Two hearts on a rickety bus
Met suddenly - chanced upon
One promise within the ruckus
Innocence on an early dawn
Words cannot express fully
This strangeness which I feel
Best friends forever - was it folly?
Or a gem - of timeless value?
Best friends forever? The little quatrain of a sonnet cannot express how I feel. Innocent promise, but of timeless value?
Oh do you still remember the promises we made? Do you still remember how we treasured up each other - how we held on in good times and in pain?
Best friends - just a label?
Best friends - just a burden?
Best friends - just an illusion?
Best friends - just a obligation?
Oh how I still love you - with all my heart. Please stay close by. Let's fulfill our little promise - never forget each other!!
So let's cherish the old songs we sang
And complete what dear Innocence began.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
Monday, January 29, 2007
Insanity
If anyone noticed two boys lying side by side under the evening sky, hands reached out toward the clouds, intermittent exclamations of Sylvia Plath poetry and TOK material - please forgive us - for we were simply being mad.
That was Kenneth and I - Kenneth being the one seriously in need to release, I being the (faithful) friend who accompanied him (though the clouds were probably enough company for him). Why would two perfectly ordinary people be driven to the brink of madness? Emil was there, he questioned, and was answered with a flat 'You Fool!' from (who else but) Kenneth.
And tossing sticks and tree branches at Year 6 people from the highest level in the IB school block must be the craziest thing yet - only second to staring intently (with gleeful expression) at an open penknife. That was Kenneth in week 4 - I could only watch on as I watched my steady friend degenerate into pure insanity.
But I suppose - masked behind insanity was a great grief, a great sorrow, one that I sought to understand but could not - One that I tried to venture into, but only made worse (and that brought me pain).
Masks. Don't we all hide behind one? When shall we unveil our true identities? When shall the world be free of this endless masquerade?
I wish I could see my friends - my real friends - free of any masks - only then can I fully love them, and only then can they fully reciprocate that love :)
Well, some choose to keep those masks on, but at least - don't keep a mask on before our Lord :)
That was Kenneth and I - Kenneth being the one seriously in need to release, I being the (faithful) friend who accompanied him (though the clouds were probably enough company for him). Why would two perfectly ordinary people be driven to the brink of madness? Emil was there, he questioned, and was answered with a flat 'You Fool!' from (who else but) Kenneth.
And tossing sticks and tree branches at Year 6 people from the highest level in the IB school block must be the craziest thing yet - only second to staring intently (with gleeful expression) at an open penknife. That was Kenneth in week 4 - I could only watch on as I watched my steady friend degenerate into pure insanity.
But I suppose - masked behind insanity was a great grief, a great sorrow, one that I sought to understand but could not - One that I tried to venture into, but only made worse (and that brought me pain).
Masks. Don't we all hide behind one? When shall we unveil our true identities? When shall the world be free of this endless masquerade?
I wish I could see my friends - my real friends - free of any masks - only then can I fully love them, and only then can they fully reciprocate that love :)
Well, some choose to keep those masks on, but at least - don't keep a mask on before our Lord :)
Sunday, January 28, 2007
ClockBuilding not TimeTelling
'Built to Last' speaks of how to build a visionary organization, one that will stand the test of time, that will persist through trial, and permanently etch itself on upon the fabric of time. Such an organization would focus not on profits, not on the moment, but on the values that it stands for. Mr Charles Ng gave the inspiring lecture, and asked the prompting question:
"What do you stand for?"
This is a question all should consider. If one day you were to pass on, and be packed up in a little (midget) coffin box (Sylvia Plath yet again...), what would everybody remember you for. And I pondered, and mused, and jotted down three values - a little peek into what I stand for, and a further understanding of who I am (for those who haven't known me yet):
1) Mugger/Diligence
Academic excellence would be what people would remember me for. The many awards, the crowded shelfs paced with certificates and plaques, the tray on Founder's Day. Diligence, and simply pure hard work - I am no genius, just a person who's willing to sacrifice a little time and energy. But (ironically, some may think), I would not want to be remembered for such a (trivial, might I say) thing.
2) Listener cum friend
I've told many people that I'm akin to a rubbish bin, just dump your sorrows, your concerns and your struggles upon me. It's a great emotional burden sometimes, but it's worthwhile helping a friend in need. I guess listening is all part of that labor of love that Christ has called every believer to. Everyone needs to pour out their soul, to empty themselves and examine what remains, to be broken, and a listener helps. Of course, we listeners need our listeners as well :)
3) Optimism -the brighter side
Many have commented that I'm a rather optimistic individual - albeit rather annoying at it. the uncanny ability to have hope in times of hopelessness (though hope is the first step to disappointment - as Kenneth points out). The ability to see light in the dark. Just trust God. It's so simple, yet so hard to believe. And I'm starting to struggle a little myself...
And so, these are the clocks I've decided to build throughout my life, hopefully Christ will be exemplified through them, and the world will see Him through me. Only Him, not me.
"What do you stand for?"
This is a question all should consider. If one day you were to pass on, and be packed up in a little (midget) coffin box (Sylvia Plath yet again...), what would everybody remember you for. And I pondered, and mused, and jotted down three values - a little peek into what I stand for, and a further understanding of who I am (for those who haven't known me yet):
1) Mugger/Diligence
Academic excellence would be what people would remember me for. The many awards, the crowded shelfs paced with certificates and plaques, the tray on Founder's Day. Diligence, and simply pure hard work - I am no genius, just a person who's willing to sacrifice a little time and energy. But (ironically, some may think), I would not want to be remembered for such a (trivial, might I say) thing.
