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South Xinjiang 2012 + Ramblings

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Just got back from China, South Xinjiang from 22th Oct to 2nd Nov 2012, each time I come back from a trip like this always make me reflect and have a renewed self-awareness of how small I am in this large vast planet of ours, in turn set in orbit in a yet larger vastness of space. This is the first time I had to take 2 internal flights before reaching Beijing, where I can get international flights. I now have a better idea why photography appeals to me, it allows me to capture the beauty and the wonder that this earth has, from the miniscule of things like insects to the magnificent greatness of the mountain range. Too often I get caught in the daily grind of things, not taking time to really reflect what is important in my life and how best to use the time that I have to impact lives, to have eternal value. Well, at least this year when I look back, I thank God for His hand of blessings and protection on my life, from not really knowing what to do next to renewing the visi...

Disciples first or Saints?

In the synoptic gospels the term disciples is used 160 times, John 78, Book of Acts after the church began 28 times. We can see the number of times it is being used is slowly dwinding, the question is why? Not once is it used in the rest of the New Testament after the book of Acts. That is extremely peculiar, why is that? Instead the Church members are called saints, brethren. As the Church developed they had what is called the body of Christ. This meant membership in Christ himself 1 Cor.12:13 . You can follow Christ and be a disciple and not be saved, or, you can be saved and follow which makes you a saint or one of the brethren. T his term "Saint" was first used in the NT when Annaias said Paul did many things evil things to the Saints in Jerusalem Acts 9:13(as when he put the saints in prison and put many to death Acts 26:10) The word Saint shows ones position in Christ, the word disciple shows one is a learner. Which would you rather be known as? Taken from: http:/...

Sept 2012 Updates

It was good to be swimming on a Sunday night where next day there is no work, I can't remember the last time I did it. The water was refreshing, temperature was cool, not too many people jostling for space in the swimming lanes. Also a good time to reflect on the 9 months that just flew past in 2012. It is amazing how God has been so good in my life despite the change in my job and the initial uncertainties of not knowing where to go. Through it all, there is this certain peace in my heart and I thank God that I did not have sleepless nights when my initial endeavors were halted or things didn't really go according to plan. When I looked back, I definitely can see the hand of God in these past few months, His supply and the opportunities that were presented to me and I get to do what I loved in the different aspects, teach.photograph.travel.invest.trade J eremiah 17:8 'For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters that spreads out its roots by the river; and it s...

My Car ( Kia )

Had a tyre blown out, then a few days later check engine symbol came out...initially was frustrated especially when it happened so close and at the start of CNY but I think all things worked together for good...things to be thankful is that the tyre did not blow out in the middle of the expressway, that will definitely be more dangerous and inconvenient.

CNY 2012

A time to celebrate with your loved ones, interesting there are many Chinese traditions that have parallels with Christian beliefs like not speaking evil for 15 days (Chinese), blessing each other with short sentences of blessings like 祝你: 心想事成 Ps 37:4. God will grant you the desires of your heart. 万事如意 Rom 8:28. All things work for the good of those who love the Lord. 岁岁平安 Ph 4:7. The peace of God will guard your hearts & minds. 事业有成 Jer 29:11. For I know my plans for you, plans to prosper you. 新年快乐!

Back To School 2012

After being away for 1.5 years from my school, there was definitely a sense of nostalgia when I returned, there were a couple of changes, both structurally and in a relational sense. I have been humbled and awed by the Lord's goodness, in everything that He has provided, truly the time away has been worth it...I had a paradigm shift, I am happy and glad to be back in school...somehow He has put the extraordinary back into the ordinary things... I think I have a better small glimpse of what these verses meant... 'I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.' - Philippians 4:11-13 Praise You Lord!! =)