Pastor Chris Kam & his wife Stella

Dear brothers & sisters in the Lord,

Thank you for the privilege of being part of your life during this encounter weekend. I read with joy in my heart all that God is doing in your life and my prayers are that you will keep shining for Jesus and grow in greater love for Him. For some of you, it was an even greater joy for me to shake your hands before you go into the baptism pool because I know it will be a special milestone of your Christian life. May you continue to grow and mature in Him and be found finishing the race well.

Someone once said that life is not just about arriving at the destination, but the journey as well. We will never know why things happen the way they do in life but it will all become clear when we arrive in heaven because we will then see clearly that every milestone God puts along our journey serves a higher purpose than what our finite minds can comprehend. May you hear the Lord say to you, “Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Galatians 2:20 I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Welcome to DUMC and God bless you richly in your journey of FAITH!

Pr Chris Kam

Janice Ng (CG-Lily Wong, PJN1)

Janice Ng & Christine Koh

Reflection by Janice Ng

Everything written below contains facts and not fiction. (A bit of a mockery to Dan Brown) Okay, jokes aside.

1. What is one most important spiritual lesson I have learnt?

I’ve learnt that we need to be careful in the way we speak and treat others (generational sins). I know that rejection exists and occurs quite frequently if we’re not careful but I didn’t realize the impact it would cause and that it could happen anytime and anywhere, right from the womb. As I ponder over it, it does make me feel concern about the way I carry myself. I know I am prone to letting people down, therefore this is a good lesson to evaluate myself every time I do personal reflections on myself. I’m very glad to have this ‘new’ awareness.

2. What has transacted between you and God this weekend?

It all started from the drama series, The Prodigal Son. I think if Pr Chris didn’t ‘dramatize’ it, I wouldn’t have imagined how much I would miss. The part that touched me so much was during the scene when the father ran to his son. I imagined myself as the son walking slowly and Father running to my direction. During the time when we kneeled, what went through my mind was a flashback of memories of my past, the memories that involved my r’ship with God. I was reminded of the times God ‘ran’ back to me. (Pr Chris, remember how you shared that your sons were different and you will have to discipline and approach them differently?) I came to a conclusion that God is not a ‘one size fits all’. He approaches his children differently too. That makes our r’ship with Him unique. Well, back to my memories. You see, I am somebody very stubborn, find difficulty with trust and am full of pride. My journey with God in my past was like a rollercoaster ride. Many times I’m just too proud to turn to God to ask for help. I take my life in my own hands and of course, it fell apart slowly. There were 2 times I wanted to give God up because I felt that He wasn’t doing anything in my life. One specific memory that was in my running thoughts was during an exam. It was 3 years ago. At that time, my life was so ‘noisy’ and busy I had no time to listen to God. Even if He called, I couldn’t hear. He chose my exam time to talk to me, when everything around me was quiet and when my concentration was most. He spoke these exact words inside me, ‘My child, My child. Why have you left Me?’ God knew my pride. Many times in my life, He gave me ‘missed calls’ and it was up to me to return that call. I’m very blessed indeed! (Those who will be reading this, I am not suggesting that we should put God to the test lah) The final ‘image’ that appeared in my mind was a picture of an elderly man carrying an orange cat in the air, facing him. This elderly man was smiling with so much happiness as if he was carrying his firstborn.

Why is this symbol of the cat important to me? I love cats to the extreme. I’ve been prayed once by Pr Yin Meng and God used her to speak to me using examples of cat behaviour. I didn’t even mention it to Pr Yin Meng, couldn’t be a coincident could it? God knew I adored them very much. He told me that I am deeply loved, like how he would love kittens.

So basically this is the second time God uses the image of a cat to remind me that I’m deeply loved. This weekend was more of a Father-and-daughter time.

3. How did you feel before and after BMEW?

Before: A little bit anxious because I really didn’t know what to expect therefore I didn’t prepare myself. I knew that Pr Chris will pray for those who want to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit and was hoping that I receive it. I was also looking forward to meet new brothers and sisters in Christ because knowing more people from church is great, rather than going to celebrations not being able to see familiar faces.

After: I pondered a lot about my habitual sins and some broken r’ships. How to deal with them rather than suppress/ignore it. Honestly I didn’t sleep well for a few nights because there are some unsettled businesses. I believe God wants to bring these memories back as some were forgotten so that I can act upon it. It was difficult because I have to put down my pride to say ‘I’m sorry’ and admit my mistakes. But I see it as a time to ‘repair’ situations lah.

4. Why should others attend BMEW?

Well, sometimes we think we know everything and we think that our r’ship with God is a bed of roses. This BMEW is a good test to check ourselves, I find. I am astounded myself, how much more I needed to know! Plus, how much pride I needed to deal with. Pr Chris conducts this very well indeed and I learn so much. I am still learning new things when I look into the manual.

Christine Koh (CG-Ken Lee, PJN1)

I’m just being reminded and affirmed again of God’s love, and His faithfulness to me. It is a significant gesture to lay down my sins at the cross--in the session ‘Seeing What Jesus Has Done For You on the Cross’--when I decided not to cause another wound on Jesus anymore by remembering my past sins, for there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1a) Else we would have denied the power of the cross.

I’ve always been fearful of being prayed for a prophesy over me because I’m afraid God will expose what I did wrong and reprimand me. So it really touched and warmed my heart when pastor said God would never shame us. I’m especially touched when my prayer partner, Janice, prayed a prayer for me-she saw an image of God holding me in His palm and she said even when I fall, I would still fall in the palm of God! This image spoke volume to me about my doubts, fears and insecurities. When Janice told me not to doubt God anymore, I felt such a great assurance from God to me. The sharing from the pastor about God never shames us has given me a new way of looking at God. Now I have the courage to approach God even when I fall. Because I know if I first take a small step, God will run to embrace me, like the father in the story of the prodigal son.

I learnt that humans are so very broken inside. Every one of us has experienced some form of rejection at one point or the other in life. I realized in the past, I had always tried to cover up my imperfections and deny my desires to be loved and to be affirmed. I pressured myself to excel, fearful of doing wrong; but since I know God truly accept me as who I am, even with my flaws and sinful nature, I could be myself even in my weaknesses, for I know God’s love will heal the brokenness in me.

I could so easily identify myself with the baggage that was talked about in one of the sessions. I realized I’m still carrying my baggage-unforgiveness, pride, anger and easily offended nature. Now as I looked back, I realized once before I had dropped the baggage but somehow I had picked it up again. But thanks be to God, who has sent His son to liberate me from this bondage of sins and baggage. I realize it's a daily surrendering of myself to God and allow him to fill me with His love that I may be forgiving to others. And I know now when I could look at people for their brokenness and incompleteness then I could accept them and love them as how God would love them. I don’t know if I would fully unload this baggage but I know this is something God would want to work in me.

It’s been so wonderful to have joined this BMEW with some of my cg members. There is so much to gain from this special encounter weekend. If you want to have a special encounter with God, you wouldn’t want to miss it!

Sophia Lim (CG-Dylan Wong, PJN2)

Sophia Lim & Jamie Koh

Through the BMEW, I've learnt that I'm so blessed by God. I come from a great Christian family background, my father is the best father and friend anyone could have, my mom, always supportive, and both my parents love each other very much. The BMEW has made me realised that because I'm so blessed, i should rise up to the occasion, and with no past to hinder me, I should strive to become a more 'active' Christian. Because I used to lead the youth group in my local Penang church when I was younger, now that I've moved to KL, all that passion somehow fade away. But I've realised that I need to move out of my 'lukewarm-ness' and be on fire for God again.

I came to BMEW, thinking that it was just a pre-requisite to become a church member, and I actually thought I knew all the stuff that was going to be taught, since it was mainly for new believers. But actually, the whole course has been so refreshing, and I find myself experiencing God in a deeper way. God has taught me to rise up because I'm so blessed, and start 'giving' instead of always 'receiving'.

So, even though you're an 'old' Christian, like me (13 years), do not underestimate the power of BMEW, and the power of God to just touch you in ways you never thought possibe. All you need to come with an open and humble heart, to receive, and God will do the rest.

Jamie Koh (CG-Ken Lee, PJN1)

My Journey of the encounter weekend began on my way to the hotel… I saw a rainbow… and I thought to myself that something nice and wonderful would happen… well, it did!

One of the spiritual lessons I learnt was the first session that talked about The Father Heart of God. Since young, I heard about the story of the prodigal son when I was in Sunday school but I thought it was just a story telling us that God will forgives us no matter how rotten we are. But this time when I hear the story again, it was as if a totally different story to me. This simple story has another deeper meaning that talks about The Heart of The Father.

