20 Nov 2014; Isa 6:8-13

20 Nov 2014; Isa 6:8-13

And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, " Whom shall I send,  and who will go for us?" Then I said, "Here I am! Send me."

The verse speaks about urgency and there is no body to go. Isaiah volunteered. But the people that Isaiah was asked to speak to is worse than the people of Ninevah. The people hear, keep on hearing, but cannot understand. See and keep on seeing but cannot perceived.

But the message Isaiah is to sent is not for these people to understand or to perceive - it is to dull their hearing and seeing, least their hearts understand and turned and be healed.

Wow, is this not the intend of God? Why send Isaiah for such message? and why Isaiah so desire for such a mission?

Isaiah did not know what is the message. He was a servant of God. That speaks with the heart of wanting to serve the Lord.

The people has been dull, stiff neck. So much so that if the mission is for Isaiah to speak the message of repentance and hope, it is a waste of time. so why not speak the message of non repentance or just pray that they will not repent or for false repentant.

Judgement will come.

Pray that I will not be in this state of mind, of hearing and not understand, seeing and not perceive. That the heart will not understand, not turn or be healed.

Come back, turn back. Here I am, send me.

19 Nov 2014; Isa 6:1-8

19 Nov 2014; Isa 6:1-8

King Uzziah died, and Isa 6: 1 start off with a new king ascend to the throne. But this king is not of man that was pictured in Isa 6. It is the Lord and his robes fill the temple. The majestic creature, the Seraphim, a six winged angle was above the Lord.

Man comes and go, but the Lord sits on the throne forever. The concept of everlasting and eternity is about what hold the importance of what is to come and what is the ultimate things worth to hold on to.

Isa 6:8

Isaiah's Commission from the Lord And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” (Isaiah 6:8 ESV)

Prior to that, Isaiah lament that he was not worthy, a sinner among a sinful nation.

And I said: “Woe is me! For I am lost; for I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts!” (Isaiah 6:5 ESV)

But he was cleanse. It is not a condemnation and a cast off to hell. But a recognition of sins and unworthiness, but not a self condemnation, but knowing we have a Lord that died for us and has the ability to cleanse our sins - for a prepare and purposeful life, fulfilled in the Lord.

18 Nov 2014; Isa 5

18 Nov 2014; Isa 5:23-40

Therefore - as a result of the constant and non regrettable sins that continue and continue, a judgement is coming.

Verse 26-30 speaks about the Lord raising an enemy that will overrun the land.

The nation of Singapore has peace. We are contented, but that does not mean that we have no need for God.

What then is that in contend that we still keep God close. Too busy and too much we forget God. Too little, we rob and sin against God. What is that is enough for me.

The work load should be easy - the given time table is not burdensome. Project - I can take or drop and therefore the stress is manageable.  What then, am I not contented? More money more pay, more passive income? It seems that I have run out of stream, but I have not tap on God.

What is that that God wants? Is all the doing what I want? Can I be in a work place that lives a impact and the glory of God in the lives of the students, the people that I come in contact? The place I go, is about people, where then is my heart for people.

Let me not dwell in the world of material achievement, pleasure, but one that is filled with joy, energy from the Lord, doing the things best and for the glory of God and not self gratification.

17 Nov 2014; Isa 5

17 Nov 2014; Isa 5:18-23

It is a picture of a nation, of people who has no regards for God.

Imagine, pulling a cart (loads of heavy sins) with cords (thin line) and expect the cart to keep moving without the cord giving way. The cords will sure to give way. There is no way fire can be kept contain in paper - not for long.

The picture is further painted - let the judgement to quick, let it come. Hear the challenge that was issue from the people who played with sin - a total of no regards even for punishment - so what if I sin!

Check our lives, the way we choose to life, especially with regards when we have plenty, when our lives is steady- no worries and peace. Where then is God? Are we then playing with small sins - pulling cart with cords. They are bound to break. Where then is a line for us to say - stop.

The regards for the presence of God - speaks of where is God in our lives, in our heart. Stop pulling carts of sin with cords.

12 Nov 2014; Isa 5

12 Nov 2014; Isa 5:13-17

Today passage is a continuation from Isa 5:8-12

Because of the doing of the people who go on to build their wealth and material pleasure and has no regards for the Lord - therefore v15

Man is humbled, and each one is brought low, and the eyes of the haughty are brought low. (Isaiah 5:15 ESV)

As children of God, how can we have no regards for God. Unless there is no God.

We do as we pleases, through disobedience, and act and do as if there is no justice.

Again, it is about God and Him first that separates us from one with no God.

Keep close to God.

11 Nov 2014; Isa 5

11 Nov 2014; Isa 5:8-17

The passage started off with 2 woes -
 Woe to those who constantly tried to build and expand their house.
Woe to those who raise early but run towards wine...

It speaks about a generation that cares only for themselves - who build their material wealth and earthly pleasures.

All of us are somewhat comparing - comparing with what I have and have gain in terms of more land, more capital (wealth) more talents, be able to achieve more...

No wrong, but what the Lord ask is that in the midst -

They have lyre and harp, tambourine and flute and wine at their feasts, but they do not regard the deeds of the LORD, or see the work of his hands. (Isaiah 5:12 ESV)

Where is the regards for God?

It is not a outward show case - but a inner course of a self that constanlty yearns and seek after the delight in God. A pursue of a rested-ness in God, knowing that in all, in all provision, in all situations, He is our refuge.

Indeed, as I look at my own household - there is no need to pursue house after house, but what more urgent is the investment in the next generation - that they are able to anchor right with God and in God - the regards of God.

Help me to continue to find rest in you.

10 Nov 2014; Isa 5

10 Nov 2014; Isa 5:1-7

The Lord give the very best and prepared the best for His people. BUT yet the return was just the opposite.

Here was a picture of a vineyard - conditions on a fertile land, guarded and well taken care. But when the seasons came - wild grapes. A disappointment by the Lord, the farmer who sow, but not reap.

Is it that the people of Israel or Judah failed to work hard? The land condition was right, the weather was right, and indeed then it was the result of a divided attention of heart - that has laid waste the land.

Our lives - is that land. Will then our undivided heart distracted us from the fulfillment that the Lord?

We are given different talents. Why crave for more of the material things beyond the talents? Or why not depend on the Lord for his multiplication.

As such, today reflection on the word is: - Keep the Lord in your midst- it is Him that you must please. The land is the Lord who provides, the weather is Him who provide. Why the grapes cannot be yield? It is you that He has put to tend the farm - be not be distract - be that faithful servant and enjoy the fruit of the farm.

I lift my hands to the Lord. I lift my plans to Him, to do the will that my rest is found in the Lord.

7 Nov 2014; Isa 4

7 Nov 2014; Isa 4

Isa 4 is short.

It painted a picture of the days to come when the branch of the Lord will be glorified. Of course the branch of the Lord is none other than Jesus.

The first question is so what. Jesus seem not important to modern days living. Isaiah has set a tone on the righteous things and the unrighteous things that ought and ought not to do. The moral standard and value of Godly living is no longer adhere. Now people live by the standards of conforming to the "norm" and that "norm" is changing from generation to generation.

If the first cannot be answered, then what is the point of glorifying Jesus. The intent of Jesus coming makes no different. Isaiah spelled out

when the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion and cleansed the bloodstains of Jerusalem from its midst by a spirit of judgment and by a spirit of burning. (Isaiah 4:4 ESV)

If then, we don't even recognize the filth, the bloodstains, how then we can appreciate Jesus.

The last 2 verses, then paint a picture of what is that to come:
Then the LORD will create over the whole site of Mount Zion and over her assemblies a cloud by day, and smoke and the shining of a flaming fire by night; for over all the glory there will be a canopy. There will be a booth for shade by day from the heat, and for a refuge and a shelter from the storm and rain. (Isaiah 4:5-6 ESV)

Open my eyes to see the unworthiness of myself. That it is and a need to have it cleanse. Even the attitude need to be corrected. Nothing should beat the importance of centering around God, live a moral life but recognize that Jesus is all that make that standard possible.

5 Nov 2014; Isa 3

5 Nov 2014; Isa 3

Isa 3 opened with a solemn setting. The physical provision of a country was taken away. The military abilities was taken away, the social and political system was dismantled.

Imagine the chaos and the confusion, the weakness both internal and external.

