Arts A-live

Arts A-live logo

These few weeks saw me busy preparing for the Arts A-live courses at work. These courses are going to take place on Monday 17 April. The vision of the Arts A-live is to develop genuine and dynamic worshippers through various training courses. The courses were planned and conducted throughout the year to enable brothers and sisters to learn arts in its various forms, and minister to the church as well as amongst the crowds in the wider community.

I believe that we can move from being just a spiritual seeker to being a creator (as an artist), sustainer, and nurturer of the beloved community, working to provide a home for to friends not yet met. We aim to raise Christ-like disciples and communities to impact all nations through creative arts.

God wants us in creative ministries to fulfill his purposes in Worship, Evangelism, Discipleship, Ministry and Fellowship. He has given us a ‘set of tools’ to carve out His craftsmanship. There are three types of courses provided – short courses (to allow people to gain knowledge of creative arts), training events / seminars (run by the professionals in the field of creative arts locally or overseas), and learning through participation in the creative arts teams (project base).

On April 17, we will be having workshops on the following:

• CCBC Creative Arts Ministry – what is creative arts? vision, mission (purpose), core values, worship and creative arts ministry, philosophy of ministry, strategy & the attitudes of serving.
• Drama – the 7 basics of drama, expressions and emotions

May God use these courses to build up more faithful, diligent and effective ministers of Christ!

What do you think of the "A" logo above? It was designed by a good friend, and it's very meaningful.

Lessons Learned

I read in a Christian magazine today about the life lessons that a minister learned, before he went to be with our Heavenly Father recently. And these lessons are very important and inspiring:

1. The Importance of Understanding the Basis of our Acceptance by God
2. The Importance of Having a Sense of Purpose and Vision for our Life
3. The Importance of Family
4. The Importance of Depending On and Honouring the Holy Spirit in Christian Service
5. The Importance of Personal Devotional Life

What do you think of these 5 lessons?

Way Of Life According To The Celtic Church

At Living Room we had a gathering where the practice of the Celtic church was shared. Below is a summary of it:

The Celtic church affirmed and used the ministry of the Anamchara or soul friend. A Soul Friend needs to be a mature Christian who is in sympathy with the aims of the Community. (S)he does not need to belong to the Community of Aidan and Hilda but it is clearly helpful if they do. Each member of this Community will have a Soul Friend to work with them in developing a Way of life that is personally suited to them. The Way relates to the following ten areas of life, and is reviewed at agreed intervals.

1. Life-Long Learning

• Daily Bible reading is at the heart of this way of life.
• It is essential that study is not merely as an academic exercise.
• Whatever is learned should be lived.
• Celtic practice of memorising Scriptures, and learning through the use of creative arts is encouraged.

2. Spiritual Journey

• Meet with our Soul Friend at least twice a year.
• (S)he is someone who is familiar with the Community of Aidan and Hilda and seeks to discern with us where we are on that journey, what the Spirit is doing in our lives, and how God is leading us.
• The Soul Friend gives guidance on two disciplines which the Community considers to be important:
  (a) Regular retreats, with regular days of quiet and reflection, and also an annual retreat. (b) Pilgrimage to tread in the shoes of Christ or his saints in order to make contact with the many rich experiences which are to do with being a pilgrim. Such pilgrimages draw us into deeper devotion to our Lord Jesus and will inspire us to mission. Members might seek out communities of prayer.

3. Rhythm of Prayer, Work and Re-creation

• Prayer: The use of daily patterns of worship and regular prayer is encouraged. Ways of praying will vary according to temperament. The Community encourages a renewal of 'all kinds of praying' (Ephesians 6.18), from contemplative prayer to celebratory praise.
• Work: We welcome work as a gift from God. Every member should engage in work, whether it be the routine activities of life or paid employment. Work motivated by values which conflict with the Way should be avoided as much as possible. In humility we accept what God gives us.
• Rest: The hours of rest and recreation are as valuable as the hours of prayer and work. The Lord Jesus reminds us that 'the Sabbath was made for humankind, and not humankind for the Sabbath' (Mark 2:27). In the Scriptures even the land was given a Sabbath in the seventh year (Leviticus 25: 3-5). The need for rest was built into creation (Genesis 2: 1-3). A provision for this kind of rest, which is both holy and creative, should be part of each member's personal Way of Life.

