakan food and Malacca. From that day onwards, whenever he sees me, he starts talking to me in Bahasa Malaysia. I was impressed with his command of the language.

Uncle Lim, sampai kita berjumpa lagi.

Roy

=================================

This is my story, this is my song
Praising my saviour all the day long.

On 4.3.2007, when we ended the family memorial service with this song, I thought how appropriate it was. Uncle Lim loved to sing songs of praise and worship unto the Lord. He would stand, clap and even raise his hands in worship. I remember a time during worship at our GG meeting when he was moved to tears by the presence of GOD. I can picture him in heaven singing praises to his Saviour all day long.

When Roy and I visited him at Pantai Hospital on 24.2.2007, 1 week before he passed away, it pained me to see him cough..there was so much liquid in his lung. His desire was just to go back home to be with Aunty Lim. While chatting, I held his left hand and he did not let go. I know that when Wing Cheong and Sue Ling visited him later in the day, he also held on to their hands. His simple gesture touched our hearts.

Uncle Lim you were a gift from God to us all in BUC, especially to our GG.

I will miss you.

Selvi

=================================

Whenever we picked up Uncle Lim for GG meeting or congregational worship, he would always ask about how we are doing. He even asked about our family members as well who are in Penang and Sabah. We rembemer him having this desire to visit his daughter in Kota Kinabalu, where Christine is from. We even thought of taking him with us few years ago when we went back to visit Christine’s parents. But because of his health, we were advised not too. We nearly booked the ticket for him!

My most vivid memory of Uncle Lim is feeding him with durian cake. He really enjoyed it. It was a joy to serve him.

Seng Chor

=================================

To me, Uncle Lim is a relational person. He always wants to be among people and talks to people. I was surprised when he eagerly joined one of our GG outings to Lake Garden. Though he didn’t participate much in the activities, his presence speaks louder than words. I heard that he sang quite loudly that day. It was a joy to see him at the outing. He was such a ‘gung-ho’ person.

I’m amazed that he does remember things and he tries to remember them. He remembers that I am a lecturer. He even remembers that I studied in Australia. I couldn’t even remember that I have told him that. He remembers that I’m from Kota Kinabalu and Seng Chor from Penang. He often makes effort to recall things by asking us to confirm. It shows that he is a caring person. He always wanted to get to know more about other people.

Uncle Lim, I will miss you.

Christine

=================================

Even in his senior years he faithfully came for fellowship. He loved to converse during those times we had the opportunity to fetch him to church. We enjoyed chatting with him and we will dearly miss him. We know that Uncle Lim is now with our Lord.

Chris & Linda Wong

=================================

Uncle Lim was a person of few words but showed quiet understanding of the Word. He was a strong and resilient person and a devoted husband to Aunty Lim. Uncle Lim greatly encouraged us by his faithful attendance at GG meetings.

Grace Seow

=================================

Uncle Lim was a man who was young at heart. He would often talk about his young life full of experience and fun. As he comes to GG he always greets people with respect and would ask how they are. He is with the Lord but he remains in our memories forever.

Rachelle Wong

=================================

I remember Uncle Lim at our first BUC Family Camp in Fraser's Hill (1997). He was really sporting - played all our team-building games including linking hands in a circle and walking, stepping over obstacles, etc. There was one obstacle race where we were all blind-folded & had to walk in between a ladder, under pillars, etc. (and were we concerned for Uncle Lim - apparently he was more game than any of us!!)

Then there was this particular birthday of his that we celebrated at Prayer Retreat (in de Palma, Sepang) - and he was so touched...

Indeed Uncle Lim is a very generous man (There was one GG meeting in his house where he had his daughter prepare really "ho liu" for the curry mee for us).

Uncle Lim, Thank you for all the sweet memories. We shall miss your stately presence at our Worship services.

Dolly

My Surrogate Grandfather

2007-03-10T15:27:00.000+08:00

Who is He?

He’s looking cool,
Walking out of his home
Clutching his sunglasses
All groomed and combed.
Who is he?
My surrogate grandfather.