Is this the God we know? I cannot imagine in Church a sermon is preach in this manner. Sermon is suppose to give people a positive feeling - something good "to carry on for the week". But the fact is not about the sermon, it is about the internal and external weakness - for a person as well as for the nation.

The opening message came as a warning. There was no regards for God and unrighteous deeds prevail.

For Jerusalem has stumbled, and Judah has fallen, because their speech and their deeds are against the LORD, defying his glorious presence. (Isaiah 3:8 ESV)

The people had opening defied God! Have you and will you?

It is at this point - is there a God in your heart or is there not? Rach pointed out that in all these years, my project always end and complete. The Lord has always provided.

Am I then running my own? Where then is my God that I should have trust and call upon.

The LORD said: Because the daughters of Zion are haughty and walk with outstretched necks, glancing wantonly with their eyes, mincing along as they go, tinkling with their feet, therefore the Lord will strike with a scab the heads of the daughters of Zion, and the LORD will lay bare their secret parts. (Isaiah 3:16-17 ESV)

The Lord correct so that we can come back to Him. Unless you want Him to leave you alone ...

The message is turn back and the Lord is doing all that He can so that you will be back.

30 Oct 2014; Isa 2

30 Oct 2014; Isa 2

O house of Jacob, come, let us walk in the light of the LORD. (Isaiah 2:5 ESV)

The chapter started with a picture of a holy hill, a new city, where people flock to and where people come and seek God.

2 reflections - the first it portrayed a house where people see the light of God, where and when the world around is surrounded by evil.

Second, it is a all new - a renewal after all the evil that exist.

What then, shall be my household? How can then it be transform into a light house for Jesus?

It shall starts with me - come let us walk in the light of the Lord. It is a plea, a turn away so that all things can re- start and be renew.

It will start from me - a discipline to put God first and in the midst of everything.

23 Oct 2014; Isa 1

23 Oct 2014; Isa 1

Yea, I started on the book of Isaiah, but has not been able and seriously get it moving.

I have been very distracted. By my works - the unfinished project. But it should not stop me from spending time with my savior, my God.

I am going to have a long day today and the next 2 months it will be going to be full. I pray that I will draw strength from you.

Isaiah 1: 21-31
The prophet lamented that Israel has become corrupted, even to the extend of getting bribes, murder and rebel. There is a sense of lawlessness and the country was down down down.

BUT

Therefore the Lord declares, the LORD of hosts, the Mighty One of Israel: “Ah, I will get relief from my enemies and avenge myself on my foes. I will turn my hand against you and will smelt away your dross as with lye and remove all your alloy. And I will restore your judges as at the first, and your counselors as at the beginning. Afterward you shall be called the city of righteousness, the faithful city.” (Isaiah 1:24-26 ESV)

First, it is the need to get rid of what is external, then the internal, and finally the replacement of what is being remove.

What cause my stress, my busyness? My project is there a need to? Once a while and one at a time or at least customized and proposed what has already been accomplish. It is not that the Lord has not provided. But it seem to stem from the need to "earn more" to "prove more" and to "create more".

Internally I need to remove - the release of the emotions in me. Help to to be able to speak and talk it out, else that social being of me cannot grow.

Lastly I need to replace what is remove, but before replace - action first about remove. I pray for the timeline - by next Mar 2015 - the external stress. By June 2015 the internal emotions. And that I can start to replace and fill them with God intention. Amen.

17 Oct 2014; Isa 1

17 Oct 2014; Isa 1

The book of Isaiah - by Isaiah son of Amos.

He lives through at least 4 kings of Judah. Instead that speaks volume of a long life - but also a purposeful one that God has for him. He don't just lived long, he lived long for God.

Verse 2-3 spoke about the heart of the people, but more importantly, what God is calling the peopl, His children back to Him.

The Wickedness of Judah Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth; for the LORD has spoken: “Children have I reared and brought up, but they have rebelled against me. The ox knows its owner, and the donkey its master's crib, but Israel does not know, my people do not understand.” (Isaiah 1:2-3 ESV)

In the later verse, God pleaded with the children of Israel to come back. What a parent who refuse to gave up.

“Come now, let us reason together, says the LORD: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be eaten by the sword; for the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” (Isaiah 1:18-20 ESV)

Isaiah spoke about the conditions of our heart, my heart. Am I right with God? No.

What is wrong? They have forsaken the Lord (verse 4). But they have not stop doing - that is basically still going through rituals of giving and sacrifices. But that deed did not please God.

It is not then the action, but the object of the deed - God.

How then in my life have I forsaken God?
First, where is God in your heart? Do you miss Him?
Second how often do I want to spend time with Him? Busy schedule robs away my desire and my priority.
Third, do I spend the quality time with Him? Or do I go through TAWG, Chruch, worship and other Christian rituals...

God therefore check my heart. Let it be right with you.

13 Oct 2014; Isaiah

13 Oct 2014; Isaiah

The book of Isaiah comes timely as I began my new semester.

The call of Isaiah to ministry was during turbulence time of Judah. Judah has not obey God and trust not in the strength of God. Isaiah predicted that Judah would be sold to captivity but also promise a return.

It speaks the state of mind, the physical state as well as my spiritual state that I am currently in.

I want to bring the past to past and set the future right before God. It is time. I do not want to wait for the "disaster" to happen.

As such, even before I began the book of Isaiah, a book of Judgment and also a book of comfort. I want to take the judgement seriously and take the promises of comfort.

11 Oct 2014; Mathew

11 Oct 2014; Mathew

After months on using the book of Mathew for my time alone with God, these were the points that I gathered:

The purpose (intent) of Jesus birth.

The purpose of why and how should we live our lives, not just as lawful citizens or obedient Christian, but life for the people (the souls of man), the least you do you do it for Jesus.

The purpose of knowing God. Be with Him.

I have been seeking God - for the purpose of my next phase of life. It is not the phase of gathering treasures nor show off your talents. Instead it is the spending of time, talents and treasures for the kingdom of God.

Mathew explained what is the kingdom of God. It is both spiritual and physical. It is like a plant - it grow and we are the farmers, but God is the weather. The kingdom of God is here and we are the care takers, be prepared and be ready. The kingdom of God is about people, about people.

In Taiwan, and over the years, people is what I am lacking. God let me pursuit in this area once again.

6 Oct 2014; Mat 28

6 Oct 2014; Mat 28

Jesus has made us disciples, and likewise go and make disciples.

It starts therefore with ourselves (with God) then to the people around us (family and friends).

The world will fades away, but the souls of men will remain forever. It is therefore the heart of God to see them well.

That's the joy that the Lord want - to see the souls of men learnt that the hope of salvation is in Christ.

The word is "Go".

That is the purpose - be with Jesus and just as he touches lives - so will I start here and touch lives.

2 Oct 2014; Mat 27

2 Oct 2014; Mat 27

Let me be your vessel.

Joseph of Arimathea gave up his family grave place for Jesus. A grave place for the family must be an important place. It is like a retirement house. Now that Jesus is dead, is there still point to gave up what we have been accumulated for our "next" phase of life for something that is "past" and beyond "recovery"?

I hold money, material too important. As a result, I work on project just to compensate to get more and fair on what I am getting less. Project create stress if I am not enjoying them. I still want to create a business and want to built a comfortable retirement lifestyle. A lifestyle that has passive income and there is no need to "worry".

Here come Jesus. A dead body, asking me to gave up that and what it seem that I am trying to accumulate and build. Instead it is (the build up) is for the Lord, for Jesus that is dead so that others can be made alive. As the song goes, my chain are gone and I am set free, it is the grace.

So what seem to build the "next" life seem to bring death. But what is given for the dead Jesus is for life.

Instead, this is what needs to be balance - build social. Instead of pure wisdom and accumulation of wealth, build the social aspect as well as for God.

Still keep the project part, but instead for wealth it is for wisdom. Instead of building the "next" wealth, build people. It is people that gives the purpose.

I wanted to see the mountains and the valley. Now after so many years I have seen the Taroko gorge. Wonderful wonderful to be in the midst of the mountain and valley. I saw the valley in the outskirt of Hualian on the way to Guangfu. And in fact in the midst of it when the bike broke down.

But what adds to these God creation is people. I interacted with KM for 5 days and it reminded me just to stop, talk and interacte from people. It is the people that I am miss out and that make it not me.

