You know I've always liked HK TVB series. It's full of drama, lies, love, hate and sometimes conspiracy.
I also like discovery channel a lot. Mythbusters is among my favourite. You know it always ends with a 'bang'... fans will know what I mean.
Hehe.. so what do you get when you them together. The Anwar-Saiful sodomy case :) It's so full of drama and myth-tery, don't you think? Check this out from Aisehman for a very quick context.
I've just got so many questions of my own...
Saiful says, “It has nothing to with politics. It is between Anwar and me,” he said..... , just before the by-election... hmmm suspicious don't you think? See here.
And the whole drama has so many inconsistencies. Some say he's sodomised once, some says multiple times, some says forceful and some says consensual.
Now wait a minute. First of all, if it was consensual, then why isn't Saiful charged. So if it was forced.... how can a small man like Anwar pin down a guy a head taller than he is and 'do it'? Anwar's close to 60 and Saiful is a strapping strong lad in the 20s? Is it posible? Were there signs of struggle too? If so why wasn't it mentioned at all?
And if Saiful was sodomised, multiple times? He went back for more? Or was it just once?
So what do you think? Plausible or busted?
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
How I nearly puke over my coffee
See here. The topic reads "China chemicals starve Indian pharma". If you read further, it says , "But because China has stopped, there's pressure on materials coming from Taiwan, Korea, Europe. And everyone's taking a little bit advantage and jacking up their prices."
So apparently closing factories in China causes prices to rise why? because everyone else is taking advantage to jack up the prices. So now when China's factories take a break for the olympic is China's fault and not the countries that jacking up their prices?
Why not blame the fund managers for pushing up oil prices? Where are they, the fund managers from? How come those issue are not covered nor their country blamed? How about food prices? How about energy prices?
*******
On the local front, this news made me 'vomit blood'. The issue of opening up UiTM to non-malays is actually a 10% issue. 10% of the total places in UiTM is hardly opening up to other races isn't it?
And I quote: "If something like this is allowed to happen, then there will be a worrying situation where many Malay institutions will crumble and be 'Malaysianised'.
So the problem here is that a university being Malaysianised? So much for Merdeka day coming.
So apparently closing factories in China causes prices to rise why? because everyone else is taking advantage to jack up the prices. So now when China's factories take a break for the olympic is China's fault and not the countries that jacking up their prices?
Why not blame the fund managers for pushing up oil prices? Where are they, the fund managers from? How come those issue are not covered nor their country blamed? How about food prices? How about energy prices?
*******
On the local front, this news made me 'vomit blood'. The issue of opening up UiTM to non-malays is actually a 10% issue. 10% of the total places in UiTM is hardly opening up to other races isn't it?
And I quote: "If something like this is allowed to happen, then there will be a worrying situation where many Malay institutions will crumble and be 'Malaysianised'.
So the problem here is that a university being Malaysianised? So much for Merdeka day coming.
Media bias against China Olympic? What's your say?
A friend of ours wrote this:
****************
Dear NBC Sports,
We get it. We really do. We're all well aware of China's poor track record when it's come to human rights. We've also become familiar with the Chinese training setup, and how children are trained up for years apart from their families in a relentless pursuit of excellence. We know that it's all alien to the American culture.
But can you please refrain from constantly calling China and everything Chinese into question during your coverage of these Games? Can your commentators actually focus on the athletes and the competition? Would it be possible to find another human interest angle, since you've saturated your coverage so far with all this commentary about China?
And if President Bush comes to the studio for another interview, could you actually talk to him about the Olympics, instead of human rights, other world conflict, Sudan, and steroids in baseball?
Can you please do all that? Or can you at least put a muzzle on Bob Costas?
Please?
This is not to say those issues are not important. They are. But there is a time and a place to discuss them, and the Olympic Games are surely not the place for it. Not when people have poured forth every ounce of effort they have to get to Beijing. They are the ones you need to be talking about. Leave the political commentary to the ones best suited to it.
Signed,
An Olympic fan who'd like to actually listen to Olympics-related commentary.
***********
What do you think?
****************
Dear NBC Sports,
We get it. We really do. We're all well aware of China's poor track record when it's come to human rights. We've also become familiar with the Chinese training setup, and how children are trained up for years apart from their families in a relentless pursuit of excellence. We know that it's all alien to the American culture.
But can you please refrain from constantly calling China and everything Chinese into question during your coverage of these Games? Can your commentators actually focus on the athletes and the competition? Would it be possible to find another human interest angle, since you've saturated your coverage so far with all this commentary about China?
And if President Bush comes to the studio for another interview, could you actually talk to him about the Olympics, instead of human rights, other world conflict, Sudan, and steroids in baseball?
Can you please do all that? Or can you at least put a muzzle on Bob Costas?
Please?
This is not to say those issues are not important. They are. But there is a time and a place to discuss them, and the Olympic Games are surely not the place for it. Not when people have poured forth every ounce of effort they have to get to Beijing. They are the ones you need to be talking about. Leave the political commentary to the ones best suited to it.
Signed,
An Olympic fan who'd like to actually listen to Olympics-related commentary.
***********
What do you think?
Monday, August 11, 2008
Addidas run
Last sunday was the long awaited Addidas run. What a run it was. It was also the first run I ran all the way 10km without stopping. On top of that I felt dizzy at about the 7th km which I am pleased to say that I'm kept my mental strength and kept going. I think I didn't eat enough ni the morning. Once I had a gulp of 100plus in the following drinks station the dizziness went away. Actually now that I think about it, it may have been dangerous that I kept going even though I felt dizzy.
What was really dissapointing was that I finished at 78mins. Granted I went to use the gents for 2mins mid way at the Esso station. It's still 76mins! Actually I was happy with 76mins in the beginning.. because that was the target I set for myself.
Only to notice that I have set the wrong target.
No wonder my breathing was not breathless throughout my training and the run itself. Aiyoh..... Ok next target is at 65mins for 10km!
What was really dissapointing was that I finished at 78mins. Granted I went to use the gents for 2mins mid way at the Esso station. It's still 76mins! Actually I was happy with 76mins in the beginning.. because that was the target I set for myself.
Only to notice that I have set the wrong target.
No wonder my breathing was not breathless throughout my training and the run itself. Aiyoh..... Ok next target is at 65mins for 10km!
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
The problem with a Purpose Driven Life
First of all, I don't really have an issue with a purpose drivien life. I think everyone should have a purpose. A purpose liken to a conviction. And I once heard a very smart man say: a belief is something we cling on to but a convinction is something that clings on to us. I think having a purpose to live is very very important - it drives us forward and gives us fufilment.
That purpose or conviction could be as simple as making the best food in kitchen, be a business tycoon, be the best politician or be the best evangelist but it could also be as simple as wanting to be a taitai or to be a housewife.
Whatever that thing is, I believe that purpose would grab hold of you. You just can't force it to come or force yourself to go for it. It doesn't have to be 'spiritual' or 'secular'... all are spiritual.
The hallmark of Godly purpose I believe is that Peace and Joy and Sureness which follows. You can't explain it but you just know it. Like it's inside of you.
******
The problem I have with the purpose driven life is when 'purpose' takes centre stage of life. It's when our driving force is "purpose". It's when a life that's PURPOSE driven instead of God led that I think there may be a problem. I think. One is motivated by God, the other by sheer willpower from our own. I believe our value & identity in Christ is not judged by our 'Purpose'. It's not about what we do. We're human beings and not human doings.
However there's lot of things out there that incline on making us a 'do' christianity. We are told to 'do' holiness, to 'do' godly stuff, to 'do' ministries and to 'do' serving. Hey! Bible says 'be' holy for God is holy. It's like being a guy or a gal. You don't 'do' guys' stuff to be a man.. you just be, as simple as that. And as I read the bible more, most if not all the things starts from resting in Him, in Jesus' finished work.
Remember Jesus said that we can do nothing except through Him. Nothing.
*****
Lastly on the great commision.