A man who lived a life
Full of experience and adventure
Broadening his mind
Through his travels of splendour.
Who is he?
My surrogate grandfather.

Surrounded by his family
Was what he loved most,
Then came his food and drink
Now that, he liked to boast.
Who is he?
My surrogate grandfather.

Week after week he came to Church and GG
Worshipping God in his own way
Placing his hope and trust
In the Lord without too much to say.
Who is he?
My surrogate grandfather.

Longevity and wealth
Was one of his last few wishes,
He got more than that:
Eternal life and riches.
Who is he?
My surrogate grandfather.

“Her surrogate grandfather?”
You may ask.
Yes, that’s right!
Uncle Lim.
My surrogate grandfather.

~ By Michelle Wong ~

Uncle Lim

2007-03-07T23:30:00.000+08:00

As a Growth Group (GG) we have been truly blessed by Uncle Lim. Shortly after he started his dialysis treatment, as a GG we had communion with him and Aunty Lim every 2nd and 4th Sundays after our GG meetings. Initially, we had decided to go in small groups and take turns to have communion with them. In the end, after every GG meeting, all of us went to his home to have fellowship with both Uncle and Aunty Lim. We would have a short time of praise and worship followed by the holy communion, exhortation and prayer.

We tried everything and everyway to minister to both Uncle and Aunty Lim. We came to minister to them but each time we left their home being blessed They both opened their home and hearts to us. We saw Aunty Lim growing stronger with a desire to walk and to sing praises and listen from the Word. We saw the strain of the dialysis treatment on Uncle Lim, but not once did he say no to our coming for fellowship and communion. He was faithful to the very end.

As a GG, we have had many special memories of Uncle Lim. His best friend was Uncle Chan. Uncle Lim always greeted Uncle Chan as ‘Lo Chan’. At every GG meeting they reserved seats for each other and always sat next to each other.

One Sunday, after our GG had fellowship and communion with him and Aunty lim, as we were saying our goodbyes, Uncle Lim wanted to follow us to the coffee shop in Taman Tun for lunch. We promised him that we would eat together with him, so the next time we came for fellowship and communion, we bought food for everyone from the coffee shop in Taman Tun and ate together with him and Aunty Lim.

At our GG fellowship and communion with him on 28.1.2007, we celebrated Wing Cheong and Sue Ling’s wedding anniversary with a durian cake. Seng Chor fed Uncle Lim a piece of the durian cake and he enjoyed it. Aunty Lim remembered this meeting and she shared it with Seng Chor when a few of us visited her on the Sunday afternoon to pay our respects.

Uncle Lim we will miss you.

Seng Chor’s GG

Home Calling of Uncle Lim

2007-03-07T23:20:00.000+08:00

Our eldest and beloved growth group member Mr Lim Kwan Hooi aka Uncle Lim was called home to the Lord on Saturday, 3rd March 2007 at 8:45 pm, 7 days before his 88th birthday which falls on 10th March 2007. He was born in 1919.

We shall dearly miss his presence at our Worship services.

You're Blessed

2007-03-02T16:34:00.000+08:00

1-2 When Jesus saw his ministry drawing huge crowds, he climbed a hillside. Those who were apprenticed to him, the committed, climbed with him. Arriving at a quiet place, he sat down and taught his climbing companions. This is what he said:

3"You're blessed when you're at the end of your rope. With less of you there is more of God and his rule.

4"You're blessed when you feel you've lost what is most dear to you. Only then can you be embraced by the One most dear to you.

5"You're blessed when you're content with just who you are—no more, no less. That's the moment you find yourselves proud owners of everything that can't be bought.

6"You're blessed when you've worked up a good appetite for God. He's food and drink in the best meal you'll ever eat.

7"You're blessed when you care. At the moment of being 'care-full,' you find yourselves cared for.

8"You're blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world.

9"You're blessed when you can show people how to cooperate instead of compete or fight. That's when you discover who you really are, and your place in God's family.