4. Spiritual Initiatives through Intercession

• Engaging in and becoming familiar with intercessory prayer is important. We do not project on to the supernatural what belongs to the sphere of human responsibility. We affirm national initiatives in intercessory prayer.

5. Simplicity of Life-style

• We wish to 'live simply that others may simply live', to avoid any sense of judging one another
• Common responsibility is to regularly hold before God our income, our savings, our possessions, conscious that we are stewards, not possessors of these things, and making them available to him as He requires.
• A simple life-style means setting everything in the simple beauty of creation. Our belongings, activities and relationships are ordered in a way that liberates the spirit; we cut out those things that overload or clutter the spirit.
• We are not seeking a life of denial for we thoroughly rejoice in the good things God gives us. Our clothes and furniture should reflect God-given features of our personalities.
• There is a time to feast and celebrate as well as to fast. Our commitment is to openness. We stand against the influence of the god of mammon in our society by our life-style, by our hospitality, by our intercession, and by regular and generous giving.

6. Care for Creation

• God's creation as essentially good, but spoilt by the effects of human sin and satanic evil.
• Ecologically aware, to pray for God's creation and all his creatures, and to stand against all that would seek to violate or destroy them. We look upon creation as a sacrament, reflecting the glory of God, and seek to meet God through his creation, to bless it, and to celebrate it.

7. Healing Fragmented People and Communities

• The spirit of self-sufficient autonomy is renounced, and holistic approach and ministry of Christian healing are encouraged.
• Seek to become more fully human as we grow in Christ, and we believe that 'the glory of God is seen through a life fully lived' (Irenaeus).

8. Openness to God's Spirit

• Allowing God to take us where the Spirit wills, and being open to the leading of the Spirit are essential.
• The gift of prophecy is honoured.
• Seeking to cultivate an interior silence that recognises and sets aside discordant voices, to respond to unexpected or disturbing promptings of God, to widen our horizons, to develop 'the eye of the eagle' and see and hear God through his creation.

9. Unity

• All fellow Christians are not 'strangers but pilgrims together'.
• The Celtic church honoured, trusted and went with the grain of the human communities it worked amongst, and seek to cultivate a solidarity with all people in everything except sin, to value all that is truly human in them, and to shed attitudes and practices that put up barriers between the church and the people.
  

10. Mission

• 'The whole created order may be reconciled to God through Christ' (Colossians 1.20).
• Living as one Christian community so 'that the world may believe' (John 17.21).
• The goal of the way of life is to develop a disciplined spirituality to be effective in witness to Christ in the world.
• The Celtic church evangelised from grassroots communities which springs naturally from the community of the local church, and out of the Community.
• Believing that the Holy Spirit leads the church into new initiatives to bring God to the people.
• Faith is shared wherever opportunity is given. Evangelisation is not simply a duty, but because the Spirit of God is giving us a heart for the lost.
• Mission also includes speaking out for the poor, the powerless and those unjustly treated in our society, and to minister to and with them as God directs.

So which out of these 10 points do you see as important for your faith communities?

A clearer picture of the 'flying angel' 

Flying Angel

"Flying Angel"

This beautiful 'flying angel' was in the Myer Music Bowl during Festival Melbourne who was performing during the intervals of the musical performances. This image of her reaching down to the kids reminded me of God's love and His Incarnation. What do you reckon?

The Tribal Expressions

The Tribal Expressions - the business of art and culture in Indigenous Victoria, Australia was one of the highlights of Festival Melbourne. The Showcase was presented by the Koori Business Network for the Office of Commonwealth Games Coordination under the Respecting Indigenous Communities Strategy.

These expressions include various materials like quotes, statements, painting, sculptures and performing arts. Most of the art works were inspired by the Australian Indigenous culture, and were representations of people's perspectives, how they saw the world through Aboriginal people's eyes.

I could see that the XVIII Commonwealth Games have had a profound effect on Melbourne. Like the motto of the games, "united by the moment". This event has been a unifying and inspiring force, as it has presented opportunities for people to connect. Experiencing Indigenous Victorian culture through the Tribal Expressions exhibition and showcase events was great. The artefacts, ceramics, visual arts and performing arts at different venues in Melbourne surely showed me how talented our Aboringinal people are, and it was an awesome way to celebrate the diversity of the cultures not only in Melbourne or Australia, but across the Commonwealth too.