It says to make disciples. Disciples are not converts. Disciples are just much more than that. Again, it's not about doing evangelism to 'convert' it's about becoming like christ to influence. The difference is subtle but the outcome huge.
Last last, on chapter 36 of the book, it quotes: The most important thing is that i complete my mission that the Lord Jesus gave me' -Acts 20:24 .
That's not accurate. "24However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."
Hmm... testifying, gospel,God's grace.
In another passage Phil 3 "7But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead."
What is Paul's purpose? I thought he's suppose to preach the gospel and all that, wasn't he the guy tasked to preached the gospel to the gentiles? Letter after letter, he seems addicted to the "grace of god" -- how come he doesn't say 'go and make converts'?
Even to the mature christians in ephesians, he says:
16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
So I think there you have it, Paul's own words. His purpose in life.
That purpose or conviction could be as simple as making the best food in kitchen, be a business tycoon, be the best politician or be the best evangelist but it could also be as simple as wanting to be a taitai or to be a housewife.
Whatever that thing is, I believe that purpose would grab hold of you. You just can't force it to come or force yourself to go for it. It doesn't have to be 'spiritual' or 'secular'... all are spiritual.
The hallmark of Godly purpose I believe is that Peace and Joy and Sureness which follows. You can't explain it but you just know it. Like it's inside of you.
******
The problem I have with the purpose driven life is when 'purpose' takes centre stage of life. It's when our driving force is "purpose". It's when a life that's PURPOSE driven instead of God led that I think there may be a problem. I think. One is motivated by God, the other by sheer willpower from our own. I believe our value & identity in Christ is not judged by our 'Purpose'. It's not about what we do. We're human beings and not human doings.
However there's lot of things out there that incline on making us a 'do' christianity. We are told to 'do' holiness, to 'do' godly stuff, to 'do' ministries and to 'do' serving. Hey! Bible says 'be' holy for God is holy. It's like being a guy or a gal. You don't 'do' guys' stuff to be a man.. you just be, as simple as that. And as I read the bible more, most if not all the things starts from resting in Him, in Jesus' finished work.
Remember Jesus said that we can do nothing except through Him. Nothing.
*****
Lastly on the great commision.
It says to make disciples. Disciples are not converts. Disciples are just much more than that. Again, it's not about doing evangelism to 'convert' it's about becoming like christ to influence. The difference is subtle but the outcome huge.
Last last, on chapter 36 of the book, it quotes: The most important thing is that i complete my mission that the Lord Jesus gave me' -Acts 20:24 .
That's not accurate. "24However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace."
Hmm... testifying, gospel,God's grace.
In another passage Phil 3 "7But whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. 8What is more, I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ 9and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith. 10I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, 11and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection from the dead."
What is Paul's purpose? I thought he's suppose to preach the gospel and all that, wasn't he the guy tasked to preached the gospel to the gentiles? Letter after letter, he seems addicted to the "grace of god" -- how come he doesn't say 'go and make converts'?
Even to the mature christians in ephesians, he says:
16I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, 17so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, 18may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, 19and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.
So I think there you have it, Paul's own words. His purpose in life.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Taking a walk
I took a walk about 9-10 years ago. It was on one of those nights when I can't sleep. I remember how I felt that night. I felt good that night. Like really GOOD.
Because for the last 12 months prior to that walk I was constantly depressed. A close friend, who after spending his last moments with me committed suicide. I guess I could not forgive myself. I guess I could have done more? I guess many things and it all happened about a year before that walk.
But that night I felt good. Peaceful. Because Jesus found me. He found me when I needed Him most.
I still can remember the walk clearly that night. (I was about 2 months old as a christian maybe?) It was about 12:20am. I was smiling to myself. My feet had a bounce and the cool breeze of midnight felt just right. I must be humming a tune to myself because I was just happy. I just learned how to talk to God and I must be having a great conversation with Him because the 20mins I walked to the 7-eleven seemed to pass so quickly.
At 7-eleven I bought myself a pack of 20s reds (Marlboro) because besides being happy, I could need a smoke. Hehehe, yes besides being happy with myself, I needed a fag.
The long awaited fag was good at first draw. But I certainly missed the Bensons in UK or Marlboros in Singapore, they were just much finer :) Those of you know who knows, know what I mean :)
So as I walked home, I smoked all the way (it's called chain smoking sometimes :) ) while talking to God. Yes, you can still talk to God while you're smoking! I remembered an interesting question He asked me halfway through which caught me by surprise. He asked me why am I still smoking?
I replied, I dunno. Er.. it satisfy? Right?
He asked again, does it really?
I know what He meant. Because before I found him 2/3 months prior, nothing satisfy. But with Jesus, my thirst was quench. I was just happy. My heart of 'full'. I was just so low before... but at that point nothing could be better.
So He said something like, you know eric, ciggis don't satisfy you anymore from now on.. not like last time. You don't need it Eric. I mean think about it Eric?
Ooohh.. He got me there :) I agree with you Jesus I replied. I threw the stick I was smoking and the remaining of the pack. Laughing I told him why haven't I thought about that sooner. We continued talking as I walk home.
That was it. That's how I remembereed the last packed of ciggis I smoked as a smoker. (I didn't have much redrawal after that either :P ) God has been so kind to me.
Because for the last 12 months prior to that walk I was constantly depressed. A close friend, who after spending his last moments with me committed suicide. I guess I could not forgive myself. I guess I could have done more? I guess many things and it all happened about a year before that walk.
But that night I felt good. Peaceful. Because Jesus found me. He found me when I needed Him most.
I still can remember the walk clearly that night. (I was about 2 months old as a christian maybe?) It was about 12:20am. I was smiling to myself. My feet had a bounce and the cool breeze of midnight felt just right. I must be humming a tune to myself because I was just happy. I just learned how to talk to God and I must be having a great conversation with Him because the 20mins I walked to the 7-eleven seemed to pass so quickly.
At 7-eleven I bought myself a pack of 20s reds (Marlboro) because besides being happy, I could need a smoke. Hehehe, yes besides being happy with myself, I needed a fag.
The long awaited fag was good at first draw. But I certainly missed the Bensons in UK or Marlboros in Singapore, they were just much finer :) Those of you know who knows, know what I mean :)
So as I walked home, I smoked all the way (it's called chain smoking sometimes :) ) while talking to God. Yes, you can still talk to God while you're smoking! I remembered an interesting question He asked me halfway through which caught me by surprise. He asked me why am I still smoking?
I replied, I dunno. Er.. it satisfy? Right?
He asked again, does it really?
I know what He meant. Because before I found him 2/3 months prior, nothing satisfy. But with Jesus, my thirst was quench. I was just happy. My heart of 'full'. I was just so low before... but at that point nothing could be better.
So He said something like, you know eric, ciggis don't satisfy you anymore from now on.. not like last time. You don't need it Eric. I mean think about it Eric?
Ooohh.. He got me there :) I agree with you Jesus I replied. I threw the stick I was smoking and the remaining of the pack. Laughing I told him why haven't I thought about that sooner. We continued talking as I walk home.
That was it. That's how I remembereed the last packed of ciggis I smoked as a smoker. (I didn't have much redrawal after that either :P ) God has been so kind to me.
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Father's hand
Firstly Hillary, I wanna say what a great idea to start a 'sunday sharing' on the blogs!
When I think of my father's hand I think of my father - the man that he is. You know man is often identified with 'things they do' and what they do with their hands speaks volume about who he is, as a person.
My dad works tirelessly. He loves his work. I know that because through the years I've seen him happiest when he is working, both at the office or at home fixing stuff. And whatever he did, he put in all he had. Even after he retired, he worked on other things like languages (he now speaks and write japanese fluently), business...etc
Like all children, I grew up thinking 'I don't want to be like my dad'! But as years goes by, I think we are more alike than I think. Looking at him enjoy his work has certainly shaped me. I love me work too and if I had ALL the money in the world I'd still be working. *smiles* I am afterall my father's boy.