10"You're blessed when your commitment to God provokes persecution. The persecution drives you even deeper into God's kingdom.

11-12"Not only that—count yourselves blessed every time people put you down or throw you out or speak lies about you to discredit me. What it means is that the truth is too close for comfort and they are uncomfortable. You can be glad when that happens—give a cheer, even!—for though they don't like it, I do! And all heaven applauds. And know that you are in good company. My prophets and witnesses have always gotten into this kind of trouble.

Matthew 5:1-12
(The Message)

A Lunar New Year Reflection

2007-02-27T09:34:00.000+08:00

I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me.
Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows.But take heart, because I have overcome the world.

John 16:33
(New Living Translation)

My In-laws – the Ling’s family has a meaningful tradition that they keep every year. They will organize what they term as “Family Altar” during the Lunar New Year (a.k.a. Chinese New Year) where different ones come together to share about their journey with God for the past one year and as they look forward to the coming year, what are the things to commit to God in prayer.

I became part of this tradition since the last two years as a result of my marriage with their third lovely daughter. For the past two years it has been such an eye opener and new experience for me. Sharing was given and prayer was offered up with much gusto then. Nonetheless, this year I shared about the ‘dark’ and gloomy year God has brought me through in year 2006.

Year 2006 no doubt marks another important spiritual milestone in my life. It was not because of any great success or achievement that God has led me into. On the contrary, it was a year filled with trials and sorrow.

First, there was the news of my bosses leaving the company, leaving a great vacuum behind as they ravage whatever business left in company. My company’s business had not been doing well and merely broke even for the past two years. Sensing that year 2006 and 2007 are going to be more challenging than before and anticipating the possibility of making loss for the first time, my bosses decided to leave and start up with a new but much lower overhead cost endeavor. One of them made use of his ‘special’ relationship with the oversea principal and transfer the distributorship over night to the new company. Due to my good rapport with them, they even offered me the opportunity to join them in realizing their millionaire dreams. I was severely tempted. For a moment, I thought it must have been God’s blessing due to my ignorance and lack of experience. After much prayer and consultation with my elders, it was discerned that this was not a path God has prepared for me to take.

Then came the even more disturbing news of a cancer illness suffered by one of my church leaders. She has been one of the pillars of strength to many of us. Over the years we have grown fond of her because of her wisdom and loving care to each one of us. To many of us, she is just like our godmother. And yet, God chose to allow such horrible thing to happen to her in year 2006. Within a period of less than nine months, God took her away.

There was also the desire for both my wife and I with regards to starting a family in the later part of year 2006. Again, God has delayed his blessing for us. We cried up to Him for mercy and we kept on reminding ourselves that God’s way is higher than ours and His timing is perfect. And yet, we are still waiting and wondering why the delay.

Hence, this morning I came across the verse in John 16:33. It came like a sweet assurance to me even though I have read it many times before. Nevertheless, the timeliness of this verse makes it taste like freshly baked cookies from Heaven (Reminds me of the cookies that were given to us by friends and relatives during the recent festive celebration). This, I believe is a divine revelation.

In John Chapter 16, our Lord Jesus warned the disciples that tough and difficult times lay just ahead of them. He wanted to make sure that the disciples would stay faithful even when persecutions come upon them. Yet, what is most comforting is the fact that Jesus had not left them to face all these all by themselves. He promised them the Counselor (John 16:7) who will guide them into all truth (John 16:13). It is during difficult and painful times like these we really need God’s Spirit to remind us of who Jesus really is and what kind of eternal destiny awaits us on the other side of heaven. Only with such renewed perspective, we are able to shift our focus from the pain and suffering experienced on the cross to the glorious resurrected body of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In the closing of my sharing during the Family Altar 2007, I summarized my sharing in a statement: “I think God is teaching me to see his blessing in terms of the ‘absence’ rather than the ‘presence’ of things in year 2006.” We always find it easy to praise God and love Him in times of abundance. But God reminds me that we need to praise Him and continue to love Him even in times of neediness. The truth of the saying “God has not called us to be successful but to be faithful” has to sink in deeper in my life.