I always have the impression that God is strict and only love those who are good and obedient. During my younger days children are normally judge by how well they excel in academic and behavior. Well, I was just doing average in my studies as compared to my siblings and parents think I was somewhat rebellious than my siblings therefore I find that I was not very good. Both of my sisters were closer to each other than to me when we were younger. Basically I was like a black sheep in the family.

I have a low self-esteem of myself since I was young. I thought God also will not take notice of me and do not love me as much too. As we grow up, my relationship with my siblings got better but the doubt of God’s love is still in me. But after attending this session, I was touched and reassured of God’s love and His heart for me. During prayer, I felt I was a child again, having fun and playing in the park with God. The fact is God has always been there waiting for me just like how the father in the prodigal son story, waiting for his son to come home. Just a simple step I need to make and God will come running to me. Simple love but I complicated it.

Another highlight during BMEW is I received the baptism of the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongue. I always wish I could speak in tongue because speaking in tongue can help to build my inner man but I just do not know how to receive it. So, during the session, I was all excited and eager to receive the gift yet at the same time I was scared and nervous because I do not know what would happen. In my mind, I was thinking what if after being prayed for and I still can’t receive… there were many "what if" questions in my mind at that time.Then I remembered pastor was telling us in the beginning that BMEW is like a once in a lifetime kind of opportunity, you might not have another opportunity like that again. So I stopped arguing with myself or reasoning out certain things and just receive it by faith. So pastor started praying and I prayed in my heart too to asked Holy Spirit to fill me, and then I open my mouth and say something then I feel my tongue rolling … (This is what pastor call the baby tongue which I need to practice more to sharpen it). I was overjoyed and delighted with this gift. God loves to bless His people with all gifts; all it takes is the simple faith and never let the finite human mind take-over the infinite.

After attending BMEW, I realized that God’s affirmation and acceptance is far important than human’s. I was insecure and have low self-esteem. I always think I am not good enough and like to seek affirmation from people but now I learnt to seek affirmation from God because God wants us to live up to His standard not human standard. Now, I feel more loved and secured. When my siblings attended BMEW earlier this year, I heard how they were blessed from it. I felt touched and was looking forward to it because I also want to encounter God. If you think all the latest blockbuster movies are in your ‘should- not-missed list’, I think you should put BMEW on top of all the movies in the list too! If you want a breakthrough in life and to encounter God then do not wait… register now and experience it yourself!

Ho Boon Khiong (CG-Ken Lee, PJN1)

Ho Boon Khiong & Daniel Luhat Wan

Before that, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you Pastor Chris for your lesson and experience shared, its useful to us for our future.

1) What is one most important spiritual lesson I have learnt?

The most important lesson that I have learnt is Session 6 'Dealing with Baggage & Bondages'. Throughout the whole encounter weekend, this is the most meaningful lesson to me. During the lesson Pastor asked us to list down our sins on paper. Initially, I try not to list it out because I am afraid people will know my sin and it's a shame. I struggled and had no peace deep in my heart throughout the whole dinner time. After that, I decided to submit to God. Guess what, I felt so good and released after we prayed and threw our sins list into the box. I slept well and felt so easy the next morning.

2) What has transacted between you and God this weekend?
I think God really wanted me to repent of my sins even though I had repented before in my previous church. This encounter weekend, I repented and submitted my sins to God again, I felt so peaceful in my heart. I think, maybe last time I did not list it out, so this round God had wanted me to repent wholeheartedly =)

3) How did you feel before and after encounter weekend?
After this encounter weekend I'm looking forward more to God and try to be a good christian instead of weekly christian.

4) Why should others attend the encounter weekend?
I think this encounter weekend are good for others not only for new believer but also good for older believers. Throughout this encounter weekend we learnt more about Jesus and also, taking this opportunity to repent of our sins and to ask for the gift of 'tongue' from God. Beside, Pastor Chris also arrange a good partner for us so that we can learn together and encourage each other, not only for this encounter weekend, but, also for our future.

Daniel Luhat Wan (CG-Dylan Wong, PJN2)

One of the most important spiritual lessons that I learnt over the weekend was about the Father's love. Well, I realized I was focusing too much on the prodigal son. The common accepted view was more on the long lost son and his acceptance again by the 'Father'.

Jesus gave this parable reflecting how lost and miserable the son was but yet it all ended well just simply because the 'Father' accepted him again, unconditionally. Why? I think the answer is simply because of His great love. I've learnt more about the Father's love, which I tend to forget sometimes.

I sensed that the Lord was waiting more for my response in trusting Him. After all the years since accepting Him, He's now waiting for my response in relying on His word, promises, guidance and faithful unfailing love. The Lord is eager to know how far I will continue walking, trusting and hoping. I felt He was there among us in the meeting. Waiting with His loving outstretched arms for me to simply be continually responsive to Him in everything regarding godliness, truth and holiness.

Frankly, I thought that the encounter weekend will be less exciting than what the actual experiences were. I attended for the sake of my membership in DUMC. But, now I found out that it's more than that. It's worth a thousand blessings! My view of Christianity is totally revamped! The course content and teaching have helped me become clearer about my pilgrimage in life. Plus, with all lovely members that had attended it, it was indeed a roller coaster experience in life. Thank Lord Jesus for such an event!

I strongly recommend that more people should attend this meeting because it will indeed help you to have a refreshing encounter with the Lord. I saw His hands moving throughout the sessions. Hearts will be prepared for His love. Love in Him can grow stronger as well as love for one another. Your inner being will be ready to soar incredibly. Unsurprisingly, members can be excited to face another day with the Lord our God!

Jason Yap (CG-Ken Lee, PJN1)

PeterCheong_JasonYap_StevenLim.JPG

The Nutcracker – Close Encounters of The Supreme Kind - By : Jason Yap

Beep…Beep…Beep…! As the sound of my trusty old radio clock blared, piercing the silence of the morning, my eyelids slowly fluttered open. Normally, I’d just thump the Snooze button and slump back into my pillow. However, as I struggled out of my ‘blur-state’, I felt a strange tingle in my tummy. Something was different that day; something somehow excited me… then it dawned upon me! Today was BMEW! 6th May… I practically leaped out of bed. I turned to see my ‘angelic’ looking wife still fast asleep and thought to myself, “Let’s give her a couple more minutes” and I scurried off to wash up. Shortly after, we were both up, had a scrumptious breakfast with 3 other CG members (Adeline, Christine and Jamie ) who were also coming for BMEW that weekend, and were on our way to Sepang for what will prove to be a life-altering experience for everyone ( for me, in particular! ).

My name is Jason Yap. I arrived at the venue of my BMEW with a strange mix of sizzling anticipation as well as subtle skepticism. I’ve heard so much about BMEW from others who have attended before, but was clueless as to what to expect during that weekend. I’m what you might refer to as a Tough Nut! As far back as I could remember, I had always been, ‘technically’ a Christian. I’ve attended Sunday School as a young lad, and have visited many churches locally and abroad (though not as regularly as I should!). However, I had never really ‘encountered’ God in the powerful and ‘earth-shattering’ way some have testified to. I never shared this feeling with anyone before, but deep down I long for that experience. Hence, I have always put up a façade in front of everyone. The façade started out as a thin film, and gradually, through the years, accumulated and formed this thick, tough shell around me. That is why you may call me a nut…a Tough Nut.

One of the things that I anticipated would happen during this weekend-long session was falling asleep through the (what I thought would be boring) sessions. But lo and behold, my eyes kept peeled open all through the sessions. Partly, I’m sure, due to the wonderfully skillful way Pastor Chris disseminated the message to us… But largely, I’m most certain, due to the power of the Holy Spirit working in me. I stayed wide awake and was genuinely ‘interested’ in what was being taught. That was the first sign to me that something had stirred in my heart. I knew that God was at work, slowly beginning to ‘crack this nut’.

Throughout the BMEW, I had, not one but TWO sharing and praying partners. God must’ve sensed that this nut may be tougher than usual. And so, just as an additional measure, God arranged it in such a way that one of them was a positive, energy-packed fella, Steven, and the other was a Cell Leader; Peter Cheong, wise, Godly and sincere… Wow, God really didn’t want this nut to slip away! God was furiously chipping away at my shell… God wanted me to meet Him. Thus, throughout the weekend, I had been truly blessed and inspired by my partners’ sharing and prayers.
As we continued with the sessions, prayed and worshipped God, I felt myself opening up more and more. What used to be pent up frustrations and years of quiet skepticism started to melt away. Even while we prayed for the Holy Spirit to fill us and bestow the wonderful gift of ‘tongue’ on us, I believe that I have truly, by faith, received it. Now, this is something, that I would never, in my wildest imaginations, thought that I could experience. Whatever doubts and niggling skepticisms I had before the BMEW, had been addressed and answered by the Holy Spirit. Now, I can’t think of any realistic reason, why anyone should not attend BMEW and experience for themselves the wonderful love and compassion that God has for us.