The joy in me cannot be completed if people is not in the equation. The next wisdom and the next wealth is to build God, bring people. It is for cutting down time, effort so as to gain experience. An experience with God, with people, wisdom and to maintain health (statue).

As such, it is good to ask each day - one thing to give thank God for. One thing that has made me smile (happy, new experience) and one thing that has made be frown (not happy, sad, angry, stress).

I will also keep this accountable with KM and Rach, this joy indicator for the week.

In addition, to both TWAG with God everyday.

1 Oct 2014; Mat 27

1 Oct 2014; Mat 27

The people replaced Jesus for Barabbas, a notorious prisoner. This is how stiff neck the people are.

Am I also this manner? The intent is get rid of Jesus at what ever it takes and in what ever it does not make sense.

I am also a big big prisoner in sins. Jesus came and replace all of these.

Imagine Barabbas - he would be surprise that out of the blue, he was released. No trial, just because the people wanted Jesus to die. If I am him, this is a new lease of life. No longer condemn.

All things and all things are possible with Jesus. I simply asked for a purpose - a purpose for the next phase of life.

In this trip, I learnt that to be easy with money, it is what money buys with experience and the joy that it can bring in exchange. Lost time can also be bought with money.Therefor, just like Barabbas is release just like that, I pray that I can be released from holding money too tight and weigh on it too heavily.

Lord let me continue be wow at your creation and seek the purpose you have for me.

30 Sep 2014; Mat 26

30 Sep 2014; Mat 26

Judas betrayed Jesus.

Judas Hangs Himself Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself. (Matthew 27:3-5 ESV)

He regretted and threw down the silver. He was not that evil. BUT he hang himself. His guilt overwhelm him. He gave up.

Peter denied Jesus, similar to betraying Christ - 3 times. He gave up and return to fishing. If he was like Judas and killed himself - then history will have been different.

In my life, the things that I want to do I do not and the things I should not do I do. Am I then taken the grace of God cheaply? Yes, wrong things - there is no need to kill yourself, don't be like Judas, like Peter - because by grace Jesus can restore.

Yes, but that is taking Christ death simply. Repent and turn. Peter was restored, he went on to die for Christ. Judas died. Peter died but for Christ. As such live a life worthy.

I ask for a the next phase that is worthy for Christ.

27 Sep 2014; Mat 25

27 Sep 2014; Mat 25

And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
(Matthew 25:40 ESV)

Jesus is physically not with us. But the people are. Jesus sees the things that we do, the people don't. So it is the little that these people see that reflect the glory of God.

Therefore remember the blessings that the lord has on us. Use the blessings for the extension of the kingdom.

My problem is about relating and maintaining a good relationship with them.

23 Sep 2014; Mat 25

23 Sep 2014; Mat 25

The parables of the ten virgins and the parable of the talents.

It is about be ready for the coming of Christ and the resources that we have for the return of the master.

This was spoken some 2 thousands years year. I am already past my half life and it really does not matter what will haven in another 50  years, if Christ does not come within these 50 years, I will be returning to haven.

But are we ready for haven? First is the preparedness. In the days of Noah, before the flood and even when the rain come, the people are still eating and merrymaking. In the same situation, are the work stress, the worry of making money, the seeking of pleasures .. are these making us too caught up? making me too off track and like the plants who grew but get choke by the surrounding weeds? Be ready.

The talents - the what we have that are first given are meant to be invested. I asked if the parable of the talents is teach in such a way that the first guy who received ten talents, invested the talents but lost the talents and incurred a debt of another ten talents. But the point that Jesus is making is that in the first place the talents are given and the master expect these talents to be invested. To the servant who did that - good and faithful servant be it a return of ten or five. So it is not the amount that matter, but the intend of using the given talents and maximizing the return. Of course it may be negative, but God will use the best out of the return. It is the one who did nothing who was condemned.

Therefore, in this end time- use the time, talents and treasures for the kingdom of God and be readied.

21 Sep 2014; Mat 24

21 Sep 2014; Mat 24

We do not know when the master will be back. But the expectation is for us to be faithful in our doing.

The master expected us to continue to take care of the household. In verse45 as we are faithful, knowing that the master has given us the wisdom and the resources.

The master has set us over the household. Likewise, I am set over my household. I have the responsibility to take care of it. I have to provide for the household.

As such, what is besides physical protection and provision, as the guardian of the household, the member need to know the master. They need to know also the way the master way of treatment. Treatment as in expectation towards each other, taking care of the household.

The value. Knowing that God is and will provide, our children therefore need to learn how to tap on the resources of God. It therefore not the amount of resources that I can provide but is about knowing God.

V45 it is the faithful and the wise - in God.

17 Sep 2014; Mat 23

17 Sep 2014; Mat 23

For indeed, by the measure you judge others, the same measure will be upon you. Like wise, as teachers (in the passage Jesus was speaking to the teachers of the law), we have the responsibilities to teach the next generation - the proper things - to know God and to fear God.

It is not the doing but the obedience. It is not the saying but the living it out.

I am a teacher, a father to my children. And as such, it place more responsibilities on the application of the word.

15 Sep 2014; Mat 22

15 Sep 2014; Mat 22

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:37-39 ESV)

That set the tone and the purpose - for our lives.

Enjoy the work that the Lord has given you - it is a marketplace. It is a place of both minister and a place that the Lord provides for the provision of our lives. It is also workplace where the stress and the interaction proves and showcase how it the Lord who is the center of your heart, soul and mind. It is a place of training to actualization of the above 2 commandments.

Indeed Ngee Ann is a good place of work and rest and play. Enjoy the time and spend the reminding time between work, family and God.

13 Sep 2014; Mat 22:15-22

13 Sep 2014; Mat 22:15-22

They said, “Caesar's.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.” (Matthew 22:21 ESV)

The things of the world belongs to the world. The things of God belongs to God.

I look forward to the visit to EFC tomorrow. I pray that the family will be able to settle down.

11 Sep 2014; Mat 22:1-11

11 Sep 2014; Mat 22:1-11

In this short parable of the wedding, Jesus spoke directly about what the kingdom of God is like.

The invitation is open, but the chosen and invited guest did not come. In fact the invited guest showed contempt for the king. The king then sent troop to destroy the invited guest because they seized the servant and killed the servant that went to invite them.

Another invitation was sent and this time to all. This time the "second class" guest came.

But the twist is that among the guest there are some that did not wear proper clothing (meaning that they were not invited). The king then drag them out.

We are the gentiles - thus belong to the second list of invited guest. It is therefore by grace that being not the original children of God, we are now able to celebrate with the king.

But beware, if the king can do to the first invited guest, how much more can he bring them back and how much more that the second class guest be subject to them treatment of the first.

The kingdom of God is now a open party, but who then is the not properly dress? It could be anyone. Those who are invited but show no contempt for the king by dressing improperly.

We who are now in Christ, thus behave like guest, like children of God. We are given the grace as invited guest, whom the first group of invitees reject. Then be properly dress - yes continue to know that it is by grace and not to be taken for granted.

Remember, we are not the original children of God, then behave properly and not be haughty that we are now the invited guest and they are not.

Salvation is open, but still it is a wedding of the king.

Well, I thank Jesus for the grace that eternal life is given to us the gentile. I am in no position to consider myself better than the Jews (the chosen children of God). In fact, bless them and God will bless you, curse them and God will curse you. Eternal life is not found in the concept of Asia beliefs, it is all by works.

The king changed the rule, the invitation is opened, then work your salvation and be properly dress.

10 Sep 2014; Mat 21

10 Sep 2014; Mat 21

2 parables that Jesus about the 2 sons and the tenants.

The parables of the sons: It is about the one who do. The first son said that he will not go but went in the end. The second said he will go but did not. Jesus explained that it is the one who accepted that will enter the kingdom of God. It is not the one who say but not do.

The parables of the tenants is about the tenants who took the farm and kill the son. Jesus was referring to himself. It will come that God will come and destroy those who killed the son.

The parable showed tension. and Jesus clearly spoke about doing and accepting what is right.

Yes it is stressful as my work starts to mount up again.. But like the son, it is still about putting first the kingdom of God, it is still about knowing who the owner of the field (in my life).

I pray that I will continue to keep God close to my heart.

9 Sep 2014; Mat 21

9 Sep 2014; Mat 21

Lord, I want to present my work and my work direction to you. I have projects, some have problems and I do not know where is the problem and how to solve it now. I have project that has yet to begin and need the help to get them started.