I am thankful I have had the opportunity to enjoy the Tribal Expressions - as to me the concept of a 'tribe' is extremely important, even in EC / faith communities. You know I now see that I have various circle of friends in various 'tribes' and you blogger mates are certainly one of them. Thank you all for being in my tribe! :)

Emerging Church In Postmodern Context & Clergy

Garth from emergingBlub emailed me a very interesting link to The Krow's site about "The Fallacy of Ordination" , which talks about the origin of the term 'clergy' & 'pastor'. According to these people, the origin of 'clergy' came from 3rd and 4th century Roman influences, rather than Paul's understanding.

I am doing an essay on emerging church (EC) in a postmodern context based on Paul's examples about the establishment and growth of new faith communities, so this is quite relevant. The EC (which is often without 'clergy') may well be more closely aligned with Paul's teaching than the current models of church institution. Wow that is really a challenging thought to me personally! I will need to chew on it and do more research on it.

If you have any ideas on EC, postmodern context, Paul's examples, clergy etc, I would be very interested in hearing them. Please send me a comment on your opinions.

Conedancers

Conedancers

One of the street theatre performances during the Festival Melbourne that I enjoyed was "Conedancers" outside the Arts Centre. It was really interesting! Two aerialists bathed in music and light perform a duet in and around a high inflatable cone. Conedancers begins with a boy and girl caught in a ritualised folkdance halfway up the side of the cone. As they become carried away by their passion, they express their love to each other. Acrobatic and upbeat, passionate and moving, this was really a spectacular performance of suspended choreography.

This performance got me thinking about expressing love and being authentic. Gandhi said: “A coward is incapable of exhibiting love; it is the prerogative of the brave”. Let's be brave and tell your loved ones that you love them!

My blogger friends, I love you!

What Is Your Love Language?

I enjoyed reading Dr Gary Chapman's book "5 Love Languages". He said that to truly connect with a loved one there is one simple fact: you need to know and speak his or her love language. A love language is the way we express our commitment, and it can be learned or changed to touch the hearts of those we love. Whether you’re a child, a spouse, a parent, or a single, the five love languages are the same:

1. Love Language #1: Words of Affirmation
   Verbal compliments, words of appreciation, and encouragement
2. Love Language #2:Quality Time
   A central aspect of quality time is togetherness, which has to do with giving our full attention to the other person.
3. Love Language #3:Receiving Gifts
   Gifts are visual symbols of love, which have great emotional values.
4. Love Language #4:Acts of Service
   Acts of service are things that you do for your loved one. Such actions as cooking a meal, washing dishes, cleaning the house, mowing the grass etc.
5. Love Language #5:Physical Touch
   Holding hands, kissing and hugging are all ways of communicating emotional love.

So what is your love language?

Festival Melbourne 2006

Festival Melbourne 2006 is twelve days of non-stop music, dance, circus, street theatre and visual arts from all the corners of the Commonwealth that are adding an extra sparkle to the whole Commonwealth Games experience. I have been taking part in some of these arts events, and they are great! Best of all, everything's free during the Games!

Heavenly Father, I pray for everyone, especially the international visitors to Melbourne. I pray for all those athletes participating in the Commonwealth Games, that they would be safe, and that their eyes would be open to the witness of Christ's love and grace during their time here! Lord Jesus Christ, shine through Your people in this city that people would see You! Pray that all the venues for the Games would be protected by the Name that is above all Names. May your Kingdom come, and Your will be done right here in Melbourne. In Jesus' Precious Name, Amen!

Where Does Your Heart Go?

Where Does Your Heart Go?

Today my mentor Professor Brown was preaching at CCBC on the topic of "where does your heart go?" based on the Scripture from Matthew 6:24-34.

Mt 6:24 "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.
Mt 6:25 "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?
Mt 6:26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?
Mt 6:27 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life ?
Mt 6:28 "And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin.
Mt 6:29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these.
Mt 6:30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?
Mt 6:31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
Mt 6:32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
Mt 6:33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Mt 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

The following is the summary of the sermon:

Your “Heart” is in the driver’s seat - it controls your whole person:

Fancies
What Jesus says is up to date.

1. Finance
   The passion to become wealthy: you can’t take it with you!
2. Food
   The media appeal to our desire to eat well. 20% of Australians are overweight.
3. Fashion
   Big business. We cannot rival nature. To be neat and clean is sufficient.

Futility

• Our world shows us the folly of our fancies.
• God provides adequately for birds, flowers etc.
• Our interference is futile – fertilizers foul rivers; Cane toads have become a threat.

