Learning to be a Blessing

2009-10-10T09:33:00.003-06:00

i'm sure we all get those days when we become frustrated with ourselves, sometimes to the point where it is annoying. frustrated because something happens that seems to revert us beyond all the steps taken forward. then, it's almost as if we haven't progressed at all. appearances can be deceiving. but not to lose hope - He's there and willing to guide us through it all. moreover, love and giving

2009-07-16T22:42:00.002-06:00

God has given me some hard lessons to learn lately, the most significant being that no matter how tough it is to accommodate others in certain things, it still has to be done...and with the right attitude. i'm used to working around others' schedules such that it works in their best interest. sometimes, though, it gets to be painfully overwhelming. i just have to trust that this is an alternate

2009-07-15T09:22:00.003-06:00

summer vacation is... sleeping past six being out in the sunshine leisurely strolls around the neighborhood after dinner stress-free wedding planning catching up with friends ENJOYING TIME OFF! ^_^

2009-05-16T10:14:00.002-06:00

planning for the future involves one significant decision after another. suddenly realizing i need to be aware of so many areas that i previously never gave attention to (eg. housing market, stocks and investments) is eye-opening for sure. however, having eased into my job by this time frees me up to do some of this essential "self-study".

2009-04-09T22:41:00.003-06:00

april 3, 2009 victoria, b.c. a new beginning <3 <3

2009-02-28T13:26:00.000-07:00

It is a blessed joyful thing to know there is someone thinking of you - and sweeter still when you know it's true...

2009-02-14T12:05:00.001-07:00

God sent His love through His one and only Son... ...and through His angels, those He knows can shape and touch us for the better. Happy Valentine's Day! I love you forever and always <3

2008-12-29T12:07:00.012-07:00

this Christmas break has been unusually memorable, but not atypical. it was wonderful to celebrate the union of two good friends in marriage, then witness many from our mandarin congregation making a public testimony of their faith, a breakthrough in the history of our church. the following day we were invited over for a "winter arrival" dinner. we spent Christmas Eve hotpot-ting with some close

2008-12-13T10:10:00.003-07:00

"be still and know I am God." (psalm 46:10) how often we get caught up in our own busyness, not realizing who it actually is all about. as i prepare for the Christmas season, i find myself going after those little things that get me through each day remaining till the break, and for sure not devoting my heart and mind as much to Him as i should. giving thanks is not as difficult as it once was,

2008-11-03T17:02:00.003-07:00

weddings and babies galore... these days, numerous couples around me are getting married. it's so exciting, getting all dressed up, watching the bride and groom's faces as they see each other on their wedding day walking up the aisle, and of course, my personal favorite is the exchanging of vows. something so simple, so sweet, so pure. may God continually strengthen their bond and promise to be

2008-10-10T17:25:00.001-06:00

a beautiful miming expression set to one of my favorite songs of all time. impressive, isn't it? :)

2008-10-03T18:21:00.002-06:00

recently been mentally overwhelmed, as i receive both good and bad news about those close to me. it's tough to process everything all at once, but i'm thankful for moments of sunshine and calm, and also for an extra listening ear and voice of discernment to help me make sense of it all. work-wise, i'm blessed that each day is guaranteed to be different from the others in more ways than i can

2008-09-09T20:18:00.004-06:00

off to a good start thus far, and extremely thankful for that. praying through all the times of uncertainty and doubt helped immensely, as did finally moving past preparations to doing actual "field work". and though it's still early in the year, i am already on the receiving end of grace :) it's interesting, how God uses certain opportunities to cultivate our passion in areas that we least

2008-09-01T12:25:00.002-06:00

it all begins again tomorrow. i keep thinking i'm going to overlook or forget something, but after doing all that i can, the only thing left is to pray and pray hard. we were created for greatness ~ what an awesome blessing!

