A-Team 2008

The things I saw

2009-02-22T21:39:00.018+08:00

It's probably sensible for me to let out my testimony now considering I've been away for a month or so now and you guys are probably overjoyed to hear from me right? ;) haha dun answer that. I've been thinking about what to share and although it is tempting to write many things like why I chose to join this mission trip or even the encounters that God allowed to follow after, but I think I would spare both you and me, and share one thing which struck me just as I started to write this testimonial.

Many of you will say, because of the sharing you’ve heard from us, that our activities were more focused on the children and youth in Philippines. Indeed it was such an honour that God has chosen me to be part of this – to have this lifetime opportunity to impress something in these children’s lives and them, on my life. However, the one thing that really called me to pay attention and learn was the adults I’ve met there. They just showed me a kind of love that is unconditional, a kind of faith that is solid, a kind of service so humble and a kind of worship so full of passion.

Whether it was our own host - Ate Lita who left her job at a Broadcasting Company even though she did not know what her next step would be, but just because God had called her to serve Him full time. Or a woman and her family from TayTay who willingly open her humble home to set a church for her neighbourhood and brought many to know Jesus. Or Pr. Larry from River of God Church who had his own home and three cars but sold it all off to fund the ministry God wanted. Or Ate Jemah from the same church, who chose to teach the children living in the squatters instead of getting a job that could support a 'wealthier' lifestyle. Or this teenage girl I’ve met, who gave up her accounting course in order to chase her passion for teaching and envision involving herself in the street kids ministry. Or Pr John who was not physically well but spontaneously stood in front of many students to share the word of God, and later prayed with his whole heart till tears in his eyes and his voice broke loose. I’ve honestly have never seen a person prayed so passionately about people he barely knew.

These people are changing the WORLD. Doing exactly what Jesus said in Mark 1:17, “Come follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men.”

And it made me wanna do too no matter where I was~

Then I question myself and the way I live my life – am I not suppose to be the same? We live so comfortably in this country called Malaysia – with our families and our jobs/studies supporting us through the way that we forget many a times about how to be completely passionate for the Lord. It would be so easy for me to say “...but it’s so hard” or “I’m not in a place to do it”, but this just all reminds me of what Pr.Tan shared the last few Sundays before I left. Are we already like the chief priests who were stuck at mere knowledge? Of knowing the meaning of worship or the importance of worship, or even the many ways to worship but never really surrendered ourselves as living sacrifices willing to do the Lord’s will each day. Have we become like King Herod and chose self-preservation over the truth – that we have become so cautious of where God would fit into our “Life’s Big Plan” that we finally give up His way to preserve our own. Are we to continue to watch from the sidelines instead of the ones standing out in the crowd like how Jesus did in His time here on earth?

Because of what I’ve seen, I begin to pray for that passionate heart which burns with unconditional love, unmoving faith, and humility. The passion that will burn so brightly that it’ll melt the lead in our feet and light up the whole city. This experience did not just show me awesome people doing remarkable things but the Maker of all remarkable things in life who chose us to be His awesome instruments. If you ask me, that’s an honour no one else could ever afford to give and one I’m not planning to let down!

signing off,

Xinn.

My Story

2009-02-02T21:24:00.002+08:00

For the past few years I’ve been watching a lot of videos about people from other places experiencing poverty, about children with no home, no food to eat and etc. Whenever I do see such videos I always feel like going to the place, that I may be there to actually help them out, give them a hug, let them know that there is a God who loves them. There was also a few times where my Sunday school class was asked if we were interested in going into the mission field. A few of us were, but I guess that just wasn’t the time for us to go. So in the beginning of the year it was my cell group leader’s turn to ask, “If there will be a mission trip this year, who wants to go?” That was when I put my name in.

In the middle of the year, when they asked again who wanted to join this mission trip that D-Way was leading, I put my name in again with a little prayer. Preparing for this mission trip, I did not think much of anything. To me, whatever comes comes. In terms of children, I spend a lot of time with my younger cousins which are 4, 9, and 10 years old. I do play, and be a nanny but I also try to keep my distance from them when they are dirty, like after playing and sweating or after a meal. Playing with them or not usually depends on my mood at that time because they are really spoilt and I usually feel like using a cane on them.

As for preparing for the trip, it was not till the last week before going for the trip that I started worrying if I’ll be able to get along with the children as I remembered how sometimes kids don’t really get along with me and also the times where if the child is dirty, I would not dare to go near, especially if they smell bad. I started worrying about this but I did pray that I’ll be able to accept the children, as they would accept me. I kept reminding myself to smile, and the reason I’m in Philippines is to spend time with the kids and to share God’s love with them. So, when we went to Tay Tay, I told myself the same thing, and praise God, I was able to get along well with the children there. It was also my first time getting hugged by so many children at the same time and yet I did not think much of if they were dirty or smelly. It just felt good to play with them and to get to know them. Having to leave them and seeing one of them cry was difficult.

As for the street kids ministry, I did not really get much contact with the kids, as I was wondering if they would understand me if I said anything, and Pastor Salzi did most of the talking and giving the milk and bread, so I just kept quiet most of the time, mostly in my own world wondering why were we in the rain, and how the kids survive the really cold weather, but later figure it out to be part of God’s big plan. After that, we went to the kids in Delpan. Seeing the children, seeing how they keep trying to get out from the rain, wiping the water of their faces, seeing how their situation is far worst than in Tay Tay made me wonder how they survive. During the praise and worship, when the first boy came up as a volunteer and got drenched with cold water, I felt really bad, felt that this shouldn’t happen to them, I did not want the second volunteer to get wet as well, as such I switched places with the kid. When being told that I would get wet if I stood there, I just felt, where else could I stand? Would you rather if the kid got wet again just because I might get wet? I did consider the fact that I’ll get wet if I switched places with the kid, but we were there for the kids, and they do not deserve getting drenched with cold water just because I wanted to stay dry. Therefore, I rather get wet than letting the kid get drench.

Right after the 2 ministries in the morning, going to the Mall of Asia was a real impact for me. I got really worked up seeing the spoilt children in the mall and wonder if these children know how the other not so privileged children are living outside. It was an upsetting sight. How it will apply to me, and what I am to learn from this, I’m not quite sure, and still figuring it out, but I’m sure God is working and teaching me something through this. Since I’m back, the one thing I’m really learning to do is to not over react like a spoilt child when I’m given a task that I seriously do not want to do.

pinx

The Power of Prayer

2009-01-02T17:52:00.003+08:00

Time flies by
A new year begins
But we still won't forget the places we have been
The friendships we've made and the joy we have seen
The people worshiping God with all of their being

And so in prayer we must always support
This reminds me of one man we have sought
A man, no doubt, after God's very own heart
Who started a ministry surrounding the children who felt lost

The street kids ministry we were involved in during our mission trip to Philippines was started off by a street kid himself, Pr. Larry. We may no longer be there in person to help out on the growing ministry, but as we enter the new year... Let us continue to keep them in prayer!

