Hello Blog

Hello blog. It's been a long while. I did not forget you. I just got lazy. Perhaps we could spend more time together now since I've been thinking a lot about you. Honestly I don't really miss you but it's nice that we write each other sometimes. Erm call it friends with benefits? No commitment, just casual interaction when needed. Ok? Great see you soon.

Of Malays, Chinese, Racism and Nasi Goreng

Many years ago I taught part-time in a private foundation school. The students of the school was largely bumiputera populated until later in years Chinese and Indians were added to the equation. The teachers were a mixed of all races with some retired but well knowned teachers who were sought after. Needless to say that they were well paid for them to decide to continue teaching well after retirement. They were GOOD teachers. So education there was top-notched. The best teachers and the best students. The brightest students of the country were narrowed down, brought here to study and are fully funded at this school. Almost all of them were the under-previleged but potentially intelligent beyond their years. They are SMART. Real smart students.

Disclaimer: This was my perception. I don't know 100% about the school now since I left more than 10 years ago but if there are ex-students reading this post, well pardon me for any misquotes ya. :)

So, today I'm back at the school teaching part-time again. 10 years. New students. 1st month now. Pretty much the same surroundings. New teachers except for a familiar face. A faithful one there. :) New equipments and old equipments. Good memories.
Back to topic. I got to know some of the students of that time. They were nice kids. Although largely Malays, there weren't issues about the many Chinese teachers or of the other races, Race wasn't much of the issue. In fact, in most schools I think racism is not an issue at all (open for debate?). You see, kids are blind towards issues of race until they are taught about it. Some attitudes are formed and molded not by the students themselves, but by others. Adults, teachers, parents, religious bodies, etc... are responsible to teach the right attitudes and perception on these things. But somewhere along the line, something goes wrong. And these corrupted perceptions gets imprinted on the kids. They carry it for life if or until they are re-educated on what's right. By then, sad to say it's hard to learn 'new tricks'.

There was a student I knew (I can't remember his name now... sigh..). When he was in (Form 1), he was nice. Real nice kid. Good manners, the lot. Then in the following year, he changed. He started to be very bold (in a negative way). He would voice out his displeasure in the music dept's rules. He would stomp out of classes (not only music classes I heard), rallying other students in protest to whatever it is he's protesting in. Many of these protests were religious based. Classes were left because of 'prayers', religious studies, etc. He became a nightmare to teachers. Who made him this way? Insane.

The school had a standard of conduct. Every student wore uniforms. Very smart ones. The girls weren't allowed to wear headgears. Wait... what? Yup, they weren't allowed. The owner of this school is a Malay by the way. And the person in charge of education (let's call him the Education Minister :) ) at that time, was Malay too and he was the most feared man among all. He was no nonsense, education was is top most priority and he liked the Chinese teachers. He thought the Chinese were hard workers and in education, many of the sought after teachers were the Chinese. If he doesn't like you however, he'll sack you on the spot. There was a joke (a serious one?), when he was visiting the school, word will go around saying "God is coming". The school wanted to project a professional image. Well, my understanding is a 'secular one'. Not one 'ruled ' by religious or race sentiments/standards but one that puts education and professionalism as its priority. Better than any smart-school whatever-not. Excellence was it motivation. Its tagline was Center of Excellence. And it was true. It still is I believe. But 'tragedy' struck. Politicians, religuous factors, blah, blah, yada yada got in the way of things and bam! It started changing. Not all is lost but excellence came with conformity. Conformity to religion and race. The girls started using headgears. There were power struggles. The Education Minister was transfered. Principals were changed. Teachers were saying the school was going to become one of those asrama schools. The orchestra at one time started playing at low standard school events... err... like sports day kinda stuff? (these are not in-house events) The orchestra was originally targetted only at high profile functions where Menteris, Sultans, and VVIPs were going to be present. Well, I don't know the reasons for all of it. I know it happened. Don't blame me for my ignorance though. I'm just telling a story. :) These students were great kids. The were highly intelligent, fast learners, hard workers; and they were teenagers. They did dumb stuff too. They rebelled too. Punishment and 'lectures' were a norm. Suspension too. But they were good kids. No racism.

