Dancing With The Stars

I was given a day off after the World Team Mission camp to rest and recharge, so I had the opportunity to do something which I hadn't done for a while - watching TV. Tonight I watched Channel 7' s "Dancing With The Stars" . It was really enjoyable to just sit back, relax and watch the elegant dances. How I wish I could dance like these stars :)

A Great Weekend

Praise God for a great weekend in the World Team ZAP Training Camp! The opportunity to get to know and encourage like-minded Christians who are excited about mission is simply awesome. Running and facilitating the camp, and learning from the sharing and presentations of various missionaries and mission leaders was such a privilege. I also enjoyed the good cross cultural mix of young people, as well as the stories of their faith journey. The Yali Video and the movie "Beyond Borders" were fantastic and inspiring! The Father heart of God, His Presence and vision was really sensed by all in the camp.

For those of you who prayed for me, THANK YOU! Although I wasn't 100% recovered from my flu, the Lord's strength was certainly with me. Please continue to pray for me as I mobilize and encourage people to be involved in mission, and serve those who are interested in ministering cross culturally. Would appreciate your prayer for my work and ministries in CCBC as the Creative Arts Coordinator, as well as my outreach to the artists in Melbourne as well.

World Team Australia Training Camp

This weekend (24-26 Feb) is the ZAP! Mission Training Camp of World Team Australia, where brothers and sisters in Christ from various churches in Melbourne will be participating. I have been coordinating and planning for this weekend for a while already, and I will be facilitating and speaking in a number of sessions during the camp. Other facilitators and instructors for this training include the World Team Australia Director Rev Brian Billing, World Team Board Chairman and Tabor Senior Lecturer Dr Les Henson, World Team Australia Prayer Coordinator and experienced missionary Jessie Williamson and WTA mission mobilizer (Queensland) John Pirrotta. Pray that God will challenge a new group of missionaries to serve the Lord through this camp, and that the dedicated attendees will be blessed (some are going on apprenticeship program, others are interested in going for WT short term mission trips, and are considering long term mission with World Team, and some are simply interested in knowing more about mission in a support role). May our God's presence and vision be so evidently sensed by all during the weekend.

Prayer

I received an email from a dear friend this morning. In it is the following prayer, which put tears in my eyes. I feel so loved. Thank you Lord for all the angels you have sent my way.

Dear Heavenly Father,Thank you for today that I can pray for Kitty, and thanks for inspiring and giving her burdens on various gospel needs around the world. Thank You for the burdens that You have given her, and I trust that You will use her for Your glory. I pray for her preparation today and tomorrow, as she prepares and finalise everything for the camp. I pray that You will give her good self-management and time management as she prepares for the materials and the sessions that she would be organising. Also, I pray that You will heal her, as she has flu and sorethroat. She would be needing to speak loud as she runs the sessions, and I pray that You will guide her to strengthen her as she speaks. Please give her the words to speak, as You are the one who will speak through Kitty. Lord, I lift Kitty in Your hand that You will give her wisdom and the words to speak as well.I also pray for the camp that Kitty will have good fun, food and fellowship with the WT team. I pray that You will give wisdom to those who would be facilitating their sessions that the words they speak will touch people's heart and mobilise them to participate and take part in mission in various forms.I pray for the whole camp as well as the safety of all who will be involved. Lord, may You guide them andmay You bless this time that they will be spending together as well. May You speak to those who will be attending in the camp and this will be a life changing moment for them too. Thank You for Kitty, and thanks for this time and privilege that I can pray for her too. In Jesus'name, Amen.

I Am Sick

After I got home from work yesterday, I started to feel unwell with sore throat, headache and running nose. I couldn't stop yawning the whole time while I was driving home. So I took a sick leave today, and have been sleeping most of the day and I am still feeling quite tired. The good thing about being stuck in bed was that I got to rest and pray in God's arms :) Please pray for me as I have a camp coming up this weekend.

The Christ-Empowered Life

On Sunday, my mentor preached on Acts 9:32-43, about Peter who lived the Christ-empowered life. Professor Brown shared that there is only one level of Christian living. The following is his sermon outline:

1. The Person
   Peter was an uneducated tradesman, and quite unreliable.
   He was now empowered by Christ . People noticed he had been with Jesus. God worked through him.
2. The Out-working
   How and when did Jesus work through him? Peter was now engaged in his own work. Notice how God’s call came to him through the needs at Joppa to which Peter responded.
3. The Consequences
   Marvellous things happen when Jesus is at work; even miracles!
   Notice the greatest miracle was that people saw what happened, listened and responded to the gospel.
   
   

ZAP into Mission!

MAPPING YOUR OWN ZAP (Z to A Planning towards Mission)

1. Identify your long-range goals: When would you like to be on the mission field?

2. Select an agency: This is an important step and you should set a deadline for choosing an agency. Most agencies will require you to participate in an evaluation/orientation program. When will you do that? World Team requires that you attend RACE (Reciprocal Assessment Candidate Evaluation), a 9 day orientation and assessment process which is offered three times each year.

3. College/Education: Are you currently a full or part time student? Do you need any formal and/or informal Bible education?

4. Work: Are you currently working full or part time? When and how will you transition out of that position?

5. Ministry Development: What specific ministries do you need/want to experience in order to prepare yourself spiritually for the mission field? Your church should be involved in placing you in ministry roles, guiding your growth and developing your passion for missions.

6. Debt pay-off: This requires a strategy which includes finding a job that provides sufficient income beyond basic necessities and reducing your monthly expenses. It is very important to have a plan to pay down your debt. If you have no debt, develop a savings plan in order to set aside money for your future.

7. Courtship/Marriage/Kids: Although these may be unknown items, it is very important to think through relationships and contingencies in your plan - it is not generally advisable to go into intercultural ministry immediately after marriage.

8. Personal development: While ministry and personal development can go hand in hand, your walk with the Lord is a priority. Prayerful planning for spiritual growth is a very effective way to become more Christ-like.

9. Short-term trip(s): Taking time to “experience” missions is a highly recommended step in working toward your goal. Even if you are not traveling to a place you might stay permanently, a “taste of the field” is the biggest reason to go on a short term trip. This could also be a “field visit” to meet the people you could (or will) be working with on the field.

10. Other: These may not be “essentials,” but are things you might want to do before you arrive on the field. Some examples include running a marathon, a camping trip with your dad, a retreat with your mom, learning sign language, etc.

The Wedding Of My Dear Friend

The lovely bride Angela and me :)

My dear friends Angela and Kevin got married last Saturday, and it was such a lovely and memorable occasion. I had the privilege of being one of Ange's bridesmaids, and journeying with her through the preparation of her wedding. It was great, and I praise God for this opportunity.

There are so many enjoyable and special moments on the day, and I can't really list them all here. So instead of writing, I'll just let you have a 'peek' of the day. Just have a look here. But this is only a tenth of all the photos....the professional photos are still to be developed, and they have taken over 1000 photos hehe :) I really can't wait to see them.

Lord, may you bless Ange and Kev as they embark on this new journey as husband and wife. Please guide them, direct them and help them to love each other as you love them. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

Thanks also for all your prayers for this special occasion, and for your support of me being the bridesmaid :)

Wedding Preparation

Have been running errands for my dear friend and bride-to-be, took her to the doctor as well. She has been unwell these few days. May she have a speedy recovery before the wedding on Saturday.

Urban Seed

The view from urban seed top level

On the weekend, I went to a friend's housewarming in Urban Seed, which is a Christian not-for-profit organisation in Melbourne, Australia. They do street work, centred on Credo Café, have a residential community (where my friend is part of), run education programs with schools and other groups and advocacy work. Fantastic Ministry! May God use it mightily to bless many in Melbourne.

Hey friends, can you see the church in the middle of the photo above? That's where my dear friend is getting married this Saturday, and I'll be one of the braidesmaids. Hehe I am soooo looking forward to her wedding day, and feel so joyful for her.