Pray for the ministry and church's provision and that God will continue to provide for them (physical strength, finacial needs, etc.)
Pray for the wonderful workers and volunteers that has put in a lot of effort to minister to the kids and glorify God's Name. Pray that they will not grow weary or lose faith, and that their passion will continue to grow strong for God. May God continue to bless them in the things they need and in accordance with His perfect timing.
Pray for each and every action taken by this ministry, that it will continue to touch the hearts of both the kids and the adults. Pray that God's Almighty Hand will continue to lead them as they reach out to the many street kids in their area.
Pray for the other churches surrounding the area, that they will come to realize the awesome things this ministry is fulfilling and lend a helping hand to reach out to more people.
Pray for the leaders of this ministry; that they will always know that the fear of God is the beginning of wisdom. Pray that God will continue to manifest in their hearts and give them visions of wonders that they could never imagine possible.
Pray for the street kids - that their hearts be soften to the Word of God and allow Him to change their lives for the better. Pray for those who have come to know Him, that they may not only be interested in His Word but also in serving Him with their lives.
Pray that the Philippine government will also see these efforts put in and will stand to join and support this purpose.

John 15:7

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.

Seven years later...

2008-11-18T20:56:00.007+08:00

“It's back to reality. Waiting for job offers and my heart still cries "Here I am Lord, send me!" – that was how I ended Mission 2001 to Cambodia and Vietnam. I even shared with few close friends that I would like to be involved in short term mission trip every two years. However, nothing did really take place until June 2008 - when I said yes to be part of the A-team to Manila, Philippines =)

BEFORE :
Our team made a commitment to meet every Sunday. We prayed, we sang, we danced, we acted, we watched video, we rehearsed testimony, we learnt paper and rope tricks, we ate bread, drank milk and we also went through an interview with our advisors (hmm, it was more like a catching up session though).

Personally, I struggled with having to do and remember so many things; from the drama roles to the rope trick to my own testimony =( Knowing that in my weakness, He is glorifed, I persevered on =)

27But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 28He chose the lowly things of this world and the despised things—and the things that are not—to nullify the things that are, 29so that no one may boast before him. 30It is because of him that you are in Christ Jesus, who has become for us wisdom from God—that is, our righteousness, holiness and redemption. 31Therefore, as it is written: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord."[1 Corinthians 1:27-31]

DURING :
I learnt to be
… Flexible, Adaptable and Teachable (as summoned by D-Way, haha) – a story teller to the children one day and an emcee for a Youth event the next day.
… grateful and content with what I have. My heart saddens to see a young girl saving her rice during one of the feeding ministry for her next meal, and how many of their homes are no bigger than my own room.

On the other hand, I also felt helpless and frustrated seeing the many homeless street kids sleeping on road pavements. The only comfort I have is that God is keeping watch over them and most important is their salvation =)

25"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? 26Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? [Matthew 6:25-26]

AFTER :
Now that I’m back, I want to give thanks and glory to God for keeping watch over us, for the many answered prayers, for friends and most important, for reminding me again that missions is exciting, sharing Christ’s love with others should be something all Christians should be passionate about.

In my lifetime, in this generation, I want to be a part of those who make a difference, come join me =)

18Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." [Matthew 28:18-20]

P/S : The next time around, I pray and hope it’d be sooner than “Seven years later …”

May

It's not the last

2008-11-17T19:42:00.005+08:00

It's back to the Philippines again. The last family that we visited in Tay Tay during the house-to-house visitation was Joselynn's family.

Joselynn' family

In the picture: Joselynn (in blue), Charmy (lil girl in pink), Eva (lady in pink), Kyle (boy in red)

Joselynn's family is a family of 6. Joselynn and her husband, Melchor, and four children, Jansedrick, Charmy, Clarjin and Kyle.

Let us pray for...
1) Joselynn as she is training to be a song leader in the church.

2) Protection upon her husband, Melchor, as he is working as a mineral water vendor, which is a very dangerous job as he workplace is on the road whereby, he tries to sell the mineral water when the cars stop at the traffic light and so on.

3) The 4 children, that they will have good health and will be able to finish their studies.

4) Joselynn can help her husband earn a living.

5) Parents to have long life.

6) Sister-in-law, Eva (lady in pink carrying baby), to someday go to church. And that her daughter will recover from sickness.

7) Joselynn's brothers, have a few bad habits which includes drinking, smoking, etc. That they'll get rid of that and also that someday they'll come to know God.

This may be the last house that we visited in Tay Tay and were asked to pray for, but, this is definitely not the last prayer request that we have from the Philippines. Spend this week praying for this one family, and next week, we'll pray for more people that we visited in our following ministries in Philippines. =)

John 15:7

If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be given you.

signing off, Pinx

Our Night

2008-11-11T11:47:00.005+08:00

Many would think that missions is about exposing oneself to evangelistic opportunities in a far away rural village
Which is undeniably true during our mission trip to Philippines
But besides all that, what is also important is what we (A-Team) do with the wonderful experience God has graciously blessed us during our journey

We're glad to say that God has given us the opportunity to bless His Name and His faithfulness through this night of sharing our experience with the youth of our church

Plus we are extra extra glad to be given the opportunity to cook some Philippine delicacy for you guys
(hope no one had any tummy aches :)
We were all so excited that we came really early to prepare
yes ping and i helped cook
so probably that's why the soup was sooo.....yummy?

We thank all of you for coming to hear what we have to say and for all your support :)

Now We went, We cooked, We shared...
So we hope that through all these, we have somehow implanted seeds in each of your hearts that will continue to grow with passion for our Lord and Savior - to serve Him and His people through missions

Hebrews 10:24
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

Signing off, Xinn

ATTENTION EVERYBODY!!

2008-11-06T23:44:00.008+08:00

Hey all!!

The A-Team will be having our Mission Sharing about our mission trip to the Philippines about 5 weeks ago! We will be sharing about our experiences there, and how God has worked in our lives and the lives of others throughout that short period of time we had there. There will be videos, photos, food and games and it will all be about what we have seen, learnt and experienced in the Philippines! =D Well, I won't tell you much about it, so you've got to come join us to find out more!