It is not a good start today, as I am stressed by the unknown problem. It held me up to concentrate working on other project.

But I know that I need you first in everyday. Yours O Lord is the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory and the majesty, for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is yours. Yours is the kingdom, O Lord and you are exalted as head above all.

I do not want to be stress by the problem, but be able to enjoy the work, the project that you have given me. Bless the work of my hand that I in all things give glory to you.

In Mat 21, Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey, foretold by the early prophets. Now Jesus made himself known as the son of God, the messiah.

I can feel the build up in tension, like the stress I have in my work. Mine is of unknown. Jesus case of the known, the suffering that is to come. For the sake of the glory of God. But what is mine to compare and for what glory to God. Well, at least when I look back, I can share as a testimony so that God glory can be known.

Jesus show himself as having authority in the temple, over life (fig tree and ours). He healed the blind. Of course His authority was challenged. It is not plain sailing for Jesus. But He knew that all is to come is not easy. He can have the power over heaven and angels to bring forth fire and set everything clear once and for all. But He did not.

Likewise, from 1 Chr 29:11-13, all things so that you are exalted. Knowing the greatness, the power, the glory, the victory and the majesty...

8 Sep 2014; Mat 20

8 Sep 2014; Mat 20

In this chapter Jesus spoke about a parable and a story on the concern on the first will be last and the last will be first.

A vineyard owner looked for laborers. The one who are called first are paid 1 denarius and the one who called to work at the eleventh hour were also paid 1 denarius.

On another occasion, the mother of the sons of Zebedee, asked Jesus which of her 2 sons will be seated at the right hand of God.

In both situations, Jesus answered is the last will be the first. The first will be the last.

The economics of the kingdom of God is very different. It is not about working more and accumulating more. Remember the story of Mary and Marter. You don't really have to work, it is about knowing when to send time with Jesus.

The laborers need to be at the marketplace in order to be called. When you are first called, you followed the owner to work. If you choose to wait, you will not know when or will the owner be back. The pay back is the same - the reward of having to work at the vineyard. The payment is secondary.

Jesus answered the mother that it is the Father in heaven that determine who is seated at His right hand. The kingdom of God is not about the seat of honour. There is only one seat of honour, and only one can be seated there. But the kingdom of heaven is about "for all".

In earthly economics, the price is only for the best, the most, the strong, the smartest, the top. There is no place for the rest. But the kingdom of God welcome all.

As such, it is about knowing and accepting to be with Jesus. It is not about the seat of honour or the amount of pay. The first gets to spend more time in relationship with the Father.

Like Paul, who pour out his life for the sake of Christ and consider all things worthless. His pursuit is for and for one thing, the price of winning the race in the kingdom. There is more than one winner.

27 Aug 2014; Mat 19:13-30

27 Aug 2014; Mat 19:13-30

Two stories in this verses. One is about Jesus and the little children and Jesus and the rich young man.

Who will enter the kingdom of heaven? The little children. It is not the wise, it is not the rich and it is not the one with stature.

This comes at no surprises - it is not by work nor by wealth, not by power nor by might. By grace.

Then is it by doing - of course not. It is ok then not to work? No.

Like little children - the desire is about just spending play time with the father. It is a trust that when lunch and meal time - there is food on the table.

It is not rusting on one wisdom to make wealth and in order to survive.

As such the work is about growing in intimacy with God, it is just about the wanting to keep close to God. To play and yet at the same time obey what God ask the little children to do. Like the way I ask Mat to keep the clothes and sit down to eat his meal.

The young man obey the commandments of God, but the wealth hindered him. It became a choice - serving God or money.

As I reflect, yes enjoy the wealth, but if the wealth hindered me to God - it is something for me to consider....

It is not the amount of wisdom and wealth that gets us to God. But it is God who gives us the ability to make wealth through wisdom for the sake of His name and glory.

21 Aug 2014; Mat 19:1-12

21 Aug 2014; Mat 19:1-12

The passage is about marriage. The fundamental unit of a family - a God-fearing couple (man and woman).

I always remember asking God for a blessed family and am blessed with one. But having one is easy (for some) but to maintain one needs effort.

Leaving the next generation knowing God needs further effort.

I have been seeking God for first anchoring myself in God and then anchoring my family in God.

Besides knowing God, how then my children fear God and how my children know who are they in God.

The younger ones needs to know who God is and as they get older they learn to fear God and gain the wisdom of God.

How to know God - that is theology? Bible reading - know the existence of God, His power and who Jesus, His intent and purpose for humanity.

Grow - and grow takes time. As such the fundamental of a family unit sets the example for the children to know and learn God. A good marriage sets the example for the children. As such a strong bond between the husband and the wife sets the family going.

20 Aug 2014; Mat 18

20 Aug 2014; Mat 18

The parable of the lost sheep.

Kingdom living requires us to be like children. God the father protects the children. If one sheep is missing, the shepherd looks for it.

But on the other hand, the world lures us away. Therefore we were told not to be part of this temptation. Remove the source if we are the ones that cause others to fall into temptation.

Like a child, the child likeness is that which draws near to God. The world split our focus and allow us to divide our hearts away on what God intent.

As I seek God for a purpose, let my heart be focus on God like a child wants to be near and be present at the daddy feet.

19 Aug 2014; Mat 17

19 Aug 2014; Mat 17

The disciples knew that Elijah must come before the Messiah. So when they see Elijah with Jesus, they were confuse. So Jesus explained that John the baptist was the Elijah. But John was beheaded and that did not make sense either.

He answered, “Elijah does come, and he will restore all things. But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man will certainly suffer at their hands.” (Matthew 17:11-12 ESV)

What is that that we should see?

Jesus went on to heal the demon processed boy. Jesus foretold his death. He died and gave the sign of Jonah in Mat 16 when the scribes asked for a sign.

So like Peter - who do you think Jesus is?

The next question is so what then?

Believed in Him because He restored all the broken relationship for us with God. The law keep us right with God, but failed to keep us righteous. Jesus blood did the job.

I place the time, the talents and the treasures I have and ask God for a purpose for the next 20 years. I have still an active 20 years to work. What then is the purpose? I studied, graduated and worked for 20 years. What is this last lap and how can it be well spent for God.

I seek for an anchor in His word and how to anchor my family in Him. I too seek what God for other else.

18 Aug 2014: Mat 16-17

18 Aug 2014: Mat 16-17

I ask God for a purpose - the purpose for the current phase of my life.

In Mat 16 - the scribes and the pharisee asked for a sign. I ask God for a intent.

In Mat 17 - that you may know God. The more we behold, the more we know God - His glory, His power and His victory.

In Mat 17 - the transfiguration, all those who were presence with God behold his glory. How then we behold His glory? Moses, Elijah and Jesus spent time with God.

His power. When the disciples failed to cast the demons out in Mat 17:14-21, with also reference to Mark, the demon can only be cast out by prayer. What Jesus meant was not by method or by mechanical knowledge. But by faith. Faith comes from putting your faith in God.

His victory - He has the victory. The cross comes before the crown. There is nothing much you should do. Just be with Christ.

Therefore anchor in His words and His worth.

As I continue to seek God - anchor in His word and His worth is primary. Anchor my family in God is secondary. The victory - the work is thirdly.

16 Aug 2014; Mat 15

16 Aug 2014; Mat 15

I picked up a interesting verse in Mat 15:12

What Defiles a Person And he called the people to him and said to them, “Hear and understand: it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.” Then the disciples came and said to him, “Do you know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” (Matthew 15:10-12 ESV)

There are some teachings in additional to the teaching of God - the bible.

God do not need another set of teaching, another denomination. Neither we want to take the word and twist it and interpret as God sayings.

It is then about reading the word, praying and waiting upon God. It is about spending time with God.

I have the time. But in the contrary I do not have much time left. Mat 16:26
For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul.

What defiles a person is what comes from the heart and the heart needs to be cultivate with the word of God and knowing Jesus.

13 Aug 2014; Mat 15

13 Aug 2014; Mat 15

Mat 15:1-20 Jesus spoke against the Pharisee and the scribes on the issue of washing hands before eating. Whose rules was that?

