My desire to make light and airy pancakes was all but a pipe dream. (Previous attempts *here* and *here*.)
However, it is now a thing in the past... Long gone are the days of flat and rubbery pancakes, behold the days of FLUFFY, AIRY and totally LUSCIOUS pancakes are here to stay!
As I've discovered in the quest of making perfect pancakes, patience is of utmost importance (love and care too, while you're at it).
I scooped three spoonfuls of batter onto the non-stick pan and this was the outcome. *points below*
I reduced it to two ladles of batter onto the pan and saw a slight improvement. But, ONE spoonful of batter, allowed slowly to bubble and froth, and you get...
Now, to round up the successful cinnamon-scented raisin pancakes day, drizzle with silky amber honey.
It is what we are created for, we are created for worship.
To worship is to attribute worth to something. To worship is to revere and to adore. And, we are created for that.
The recognition of that is awe-inspiring and life-changing.
I realised this a couple of years ago and it changed me. It changed the quality of worship I brought before my King, it transformed the sacrifice of praise lifted up.
From then on, no longer was it duty or service, it became a lifestyle.
I love this quote by Joseph L. Garlington, it says this: “Worship is like breathing; you're created to do it ALL THE TIME - It's a lifestyle.”
---------------
"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams."
Eleanor Roosevelt
--------------
And, how much more beautiful can our dreams get when they are birthed in us by the God of the Impossible, Him who makes ALL things beautiful in His time?
SO blessed!
Now, I know I've mentioned that I wasn't going to be big about Christmas presents giving this year around.
I turned over a new leaf last week.
Over almost three hours of intense retail therapy, what WAS my Christmas presents pile {look below}
now looks like this. {points below}
With all the presents being wrapped, decorated and tied with ribbons, I decided to go all out - by personalising gift tags and Christmas note cards. (Read: handwritten, heartfelt, homemade cards and tags.)
Christmas note cards in his and her colours.
I snagged these closing lines off a Hallmark movie I watched a couple of weeks back.
"Love is alive and constantly evolving. Don't attempt to understand it. Or, reason with it. Or, deny it entry to your heart with excuses molded from doubt and insecurity in your heart. Rather, when it comes your way, grasp love. Hold onto it for all its' worth. Never let fear keep you from reaching for life's bouquets. And finally, never ever fail to take a chance on love."
Taking A Chance on Love, Astro Diva (Channel 702) - November 30th, 2010.
Last worship leading session for 2010.
It has been almost 7 years (6.5years) since I first started worship leading in TOP. I still get SO excited when I see my name on the duty roster.
It is and always has been an honour to serve in the House of God. It will forever be a privilege.
Father, I ask that YOUR will be done and You have YOUR way.
"Arise, shine, for your light has come,
and the glory of the LORD rises upon you."
Isaiah 60:1 (New International Version)
All the way from UK.
Safely delivered yesterday, received with excitement, opened with joy that very same night.
I felt SO loved. I'm still feeling the warmth of that love. Here, let me show you that love package.
It is incredibly great (and touching) to have a friend who knows the extent of love you have for your dog and loves you even more to get a Christmas outfit for your little guy. :)
The highlight to my whole love package?
.
.
.
.
.
And, finding this {points below} wedged between the fold of the card.
*
Dearest Kelfy,
I am glad that you received your love package (from me to you) safely (and in one piece). Some traditions we've shared doesn't change and I am thrilled that this is one of them - Exchanging Christmas gifts although we are 6434 miles apart. Thanks, Baby!
Love you,
Melissa.
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"Though our feelings come and go, God's love for us does not."
C.S. Lewis
---------------
Thank you, Father, for loving us in spite of our 'feelings'. I adore and love You.
According to the polls made by a certain 14 y.o, I have been bestowed with the coveted award some time before lunch today.
I emerged from the shower into my bedroom and upon entering, I saw this {points below}.
It says, "Best Sister Award 2010."
*
Dearest Angeline,
I know that we've not always had the best and sunny side up sister-to-sister relationship, but keep this in mind forever: I love you and I always will.
Hugs,
Jie Jie.
Remember the little sneak-a-peek I gave you?
Well, today is THE day, folks. The day of the Grand Reveal, the Prestigious Unveiling. (A sprinkle of exaggeration never hurts anybody. {grins})
Gingerbread Man and his Partner is taking a break
to make way for Holly the Header to grace Chatty Lass for a little bit.
Happy Christmas in advance!
---------------
"..... you cannot tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water."
Nancy Reagan
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The Wife of Noble Character
10 A wife of noble character who can find?
She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her
and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm,
all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax
and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still night;
she provides food for her family
and portions for her female servants.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously;
her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable,
and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff
and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor
and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed;
she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,
where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
31 Honor her for all that her hands have done,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.
Proverbs 31:10-31 (New International Version)
*
I know many have said a wife (and mother) of Proverbs 31 is a rarity. In fact, in the XX Chromosome Community, it can be referred to as an almost extinct species.
However, all is not lost because I (unapologetically) think that my mum is an epitome of Proverbs 31.
Mummy, I just thought you should know that I love you very much. I adore you.
Hugs and kisses,
Melissa. :)
I found this video (sung by Sidney Mohede and written by Sari Simorangkir) on Youtube, and I cried as I listened to the lyrics.
This is my prayer for Malaysia: "Kami rindu melihat Malaysia (originally Indonesia), pulih dari semua problema" - Translation: "We long to see Malaysia, be healed from all its' problems."
Heavenly Father, heal our land.
Isaiah 58:12 - "And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; and you shall be called Repairer of the Breach, Restorer of Streets to dwell in."
I have always found Max to be very adorable. My friends (in unison) told me that I have a strong bias towards my four-legged son, but I am denying it at all costs. {grins}
I frequently snap pictures of him, and they usually turn out to be darling and dear.
However, of all the shots I've managed to take of him, I think that he looks incredibly charming from his side profile.
Take a look at the below photographs to see if I'm right. (That's a statement. If you wish to read it as a question, it is a rhetorical one.)
I listened to a podcast of Rich Wilkerson Jr’s sermon tonight and it was founded on this: Almost isn’t good enough. Almost does not cut it. Not when it comes to God and the things that matter to His heart: You.
The dictionary defines almost as ‘very nearly’, ‘all but’.
From my point of view, almost could be defined as what-could-have-been.
Almost could also be said as grazing the bare minimum, more or less meeting the prerequisite.
Other words or synonyms for the word are sort of, practically, just about, wasn’t exactly.
God is not interested in us being a lukewarm or an ‘almost, sort of’ Christian. God’s plan is not that we would live a ‘just about’ great life. God sent His son, Jesus so that we ‘may have and enjoy life and have it in abundance; to the FULL, till it OVERFLOWS’ (John 10:10, Amplified Bible).
He has called for you to go ALL THE WAY to which He has ordained for you.
It’s all the way or nothing. It’s your entire life poured out, or it’s of no purpose. It’s both feet planted and rooted in, or it will just remain a footprint that was once there.
I said this on March 21st, “I want to get into heaven with a life that has been COMPLETELY spent and poured out for His purposes.”