Valentine's Day

I spent my Valentine's Day with two of my beloved: my God and my Mother. Traditionally Valentine's Day is one of the most special days of the year. It's kind of in between Christmas and Easter. If love is the theme of Valentine's day, we certainly can celebrate that. God is love, and He showed His love for us by sending His only begotten Son to die on a cross for the sins of the world - one big Valentine to the whole world! For God so loved the world.... Hallelujah!

Valentine's Day is to celebrate romantic love. C.S. Lewis points out in his famous book "The Four Loves", although romantic love can be exploited and used for selfish gain, it can also be a picture of the divine. It's through romantic love that we see, in human experience, glimpses of what God's great love is like. God created us for intimacy with Himself. As close as a husband and wife can get, it's probably not as close as we will be to God in heaven.

So how did you celebrate your Valentine's Day?

Festival Melbourne 2006

Only 30 days to go before the Games, I am really looking forward to Festival Melbourne 2006

Celebration. Exploration. Revelation.

As part of the Melbourne 2006 Commonwealth Games, over 2,500 world-class artists from across Australia and the Commonwealth will descend on Melbourne in March for the largest free cultural festival ever held in Australia.

Festival Melbourne 2006 will be an international spectacular with 11 days of non-stop music, dance, circus, street theatre and visual art from all the corners of the Commonwealth in a range of venues across the State, including the great outdoors. And, best of all, everything’s free!

I personally will be involved in a team, coordinating and presenting the 'word art games exhibition' with a famous Melburnian visual artist / painter David White. Approximately 15-30 of David White’s works would be displayed at each of the city church venues during the Commonwealth Games. Tourists to the Games, as well as local passers-by and church attenders, would be the viewers. We will also prepare a poster for A-frames or stand, to be set up on the footpath to invite people in. Other attractions may link to the exhibition at different times, eg. David speaking at a venue, Games TV screen, etc.

The Games' motto is 'United by the moment'!! May we truly work and serve together to promote this great motto.

A Forgiving Heart

Today at CCBC the topic of the sermon was about a forgiving heart, based on the Acts 9 where Barnabas' attitude towards Saul (Paul). Recently I went for a talk which was about how to cultivate a forgiving heart. The speaker said that caring for the garden of our soul requires vigilance. Weeds of unforgiveness can quickly spring up and choke out the beautiful qualities God wants to grow in you. Whether the injuries done to you by others are small or great, your spiritual and emotional well-being depends on cultivating a forgiving heart. I think that is so true. I've experienced being hurt so severely in my life (and of course I've hurt others too). But forgiveness really helped me to be healed, and I believe that forgiveness a not just a feeling, it is a choice. And I am sure that cultivating a forgiving heart will help us uproot bitterness so that joy and peace can flourish in our heart again.

So what are your experiences of forgiveness? Do you have a forgiving heart?

A Passage I Love

Jim is trying something new over at Missionary - Blogs . He invited me to post an entry with one Bible passage I love, and why I love it. Apparently there are more than 180 missionary blogs that Jim is reading regularly, and I am one of them :)

There are many bible passages that I love, but the one that came to mind straight away is from John 4:24, “God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth”

I love this passage because theological discussions about worship tend to focus on the mind, not the heart. But the words of Jesus resound the call to worship that transcends the intellect. Hence, true worship is more about the heart’s hunger for him, rather than the mind thinking right about God. In order for our every-day life to become an expression of worship unto God and to please God, we must worship Him both in spirit and in truth.

1. To treasure God’s presence.
God welcomes us into His presence. When Moses cried out to the Almighty and asked Him for His grace. God replies, “ My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:13-15). We should always treasure God’s presence and to have a hunger and thirst for the Living God.

2. To have a humble heart.
This is the very thing to which Jesus calls us all: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 18:3). We should worship God as children before the Father.

3. To sacrifice and expect something from God.
Hebrews 11:6 states clearly: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” Worship always brings a sacrifice to God, it means in our every-day life surrender our whole life to God, or the biblical “sacrifices” like tithes or offerings. Malachi 3: 10 reveals God’s intention for our blessing and benefit.

4. To extend God’s love.
Worship should extend God’s love to others. This means to love the neighbours as well as to love and worship God. Extending God’s love includes forgiving others, seeking peace and reconciliation in our every-day life, assisting others in need and praying for and with people.

We can express our worship unto God in our every-day life in different areas.

Firstly, worship can be done individually. It is about our heart and our relationship with God. Hence whatever is happening in our lives, we will worship God, the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Secondly, worship can be done corporately. It is the one activity in which all Christians can join together and get involved in. It is important for the worshipping community to build relationships with each other and encounter God. It is a time where Christian fellowship can be nurtured, God’s presence can be practised, brokenness and wounds healed and faith grown. When people worship as a community, there is a dynamic to our worship that goes beyond our own individual faith and we can expect God to be among us.

One of the core values of World Team Australia (and mine) is prayer and worship, and certainly John 4:24 is one of the most important verses in the Bible about worship.

Do you have a Bible passage that you love? Please share with us.

First Year Anniversary

Today marked the first anniversary of my blogging journey. I still remember reading other bloggers' posts and saying to myself, "wow, I should have a blog too." So I started "Peregrine Sojo - Kitty's Kronicle". My reasons for blogging was to share my inward and outward journeys, and to connect with people through it. Basically I wanted to have an online place to record my thoughts, to keep ideas and to write about things of interest. I also saw it as a journal that would catch my inner thoughts, discipline me to write regularly, to pause in life, and to express my feelings.

Throughout this past year, my ideas about blogging have evolved to place more focus on the relational aspect of it. To me, blogging now is not just about sharing my own journey but that it is a medium that has an amazing potential to connect and engage people. I have had some amazing and rich discussion in various topics on many occasions. Even though many of us are from various parts of the world, or at least different suburbs or states if you are in Australia, the opportunity to engage with fellow blogger friends has been an enriching experience for me this past year. I am very grateful for my readers and blogger friends. I have been blessed enormously by both writing regularly here, and getting encouraging and kind comments from my blogger friends. Truly blogging is about mutual relationships, sharing ideas and experiences, building friendships and blessing one another.

I would like to thank my 'blogging buddies' for reading my blog, and your support and comments for this past year :)

Multiculturalism And Diversity

Karate at Southbank

Melbourne, being one of the most multicultural cities in the world, shows an abundance of diversity. And that really makes this city come alive. Last Sunday, which was the closing day for the celebration of the Chinese New Year Festival, there were a whole range of multicultural events / activities in Southbank - which I really enjoyed.

I embrace cultural diversity. I think we can learn so much from people from various backgrounds and cultures. In fact, in my ministry, I promote cross-cultural dialogues, life and work that are based on friendship and social interactions. I believe that the real beauty of diversity can be enjoyed only by destroying the walls of prejudice, judgement and opening doors for others. It doesn’t mean endangering your social identity; socializing with people from entirely different social and ethnic backgrounds is really an act of empowerment.

When we establish a cross-cultural interaction, it creates an environment that embraces the concept of mutual respect and acceptance of differences. All people's basic needs are quite common. Only prejudice or social fear blocks the channels of communication among them. There is major need to understand all aspects of diversity to build a healthier, more respectful society.

And of course, God so loves the world (which includes all cultures) that He gave...... so we should love like He does!

Sacred Steps

A friend of mine forwarded a link to an interesting article about a pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) written by the Melbourne lawyer Waleed Aly from the Islamic Council of Victoria, Australia.

