Center Down

Read this recently in my church magazine.. felt it was really appropriate as we begin a brand new year in Him

This is the key to being refreshed in the midst of busyness. Keep your spiritual anchor deep in God. Center down.
In the midst of our busyness, the world’s perspective is to SLOW DOWN while God’s prescription is to CENTER DOWN.

• Slowing down deals with our running; centering down deals with our Lostness
• Slowing down questions our capacity; centering down questions our confusion
• Slowing down offers us a consolation; centering down offers us a compass
• Slowing down helps us catch a breath; centering down helps us catch a vision
• Slowing down blames external environment; centering down examines our inner roots.
• Slowing down is a vicious cycle; centering down is a vital solution.
• Centering down is all about anchoring with Jesus!

In London, the geographical heart is Charing Cross. All distances are measured from it. This historic spot is referred to simply as ‘the cross’.

One day, a lost chile was picked up by a London policeman, or ‘bobby’ as they are called. They child was unable to tell where he lived.

Finally, in response to the repeated questions of the bobby, and amid sobs and tears, the little boy said, “If you will take me to the cross, I think I can find my way from there.“

So true in life as well. Take us to the Cross of Jesus, and we will be able to find our way from there! =)

Men's Breakthrough...

Just returned from our church's Men's Breakthrough weekend...
It's been an awesome few days! I'm thankful I went...

Funny thing was I went there reluctantly... at first
in fact, the night before I was feeling rather sick..and lousy. And I really did not feel like going.
But I was to facilitate a group, and lead worship on one of the mornings.. so I could not just not show up =(

So Lil prayed for me.. that God would heal me (I had a sore throat, felt weak in the whole body, had sense that I was a the verge of a full viral attack or something) and that God would bless me this weekend. And the next morning I woke up.. completely WELL! It was quite unbelievable... my throat felt normal, no other sicky symptoms at all. Praise God!

Then God used gentle reminders throughout the 1st day to tell me that He wanted me there. Hearing other brothers share about their life stories (including a guy who got married twice... to the same woman!) blessed me tremendously. Yet again, I was reminded of God's love for me... He wanted me there. He wanted to show me His love. And He wanted to do it thru these brothers.

Then my own group... who even before this weekend had already began to open up their lives to each other through email.. each of them, their honesty, their authenticity and their strong desire to be more like Christ blessed and encouraged me so much! Truth is, it was not difficult at all to lead this group. It didn't take much to coax them to share openly etc.

Thank you Lord for once again demonstrating that you know best! =)

Not cross-posting well...

I've been posting most of my blogs on my Multiply site...
and it's supposed to do cross-posting to my blogger site as well.. but it's not been workin' as well...

So for those of you who still visit here.. I suggest u go to
http://muffyn71.multiply.com/

here u can read my blog.. and also view my pics (if u sign up as a multiply user.. which is real easy!) =)

Falling more in love with Jesus

Our Staff Summit went really well last week.. I had a dream planning committee!
Everyone in my team was self-motivated, talented and effective & efficient... it really made my job rather 'redundant'.. =) Thanks guys for making it a fun time for me! It was indeed a joy & privilege to co-labour with each of u!

Had an interesting conversation with a friend one of the nites...
It was her response to what I shared about my experiences at Lausanne that set me thinking!
She said 'Hearing this kind of stories..and your story... really made me fall more in love with Jesus...'

We went on to talk about how sometimes we measure our walk with Jesus by how much we've grown... when it might be more helpful to see it from the point of view how much we're more in love with Jesus.

We live in a world that is focussed on growth! And there's really nothing wrong with with growth.. in fact, it's essential that we grow, develop, learn etc. But too often, our perspective of growth is 'we got to get this right', 'we need to grow out of this rut', 'we need to be able to do this better' etc.etc. And perhaps as a result we get ourselves frustrated.. when we realize that we still make the same mistakes, fall into the same 'pits' in our life, commit the same sins over and over again... =( So we may conclude that we've not grown.. and we get discouraged.. or worse, disillusioned.

The past few months as I look back at all the stuff I've gone thru in my life.. and in my walk with God.. I can quite safely say that I've 'grown'... but I'd like to think that instead of measuring from a growth point of view... I've become more in love with Jesus!
Having witnessed all that He's done in my own life.. and experienced His love over and over again, unconditionally each time... I know He's so in love with me. And it's caused me love Him more...

Coming back to my conversation with my friend... I went to bed that night thinkin' ... I like it that whenever I relate God's stories in my life others 'fall more in love with Jesus'... because they catch glimpses of God's great love for them too... =) That will be my motivation for sharing my heart, reflecting all that God has done.

I pray too, for many of you who read my updates (on this blog) will 'fall more in love with Jesus' too whenever you read reports, hear stories of God's faithfulness and love in our lives!
That would make all this blogging, journalling so worth it!

Going on my 1st MRT!

Yep... in about a month's time.. Lil and I will be headed for our 1st MRT 'ride'... =)
It's ForeRunner's Mongolia Resource Trip.

ForeRunner's heartbeat has always been for the lost. However, recognizing that we cannot reach the world alone, we seek to equip, enhance and empower other like-minded music ministers and ministries to help them reach their target groups more effectively. This strategy, is in many ways, is like ForeRunner's way of 'Discipleship', multiplying our efforts to help fulfill the Great Commission.

We've been invited to train and cast vision for the staff and graduating students who are very keen on starting a music ministry. Their National Director has recently given them a green light to officially start a music ministry.