I made this commitment when I started serving in the ministry 7 years ago – I will do what He desires, whenever and wherever He wants it done. No backing out. No taking a backseat when it gets tough.
Thus far, God’s amazing grace and strength has sustained me.
It has not been a bed of roses, neither is a breeze - Life’s curveballs, personal upheavals, ministry’s challenges; they’re not easy to deal with, but they are certainly not reason for me to back down.
Simply put, at the end of my days, I do not want to fall into the ‘almost’ statistic. “Oh, she was a great worship leader. Too bad (so-and-so) caught up to her.”
Not finishing our task. Not completing our assignment. Not fulfilling our purpose. Not giving our all. Doing a half-baked routine. Having a half-hearted faith. It is not how God wants us to live.
I challenge you today, do not live as an ‘in-between’ Christian. Go all out for Him. It's either that, or it's nothing. Choose to STAND in that gap and bring a difference to your world, our world.
Love you so,
Melissa.
Well, sort of.
Brunch overlooking the garden.
Clockwise from the top: Homemade bread, Bangers (British slang for sausages) topped with sauteed onions, Fishballs and Omelette.
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"Enthusiasm is not based on how fun your job is or how much it pays; it's based on WHY you do what you do."
Rick Warren
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P/S: I have always been a big believer of leading a passion-driven life. I still am.
*
Related post(s):
Beautiful Day by Altiyan Childs (X Factor Australia)
I have always been very vocal (and passionate) about my love for opera and Broadway.
I have also mentioned (more than once) of my love for deep baritone, rich and velvety tenor voices - the likes of Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli, Mandy Patinkin.
But, there is always a part of my heart, a soft spot for rock bands. I love the choice of edgy instruments (guitar and drum solos are my favourites!), the bold (couldn't care less) lyrics and catchy melody (synthesizers provide added detail).
So, in Twitter (or is it Tweet?) World, I heard rave reviews of Altiyan Childs' performances.
My curiousity was piqued and it will not yield until I did what I had to: I Youtube-d him.
Altiyan Childs singing U2's 'Beautiful Day'.
I couldn't get my eyes (and ears) off him. Stunning voice, brilliant performance. I loved it.
It's Official - I Have a Hate/Fear Relationship with Ants
About a month ago, I was sleeping. Very soundly. In sweet abandon of everything else.
Sunshine was radiating golden yellow rays that morning, my neighbour's (incredibly irritating) cat was playing nice that morning - none of those high-pitching meowing.
I was snuggled up in the cold of the air-conditioner, covers pulled up to my chin and I was resting on my tummy when I felt an IMMENSELY sharp pain on my right hand.
Reluctantly, I peeked open one eye and realised the perpetrator to my joyful morning, sound sleep and second favourite hand - a ginormous fire ant.
I killed it with my bare hands (with the aid of a tissue). Ahh, the satisfying sensation of victory!
I thought all was well till I woke up the next morning.
I could not make a fist and there was a numbing feeling to that hand.
To my horror of horrors, I then saw THIS {points below}.
One (horrid) jab, some medication and three days afterwards, my right hand looked like it should once again.
Upon seeing ants now, my insides get tangled up with disgust (this is NOT a 'butterfly in my stomach' situation), shivers are sent down my spine and goosebumps erupt on the surface of my skin.
Man, I really hate ants.
(L to R) Fragrance, Debra and Mel.
Dear Yoghurt Frap loves,
In our next outing, we shall have the Matcha Green Tea frozen yoghurt, I promise.
Love,
Berry'd Treasure Yoghurt Frap.
I opened up my Inbox a little while ago to find the cutest email attachment in it.
This note came with it.
Dearest Rachel,
YOU have shown me how worthwhile friendships can be, and how much they are worth. I don't think that there is a price tag good enough to hang on it, because I consider our friendship priceless.
Opening up my Inbox and receiving your email has given me such joy. I treasure the times we've spent together, however short they were. I love how we are able to share our hearts with one another, distance and time apart has not put a dent on our friendship.
You are so beautiful inside and out, a wonderful daughter and MY precious friend.
I can't wait to see you this December. Val has already planned and reserved our get-together dates when you're up in Penang.
Love you so much,
Melissa.
It turned out to be Adam Young of Owl City's blog. I love his posts, it is written with raw honesty that draws me (my heart and interest) in like a magnet.
I noticed this post tonight, and I loved this excerpt from his recent post, Deep Regret.
That is his prayer for his Cinderella, and it is my prayer for my Prince Charming.
Reeling my thought archive a few months ago, I was on an emotional rollercoaster – my thoughts were all over the place, my emotions were a jumble and mixture of it all.
Daddy sat me down and shared with me a story – The Story of the Shulamite Woman.
The Shulamite Woman demonstrated with her life what real love is. In Songs of Solomon 4, the Shulamite Woman was referred to as ‘a garden locked up, a spring enclosed, and a sealed fountain’ (verse 12, paraphrased).
Those metaphors (I like to call it ‘creative writing’) are in reference to her heart, he gently said. Her heart was locked up, enclosed and sealed; only to be opened to her beloved when the time comes. Likewise, he continued, my heart should mirror that of the Shulamite Woman’s.
In this age, having spoken to my youths (little ones, I’d always call them) and even realising it for myself, we have opened up our hearts (too liberally) to all that we deem worthy whom we’ve met along the way – only to be disappointed and crushed most of the time, because it was a ‘dine and dash’ situation.
So, this has been the prayer seal I’ve kept over my heart and will continue to do so until His good time.
I visited Starbucks Monday night, and downed a yummy mug of Peppermint Mocha Latte (Spearmint Green cuppa, Peppermint Mocha Latte - I love the smell of mint!) last night.
So, the Christmas drappings and deco, plus the mint scented coffee (there is something about mint and Christmas, they ARE a dynamic duo), I think I got hit by the Christmas bug very early on this year.
No presents buying (just yet!), but more header designs late into last night. It should make its' way to be revealed late November/early December. Keep an eye out for it.
For now, a little sneak peek.
I'm off to be on a lookout for presents!
So, I had a cuppa (Spearmint Green, it's my favourite) at Starbucks last night and I saw the place decked with holly, shiny ornaments, snowflakes; the whole nine yards.
I immediately felt a warm glow.
I looked through my previous Advertising assignments and I saw this. {points below}
My advertising assignment: Creating a brand advertisement for a festive season.
(Handed in on October 28th, 2009.)
*
So, as of now, this candy header {points below, again}
is making way for another to fit the coming celebration (and Christmassy mood).
Remember I talked about how a bowl of hot mushroom soup and a super cute pup resting on my chest IS the best way to spend a chilly day indoors?
Well, while I was writing that and having my little Max bundled up in my arms, I conveniently forgot to turn off the gas ring. Consequently, the smokey (burnt) flavour didn't mesh well with the mushroom soup. I spent my mid-morning/pre-afternoon throwing out the charred bits and pieces, and scrubbing the pot.
SO, minus the bowl of hot mushroom soup, cuddles and snuggles (cuggles) with Max warms me up inside out. Pretty darn good way to spend a chilly day indoors.
..... is to have a bowl of hot mushroom soup in your hand and a super cute pup (who spends every living hour staring at and adoring you as though you are the most amazing person alive) snuggled up against your chest.