The most significant moment for me during the weekend was when we knelt down and prayed for forgiveness from God. No one will ever be able to fathom the manner in which Jesus died on the cross to save us from our sins. Through His suffering, I am forgiven. I wrote down my sinful burdens on a piece of paper and laid it down at the feet of Jesus. At that moment, I felt an awesome feeling of both relief as well as a numbing guilt. We had learnt that every time we sin, we inflict yet another excruciatingly painful wound to the broken body of Christ. I felt guilty for all the years that I had been so ‘heartless’. I knew I had to change… How else can I begin to display my gratitude for such and Amazing Grace…..

It was said of the baby Jesus, His name shall be called Emmanuel. In the book of Isaiah 9:6, "His Name Shall Be Called Wonderful Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace”. For me He can also be called ‘The Nutcracker’ for as I knelt down and laid my sins at His feet, a single tear rolled down my cheek…. This nut has cracked.

Simon Pang (CG-Essie Wong, PJS2)

Andrew Tan & Simon Pang

1. The most important spiritual lesson I have learnt is to share with someone around you.

2. GOD has release some of my burden.

3. The different is I will more relax in my life and feel more free in my heart.

4. In my opinion this is a very good course to attend because you can learn alot. Especially from Pastor Chris. Thanks alot to you, Pastor Chris, you really open my mind to know more about our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Joanne Tee (CG-Essie Wong, PJS2)

Essie Wong & Joanne Tee

Praise the Lord! It's really a wonderful encounter weekend.

The most important lesson I have learnt is the"Parable of the loving Father" and the "Confessing of Sins". As I kneel down, I had an encounter with God. I cried heavily and was heavy with burden. I cried as I came from a family with problems of alcoholism and gambling. My parents passed away when I was only 12 years old. My brothers and sisters are all heavy gamblers or alcoholics. My family members are not close to each other. Most of my family members are down with diabetes and high blood pressure. I had this miserable life. I always think that it is the generation curse and sins of my family. I always keep to myself and I don't talk much. As I kneel before the Lord and confess, I felt very relieved and I know that God had forgiven me. I know that I can break this generation curse with Lord's power.

Before the encounter weekend I was quite reluctant to go because deep in my heart there is something inside me that cannot let go of the bondages. My daughter is attending the same cell group and she said she wanted to go. That's how I came together with my daughter for the BMEW.

After the encounter weekend I really had a great relief and the Lord Jesus had heal us through His wound and forgive us through our repentance. I experience what a wonderful God He is.

I hope more members will attend the encounter weekend so that they can experience the Lord's presence and touch their heart so that their sins and wounds will be healed and forgiven.

Alice Wong (CG-Peter Cheong, PJS1)

Elaine Yeong & Alice Wong

I found out that I'm really blessed... I just came here to KL for half a year and I have met so many good men. My cell leader Uncle Peter and Auntie Jean help me and my friend Melissa a lot especially in transport to cell group every Friday night, sometimes on education, and solving problems. Not forget to mention my Parents in Christ Uncle Robbin and Auntie Maxim, Mr and Mrs Jimmy, Pastor Daniel, Pastor Margaret, Pastor Gan, Pastor Chris, Pastor Micheal, and to other uncle, aunties, brothers and sisters. I'm really blessed and grateful to know you all here in this short period. Times flies but my heart to the Lord will grow stronger and stronger.

I came from a very broken family, my mum and dad fight 'everyday' yup... that's right. In BMEW Pastor Chris has actually mentioned most of that parenting problem of my house. In the class, I got so surprised and then something stroke my mind and pierced my heart on first day in BMEW 6.6.2006 (Sat) When Pastor mentioned Luke 15:11-24 – about second son who took possession of the Father’s property and then when he returned when he repented, his father who have been waiting for his arrival with unfailing love and patient, gave the son a hug and kiss – I broke down in tears because He touched my heart and showed how great an earthly father with the love of the heavenly Father loved and given a warm hug to the son that betrayed his father. This reminds me of my mother who has a very bad temper and sometimes may loose control, and that day God let me see how my mother hold my hand and welcome me home... and brought me to my dad and brother who were behind me putting their hands on my shoulders. There are so many wonderful vision that God had given them to me, we all sang songs, watched tv, prayed together, had meals together with our hearts smiling and so many wonderful visions He gave to me. This is my first time that God gave me such wonderful thoughts, before that whenever I pray, I can only see the sad part of my life, feeling so rejected… my mother used to call me “stupid”, “… you are not my daughter”, “leave this house!”, “these are my property, if you want, go earn it yourself!”, and other foul words, and the one that hurt me the most was “if I have the chance I’ll abort you like others too…” and “you are my slave, get it!! So do as what I say!!” (in Chinese). It’s even scarier when she’s out of control; because this is what she told me “I may be out of control, Kai Lyn, so please don’t make me angry again and just follow what I commanded” and this is when I know my mother is really sick. Maybe before that I still can’t forgive what my mother was doing. That’s why I always wanted to run away from home as I am so fearful to return to my own home. I do not have the peace and felt so pressurised in my house; I think this goes the same to my dad and younger brother. This is how I’ve grown up from. However, I have almost forgotten some of them and forgave my only mother just like how Jesus has forgiven us.

Moreover because of how my mother has treated me and what my family has become, I don’t think I want to give these image to others either. I smoke to release tension and pressure which turned out to be not the answer. I drank alcohol sometimes although I know I can’t drink because of allergy. I drove really fast in Miri before, all to release my sadness and hurt inside my heart. Because what I think was I “never” see how parents can treat the child like this??!! Nevertheless I woke up and turned to realized that not everyone is that fortunate – like the recent story posted by Pastor Chris about a girl named Angel.

In this BMEW I learnt how to forgive and feel the love and presence of God. I now understand how blessed to have a family compared to those who are unfortunate but God will still love us. And I have transacted with God by pictures… He made me realized that, without my mother, I can’t be in this earth, and how difficult it is for a woman to carry a heavy new flesh in her womb. Everything I wish for was pictured in my mind and it was an opposite of my real life. Now, my mother’s health is not as healthy as before because she has been shouting and this had caused her to have heartache, headache, and insomnia. So He gave me a picture of how my mother actually loves me, and how my dad loves her so much. Parents’ actions have great influence over how the children eventually will turn out to be, not to forsake and torture them. Actually I really love my mother and father (my family), no matter how they behave and no matter whom they will ever be and I looking forward for that day when I can see them accept Christ. I even dare to pray on the phone with my dad the next few days and talk about how Jesus Christ forgave me to my mother which I never do before.

During the encounter weekend, Pastor introduced to me a sister who is so caring and funny in times to cheer me up and we take turns! I also wanted to bless her family with the love of Christ and wisdom for her and her mother to share as well as touch their family members who have yet to accept Christ. After the course my heart felt so light, felt like floating in the sky, just like Pastor Chris said if you recalled your past and groaned feeling uneasy, that means you have not cured from the wound and not yet forgive those who have hurt you. But I don’t feel uneasy anymore after we covered Luke 15:11-24, does that mean I’m cured? I understand the scope of the unfailing love now. There is just too much to talk about… but I really have not regretted joining BMEW. Pastor Chris made it so interesting and everyone is so concentrating on this as well as when they too were enjoying themselves. I’ve learnt a lot a lot and benefited from this course even knew more wonderful sisters and brothers who also taught me a lot for my life and future although we may not be perfect but I’m sure these are good men and I believe in them.

Thank you so much Pastor Chris! We’ll all bless you and Pastor Daniel as well!!

Elaine Yeong (CG-Essie Wong, PJS2)

Thank you for the amazing talk last Saturday and Sunday.

Before going to BMEW:

1) I kept on delaying the date for BMEW. I feel that i am not prepared yet.
2) I think that I will fall asleep during the course.

After going to BMEW:

1) I feel very happy and interesting.
2) Meaningful class, I have learned a lot, a lot.
3) Ready to be baptised.
3) Thank God for my praying partner - Alice, she is caring, cute and cheerful. (many people said I look like her too, haha)

The most important spiritual lesson I have learnt is "The Father Heart of God". I seldom cry. When Pastor Chris asked us to imagine how our Heavenly Father hold our hands, hugged us and willing to take away all our burdens, my tears kept streaming down. Joyful and touched. I could feel His love, His sacrifices and His forgiveness completely.