Who teaches anyone racism? I've had good Malay friends when I was young. Again, we were blind to racism. There were ocassions during my primary school years I clashed with some racists. An unkown malay boy said, "Oi Cina, balik China la". There was one time when we were playing football (school mates), a group of koochi-brat Malay boys came and confront us with a parang because earlier on we didn't let them join us to play (the field area we were using was too small - no more space). They ran when a Malay adult nearby started shouting at them. Morons.

I can't help but notice that somehow this racism issue comes a lot from the Malays. Pre-dominantly. Not all. And it is closely tied in with their religion. Don't understand why. For whatever the reason, the sentiment is "in the name of their religion". Or something like that. This is common news nowadays. Malay politicians are sprouting out major racist crap regarding the Chinese mostly. Its blatant and its in the media. The name calling is even somewhat shocking. You'd think that being adults, they'd know any better. You know, when I was in school, we called all our friends of different races names which today, if you use them, they'll curse you and want to kill you. Names like 'keling', 'melayu', 'cina-melayu', etc... well, they sound really bad but in school no ones gives a shit. There are also those that call each other with profanities. They go "oi f**k*r, what you doing" or "b**tard what you doing". It's daily conversation 101. Extreme... but no ones gives a crap. Teachers will go "B*bi tanah lu..." Then, everyone laughs out loud. These are really degrading and terrible. We know better now being adults and being much more educated in etiquette. We should be able to draw the line between being offensive and joking. But nope. Not with today's politicians.

Over the years of growing up, I did not for a very long time surround myself with Malay people and friends. And with news and media talking about how racism is starting to be a pain in our society it has somewhat marred my perception on Malays. I started not to like them for no apparent cause - no one did me any harm directly. Why should I not like them? This is called third party offense. Meaningless. I realise this, and now my perception is slowly changing back. I'm beginning to see some real good people around me. They don't give a rip about these racist stuff and they are genuinely nice people. I lived in a taman filled with Malays when I was 12 to 16 years of age. They are really nice people. Neighbours were kind; we played badminton together, rode our bicycles together, played ping-pong (at the surau yard). I even lent one neighbour my football boots one time. No issues. When I was about 11-12 years of age, I played with my Malay friends living in the Police Flats in the now Garden City everyday. We hanged out everyday without fail. I have Muslim relatives. My uncle is a nice man. His kids are great people. I don't see them as often as I should but I've always had a liking for my uncle. We rode in his souped up Mini one time when I was really young. He did a 'maut' corner at the Stadhuys bridge (going down to the now Jonker Walk) and the car tipped on one side for a moment. Super cool!! I don't know why I still remember that. Well, Malays make the best Nasi Goreng Kampung. I love it, Some makciks know I love it too. :) There are stalls that I frequent to and these makciks know what we like. These are really nice people. They are definitely not gonna tell me, "oi Cina, balik la". :)

Coming back to the school. That young Malay boy later changed... again. He became a gentleman. Yup. Nice, polite boy that we once knew. He did well with his instrument. I think he plated clarinet. Toured with us all the way till he finish Form 5. What changed him? I heard he was almost thrown out of the school if he didn't rehabilitate himself. He did. :) For whatever reason he taught he could do whatever he wants because of religion is madness. He became a good kid. He was to begin with. Got 'corrupted' along the way but found his way back.

Another kid. A Malay politician's kid. He was a rebel without a cause at first. Highly intelligent. Normal teenage angst in the early years but straigthen out by the time he was a senior. Very likeable, very polite, very well-mannered. He had good siblings and parents who taught him well enough to be a useful and good human being. I chatted up with him one time and he told me this. He couldn't decide what to do after his studies. I asked him if he'll go into politics like his dad. Then he said his sister (or was it brother?) told him to do what he feels happy doing and they will suport him 100%. But he must put in his best. His 100%. Even if wants to make roti canai, can. But he must be the best roti canai maker in the whole country. Very cool. I might have gotten the details wrong here (the cost of aging) but the story itself is true. He was delighted to know he has support from his family. Today, he's doing alright.. I don't know what he's doing exactly but he's alright.