#Sweet days.
In my years of serving in Youth Impact as a leader, I have never been more blessed and that moment for me has and always will become one of the most significant memories in ministry.
I learnt something so valuable that day, and it will be something I hold onto for the rest of my days.
I learnt that we will never know how far the ripples of our kindness go.
A genuine smile, a quick exchange of words, gentle and supportive words of encouragement, time spent building friendships, time invested in really caring for ONE person makes a world of difference.
I am not referring to the whole shebang - all-out sacrifice, humongous chunk of time spent on counsel, a portion of financial support. Granted and prompted by God to do so will be an honour, but I am talking about day-to-day thoughtfulness and purposeful (random) care – it TOUCHES lives.
I sobbed and sobbed as my youths shared their hearts and recorded their thanks for the aforementioned acts of kindness and care, and how it impacted their lives.
One of the most memorable moment was to hear them say the privilege and honour that God has bestowed upon my life to lead worship in His House - the radical and heartfelt worship that I bring before my King – it aspires them to want to love God with their whole lives, and it invokes in them the reality of the God that we lift up our voices, explosive praise and adoring worship to. (I sobbed even more upon hearing that.)
We will never know how far the ripples of our kindness go. Today’s kindness could change someone’s life tomorrow.
Kindness given may not always be kindness reciprocated, kindness shared might not always be kindness received. Kindness done must not be kindness expected in return.
But I challenge you, you reading this post, DO IT ANYWAY.
For, “your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” – Matthew 6:4 (New International Version).
Related post(s):
Piano cover of Hillsong's 'This Is Our God'. Arrangement by Lucas Piano.
SO beautiful.
Cast: Katherine Heigl, Josh Duhamel, Christina Hendricks, Hayes MacArthur and many more.
I commend the partnership of Katherine Heigl and Josh Duhamel as Holly Berenson and Eric Messer. Their chemistry was aplenty and palpable.
The storyline doesn't deviate from the rom-com textbook - The male species somehow manages to look scruffy, rugged AND hot, the female species is usually pretty, neurotic and unable to score hot guys. The two are at each other's throats since forever, but a devastating tragedy forces them to bear with each other. It not only brings bouts of change, it draws them closer and seeing the other in a different light. Soon, sparks fly and it either ends up with a make-out session or a bedroom scene. However, an issue arises and forces them to re-think their new romance. And like all good and predictable rom-coms, it has a happy ending - usually with tearful embraces in the airport, hot air balloon or, anywhere really.
Life As We Know It is all that, PLUS an uber cute, chubby-cheeked baby.
I highly recommend this movie for unwinding purposes - plenty of eye-candy (I was really paying most of my attention to Josh Duhamel's toned arms and the adorable Baby Sophie), a couple of funny baby moments (diaper changing and spew-in-the-face bits), a few tender and heartwarming scenes (I shamelessly admit that I cried).
Rating: 3.5/5
My heart aches, it pains me to see broken hearts; longing for love and acceptance. But for once, I am thankful for having my heart broken for this cause, because Oswald Chambers says this:
"If God can accomplish His purposes in this world through a broken heart, then why not thank Him for breaking yours?"
With a heart that is crying out for the love of Christ to overflow into hearts that are dry, torn to bits and pieces, scarred with shame and marred with unbelief, this continues to be the prayer of my heart: Father, break my heart for what breaks Yours.
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"Discipline means giving up the good and the better for the BEST."
Warren. W. Wiersbe
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As I was listening to a worship cd and worshipping last night, I recalled of the first time I began worship leading. It was not too long ago, just some 6 years back.
God has been SO gracious, ever faithful.
Worship leading in Youth Impact this year has taken on a completely different toll.
We have scaled down our Worship Team and become minimalists - meaning, we only roster one keyboardist, one guitarist and a drummer. Often times, there is only one back-up singer and on a few rare occasions, there are none. It is because we have a shortage of musicians, and all of our current musicians are younger ones in training.
It is good change, really.
I am reminded once more, to go back to basics; back to the 'heart of worship' - to the essence of true worship.
I've said it countless times, and I will probably go on speaking of it as long as I live.
The condition AND attitude of our hearts are SO important in worship leading.
"What are you desiring for when leading worship?" is the best question to check our hearts.
I do this every single time before I step up to the platform. I search my heart, I pray for God to "search my heart, see if there is any offensive way in me and lead me in the way everlasting" (Psalm 139:24-25, paraphrased).
Worship leaders, I urge you - Seek His face, desire His presence.
A statement that I read in Bill Johnson's book, Face to Face with God said of Moses, "Moses preferred the wilderness with God, than to enter the promised land without God."
As Moses said in Exodus 33:15, "If Your presence does not go with us, do not lead us up from here."
I pray that you would truly seek His face and desire for His presence.
Let His song be embedded in your heart. His anthem of praise and song of worship stretches into the eternal; it refines, it changes and it touches - our hearts and lives, as well as the hearts and lives of all that is around us.
Much love,
Mel.
The Power of Your Name
by Lincoln Brewster
{Verse 1}
Surely children weren't made for the streets
And fathers were not made to leave
Surely this isn't how it should be
Let Your Kingdom come
Surely nations were not made for war
Or the broken meant to be ignored
Surely this just can't be what You saw
Let Your Kingdom come
Here in my heart
{Chorus}
And I will live to carry Your compassion
To love a world that's broken
To be Your hands and feet
I will give with the life that I've been given
And go beyond religion
To see the world be changed
By the power of Your name
{Verse 2}
Surely life wasn't made to regret
And the lost were not made to forget
Surely faith without action is dead
Let Your Kingdom come
Lord break this heart
{Bridge}
Your name is a shelter for the hurting
Jesus, Your name is a refuge for the weak
Only Your name can redeem the undeserving
Jesus, Your name holds everything I need
*
The first half of the chorus IS my heartbeat.
"I will live to carry Your compassion,
To love a world that's broken
To be Your hands and feet"
It is not so true that loving God only encompasses us loving Him, and us having a relationship with Him.
It is more accurate that to love God is to love ALL of Him, and in that, we love ALL that He represents.
That means loving His earthly kingdom as much as we long to see His heavenly dwelling.
That means sowing into the House of God; giving our best and all to it, because His church is His bride, to which He is returning to in time to come.
That means loving His people - the ones that He chose to die for, just as He did for you and me - regardless of race, gender or self-preference because it is His desire that "none should perish but all to come to the saving knowledge of Him" (2 Peter 3:9).
That also means loving where He has placed you. No matter how bleak the situation is in the nation that you are, you will get down on your kness and begin to cover it lovingly with your tearful prayers instead of tearing it down with bitter words of condemnation.
Ultimately, it means allowing the love of Christ Jesus to shine through us, to our love-starved planet. It means carrying the compassion of Christ in our hearts and sharing it with our morally decaying society.
It means stepping out to make a difference, in your world.
Loving God no longer means (it never has, to begin with) spending time with Him solely where once that is taken care of, it's a job well done.
Loving God means allowing His love to be shed abroad in your hearts, flowing from His throne of grace, soaking your hearts full and from it, that precious love overflows to all that is in your world.