Date: 8th November, 2008
Time: 7.00 p.m .
Venue: KCMC English Service Hall

EVERYONE is WELCOMED!

P/S: Don't be late!! We hope to see you there! =D and remember to invite friends and relatives!

Devote yourselves to prayer

2008-11-04T16:48:00.007+08:00

During the house-to-house visitation in Tay Tay, we visited about 9 houses, to see the condition of their place, as well as to spend some time praying with them. For the past 4 weeks since we've been back, I've shared with you the prayer requests of 6 of the families that we first visited in the Philippines. Well, here is the 7th and 8th family that we visited on that day.

This is Lisa's family

In the picture: Lisa, Emily (in white) and Amelisa (in yellow)

Lisa is a volunteer police (sort of like a security guard) in her area. She has 3 children, Emily, Amelisa and Angelica. As for her husband, he left them. By the way, her house is also that small.

Let's pray for...
1) Lisa is helping out in the purchasing of the land (for their church - Fishport Alliance Church). She is trying to get the land title so that they can use the land for their services and activities. So, pray that she'll be able to get the land title.

2) Their family to start a new life especially after accepting Christ into their lives.

3) The children, that they will be able to finish their studies and be able to have a better life in the future

4) Since Lisa is a volunteer, this means she has no pay. The only pay she has, is what her neighbours give her in thanks for caring for the safety of their neighbourhood. So, pray for the provisions of this family.

This is Merlin's family

In the picture: Merlin and her son, Shervin

There are only 3 people in their family, Merlin, Shervin and her husband, Anisito.

Let's pray that...

1) Merlin will be able to get a baby girl.

2) Their family will continue to have good health.

3) Anisito will have protection when he is working as he drives an FX.

Let us also continue to pray for the upcoming mission sharing that will be held on the 8th of November which is this coming Saturday. Pray that God will use us to impact other lives.

Colossians 4:2

Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful

signing off, Pinx

Experiencing God

2008-10-30T14:40:00.026+08:00

What is mission? My church has been a mission church and I’ve been faithfully supporting the mission budget yearly; thinking my part of mission involvement has been fulfilled. Sending others out has never been a problem to me as I can support them both financially and prayer. I thought that they can represent me with my little financial and prayer support to reach out to the unreach and that would be sufficient for me. Stepping out to mission field was really not my cup of tea. I was wrong and soon I realized that missionaries can’t represent my part of involvement in mission. Mission is for all to bear witness for God’s love to the world.

At the end of 2007, I’ve made a commitment to God that I’ll go for mission trip personally this time around. I told God that I want to experience Him first hand and want to be used by Him in the mission trip. I get confirmation from God in the middle of year 2008 whereby I found out that YM will be organizing a mission trip to minister to the street kids in Philippines. God knows I love kids and I’ll enjoy ministering to them. I enrolled myself with a little prayer that I’ll be use by God and be a blessing to the kids there.

Instead of being a blessing to the kids in Tay Tay, I was blessed in return; seeing how the kids enjoy praising and worshipping God. They still be able to worship God joyfully when their church placed on a slump area, with no fan and humid. I learnt a very important lesson, a lesson that teaches me how to worship God regardless in good times or bad times; pleasant environment or unpleasant environment.

During the street kid’s ministry in Rizal, it was raining and it was a typhoon signal level 2 at that point of time. Despite of that, God prompts us to continue on our journey to feed the street kids. Seeing the kid’s condition by the street, it saddens me. They’re in cold and helpless condition. They seemed hopeless and only God can bring hope into their life by knowing their salvation whereby they can look forward for the day they’re back in heaven. Giving them an apple, a bun, a cup of milk and a little prayer is what we done hoping that they’ll know God’s love through this little act.

The final ministry was the high school and university ministry. Never in my life seeing so many people were touched by Holy Spirit. Most of the students came to know the Lord that evening. That’s the result of an obedient servant of God, Pst. Joe whereby he gave up his life selflessly even in the midst of his pain on his kidney, he still choose to minister to the kids. God can do wonders through us if we’re willing to be used by God.

I’ve seen how God accomplish things through people that offer up their life for God. I’ve learn so much from God personally and it’s a lifetime experience that I’ll never forget. I’ve learn to be submissive and obedient to His word. I thank God for the wonderful opportunity being able to experience Him personally through ways that I never thought of. I make a little prayer, prayer of commitment that I’ll continue to serve Him on the mission field whenever He calls.

He told them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.

Luke 10:2

James

Keep on Praying

2008-10-27T22:34:00.009+08:00

Hey! Another week has gone, and a new week has begun. My, how time flies...I believe alot has happened to all of us throughout the past week. I'm sure most of us have had a very busy week. But, let us not forget to keep the people in Philippines in prayer

and As Jesus says in Matthew 11:28, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

let us not forget that we may find rest in God even on our most busiest days.

As we pray every night or anytime of the day, let us continue to remember to pray for these families. There are two more families to add into your prayer items for this week!

This is Melba's family

In the picture: Aibie (daughter) and Melba (mother) Melba (just accepted Christ) and her husband, Albert Abalie, have 4 children. Josiechris, Aibie (we call her Ivy) and 2 other children.
Lets pray for their,
- provision and children’s studies.
- Josiechris's growth in the Lord.

This is the Salazar family
In the picture: Rose and Ray

They have a child, Quiny. Their family are non Christians

When we asked them if there is anything that we could pray for them, they asked that we...
- Pray that they will be able to finish selling their rags as that is their source of income
- And that Ray may find a good job.

Also, let us pray for the salvation of this family. That the people in Tay Tay may be the salt and the light to this family, sharing with them God's love and inviting them into the family of God.

As for the A-Team, there will be a mission sharing from our side on the 8th of November, 08.

Lets pray that:

How the program is going to run on that day is still not confirmed. Pray that God will help us figure out the running of programs, and also the videos, and sharing that He would want us to share with the people who will be joining us that evening.
Also, that this sharing is not to glorify A-Team's name but to glorify God's name, and through this, many people will be impacted, and will consider going into the battlefield for God.

When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field."

Matthew 9: 36-38

Signing off, Pinx

Missionaries aren't Superman

2008-10-21T15:48:00.025+08:00

I support Mission in many ways, offerings, support missionary through funding and etc…. Never had I thought of stepping out, I think financial support will consummate my part for mission. I don’t think I’m emotional and tense to drop my tears even for a beggar or seeing old people being left on the street. My concern is nothing much I can help but may cause them feeling sadder.

