I once read this in an obituary and I thought it was beautiful.
God saw you getting tired, when a cure was not to be.
He wrapped his arms around you and whispered, "Come to Me."
In tears we saw you sinking. We watched you fade away.
Our hearts were broken, as you fought so hard to stay.
But when we saw you sleeping so peacefully free from pain
We could not wish you back to suffer so again.
So keep your arms around him God, and give him special care,
Make up for all he suffered and all that seemed unfair.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
The Uninterested and Interested
Pastor Michael wrote an interesting article called "Dropping the Rope, Holding Hands, And Learning To Walk Together." It talks about uninterested parishioners*, flawed perceptions and the struggles of a pastor.
How do ministry workers handle the interested and the uninterested? From experience, these are the few ways I've observed.
1. Forget about the uninterested. They are wasting my time. Give 100% to those who are interested.
2. "Pull" the uninterested, give them 90% attention and 10% to those interested. After all, the interested ones will not become uninterested or grow cold.
3. Do nothing about both. I'm too busy. The interested will come to me, and the uninterested ones won't. So I let them decide.
All of the above are not ideal. The 1st one has effectively shut out the uninterested who might in time become interested. The 2nd one thinks that spending more time equals to getting uninterested parishioners more interested but this usually does not happen. And it's bad to assume the neglected interested ones will keep going; they can drop off the radar (we're humans!). The 3rd one can't be bothered with both.
So what is the ideal? I like what Pastor Michael said. "I will care and give correct spiritual guidance to both the interested and the uninterested. I will never be so far out front that I waste effort on the truly uninterested, but I will stay engaged (appropriately so) to see when the spark of interest ignites" It's a good balance which every minister need to take heed of. And to always pray for the uninterested because that's the only thing that really works for them.
I think Jesus gives us a perfect picture of the balance. Ask yourself, "What Will Jesus Do?"(WWJD) when you look at your church - the interested, uninterested, the good, the bad and the ugly and oh, that includes you too :)
*Parishioner = another term for Church member, churchgoer
How do ministry workers handle the interested and the uninterested? From experience, these are the few ways I've observed.
1. Forget about the uninterested. They are wasting my time. Give 100% to those who are interested.
2. "Pull" the uninterested, give them 90% attention and 10% to those interested. After all, the interested ones will not become uninterested or grow cold.
3. Do nothing about both. I'm too busy. The interested will come to me, and the uninterested ones won't. So I let them decide.
All of the above are not ideal. The 1st one has effectively shut out the uninterested who might in time become interested. The 2nd one thinks that spending more time equals to getting uninterested parishioners more interested but this usually does not happen. And it's bad to assume the neglected interested ones will keep going; they can drop off the radar (we're humans!). The 3rd one can't be bothered with both.
So what is the ideal? I like what Pastor Michael said. "I will care and give correct spiritual guidance to both the interested and the uninterested. I will never be so far out front that I waste effort on the truly uninterested, but I will stay engaged (appropriately so) to see when the spark of interest ignites" It's a good balance which every minister need to take heed of. And to always pray for the uninterested because that's the only thing that really works for them.
I think Jesus gives us a perfect picture of the balance. Ask yourself, "What Will Jesus Do?"(WWJD) when you look at your church - the interested, uninterested, the good, the bad and the ugly and oh, that includes you too :)
*Parishioner = another term for Church member, churchgoer
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Revisiting Contentment
Someone once said, "There are two ways to be rich. One is to have all you want. The other is to be contented with what you have."
I was reading this book with the quote above and it kind of zoomed in on my recent "wants" list now that I've started working. I've been dreaming of getting a much better DSLR cos my Nikon D70 is like a dinosaur when it comes to more accurate metering and good white balance. The other on my list is a new macbook cos my powerbook is dying with a spoilt DVD-ROM and an almost dead graphic card giving my monitor bizzare colours, streaked lines and bad resolution.
So does that warrant a change, and the spending of a few thousands? Looks like it but I know I was reminded that it is a "NO". Couple of reasons: The D70 still works fine although I am more dissatisfied with it than a few years ago, and I am not a professional. As for the mac, well, the office has just gotten new laptops for us to use and it works fine. (Although I must say Windows is as yucky as ever and programs crash whenever they like.)
So at the end of the day, I can still live without a new DSLR and a new mac, and that makes them more of a "want" than a "need" now. As for the couple of thousands that I planned to save and buy them, I supposed they can be better used somewhere (or kept).
"Contentment makes a poor man rich; discontentment makes a rich man poor."
"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it." - 1 Tim 6:6-7
Quotes in italics are taken from the book "Help! I'm growing old" by Chuan Tong-Ik.
I was reading this book with the quote above and it kind of zoomed in on my recent "wants" list now that I've started working. I've been dreaming of getting a much better DSLR cos my Nikon D70 is like a dinosaur when it comes to more accurate metering and good white balance. The other on my list is a new macbook cos my powerbook is dying with a spoilt DVD-ROM and an almost dead graphic card giving my monitor bizzare colours, streaked lines and bad resolution.
So does that warrant a change, and the spending of a few thousands? Looks like it but I know I was reminded that it is a "NO". Couple of reasons: The D70 still works fine although I am more dissatisfied with it than a few years ago, and I am not a professional. As for the mac, well, the office has just gotten new laptops for us to use and it works fine. (Although I must say Windows is as yucky as ever and programs crash whenever they like.)
So at the end of the day, I can still live without a new DSLR and a new mac, and that makes them more of a "want" than a "need" now. As for the couple of thousands that I planned to save and buy them, I supposed they can be better used somewhere (or kept).
"Contentment makes a poor man rich; discontentment makes a rich man poor."
"But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it." - 1 Tim 6:6-7
Quotes in italics are taken from the book "Help! I'm growing old" by Chuan Tong-Ik.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Do you know your value?
"In any museum we will find quite ordinary things - clothes, a walking stick, a pen, pieces of furniture - which are only of value because they were possessed and used by some great person. It is the ownership which gives them worth. It is so with the Christian. The Christian may be a very ordinary person, but he acquires a new value and dignity and greatness because he belongs to God. The greatness of the Christian lies in the fact that he is God's." -- William Barclay
Monday, January 10, 2011
The joy of hindsight - 2010
Woah, it has really been a "long time" since I last blogged. Plenty of ideas but didn't get them logged down.