On hindsight though, I didn't have much chance to talk to my dad on a heart to heart basis. It's kinda hard for guys to open up this way. We like to 'tell' but we seldom, if ever, share what's in our heart. I'd like to tell him that I love him and all that... but when we meet, we talk about how our businesses are doing...etc
But the last few years has seen my dad grown more 'cool', which is a great thing. My ego has also gotten milder :) and there were a few occasion where we actually talked. It was one of the best times I had with him. I look forward now to go home and have a chance to just talk to him.
My wife's dad pass away a few years ago. He passed away at a difficult time and sometimes at night I still hug my wife as she think about her dad. She misses him still. I wonder what her father's hand meant to her? I would never understand... but dad (in law), you've raised a great gal!
When I think about my heavenly father, I think about Jesus. Since He said, if I have seen him, I've seen the Father.
What kinda hand does he have? I thought His hands praying. I thought about His hand that heals when He touched someone, His hands that worked on wood, . What does this pair of hands look like? This image came up:
But that picture isn't accurate at all. Far from it! Jesus' hands would be have been ugly! So ugly beyond recognition, pierced on the cross with 2 holes!
and because of that I have beautiful hands now, unscared, unpierced thanks to Him.
When I think of my father's hand I think of my father - the man that he is. You know man is often identified with 'things they do' and what they do with their hands speaks volume about who he is, as a person.
My dad works tirelessly. He loves his work. I know that because through the years I've seen him happiest when he is working, both at the office or at home fixing stuff. And whatever he did, he put in all he had. Even after he retired, he worked on other things like languages (he now speaks and write japanese fluently), business...etc
Like all children, I grew up thinking 'I don't want to be like my dad'! But as years goes by, I think we are more alike than I think. Looking at him enjoy his work has certainly shaped me. I love me work too and if I had ALL the money in the world I'd still be working. *smiles* I am afterall my father's boy.
On hindsight though, I didn't have much chance to talk to my dad on a heart to heart basis. It's kinda hard for guys to open up this way. We like to 'tell' but we seldom, if ever, share what's in our heart. I'd like to tell him that I love him and all that... but when we meet, we talk about how our businesses are doing...etc
But the last few years has seen my dad grown more 'cool', which is a great thing. My ego has also gotten milder :) and there were a few occasion where we actually talked. It was one of the best times I had with him. I look forward now to go home and have a chance to just talk to him.
My wife's dad pass away a few years ago. He passed away at a difficult time and sometimes at night I still hug my wife as she think about her dad. She misses him still. I wonder what her father's hand meant to her? I would never understand... but dad (in law), you've raised a great gal!
When I think about my heavenly father, I think about Jesus. Since He said, if I have seen him, I've seen the Father.
What kinda hand does he have? I thought His hands praying. I thought about His hand that heals when He touched someone, His hands that worked on wood, . What does this pair of hands look like? This image came up:
But that picture isn't accurate at all. Far from it! Jesus' hands would be have been ugly! So ugly beyond recognition, pierced on the cross with 2 holes!
and because of that I have beautiful hands now, unscared, unpierced thanks to Him.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
There is no conspiracy against Anwar.
That's what ABM said today according to the star.
I dunno man.
Let me quote Pat here.
"Yes. He is the same person who has a perfect track record for making things happen. In the opposite direction la.
No. I am not getting married. Boom! He gets married.
No. I will not dissolve Parliament. Boom! He dissolves Parliament the very next day.
No. There will be no fuel price increase (the first time last week). Boom! RM2.70 per litre the next day."
So no conspiracy?...
I dunno man.
Let me quote Pat here.
"Yes. He is the same person who has a perfect track record for making things happen. In the opposite direction la.
No. I am not getting married. Boom! He gets married.
No. I will not dissolve Parliament. Boom! He dissolves Parliament the very next day.
No. There will be no fuel price increase (the first time last week). Boom! RM2.70 per litre the next day."
So no conspiracy?...
The Dark Knight
I am a batman fan and I have been waiting for this movie for over a year! There was so much hype on this movie that I was afraid that it may not live up to it.
Let me rest assure you fans out there. I have ventured ahead of you, risking the dissapointment of a super flop.... the hype was ALL worth it.
I think this is the BESTest batman movie ever made: dark, lonely, conflicts, power, evil, love and above all, duty, honour and justice. Throw in an outstanding cast, story and performance, I think this is one of those rare epic move I'll be watching again and again.
Must mentioned also that Joker was especially well played. Chaotic, villain genius, scary, unpredictable. Brilliant.
After thoughts:
Duty. Honour. Justice. These are rare commodities in our society especially in these trying days in Malaysia. And I believe they'll be even more needed in the road ahead with all the global issues coming up wave after wave. Global economic slowdown (or meltdown?), global warming just to name a few.
And just like in the movie, we also have a C4 explosion happened in a neighbourhood not far from here, KL.
Unfortunately though, who can we turn to? Who can we trust?
Do we have a batman call sign....
Let me rest assure you fans out there. I have ventured ahead of you, risking the dissapointment of a super flop.... the hype was ALL worth it.
The Dark Knight
is
back!
is
back!
I think this is the BESTest batman movie ever made: dark, lonely, conflicts, power, evil, love and above all, duty, honour and justice. Throw in an outstanding cast, story and performance, I think this is one of those rare epic move I'll be watching again and again.
Must mentioned also that Joker was especially well played. Chaotic, villain genius, scary, unpredictable. Brilliant.
After thoughts:
Duty. Honour. Justice. These are rare commodities in our society especially in these trying days in Malaysia. And I believe they'll be even more needed in the road ahead with all the global issues coming up wave after wave. Global economic slowdown (or meltdown?), global warming just to name a few.
And just like in the movie, we also have a C4 explosion happened in a neighbourhood not far from here, KL.
Unfortunately though, who can we turn to? Who can we trust?
Do we have a batman call sign....
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Christian Urban Legend 1: Anointing
The reason why I'm writing a series on Christian urban legend is because I feel that many of these issues mentioned are deemed as 'common knowledge'. While the issues are seemingly small, I feel that if one believes wrongly it causes a ripple effect that ultimately distort our view of who our God really is.
At the point of writing this, I have no clue what other christian urban legends they are, however I would love to hear from you what other urban legends you think are worth discussing.
The first that I'm writing about is this "anointing". Not just any anointing, it's the one you go to a concert/event/revival meeting and hope to 'bring some back' to your home church. Or it could be this anointed person you meet and hope to bring some of his anointing back with you.
I think many of us has heard that one before.
This wrong teaching - that you can get more anointed by means of being present in certain places or being prayed for by 'more anointed' person - leads one to think that there's different gradient or grades of anointing.
You begin as a padawan and become a jedi if you 'gather' enough.
So why is this an urban legend?
It is because you cannot 'get more anointed' or 'get someone's anointing' and you definitely cannot 'carry some anointing back'. The 'anointing' is not a transferable force or cumulative force. If so then the most anointed person would be the person that gather the most anointing? (We can then create a anointing server and let everyone download, how about that?!)
Firstly anointing as explain in hebrew strongs H4899 says:
ma^shi^yach
maw-shee'-akh
From H4886; anointed; usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint); specifically the Messiah: - anointed, Messiah.
and H4886 is:
ma^shach
maw-shakh'
A primitive root; to rub with oil, that is, to anoint; by implication to consecrate; also to paint: - anoint, paint.
Quite plainly when you're a priest or a saint and you're rub with oil or consecrated (for god) you're annointed.
Jesus was anointed. Heck, He is the messiah. Same word!
While I don't know the technicality of how you get anointed, or do you get anointed first before the Spirit of God comes onto you or after, there are some consistent theme throughout the bible about anointing.
We do know that when you're anointed the spirit of God comes on you and that you're only anointed once.
Think about it. This happened to David, Samuel, Elijah, Elisha...etc Who was anointed twice? There's Elisha who asked and was given a 'double portion'.. but how many times were Elisha anointed? Once.