I have learnt to draw closer to God.

I realized that I give very little time to God but God looks after me 24 hours a day. I don't pray often, I read bible once a week, when I don't feel like going to church, iI don't go.

The greatest enemy is myself!!

I feel so sorry for God, I should have spent more time with Him. I want to give my love to my family, my friends, my realtives, etc just like how God has sacrificed His love for us even though we sin.

My earthly father and two brothers are christians by name only. They don't go to church, they don't pray and never read bible. So now I think it is my responsibility to change their life, especially my dad. Firstly, I have to change my own attitude. I always argue with my dad when he scolds me. So next time when he scolds me, I will just keep my mouth shut and listen, wait until he calms down, I will share my feelling with him softly. I want to let them know how I have changed to be a better person through Jesus Christ so I can influence them to draw closer to God.

Others should attend BMEW because they may learn a lot such as how to throw away their sins and bondages, forget about their painful past and begin with a new life, forgive people, deal with rejections, the reasons for baptism. People may come with a heart full of burdens and sorrows, or there's something tied up inside them that make them feel hard to let go. But I guarantee that when they walk out from this class, they will be a completely new person with new hope and feel a sense of relief. Once again thanks to Pastor Chris for his teaching sessions as he makes them interesting, fun and meaningful.

Joy Teoh (CG-Loh Keng Sing, KL)

Joyce Chuah & Joy Teoh

1. What is one most important spiritual lesson I have learnt?
The prodigal son / the loving Father story, especially about the son taking one step and the Father taking a hundred steps. From the story, I realize that God is always waiting for us to come back to Him. And all I need to do is to make the decision and take the step to go towards Him.

2. What has transacted between you and God this weekend?
Knowing that God truly loves me and that He won't reject me for what I have done. Even though I have grieved God's heart with my past, He will help me to overcome my past victoriously.

3. How did you feel before and after the Encounter Weekend?
Before - Did not feel much because I was not really sure what to expect.
After - Renewed because of better understanding of God's love & forgiveness.

4. Why should others attend the Encounter Weekend?
To understand more about the heart of our Father, His love and forgiveness so that we will be able to love/forgive others like how God does.
To understand about our baggages and bondages & how to deal with them so that we will not be dragged down by our past (not growing spiritually)

Joyce Chua (CG-James Tan, PJS1)

I used to think it was enough to believe and have faith in God. I thought being a Christian is just that simple. Ignorant you may say, but that’s what I knew then. Later on, I encountered a few Christians who questioned my credibility as a Christian by asking if I regularly attend church, cell groups, get baptised, etc. Therefore, after I finally found a church where I was comfortable, I regularly attended the church’s celebration. I even committed myself to join a cell group. Finally, I decided I should be baptised to remove all suspicions and accusation that I am not a true Christian. Hence, I signed up for BMEW weekend.

During this weekend, I realised it is just not this act of baptising that makes me a true Christian but, the need to make a decision and act upon in. To quote Pastor Chris, "It’s about turning 180 degrees."

It is about willing to change my ways to God’s ways. It’s about being accountable to each other through participation in cell groups, church and ministry. It is about having one-to-one time with the Lord. It is about submitting to God’s authority, reading His Words, praying consistently and many more. It is about being in tune to God.

Only then, I can walk confidently with God beside of me all the time; giving me wisdom and advice, as no one else can do it. In doubt, He’ll speak to me to make wise decisions. I now know, this will happen if I learn to speak more and devote more personal time to God. For when we speak to Him, He’ll give us the answers we seek.

I never realized, truly how much God loves us. I knew He sacrificed His son, Jesus Christ for our sins; but I did not fully comprehend the depth of His love until Pastor Chris illustrated Luke 15:11-24 as the parable of the waiting father. He reminded us how much our heavenly Father loves us, as long as we are willing to take that one step towards Him. Only then, God will run the remaining steps to us. This stirred a realisation within me that the empty voids in my heart that I long to fill cannot be filled by mere man. Finding a friend, confidant and partner in mere mortal man cannot remove the loneliness in my heart. Those voids only belong to Christ. My heart belongs to Him. Now, I realized I can remove my loneliness by receiving Christ fully into my heart. I know He can complete my heart.

Initially, I felt a little fear and reluctance to go to the Encounter Weekend. I felt as if I am not good enough to be a true Christian because I have not faithfully devoted my time to Christ. I felt alone and fearful. Instead, this weekend surprised me as it passed quickly. It was a time of learning and understanding. Each session was unexpectedly enjoyable and I felt great. In fact, I managed to bond with two fellow Christians who were encouraging and supportive of me. I am very thankful God prompted me to finally attend BMEW after so long. I personally feel anyone who attends this weekend will benefit so much that he or she will wonder why they never did this earlier in the first place. It was a relaxing, comforting and ministering time for me as I got to learn to take that one step towards God and tell Him, "Here I am, Lord, I need You. I love You, Lord. Please love me too." I felt as if God really ran towards me and gave me a big comforting hug; whispering, "Child, I have always loved you".

Thank you, Pastor Chris for this spiritual awakening weekend for me.

Chang Yoke Hoe (CG-Dylan Wong, PJN2)

Chang Yoke Hoe & Robbin Khoo

I came to BMEW unprepared as in my usual busy and hurried world. God made me stop for that 2 days and provided me with what is important.

Thank you for the teaching, you made the whole faith so relevant in my daily life.
I am in middle of some big events in my life:

1. A serious relationship for 2years+. A girl friend who needs a little more attention.
2. A time consuming work in clinic, feeling burn-out lately.
3. PMC and at peak of wedding preparation.
4. Renovating my new house.
5. I love badminton.

I came back to God 2 years ago after a long long while. I can see His hands leading me back since then. He brought me back in a special way. I am so thankful for what He has done for me and that He has not forgotten me. He has blessed me so much in my work and family , I am contended with what I have and couldn't ask for more.

I have learnt that again, more personally the need for Jesus to die for me so that I can gain eternity and enjoy a special relationship with Him. I need to leave all my sins and burdens under His feet and go on leading a life worthy of Him, and to continue that and not to be so earthly minded but more of heavaenly use, that's me.

So I really need to learn to let Him take control of my life (pastor, I can understand this more personally now), I need prayers now! I am slowly feeling He is changing me at this junction as I am entering another phase of my life, and hope that I'll be able to cope as a husband, a brother, a son-in law, a relative, a doctor, a clinic partner, a badminton friend, an mca member, a person to a stranger....

I can see myself bettter, the past, now and be better equiped for the future...walking closer to Him.

Others should attend BMEW so that God can speak to them, because He knows them all of their needs.

Robbin Khoo (CG-Peter Cheong, PJS1)

Here's my testimony and I must confess that when I was listening to my other brothers / sisters talk about their "encounters" with God, I was envious that I didn't encounter God at the BMEW. Little did I know Jesus had already done that....as I thought it was merely a figment of my imagination when I "saw" Him turning to me, smiled and reached out His hand saying, "Don't worry, I shall give you time". Never did I think He would reveal to me what He meant, on the following day. Now, I understand what "my encounter with the Lord" was all about. He gave me a testimony that was just overwhelming with joy that I could not surpress my anxiety to want to share it throughout the week that followed - both with my brothers / sisters in the cell as well as non-Christian colleagues at the workplace.

I also want to thank you for all the guidance, understanding, direction and prayers. Your parenting experiences and sharing have been very uplifting.

And I know that as the Lord builds me up spiritually, He has made my journey very swift and rapid. I know I now need to walk with my own feet, in confidence and faith that He shall always be with me.

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1. What is one most important spiritual lesson I have learnt?

The Father Heart of God. It was an absolute blessing that the Lord revealed Godly wisdom to me. He “opened” my heart and mind to realize that in many a time, while as parents and in our zealousness to love our children and ensure they grow up in the most righteous manner, we fail to express our love for them in the manner in which the Lord has taught us. This lesson taught me that love in its true essence contains no condition and is indescribably divine – for the Lord Father has loved me so[1], that I shall love my children no differently; for He has also shown me forgiveness and not once shame me, that I shall also learn to show my children a display of such love. The Holy Spirit convicted me to ask my children for forgiveness for I have mistakenly shamed them in my pursuit to discipline and correct them out of love. I felt a heavy burden in my heart as I realized there is still so much that I have not learnt. As I silently prayed in the midst of the lesson, the Lord revealed again that all is forgiven and that my responsibility now is to “bear witness to what the Lord has said and done for me…that the change in my life will be my greatest testimony of my relationship to Christ…and that finally, there is nothing more appealing or convincing to a watching world than to hear the testimony of someone who has just been with Jesus”[2].