God bless me with John 16:33 ‘cookies’ this Lunar New Year. May He bless you with many ‘cookies’ as well this New Year.

By Brother Nai Kyn.

Our Evangelist - Prayer Requests

2007-02-23T23:05:00.000+08:00

Pray:

For Revival of small group churches; the field is big and there is a lack of workers. Pray for more workers to be raised up.
For 2 motorcycles because winter is near and the roads will be harder for my trishaw to travel. We need transport to cope with the scheduled pastoring and visitation works.
For better communications. There are times when we cannot contact the co-workers.
For wisdom and devotion to God's work. For strength to be God's witness and for more people to be edified.
For my wife that she will not worry and be burdened by the family needs but submissively give of herself and supporting the gospel work.
For our sons to grow in knowledge and wisdom and have God's work in their heart. We want to offer our elder son in January 2007 to God. Pray that he may get theological training in the future.

1st GG Meeting in February

2007-02-11T22:18:00.000+08:00

Today, we met at the home Seng Chor, Christine and Jordan.

Uncle Chan led us in a time of worship. We sang praises to His name. We give glory to His name. We were reminded that for every time we pray, we move the hands of God. God answers prayers! There is no other name but the name of Jesus.

We read Psalm 147 together:

Psalm 147
1 Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God,

how pleasant and fitting to praise him!
2 The LORD builds up Jerusalem;

he gathers the exiles of Israel.
3 He heals the brokenhearted

and binds up their wounds.
4 He determines the number of the stars

and calls them each by name.
5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power;

his understanding has no limit.
6 The LORD sustains the humble b

ut casts the wicked to the ground.
7 Sing to the LORD with thanksgiving;

make music to our God on the harp.
8 He covers the sky with clouds;

he supplies the earth with rain

and makes grass grow on the hills.
9 He provides food for the cattle

and for the young ravens when they call.
10 His pleasure is not in the strength of the horse,

nor his delight in the legs of a man;
11 the LORD delights in those who fear him,

who put their hope in his unfailing love.
12 Extol the LORD, O Jerusalem;

praise your God, O Zion,
13 for he strengthens the bars of your gates

and blesses your people within you.
14 He grants peace to your borders

and satisfies you with the finest of wheat.
15 He sends his command to the earth;

his word runs swiftly.
16 He spreads the snow like wool

and scatters the frost like ashes.
17 He hurls down his hail like pebbles.

Who can withstand his icy blast?
18 He sends his word and melts them;

he stirs up his breezes, and the waters flow.
19 He has revealed his word to Jacob,

his laws and decrees to Israel.
20 He has done this for no other nation;

they do not know his laws.

Praise the LORD.

Word Time: Every-Member Ministry (2 Corinthians 3)

Key verses:

2 Corinthians 3

4 Such confidence we have through Christ before God.

5 Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.

6 He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.

"Christianity is essentially a lay movement. Every person in Christ is a minister, a priest, a prophet, a prince or princess in the kingdom of God. This every-member ministry takes place not only in the church but in the home, workplace and society - all the places we inhabit from Monday to Saturday" (Paul Stevens)

All believers are competent for ministry in Christ.

What makes us competent to minister is not our credentials, not even our freedom from struggles and difficulties, but the work of the Spirit writing the law on our hearts. This qualifies us all to become ministers of the new covenant in the Spirit.

How has this passage encouraged you to feel competent to minister as a disciple of Jesus?

Abundant Grace

2007-02-07T13:02:00.000+08:00

TESTIMONY

Eph 5:20
Always give thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ

The 5th February 2007 was a good day for me.

It started with an adjournment of a 2 days criminal trial at KL Magistrate Court. When I got to the office, I had a call from my friend who is down from America for Chinese New Year (CNY). She wanted to pass me an ovulation test kit which she bought for me as a gift. She knew that I was trying for a 2nd child.