Our goal there is to further inspire them with what we do in ForeRunner... share our experiences, success models, what has worked for us, what has not... conduct some training... share some resources... show them our materials.. do some consultations (answer their questions with regards to starting music ministry, philosophy of music ministry etc.) While we are there.. of course we hope to encourage them, pray for them, share lives with them.

Lil has been 'itching' for some action.. plus she's got fond memories of our trip there in 2001 (when we took Josh then 3, and Emily then 7months). So I'm really glad that she can make this trip. Mom has kindly offered to take care of the 3 kids.. again, so that she can go freely to minister! =) We originally thot of bring Josh along.. but because of a recent asthma attack, and the cold temperatures.. (-15 degrees!!) we were advised by a family doctor not to.

Do pray for us as we prepare.. and as we trust God for the funding that we'll need for this trip...

Glimpses of heaven... in Port Dickson

It's been a good 7 days since arrived in Port Dickson.
Our time here is nothing short of amazing! Thanks for those who journeyed with me in your prayers!

The second night when we sang 'Blessed Assurance', the voices of 550 younger leaders, representing 110 nations sounded like a holy roar that felt like it 'rocked' the whole auditorium! It was wonderful! I wondered in my heart how big a smile it must have put on God's face! =)

I remember coming here with only a simple expectation... and that is 'God would show up...'
As usual, our God has exceeded that expectation, and done much much more...
He showed us among the conferees, touching, softening and molding hearts. He showed up too in a very personalized way, reaching deep into my heart to revealed many things. (that story another time, tho)

Worship brings us into the holy presence of God, and when we're there, we cannot but be changed...
Here are snippets of 'comments'/summaries of what people have been telling us about their experience in worship at the plenary times. We are just thankful, and very humbled that God would use us in such a powerful way.

I was bawling...as I worshipped God - a President of a Bible College in Japan

God brought me back to a time when I wept before him, that was a very significant time, today is a second such experience... - a Pastor from Mauritius

This is the first time I'm actually able to worship God in a real way, through music - a Pastor

I sense God has truly anointed you guys... I was able be free to worshipping God as you lead us. I sense He has much more in store for you all. - a doctor, worship leader, song-writer fr USA

Tomorrow the gathering comes to an end... Please pray that as each of these leaders return to their country, they continue to build on the spiritual foundations that God has deposited in their hearts. And continue to serve fervantly for Him wherever He has placed them.

Hearing the 'holy roar' every day...

It's been a good 7 days since arrived in Port Dickson.
Our time here is nothing short of amazing! Thanks for those who journeyed with me in your prayers!

Every plenary session when we led in worship, the voices of 550 younger leaders, representing 110 nations continued to sound like a holy roar that felt like it 'rocked' the whole auditorium! It was wonderful! I wondered in my heart how much pleasure it must bring God to hear his precious ones come humbly to seek His face

I remember coming here with only a simple expectation... and that is 'God would show up...'
As usual, our God has exceeded that expectation, and done much much more...
He showed us among the conferees, touching, softening and molding hearts. He showed up too in a very personalized way, reaching deep into my heart to revealed many things. (that story another time, tho)

Worship brings us into the holy presence of God, and when we're there, we cannot but be changed...
Here are snippets of 'comments'/summaries of what people have been telling us about their experience in worship at the plenary times. We are just thankful, and very humbled that God would use us in such a powerful way.

I was bawling...as I worshipped God - a President of a Bible College in Japan

God brought me back to a time when I wept before him, that was a very significant time, today is a second such experience... - a Pastor from Mauritius

This is the first time I'm actually able to worship God in a real way, through music - a Pastor

I sense God has truly anointed you guys... I was able be free to worshipping God as you lead us. I sense He has much more in store for you all. - a doctor, worship leader, song-writer fr USA

Tomorrow the gathering comes to an end... Please pray that as each of these leaders return to their country, they continue to build on the spiritual foundations that God has deposited in their hearts. And continue to serve fervantly for Him wherever He has placed them.

Building a new generation of leaders...

I'm leaving for Port Dickson, Malaysia tomorrow... will be there for 9 days till October 1st.

ForeRunner has been invited to minister in Praise & Worship at the Lausanne Younger Leaders Gathering. About 550 invited young leaders from all over the world will gather to seek God, and his heart for the lost. Strategic partnerships & friendship would be forged that would help in world evangelization.

We're really excited about the privilege for us to be part of this, to be a blessing to the nations of the world!

I'll be leading a team of 7. Our top prayer request is that we'll seek God's presence, as we lead and usher the congregation in worship of our God.

Do also pray for Lil and kids, esp. for good health (Emily & Zachary are still sick, recovering from food poisoning, diarrhoea, vomitting)

An important family decision...

Last Monday, Lil and I consolidated our thots on homeschooling and made a decision together that we'd like to homeschool Josh. This process has gone on for the past few months...

For me, this is a one of the most significant decision for my family. It is also one key decision tied in with our parenting philosophy. How we arrived at this decision is a surprise even to us... =)

Few years back, this whole idea of homeschooling was nothing more than a foreign idea. I may of heard of it, but may have thot it's only for people who don't fit in to normal school.

But over the course of the past few years, with several different exposures to families who homeschool, and seeing the benefits of doing something like that ourselves, Lil and I found ourselves (individually) slowly opening up to the idea of doing it ourselves.