2. What has transacted between you and God this weekend?

In a simple sentence – I saw Jesus sitting right in front of me. And as He turned to me, with a smile He said comfortingly, “I shall give you time”…as if He readily knew my heart and my concern over my work deadlines. Utterly bemused when I shared the experience with my wife on the same evening, we merely brushed the incident off as a figment of my wild imagination? Perhaps a manifestation of my own anxiety? Unable to place any meaning to the incident, we did not pursue the matter any further.

As we have so often discovered, God works in strange and mysterious ways. Jesus revealed the true meaning of His message at the end of Monday. I encountered a series of emails at my workplace, moving the deadline of my scheduled task. And these emails arrived within minutes of each other (refer Appendix 1). Ultimately the deadline was rescheduled to the following Monday. Incidents like this never fails to deepen my belief that the Lord is ever so real and so faithful and that He shall always walk with us in our lives when we constantly live our lives obediently and continue to reach out to Him in our prayers. This brings real meaning to the statement – God’s people live by revelation[3].

3. How did you feel before and after the Encounter Weekend?

As the weekend approached, my emotions were pretty mixed, anxious yet peaceful…excited yet calm…earnest yet uncertain of what to expect. Then there was the struggle with work deadlines and the wonder of whether I should throw in a last minute postponement. The decision was made through the conviction of the Holy Spirit that in such a state of uncertainty, I should place the Lord first and place my faith in His will and know that somehow He would arrange what’s best for me to make that happen.

And so I went….

At the end of the BMEW, I felt an inner peace that I have made the correct decision to attend the workshop. Spiritually lifted with the numerous testimonies of my brothers and sisters in attendance, I somehow knew that the Lord has already intervened in my schedule. And as I drove back home, I continued to pray that the Lord would “stretch” my hours in order that I might have sufficient time to complete what I needed to do. And ever faithful as He was, God divinely and amazingly arranged that my deadlines were “somehow” shifted for an additional week and I was granted sufficient time to complete what I had to do. With magical moments like these, I know that God is building my faith in Him with each encounter and as I continue to seek Him, I can see His mighty hand reaching out all the time. With that, I walk in confidence of the Lord and know that He is always ahead of me…for “God never sends you into a situation alone”[4]

4. Why should others attend the Encounter Weekend?

For many varied reasons. I believe the Lord has independent plans for each of us. While I had originally approached this Encounter Weekend as a requirement for me to attain my baptism, it had turned out quite differently from my original plans. And as always, with the Lord’s intervention, it could only be much better than our own plans. One could also experience the Lord’s blessings and humour as He “cradles” you along the weekend and reveals His special plan for you.

For whichever the outcome, I know it will most definitely be different and meaningful to each and everyone in their own lives. The Encounter Weekend could very well be the beginning of someone’s ‘transformation’ in his or her life.

[1] The Parable of the Lost Son – LUKE 15:11-31
[2] That which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. And these things we write to you that your joy may be full – JOHN 1:3-4 (Experiencing GOD day-by-day, 4 April 2006)
[3] Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; But happy is he who keeps the law – PROVERBS 29:18 (Experiencing GOD day-by-day, 7 January 2006)
[4] But after I have been raised, I will go before you to Galilee – MARK 14:28

Maxine Koh (CG-Peter Cheong, PJS1)

Maxine Koh & Jean Cheong

1) What is one most important spiritual lesson I have learnt?

I have learnt that our Lord Father is very gracious and merciful. No matter what sins we commit, He will still forgive us if we genuinely repent. This helps me to open my heart to others as well that I should also forgive them for those who have hurt me in the past.

I have always found it difficult to forgive my earthly father for what he had done to us when he was alive. The Encounter Weekend has helped to remove this emotional baggage from me that I have been carrying for the last 30 over years.

Such tremendous relief has further opened my heart to others. If I could forgive my earthly father for what he had done to us, I could forgive others as well. I now find life wonderful to have a ‘forgiving heart’ as I do not have to keep thinking about the hurt but to move forward with my life……

2) What has transacted between you and God this weekend?

As Pastor Chris was preaching about ‘The Father Heart of Gold’, I had a vision of Lord Jesus extending His hand to reach out for me. He then held my hand and we walked together on a path.

With the vision, I believe Lord Jesus wants to draw me close to him and walk His way.

3) How did you feel before and after the Encounter Weekend?

The Encounter Weekend was a wonderful experience. Besides the emotional healing and the great ‘forgiving heart’ it has built in me, I have picked up very good tips on parenting.

4) Why should others attend the Encounter Weekend?

I would definitely encourage others to attend the Encounter Weekend. My own experience as well as the great testimonies given by other fellow brothers and sisters testified that the Encounter Weekend could bring joy and freedom to those attend. What’s more, at so little cost! Nevertheless, I believe the emotional richness I experienced could not be equated to any amount of money.

Thank you Pastor Chris for the GREAT weekend.

Jean Cheong (CG-Peter Cheong, PJS1)

I was glad to be able to attend the BMEW with Peter and some of our cell members. I believed the sessions gave me time to reflect on my own life. I managed to do some soul searching especially when Pastor Chris shared about the Father’s heart. I cried as I sensed the absence of my own physical father- as I was brought up by my grandparents. I have not felt the love of my own dad when I was young. The Lord, however, came into my life when I was a young child, and, therefore, filled the vacuum in all aspects. I was touched that the Lord came into my life at the right point of time, or I would have been lost in hope and desperation. During the point of reflection at the BMEW, I sensed the Lord, our Father, holding my hands and said, “ everything is ok, alright.” That peace and assurance were just overwhelming. It was a very beautiful experience.

There were also other things that I have learnt. Pastor Chris gave plenty of tips on parenting and marriage. These tips were truly helpful, even though my kids have not reached teenage hood. The advice given would help me prepare, so that I would be able to guide my children and also find my marriage being enriched.

I would encourage those who had been through the BMW (one day course) in the past to sign up for the BMEW. I had the time to search and check on my inner soul during the 2 days and most of all, reminded that God always loves me.

Sandy Lo (CG-Loh Keng Sing, KL)

Sandy Lo & Karine Ho

1) The spiritual lesson I learnt from BMEW is the difference between our heavenly father and earthly parents. I am a private person. I always hope that there will be someone who is totally perfect which humanly is impossible to fulfill, someone to be there to love me and guide me, and I know that even my parents and partner cannot fit in that role. I yearned for my parents' attention since I was three years old. There is a lot of dissappointments along the path where I was raised. I cannot say I really felt the Lord close with me, like in tune with God. But I really believe He is always there for me. I sensed His Presence which I always wish for and wanted Him to be with me. I know Him more as a person now. I am glad to know that He is a gentleman.

2) God told me He will give me the gift of speaking in tongue, the wisdom (I pray for that since I am going to start my Master program soon in June), the power of ministry, the thing I ask for (I did pray very hard for this in my heart). He told me to put HOPE in Him. Last year when I was in depression, God spoke to me once. He told me that no matter how hopeless, there will always be a hope there. Every step I take He will be there for me. I think God would like me to know every next step that I take He will be there delightfully with me. God is gracious to give me that gift. I do not know where and when He wants to lead me to and when is the timing. But I know when the timing is right He will lead me to the next step and will proud of my improvement.

3) My life is lighten up, not so heavy anymore to carry on. Maybe it will be heavy some times, but I hope God will always be there for me. and walk beside me.

4) Others should attend to help them really understand what is baptism is for. Maybe they understand what is baptism for but not in depth.

Karine Ho (CG-Kok Poh Sim, PNJ4)

I want to thank you Pastor Chris for his wonderful teaching, sharing and testimonies.

During the encounter weekend, at the lesson, The Father of God, when I knelt down, I really felt God’s love was pouring upon me. He was telling me that He loves me so much and He will take care of me. His presence is so real to me. And this reminded me of my earthly father, as our relationship isn’t that good all these while. Only after knowing Jesus, I feel the Father’s love.

The second transaction between God and me was after I threw away my baggage and bondages. I felt myself lifted up and much more enlightened after that. God was really touching my heart. In fact, He’s doing something in my life all the time.

I’ll encourage people to attend encounter weekend to get deeper with Jesus and to clear their doubts. And more importantly, to understand their role and responsibility of being a Christian and a member of church.

Lee Hui Min (CG-Ken Lee, PJN1)

Juliana Teo & Lee Hui Min

MY DATE WITH MY HEAVENLY FATHER

On 6 May 2006, I make my way to Empress Hotel to attend the BMEW feeling all excited, because I have an important date with God! I have prayed very hard before this day finally came, I am looking forward to an amazing encounter with my heavenly father.