My colleague, Azura and I went to Tesco Ampang during our lunch break. I wanted to change Reuel’s CNY outfit for a bigger size. We first had lunch at Kluang Station. I had nasi lemak with fried chicken. As I was finishing my meal, suddenly I saw a strand of hair on the rice. Azura called for the waitress and showed it to her. I thought…never mind, I had almost finished my meal. Before I knew it I had a free lunch!

At Tesco, I was told that the exchange policy was for items returned within 7 days from the date of purchase. I had bought Reuel’s outfit on 19th January 2007. However, I was allowed to exchange the outfit from size 2 to size 5. The supervisor told me that despite the item now being on sale I was not entitled to get the refund. I said no problem, all I wanted was for Reuel to be able to wear it. However, the supervisor at the customer service gave me a refund for the difference in the price. Azura said it was really my day! The first thought that came to me was that it was God’s favour.

When I got home, I received a mail from Theng Lan who is now working in Geneva. It was a RM100 gift voucher from Mandarin Oriental for Roy & I to enjoy on the occasion of her birthday!

Roy also had a good day. Roy’s boss spoke to him and told him that even though its not company policy to give adjustment or increment to confirmed staff of less than 1 year they decided to do so for him. Roy has been in this company for 7 months and he has had an adjustment upon confirmation last year and an increment with effect January 2007. Boss changed the company policy for the very first time for Roy, not once but twice! To be honest, I was very unhappy over the increment amount. Then God reminded me that Roy had no right to any increment but God in His grace and mercy blessed him with it. The boss had earlier informed Roy that they were willing to pay for his Mandarin classes.

When I was reflecting in the evening on God’s goodness, I was reminded that when I had my miscarriage on 9th Jan 2007, Dr Liew F O of Assunta Hospital did not charge me for consultation and the scan. I was grateful to God that I did not have to do a DNC but I got a bonus...0 bill! For the follow up visit, I saw Dr Liew for consultation and he did a scan to confirm that all was clear. While chatting, he asked whether I wanted a pap smear done. I said ok coz the last one I did was 2 years ago. I left his room after the pap smear and asked the nurse for the document for the billing department. She told me no billing and that I had to pay only the lab charges for the pap smear. I said why? She laughed and said the doctor said FOC!

I thank God for the change in the EPF policy on or about 31.12.2006. All monies in Account 3 have been transferred to Account 2. I had jokingly told a Christian friend that God was at work to cause EPF to change the policy to enable me to clear my housing loan account this year. My EPF withdrawal from Account 2 to reduce my housing loan is due in May. As I have paid my housing loan with Citibank in advance until next year (due to earlier EPF withdrawals), as of January I am no longer paying the loan. In May 2007, with my EPF withdrawal, my housing loan for the BU house will be fully settled. I took the original loan for 20 years but entirely due to God’s grace it will be settled in less than 10 years. I also am grateful and thankful to my mum who helped me with a generous deposit for the BU house as my dowry house. She also helped me with the renovations.

Even though boss indicated late last year and also early this year, that he may close our departments, the fact that I continue to get my salary is entirely due to God’s grace. Since we started praying in November 2006, boss has stopped dumping his own $ into the firm to pay our salaries.

With respect to the Pelangi Damansara apartments, I was notified last week that a student agent wants to book our units for rental. We will be getting the keys from the developer late March 2007. I am grateful to God for the interest by the agent and we are praying whether we should release it to him. It would help with the installment payments, but we have reservations due to the horror stories we have heard about renting to students.

God granted me the desire of my heart for a family holiday. Roy, Reuel & I are booked for Bali on 1st to 4th April 2007. Roy & I will be celebrating our 5th wedding anniversary on 5th April 2007.

Thank you Father for your hand of favour, mercy, grace and love over my live and my family.

When I had my 2nd miscarriage on 9th January 2007, I wept and asked God “Why does everything have to be difficult for me? - postponement of our marriage from the original date, objections and rejection by Roy’s family to me and our marriage, 1st miscarriage, closing down of my own firm after 8 months, etc.” It was self pity plus a lot of other things. When the going gets tough, this written Testimony is a reminder to me that God’s grace has been abundant in my life.