We'll share more with you our journey... but for now.. suffice to say that we need your prayers. For God to lead and guide us in this process. For his strength and wisdom

Enjoyed praying...

Yesterday, our team had an extended time to pray together... We 1st met at Labrador park.. sat at a high point, overlooking the see, it was a beautiful setting! Then we went back to office, had juices (it was a juice fast that day for all!) and continued in pray for our core values, for the lost etc. It was really a good time!

In the morning, Pat shared fr Joel, about the 5 C's of Revival... Also shared about 2 things that prevent revival from taking place... our 'unrepentant heart', and our need for a 'sense of respectability'- the need to look like we're ok in front of others, even when we're really not.

We had some time to make some personal reflections.. and I thought about another obstacle to true revival.. and that's 'Counterfeits', another C. The world seems to offer all kinds of things that may seem to give a semblance of 'revival'. Yet we know all of these are merely 'fakes' and substitute for the real thing. The irony is that our appetites tend to be for such things... We readily yearn for these instant gratifications in life, even though we know they don't fully satisfy.

Father, help me to learn and grow to identify the fakes, and know quickly that they don't satisfy...
Most of all, help me find my treasure in You. Cos' where my treasure is, there my heart will be too! Thanks that this is upon you heart, and you'll answer this prayer! =)

Too many 'big' things at one time... both joyful and difficult

Ma going thru triple-heart bypass, hospital visits, anxieties about their well-being; celebrating 10 years with Lil, growth in our marriage, God's faithfulness in our lives; major decision about whether to homeschool,
that's just what's going on at home...

At work, complicated HR issues, entering completely new territories in handling people issues, learning the hard lesson of 'letting go'; new open 'doors' in ForeRunner, God's favour in our faith ventures; leadership transition 'stresses', learning to work with different paradigms, thinking; exploring our future, 'God, where are you leading us next?' etc.

On top of all these... have been physically unwell for since church camp in June, with several 'knock-out' days, loss of voice, lethargic, tired etc. etc. Yet at the same time, healing and strength for each day, each week...

As I type this... God speaks... (thru the screensaver of Angie's laptop, which right next to me)... it reads,

"As for His failing you, never dream of it - hate the thought. The who has been sufficient until now, should be trusted to the end." - Charles Spurgeon

Lil's mom is doing better...

Since her triple-heart bypass on 31st July, she's been recovering rather well.
we're thankful for God's protection over her life...

She was discharged last Friday.. and have been staying at Lil's youngest brothers place in Pasir Ris.

Thanks for many who rally around us in prayer and encouragement... it meant a lot to us during this rather stressful time. =)

pls continue to pray for mom and dad to be open to the gospel...
we pray for her whenever we visit her.. and she welcomes it. but we are praying for a significant breakthrough in their understanding of who Christ is to them, and invite Him into their lives!

God's precision timing

Dear Simon
Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that you labor in the Lord is not in vain- May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon you and may He establish the work of your hand.
(a small gift for you) Love, Selena

This little note scribbled on a post-it note, and stuck to a check came to me in an envelope last week on Thursday... and it couldn't have come at a better time!

With several people issues, work challenges, fear of unknown, and many self-doubts in my mind.. I was beginning to wonder if what I'm doing really mattered. I could feel myself emotionally, mentally and spiritually tired... and meanwhile... God knew the exact words I needed to hear from his word.

And so with precision timing, he led my cousin Selena to pen those words (probably unbeknownst to her what I was going thru) and got it delivered just at the right time for me to read it, and hear Him say to me: "I love you, my precious child"

10 wonderful years!

10 wonderful years!,
originally uploaded by muffyn.

Ten years ago this day was when Lil and I walked down the aisle...! =) Wow! It's been 10 years! The night before, I was just reminiscing... thinkin' abt how far we've come... feeling thankful.. and blessed!

That afternoon Lil & I received a delievery.. a flower & fruit basket from my boss! What a pleasant surprise... =) Lil at first thot it was planned by me.

I had saved on the cost of flowers.. cos' we're goin' on our 2nd honeymoon next week... to Bali! Yeah... Of course, we're so lookin' fwd to it. Thanks mom & dad for helpin' with the kids! =)

Thinkin' abt Psalm 40 again...

I woke up suddenly at 7am this morning... I just sat up (and could feel my sinuses clearing.. =) ) All I remembered was that I just had a dream... I was standing up, sharing with my family & relatives at some kind of dinner setting.It was quite vivid, I can still remember my 2nd uncle sitting on my left, he had just sat down after inviting me to say something. And so I did.. and guess what? I was giving them a mini-devotion.. from Psalm 40! This was most unusual...

I thot about going back to sleep... but somehow the Spirit prompted me to get up, and seek Him. (This is almost like a mini-miracle, choosing the word of God over sleep! ha ha!) So I obeyed, and got up to read his word.. and I read Psalm 40 again.

"But may all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you;
may those who live your salvation always say, "The Lord be exalted!" - Psalm 40:16

Thank you, Lord for drawing me to yourself! What a joy it is to dwell in your presence... I couldn't ask for more! =)

Down with 'love'

Over the past 3 weeks plus, we've been sharing the 'love' (read: 'flu') with each other. It started with Lil, then Josh, then Emily & Zach, then Lil again and Zach.. and now it's my turn! Thank God Lil's much better (she was literally 'bed-ridden' then, with dizzy spell and all) Kids are still coughing here and there.. but they are generally in good spirits! The doctor has given me a course of anti-biotics, so I hope it'd kill the bug for good!
I've been home the past 2 days.. didn't want to spread the 'love' in the office.. drinking lots of fluid, getting more sleep, which is always good! =)

Thanks for all who have been keeping us in prayer (our CG, our colleagues and friends). We appreciate it much! We know of at least another 4-5 families who are also sick.. Sigh, it's the season, I guess.....