2010 has been a very eventful year: I finished my studies in bible school, made many good friends with kindred spirit and learned a lot.God has been so so good. He is indeed faithful.
Looking back at the years, not just 2010, I began to understand more and more of God's plans and timing. There are more "aha"s as I looked back and some of my earlier "why"s have been answered. That is why He is God, isn't it? He knows best, does the best, fulfils His plans and everything is in His hands.
"Praise the Lord O my soul, all my inmost being praise His holy name" Ps 103:1
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isa 55:8-9
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" Pro 3:5-6
I think this is really a good way to live life, isn't it? May we always praise the Lord, trust in Him and do all things according to His will.
Welcome 2011.
2010 has been a very eventful year: I finished my studies in bible school, made many good friends with kindred spirit and learned a lot.God has been so so good. He is indeed faithful.
Looking back at the years, not just 2010, I began to understand more and more of God's plans and timing. There are more "aha"s as I looked back and some of my earlier "why"s have been answered. That is why He is God, isn't it? He knows best, does the best, fulfils His plans and everything is in His hands.
"Praise the Lord O my soul, all my inmost being praise His holy name" Ps 103:1
"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isa 55:8-9
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" Pro 3:5-6
I think this is really a good way to live life, isn't it? May we always praise the Lord, trust in Him and do all things according to His will.
Welcome 2011.
Monday, September 13, 2010
22 Things to Ask Yourself Daily
The following are 22 questions the members of John and Charles Wesley’s “Holy Club” asked themselves each day in their private devotions over 250 years ago.
1. Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression that I am better than I really am? In other words, am I a hypocrite?
2. Am I honest in all my acts and words, or do I exaggerate?
3. Do I confidentially pass on to another what was told to me in confidence?
4. Can I be trusted?
5. Am I a slave to dress, friends, work, or habits?
6. Am I self-conscious, self-pitying, or self-justifying?
7. Did the Bible live in me today?
8. Do I give it time to speak to me everyday?
9. Am I enjoying prayer?
10. When did I last speak to someone else about my faith?
11. Do I pray about the money I spend?
12. Do I get to bed on time and get up on time?
13. Do I disobey God in anything?
14. Do I insist upon doing something about which my conscience is uneasy?
15. Am I defeated in any part of my life?
16. Am I jealous, impure, critical, irritable, touchy, or distrustful?
17. How do I spend my spare time?
18. Am I proud?
19. Do I thank God that I am not as other people, especially as the Pharisees who despised the publican?
20. Is there anyone whom I fear, dislike, disown, criticize, hold resentment toward or disregard? If so, what am I doing about it?
21. Do I grumble or complain constantly?
22. Is Christ real to me?
Short story of the Holy Club: http://www.ctlibrary.com/ch/1983/issue2/216.html
1. Am I consciously or unconsciously creating the impression that I am better than I really am? In other words, am I a hypocrite?
2. Am I honest in all my acts and words, or do I exaggerate?
3. Do I confidentially pass on to another what was told to me in confidence?
4. Can I be trusted?
5. Am I a slave to dress, friends, work, or habits?
6. Am I self-conscious, self-pitying, or self-justifying?
7. Did the Bible live in me today?
8. Do I give it time to speak to me everyday?
9. Am I enjoying prayer?
10. When did I last speak to someone else about my faith?
11. Do I pray about the money I spend?
12. Do I get to bed on time and get up on time?
13. Do I disobey God in anything?
14. Do I insist upon doing something about which my conscience is uneasy?
15. Am I defeated in any part of my life?
16. Am I jealous, impure, critical, irritable, touchy, or distrustful?
17. How do I spend my spare time?
18. Am I proud?
19. Do I thank God that I am not as other people, especially as the Pharisees who despised the publican?
20. Is there anyone whom I fear, dislike, disown, criticize, hold resentment toward or disregard? If so, what am I doing about it?
21. Do I grumble or complain constantly?
22. Is Christ real to me?
Short story of the Holy Club: http://www.ctlibrary.com/ch/1983/issue2/216.html
Friday, September 10, 2010
Run the Race with Endurance
Excerpt from "5 Minutes with K.P." in the GFA magazine, Send
"The writer of Hebrews said, "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1). He was very much aware that we are enlisted in a marathon race that can only be won if we have sufficient stamina to last the entire long distance.
As Westerners, we suffer from lack of endurance. Our society is very fluid-people move frequently and surveys show that 50 percent of engaged couples think at least once that if their marriage doesn't work out, they will have a chance on a second one.
It is much easier for us to change, walk away, close our hearts, become bitter or give up instead of enduring for the long haul. It is an uncommon thing to find-in our society and in the Church- the "stickability", permanency, endurance and commitment in the face of difficult that the Bible talks about when it comes to following Jesus.
Especially if you are a young person, I encourage you to embrace the word "endurance." Paul wrote to his young disciple Timothy, "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Tim 2:23). In other words, "Although enduring hardship is difficult, hold onto it, because through this you will grow and improve on the inside."
The best years of my life in terms of developing as a leader, and the most valuable lessons I learned, happened when I worked with a mission organization in northern India. One of my leaders was next to impossible to deal with. No matter what I did, he found fault with it. It was not easy at all to endure. I felt like I died a thousand deaths. But somehow my upbringing and my instruction about discipleship called for staying on and not giving up." - K.P. Yohannan
"The writer of Hebrews said, "Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us" (Hebrews 12:1). He was very much aware that we are enlisted in a marathon race that can only be won if we have sufficient stamina to last the entire long distance.
As Westerners, we suffer from lack of endurance. Our society is very fluid-people move frequently and surveys show that 50 percent of engaged couples think at least once that if their marriage doesn't work out, they will have a chance on a second one.
It is much easier for us to change, walk away, close our hearts, become bitter or give up instead of enduring for the long haul. It is an uncommon thing to find-in our society and in the Church- the "stickability", permanency, endurance and commitment in the face of difficult that the Bible talks about when it comes to following Jesus.
Especially if you are a young person, I encourage you to embrace the word "endurance." Paul wrote to his young disciple Timothy, "You therefore must endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ" (2 Tim 2:23). In other words, "Although enduring hardship is difficult, hold onto it, because through this you will grow and improve on the inside."
