Life, Travel, GRACE

J. Peterson was in town in March. We had the privilege to listen to his sharing during his visit. He shared about bridging the gospel in our relationship. Why do we need to bridge the gospel? One has to acknowledge that God created man in His likeness (Gen 1:26) and thus, God is the creator. The Bible also acknowlegdes that God exists long before the creation (Ecc 1:10) and He has a plan for human since the creation (Gen 2). In the New Testaments, we are told that we are chosen to be holy and blameless before Him (Eph 1:4). And we bear this image of God to bridge the gospel to our surroundings. It doesn't take much effort like being the salt and light (Mat 5:13-14). It needs some initiative, prayer, serving and seeking together.

When it comes to nature, Bali offers a spectacular volcano mountain view as well as calm and pristine lake. Among the famous volcano mountains in Bali are Gunung Agung (highest point in Bali ) and Gunung Batur. Gunung Batur is located at the center of two concentric calderas, north west of Gunung Agung. It is a caldera within a caldera due to its multiple explosions in the past years. From the outer rim, one can view the spectacular Gunung Batur from Kintamani, a touristy place with row of restaurants and cafes. We attempted to ascend the Gunung Batur in the early morning, while it was still dark. Such an early climb reminiscence the climb of the Kinabalu peak ten years ago. The sky was clear that morning with multitude of stars above. It was cooling too. The climb began with easy walk through the flat plain land. Then slowly we have to struggle to ascend the steep slope of the volcano ash all the way to the top. This should serve as training ground for Kinabalu climb. We reach

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities – his eternal power and divine nature – have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20 In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. Ephesians 1:11-12 From the old testaments to the new testaments, numerous verses focus on the praising and glorifying God. Indeed, this purpose of glorifying God is demonstrated in the work of God, mankind and material world. It is because God is the creator that he deserves the honor, praise and glory. Similarly, the creation itself is the sign of the glory of God. As we are made in the image of God, we should manifest God’s glory in our economic activity as well. How do we, as individual (and as a group) can reflect the glory of God in

Pumpkin plant grows in my garden. Thanks to SY for bringing the organic fertilizer. Now it's growing, with flowers but no fruits yet. Soon? Just as the Scriptures say: .... bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God (Col 1:10).

See the new brother next to this black Myvi? That's BK new acquisition. He's lovin it.

Not long ago, Mr and Mrs J. Payton visited Malaysian Navigators. He was the ex-national leader for Latin America region and now residing in Columbia. His humorous yet inspiring sharing livened up our spirit that night. When he started missionary work in Latin America (think should be Mexico), he was advised not to do any ministry on the first year. So as for the second year, and the years thereafter. Sounds great – no need to do ministry activity for missionary call (this was advised by J. Peterson though). After all, the essence of missionary is learning the culture of the local. One needs to love the local people. Out of love, you will begin to realize God is working. By the way, J is a very good singer. That night, he performed Michael Bolton’s “To love somebody”. Think he should join those singing talent contests.

Back to Sabah last week. Climbed the Kinabalu Mountain but didn't attempt the peak (as I've been there, done that). Went back to Sandakan as well. Been to Sepilok. Had some good home cook meal.