Today, my new students are an interesting lot. I'm just getting to know them. I found out the concert master (or in plain terms, the head-person of the orchestra) is a chinese boy; a fellow student. Interesting in today's times. As usual, students have nick-names. Some of my students have funny ones. Some to which i think in today's times, can be considered racist. Although at present all Malays, I hear some nick-names like 'boon siew' (as in Honda), 'Iban', 'tank', 'mario', and some more which I'm looking forward to learn. :)
I'm thinking to myself, these fellas are good kids. I don't think they give a rip about racism. I'm chinese and they didn't start cursing me. It's now a multi-cultured school. Much more than before. What we see happening in the media is not reflected in these kids. Kids are innocent until they are 'taught' to be racists. Somewhere along the line they are being corrupted. Teach them today what is right so they will live rightly tomorrow. The adults today are shameless buggers. Major politicians today are shamless buggers. They accuse left right and center of everything under the sun and then when there's nothing else to shoot at, they use the race issue. Why have a race govern over another? It should be a Malaysian governing Malaysians. Malaysians are not Malays only. We are all humans created in the lightness of God Himself. None is superior to the other. What happened to multi cultural/racial Malaysia? I like wikipedia's explanation on our Rukunegara. Especially the first principlal. "Kepercayaan Kepada Tuhan" - http://ms.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rukun_Negara We adults are actually responsible in teaching our kids what is truth and just concerning religion and race. We should not learn to TOLERATE, we should learn to LOVE and ACCEPT each other. Leave religion out of the equation. Even if you bring it in, don't twist it to fit your stupid opinions and selfish ambitions. There is a saying, "out of the abundance of your heart, the mouth speaks". Ignorance aside, its from the Bible. It's true isn't it? If there's shit in your heart (your inner desires), then your mouth will be full of it too.

I've not met other teachers. But the kids are getting on just fine. The hope is when they leave school and get into higher learning centers, the rat-race, or even politics, they don't get their mind and perception corrupted. If they can live with each other in school, they can certainly do it outside, right?

It's going to be an interesting ride this round.

I Have a Confession...

Grace (God's unmerited favor; a direct definition to Jesus' sacrifice and all that's been atoned by it - salvation, blessing, healing, deliverance ) is like the electricity we have. It's already there, provided 24/7, and the only way to tap into it is to turn on the light switch. The light switch is Faith. Grace has been provided, Faith accepts and activates it. Who paid the bill? Jesus did, for unlimited lifetime, it's free with no terms and conditions.
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God-- not by works, so that no one can boast" Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV (emphasis added)

So, if I have been saved and forgiven, I'm also blessed, delivered, healed, successful, healthy.. the list goes on. This is something.

I have a confession.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. " Ephesians 1:3-6 KJV (emphasis added)

Every blessing (as promised to Abraham and Israel) is MINE through Jesus.
"That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith." Galatians 3:14 KJV
"That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel" Ephesians 3:6 KJV (emphasis added)

So, if I'm a heir together with Israel, what's the "Promises/Blessings"? Check it out.
Deutronomy 28:2-14 NLT (emphasis added)
2 You will experience all these blessings if you obey the LORD your God:
3 You will be blessed in your towns and in the country.
4 You will be blessed with many children and productive fields. You will be blessed with fertile herds and flocks.
5 You will be blessed with baskets overflowing with fruit, and with kneading bowls filled with bread.
6 You will be blessed wherever you go, both in coming and in going.
7 "The LORD will conquer your enemies when they attack you. They will attack you from one direction, but they will scatter from you in seven!
8 "The LORD will bless everything you do and will fill your storehouses with grain. The LORD your God will bless you in the land he is giving you.
9 "If you obey the commands of the LORD your God and walk in his ways, the LORD will establish you as his holy people as he solemnly promised to do.
10 Then all the nations of the world will see that you are a people claimed by the LORD, and they will stand in awe of you.
11 "The LORD will give you an abundance of good things in the land he swore to give your ancestors -- many children, numerous livestock, and abundant crops.
12 The LORD will send rain at the proper time from his rich treasury in the heavens to bless all the work you do. You will lend to many nations, but you will never need to borrow from them.
13 If you listen to these commands of the LORD your God and carefully obey them, the LORD will make you the head and not the tail, and you will always have the upper hand.
14 You must not turn away from any of the commands I am giving you today to follow after other gods and worship them.