Some of you might know that there are five pillars of Islam, and the Hajj is the fifth one. The performance of the Hajj is obligatory, at least once in a lifetime, upon every Muslim male or female who is mentally, financially and physically fit to do so. It is believed to be enjoined by God to serve many purposes among which are the following:

• It is the largest annual convention of Faith where Muslims meet to know one another, study their common affairs and promote their general welfare.
• It is the greatest regular conference of peace known in the history of mankind. In the course of the Hajj peace is the dominant theme; peace with God and one's soul, peace with one another and with animals, peace with birds and even with insects. To disturb the peace of anyone or any creature in any shape or form is strictly prohibited.
• It is a wholesome demonstration of the universality of Islam and the brotherhood and equality of the Muslims. From all walks of life, from all trades and classes, and from every corner of the world the Muslims assemble at Mecca in response to the call of God. They dress in the same simple way, observe the same regulations, utter the same supplications at the same time in the same way, for the same end. There is no royalty, but loyalty of all to God. There is no aristocracy, but humility and devotion.
• It is to confirm the commitment of the Muslims to God and their readiness to forsake the material interest in his service.
• It is to acquaint the pilgrims with the spiritual and historical environment of Prophet Muhammad, so that they may derive warm inspiration and strengthen their faith.
• It is to commemorate the Divine rituals observed by Abraham and Ishmael, who are known to have been the first pilgrims to the first house of God on earth, i.e., the Ka'ba at Mecca (Makkah).

The principal story behind the hajj is told in Genesis: the parable of the prophet Abraham's willingness to sacrifice his son upon divine command. Having demonstrated the conviction befitting a prophet, Abraham is then spared this obligation, and sacrifices a sheep instead. However, the hajj begins, fittingly, with Adam and Eve. Read more here.

According to Waleed Aji, the hajj was a spiritual retreat; an opportunity to look into one's soul and confront its defects without the distractions of the world. This self-diagnosis is not comfortable, but it is rewarding. Humanity's only hope lies in individual people confronting their own deficiencies.

I agree with him on this point, self-reflection is so important. Although we don't have a specific prigrimage obligation as Christians, I believe it's essential for us to have retreat regularly. This is what the Sovereign LORD, the Holy One of Israel, says: “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.... (Isaiah 30:15). Surely faith only has value when it is living.

The discipline of solitude and quietness is not to escape responsibilities. It is the dissatisfaction of superficiality, to seek abundant life (John 10:10) and as a result, to be God’s vessel.

Without solitude, there is no prayer;
Without prayer, there is no love;
Without love, there is no commitment;
Without commitment, you can’t serve those in need.

World Team ZAP Training

For those of you who are in Melbourne and interested in mission, you and your church (small groups) are invited to join the World Team Australia for ZAP! Training Camp on the last weekend of February (24-26).

CATCH...the Vision CONSIDER...the Options DEFINE...the Obstacles DEVELOP...the Plan SEE...Yourself in Missions!

Contents: friendship stack, worship and devotion, video, skills required on the field, world view, specialised training, ministry development, spiritual development, Summary of what different WT teams are doing, Q & A times, games, ZAP Chart, reflective worship & communion, team work, time for outdoor activities etc.

Venue: Yarra Training Centre
Address: 111 Mangans Road, Lilydale Vic 3140
You are very welcome to bring others along. Please RSVP asap for accommodation, training manual and catering.

Chinese New Year in Melbourne

Chinese New Year Lighting Show

Happy Chinese New Year everyone. 2006 is the Year of the Dog. Melbourne has been known as one of the most multicultural cities in the world. With this week being the Chinese New year, Melbourne's China Town, Box Hill and Southbank ( Southgate, Crown Casino and Melbourne Exhibition Centre ) are all filled with the New Year atmosphere. The lighting show at Crown is so spectacular. Some of my friends even said that it's more atmospheric here than in China.

Social Styles

Mark suggested this questionaire on personality in his blog. I've done personality tests on DISC and Meyers Briggs, but never learned about these four personality types on social styles (namely: amiable, analytical, expressive and driver). So I found it quite interesting.

The questionaire showed that I was 40% expressive, 30% each in amiable and driver, and not analytical at all (?? ). I was chatting with a new friend the other night, and after I discussed with him about psychology and philosophy etc, he said that I seemed to be an analytical kind of person. So I guess these kinds of personality tests can't be seen as 'the gospel', although they do indicate a pattern I believe.

According to this test, I am an EXPRESSIVE type (High Responsiveness, High Assertiveness). I guess the result is quite correct, as I do like other people's company, and I enjoy expressing myself (I have to be careful not to be too aggressive though). In conflict, I can become emotional, prone to exaggeration and unpredictable.

Summary of an expressive type:

Characteristics: People orientated, centre of attention, positive, emotional, talkative, enthusiastic, dramatic.

In conflict: Unpredictable, emotional.

Solutions: Allow them time to gain composure, Ask questions, problem solve.

Basic Need: Recognition

I agree with what Mark said, "It is yet another example of the way God made each and every one of us unique. We can work to improve our weaknesses without destroying our individuality. I'll bet it annoys God when we compare ourselves to others or try to be someone who we just weren't made to be."

Try the test yourselves, and tell me what type / style you are if you like:

http://www.yourlearningcurve.co.uk/Newsletter/LM01.htm

Staying Well

Recently I am reading Dr Sarah Russell (PhD of the Melbourne-based Research Matters for "Study of the Year")'s book about bipolar patients. Dr Russell took the refreshingly novel approach of surveying 100 reasonably well patients for how they successfully coped with their illness. Her findings first appeared in an article in the March 2005 Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry.

The patients in Dr Russell’s book were successful in finding and applying what worked for them. Dr Russell did spot common themes, which I find very informative, including:

• Acceptance – This is the first step to taking control to one’s life.
• Knowledge – "With time and experience, people can develop the wisdom to manage their illness and stay well.
• Sleep – "A crucial ingredient to staying well."
• Stress – "It is not always possible to avoid stress. It is possible, however, to develop strategies to minimize the impact of stress." (I find writing journals, on blogs and spending time in prayer and devotion extremely useful to deal with stress)
• Lifestyle – Diet, exercise, sleep, etc.
• Awareness and insight of triggers and mood states - This includes fatigue, jet lag, hormonal fluctuations, stress, lack of sleep.
• Interventions – such as canceling social engagements and getting a few good sleeps.
• Medication – "The right medication at the right dose."
• Support – "Outside insight" is often welcomed.
  

2006 Melbourne Commonwealth Games

With the Games less than 40 days away, Melbournians and many from overseas are preparing for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. For those of you who are in Melbourne (or coming to Melbourne for the Games), the following is a checklist that I've put together to get ready for this momentous event:

1. Check out the free activities in the city during the Games as part of Festival Melbourne 2006.
2. See the Queen's Baton Relay as it passes through all 71 Commonwealth nations on the way to Melbourne.
3. Consider joining a local sporting club.
4. Organise a party. I'm planning to invite my friends over to share the atmosphere through watching TV.
5. Take part in or pray for the activities of Quest Melbourne More Than Gold.
6. Look out for the Road Events during the Games, like the marathon, cycling and walk events.
7. Party in the city! With 90,000 interstate and international visitors, the city will be alive!!!

I am so looking forward to it!

Inside The Mind Of A Visionary Filmmaker

Stanley Kubrick

I had an enjoyable time attending Stanley Kubrick's exhibition at ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image) in Federation Square on Saturday. This exhibition really gave me a great overview inside this great filmmaker's mind and heart.

According to the record, Kubrick had made thirteen feature films, including :

Eyes Wide Shut - 1999
Full Metal Jacket -1987
The Shining - 1980
Barry Lyndon -1975
A Clockwork Orange -1971
2001: A Space Odyssey -1968
Dr. Strangelove Or: How I Learned To Stop Worrying And Love The Bomb - 1964
Lolita -1962
Spartacus -1960
Paths Of Glory -1957
The Killing -1956
Killer's Kiss -1955
Fear And Desire -1953

The amazing thing is that these films have covered an extremely diverse genres, ranging from science fiction to war films to historical drama to satire, from thriller and horror to epic, from scathing social critique to psychosexual drama. Although I haven't seen any of his films, from just looking at the hundreds of Stanley Kubrick's archives, props, costumes , models, and short previews of some of the most famous films in the gallery, I am really fascinated by his creativity, insights and ideas of this great filmmaker (although I can tell that some of the contents of his films are highly controversial).

Martin Scorsese wrote, "Stanley Kubrick expanded our idea of what is possible in movies. And I believe that in so doing, he actually expanded our consciousness of ourselves - the cruetlties of which we are capable, the longing we feel for something unnameable, the forces that compel us to move in strange, troubling directions." And just for these reasons, I am planning to watch his movies and gain insights and expansion of my mind, and in so doing prayerfully, get to know more about humanity as well as things beyond.