Surrender vs. Commitment

God is looking for our surrender, but instead all too often we give Him our commitment.
He desires for us to be still before Him, yet we busy ourselves with work for Him that we have called ministry.

David got it right in Psalm 40, verse 6 when he said, "You take no delight in sacrifices or offerings. Not that you have made me listen, I finally understand-- you don't require burnt offerings or sin offerings." (NLT)

Of late with tons of activities going on in my life and work, coupled with sickness, and strivings, and stresses etc... I've been made to consider once again if my life was out of balance... Was I more keen to keep my commitments to God, and striving with all my heart to serve Him well (which in itself is not an unworthy task), or have I been truly seeking Him alone, and choosing to surrender my life in obedience to Him, which is what truly pleases Him.

The prophet Samuel told King Saul, 'To obey is better than sacrifice, to heed is better than the fat of rams' (1 Samuel 15:22). I need to let these words guard my heart...In fact, I'll memorize this verse and keep it as another spiritual anchor in my life. =)

Hanging out with Rick Muchow

Hanging out with Rick Muchow
Originally uploaded by muffyn.

Had a chance to meet Rick Muchow last Thursday... In fact, we (7Days) played together with him at the Rick Warren Purpose-Driven Church Conference. Rick M. is the worship leader for Saddleback Church in California.

It was indeed a joy and privilege to hang out with him.
It's his first time in S'pore...so we took him to sample the local cuisine... and he loved it!

I was blessed by his humility, in spite of the fact that he's greatly used by God to lead a church of 30,000 people.

'Customized' lesson plans for ALL!

It's been almost a week since AX returned from the road.... what a journey!
We had our thanksgiving time, and it was for me indeed a good time to praise God for all His wonder-workings in each person's life. You could hear from each person's sharing that God met each one where most needed.

And then when you hear reports about how God moved the clouds when His people prayed, and then how He still allowed it rain, so that the students would stay back to listen to the band, you cannot but just marvel at how big God is! Truly, His ways are higher than ours....

Yesterday, we had staff evaluations, and it continued today too...
And yet again, we bear witness to all that God had chosen to do to bring Himself honour & glory. And we all get to participate in doing it!

I personally feel blessed that this TURT presented another chapter God's lesson plan for my own life this year. This whole 1st half of year 2006 has been about God's reminder for me to 'die to self'.

In January- February 　it was about 'personal rights' and 'personal opinions'
Then in March-June 　it was about 'personal choices', 'personal preferences', 'personal desires'

Thank you Lord, for loving me so much that You personally 'customize' a lesson plan for me this year!

Helping build credibility & momentum...

June 16th update fr Daniel in Thailand:

Next up was HatYai University. A new, private university with no existing ministry. Through the held of a teacher in the English department, we performed to students who were learning business English. Although we did not invite the students to pray to recieve Christ, the gospel and tesimony were shared. Even though the teacher was NOT a Christian, she was very pleased with the program and mentioned that she would like more performances like these in her school. Besides that, our performance helped the local thai ministry to have good relations with the teachers in that department which would most likely help make things easier when organising future activities.
 
The results :
Of the 120 students present, 74 people indicated that they would like to join the local ministry 'Campus Student Link'

Updates from Audio Xchange

Here's the first report from Daniel, our Communications Person with AX, our band touring in Thailand now...

Hey all!
 
Here we are at the Twin Inn in Phuket! Very nice place. Clean. Well furnished. With a small pool (15m) hahhaa...
 
Anyway, time for the real update.
 
Thanksgiving :
 
1. The overweight charge was reduced from a 200kg fine to a 50kg fine. We ended up paying only SGD350.
 
2. We were stopped at the Thai customs due to our large number of pieces of equipment however after presenting our letter from Mitch and checkin Joy's passport, and also checking ONE of our cases, they decided that we were harmless enough and let us go without any tax charges.
 
3. Just minutes before our OUTDOOR concert set up it started to rain. We had a short prayer and praise in our host church and, thank God, the rain stopped and we were able to set up under a cool and cloudy sky. You'll see the pics soon! Hahaha...
 
4. Even though we had a LOT of program changes for the 1st concert, the band did extremely well to accomodate the changes. They were very professional and were able to roll with the punches, especially Noel.
 
What the concert was like :
 
The venue was the exact same one that override performed at last year. Smack in the middle of a night market (which incidentally did not distract us at ALL). The stage was HUGE. The hugest we've been on so far. The audience was pretty transient and ever-changing but there were pockets of people who stopped to listen.
 
The band managed to use the HUGE stage really well. This concert, we didn't present the full gospel but we served more as a publicity tool for our host church which is attended by all the crusade staff serving in Phuket.
 
We could not use the projector too! The sky was too bright and even though we tried, nothing could be seen on the screen. This resulted in a BIG change in the program. But still, again the band did very well to cover up.
 
Prayer requests :
 
1. Pray for the students that they will not be demoralised because they had a rather tough 1st audience.
 
2. Pray for our journey to HatYai. Pray for journey mercies and that all will go well. Some are looking to use that long ride for rest so pray they will be able to do so on the vans.
 