As my husband and I were traveling there, we saw a rainbow in the sky, following us as we make our way to Sepang. What an awesome reminder from God that He is with me all the way and He will meet me at the BMEW.

On the 1st day Pastor Chris shared with us the parable of the prodigal son. Since I came from a Christian family, I know the story very well, because I’ve heard of it so many times. But somehow this time I can vividly feel the love of the father in the story. I closed my eyes and I can clearly see my heavenly father standing in the horizon, waiting eagerly for me to return to him. Yes, there are many occasions in my life which I have strayed away from God. I have tried to achieve what I want base on my own knowledge, with my own methods, and I look to people for security. But as time passes by, I realised my own limitations. I have also experienced disappointment again and again from the one I love the most, making me feel completely insecure in my life. I started feeling bitter and revengeful and let unforgiveness clog up my heart. I often listen to the lies of Satan, telling myself I’m not loved and I’m worth nothing.

So one day when my body finally gave way to all my stress and anxiety, my “flesh man” was completely broken down, and that’s when my “spirit man” started to emerge. I started praying earnestly to God and seek security and affirmation from Him. Then it daunts unto me that as I face the trials in my life, I have forgotten about my heavenly father, the one who created me and this whole universe - my Provider. I didn’t put God as my priority. I did not surrender myself to him and did not pray for strength from Him. Instead, I tried so hard to solve my problems by myself, bearing all the burdens on my shoulder. The bible says in Matthew 11:28, Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. I surrender myself to Him and find complete rest in Him. Because my heavenly father knows what my needs are! But I have also learned that our God is a perfect gentleman, He will not do anything to help us unless we call unto Him. He will not force His wills on us. But as soon as we call out to Him, He will answer our prayers. When I run 1 step towards him, He runs 100 steps toward me!! How great is that?!! My heavenly father had loved me even before I was born and will continue to do so until I leave this world one day.

With my eyes closed tightly, I see myself running to God and I got a big bear hug from Him, and I just couldn’t stop my tears from rolling down my cheeks. I received again the confirmation from God that HE LOVES ME!! He loves me despite all the wrongs that I have done, He will not forsake me although I have forgotten about him. My God IS the loving father of the prodigal son.

I learned another valuable lesson from the pairing of prayer partners. After Pastor Chris paired us up with our prayer partner, I was 100% ready to pour my heart out to my partner and share all my problems with her. I have heard some wonderful testimonies from my cg members on how their prayer partners ministered to them in a great way. So I thought, I shall benefit from my prayer partner as she ministers to me. But God wants me to learn something better by pairing me up with my prayer partner, who is a new Christian. As we shared I realized she has gone through so much afflictions in her life and she needs God’s blessings more than I do. So, instead of focusing on my own needs, I did my best to pray for her. I believe God wants to use me as a tool to extend His love physically to my partner. I always think that I have nothing to offer, and am very comfortable remaining at the receiving end. Which is why I said I am all ready to pour my problems to my partner and let her minister to me. But I understand now, by remaining at the receiving end I do not exercise my faith at all. I will remain as a spiritual baby forever. How could someone realize the joy of giving unless he starts to give? It is only when you learn to give to others that you realize you are actually a rich person. And as I pray for my dear friend I pray for wisdom for me to bring comfort to my friend. I also constantly give thanks to my God for giving me this opportunity to serve others. By faith, I believe that as I do my best to minister to others, God will personally minister to me. (Thank you father for loving me and teaching me this!) I also understand now why God does not give me the gifts that I have prayed for over the years. What’s the point of giving you something if you are not going to make good use of it? It’s like giving a Ferrari to someone who doesn’t know how to drive. J The moral of the lesson is: start serving! and God will equip you with His gifts along the way. The more you give, the more you will receive.

The sky may not always be blue and the sun may not be shining brightly everyday of my life, but I’ve learned that my heavenly father is my anchor. I will tie myself so tightly to Him that I may never wither when life’s big storms hit me. I want to thank Pastor Chris for the wonderful lessons I’ve learned at BMEW. But most of all I want to thank God for blessing Pastor Chris so much that he in turn can bless us with our father’s mighty love.

I believe everything in my life happens for a reason. God is using every incident in my live to build and mould my character. Now I face my life with a changed attitude, because once again I am reminded of God’s love and I know He has wonderful plans for me. If you need to be reminded how deep is our heavenly father’s love for you, I urge you to register for BMEW. It will recharge your faith and give you a brand new prospect in life.

Juliana Teo (CG-Ashvin Raj, PJN1)

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Nice to know all of you. My name is Juliana Teo. I learnt and experienced much about the love of the Father through the BMEW. We will only experience such a worthy experience once in our lifetime and will never come again!

One of the most important spiritual lessons I have learnt during BMEW is to write down all of my previous sins, and to renounce them, and left all kinds of my previous sins away. I should face my sin honestly and seriously. I did not hide but confess, renounce, repent and covenant with God to live a life of holiness from that day onwards. I learnt that when there is a genuine repentance, no matter what terrible things we have done, our Father heart of God shows the patient and unfailing love of the Father completely wipes away all the sins that I have committed and He is faithful to forgive us. I have learnt that I do not keep sin in secret, but I should renounced and repent.

During this BMEW, I came to know that rejection is one of the most painful feelings and yet I have to forgive those who hurt and reject me. This is the way for me to overcome my baggage and bondages in my life. I have to forgive those people who ill-treated me so that my past baggage and bondages will not be hindrances to my walk and growth in the Lord.

Another interesting experience in BMEW is we had to practice speaking in tongues. We prayed to God to give us this gift, and we had to use this gift once we were received it.

After this weekend, I really get to know more about our heavenly Father and learn to love God more. We will be joyful once we put our Father in the center of everything we do. We can ask God for this. Thus, we learnt to capture the vision from God for living and live out God’s purpose for our life.

Before the Encounter Weekend, although I was hesitant about signing up for BMEW, I thought this was the time for me to really think about the baptism, and truly become Christian. I felt that I did not have the confidence. But after the Encounter Weekend, I have no regret in coming for this BMEW.

I would like to encourage all of you to attend this BMEW as it is the opportunity where we have the time to encounter for God. In addition, I gained a lot knowledge in husband and wife relationship, and parenting tips. BMEW is the place we share our experience with God in touching us in many way.

Finally I would like to thank God for leading me to DUMC in November last year because it is here I learn how to be a proper Christian. I is never too late to become one, and I have sense of belongings to serve in DUMC now! Amen.

Thank you!

Jason Kho (CG-Lily Wong, PJN1)

Jason Kho & Henry Chiah

What is one most important spiritual lesson I have learnt?
I have learnt that it is so important to be in tune with God every day, to have a conscious effort to always include God in every area of my life, including Him in all that I do. It would help me to be able to be more sensitive to the Holy Spirit and be guided by Him daily.

This would include more time in prayer and reading of His Word which is a basic necessity (spiritual food) for every Christians, but neglected by many.

What has transacted between you and God this weekend?
The weekend has been a “release” for me. In such weekend where I put aside my life and focus on Him, it is such a joy to dwell in His presence (which I felt during the BMEW sessions).

Being always busy coping with my everyday life, God is telling me that I can surely find rest in Him. In Him, I can find release and freedom in his Word. I also find my spirit-man strengthen by listening of His Word and He certainly lifted my burdens off my shoulders.

How did you feel before and after the Encounter Weekend?
I came without much expectation, but looking forward to it knowing that there’s a surprise waiting for me. After the Encounter Weekend, I feel refreshed and renewed, and my conscious of allowing more of the Lord in my life becomes more apparent.

Why should others attend the Encounter Weekend?
It is certainly a good course and you would actually have an encounter with the Lord and never know you can be that close to Him, until the Encounter Weekend teaches you how to open your heart and run back to the Father.

Everyone would also have baggage carried along with them, so in this encounter, you would learnt to recognize how real these baggage are and learn to place it at the feet of Jesus.

Henry Chiah (CG-Loh Keng Sing, KL)

I was born in a very healthy and wealthy non-Christian family. Since childhood until now, my parent pampered me until a stage that I don't have anything to worry. These have moulded me to become a free thinker person. For me only the problem person needs religion. My family practices Taoism; they pray to almost every other gods too, like Hinduism, Sai Baba, Koon Yam, Tai Seng Yeh, Tin Hau, Buddha; just to pray for our family health and safety. For me, I was just following their will and doing whatever my parent wants me to do without any sincerity and faith.

I am a very optimistic person and I always feel like there are no big difficulties happening in my life. Even when there are difficulties, I can manage them without any problem. I have a happy go lucky attitude among my friends.

