Rediscovery of Love..

David Wilkerson's Memorial

2011-05-16T00:42:00.002+08:00

2011-05-16T00:42:00.001+08:00

MOVED

2010-12-30T17:54:00.001+08:00

I have MOVED!

Will let you know only if you ask! =)

MOVED

2010-12-30T17:54:00.000+08:00

I have MOVED!

Will let you know only if you ask! =)

Alabaster Jar

2010-12-14T21:52:00.002+08:00

Heart pulsing
Blood pumping
Trembling, she drew near

Did He, the prophet
the one they called the Christ
Did He know
of her many trangressions?

There was something about Him
A fire in His eyes
It made her fear yet long to draw near

As she entered the room
Holding her alabaster jar
She drew near

Tears in her eyes
She emptied her jar
and He looked
right in her eyes

Could He tell?
the longing and the struggles inside
the longing to start anew; afresh

As she broke her jar
at the feet of this man
she felt burning stares
all around

Heart pulsing
Blood pumping
Weeping as she washed His feet
with her tears

His gaze stays fixed
saying only "your sin is forgiven"
and giving her an endearing smile

From whence did this liberation come from?
O the freedom!

It is this man
this Christ they preached off
He took her burdens

She made her exit
after her presentation
knowing that she was cleansed once and for all

She stopped at the door
on her way out
and took a glance back

no matter what they said
this man, Jesus
had set her free

There is something about Him
A fire in His eyes
It makes me fear
yet long to draw near

I bring my alabaster jar
as the woman at Simon's house
knowing what lies ahead

I surrender
I rest
I wipe Your feet with my tears

Knowing that You are Love
You delight in showing me mercy
and desire for me to draw near

There is something about You Jesus
A fire in Your eyes
it makes me fear, yet long to draw near

so I come
with my alabaster jar

IDOP..

2010-11-14T23:31:00.002+08:00

It is now 11.32pm

It's International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Churches today.

I'm quite embarrassed actually. How flippant I am and can be when it comes to matters of religion, while my brothers and sisters not halfway across the world are fighting for their right to believe.

Quite "amazed" at my "spirituality" or whatever that it stands for. Gosh, it's just so overwhelming.

Here is a song for you (my Christian friends) to consider the least of our brothers facing persecution, while we sit at home on Facebook all day.

Least of these - Lindsey Kane

Seemingly she has nothing to smile about,
Yet she smiles,
She has nothing nothing to laugh about,
Yet she laughs,
She has everything about which to cry,
Yet she holds her head up high (x2)

Jesus be the hope to the least of these,
Give them through our hands or all that they need,
Jesus be the hope to the least of these,
Give them You

Seemingly he has nothing to sing about,
Yet he sings,
He has no one to love him,
Yet he loves,
He has everything about which to cry,
Yet he holds his head up high (x2)

Jesus loves all the little children,
All the children of the world,
Red & yellow; black & white,
They all precious in His sight,
Jesus loves all the little children,
All the children of the world

**The video has nothing to do with Persecuted Churches, but it is the same song.

God, forgive my disregard and my unfaithfulness to You. Help me be someone who can be the difference where I am. Help me the person You are looking for to stand in the gap. Bless Your hurting Bride Lord. The part of her that is suffering just to lift Your name high. Keep her and ravish her heart once again!

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Death and all his friends..

2010-10-25T18:44:00.003+08:00

Where do I start?

So much has been happening.

My Chinese Orchestra instructor passed away. I was not as close to him as I would have wanted to be. And now he is gone. I don't think it is wrong to say, I was one of his favourites In the Cello group. I still remember the funny and quirky things he would say during our practices.

I had his number in my handphone. I had his facebook. I knew where he was every Friday. But I never made that move to go and see him. To make an impact in his life, just as he had made in mine. And now he is gone.

And I know I won't see him again.

It may offend people if I say that he did not go to heaven because he wasn't a Christian. But that's not the main point of this blog. So please don't pick a fight with me over this.

What I am trying to say is, life is so fragile. One day you're here, one day you aren't. Nothing material is permanent. We are all temporal. The Psalmist said that our lives wither like grass. But God, God is eternal. His loving mercy, His good kindness, His grace and Being endures, forever and ever.

Folks, life is short.

Stop "reading people's diary". Stop "partying till 6am". You've only got one life to live. Make it count.

If you're Christian and you're reading this, the time is near. The Day is drawing near. The Day that we won't be able to do the things we have been called to do.

I didn't take the opportunity to share what I believed in with my Instructor. That is my one regret. That I did not live the life I am called to live for him to see how God plays the most vital role in my life.

If you're a non-Christian, pick up your phone, text that friend, call that person. Don't wait till it's too late. Release will only come when forgiveness goes out. Stop being angry over little petty issues.

You only live once. Don't party it away in idleness.

Make it count!

In loving memory of Ng SuKuang.

Signing off, MarcusDS

2010-10-25T18:44:00.002+08:00

Where do I start?

So much has been happening.

And I know I won't see him again.

It may offend people if I say that he did not go to heaven because he wasn't a Christian. But that's not the main point of this blog. So please don't pick a fight with me over this.

Folks, life is short.

Stop "reading people's diary". Stop "partying till 6am". You've only got one life to live. Make it count.

If you're Christian and you're reading this, the time is near. The Day is drawing near. The Day that we won't be able to do the things we have been called to do.

You only live once. Don't party it away in idleness.

Make it count!

In loving memory of Ng SuKuang.

Signing off, MarcusDS

2010-10-07T00:09:00.003+08:00

Who can understand the turmoil in my heart?

The raging storm that is tearing me apart?

You alone O my God. You can. Don't hide Your face from me.

I need You now, more than ever.

TLS - Chapter One: What is Love?

2010-08-30T15:22:00.007+08:00

[Disclaimer]

This is NOT conclusive and NOT absolute. Once again, I clarify that I do not know all there is to know on love. I am also learning on the way. But I hope that this helps you view love through a different perspective.

I am getting very frustrated as I type this out because, there aren't many English words that can be used to fully explain what I want to say! It's not just my vocab, it's because language is limited. So I advise you to look beyond the words. Look beyond the theory. Don't let your mind stop you from trying to grasp the meaning of love.

Once again, these are all inspired by and based on Christian values. But, I think we can afford a few lessons on love, considering how deprived of it we all are, right? =)

---------------------

I took a sip of my iced plain water, taking in all the conversations going around me. There was a lot of chatter on who had got hitched recently, who broke up and what not. I listened silently, trying to digest as much as I could from my chatty ex-schoolmates.

I was out on a gathering with my ex-schoolmates. 7 of them. 7 girls to be exact. I was the only guy, and they were sorta updating me, and the others as they pored upon each other's love life.

I turned to A and we started talking. Since we were all on the topic of hook ups and recent hitching, I asked her whether anyone was vying for her attention. She immediately started blushing and I knew something was up. B who was sitting next to A answered for her almost immediately saying that not only was someone after her, but she had accepted the guy's request to be his girlfriend.

I was stunned for a few minutes, trying to allow this new information to sink into my numbskull. After it had, obviously, I started bombarding her with questions, trying to get every single detail.

After I was persuaded that I knew more than enough, I now realized why A had had this kind of glow when I first saw her sitting there. She was in a relationship, happy and somewhat satisfied.

She was in love.

~~~~

We often wonder, what actually is love? Yes, we feel it. The effects it has on us are obvious. But what is it actually? Why does love make us feel the way it does?

I don't think there is anyone on this earth who can define love to its fullest detail. It is too diverse, too sacred and too overwhelming for complete understanding. In other words, we cannot harness love to a single definition.

So, in our quest of finding out what love really is, let us first establish what are some of the things that are often mistaken for love.

1. Love is not just emotions.

Love is definitely more then just an emotion. Emotion in simple terms is defined as a response that your mind sends our as neural signals to your situations or surroundings. For example, if you are in a fight, your mind takes in the situation and responds with rage. The depth of the emotion depends on the intensity of the situation. The more intense the situation, the more intense the emotion. That's why the nervousness you feel when you have your blood taken and the nervousness you feel before a major surgery differs greatly.

Since this applies for our emotions,if love were merely an emotion, that would mean that when situations change, so does the depth, the height and the quality of love. If this were true, that makes love even more unstable than Uranium or Francium. As situations around us change all the time, does that mean that the definition and the value of love changes with?

NO! This immediately makes it impossible for love to exist merely as an emotion. In actual fact, love is much, much, much deeper than an emotion you feel. Yes, it is a factor of emotion, but love is not essentially an emotion in itself. If it were merely an emotion, than all the above applies to it, and that would make love the most frail and the weakest value that mankind possesses.

The reason why we always assume that love is just an emotion is because it is often confused with affection and infatuation which are both emotions. Our affections for people change daily, our crushes and infatuations change continually, but our love doesn't.

Confusing?

Here is an analogy. Let's say you have a little sister. When she is a good girl, it is very easy to be affectionate towards her. But when she is naughty, you won't be as affectionate towards her at that point of time. Why? Because the situation has changed. Therefore, we respond differently. The level of our affection decreases. We are harsher.

But does that mean your love for her has gone away? No. It hasn't.

Here is another example. Parents who beat their kids when their kids do wrong. Does this mean the parents stopped loving the kids when they picked up the cane?

Note that I said "when their kids do wrong", NOT "abusive parents". I think naughty kids should be beaten! (but that's for another post XD)

These parents still feel love for their children. But their affections for their kids change at that point of time because of the circumstance of the situation. But the affections come back in a little while.

Same with infatuation. Infatuation in plain English is crush la. When you feel good feelings for someone, that is the point of time when you are infatuated. When you are infatuated, certain things in the opposite sex turn you off. These things are not necessarily bad habits, but there are things that turn you off. And infatuation can go away just as it comes. This is clearly an emotion, existing as it is because of the situation you are in at that time.

So, by this, we can conclude that love is not just emotion.

2. Love is not just words.

Today, we use "I love you" for almost everyone. We throw that term around as if it were a "hello" or "goodbye".

Seriously, ask yourself. How many people outside your family have you said "I love you" to this week. If you're like me, having many pet sisters (yes, I am guilty as charged =( ), you'd have probably used it more than 5times this week.

"I love you" has become so common, it has lost most of its meaning and value. It has become a cliche. How can love; pure, sacred love be associated with something so cheap as talk. Yes, there is useful and meaningful and knowledgeable talk, but honestly, how often do we say "I love you" after explaining the quantum theory?

You know what is even suck-ier? Nowadays, we often say "I love you" when we want to get things out from people. When we want to exploit others. You disagree? Well, when your dad allows you to go for that party, or that outing, you usually first respond with an "I love you Daddy" don't you? Or when your friend does something for you and you say "Love you bro/babe".

You're a good and filial daughter? A good friend? Fair enough. Accepted.

What about when some of us are asking someone for sex? When we trade an "I love you" for that person's virginity. Does that justify the use of "I love you"?

How can true love be used in such ungrateful and lying talk? Doesn't this show that love is truly not just words?

3. Love is not just action.

Well, since I have knocked down the two main assumptions of love, love's gotta be action right?

Wrong.

Love is not presents. Yes, though we give our loved ones gifts, but you do not love everyone you give gifts to do you?

Love is not to be confused with the showering of gifts. Materialistic parents shower their kids with gifts. Adulterous business men shower their mistresses with gifts too. If you can clearly categorize these 2 as not real love, how can love merely be action? Just because you do something for someone, does that means you love them?

~~~~

Okay, here comes the punchline. Love is not just emotions, not just words and not just action. But emotions, words and action are love.

Are you more confused now then from whence we began? Haha.

Let me explain. Mere emotions, mere words and mere actions are not love. But love encompasses these 3.

Why did you discredit the 3 elements so quickly? That is what is wrong with our human brain. We are so quick to push things aside. We are a quick fix generation, we want black and white! Indefinite things are viewed as unstable and irrelevant.

The 3 elements above are in actual fact products of love. When we feel love, we express it in these 3 areas. But the 3 on its own do not define love. Love defines these 3. Can you get me?

Love is an application. A practice. A value. A lifestyle. An expression. A belief. Hope. Love is divine.

In its essence, love did not originate from humans. No. Love is not a formula of some scientist. It isn't an idea of a philosopher. Love was given to us. It did not belong to us initially, but yet we have it now. Thus we can only conclude that it was given to us.

One thing that we can clearly confirm is, love is NOT human in nature. Just take a look around you. Does love cause so much pain? So much suffering? For someone to have come up with so intricate, so pure, that "someone" has to be pure in his own nature. In his own being, that "someone" has to be love to create love. To contain love. To maintain love.

Doesn't this just further proves that there IS a God? Not some cosmos holding up the universe. Not some impersonal force that keeps the ying and yang in balance. No! For something so personal as love to exist, the Creator has to be personal, intimate, loving.