2) Listener cum friend
I've told many people that I'm akin to a rubbish bin, just dump your sorrows, your concerns and your struggles upon me. It's a great emotional burden sometimes, but it's worthwhile helping a friend in need. I guess listening is all part of that labor of love that Christ has called every believer to. Everyone needs to pour out their soul, to empty themselves and examine what remains, to be broken, and a listener helps. Of course, we listeners need our listeners as well :)
3) Optimism -the brighter side
Many have commented that I'm a rather optimistic individual - albeit rather annoying at it. the uncanny ability to have hope in times of hopelessness (though hope is the first step to disappointment - as Kenneth points out). The ability to see light in the dark. Just trust God. It's so simple, yet so hard to believe. And I'm starting to struggle a little myself...
And so, these are the clocks I've decided to build throughout my life, hopefully Christ will be exemplified through them, and the world will see Him through me. Only Him, not me.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Love's Simplicity
When the music fades. When all else disappears. Love remains. The greatest of these is love.
(Thanks tess for that encouraging post!)
We find ourselves in a world where we seek emotional and spiritual highs. but many times in our search for such highs we complicate things a lot - we pressurize ourselves, we pressurize God, we seek too much for the gift and not the giver; We might 'force out' QT, force out 'beautiful' and 'long' prayers to God - and miss the whole point - we look beyond what is truly important. And I guess what is most important is God's love. In any relationship, it's love that counts. And this little prayer sums it all up:
such simplicity. Pray it. Whisper it. Quiet moments each day with God. And every breath, every word matters to God. Just feel the breeze, the soft caress, and you'll find the answer, echoing softly in the wind...
And now I find myself kneeling down like never before. And praying this simple little prayer to Jesus. Amen.
(Thanks tess for that encouraging post!)
We find ourselves in a world where we seek emotional and spiritual highs. but many times in our search for such highs we complicate things a lot - we pressurize ourselves, we pressurize God, we seek too much for the gift and not the giver; We might 'force out' QT, force out 'beautiful' and 'long' prayers to God - and miss the whole point - we look beyond what is truly important. And I guess what is most important is God's love. In any relationship, it's love that counts. And this little prayer sums it all up:
"I just came again to tell You, Lord, how happy I've been, since we found each other's friendship and You took away my sin. I don't know much of how to pray, but I think about You every day. So, Jesus, this is me checking in."
such simplicity. Pray it. Whisper it. Quiet moments each day with God. And every breath, every word matters to God. Just feel the breeze, the soft caress, and you'll find the answer, echoing softly in the wind...
"I just came again to tell you, (insert your name here), how happy I have been, since we found this friendship, and I took away your sin. I always love to hear you pray, I think about you each day, and so (insert your name here), this is Jesus checking in."
And now I find myself kneeling down like never before. And praying this simple little prayer to Jesus. Amen.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Running Away
We've got to run - fast. (Not passively stagnate)
We've got to run with God. (Not ahead of God)
We've got to run in His direction. (Not do a Jonah to Tarshish)
We've got to run together. (No one gets left behind)
Ready Set Go!!!
We've got to run with God. (Not ahead of God)
We've got to run in His direction. (Not do a Jonah to Tarshish)
We've got to run together. (No one gets left behind)
Ready Set Go!!!
Monday, January 22, 2007
So Much More to Know
As I sat through English A1 today hearing Ms Flo and the discourse on character - the voice of desire - I found myself pondering the characters on this stage of life - us.
there's just so much more to know about each and every character in this endless and changing novel
It's not enough to consider appearance, or speech, or even action. How do we truly know a person, and dig deep into him, to unearth all secrets, all desires and all of him. How do we truly grasp the essence of an individual? To know every nook, every cranny.
An individual can never fully comprehend himself - how then can we hope to comprehend him?
Why, everyone has a hidden identity - maybe 'hidden' is the wrong word - perhaps it's a forgotten identity. Not one that we intentionally try to cover up (though some do have such an identity), but one that we choose to leave aside and let the past remain in the past. We've changed for the better, so why bring up that past again?
But I suppose transparency is something every friend desires - and something every true friend should offer. Transparency, to bear your soul, to drag out whatever monstrous past haunts you, is no easy thing. But one day, all of us will have to be transparent before God and man.
So how now?
there's just so much more to know about each and every character in this endless and changing novel
It's not enough to consider appearance, or speech, or even action. How do we truly know a person, and dig deep into him, to unearth all secrets, all desires and all of him. How do we truly grasp the essence of an individual? To know every nook, every cranny.
An individual can never fully comprehend himself - how then can we hope to comprehend him?
Why, everyone has a hidden identity - maybe 'hidden' is the wrong word - perhaps it's a forgotten identity. Not one that we intentionally try to cover up (though some do have such an identity), but one that we choose to leave aside and let the past remain in the past. We've changed for the better, so why bring up that past again?
But I suppose transparency is something every friend desires - and something every true friend should offer. Transparency, to bear your soul, to drag out whatever monstrous past haunts you, is no easy thing. But one day, all of us will have to be transparent before God and man.
So how now?
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Advent
Well, it's been a long time since I've posted any music, and I thought I'd share this little piece with my friends out there. Composed on a cold and windy Singapore morning, in the comfort of my cousin's house. Christmas was coming, it was the advent week.
But that's long past now...but still, we are on the advent of a new year aren't we?
Do enjoy the sensations, and the airy-fairy feel of it all. Well...
-=Advent=-
But that's long past now...but still, we are on the advent of a new year aren't we?
Do enjoy the sensations, and the airy-fairy feel of it all. Well...
-=Advent=-
Friday, January 19, 2007
Brokenness
Feed My Lambs
How?
Be broken.
Why?
A broken spirit and a contrite heart, the Lord does not despise
What does it mean to be broken?
Humble yourselves; Rend your hearts; Surrender every desire; Realise the frailty of man, and the vastness of God.
How difficult it is to be broken. Yet the Lord provides timely reminders. Disease was one such reminder, a poor and depressed spirit - the knowledge that I could do nothing without Him - was another prick in my back. It hurt, but God fulfilled his purpose and conveyed the message.