The best years of my life in terms of developing as a leader, and the most valuable lessons I learned, happened when I worked with a mission organization in northern India. One of my leaders was next to impossible to deal with. No matter what I did, he found fault with it. It was not easy at all to endure. I felt like I died a thousand deaths. But somehow my upbringing and my instruction about discipleship called for staying on and not giving up." - K.P. Yohannan
A Christian's Response to Difficult Situations in Life
What will my response be when things turned against me in life?
What will my response be when man falsely accuse and persecute me?
What will my response be when Christian brothers betray, attack or desert me?
What will my response be when Christian leaders fail me?
What will my response be when I am hurting badly and seething with anger?
I am not sure how I will respond when times like this comes my way. Yet I have seen many lives destroyed or crushed by their response to these situations. It can be difficult to hold on to God and easy to let loose our hurts and fury in such situations. But if there is one thing that should govern our response, it must be God Himself - His very words. How then should a Christian respond to such situations in life?
In times when things turned against us, sometimes without reason, we must cling on to God. To believe that He is in control, He knows what's best, and He will make all things well someday; even though we cannot see it now and we are in tears. There is great Hope because of Jesus Christ. He has saved us, redeemed us, make us His very own and given us eternal and abundant life. (John 1:12; 3:16; 10:10) Our earthly life is but for a moment; then we shall have no more tears for eternity, and our troubles on earth will be nothing in light of our eternal glory in Him. (2 Cor 4:16-17)
In times when man falsely accuse you and attack you, even Christian brothers, be patient. For God will judge justly and bring about His righteous wrath. (Rom 12:19) It is not right for you and I to take matters into our own hands and repay evil for evil. (Rom 12:17; 1 Thess 5:15) Rather, we must overcome evil with good.(Rom 12:21) We must never sinned in our anger with the words we say and the actions we do. We must be wise not to play the devil's game and not to let him have a foothold in our lives through our response(Eph 4:26-27) Be patient and stand firm in the Lord.
In times when Christian leaders fail you, pray. This is a time when you could find yourself confused, disappointed, angry, upset, bitter or a mixture of everything. It is vital to pray at such times because this is when the devil will incite and deceive you and many in your church. Widespread rumours, misunderstandings, divisions and fights is the devil's gameplan. Let us not be deceived into becoming a tool for him but let us be self-controlled and alert; for the devil is taking such opportunities to devour people up in church. (1 Peter 5:8) Pray for your leaders, and ask the Lord to show you what is happening and how to deal with it wisely. (Rom 15:30; James 1:5)
And in all things, always pray and always give thanks to God in all circumstances. (1 Thess 5:17-18)
And to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. (Rom 12:12)
Let us therefore sing to the Lord in response!
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." (Ps 107:1) Amen.
What will my response be when man falsely accuse and persecute me?
What will my response be when Christian brothers betray, attack or desert me?
What will my response be when Christian leaders fail me?
What will my response be when I am hurting badly and seething with anger?
I am not sure how I will respond when times like this comes my way. Yet I have seen many lives destroyed or crushed by their response to these situations. It can be difficult to hold on to God and easy to let loose our hurts and fury in such situations. But if there is one thing that should govern our response, it must be God Himself - His very words. How then should a Christian respond to such situations in life?
In times when things turned against us, sometimes without reason, we must cling on to God. To believe that He is in control, He knows what's best, and He will make all things well someday; even though we cannot see it now and we are in tears. There is great Hope because of Jesus Christ. He has saved us, redeemed us, make us His very own and given us eternal and abundant life. (John 1:12; 3:16; 10:10) Our earthly life is but for a moment; then we shall have no more tears for eternity, and our troubles on earth will be nothing in light of our eternal glory in Him. (2 Cor 4:16-17)
In times when man falsely accuse you and attack you, even Christian brothers, be patient. For God will judge justly and bring about His righteous wrath. (Rom 12:19) It is not right for you and I to take matters into our own hands and repay evil for evil. (Rom 12:17; 1 Thess 5:15) Rather, we must overcome evil with good.(Rom 12:21) We must never sinned in our anger with the words we say and the actions we do. We must be wise not to play the devil's game and not to let him have a foothold in our lives through our response(Eph 4:26-27) Be patient and stand firm in the Lord.
In times when Christian leaders fail you, pray. This is a time when you could find yourself confused, disappointed, angry, upset, bitter or a mixture of everything. It is vital to pray at such times because this is when the devil will incite and deceive you and many in your church. Widespread rumours, misunderstandings, divisions and fights is the devil's gameplan. Let us not be deceived into becoming a tool for him but let us be self-controlled and alert; for the devil is taking such opportunities to devour people up in church. (1 Peter 5:8) Pray for your leaders, and ask the Lord to show you what is happening and how to deal with it wisely. (Rom 15:30; James 1:5)
And in all things, always pray and always give thanks to God in all circumstances. (1 Thess 5:17-18)
And to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer. (Rom 12:12)
Let us therefore sing to the Lord in response!
"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever." (Ps 107:1) Amen.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Death, Hope and Christ
Two deaths in a week. One, an elderly man, and the other in his 50s.
No one can fathom death - it does not announce the time to go, it can happen to anyone, it can be unexpected, it does not state its reason.
One moment he is talking, and the next moment he is no more. Are not "our days like grass? Like a flower of the field where the wind blows over it and it is gone?"(Ps 103:15-16)
If our citizenship is not in heaven, we would have lost all hope. But praise be to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who have gone ahead of us to prepare a place for us in heaven. (Phil 3:20; John 14:2)
And so even though death does always bring pain while we're still here, we know that death's pain do not last forever because we have a great hope in Jesus Christ. That one day we shall meet our Lord and Saviour face to face, and also all those we've missed on earth because they have gone ahead of us.
"Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"
- 1 Cor 15:55
It is no more because of Jesus Christ. For "neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Rom 8:38-39
Yes. His love endures forever - over pain, over grief, over death. His love endures forever. (Ps 118:1)
May the peace of God be with those who are grieving now, and may the hope found in Christ strengthen them and comfort them. His love endures forever. Amen.
No one can fathom death - it does not announce the time to go, it can happen to anyone, it can be unexpected, it does not state its reason.