If you can think of someone else who fits the description other than God, let me know. I'll eat my shoe. =)

~~~

Is that all? Well, no. Love actually has a form. It has an appearance. A physical appearance.

How so? Just as morse code is interpreted into a message, so is love coded out into our lives. The physical appearance of love is how you live you life. In other words, you are the form of love. You are the appearance of love.

This might be very weird, but look beyond the words. Don't get caught up in the phrasing of my sentences. Try to envision yourself as love. When liquid fills a container, it takes the shape of container. Same thing. When there is love in you, it takes the shape of you. How much width is the neck, or how wide is the bottom. Love takes its form IN you. How you express it out can show whether your "container" is big or small. The shape of love is shown our capacity to love.

When we have love in our lives, naturally our perspectives will change. Our hearts are softened. We actually take time to consider and think about things that we usually don't.

The fact is, all of life comes down the love. Why? Because love is the reason why we do things. Why we work, why we have passions, why we love others. Love motivates us. And if this is so, love has to be much more then sentiment, for who can live on sentiment alone?

Here is a biblical perspective of love.

Love is patient and kind;

Love doesn't want what it doesn't have or boast;

It is not proud or rude.

It does not force its own way;

It is not irritable or hold a grudge;

It does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.

Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love is the greatest paradox of life. Love is not mere action, but it is sacrifice(action). Love is not just an emotion, but it births affection(emotion). Love is not just words, but it affirms and builds us up through words. In love, when you choose to die, you live on. In love, if you try to save what you own, you will lose it.

The bible gave us an ultimatum. There is no greater love than that of a man who lays down his life for his friends. That is the maximum of love. Any higher level of love would be a man laying down his life for his enemies.

Are you still trying to use your brain to figure out what is love? Don't. Use your heart.

Love complements.

Love transcends.

Love transforms.

Love fulfills.

Love commits.

Love endures.

Love loves.

Love never fails. Anything less, isn't love.

Much Love,

MarcusDS

Introduction - I'm on, are you?

2010-08-28T23:19:00.006+08:00

[Note]

In this introduction, we will be exploring the feeling of love. We won't go into deep stuff yet. We'll just touch the surface and try to identify the symptoms or rather, the effects of love in our life.

----------------------------

One of our favourite terms that we use when we ask whether so and so are dating is "on"

"Deypa dah on kah belum?"

"Ta gen ta on le ma?"

"Wait, you mean the both of them are on?"

"[no idea how to write in Tamil. If you do, teach me =)]"

Yes folks. On is our all time favourite when we talk about relationships. And not just any relationship, but bg-gf relationships.

It's exciting isn't it? To be "on" with someone. The first feeling you get when you know that the girl (or guy) of your dreams also has a crush on you is literally OMG! You go "wow" and "ooh" and "aah" and if it comes in a text, you don't really know what to reply in the 1st few minutes. If she (or he) tells you over one of your many phone calls, you usually go speechless for the 1st few moments.

A hot feeling comes over you. You break into cold sweat, your heart starts beating so fast and SO VERY LOUD you can hear it as if it's behind your ears. Your blood starts pumping. You feel weak. You feel strong. You feel all the opposites at the same time.

It's kinda ironic how all these "symptoms" match up with malaria right? Haha

Yes friends. Ini semua saya pun pernah rasa lah. It's not news.

But its exhilarating isn't it? It's as though new life has been put in you. You want to scream into the air at this new emotion. This new feeling. This new found thing that people call love, but you don't really care, cause it's just too awesome to understand, and you'd rather be doped than stand there and try to figure it out.

And I'm not exaggerating, because that is what love does to you. To us all. Love makes us feel brand new. Wanted. Appreciated. Love makes us feel, well, simply loved.

And we want it. We desire it. Some of us crave it. We want the attention that love brings. We want to feel the adrenaline rush and that overwhelming feeling.

We see couples almost everywhere we go. Hands held, hugged bodies and kissing lips. Although most of the time it is an eyesore to single people (yes it is!), you've gotta admit there are couples you see that make you go "awwwwh".

When we first hear that our crush crushes us back, the next thing we want to do is to hook up. Naturally. OBVIOUSLY! Why, what numbskull won't want to be together with the girl he likes? The girl he has been vying for, trying to get her attention. Which idiot makes a fool out of himself to woo a girl, gets the girl and friggin' turns her down? That brother is outta his mind!

And so, we "on" la. Macam lampu tau? You boleh kasih switch "on". Jangan sesekali terswitch "off" tau?!

In an era where life is getting more and more competitive and success is viewed by how many assets you have, more and more youngsters are getting involved at an earlier age. The "on" phenomenon is not just happening in our country. It's global. Or as Barney Stinson puts it, "It's a freaking epidemic"!

The urge to get in a relationship can be overwhelming sometimes. Hard to control. And we want to get in the game as fast as we can. The hormones we have push us to go for it and if we're lucky, we get on that train. And if we're not, well better luck next time.

So after all things being said, what is this love that makes us want to be with someone? That makes us do things we would never do on a normal basis? What is love about?

What is love?

Stay tuned and find out more in Chapter 1 - What is Love?

Much Love,

MarcusDS

The Love Series - Love and How to..

2010-08-28T23:07:00.003+08:00

Greetings folks.

I have decided to do something a bit different. I am going to do a series of posts on the subject we all love and would love to know more - Love.

That's right folks. This series is entitled Love and How to. And as the title itself, it comprises of 2 parts, namely:-

1) Love

2) How to love

The 1st part will be an introduction to love. Hopefully, this part will answer a lot of questions we have about love. What is it actually? What does it feel like? Why do we love and love to be loved? etc.

The 2nd part will be a more practical part. Once we have a grasp on love, let's learn how to channel it out shall we not? =)

I don't claim to be a love guru. I don't know all there is to know on Love. I am not writing this based on how many girls I've slept with or how many blind dates I scored or how many dames I've wooed. And this is not a self help book telling you how to go out there and score a hottie tonight.

No. I am sincerely writing this for all you people out there looking for love, but in all the wrong places. I am writing this because I too have been in a failed relationship and I too have experienced the heartaches and depression.

And I'm writing this for all you lovebirds who just got together and need some help containing that lovely spark that could turn into a ravaging forest fire. =)

I hope this series will help you, whoever you are. I write this with my Christian perspective and my Christian views, but please know that this is also meant for non-Christians. If you are looking for a "passionate, how to start a love scene" series stop right now. This is not about that. This is about love in its purest form.

What's in it for me you ask. Well, as for me, this series will probably reveal to you the sentimental and romantic part of me that you might not know. And I too need to hear this or rather, read this as it's written down. This will be penned (or rather blogged) out of love, especially for you guys.

Much love,

MarcusDS

Dear Dr. Pornthip..

2010-08-28T20:06:00.003+08:00

Here is the link to TBH's inquest videos. You will start by laughing, and you will end up crying.

http://www.malaysiakini.com/v6/link.php?http://blog.limkitsiang.com/2010/08/27/malaysias-funniest-and-tragic-court-video/

Sometimes I wonder, what does Dr. Pornthip think of us Malaysians? I mean like seriously! She is trying to fight for justice and here comes a lawyer who can't even speak English properly. ARRGGH!! I really feel like cursing! I really do. The loyar buruk should go out and hang himself with his own tie!

I am so sad la. This nation arh. Is going to the dumps. It really is.

50 years ago, we could have saved our own butts. 50 years ago, if our leaders followed through the vision of Dato Onn and our forefathers, we could save this nation.

Now, only God can save us.

-----------------------------------

Dear Dr. Pornthip,

I'm so sorry Dr. Pornthip. I apologize on behalf of my accussing, my lying and my *censored* countrymen. I'm so sorry that they have been trying to drag your name through the dirt and trying to discredit, when all you are trying to do is fight for justice.

You can probably call this the Malaysian way. We lie to cover things up. We sell public belongings as if they are our own. We cheat our way through our exams, bribe our way through our problems and we blame the system for the injustice and unrighteousness.

I'm so sorry you have to endure this. Please, accept my apology on behalf of my country.

I believe what you say is true. And I hope that in your quest to fight for Justice and restore righteousness, that you will encounter the King of Justice and Righteousness Himself.

God bless you for your heart Dr. Pornthip. Thanks for enduring through all these things all this while. I am praying for your well being.

Sincerely,

An Ashamed Patriot.

Did I REALLY say that?

2010-08-25T19:21:00.003+08:00

Meet the guy who said consummation when he actually meant consumption.

Yes folks. Me =)

Don't judge me! I had 2 minutes to put my thoughts on paper and organize them into a 2 minute speech! LOL

I marvel at my "brilliance" sometimes. It's a God given talent. XD

Exam starts tomorrow. Media fast starts Friday. I might, I might not be blogging. Depends. See how. If I'm impressed to share with you guys, I will.

Ta ta. Cheerios. Auf wiedersehen. Au Revoir. Arriverderci.

Love,

MarcusDS

Negara - Bebas, atau sebaliknya?

2010-08-24T21:42:00.006+08:00

I am studying for my Pengajian Am test and I just found something very contradicting in my reference book.

Negara

Negara merujuk kepada sesuatu masyarakat bebas yang menduduki kawasan atau wilayah dalam had sempadan tertentu dan diperintah oleh sesebuah kerajaan.

I know, I know. Don't worry, I'm not an anarchist. But, think about it. It's easily misunderstood. Right? To be governed here could also mean to be ordered around.

Well, I believe the definition of something doesn't lie on paper, but rather on how it is expressed in real life.

So what say you? Are you being governed? Or controlled.

Think about it. Or in the words of Isaac from Grey's Anatomy - Go home. Sleep on it. We'll talk more tomorrow. =)

God bless,

MarcusDS

Hillsong Conference Session Notes - Part 3

2010-08-15T10:41:00.003+08:00

2nd Session

Title : How to be an effective leader in an effective ministry

Speaker : Pastor Joshua

1) If we want to bear fruit in our ministry, we must be found in Jesus.

John 15:5 - He is the Vine, we are the branches. Apart from Him, we can do nothing.

John 15:16 - We did not choose Him, but He chose us to go and bear fruit that will last.

2) Live and lead by example. (1 Cor 11:1)
- Paul asked the Church of Corinth to imitate him as he imitated Christ.

- Would people draw close to God if they saw how we lived in private as well as in public?

- Our examples speak louder than what we say.

3) Examine ourselves regularly. (2 Cor 13:5)

- Do I have Jesus at the center and am I leading by example?

4) As leaders, we can help shape a Kingdom Culture with youths.

- What kind of a Kingdom Culture can we shape among youths?

i) No vision, people perish (Pro 29:18)

- Do we have a vision to see where the youth ministry is going and how it can get there?

ii) Create ownership in youths.

- Not just a meeting they attend, but something they are part of.

iii) Perseverance.

- Teach them that perseverance is the key to achieve greater heights.

iv) Reward and Encouragement.

- Are we treating them the way we should, or the way we want?

v) Be the culture we seek to create.

- Live and lead by example.

vi) Hold on to our joy.

- No matter what obstacles we meet, hold on to the joy of our Salvation. (Ps 51:12)

- Know that in God, there is rest and fullness of joy. (Ps 16:11)

vii) Stay focused on what is important.

- Our greatest fear should not be failing. Our greatest fear should be succeeding at the things that do not matter.

Encouraging Scriptures :

Eph 3:20 - God is able to do everything more abundantly, above all that we can imagine.

John 3:30 - He must increase and I must decrease.

Luke 10 - One thing is important, to sit at the feet of Jesus.

Gal 6:9 - Don't grow weary in doing good, for in due time, we will reap the harvest.

1 Cor 15:58 - Stand firm.

Summary:

1) If we want to lead an effective ministry, everything we do MUST revolve around Jesus.

2) We can only create in others what we create in ourselves. Be the culture we seek to create.

3) Let youths feel accepted and wanted at a youth meeting. Help them feel that they are part of the youth, and not an hourly meeting they attend.

4) Persevere. In due time, the fruits will show.

---------------------------

Next up, my personal take on the whole conference and concert. Hope this session helped! =)

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Hillsong Conference Session Notes - Part 2

2010-08-13T22:43:00.002+08:00

I joined the Youth Leadership Session which was merged with the Emerging Leaders Session.

Here are the notes, as promised. =) Glad you like 'em Melanie!

-----------------------

1st Session

Title : Youth Leadership - Follow Me

Speaker : Pastor Joshua

1) The culture of today is a following culture

2) To be a great leader, you need to be a great follower. But follow who and follow what?

Matt 4:18-20

- Jesus told the men, Follow me and see.

- He was calling them to devotion, calling them to commitment.

A) Stop

- And ask ourselves, who do we want to be?

- We must stop living for ourselves.

B) Drop

- Drop the things that hold us back. (Hebrews 12:1-2)

- What do I need to let go?

C) Roll

- We are alive for a purpose bigger than ourselves.

- Who we follow in life is important and it determines our destiny.

- When we walk with Jesus our potential is limitless.

3) Paul considered all as lost when compared to Jesus. (Phil 3:7-11)

Summary:

1) A great leader follows the greatest Leader.

2) We are not meant to just live for ourselves. There is a calling on our lives, a purpose that we are to fulfill.

3) When we walk with Jesus, our potential is limitless.

4) We only get one shot at life. Make it count.

-----------------------

Hope it helped!

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Hillsong Conference Session Notes - Part 1

2010-08-13T12:26:00.002+08:00

Hi guys,

I know I promised some of you the notes for the sessions. Sorry it comes so late. I'm going to do this in 3 parts as I'm really lazy to blog at the moment.