This week was great in many ways. God blessed and gave many timely encounters with people, private time to chat up with new and old friends alike, and to delve deeper into their lives. Ding was one, Justin was one, and God will provide many more I guess. To bless and to love Jesus through loving people. That's one ministry I pray will never die. :)
Be broken. Then only can the five thousand be fed.
How?
Be broken.
Why?
A broken spirit and a contrite heart, the Lord does not despise
What does it mean to be broken?
Humble yourselves; Rend your hearts; Surrender every desire; Realise the frailty of man, and the vastness of God.
How difficult it is to be broken. Yet the Lord provides timely reminders. Disease was one such reminder, a poor and depressed spirit - the knowledge that I could do nothing without Him - was another prick in my back. It hurt, but God fulfilled his purpose and conveyed the message.
This week was great in many ways. God blessed and gave many timely encounters with people, private time to chat up with new and old friends alike, and to delve deeper into their lives. Ding was one, Justin was one, and God will provide many more I guess. To bless and to love Jesus through loving people. That's one ministry I pray will never die. :)
Be broken. Then only can the five thousand be fed.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Burnout
I was consumed. Feverish, consumed, and hurting in the head. A sudden onset of fever caught me off guard - perhaps it was due to the foolish walking back in the heavy showers, getting all wet and chilly, or perhaps it was a timely reminder from God to remember Him.
You see, humanity is frail, and we cannot rely on our own strength, yet that is our natural tendency, to push ourselves to the limit, thinking that we can achieve as long as we persevere. We tend to trust in chariots, in our physical and tangible assets, in our plans and actions, but sometimes we lose sight of it all. It's strange that we can seek revival yet forget to seek God.
And I'm reminded once again of that promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14:
God desires for us to seek His face, not to seek the gifts we desire. Perhaps we've all been so caught up in the moment, that we've left God all alone.
He reminded me of human weakness, gave me a terrible but effective wake-up call. Broke me, and more importantly, restored me the next morning. Spend time with Him my brothers and sisters, and spend time to seek Him, not merely to ask for revival, or ask for visions and direction, but seek Him. Only Him.
You see, humanity is frail, and we cannot rely on our own strength, yet that is our natural tendency, to push ourselves to the limit, thinking that we can achieve as long as we persevere. We tend to trust in chariots, in our physical and tangible assets, in our plans and actions, but sometimes we lose sight of it all. It's strange that we can seek revival yet forget to seek God.
And I'm reminded once again of that promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14:
14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
God desires for us to seek His face, not to seek the gifts we desire. Perhaps we've all been so caught up in the moment, that we've left God all alone.
He reminded me of human weakness, gave me a terrible but effective wake-up call. Broke me, and more importantly, restored me the next morning. Spend time with Him my brothers and sisters, and spend time to seek Him, not merely to ask for revival, or ask for visions and direction, but seek Him. Only Him.
Monday, January 15, 2007
5.12 Proverbs
Waiting in the LT, Mr Pat Soo in control of the labtop which contained the excel sheets that held the direction for our future - our future classes - and so our future friends and school experience - had all been in the hands of God. I had hoped for a surprise, and God gave more than just a tiny shock.
At least Wing Hing was there to witness it with me, we stuck close, having identified with each other by virtue of identical subject combination, and peered intensely at the screen as the classes from 5.01 to 5.06 were flashed. Nope, we weren't there. And it was not till another 6 classes later that we found our class in 5.12. Apparently it was the second language. Dah. Chinese A2.
Not that I was upset. I guess it was kind of interesting being in the same class as BB folks Wing, John Tay and Ethan. Not to forget OG cum Chinese A2 mates Huang Zi and Ben Seow. The Hwa Chong Cheng Yi. And the Bio-Chem-Math girls - who also gave up the free Grade 7 in CL B for something more challenging. An exciting blend of people, not everyone was too pleased, but we'll see where we go in the months to come.
So 5point12 - Proverbs. How wise.
Instinctively, I went to look up Proverbs 5:12:
How my heart spurned correction!
That wasn't so assuring. Maybe it was a warning. But then again, bible roulette never did result in anything that was truly God's voice. I felt instead a strange return to that familiar verse that guided me through so much of my childhood - when my paths were crooked and the way was blurry:
Yes Lord. We know You are sovereign. What you have planned for us we cannot fathom, yet it brings such excitment. Oh Lord, make our paths straight, and fill this year with joy and peace!
On a side note - spoke to the prayer group today :) and thank God I spoke so fluently, it couldn't have been me speaking on my own accord - I had hardly practiced or composed my thoughts! God is good. And teacher blessing has started. Personally, thanks once again to a God-given opportunity, Mdm Usha appeared alone right in front of Steven and I, and we prayed, a simple yet (hopefully) assuring prayer. Two Indian teachers so far. :)
Well. School's tomorrow. QT beckons. Cya all!
At least Wing Hing was there to witness it with me, we stuck close, having identified with each other by virtue of identical subject combination, and peered intensely at the screen as the classes from 5.01 to 5.06 were flashed. Nope, we weren't there. And it was not till another 6 classes later that we found our class in 5.12. Apparently it was the second language. Dah. Chinese A2.
Not that I was upset. I guess it was kind of interesting being in the same class as BB folks Wing, John Tay and Ethan. Not to forget OG cum Chinese A2 mates Huang Zi and Ben Seow. The Hwa Chong Cheng Yi. And the Bio-Chem-Math girls - who also gave up the free Grade 7 in CL B for something more challenging. An exciting blend of people, not everyone was too pleased, but we'll see where we go in the months to come.
So 5point12 - Proverbs. How wise.
Instinctively, I went to look up Proverbs 5:12:
12You will say, "How I hated discipline!
How my heart spurned correction!
That wasn't so assuring. Maybe it was a warning. But then again, bible roulette never did result in anything that was truly God's voice. I felt instead a strange return to that familiar verse that guided me through so much of my childhood - when my paths were crooked and the way was blurry:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
And lean not on your own understanding
In all your ways acknowledge him,
And He will make your paths straight.