There is this old Jewish saying, "Whoever finds a faithful friend finds a treasure."
I don't know the dude (or dudette) that wrote it, but he/she is right.
I was reading The Bible when I came across a card given to me years ago. This is what it says,
---------------
"Hey buddy!
Just want to drop you a note before SPM. Thank you so much for being a pal, someone I can talk to in times of problems, or to say someone that help me out of my problems. Thank you for sharing all you have with me. I'm really grateful for the things you've done. Your sweet kindness helps me through all the rough times. Thanks.
Agape, Kelf."
{Dated: November 19th, 2006.}
---------------
Dear Baby,
You are deeply missed and cherished treasure.
With love and hugs,
Melissa.
*
Related posts:
I found myself reminiscing snippets of my very own journey through the movie, so much so that it would be remiss if I did not write my take (to borrow from Elizabeth Gilbert's bestselling memoir title) on Eat, Pray, Love.
Eat
I have seen friends skimming through menus and finally opting for a salad as dinner. When the salad arrives at our table, I look at my order laden before me and suddenly, I'm not that hungry anymore. I have gone through that phase - The 'Salad-as-a-meal-because-I-want-to-have-a-size-25-waist' phase.
I was miserably poking my salad, shoving it down my throat and patting my tummy afterwards, comforting and begging for it to behave and not rumble, as a protest to the lack of food intake.
I finally realised that no matter how hard I try, I will not be able to fit into size 25 jeans. My structure is simply not made in that way.
I learnt that being comfortable in my own skin and confidently embracing my curves is more attractive than constantly being worried of the extra calorie digested, because I chose to have some ice-cream for dessert.
I name the day I made that decision as one of the most life-changing (and liberating) days of my life.
Pray
The movie had Liz (played by the gorgeous Julia Roberts) say this, "God dwells within you... as you. God's not interested in watching a performance of how a spiritual person looks and behaves."
It is PARTLY true.
He dwells within the chambers of my heart, as my Saviour, as my Comforter, as my Counsellor.
I simply cannot register the thought of Him not being in my life. He is, after all, the very reason that we are here, "for in Him we live, move and HAVE our being." (Acts 17:28)
The very second a person decides to venture off from that truth, one loses reason for living. That, is the greatest tragedy of all.
Love
This is, perhaps, one of the most personal topics I've yet to fully open up about.
I am not cut out for the 'On-Off-and-On-again' game. Neither am I good with the repetitive 'Fight-Cry-Truce-Comfort-and-Console' process.
I know myself well enough to state that when it comes to matters concerning feelings, it's either there or it's not. I also know myself well enough to say that I am not a very adept handler when it comes to emotions.
In the past, I had knowingly made the decision to go against my (and God's) better judgement. I knew it was going to hurt, I was not prepared for the reality that it was going to hurt THAT bad.
I learnt. I learnt that the pain of a broken heart is excruciatingly real. I learnt that I am not prepared to go through that heartaching phase again.
Most important, I learnt that God has His best for me, whom He is preparing and will bring in His time (My Daddy shared this truth with me after the ordeal. Thanks, Daddy!). He also added that when that day comes, although it will not be fireworks and perfection, there will be no heartache because God's hand and blessings is bestowed.
Right now, I am learning to wait patiently. I am learning to not settle for anything less than His best.
I humbly admit, I've been cheat-blogging - Updating Chatty Lass with quotes rather than lengthy written posts, photo posts with minimal expression.
I needed some time off, to clear my head and to get my heart thumping in its' rhythm once more before I began penning down and actually write.
I've been doing a lot of thinking, PURPOSEFULLY taking a step back in life to reflect. That has done me more good than ice-cream and retail therapy put together.
There were questions asked of me, and also questions pounding in my head. I decided to look and search deep within for an answer.
I needed answers, but in turn, I got assurance. His blessed assurance. I wanted solved questions, but now I've fallen more and more in love with His 'very great and precious promises' (2 Peter 1:4).
I realised that living in OBEDIENCE to what He has called me to do thus far is way more important than having pre-conceived ideas and thoughts on how my life should work out.
SAVOURING living in obedience is rewarding and fulfilling. It boils down and trails back to perspective.
It's easy to lose sight and let our minds wander, forgetting that He is in control.
Even more difficult is to let our hearts be secured in knowing that He IS in control, in matters that we have not yet seen come to pass.
It is tough believing in the impossible, relying on His timing, trusting that ALL things will eventually be made beautiful in His time, speaking things as though they already are and truly resting in the confidence that He will come through.
I was then reminded of a post (rather, it is a quote) I've written some time ago: "God will only bring into your path a test that He has equipped for you to win. However, the getting there demands absolute reliance on Him and nothing else." {Melissa Cheah - May 30th, 2010.}
I know that victory is a given. I'm now REassured of that.
I sense an unexplainable stirring in my heart. I am feeling it right now as I am writing this post.
I am full of expectation of what the future holds, and the unfolding of His glorious plans. I don't fear it, I'm anticipating it.
Change always costs something. There is a price that we have to be willing to pay. It's an ongoing process, it is a painstakingly costly ride. But, I know that it is worth it.
I paused to reflect to search for answers to my questions, fumbling my way through with doubts.
I am now pausing to reflect on HIS goodness, striding with confidence and a heart of thanksgiving.
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"Sermon after sermon preached could be heard, The Bible could be read cover to cover, but unless and until there is an ENCOUNTER with the GLORY of God, TRANSFORMATION and CHANGE will not take place."
Melissa Cheah - October 5th, 2010.
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As much as I love staying in bed all day (really, I do), tonight it is befitting to spend it a little differently.
The Remote, Cuddles The Cushion and Peppermint Tea a Mug.
This midnight affair involves curling up on the sofa; cuddling a large, fluffy cushion, a favourite movie (The Proposal was selected for tonight) screened on the telly and a mug of hot tea.
It is one satisfying night.
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"Being challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is OPTIONAL."
Roger Crawford
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"NO label can and should ever define our worth. Our worth is found ONLY in Christ Jesus."
Melissa Cheah - September 23rd, 2010.
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Dearest Kelfy (MY best of best),
HAPPY 21ST BIRTHDAY!
I recall of us gaily talking about growing up and all the things we’d like to do when I had sleepovers at your place. Well, right now, we are on our way to accomplish some of the dreams we’ve shared to each other over pillow talks.
Looking at our friendship, only one thing comes to mind: I am INDUBITABLY blessed.
What I had done to ever deserve a friend like you and to have this treasure I can call friendship with you, I will never know why and how.
But this I promise, come what may in life, I will always have you in my heart. All the love shown, care lavished and time spent together are so close to my heart.
You’re SO precious and I love you very much. Take care, Baby.
Your best of best,
Melissa.
*
I named them: (L) Babycakes, (R) Sugarpops
- Those were the days where my greatest worry was to be able to snag the best seats in my yellow B72 school bus: The back seats.
My friends and I devised various plans for perpetual domination of the back seats. We took turns to rush out of our classes (sometimes even before the school bell rings) and run across the school compound just because of that.