Here is the keynote speech by Pastor Lee Burns from Hillsong Bible College. I'm sorry if you can't really connect my points as I have a funny way of taking down notes. Nonetheless, hope it helps you. It sure did help me.

-------------------

Main Session

Title : The Leadership Mindset

- Leaders are all subordinates in a way and each must give an account for their responsibility and for what they sow.

1) Leadership in its purest form is influence.

An effective leader leads by influence (both good and bad.)

- What is my life saying to the people around me?

An effective leader leads by trust from his/her followers.

- Trust must be built into lives.

An effective leader responds well.

- Frustration is our response to the things that irritate us. It's not what others do to us, but how we respond.

2) Leadership in its purest form is faithfulness.

Leaders are not perfect. But their influence depends much on their faithfulness to what they are following and their beliefs.

Followers can only grow as much as a leader grows.

- What are my limiting beliefs?

3) Leadership in its purest form is consistently changing.

The 2 rules of change are:

- It is inevitable.

- People will resist it.

4) Leadership in its purest form is example.

Our lives have to be an example to those we lead.

Summary :

1) A leader leads by example. He/She no longer lives for himself alone, but for those around him. Therefore it is his responsibility to continue growing so as to not stifle the growth in those below him.

2) As leaders, we must all ask ourselves - Who do I need to be, to do what I need to do, to achieve what I need to achieve?

-------------------

Hope it helped! God bless.

Signing off,

MarcusDS

It's just not me! - Part 1

2010-08-08T23:27:00.004+08:00

Today we did Speaking during MUET. And I sucked.

I am a natural born talker people say. And it is very true. I do not have much problems with articulation and I know my vocab is proficient enough. But the whole "concept" of speaking on a topic for 2 minutes scares the crap out of me.

I think it has to do with the preparation time. We are only allowed 2 minutes to prepare on a certain topic and we have to speak 2 minutes on the topic we prepare. We are graded on task fulfillment, articulation and how we put the information forward.

So, every time when we are about to begin, my mind will just tell me that I have 2 minutes to prepare the topic and spontaneous as I am, I get really really nervous and end up stuttering. I use words like "umm" and "aah" and sometimes even "kinda" and "sorta". Haha.

Well, today I sucked the worst mainly because of the topic.

It was actually a very easy topic, compared to the last time (which was why national landmarks are the greatest achievements since independence.)

"You and your friends are discussing some of the things man can't live without."

Easy right?

Relatively so. But here is the twist. You are put in a group of 4. Candidates A,B,C and D. You are given the same issue but different task. And Candidate D usually gets the hardest task. Don't ask me why, it's the way it is!

And guess who is candidate D in my group?

Exactly. Yours truly.

I feel honoured that my teacher registered me as Candidate D because she knows that I can handle the task. But today's one was just ridiculous.

While Candidates A,B and C spoke about family, friends and health, I got wealth.

WEALTH! Can you believe it? The one thing I oppose and feel that man CAN live without is wealth. And there I was sitting there feeling like MPM (Majlis Periksaan Malaysia) has something against me!

The whole point is la, because of the current mindset that I have, I just couldn't put myself in that position to come up with points that wealth is so important that we can't live without it.

Am I just being uptight or does it have something to do with my personality?

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Conversation with God..

2010-08-03T20:25:00.002+08:00

After a long silence from Upper Management, He finally broke the silence on Sunday night.

Consistency, is what I want.

Consistency, is what you NEED!

God, why isn't there an "auto" life? Manual is just so hard to do. =(

I find that I'm super indifferently inconsistent and inconsistently indifferent!

Signing off,

A failure in Consistence eyes

Quotes on D..

2010-07-26T00:56:00.004+08:00

So far I am in the middle of chapter 3 of Jesus Christ Disciple Maker by Bill Hull. I find this book to be very radical and most thought provoking. Although the principles and teachings in this book is more solid than what I am used to, I find it very profound!

The 2 reasons why I find it so hard to speed on up on reading this book like I do all other books (I have an average reading rate of 407 words per minute and a retention rate of 70% of what I read.) is because of its hard teaching. And of course there is the lazy factor. *winks*

Anyways, here are some of the phrases that caught my attention so far in chapter 1 and 2. Melanie! You asked for it! XD

------

We must be careful not only to teach the content but also to model these truths in our lives. The example in our outreach is vital; It serves as a catalyst.

Flexibility is basic to success.

Christian leaders should have ministry antennae fully extended, utilizing ordinary situations in order to allow God to supernaturally intervene.

Disciples should eventually come to a point of being prepared to deny themselves anything in order to be involved in the most exciting enterprise known to the human spirit.

The cement of knowledge comes only through the application of truth brought alive by experience.

If our ministries do not lead to the making of obedient, fruit-bearing believers, then we have simply "fattened up" the Church.

True disciples learn and relearn many times through the example of Jesus that to do the will of the Father and to stay on His agenda is more productive than the most attractive of alternatives.

------

D is becoming a topic close to my heart because I am beginning to see the importance of being a disciple of Christ, not just by following discipleship courses and seminars, but by sitting at the feet of Jesus, following the steps AND the stops of Jesus.

We are not called to be merely followers. We are called to be disciples and so much more.

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Inconsistent indifference..

2010-07-26T00:47:00.004+08:00

"Marcus, God answered your prayers!"

But I didn't pray for his grandmother to pass away and for him to have an accident 2 days later so that I can take his place.

Why do I feel so bad?

Going for choir nationals next weekend. Part of me is happy that I am going to sing, part of me is weary. So what I am actually feeling is indifference I guess?

Don't know what to feel!

I am truly amazed at how inconsistent I can be! Gosh! How can I be so passionate and yet so indifferent at the same time? It's so like me to be inconsistently indifferent ALL THE TIME!

Which brings me to my question.

Is there anyone in the world who is consistent 24/7 365 days a year?

God, give me strength! I need Your strength.

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Keeping mum and how it hurts - Part 2

2010-07-15T09:10:00.003+08:00

⁸ "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves,
for the rights of all who are destitute.

⁹ Speak up and judge fairly;
defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Proverbs 31: 8 - 9

I like how Joseph Lam explained injustice to us (PenHOP sty-elle!)

He said that injustice is basically the things on earth that don't agree with what is in heaven. When God created the heavens and the earth, He made them correspond to each other. What existed in heaven existed on earth and vice versa. For instance, on earth nature shows us how great our God is and in heaven the angels sing of how great our God is. So because corruption and perverse behaviour doesn't exist in heaven, it becomes an issue for God as it goes against His righteousness and definition of justice.

When Jesus spoke of His followers (at that time and the ones to come.) He always spoke of how in Him would we be victorious, in Him would we be clothed with power and in Him would we overcome. The fact that Jesus cared to mention so much about the humble and the people with the heart to see righteousness in this world shows that we aren't here just for show. Our existence in this world bears weight.

We have been called to be the Salt and Light in this darkening age. God calls us to be the "flava" to this distasteful world and the beacon of hope in the failing light. We have more than purpose in this life. We have a vocation! A mission to be accomplished. And part of that mission is to be ambassadors of Christ, speaking His Word, in this instance, speaking justice into the corrupt areas of our nation.

The tree is known by its fruit. If we fail to show our Saviour's compassion, we fail to show who He is.

Injustice is real. It is cruel and rampant, and it is real. If we as children of God do not speak out the Father's heart to see justice and righteousness being established in the places of darkness and take its rightful place, we are choosing to close our hearts and minds to the Saviour's desires.

A great German anti-Nazian theologian Martin Niemoller once said,

When the Nazis came for the communists,

I remained silent;

I was not a communist.

When they locked up the social democrats,
I remained silent;
I was not a social democrat.

When they came for the trade unionists,
I did not speak out;
I was not a trade unionist.

When they came for the Jews,
I remained silent;
I wasn't a Jew.

When they came for me,
there was no one left to speak out.

If we fail to speak out against the injustices in this world, we shall one day have to answer to God why not. Keeping mum hurts you and it hurts us all.

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Keeping mum and how it hurts - Part 1

2010-07-15T00:09:00.010+08:00

If there is one thing above all else about our God, it is He hates injustice.

Hate in this case is the understatement of the millennium. So let me rephrase that.

God loathes injustice. To Him, it is a stench to the perfect world He created.

¹⁰ Because of the violence against your brother Jacob,
you will be covered with shame;
you will be destroyed forever.

¹¹ On the day you stood aloof
while strangers carried off his wealth
and foreigners entered his gates
and cast lots for Jerusalem,
you were like one of them.

¹² You should not look down on your brother
in the day of his misfortune,
nor rejoice over the people of Judah
in the day of their destruction,
nor boast so much
in the day of their trouble.

¹³ You should not march through the gates of my people
in the day of their disaster,
nor look down on them in their calamity
in the day of their disaster,
nor seize their wealth
in the day of their disaster.

¹⁴ You should not wait at the crossroads
to cut down their fugitives,
nor hand over their survivors
in the day of their trouble.

Obadiah 1 : 10 - 14

God, as we know is a God of righteousness and only the righteous shall behold Him. But no matter how much a person deserves punishment, God will never tolerate exploitation of even the accused or the guilty. He sees it as great sin against His righteousness as it is in direct opposition of His will.

When the Edomites chose to look the other way whilst their distant relatives, Jacob was being brutally raided on and invaded, they incurred God's anger towards their total (and intentional) apathy towards this absurdity.

Whenever we think of injustice, what comes to mind is the evil that is being done around us. But try thinking about it this way, there is greater injustice done when we choose to keep quiet and ignore what is going around us. God's promised judgement (and warning) to the Edomites was concerning their decision to keep silent and assisting the enemy in conquering the Israelites.

We might say, "How is all this related to me and how I live my life?"

The apostle John brings it all closer to home in his first letter.

¹⁷If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? ¹⁸Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.

1 John 3 : 17 -18

When we choose to close our hearts to the injustices happening around us, we do not have the love of God dwelling in us. For how come God's love, full of compassion and compulsion cause us to act so complacently and indifferently to other human beings?

Here is an analogy to bring it even close to home. A Christian of 20 years just exits his church after an uplifting worship and encouraging message on love. On the way out, he ponders what love is and asks God to give him an opportunity to love. As he enters his car, a homeless man shuffles by and immediately the Christian responds by cringing his nose and muttering "Freak" under his breath.

Sounds familiar eh?

So often, we choose to ignore the prompting of the Holy Spirit to help people we see passing us day by day. And when we do that, we are actually putting a limit of God's love in our lives. We ask God for a bigger capacity to love and He willingly grants us our wish, yet do we realize that when we stifle the Holy Spirit, we reduce that capacity to merely an emotion.

Love is not just an emotion. And when we choose to limit it to an emotion, we run day in and day out looking for something to fill that emptiness in us, and yet, we miss the whole point of it.

The desire to seek change and to ACT for the sake of seeing it come to pass should come naturally to us Christians. We don't have to wait for the Holy Spirit to prompt us every time we see a beggar or an abusive act being carried out, big or small.

We need to ask ourselves, is keeping mum the solution or does it hurt the situation more compared to our speaking out for righteousness and justice?

Love in action and in deeds!

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Men, Methods and God..

2010-07-13T23:04:00.012+08:00

I started reading a book on discipleship 3 days ago and unlike all the other books I read, I have decided to go extra slow on this one so that I can really soak in what the book has to offer.

I will be blogging more on discipleship in a bit, but in the meantime, this is something that caught my attention. Here it is.

[ We are constantly on a stretch if not on a strain, to devise new methods, new plans, new organizations to advance the Church and secure enlargement and efficiency for the Gospel. This trend of the day has a tendency to lose sight of the man or sink the man in the plan or organization. God's plan is to make much of the man, far more of him than of anything else.

Men are God's methods. The Church is looking for better methods: God is looking for better men.]

E.M Bounds - Power Through Prayer

I find this to be so profound and often, unconsidered in our hustle and bustle to "adopt" new "projects" in ministry. I'm learning through the is book where discipleship should be ranked in our lives and it is totally a 180 Degree turn of my initial understanding of discipleship.

Be blessed knowing that YOU are God's goal and He will not lose sight of you. He intends so much more for you, far more than anything else.

Signing off,
MarcusDS

Funny Conversations..

2010-07-12T20:57:00.003+08:00

Hey folks, here is a more relaxed post on what's been happening in my life!

My mum has always been ticking me off because of my weight. Every conversation we have will always steer in the direction of my weight "problem".

For example:

Me : Ma, my feet hurt.

Ma : It's 'cause you're too fat!

Me : No la, 'cause just now I exercise marr.

Ma : Yeah, 'cause you're too fat! Your feet can't take your weight!