3. From Wednesday to Saturday we will have concert everyday in the campuses so pray for good working relationships with the Thai staff. Pray for favour with the campus authorities. One of our confirmed concerts was cancelled at the last minute. Pray also tha the students will have renewed strength everyday.
 
Alritez! I guess that's enough updates i can squeeze into 30mins. Will continue to find ways to send updates back home. Till the next oppotunity! See ya! Love ya'll...
 
-dan- (and the rest of the gang)

On the Road again!

We sent our TURT team to Southern Thailand ealy this morning..
by the time I'm writing this.. they would have finished their first gig in Phuket!

This is the 3rd year we are sending a student music mission team.. and it's the 1st time I'm not going. =(
I've mixed feelings... Sad I can't be there, to be part of the action. Happy that younger leaders have risen to the occasion to take the lead! =)

I'm lookin' fwd to hear exciting stories from the team.. will keep u all updated. Please do keep all 15 of them in prayer as they travel and perform in several universities and schools.

TURT Alpha Thai Nite

TURT Alpha Thai Nite
Originally uploaded by muffyn.

TURT - The Ultimate Road Trip 2006 is in full swing!

For the past 2 weeks..the participants have been engaged in communication classes and drills, memorizing music and lyrics, and enjoyin' themselves in the process!

Lil got a chance to visit with them.. and hang out with the students on their 'Thai Nite' during the Alpha camp. (I tried hard.. but could not get the permission to leave camp to join them.. sigh!)

This an energetic bunch with a strong desire to use their gifts and talents to make Him known! What a joy & privilege it is for us to work with them!

The 'enemy' is reading the Word! =)

Yesterday, another rather interesting thing happened... One of the soldiers, who was assigned to play the 'enemy' (in our training exercise) told me he took the DaVinci Code magazine, and brought it to the 'enemies' and they all read it! Then he went on to tell me that it was a really interesting read.. and that we Christians are very creative etc.

How interesting! The truth is, I had nothing to do with this. The magazines were just lying around on the tables in our bunks and I would safely say that more than 1/2 the platoon has read it. PTL!

Do pray that the truths written on the pages of this magazine will ring in the heads and hearts of those who read it

Open doors.. open hearts

Thanks to some of you who have been prayin' for me... it means a lot to me.
I wanted u to know that God's been answering your prayers! Let me share more...

Day 2 in camp... I was wondering when I should begin distributing the DaVinci Code magazines (the ones our Campus ministry has published for answers questions raised by the book & movie) to my camp mates.. I was reading the newspaper - The New Paper.. And guess what? There was an article abt the DVC, and about how Campus Crusade has printed tens of thousand for distribution etc. So I immediately seized the opportunity.. knowing that they have read the papers too.. and started giving out the magazines, telling them that it's my company that printed these magazines.. and they began reading it!

Over the next few days, many others (in different bunks) were reading through the magazines! It was great! It also helped that the newspapers had plenty of articles & there was a hype about this movie! My other Christian brothers also had opportunity to share & talk about Jesus, and spiritual things with others.

Just this morning, I sat at the table and listen to another friend explain the 'Trilemma'* to a non-believer! It warmed my heart.. as I recognized that God had indeed opened doors, and opened hearts. =)

*the Trilemma - "Liar, Lunatic or Lord" is an explanation of who Jesus claimed to be- God,and how we need to respond to Him.

What a treat!

What a treat!,
originally uploaded by muffyn.

On Wednesday evening... out in the training area... Lil and kids came to 're-supply' me & my scout team, bringing along fresh rations etc! (This was possible, because the OP- Observation Point we chose was at

an abandoned house.. which was near to a main road, and Lil could locate us on the map. Most other army training areas are in the jungle with dirt tracks, and she would not have been able to access it)
It was great.. esp. since we were running low on water, and had to eat

combat rations... so warm chicken rice was surely much nicer. However, it was a particular treat for me cos' I get to see my family & kids.
They stayed around for a good hour...

I got to carry Zach, and cuddle Emily.. which they ate 'pao' on the back of the car. =)
Thanks Lil for loving me, driving all the way here.. and blessing me (and my team!)

Free Back Rub! =)

Just got a complimentary back rub! at the Thai Royal Lounge.. at Bangkok airport. I'm traveling back to S'pore with Margaret Chan.. who is frequent flyer, and a Star Alliance Gold member.. and she can bring a guest along. It's really nice! classy.. with free breakfast, snacks, freshly ground coffee, free wifi etc.

Lookin' forward to get home... give a big hug to Lil.. and the kids (hope I see them at the airport!) =)
Rest the day.. and pack up for booking in for my In-Camp tomorrow!

God is good.. His mercies are new everyday! And I'm so thankful for His watchful care over me!

Z playin the piano! =)

Z playin the piano! =),
originally uploaded by muffyn.

Lil sent me this... I miss the kids!

Look at Zach... so cuuute! =)

Dann Spader

Nat'l Leaders Conference,
originally uploaded by muffyn.

This guy has challenged my thinking...
He has spent his lifetime learning the life of Jesus... and sought to follow what Jesus did, and His model of making disciples.

Today, he talked about how the goal of disciple-making is not about producing leaders... It is about making full-trained workers, who are true followers of Jesus. We often make the mistake of giving people leadership 'labels'...