God's Good Gifts

Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. (James 1:17)

I was reading Grace For the Moment by Max Lucado this morning, and he listed a number of gifts God has given us, which is wonderful:

• He has sent his angels to care for you, his Holy Spirit to dwell in you
• Anytime you speak, he listens
• He will never let you be tempted too much or stumble to far
• Let a tear appear on your cheek, and he is there to wipe it
• As much as you want to see him, he wants to see you more

Blessings to you all!

Use Creativity To Worship God

I believe that God is deeply interested in us as whole people - spirit, soul and body. He has gifted us in unique ways and we can use all of our creativity to express worship to Him, encourage others to worship Him in spirit and in truth, and use the creative arts of drama, theatre, and media to communicate a truthful understanding of life.

LivingRoom DVD Extravaganza

LivingRoom on Tuesday was our DVD extravaganza which was held at the recently arrived home community members, who had been away overseas for 6 months. It was great to catch up with everyone, and enjoy Lauryn Hill's live concert "Hill's Unplugged"! Pillows, doonas, popcorn, and nibbles were accompanying this singer from The Fugees.

A spiritual, emotional Lauryn Hill was singing of God and freedom with tears streaming down her face during several songs. Dressed in blue jeans, a denim jacket and a New York Yankees cap, Hill sat on a stool and strummed an acoustic guitar for over 2 hours. She spoke seriously about her faith and shunning the trappings of fame, and several fans in the audience shed tears with her. She not only has a wonderful voice, her testimony is very touching and inspiring as well.

"I used to get dressed for y'all but I don't do that no more," Hill joked as she began her set.
"It's a new day."
"I'm a mess but God is dealing with me every day, and true healing is from the inside out."
"That's what all these songs are about: problem, cause and solution.
"People want fantasy, but what they need is reality! And reality can only be found in God."
"I had to do some dying before I could live again."
"The more I focus on myself, the less I can be used by God."
"I am who I am - I don't need to hide it. It's all good. God is faithful."
"Living our passion & purpose is pleasing to God."

What do you reckon?

The Heart Of Creativity

1 Timothy 4:14 says, " Do not neglect your gift." I was reminded of that last night. Every one is creative, you don't have to be a professional artist to be creative.

Don't neglect your talent, don't give up your own art. We all have our art.

If you play, practice.
If you sing, go back to that routine you used to have for warming up and vocalising.
If you write, write. Jot down every idea in a notebook.
If you are a poet, invite a few friends over for an informal reading of your poems.
If you're a dancer, put on some music and dance.
If you're in drama, read a good play and have a dramatic party. Go see a play or musical.
If you like cooking, just put those random ingredients together creatively to make a dish.

Someone (I forgot who) once said to me that people who think they are not creative are all creative (because we are all made in the image of God), but they just haven't tapped into the potential that is available in Christ. Living in God's image means using our creativity and imagination to the full. There are a lot of opportunities before us yet, as long as every vision, every creative idea, every imagination is brought into focus through the cross.

Urbanisation

"Urban attitude" is a funky shop in the famous Federation Square in Melbourne

Recently I have been thinking quite a bit about mission in the urban contexts (particularly Melbourne in my context). According to one of World Team 's brochures, it is a common misconception that only people living in remote or exotic locations are untouched by the Gospel. While some may still live in tribal or rural groups, an increasing majority reside in some of the world's largest cities (eg: New York, Sydney, Toronto, Paris & London etc). World Team's ministries are as diverse as the people we serve.

Job 24:12 said "From the city men groan, and the souls of the wounded cry out" . The image of the city is a busy metropolis: speed, movement, noise, rows of buildings, lots of apartments, houses, restaurants, stores,public transport, cars, motor-bikes, bikes and children etc - all that are easily seen and heard by the city dwellers (of which I am one).

But there is more. Behind and beneath the human busy activities are invisible aches. Job calls them "groans." That's a good word. It seems that this groan comes from one who has been wounded emotionally. Perhaps that's the reason why Job adds the next line in poetic form in verse 12, "the souls of the wounded cry out." I think Job is speaking of those whose hearts have been broken . The city is full of such sounds-the wounded, bruised, and broken, crying out in groans from the heart. That describes some of us, I am certain (cos I've experienced it many times in my life).

Tucked away in the corner of every life are wounds, bruises and scars. If they were not there, we would not need so many doctors, counsellors or psychologists. But I reckon only the Greatest Physician can turn our ugly wound into a scar of beauty. Only He can heal the pain and sin in our past and make us whole again.

The city is a place full of poetry filled with eyes and ears. The eyes are lights in the city areas. Ears are the walls that keep all secrets. There are a lot of culture, stories on the life of those who live inside the walls.

According to Cecilia Farfan, from Mexico City. The word "CITY" is an acroynm that has a meaning in each letter, and I find it very interesting.
C is for Culture
I is for Imagination
T is for Talking
Y is for You gecause you make the city shine and be alive.

So do you live / work in an urbanised context? And how do you feel about the city that you are in and the people there? Are you involved in the culture, imagination, talking and shining in the city?

Dinner With Chalk Circle

Chalk Circle Drawing By Bev Issac

I had the pleasure of having dinner with Chalk Circle, internationally famous painters and pavement artists who produce art for festivals and special events worldwide. Although I am not a painter, I feel so inspired by the Director of Chalk Circle.

Peter Voice is the leader of Chalk Circle. He is one of the pioneers of contemporary pavement art in the world. During dinner, he told me that he was originally arrested and charged with defacing public property in Melbourne but after a short, public battle with the council, laws were passed to recognise the artform. Peter has influenced many pavement artists working worldwide today. He also introduced the artform to North America, where it was almost unheard of, and his workshops in New Zealand and Australia have produced several outstanding artists.

Peter is not only a pavement artist, he had his first two solo exhibitions of paintings and drawings long before drawing on the streets. He is a painter, sculptor, humorist, administrator, performer, teacher, designer and writer - and I must add, a great story-teller and a good cook.

I feel really privileged to hang out with outstanding artists like Peter, Bev and Diana. And I certainly feel that my creative hunger was fed through looking at their great paintings in their home.

I Am Tagged

Tagged from Amanda.

Four jobs you have had: Proof-reader, Waitress, Marketing Representative, Tour Coordinator & Tour Guide.

Four movies you could watch over and over: A Beautiful Mind, Romero, Joy Luck Club, The Jesus Film

Four places you've lived: Hong Kong, Melbourne, Hoppers Crossing (a suburb in Melbourne), Northcote (another suburb of Melbourne).

Four TV shows you love to watch: The Great Outdoor, The Amazing Race, Home and Away, Rove.

Four places you've been on holidays: Malaysia, Japan, Paris, London.

Four favorite foods: Japanese sashimi, Pigeon, Chocolate, Durian

Four places you'd rather be right now: Actually I am really happy where I am. But I don't mind going to India, Italy, Venice or Jordon to travel and visit friends.

Four sites I visit daily: Google, WT, Daily Bible Study, Prayer List

Anyone of you interested to do this list in their blogs, feel free ;)

Queen Victoria Market's Night Market

Queen Victoria Market's Night Market

Tonight I went to the Queen Victoria Market's (QVM) Night Market with my LivingRoom friends. To those of you who are not familiar with it, QVM is one of the most famous markets in Melbourne. The Night Market is held every Wednesday evening in the summer months, and it is where the 'weird and wonderful' come out at night hehe!

The Night Market was crowded! It offered quite an exciting mix of freshly prepared food from various food stalls of different countries, live entertainment (with live bands, clowning and tatooing etc), stalls with handmade goods and unusual shopping experiences, a specific new age / spirituality section with holistic health stuff and massage therapies etc, bars and regional food providers. We wandered around the market, ate (standing up may I add, cos there were simply no tables left) and I had a yummy mango and black berry sorbet, shopped a bit (I got myself a necklace). My senses were really being engaged in this place - the nice stalls with various goods & clothes, the music in the background, the yummy food (the smell of Japanese chicken skewers mixed with the smell of Danish pancakes was superb). I really enjoyed myself, although I must admit that the crowd put me off a little.