Me : What la?! I exercise also scold, dont' exercise also scold!

Ma : Yeah, 'cause you're too fat!

But this conversation last week topped it all, like SERIOUSLY!

*Walks into the kitchen. Mum is washing the water filter.*

Me : Ma, I'm not well. I have a bad sore throat.

Ma : It's 'cause you're too fat!

Me : *scratches head* What on earth has a sore throat have to do with me being fat?

Ma : *without pausing* What doesn't it have to do with it? Your fat push against your throat that's why it's sore!

Like seriously! SERIOUSLY! I was like WHAT?!

Anyways, today during biology, our teacher was talking about the horse shoe crab (which is from the Arthropoda phylum and Merostomata class by the way XD) and she was saying how Muslims can't eat haiwan dua alam.

Me : Cikgu, what about frog? Boleh makan kah?

C.Z : Tak boleh. Snail pun tak boleh.

Zhi Wei : Cikgu! Itik boleh?

It may not sound funny here, but we spent the rest of the period laughing! It was just so hilarious! That together with the constant lashing of tongue that we give Shatis!

Who said I don't love Form 6? I do, I really do! It's the studying that I hate! XD

Signing off,

MarcusDS

Facelift..

2010-07-11T10:40:00.002+08:00

Yes, my blog has been given a face-lift.

I have decided to start blogging again. =)

So there shall be more updates very soon.

Hope there are still readers out there.

God bless,
MarcusDS

Love, actually..

2010-07-10T18:05:00.004+08:00

Love

is not a feeling you feel

when a hot girl walks by

at school or at work

Love's not

just emotion

it's more than butterflies

or tears in your eyes

Do you know

how the Father loves?

He gave up His son

who gave up His life

It's more than emotion

it's seen in His action

it's divine intervention

that brings us salvation

Love's not

mere emotion

It's more than a kiss

you plant on one's lips

Do you know

how the Father loves

He longs for His Bride

to sit by His side

It's more than His feelings

it's His grace overflowing

our sins He's forgiving

every time we beseech Him

If you ask me,

that's love, actually

Forgive me for belittling Your love and taking Your grace in vain Lord.

MarcusDS

A Long Time..

2010-06-24T09:50:00.002+08:00

It's been a long time.

So many thoughts, no idea how to get them all here, so, I'll just blog.

April, May and June have been crazy crazy crazy months. My world was turned upside down, and I'm still trying to adapt to the change.

Realized a lot of faults that I have. =(

Anyways, I have decided, and this blog is going to go per-rive-vate. =)
I need to release some tension into cyberspace and I don't want any Tom, Dick and Harry to read it. =)

I will be inviting a few of my close friends to view my blog, however, if you would like to read my posts and get to know me better, tell me and I'll give you special viewing privilege. Hehe

Cheerios for now. =) Say hello to less clutter. Very soon I hope. =)

Love,
MarcusDS

Hiatus..

2010-05-03T23:09:00.002+08:00

THIS BLOG IS TEMPORARILY ON

HIATUS

and for all you people with bad pronunciation,

it's pronounced

Hi-Ei-Tirst.

(not He-Ya-Toos)

Say it right and be proud of yourself.

Arriverderci!

Cluttered..

2010-05-03T23:02:00.002+08:00

I just realized, my blog is as cluttered as my life is.

I have been having writers' block and a stroke of laziness. =S

So much to say, no idea how to put it down on paper or blog.

As Elaine che che said "Blogs are dangerous. Stick to journals!"

And so. Here is an honest thought-out-loud. Should I hit the "delete blog" button?

Or give it another shot?

For the time being, I bid thee adieu. This blog shall be temporarily on hiatus until I can really figure out the purpose of its existence. I do not want to shoot words into empty air, only to have good intentions misunderstood. Neither do I want to expose myself here on my blog and be vulnerable.

Is this space a reminiscence of the past? A picture of the present? Or a vision of the future?

Is this a place for me to pour out my feelings as they are, uncensored and unbarred, or is this a place of calm and logic.

So help me God whether I decide to continue or discontinue this blog, but may it all be for Your glory.

Signing off,

An out-of-place blogger

Maybe Home..

2010-04-14T17:23:00.002+08:00

This song is written by Esther Wee, and sent in to Jom Bangkit for their Bangkit Album due to be released in

I can only say, ESTHER! I am SOOO PROUD OF YOU! You are so far from home, and yet your heart is here. That really puts all the rest of us to shame. God bless your heart you sweet thang!

Here is the video. Enjoy!

And a little word from the creator..=)

About "Maybe Home":

This song is a simple speech by a youth expressing its views about its home, Malaysia. Though many people are migrating out because they feel that there is no hope left in Malaysia, yet home will still be home no matter what. That is why we as youths must take up the responsibility to rise up (Bangkit) for our beloved nation if we ever want to see a change happening.

Although Malaysia may look like a pretty country from the outside, it has its flaws. We have democracy

But it is merely an illusion. 1Malaysia isn’t really 1Malaysia. We have so called ‘freedom of speech’ but in reality we do not. In fact there is no freedom as we are deprived of a lot of things.

This song illustrates how hypocritical our government can be at times and how we have lost trust and confidence in them.

Our plea is for a change to come, for a better and brighter future for all of us.

MarcusDS

Why O Why..

2010-04-01T00:55:00.002+08:00

I just suddenly felt inspired to write this song. The 1st verse just came to me and I didn't want to go get all creative cause I believe this is too sacred for me to slip in my own human wisdom. The 2nd verse is sort of an explanation of why I ask why. Haha.

To be honest, till today, I'm still clueless as to WHAT DID HE SEE IN US?! There is no rational explanation! There is no logic! It is ridiculous! A God? Die for His people? Nonsense.

But it is in this nonsense that I find peace. And in this peace, I have a hope. And the only reason why we say its nonsense, is because it makes no sense to us. Yet, sometimes, things don't have make sense to exist. Does it now?

God bless you!

Regards,

MarcusDS

---------------------------

He broke the bread and passed round the cup

Knowing His hour on earth was up

O how amazing

His love captivating

But I'll never understand

Why

Why did He choose

to leave Heaven above

and come down below

to a land we all know

would refuse Him

and persecute Him

There was no reason

for His great descent

No logical explanation

No personal gain

Yet you and I sufficed

He became the sacrifice

He paid the price

Why?

What will it take us?

2010-03-30T02:07:00.002+08:00

Do we need a 7.0 magnitude earthquake in Malaysia to motivate us to pray?

What other proof do we need? What will it take us to pray?

The One I can go to..

2010-03-16T00:55:00.003+08:00

I LOVE this song!

O the joy of being able to bring my problems to my Saviour! The Hope is overwhelming..

Jesus, You are truly awesome Lord, just awesome!

---------------------------------------

Come to me, you weary one.
And I will give you rest.
I will give you rest.
Come to me, you weary one.
And I will give you rest.
I will give you rest.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Take me upon you, I will give you rest.

Come to me, you broken one.
And I will give you peace.
I will give you peace.
Come to me, you broken one.
And I will give you peace.
I will give you peace.
I will calm your waters, and I will whisper,
"Peace be still."
Take me upon you, I will give you peace.

Come to me (x3)
I have been waiting for you here.

I have been waiting for you here.

Come to me, you burdened one.
And I will give you joy.
I will give you joy.
Come to me, you burdened one.
And I will give you joy.
I will give you joy.
You will rise like eagles, and my joy will be your strength.
Take me upon you, I will give you joy.

Come to me (x3)
I have been waiting for you here.

He has been waiting for you here.
Come. Come to Him.
Come and find your peace.
Come and find your rest.
Come and find your joy.
He is waiting here for you.
He is waiting here for you with open arms,
To hold you, to embrace your heart, to love you.
He is waiting here. (x2)

--------------------------------------

What a great God I have eh?

Hey, He can be your God too you know?

If you've come on to this blog randomly

and have heard of Christ before and have never really believed

or even if you've been wanting to find a reason to believe,

this is it!

Wait no longer.

If you feel that Jesus is too good to be true, well, I guess there really is something as a free lunch eh..=)

He doesn't anything from you, except that you believe!

So, if you want to accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour, please say this prayer:

Lord Jesus,

I know I am a sinner

I am helpless and I know that I need Your help.

Please forgive me for all the wrong things that I have done.

Thank You for dying on the cross for my sins.

I pray that You will come into my life and give me peace.

I open up my heart and accept You as my Lord, my Saviour and my Friend.

Help me to learn more about You and to be able to feel Your presence with me.

In Jesus name I pray, Amen

If you have prayed that prayer, let me tell you right now that you are a Christian

and Jesus has entered into your life.

I recommend you join a bible believing Church and receive water baptism as a seal of your faith!

May the Lord lead you into greater heights!

Welcome to the family my brother/sister! I love you. =)

Regards,

MarcusDS

Spiritual Leadership..

2010-03-11T01:18:00.004+08:00

I like how Esther always writes up the devotionals from ODJ in her blog. =)

Today was on Spiritual Leadership. Not ordinary leadership defined by this world. But what it is to be a leader in the Kingdom of God.

Luke 22:24-27

²⁴ A dispute also arose among them, as to which of them was to be regarded as the greatest.²⁵ And he said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them, and those in authority over them are called benefactors. ²⁶ But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves. ²⁷For who is the greater, one who reclines at table or one who serves? Is it not the one who reclines at table? But I am among you as the one who serves.

There are a few things I learnt from this passage today.

1) Jesus was a redefiner of His generation (heh! XD). He came not to conform, but to set a standard. To show that human standards and human values can only go so far. In other words, Jesus came and showed us what HOLY is in the eyes of God, not in the eyes of the law. So often, He would outrightly not follow the traditions of men. He showed that while laws and traditions mold us and build us up, we should not stay in a cast or a mold forever.

In other words, KEEP GROWING!

2) Jesus came to revert and reverse the thinking of man. Just as Paul said that God chose the foolish to shame the wise, Jesus came to put down the proud and lift up the humble. What Jesus said in the verses above just explained the world of business today. Today, people step on each other to go up. It's the survival of the fittest they say. Leadership is not for the weak and the ones who serve. Yet Jesus specifically said that our leadership is not one of earthly values, but of Kingdom values. He acknowledged that the one who reclines at the table is greater. Yet He, the greatest One of all, is the one who serves.

J. Oswald Sanders said Leadership is influence. President Trumann said that leadership is getting people to do things that they normally wouldn't want to do, and like doing it. Hah. That is the power of leadership.

Today, I challenge you leaders (even myself.) Have we been reclining at the table too much?Have we let leadership fill our front view and have we neglected to show that Spiritual Leadership is more than a promotion?

Spiritual leadership is not about promotion. It is about maturity.

Regards,

MarcusDS

Operation Botak!

2010-03-04T16:36:00.002+08:00

Guys, check out this fantastic fundraiser! Read more here!

I would actually go do it, but too bad I won't be 18 by the closing date. But I will definitely do it the next time an opportunity rises!

In support of literacy in Sabah, please donate if you can! I can't donate or shave my head yet as I'm not 18 officially, but I'm spreading the word! To know how you can help go here!

Click on these links..

Spread the word!

Donate

Go bald?

Regards,

MarcusDS

Book of Eli..Great film? I beg to differ..

2010-03-03T23:39:00.006+08:00

What is the big excitement about Book of Eli? Why is every Christian who has watched it promoting it to other Christians?Because they have the Bible in it? And because Denzel Washington or Eli spends the whole hour and a half protecting it from being destroyed.

In my humble opinion, killing people to protect a Bible is worst than killing people for fun and is definitely not something that God would approve of. Is the Book of Eli better than SAW or The Hills have Eyes just because it has a protagonist trying to keep God's Word in the World?

I distinctly remember the crusades. I remember how the West came to Asia saying it was "The White Man's Burden" to educate and spread the gospel. Gold and Glory cannot be paired with Gospel my friends. How many people died not knowing the TRUE Word of God by the hands of "Christians" who joined the Crusades. Was it what God wanted?

God said don't use My name in vain. The fact is, the Bible will never be wiped out of the World. Joseph Stalin tried to ban bibles in Russia. Is the Word of God absent from Russia today? Mao Zedong tried to wipe out Christianity in China, yet today, China over-runs with Christians. You tell me, does God need a human vessel to protect His Holy Word?

NO!

God doesn't need us! We need Him. Stop justifying the fulfillment of your need for entertainment by relating it to Christ. Jesus said forgive and pray for those who persecute you.

Hollywood is trying to instill vengeance in our soul. This is a snare of the devil. Those who have been watching the seasons and signs know this is timely. In the Church in Malaysia especially. We have been persecuted through the recent burnings. We are suppressed, oppressed and not allowed to speak the Truth. What does the devil want to do? his plan is to cause strife. he is trying to cause disunity among races. God speaks unity; the devil speaks discord.

If you were walking down the street with a Bible in your hand and someone tried to snatch it from you, would you kick him? Shove him away? Shoot him? What did Jesus say? If a stranger asks for your coat that you give him your undercoat as well. If we are expected to do so with earthly materials, what more with a Heavenly-inspired, Spirit-led Book?

All in all, I'm just trying to say, persecution will come. Bibles will be destroyed and lives will be taken. In such times, do we hang on to our Bibles, or do we hang on to our Faith? If the time comes for your bible to be taken, so be it. For if you meditate on the Word, and if you abide in Christ, He shall bring you to all understanding through His Holy Spirit.

So? Start reading the bible now la! Fill your mind with what is good, righteous, pure and acceptable in God's sight. Not with second rate truth like the Book of Eli.

