Removing The Stain Of Sin

I'd admit: I am not the most delicate of eaters. I tend to rush my meals because of an irrational fear that someone in a bear suit will appear out of nowhere, grab my lunch and run away leaving me hungry. Thus my on-going therapy, and the necessary gobbling of meals, all of which results in me habitually leaving unsightly food stains on my shirt. (Yew!)

The Office of Readings recently has St. Francis admonishing us to "give alms because they purify our souls from the stain of sin." I found the expression 'stain of sin' to be provoking. Obviously St. Francis did not mean that forgiveness of sin is earn by doing good works such as almsgiving. Forgiveness comes through grace by the cross made accessible by the sacrament. The 'Stain' that is left by the sin however, is another matter.

What are stains you ask? Well, besides a factor contributing to me not aceing that job interview, a stain is basically a discoloration that can be seen in contrast to the surface it is on, e.g. my white job interview shirt. It is caused by a physical or chemical interaction between two dissimilar materials, or in my case, dropping the overly-oily pork belly on my shirt, my clean sparkling white Interview shirt. Despite removing the pork belly, a stain ensues, a mark is left - damming evidence of my stupidity, general motor-skills and paranoia towards pouncing sports mascots.

I find that to be true in my spiritual life. Sins committed leave stains. A lingering after-effect. Sins are not confined to a singular event of sin, they leave impressions on our souls in ways that become part of our souls and leaves us susceptible. There is a Spiritual-chemical interaction that leaves a discoloration on our Moral Fabric. (see what I did there?) Most of the time, even having removed the pork belly of sin through the sacrament of reconciliation, I find myself returning back to my old patterns. (I am sure I am the only person who experiences this except maybe the two of you still reading this far.) Even though the sin and the guilt of sin is removed, there is still a discoloration remaining on my Will.

Enter the Francis Stain-Removal System® - Alms-giving. St. Francis advises rubbing a little Almsgiving on the stain of sin and letting it sit overnight before washing. Why? What is it about Almsgiving that removes the stain of sin? There are at least 5 reasons:

1. Almsgiving attacks the root of most sins - self-centeredness.

2. Almsgiving helps us turn our eyes to what is important to God's heart - the needy.

3. Almsgiving helps us to be more acutely and reflexively aware of our own spiritual neediness.

4. Almsgiving helps us to experience the fulfilling joy that comes from generosity, to the expanse of fleeting happiness from sin & selfishness that leaves us empty.

5. Almsgiving helps us to appreciate what we have received from God and so shared in gratitude.

Essentially what Almsgiving does, if done sincerely, is to incline our Wills to love - loving God, loving others and loving ourselves. It changes the patterns of our will and helps to restore the true hues of our soul - the colour of God's love. (Pantone 3:16) Generosity, Spiritual poverty, fulfilling joy and gratefulness are all very effective solvents on our moral fabric and strengthens our conscience against sin by inclining it towards good. The outward act of Almsgiving strengths our inner will to choose good over evil, generosity over selfishness, others over ourselves, joy over emptiness. This removes the stain of sin, turn our heart to God and helps us ace that eschatological job interview. (Or Last Judgement)

So let's take the advice of the guy wearing the hooded brown Lab Coat and rub some Almsgiving on the stain of sin today. And please, do yourself a favour and keep your pork on your fork.

"But give that which is within as charity, and then all things are clean for you." Luke 11:41

The Master's Vessel

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The Master was searching for a vessel to use.

On the shelf there were many, which one would he choose?

Take me cried the gold one, I’m shiny and bright.

I’m of great value and I do things just right.

My beauty and luster will outshine the rest,

And for you, Master, gold would be the best.

The Master passed on with no word at all.

He looked at a silver urn, narrow and tall.

I’ll serve you dear Master, I’ll pour out your wine,

And I’ll be at your table whenever you dine,

My lines are so graceful, my carvings so true,

And my silver will always compliment you.

Unheeding, the Master passed on to the brass,

It was wide mouthed and shallow, and polished like glass.

Here, Here cried the vessel, I know I will do.

Place me on your table for all men to view.