See what the curses are:
21 The LORD will send diseases among you until none of you are left in the land you are about to enter and occupy. 22 The LORD will strike you with wasting disease, fever, and inflammation, with scorching heat and drought, and with blight and mildew. These devastations will pursue you until you die.
27 "The LORD will afflict you with the boils of Egypt and with tumors, scurvy, and the itch, from which you cannot be cured. 28 The LORD will strike you with madness, blindness, and panic.

Doesn't some of these things sound familiar? Cancer, aids, growths, lung related diseases, etc. WE ARE NOT SUPPOSE TO HAVE THESE DISEASES!! The curses go a long way into the chapter. But we have been delivered because it is said -
"But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, "Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree." Ephesians 3:13 NLT (emphasis added)

Awesomeness. What commandments is Deutronomy talking about? The 10 commandments - the old covenant. In Ephesians and Galatians, it says that through Jesus Christ, I inherit these blessings. In the book of Hebrews it says Jesus, the new blood covenant sacrifice, has superseded the old covenant. I am in a binding contract (covenant) with Jesus Christ. In this contract, it says I am defined as a child of God with unlimited resource, power and blessing. I am defined. John 1:12 says "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name" I am a son of God.

I have a confession!

I am HEALED because Jesus took my sickness to the cross.
"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." Isaiah 53:5 KJV
In Matthew it's confirmed - "That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Isaiah the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses." Matthew 8:17 KJV
In 2 Peter again it is said - "Who His own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed." 1 Peter 2:24 KJV

I am a child of the Most High God. I am accepted in the Beloved - the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. I am extremely blessed. I am extremely healed. I am extremely mad.

This is my confession. Circumstance do not dictate my situation. Grace through Faith determines my destiny. Grace through Faith determines my future. Grace through Faith determines my health. Doctors do not dictate my state of health. The WORD of God does. The WORD says by His stripes, I WAS healed (1 Peter 2:24. The physical appearance DO NOT dictate what's in the Spirit, As the blessings are released in Spirit (Ephesians 1:3), it WILL manifest into the flesh. Until it does, it will not change the confession.

That's my confession. Here'e the kicker. It can be yours too. Every Christian who has accepted Christ and been baptized in the Holy Spirit has the same confession. Until we realize our true Christ-potential, this must be the confession. We have the same resurrection power of Jesus in us. The Word says:
"I also pray that you will understand the incredible greatness of God's power for us who believe Him. This is the same mighty power that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 1:19-20 NLT (emphasis added)
It also says we can do this - "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us" Ephesians 3:20 KJV (emphasis added)

I am exceedingly challenged. I will not accept the norm. I'm tired of conforming to the natural. We are spiritual beings not conformed to this world as the WORD says. It's make it or break it.

Ready to take the challenge children of God? See you on the other side.

Peace.

"For all of God's promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding "Yes!" And through Christ, our "Amen" (which means "Yes") ascends to God for his glory."
2 Corinthians 1:20 NLT (emphasis added)

Hello... Testing....

Hello... testing.... it's ALLIIIIVEEE!!!

Season's Greetings

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Open for Business!

The store is now open. Drop by and call us if you need some groove!

Peace.

I am SONOR

Want one or need one? Call me. Muahahaha....

Vote for Our Band Name

We're finally getting a name for the band. But we need your help to decide which one. We've narrowed down to 2 names and here's your chance to be a part of the selection. Get to the vote site and make your selection. We're very excited to see the outcome.

Vote now - http://www.misterpoll.com/polls/453610

God bless!

Chinese and Beef

The cow is very much in the news these days. Here's a post not related to what we're reading in the media. Purely coincidental.