One moment he is talking, and the next moment he is no more. Are not "our days like grass? Like a flower of the field where the wind blows over it and it is gone?"(Ps 103:15-16)
If our citizenship is not in heaven, we would have lost all hope. But praise be to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ who have gone ahead of us to prepare a place for us in heaven. (Phil 3:20; John 14:2)
And so even though death does always bring pain while we're still here, we know that death's pain do not last forever because we have a great hope in Jesus Christ. That one day we shall meet our Lord and Saviour face to face, and also all those we've missed on earth because they have gone ahead of us.
"Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"
- 1 Cor 15:55
It is no more because of Jesus Christ. For "neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." - Rom 8:38-39
Yes. His love endures forever - over pain, over grief, over death. His love endures forever. (Ps 118:1)
May the peace of God be with those who are grieving now, and may the hope found in Christ strengthen them and comfort them. His love endures forever. Amen.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Be Equipped in Evangelising - XEE
I just finished the XEE (www.xee.info) training a few days ago and it has been a great experience. Out of the days we've spent listening, discussing, laughing & sharing, 4 persons have come to know the Lord through connecting with them with the gospel. Isn't God wonderful?
XEE is a tool used for evangelism and to train others to do the same. What I really like about XEE is that it has a solid theological basis in sharing the gospel message (I am sure a lot of thoughts and prayer have gone into it) and it advocates evangelism as a process, a lifestyle. It helps believers to see that sharing the gospel is a very doable 'task' and that relationship/connection matters in the sharing process - significant conversations and dialogue as opposed to a "you listen to me only" method. This is especially helpful with modern city folks - especially the younger generation. Last but not least, the training is fueled by prayers - the host church got their folks involved by getting them to be prayer partners with the trainees. Isn't that awesome?
And oh, I've just shared the gospel with my mum (yea, you must be thinking what took me so long huh) in a way which I think is most complete and understandable.(though I've shared bits and pieces before). So you see my friends, getting yourself equipped is important. And always pray for your friends and family who have yet to know Jesus. Pray on.
"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God" - 2 Cor 5:20
XEE is a tool used for evangelism and to train others to do the same. What I really like about XEE is that it has a solid theological basis in sharing the gospel message (I am sure a lot of thoughts and prayer have gone into it) and it advocates evangelism as a process, a lifestyle. It helps believers to see that sharing the gospel is a very doable 'task' and that relationship/connection matters in the sharing process - significant conversations and dialogue as opposed to a "you listen to me only" method. This is especially helpful with modern city folks - especially the younger generation. Last but not least, the training is fueled by prayers - the host church got their folks involved by getting them to be prayer partners with the trainees. Isn't that awesome?
And oh, I've just shared the gospel with my mum (yea, you must be thinking what took me so long huh) in a way which I think is most complete and understandable.(though I've shared bits and pieces before). So you see my friends, getting yourself equipped is important. And always pray for your friends and family who have yet to know Jesus. Pray on.
"We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God" - 2 Cor 5:20
Friday, May 21, 2010
Homosexuality and Faith
This is something I believe many Christians do not ask nor do many churches want to talk about other than to give an easy statement that "Homosexuality is a sin" and freely proclaimed that "God loves the sinner but hates the sin". But let's face the facts - most churches and Christians are ill-equipped to engage and help our homosexual friends through their faith journey. Okay, maybe that sounded too mechanical as if to convey that the heterosexuals are alright and the homosexuals are not and therefore the heterosexuals must do something to help the homosexuals. How about saying that most churches and Christians are prejudiced and suspicious of homosexuals? And to add to the list, they are ignorant as well.
I'm not a liberal nor a saint. All I am saying is that, we(the Christian community at large-the Church) who claimed to be Jesus' disciples are NOT listening (at least most of us are not) to Christian homosexuals with a spirit of patience, compassion, prayer and much needed wisdom. Is there such a thing(i.e. a Christian who is a homosexual) you asked? Yes, there is - in Singapore, as well as in the world. (the term "Christian" denotes anyone who believes Jesus as their Lord and Saviour) Whether you agree there is such a thing as a "Christian homosexual" is another thing. The fact is, they(Christians with a different sexual orientation and lifestyle) exist.
How do we view them? Have we tried to understand them? Are we willing to walk through their struggles in life? Is it possible to reconcile their faith and sexuality? What if they could not change their sexual orientation? I wonder if we have ever asked ourselves such questions, and reflect in light of Scriptures and other resources which may shed some light to these questions.
I'm not going into a research or debate on this. But if you happened to be a Christian or church leader reading this, I think it's high time God's community (His church) learn how to engage "different" people in the proper manner.
For more information,
1. Is the Homosexual my Neighbour? (Tony Campolo and his wife shares their different opinion on homosexuality. Audio files available here)
2. The Great Debate - are homosexual relationships sinful? (Read 2 different views from 2 homosexuals who believe in Jesus. One said yes to the question, one said no)
3. Exodus International: FAQ on homosexuality (Exodus is a nonprofit, interdenominational Christian organization promoting the message of Freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus Christ)
4. What is the definition of change? (Some definition by ex-gay movements of what it means when one said that a homosexual has changed)
5. Examining the Scientific Evidence for Homosexuality by Dr John Tay, Professor and Head of Department of Paediatrics, National University of Singapore (1973-1995) and Head of the Division of Human Genetics in Singapore.
6. Google, search the library and get to know your friends who are homosexuals. That'll help.
Perhaps I'll end with a cliche: WWJD - What Will Jesus Do?
Go figure it.
I'm not a liberal nor a saint. All I am saying is that, we(the Christian community at large-the Church) who claimed to be Jesus' disciples are NOT listening (at least most of us are not) to Christian homosexuals with a spirit of patience, compassion, prayer and much needed wisdom. Is there such a thing(i.e. a Christian who is a homosexual) you asked? Yes, there is - in Singapore, as well as in the world. (the term "Christian" denotes anyone who believes Jesus as their Lord and Saviour) Whether you agree there is such a thing as a "Christian homosexual" is another thing. The fact is, they(Christians with a different sexual orientation and lifestyle) exist.
How do we view them? Have we tried to understand them? Are we willing to walk through their struggles in life? Is it possible to reconcile their faith and sexuality? What if they could not change their sexual orientation? I wonder if we have ever asked ourselves such questions, and reflect in light of Scriptures and other resources which may shed some light to these questions.