Darren over at LivingRoom had prepared a reflective exercise for us to do but we didn't do it in the Night Market because of the large crowds there. So I did a personal reflection on the questions after I read Darren's post this morning. These questions are really fantastic. They help me to think about how how God might be interacting in a market like this, and to make an event like this something of a prayer - and in so doing connecting the mundane experience of the marketplace with God.

As I walked around, I sensed God's presence, that He was there in the Night Market, although it's a 'secular' place. Our God is holistic! I saw communities there, which reflect His character. I asked myself the question: even though the 'church' that I work for is just minutes away from the market, where exactly was the church at that time?

The new age / spirituality section of the market made me realised once again that people are hunger and thirst for spiritual things. Like Darren said, "the challenge is to practice spotting what God might be up to around you in the everyday. "

Lord, give us the wisdom to know what you are up to, and to understand what we should be up to according to Your will.

Christmas Tree Demolished

Christmas Tree Demolished

When I saw the tree being demolished, it reminded me of Christ's death. Yet I priase God that Jesus resurrected and He is still alive today.

Even though Christmas is over, Christ is always with us. His name is Immanuel (God with us). Hallelujah!

Babette's Feast

As suggested by the World Team Director, I watched the video "Babette's Feast" last night. I think Babette’s Feast is really a feast in itself, for the heart, the senses, and above all the spirit. Behind the film’s simple (which to some can be seen as boring) story is a sort of parable of religion and life. A voice-over narrator introduces us to a pair of aging sisters, daughters of a now-deceased Protestant minister, and their lives in this village in Denmark. These pious sisters lead quiet lives of touching service among their late father’s remaining followers, a handful of older residents of a tiny nineteenth-century coastal settlement that is at once almost a religious community and a sect unto itself.

In flashback we see the sisters in the flower of youth, living with their father. Even though both sisters had the opportunity to get married, Martina and Philippa lived like nuns, consecrated to religious life. They are called upon to deny marriage and family, to sacrifice lives of domestic joy and service for another joy and another service.

Into this community comes an unexpected person: Babette, who is a refugee from 1871 revolutionary violence in Paris. She begs the sisters to take her in as a maid / housekeeper / cook, and to be allowed to serve them, asking only room and board; and the kind-hearted sisters cannot turn her away in her need.

Martina and Philippa hardly think, of course, that they themselves or their community might be as needy as Babette herself, or that she might supply what they lack. After all, she is French, presumably Catholic. What can she have that they might need?

What indeed. The pious sisters live to serve; but they are wholly unacquainted with being served, which can be as humbling as, or more so than, service itself. Nor are they aware of all that she has to give. After many years of service, a day finally comes when Babette is in a position to show them. She wants to prepare a feast for the tiny community, on the occasion of the late minister’s 100th birthday. Martina and Philippa initially consent to Babette’s plans… but consent turns to alarm as they begin to grasp the scope of her plans.

Babette's feast is both a meal and also (in a way the sisters cannot guess) a sacrifice. Martina, Philippa and the others come to the table determined not to be inflenced by their senses, but the meal works subtly upon them in unexpected ways. Some reminisce about their absent master, making the feast a true memorial meal. But one guest who is unaware of Babette’s presence among the villagers perceives the meal, and the hand behind it, for what it is, just as the disciples on the Emmaus road came to recognize the Lord in the breaking of bread.

In the end, Babette’s Feast is a quiet celebration of the divine grace that meets us at every turn, and even redeems our ways not taken, our sacrifices and losses. Whatever we think has been given up or lost, God gives back in greater abundance, one way or another. It may not be till heaven that we truly become all that He intends; but His grace is here and now, whatever our circumstances, and with Him all things are possible. The film’s last word says it all.

Has anyone watched this film before? What do you think of it?

How To Notice Creativity

I often feel that simple things in life can provide us with a "creative" moment. Whether you write, paint, or do craft, nature is a fantastic teacher. While you take a drive, walk, or sit on a beach or in the bush etc, let your mind and heart open to the countless possibilities that exist in nature. Use your senses. Life is not a senseless journey. Not only look, but listen, smell, and yes, even taste. Try those fresh strawberries, lovely cherries, or red raspberries!! (yum yum)

When you are waiting for public transport, at a traffic light, or even in a lift, use these brief moments to pay attention to what the people around you are doing, what about the music played in a shopping centre, or even the smell from the corner restaurant. All these you can file away in your memory bank and use them later. They can add a touch of realism, a new angle to your creativity, or even a new insight into a common thread of thought.

I have a habit of taking along a pocket notebook with me wherever I go and jot down things I find creative or inspiring. When in a hurry, I use word associations so when I do have the time I can recall the moment and add to its description (perhaps during blogging or journalling).

Really creativity is all around us. We just have to take the time to notice it. Every week I have at least half a day of 'creative arty date' where I slow down just a bit from my busyness and breathe in the air of new ideas, concepts, and views through arts, films, songs, photographs, paintings, multi-media and poems etc. I try to stop, look, and listen, and in so doing I draw close to the most creative ONE - the Creator Himself! And I am so thankful for that.

Ned Kelly - Such Is Life?

Yesterday I went to watch a film shown in the National Gallery of Victoria (Ian Potter Centre) in the Federation Square in Melbounre. The film was about the story of the bushranger Ned Kelly.

For those of you who don't know, Ned Kelly is one of Australia's most well-known historical figures. When people are asked what they think of Ned Kelly, the answers are usually fairly extreme. They either see him as a hero who fought for his family and friends, or a bushranger who robbed banks, stole livestock and murdered policemen.

During Ned's short life he was arrested for horse stealing, assault and bank robbery. After more bank robberies, the Kelly Gang's had their 'last stand' in the small town of Glenrowan, Victoria, where they took 60 hostages in a hotel. In the battle with police three gang members - Dan Kelly, Joe Byrne and Steve Hart - were killed and a wounded Ned was arrested and charged with the murder of a policeman. Ned Kelly was tried and convicted of the murder of Constable Lonigan at Stringybark Creek and hanged at the Melbourne Gaol.

In the film, the last words that Ned Kelly said before he was hanged was 'such is life'. It sounded so sad and hopeless! That really made me think. Is life supposed to be like that? Honestly, I don't know what to make of Ned Kelly. One thing I know, Ned Kelly (whether he was a hero, or a murderer), as well as anyone of us, need the forgiveness of sin from God.

Daily Bible Study 2006

Just wanted to let you know that I've embarked on a daily Bible Study journey through the One Year Bible 2006 program (here), where there are more than 1,700 of us in 50 countries. I am now also part of a new blog called "Daily Bible Study 2006" where we write our thoughts and reflections on the Bible readings on Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms and Proverbs. You are most welcome post a comment and share your insights with us too.

Living Room Card Making Extravaganza :)

Living Room Card Making Extravaganza

I participated in the LR Card Making Extravaganza last Saturday. Each of the community members brought some creative things like photos, wrapping paper, free postcards, dried autumn leaves, ribbons, material, stamps, magazines, pencils, etc. And here we went and made some cards! I learned some good techniques from those that are experienced.

I really enjoyed the card making. We didn't even need to have a particular occasion to make a card for, most of us just had a play, others created some birthday and thank-you cards. It was also a great social time, and a time that we could explore our creativity and imagination. Great stuff!

A Spirit Of Creativity

What is the difference between animals and human? Amongst many things, we have an ability to communicate and create that animals do not have. We are creative beings whose responsibility is to determine the directions of our lives under God.

I picked "creativity" as my word for 2006. God is Creator, and since we are made in God's image (Genesis 1:26), this can only mean that we, too, are made with creative skills. Creativity is a key factor in living in the image of God. It is His will that we live creatively!

According to Doctor Barry Chart (the founder of Tabor Bible College), creative living is the ability to take ordinary things, ordinary ideas, ordinary people - and to make them extraordinary! Creative living is imaginative living.