I've been asking myself whether it's true that the general Chinese people in Malaysia don't like beef. Where is this coming from? Well... on so many occasions when I go and pack that delicious oily and chilly-sauced-soaked burger daging from the regular pasar malam, I've been asked too often whether I take 'daging' or not. "Daging" means beef in the general Bahasa Melayu. Altho' it actually means "meat" translated directly but it has been used to commonly describe beef. So its like... "daging boleh?" or "makan daging ya?" or "...daging?? betul??"... and when I say "ya, daging"... the burger seller will look shock. They go like... "ohh.. biasanya orang Cina tak makan daging. Uncle tau makan daging ya..." So I'm wondering... really?? Chinese people don't eat beef?? You realize by now that the sellers or hawkers I'm referring to are Malays. Ok... you're thinkin about that "uncle" thing... drop it. It has also happened at Malay coffee shops... when I order the regular mee goreng or kuey teow, I'm asked whether beef can or not. Or if they don't have any other meat (in this case chicken) other than beef... the dish comes without meat. Vegetarian mee goreng?? apa lah...

Take a look... McDonald's have been around way long. Waaaay long before Malay youths liked the joint. When I was much younger... I noticed that the majority of the customers were Chinese youngsters and families of other races. At that time, also more higher income families. Now everybody seems higher income lah eventho' the prices of the burgers are skyrocketing... So... its like... ehh beef has been around for a long time lah and Chinese people alike have been whacking it! The other day I was in burger king. I ordered a Whopper Junior. I was asked... "daging boleh ya?"... For a moment I was stunned... ehh.. Burger King laa... of course la beef. The best beef burger in the world la....

This is not a racist post by the way. Its just an observation I did and based on first hand experiences. Next. What about that famous Beef Noodles? Chinese makes them lah. Taiwan Beef Noodles. Well... from Taiwan lah. Chinese again! Check out some pics I found online. All beef dishes that are whacked by Chinese. Some even travel countries and states just to whack them.


The much talked about Tangkak Beef Noodles. Haven't tried them yet... soon.



The also much talked about Taiwan Beef Noodles. ooo... It actually looks gross but I'm game to try. Soon...



Murtabak daging!! Phuuuhh! During puasa month... everywhere can find. BUT strangely... the stall in my taman only sells Murtabak ayam... like.... why lahh????



Beef Ball soup. oooo... nice! This is the Vietnamese version. I've tasted them as well as the Chinese version. Very nice.



The regular pasar malam Ramly Burger Daging Special. Sloppy but niiiice! hmm.... today got pasar malam....



Satay Daging! yayyyy....



Ahhh... the all familiar beef steak with black pepper sauce. This was common with Western Food outlets... non-halal ones for that matter (during my younger days). Now, these outlets are halal certified. See... Chinese were eating them looonng time aredi... Beef. Beef Steak. Some even eat them rare. ugghhh...


And the last of all... the best juicy beef meal of all. My all time favourite (sadly we eat this like a couple times a year only... note: for higher income families nowadays!)....

presenting you...




BURGER KING'S WHOPPER!!!!! FUUUYYOOOOOOO!!!!!

Nice tag line up there. Whopper is STRONGER!



I like beef! I like BEEEF! Yeah!!!! I EAT Beeeeef!!!! woohooo! and I'm Chinese.


Note: Sorry... no disrespect to any Hindu readers. This post is really for non-Hindu's only.

Cheers.

Now I want to eat beef... uhhh...

Shopping Center Randomness

Saw some interesting game stuff for kids.. and for adults too? hahaaa...


This is cool. You build the toy.. then paint it.



This is like UNO. Except they give you this hammer with a sucker. You whack the cards you suppose to UNO and it sticks to the hammer. Cool rite?



These are like science projects... you build 'robots'.. oooo... see the price? uhhh.. what a rip off... maybe china can come up with some knock-offs.... hmm.....



BINGO! for kids! yayyyy... altho' i can't remember how to play bingo....



something for the girls... make your own handbag, purse or something... don't you think the packaging looks like some underwear of pad thingy? uhh....



This is a really nice jacket. It's from my favourite brand and it was on 50% off. So it's about RM25 after discount. Wanted to buy it for Sean but I think that he thinks it wasn't stylo enough. The boy is goin thru the whole gaya and not gaya phase. He thinks that people laugh at him if he wears something out of the ordinary, like a jacket... well... anyways... it's in Jusco. Sale till 31st August.



