When my friends got to know that I’m going Shenyang, their response was “Wow, you are going China again! How nice!” I wasn’t as enthusiastic as they thought I am. After the first meeting, I realized that I am the only one who is not a volunteer, not just because I am a staff but also I did not volunteer myself. Ha ha. Truly this year I have traveled a lot and after a while I felt that I can do without another trip. I worked through my reluctance and focused on supporting my boss & spiritual father & of course SP. Somehow I know God will surprise me when I go with openness in my heart.
Of all the countries, China is my most frequently traveled one. Yet she is still the very place I am learning to love and appreciate. I suppose as a staff I have very different perspectives compared to the volunteers. I was constantly on the lookout for any ‘bombs’ (last min coordination) to catch which added to my blood pressure. My mind was filled with tasks rather than people. Within the first few days of my stay in Shenyang, God questioned my motivation in the things I do. Was I looking forward to the evenings when I can retreat into my room and rest? Was I giving my best while doing my facilitation in class? The bigger question He posed me was, “What is a greater/better motivation for the things I do?”
I was reminded of what Pastor Josephine always shares, to put a smile on God’s face. How interestingly I am doing Project SMILE. This ties to my deeper reflection for the 2nd half of this year which is die to self. Indeed, to bring a smile to God sometimes requires me to die to myself. As I look at Pastor Khong’s life, I caught a glimpse of that truth. Given that this is a smaller team, we worked more closely with SP. I was glad to serve alongside with him and catch his attitude towards service. I know he is really going beyond himself. Many hearts were touched through his preaching (he preached through his magic tricks) and teaching.
I had the chance to spend an afternoon with 2 Shenyang youths in Eugene’s group. Through the conversation with them, I got to know Shenyang a lot more. They were very open and they were telling us everything without any restraints. I felt God is really leading us into the hearts of the youths there. I am excited to go back again because I know God intends to bring about a harvest in this land. I will learn to love His people as I learn to love Him more.
Amos Ng
Of all the countries, China is my most frequently traveled one. Yet she is still the very place I am learning to love and appreciate. I suppose as a staff I have very different perspectives compared to the volunteers. I was constantly on the lookout for any ‘bombs’ (last min coordination) to catch which added to my blood pressure. My mind was filled with tasks rather than people. Within the first few days of my stay in Shenyang, God questioned my motivation in the things I do. Was I looking forward to the evenings when I can retreat into my room and rest? Was I giving my best while doing my facilitation in class? The bigger question He posed me was, “What is a greater/better motivation for the things I do?”I was reminded of what Pastor Josephine always shares, to put a smile on God’s face. How interestingly I am doing Project SMILE. This ties to my deeper reflection for the 2nd half of this year which is die to self. Indeed, to bring a smile to God sometimes requires me to die to myself. As I look at Pastor Khong’s life, I caught a glimpse of that truth. Given that this is a smaller team, we worked more closely with SP. I was glad to serve alongside with him and catch his attitude towards service. I know he is really going beyond himself. Many hearts were touched through his preaching (he preached through his magic tricks) and teaching.
I had the chance to spend an afternoon with 2 Shenyang youths in Eugene’s group. Through the conversation with them, I got to know Shenyang a lot more. They were very open and they were telling us everything without any restraints. I felt God is really leading us into the hearts of the youths there. I am excited to go back again because I know God intends to bring about a harvest in this land. I will learn to love His people as I learn to love Him more.Amos Ng
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