2008-08-14T09:56:00.005-06:00

three generous families' year end gift made it possible for us to go indoor rock climbing for our anniversary yesterday. overall, we had an amazing time, and i was able to go away with several insights as well: a little goes a long way precision, precision, precision (in parallel with the "location, location, location" motto for homebuyers and budding entrepreneurs) the rewards of pushing

2008-08-08T18:37:00.003-06:00

the month in Hong Kong ended two days ago. as with each time i'm away, it is taking some time to readjust to being back home and tending to the daily affairs and pressures here. God is teaching me increasingly how to give space even when it's hard. yes, caves are essential and even beneficial! (now if i can only convince myself of that...)

2008-08-01T18:13:00.004-06:00

the summer has turned out to be entirely beyond expectation or planning, yet i've witnessed one blessing after another. learning how to love and give in unfamiliar circumstances, to appreciate the simplest of gestures and provisions, and to go back to my grandmother's homeland... truly rare experiences in one's lifetime. it's getting to be that time again when i start feeling overwhelmed about

2008-07-15T02:58:00.003-06:00

grieving as a family is a new experience for us. i suppose there is no "ideal" or "perfect" way for a loved one to pass away, as you can never fully be prepared to lose someone, and each time we reflect we agree that my grandmother's sudden passing last friday was God's best timing. it has been so long since our entire family has gathered together and we had just shared with and given grandma her

2008-07-09T18:15:00.002-06:00

in hong kong for the second summer in a row. i still cannot imagine myself settling here permanently, however appealing and numerous the opportunities for career advancement, but do not mind regular visits. despite not wanting to head off this year, i am quite thankful grandma enjoyed her big dinner and time with all those who have cared for her since her illness. and seeing family and friends is

2008-06-25T16:27:00.006-06:00

on summer holidays finally... so thankful to be offered something permanent, making it so i technically don't have to do a job hunt until at least a few years down the road. it's been a year of tremendous learning, and i've taken so much away from spending time with students, their families, and my colleagues that i truly would not trade this job for another at this point. of course, there were

2008-06-10T16:30:00.003-06:00

montreal was an amazing time. we took in many sights, but of course the most cherished was the chance to be and share with loved ones. BB and i had a truly blessed weekend. we attended the wedding of my childhood friend (whom i haven't seen since, literally, childhood!), then spent a few hours exploring where i grew up. but the most meaningful was doing ministry together - shining a bit of light

2008-05-24T21:57:00.002-06:00

on to the final stretch of the school term. got a head start on report cards (necessary, especially as i have two class sets to submit rather than just one) and with open house over as well, all that remains is finishing teaching the year's curriculum and preparing for year end. feeling just as busy as i did in september, but with His help, it's not unmanageable - just need wisdom to use my time

2008-05-07T19:43:00.003-06:00

the school year is starting to wind down, which leads to each day being packed yet often significantly different from the day before, and me mustering up all i can to stay on top of this variable schedule. celebrating in montreal in three weeks ^___^

2008-04-17T16:10:00.003-06:00

taking care of ailing family members is truly a unique experience. it's a constant test of patience and keeping raw emotions in check. a draining process, yet if the shoe were on the other foot, i know i'd receive day in and day out care in a heartbeat. it's just hard sometimes, doling out and not feeling as if there is any progress on this long journey. nonetheless, all things are possible with

2008-04-07T14:00:00.003-06:00

last week was indeed a time of much needed relaxation, rest and refreshment. being able to take in spectacular scenery even within an urban setting, visit with new and old faces, and be challenged to walk deeper in my faith without worrying about the usual stressors of home and work while creating sweet memories...what could be better? now back to the dailies, and finding out yesterday that one

2008-03-19T18:07:00.003-06:00

received an e-mail from one of my youth today that contained a common tough question, "why does God allow bad things to happen?" this was posed in light of how recently many that this young person knows have fallen ill. so, i had a divine opportunity to minister to her as i explained God's plan, free will and sin. the question was actually an inspiration to me, for it reminds me that the younger