- Proverbs 3:5-6
Yes Lord. We know You are sovereign. What you have planned for us we cannot fathom, yet it brings such excitment. Oh Lord, make our paths straight, and fill this year with joy and peace!
On a side note - spoke to the prayer group today :) and thank God I spoke so fluently, it couldn't have been me speaking on my own accord - I had hardly practiced or composed my thoughts! God is good. And teacher blessing has started. Personally, thanks once again to a God-given opportunity, Mdm Usha appeared alone right in front of Steven and I, and we prayed, a simple yet (hopefully) assuring prayer. Two Indian teachers so far. :)
Well. School's tomorrow. QT beckons. Cya all!
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Ministry of Fire
The fellowship of the ring - YMCA stools arranged in a circle, as we stared blankly at each other and awaited the announcement of Primers' post. Earlier that week we had been interviewed in the classic "Moderator, Interrogator, Distractor, Observer" style, we had been thrown into corners and observed like little mice scurrying through a maze for cheese (a rather random thought taken from 'Flowers for Algernon).
To be honest, it was no pleasant surprise when I became chairman for the Christian Education committee. A daunting road lay ahead for me, a daunting, challenging, but possibly rewarding one. Up to now, the only action I've taken is pray. And prayer is ever so important.
Five Loaves and Two fishes. That's all we've got, and that's all God wants from us - our everything. Break us O Lord, that the five thousand may be fed.
And often I question myself on what it means to be broken. How does it feel like to be broken. What breaks? Over time, God has allowed many a better picture of what being broken is all about, and most of us have probably experienced it before. It's the breaking of human will. The surrender of our human desires, and entrusting ourselves completely to God's will. Painful sacrifice of what we've ever wanted - our sinful pleasure, our self-glorification, even our 'good intentions'. No doubt it hurts, and many have cried while being broken (me included), questioning God for why he has to put us through such excruciating trial.
Are we willing to be broken? Are we willing to give up everything for God?
As bread that is broken, use our lives. As wine that is poured out as a willing sacrifice.
And as for tomorrow - Lord guide my lips, and may the Spirit speak - not me - and convict. This I pray earnestly. Amen.
To be honest, it was no pleasant surprise when I became chairman for the Christian Education committee. A daunting road lay ahead for me, a daunting, challenging, but possibly rewarding one. Up to now, the only action I've taken is pray. And prayer is ever so important.
Five Loaves and Two fishes. That's all we've got, and that's all God wants from us - our everything. Break us O Lord, that the five thousand may be fed.
And often I question myself on what it means to be broken. How does it feel like to be broken. What breaks? Over time, God has allowed many a better picture of what being broken is all about, and most of us have probably experienced it before. It's the breaking of human will. The surrender of our human desires, and entrusting ourselves completely to God's will. Painful sacrifice of what we've ever wanted - our sinful pleasure, our self-glorification, even our 'good intentions'. No doubt it hurts, and many have cried while being broken (me included), questioning God for why he has to put us through such excruciating trial.
Are we willing to be broken? Are we willing to give up everything for God?
As bread that is broken, use our lives. As wine that is poured out as a willing sacrifice.
And as for tomorrow - Lord guide my lips, and may the Spirit speak - not me - and convict. This I pray earnestly. Amen.
Friday, January 12, 2007
Let Your Rain Fall Upon Me
The pitter patter of rain against tempered glass, after a relatively dry spell of 3 weeks or so, it poured, and keeps pouring even as the pitter patter blends with the clitter clatter of fingers on the keyboard. Recalling the past two days, words from the song 'Spirit touch your church'
In the words of a very lovable friend: 'I believe this is not a coincidence'.
Project Beacon took off yesterday, the school's our parish, the fire's in our hearts, burning with the passion of the Holy Spirit. With much gratitude with praise God for the great turnout - though we remember that numbers matter not - and for the response to the call. With simple faith, with simple passion, we continue to trust God for His perfect guidance, for His practical steps. Blessing the teachers is next on the agenda.
Perhaps 'agenda' is a dangerous word. Programs and more programs, that's not the way it ought to be - rather, prayer and continual seeking of God's face and His will for the group. I often wonder how we'll go on, how our passion we'll be sustained, we can only trust God for now. It's really that simple, however you look at it.
It's no coincidence. I wait in anticipation for our new classes, and our new 'fellow classmates'. Whilst others wait in quiet optimism, I find myself feeling a little lost at the thought of being the only GEPer to take my combination - the only GEPer stranded in the midst of the IB ocean. Maybe it's for the better, sure, throw me into the deep end. Whatever class you might be in, make the best of it, seek opportunities to bless and forge lasting relationships.
Meanwhile - Primers' Day Out beckons. I should be in bed now. :)
Spirit touch your church
Stir the hearts of men
Revive us Lord
In Your presence once again
I want to care for others like Jesus cares for me
Let your rain fall upon me
Let your rain fall upon me
In the words of a very lovable friend: 'I believe this is not a coincidence'.
Project Beacon took off yesterday, the school's our parish, the fire's in our hearts, burning with the passion of the Holy Spirit. With much gratitude with praise God for the great turnout - though we remember that numbers matter not - and for the response to the call. With simple faith, with simple passion, we continue to trust God for His perfect guidance, for His practical steps. Blessing the teachers is next on the agenda.
Perhaps 'agenda' is a dangerous word. Programs and more programs, that's not the way it ought to be - rather, prayer and continual seeking of God's face and His will for the group. I often wonder how we'll go on, how our passion we'll be sustained, we can only trust God for now. It's really that simple, however you look at it.
It's no coincidence. I wait in anticipation for our new classes, and our new 'fellow classmates'. Whilst others wait in quiet optimism, I find myself feeling a little lost at the thought of being the only GEPer to take my combination - the only GEPer stranded in the midst of the IB ocean. Maybe it's for the better, sure, throw me into the deep end. Whatever class you might be in, make the best of it, seek opportunities to bless and forge lasting relationships.