In 1999 I get to know a girl (my current girl friend) during my varsity years. The longer I knew her, the more interested I become on her background. Her broken family stories, her family financial problem and a lot more sad stories among her family members. Everything was so dramatic to me. She was so insecure, timid, fearful and a worrisome girl to me. She used to go to church and hopping from one church to another church to look for a comfortable church to stick to. This is the way that I get to know about Christianity and the church. Again, I was just following her will and doing whatever she wants me to do and again without any sincerity and faith. All this while she did notice and question my sincerity and honesty to God. My answer was always like this "When the day come, I will give 100% faith on God. Don't worry, my faith are growing now." This had been happen for the last few years.

All the while, I acted like a devil, blame her for going to the church celebration, giving out tithe and offering and even brain wash her to become a free thinker like me. We debated and struggled on Christianity.

We spent most of our time "lepaking" at shopping centres. This is the way we release our working pressure. At first I though my girlfriend was successfully influenced by me, but the more we walked away from God, He actually runs toward us. We will some how or some time feel guilty about that because we are so blessed by God on our life. We are very successful in our career. We were promoted fast and my girl friend even achieved her target every year and granted 5 digit incentives. But our mind was very blank and we feel so tired of our life. That's why on and off we went to church celebrations to settle our guilty feeling. We always give a lot of excuses to ourselves not to be attached to a cell group as we don't want to commit to anyone. This has been happening for a few years until one day we decided to plan for our marriage. We always like to dreams about our future, our life, our house and even our children. We have a lot of fantastic imagination. Both of us feel guilty of ourselves for not even thinking about God. We started to quarrel and argue with each other. My initial plan for the wedding day is supposed to be this coming June, because of her insistence to have a proper christian wedding, I have to make up my mind not to fix the wedding date. I was so frustrated why we have to go through a big big round to be married. Just after that feeling, I don't know some how, just at the right time at the right place, I came across a book of Rick Warren "The Purpose Driven", which caught my attention. I told her if God really loves us, please He will reveal His will to us.(Actually all the while when we are in a dilemma we will spend time reading bible.)

That page that really shocked us and we feel very guilty about on how we are treating God. Page133; the title is "Why You Need A Church Family". We spend time and really focus on the paragraph until we make a decision to go back to God, know more of Him and serve Him. From that day onward, we join a Cell Group and attend celebration every week. We bought a study bible and a children bible and read it every day. We spend time to pray and talk to God. The more I know God, the more I feel guilty about my sin. I feel embarrassed and afraid to face God. This delayed me from signing up for BMEW. I felt I did not qualify to be a christian. Thank you pastor Chris for the BMEW section, it does help me a lot. If you can still remember during the new life class, I had ask you a question regarding "What is the feeling when we have faith and trust in God?" and your answer is "like traveling on an aircraft."

Adeline Teh (CG-Loh Keng Sing, KL)

Adeline Teh & Adeline Fong

· After the 2 days BMEW session, I have learnt that one must be obedient and follow God’s will. By following God’s will, we will have a peaceful and confident heart. I have learnt a lot during the confession of sins session. After the session, I realized that one can’t escape the punishment from sin. Although we have not committed the sins for the past 1 or 2 or 3 or more years, if we didn’t confess our sins in front of God, we will have to confess the sins one day also.

· I have found out that every Christian has their own struggle in their life. Sometimes God create challenges in our life to get us closer to him. Faith and trust towards God is important during the struggling moment. After the BMEW, I see every challenge positively as I know God is always there for me. I become more committed to pray twice a day and talk to God more. I realize that my love towards God has increased tremendously.

· I feel peaceful and feel that I am getting closer and closer to God. I feel myself as very light, free from baggage & bondages. I really trust God for everything that I am or will do, as I will pray for everything before or during I do it. My relationship with my boy friend has improved, as he started to have more faith to God. We carry our relationship by following God’s will.

· They will understand more about God’s teaching. Thru BMEW, can encourage one to have more faith and trust and also direction from God. BMEW is very important in teaching us how to carry out a proper Christianity life.

Adeline Fong (CG-Ken Lee, PJN1)

Confession time! I went for BMEW because I had to. Dan and I have decided that we need to move on in our involvement in DUMC, and I cannot move on because I am not a member. So BMEW is actually my first step. I made that first step out of obedience and submission. When I was filling up the form for BMEW, I thought to myself, I have gone through all these lessons before. But a few days before BMEW, I told myself that I want to go with a humbled heart and I said a little prayer to God – telling Him that I look forward to a fresh encounter with Him.

And indeed, I am so humbled! Humbled once again by the Father heart of my God, by the greatness of Jesus’ love and sacrifice for me. I received a fresh understanding of the concept of time and eternity - how because Jesus also died for all my future sins, every sin I commit now and in future, adds another wound to Him. I was so overwhelmed at the thought of how wretched I am, and how much I have hurt him.

Through this fresh understanding, I want to please Him more, I don’t want to hurt him anymore. He loves me so much, how can I not love others? How can I not forgive those who have hurt me? Once again, I am confronted with the fact that loving is a CHOICE. It is not based on how I am feeling about a person. And God showed me that I have to choose to love even when it hurts, even when I don’t feel like it, even when I would rather walk the other way.

I also realised that I have been too focused on earthly worries, so much so that I am not much of heavenly use anymore. The Lord reminded me that I have a purpose and I have a calling. I need to rediscover my purpose in life and live a life that is worthy of my calling. I want to rediscover the close and intimate relationship with Jesus once again.

No matter whether you’ve been a Christian 1 week or 10 years, do not miss this opportunity to be a CHILD again, to soak in God’s presence, to sit at
Jesus’ feet and to surrender all our earthly baggage with Him in exchange for joy & freedom! In Pr Chris’ words, you will come back feeling much lighter!! Not because DUMC starves us over the weekend (the food is great by the way), but because we are no longer carrying our baggage! ;)

Elizabeth Hie (Cell Leader, CYZ)

Lee Pui Fung & Elizabeth Hie

What is one most important spiritual lesson I have learnt?
I learnt about the Father’s love for me. It has been a long time since I’ve viewed my Father as how Ps Chris have mentioned. I remembered those times I’ve imagined walking close with My Father in Heaven, dancing with Him and He swinging me around on the air just like a father playing with his own child. As I got older, I slowly lost that perspective. I slowly lose the vision I had for my Father. I ran away so many times and sometimes, I even forget what it was like to be at home in His arms, as I searched through the right path that points me back to Him. I learnt most importantly that, God did not only wait on me but when he saw me from a distant, He ran to me! That is how amazing my Father is to me, when I do not deserve this kind of treatment. This I know, that the Father would not disown me when I turn back to Him. So, from here, I learnt and experienced the amazing love God has for me and I ran back to my first love.

I learnt not to put people to shame as well and I’m sure I’ll remember that when I am to teach my children as well. That was a revelation for me. Lastly, I learnt that putting sins under Jesus feet wasn’t easy. It is so easy to look back and take it back again and indulge in the old ways. I’ve learnt not to look back but look forward to Christ. Yes, I may have to deal with some of these problems or even face the consequences, but I know that I am moving on in the race that the Creator have marked out for me not being stuck at one place or going backwards but running forward.

What has transacted between you and God during the weekend?
God really touched me during BMEW. I haven’t cried so much in years because of God’s touch. I feel so refreshed and I think that the joy has been restored in me! I have been longing for that joy for years!!! After I cried and cried, I finally have that joy in my heart. It’s amazing! I really needed all that. I feel so often that it is so hard for me to really reach out to Him and I was running dry. I really needed something from God; a sign, a touch… and I am really glad that He did touch me that night. Also, I think God really strengthen me throughout the whole 2 days ‘cause I was extremely tired. He spoke to me a lot through the lessons and the experiences shared by Ps. Chris. I am really thankful that I was given the opportunity to attend BMEW again as a refresher course for leaders.

How did you feel before and after the Encounter Weekend?
Before BMEW, I was really tired. I was wondering why I sign up for this when I went through it years ago (known as BMW last time). I just got back from camp and I’m going off again. The night before the Encounter Weekend I sort of had an argument with someone close to me. Negative thoughts filled my mind; such as ‘it’ll be boring’, ‘I’ll probably fall asleep there anyway’ and etc. The more, I didn’t feel like attending the Encounter Weekend. I began to question whether I was going because of my friends or because I really wanted to learn something from there. Answer: Both, because I know that besides having friends there, I know that I needed something from God. To my surprise, it was the opposite of what I have thought. The Encounter Weekend was amazing! After the Encounter Weekend, I know that I am much happier than I used to be. I guess, it’s because of the joy in me =) Though I had this complaining spirit in me from time to time, I am much aware of it and try not to do so now (also, reduced quite a fair bit, I think). I am so ever thankful for Him and what He has done in my life. He has restored so many things in my life. I walk more confidently now and am still learning. I have a more positive mindset about the things I do and pray continuously for strength to carry me thru each day and to do the best in anything I do and do it with joy, the right spirit and a spirit of excellence. I apply this as I work now.