Lets look at this:
Luk 4:18 "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to tell the good news to the poor. He has sent me to announce release to the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to set oppressed people free,
Luk 4:19 and to announce the year of the Lord's favor."
Check it out. It says, because he has anointed me to..... that's why the spirit of the Lord is on me.
That's interesting. The spirit and the anointing go hand in hand. Very consistent througout the bible. Also there was a reason for the anointing. It was for a purpose.
Now was Jesus ever anointed again after this? I don't recall so.
Did he ever need another anointing to fulfill all His purpose here on earth? No need.
The holy spirit on him was able to help him with ALL the tastk, from healing, walking on water, casting out demons, commanding weather...etc
Yeah, I hear some of you say:" but but but that's Jesus what!".
See what Jesus says here:
Act 1:4 While he was meeting with them, he ordered them, "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the Father's promise, about which you heard me speak.
Act 1:5 For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
Now after His ressurection, He says, we'll be baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT. The same one that He's got. Then
Act 1:8 .... you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
See the word - POWER. What POWER?
MEGA HOLY SPIRIT KAWABUNGA power.
The same stuff that made Peter walk on water. Same stuff mate.
Well, the Holy Spirit on Him is the same one with you today. It is because of God's grace that we have this gift. Once you believe in Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God comes on you as a guarantee. It never leaves you nor forsake you. The spirit of God enables you to do all things through Him. It has consecrated you - you are a 'priest' and therefore is anointed.
To bring the point back home, you as a child of God, is anointed. You do not need to go need to an event to get anointed or get more anointed.
You are already anointed maximus.
All you need is already dwelling in you: the Holy Spirit, through whom can help you do all things you need to do. He knows His purpose for your life and will help you through it.
I hope this explains why this is an 'urban legend'. Why I believe that this is so important is because if you believe wrongly, then you reap the fruit of your wrong beliefs and I truly want you to live the fullest anointed life ever posible, to the power of infinitiy plus one, now.
Why? Because God loves you so much. He wants you to know that He is not angry with your sins any longer. He wants you to draw near to Him without feeling fear. Because our dear Lord has paid a hefty price for our sins and these gifts are given to you. It is there to make your life abundant. It is there to make you live the best life you can in which He has called you to.
Make use of it, because I believe, it pleases Him that you do.
At the point of writing this, I have no clue what other christian urban legends they are, however I would love to hear from you what other urban legends you think are worth discussing.
The first that I'm writing about is this "anointing". Not just any anointing, it's the one you go to a concert/event/revival meeting and hope to 'bring some back' to your home church. Or it could be this anointed person you meet and hope to bring some of his anointing back with you.
I think many of us has heard that one before.
This wrong teaching - that you can get more anointed by means of being present in certain places or being prayed for by 'more anointed' person - leads one to think that there's different gradient or grades of anointing.
You begin as a padawan and become a jedi if you 'gather' enough.
So why is this an urban legend?
It is because you cannot 'get more anointed' or 'get someone's anointing' and you definitely cannot 'carry some anointing back'. The 'anointing' is not a transferable force or cumulative force. If so then the most anointed person would be the person that gather the most anointing? (We can then create a anointing server and let everyone download, how about that?!)
Firstly anointing as explain in hebrew strongs H4899 says:
ma^shi^yach
maw-shee'-akh
From H4886; anointed; usually a consecrated person (as a king, priest, or saint); specifically the Messiah: - anointed, Messiah.
and H4886 is:
ma^shach
maw-shakh'
A primitive root; to rub with oil, that is, to anoint; by implication to consecrate; also to paint: - anoint, paint.
Quite plainly when you're a priest or a saint and you're rub with oil or consecrated (for god) you're annointed.
Jesus was anointed. Heck, He is the messiah. Same word!
While I don't know the technicality of how you get anointed, or do you get anointed first before the Spirit of God comes onto you or after, there are some consistent theme throughout the bible about anointing.
We do know that when you're anointed the spirit of God comes on you and that you're only anointed once.
Think about it. This happened to David, Samuel, Elijah, Elisha...etc Who was anointed twice? There's Elisha who asked and was given a 'double portion'.. but how many times were Elisha anointed? Once.
Lets look at this:
Luk 4:18 "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to tell the good news to the poor. He has sent me to announce release to the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to set oppressed people free,
Luk 4:19 and to announce the year of the Lord's favor."
Check it out. It says, because he has anointed me to..... that's why the spirit of the Lord is on me.
That's interesting. The spirit and the anointing go hand in hand. Very consistent througout the bible. Also there was a reason for the anointing. It was for a purpose.
Now was Jesus ever anointed again after this? I don't recall so.
Did he ever need another anointing to fulfill all His purpose here on earth? No need.
The holy spirit on him was able to help him with ALL the tastk, from healing, walking on water, casting out demons, commanding weather...etc
Yeah, I hear some of you say:" but but but that's Jesus what!".
See what Jesus says here:
Act 1:4 While he was meeting with them, he ordered them, "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the Father's promise, about which you heard me speak.
Act 1:5 For John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now."
Now after His ressurection, He says, we'll be baptized with the HOLY SPIRIT. The same one that He's got. Then
Act 1:8 .... you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth."
See the word - POWER. What POWER?
MEGA HOLY SPIRIT KAWABUNGA power.
The same stuff that made Peter walk on water. Same stuff mate.
Well, the Holy Spirit on Him is the same one with you today. It is because of God's grace that we have this gift. Once you believe in Christ, the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of God comes on you as a guarantee. It never leaves you nor forsake you. The spirit of God enables you to do all things through Him. It has consecrated you - you are a 'priest' and therefore is anointed.
To bring the point back home, you as a child of God, is anointed. You do not need to go need to an event to get anointed or get more anointed.
You are already anointed maximus.
All you need is already dwelling in you: the Holy Spirit, through whom can help you do all things you need to do. He knows His purpose for your life and will help you through it.
I hope this explains why this is an 'urban legend'. Why I believe that this is so important is because if you believe wrongly, then you reap the fruit of your wrong beliefs and I truly want you to live the fullest anointed life ever posible, to the power of infinitiy plus one, now.
Why? Because God loves you so much. He wants you to know that He is not angry with your sins any longer. He wants you to draw near to Him without feeling fear. Because our dear Lord has paid a hefty price for our sins and these gifts are given to you. It is there to make your life abundant. It is there to make you live the best life you can in which He has called you to.
Make use of it, because I believe, it pleases Him that you do.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Got my back buddy?
Recently I learnt that I have a weak lower back. My ego was seriously hurt when I discovered that I'm doing the same weights as me wife!
Come on man... how can la?
But I am! A little more investigation showed that I do have REALLY weak lower back. Like when I run, the first place that gives way is my lower back. It starts to ache and standing straight seems tiring.. you know the feeling?
So I started to do more lower back exercise. One of them, my favourite, for giving me maximum 'pain' is the dead lift. Basically you stand straight with your butt sticking out and back straight and just bend down to pick up a weight (bend the knees a little forward but not more than your toes). I start off very light... ok ego aside, I only do light weights! can?
Yes the lower back is that weak.
I remember this friend I have - CCL. She's a petite girl with outstanding posture... she only stands or sit or walk ith her back straight (or almost arched back). So straight that we all know she has got a nice butt :) I don't know how she does it but if there's something she can't do - she can't hunch over and pick up a pen! (hahahahahaa.. but i can! ngek ngek ngek)
because I start sweating just holding the weights standing like that. Especially the butt sticking out part, it targets the lower back really good.
Anyway I'm working on the back really hard and I do hope it gets stronger. It's gotten a bit stronger since a couple of weeks ago when i started and already I can run, swim, sit up straight much easier.
Now that I think about it, was that the reason why I had a bad posture. (It used to be worse!)
Anyway I'm glad I found this out now... lets see how I will feel with a stronger back.
Come on man... how can la?