Bro Voon Horn reminded me even if you were to cry together with the unfortunate people, it’s more than enough because what they need may be just someone to share God’s love with them. What he said hits me and then I realize I may have the compassion but I need to put it into act. When A-team call for volunteers, I’ve step out without thinking twice because I believe it’s the time for me to step out form my comfort zone to do something for God and it’s a good chance to experience the life of a “missionary”.

I’m a person with little faith in everything I do because I’ve no self confident and easily give up towards failure. God is good; I experienced His Love and His faithfulness even before the departure. There’s time when I struggle with the fund for the trip and intend of pulling back but just as I continue to pray that the airfare may gone down, God bless me through my family members who would sponsor me and the amount given is more than what I needed. Truly He’s a God who provides and I’m so amaze how the money just reaches me at the very moment.

I’ve learned to face my biggest fear, the “balloon”. For those who know me, balloon is one of my phobia and we are asked to do balloon tricks for the children in Tay Tay for their birthday party, we got the chance to learn from a professional (Kuya Art) and while doing it, I cried because I can’t stand …my hand were shaking as I hold the balloon. Instead of crying I told myself, I’m not going to disappoint the kids thus I’ve overcome my fear and I manage to complete all the tricks =)

Throughout the trip I’ve not cried (literally wet my face with tears) my tear doesn’t fall even my heart feels pain and heavy seeing those street kids, the situation and environment. I started to pray for the children, pray for their salvation, their life and their future. I have to admit I’ve not prayed so much in my life and this is the first time when I pray I feel God’s present with me and I know God is touching every child as I touch them and bless them with a word of prayer. Besides praying for the kids, I prayed for my team member from time to time as they lead the praise and worship, drama, sharing and feeding.

I’ve learn to be content with whatever I have. Every morning as I drive to work I’ll thank God for a car to travel to work because kids there walk 2-3 kilometers to schools everyday. I thank God for every meal I’m having because children there hardly get a proper meal (Rice, meat etc…). I’ve learned so much through brother and sister from OM Philippines, pastors and co-workers in the mission field who brought great impact to me. I enjoy serving with them and salute how boldly they are to give up every earthly material and step out from their comfort zone to serve the people and obeyed God’s calling for their faith is strong.

A picture may speak a thousand words but having me there, it’s something that words cannot be described of what I see, how I feel or how I experienced. I thank God for such opportunity and am able to walk with God in fact it’s a joyful journey and I believe my journey have just begun. This trip is a little seed planted in me I’ll let it grow by God’s strength!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Philippians 4:6-7

Noelle

2 more families

2008-10-20T21:55:00.010+08:00

A new week has begun.

Have you wondered what each of us have learnt through out our experience in Philippines? or what was it like before we went for the trip, and what is it like now? How has it impacted or changed our lives? Well, there would be more of that in the coming week. So make sure you visit our blog again next week to find out more about how our lives have changed, and also to continuously tune in to the prayer requests of the people in Philippines.

As for this week, let us take this wonderful week to pray for another two more families that we have met in Tay Tay.

This is Merlita's family.
<-- in the picture: Ariel (husband),
Merlita (wife) and daughter.
Aside Merlita and her husband, Ariel, they have 5 children. 3 boys and 2 girls.
Let's pray for,
- Ariel as he is an electrician in a well known hospital and is usually not home as he needs to work over time. Pray for protection as it is a dangerous job, as well as strength to work.
- Protection, health and studies of their children.
- Spiritual Life
- Children to be active in church.
- Also, their family is planning to move to Laguna. May they be a shining light to the people there.

This is Rebecca(Vicky) Dolon's family.

Vicky, Lyka, Owen: in this picture -->

This family consists of 5 people. Vicky, her husband, Jose, Angelito the oldest son, Lyka and Owen. However, her husband left their family, and Angelito is jobless and on drugs. Vicky was working in a garment factory for 4 years until it got bankrupt and closed down. Currently, she is helping people wash their clothes. However, she has been falling ill, having flu and aches making her unable to work. As such, no one in the family is working. Lyka, is trying her best to help her mother out. The space you see in the picture, that is all to their house. It is that small.
Let us pray,
- that God will continue to watch over this family, and continue to provide for them.
- that Vicky's husband, Jose, will come to realise that he has a responsibility to care for his family
and will come back some day.
- Vicky will have good health that she may be able to work.
- and Lyka's prayer request is that she will be able to finish her studies, and someday give her
family a good life.

We may not be able to be there with them to provide for these families, or to help them lead a better life, but, we can still pray for them.

"Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus"

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

signing off, Pinx

Let's begin praying

2008-10-14T20:27:00.009+08:00

We're officially back! There a quite a few prayer requests that we have received from the many many people that we have met in the Philippines. We hope that all of you are able to take some time off from your busy schedule, to keep these families, these people in prayer. Since there are tons! I'll not bombard you with the prayer requests all at once. So here are the first two prayer requests of the week.

The family of Copper and Marilyn, Marco and CJ

In this picture --> Marilyn carrying her youngest son CJ

Copper as the head of the house has yet to accept Christ as his personal Lord and Savior. Let us pray that he'll one day, be touched, and finally accept Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.
Also, for the health of CJ and Marco as they are still very young and easily fall ill.

The Salazar Family

Antonio and Victoria, Annabel, Analisa, and Anjel

In this picture --> Anjel and the photos hanging above are pictures of her sisters and her.

A little about this family...Anjel (14 years old) is the youngest in the family, and is also the only Christian in the family. Her parents, Antonio and Victoria, are street sweepers.

Let us pray for protection upon the parents, as sweeping the streets is quite a dangerous job.

All 3 of the children (Annabel, Analisa, and Anjel) to be able to finish their studies.

God's provision on their family.

That Anjel will be a blessing to her peers and family.

Last but not the least, that her family will one day accept Christ into their lives.

Tune in next week for more prayer requests and updates!!

"This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us - whatever we ask - we know that we have what we asked of him"

1 John 5:14-15

signing off, Pinx

It's not over yet!

2008-10-12T23:43:00.003+08:00

Hi all!

Wondering what happened to our blog? Wondering if we'll ever continue to update it and keep it alive?

Well, your questions will be answered. A-Team will continue to persevere on and so will this blog! It will be updated from time to time, but at the moment we are facing a few technical difficulties.