“Look at me” cried the goblet of crystal so clear.

“My transparency shows my contents so clear.

Though fragile I am, I will serve you with pride.

And I’m sure I’ll be happy in your home to abide.”

The Master came next to a vessel of wood.

Polished and carved, It solidly stood.

“You may use me dear Master,” the wooden bowl said,

But I’d rather you used me for fruit, not for bread!”

Then the Master looked down and saw a vessel of clay.

Empty and broken, it helplessly lay,

No hope had the vessel that the Master might choose,

To cleanse and make whole, to fill and to use.

Ah! This is the vessel I’ve been hoping to find,

I will mend and use it and make it all mine.

I need not the vessel with pride of itself.

Nor the one that is narrow to sit on the shelf.

Nor the one that is big mouthed, and shallow and loud.

Nor one who displays his contents so proud.

Nor the one who thinks he can do all things just right.

But this plain earthy vessel filled with my power and might,

Then He lifted the vessel of clay . . . .

Mended and cleansed it and filled it that day.

Spoke to it kindly, “There’s work you must do . . . .

Just pour out to others as I pour into you.

- Author Unknown

Prayer In This Season

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O Lord, in this season, may You help me to:

- focus on my Inner-Life

- value authenticity

- value growth and learning

- put my character first

- do good flowing out of being good

- build depth that I may have an inward security

- esteem substance

- genuinely celebrate others

- be secure and self-effacing

- have a quiet confidence

- be steady and calm

- disciplined in my daily quiet time

- respond rather than react to criticism

- empower and add value to others

- have a restedness of spirit

And be your good disciple.

Amen.


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I Am Here

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Present at this moment. Present to this moment.

To remove all falsehoods and pretense

All empty hopes and temporal ambitions

All expectations heaped upon myself

And marred the image that You have made of me

Present at this moment. Present to this moment.

Slow my soul down and incline my heart to Your voice

How my soul aches and longs even for the slightest whisper

For even the softest of whisper carry the intents of Your will

Present at this moment. Present to this moment.

Shut my eyes to the worthless things and let me gaze forlorn

At things eternal, at things that matter

Awaken this sleeping sleeplessness within me

Present at this moment. Present to this moment.

Standing with You on the waters’ edge

Bid me to come to you, wind and waves submitted.

Only to You, present in this moment, at this moment, present.

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There's a Fly in my Perfume!

"As dead flies give perfume a bad smell, so a little folly outweighs wisdom and honor." Ecc 10:1

Came across this verse in my morning reflection. Small things can have big impact in one's life.

Perfume require a lot of hard work to make. It not enough to pour whole bunch of liquids together into a blender and wahlah - perfume. (thats juice) Perfume requires a lot of delicate preparation, study and understanding what works and what doesn't. Utimately, perfume are about making someone or a place more pleasant.

Dead flies mixed with perfume give off a foul smell. What is mean for good can quickly turn quite the opposite. A little yeast can raise the dough. A little fly can ruin everything. Makes smells smelly.

Foolishness can do that. It occurs to me that people are more forgiving towards a fool who behaves foolishly than someone who is perceived as wise and does 1 foolish act. It is because as the verse implies, we honor wise people. We hold them in esteem. Whereas when it comes to a person who consistently makes stupid mistakes, we go, 'thats just him. Expected one."

But when someone we perceives as wise does something foolish, we go, 'he should know better.'

As a leader, this is a sobering verse. It reminds me that trust and credibility built over many years can be lost in an instant of foolishness. Think Bill Clinton. Small stains can make big scandals. What was once life-giving can become a foul stumbling block

It reminds me to always keep a fly swatter over my heart and keep my conscience pure even against the smallest of sin.

Give me oil in my lamp

This morning, the Lord reminded me of the parable of the wise and foolish virgins. They were bridesmaids waiting for the bridegroom to come. A group of them brought along extra oil for the wait. A group of them didn't . When the time came for the Bridegroom arrived, they foolish one realized that their oil had run out. The wise one, because they brought extra could keep their lamp burning at the decisive moment.