I'm not going into a research or debate on this. But if you happened to be a Christian or church leader reading this, I think it's high time God's community (His church) learn how to engage "different" people in the proper manner.
For more information,
1. Is the Homosexual my Neighbour? (Tony Campolo and his wife shares their different opinion on homosexuality. Audio files available here)
2. The Great Debate - are homosexual relationships sinful? (Read 2 different views from 2 homosexuals who believe in Jesus. One said yes to the question, one said no)
3. Exodus International: FAQ on homosexuality (Exodus is a nonprofit, interdenominational Christian organization promoting the message of Freedom from homosexuality through the power of Jesus Christ)
4. What is the definition of change? (Some definition by ex-gay movements of what it means when one said that a homosexual has changed)
5. Examining the Scientific Evidence for Homosexuality by Dr John Tay, Professor and Head of Department of Paediatrics, National University of Singapore (1973-1995) and Head of the Division of Human Genetics in Singapore.
6. Google, search the library and get to know your friends who are homosexuals. That'll help.
Perhaps I'll end with a cliche: WWJD - What Will Jesus Do?
Go figure it.
Friday, May 07, 2010
Faithfulness is a Lifelong Journey. It doesn't stop.
Today's address by Dr Maak Hay Chun, who have served the Lord for over 60 years in missions and church planting, theological education and pastoral ministry, CCCOWE and other ministries, left a deep impression on me.
He admitted his health is not as good, his eyesight is failing and he wasn't as mobile as he would like to be. But when he speaks, my goodness, it didn't really matter that he couldn't see well anymore or that he has just turned 80; his words are alive, and he is still actively serving the Lord.
Faithfulness.
Faithfulness is when you receive your doctorate in Theology at age 81. That is Singapore Bible College's first principal, the late Rev.Dr.Moses Yu. Faithful in learning until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep going, keep thinking and keep dreaming at age 82. "We would have heard him speak on any issue, but when he had been introduced Dr. Winter said, “If you have a burning question, I’d like to hear it; I may not be able to help, but I like to work on burning questions." Some people see things as they are and ask, “Why?”; Dr. Winter dreamed things that never were and said, “Why not?” That is the late Dr.Ralph Winter. Faithful in engaging until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep working for His kingdom sake, never despising your age and lack of ability. We have no ability anyway, apart from what He had given us and using those abilities through His empowerment to carry out His task.
"Dr.Ralph Winter elaborated that if a person begins his ministry at the age of 30 and lives to the age of 90 he is only half through at the age of 60. He pointed out that some of the most significant work accomplished in ministry and in the secular world is accomplished by persons in their seventies and beyond. Dr. Donald McGavran, at the age of 80 with the Church Growth Movement, is an example."
Faithful in serving until the end.
Faithfulness is a lifelong journey. A journey until we see the Lord again and hear His joyous words, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master." Let's keep walking, even as age catches up. Amen.
Quotes and information from:
Rev.Dr. Moses Yu - http://www.gospelherald.net/article/ministries/46208/chinese-evangelist-rev-moses-yu-died-at-91.htm
Dr.Ralph Winter - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p39)
Dr.Donald McGravan - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p44)
He admitted his health is not as good, his eyesight is failing and he wasn't as mobile as he would like to be. But when he speaks, my goodness, it didn't really matter that he couldn't see well anymore or that he has just turned 80; his words are alive, and he is still actively serving the Lord.
Faithfulness.
Faithfulness is when you receive your doctorate in Theology at age 81. That is Singapore Bible College's first principal, the late Rev.Dr.Moses Yu. Faithful in learning until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep going, keep thinking and keep dreaming at age 82. "We would have heard him speak on any issue, but when he had been introduced Dr. Winter said, “If you have a burning question, I’d like to hear it; I may not be able to help, but I like to work on burning questions." Some people see things as they are and ask, “Why?”; Dr. Winter dreamed things that never were and said, “Why not?” That is the late Dr.Ralph Winter. Faithful in engaging until the end.
Faithfulness is when you keep working for His kingdom sake, never despising your age and lack of ability. We have no ability anyway, apart from what He had given us and using those abilities through His empowerment to carry out His task.
"Dr.Ralph Winter elaborated that if a person begins his ministry at the age of 30 and lives to the age of 90 he is only half through at the age of 60. He pointed out that some of the most significant work accomplished in ministry and in the secular world is accomplished by persons in their seventies and beyond. Dr. Donald McGavran, at the age of 80 with the Church Growth Movement, is an example."
Faithful in serving until the end.
Faithfulness is a lifelong journey. A journey until we see the Lord again and hear His joyous words, "Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of your Master." Let's keep walking, even as age catches up. Amen.
Quotes and information from:
Rev.Dr. Moses Yu - http://www.gospelherald.net/article/ministries/46208/chinese-evangelist-rev-moses-yu-died-at-91.htm
Dr.Ralph Winter - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p39)
Dr.Donald McGravan - http://www.missionfrontiers.org/pdf/2009/03/34-49%20Various%20Tributes.pdf (p44)
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Get Real
I think today's match sums up Arsenal's season. Isn't it plain for anyone to see their weaknesses? But what's frustrating is: Wenger's not buying players to fill up the big gaps Arsenal is having. Throughout the seasons(note: plural. that's how long we haven't touch something shiny), it is clear where Arsenal's weaknesses are. YET, there is little done to address the issues.
1. Goalkeeper: Fabianski??? (gimme a break!!!) Even Almunia, who is a decent shot-stopper, is not good enough. We NEED a SOLID international!!!! (Read: Van der Sar, Cech, Given, Reina)
2. Defence: Get one more solid defender who can be 1st team or a backup. Silvestre and Campbell is too slow for EPL. Remember that we don't have a Vieira to protect anymore!
3. Midfield: Get a solid DM. Song is improving but I don't see him in the class of Vieira, at least not yet. Other than that, we have lotsa midfielders who are all inconsistent barring Fab.
4. Forward: Besides RVP, the rest are underperforming. Bendtner misses too much and Eduardo has lost his form. Get a solid international will you?
sign,
Another miserable Arsenal fan.