2008-03-17T18:29:00.003-06:00

a little past this point last year was when i started in my current job, which i love, however tough and draining some days are. i'm so thankful for a position where i can daily influence young lives for the better, teaching them not only book knowledge but substance that will allow them to live meaningfully and as responsible citizens. naturally, there are moments when i wish i could

2008-02-26T17:22:00.004-07:00

i've really been blessed the last while. despite inevitable storms and surprises, God's enabled me to keep my footing. in the past, i'd have been prone to wanting to close off somewhat in order to process and make sense of the whirlwind, but i'm thankful for the added ounces of patience and calmness that have come along with having someone in my life who often understands more about myself than i

2008-02-08T17:01:00.001-07:00

Chinese New Year just passed, and Valentine's Day is just around the corner. so much to be thankful for lately, even amid the tougher challenges and spontaneous uncertainties that seem to endlessly arise. looking ahead, He hasn't yet confirmed my job status for the fall (thereby putting my summer plans on hold), but i trust my answer will come in the best timing, and i pray i'll have a heart of

2008-01-19T09:40:00.000-07:00

work has been tougher than usual lately, likely because the kids are still mentally on holidays and the unstable weather certainly doesn't help either. when one's off, the others are, too, and it's hard to gain the compliance that normally seems to come so easy. for sure, the learning curve in this profession is continually steep, but the rewards of character and empowerment in the long term make

2008-01-04T10:13:00.001-07:00

apart from catching up on sleep, the Christmas break has allowed me ample opportunity to build upon existing ties as well as reconnect with faces from years past. i'm thankful for the significant chats that have gone along with many of these meetings. some recurring themes throughout have been growing up, investing in and making choices that will carry you beyond the immediate future. i was

2007-12-21T23:13:00.000-07:00

have a blessed CHRISTmas, everyone! He came to live and die for you and me. may you experience life from Him to the fullest, each and every day ^_^

2007-11-27T19:36:00.000-07:00

thanks for all your encouragement and being there to listen to me about literally anything. it means more than you know, and i know i'm beyond blessed :)

2007-11-10T10:19:00.000-07:00

Psalm 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands

2007-10-25T07:26:00.000-06:00

God is really good, really really good. ^_______^

2007-10-05T17:23:00.000-06:00

Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. (Psalm 37:4) 牵引我心曾经在跌落谷底的那一天你赐予最深刻的安慰将自己的意念降服在你的面前愿我一生充满你的恩典路途中的黑夜心情或象雨点彩虹如应许在天边出现未来的梦想不一定会实现有你胜过全世界牵引我心让我全心跟随你的爱不曾因外在而改变更新我意再一次全然奉献我的世界因为你而完全

2007-09-17T22:55:00.001-06:00

currently am feeling very at peace where God has placed me, work-wise. although the days are long and my voice rather often feels strained, i'm reaping the benefits of intentional character building and being an imparter of knowledge. i am also beginning to see how God has used previous experiences to develop patience that i previously lacked, and how crucial that tolerance is in my current job.

2007-08-22T00:02:00.001-06:00

so, goes another summer... just returned from two and a half weeks in Hong Kong, mainly visiting my grandma and keeping her company as she walks this tough, solitary journey. the hospitals were eye-opening in their efficiency and simply the volume of people needing treatment on any given day. i'm thankful God has always provided my grandmother with wonderful attending physicians and nurses, and

2007-07-27T11:41:00.000-06:00

the past two days i have been watching the real-life drama, "1 Litre of Tears", online. i couldn't stop crying as i watched this beautiful story unfold. to be able to walk with someone through the toughest, darkest, most incurable life events is not something we can truly understand until we have been there. but even more amazing is aya's own journey through her illness, and how her strength has

