Sunday, July 24, 2011

LONG TIME NO SEE


It's always a joy to see alumni drop by and visit.
Mi-Youn (Korea) came with ginseng candies and her familiar laughter - she was here for a rest, she said. She's serving with the campus ministry in Korea.
Shirley (China) is back from a short trip to Africa and preparing to teach in a Bible school in Cambodia. "It's a small college for local workers," she said. "I'll be teaching my first class on 'The Holy Spirit' in October, please pray for me." .
Si Si (Myanmar), who's just become a radiant Mrs Koh, also dropped by at chapel last week to visit, and meet with her old friends, especially her pal Estella.
And not forgetting Lim (Singapore) who, in fact, spoke at chapel. He gave invaluable tips on how to stay fit and fearless on the mission field, drawing from his recent experience as a sports coach in a troubled land.
Knowing our students are doing well and leading fruitful lives makes our daily labor of lesson preparation, back-breaking marking papers, teaching, tutorials and endless administration that much more meaningful.

Monday, July 4, 2011

HELLO


We just ended our orientation program: lots of getting-to-know-yous, ice-breakers, information about classes, library visits and of course dinner.
The Student Council did a great job in making sure everything ran: the program, snacks (we had the sweetest and biggest grapes for tea break), games, and of course, the final night dinner (which came later than expected BUT tasted all the better).
The talks got everyone serious and laughing and seriously laughing all at the same time.
Jeannette's Conflict Resolution highlighted the need to resolve issues quickly. "And don't facebook your dissatisfaction!" Check.
YK's Cross-Cultural Adjustments explained how the innocent "tsk tsk tsk", "can can" and "chope" could be misunderstood.
The games were hilarious.
Who knew Byju's new bride and David Kim could be hilarious!
While the new students were shy, they seemed to settle in well.
We already know Dunstan from Brunei could joke - in English, Mandarin and Hakka.
Stephen from the Philippines is quite the photographer and video enthusiast.
Looking forward to a brand new year.

About Me

In the Old Testament in the Bible, there was a man named Jacob who "wrestled with God and man." He wouldn't let God go until God answered his prayers. God admired that and renamed him Israel, "the one who fought or wrestled and prevailed". He fought with man--his inner man--and conquered his own weaknesses. He's my hero. He is what I hope God and man see me to be.