Don't worry! Just come back in a few more days, and things will be back to normal again!! So do come back for more! =D

signing off, Pinx

The last and final day

2008-10-04T02:04:00.003+08:00

Today is the last day for all of us A-team people here in Philippines. So sorry there would not be any pictures uploaded today as it takes time and we will be back tomorrow. So i'll jus share little on we done today and yesterday.

Yesterday we spent the day in the one of the high school's in Manila, just behind the Smoky Mountains, performing dramas and mimes for the students in their hall. It was also a time where we shared the gospel with them.

Today, we spent the time with university students at Univsersity Baptist Church (UBC). It was a place where university students would hang out during their breaks in between classes. After having a short lil ice breaker, mime, drama and singing, we spread out to sit among to students, talking to them, getting to know them, sharing our testimonies with them and most importantly spending some time praying for them.

I guess that's about it. =)

signing off, pinx

Raindrops are falling on my head

2008-10-02T09:24:00.009+08:00

Maganda umaga po! (good morning)

just a little update of what we did yesterday
We certainly experienced God's shower of blessings literally as we walked and ministered in the rain (the typhoon alarm was set at second stage already)

It rained non-stop throughout the day but through the rain we could see the reality the street kids and Delpan children faced.

We moved over to the River of God church where we packed food for the street kids and Delpan neighbourhood.

Woke up the next morning at about 5 to prepare

and off we go...

just a little glimpse of what Yong's and James' team did

Right in the heart of Delpan

where it still continued to rain

May decided to give skunky II away to one of the family in Delpan who had TWINS!

A picture may speak a thousand words but none of these can explain or describe what we all experienced and witnessed that day

Which we hope we are able to share with all of you when we get back home!

Signing off, Xinn.

Back at Fishport Alliance Church

2008-09-29T21:25:00.007+08:00

We were still in TayTay for the last two days and took the opportunity to teach some of the members rope and paper stories that we learnt the past few months. We also managed to visit the homes around the area and then enjoy some Bible story time with the kids.

Our wonderful start of the day- Chocolate porridge

the view from Fishport Alliance Church

Today we helped them cleaned up their area, bless them with some basic food to the the church members and other families there, and lastly celebrated with the children there for the last time

As you can see we don't have much pictures for the day

you know why?

BECAUSE we're all busy working!!!

haha yeah for the people and for the Lord!

we're half way through already
and we gotta go now to pack for we're moving to Tondo for the night

so that we can wake up at 4 tomoro for street kids feeding and ministry

We need all the prayer power from you!!

Thank you all for keeping us in your prayers :)

till next time then

Signing off, Xinn.

Freshly Brewed from Manila

2008-09-28T20:17:00.012+08:00

Kumusta ka?

That's how are you in tagalog.
We seven are having a blast for God
It has been tiring back-to-back activities so far
But the Lord is faithful and He has provided each and everyone of us the strength to pull through the day :)
So just to keep you people at home posted.

Day 1
Before we leave

After we Land: enjoying ouyr Jollibee(Philippines version Mcdonald's)

Orientation!!

Day 2 - At Fishport Alliance Church

This is Rex - one of our host/interpreter/chef

There's our other host/interpreter (on the far left) - Lita

There are much more pictures of what we did

But that you would have to wait in suspense till we get back then...haha!

Prayer requests:
1) There are goin to be a lot of activities and ministries that we're going to plan and carry out. so pray for strength (physical and spiritual). We truly need wisdom from God too that we will be ready and have the freshness of mind to plan all sorts. Pray for flexibility and spontaneity when we are called to do things we aren't ready for. Expect the unexpected as many of the leaders here are telling us. May God guide each detail to our plans that it may bless others and touch their lives. As we would want them to know that we are not here to just "do charity" but to share the Love of God too!

2) We like to thank the Lord for providing wonderful and hospitable host that has taken good care of us (So parents don't worry, we're in GOOD hands). Pray for the unity among the A-Team members as we put our Head and Hearts together that hopefully and prayerfully, we can establish great things for Him and the people here. Pray that we will work well with the other pastors and leaders from different churches and ministries throughout our stay here. We would like to be a huge help to all of them.

3) The weather here is uncertain and it's the rainy season. Pray that God's hand will guide the wind and that it would not cause any typhoon or massive rain this season. For one that it would not disrupt any of our activities and secondly that it would not trouble the people here who stay on low-land and are easily affected by massive floods.

4) Our upcoming events the next few days. We will still be ministering in Fishport Alliance Church (with adults and children), Streetkids ministry, and Sikatt ministry among urban school poor students. Continue to keep us in prayer that all things will go well in God's will.

1 Corinthians 9:22-23
To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.

Signing off, Xinn.

Departure and Arrival

2008-09-25T23:28:00.002+08:00

Departure - 27/09/2008; 0720am on flight AK32. We will arrive in Philippines at 1115am

Arrival - 04/10/2008; 1145am on flight AK33. We will arrive in Malaysia at 0340pm

Four more days...

2008-09-23T20:56:00.016+08:00

As the saying goes...
With just a blink of an eye and here we are
FOUR MORE DAYS TO PHILIPPINES!
After meeting up for the last couple of months
We are soon going to be on our way
Before we embark on this mission, I've asked each of us to write down our personal prayer requests
That all of us may continue to uphold one another in prayer

D-Way

Please pray that God will give me the wisdom and guidance to lead the group. Many months of planning and I believe it's going to be worth while. Pray also as I fine tune the schedule with Ph, they're bit slow on their side but I can show you all the rough schedule this Saturday. Please also pray that I'll have the strength (and also you all) when we're in Ph. Most of all pray against the work of the evil ones. Like Nehemiah faced opposition from outside and inside. I hope I'll not face opposition inward but I'm expecting from outward as whenever we want to do something BIG for God, satan will always want to make it small.

May

Please pray for a focus mind & heart to complete this mission task - need to remember drama roles, rope tricks, action songs, testimony, etc etc..

For new friendships to be built & for current friendships to deepen (amongst team member especially, we'll be staying together for 8 days, 7 nights)

And for sensitivity & obedience to God's voice :)

Thank you!

Noelle
Do keep me in prayer in:
Able to catch deadlines in work so that my boss will release me for long leave in "peace"
Smooth travel & Physically fit (Easily get flight or car sickness then will start dizzy follow by migraine)
Be able to adapt with the local culture and people
Able to control my emotion (Easily touch follow by tears) hahahaha
and lastly, Obedience to God

James
I was shocked to be requested by our team leader to prepare sermon. Never done it in my life and it's my 1st time. I'll be having a hard time for the week ahead, so please pray for wisdom to know and understand what the Lord wants me to speak to the people in Philippines. Starting to have fear of preparing it.