Jesus used parables and stories regularly when he taught. He had a fertile imagination that was constantly presenting new images, new pictures, and new ideas. The ability to creat, to imagine, to dream great dreams, and to conceive great concepts is a divine gift.

Oh Lord, please grant me this divine gift of creativity. I want to be an imaginator, a dreamer, a creator for Your glory. Lord, I want to live in Your image for Your sake. In Jesus' Name, Amen!

Creativity

After reading Pia's blog about a word for 2006, I think it's a good idea to have one. The first word that came to mind was 'creativity'. We are made in God's image, and HE is the Creator and Ultimate Artist. I would like to be creative in my life and ministry in 2006.

How about you? What's your 'word' for 2006?

Drama Ministry and Storytelling

drama presentation at my church

My work at church as the creative arts coordinator involves drama ministry and storytelling. I believe that drama and storytelling communicate messages. Drama is an under-used yet essential means of communicating the Gospel truths, both to Christians and non-Christian friends. Often times, we can only understand and remember abstract truth when it has ‘visible clothes’. Good use of language in communication always ‘paints a picture’. Most cultures spend a considerable proportion of their leisure time living in this world of story. This is true of the rich West, watching TV and cinema, reading, or playing computer games; and in traditional cultures with story-telling, puppets or dance.

We live in a visual and tactile age. Fleming-Drane quotes Albert Mehrabian's Silent Messages (1971), in which he cites that only 7% of the total impact of any message derives from its words: 38% is from vocal messages (tone of voice) and a huge 55% is non-verbal (body language). I believe the church is yearning to return to its heritage. It has had a grand tradition of the performing arts (storytelling, music, mime, dance, drama) and the visual arts (stained glass windows, painting, sculpture). Non-white Westerners seem to have been able to avoid the effects of the Enlightenment project and have expressed faith in more non-literate ways like dance, movement and singing.

The clinching argument is the example of Jesus. His method of communication to the ordinary people was so revolutionary, we still often do not understand it or use it. Although he did indeed expound Old Testament scripture when in the synagogue, or to his disciples, his method of communication to the mass of what we would now call ‘unchurched’ people was dramatic story using parables (Matthew 13:34). And story culturally relevant to their situation. Israel had no culture of performing drama, but in common with many cultures today, they loved story-telling.

A Great Light

Thanks everyone for your comments regarding my last post "Light in the darkness". Since I wrote this last post, the Lord has been reminding me to pray for this world of darkness. There are wars and rumors of wars, hunger and unemployment, racism, loneliness, and a sense of emptiness in this world. Perhaps the poet Robert Frost worded it best when he wrote: "I have been acquainted with the night. I have walked in the rain and out of the rain. I have been acquainted with the night.

I can identify with Robert Frost about darkness and night. It has touched my life, and I have been acquainted with the night. The scripture affirms that the darkness is real and it is present in this world. But, it also affirms that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The Gospel of John records that the light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it. The prophet Isaiah wrote, "people who walk in darkness have seen a great light." I praise the Lord that we can see a great light in darkness, as He is the light of the world. Hallelujah!

Light In The Darkness

Fireworks seen from my balcony

Happy New Year everyone!

“May the joy of celebrating our Saviour’s birth remain in your heart to be your strength each day…to refresh your delight in Him…to be the light that shines into the lives of others.” – Bonnie Rickner Jensen

In my previously post Salt, Light and City On The Hill, I wrote that light creates images of causing darkness to flee and truth to be highlighted. As we share the good news of the gospel of Jesus, we are indeed light to the world. You don't have to curse the darkness as a Christian. No. Just shine the light. Darkness disappears of its own accord! Share the truth and love of Christ, and fulfil that great commission!

When I saw the fireworks in my balcony on New Year's Eve, God confirmed this message to me again. Truly when the fireworks (bright light) appeared and shone, the darkness around the neighbourhood disappeared straight away.

The fireworks also reminded me that this life is brief. Like Moses says in Psalm 90:10, "The length of our days is seventy years— or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away. "

But what we learn here, and what we experience here, has eternal significance. I feel that two of the most important laws in my life (which are also my new year resolutions) are: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind' ; and, 'Love your neighbor as yourself."

Lord, help me to love you and love people with all of my being, and be a reflection of Your light. In Jesus' name, amen.

New Year's Resolutions

In all the busyness of the end of year I managed to go to Belgrave Heights Convention this afternoon. In the meeting we were asked these questions today:

• What resolutions do you carry?
• How are those resolutions impacting your life?
• What secret legacy do you hope to leave for future generations?

Amongst many things, one of my major new year's resolutions this year is this:

To be a better person on December 31, 2006, than I am today through prayer, Bible reading, and service to God and people. I feel that the world moves at a faster pace now, but some things should never change.

I think I'll spend some time in the next few days drafting out more new year's resolutions. So what are your resolutions this year?

Loneliness And Solitude

Although I miss my mum very much, I actually quite enjoy being alone at home. I was discussing solitude and loneliness with a friend today. We discussed that while there is some similarity between solitude and loneliness, and it is true that the two at times do converge, but the experiences are very different.

The word alone occurs frequently in the Bible, but only in very few cases can it be equated with loneliness. Jesus said, "You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for My Father is with Me" (Jn. 16:32). Loneliness is the result of the absence of personal intimacy or meaningful activity. Solitude is not being in the company of others.

The followings are some differences between loneliness and solitude:

• Loneliness is a negative experience, while solitude is often positive and renewing.
• Loneliness brings a feeling of desolation and depression that can be destructive. Solitude can generate a sense of solitariness that is both creative and motivating.
• Loneliness is involuntary, unwanted. Solitude is voluntary and deliberately chosen.

God said: "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Gen. 2:18). But there are times when the heart craves solitude. Following His claim that isolation was not good for Adam, God created "a helper suitable for him." We were created social beings, capable of loving and having relationships with both God and our fellow men and women. Our full creative purpose can never be realized by itself, only in association with other people.

Being alone involves only physical separation, but being lonely includes both spiritual and psychological isolation. It produces a solitude of heart, the feeling of being cut off from others whom we should like to have as friends. A certain degree of solitude--being alone with one's thoughts--is a normal state. It is essential to the cultivation of the inner life. We all experience times when it becomes essential to have time alone. Without this time, the spiritual life will lack depth and freshness. In such a period of solitude we will find a welcome alternative to the race of busy life.

We need to be alone to discover and confront our real selves. A time of solitude can often lead to invaluable reflection, self-analysis and a fresh outlook on life. That's why I enjoy posting on blog so much, as it provides an opporunity for me to slow down, reflect and have solitude.

What about you?

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

The Chronicles of Narnia

Last night I watched the "The Chronicles of Narnia" with some friends. It was a magnificent and well-produced film based on C.S. Lewis' book "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe." C.S. Lewis created a land of magic and wonder called Narnia, and since then many readers (and now many who have seen and will see this movie) have discovered / will discover the wondrous world that exists beyond the back of the wardrobe. It's about the story of four siblings - Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy. They find their way through an old wardrobe into the world of Narnia. There, they unite with Aslan ('the Lion King') to fight the White Witch and save Narnia from perpetual darkness.

I really like the film, and can identify with all four children at various times:

• Peter - is afraid even though he has got what it takes to be the King - an honour given by Aslan.
• Susan - is cautious, doubtful and boring at times.
• Edmund - is disobedient, pretentious and proud.
• Lucy - with child-like faith, shares her spiritual experiences with others, is loving and compassionate.

The symbolic meanings in the book / film touch me a lot: Aslan's sacrificial love, the simple but powerful faith of Lucy, the power of the sword (sword of the Spirit), and the fact that once a king always a king (child of God) etc.

In His books, C.S. Lewis argued that humans long "to see with other eyes, to imagine with other imaginations, to feel with other hearts, as well as with our own." We were made for awe. Unfortunately, the modern privileging of scientific fact as the "only" reliable type of truth often tries to push aside the competing truth claims of intuition and revelation. The longing for transcendence -- the desire of human nature to move beyond that nature into something beyond - will not be denied.