I actually was curious about the show and was going to watch it. But after reading some of the "enthusiastic" comments about it, I have decided not to. O, you can go ahead and watch. I'm not some religious bigot. Yeah, you can say I'm acting all Spiritual and holy holy and goody goody. I don't care. Call me a spoil sport. Call me a pretender, call me pushy, bossy! Call me rude, insensitive, too literal, too extreme. But there are certain truths that are ABSOLUTE. And this is one of them, that if a show about killing to protect the Word can excite you more than the Word itself, something is wrong. Something is terribly wrong with YOU!

Impulsive you say? Maybe. Radical you say? Yes. Irrelevant? Heaven NO! This is all the relevance you'll ever need. And I'm tired of stifling what I feel for your (Christian readers, if there are any.) comfort. If you seek a word pleasing to your ears, don't look here. I'm like this. I was brought up this way, and I feel that this is the best way for me to live out my faith.

So go ahead, watch the show. I won't stop you. But just so you know. And just so everyone knows. Please don't justify a pagan, heathen, non-Christian movie by saying it is good for Christians. Hollywood is Anti-Christian in case you haven't noticed. No offence to those who have watched the show or are going to watch the show. Just stating my views. =) I still love you despite it all, and I'm pretty sure you won't go to hell just because you watched this show. Jesus loves you. Have a good day!

"All things are lawful for me," but not all things are helpful. "All things are lawful for me," but I will not be enslaved by anything. - 1 Corinthians 6:12

Regards,

MarcusDS

Last night at PenHOP..

2010-03-03T13:44:00.003+08:00

Hi guys,

It's been at least a month since I first shared about what I received or experienced at PenHOP. Well, here is a jizz of what happened yesterday.

I arrived at Penang at 4.00pm, so I decided to do something I haven't done in a LOONG long time. I pampered myself with MY OWN money. Well, sorta my own. =)

I had gelato at Maxim gelattaria and cafe. Ooh la la. Lemonade, Frutti di Bosco and some orange flavour with apricots in it. Ooh, refreshing. Came back with a terrible cough tho. Woke up with phlegm. NOT GOOD, but who cares! XD

Well, I was at PenHOP at 4.30pm and got to speak to Dan a bit about MYPG. He confirmed a few things on my mind and it was a good short chat. Had a bit of quiet (tried to be quiet hehe) time to clear my mind of the cares of the world and just get in line with the Spirit.

Worship with the Word started at 6pm and carried on till 8pm. To be honest, I was falling asleep the whole time! hehe. I would nod off, sit up straight, and nod off again. So I went downstairs for an aimless walk, observing the hustle and bustle of life on Gurney Drive. Ten minutes later and a lot more appreciative of the rest I can receive in God, I went back up and concentrated on Psalms 145 which was the scripture that was on for meditation. During that time, God just reminded me that He is worthy to be praised and that my life should be a testimony of His greatness. How else would His saints sing of His works and deeds and not live them out?

The intercession session started at 8pm sharp. And immediately, I felt the presence of God just start to flow. And I kept saying Holy, Holy is the Lord. Like Peter, I wanted God to depart from me because I felt too sinful. My righteousness before Him are filthy rags. Yet at the same time, I didn't want to miss out on that anointing. I wanted Him to fill me to the brim. And after that the whole session just flowed towards the direction of the revelation of Jesus' beauty to His bride.

As Dr. Yeoh was speaking about the theme of the night, I saw a Bride's veil being put down. I think essentially, it was a sign that the Wedding is drawing nearer and that we should get ready. And I just felt that God was saying "Martha, come out of the kitchen!". I went out during Open Mic Prayer and just read the Songs of Solomon 5:2 - 6:2.

Altogether, it was a reminder that God is telling His Bride to get ready.

And only one thing comes to mind. There's only one word to describe,

Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty.

- Holy

Regards,

MarcusDS

Yo! What gives?

2010-03-01T00:34:00.005+08:00

Have you ever given thought to what career path you are going to choose? Which law firm, private hospital, developed country will you be going to?

Let me guess your plan.

Earn lotsa money, drink lotsa booze and hand out lotsa booty?

Have you ever wondered, what is this Rat Race of a life is about? Why are we here?

Let me challenge you to this thought. What is the use of earning everything, but losing the essence of yourself? Gaining the whole world but lose your soul?

Ponder about that this week. =)

--------------------------

Take my life, and let it be

Consecrated, Lord to thee.

Take my hands and let them move

At the impulse of Thy Love

Take my feet and let them be

Swift and beautiful for Thee

Take my voice and let me sing

Always, only for my King
Always, only for my King

Take my silver and my gold

Not a mite would I withhold

Take my moments and my days

Let them flow in ceaseless praise

Take my will, it is Thine own

It shall be Thy royal throne

Take my heart, it is Thine own

It shall be Thy royal throne

(Kari Jobe's rendition of Take My Life)

For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses it for My sake

shall keep his life. Tell Me, what good is it for a man to gain the whole world,

but lose his soul? - Luke 9:24-25

Regards,

MarcusDS

2010-02-21T01:38:00.000+08:00

I desire to be so much more..

New blog..

2010-02-14T01:57:00.002+08:00

Hi guys.

I have an alternate blog now. That blog will be updated more often and will be more people-friendly and stuff. This blog will be mainly used to express my views on certain things, for example, Christianity. So, if you would like something more contemporary, geeky, funny and weird in a good way, head on over to Dipsticks Rhymes!

Be sure to explore it fully as it is sure to be the bomb (in my own head!) XD

It will include jokes, rhymes, romantic and funny stuff and most importantly, MY CREATIONS! Hear the crowd go WILD! YeeHa! =)

See ya round folks.

FYI, This blog WILL STILL FUNCTION AS USUAL! =)

Regards,

MarcusDS

To Greater Heights..

2010-02-10T14:57:00.002+08:00

I'm so excited.

Ask me why!

I'm NOT telling you. Mwahaha..

Hey, don't walk away! Sheesh, talk bout a party pooper.

Hey you! Yes YOU! You who pooped at the par-tay! =)

I'm talkin' to YOU!

I'm so excited.

Ask me why!

Ok, now I'm going to tell you!

God has placed a lil sumthin' sumthin' in my heart! He is taking me to greater heights but not on the highway. I won't be rich or famous. But I want to be faithful! =)

PenHOP was a great experience for me last night, of which I shall not share because I want to keep it personal. But it was totally one-heaven of an experience! =)

Expect to see a lot of me in Penang. And do pray with me for where God is leading me! That's where I would LUURRVVE to go!

Regards,

MarcusDS

Love..

2010-02-08T22:19:00.002+08:00

Love is a desire. A burning desire in us.

Sometimes it burns for the right someone.

Sometimes, it burns for the right someone but at the wrong time.

Sometimes it burns for the right someone at the right time, but for the wrong reasons.

Such a headache isn't it? XD

My heart burns with desire. Well, namely Jesus Christ. And of course for humans too. Someone in specific. LOL.

HAHA. Wake up Marcus! Wrong time, wrong season, wrong reason! Hopefully the right someone tho. hehe

Many of you know this someone. If you do and you're reading, SHUT UP! I can feel you smirking right now. Don't you even dare comment the person's name, or where or how she looks like. Our friendship now hangs by a thread! Mwahaha XD

I shall wait. For His timing is the best.

I will wait for Your mercy
I will wait for Your plan to unfold
I will wait for Your mercies are new every morning

I will wait to see what He brings. But for now, ONTO NEW HORIZONS!

Regards,

MarcusDS

Welcome to the blog that God took interest in..

2010-02-08T21:44:00.005+08:00

We often think that some things are too petty for God to care for. Nevertheless, don't forget, God cares for you and everything you do. Doesn't matter if its the friends you make, the ministries you're in, or the status updates you update. He cares for you. Not for what you do for Him, but just because you are His. Not because of who you are, but because of who He is!

I started this year thinking that this is the year, I'm going to try to please the Lord. Noble thought you say? I wanted to remembered by the end of 2010 as one who tried. That when people thought of me, they would say "Marcus? Well, at least he tried!". This was also what I wanted to be inscribed on my gravestone and it still is. I want to known as someone who remained faithful. And so, I equated Obedience and Love with Works and Responsibilities. It's not that being a Christian and a Child of God means there are no responsibilities. And I'm not saying you don't have work to do as a Christian, far be it from me. I can't stand lazy Christians who talk a lot, but don't work. Cakap tak serupa bikin memang kiam pak!(LOL). But what I'm saying is, personally, I emphasized on these too much. I really really really tried to find approval by doing work.

Well, there were 2 things wrong with that. Number 1. Whose approval? Number 2. Whose work? God really convicted me of those 2 things.

Anyways, as I said, that was my goal for 2010. To be someone who TRIED.

On Friday night, I went to Penang House of Prayer for Friday Night Burn with my dad. It just so happened that my dad did not have to go to Serdang to fetch the Hokkien Fellowship member and it just so happened service ended early that night. And it just so happened that I had an incessant desire to go to PenHOP. So I persuaded my dad (somehow XD) to take me to Penang at 9pm in the night. 10mins into the journey towards Penang, we got caught in a jam. I think my dad was considering not going to Penang due to that jam, but he never said a word (pure speculation.) Anyways, the crawl was for about 10mins and we passed an accident. Come to think of it, there were so many points of the journey that could have caused us to turn back and go home. But God works in mysterious ways.

We reach PenHOP and we go up. And at the door, I hear Josh Yeoh saying, "He loves you not for what you do!". I headed for the toilet and then entered the room. I sat down and said a quiet prayer. God actually revealed a few issues in my life, but I will just share one.

After 15-20mins of TRYING to focus to worship, I finally entered that tangible atmosphere. I knew God was right at my side, and I knew He was listening. So I started praying. I repented of my insincerity and for making the whole thing about me and not Him. And then, Josh led the song You will not relent by Misty Edwards. And the 1st line hit me real hard.

You won't relent till until You have it all

My heart is Yours.

I had read the lyrics on his blog before, but that was just for viewing pleasure. But that night, the song hit me. The part God won't relent I get. God is unmovable God. But He wants it all? I thought God just wants my good side? He won't want my bad side, my sinful nature, my lustful desires. Will He? Oh. I might have to rethink some of my standings.

And then, there was this song that REALLY REALLY REALLY hit me and I started bawling!

He is jealous for me,
Loves like a hurricane, I am a tree,
Bending beneath the weight of his wind and mercy.
When all of a sudden,
I am unaware of these afflictions eclipsed by glory,
And I realise just how beautiful You are,
And how great Your affections are for me.

And oh, how He loves us so,
Oh how He loves us,
How He loves us all

We are His portion and He is our prize,
Drawn to redemption by the grace in His eyes,
If grace is an ocean, we’re all sinking.
So Heaven meets earth like a sloppy wet kiss,
And my heart turns violently inside of my chest,
I don’t have time to maintain these regrets,
When I think about, the way…

God is jealous for me? I mean, I knew this, I had told people that God is a jealous God. But this was a first-hand experience for me!

As Terence gave out communion, it was really a time that I re-communed with God. It was truly a reconciliation time for me. I became one with God. No no, I did not become God, but He and I were united. And I could feel His heartbeat. I could hear Him saying, "I love you, Marcus. I love you so much. If only you thought about it more often."

All in all, the lesson I learnt that night was, I started the year thinking of what I could do, what I could achieve. I did not bother to stop and say, God, not by my power, not by my might. The 1st thing that came to mind was, Change your blog. It is no longer the journey of striving. No longer the trying on your part. Yes, you still strive for holiness and righteousness and purity. But not by your strength. All the good qualities must be IN Christ.

It is the rediscovery of love. His love for me. And why I do all the things that I do. Why I run LYPG, why I do the MYPG videos. I'm not doing it just because Yosh told me to do so. No. He received the directive from the Lord yes, and because I acknowledge his authority in MYPG , but I must remember that I do it because I love Christ. Because He 1st loved me.

I want to remind all of us here at MYPG or in other ministries. Do a heart check. Are you doing your work out of obligation? If you are, it's time to re-evaluate. Be sincere. Yosh said it's not my work, but the Lord's. It's not our battle, but His.

¹²"This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. ¹³ Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. ¹⁴You are my friends if you do what I command you. - John 15:13

I am a friend of God. WOW! =)

Regards,

MarcusDS

KL..

2010-02-04T01:33:00.003+08:00

The trip to the Wall (MNPN tower) was therapeutic and eye-opening.

I offended my 2 buddies for not telling them I went to KL tho. I'm really sorry guys, but my reason still stands. =(

I miss the gals and japh, our dear chaperon!

I miss Jang Jang Jang..Tell me What is it! =) and TAKE A HIKE!!haha..

Cat, Elaine, Phoebs and Japh! Love you guys heaps!

Regards,

MarcusDS

My 2 cents..

2010-02-04T01:01:00.002+08:00

Reading the Word just now, I realized that I have such a aerial view on God. Which is virtually impossible since He is the one looking down from above!

But, realizing that fact in itself makes me want to cry. How long have I "misunderstood" God and thought I knew Him all too well. Just another reminder that God cannot be fathomed. His ways are so much higher and His thoughts are so much more organized and real. He knows the future and He holds it in His hands.

How wonderful a God I have that I "thought" I could figure Him out. How insolent, barbaric of me!

God, You have to forgive this amateur here for trying to "outsmart" You, as if that were possible!

I still remember my conversation with Elaine about God. I must have appeared so childish. Yet I hold on to the teachings I have received, both from my parents and my own interpretations of the Bible. I realize that God is a God of justice and righteousness who hates impartiality and insincerity.

Matt 7:7-11

⁷"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.⁸For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.

⁹"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? ¹⁰Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? ¹¹If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!

That is how awesome my God is!
Lord, You have said ask of You what I want and I will receive. Yet, there are somethings I know I should not ask You for they are not in Your will.

My Wish-list :

1. To NOT cultivate a relationship or move any deeper than friends with her.

2. To grow and mature in a deeper relationship with Christ.