We sat with our knees up on the seats, waved at cars and sang aloud to the tunes we loved. - Those were the days where 4 Nilam was known to be the cheekiest class (out of 8 classes in the entire form). And, I was in 4 Nilam.
We used to sneak food in from the canteen. We organised junk food days with chips and chocolates being passed around the classroom during ongoing lessons (we were VERY inconspicuous).
We held unofficial class parties, refused to leave for the canteen during recess and talked our way through to coax the prefects from reporting our illegal (according to school laws) activity. - Those were the days where my most important concern was to win the debate I had with my classmates on the topic, Christians VS. Catholics.
We argued, argued and continued to argue, all in order to prove the other person wrong. When all the points have been laid out and neither of us wanted to throw in the towel, we sat across each other; huffing and puffing (Debates are exhausting!), stare each other in eyes and then, burst out laughing. - Those were the days where food was cheap and exceptionally good. Canteen food, that is.
I remember Pak Ali’s (the slightly blur canteen uncle) fragrant and delicious fried chicken. I remember that Tuesday was Chicken Rice Day, and Thursday was Tomato Rice Day.
What I remember and miss most is the company I had with me while enjoying the food. That is priceless. - Those were the days where snoozing in class WAS an option.
In all truth and honesty, I am guilty of it. History, Add Maths and Moral Education were to blame.
Right now, I would give anything just to be in that same class and listen to my Add Maths teacher bore me with algebra and logarithm.
Never have I thought that high school memories would get me wistful and nostalgic. Those were the days, and looking back at it now, they were pretty darn good days.
my heart will belong to you.
Such are the words uttered by Kristian Anderson, 35, who has been undergoing chemotherapy since he was diagnosed with cancer in October 2009.
A promise of devotion and a pledge of loyalty, all under the banner of undying love.
He made this video (watch below) for his wife of seven years, Rachel, as a birthday present and a thank you for her support.
My tears were shed by the buckets, watching the video.
Losing my maternal granny and paternal gramps to cancer, my heart goes out to the Andersons.
At one of the most difficult times and trying situation any family could go through, I see love in abundant.
I believe it is the love of Christ (yes, he's a Christian) that was shed abroad in Kris' heart.
*
Check out Kristian Anderson's blog {here}.
I stayed up till a little past 4am two nights ago because I was driven by the desire to write notes and make gift packs.
Needless to say, I slept in late the next day.
But, deep within, I felt satisfied, contented.
I haven't been making cards for a very long time.
I used to be the girl who would write or make little tokens and notes, to give away. Cards of all sorts, bookmarks, lengthy letters - I loved spending my time; penning down my thoughts, words of love and encouragement.
I still love doing it; only now, I can do it on The Internet as well.
It's never the same, though - the joy of articulating what is in my heart on paper, feeling the pen between my fingers, the snipping and gluing (and getting some on my fingers) - Pure bliss.
To date, I've kept every single piece of note, card or love letter ever written to me.
And, I do read them, every once in awhile. I treasure them, heaps.
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"The anointing of God does not keep you away from sin. The CONVICTION of sin and the love FOR Him, guards your heart and life from the claws of sin."
Melissa Cheah - August 31st, 2010.
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I was invited for lunch with a friend of mine. She was SO excited to show me this cafe, which she thinks (and I quote) I "will love it."
We parked her automobile and walked to the highly anticipated (on my end) cafe.
I smiled with joy when I saw it.
Amelie Cafe's very own welcoming attendant - a Maltese named Sunday.
The owner writing 'Today's Specials'.
The hand painted menus were adorable.
My friend's lunch order: Marjoram Pasta with meatballs & Mango and Cinnamon Lassi (upper right hand corner).
MY lunch order: Mushroom Pasta and Mineral Water (which was served in a clear jam jar).
*
Verdict: My friend was right! I fell in love with the place at the very sight of it. In it's humble space, the owners managed to create a nostalgic feeling with a warmly inviting ambience. I enjoyed myself thoroughly. The food was tasteful, but however not exceptional.
*
Do pay a visit to Amelie Cafe, have a cup of coffee (or lassi) and enjoy an afternoon of reminiscing down memory lane.
It is located at:
No.6, Armenian Street,
10200, Penang.
(T): 012.496.7378
P/S: When you are at Amelie's, do not forget to grab their name cards. They are pretty cute.
Life is a treasure.
More important, it is a precious gem entrusted to us from our Heavenly Father.
Our life, is our very own treasure.
It is devastating to hear news of people thinking that life is made up of mere decisions, either the wrong one or the right one. It is heartbreaking to receive news that because one is of the impression that there is no solution to a calamity, the best possible answer then is to end one’s life.
I started off this entry (and even entitling it) by saying that life is a treasure.
I believe that life was, is and always will be a treasure. The reason as to why it stops becoming THAT is due to perspective.
Perspective is essential in life.
Life is never meant to be constrained to work, education, our thoughts on what success is and delving into whatever measures possible to attain it.
Life is not meant to be lived with our heads alone, basing it solely on intellect. Life is to be cherished with our heads AND hearts.
Life is to be celebrated daily; come what may, regardless of the difficulties, calamities or disasters.
I’m not writing this because I’ve had a terrific day and it has been smooth-sailing thus far.
I’m writing this because this is what my heart is, and this is what I wake up to every morning. It is my take on what life is.
As I sat across two of my friends this morning, over a cup of hot tea with the sea breeze gently ruffling through my hair, I think that their company and our friendship enriches my life in every aspect possible.
Fluttering my eyelids open in the morning and before setting foot onto the parquet flooring, I reminisce the kisses I shared with my Daddy the night before; my arms draped across his shoulders and his prickly moustache tickling my face.
Heading downstairs, I am greeted with excited barks and slobbery kisses from Max. With an apple in my hand, Max reaches out for a bite as well. That brings a smile to my face. It makes my morning, every single day for the past four years.
As I move across the hall to the garden, my nostrils are filled with the scent of morning dew on grass and the sound of my wind chime gently tingling against another. I waft in the beautiful aroma only a new day can bring. It is the scent I carry in my heart throughout the day.
Life is not a treasure because of the things we’ve achieved. Life will never be a treasure if we acclaim it to the knowledge acquired. Life does not translate into treasure by us trying to make out and quantify, with logic.
Life IS a treasure because of the little things that make our day – the seemingly minor things in life that we often overlook, take for granted or over time, lose awe and significance for.
It is those little things that enrich life.
To me, I see it as precious nuggets saved up over time. Surround yourself in that long enough, you’d realise that it becomes an indispensable part of your life.
Life’s a treasure. Never unlock the chest of life and lose the amazing wonder it brings.
My Daddy placed his icy-cold palms on the cheeks of my face and upon hearing me squealing, he walked off laughing and chuckling.
SO. Cheeky. And, cute. And, I love him heaps.
I’ve just returned home after leading worship at Grace Church, Sungai Petani.
Physically, I am worn out and spent. However, my heart and soul is refreshed, SO contented beyond words.
There is truly nothing like the presence of God. Nothing could ever substitute it, it is irreplaceable as much as it is precious – fresh infilling, new revelation, greater depth and increased intimacy.