Ping Xin
That i will be spiritually, physically n mentally prepared for d battle up ahead... That i may also have the wisdom to know what and when to say and do when i meet the ppl and street kids there.. Pray too for adaptation to d environment n food there..lastly, to learn what God wants me to learn and continue placing my faith and trust in him no matter the circumstances..

Yong Yong

As for my side, just pray tat I'll still continue to strengthen my amour of God so tat when we all get into the battle field, will not be stumbled down easily...as the days is nearing for our day to fly to Ph, I'm getting anxious and also excited...all i wanna do is to fully trust in HIM and rely in HIM in everything tat i do there...

thanks

Xinn Ee
Pray that once I'm there I will be able to go all out for God and not hold back because of my doubts or fears.
That I will allow God to fully use me when I'm there. May i continue to draw strength from God each day as I prepare. I'm also busy with my assignments and my upcoming exams, so do pray that I will be able to trust God to provide for He knows what's best for me. Pray that i will be well and healthy when the trip begins as I'm also coming down with a flu. Pray that I'll be able to work well with my team and with the people there.

Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Thank you all for your prayer support and encouragement!
We truly appreciate them all!
God bless!
Signing off, Xinn.

So what have we been really up to?

2008-09-17T22:59:00.016+08:00

I probably can tell that just about now

that you guys are wishing this is not another looong post and report of our daily meetings
(dun worry, I'm running out of words too)
So i shall spare you people
and let you have a glimpse of what we did last week in D-way's place

take #1

Something's not right so we revamp!

take #2
looks better but...
hmmm May's hand look like it's in the wrong pla...
nvrm :)
let's just hope ping xin's photoshop skills are good

Those going...
Clockwise(L-R) May, Xinn, D-Way, Yong, Noelle, Ping, James

The whole team
+ (L-R) Laura, Chew Sim, Linda, Timothy

Since our main focus to Philippines is the street kids and teens
we decided it's best to select a main theme verse with them as our focus
So we picked:

Matthew 19:14 Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these."
That all our hearts may be such as these.

Here are some videos of the drama
There are more but the file is too big so i can't upload it here

As you can see how ready we are
haha there's another practice
(and probably our last before we head up to Philippines)
So cya people nxt Saturday at 6pm sharp ya!

Signing off, Xinn.

Statues and Benches

2008-09-10T23:57:00.005+08:00

Updated Prayer List:
1) Anti-crime group slams shooting of Atenean grad - girl name,Tara Santelices, 23 yrs old was shot in the head by an armed robber while on board a jeepney on August 6 in Cainta, Rizal. Pray for justice upon this case as the police work hard to investigate for the murderer. pray for wisdom upon police there. also pray for peace and comfort the family of Tara Santelices.

2) Unity Among churches in Manila

3) Safety and health for the leader's of the church.

4) Pray that God will supply enough Elementary school to fulfill the needs of the poor children for basic educations.

5) Pray that God will soften the hearts of the people in Manila and leading them to the truth regardless of the poor and rich as the populations is growing enormously and sitting at 15 millions now.

6) The spiritual life of each member of A-team going for this mission trip. Also the other preparation and arrangements here in Malaysia and there in Philippines as we liaise with OM. That God will guide us each step of the way and help us carry out this plan of His.

Keep these in your prayers as we fast tomorrow.
"How's your walk with God? Are you guys prepared for the spiritual battle?" - James is reminding us in his email.
We're about 2-3 weeks away from our mission trip. Are we all geared and in shape for this mission?
Well whatever state we are in, right this instant, always keep in mind God is always on our side

Romans 8
v. 31 What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?
v. 38 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, either the present nor the future, nor any powers,
v. 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Last week was another interesting week for us
We started practicing our dramas and managed to cover TWO - The Statue and The Bench
They're very simple to learn, simple to understand, silent dramas

The first was about a statue - rigid and stubborn.
Then along comes a friend who teaches the statue to run, dance and even offers ice-cream
But the statue still refuses to budge!
Finally the friend puts a Bible in the statue's hand and kneels down to pray for him.
Soon the statue comes to life and is intrigued by God's Words,
He alerts his friend who is praying diligently,
For now, the statue is free from the bounds of rigidity.

The second is about a kid who wants to find a friend and sits on a bench waiting for one, who would be willing to play with him.
Many different people walk to this bench - an artist, a reader and even a jogger
Neither of them interested to play with the young child
So the kid decides to do whatever it is that they are doing, but it's just not him (being playful) and soon they are irritated by his animated behavior and leave...
Their rejection crushes the kid's spirit
But, then comes along a friend....exactly like this kid.
They immediately clicked and enjoyed each others' company

Each of these drama may mean different things to different people - up to one's interpretation
So A-team troopers, do try to think whether there is any 'Story of Your Life' that can be connected to the dramas. They'll be good testimonies during our time in the Philippines.
hmmm I should have taken videos and pictures of us practicing
Next week then... we'll be practicing even more in D-Way's house on Sunday at 2-4pm
Those who haven't gave your salvation testimonies, please bring them this week ya!
See you guys then! Can't wait to see May acting again!

Signing off, Xinn.

Heart (hard) Lessons

2008-08-28T16:29:00.019+08:00

I must say that throughout all the meetings we had
This would be the most 'impactful' one (to me, at least)
Hence, the title of this post.
But why, you may ask?
Well continue reading then :)
I'm sure those who were there at the meeting might know a little of what I mean

The day started with Linda and Laura's belated salvations testimonies
They're both sisters who grew up in this very church
Linda's the elder one who used to be really mischievous and would lie or steal to get what she wanted. Because of the lack of love and financial support from her family then, she started to feel her self-confidence drifting away and thought herself inferior to do anything. She did accept the Lord at a young age, when she was in a camp. However, she always doubted whether she was truly saved by the Man who died for her sins, considering she never really felt washed away from her sins. It was not an overnight change, she tells us. Gradually, she started to build her relationship to know this Man personally and learn from the good & even the bad experiences. Before her own eyes, her family relationship started to improve. Now she takes God's word seriously and help mentor those in need.

Laura, on the other hand, had always felt rejected amongst her friends during her primary school times and didn't feel that she rightly belonged anywhere. When she started to attend MIF (our church teenage fellowship), the love and sense of belonging she felt there touched her life. She was encouraged to read the Bible which told her that God is in control of all things. She began to serve Him through MIF and still continues to faithfully serve. Now when she feels down, she knows the Lord is always there for her.