3. To try my best to follow His plans and His will

4. To get a good scholarship or study plan, which at the moment is NIL.

5. To be a good friend before I think of being a good leader.

6. To serve more than I lead and not think of my accomplishments.

7. To help others realize the purpose of their life and its meaning.

8. To be able not to repeat the sins that I keep doing.

9. To be able to be open to different things that God is trying to reveal.

10. To live out what I blog.

I guess, I'm asking to be humbled and broken, and I don't really know what I'm asking for. I need to rid myself of pride and lust. I want to keep all my promises.

Being EMO is NOT the solution! Lift up your head, oh ye gates and let the King of Glory come in.

Christ is returning. Soon. Get ready!

Regards,

MarcusDS

Prayer Volunteer Team..

2010-01-28T15:11:00.001+08:00

My trip to the Land of the Hornbill (Part1)..

2010-01-24T14:14:00.020+08:00

Hallo readers ! (if you're out there.)

I'm home. Aah. What a relief! It is so nice to be home! Not to say my hosts (plural) were not hospitable, but it is always far better to be at home, kan?

To be able to sleep in your own beds; bathe in your own bathroom and at your own pace. To be able to brush your teeth with your own toothpaste, wash your butt with your own..err..lets not go there. XD (i meant water spray-er thingy if you're wondering.)

You get my point!

But the trip was not a total lost. It was refreshing and frankly, a blessing. I got to stay with a few influential people and met some cute kids. Here is a breakdown of the whole trip. Bear with me k?

Tuesday

We left the house at around 5.40am and arrived at the airport at 6.30am. After checking in, we had breakfast. In my opinion, eating at an airport restaurant is totally unnecessary unless you have been delayed (or forgot to prepare a meal.) McD in Penang airport is EXPENSIVE!

I had the kiddy's meal naturally.

This was our airplane.

My mum and I.
This is the Rejang River, the longest river in Malaysia. (350miles long.)

My mum looking at her homeland.

We reached KL and after an hour or so of waiting, we boarded the flight to Sibu.

We arrived in Sibu and went to my grandmum's place. My mom and her sisters rotate a schedule and drop in regularly to see my grandmum. My grandmum has gone completely blind due to a medication she was taking to cure another ailment. None of my relatives realized, till she started calling for people to switch on the light. It is quite saddening actually, imagine not being able to see anything at all. Plus, she has Alzheimers, so she forgets easily and is always in need of company.

The first day in Sibu was spent sleeping and watching Christian TV on my grandmum's satellite TV. (which is positioned to receive Indonesian channels which the maid watches all day long!)

Went shopping nearby with my mum in the night. The store had some cool tees with funny captions. Here are some of the things in the store that caught my eye.

I would have bought this tee, except the spelling was wrong. =(

I almost got this tee, but my mum didn't want me wearing senseless tees. Haha

Wow. I guess "Sue me!" is one thing a thief can't say to this shop owner!

Haha. This one really cracked me up. Not just because it is nonsensical to even think of "testing" on underwear (unless you're a girl and you're at Victoria's Secret!hah), but because they don't even have a toilet that you can use to do your Number 1. Where would you "test" an underwear?

Joe Den, I thought of you when I saw this. This is a handmade lolipop. It costs RM30++. I'm just wondering how long would it take you to finish it if I had bought it for you. XD

Mariel called and updated me on what was happening at her NS. She was and is leading the CF there and they have 20 people and growing.

Wednesday

Walked to my uncle's place just down the street in the afternoon and met my nephew. My cousin married a Malay, but the son looks chinese. His name is Tamizi. He was simply adorable.

He was racing around the house with that green teddy (it's a teddy bear) in his mouth. Look at those big Chinese eyes!! Guess he got more genes from his dad than his mum.

Thursday

Watched Christian TV and went to my mum's friends place for dinner. She has 2 cute grand-nephew-niece-kids. Jeffrey and Caroline. They were really fascinated by me and did not believe that I am partially Indian. They played with my leg hair and called me Esau. Haha. I played organ with them and read to Caroline before we left. They are really great kids!

This is Jeffrey. He got caught up playing with my handphone that his grandaunt scolded him(and I think me too,for lending him my handphone.)

This is Caroline. She was pulling my leg hairs the whole time. She was the one who said that I was like Esau. Her grandaunt has been reading them bible stories everynight, so both of the kids know quite a lot for their age!

Friday

Had breakfast with another family friend. Had Kampua Mee (Sarawak's wantan mee.)

After we ate,we went to the bus terminal to leave for Miri. My mum was unaware that bus prices are all the same, so she got duped by a man at the counter and bought 2 tickets for a very rickety bus. AND I MEAN RICKETY! The air-con was leaking, the chairs had holes, the seats could not recline and everything shook. Literally. The highways in Sarawak are very very bad. The work done is little and unfinished - unfulfilled promises by you-know-who. The roads were bumpy and full of holes. My mum got little sleep, as for me, I sleep like a pig through thunderstorms. Hazel once queried whether I could sleep through a tornado. Haha.

Saw this at Bintulu bus terminal. Notice the MDS (my initials! XD)

Got to Miri at about 6pm in the evening. The trip was 8 and a half hours. Like travelling to Kluang. Haha. Had dinner, and watched some TV.

Saturday

Got up at 11am. Watched LOTR 2 and a few more shows on Satellite TV at my host's house. Shared about MYPG at an SIB Youth Meeting at night. Went out for supper at Miri's town centre where I sampled their famous Clam Char Koay Teow. Sedap juga.

Sunday

Mariel called me up at 6.30am. Woke me up actually. But it was great to hear her update on what was happening in NS. And I believe it was as refreshing for her as it was for me to chat with a believer who has the same passion.

Attended a Chinese Service at SIB Hope. It was my 1st experience at a Chinese service. Here at my church we have a Hokkien group. It was a refreshing experience.

This is the pastor of SIB Hope, Miri. Pastor Betty. She spoke on 2Tim2:22 - Being vessels that are set apart for honourable use. A timely message for the Church as we rise up and take our place to impact the society.

Continued with the English service. After that we went out for makan with my mum's dentist friend at a place called Taiwan.

I had Yam Pork Rib Noodles and

Pearl Milk Tea.

Met the CUTEST 5year old. His name is Moses. He was unfriendly and sulky at 1st because someone had stepped on him during Sunday School in the morning. But after the meal, I started playing with him.

I really miss him. He was so cute. He would drop his cars on the floor and I would pick them up. I must have picked his toy cars up a few hundred times. He was laughing away and when I leaned down to pick his cars, he would lie on my back, not allowing me to get up.

He refused to have his photo taken in the 1st place. The cheeky little fellow kept avoiding the camera lens. But after I had played with him, I guess he trusted me enough to let me take his photo.

Isn't he the cutest? This picture is of his papa and him.

Spent the rest of the day just lazing around, which I later regretted as I had broken my promise of praying from 3pm-5pm with the Alor Setar LYPG. =(

Monday

Monday was spent blogging as well as cooking. I sliced my left thumb while cutting open small buns that the Foo Chow people call Kom Piang(Empty Biscuits).

The wound on my thumb was one inch long and at least 1cm deep.
Day 1. The first night after I had sliced my thumb

Day 2.

Day 3.

Praise the Lord, it has healed now! =)

Before dinner, we visited my uncle in Miri. My mum and her nieces - Yu Jing, Yu Xuan and Yu Tian

This is me and my cute little cousin Yu Tian. Look at her afro dude!

Had dinner with uncle Bob (the dentist friend) again this time at Mr. Ho's Fine Foods. He did not bring his son Moses this time and I was a bit sad. =( His daughter who works in a shipping yard was present, and I got to hear a lot concerning the spiritual state of Sarawak.

Let me clarify! I wasn't snapping her photo unaware. The silver piece in the picture is a spoon. Can you see me inside the spoon? =)

Dr. Bob and Pastor Michael Lee. (Ps Michael is Ps Betty's husband.)

Had glazed BBQ Ribs, Roast Chicken
4 Different kinds of German Sausage with Sauerkrat and

Pumpkin soup.

Mama Mia, it was a meal to remember! Really delicious! God willing, I shall take my future bethrothed there. XD

Tuesday

We were smarter this time and bought tickets from a trustworthy company with the help of our hosts (Pastor Michael and Pastor Betty). It was a longer journey as it was 9 hours.

My mum and I on the bus.

My beautiful mum!

We stopped at Niah Caves Resthouse at the foot of Gua Niah and here are some photos of the animals at a mini zoo at that resthouse.

Looks like a pig. Haha

An Eel. Eels are blind and depend on hearing. By the way, you can see my reflection in the glass. Haha

Hard skinned gecko (I think.)

This turtle has been in the same position for so long, there is moss and fungus on its back. Eew. Talk about a standstill!
Thank you for pointing that out, Captain Obvious! Haha. I got a lot of stares from people w

TO BE CONTINUED...

The Case for Haiti..

2010-01-19T06:57:00.004+08:00

I will be internet-less for the rest of my Sarawak trip.

This was neither a food trip nor an MYPG-related trip. However, God transformed it into both. I so wished I had brought a video camera to interview some leaders to show how urgent it is for young people to be involved in prayer and to be mission-minded.

That shall be penned down or rather, typed down in my next blog post.

Right now, I want to talk about Haiti. Haiti is a place riddled with idolatry, demonic worship and a nation that practices Voodoo. Haiti is also the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere.

On January 12th 2010, a 7.0 mag earthquake struck Haiti and to date the death toll is in the tens, hundreds of thousands. Schools, hospitals, parliament buildings all gone.

We mourn for the lost of souls, but at the same time should be concerned about those still alive.

This is a short request asking us to be generous. Generous in giving and generous in prayer. If these things don't happen, we never get to know whether we are really as "generous" as we portray ourselves to be. If you are willing to give, here is just one of the many websites.

Will we turn our eyes now? Will we close them shut or turn our heads and decide to ignore Haiti.

He executes justice for the oppressed,
and gives food to the hungry. - Psa 146:7

Regards,
MarcusDS

New Year Postponed..

2010-01-17T20:13:00.003+08:00

This comes late.

I had the sudden urge of blogging after reading Celina's blog

This year, I want to try my best to fulfill all that I have been called to do.
Assignment-wise, Relationship-wise, Evangelizing-wise, Spirituality-wise etc.

I realize that I lack a certain consistency in my life. I have been reprimanded time after time by my mentor (of which I really appreciate). This is the year. I wish to do all that I promised, holding on to what is true and what is acceptable before the Lord.

I realize I have to, well, to put it bluntly, grow up. I'm no longer 10, neither am I 15. I will be eighteen come end of March. If Christ were to return today, what would be my mark of honour? What would be my mark of faith?

The question that we often think about as Christians is, will Christ ever come and find the faithful? Will He find His Bride - the Church ready? To push the point further - will He find me faithful?

I changed my blog title and description. I want to be remembered as the one who tried. The one who strived. Who did his best to stand firm. I don't want to put down "I succeeded" less I not. Not by my might, not by my power, but by the Spirit of God.

Enough said.

Time to awaken the sleeping man.

"Awake, O sleeper,
and arise from the dead,
and Christ will shine on you." - Ephesians 5:14

Regards,
MarcusDS

Marcus Dip Silas...

2010-01-07T00:08:00.000+08:00

has NO idea what to do with his blog..=(

words..

2009-12-14T23:22:00.002+08:00

ever realize words are never enough..

i have so much to say..

so much to process..

better done alone den out loud..

so my blog will on hiatus till new year..

Have a merry Christmas ppl and a happy new year..

sincerely,

MarcusDS

2009-12-06T08:36:00.001+08:00

CHRISTMAS

is just 19 days away..

woohoo..

haha..

Here is an all time favourite of mine..

do enjoy!

Signing off,

MarcusDS

2009-11-28T11:19:00.003+08:00

What is wrong with me?!

The time has come to STAND for what i believe in..

if i cannot live a life of example,

im not worthy to lead..

Life shall pass and my end is near..

what have i done that is worthy of a second look..

Will He find a faithful servant in me?

at the moment..

i fear..

no..

Psalm 39
What Is the Measure of My Days?
¹I said, "I will guard my ways,
that I may not sin with my tongue;
I will guard my mouth with a muzzle,
so long as the wicked are in my presence."
²I was mute and silent;
I held my peace to no avail,
and my distress grew worse.
³My heart became hot within me.
As I mused, the fire burned;
then I spoke with my tongue:
⁴"O LORD, make me know my end
and what is the measure of my days;
let me know how fleeting I am!
⁵Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths,
and my lifetime is as nothing before you.
Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath!
Selah

⁶Surely a man goes about as a shadow!
Surely for nothing they are in turmoil;
man heaps up wealth and does not know who will gather!
⁷"And now, O Lord, for what do I wait?
My hope is in you.
⁸Deliver me from all my transgressions.
Do not make me the scorn of the fool!
⁹ I am mute; I do not open my mouth,
for it is you who have done it.
¹⁰ Remove your stroke from me;
I am spent by the hostility of your hand.
¹¹When you discipline a man
with rebukes for sin,
you consume like a moth what is dear to him;
surely all mankind is a mere breath!
Selah
¹² "Hear my prayer, O LORD,
and give ear to my cry;
hold not your peace at my tears!
For I am a sojourner with you,
a guest, like all my fathers.
¹³ Look away from me, that I may smile again,
before I depart and am no more!"

Lord, i believe. Help my unbelief..

current mood - inadequacy

signing off,

MarcusDS

Hazel Wazzle Bedazzzle..

2009-09-23T19:12:00.008+08:00

s'lamat hari raya..XD

ITZ HAZEL'S SWEET 16th!!
woohoo..

hurray for Hazel for making it thus far..

may u have many more sweet +16ths like..
Sweet 32nd (2 X 16th) Sweet 48th (3 X 16th) Sweet 64th (4 X 16th)

You get the picture rite..=)
haha

i first met hazel last year..
during MYPG 1..
and the 1st thing dat i thought about her is..
this gurl is really really quiet..
in fact she oni said one thing to me
and that was about not going to school the next day
on the bus home from Kluang..

but since then,
ive seen her 4 more times..
19th Dec
MYPG 3
FWP 2
TOP youth prayer rally..
and im really glad dat ive had the time to know her better..

she loves catz..
and pizza..=)
she is a HUGE Brooke Fraser fan..
she is humour-full and witty..
very smart..and very practical..

takes good photos..photogenic..=)