There is also no greater truth than the Word of God. His Word IS living and active. When it is declared with power and authority, we see the manifestation of His presence in the midst of His people.
And, it is truly one of the moments in life that I live for.
If I could sum up my life’s purpose to one account, I would say that it is to be His vessel, carrying His anointing and bringing the experience of heaven’s worship on Earth.
I desire to lead every person alive to encounter the one, true and LIVING God, to “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8) and “see Him in His sanctuary, beholding His power and glory” (Psalm 63:2, paraphrased).
It is SO beautiful, it is completely breathtaking.
This is no understatement when I’ve learnt that worship and intercession go hand-in-hand. For a breakthrough in the area of worship, there has GOT TO BE intercession.
It goes beyond merely SAYING a prayer. It surpasses our natural understanding of what WE THINK God can do.
It needs to come to a point where every fabric of a person’s being cries out to God, wanting nothing more but MORE of Him, where “ALL that is within you just longs to bless His holy name” (Psalm 103:1, paraphrased).
It comes to a point of earnest desperation and heartfelt crying out. It takes hours of kneeling down before Him, buckets of tears shed out of a heart longing for Him.
Honestly, I spent most of my time awakened at wee hours of the morning – seeking, prostrating and (a little!) pounding on the floor – asking and asking for His presence, not relinquishing (even by an inch) when it comes to the reality of who He is.
It takes someone with a genuine desire of wanting OTHERS to experience Him. It transcends the self ability, knowledge and limitation. It is tapping into His, it is leaning in close to hear His heartbeat.
I’m amazed, over and over again.
I’m blown away by the intensity of His love and the tenderness of His presence. Glorious and magnificent, yet tender and caressing. SO beautiful.
I am reminded, only by grace, His wonderful grace.
I was awakened at 2AM (yesterday morning) for a late night / super early morning date with my Beautiful Bridegroom.
It was unexpected, yet so precious. It was one hour of adoring worship, heartfelt prayers and deep intercession.
There is inexhaustible joy in my Spirit, when it comes to the things of God.
I’ve never grown tired or weary of singing, sharing and living it all out for Him. And, I will never tire of doing it all.
As I was worshipping Him, a sweet aroma infused the entire room.
In the beauty of His presence, I was reminded of a message entitled ‘The Fragrance of Worship’ which I shared in Youth Impact not so long ago.
Luke chapter 7 (verses 36 till 50) speaks about Jesus being anointed by a sinful woman.
She was undeserving, a trail of sins creeping up behind her.
Yet, in her weakness and shame, she recognised the compassion, love and mercy of Jesus Christ.
At probably one of the most inappropriate time of the day (Jesus was having dinner at that time); she dashed to where He was and fell to her face, at His feet.
She broke the alabaster jar of perfume (worth a year’s wages) and anointed the feet of Jesus.
The room, filled with activity - the hustle-bustle of servants scurrying around setting food on the table, amidst the chatters and noise, the clanging of cutlery against the plates – (I believe) suddenly grew silent. Everything came to a halt.
The fragrance of the perfume permeated the entire place; every nook, cranny and crevice. The atmosphere of the whole room changed.
It was the fragrance of that woman’s worship. (To date, this is one of my favourite examples of true worship.)
She held nothing back. She gave, she gave her all. In exchange, He generously forgave.
The fragrance of her worship changed the atmosphere.
OUR worship must change the atmosphere. The fragrance of OUR worship must change the atmosphere.
Darlene Zschech says this in one of her messages, “Our lives should carry a fragrance that causes people to lean in. His fragrance covers our ordinariness.”
I long for the fragrance of my worship to rise as sweet incense to the throne of God, in which He will inhale and take it in, bringing a smile on His face.
Our lives should be lived infused by Jesus, radiating His glory and releasing His fragrance to our world.
With love and much more love,
Melissa.
I awoke to this adorable face, staring at me.
With those huge brown eyes, he observed my every move and then, rolled over belly up; with one paw gesturing me to shower him with belly rub and tickles.
I'm so thankful for mornings like this.
I'm still laughing over this, Aniq and Dee Dee. It (the joke, in this case, it is Debra) is now immortalised on Chatty Lass.
Two weeks ago, over mugs of latte (my friend’s) and chamomile tea (mine).
Friend: Hey, if you were to have a baby girl, what would you name her?
Melissa: Why the sudden baby talk? Is there something that I should know? (Pure sarcasm, folks.)
Friend: Naw naw. I’m just curious, since I’ve seen you swooning over babies pretty often.
Melissa: Baby girl, you said? I like Ayla and Maia.
Friend: Nice names. (grins cheekily) What if you were to have a baby boy?
Melissa: You and your never-ending questions. I like Atticus, for a boy.
Friend: Looks like you’ve got it all planned out. I’m so happy for you. I think that you’d be an amazing mumma.
Melissa: (gushes and blushes) Awww, thank you.
Friend: So, when do I get to hold babies - Ayla, Maia and Atticus?
Melissa: -_- Let me find their daddy first.
I have had the urge to write this entry for a couple of days, but not knowing where and how to start, I brushed it aside.
Till tonight.
I came home, sat at the feet of my Beautiful Jesus and I was urged to turn to Luke 15.
It was confirmation, on my end. Sensing it deep within me and with conviction blazing, I am perched on my chair writing this entry.
In Luke 15, Jesus shares of 3 parables – The Parable of the Lost Sheep, The Parable of the Lost Coin and The Parable of the Lost Son.
Particularly captivating my attention and has been the prompting of my heart for this few days is the last of the three, The Parable of the Lost Son.
Christians reading this, you have heard of this story told ample times – from the days of Sunday School till now.
It is one of the best demonstration of grace and a story of earnest repentance.
However, that isn’t the primary focus of this entry.
Let us shift our focus to the lost son, for a moment. In other translations, he is referred to as the prodigal son.
Picture this with me.
I would see him as the dominant personality in the family. He would probably be loud, boisterous. He was always the one to take the lead, and loves being in the limelight. He enjoyed being among the company of his equally flashy companions and is often times the life of the party.
Not content with living in a mundane environment, he longed for an adventure. He wasn’t one who settles for the norm, he desired the extraordinary.
The life of luxury and comfortable environment in which he was brought up in did not bring him contentment.
Urging his father to give him his share of the inheritance, he splurged it all. My guess? The contribution of his father’s hard earned cash went booze, entertainment and girls. This is not merely my own assumption, the Bible mentioned it (Check out Luke 15:13 – “...squandered his wealth on wild living.”)
The insides of his pockets turned out and cash running low, I see him now trudging through the streets, thinking of means of survivals.
I am pretty sure the thought of returning home crossed his mind, at least once.
Pride got better of him. He felt the need to prove himself. Not yet, he reckons. “Let me give this one more shot,” he said to himself.
Of all the things he could have done, he landed himself a job to feed the pigs.
Those pink, bolster-like animals were his responsibility. They had more to eat than him. He had nothing. Nada. Zilch. No food to fill his rumbling tummy.
By now, he would no longer be loud and boisterous.
He would have looked scruffy, unshaven, with messed up hair. His shirt would probably be losing a few buttons. He hasn’t had a shower in weeks; he would be funny-smelling even.