But I am! A little more investigation showed that I do have REALLY weak lower back. Like when I run, the first place that gives way is my lower back. It starts to ache and standing straight seems tiring.. you know the feeling?
So I started to do more lower back exercise. One of them, my favourite, for giving me maximum 'pain' is the dead lift. Basically you stand straight with your butt sticking out and back straight and just bend down to pick up a weight (bend the knees a little forward but not more than your toes). I start off very light... ok ego aside, I only do light weights! can?
Yes the lower back is that weak.
I remember this friend I have - CCL. She's a petite girl with outstanding posture... she only stands or sit or walk ith her back straight (or almost arched back). So straight that we all know she has got a nice butt :) I don't know how she does it but if there's something she can't do - she can't hunch over and pick up a pen! (hahahahahaa.. but i can! ngek ngek ngek)
because I start sweating just holding the weights standing like that. Especially the butt sticking out part, it targets the lower back really good.
Anyway I'm working on the back really hard and I do hope it gets stronger. It's gotten a bit stronger since a couple of weeks ago when i started and already I can run, swim, sit up straight much easier.
Now that I think about it, was that the reason why I had a bad posture. (It used to be worse!)
Anyway I'm glad I found this out now... lets see how I will feel with a stronger back.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Recipe for revival
After my healing, we went for a run. When I came back, I quickly took my shower and got ready to go out for dinner. But before we headed out again... I took my watch and put it to my ear.
Hahaha. Tick tick tick.... I smiled and cried all at the same time in my room as I praised God for the wonderful gifts.
It was easy for me. I prayed and He delivered. Pure grace. Easy for me. But it didn't come cheap, He paid for it with a price.
Grace is cheap? Hardly. It's easy though.
That's the hard part for many to accept I suppose. It seems that we would rather prefer to work for something than to get it free. No wonder Paul was so mad at the galatians when he ask, " let me ask you one thing, did you receive the gift of the holy spirit through work or through faith?"
The word 'revival' is not used in the NT. Surprise? I think there's no need to use it because it's an on going theme. Whenever the gospel is preached, there's 'revival'- if revival means there's a lot of ppl coming to the lord.
I can remember 2 occasions recorded for us that this happen. First was by Peter in which 3000 ppl got saved and the other by Paul, 'almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord'.
So what happened during these 2 'revivals' recorded for us in the bible?
1. Peter to the Jews at Pentecost:
Act 2:38 Peter answered them, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the Holy Spirit as a gift.
Act 2:39 For this promise belongs to you and your children, as well as to all those who are far away, whom the Lord our God may call to himself."
2. Paul to everyone:
Act 13:38 Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you,
Act 13:39 and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.
Notice the common theme?
Repent, which means change your mind in greek. Change your mind from what? What does Peter tells the 'men of Israel' to change their mind from? That the law of moses cannot save you (Act 2:36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.")
AND through this man is preached, is proclaimed the forgiveness of sins to you by which you are freed from everything you could not be freed from the law of moses! Then you WILL also receive the gift of the Holy Spirit - as a guarantee.
It is ALWAYS through Him, the foundation of our faith, the cornerstone, that 'revival' starts. Nothing else matters.
Those who believed, received the gift of the Holy Spirit and the promise. (What promise? ALL the promise in the bible)
That is the gospel - the only recipe needed for a 'revival' - the good news, the best news of God that He came to save and all sins are forgiven - your present, past and future ones. The key by which the New Covenant takes place. Hallelujah.
Believe in it.
Still I see ppl find it hard to believe. They feel that there's still 'sin' in them. They need a 'touch' from God since their 'last sin'. They still feel guilty that unless they are 'purified' from all 'sins' God cannot work in them or through them. They feel that they have not been completely obedient.
Well from what I read in Hebrews, the only disobedient the author was concern is this: that you stop believing that your conscience is cleared. Therefore the author say: strive to enter that rest. The 'rest' that it's now no longer our efforts, it's been done for us by Chris. And throughout the book, the unbelief is refered to as sin. And in its context:
Heb 10:26 For if we go on sinning (to stop believing that we have been forgiven) deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,
Heb 10:27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.
So if we want to 'do' revival do this, believe that through this Man, is preached the forgiveness of sins and by Him all that believe are justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
.
.
.
.
It's a few days now since the healing and I'm still enjoying hearing my watch tick. It's so funny, I feel like a little boy every time I put my watch to my right ear. It's as if I have heard it for the first time. Just like the gospel it seems I have just heard it for the first time, again, today.
Hahaha. Tick tick tick.... I smiled and cried all at the same time in my room as I praised God for the wonderful gifts.
It was easy for me. I prayed and He delivered. Pure grace. Easy for me. But it didn't come cheap, He paid for it with a price.
Grace is cheap? Hardly. It's easy though.
That's the hard part for many to accept I suppose. It seems that we would rather prefer to work for something than to get it free. No wonder Paul was so mad at the galatians when he ask, " let me ask you one thing, did you receive the gift of the holy spirit through work or through faith?"
The word 'revival' is not used in the NT. Surprise? I think there's no need to use it because it's an on going theme. Whenever the gospel is preached, there's 'revival'- if revival means there's a lot of ppl coming to the lord.
I can remember 2 occasions recorded for us that this happen. First was by Peter in which 3000 ppl got saved and the other by Paul, 'almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord'.
So what happened during these 2 'revivals' recorded for us in the bible?
1. Peter to the Jews at Pentecost:
Act 2:38 Peter answered them, "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Then you will receive the Holy Spirit as a gift.
Act 2:39 For this promise belongs to you and your children, as well as to all those who are far away, whom the Lord our God may call to himself."
2. Paul to everyone:
Act 13:38 Let it be known to you therefore, brothers, that through this man forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you,
Act 13:39 and by him everyone who believes is freed from everything from which you could not be freed by the law of Moses.
Notice the common theme?
Repent, which means change your mind in greek. Change your mind from what? What does Peter tells the 'men of Israel' to change their mind from? That the law of moses cannot save you (Act 2:36 Let all the house of Israel therefore know for certain that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.")
AND through this man is preached, is proclaimed the forgiveness of sins to you by which you are freed from everything you could not be freed from the law of moses! Then you WILL also receive the gift of the Holy Spirit - as a guarantee.
It is ALWAYS through Him, the foundation of our faith, the cornerstone, that 'revival' starts. Nothing else matters.
Those who believed, received the gift of the Holy Spirit and the promise. (What promise? ALL the promise in the bible)
That is the gospel - the only recipe needed for a 'revival' - the good news, the best news of God that He came to save and all sins are forgiven - your present, past and future ones. The key by which the New Covenant takes place. Hallelujah.
Believe in it.
Still I see ppl find it hard to believe. They feel that there's still 'sin' in them. They need a 'touch' from God since their 'last sin'. They still feel guilty that unless they are 'purified' from all 'sins' God cannot work in them or through them. They feel that they have not been completely obedient.
Well from what I read in Hebrews, the only disobedient the author was concern is this: that you stop believing that your conscience is cleared. Therefore the author say: strive to enter that rest. The 'rest' that it's now no longer our efforts, it's been done for us by Chris. And throughout the book, the unbelief is refered to as sin. And in its context:
Heb 10:26 For if we go on sinning (to stop believing that we have been forgiven) deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,
Heb 10:27 but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.
So if we want to 'do' revival do this, believe that through this Man, is preached the forgiveness of sins and by Him all that believe are justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
.
.
.
.
It's a few days now since the healing and I'm still enjoying hearing my watch tick. It's so funny, I feel like a little boy every time I put my watch to my right ear. It's as if I have heard it for the first time. Just like the gospel it seems I have just heard it for the first time, again, today.
Many things I do not know...
but this I know, once I couldn't hear my watch ticking on my right ear now I can.
It was about last week that I found out that my right ear cannot hear the ticking of my automatic watch while my left ear can. I tried putting it at different angles but I just can't hear it ticking like the way it sound on my left ear.