BOB THE BUILDER!! YAYYYYY... this wasn't on sale. hahaa... the kids love this.



Saw this one in Giant. Transformers underwear for kids. What a rip off... expensive just because of the logo...



They also have Transformers pyjamas... another rip off. But they are really NICE! That's size 10... not RM10. I think it's about RM29+ for a set (top and bottom). All these in Giant.



O'timus "Plime". hahaaa Nice!

OK... shopping center randomness stops here. Stay tuned for more.



Greetings! I'm bumble bee. No, I'm bumble bee... No, I'm bumble bee... you shuddup!!
...


peace.

Of Fridays and The Weekend...

at JJ Melaka... ooo... Transformers... uhh... keychains?? what?

Had a short gig in KL.. then we headed for some refreshments... mmm....


SWEDISH MEATBALLSS!!! OOH LA LA!



mmm.... gotta have them meatballs... muahahahaaa



...err what is he eating? obviously i have a crappy camera...



MEATBALLSSS!!!!





more photos soon on KL....and the band! i hope....

Prophetic Conference 2009

click on image for larger format. click here for details.

Wish List.... no. 1?

s.w.e.e.t.

so.... who's buying it for me? heheheh...

The New Resident

Yeah.... sweet.

Transformers 2 Movie Footage

Found this on a dude's blog. It is NICE!!! Get the movie clip here.

El Sanctuary

I know of a place. It's real nice and quiet. Real calm. A good place to relax. A good place to have fun too. A good place for reflection. Lots of oxygen. Lots of trees. Nice hosts. A real sanctuary. To find out more about El Sanctuary, check out their site here. This place is really nice if you love nature. A good camp site for church retreats or training. Also a good place for corporate team building sessions or motivational camps. The site is excellent for groups. I have the opportunity to know the folks there personally. They're really nice people. Very hospitable and they are dear friends.


Chalets and Dormitories available


Fine dining

So call them now for bookings/reservations. Again... here's the website.

The Itinerant Christian

Lately, or well years actually, I have been thinking of something... interesting. This I think will challenge us from today, what we actually think of ourselves when we say we are ministers of the gospel, or what we've been taught to think. Is there such a place in the church circle... here in Malaysia or anywhere for that matter... that we as Christians can function in FULL capacity of our calling, gifting and talent, serving God with all conviction and anointing, but in doing all that, not be confined to ONE church or congregation or group. What??? This has a lot to do with "a church without walls". Heard of that one?

Yeah, we do go to A church; we give our tithes, offerings, we serve, BUT... we should also be able to offer our ministry elsewhere too, believing that what God has given us is for everyone, everywhere and anytime. Not just ONE church or group. A little stretched, but picture this. We all know the familiar term Itinerant Minister/Pastor. We know that whenever there are camps, seminars, conventions, or even Sunday services, we have guest speakers... not only locals but as well as internationals. More often than not, these speakers say they have an itinerant ministry. They do belong to some church somewhere, but when called, they will be there to minister elsewhere. And this is part of the life calling apart from being a church pastor, etc. Apparently, this is ok for them and many regard very highly of these speakers as they minister with the full anointing of God.

So... question is, can this also happen for the 'common' Christian? So I'm seeing it here and there. But people don't generally acknowledge it as it is - itinerant in nature. Maybe they see the word 'itinerant' as more global... or more acceptable for pastors or those who are considered 'ministers'. I see members who are actively involved in NGOs or charitable organizations where they serve the people in areas of charity, the disabled, soup kitchens, etc. That's being a minister. I see people attending church events lending a hand at bazaars, food fair, donation drives, etc. I see musicians being rallied from various congregations to worship and minister. But most of the times, this also can only be seen in "JOINT-CHURCH" events which happens at the most twice a year. Twice a year?? Other than that, we are all busy serving the programs, visions, missions and directives of our own church. We have this meeting, that meeting, this and that training, bible studies, prayer meetings, healing meetings, camps, conventions, seminars.... all for the benefit (like 80% of the time) of our own congregation. It's happening. It's been happening. It'll probably continue to happen. I'm not even talking about the congregation I worship with. I'm talking about ALL congregations. ALL.