a good guesser..and knows how to make ppl laugh..
and she loves to read newspaper..hahaha

tutup aurat..hahahaha

frankly,
i dun see someone younger den me..
infact, i see someone who has "overstepped" (chinese way of saying it)
me in spiritual things..

she, like me, is a PK (pastors kid)
and i find that she has a deep maturity
which by the way,
she doesnt like to show off..

she doesnt purposely go and ask deep questions (like mua XD, sadly)
to show off..
but when asked, she has the ability to carry the topic off like a well-read person..

she has been brought up in the best of ways,
and i commend her parents for that..
Congrats Pastor Leonard and Aunty May Chin..=)

itz fun talking to her..
esp to hear her jokes..hahahaha..

haha..
im really
really really really really
really really really
really really
REALLY
honoured to have a fellow MYPGer like Hazel..
shez really passionate about God..
and shez not afraid to stand up for wad she believes in..
shez hardworking and does the things she sets her mind to..

the oni downside about Hazel is this..
shez about 5-6 cm taller den me..
and datz kinda depressing..=(
she actually had to hunch her back when she took pic with me
just so to make me feel better dat i looked taller in the picture..hahahah

so sensitive and patronizing at the same time!!lol

and she is very very slim..
haha..unbelievably slim..
when i saw her in december, she actually looked like she lost weight..
and SHOT UP!!
believe me now?really tall..long legs and long hands..
im officially jealous..haha
datz her and her bff..

OMIGOSH!!
why la, ive got soo short genes..
better not blame the fat part on my dad..HAHAHAHA
sorry papa..

anywayz back to Hazel..haha

HAZEL LIM SIEW MAE!!
uve truly been a blessing..
ure an inspiration and living proof
dat there is higher things to attain..
higher maturity and faith..
and i thank God everyday that He let us cross paths..
ure a motivator to alot of ppl without even knowing it..
thanks for ur encouragements!!
cherish them forever..
and thanks for your jokes!!
BLESSED SWEET 16th!!

Lord,
i thank You Lord
for bringing up this child of Yours so well..
Truly Lord,
You have placed her in my life,
in all our lives to be a blessing..
i just pray that You'd continue to bless her..
dat as she grows physically..
may she also grow spiritually..
protect her Lord..
her coming in, and her going out..
let Your face shine on her..
favour her Lord..
that ppl will see and know, You truly are the Almighty!
thank You Lord for this bundle of joy dat You've brought
me to know..
in Jesus name,
Amen..

btw guys, she has a very very nice smile..=)
see wad i mean..
the joy of Christ shines from within..=)

signing off,

Not because of my deeds in righteousness, but by Thy wonderful mercy...

2009-09-21T18:25:00.005+08:00

read the previous post..

Oh my child..

Here I am again..

Telling you I love you..

I've forgiven you, my Child

I've been faithful to you

time and time again

I have remained so..

Do I love you less

because you have done wrong?

Do I love you less

because you have sinned against Me?

Do I love you less

because you disobeyed Me?

Do I love you less

because you did the things I hate?

I died for you willingly..

I have redeemed you O Child..

you tell Me..

Do I love you less?

Titus 3:5
⁵he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,

signing off,

Here i am again..

2009-09-20T21:24:00.007+08:00

Oh my God..

Here i am again..

Telling You i'm sorry..

i've failed You Lord

i've been unfaithful to You

time and time again

i sin against You

Do You love me less

because i have done wrong?

Do You love me less

because i have sinned against You?

Do You love me less

because i disobeyed You?

Do You love me less

because i do the things You hate?

i did it knowingly..

i failed You oh God..

Do You love me less?

Daniel 9:18-19
18 O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations, and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of your great mercy. ¹⁹ O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O Lord, pay attention and act. Delay not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by your name.

signing off,

Har-pi Pi-rthday Pi Pi!!haha..

2009-09-15T16:59:00.004+08:00

"Peek-a-boo, today is my birthday," says Pek Ying..

only that shez not dat conceited to poast (post+boast)
that itz her birthday, so im doing that for her..

Introducing
a friend from the south,
who is a great gal and a great Christian..

Miss.Khoo.Pek.Ying aka Pi Pi..

haha..
ive oni knwn her for 1year or so,
but pek ying is someone who inspires me..

she is 2nd among her siblings..as u can see here..=)

she is outwardly quiet,
tho she can at times change into a talker too
personally, i tink she has some buttons at her back..

shez hardworking..
and she is someone who is reliable and responsible!

haha..

itz been fun knowing her..
shez really a great person..
a lady of great faith..

PEK YING!! itz been a great pleasure knowing u..
truly, kluang has introduced me to some of Malaysia's finest,
including u =)

God bless k?
May all ur dreams come true..
May He guide your path everyday!
i can't say exactly that i understand how u feel,
but i do tink i understand a teeny weeny bit..
so just press on k?

Lord Jesus i commit Pek Ying Jie into Your hands..
Lord, truly You have been good to her
i pray oh God that You continue to bless her and shower her with Your anointing..
may she be Your mouth piece and may she shine as a light wherever she is..
keep her from all harm and danger..
thank You Jesus..
In Jesus Name, Amen..

take care K?!

signing off,

Trials..

2009-09-10T18:12:00.002+08:00

6 down..

Freakin' 4 more to go..

i.hate.exams.PERIOD!

Sun - Add Math

Mon - Physics 1,3

Tues - Est

Wednesday - Phy 2, Bio 3

Merdeka..

2009-08-30T19:15:00.002+08:00

52 years ago,

we yelled our 1st Merdeka..

52 years down the road,

we've already yelled countless Merdekas..

yet,

are we truly set free?

society has yet to breakforth from its pre-Merdeka mindset..

im sure many of you will agree with me..

alot of pressing issues are at hand,

and here, we take some time to put that aside and celebrate our Merdeka..

some ppl are busy partying..

some ppl are busy commenting on Malaysia Today..

some ppl are busy reading those comments on Malaysia Today..

some ppl are busy with their own lives

some ppl are ready to party ALL NITE LONG..ALL NITE..

but in the midst of such bewilding chaos

some have chosen to set time aside to pray for their nation..

these nameless warriors are the ones truly concerned about their nation

these nameless warriors spend hours on their knees (collectively la XD)

praying that God will heal this land..

these are the true Patriots..

these are those who are there not to party, but to "parley"

(potc fans knw wad im talking about..)

so take a moment to think..

are u still stuck in the stone ages

making fun of each other..

or will we embrace 1Malaysia..

yes, the government's 1Malaysia is bullsh..bullcrap..

and yes, i almost typed out the real word..

but LET US make this our own

LET US make this our reality

LET US embrace 1Malaysia

LET US be the ones,

who bring the change to this nation..

Be you
Christians, Buddhists, Muslims, Hindus..

if ure heart is only for the welfare of your kind..

sorry, you are not Malaysian..

today,

let us rid ourselves of our anti-Malaysia syndrome

and let us bring change to this nation..

Lord,

change my heart to be more in love with Malaysia everyday

and not dwell on what she has to offer me

but what i have to offer Her!

signing off,

MarcusDS

rest..

2009-08-28T00:02:00.004+08:00

sometimes
i just want to fall asleep
and not wake up

i literally mean it..
in human terms..
die

i want to shun away from all this
hurt
pain
suffering

not wake up and see the hurt in this world..
not wake up and smell the defeat of humankind..
not wake up and witness my past sins haunt me..

i wish to fall into a deep slumber,
never to regain consciousness..

ppl tell me not to be so morbid..
dun plan ur funeral, my mum always says..

but than again,
come to think about
eternal bliss?
there's no such thing..

i mean,
uve got to end up somewhere dont u?
u live..to relive to relive to relive to disappear?
im sorry la..
but thatz even more depressing den me wanting to sleep forever..

i just turned on biblegateway
cz abby asked me to check someting..

and i read this

Daniel 12:12-13
¹² Blessed is the one who waits for and reaches the end of the 1,335 days.

¹³ "As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance."

eternal bliss?
no..
the bible doesnt promise eternal bliss..

but what it does promise is rest..
rest in Jesus who shall one day resurrect us into the new heaven and earth..
rest in the Spirit and our deeds follow us..

this human vessel grows old and weary..
but there is a purpose for this unrefined soul..

Lord,
let me endure till the end..
You have said the field is wide..
the mission field is staring at me..
You have said many are called, but few are chosen..
and You also said that the weary and heavy laden should drink of Your water
and never thirst.

help me Lord..
im struggling..
help me Oh God..

it is no longer i who live, but Christ who lives in me..
i am
officially
D-E-A-D

signing off,

fond memories..

2009-08-25T01:38:00.003+08:00

im blogging from my room..
parents leaving for KL tomoro for NECF Transformation conference..
will be alone for 3 days..

it's 1.38am..

i miss fwp..
i miss chatting with friends at 1,2 am..
i miss webby with abby..
i miss smsing with PB at ungodly hours (tho the last time we did it was last year)
i miss naomi's infectious laugh..
i miss japh's hyena laugh..
i miss eunice's wisdom..
i miss aunty winnie from camp 2004..
i miss the pampering and someone calling me lil bro..
i miss spending time with zealous and passionate ppl..
i miss going to ah joe's house..
i miss our instrumental practices..
i miss playing in the orchestra..
i miss the clarity i had last year..
i miss being untainted by the world..
i miss not being prejudiced about ppl..
i miss cute lil matthias..tho i only met him once..

i.am.EMO

is that a bad thing?

im just so tired of this life..
school is a drag..
sort of lost all interest..

hold ur opinions 1st k..
i know..
i know im wrong..
and i need to study..
to get an education..
so God can use me..
like i always say..

therefore..
i will "pia"
i will hang on..
not my will,
but Thine be done..

quoting cheng yee quoting someone else..
there is no "I" in "me".

signing off,

of food and delicacies..

2009-08-16T21:45:00.004+08:00

Lord, grant me the strength

that i may not fall

into the cluchtes of choleste-rol

The road to hell is paved with peanut butter

cheese cake is cursed

ice cream is awful

and satan hides behind every single waffle

the devil is in dried pork (bak gua)

Lucifer is a lolipop

Teach me the evils of nasi lemak

of mee goreng

and of roasted duck

and great Kluang coffee from the South..

if You love me Lord
SHUT MY MOUTH!

signing off,

Happy Birthday..

2009-08-14T23:24:00.002+08:00

today is Nicole's birthday..

Happy birthday Nic..
thanks for all the memories..
take care k?

Lord,
i pray that U'd continue to bless Nic
dat she will grow in her walk with U..
itz a new year..
draw her nearer to U..
protect her and keep her safe..
in Jesus name,
Amen..

Itz a new year Nic..
God bless!

signing off,

finally?not really..

2009-08-13T00:24:00.004+08:00

Oh my GOODNESS!!

i cant begin to tell u guyz how relieved i m..

I FINISHED EDITING THE MYPG ANNIVERSARY VIDEO

(a month late..)

LOL..

i started 15th July..i just finished 3 hours ago..

all i can say, itz been a long process..

and im still quite amatuer at video editing..

well..

i did try my best..

at least 160++ hours spent on a 15min vid..

i just want to vent!!

LOL..

i have been using Vegas 9.0 to edit..

along the way met up with some probs..

got corrupted file la..

file no properties cant buka la..

file hilang la..

all those nonsense la..

but nothing..

I MEAN NOTHING

beats wad happened just now..

i edited the vid in 3 parts..

so naturally..the files are BIG..

69mb for 6mins for the 1st file..

etc etc..

niwayz..

i wanted to compress..

searched for Movie Maker..

found out this Windows 7 doesnt come with movie maker

btw..im using dual core for all editing now..

IT RAWKS!!

wad used to take 1 hour to render now takes ten..MINUTES!!

anyway..

i tot of an ingenious plan to download

Movie Maker from Windows Live..

smart rite?

well..

the file downloads..

installing it took 30 mins..

click on Movie Maker..

"TRIAL VERSION OF MOVIE MAKER BETA IS EXPIRED.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEARCH FOR ANY UPDATES?"

-.-'''

huge put off..

i spent the next half hour on the Celeron converting 146mb into 114mb..

lemme tell u..

NOT WORTH IT..

quality came out like taik ayam..

i'd rather have a big good quality file!!

suppose to send to yosh to QC..

how to QC if vid like taik?

so upload to youtube..

it uploaded 1st time 50mb..

ERROR..

2nd time 30mb..

ERROR..

used rapidshare..

ERROR..!!

ARRGGHH!!

now so sien,

im going to bed..

but just wanna thank God for a few things..

me and josh started praying in sch again..FINALLY!!

God is really really great la..TOPS!!

cant begin to express..

sharing at a youth prayer meet in the hols..

please keep me in ur prayers..

i alwayz used to think i have alot to say..

but, i seriously dnt knw wad to share..

i dnt want to share wad i have to say..

i want God to use me..

me :

God,

why me?

am i worth it?

God :

no..

but I did it anyways..

why?

because I love you..

Im in the business of broken and damaged flower pots..

are u up for it?

thank You Jesus

signing off,

smth interesting..

2009-08-01T10:34:00.002+08:00

taking a break from my break XD

here is something interesting i found!!
WOOTS!

www.joyofbaking.com

itz a very very good site for ppl who like to cook
and bake!! and the recipes are free..

XD

Imagination..

2009-08-01T10:30:00.002+08:00

I need to be reminded of who I was
When I took my first steps out the door
All I said now follows me around
I'm reminded I'm not like that anymore

I uprooted and miles behind me
Are the faces and the home I love
You've brought to my attention
I'm slowly changing and becoming
What I wanted to stop

Isn't that just like a finite mind
Setting out with such righteous indignation
But now I'm at your feet
Could you look at me with some imagination

Lord, im not doing what i set out to do..
remind me dear Lord..

signing off,

updates!

2009-07-25T11:07:00.001+08:00

this here needs updates!!

so sorry i havent had the time to update..
ive been so busy with the MYPG Anniversary Video..
i only wished i had started earlier..
would have finished by now..

theres so much to do,
but as i do it..
i can see God's hand working..
itz good to reflect sometimes and see,
what God has actually done for us..

so..
yeah..
i see His faithfulness,
and im really really in awe..

niwayz..
gotta get busy..
SPM is so near!!

signing off,

2009-07-12T00:11:00.002+08:00

Marcus is feeling the aftermath of his near collision yesterday..

=(...

a case of broken highlights, dented bumpers and divine protection..

2009-07-10T20:51:00.005+08:00

i was on my motorbike just now..
on my way to church and i was singing..
and i dint notice a guy signaling to enter a jalan..
so i overtook him..
and he hit my rear from the side..

my vehicle?
Modenas Kris..

his weapon of choice?
Toyota Harrier..

i heard a sickening thud..
and i anticipated a fall..
my face scrunched up..
ready to scream as i hit the pavement..

it didnt come..
instead of falling..
i wobbled for 5 seconds,
and regained my balance
all while my bike was moving forward..