Today we decided to hear a sermon by Peter Youngren or something. It's one of the sermon from New Creation. To be honest, it's one of the more boring one. But at the end of the sermon, on mp3, He said people are being healed and to pray. So wife and I sat here in our bed claiming we are healed here and there.
I prayed for my ear but I felt that it was such a 'small' thing, it can hear a lot of stuff just not 'ticking' but I hear a voice saying, He can heal everything. So I prayed for my mind to be boosted with wisdom, my ear, my knees...etc
About 5 mins later, Peter said to stretch out your arm/legs to test it out. So I took out my watch and there it was.
It sounds like music to my ears.... tick tick tick tick tick tick.
Hallelujah!
It was about last week that I found out that my right ear cannot hear the ticking of my automatic watch while my left ear can. I tried putting it at different angles but I just can't hear it ticking like the way it sound on my left ear.
Today we decided to hear a sermon by Peter Youngren or something. It's one of the sermon from New Creation. To be honest, it's one of the more boring one. But at the end of the sermon, on mp3, He said people are being healed and to pray. So wife and I sat here in our bed claiming we are healed here and there.
I prayed for my ear but I felt that it was such a 'small' thing, it can hear a lot of stuff just not 'ticking' but I hear a voice saying, He can heal everything. So I prayed for my mind to be boosted with wisdom, my ear, my knees...etc
About 5 mins later, Peter said to stretch out your arm/legs to test it out. So I took out my watch and there it was.
It sounds like music to my ears.... tick tick tick tick tick tick.
Hallelujah!
Friday, June 13, 2008
Psalm 23. Part 5
Psa 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Psa 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Just haven't had much time to write. But I'll try to conclude the series now.
You prepare a table before me.... in the olden days, the when kingdom goes to war, the victor chain their enemies and eat before them. It's really a way to taunt them and 'show off' that you're the winner. So here the Lord prepares the table for us to eat in victory. Hence when we pray, we pray from victory not for victory. Because God has done it for us.
He annoints my head with oil. Oil for sheeps are like insect repellent for us in modern times. Sheperds used oil to keep away flies from the sheep with oil. For us spiritually, His oil keeps all things evil, sickness, poverty away.
My cup overflows. This is so nice because when a king keep your cup overflowing in ancient days, it means that he wants you around. He is saying, ' hang around, I like you' so he keeps your cup overflowing (with wine usually in ancient times). Half full means: times' out my friend, get lost. So does God wants us around? YES! Keep my cup OVERFLOWING. With Him around, you can expect overflowing of all things. He is afterall, the creator.
Man, if you think that's good, the best is yet to come!
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. This last one sounds pretty obvious is it not? But let me add a spin to it. "Shall follow me" actually means "to run after.. with hostile intent" in hebrew, or hunt.
Imagine that... God's goodness and mercy (sugar and spice and everything nice!) is chasing down you. Think you can escape that?
So even in your lowest of most days you can be sure, God our Lord, friend, our everlasting refuge and good sheperd is always desiring for you to be around. His goodness is sent, chasing you down.
Even while David was under Law He knew this of God, it's no wonder He is the man after God's heart. What more now that we have the Grace that has been revealed to us.
Hallelujah. Shalom be with you my friends. Have a great weekend.
Psa 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Just haven't had much time to write. But I'll try to conclude the series now.
You prepare a table before me.... in the olden days, the when kingdom goes to war, the victor chain their enemies and eat before them. It's really a way to taunt them and 'show off' that you're the winner. So here the Lord prepares the table for us to eat in victory. Hence when we pray, we pray from victory not for victory. Because God has done it for us.
He annoints my head with oil. Oil for sheeps are like insect repellent for us in modern times. Sheperds used oil to keep away flies from the sheep with oil. For us spiritually, His oil keeps all things evil, sickness, poverty away.
My cup overflows. This is so nice because when a king keep your cup overflowing in ancient days, it means that he wants you around. He is saying, ' hang around, I like you' so he keeps your cup overflowing (with wine usually in ancient times). Half full means: times' out my friend, get lost. So does God wants us around? YES! Keep my cup OVERFLOWING. With Him around, you can expect overflowing of all things. He is afterall, the creator.
Man, if you think that's good, the best is yet to come!
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever. This last one sounds pretty obvious is it not? But let me add a spin to it. "Shall follow me" actually means "to run after.. with hostile intent" in hebrew, or hunt.
Imagine that... God's goodness and mercy (sugar and spice and everything nice!) is chasing down you. Think you can escape that?
So even in your lowest of most days you can be sure, God our Lord, friend, our everlasting refuge and good sheperd is always desiring for you to be around. His goodness is sent, chasing you down.
Even while David was under Law He knew this of God, it's no wonder He is the man after God's heart. What more now that we have the Grace that has been revealed to us.
Hallelujah. Shalom be with you my friends. Have a great weekend.
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Addicted to Oil
Before I write more I want to say that I totally don't agree with the way the government increase oil prices? Why can't they warn everyone first, like 3 months before so that everyone is prepared mentally. It seems they like to 'shock' everyone. Maybe they were trying to prevent prices to 'increase so fast' but that's inevitable isn't it?
As Malaysia is pondering about the shocking price increase I can't stop to wonder, why are we still addicted to oil?
And human race as a whole seems to be a forgetful lot. Take Malaysia for example, just more than a few months ago, we were 'shocked' when fuel prices went up to 1.9. The governement said it'll use all the savings for this and that... now they're spinning the same story. Are we expecting the 'savings' to put to good use again...?
So everytime the oil price hit a new high, the human race cries out. When crude oil first hit 50/barrel then 80/barrel then 100/barrel and then 130/barrel as in now. Each time we cry foul! The airline all went crazy. Then the powers that be produces a bit more oil, bring the prices down a bit... and then.... all is merry again!
The car manufacturers, oil producers...etc are playing all of us suckers! Electric cars (google who killed the electric car) were mass produced 10 years ago. Using 'lousy' batteries in today's standards and yet they still say electric cars are 'not ready'. Comparing electric cars and Hybrids, we would conclude that Hybrids are the 'Low-tech' cars isn't it?
So the Low Tech Hybrid cars are made so 'expensive' today because like all new product, they're going to bring the price down slowly. Does that make sense, you decide.
Yet government don't make efforts to shift us from the addiction. Why don't they give tax exemption for such cars? or restructure incentives to promote alternative energies. The technology is not ready is complete bull. It'll never be 'ready' if it isn't given a chance. Actually I think it's more than ready... just google it and you'll see what I mean or if you don't know how to read or spell just watch discovery. But what's stopping it from happening is $$$, money, mulah.
There's just so much unmade profits! from oil, from electricity...etc power supply is big business.
The other half is that, we're not used to energy being free. Humans are habitual creatures and after 100 years of paying for energy we're just not used to it being free... and it can be free. But in a capitalist world that's not gonna happen. And when there's money, there's greed and with that - even the best projects in the world can fail. (but really 100 years ago, energy are mostly free)
Meanwhile, the weather in the world gets worst. We blame it global warming- which is linked! heloo?!
So back to Malaysia and the world, we're addicted to oil and we're not doing anything about it. Like the guy who's addicted to cigarettes, he tells himself... after his it's the last stick. I was there and I tell you, he's bluffing himself. Until the world becomes convicted, we'll continue to be addicted to oil... so start preparing for 200/barrel and then 300/barrel.
As Malaysia is pondering about the shocking price increase I can't stop to wonder, why are we still addicted to oil?
And human race as a whole seems to be a forgetful lot. Take Malaysia for example, just more than a few months ago, we were 'shocked' when fuel prices went up to 1.9. The governement said it'll use all the savings for this and that... now they're spinning the same story. Are we expecting the 'savings' to put to good use again...?
So everytime the oil price hit a new high, the human race cries out. When crude oil first hit 50/barrel then 80/barrel then 100/barrel and then 130/barrel as in now. Each time we cry foul! The airline all went crazy. Then the powers that be produces a bit more oil, bring the prices down a bit... and then.... all is merry again!