The washing of hands is required before eating a meal at which bread is served. One reason for hand washing is purely mundane: to clean them before eating. The origin of this law, however, is biblical (Exodus 30:17-21). Moses was commanded to make a copper laver and to place it at the entrance to the alter area so that Aaron and his sons could wash their hands before approaching the alter to offer sacrifices. Verse 20 concludes, ". . .and it shall be for them a statute forever." The washing of hands makes them ritually pure. (Reference from http://www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org/jsource/Judaism/Hand_Washing.html)

Jesus questioned the intention of washing hand - it is to make them ritually pure. But to be pure is not about ritually pure, it is not about physically clean, it is also not about traditionally we are religious enough to follow rules.

I was reading the on going trial of misusing church building funds and the argument by the netizens- christian and non-christian.The argument are pit Christian against non-Christian and between church member and non church member, between different school of biblical teachings against each other as well as other school of morals.

What is Jesus saying here in Mat 15:19-20

For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander. These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone.” (Matthew 15:19-20 ESV)

It is first to look at oneself. What goes into me and what is the outcomes? Why then am I so dejected o soul? What has gone inside me and my heart that out came unhappiness and dejection?

I lift up my eyes to the hill, from where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, the creator of heaven and earth.

What do you want O man and soul? What is the gain my life and why is there no rest - rest and be statisfied in the Lord - the one who provides, the one who give rest and the Eternal God of heaven and earth....

12 Aug 2014; Mat 14

12 Aug 2014; Mat 14

Mat 13:53-58 is about Jesus at His hometown Nazareth. There he showed miracles and the wisdom of God. But the people question His wisdom and rejected Him.

Mat 14 opened with the beheading of John the baptist. Herod which represent the people reject John and the person John was preparing to come.

The 2 spoke about unbelief.

The next 2 stories is also about unbelief - but unbelief of the believers - Jesus disciple.

The first story is about feeding the 5000, where the disciples failed to exercise faith on using the limited resources to feed the people. The second is about Peter who walked on water, and Jesus has to ask him why do you doubt.

Rewinding - Jesus spoke about the parables of the sower, The 4 kinds of heart. The harden heart (on the path eaten by birds), the superficial heart (rocky ground), the divided heart (choke by weeds) and lastly the fruitful heart.

Jesus warn about the hearts - but in particular the superficial heart and the divided heart. The disciples ask Jesus to send the crowd away and save the problem on feeding them. But Jesus heart is about compassion for the lost but just a get past and over with the superficial heart. Peter sank because he doubt, a undivided heart.

As such, it is easier to harden our heart and be not a believer of Christ. But as disciples of Christ, it is a request for a heart that is totally for God and moved for God. To have that heart beat for the lost and the intent of God.

Of this I pray - a heart that follow after God in a fruitful way. Amen.

8 Aug 2014; Mat 13

8 Aug 2014; Mat 13

Mat 13 is on the parable of the sower. The well know parable that Jesus told the crowd as well as the disciple (His target audience), and to this parable Jesus also explained.

The crowd is made up mainly of farmers and fisherman. They understood the meaning of sowing and reaping. They knew the effort versus the intended return. Yet they knew too that it was not always the return from the field.

In the same way, we (the laborers, the worker, the farmers), are to sow. Sow the seed of the gospel. We do did at the best to reap the return, but the results at times are beyond our control.

We are called to sow the seed for the kingdom of God. What is this kingdom of God?

The kingdom of God is like the pearls and the great treasure - something that once it was found - we give all time, talents and other treasures in exchange of this great pearls.

If we know that we have found these great treasures, that joy is for us to share.

28 July 2014; Mat 12

28 July 2014; Mat 12

The question on Sabbath and the meaning of rest was the devotional discussions I had with Rach yesterday.

Rach managed to get rest everyday and each day there is a section of time for Sabbath. For me, a Sabbath is a break away from the normal routine of activities. It is a trust in God that He will provides and physical rest for us - away from the normal routine activities that we do everyday for 6 days.

We have been able to take our Sabbath - we work 5 days and in fact rested 2 days. Or for Rach we work 12-14 hours and a good physical rest for 8-10 hours a day.

I asked for more - a sabbatical leave of 6 to 12 months away from my work. But the question is what am I going to do during the leave and what am I going to do after the break?

Jesus is the son of God - the Lord of the Sabbath. Rules that were set by the priest on Sabbath in order to justified what they can and don't do on Sabbath - in order to justified their actions if right before God. Jesus in Mat 12 mentioned about David who broke the rules on Sabbath - and He himself was asked if it is ok to heal during Sabbath which was not written or ok. Jesus did the healing.

If then the intent of rest is physical rest - I have it weeks after weeks. I have also managed to get rest and time alone with you every quarter and even every half a year a holiday. It is important for these break - to get back to you and to seek you. But do I really need a half year to a year break?

I recognize the important of being close to God - Sabbath is also about God who provides, God who wants us to rest and still be able to put our trust in His provision.

Lord then let me start small and build deep first in and with you- each day so that when I have a longer break, my routine is well settled and it is from you and purposed by you.

23 July 2014;

23 July 2014;

My prayer - a struggle between loving God and shunting sins and loving the pleasures and the treasures of the world.

The world is passing away. All that I have- the talents, the time and the treasures will fade away. The house I am in now is a temporal home. So why build the nest up?

Anchor my life and use what I have for the eternal home that Jesus has prepared. Learn and know that the Lord will provide and will watch over me. The holy spirit will guide me in every steps that I take. Can I put all my trust in Him - including the bank accounts that I have?

How then can I start? First - guard the time alone with God. It should be a treasured time in His word, praying and waiting on Him. Know Him through the words. Present each and every steps that He will guide me each day and including the divine appointment - so that the due glory will be given back to God.

Rid of the things of the world that does not build up to a closer relationship with God. Do excellent in my work, but guard against spending time in perfection. Cover each tasks with His wisdom and know that the Lord will supply all my needs to accomplish them and so give glory to the heavenly God.

Build relationship with people - not only my family, but others. Bridge with them so that the words of God can go forth through me.

Stop building up treasures or wealth - for what is sufficient the Lord will provides, but be steward of them. Instead use them for His glory and use the time building relationship with God and people.

So help me in the things I should do and yet failed to do and stop working of the things I should not do that does not add glory to the kingdom of God. Amen.

22 July 2014; Mat 11

22 July 2014; Mat 11

Mat 11 introduce John the baptist.

Many questions were asked about who this John was.

In the OT, the Messiah is prophesied to come after the prophet Elijah comes again. But both Jesus and John themselves answered that John is not Elijah. Of course John cannot be Elijah because that will be reincarnation - Elijah was taken to heaven in a new body and John died.

The coming of Elijah is for the second coming of Christ - He will come again. But John dressed like Elijah and he was the one who prepare the way for Jesus first coming.

The Jews wait for the Messiah and of course if John is not Elijah then Jesus is not the one.

How then we know? How then I know God truth? How do I hear from God? How do I know what is spoken is from God? How do I know that the things that is happening is of God?

The sheep know my voice. The way to know God is to know His voice and be able to discern. The way to know His voice is to know Him. The way to know Him is through the word, spend time, wait upon Him. It is a relationship that needs to be build.

16 July; Mat 10

16 July; Mat 10

Mat 10 is about the sending out of the disciples.

Jesus the 12 out, but with authority given to them over diseases, the despises, the demon and death. But clear instructions was given to them. They were to go to the various cities of Israel first. They were not to received pay.

The sending out came at a cost - disapproval, persecution,  and even death. They were sent out as sheep among wolves.

What is worst then death? To die is to gain in Christ. But are you ready, am I ready to be sent out. I have a family. I have a responsibility. But Jesus said, let the dead bury the dead, sell all your processions...

Here in Singapore, it is a safe haven. Death from sharing the gospel and the good news hardly come with death. It is a good practice ground. There is no fear.

Lord let me start here. Let the considerations that is needed to fund, to feed like what you said in Mat 10:10

no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food. (Matthew 10:10 ESV)

Simply, the laborers worked in the field, the field provides the laborer the need, the provision.

Plan as I may, but get it started - this I pray. In fact, as I prayed today for Matty, one of his friend came along and we pray together. So simple.

I ask for this family of mine to be used by you for your glory. If it is your will, help me to bring this family readied for your work both here and else where in 3 years to come.

11 July 2014; Mat 9:35 to Mat 10

11 July 2014; Mat 9:35 to Mat 10

The harvest is plenty but the labourers are few.