Some of my reflections from this film:

First, audience response suggests that most people want to believe in a world like Narnia -- they just lack the eyes to see the similarities between that world and our own. For example, the thought that someone might love them enough to die for them is the basis of many appealing and timeless romances -- how much better to discover that Someone already actually has.

Second, like Lucy, the believability of our story often rests on our credibility as tellers. We can only tell the story well only if we are passionately committed to it. Not everyone who loves Narnia will want Jesus -- but the connection some people may feel with Narnia may make it easier to introduce Jesus, and the fictional account of Aslan might (paradoxically) make discussions of Christ’s work to save us seem more present and real. Let the book, or the movie, do its work -- drawing people in and making them feel and think. Afterward the opportunity might arise to introduce your own story.

Yes my own story is a personal, gripping tale filled with temptations, evil deeds, a Suffering Savior and Triumphant Lord. It is a story in which I am a participant, fighting my own daily 'battles' while being transformed into the image of Christ. It will someday end with the final victory of good over evil.

A Merry Christmas

Rachel and I in Royal Botanical Garden in Melbourne.

Had a wonderful Christmas. My good friend Rachel gave her heart to Jesus on Christmas Day, and that was the best Christmas gift I got. Really there is nothing more joyful than seeing a new life in Christ. And it was a divine appointment that we met at the Open Stage during the he/she/it Fringe Festival season at Melbourne University, where I was one of the crew for he/she/it, while Rachel was a student there. Since then God has drawn us close together. His fingerprints have been on both of our lives. Praise the Lord!

On Christmas night, I enjoyed hosting the Christmas dinner for brothers and sisters in Christ (those whose families are overseas) in my apartment. It was fun to spend time with them eating, chatting, singing and seeing the Christmas lighting show down the road. I had lots of fun and meaningful sharing with them. My cooking was not particularly good, but happy that I was able to serve them. If you want to share our joy, you can have a look at the photos here.

A Strange Way To Save The World

Got this from a colleague of World Team International . It was written as a dramatic reading for the Christmas program at a church this weekend. It's meaningful and thought provoking. Enjoy....

The Christmas story is a parade of paradox: a King born in a stable…royal messengers sent to lowly shepherds…the plan of salvation for all people entrusted to a powerless conquered nation.

It’s not how we would have done it, it’s not the story we would have written. Ordinary people asked to carry out a plan meant to impact the whole world! In fact, most of us would say it was a plan destined to fail, a strange way to save the world! And the parade of paradox marches on.

Let’s pause to consider the creator of this plan. He is an artist. He is the Creator God. Just like any artist He left his own personal imprint, a small reflection of Himself in all that He created. And He took great delight in all that He made.


When this Creator God crafted the earth, He left His creative imprint on all that He made. He weaved an intricate and awe inspiring tapestry of color and culture. When we look at our world – at all peoples present here – we see the imprint of The Artist represented in each people group on earth.

The brilliance and radiance of His created color can be seen in African dress and dance, His profound philosophy and wisdom are pursued by the Chinese, His passion for music, dance and romance we see celebrated in Latin America, Our Creator’s inspired ability toward art and poetry we find embraced in Europe, and His love of freedom and grace we experience here in North America. We all bear the imprint of The Artist….This Creator God . . . the Same One …Who came… to us…the Creator joins the creation . . . as a helpless infant in a stable. And the parade marches on.

When the angels announced the birth of our Creator – they announced it as Good News for “All people.” The prophet Isaiah announced that He would be a “light for the Gentiles, that [He] may bring…salvation to the ends of the earth."

We, His people, have experienced intimacy with this Creator. His plan that none of us would have dreamed could succeed has done just that. The wisdom of God is foolishness to men! He is doing what He said He would! The Creator became part of the creation to live a life that could not be ignored; to share a message that grabs the imagination; to pay a price that is unthinkable. And the parade marches on.

His brilliance. His radiance. His color. His romance. His philosophy. His wisdom. His music. His art. His love. His sacrifice. His IMPRINT on the creation. The brilliant tapestry of His handiwork – the delight of His artistry! He has communicated Himself to us… so that we can communicate Who He is to all people.

For God so loved the world, that He sent His one and only Son, so that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him. He came to save the world. When God touched the earth – he touched ALL people.

That is a parade of paradox. That is a strange way to save the World…using a small baby and ordinary people like me and you. In His cosmic creativity He birthed the message of salvation two thousand years ago that is changing lives and transforming cultures still today. His parade of paradox marches on!

Chalk Circle

Winston Churchill said, "No act of mankind is 'history' until celebrated by artists and writers." I really like this quote.

Today I caught up with my artist friends Beverly and Diana in Southbank again (remember them? refer to Chalk Circle Arts and Pavement Arts in my neighbourhood ) . It was such a lovely day, and we had a drink together in the nearby cafe. As usual, it was fantastic catching up and chatting with them. They are great company, lovely and talented. To my delight, Bev gave me one of her prints as a Christmas gift. That made me a happy chappy hehe. I also spent a couple of hours with them by playing an African instrument (it was from another artist in the area who is Bev's friend) and singing Christmas songs while they were painting. It was fun, and I felt pleased to be able to spend time, befriend and connect with them. It was such a joy and privilege to be part of the chalk circle today.

Lord - You love Bev and Diana so much, and me too =) Please bless them, amen!

Please see below for more of their arts, and go to the CHALK CIRCLE website. They are great! Enjoy.....

Bev and Diana Painting Away In Southgate

Having Fun with Bev on the pavement 

"The Christmas Present From Bev - The Print"

Salt Of The Earth

In my previously post Salt, Light and City On The Hill, I wrote that salt conjures up the concept of social action, and being Christ to those in need. I thought more about it these last few days, and God reminded me again that we have a mission, a ministry, a task to perform. As Christians we are not to live for ourselves alone, because the gifts (as Christmas is drawing near, we ought to think of the first and ultimate gift that God gave us - Jesus Christ our Lord) we have received from God are for the sake of others. The gifts and blessings are not only for our personal enjoyment.

As well as giving taste to food, salt is a useful perservative. One way in which we will act as 'salt of the earth' will be by our witness and commitment to all that brings healing, justice and hope, in the midst of so much that is corrupt and decaying. But we can only be salt for a corrupt and decaying world if we really are in the world, engagin it at all levels and in all places.

In much of our contemporary church (probably including my own), the salt seems to be in a jar with the lid screwed on tightly. One of the great challenges facing us is to get the lid off and to let our saltiness be known. Just as the salt that is to be mixed with the world must be truly salty, the disciples who engage the world must reflect, with faithfulness and integrity, the qualities and character of Jesus.

Oh Father God, help me to truly be the salt of the earth, reflecting and embodying the likeness of the Lord, and not just plastic replica. In Jesus Name, amen!

A Life Of Purpose

The quality of a life of purpose is measured not by the number of tasks accomplished, but with whom they were accomplished and the learning and connection that went on in the process.

What do you think of this quote? Do you agree?

C.H.R.I.S.T.M.A.S

Christmas is a time of bright lights, Christmas trees, decorations, shopping and gifts. A time when people think mainly of things they want. But really, there can be no Christmas without Christ. Below are of some words that represent the Christmas meaning using the acronym CHRISTMAS.

C -Christ
God gave the first Christmas present, and said "you shall call his name Jesus"

H – Heart
Christmas should be a heart affair. God gave from his heart -he gave the best he had - his only Son. We must believe and receive Jesus into our heart. God says "My son, give me your heart" (your whole life). (Proverbs 23:26)

R -Ruler
The Jewish people expected an earthly ruler to come and save them, but Jesus didn't set up a kingdom on this earth to rule over. Instead, He wants to rule in our hearts. One day, when Jesus comes again, He will come as ruler. The Bible says Jesus will be King of Kings and Lord of Lords and that every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. (Philippians 2:10-11) We don't need to wait until then. Let us allow Him to be our ruler right now!