Meanwhile - Primers' Day Out beckons. I should be in bed now. :)
Can Man Live Without God? – A short reflection
If man could exist independently of any Supreme creator, that is that man spontaneously came into existence without the need of a creator, then life itself would show that man could indeed live without God. Of course, when addressing this question, we hope to delve a little deeper, and define ‘live’ not as mere existence, but meaningful existence.
Before meaningful existence can occur, there must be some notion as to what is meaningful and what is not. The assumption that God does not exist would also mean that there is no universal standard as to what is meaningful and what is not. This creates an interesting scenario that is worth exploring.
Let us attempt to conceptualize a world without God. Man would first exist as individuals, but one could picture – by virtue of the communal nature that is inherent in most individuals – that over time these people would congregate to form collective entities. Such entities would probably require a rule of law or a prevailing standard, one that would govern the people and ensure order – without which, the existence of such entities is indeed questionable. At this juncture, we realize, after some thought, that the need for a prevailing standard brings up the question of what is right or wrong – for without a notion of what is right or wrong, how are the people to define a standard to live by?
As we have seen, the assumption that there is no God raises several issues – first that there is no universal standard of what is meaningful (and thus no notion of what is meaningful living), and second that there is no universal moral standard (and order will be difficult to achieve). The problem here is that people will naturally search for something unchangeable and eternal – perhaps the hypothesized world of the forms that Plato mentions – but we slowly realize that without an eternal God, this search will never end. Perhaps Hegel’s dialectic process, with all its synthesis of theses and antitheses would arrive at an eternal standard, but further thought only leads to an endless paradox (perhaps old antitheses will be continually recycled, or we arrive back at the beginning).
Having realized that without God, no eternal standards can exist, some people choose to focus on the individual. This group, known as the existentialists, in general feel that since there is no eternal standard, one should define for oneself what is right or wrong, meaningful or meaningless, and live according to one’s standards, not that of the world. Others choose to face the absurd and live with it, arguing that the unanswerable question of whether God exists should be left unanswered, and life continued as it is. And yet there are others who simply take the leap of faith and believe in a God, thus finding meaning in pursuing a closer encounter with God.
Evidently, man can live meaningfully with or without God – the existentialists believing that even without a God man can define meaning for themselves. But at this point I would like to raise one last point, and we shall have to return to the scenario of a world without God. Recall that man had to define for themselves a standard to live by.
In defining this standard, surely there will be arguments, disagreements, but suppose a standard is finally agreed on, or suppose an individual finally steps out to dictate and impose a prevailing standard upon the rest – even so, this standard, or that individual, would become a figurative ‘god’. Over time, this ‘god’ will be altered according to the times, but regardless of which, there will always be a ‘god’ of that time and that place – and ‘god’ which must be lived by for meaningful existence.
And so we wonder, can man live without God? Certainly a man cannot live meaningfully without a notion of what is meaningful living, and surely such a notion can only come for either a true eternal God, or a figuratively sort of ‘god’. Some may argue otherwise, but this would be my viewpoint after some reflection.
Before meaningful existence can occur, there must be some notion as to what is meaningful and what is not. The assumption that God does not exist would also mean that there is no universal standard as to what is meaningful and what is not. This creates an interesting scenario that is worth exploring.
Let us attempt to conceptualize a world without God. Man would first exist as individuals, but one could picture – by virtue of the communal nature that is inherent in most individuals – that over time these people would congregate to form collective entities. Such entities would probably require a rule of law or a prevailing standard, one that would govern the people and ensure order – without which, the existence of such entities is indeed questionable. At this juncture, we realize, after some thought, that the need for a prevailing standard brings up the question of what is right or wrong – for without a notion of what is right or wrong, how are the people to define a standard to live by?
As we have seen, the assumption that there is no God raises several issues – first that there is no universal standard of what is meaningful (and thus no notion of what is meaningful living), and second that there is no universal moral standard (and order will be difficult to achieve). The problem here is that people will naturally search for something unchangeable and eternal – perhaps the hypothesized world of the forms that Plato mentions – but we slowly realize that without an eternal God, this search will never end. Perhaps Hegel’s dialectic process, with all its synthesis of theses and antitheses would arrive at an eternal standard, but further thought only leads to an endless paradox (perhaps old antitheses will be continually recycled, or we arrive back at the beginning).
Having realized that without God, no eternal standards can exist, some people choose to focus on the individual. This group, known as the existentialists, in general feel that since there is no eternal standard, one should define for oneself what is right or wrong, meaningful or meaningless, and live according to one’s standards, not that of the world. Others choose to face the absurd and live with it, arguing that the unanswerable question of whether God exists should be left unanswered, and life continued as it is. And yet there are others who simply take the leap of faith and believe in a God, thus finding meaning in pursuing a closer encounter with God.
Evidently, man can live meaningfully with or without God – the existentialists believing that even without a God man can define meaning for themselves. But at this point I would like to raise one last point, and we shall have to return to the scenario of a world without God. Recall that man had to define for themselves a standard to live by.
In defining this standard, surely there will be arguments, disagreements, but suppose a standard is finally agreed on, or suppose an individual finally steps out to dictate and impose a prevailing standard upon the rest – even so, this standard, or that individual, would become a figurative ‘god’. Over time, this ‘god’ will be altered according to the times, but regardless of which, there will always be a ‘god’ of that time and that place – and ‘god’ which must be lived by for meaningful existence.
And so we wonder, can man live without God? Certainly a man cannot live meaningfully without a notion of what is meaningful living, and surely such a notion can only come for either a true eternal God, or a figuratively sort of ‘god’. Some may argue otherwise, but this would be my viewpoint after some reflection.
Monday, January 08, 2007
Pslams 8: O what a mystery!
4 times in two days, was led to read this passage. Somehow there must be something God wants me to learn.