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” (Matthew 9:37-38 ESV)

Pray to the Lord - that you will be sent.

I have not fully recovered from the need to do things slow. Just teach, work on passive income (forex seems good but there is no consistency guarantee). Forex can be done at home, but it needs time to trade but there is no surely a few thousands a month.

I guess I am tired - very tired to continue to work on technical stuff. Not seem to be able to handle the stress when things don't work and enjoy the success of getting it work (mentally tired).

The work and the assignment in Christ is the harvest - when harvest come, there is no time for rest for there is a limit of time the harvest has to be gather.

Am I for the work? What is it to start here?

Pray is the start. Be compel just as Jesus is compelled by compassion for the lost.
Be empowered. All authority is given to the disciple of Christ (Mat 10). Power to overcome disease, the despised, the demon pocessed and death.

And proclaim as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without paying; give without pay. (Matthew 10:7-8 ESV)

Open my eyes, touch my heart and strengthen my physical body for the works in Christ.

There is no need for any passive income. Clearly in Mat 10: 9-10

Acquire no gold or silver or copper for your belts, no bag for your journey, or two tunics or sandals or a staff, for the laborer deserves his food.
(Matthew 10:9-10 ESV)

The labourers in the harvest field need not to have money to buy food - the harvest in itself provides for it.

Am I ready? Again it all start with prayers, seeking the Lord of the harvest, that I and my family will be sent with authority like sheep among wolves, but assure that the grace of God is sufficient for us.

7 July 2014; Mat 9

7 July 2014; Mat 9

I had a strange dream. In that dream I was dancing with a young girl, but I knew that nothing "good" will come out of the relationship - because I am blessed with a happy family of 3 children and a lovely wife. That which I once desired when I was young has now came to fulfillment. I longed for a family that is be able to live to old age with my wife. I longed to have a son and God gave 2 plus a beautiful daughter.

The dream also made me realised that I am not young any more. There are dreams that were fulfilled, but still more not yet and probably not. Are those not fulfilled ok with me and can I live with regret for their un-fulfillment?

In Mat 9, there was a woman with the issue of blood, a paralytic and 2 blind men. They had been waiting as outcast and hoping for healing. If Jesus did not pass and cross paths with them, they probably not be able to travel to get themselves healed.

What is then that I want and what is that I need?

I need Jesus - for without Him, I will have nothing but of the world requirements to prove myself in status and in wealth.

I want a legacy for my family - but now I cannot and exactly articulate what are these legacies.

I will want my children to fear God - to know what is right and wrong in the values of God and the world. It will be a conscience and the knowledge of God and the prompting of the Holy spirit that they will be able to hear and discern the right to do and say. It is about knowing Jesus. How then my children can know Jesus? Disciple them through leading by examples - time spend with God and let every action and speech about a relationship with God. Let Jesus be real and be part of our everyday lives.

4 July 2014; Mat 8

4 July 2014; Mat 8

I woke up not rejoicing. I looked at Mat who is happy just going to school. I asked him why is he happy - just because he has daddy.

I was having tea and looked at the coffee shop auntie who served me tea. Her pay is definitely not more than mine. But she is happy.

I received a call from KM for tea yesterday and share with him my thoughts. Just to be with Jesus. Just like Mat who don't always get his Mac happy meal, but he is happy when dad buy him one once a while. It is not about material procession and the accumulation of wealth. And who is Mat as compares to his peers - they are all nobody. But they are happy just with their dad. The coffee auntie is just happy because she can be with her family - I saw her son coming to the coffee shop and give her a hug.

The Cost of Following Jesus Now when Jesus saw a crowd around him, he gave orders to go over to the other side. And a scribe came up and said to him, “Teacher, I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Another of the disciples said to him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” And Jesus said to him, “Follow me, and leave the dead to bury their own dead.” (Matthew 8:18-22 ESV)

Jesus has no permanent shelter (or no fix basic needs) and of course no material wealth to offer (like the man who probably going to inherit his father wealth first before he follow Christ).

But remember Jesus touch the diseased. He share the needs of the heart - more than the need of the daily basic. Mat don't need to know how his father will provide, but know that when he is hungry, he will always have something to eat. He enjoy "nata de coco" and is very happy whenever we buy him.

Just be with Jesus, just be with my family. Enjoy the time with Jesus and enjoy the time with my family.

I went to see the doc and had a appointment for a spinal scan. It reminds me of age. I need to take care of this temple. For without it, I cannot fully enjoy the time with my family and be able to do and follow Jesus (physical doing).

Rest well, eat well, exercise well and be mentally off stress and spiritual feed. These are simple five points to take care of the temple.

1 July 2014; Mat 8

1 July 2014; Mat 8

Mat 8 began with 3 stories of Jesus miracles deeds - healing a leper, healing a centurion's servant and Peter's mother-in-law.

The way Jesus healed the leper - He touched him. It was considered unclean to touch a leper. Even the cloths that was touched has to be thrown into the fire and be burnt. Jesus demonstrate a different Lord. He erased the norm of a religious leader.

Jesus healed a gentile. This demonstrated that God comes for all.

Jesus healed a woman - again He touched her. This breaks the then social norm and show God comes to both man and woman.

And behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” (Matthew 8:2 ESV)

There is a different in Jesus ability to heal - His power to heal and the will to heal. the leper recognise that. How about us? We come to God for a healing and blame God for not being heal? In all the things that happen - Jesus heal for the glory of God. The sickness that is not heal is also for the intent for the glory of God. The leper knew Jesus power as well as His sovereign will to heal or not to heal.

The centurion represent the then ruler over the Jews. The centurion need not to speak to Jesus in that manner. He commands his soldier to go and he will go, but instead he ask Jesus to just say the command to him - so that his servant can be healed. The centurion know Jesus authority - above him.

Peter's mother-in-law did not say a word but express gratitude through the preparation of the meal for Jesus.

Matthew summed by the 3 deeds of miracles by

That evening they brought to him many who were oppressed by demons, and he cast out the spirits with a word and healed all who were sick. This was to fulfill what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah: “He took our illnesses and bore our diseases.” (Matthew 8:16-17 ESV)

Jesus is the promise that God is giving to Israel. He touched the socially not acceptable to show that He accepts them as well as the sickness. With authority Jesus has over the all sickness and spirit and the people knew.

Who is then Jesus to me? He wants to touch my heart - to do a healing of the past. What faith do I have in this Christ that He can do a heart surgery in me. The leper who is an outcast can now be accepted by others. The paralysis servant can now walk. Peter's mother-in-law can now get out of bed and prepared a meal.

Where is the joy? I need a change - a reflection in all situation that the glory of God can be seen.

25 June 2014; 7:13-29

25 June 2014; 7:13-29

Making decision is difficult, making good decisions is even more difficult.

What then are the facts? God is eternal. The soul of man is eternal and the word of God will last.

What then shall we pursue? Jesus. The world of material wealth and treasure will fade away. The achievement, status will not end our worries and anxieties. Because the more plan we only show how much we depends on our strength to secure our future. But our strength will fade and our security is no promises. true happiness comes from an assurance in Christ.

Jesus said on the sermon on the mount suggest we have to make a decision - the narrow path or the wide road. We like to do what we please and make follow Jesus at our convenient. It is that we like Jesus but we are not like Jesus. Many will reject Jesus and the "demand" of Christ for our lives.

Enjoy the narrow path with Jesus - a discipline life like Christ and in Christ - prayer, reading, worship and devotion and time alone with God.

The result should be the fruit - more like Christ. Jesus should be part of our lives and not when we need Him or when we have need. Our lives should showcase Christ and we speak of Christ from the inside out. A live that speaks about an encounter in Christ.

Storms and bad time expose the truth - in good times and in bad, that reveal a true follow of Christ. Not the amount of works nor the words you preach, but who is Christ in our lives - choose as Jesus does not promise a all good lives if we are to follow Him. But an assured eternal live with Him.

What is this rock - Jesus that we has to build our house upon. Build on money and wealth and the market may clash. Build on status and the applause may stop.

Not only the outward works, but also the inward self.

The sermon on the mount is about what Jesus has done. One one can do righteousness more than the scribes and pharisees. It is a believe in Jesus. A more obedient in Christ and just to be with Jesus day by day.