2007-07-23T02:24:00.000-06:00

just came back from two and a half days of camping at Crimson Lake with b & s from my small group (Ma's, Siu's, Huang's, Wong's and Lesley ^_^), and feeling quite refreshed despite not deep slumber both nights. HIGHLIGHTS Day 1 (Thursday, July 19) seemed next to impossible for us to load everything into William's truck, but after some "Tetris-like" strategizing, we managed to fit all boxes,

2007-07-06T10:49:00.001-06:00

feeling a bit like a chicken running around with its head cut off, given the amount of "to-do"s lately. yes, summer vacation has officially started, but still in and out of the classroom doing clean-up and set-up. then there's wanting to see all those i've been too busy to meet up with in previous months (and years!), getting different things done since my dad is away, preparing for my trip etc.

2007-06-14T18:29:00.000-06:00

so much going on these days ~ school-wise, it's my first time encountering what they term 'year-end madness'. the kids (and the teachers!) are anxious to get out of classes and spend as much time outdoors, but there's still lots to finish up before then. ACCMM is a whirlwind as well. we are currently practicing to lead the Father's Day program at Agape, and in the fall, will host last year's

2007-05-26T11:06:00.000-06:00

fasting from criticalness - a challenging yet not impossible journey.

2007-05-16T21:36:00.000-06:00

i was blessed with the opportunity to be part of the ACM choir this past weekend (and all the practices leading up to it, starting from early March). it was amazing in so many ways. although the turnout on both nights was low, compared to previous years, He did not disappoint. the first night, my little brother stepped forward to recommit his life to the Lord (certainly nothing short of a miracle

2007-05-01T22:51:00.001-06:00

"Sometimes things are not picked by us. God has a plan and a reason." Thanks for the reminder. Love you!

2007-04-20T18:01:00.000-06:00

my first week of teaching is now complete. the days have been a whirlwind - getting used to the routine, trying to be proactive with classroom management, preparing materials for lessons, solving 'tattling' disputes, hanging out with the teachers, laughing over the craziest things, spending time with the kids etc. etc. all in a week's work, and i wouldn't have it any other way! a friend told me

2007-04-02T11:23:00.000-06:00

a flurry of changes the past few weeks that weren't necessarily bad, but definitely a bit trying with the limited time and all the usual hectic schedules to keep. most intense would have to be the EXPERIMENT. God knows my heart and how much i need Him to help me guard it, and as a result, i was given a clear answer within a week. life is just better when you're walking at the same pace (vs. one

2007-03-22T18:54:00.000-06:00

been so very busy this past month, with little time to give much thought to what's beyond the immediate, every day. multiple changes at work, an upcoming job interview (yes, teaching!), songwriting, staying snow-mold-allergy-free (or at least trying to), "band" practices, this and that, that and this. thanks to my friends for keeping me sane and cheerful, even when there's been a lot on my plate.

2007-02-26T18:30:00.000-07:00

our heart, our desire is to see the nations worship our cry, our prayer is to sing Your praise to the ends of the earth that with one mighty voice, every tribe and tongue rejoices our heart, our desire is to see the nations worship You i only went to the last night of missions fest this year, but i was still blessed and challenged by it: "What do you have in your hand?" -> need to give up

2007-02-20T19:26:00.000-07:00

祝大家新年快乐! 让主继续保守和带领我们每一个 ^^

2007-02-06T17:54:00.000-07:00

there is nothing more meaningful and precious in a friendship than the closeness that comes from praying together. others' experiences are not only hearsay - rather, they become part of your own journey of discovery. tears shed are shared, as are the joys...and together you fly ^_^ thanks, God, for shining Your light in those dark places. where would i be without you? <3

2007-01-29T09:05:00.000-07:00

recharged... after a weekend (days AND nights! ^_^) with my bests, i can honestly lift my eyes upward and give thanks to Him for His abundant provision, filling in the gaps and mending the hurts at the most opportune time. the past few days were memorable, not just because i cherish these friends more than life itself, but more the renewal i found as we shared about our struggles and hopes. i'm