1 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,[b]
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
O what a mystery. Perhaps sometimes we just need to stand, stare and be in wonder of God's majesty. Open my eyes to see...
1 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
Your glory is higher than the heavens.
2 You have taught children and infants
to tell of your strength,[b]
silencing your enemies
and all who oppose you.
3 When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers—
the moon and the stars you set in place—
4 what are mere mortals that you should think about them,
human beings that you should care for them?[c]
5 Yet you made them only a little lower than God[d]
and crowned them[e] with glory and honor.
6 You gave them charge of everything you made,
putting all things under their authority—
7 the flocks and the herds
and all the wild animals,
8 the birds in the sky, the fish in the sea,
and everything that swims the ocean currents.
9 O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth!
"Probably David lying on his back on the green meadow at night, brooding over the mystery of the moon and the stars and the littleness of man in the total scheme of things, worshipping the God who had made him only a little lower than the angels, was a truer man than the astronomer who in his high pride weighs and measures the heavenly bodies. Yet the astronomer need not despair. If he will humble himself and confess his deep inward need, the God of David will teach him how to worship, and by so doing will make him a greater man than he could ever have been otherwise."
- A.W. Tozer (Root of the Righteous - Make Room for Mystery)
O what a mystery. Perhaps sometimes we just need to stand, stare and be in wonder of God's majesty. Open my eyes to see...
Sunday, January 07, 2007
Project Beacon
Last days of any milestone in life are always worth the documentation - orientation is no exception - but I chose not to write about ACSiting race, or the cactus gifts, or the ridiculous things we did in public, simply because it isn't worth the effort expressing in words what has already been so richly imprinted in every person's mind.
4.9 regrouped for soccer yesterday, our collective unity still in place. The yellow-blue soccer ball that sits in the corner of my home - the 4.9 ball - a symbol of that collective identity. An identity that we strive to preserve -
But inevitability threatens.
There will be no further elaboration, but many lament the fact of life. We have to move on (or is 'moving on' simply a optimistic twist on 'leaving behind'?), and we will go our separate ways. Accept the inevitability, life only happens once, and there will never again be the sparks of 4.9. I believe at most we will keep a small flame going, but fireworks will probably be an impossibility, friendships diluted by reality.
But who knows. I may be wrong. And never forget that we will spend an eternity together - in fellowship with our Lord in heaven.
Project Beacon. May ACS be a beacon of truth and light - a true beacon, not a travesty of one. A Friend (who declines to be mentioned) has taken the great burden, and many of us have heeded God's call to support him. How was I chosen as his accountability partner, I shall never know, but may God provide me with the grace to see him through.
(edittt (thanks kenneth): A beacon not to draw men unto ourselves - but to point them toward the source of all light, that is God, that is Jesus. May we decrease as He increases!)
Really, it's been a time of earnestly seeking God and trying to find Him - I do implore all to do the same. I find myself wrought with many worldy distractions and desires, but may God bring down such walls of pretences, and behind all our pride, achievements and progress lies a heart which is fully human, and that desperately needs God.
Proverbs 2:3 - 2:5
4.9 regrouped for soccer yesterday, our collective unity still in place. The yellow-blue soccer ball that sits in the corner of my home - the 4.9 ball - a symbol of that collective identity. An identity that we strive to preserve -
But inevitability threatens.
There will be no further elaboration, but many lament the fact of life. We have to move on (or is 'moving on' simply a optimistic twist on 'leaving behind'?), and we will go our separate ways. Accept the inevitability, life only happens once, and there will never again be the sparks of 4.9. I believe at most we will keep a small flame going, but fireworks will probably be an impossibility, friendships diluted by reality.
But who knows. I may be wrong. And never forget that we will spend an eternity together - in fellowship with our Lord in heaven.
Project Beacon. May ACS be a beacon of truth and light - a true beacon, not a travesty of one. A Friend (who declines to be mentioned) has taken the great burden, and many of us have heeded God's call to support him. How was I chosen as his accountability partner, I shall never know, but may God provide me with the grace to see him through.
(edittt (thanks kenneth): A beacon not to draw men unto ourselves - but to point them toward the source of all light, that is God, that is Jesus. May we decrease as He increases!)
Really, it's been a time of earnestly seeking God and trying to find Him - I do implore all to do the same. I find myself wrought with many worldy distractions and desires, but may God bring down such walls of pretences, and behind all our pride, achievements and progress lies a heart which is fully human, and that desperately needs God.
Proverbs 2:3 - 2:5
3 and if you call out for insight
and cry aloud for understanding,
4 and if you look for it as for silver
and search for it as for hidden treasure,
5 then you will understand the fear of the LORD
and find the knowledge of God.
Friday, January 05, 2007
What a Friend we have in Jesus
I guess I've been caught up so much with mixing and making new friends, that I forgot someone so dear to my heart today. And he reminded me, in his own special way.
I guess ever since IB orientation began, I've been wanting to help the new ones settle in, make them feel comfortable in the new ACS environment. But behind that whole facade of hospitality and wanting to help others, there was a more deep seated desire, and that was for personal attention. I wanted to be loved and accepted for who I was, and in all honesty, I wanted to be known. And lest I hide it anymore (yes I must drag it out into the redeeming light) - I simply wanted popularity (with the girls perhaps...)
And so mixing was a way to satisfy this desire, the smiles of others brought me confidence, such selfish desire, how ugly on the inside, I craved for more and more attention. And when it finally struck me, that someone I wished to know looked at me with a wry smile and thought me strange and kept his/her (you decide) distance - it hurt. And very badly. Punctured the self confidence, punctured all that pride, punctured everything.
Before the Lord I came, punctured, broken and in pieces, and in my self-pitying sorrow He taught me to forget these worldly things and look to Him. He showed me a picture, that while I sobbed over rejection, seeking acceptance for who I was, He was there waiting with open arms, ready to accept me and take me. I thanked Him - over and over. Repented and turned away from selfish desire.