1. Goalkeeper: Fabianski??? (gimme a break!!!) Even Almunia, who is a decent shot-stopper, is not good enough. We NEED a SOLID international!!!! (Read: Van der Sar, Cech, Given, Reina)
2. Defence: Get one more solid defender who can be 1st team or a backup. Silvestre and Campbell is too slow for EPL. Remember that we don't have a Vieira to protect anymore!
3. Midfield: Get a solid DM. Song is improving but I don't see him in the class of Vieira, at least not yet. Other than that, we have lotsa midfielders who are all inconsistent barring Fab.
4. Forward: Besides RVP, the rest are underperforming. Bendtner misses too much and Eduardo has lost his form. Get a solid international will you?
sign,
Another miserable Arsenal fan.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Be encouraged. The LORD is God.
Sometimes in life, you can't help but feel dejected and discouraged as you look at seemingly dire circumstances. Perhaps you feel like Elijah(2 Kings 19), utterly discouraged and even depressed by what you see.
But God is good. He is always on time to show us the truth - i.e. He is always at work - and just at the right moment, He reveals His work and encouraged us by His mighty acts. God told Elijah, "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel-all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
Are there times when you feel an acute burden for God's people? And become discouraged by what you see? I have good news for you. God is not dead. He is the living God who has always been working in the lives of His people. Yes, some might be very cold, some might be only outwardly hot, but yet God has not left Himself without a people whose hearts are tender and who will seek His face.
The truth is:
I cannot do anything.
God can do all things.
Therefore I will stop lamenting,
come to Him in prayer
and meditate upon his truth.
"Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." (Ps 100:3)
Amen.
But God is good. He is always on time to show us the truth - i.e. He is always at work - and just at the right moment, He reveals His work and encouraged us by His mighty acts. God told Elijah, "Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel-all whose knees have not bowed to Baal and all whose mouths have not kissed him."
Are there times when you feel an acute burden for God's people? And become discouraged by what you see? I have good news for you. God is not dead. He is the living God who has always been working in the lives of His people. Yes, some might be very cold, some might be only outwardly hot, but yet God has not left Himself without a people whose hearts are tender and who will seek His face.
The truth is:
I cannot do anything.
God can do all things.
Therefore I will stop lamenting,
come to Him in prayer
and meditate upon his truth.
"Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." (Ps 100:3)
Amen.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Enjoying His Presence in Silence
"Eh, dear God. Can you tell me this... and this... and this..." (me)
Silence. (God)
Same questions on occasional moments. (me)
Same Silence. (God)
God spoke through Habbakuk. (me)
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together" (God)
So we sat at the couch, savouring every moment of precious quality time together. (me and God)
"Ahhh... now I know what you desire Lord" (me)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
My dear friends. God is not hard of hearing nor is He far.
Even in silence, one can communicate a lot - not verbal but relishing the presence of each other. Perhaps God wants to teach you this too.
That many times, God just want you to enjoy His presence; spending that quiet time together. Your answer will come, but for now, savour that wonderful moment together with Him.
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together"
Silence. (God)
Same questions on occasional moments. (me)
Same Silence. (God)
God spoke through Habbakuk. (me)
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together" (God)
So we sat at the couch, savouring every moment of precious quality time together. (me and God)
"Ahhh... now I know what you desire Lord" (me)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
My dear friends. God is not hard of hearing nor is He far.
Even in silence, one can communicate a lot - not verbal but relishing the presence of each other. Perhaps God wants to teach you this too.
That many times, God just want you to enjoy His presence; spending that quiet time together. Your answer will come, but for now, savour that wonderful moment together with Him.
"Shhhh...come, let us enjoy this moment together"
Friday, February 12, 2010
Sound Doctrine
Excerpt from "A Revolution of Love" by George Verwer
"There is, I believe, a basic ingredient which is largely lacking in Christianity today, and the lack of it is the source of most of our problems. It is the cancer which is eating away at the church, but it is no secret. In fact, it is so non-secretive that it is written on almost every page of the New Testament. And yet, because the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked, and because we are so bent on our own way, we do not see (or seeing we do not believe) that the basic message of the New Testament is LOVE! It is my absolute conviction that most of us miss this most obvious and most repeated message, even while laying great emphasis on "sound doctrine".
Well, I would like to ask you, "What is sound doctrine?" We have long discussions on the Second Coming, on the Atoning Work of Christ, on the Church, the Holy Spirit, etc etc. But what about love and humility and brokenness? These usually go into a separate category, but I want to tell you that if your doctrine does not include love and humility and brokenness, then your doctrine is not sound.
Doctrine cannot be separated from practical living. He is not sound in doctrine if he does not love the brethren. What do we read in 1 John 4:8? "He that loveth not knoweth not God." There is no sounder doctrine than love, and apart from love there is no sound doctrine. This is the basis of all Bible doctrine. You take the base out and everything you build will eventually collapse."
May we love our enemies and love our neighbours as ourselves with the help of Christ. Amen.
"There is, I believe, a basic ingredient which is largely lacking in Christianity today, and the lack of it is the source of most of our problems. It is the cancer which is eating away at the church, but it is no secret. In fact, it is so non-secretive that it is written on almost every page of the New Testament. And yet, because the heart of man is deceitful and desperately wicked, and because we are so bent on our own way, we do not see (or seeing we do not believe) that the basic message of the New Testament is LOVE! It is my absolute conviction that most of us miss this most obvious and most repeated message, even while laying great emphasis on "sound doctrine".
Well, I would like to ask you, "What is sound doctrine?" We have long discussions on the Second Coming, on the Atoning Work of Christ, on the Church, the Holy Spirit, etc etc. But what about love and humility and brokenness? These usually go into a separate category, but I want to tell you that if your doctrine does not include love and humility and brokenness, then your doctrine is not sound.
Doctrine cannot be separated from practical living. He is not sound in doctrine if he does not love the brethren. What do we read in 1 John 4:8? "He that loveth not knoweth not God." There is no sounder doctrine than love, and apart from love there is no sound doctrine. This is the basis of all Bible doctrine. You take the base out and everything you build will eventually collapse."
May we love our enemies and love our neighbours as ourselves with the help of Christ. Amen.