Focus

• To fill our hearts and minds with our fancies leads to disaster.
• God or mammom. “God’s Kingdom” is where God alone is King;
• Righteousness is Godly living.
• Don’t try to carry excess luggage.
• We are not to sit and be idle, but do what the King commands.

This was a great reminder for many of us. If we focus on God's kingdom and righteousness, even our fancies (finance, food & fashion) which are by themselves futile, will be added to us!

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. " (Matthew 6:33)

Decision Making

There are times in my life where I go back and forth to decide whether I should do this and that, while often times I just make up my mind and go for it. This morning, I received an email forward from a good friend, and it really got me thinking. I would like to share it with you:

Elijah went up before the people and said, "How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal is God, follow him." But the people said nothing. (1 Kings 18:21)

A long time ago, when the world was young, the birds and the beasts were engaged in a bitter war. The bat, not wanting to be on the losing side, whichever that might be, tried to be on both sides. Whenever the birds won a battle, he would fly with them, telling everyone he was a bird. When the beasts won, he would walk around, assuring everyone that he was a beast. It didn't take long for the bat's hypocrisy to be discovered. He was rejected by both the birds and the beasts. From that day on the bat has had to go into hiding. To this day, he lives in dark caves, only daring to come out at night."

Don't waver between two opinions today. Instead, follow God wholeheartedly. It could well be that at work or at home today you will be very tempted to flit back and forth from one 'camp' to another 'camp'. I encourage you not to do that. Make up your mind right now whom you will serve and live for today - and then stick to it. Will it be Almighty God? Or will it be the other enticements around you that can trap you in their web - money, pleasure, position, power, 'saving face' even when you know you are wrong, and so on. It's your call - your choice. But remember, eternal consequences could well be at stake here either for you or for other people. Yes, let's make wise and God-honoring choices today, and everyday!

What do you think?

Friendship

Dear Lord,

My friends are important to me!

Lonely roads are hard to walk!
When I fall down, I need someone to hold me up
When I am hurt, I need someone to comfort me
When I am alone, I need someone to keep me company
When I am happy, I need someone to share with me

Good Friends:
When I am in pain, they share the burden with me
When I succeed, they won't be jealous of me
When I fail, they won't leave me
When I am proud, they rebuke me
When I am wrong, they correct me
If I have wronged against them, they forgive me

My Dear Lord:
Before I have others' friendship, please teach me how to be other's friend
Not looking at others according to:
what they wear
how much knowledge they have
how wise they are
how pretty / handsome they are

Help me:
not to be proud of my strengths
not to look down on others' weaknesses
not to boast about my success
not to forget others' blessings

Teach me:
to speak gently
to have a kind attitude
to be cheerful
to be faithful

Even though I may not do anything big for my friends, lead me to give my care, concern and prayers !
I long to be a blessing to all of my friends, my loved ones!

Four Things Meme

CB had a four things meme on his blog, and he had an “open tag” invitation, so I volunteered to tag myself, as the questions are quite interesting. So here we are:

• Four jobs I’ve had: 1. Proof-reader 2. Waitress 3. Marketing Executive 4. Tours Coordinator / Guide
• Four movies I enjoy: 1. A Beautiful Mind 2. Romero 3. Lost in Translation 4. Jesus Film
• Four places I’ve lived: 1. Kowloon, Hong Kong 2. Windsor 3. Hoppers Crossing 4. Thornbury
• Four shows I watch: 1. The Great Outdoor 2. Dancing with the stars. 3. Home & Away 4. Amazing Race
• Four places I’ve vacationed: 1. Malaysia 2. Paris 3. London 4. Gold Goast
• Four websites I like: (apart from all of my lovely blogger friends' blogs, which are too many to list) - 1. Google 2. One Year Bible Blog 3. Prayer List 4. World Team International / World Team Australia
• Four of my favorite foods: 1. Sashimi 2. Soy sauce or fried pigeon & Salad 3. Durian 4. Chicken's Feet
• Four places I’d like to be right now: 1. Peru 2. Switzerland 3. India 4. actually, come to think of it, I am very happy where I am right now - Melbourne is a great city!!! I am content :D

Ok, I'm going to make this an open tag invitation too. If you are interested, you can just do this on your blog, and let me know. Hope to hear from you soon.

United By The Moment

Commonwealth Games Live Site @ Federation Square

Today (15th March) was the first day of the Commonwealth Games, and although it wasn't a day off for me, I went straight to my neighbourhood - the Federation Square - after work where one of the Commonwealth Games Live Sites was.