After their sharing, D-Way taught us some rope and paper tools that may help us during our trip as we share and evangelize to the children who do have short attention spans.
There's a picture of my 'tearing cross'
and the other was a 'Cut & Restore' rope illustration.
Hope you guys have been practicing and perfecting your 'skills'.

The week before, D-Way asked each of us to bring a favorite piece of clothing or the most expensive piece from our closet.
So each of us obediently brought what we liked best and shared why we chose that piece out of the lot. We had from ManU jerseys to expensive sweaters to even pillow cases (even though it isn't considered clothing...dun worry May people won't know it's you *cough*)
After we talked about our reasons...
D-way said nonchalantly, "Okay can i use that plastic bag?"
You see this plastic bag? We're going to put what we've all brought today and bring it to Phillipines because we're going to give it to the person we think needs it.............
Well the reason why there's so many dots there is because I didn't clearly hear what he said after that.
I'm not sure how hard it was for you guys, but...
To be real and honest, i found it hard to give away that piece of clothing I brought
I never thought it would be this hard, indeed it has hit straight to the heart
Things need to be sorted out with the Lord who was willing to give His only Son away

I guess this is partly what Jesus meant when he said in Luke 9:23-25,

Then he said to them all: "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will save it. What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, and yet lose or forfeit his very self?"

The meeting then closed with some rules & regulations of what to bring and not bring on the trip
As well as an encouragement from D-Way to come back from Philippines without our luggages and only with the things on our backs!
God always gives us more than what we've bargained for, doesn't He?

Signing off, Xinn

What is our heart's desire?

2008-08-23T14:18:00.014+08:00

If our heart's desire is for God's glory, then we will go the extra mile.
If our heart's desire is for God's people, then we will serve them.
If our heart's desire is for God's will to be done, then we will obey Him.
It is no more of what I desire for God, what what 'WE' desire together for Him.

Pr. Maggie came over last week to share with us and enlighten our 'naive' minds about the reality of street kids nowadays, whether in Philippines or elsewhere.
Who are they? Children who live or/and work on the streets (some still do have families)
How many are there? 100million worldwide
Why are they on the streets? Poverty, urbanization, political instability, natural disasters, family breakdown, AIDS, rebellion, insufficient income, and violence (physical, emotional, and sexual abuse) and many other reasons one can possibly think of.

There are more to these kids than what meets the eye

That is why D-Way has briefed us on a number of places we will be visiting when we're there -
University of Manila, urban high schools, Manila Chinese Baptist Church as well as join certain street kids program that will allow us to have hands-on experience with the kids that work and/or live in the streets.
There are still much more to learn in order to gear us up for this trip

But before we go, prayer would be another kind of 'gearing' we would need to enforce in our spirits
These are our prayer requests, concerning the current happenings in Philippines, that we would like to keep throughout the following weeks to come...

Religion:

The Moro people are the sixth largest ethnic groups in Philippines and they are the largest non-Christian ethnic group who have formed their own Moro Islamic Liberation Front as they try to achieve independence of their own. Pray that these group of people, will stop attacking and cause fights, deaths, injuries in southern Philippines. Just recently they attacked 2 villages, killing about 34 innocent people. Pray for peace in Philippines as its Christians citizens will continue to have faith in the Lord. Pray that God will give the government wisdom to know how to handle this group of people.

Pray too for the Believers spiritual depth, holding fast to the truths of faith. And able to be the light and salt influencing every aspect of policy making in improving the country’s economy,politic & social problems. That the situation now in Philippines will bring unity across denominations & the passion to be a living Church.

Children:

In Philippine, 45% of the population is below the age of consent, below statistics represent a frightening reality for many Filipino children:

• 1 in 4 children are abused before the age of 14
• 1.5 million live on the street
• 5 million work to earn a living

Pray for the NGOs, Christian organization and others who is working hard helping these children regain their childhood and bring hope that can change their lives. Pray for the children we will be going to meet. Even though we do not know who they are now nor offer them lots of money, but we pray that during our visit, God will use us to touch those kids lives and make an impact no one has ever made.

Economy:

The gas and rice prices in Philippines have also increased. and many people do not have even have the essential 3 meals a day due to the price increase. Pray that, the government may be able to figure out something to help these people and also something to stop the MILF effectively.

The poverty rate is increasing due to its 90 million population. Poverty has led to insufficient food supply among the poor family. Most of them live on $2 or less a day. Government is now promoting birth control to reduce the poverty rate. Pray that God will give government wisdom to find solutions to this and also to bless the poor family to have their basic necessity which is food.

Government:

Minister of Christ and church leaders to be enriched in Christ in all speech and knowledge,to have wisdom & insight from God’s word and to be an good living example of Christ for the believers.

Pray for the leaders of Philippines as it is formally known as a Christian Country. Pray that they will fear the Lord our God and allow Him to be their true leader.

Weather:

The Philippine weather bureau is reporting Typhoon Nuri is on track to make landfall over the northern provinces within the next 24 hours. Nuri is packing winds of 75 miles (120 kilometers) and gusts of up to 93 miles (150 kilometers) per hour. It is moving quickly toward the north of main Luzon island. Pray for safety for the people in Philippines as Typhoon Nuri is possible and coming.

and just Before I end...
The story is told in the Midwestern town suffering under a searing drought. All the townspeople finally decided it was time to gather the clergy and assemble for prayer. the whole town turned out to pray for rain, but only one person, a small girl, brought her umbrella.
When you pray, are you like the townspeople or the little girl? Do you pray first and then live in the confidence of God's answer? Are your prayers specific enough that, when God answers,
you notice the difference?
Give these some thought, whether we are praying for our own personal needs or for this country.
Let us diligently pray and await God's answers.

Signing off, Xinn.

Saturday at the Nursery

2008-08-14T13:40:00.012+08:00

We had our meeting on a Saturday, last week, since Sunday was Youth Sunday and some of us were tight down.

Considering Timothy was unable to join our previous meetings, he shared his personal salvation testimony. He, too, was from a Christian home but was more involved outside church walls and with friends that could not help him develop his faith in Christ, instead led him to be more interested in sinning than pleasing God. But when he was in Form 5, a friend of his became terminally ill and Tim would follow his dad to pray for that friend. He witness how he's friend still had the motivation to seek God even in times like these and how the father came to know Christ even when his son was leaving soon. Soon after Tim's friend passed away, Tim confirmed his decision to turn to God away from his own selfish ways.