The car manufacturers, oil producers...etc are playing all of us suckers! Electric cars (google who killed the electric car) were mass produced 10 years ago. Using 'lousy' batteries in today's standards and yet they still say electric cars are 'not ready'. Comparing electric cars and Hybrids, we would conclude that Hybrids are the 'Low-tech' cars isn't it?
So the Low Tech Hybrid cars are made so 'expensive' today because like all new product, they're going to bring the price down slowly. Does that make sense, you decide.
Yet government don't make efforts to shift us from the addiction. Why don't they give tax exemption for such cars? or restructure incentives to promote alternative energies. The technology is not ready is complete bull. It'll never be 'ready' if it isn't given a chance. Actually I think it's more than ready... just google it and you'll see what I mean or if you don't know how to read or spell just watch discovery. But what's stopping it from happening is $$$, money, mulah.
There's just so much unmade profits! from oil, from electricity...etc power supply is big business.
The other half is that, we're not used to energy being free. Humans are habitual creatures and after 100 years of paying for energy we're just not used to it being free... and it can be free. But in a capitalist world that's not gonna happen. And when there's money, there's greed and with that - even the best projects in the world can fail. (but really 100 years ago, energy are mostly free)
Meanwhile, the weather in the world gets worst. We blame it global warming- which is linked! heloo?!
So back to Malaysia and the world, we're addicted to oil and we're not doing anything about it. Like the guy who's addicted to cigarettes, he tells himself... after his it's the last stick. I was there and I tell you, he's bluffing himself. Until the world becomes convicted, we'll continue to be addicted to oil... so start preparing for 200/barrel and then 300/barrel.
Monday, May 19, 2008
You're nourishment
When you go, you will be nourishment to the land and the ppl there. You're like the grass, the water and the gardener. You will bring new grass to the land.. and where there's one grass, it spreads very fast. You water it and it will grow bringing new life to the land.
I see a fountain of water and fresh grass growing and reproducing and soon the land is a whole green garden.
So your role/you will be this nourishment. Bringing in new life a fresh new living water.
I see a fountain of water and fresh grass growing and reproducing and soon the land is a whole green garden.
So your role/you will be this nourishment. Bringing in new life a fresh new living water.
Psalm 23 pt 4
Psa 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
I have been thinking about this verse for quite some time. And since I can't sleep tongiht, I thought I start typing.
I like this verse very much. :) I know I seem to say that of every verse I write on. And it's true, I'm actually learning new things every time I start thinking of the verse and God seem to reveal things to me.
For this verse, I felt that the emphasis for me to write on is 'even though'. Even though what? What is even though? I keep asking myself. After some thought.... I figured even though is even though!
Even though, I, the BIG I walk through the.... Contrast to the previous verse, this verse speaks of ME walking. No longer God, the shepherd is leading, but I am walking. See what happens when we start walking our own ways? We tend to end up in the valley of the shadow of death.
Also I felt that this 'even though' is for those moment when we choose the path where we sincerely thought it was a right choice. It also includes those moment when we know it's the wrong choice but decide to go with it anyway... and go 'what was I thinking back then!' months later and regret. Either way, we shall fear no evil because the Lord watches over us with his rod and staff.
Remember also that the rod and staff of the shepherd was not meant to hit the sheep
but to keep the wolves away.
In the NT, there's a verse that also say that ALL things were worked together for our good, those who love Him. ALL things I guess includes the bad ones. Hmm... I wonder if this also fit into this verse?
Either way, even though I walk through some bad paths, I will fear no evil because God takes care of me. David calls these paths - SHADOW of the valley of death. It's not the real thing, it's just the shadow. David, who has gone through many battles and wars know a thing or two of death and he says it's just the shadow. God protects him then just as he does now to us.
I have been thinking about this verse for quite some time. And since I can't sleep tongiht, I thought I start typing.
I like this verse very much. :) I know I seem to say that of every verse I write on. And it's true, I'm actually learning new things every time I start thinking of the verse and God seem to reveal things to me.
For this verse, I felt that the emphasis for me to write on is 'even though'. Even though what? What is even though? I keep asking myself. After some thought.... I figured even though is even though!
Even though, I, the BIG I walk through the.... Contrast to the previous verse, this verse speaks of ME walking. No longer God, the shepherd is leading, but I am walking. See what happens when we start walking our own ways? We tend to end up in the valley of the shadow of death.
Also I felt that this 'even though' is for those moment when we choose the path where we sincerely thought it was a right choice. It also includes those moment when we know it's the wrong choice but decide to go with it anyway... and go 'what was I thinking back then!' months later and regret. Either way, we shall fear no evil because the Lord watches over us with his rod and staff.
Remember also that the rod and staff of the shepherd was not meant to hit the sheep
but to keep the wolves away.
In the NT, there's a verse that also say that ALL things were worked together for our good, those who love Him. ALL things I guess includes the bad ones. Hmm... I wonder if this also fit into this verse?
Either way, even though I walk through some bad paths, I will fear no evil because God takes care of me. David calls these paths - SHADOW of the valley of death. It's not the real thing, it's just the shadow. David, who has gone through many battles and wars know a thing or two of death and he says it's just the shadow. God protects him then just as he does now to us.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Psalm 23 pt 3
Psa 23:3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
I wanted to write about this verse for quite some time. I think God revealed something new to me :).
Firstly, He restores my soul. He and me, we're are good buddies :) Such a personal God. Restores speaks of well, restoration. Soul here refers to our soul, our being. So (I think) He restores us - in our mind, in our will, our bodies and implies 'spirituality'. I think many of us see it that way too. He restores it all.
He can leads us to paths of righteousness BECAUSE of his name's sake. Actually most time I see 'FOR' in the bible, substitute it with 'BECAUSE" so that you can find out because of what to know the context.
Again, He leads. We follow. As a sheep we just relax and follow. I don't remember herding sheep with whips.
.. Because of his name's sake. It is really God's pleasure to lead us righteousness and He does it gracefully - literally. At least I think it's much more graceful in shepherding sheep as opposed to buffalos or cows? But then I have never shepherd... just watch TV only and learn only :P
Anyway, what I notice is this: (and I think God reveal this to me)
Did you realiase that the Psalm speak of 'material' want first before 'soul'? First God lead us to 'no wants', food, water, place to rest, then only come 'soul'. It seems that God IS interested in our physical needs. He wants us to be well taken care off! Once that is taken care of, He comes to restore our soul.
Isn't it wonderful to know that God really want us to 'rested'?
It comes quite directly opposite of what I thought I hear about 'set your life up right first... only THEN God will bless you'.
This is the gem I learnt last week. God, like a shepherd takes care of our makan, our living first before He starts talking about our 'spiritualility'. I think, I believe once we have tasted His goodness and live in His restedness - we are already spiritual. That's the relationship of a Father and son.
I wanted to write about this verse for quite some time. I think God revealed something new to me :).
Firstly, He restores my soul. He and me, we're are good buddies :) Such a personal God. Restores speaks of well, restoration. Soul here refers to our soul, our being. So (I think) He restores us - in our mind, in our will, our bodies and implies 'spirituality'. I think many of us see it that way too. He restores it all.
He can leads us to paths of righteousness BECAUSE of his name's sake. Actually most time I see 'FOR' in the bible, substitute it with 'BECAUSE" so that you can find out because of what to know the context.
Again, He leads. We follow. As a sheep we just relax and follow. I don't remember herding sheep with whips.
.. Because of his name's sake. It is really God's pleasure to lead us righteousness and He does it gracefully - literally. At least I think it's much more graceful in shepherding sheep as opposed to buffalos or cows? But then I have never shepherd... just watch TV only and learn only :P
Anyway, what I notice is this: (and I think God reveal this to me)
Did you realiase that the Psalm speak of 'material' want first before 'soul'? First God lead us to 'no wants', food, water, place to rest, then only come 'soul'. It seems that God IS interested in our physical needs. He wants us to be well taken care off! Once that is taken care of, He comes to restore our soul.