Monday, February 08, 2010
Football and Spiritual Lessons
We're not into the 2nd half and Arsenal is already 2 goals down. By now, I've stopped watching because 1)I'm very frustrated 2)I don't have the faith to believe they'll equalize, let alone win. I'm very frustrated because they are making the same defensive mistakes. Can you equalize Arsenal? Can you prove me wrong Arsenal? It's too painful to continue watching. I'll know the result tomorrow.
On a sidetrack, there're many spiritual lessons we can learn from football. Examples:
1. I thank God that He is faithful and He will win the day - unlike the uncertainty of Arsenal winning every game. God always win. The result may be 2-0 but He'll win 2-3 or probably more. He'll win - that's for sure - cos He has already won on the cross.
2. Sometimes I wonder if God is feeling as frustrated as me when he watched our lives being played out on earth like a football match. Like Arsenal, we may be smart & having great potential but prone to repeating our mistakes and slow in changing our ways. Don't you think God gets frustrated? My pledge to Arsenal is that I'll remain its supporter no matter what - but I don't have full faith in believing they can win the title or beat Chelsea tonight. God is somewhat similar but very different. His pledge is that He'll remain our God no matter what - and unlike me - He is faithful even when we are faithless(2 Tim 2:13) And as much as He is frustrated and as much as it pains Him to see us fumble like Arsenal, He'll not let go and will cheer us on all the way. What a great God we serve.
Back to the topic, R.I.P Arsenal or prove me wrong.
On a sidetrack, there're many spiritual lessons we can learn from football. Examples:
1. I thank God that He is faithful and He will win the day - unlike the uncertainty of Arsenal winning every game. God always win. The result may be 2-0 but He'll win 2-3 or probably more. He'll win - that's for sure - cos He has already won on the cross.
2. Sometimes I wonder if God is feeling as frustrated as me when he watched our lives being played out on earth like a football match. Like Arsenal, we may be smart & having great potential but prone to repeating our mistakes and slow in changing our ways. Don't you think God gets frustrated? My pledge to Arsenal is that I'll remain its supporter no matter what - but I don't have full faith in believing they can win the title or beat Chelsea tonight. God is somewhat similar but very different. His pledge is that He'll remain our God no matter what - and unlike me - He is faithful even when we are faithless(2 Tim 2:13) And as much as He is frustrated and as much as it pains Him to see us fumble like Arsenal, He'll not let go and will cheer us on all the way. What a great God we serve.
Back to the topic, R.I.P Arsenal or prove me wrong.
Monday, February 01, 2010
Tactics & Players Mattered
I'm looking at Arsenal's loss against Man U. Fergie got his tactics spot on and crushed Arsenal. If you haven't notice, Arsenal's tactics are as predictable as a sunrise. The chief reason is the lack of players for them to change tactically, and secondly, they always play the same way!
1. Fergie changed his normal 4-4-2 to a 4-5-1(4-3-2-1) in order to cramp the midfield because that was Arsenal's main attack supply. Without a smooth midfield, Arsenal can't do anything. They suck at long balls, they're not direct enough and they don't depend on wingplay and crosses. So if their passing game is disrupted, Arsenal can hardly attack well.
2. Wenger had little options in attack. I'm sure he's still cursing the Dutch FA. Van Persie was such an integral part of the firing gunners early in the season. Arshavin was isolated up front and he's hardly an out-and-out striker. Notice what happened when Walcott burst down the right wing and whip in a cross? NO GUNNERS were near the box - I only saw 4 Man U defenders in a straight line. Sums up Arsenal's attack yesterday.
3. Fergie got Fletcher or Carrick to snap at Fabregas everytime he got the ball. Fab didn't have much manoeuvre space in the whole game. The man-to-man marking and pressing pushed him off his game and he wasn't really able to push up to attack.
4. Wenger likes denilson a lot. I don't know why. With Song(as acting DM) and Fab playmaking, there is really no space to put him into an already crammed midfield. While Bendtner is not a prolific striker, he can cause plenty of problems up front with his height and running. I would think putting him in(yes, it's a risk when he has just returned from injury) is a better option than putting in denilson. He seems lost in the whole game.
5. Fergie's use of Park Ji Sung in every Arsenal game whenever he's available. That's because Park can attack and runs back to defend with his unlimited stamina and power workrate. He's quick enough too for Arsenal.
6. We've seen enough how susceptible Arsenal is to counter attacks. Man City and Chelsea have shown that and now Man U too. The reason? Not enough protection for two surging fullbacks(wingbacks) and sometimes even surging centrebacks(Gallas and Vermaelen) who got really frustrated sometimes because the midfielders got stuck in their passing game when opponents mark man them. So time and again, Arsenal is badly exposed and not quick enough to recover. Against top teams(who are fast and make their chances really count), that spells doom.
It's really frustrating watching them repeat the same kind of defeats. I wish....
1. I have Van Der Sar, Cech or Given as goalkeepr. Why Wenger chose to stick with Almunia and not bought Given is a mystery. Our goalkeeper is not even good enough to be in a national team!
2. Van Persie is not injured. He would have balanced out Arsenal's lack of strikers.
3. We have more players like Arshavin. Experienced, skillful and top quality. A top class goalkeeper and winger/s would be very much appreciated. (I just don't see Rosicky and Nasri being able to fit into Arsenal. They're too similar to Fab's preference of a centre attacking role. Putting them on the left and right are not working out well)
I hope the next 2 big games would not be a repeat. Else, it's goodbye Arsenal again.
1. Fergie changed his normal 4-4-2 to a 4-5-1(4-3-2-1) in order to cramp the midfield because that was Arsenal's main attack supply. Without a smooth midfield, Arsenal can't do anything. They suck at long balls, they're not direct enough and they don't depend on wingplay and crosses. So if their passing game is disrupted, Arsenal can hardly attack well.
2. Wenger had little options in attack. I'm sure he's still cursing the Dutch FA. Van Persie was such an integral part of the firing gunners early in the season. Arshavin was isolated up front and he's hardly an out-and-out striker. Notice what happened when Walcott burst down the right wing and whip in a cross? NO GUNNERS were near the box - I only saw 4 Man U defenders in a straight line. Sums up Arsenal's attack yesterday.
3. Fergie got Fletcher or Carrick to snap at Fabregas everytime he got the ball. Fab didn't have much manoeuvre space in the whole game. The man-to-man marking and pressing pushed him off his game and he wasn't really able to push up to attack.