Verse 17 is my highlight – “When he came to his senses...”
The reality of his predicament sunk in. He looked around him and he saw the state that he was in.
"It is time," he told himself.
The beauty of this parable – He took The First Step.
He wasn’t going to let guilt stop him from returning. He wasn’t going to let his pride get in the way.
He had it in his mind, and he put it into action. He stretched out his legs and took The First Step.
I believe that the purpose of this parable isn’t just to illustrate the kindness and forgiveness of God.
It is also to challenge us to have a willing heart. It is for us to be the ones taking The First Step.
The thing I love most about our Father in Heaven is that He is such a gentleman. He is so deserving, yet He never forces. He is so worthy, yet He never imposes or demands.
He wants us to want Him. He wants us to leap into His arms willingly, not by force.
We are to come to realisation of our need of Him; of how lost we are without Him, of how meaningless life is when it is not spent with Him.
And, we are to take that first step towards Him.
Nothing could ever come between you and God, unless you have built up a wall to isolate yourself from Him. Nothing you do could ever make Him love you less or more.
So, what awaits you when you boldly plunge your feet in His promises and take on that First Step towards Him?
From a distance, you see His arms wide open, welcoming you.
Coming face to face with Him, he puts on the robe of righteousness on your back, slips on the ring of son(daughter)ship on your finger.
He pulls you into a close embrace with Him, He places His hands on both sides of your cheeks and kisses you.
He’s there – waiting, aching and longing for your return. Take that First Step, back to Him.
Yesterday, at The Last Dinner, at approximately 2130 hours.
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Melissa: (to lecturer) Sir, let’s take a photo together.
Lecturer: Sure.
Melissa: (beckons HER photographer) Dee Dee, do me a favour and get a shot of Sir and me.
Debra: Alright. Ready? One, two, three... Smile! {Camera flashes}
Melissa: Oh no! My eyes are like slits here. I’ve got to open up my pupils. Let’s take another one!
{After about 5 consecutive shots}
Melissa: Oh dear! My eyes STILL look like slits here. It looks like I’m closing my eyes on purpose. We’ve got to keep trying.
Lecturer: I’ve got a better suggestion. Why don’t the both of us CLOSE our eyes? That will save all the effort. (breaks out in laughter)
Melissa: (rolls eyes but giggles out loud)
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P/S: Pictures of The Last Dinner in a day or two. :)
As reported by my mother, 9.55pm yesterday.
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Mummy: You know today, my friend asked me if I knew the ‘Tsunami Song’.
Melissa: WHAT is the ‘Tsunami Song’? Such a song exists?
Mummy: I didn’t know that there was such a song too. So, I asked her to give me a couple of lines, the lyrics of the ‘Tsunami Song’.
Mummy: (relating what her friend said) You know the song, with the oceans rise and storms?
Melissa: (roars with laughter) HAHAHAHAHAHA, she meant ‘Still’ by Hillsong is it?
Mummy: You jumped on my punch line! {mock frown}
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To those of you who are unaware of the song, the chorus of ‘Still’ goes like this:
“When the oceans rise and thunders roar,
I will soar with you above the storm,
Father, You are King over the flood,
I will be still, know You are God”
P/S: According to my mum’s friend, ‘Still’ was a great hit in her church when tsunami hit Penang Island, year 2004.
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"Meekness is not weakness. Meekness is strength under control."
Bishop T.D Jakes
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Read *this*.
Loyalty, faithfulness and unflinching love - It is incredibly touching, more so than moving love stories or poignant compositions.
It is impossible not to shed a tear or two (or truckloads) while reading this.
I took me this long to verbalise this in writing (this seals the deal).
I’ve learnt that when it comes to matters of love, you should be the only one that reigns in a person’s heart.
I loved *this* excerpt on Tinki Talks.
It says,
"The person who is really great for you, the person who brings out the best in you, your partner in crime? That person is not going to second guess your relationship until it's lost all meaning. That person is not going to rip your heart out of your chest even one time, and he certainly won't do it twice. And that person shouldn't make you an option, because in love you deserve to be a priority."
In love, you deserve to be a priority.
Here’s the truth: If you were never the priority, chances are you will never BE the priority. (Forget it if you are ever his option, he is not worth your time, effort or love.)
However, that isn’t the case with the Lover of Our Soul. That just doesn’t quite cut it for my Loved One.
His love for us was FIRST given. It was unnecessary for Him to lavish us with such great love.
His love is never based on emotions, the circumstances of life, availability in our spending time with Him, our carefulness in not hurting His feelings - I could go on and on, for the list is simply endless!
His love for us is beyond and without measure. What that means is His love is limitless, yet constant.
How is that possible? I’ve learnt that in love, your beloved is put before yourself.
Our Beloved placed us before Himself.
He went much further, in fact. We are regarded as “the joy that was set before Him” (Hebrews 12:2).
He secured our lives above His, and He did it with gladness. Never grunting, not once an utterance of complain.
Whatever for? Max Lucado explains this poignantly.
"Because, your soul was more important than His blood. Your eternal life was more important than His earthly life. Your place in heaven was more important to Him than His place in heaven. So, He gave up His, so you could have yours."
He gave us first place, and first loved us. Not second place, never an option.
He should never be the one you turn to ONLY when calamities strike, when you are in need a shoulder to rest your head to cry or a listening ear to your pleas, call upon only in times of need, cuddle up to only when you are low on love, whisper “I Love You” to only when He grants you what YOU desire.
He deserves so much more than that.
He is worthy of our highest praise, deepest worship, forever love and undeterred faithfulness.
He’s ENTITLED to it, yet never forces or demands.
He has the First Place in my heart and He is my First Love, and will remain so forever.
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"Words are never the basis for writing. Your heart IS. The best compositions often pulsates with life and resounds the heartbeat of the author."
Melissa Cheah - July 21st, 2010.
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I love children.
I love their uninhibited passion for life, I love their fervour and excitement for anything (they find to be) remotely interesting, I love their ability to love with no reservation.
All of that came to my thoughts as I was reminiscing the mission trip that had taken place less than 3 days ago.
When all was said and done, gift bags were distributed with heaps of goodies in them.
I remember vividly sitting with an adorable little boy and watching him as he sifted through the bag of excitement (to him). Alas, he clutched in his hands a pack of colourful balloons.
I will never forget the look on that beautiful child’s face. The wonder and amazement, the twinkle in his eyes and the hugest smile across his face.
I couldn’t help it. I bended over and hugged him tightly.
As I read through the book of Mark today, I am inspired to write this post.
Mark 10:15 says, “I tell you the truth, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”
The kingdom of God is established in our hearts. Luke 17:21 says that “the kingdom of God is within us.”
The kingdom of God is abundant in love, rich in mercy, overflowing with compassion and great in majesty.
The kingdom of God is all that, and much more.
As adults, as we age and grow up, we forget.
We forget to thank God for every blessing (big or small) that He has bestowed upon our lives. We forget that He is the Creator of the Universe, the Maker of the heavens and the earth, the Great I Am (in which NOTHING at all is impossible for Him).
We forget to receive His love gratefully, with the pure, unadulterated love of a child. We forget to be in awe of Him with the wide-eyed innocence of a child.