my was actually in shock for the rest of the journey..
my mouth was opened..
and i kept saying "WOW"..

this has been one of my many impending accidents..
ive not been known to be the smart one..
so, ive met many situations where i almost..
almost..
got hit, or hit something..

but this is the 1st time i really had contact with another vehicle..
and it just shows that how fast it happens..
that u dun even see it coming..

im ok..
other then being shocked a bit..
other den dat, im good..

i smsed my MYPG and FWP family..
i got some weird replies..

Derek said :
Thank God he wasn't going fast or your brains would have splattered all over the road..

i replied saying he had a good imagination and he said
Derek : It sure makes u feel very blessed by God now hey?

lol..

i was expecting a scolding from PB..
cause she alwayz scolds me when i report such things to her
but she just said Praise the Lord..
i asked why she dint scold me..
PB : Immune d to your stories.

lol..

LaiYee who is an equally "geng" driver like me said
LaiYee: God memang also protected me many times, esp my kecuaian.. Takek n testify He is good! =)
Joyce Ang : Amen, but i pity the driver..

Pastor Jit : Wow. Praise the Lord that you are ok. I think you have enough experiences that you can write a book.. Adventure on the road with Marcus..=)

btw, congratz pastor jit on ur boy boy!!

Jocelyn the best la..
i sent her the sms..
she said
Lyn : You send sms to the wrong person is it marcus?

?!

after i said i meant to send it to her..

Lyn : U were on ur motorbike?r u ok nw?gosh, that sounds dangerous..

??!!

dat was the reaction i was looking for on the 1st take..lol!!

anywayz..
conclusion is,
God is good..
and He has saved me more den once from my foolishness..
He truly is great!
and worthy to be praised..

thnx to the rest who were equally concerned..
Yvonne
Mi (sorry i scared u Mi)
Pipi Jie
Wei Wey
Sis Joanna Yun
Ah ma (little bit more you dun have ah gong adi)
Dorea
Joy
Paulus
Joe (haha..singing hor..i'll try not to next time..lol)

Psalm 91:7-8
⁷A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.
⁸You will only look with your eyes
and see the recompense of the wicked.

oh yeah..
do u knw where the car hit me?

Joe said im lucky..
say wad u want peopl..
for me,
itz divine! XD

signing off,

reproach from Upper Management..

2009-07-09T22:37:00.003+08:00

after blogging about the education thingy yesterday..
i went to have my quiet time..

u know how it is dat
the devotion booklet is not written in real time rite?
i mean..
itz not like the author knows what is going on with you today,
and he writes dat particular devo..

but yet,
the awesome thing is,
God never fails to amaze me..
NEVER!!

i knw some of us,
some times we buka bible oni,
like God kutuk-ing us..
or marah-ing us..

i feel dat if God is malaysian rite,
he wud tell me..
Nanti sat Ko tengeh hang baru hang tau..

i mean..
im really amazed..
ashamed yes..
God had to scold me ONCE AGAIN..
for using my blog for the wrong purposes..

anywayz..
i opened my B-I-B-L-E..
and the passage of Scripture was
Titus 3:1-8

Titus 3:1-8
¹Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient,
to be ready for every good work, ² to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle,
and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
³For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray,
slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy,
hated by others and hating one another.
⁴But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
⁵he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness,
but according to His own mercy,
by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit, ⁶whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
⁷so that being justified by His grace
we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. ⁸The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things,
so that those who have believed in God
may be careful to devote themselves to good works.
These things are excellent and profitable for people.

i want you to look at the things i used bold to highlight..
and with shame i tell u this..
i broke all 7 of these..

i wasn't submitting to authority..
i wasn't obedient..
i was more ready to blog and gossip bout my nation on my blog den do good works..
i spoke bad of our politicians..
i stirred up quarrels..
i wasn't gentle and i certainly wasnt courteous..

by putting up that blogpost,
i made a statement
- that i disrespected the decision of our rulers
- that i thought i could do better
- that i set a curse on the Malaysian Education System by saying it will fail

so here,
i wanna say that
im accountable to God for doing so on my blog..

i know some of u will say i did nothing wrong..
but i tink it was the way the words came out..
i was fumigating..
and dat wasnt rite..

Lord,
i pray You'd forgive me..
help me really show that i love my country,
but not gossiping about her,
or trying to stir up strife,
but by praying for her and her people..
in Jesus name,
Amen..

im not removing that post tho,
bcz i need to learn to be accountable..
not everything in life can be solved by "delete" button..

in replacement,
all i want to say is,
i hope that the parliament will reconsider the decision..
sebab, ini berkaitan dengan masa depan anak-anak saya,
anak-anak kita..
jika kita ingin melahirkan satu generasi yang akan datang yang utuh
dan berinformasi,
peranan bahasa Inggeris dalam matapelajaran Sains dan Matematik
tidak boleh diperkecil.

saya hanya boleh berdoa untuk negaraku,
tanah tumpahnya darahku..

signing off,

Happy Birthday..

2009-07-08T23:34:00.006+08:00

with my rant aside..
let me shift to a happier topic..

9th July..

is my brother's birthday..
and also..

YVONNE'S bday!!

Happy Burfday guyz!!

i dun have much time to blog..
so i'll just post up pictures of these two wonderful souls!!

JOHN..

YVONNE..

Lord,
i commit these 2 souls into Your hands..
Lord,
You know Your plans for them..
i pray that You'd guide them into doing wadz true and pure..
let them experience Your love each day..
speak to them..
and let them know Your will
Protect them and keep them from all harm Lord..
in Jesus name i pray..
Amen..

p.s - sorry guyz, i spent all my online time ranting on the education system..
koh..ure a great brother..and i do miss u alot!!
yvonne ..you're my 1st twin!!lol..dont fall on ur bum bum anymore (our 1st msn chat..lol)

signing off,

Malaysia to end teaching math and science in English..WAD?!!

2009-07-08T23:09:00.003+08:00

im thinking of emailing this to the Star..

I would like to express how very disappointed i am
at our government..
Is the education of the future Malaysian generation a game?
How can you afford to start with English, switch to BM,
switch back to English and then switch back to BM..

is the government trying to waste our time
by telling us that English in Math and Science didnt serve its purposes?
if all the officials know what to do is sit in their offices and read reports
and make deductions and decisions based on that,
SHAME ON THEM!!

the best way to find out whther the whole thing served itz purpose
is to TALK TO THE PEOPLE WHO ARE ACTUALLY "IMMERSED"
in the system..
not read up reports and statistics..

honestly speaking,
do u knw how this has served itz purpose?
i see my Chinese friends speaking english better den b4..
compared to those who stick with vernacular curriculums..

isnt that called serving its purpose?
education is not to train ppl to get a degree..
education is well, TO EDUCATE!!
teaching ppl how to wash dishes is considered education in my book
because it is a skill you learn to live with and use for the rest of your life..

isn't that how education is defined..

you want to know the real problem?
LAZINESS!!
while the government should be tackling this problem in students,
they are trying to change the system..

you DONT change the whole system just because
the reports and statistics are going down
and without knowing the right reason..

lemme give an example...
being brought up in a family where as a kid
i was forced to read a "Peter and Jane" book everynite,
writing comes to me naturally..
since my form 1 days,
i have not gotten an English test result less then 88..
my highest ever was 99.2, and the only mistake i made
was a missing fullstop..

however,
i do not score 99 for bio, chem or phy..
why?
itz in english isnt it?
i for one should be able to score perfect As..
but i dont..
and i admit the reason why..
i havent mastered the topics..
i dont have the head knowledge required for these subjects..

some indians and chinese from vernacular primary schools
are getting less den me in english,
but more then me in the other subjects..
why?
how is this possible?
is it bcz English is failing itz purpose in education?

with much regret,
i say to our Parliment members..
i implore you..
reconsider..

science is this..
if you've got the skills,
you've got the skills whether you know the language or not..

when Tun Mahathir set our education curriculum in English
he set a standard for Malaysia..
in the world's eyes,
we were disreputable,
bcz our nation provided the same and equal if not more condensed
education..

i assure you,
by setting the syllabus back in B.M
the education system is being kicked back into the stone ages..
not because BM is not important..
it is our identity..
it distinguishes us..
sad to say, thatz all it is..

it is not recognized in the world..
no longer is it the lingua franca as in Parameswara's days..

important as it is,
it is just not recognized!
there is no credibility for B.M!

wake up and face the music!
America and China will alwayz be on top..
and as long as a student does not put effort to learn
the head knowledge,
he accomplishes nothing..

focus on whatz important for the future,
and dont get caught up in the moment..

Bersusah-susah dahulu, bersenang-senang kemudian..

focus on wadz important!
MALAYSIA BOLEH!!

signing off,

singing songs sung by singers who sing songs..

2009-07-06T21:10:00.004+08:00

recorded 2 short choruses at church last friday..
testing out the recording so that can do
esther's malay song draft for the MYPG worship album..

so i did this 2 choruses..

This is my desire

This is my desire.mp3 - Hillsong

Lord i give You my heart
i give You my soul
i live for You alone
every breath that i take
every moment im awake
Lord have Your way in me

Love unfailing

Love unfailing.mp3 - Hillsong

Jesus i believe in You
and i would go
to the ends of the earth
to the ends of the earth
for You alone are the Son of God
and all the world will see
You are God
You are God

did a recording using recordpad..
played the 1st recording and recorded the 2nd one over it..
no vocal editing wad-so-ever (aku bangga..lol)..
very blunt bcz i had to remove the static..
crazy statics at church..lol..

hope you guyz like it..

signing off,

The Durian Story..

2009-07-06T20:21:00.004+08:00

look at those munchkins..
i quote
"Durians are heavenly la - Mariel Nonis, 6th July 2009"

lol

God is great..
He knows exactly wadz on ur heart,
smths, you dun even have to say it out loud..
He hears it loud and clear..

presenting to you,
a recount..
of the Good Lord's greatness!

as y'all durian loving malaysians out there know..
durian season started waaay back in april..
dun knw why rite,
the economy went bad this yr,
the number of durians we got oso went south..
infact, till may this year..
we received no durians..
NONE..NADA..ELEK
not even a whiff..

i was complaining to my mum..
cz like,
every year ppl shower us with bak chang, moon cake,
durians, rambutans, mangoes and bak gua..
this year?
accept for a few packets of Chinese New Year bak gua
no other goodies..

i rmb whining to my mum..
me : ma, why this year no one giving us durians one? craving la!
mum : if they give also, i'll give them away..so fat adi, still want to eat!
when i went to FWP,
isaac brought durians,
but there were so many of us..
i dint dare eat too many..

lol

somebody gave us sum juicy lychee..
really really juicy lychee..
but lychee mana setanding the king of fruits rite..
so my heart still craving lo..
then came the rambutans..
but still not enuff..

just when my craving was at itz peak..
i came home from sch one day..
walked in the door and sniffed smth diff..
smth was new, fresh..
my eyes widened..

i rushed to the fridge,
bag still on my shoulders
tie still around my neck
socks still on my feet

opened the door..
there was the smell..
the smell i had been waiting for for months..

"DUUUUUURIIIANS!!" i screamed..

i opened the tupperware and tossed the cover away..
and
TORE INTO THOSE DELICIOUS LITTLE PIECES OF HEAVEN!!

i ate 8 pieces of heaven droppings (lol!) under 5 mins..
and den reality sunk in..
owh crap..
datz it la..
no more adi..
i finished one whole durian in 5 mins..
2 durians infact..

started to get emo..
took a bath and went to bed..

1 hour later woke up with a terrible stomachache..
went to the toilet to ..ehem..
came out lagi emo..
waited soo long to eat those yummies..
now they were sumwhere down the drainpipe
waiting for Indah Water..

i went to the kitchen for a drink..
LO AND BEHOLD!!
there were 2 more durians,
unopened on the floor..

my heart leaped for joy..
and i did a victory dance..

later dat nite,
i thanked my mum..
she said..
mum : you see la..who said i dun pamper you all!
THANKS MA!! XD

but thatz not all..
those 2 durians dint last long..

a week later came home..
smelled the familiar whiff..
DURIANS!!
same routine..
straight to the fridge
habiskan semua
victory dance..

haha..
my mum said
mum : im not buying anymore! durians can make u put on weight..
a bit crestfallen la..

2 weeks later..

i walked into the staff room at school..
went to see mdm foo..
smelled durians..

me : teacher, who brought the durians arh?
teacher : why, you like durians?
me : love them..got extra arh? i want!
(perfect example of greedy and muka tembok student)
teacher : tomoro i bring..

HALLELUJAH
PRAISE THE LORD..

face it,
if God decides ure gonna have them durians..
ure GONNA have them durians..
no matter where they come from..
dun care if you buy them..
your mum buys them..
u inherit an orchard..
or u win them in a mahjung game..
URE GONNA GET THOSE DURIANS!

so..
she brought the durians..
she told me take 2..
i took 2...
...
....
plus 2..
lol..haha..
sorry teacher..
cudnt resist..

took them home..
father buka..
MAKAN!!

tasted wonderful..
spent a good half an hour in the loo..
went back asked for more..
she told me the supplier in johor..
got emo again..

and den..
today..
mum went to clean the old folks home..
one of the church members gave us durians..

HALLELUJAH!!!

and folks..
datz the durian story for u!!
cant blog anymore..
nature calls..again..

HAHAHAHA..

signing off,

amnesia..

2009-07-03T01:07:00.002+08:00

i feel so dumb..
i commented on someones blog the other day..
and today, i wanted to follow up dat comment..

and..

i forgot whose blog i commented on..
ki siao arh..
so depressed la weyy..
cant rmb whther itz
daphne
esther
beven
or
phoebe

and all 4 of them dun have recent comments from me..

so amnesia-ish..
my other posts will be up soon..
s'not like ppl read them la..
all this while blogging for
S.S.S
Syiok Sendiri Sahaja..

*hinting* XD

signing off,

I-K-O..

2009-06-29T19:03:00.004+08:00

reading esther's sis, daphne's blogpost on IKO

made me rmb dat i have a tin full of
|
|
|
|
\/

i know..
wadz the connection rite?
well, looks can be deceiving!!

hehe

haha..

would you like

Oat crackers

Pumpkin crackers

Sesame crackers

Seaweed crackers

haha..
well,
after finishing the whole tin..
the result? itz in the title..

i.K.O
There's nothing more natural
(then finishing urself off a hearty meal of crackers)
XD

signing off,