2007-01-25T10:45:00.000-07:00

things have been a bit funky recently (if that's even the word for it). i'm convinced this is the month to learn about truly applying the concept of EGR - "extra grace required", that is. thanks to my BFF for that reminder, and the opportune timing of our day out. i hadn't realized how i'd once again taken unnecessary stress upon my shoulders until it became glaringly obvious to everyone else

2007-01-15T11:43:00.000-07:00

feeling somewhat conflicted these days, but am learning day by day that as i lay those burdens down at the foot of His Cross, they become meagre in comparison - worries that, while not fluttering away, don't need to be attended to this moment. moreover, to seek my benefit and my well-being over His and His kingdom's is nothing short of selfish. cousin, thanks for the "What have you done with My

2007-01-08T15:06:00.000-07:00

a tiring but memorable and joyful weekend comprised of angel J, her family and my BFF's long-awaited return from holidays (all need major prayer for their health, though) the Lord's protection and care over angel F for yet another year laughing and playing endlessly with Zoe ("a-ha?" "hey!") hearing others' gleanings and sharing own insights from last week's winter conference

2007-01-02T09:32:00.000-07:00

Christmas, amid all the busyness, was beautiful. children bringing out the Good News in their sweet, innocent way; giving thanks for the souls He has saved and shaped this past year; a close sister's baptism; and remembering that no other baby's arrival on earth touched mankind as much as His did. the only low points? stomach flu, and 1/3 of the family as well as some of my best friends away.

2006-12-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

the Christmas season is in full swing. the joys of gatherings, potlucks, work parties, kid presentation practices, staying out later than usual, collecting recipes, shopping for the perfect gift, receiving gifts, sending e-cards etc... but remember, CHRIST is Christmas ^_^

2006-12-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. (Hebrews 11:1) heavenly Father, thank You for answering my prayers, one at a time. the road ahead is still scary, but not as bleak as before.

2006-11-29T23:51:00.000-07:00

my mind has been such a blur today, ever since receiving news about one of my dearest, closest friends. how fast our lives and its contents can be taken from us, altered dramatically, and become entirely out of our control. because He lives, i can face tomorrow because He lives, all fear is gone because i know He holds the future... thanks, Jesus, for bringing my sister through the ordeal. pray

2006-11-27T10:31:00.001-07:00

Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; (Habakkuk 3:17-19) this is one of my favorite

2006-11-20T14:28:00.000-07:00

2006-11-10T08:17:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A PRECIOUS ANGEL!! you bring sweetness, joy and inspiration to all those around you, even in your own valleys and struggles. thanks for giving so much of your time, patience, grace and heart to endlessly hear and help me out. simple, deep friendships are one of God's greatest gifts in the body of Christ, and i will cherish ours forever. thank you, sister! <3 <3

2006-11-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

Angels are all around God truly knows what we need even before we ask. These days I find myself faced with a dilemma that's eerily similar to the one at the end of the summer. But God is faithful, and sends His angels to provide perspective, prayers and padded shoulders even before I thought to seek them out beyond a few words in passing conversation. Love you beyond words and thank you, Angels J

2006-10-24T15:12:00.000-06:00

Reflections from an Aging Cake :p Looking back, I'm convinced this past year has truly been the best year ever. God's taught me so much about selfless giving, serving with perseverance, having the right balance with not doing too much yet serving in the area of my S-H-A-P-E and cultivating and making significant the ties with all the different people in my life, as well as entirely trusting Him

2006-10-13T09:23:00.000-06:00

tis Friday the thirteenth... and i'm not in the least superstitious, thanks to a loving Savior who looks over my shoulder and helps me through the dark "alleys", there is nothing to be afraid of ... may you, too, be so comforted. this week especially, two individuals have been forefront in my thoughts and minds, and i praise God for protecting and strengthening them both, after a severe time of