This excerpt fr the notes:
'In today's world, we often use the term "leadership" very loosely. Nearly every conference, seminar, or retreat that is conducted is labeled a leadership retreat. Jesus cautioned us about the term "leaders" (Matt 23:10). In this context of Matthew, the tendency of people is to become puffed up and love the place of honor (vs.6)'

'Busy' May

The month of May I'll see my wife & kids for only abt a week... =(

I'll be away at Bangkok for a Crusade National Leaders Conference from tomorrow till 14th May
(I'm part of the national leadership team in Singapore, and have also taken on some new responsibilities... which I'll share more another time!) This is time for close to 300 leaders from Asia & Oceania come together for a time of connection.

Pray for a heart & mind ready to learn. Pray that all will be blessed and refreshed in our vision for doing God's work.

Immediately after I return, I report for In-Camp Training on 15th May.. and it'd go till 27th May
My last service was in December 2005. This time round is going to be rather intense... as it is 'ATEC' (an army testing and evaluation exercise)

Pray that I'll stay healthy.. and especially pray for open doors and open hearts as I trust God to share His love with my platoon mates.

Humbled... and in awe...

It's day 2 at the National Leaders Conference. About 280 leaders from the Asia and Oceania region have gathered for a time of connection and refreshment. It's a privilege for me to be here for the 1st time.

6.3 billion people made decisions for Christ in last year in these 2 large regions!! It's amazing to hear what God is doing. To God be the glory! But the work is far from finished...

I've been feeling rather overwhelmed... the truth is that yesterday I did feel quite a lot of the discussion was 'over my head'. Also, I was feeling 'small'... the seemingly insignificance of what I'm doing here in ForeRunner, compared to what else is going on around the world... especially when you heard of the tens of thousands coming to Christ in India, in China, and elsewhere...

Thank you Lord for humbling me... =)

The Greatest Competitor

"Beware of anything that competes with your loyalty to Jesus Christ. The greatest competitor of true devotion to Jesus is the service we do for Him. It is easier to serve than to pour out our lives completely for Him. The goal of the call of God is His satisfaction, not simply that we should do something for Him."

- from 'My Utmost for His Highest, Oswald Chambers'

Spiritual anchors...

Lord, thank you so much for loving me unconditionally... that in spite of all my short-comings, Your love for me stays the same.

Thank you for the truths you've been depositing in my life... many of which come with practical experiences that helps 'seal it in' as life lessons. I recognize that these would become spiritual anchors for me that will hold me to you in life's storms.

Thank you also for surrounding me with people who love and care for me... for people who walk with me (not walk away) when I fail and journey with me in life as I grow! =)

Thank you, God. I love you!

Men's Breakthrough Weekend

Just got done with our church's Men's Breakthrough Weekend.
It was quite fun! particularly because I got to meet new friends, and not only that, journey with each other as we share openly about what God has been doing in our lives!

One thing is for sure.. God is ready to break through in our lives, if we're willing to break with things that hold us back...

The highlight for me was hearing real men, sharing real stories, and testifying of real breakthroughs. It set the tone for the weekend, where each man encountered God for himself, to discover God's customized curriculum for each person.

For me, my breakthrough process had already began from February. =) This weekend, however, allowed me to consolidate my thoughts, process my emotions, journal, and make note of the spiritual truths that I gained.

Thank you, Lord for being such a personal God to me!

Feeling 'lost' & 'incomplete'

Lil is on holiday since Friday...
She's gone with a good friend to Bangkok.
This is something she had wanted to do for sometime.. and I'm glad to be able to take care of the kids, and 'free' her to go. =)

However, truth is, I'm learning that it's quite a challenge to be all alone caring for 3 kids.
It got especially more difficult cos' Emily fell sick again! Doctor says she has the gastric flu.. so she's been feeling really tired and lethargic and very irritable! which made it really hard to care for her.

I'm glad the past few days, my Mom & Dad were around to help. I decided to stay here at their place. It's help quite a lot. But still I can't help feel the strain.. or taking care of the kids alone.

I probably sound like I'm whining (which perhaps I am!) especially to moms who stay home all the time. Staying home, not being able to go out cos' Em's sick, has been difficult for me. But it's been a good learning time for me too!

Is there really a Mrs. Jesus?

Truth and fantasy mixed together ... that in a nutshell is what this world best-seller is all about.
Dan Brown the author, through his creative writing has essentially called into question, and seemingly convincingly, the reliability of the Bible, the identity of Jesus, the credibility of the church. And yes, he even claims that Jesus was married, and had a child.

The movie trailer (already gaining hype on Channel 5) ends with these words: "It will rock the foundations of Christianity." We must ask ourselves one pertinent question: "What am I called to do as a Christian?"

Our Campus Ministry has produced an excellent magazine that seeks to address some of the lies from the DaVinci Code. And in partnership with many churches and ministries in Singapore, they are seeking to equip the church to respond to this challenge...

This week, tens of thousands of these magazines will be placed in the hands of many students and people
The goal is two-fold:
1. Equip Christians with the right biblical understanding, and ability to explain the truth.
2. Expose non-Christians to the gospel, to who Jesus REALLY is.

You might be asking... "What can I do?"

These are some things you might want to prayerfully consider.
1. Equip yourself!
        - Read up more concerning the issues raised by the DaVinci Code
        - Learn the biblical truths, and anchor ourselves on it

2. Reach out.
        - Get the magazines (You may wish to order in bulk, or purchase from our Mass Media book shop)
        - Seek this opportunity to share the truth, and your faith with you friends & co-workers

3. Pray
        - Ask God to protect all involved (churches, ministries, individuals) as we know the enemy will not sit there doing nothing
        - For boldness as we continue to proclaim God's truth in varies settings

Ushering others into God's presence...