I- Inn
There was no room at the inn for Mary (and Jesus!). I am sure the innkeeper didn't realise who he was turning away. Many today are like that innkeeper. Jesus is knocking at the door of our life. Will you turn Him away, saying there is no room?

S- Star
A star led the wise men to Jesus. Today we have the Holy Spirit to lead us closer to Jesus. We need to ask the Holy Spirit to fill our life so that we will know more about Jesus.

T – Tree
We decorate and hang gifts on trees at Christmas. God hung his gift on a tree - the cross. But many of those looking on didn't admire God’s gift; instead they mocked and laughed at Him. And yet He prayed, "Father, forgive them,for they don't know what they are doing".

M- Manger
Jesus left His home in heaven. What a contrast between the glory of heavenand a manger -an animal's feed box. How Jesus humbled himself and was prepared to give up everything! He didn't come as a master, but as a servant. Those of us who want to follow Him are told, "Let this attitude be in you which was also in Christ... who took upon Him the form of a servant..." (Philipians2:5-9)

A -Angel
The angels came with glad tidings of great joy. They told the shepherds where and how to find Jesus. Today we have this ministry -to share the good news about Jesus, and we must tell people where and how to find Jesus.

S -Saviour
The real reason Jesus came to this earth was to be our Saviour. Explain why Jesus had to die, to take the punishment that we deserve for our sins.

Meanwhile, I know everyone is busy at this time of year, no matter which hemisphere you live in. But I hope you'll also take/make the time for silence, reflection, and rejoicing in the Saviour's birth. I know of so many people who are going through hard times just now--some are life and death situations, others are grieving, anxious, sad or alone. My prayer is that whether this is one of your best or worst Christmases on the outside, nothing will keep it from being one of the most meaningful on the inside. God Bless you as you celebrate this Christmas!

O Come, Let Us Adore Him...and let us truly give our hearts to Jesus in this Christmas.

World Team Australia Website

After some training on the Mambo Content Management System, I have finally started on the challenging yet wonderful journey of managing and updating the World Team Australia website. You know I can really sense God's presence as I go around adding information to the site. You are all welcome to read the website (still at its early stage of development) at www.worldteam.org.au

Salt, Light And City On A Hill

A friend and I were chatting, and we talked about the three pictures that Jesus used to capture the main ways Christians ought to live in this world:

1. SALT: that conjures up the concept of Social Action. As we become a part of the real world and relate to those in need we are salt to those around us. Let us never give up on feeding the poor, visiting the sick and imprisoned, clothing the naked, and providing drink to the thirsty. When we do that, we do it for Christ Himself.
2. LIGHT: that creates images of causing darkness to flee and truth to be highlighted. As we share the good news of the gospel of Jesus, we are indeed light to the world. You don't have to curse the darkness as a Christian. No. Just shine the light. Darkness disappears of its own accord! Share the truth and love of Christ, and fulfil that great commission!
3. A CITY ON A HILL: this reminds me of community and the visual impact true discipleship brings to the world. You can not hide loving community between believers who live differently to the rest of the world around us.

I reckon all three are vital to a full expression of our faith. Jesus gave all three images in Matthew 5:13-16. Lord, help us to take on board all three to be the salt of the earth, the light of the world and a city set on a hill.

Participating With God In Mission

I am one of many who always grapple with issues related to mission. I often reflect on how finding key words greatly assists in articulating the subtle, and not so subtle, issues involved in understanding how God might have us engage with the world for His purpose.

Two key words I learned from my lecturer at Bible College are futurum and adventus. Futurum defines how God works out His purposes in and through the everyday events of life. It is mission that occurs through the ordinary and the routine acts people - both local church members and organisational structures. Adventus, however, involves those specific times when God intervenes directly and dramatically (Exodus 3, Isaiah 6 and Acts 2). It is mission that occurs through the extraordinary and unforseen interventions of God.

In our mission activities we must learn to faithfully serve God in the ordinary and routine activities that He has called us to do. But let us also be those who long for, and anticipate, the unexpected in-breaking activity of God. Mission must include both these aspects - God's extraordinary work and the everyday instrumentality of people and their organisations.

So which out of the two do you think is more important in your spiritual life?

Things That Stick With Us

You know, there are certain things that stick with us, the shapes of our eyes, a culture that once was and will never be again, defining an age, our upbringing, background and history, the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, windows 98, feminism, the World history, and of course our personal acheivements, life's highs and lows, disappointments and frustrations also stick with us.

Today, I received an invitation from Melbourne Pastors Network to pray every Friday for Jesus to reveal Himself to Muslims in Australia with a focus on their key leaders. The followings are the invite, and I am committed to be involved in this prayer network as I know the impact of this will stick with me for all eternity. I'd like to encourage you to join this if you feel led. Here it is....

Join 1,000,000 Christians every Friday in prayer for:

1. Holy Spirit revelation and blessing to the Muslim community in Australia. That they might sense love and not fear from the Christian community.Especially for the MUSLIM LEADERS who attended the Prime Minister’s Summit in August. (See list: www.immi.gov.au/multicultural/mcrg/05.htm)This month pray for IKTIMAL HAGE-ALI , who is the Deputy Chair of the NSW Youth Advisory Council. She was appointed to the council by the NSW Government.

2. Compassion and wisdom for Parliamentary leaders in their relationship to the Muslim community and for those who work with them.

3. The protection and strengthening of our Christian heritage .

Pray also for MELBOURNE CHURCHES:
RACIAL & RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE ACT - GOVERNMENT REVIEWSome church leaders and some other faiths recently met with members of the Dept of Premier and Cabinet and the Victorian Office of Multicultural Affairs to hear the government's views on the act. Despite previous appeals against most of the act by churches, the amendments raised by the government were basically to provide stricter penalties. The church representatives were able to present a detailed submission and justification for major changes or a complete removal of religious aspects of the Act.
Please pray for this on-going negotiation which will have great implications for the Church in Victoria.See: www.pcvic.org.au/importantissue.htm.

The Word Of GOD For the World Of SPORT

Regardless of whether or not you are a sports fan, it will have been hard to miss the news that Melbourne, Australia is preparing to host the 2006 Commonwealth Games. Over the next few months, thousands of athletes, spectators and visitors will begin pouring into Melbourne in readiness for the 'kick-off' in March.

As a person living in the neighbourhood of all the happenings during the time of Commonwealth Games, I have a very strong burden to reach out to the community with the message of the gospel. I am hoping to be involved in community celebrations when the Queens baton comes through my town, invite people to come and watch the games in my home as a community, pray for the games, for the chaplains and outreach teams, perhaps organise a festival through my own faith community and World Team, or be involved in exisiting activities organised by Quest, Bible Society, Fushion, and other churches in the city. I really want to bless the ground in Melbourne by prayer walks with other intercessors as well.

The Motto for the Games is "United for the moment". It's such a great motto isn't it? I pray that churches, Christian and mission organisations can truly unit together in developing appropriate and sensitive outreach programs and relationship building activities that are in line with the community celebrations and spirit of the games.

Stir Your World

Today I received a letter from Tim Costello (CEO of World Vision Australia) letting me know what they've done with the money I raised for the 40 hour famine back in August. Here it is:

• help the people of Mozambique and Tanzania with seeds, training in modern farming techniques and access to clean water all year round so families can grow their own food, have a more nutritious diet and be less vulnerable to disease and drought.
• provide assistance to families living in poor countries that are hurt by emergencies with food and medical supplies and support the Global Rapid Response Team who get to emergencies around the world within 12-24 hours.

Thank you to those of you who sponsored my famine (which I reported previously in my blog here, here and here). Re-reading these past posts made me realise once again how gracious and merciful our dear Lord is =)

To my surprise, I received World Vision's 40 Famine Award - Apple iPod mini music player, which was given to the top 25 money-raisers in Australia. And the interesting thing was, it got to me a day before my birthday. And THAT was the best birthday present! I am VERY happy....it's not because I won an award. It's because many kids were helped as a result of the money raised. I'm really humbled by this great experience from God. It's certainly greater to give than to receive.

I encourage you to STIR your world!