Why should others attend the Encounter Weekend?
It is not just permissible but it is beneficial for all of us. You get to refresh your spirit, experience God and apply what you have learnt for each lesson. The application may be symbolic during the weekend, but it is really helpful and it does mean something. Those who have attended BMW should attend BMEW. I really wish I could attend again or be Baptist again *hahaha* It is beneficial for both leaders and members. Do not underestimate what God can do during the Encounter Weekend.


My own short testimony…
As a new leader in church (about half a year already), it has not been easy. I would not say my ride with Jesus was smooth. It was like a rollercoaster. People expect leaders to be ‘on top’ when it comes to spirituality. Well, we leaders have the duty to lead His people to the right way and it is scary when you do not know the answers to the questions post, or intimidated by the members around you. What some people don’t realize that, leaders can fall as well and leaders need much encouragement in their spiritual and emotional lives, just as others because they can fall as well. But I guess all these depends on whether the leaders want help from their members or is willing to open up to others to do something about what is happening in their own lives. Walking as a leader can be quite lonely and personally, I questioned the life that I am living, the purpose of it all. I still held unto my faith… but I felt as if I was hanging there, in the edge of a mountain about to fall but still hanging there. As a leader, you tend not to disclose this information to your members but I did during PreU Getaway as all of us shared our life stories during that camp. I was still searching my way through and am running out of water, thirsty and needed to be filled. Still, nothing much really changed. I knew that I was far from Him. Often, I am ashamed by the things I did, the temptations I fell and sin I’ve committed and I didn’t dare to look at God. I still ask for His forgiveness but I couldn’t bring myself to really forgive myself and look to Him. Like a little child locked in her room and does not want to face her parents because she knew she did something wrong. She didn’t dare to look up to her parents. That was me.

This BMEW changed my life, changed my perspective about God and renewed my covenant with Him. He brought joy into my life, peace and helped me to surrender and look forward in life. He changed my perspective about Him, My Father and the world around me. His spirit was upon me, filling my emptiness and all I could do was cry unto Him… cry it all out. Life was not easy for me because loneliness and emptiness consumed me and I didn’t have the joy to live or urgency in my life. Don’t get me wrong, I have a wonderful family, friends and blessed life. I do appreciate these people that God put in my life. It’s just that, it was really tough because I was carrying a whole bunch of baggage, behind my shoulders- sins, guilt, low self-esteem, comparing myself with others, trying to please others etc. That’s why I find it harder to live and sometimes, I feel as if no one really understands or know what I’m going through, except God Himself because I find that people see me as someone always smiley and happy-go-lucky girl; almost “perfect” and I didn’t want to disappoint them. Soon, I found out that perhaps, I was the one who put such expectations on myself, not them, and when I can’t reach those expectations, I would run and hide away, afraid that the people I love wouldn’t accept me, which includes My Heavenly Father as well. I began to realize that I have been living my own life or living what others expect me to be instead of living a life that is pleasing to Him or of what He wants me to be.

I am thankful that our God is a faithful God. He still searched for me when I ran away, looking out at the horizon. He is amazing… and no one can ever comprehend His beauty and wonder. I didn’t expect anything from this BMEW. But God expected me there… and He had a plan for me. Indeed, he filled me with His joy and peace. I know that I have to do something to maintain this or I can slip away without my own knowledge. I pray that I will continue to seek Him each day and know that He is my God and there is nothing too hard for Him that He can’t do. He loves me and at last, I can tell Him that I really love Him too, after those months or years. I am found in Him! Thank be unto Jesus, Amen! =)

I learnt that being in so many ministries in church or having so many people in your life cannot compensate the love and joy that God can provide you with. Yes, we can get support from there, prayers and encouragements… but if we do not have a relationship with this God, a real solid, sincere relationship with Him; whichever ministry you are in, no matter how many ministries you may serve or how many friends you have made or how many people loves you, again, it is not enough and it cannot fully give us life that is filled with true everlasting love, peace and joy. It’s like going back to square one of your loneliness, emptiness, worries, hurts and problems again- consciously or unconsciously. This is because, we left out the most important person, who deserves our time, relationship and our lives… the Source of our salvation, the Giver of these gifts and the Creator who has made us.

Lee Pui Fung (CG-Elizabeth Hie, Campus Youth Zone)

Seriously, I don't really know what to write for this BMEW testimony. Maybe partly is because I was really tired and we were to submit tthe testimony within 3 days after we've completed our BMEW (Yikes!!)... Brain freeze...

Well, it does help a lot that 4 questions were given to guide us in writing this, though I won't follow strictly to the questions (because I tend to share slightly off topic). What have I learnt spiritually throughout the course? There were many, but one that really hit me was that how sin can deeply grieve our Father in heaven. Yeah, I know sin hurts God and Jesus, but I've never really repented but rather, being remorseful. I tend to fall into sin easily, and I feel bad everytime I do. I didn't take sin as serious as I should have. But during BMEW, Pr Chris taught us and realisation just came to me that every single sin I commit, whether in past, present or future, adds another wound onto Jesus!! Yes, Jesus died for our sins, all of it, past, present and future. So how Jesus died for our future sins?? Doesn't really make much of a sense for humans where time is linear. But God isn't bounded by time and space, it doesn't apply to Him!! So yes, every single sin in future affects crucification of Jesus!! I'll add extra one more wound on Jesus when I sin. I crucified Jesus... At that time, I almost could feel the pain, though it's nothing near to what He really suffered on the cross. So to me, everytime I'm tempted to sin, I'll keep in mind that I'm hurting Jesus more, so as to keep me away from sin. I pray that I'll rely on His strength and wisdom to avoid sin as much as possible.

There was a moment which was very precious to me during BMEW. Being a christian of 2 and half years, I've been attending cg meetings and celebrations regularly. Upon the encouragement of my previous cg leader after 2 years, I even join the CYZ worship ministry Flare. I was very blessed throughout my 2 and half years, but I felt that my love for God isn't deep enough. From Bible, I know that God loves me but I couldn't see it in a significant manner. When I listened to testimonials of others, how God changed their lives tremendously, how God has touched their hearts, I longed for those. I wanted to experience what they had, their encounter with God's presence and love. I wanted something which is precious and personal between me and God only. I guess I wasn't really in-tune with Him, or else I would be able to follow Him closely. Then I encounter it during the 1st session of BMEW, titled Father the heart of God. It was based on the parable of the prodigal son. At the end of the session, we all knelt down and Pr Chris was telling us to imagine that we're little children, and our heavenly Father in front of us, extending His hands to us to hold our hands, calling us to Him. I saw myself holding Him, and He took me to a little park, talked to me and played with me just like a loving father would. The encounter was so real, so emotional for me that I started tearing... God really touched my heart in a way that I couldn't explain. I don't usually cry like that. I think I never really cried in that way before. That moment was so precious to me, no one could ever take that away from me. After that I was so filled with God's presence.

BMEW has certainly changed the way I'm going to lead my life. The most important thing now which I want to focus is to deal with running away from temptation and sin. And one thing I learnt was that, the first step is to confess and not hide anything. When we're serious about being accountable to each other, the tendency for us to fall into sin is less since there's nothing to hide. I was blessed to have my own cg leader to be my sharing partner during BMEW, and coincidently, she is my accountability partner (though we never really make use of this acountability partnership well). Now I will start by making an effort to tell her whenever I'm tempted and will pray together. I want to make a change.

I really encourage all those who haven't sign up for BMEW to go for it. It's really interesting, you'll meet a lot of new people. For me, I was practically the only youth from CYZ who went for 6-7th of March BMEW (Thank God my cg leader went as ministry member!!) I felt worried at first that I wouldn't be able to fit in, but I get to know alot of people who are more mature and it makes the whole thing interesting. Not only that, it's a really good getaway period from all the hustle and bustle of our city life, and just encounter God in peace. Add in the good food, it's really a good getaway!!

There's so much more to write, including Pr Chris sharing about his family and a few tips on parenting and couple's relationship and all the humour in them, but I won't write too much here. If you want to know, sign up for BMEW and experience it yourself. You don't have to treat it as a pre-requisite to baptism or membership, because I think it's a very good reminder of what God is like as a Father and what Jesus did for us at the cross. If you think you have lost the love, passion and thirst you once have for God, sign up for BMEW.