2006-10-10T09:26:00.000-06:00

after four straight days of celebration... i indeed can say that there is nothing sweeter than God's goodness. thank You for: giving DM ten years on this earth, and a thirst to know You more blessing brother Chiu with eight decades of good health, a servant heart and a legacy of obedience to and life in You my beautiful sisters, their spouses and children, and a chance to be together and truly

2006-10-03T19:36:00.000-06:00

feeling the drain... ...of a superbly hectic yet blessed weekend. for the second time, i was part of ACCMM (Alberta Chinese Christian Music Ministry), and we put on an evangelistic music/drama night that focused on marriage, relationships and needing Christ. praise God that we gained two brothers in Him that night, and for all those who put countless hours into memorizing scripts / song lyrics

2006-09-25T10:00:00.000-06:00

this morning i was on my way to work, and it was sprinkling lightly, which emphasized the quietness and tranquility of the early hours. however, what was even more impressive was that there were two rainbows...not just fragments, but two entire arcs...absolutely stunning! i couldn't take my eyes off of them, and i was reminded of God's promise to us, His eternal, unchanging commitment of grace

2006-09-18T12:18:00.000-06:00

so many "simple joys" this past week ~ yet another (surprise) birthday party, Phantom of the Opera, Century Grill (dinner&drinks&fondue&waytoomanylaughsforonenightbutstillcan'tgetenoughofmyfriends), one superhilariousandsupersweet six-year old, getting to know my co-workers more, etc. jen and me l l me and el life application of the week: consecration as part of our daily worship

2006-09-04T11:47:00.000-06:00

one week later, i remain thankful about the jobs God has currently assigned to me, and am optimistic about adapting even more to the environment and workload in the months ahead. it certainly makes a difference, being in such a professional, large-scale atmosphere, and learning to be self-taught and quick on your feet. mostly what i do now isn't directly related to what i studied in post-sec, but

2006-08-22T17:34:00.000-06:00

my bests and i spent nearly three consecutive days together...yup, this weekend. seeing some people once in a rare while is enough, while others you like to meet up with once a month/week, and then there are those with whom time is no factor. that's how it's been lately, as we never run out of things to share, laugh, pray and be curious about...vielen danke! i start my new job next week, which

2006-08-17T09:14:00.000-06:00

over lunch yesterday, a good friend and i were discussing the next generation and the attitude and behavior of most kids these days. it's easy to get discouraged and/or lay blame on society and the encroaching, pervading media for the selfishness and disrespect that seems to prevail among children as a whole. however, it just makes even more urgent the need to reach individuals at a young age

2006-08-08T20:14:00.000-06:00

Toronto blog entry #6 got back from Toronto two nights ago, but thought i'd finish summarizing the vacation. friday, after a major nap (yes, all us cousins were knocked out!), we headed out for a japanese bbq dinner - me, charlene, clarence, john and shirley. it was even more fun than the korean bbq that john, shirley and i went to last time because of all the color, plus being able to 'jeet

2006-08-04T14:54:00.000-06:00

Toronto blog entry #5 will return home in two evenings from now. it seems i'm not the only one who senses time to pass alarmingly quickly once august rolls around each year, though. strange how when you're busy or in an exciting situation, there is always a shortage of hours, but when you're involved in something mundane or routine, the end of the day can't come soon enough. my aunt, uncle and

2006-08-02T08:27:00.000-06:00

Toronto blog entry #4 had an indescribable week in Eastern Canada, not only because we (parents, rest of tour group and me) visited so many places, but everything we took in - from the landscape to the culture and so much more - was breathtaking and refreshing. i was reminded of just how big "Kanata" is, and how little time we usually spend to appreciate all the individuals and years that were

2006-07-25T08:43:00.000-06:00

Toronto blog entry #3 sunday i attended people's church (supposedly with my friend, but she slept in...whoops), where the pastor spoke about Jesus' views on religion. his three points included rules replacing religiosity and externals replacing internals. i suppose a lot of people have a distorted view of Christianity because of all the legalism and 'strictness' they anticipate they have to