4. Wenger likes denilson a lot. I don't know why. With Song(as acting DM) and Fab playmaking, there is really no space to put him into an already crammed midfield. While Bendtner is not a prolific striker, he can cause plenty of problems up front with his height and running. I would think putting him in(yes, it's a risk when he has just returned from injury) is a better option than putting in denilson. He seems lost in the whole game.
5. Fergie's use of Park Ji Sung in every Arsenal game whenever he's available. That's because Park can attack and runs back to defend with his unlimited stamina and power workrate. He's quick enough too for Arsenal.
6. We've seen enough how susceptible Arsenal is to counter attacks. Man City and Chelsea have shown that and now Man U too. The reason? Not enough protection for two surging fullbacks(wingbacks) and sometimes even surging centrebacks(Gallas and Vermaelen) who got really frustrated sometimes because the midfielders got stuck in their passing game when opponents mark man them. So time and again, Arsenal is badly exposed and not quick enough to recover. Against top teams(who are fast and make their chances really count), that spells doom.
It's really frustrating watching them repeat the same kind of defeats. I wish....
1. I have Van Der Sar, Cech or Given as goalkeepr. Why Wenger chose to stick with Almunia and not bought Given is a mystery. Our goalkeeper is not even good enough to be in a national team!
2. Van Persie is not injured. He would have balanced out Arsenal's lack of strikers.
3. We have more players like Arshavin. Experienced, skillful and top quality. A top class goalkeeper and winger/s would be very much appreciated. (I just don't see Rosicky and Nasri being able to fit into Arsenal. They're too similar to Fab's preference of a centre attacking role. Putting them on the left and right are not working out well)
I hope the next 2 big games would not be a repeat. Else, it's goodbye Arsenal again.
Arsene's Fantasy
I like Arsenal's football but the dream(of winning with a weak defence) is way too flawed.
If you have noticed, Arsenal's defence is weak because:
1. They seldom press for the ball. They tend to have 2-3 players standing around an opponent while giving the opponent enough space to manoeuvre. If you've seen enough Arsenal's matches, many teams have bypassed 2-3 of their players at one go with good, direct passes.
2. They have no strong ball winners in the centre of the park. While I must say Song is getting better, he's hardly in the mould of Patrick Vieira or Flamini - players who not only deliver solid tackles, but wins the ball back with their energy, initiative and determination.
So now we're down 3-0 to Man U and the reasons?
1. Nani skipped past some static standing Arsenal players. The unfortunate Almunia scored an own goal. A repeated pattern of static standing Arsenal players letting opponents through way too easily.
2. Were Arsenal outnumbered at the back when Man U counter attack? NO. The reason was Denilson failed to follow through with Rooney. He ran back but slowed down towards the penalty area for no good reason. By the time Rooney got the ball, none of the Arsenal players was nowhere NEAR him!!! Utterly atrocious!
3. Another counter attack and this time, the defence gone missing. Arsenal is painfully slow in running back(did you notice Song slowing down his run??).
So again, Arsenal have summed up much of its season so far. Good potential, but not good enough. I don't believe a team with a weak defence can win titles. They can leak in goals, but they must be able to defend well. The reason for Arsenal's invincible win in 2003-2004? A solid attack and solid defence.
So Chelsea thrash them 3-0 at the Emirates and now Man U. Highbury used to be a fortress and the Emirates isn't really in the same class. The difference is not so much the place than the players(especially the defence). And Arsenal need a solid leader who can bark at his defence. I rest my case Wenger. You can continue your fantasy but I'm getting tired. So are Arsenal fans. Come on.
If you have noticed, Arsenal's defence is weak because:
1. They seldom press for the ball. They tend to have 2-3 players standing around an opponent while giving the opponent enough space to manoeuvre. If you've seen enough Arsenal's matches, many teams have bypassed 2-3 of their players at one go with good, direct passes.
2. They have no strong ball winners in the centre of the park. While I must say Song is getting better, he's hardly in the mould of Patrick Vieira or Flamini - players who not only deliver solid tackles, but wins the ball back with their energy, initiative and determination.
So now we're down 3-0 to Man U and the reasons?
1. Nani skipped past some static standing Arsenal players. The unfortunate Almunia scored an own goal. A repeated pattern of static standing Arsenal players letting opponents through way too easily.
2. Were Arsenal outnumbered at the back when Man U counter attack? NO. The reason was Denilson failed to follow through with Rooney. He ran back but slowed down towards the penalty area for no good reason. By the time Rooney got the ball, none of the Arsenal players was nowhere NEAR him!!! Utterly atrocious!
3. Another counter attack and this time, the defence gone missing. Arsenal is painfully slow in running back(did you notice Song slowing down his run??).
So again, Arsenal have summed up much of its season so far. Good potential, but not good enough. I don't believe a team with a weak defence can win titles. They can leak in goals, but they must be able to defend well. The reason for Arsenal's invincible win in 2003-2004? A solid attack and solid defence.
So Chelsea thrash them 3-0 at the Emirates and now Man U. Highbury used to be a fortress and the Emirates isn't really in the same class. The difference is not so much the place than the players(especially the defence). And Arsenal need a solid leader who can bark at his defence. I rest my case Wenger. You can continue your fantasy but I'm getting tired. So are Arsenal fans. Come on.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Kindred Spirit
Kindred Spirit - "A person whose interests are similar to one's own"
I've found more and more kindred spirits in school and I'm really blessed to learn from them and had the opportunity to share my life's experiences too. Some of them are waiting for God's direction in cross cultural work, some are struggling with institutional policies & structures that baffle, and some had the same passion in a certain area of ministry.
It's been a blessing to have kindred spirits. They encourage one to carry on walking with God in his journey because they understand, they affirm and they make one realised he's not alone.
Thank God for kindred spirits. It's wonderful.
I've found more and more kindred spirits in school and I'm really blessed to learn from them and had the opportunity to share my life's experiences too. Some of them are waiting for God's direction in cross cultural work, some are struggling with institutional policies & structures that baffle, and some had the same passion in a certain area of ministry.
It's been a blessing to have kindred spirits. They encourage one to carry on walking with God in his journey because they understand, they affirm and they make one realised he's not alone.
Thank God for kindred spirits. It's wonderful.
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