Worship at Women's conference
Originally uploaded by muffyn.

In spite of a loss of voice.. God used Lil and her team to usher the conference of 116 women into His presence, worshipping Him!

I was with Haiks at the back of the hall, working on the sound, and worshipping Him as well!

Many later came up.. and expressed how much they enjoyed the singing & worship! Praise God! =)

(btw, we called back home.. and the kids are much better. Zach's diarrhoea has stopped, Em's appetite is better. Thanks for praying!)

The God-factor

"Flexibility is a symptom of a person who is fully committed to God's will"

It's advance-party day 1 at the Women's conference, and we've already encountered some hiccups.
At check-in at the Cruise Centre, we encountered problems with the Customs, with the ICA (Immigrations & Checkpoints Authority), with the check-in pple, our equipment were too big & too heavy etc.etc.

yet again, God broke through.. we had several kind & helpful people who were in authority that appeared when they needed to, to 'clear' the way for us. Glory to Him.

Meanwhile, we just heard news that one of key speaker, Judy Douglass is stranded in Honolulu. The plane had mechanical faults, and they hope to be able to catch the next flight out.. if not, it'll be the next day before there's any flight.

At check-in today, I was a bit ruffled at first, then it occurred to me that I didn't need to worry one bit. Cos' this is nothing compared to what God did in Mongolia. (We literally stared at our equipment from afar for 2 whole days and we could do absolutely nothing about getting through the thick red tape... then miraculously God intervened, and everything was released to us, and questions at all were asked.. and all this just in time for our concert the very next day!)

Staying flexible, learning that God is in charge, that none of these things surprised Him is the way to go! =)

Getting rest... the past 2 days

Lil's been unwell... lost her voice & coughing quite badly. Several of our team members were also affected.. prob with the same viral infection. They all lost their voices... =(

Now Emily & Zach's noses are runny... and my throat's feeling rather scratchy!
I'll be back to work tomorrow... hope to get back the momentum to get quite a bit of work done.

Please do keep us in your prayers.. Thanks!

Leaving in an hour... =)

Wow.. the past 3-4 days kinda flew by. It sure felt faster that the 1st 3 days!

We're all packed.. now waiting at the hotel lobby for the coach that will take us to BKK airport. Last nite, the adults played some games at the guys room (after the kids all went to sleep). Some of the guys played Command and Conquer.. over our Airport network... pretty cool. Then we played 'Swap', an Uno-kinda game..where u're cards get swapped around, just when u think u got the best hand. And just when u think u're out of the game b'cos of lousy cards, u got swapped with a new set that might just win u the game! =)

Anyways... there's probably much to think abt from this whole trip. If nothing happens by chance and God is sovereign (and I know He is!) then all tt took place this week, happened so that we could learn and grow! To know more abt who He is, and who we are in Him!

Lookin' fwd to share more with some of you when we meet....

God speaks my love language

My 2 primary love languages are 'Touch' and 'Word of Affirmation'. And so it was particularly encouraging to hear people speak directly to me, with genuine words of encouragement, that they have really appreciated our leading in Praise & Worship. Several have told me personally that they felt really blessed. Today, another lady whom I've never met before and said she really enjoyed our leading, and expressed her appreciation to us for coming.. and as she left she added she thinks that I have a really nice voice! (ha ha.. )

One Korea girl approached me which I taking food at dinner on the 2nd day, and asked (in Chinese) if I was with the team from Singapore that led worship last year? I said 'Yes'. And later asked her how she knew... She replied, that we left a deep impression, and that she was very touched last year... So how could she forget. This conversation came at a very interesting time.. cos' I had been feeling quite 'sian' and down. And was beginning to question why I'm here in the 1st place, and wondering if it really makes a difference that we lead, or someone else leads the P&W.

God spoke my love language. He knew I needed that simple word of affirmation... It's as if God is using this to gently lift me up, and comfort and encourage me! =) Thank you, Lord.. for loving me the way I feel loved!

Potential 7Days tour in Sept/Oct!

Today a few of us had a lunch appointment with a potential host fr our favourite country. They have come as team leaders to discuss the possibility of bringing 7Days in to do some outreaches in their region!
We had a really fruitful meeting, I personally feel God has prepared this, and this could very well be 7Days' next tour. For obvious reasons, I'm unable to say the names of the cities, but let's just say one of them is a very strategic large city near the coast! =)

If you're reading this, do keep us (and potential hosts) in prayer as both sides trust God to see this come to pass. May the Lord direct our paths according to his plan, and for His glory!

We're fielding about another 3-4 potential 'calls' for us to go in, to several other areas too! =) We're really not sure how all this will pan out.. but God knows. I guess this is a good problem!

Long days in Cha'am

Greetings fr Cha'am, Thailand... =)
It's been several long full days. Our day starts at 7am and doesn't end till 11pm... It's jammed packed with rehearsals, band practices, worship leading, meeting people, preparing powerpoint, taking care of kids, listening to conference messages, etc etc.

We're almost coming to an end of our time here... It's been physically demanding on me, and Lil too (she's now nursing a flu...and lost her voice) But more than that, it's been particularly emotionally tiring for me...