~ Selvi ~

2 Princes and 1 Little Princess

2007-02-06T13:26:00.000+08:00

The 3 toddlers and our GG Leader

Hmm...what are these 2 young boys trying to do?
Ransacking a girl's bed?

A charming prince and a little princess.

Our GG Leader and our Youngest Member

2007-02-05T13:13:00.000+08:00

Isn't she super adorable?

She is our youngest future leader in the GG.

Her name is Rebecca Wong Jun Li - precious daughter of Chris and Linda Wong.

Philippines Mission Trip Thanksgiving Dinner

2007-02-05T11:52:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, 3 February 2007, the Philippines Mission Team 2006 organised a thanksgiving dinner at Antioch Centre. The team comprises of 17 members from 3 churches - Bangsar Gospel Centre, Bandar Utama Chapel and Melawati Gospel Centre.

The programme:
6:30 pm - Dinner
(Menu: Dominoes Pizzas, Pasta with mushroom cream sauce (cooked by David Yong), black sauce chicken, broccoli and cauliflower dish, glutinous rice (shaped like rice ball) and apple crumble + ice cream for dessert.)

Worship

Video presentation

Short skit

Sharing by Team Leader - sister Yoke Kheng

Message by brother Douglas

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The response was overwhelming. A crowd of 80 was expected but about 100 or more people turned up. Seng Chor, Jordan and I arrived after 7 pm, and the food was almost gone.

My personal experience of the event:
I thank God for the unity expressed by the team. It's amazing how all 17 of them came together and worked as a family. Most of them do not know each other well before the trip. They were truly flexible, available and teachable (FAT). Indeed, they have made a difference in the lives of the people in Philippines.

Glory to God!

GG Birthdays

2007-02-02T19:57:00.000+08:00

Linda ~~ 11 January
Aunty Chan ~~ 17 January

Uncle Lim ~~ 10 March
Roy ~~ 26 March

Wing Cheong ~~ 9 April
Reuel ~~ 11 April 2005
Rebecca ~~ 28 April 2006

Uncle Chan ~~ 19 May
Rachelle ~~ 25 May

Seng Chor ~~ 3 June

Yoke Teen ~~ 15 July

Raymond ~~ 20 August

Christopher ~~ 5 September
Sue ~~ 8 September

Nai Kyn ~~ 18 November
Selvi ~~ 22 November

Christine ~~ 2 December
Michelle ~~ 12 December
Jordan ~~ 14 December 2005
Aunty Lim ~~ 15 December
Grace ~~ 20 December

Our GG Leader and the Future Leaders

2007-02-02T19:50:00.000+08:00

GG Members - March 2005

2007-02-02T19:41:00.000+08:00

Hmm...this is the only GG photo I have. It was taken for BUC 10th Anniversary.

Reuel is also there. Can you 'see' him? :)

(We should take our latest photo soon.)

Congregational Worship - 4 February 2007

2007-02-02T19:19:00.000+08:00

We will be worshipping at Antioch Centre this Sunday, 4 February 2007.

Speaker: Elder Hok Seng

Message: Ministers of the New Covenant in the Spirit
(2 Corinthians 2,3)

Special Event: Farewell lunch for John and Wan Yi

Prayer points:

Please continue to pray for our brother Nai Kyn who will be speaking at SJGC this Sunday.

Birthdays in January

2007-02-02T18:17:00.000+08:00

Aunty Chan celebrated her 78th birthday on 17 January 2007.

Our sister Linda celebrated her birthday on 11 January 2007.

Happy and Blessed birthday to both of them.

20th Wedding Anniversary

2007-02-02T18:09:00.000+08:00

Our beloved Uncle Wing Cheong and Aunty Sue celebrated their 20th Wedding Anniversary on 24 January 2007. We had a simple celebration for them at the home of Uncle and Aunty Lim.

Congratulations to them!

God bless their marriage with more love.

Welcome!

2007-02-02T17:16:00.000+08:00

Blessed New Year 2007 to all!