We tend to rationalise things, figure things out on our own, make up for our mistakes through jillions of ways and means. Lest we forget, “all our righteous acts are as filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6) before the Lord.
A child doesn’t rationalise when he is offered forgiveness or is showered with love. He simply ACCEPTS it.
The eyes of my heart are opened (with wisdom and revelation – Ephesians 1) to see through the eyes of a child and to believe with childlike faith.
It is my hope that this post becomes not only an eye-opener to you, but the revelation finds its' way into your heart and infuses your life.
With so much love,
Mels.
My heart was shattered to see so many beautiful children having so little, yet cheerfully singing to Jesus with such faith.
That childlike faith (as mentioned in Mark 10:15) reaches within the deepest corners of my heart.
I fought hard to regain my composure. It didn’t work. Not the slightest bit. I cried and cried.
The message I had prepared much earlier went down the drain the very second I stepped into the hut-like church.
I devised and changed my message almost immediately. The love of God for His people burned in my heart, it was precious and tangible.
I am truly blessed to be around the company of people who have dedicated their life COMPLETELY to the call of God.
These are people who have counted the cost of obeying Jesus wholly, stepped out of their comfort zones and made the bold, courageous decision to fulfil the call of God in their lives.
It is a life-altering decision - one where you set foot into without looking back, faltering or backing out, even when the toughest challenges come your way.
I am reminded to count the cost of following Jesus. More important, I am imbued with the desire to be willing to PAY that price – not once, not twice but a thousand times over if I have to.
I’m desperate to be a woman who loves Her King with her life, revels in His love and is in such an intimate relationship with her Saviour, that He makes known to her the mysteries and secrets of His heart.
Life, MY life is most fulfilled, my soul is most contented when I am in His presence, and I am greeted with a kiss from heaven, with my Heavenly Daddy whispering "Well done, my darling daughter. You bring delight to my heart."
The young lives of the 25th Mile Orang Asli Village (all 20 of them) are forever etched in my heart.
The love of Christ for His people and His church has laid hold of my heart, clutched itself onto it and arrested my life with His cause.
Related post(s):
Anyhow, a dear friend of mine deserves a mention at Chatty Lass, for laughing and appreciating my jokes - even when it is unintended (which happens most of the time).
Thank you, Deriss for *this* post. :)
P/S: For readers of Chatty Lass who are not friends of mine on Facebook (yes, I've finally decided to create an account) or do not have a Facebook account, I am publishing a snippet of our conversation here - just for you.
*
Melissa to Deriss
"P/S: I'm going for an Orang Asli Mission Trip Fri morning, in Camerons. I've to speak in BM, so for the sake of that, let's re-do our wall-to-wall in BM.
APA?! Saya teringin sugguh untuk EL-SMACKO uni awak. Saya rindukan kamu juga. Saya pasti bahawa mesej ini terpapar di dinding saya kerana awak rindukan saya. :D
5 minggu? Argh. Tapi, saya boleh menunggu. Pada masa itu, saya akan mempunyai banyak masa lapang. Saya ingin menujukan banyak sayang, MAKANAN dan (yang terutamanya, pelukan ISTIMEWA saya dari Penang.
Dating dengan awak malam Khamis untuk perbualan IM. :)"
Melissa to Deriss
"Alah, awak tahu, saya tahu, sudah memadai kan? Tak perlu untuk saya memaparkan nama dia di sini. :D
Aduhai! Teramat manis. Saya yang mendengarnya, pun rasa terharu. Smiley, lupakan dia. Dia, memori kelmarin. Hari ini hari yang baru, Tuhan Yesus mempunyai yang lebih baik dan lebih istimewa daripada Smiley. Itu, saya amat pasti. :)
Hahaha..., yang itu, awak boleh memujuk pemandu kereta (Vive Supramaniam). Jikalau awak berjaya, besar kemungkinan awak akan mendapat habuan daripada Penang/Cameron - seperti cendawan goreng atau milkshake buah strawberi."
Deriss to Melissa
"HAHAHAHHAHA. Saya baca sambil gelak sampai terguling di lantai. Saya memang sangat sangat gembira hari ini sebab you buat saya ketawa walaupun seorang-orang.
Walao ada lagi milkshake strawberi untuk diminum - itu kegemaran saya. Tolong hantar secawan mai. Saya akan sungguh extrim-ly menghargai you. You pun boleh beli banyak strawberi untuk saya. Saya super sangat suka makan strawberi. Thankius. ;)))"
*
PP/S: So, after much thought and consideration, I think that my BM isn't as rusty as I thought it would be. :D
My heart is SO full, my Spirit is strengthened and my soul is contented.
For months, I’ve been lifting up my youth group (Youth Impact) and church in prayer.
My deepest desire is for God to break us through into the next level - greater heights and deeper intimacy.
My heart has been crying out for this. My heart is aching for more.
This is one of the experiences with God that is utterly BREATHTAKING. I find it difficult to look for words to come quite close to what I am feeling.
It is safe to say that I am at a loss for words.
I wept and wept in the presence of God. I wept with tears of thankfulness flowing out of a grateful heart.
In my 6.5 years of worship leading, I’ve never led worship without a song list and its’ sequence.
Today, was the day I did that. Not on my own accord, I dutifully obeyed what God wants for us (Worship Team) to do.
I availed of myself. “Not my will, Lord, but yours. Not by my intellect, but by Your Sovereign Might and Spirit.”
I am SO glad that I obeyed.
The church was blessed, the team was blessed, I was blessed and most importantly, His presence graced over the entire sanctuary.
In Psalm 43:4, it says that the altar of God is OUR joy and delight.
The altar of God is where the presence of God dwells. (I promise to write a post solely concerning the altar of God.)
And in His presence, there is fullness of joy, liberty, healing, deliverance, redemption, wholesomeness and outstretched welcoming arms of love.
In His presence, we find EVERYTHING we need. Truly.
There is nothing like the presence of God. There is nothing like being His vessel, receiving an infilling of His presence directly from the throne of God.
I am ruined for all else.
Physically, I am worn out. Completely spent.
But, it is ONLY in His presence where I am truly renewed, refreshed and recharged. No where else, no other way.
It’s funny, I’ve seen people (and I myself, sometimes) have tried to look for ways and means to recharge and reenergise in every way possible, except to go to the Source of Rest Himself.
I’ve said before, I despise early mornings. I love to sleep-in, late. (As of now, doing that would be an opulent luxury.)
However, my morning routine has changed (since early this year).
I took advantage of the 10 (or sometimes 15) minutes drive to my college, for it to be a morning chat with my Heavenly Daddy.
And, I’ve been SO blessed.
Some mornings, I would go on and on, not wanting the drive to end. On other days, His presence would just fill my entire car that I am found weeping (I have to admit, that is a little dangerous – having misty eyes is not good for driving – AND weird).
Then again, I sincerely love it.
So much so that I actually have something to look forward to every morning.
I see it as a morning chat. Sometimes, it is a kiss from above, a priceless one.
I’m encouraging you to do the same. You will find and experience so much, with just a little change in your daily routine.
Much love,
Mels.