A friend and I went to "Time Out Cafe" in the square to have dinner, and it turned out that there was a TV screen in there right in front of us. We got to see the opening ceremony there, with some performances (it was quite interesting to see a Melbourne tram with wings, as well as many other things with wings hehe). The Melbourne skyline erupted in a blaze of fireworks as the city celebrated the groundbreaking Opening Ceremony to mark the start of the XVIII Commonwealth Games. Athletes and people from 71 nations have come to Melbourne to take part in this event.

I had a great night! And I am so glad that although many of us are not in Melbourne, I can share with you on my blog here. :) You know what? I feel that truly the mission field is on the door steps of Melbourne. During my days off, I will be serving as a volunteer for the 'Word Art Games Exhibition' with a visual artist David White. His works will be exhibited at three city locations. The Games' motto is 'united by the moment'! May we pray and serve together, so that people are not only united by the moment, but eternally in Christ! Please pray for those who outreach and serve during the Commonwealth Games.

Lent and Everyday Spirituality

Today I was reminded of the season of Lent again. Lent has traditionally been a time for followers of Christ to deny themselves of a worldly desire or pleasure. It's a time in which we focus ourselves more intently upon God without all the distractions of our normal lives. The self-denial of Lent enables us to more fully understand Jesus’ self-denial in going to the Cross. Lent reminds us of our reliance on the Holy Spirit, and not our own achievements, to keep us in relationship with the Father and His Son. Even though Lent is an old tradition, I believe it does allow people's spirituality to be awakened if they engage with it. I believe that Lent shouldn't be celebrated only by a few followers of Christ, it should be accessible to everyone, as I think it can help people to grow in God's Presence.

Apart from denying ourselves of pleasure (or fasting), we can actually do something proactive to celebrate Lent. You can get some good ideas through the Lent Calendar 2005. There are some really meaningful activities worth participating.

One of the examples of the activity was this: Think of a disease that has affected those you love. Press the mute button during TV commercials, and spend the minutes praying for people who suffer from that disease.

I went to St Paul's Cathedral yesterday, and I was invited to write down a prayer for people that I knew who were sick. I didn't do that in the church, but when I saw this suggested activity on the Lent Calendar, I thought of my dad, my grandma and some friends who had died of cancer.....and I spent time praying for those who suffered from cancer right now. Really life is so short and unpredictable! We need to treasure everyday, and cherish the people that we love. Just the other day, I was discussing with a friend about what we would do if we only had one day left to live.

What would you do if you only had one day to live? What's the priority of your life?

World Team Camp Photos

World Team Camp participants

More photos can be seen for the great weekend here :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/kittycheng/search/text:World+Team+ZAP+Training/

Please pray for World Team Australia as we continue to promote Christ's cause by mobilizing His children to live and work cross-culturally in mission for His glory.

Show Your True Colors

Geographic Channel states that all animals show their inner feelings through outward behaviors, but only human beings can choose not to show their true colours. It is possible for misperceptions or misunderstanding to occur. What we don't know about others may weaken the relationship. At times, our actions don't necessarily reflect our genuine feelings or personality. The potential trouble lies in not being willing to drop the facade of being your best possible self to reveal your usual self. Some people seem to fear that such a metamorphosis would be far too frightening and threatening for the other people to take.

I read somewhere that the truth seldom hurts as much as trying to avoid the truth. Many of our problems can be resolved only after we take a long, clear look at ourselves and the personalities of the people we care about. Do you agree?

Finding God Everywhere

Have you ever realised that God can be found everywhere, from the most obvious places, to the most unexpected places? This idea came to me as I started reading Philip Yancey's book about it. God is not only to be found in great majestic cathedrals , supernatural visions or inside the four walls of the church building. We can find God in the wonders of His creations (eg: koala, polar bear, beautiful sceneries, the blue sky, platypus, elephant, the beach, the clouds, the sun and the wind, butterflies and people etc), in the middle of idealism, renaissance or cultural revolution, in the oppressive prisons of Peru and Chile, in the slums of Manila or Calcutta, even in the plays of Shakespeare and Hollywood movies (eg: Bruce Almighty), and of course in God's Word through the Bible, and His people. And yes if you look at the mirror, you can even find God in yourself, because we are all made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). As we discover God's fingerprints or footprints in all different places, so our understanding of God's beauty, love and power continues to grow. Truly God can be found everywhere. He is really close to us, and may not be as far away as we think. Praise God for that!