Check this out. How many churches are there in Malaysia? Think hard... Answer is--- ONE. It's the church of Jesus Christ. The church that Christ Himself started and commissioned. WE ARE THAT CHURCH. Note: I said WE. Not that building, or this denomination or that. We forget that. The buildings we worship in are really called 'congregations'. So, there is ONE church of Jesus Christ and there are many congregations. The reason we go to congregations is primarily for fellowship (exhorting one another, building each other up) and learning of the Word among other things. Check out the book of Acts which showed how the early Christians did this. Other than that, we should be out on the field doing God's work. Agreed? SO.... back to topic. Itinerant - ARE we supposed to be itinerant in the nature of our faith? Are we all suppose to be itinerant ministers taking the gospel to everywhere? Are we suppose to use whatever gift and talent and utilize our calling for all congregations with the hope that it benefits not ONE congregation but the entire church of Jesus Christ, since there is only ONE church? Or are we to be exclusive? What then? I'm a church musician. I have friends who are also church musicians. I often wondered that since it was really God's idea that the whole worship thing came about... how come we spend a lot of our time worshiping with only one congregation? How is it that since we are the church of Jesus Christ, and that there is only one, yet every week we spend time worshiping in a building with the same people. Years even. Ever wondered what our other brothers and sisters in Christ are doing? How do they worship God at their respective congregations? Or...ok more like... "man, I wish I can just go and check out the other congregations and worship together with them"... ahh... dangerous grounds here.... sensitive.... We say this a lot - the last combined church event we had was awesome! The atmosphere and the worship was like wow! God's presence was really felt. Do you realize why? duhh.... of course... its because God's people are united in worship and praise together! Simple. There is power in unity. A lot of things happen when God's people come together. And most often, when they DO come together, these are people from different congregations. It brings about a natural form of encouragement and nudge - hey we're all here together to worship the same God that we love and serve. It's an awesome sense of excitement! So back to the musician's thingy. So being church musicians also... we wonder what it would be like ministering alongside church musicians from other congregations. I have had many privileges of doing that. But we don't do it often enough. The beauty of doing so is this. There is so much diversity in worship and making music. Most of the times we learn more by playing and learning with others. It opens our eyes and understanding on how God works with different individuals and groups... and congregation in worship. We are exposed to different levels of worship. We see different things happen. We learn new skills and abilities when these things happen. We learn new expressions of worship that the Bible itself speaks of that we didn't know existed.

So... the itinerant Christian. Minister. Musician. Pastor. You put the name there. Is it for real? Can our calling, gift, ability, be available for all? Can it be available at just a phone call? Can it be available without it being a threat to our existing congregation? Sheep stealing? Come one... Can it be available just for any congregation? Here are some examples of what I mean:
- I have a regular congregation that I worship in. I give my tithes and offerings there. I serve in some ministries. This remains.
- Once in a while I visit other congregations and take part in some of their activities to maintain some form of good brotherly/sisterly fellowship and to make use of what God has imparted in me. This can be in stuff like, lending a helping hand in events, ministering in prayer, ministering music. This is not just one congregation but many and not confined to states.
- Once in a while I visit other congregations just because I want to. Makes life more interesting and unpredictable. This is sometimes strange 'cos when you walk into the congregation, the pastor looks more worried to see than excited cos... they somewhat worry that you're going to 'jump ship'.... uhh man... or some of them get really excited about it as well.. haahh...
- I start a separate ministry that I share with friends of other congregations with the same vision. We minister in worship. We avail ourselves to any congregation that we can be a blessing to. We start goin places.... mmm.. sounds awesome.
- I join mission trips of other congregations.
These are just some. Hope you get where I'm going.

Here's the thing. I spoke of this to a dear friend and also with my wife. They somewhat think I'm dreaming or trying to rally a cause for nothing. Or I'm just trying to make excuses to support this crazy idea I have. The irony is, my friend is already doing it and he doesn't seem to see it... yet. Haha.. well... you tell me. If there's even anyone reading my blog (I wonder all the time)... post in your thoughts on this. What do you think? Should we be itinerant in nature? Does it make sense? Do I make sense?

Tell me please...

Cheers.