It's a problem we'll all face I guess - when we see someone whom we favor, and wish to know them as a friend, only to be unsuccessful in forging the initial friendship. The friends who we make along life's path will definitely have a great impact on our future choices and roads that we take - I guess God knows this, and so leads us to make the right friends, perhaps rejection is a way of letting us know that this isn't the right way to go.
Fame, popularity, these things perish. A relationship with God never dies. Set our minds on things above, be covered by God's shield of love, and we will always be filled with joy and strength. What a friend we have in Jesus! Seek Him first, and then all these things will be given unto us, the friends we need to see us through will be given by God, the attention we seek will be God-given, he will provide. Amen.
I guess ever since IB orientation began, I've been wanting to help the new ones settle in, make them feel comfortable in the new ACS environment. But behind that whole facade of hospitality and wanting to help others, there was a more deep seated desire, and that was for personal attention. I wanted to be loved and accepted for who I was, and in all honesty, I wanted to be known. And lest I hide it anymore (yes I must drag it out into the redeeming light) - I simply wanted popularity (with the girls perhaps...)
And so mixing was a way to satisfy this desire, the smiles of others brought me confidence, such selfish desire, how ugly on the inside, I craved for more and more attention. And when it finally struck me, that someone I wished to know looked at me with a wry smile and thought me strange and kept his/her (you decide) distance - it hurt. And very badly. Punctured the self confidence, punctured all that pride, punctured everything.
Before the Lord I came, punctured, broken and in pieces, and in my self-pitying sorrow He taught me to forget these worldly things and look to Him. He showed me a picture, that while I sobbed over rejection, seeking acceptance for who I was, He was there waiting with open arms, ready to accept me and take me. I thanked Him - over and over. Repented and turned away from selfish desire.
It's a problem we'll all face I guess - when we see someone whom we favor, and wish to know them as a friend, only to be unsuccessful in forging the initial friendship. The friends who we make along life's path will definitely have a great impact on our future choices and roads that we take - I guess God knows this, and so leads us to make the right friends, perhaps rejection is a way of letting us know that this isn't the right way to go.
Fame, popularity, these things perish. A relationship with God never dies. Set our minds on things above, be covered by God's shield of love, and we will always be filled with joy and strength. What a friend we have in Jesus! Seek Him first, and then all these things will be given unto us, the friends we need to see us through will be given by God, the attention we seek will be God-given, he will provide. Amen.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
Twisted Puppets
Armed with the spanking new (albeit, splattered with ugly green paint) IB tie, we entered the school, fresh and ready for the second day of Orientation.
Special time with God today, on the IB building rooftop, the skies opening above to reveal the radiant sun, the air atop fresh as ever, and the scenic view overlooking the astrofield. Huddling in a little corner, searching for a dry spot to stay on (it rained badly), and just praying, how meaningful. The prayer group is going to start moving somewhere soon, and hopefully we'll keep praying - it is exciting, but it hasn't shocked us yet - Yes God, we're waiting for you to Shock us!
The talks today would have sent me to dreamland, but thankfully the Alistar-duo managed to make things more lighthearted and cheery! We are apples and JCs are oranges.
Orientation dance was strange but enjoyable (i guess) - though the the task of carrying out the girls' role befell me (by virtue of my position on the right). We twisted, we stomped, we stepped up, stepped down, and played puppets. Had a wild time, shamelessly strutting our stuff (which was not that bad!!! :P)
Mud and Water defined the rest of the day - but I'll cut it short here - the memories will never fade away (yes, that of bowling in the mud and scissors paper stone in dustbins), as much as the stains on my Sec 1 Orientation 2003 shirt will never be washed away. Yes what a special day, as I wore that Sec 1 Orietation shirt - the milestones of life congregating in a single moment.
Subject briefing tomorrow. At the moment it stands at:
HL Biology
HL Chemistry
HL Mathematics
SL Economics
SL English A1
SL Chinese A2
A ridiculously tough combination, one that I might or might not regret, but only time will tell. I know it's a geeky combi, but bear with me :) I dropped Physics! Horror of horrors!
Well, Day 3 tomorrow, gtg pray for the prayer group (strange as it may sound) and fall alsleep in those everlasting arms. Thanks for all God.
Special time with God today, on the IB building rooftop, the skies opening above to reveal the radiant sun, the air atop fresh as ever, and the scenic view overlooking the astrofield. Huddling in a little corner, searching for a dry spot to stay on (it rained badly), and just praying, how meaningful. The prayer group is going to start moving somewhere soon, and hopefully we'll keep praying - it is exciting, but it hasn't shocked us yet - Yes God, we're waiting for you to Shock us!
The talks today would have sent me to dreamland, but thankfully the Alistar-duo managed to make things more lighthearted and cheery! We are apples and JCs are oranges.
Orientation dance was strange but enjoyable (i guess) - though the the task of carrying out the girls' role befell me (by virtue of my position on the right). We twisted, we stomped, we stepped up, stepped down, and played puppets. Had a wild time, shamelessly strutting our stuff (which was not that bad!!! :P)
Mud and Water defined the rest of the day - but I'll cut it short here - the memories will never fade away (yes, that of bowling in the mud and scissors paper stone in dustbins), as much as the stains on my Sec 1 Orientation 2003 shirt will never be washed away. Yes what a special day, as I wore that Sec 1 Orietation shirt - the milestones of life congregating in a single moment.
Subject briefing tomorrow. At the moment it stands at:
HL Biology
HL Chemistry
HL Mathematics
SL Economics
SL English A1
SL Chinese A2
A ridiculously tough combination, one that I might or might not regret, but only time will tell. I know it's a geeky combi, but bear with me :) I dropped Physics! Horror of horrors!
Well, Day 3 tomorrow, gtg pray for the prayer group (strange as it may sound) and fall alsleep in those everlasting arms. Thanks for all God.