24 June 2014; Mat 7:1-13

24 June 2014; Mat 7:1-13

Lord I started with a need to just come close to you. In all I do I want to wait for you.

In my trade, let me pray before I enter. In my work let me present the things I need to do to you first. Jesus be the center of my live. Let me have a heart to heart transformation. Soften my heart and renew it.

Indeed the most important thing is to connect heart to heart with you, with my family and especially my wife and sons. Let me have a close heart walk with you that I may be able to share heart stories with them. Let me show how real Jesus is to me.

Today text is on judgment. It is not against correction - correction with love. It is about condemnation without the intent to correct. do the correction out of love - not out of anger too. It is about the action and not about the character of the person.

Scolding out of love turns into anger and turned into condemnation. What then is then solution?
Ask, and It Will Be Given “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! (Matthew 7:7-11 ESV)

Prayer. Indeed the more we scold for the "sake" of the person turning from bad to good, god offer prayers. We cannot be on any moral high ground and neither can the person always "appreciate" the scolding or the judgment. Do it in love but more in prayers.

Lord let me be one that really spend time praying and seeking God for my family and for others. Through a genuine heart of love and concern.

Pray. Prayer changes things. Let me be one that pray for all members of the family in and for all things.

23 June 2014; Mat 6:25-34

23 June 2014; Mat 6:25-34

A secured person in the Lord has no need for worry or be anxious about the future or the day after.

The future is in the Lord. There is no need to depends on the amount of treasure that is stored by in the barns for the future. There is no need to depend on people to supply the needs. There is no need for the approval of man.

I planned with the intention that the future is on me. I should have give it to the Lord and allow Him to show me a future for the family.

I have been a person that builds my securities and planned in details to increase wealth and for retirement. It should on the other hand - place the plan on the Lord.

I have little argument of this issue, but I do yearn a live that I can cast my plans to the Lord. Yes though now I have no worries or anxieties, but it speaks not well of how I have not walk a live of faith.

My children should see how the life of faith is live out - not on the intelligence, or on the hardworking or on luck or skills, but one that put a trust in the Lord. How then?

I submit my investment plan to you. I put my business plan to you. I put my retirement plan to you. Rach ask how much did I pray - I should pray for each investment made, each steps I take. at the same time, let me hear from the Lord what is the giving plan, not so much of the wealth accumulating plan.

21 June 2014; Mat 6:25-34

21 June 2014; Mat 6:25-34

The questions I have yesterday regarding money, the Lord answered through today word.

He will take care of us - look at the lilies, the birds - the Lord take care of them. He will take care of us  - money or no money. How much more will he not take care of us.

More money or no money - it will also not add another hour to your life. Again the Lord will take care of us.

So - Seek first the kingdom of God and all things will be given to you.

God first.

More money - let it not be a distraction t you. Because then money become your master.

No money - are you sure I have no money? I have enough, the Lord has provided, except I cannot tell people that I am a millionaire or I have money to splurge. Rach said, be prudent in the way you spent your money so that it reflect God's glory.

I have a God, a family, enough money.

Change my heart and continue to change my heart that I am a giver, a generous spender to bless others.

20 June 2014; Mat 6:19-24

20 June 2014; Mat 6:19-24

Material wealth and possession is a strong hold. I have enough, but there is a need to put in hard work and to maintain it. It is not that money just come by and you can do the things or ministry that you like and money just flow in. Even getting the passive income needs to work on it. How nice that I can just teach and not need to getting a salary, a bonus.. How nice it is to be able to be challenged and yet know that the risk is contained.

These are just some of my thoughts. Keep money and be stingy is the same as not keeping them and splurging money like a spendthrift.

I know that money and wealth cannot last. They cannot be kept and taken with us when we die. Money cannot make you happy (why not is something I cannot understand).

Jesus has all the riches is the world but gave up everything for us. Why then are we accumulating more of that what Jesus consider as worthless, that He consider more worthful than money.

Because the world compares who has more and who can afford. How nice if you can always eat good meal at high class restaurant (just to have a meal, a normal meal), drive a nice car to church, ...  and yet a Christian after God's heart? You don't need to be poor in order to serve God.

Mat 6:24 - Jesus say you cannot serve both. Why?

Will you be able to give up your money for God? Will you give god up for money?

There seem not a balance to strike. Like the story of  the rich man who ask Jesus how to enter the kingdom of heaven - sell all that he has away. Or for a million dollars gave God up for 1 day, 1 week or 1 month and behave as if there is no God.

Precisely, it is a contradict.

You cannot serve 2 masters - either you will hate one and love the other or you will be devoted to one and despise the other.

I am not going to argue here. There is no balance to strike. When it comes to God, God first. If I work too much and miss God out - wrong. If I am busy making money and has no time for God - wrong. If I don't give when compel to by His spirit - obvious wrong.

God first. Put God first. Give anything up for a while or totally for God - first.

18 June 2014; Mat 6:24

18 June 2014; Mat 6:24

I did not sleep well last night. Not because of any anxieties or worries - because I am on holiday and it is the first night and I cannot used to the bed.

I brought my 2 boys to buy food, holding Matty hand as we walk. Jo walked beside us. When I picked up a food item to look at the expiry date, my eyes cannot see the label clearly. I realized I have aged. My boys has grown up. It was Jo that I used to hold his hand because of safety sake at a foreign place.

My back ache at time. Lord I am no longer have the strength that I used to have of my youth. Jo helped me to carry the grocery back - saying that Dad don't hurt your back and these I can managed. Jo is now taller than I am. Lord use me. I know that there is a lot of area that I need to surrender so that the potter can mold the cray. Lord, let this mold not be harden and dried up that it is longer good for any shaping.

I know my weakness  and I submit my back ache to you. I submit my physical weakness to you. I am encourage once again after hearing Rach sharing from Pastor Edmund sermon - how one can leave by faith and allow the Lord to direct.

This family has enough, more than sufficient. Use me and this family for the extension of your kingdom. Let me encounter with you that I may be able to share the realness of God in the lives of my children - that they may that their God is a living God.

The text today from Mat is from 6:24
“No one can serve two masters, for 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 God and money. (Matthew 6:24 ESV)

Who do I choose to serve - the pursuit on my life - the next phase? I pray it will be a devotion to God. Amen.

16 Jun 2014; Mat 6:1-18

16 Jun 2014; Mat 6:1-18

Are we giving enough, praying enough and fasting enough? But are these the marks of a Christian? If yes, how should these acts be taken?

Clearly, Jesus said - give so that your left hand do not know your right hand is doing. Pray in your closet and fast and not make yourself glum. In order that know one know.

The acts are not for others to see and doing more so that others will know - what a god Christian you are. Or even in your own reflection - you can pat yourself to say how well you have done as a Christian.

In simple terms - do it for one - our Father in heaven. Do what it pleases Him. Do them not for the many and others to see and know - for then you will have your reward.

Give without fanfare. Pray without flourish and Fast without frowning.

On the contrary, we are to give to pray and to fast. so how can we strike a balance?

The motivation is to do  and still to do but knowing that we are doing for the glory and so that the glory of God can be made known. Do not stop doing because that will not glorify God. But do not do in a manner that man glorify you (saying that you are such a good Christian).

Do for the One so that God can be glorify - for Him and with Him in the intent.

If you are already giving, praying and fasting, continue to do so.

Have I then been doing - like giving and giving generously without first the intent of glorifying God, then giving without others knowing that it is for the glory of God?

Praying is easier. It is like talking to God - and to do so in private. But how often?

Fasting is not just to go without food. But for a purpose - a prayer request or a time with God.

Among the 3, giving is the hardest for me. Why? Is it I have not enough? I felt that the giving must be of value and of purpose. You don't splurge on yourself, but when the money is given other who receive will just splurge. The recent news about a Malaysian woman who was given through donation a million Singapore dollars for the death of her husband. She splurge and finish the money in a year. Imagine the feelings of those who give her our of love, and maybe for the intent that God's name can be glorify.

I guess it is then by prayer and fasting - that let God speak and I listen and direct where and what to give.

9 Jun 2014

9 Jun 2014

It has been a week since I have not blog. I have been busy - busy with ... trying to setup some business. For what? backside itchy? Trying to create something so that ...

Not that I question the why but what I have yet began has kept me busy and has made me lost focus on my God. What will happen next if I am caught in a good money and wealth making business - I lose God more.