After Timothy shared, D-way post a question to know what is our perception on missions?
We all had our own answer to that question...
James - Showing Christ love not just by words but by action,
Tim - Being a testimony to show that God has the power to change lives and bring joy
Yong - Being compassionate to the needy
Ping - Reaching out to touch lives
Xinn - Bringing the hope of salvation and love to anyone that doesn't know Christ
D-way - Not just about going to 'kampungs' to share or help but missions has evolved into so many different ministries that enable the sharing of God's words

D-Way continued to share two portions of the Bible that impacted him about missions
1) Luke 16:19-31 (The Rich man and Lazarus)
Firstly, He pointed out that our riches should be build in Heaven and not in the world . This simple parable depicts what is pleasing in God's eyes and what isn't.
The reality of hell is all so surreal but the burning truth nonetheless. We need to ask ourselves, "Do I want to see people go to such a place as this?". So think again, how important is missions to you?

2) Rev 5:11
"Then i looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they sang,...."
The picturesque thought of the vast number praising God is magnificent. The many believers worshiping the true God, in the end days, is such an encouragement to bring more to Christ that'll form the crowd.

It is true that we still face struggles in our walk with God. As we shared our own individual struggles in setting aside time for God, it became clear that preparing ourselves for this mission trip has not made us immune to trials and temptation. Whether it is work or studies or the excuse of "so much to do, so little time", it is this time that we need to be strong in our foundation of God! Like what Rev. Yeo shared few weeks back, we all must have an assured goal and not run aimlessly. Each of us were given our own notebook to journalize our experiences with God each day as we prepare to set out for Him.

James suggested that we should fast every Friday together to pray for our team as a whole and this mission that we will be taking on. Do feel free to join us in this time of fasting as we petition our prayers and requests to our Father in Heaven.

Next Meeting: 17 Aug (Sunday) 10am - Pr. Maggie's Time
Homework for us : Find any information about Philippines to share with the group and refine our salvation testimony
Homework for Ping: Prepare the salvation testimony and mission testimony paper
Homework for Laura: Prepare Salvation Testimony and re-Charge her walk with God
See you guys then!

Hebrews 12:1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus. the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.

Signing off, Xinn.

Mission Interview

2008-08-07T15:00:00.006+08:00

Last week... Each of us had a taste of what a mission interview is like with Bro. Voon Horn and Sis. Suat Lian (one of our YM advisers and his wife)

The interview might have been a little behind schedule but it managed to flow smoothly.
They both made the atmosphere so approachable.
There is no right or wrong answer, just a time to get to know our reasons, expectations, limitations, preparations and of course, our prayer requests.
This interview was not only out of formality,
it was also important as a reinforcement to each of us that we are all accountable to God, His people (our church and the people in Manila) and our teammates when we go on this mission.
It is a mission where we youth can gain experience and exposure,
but it is also "Putting yourself in the front line," as Bro. Voon Horn said.
"And that requires the Armor of God and the Sword of the Spirit," Sis. Suat Lian ensures.

Personally, I feel that this interview was essential.
We may have our own thoughts and reasons, for this mission to Manila, all figured out in our heads
But having the chance to share it out made those things even clearer,
And hopefully making our commitment towards our preparation and voyage even stronger.
You know... more black and white, more ascertained...

I may not know what was said or heard in each interview
But I do hope that even through an interview,
God has assured us the glorious plan He has in stored for each of our lives

"For even a long, dangerous journey can be faced confidently when God is leading the expedition."
Signing off, Xinn.

P.S I'm having trouble attaching our preparation schedule to this post. Will continue to figure it out.

Worms into Butterflies

2008-07-30T23:31:00.005+08:00

This was our first time meeting up...
Marking the beginning of many other interesting meetings to come
We gathered at our church office meeting room last Sunday (27/07/08) at 10am, after the first service
Joining us were... one of our prayer warriors, Chew Sim and our Youth President, See Shyong.

D-way briefed us on a few arrangements concerning the church's mission policy, our financial issues, and the possibility of arranging some events in the near future to raise funds for the Philippine children and teenagers.
We also managed to delegate certain tasks amongst ourselves, to involve everyone and work as a team.

After that, it was time to share our own personal salvation testimony.
Each of us was told to prepare a short testimony of how we were before Christ, during conversion and after conversion.
Most of us came from Christian homes/backgrounds...
As a matter of fact, all eight of us came from Christian families
What else do we have in common?
We were all blessed to know the Lord at such a young age and had accepted Christ into our lives during our teenage years.
Despite the similarities in some part of our stories,
as we continued on...
Each testimony began to be different from one another - unique and meaningful in its own way

D-way started the ball rolling by sharing how having God in his life changed his mere head knowledge of God's Word into heart knowledge.

James continued on by saying that attending baptism class has alter him to live a new life that reflected who God is in his character and personality.

Next was May... She remembered how she used to be so focused on her studies that it became top priority in her life. She soon realized that studies can only do so much and throughout her teen years, God has showed her that there are more important things in life than that.

Then there is Yong Yong, the child with the perfect Sunday School attendance. Learning about Jesus and who God is, prompted her to accept Christ into her life. It was not a complete 180 degree turn for her but each new day became a learning process to be a better Christian and to continuously walk with God.

Ping Xin always lifted her hands at alter calls in various evangelistic meetings, knowing that God was her Saviour but never really committed herself at the end of the day. Finally at the age of 14, she made the decision to make a commitment to Him and to live a life more pleasing unto Him

Noelle always felt that there was something missing in her life and tried to fill it with the many things the world could offer; thus, turning to her rebellious ways. One day, when she was on the beach, the Lord came to her heart and asked her to let Him in so He could bring meaning to her life. Since then, God has been ever faithful to her.

And Lastly, there's me (Xinn Ee). Although I accepted God as my Personal Saviour during my mid-teens, I didn't make Him Lord of my life nor had a relationship with Him. Later on I began to discover that God wants more than just mere recognition, He wants a relationship with me. Today, He has become my faithful Friend and someone I can always trust.

So maybe it's like what May said,
we have all been metaphorically transformed by God in His own way.
And blessed with the opportunity to start living our lives anew for Him.
From caterpillars to butterflies.
Oh wait, in May's case, from a worm to a butterfly.
Yes, our God can do even the impossible! :)

We all have the same Father, the same Saviour and the same Lord.
But He chose to work differently in each of our lives
Still each individual path has brought us all together for this mission
It certainly proves God's profound understanding and amazing love for all His children

Till our next meeting then...
God bless!

Signing off, Xinn.