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
Light of the World
(yes sean, I will be labelling this under 'God' again :P)
Having the school uniform on again was definitely the strangest sensation, waking up at 5.45a.m was an equally strange and out-of-habit experience. Nevertheless, there was always something special about the first day of school - that sparkle of enthusiasm, that rejuvenated passion and that hidden wanting to meet everybody again. It brought a smile to my face, a God-given joy, that brimmed from within throughout the entire day.
Perhaps it was the prospect of meeting new people, admittingly it was an enjoyable experience, one that we looked upon with apprehension, yet was surprisingly delightful when it came. Of course, it all boils down to attitude (100% :P) - and having clothed myself with that positive attitude (that so bugs all good handful of people), I must confess that I did have a memorable orientation - kudos to all the Year 6s - you guys are a great bunch.
More importantly, Dr Ong shared the theme for this year:
'You are the light of the world' Matt 5:14
As Christians we are called to clothe ourselves with love, compassion, and the Fruit of the Spirit. To set our minds on things above, and to always have an eternal perspective in things. Having been brought out of our (individual) darkness, we have entered His marvellous light, and nothing short of gratitude should follow.
'Out of the darkness, into His marvellous light' 1 Peter 2:9b
And for that reason let us endlessly declare God's praises and his majesty, praying unceasingly, rejoicing always and always full of gratitude for the one who plucked us from the miry clay and made us beautiful. Some people choose to hide their light under the bowl, but this year, let us with confidence shine for God, as testimonies of His loving-kindness, spread the love of Christ to all those around us.
The most fascinating thing about light is its influence on the surroundings, it gives vision, it even gives warmth (like a blazing fire), and it removes all fear. As we go about our IB years in 2007 and 2008, let's adopt this mission, to be little lamps for Christ, and
bring the light of the gospel to those who are still in the dark;
bring the warmth of compassion to those who are in pain;
and bring assurance, hope and the promises of God to those trapped in fear!
Consider it pure joy, to be a lamp for Christ. My brothers (and now sisters) in Christ, continue in this labour of love. and to all my 4.9 and 4.10 friends, let this desire to glorify Christ be the everlasting link that remains between us, even as we go down our separate paths!
Having the school uniform on again was definitely the strangest sensation, waking up at 5.45a.m was an equally strange and out-of-habit experience. Nevertheless, there was always something special about the first day of school - that sparkle of enthusiasm, that rejuvenated passion and that hidden wanting to meet everybody again. It brought a smile to my face, a God-given joy, that brimmed from within throughout the entire day.
Perhaps it was the prospect of meeting new people, admittingly it was an enjoyable experience, one that we looked upon with apprehension, yet was surprisingly delightful when it came. Of course, it all boils down to attitude (100% :P) - and having clothed myself with that positive attitude (that so bugs all good handful of people), I must confess that I did have a memorable orientation - kudos to all the Year 6s - you guys are a great bunch.
More importantly, Dr Ong shared the theme for this year:
'You are the light of the world' Matt 5:14
As Christians we are called to clothe ourselves with love, compassion, and the Fruit of the Spirit. To set our minds on things above, and to always have an eternal perspective in things. Having been brought out of our (individual) darkness, we have entered His marvellous light, and nothing short of gratitude should follow.
'Out of the darkness, into His marvellous light' 1 Peter 2:9b
And for that reason let us endlessly declare God's praises and his majesty, praying unceasingly, rejoicing always and always full of gratitude for the one who plucked us from the miry clay and made us beautiful. Some people choose to hide their light under the bowl, but this year, let us with confidence shine for God, as testimonies of His loving-kindness, spread the love of Christ to all those around us.
The most fascinating thing about light is its influence on the surroundings, it gives vision, it even gives warmth (like a blazing fire), and it removes all fear. As we go about our IB years in 2007 and 2008, let's adopt this mission, to be little lamps for Christ, and
bring the light of the gospel to those who are still in the dark;
bring the warmth of compassion to those who are in pain;
and bring assurance, hope and the promises of God to those trapped in fear!
Consider it pure joy, to be a lamp for Christ. My brothers (and now sisters) in Christ, continue in this labour of love. and to all my 4.9 and 4.10 friends, let this desire to glorify Christ be the everlasting link that remains between us, even as we go down our separate paths!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
Ushering in the New Year
Welcome 2007 - I just wanted to usher you in with a short post.
Every year, resolutions are made, whether in private or (as some prefer it) shamelessly professed. Whichever way you prefer, it's always great to make a few resolutions - attainable ones please - to keep you on track for the year. Entrust those resolutions to God and He will see you through.
Spiritually: I hope to keep growing closer to God, learning the fear of the Lord, rejoicing in trembling, be still before Him and learn to love Him and those around me more - those age old commandments!
School-wise: keep in touch with all my S1-S4 buddies - to those who blog, keep blogging for us to stay updated (to those who don't, keep us updated anyway) - it doesn't make sense to lose these friendships, preserve them with all your heart! Academically, to focus and continue to do my best, achieving and giving the glory to God.
Faith, hope and love - but the greatest of these is Love. As we enter the new year, let's hope to bless those around us abundantly, just as God has blessed us ever so greatly! Keep loving!
Every year, resolutions are made, whether in private or (as some prefer it) shamelessly professed. Whichever way you prefer, it's always great to make a few resolutions - attainable ones please - to keep you on track for the year. Entrust those resolutions to God and He will see you through.
Spiritually: I hope to keep growing closer to God, learning the fear of the Lord, rejoicing in trembling, be still before Him and learn to love Him and those around me more - those age old commandments!
School-wise: keep in touch with all my S1-S4 buddies - to those who blog, keep blogging for us to stay updated (to those who don't, keep us updated anyway) - it doesn't make sense to lose these friendships, preserve them with all your heart! Academically, to focus and continue to do my best, achieving and giving the glory to God.
Faith, hope and love - but the greatest of these is Love. As we enter the new year, let's hope to bless those around us abundantly, just as God has blessed us ever so greatly! Keep loving!
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