The center is God. Rach shared this morning from Zach -not by might nor by strength but by my spirit. First it is about having God. Having God who called you to the business or the project. The people began the calling and started God's project but after years, the resources ran out and they wonder if the walls was going to be built. God answered that it will and the word came as an encouragement.

I also remembered Dr Benny Pursad testimony - if it is a calling from God, do it and just have to see how God fulfil it and give glory to God.

I must therefore seek Him and allow Him in the plan he has for me. Not to include Him in the plan, but ask Him what the plan He has for me.

28 May 2014; Mat 6

28 May 2014; Mat 6

Jesus came and illustrated the way of living a disciple should live. It is based on love. It is not based on retaliation. Jesus knew that if more is return to what is done wrong to you - the case gets spiral.

With love, the wrong done is stop. Jesus illustrated in Mat 5:38-43. Gave up your institutional rights. Why? Because God first love us through Christ who died for us. Jesus has the right to call us to gave up our rights of retaliation, because Jesus died for us.

Everyone who love is born of God.

Why then I am compel to love? is it because I have compassion, or because I know I cannot fight back or because I love peace. It will end up with hurt and hatred in me and get myself trap with grudges and inside anger.

The world has seemed in a lot of way unfair to me. But wait, son, what is fair? Getting the more the best?

Am I then secure in my self worth in Christ - one who knows that he has enough and sufficient in Jesus. If I only know how Christ has done for me. How then I view my identity and know that all that I need and be recognize is not on how much I have, what I can do and what my status. Know and I have all in Christ who love me just I am - no matter how much or empty I am.

Lord, let me know my sufficiency in you. I strive not because I need more because you also do not need the more. Lord let me know that my self worth is not in the much I have, but in the much I have in you.

26 May; Mat 6:1-4

26 May; Mat 6:1-4

Call it ego. The world looks at what you do and wow at you. Call it achievement - the world needs to see what you can produce and attain and wows at you.

Do I see myself then as a person who wants to do things for God and for man to know and see that I am doing things for God and man knows that I am doing these good things to benefits mankind?

Again it is about the heart intent. In Mat 6:1-4, Jesus say if you do and what you do is made known or so that what you do can be seen, then you have receive your rewards in full.

I am not pressured by what the peers are doing for God and therefore it is not a race to see who do more. It is more of a need to do something? It must then flows out of the heart - it is not about community service but rather it the things that you do will be able to bring someone closer to Christ.

It is not the tangible and it can then starts simple by prayers. It is not something anyone will see - it reveal however the needs and the call to God in petition - to pray for someone and something to happen so that he/she can know God better.

Therefore for me - stop the doing, start the praying. Who then to pray for? Again it is about the heart intent.

22 May 2014; Mat 5:38-48

22 May 2014; Mat 5:38-48

I was sharing with Rach that the sermon on the mount is indeed about the intent of the heart and the style of living Jesus was asking the disciple to live.

Mat 5: 38-48 is on the retaliation as well as love your enemies.

The world rules is about what more to do to others when they do bad to us. Not less. Clearly Jesus asked the disciples to give to them more than what they (those you hate or those who hate you) more.

Why must I? Because we are the disciples of Jesus and are different from the world. But why so noble. The one who paid for the sins of mankind - Jesus has died for us - while we are still sinners.

The world return good for good and evil for evil. Then which standard are we to live. The world can only be made a better place if good is return for evil. But then it makes evil more prevailing so that more good can be received. Jesus died it for all.

As disciple of Christ - we died as He died for us. We are not saint but we model after Christ who died for us. Are we ready to return good for evil. Check our heart - where then is the willingness to part good for evil in us? If we are not - are we not part of the world?

By acknowledging good for evil - we also acknowledge Christ in me and that is all I need.

You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect. (Matthew 5:48 ESV)

We therefore strive to be perfect - the saint. But remember - not the saint for the world to see and take advantage of, but one who image after Jesus.

I spend much time dwelling of the sermon on the mount. And this is the occasion that I see that Jesus makes the intent of our heart. The things we do as a disciple - the realness b the things we do and don't reflect the intent of our heart. Here Jesus is asking for one that behaves and act for for a show or to attain sainthood, but one that image after Jesus.

I see the purpose of Jesus - for without Him, I am still a sinners in the laws of God - doing what should be done and not doing what the religion ask me not to. Jesus is the one that makes this a non religion and that makes a way of life because Christ made it possible.

I am with gratitude that I am bless because I am make clean. I just have to me the real me, and all actions checks after the intent of the heart - does the things I do and don't glorify the heavenly father in heaven.

I am grateful that I am not bound by the laws- the dos and the donts.

17 May 2014; Mat 5:31-37

17 May 2014; Mat 5:31-37

Be it a marriage or a contract or a vow - we have written certificates, agreement and other legal documents to show our intent and enable us to escape or get even when things go wrong.

Jesus countered the argument in divorce and oaths making - that it is not about contract. Jesus said it is wrong for one man to divorce a woman, excepts on ground of sexually immorality, makes the woman sin if she remarries another as well as makes the man who married her sin. 3 sins in one divorce.

Jesus also said that it was the technicality or the way we craft the vows or oaths - or in our modern case, the way we draft our contracts and agreements.

It was therefore the ability to escape our marriage vows, oaths in a case we have to break it in the ways we craft and draft the contracts. It is not so that we can then still say accordingly, I have not commit any wrong doings and therefore not be liable for any commitment of sins. It is the other person.

Jesus will provides the protection - He don't default. He will make sufficient for us and there is no need to agree and later disagree and still intent to walk free. In all we enter a vows or oath - the intent that we will fulfill the commitment with no intent to break it or default.

Because a default will make us look bad, we want to make us look good again by saying that accordingly it is the other person fault because of the writings in the contract. Jesus is saying - I am the one will be with you, even when you look bad.

I have to put my trust in Jesus - the intent in any doings is therefore not that I can gain more and achieve more and be able to walk away ok if anything goes wrong. Jesus is the one will see to me the wants and needs. Jesus is the anchor when things don't go too well.

The intent of the heart proves a righteous person - a disciple of Christ that let your yes be yes and no be no.

Lord help me that in the things that I do - I know that you have my good intention, such that I know that Jesus you will provides and your grace is always sufficient for me.

16 May 2014; Mat 5:21-32

16 May 2014; Mat 5: 21-32

The interesting perspective about these verses are - it is not about you alone and how should you live your Christian life. It is also about how you relate and how you spur one another towards Christian living.

Verse 21-26 is about how you deal with anger.
Verse 27-30 is on lust
Verse 31-32 on divorce

In many aspect, it is not about if I don't do it - I live a righteous life and I am holy and godly.

v21 - you shall not murder - I did not
v27 - you shall not commit adultery - I do not

Murder start with being angry with someone. Jesus said - stop that in the first place before you go on and murder. Jesus also said - if you know of a brother that has something against you - go and make peace. That is if you know that someone is angry with you - go make peace, least that his anger turn into murder. Therefore it is not how you should live alone, but how you intent - and not about do and don't which is not a clear line drawn. It is also about helping others against committing sins.

Likewise - it is not about you have not committed adultery. And the cause of those who cause me to commit adultery - like the woman should cover up (so as to help the man). Jesus said - it is about the heart. It is not what you have done or have not - but the intent of not committing adultery. Likewise it is not about if your cutting out your eyes that cause you to sin - it is the heart and the intend.

It is not about divorcing a woman, but also about the intend to say it is ok to marry a divorce woman. It could be justifying that it is ok that I am not committing adultery because I marry a woman who is divorce. Divorce then is as simple for a man to write a paper of divorce. Of all the intend, the man may be force to do so, in order for another man to take his wife.

It is not about refraining oneself but also to prevent others from falling into temptation or to cause them to sin.

And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” (Mark 7:20-23 ESV)

Intent of the heart - intention.

As such, it is about intentional living as a disciple. The authenticity of one such disciple lies not about the do and don't but weigh on the action and consequence - the ending intention of the outcome.

I am not alone. As such it is not what I have not done or what I have done - both can be wrong. What I have not done can cause hurt. what I have done does not justify myself. Jesus you are the center so that the intend of doing or not doing speaks weight and conviction.

Open my heart to do what I am called to do and what I am called not to do. If relating to people - then it it be so - that my actions can help justify their godliness and all walk towards a closer walk with God.