So where are some of the unlikely places that you have encountered God?

Money Talk in LR

This Tuesday at LivingRoom we had our big gathering where a sermon on money and generosity was preached by Darren Rowse. The following is a summary of the sharing:

• There are 2350 verses on money in the Bible. In fact, the topic of money and possessions appears more than almost any other topic (it's second only to 'the Kingdom of God'). So we can see that money is something on God's mind quite a bit.
• Some words / ideas of what the group thought of when they thought of money include consumerism, security, power, happiness, status, evil, sign of achievement or success,"If you have it, spend it!", "if you don't have it, there is something wrong!", money is a private thing.
• Messages that the church tells us about money include: money is a sign of blessing, "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil: (1 Timothy 6:10), it's hard for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God, prosperity doctrine, poverty theology, tithing etc.

Darren talked about 7 themes of money and giving:

1. Everything is God's, including money of course (Psalms 24:1, Haggai 2:8)
2. Motivation is more important than the act (2 Cor 9)
3. Giving is in the same context as needs (Acts 2 and 4)
4. Secrecy and humility (Matthew 6)
5. There is an impulse towards simplicity
6. Reward and blessing (Matthew 6)
7. Sacrifice (Luke 21)

So what are your ideas about money, and how do you feel about money personally?

The Games Is Coming To Town

When a big event like the Commonwealth Games comes to town, it's really exciting, not only for the locals, and also people from many nations (there are athletes coming from 71 nations for the Games). There will be numerous activities going on during the time, whether it's table tennis, aquatics diving sport, swimming, squash, synchronised swimming, gymnastics or non-sporting events like arts or shopping, really Melbourne city is going to be 'a happening place' from next Wednesday onwards for over 10 days. And I heard a rumour that ballroom dancing will be destined for inclusion in the next Commonwealth Games. Wow! All the more reason and motivation to learn ballroom dancing right?

Apart from sports, arts is going to be another big thing during this period. Groundbreaking work by artists from many countries across the Commonwealth will be available during the games, which include special exhibitions, artist and curator talks, live performances, film screenings and education events etc. Visiting International and local exhibiting artists will provide insight into their practice.

My visual artist friend David White will have the 'Word Art Exhibition' during the games. His works will be exhibited at three different location in city venues, and I'll help him be the greeter for the exhibition. I am so looking forward to all these. Let the games begin!

Bruce Almighty

Last night the movie 'Bruce Almighty' was shown on national television. And I really enjoyed watching it! The story was about Bruce Nolan, a TV reporter, who is not satisfied with almost everything in his life, and always complains about God. God appears in human form, giving Bruce the almighty powers, and challenges Bruce to take on the big job of running the world to see if he can do it any better.

One of the central messages and the tagline of this movie is "if you want a miracle, BE A MIRACLE!" And that really hit home to me! I do believe that we can be a miracle and make things happen with God's help, and in God's strength. Towards the end, Bruce realised that he needed to trust in God, and not try to be god himself. It's probably a common mentality that if people could run the world, they would certainly make it better. Some would end world hunger, some would make world peace, and others would just fix the problems in their own lives and relationships etc. But few people would ever consider the burden and awesome responsibility of the universe's most absolute and supreme power, and how would prayers be answered? Surely only God can do that as He is the Creator. I liked the fact that Bruce learned what was important in his life, and he said a really good prayer from his heart, wishing the best for his girl friend before going back to the 'earth'. That was really touching!

I think `Bruce Almighty' is both meaningful and humorous. It also reminds me that God does have a great sense of humor. Do you agree?

Paul The Theologian and Missionary

Yoohoo!! I've gone back to Tabor Bible College again, after over two years since my graduation. This time I'm doing a special intercultural studies elective called "Pauline Theology and Mission Practice", which is a subject that will help the students to:

• Outline the basic principles of Paul's missional theology and practice;
• Examine the process of conversion in the two-thirds world and the western world from a Pauline perspective;
• Discuss specific issues and problems relate to new church communities in a variey of contexts.
• Assess the role and ministry of a missionary or missional practitioner in a variety of settings;
• Understand the qualities appropriate and convictions required for those working in a missional context; and
• Evaluate approaches to the establishment of new churches in the light of Paul's theological and missiological perspective.