Isn't it wonderful to know that God really want us to 'rested'?
It comes quite directly opposite of what I thought I hear about 'set your life up right first... only THEN God will bless you'.
This is the gem I learnt last week. God, like a shepherd takes care of our makan, our living first before He starts talking about our 'spiritualility'. I think, I believe once we have tasted His goodness and live in His restedness - we are already spiritual. That's the relationship of a Father and son.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
Psalm 23 pt 2
I'm a bit busy this week, so post will come a bit slower.
He leads me beside still waters.
He LEADS speaks of God leading us. I'd imagine a sherperd guiding, watching over them. Oh, btw, in ancient Israel, they don't use 'sheep dog' to do th herding. So no barking at you my friends, just leading, guiding.
He leads ME. ME speaks personally about - me. Me speaks about a personal god who looks at us individually, so that at times of need, I can be sure that he'll be leading me. Sometimes I think that God looks only at the big picture. You know, He wants the church to do this and that.. He wants the nation to be this and that... I'm comforted to know that He also guides me - this tiny person on earth. He speaks to me to guide me, personally. That's like the world's wisest, smartest man being my advisor, counsellor.
And He guides me where? beside still waters.
Still water here don't mean stale water. In hebrew (I think) it says peaceful waters like shallow gentle flowing streams. It speaks of peace, rest, ease.
So the whole sentence says: The Lord, who is my God, speaks to me and guide me, to rest and peace and ease.
I like this verse a lot. Because sometimes when I pray I don't get a 'direct answer' - like a lightning or a thunder you know? But what I do get is this 'life and peace'. I just know that God will be with me if I follow down this part and there's this joy and there's this peace - this 'at ease-ness'. It doesn't mean that the path is 'easy' in the conventional sense but it does feels right- peaceful. I try to follow it because I believe my sheperd is guiding me to quiet waters, even when I'm looking for a parking or when I'm playing dota or when I'm doing business (I've turned down many 'good' deals this way and found them to be the right choice months later).
So friends, when you pray for direction or confirmation, sometimes it is okay not to get a 'sign'. Just go with that PEACE that goes beyong ALL understanding. He's closer than you think!
He leads me beside still waters.
He LEADS speaks of God leading us. I'd imagine a sherperd guiding, watching over them. Oh, btw, in ancient Israel, they don't use 'sheep dog' to do th herding. So no barking at you my friends, just leading, guiding.
He leads ME. ME speaks personally about - me. Me speaks about a personal god who looks at us individually, so that at times of need, I can be sure that he'll be leading me. Sometimes I think that God looks only at the big picture. You know, He wants the church to do this and that.. He wants the nation to be this and that... I'm comforted to know that He also guides me - this tiny person on earth. He speaks to me to guide me, personally. That's like the world's wisest, smartest man being my advisor, counsellor.
And He guides me where? beside still waters.
Still water here don't mean stale water. In hebrew (I think) it says peaceful waters like shallow gentle flowing streams. It speaks of peace, rest, ease.
So the whole sentence says: The Lord, who is my God, speaks to me and guide me, to rest and peace and ease.
I like this verse a lot. Because sometimes when I pray I don't get a 'direct answer' - like a lightning or a thunder you know? But what I do get is this 'life and peace'. I just know that God will be with me if I follow down this part and there's this joy and there's this peace - this 'at ease-ness'. It doesn't mean that the path is 'easy' in the conventional sense but it does feels right- peaceful. I try to follow it because I believe my sheperd is guiding me to quiet waters, even when I'm looking for a parking or when I'm playing dota or when I'm doing business (I've turned down many 'good' deals this way and found them to be the right choice months later).
So friends, when you pray for direction or confirmation, sometimes it is okay not to get a 'sign'. Just go with that PEACE that goes beyong ALL understanding. He's closer than you think!
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Psalm 23
Psa 23:1 A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
Psa 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
Psa 23:3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psa 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psa 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Psa 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
I was talking to a mei-mei today and we came to the topic of Psalm 23. Being the super cheong hei, long windededme... I decided to share with her what I learn from it. Much of it I learn from Pastor Prince. Seriously, if he isn't a preacher, he should be a teacher.
So Psalm 23 starts off as:
The Lord is my sheperd.
The Lord - the only one Lord. Who is He? The one mighty and loving :)
The Lord IS. Present tense. Which means that the Lord is, currently my - a personal - sheperd. He's not just any sheperd but by MY sheperd. Now why sheperd? Why compare the Lord as a sheperd. I think firstly because sheeps are dumb and in this case, we're the sheep. And it's good to be sheep with a good sheperd because the good sheperd knows our name, goes before us and He takes care of us. It's the image of Him taking care of us - despite what I do because He's my sheperd. I read that sheeps are really quite dumb and that the sheperd takes care of every aspect of thier lives - this is true of our Lord as well and what I believe David to be saying.
Wow all those words just for one sentence!
Wife also adds that the reason why we are called 'sheeps' is because sheep are obedient as compared to goats who needs to be prodded.
I shall not be in want.
Shall - confirmed in the future. Not be in want. Why want? Why not need? Why not hunger? Want is want.
It speaks of abundance. Not just 'ngam ngam ho', it's shall not want.
So that's an introduction of the Lord for us - a sheperd that takes care us who gives us more than enough.
He MAKES me lie down in green pastures.
Emphasis is mine. and MAKES really speak of God MAKING us lie down. He wants us to rest and to rest in green pastures. For a sheep, green pastures is a lot of food... imagine if you're a sheep and the green pastures roll horizon to horizon. How much food is there!!! and He MAKES us lie down, to rest on His abundant supply. Ahh.... I see myself rolling on the green grass - a bit like the bollywood scene kekeke...
eh, btw, today's 'labour day' so I'm stopping here :) I need a holi-holi day.
Psa 23:2 He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.
Psa 23:3 He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
Psa 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
Psa 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Psa 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
I was talking to a mei-mei today and we came to the topic of Psalm 23. Being the super cheong hei, long windededme... I decided to share with her what I learn from it. Much of it I learn from Pastor Prince. Seriously, if he isn't a preacher, he should be a teacher.
So Psalm 23 starts off as:
The Lord is my sheperd.
The Lord - the only one Lord. Who is He? The one mighty and loving :)
The Lord IS. Present tense. Which means that the Lord is, currently my - a personal - sheperd. He's not just any sheperd but by MY sheperd. Now why sheperd? Why compare the Lord as a sheperd. I think firstly because sheeps are dumb and in this case, we're the sheep. And it's good to be sheep with a good sheperd because the good sheperd knows our name, goes before us and He takes care of us. It's the image of Him taking care of us - despite what I do because He's my sheperd. I read that sheeps are really quite dumb and that the sheperd takes care of every aspect of thier lives - this is true of our Lord as well and what I believe David to be saying.
Wow all those words just for one sentence!
Wife also adds that the reason why we are called 'sheeps' is because sheep are obedient as compared to goats who needs to be prodded.
I shall not be in want.
Shall - confirmed in the future. Not be in want. Why want? Why not need? Why not hunger? Want is want.
It speaks of abundance. Not just 'ngam ngam ho', it's shall not want.
So that's an introduction of the Lord for us - a sheperd that takes care us who gives us more than enough.
He MAKES me lie down in green pastures.
Emphasis is mine. and MAKES really speak of God MAKING us lie down. He wants us to rest and to rest in green pastures. For a sheep, green pastures is a lot of food... imagine if you're a sheep and the green pastures roll horizon to horizon. How much food is there!!! and He MAKES us lie down, to rest on His abundant supply. Ahh.... I see myself rolling on the green grass - a bit like the bollywood scene kekeke...
eh, btw, today's 'labour day' so I'm stopping here :) I need a holi-holi day.
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