2006-07-22T19:19:00.000-06:00

Toronto blog entry #2 it's been a busy few days here in Toronto. after meeting up with Tina the first full day, that night our family went for 'tong sui' at a place in Times Square. the next afternoon, my parents and i visited an elderly couple, Mr. and Mrs. Lee, whose children grew up with my dad in his former church and fellowship. i was greatly inspired by their servant heart, compassion and

2006-07-19T12:43:00.000-06:00

Toronto blog entry #1 okay, Helen, you were right about being able to find out about my travels this way. ^_^ the weather here in Toronto is humid, but for the moment, not unbearable, though they say that if you factor in the humidity, today's high is supposed to be 34 (and 36 tomorrow). oh well, weather is weather, and if you are on vacation, you don't want to waste a minute and see one less

2006-07-11T19:53:00.000-06:00

leaving for Toronto in one week, and nearly all packed and prepared, which allows for days of relaxing and time with friends, since the school term has finished. the weeks ahead will be a real-life mission field, and i sincerely pray that God will help me to maintain a strong witness and convey His gospel to my cousins and relatives. after all, each opportunity may be the last. most of my

2006-07-01T22:49:00.000-06:00

a brief farewell to my lovely friends who are leaving on their trips (and study summers) starting today and within the next two weeks. can't wait to see you again! work is finished for the summer, and whether or not to continue in the fall is still a decision i need to make. while i appreciate the freedom to share my faith and establish/deepen relationships with parents, i've realized my calling

2006-06-20T12:21:00.000-06:00

about a week and a half left before school (work!) lets out for the summer. i'd have to say that the opportunity to connect with not only students, but their parents, has been tremendously rewarding, as has seeing the little ones gain insight into their own behavior. however, my preference for teaching older children remains. i'll never forget the one time i was asked, "you're a Christian. WHAT'S

2006-06-01T07:58:00.000-06:00

time has shown that job-wise, 'ideal' and 'actual' are as far away as north and south. specifically i'm referring here to dealing with misbehavior, especially in the area of attitude. but despite the lack of smiley-ness, students know they are at fault and will still seek affection and attention after the whole ordeal is over, the apologies have been meted out, etc. and though the stress has been

2006-05-20T00:24:00.000-06:00

Yes, I love my JESUS, deep down in my heart much busier recently than when i was in school, but the new schedule is considerably a more productive use of my days, hours and minutes, and He allows me to work in an area that uses my passion fully and brings immense joy. plus, new opportunities are not just looming on the horizon, they are close enough to touch and see. the recent return of a few

2006-04-29T20:25:00.000-06:00

you must have read my mind... though it's not till september, i'm already so excited!!! thank you, thank you, thank you!!!

2006-04-26T15:43:00.000-06:00

2006-04-18T10:34:00.000-06:00

thanks, Jesus, for an incredible Easter, for the challenge to trade 3 nails for Your cross, for the empty tomb and cloth as irrefutable evidence of Your resurrection, for your tender mercies that are new each morning and give us eternal hope. our small group had a triple celebration - two baptisms, two transfers of membership, and a birthday. simply unforgettable!!!

2006-04-13T19:17:00.000-06:00

thank the Lord for His unending, unconditional mercies - for if His love for us depended on whether we were able to do this and that, our relationship would be *kaput* just like that. no, He chooses to love us if we look upon the cross and accept the hope that it brings to us. can this also ring true for friendships? or is our 'status' with another contingent upon whether or not we can be free

2006-04-10T11:46:00.000-06:00

many memories from the weekend finally connecting with my prayer partner watching the Easter musical, "The Difference," with my small group learning about human insanity and our subsequent need for mercy my good friends being installed as the youth pastoral team celebrating the 70th birthday of one of the most altruistic, outstanding ladies i have ever known and He has been faithful in revealing