EDITED:
Would just like to clarify on my wife's true thoughts on this issue. I have very poor memory nowadays and after much discussion and a little reflection, there needs to be proper statements made. :)
This whole idea has become what we, my wife and I, really think is ideal and to be true for today's church. No longer can there be churches (or congregations) with walls. It is no longer one congregation that can bring about change in our community. It is the entire Body of Christ (THE Church) that will make impact. We believe this in its entirety. I made an error in saying that she thought I was rallying a cause for nothing. That is inaccurate. What was meant is that we thinks... that rallying the cause would not receive any positive response from the pastors, which in turn, become futile. Why I say pastors? Because in the current times here, they are the ones who need to see this happening First, so that the congregation sees it just as well. Correct me if I'm wrong here. So, there it is. We both see and desire the same thing here. Can it happen? We don't know. But we will endure to pursue this somehow. May our children too learn to see how big the kingdom of Heaven (here on earth) is. And His kingdom is for all.

Well, enough said for now. Back to the readers.

One of those days...

I parked my car in some taman behind the shoplots... free parking la. Walked towards the shoplots... walked up the steps and got into the bank. Took a number. Waited for about a minute. Ahh... my turn.

Me: Hi. I want to cancel my credit card.. can I do it here?
Counter Lady: No... you have to go to the Customer Service Counter...
Me: Oh... ok... do I have to take a number for that?
Counter Lady: Yes. Press button C.

Uhh.... duhh... ok ... so I went to take another number. Waited just for a few seconds and yeah... my turn.

Customer Service: Good morning...
Me: Hi good morning. I would like to cancel my credit cards... (taking out my cards)
Customer Service: Sorry sir... I can't cancel your cards... this is Ambank... we cannot cancel Public Bank Cards.
Me: ??????? (takes a look at my cards and realize what a dumb ass I was) Oh man... I'm sorry (smiling cutely)... right... Public Bank is just next door... Sorry sorry...

Walks out the door.... and like.... WHAT THE HECK LAHHHH!!!!!!

The Dream...

A Sonor Force 3007 13" x 7" Special Edition Maple Snare. Sweet. Lord let this happen....

Teardrops on My Guitar...

The Yamaha APX-6 with retro controls.

Meet my guitar. My gorgeous guitar. It's a Yamaha APX-6. To me this is one fine guitar. It has survived some rigorous playing and the body shows. Paint and lacquer is really chipping off. I really like its tone and I've managed to tweak the action to my liking. Really fits my fingers well and has good playability. I will not trade this guitar for any. This guitar was a gift from my dad. Now if only I can remember which birthday it was - still during my teenage years. It was a real surprise. He just started off his own car repair business again (after many years) and was really doing well. Bless the Lord for that. So one day he asked, "Jason do you want a guitar?"... well something like that. And he already spoke to my older bro Jim who was at that time in KL and made arrangements. I was already playing guitar in my church and youth group at that time. So the guitar was purchased and I did not know what to expect. When my bro came back with the guitar on my birthday, I was like whoooaaaa! so cun la the guitar!!! I am so grateful to my dad. It was an awesome gift.

Today the guitar still sounds sweet. But as with all things, nothing lasts forever. The electronics have since failed. Started less than 2 years ago (check my archives on a Mission Trip I took part in). It was repaired months ago (a blessing by a dear brother from church)... BUT... died again last week. Ughh... man the disappointment. But God is good. The guitar has played and will still play songs of gratitude and love to my Savior.

I use a gauge 11 set on my guitar. I especially like D'Addario's Phosphor Bronze Custom Light. They are excellent! If you cant afford those Elixir and whatever that'll cost you your underwear... then these babies will do! They will not fail you. After playing acoustic guitar for quite a while... I realized this.... NEVER use gauge 10s for acoutic guitars! They just suck and don't bring out the warmth of the acoustic body. I mean like... no guitar effect can save this. Check them out here.

This is an awesome guitar! I've tried other models... APX4, 5, 7... mine's still cooler and awesomer. YEah!!!!

Well... at least until I recently played a Larrivee.... ohhhh man!!!!!! Good bye Taylor and Yamaha!

Here's to my sweet guitar. No teardrops please. It'll rot the wood.