I had such a great time during the weekend schools on Friday and Saturday. The notes, class discussions, powerpoint presentations, DVD, and informal interactions with other students were all so enjoyable. I am really looking forward to learning more about Paul - the great apostle, theologian and missionary.

As part of the assessment of the module, we have to do a creative project about one aspect of Paul's life, mission, ministry or theology that has impacted me. We can write a poem or a song, make a video, poster or painting for it. I am stratching my head now!! :-) Please send me a comment if you think of any good idea for my project hehe.

Wonderings About Luke 5:1-11

I'm wondering:

Verse 1: what people had heard about Jesus that made them want to come and hear Jesus teach, and what God's message is? What would Jesus tell people?

Verse 2: how hard nets are to wash? if the fisherman enjoyed themselves?

Verse 3: what Peter was listening to and what he thought about that?

Verse 4: what goes through Simon's mind when he heard Jesus asking him to row the boat out into the deep water....what goes through your mind when you heard Jesus speaking here? I was very challenged by Jesus here, what about you?

Verse 5: what makes you too tired as to make you start complaining even before you realise who it is you're complaining to?

Verse 6: what rips your nets?

Verse 7: if you ever ask for help?

Verse 8: how it feels to know the truth about yourself and to know its wrong and to be guilty?

Verse 9:how surprised you would be to see a miracle, the power of God at work in your life?

Verse 10: what the oppsite of fear is?

Verse 11:what it means to leave everything to go with Jesus?

Tell me what your answers are to these wonderings if you like.

BYO Worship in Living Room

Yesterday was Ash Wednesday, the first day of the season of Lent. After a bit of rest, I attended Living Room last night again. It was another BYO Worship night. The idea of these nights is to bring along something to do as a group that will engage people in some connection with God (the last BYO Worship we did was recorded here).

This time, we did it without a set theme, but interestingly what we came up with seemed to have a common theme. The followings were what we did:

• we had a teaching on what Lent is, and then some ash was being put on our foreheads as we were told to "turn away from your sin, and turn towards the gospel".
• The other BYO worship was a visual presentation on Jesus' 40 days in the desert (representation of 40 days of the season of Lent). The pictures were drawn by a Christian illustrator, and they were very inspiring!
• we had a guided imagination & meditation on Luke 19:27-44.
• I shared some of the wonderings I had from Luke 5:1-11 (email me if you are interested in what they are).
• A poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay was read. This poem had been shared by Brian Mclaren the previous week when he had been in Melbourne. The images of the poem were beautiful. Then we were also reminded of Psalms 119:105 and John 8:31-32.
• someone shared some tomato relish that she had made which was a tradition from her grandma, who used to give away jars to the family.
• Our last BYO worship was the story of how a member of LR worships God through his involvement with sports - in playing in a touch footy team in his neighbourhood and his involvement as a coach of a cricket team of young kids in the school that he teaches at.

I really enjoyed the night. It was very inspiring and challenging. May God Bless you all during this Lent Season!

More Wedding Photos

The Couple With The CCBC Family

Received an email from Kevin the groom, who sent us the following link
of over 350 photos from the wedding (obviously it was chosen from over 1500 photos all up!!)

Please note, there are TWO volumes (2 albums) in this link.

When clicking on the link, select VIEW PICTURES, and then click on SLIDE SHOW.

http://kawedding18thfeb.shutterfly.com/action/?a=8AcMmrFyzbtGIu&notag=1

Enjoy.....

Beyond Borders

During the World Team mission camp, we watched the Hollywood movie "Beyond Borders". Beyond Borders is a romance film focusing on two people who are in the world's most dangerous places. Angelina Jolie acts as an American living in London, who is married to a wealth British guy. When she encounters Clive Owen, who acts as a doctor, whose impassioned plea for help to support his relief efforts in war-torn Africa moves her deeply. As a result, these two embark upon a journey of discovery that lead to danger, heartbreak and romance in the far corners of the world.

This film also talks about the differences between the wealthy and the poor. As the movie suggests, people often discover that the materially poor are often spiritually rich while those that are wealthy physically are often (or can be) spiritually poor. That is really an irony! It reminds me of the fact that our lives in the wealthy west are so trivial and we need to understand just how blessed we are. We can all grow richer when we reach beyond borders, and share what we have. Together we find new meaning for our lives and the strength to build a world where God's peace and justice reign. May God's Kingdom come (beyond borders) on earth, as it is in heaven.

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.