2006-04-03T23:40:00.000-06:00

i've done all i can do, really. and so the waiting begins. well okay, not so much tapping my foot and counting the minutes, but going about my everyday business while seeing if the ball bounces back or if it's truly time to let go. perhaps He's already given me the answer. jenny, thanks for helping me through this ^^ meanwhile, the sun is out, the snow is melting, and there is so much of His

2006-03-22T15:16:00.000-07:00

simple words steeped in and rich with meaning... Come and make my heart Your home Come and be everything I am and all I know Search me through and through 'Til my heart becomes a home for You A home for You, Lord, a home for You, Lord Let everything I do Open up a door for You to come through And that my heart would be a place where You want to be You are my portion, filling up everything You

2006-03-17T10:19:00.000-07:00

planning for "search and rescue" is well underway, thanks to many minds and hearts thinking in unison. weird how one statement can trigger so much! thanks esp to aChung, kWong, jShum, pJ and gWhite for all your ideas! with prayer binding us on all sides and His leading, i anticipate nothing but His victory ^_^ by no means am i savvy at Revelation exegesis (or even reaching an approximate

2006-03-13T20:32:00.000-07:00

Hsin Hsin and i were talking about how we all grow up eventually. that's not an astounding observation, certainly, but it makes me so thankful that God has given and continues to provide a church home through the turbulent times. it's not to say we depend on other people, but the prayers, care and comfort of brothers and sisters, as well as their being there to keep one accountable makes a

2006-03-09T09:27:00.001-07:00

my friends are amazing. i thank the Almighty for allowing some of us to go through similar situations and life stages so we can both rant and pray together. and then there are those who are slightly more 'seasoned' in terms of life experience and can give a wise look back and words of encouragement and perspective at times most needed. and beautiful you who inspire with your tireless work ethic

2006-03-05T14:36:00.000-07:00

this is an ascending time in life, it seems. the weather is warming up (finally!), the workload has been manageable (thus far), and the Lord gives daily reminders that nothing beats true gemeinschaft that comes from serving, sharing and worshipping Him together. today's message about discernment challenged me to consider what i've allowed to shape and define my life. as His ambassadors, shining

2006-02-21T15:23:00.000-07:00

regrets? none whatsoever. thanks, Gendi, for your last blog entry. it really reminded me that although it's not always easy to do what's right, we should because we are His.

2006-02-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

i confess that despite my immense hatred of Canadian winter, i enjoy watching snow sports...especially Olympic speed skating!! i wouldn't trade my church family for anything in this world. thank you for our journey together through the peaks and valleys of these ten years. ^___^

2006-02-09T15:05:00.001-07:00

HU songs in mandarin...a trifle strange at first, but also enjoyable when it happens to be a tune you love jumping up and down to. jen, laura and i were quite impacted by today's chapel sermon on habbakuk 3. not that we hadn't previously come across "i have heard of Your fame; i stand in awe of Your deeds", but we were struck mostly by the in spite of it all, I will still praise You theme:

2006-02-07T12:04:00.000-07:00

reminiscing... unassuming chats looking at bridal magazines wading through sl--mush swapping tutoring stories ridiculous laughs mutual compensation hiccups at hot pot cards galore can't revert, just go from here. He's blessed you, so cherish it!

2006-01-31T15:26:00.000-07:00

to my dear brothers, sisters and friends, 新年快樂!! 願上帝大大的祝福和帶領你，讓你能夠更加經歷和依靠祂！ we had a LOVELY Mandarin worship on Sunday. click here to see the photos.

2006-01-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

Ich danke meinem Gott, sooft ich euer gedenke - a was ich allezeit tue in allen meinen Gebeten für euch alle, und ich tue das Gebet mit Freuden -, für eure Gemeinschaft am Evangelium... (Philipper 1:3-5a) Andy, your last update was amazing. Major issues of spiritual warfare, but He is faithful and He will deliver. May He equip and inspire you always - Gott ist dein Kraft!! Hanna, I'm