The past few days has been especially 'stretching' for me. God had intended for me to be 'out of my comfort zone', and I must admit, it's been hard. I didn't like it AT ALL! But I had to learn to receive it with thanksgiving, reminding myself again and again that He must know why I needed to experience what I was experiencing. To say it's been challenging must certainly be understating it. A time of testing is probably more appropriate.

I really can't say I passed with flying colors.. but at least I know I'm in process.

Thank you Jesus for your mercy and grace upon my life. Without which I cannot continue to live for you.
Thank you that You said 'It is finished' on the cross. Your shed blood is complete for me, I can 'cease striving'.

The Kids R ready!

Em & Z in stroller
Originally uploaded by muffyn.

Kids are so carefree! Not a concern on their minds! Unlike adults... =)

While mom & dad r 'scrambling' to make sure we don't forget to bring anything, kids on the other hand r always lookin' forward to adventures!

I guess to them life is an adventure to enjoy.. while sometimes i feel life is a journey to endure!

We leave this afternoon at 3pm. We'll arrive at the hotel at night after a 5 hour bus journey. Pls pray for sanity for all the parents!

Actually, correction.... pls pray that we'll enjoy the journey, and not just endure it! =)

2 more days...

In 2 days, we'll leave for Cha'am.
To be honest, I'm not quite sure if I'm prepared...

This will be the 3rd year we're going there to minister... and for some reason I'm not as excited as I was the past 2 times. I realize it's a privilege to serve, yet perhaps because of a whole bunch of stuff happening in January (and even b4 in Dec last year), my mind has not really readied myself for this coming trip.

Also, there seems to be more 'stresses' where it relates to us traveling as a family. Do keep us in your prayers (when you remember us) that we'll stay focussed on what God has called us to. There are many opportunities to trust God, and pray that we'll see them as opportunities, and not threats! =)

We'll be travelling again!

Hello Friends!

Here’s a quick update from the Seows.. We’ll be traveling again!!
1. Yes, right after Chinese New Year, from 6th – 12th Feb, our whole family will be embarking on a trip to Thailand. Simon and the band that he’s in, will be leading worship for a conference that many of our missionaries who will be attending. This is the third year that we have been invited to lead worship for them, and it is really a privilege for us to be a part of this movement.

While Simon ministers and provides consultation to musicians at the conference, Lillian hopes to be able to sing with the band on some mornings too. When she’s not doing that, she will be attending the conference, and hearing exciting reports about the work that God is doing. And of course.. watching the kids =).

Please pray that the children will be healthy!!
        - That we will all enjoy the time at the conference, be a blessing and be blessed!
        - That while Daddy is working, Mummy will be able to handle the kids herself, and have fun with them! That they         will be well behaved.

2. A week after we return from Thailand, Simon and Lil will be going for another conference from 20th-24th Feb. This time, it is Singapore Campus Crusade’s first ever Women’s Conference. Lil has been given the privilege to lead the worship team, and they will be leading every morning and evening for the 4-day conference.

Please pray for protection as we travel to batam with our equipment, and
-        For protection over the worship team.
-        For wisdom and strength for Lil as she leads, and serves the women
-        For protection over the children as they will be staying with their grandparents for the week.
-        For Simon as he does sound and video editing at the conference

Most of all, please pray for our finances. We urgently need to raise $2,700 in total for the 2 conferences. We believe the Lord will once again provide!

Thank you so much for your prayers and friendship! Happy Chinese New Year!!

Emily turns 3!

Emily turns 3!
Originally uploaded by muffyn.

Our 'fiercely independent' girl has finally turned 3! She's growin' sooo well! She's really quite a chilli padi.. strong willed, smart, rebellious at times, a darling at other times!

We thank God for her... =)

for once, it was simple affair... no party, no big cake... a little chocolate muffin at Delifrance was all it took to brighten up the day for her!

God met us....

We had a very fruitful team retreat last week at Aloha Loyang.
I remember going into our week rather stressed... worried in my own 'performance-oriented' self that the program would not work out well, people may not enjoy themselves, etc.etc.

But God gently (and lovingly) reminded me to just pray.. and specifically to pray that 'we'll all meet God in a special way this week'. I had not idea then why I had to pray that way... but now I do.

And I'm happy to say He did! Not only did the whole week's program turn out quite smoothly, I believe God met with each person in their specific need. On Thursday morning, Pat led us to consider a passage from Colossians. Little did he know from that point on, God had set aside the whole morning for us a team to pour out to each other honestly about where we are. Different ones began to open up, and shared vulnerably, about their journey, as they process difficult things in their own lives. It's hard to describe it all in words. By all measure it was definitely a Spirit-led time, no man could have engineered such a kind of atmosphere of openness, and of love and acceptance.

Thank you Lord, for meeting us! =)

Sing Joyfully unto the Lord!

Last night ForeRunner had the privilege to usher a group of about 400 students into the presence of God, as we put on a beautiful act of worship for our only audience, God. Despite several comedy of errors, train wrecks and all... I believed God still used us to minister unto Him. And I could tell, people were really worshipping God! It was a wonderful feeling!

I personally had a lot of fun... singing and jumping around on stage. It was all these youthful songs I picked anyways.... and so I was really feeling the freedom to hop joyfully unto the Lord! =) Honestly, I didn't really care much how I would looked. ha ha. (I would have never imagined myself doing this 4-5 years back). I guess as you grow older, you kinda grow younger (at heart, at least!) =)