I am reminded that I need to continually ask God to fill my lamp with oil. To not grow complacent and lazy in asking the holy spirit to fill me with the anointing. With the Awaken camp a week away, I need to continue to stay awake and filled with the brim with God's power.

Fill me today, Holy Spirit, give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning. Keep me burning till the break of day.

I love you Jesus.


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

(Re) The Art of Living

Recently I acquired a new appreciation for furniture. It started of course, from my purchase of my first house.

Most people would regard furniture as something purely functional. Something I put some part of my body on for a certain task. A chair is for sitting, a table for eating, writing, talking, a shelf is for books and floor is to put my feet on.

Practical. Functional.

But to me, furniture is more than that. Furniture defines the very space we live in. Not only do they allow us to go about our tasks and lives with ease, they have the ability to add beauty and creativity. As human beings, we are very affected by our environment. thats is why places look they way they do. Officers are grey and serious, fast food resturants are bright and cheery, starbucks are warm and plush and shopping malls are spacious and well-lited, clubs are dark and funky, Churches are tall and white.

Environments have the power to shape a human being's perception and well-being. They constantly communicate subconsciously to a person, affecting mood, thinking, judgment,purpose and subsequently well-being and happiness. They have the same effect as food, drink and friends - they can shape us, affect us, persuade us.

Furniture is a huge part of one's environment. We are so surrounded by it that we don't notice them anymore. But they communicate to us none the less. They can add beauty and grace into a home or it can make it ugly and frustrating. Those of us more visual are of course more affected and sensitive to it, others, well, it is doesn't get in the way and I can use it its good enough for me.

For me, furniture goes beyond just function. To me, furniture islike Art. They can make a house beautiful, pleasant, exciting, alluring, comfortable. Why do I pay $7 bucks for coffee in starbucks? Coffee don't cost that much! Its all in the interior and how one feels when one is in it. So I think to myself, why do I want to pay StarBucks $7 bucks for the rest of my life when I can create a alluring environment in the comfort of my own home?

Choosing furniture to me is akin to choosing a sculpture. Art, but functional. We are affectedby art. All human beings are. In a sense, we are artistic in nature. We create art and we are affected by it. We can appreciate it and that is a feeling of emptiness when we don't see it. We can tell what is beautiful and what is not. We cry when we see a sunrise, we cry when we see a disaster zone. What we see and appreciate is important to our souls. Art is important to life.

That is why God cloth the flowers that is 'here today and gone tomorrow', that is why He putthe Orion and the Eagle Nebular in Space, the purple orange drama that is every sunset. God makes Beauty - He is Beautiful. He is Beauty itself.

A beautiful Home is important to me because I know how it can affect a person. Art moves the soul. A chair can be four-legged wood with back rest but it can also be a piece of art, designed by an artisan and now gracing within the walls of your home. It adds a touch of grace, of beauty, a tinge of excitement of a otherwise mundane existence. It makes coming home a joy. Like how going to Starbucks feels good. But why let Starbucks earn all my money?

It does not, of course, come cheap. Beauty seldom does. Nether do things that are important and valuable. But to me, its worth it. I don't live for it, its not what I'm all about - but it I have can the means, I would. Its like buying art. A nice sofa is better than a ugly sofa. But it doesn't have to cost a lot. You just need to take time to FIND. Buying Art is like that. But once you find something at the right price, its great!

"By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established;
through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures."
Proverbs 24:3


Leo

6 Months Married!

I've been married for 6 months. Wow!

People ask me now and then, 'what's married life like?' I'm not sure what Married Life is suppose to be. I guess everyone's different. For me? Well, It feel like living with your best friend. Only this time, its truly true.

Cassilda is my best friend and I'm really blessed to be married to her. She has brought so much joy and beauty into my life. Exactly as God promised me she would if I continue to love, protect and be tender to her.

Here's some pictures from 6 months ago, pigging out in my place on our wedding day.

The One that got away

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George Nelson Platform Bench.

Home still found wanting...



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Untangle me

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I Love you, Lord.
You are saving me.

You give me strength
when I really feel like giving up.
Cos' thats what I feel now.
When I feel inadequate, insufficient.
Like I'm in over my head.
When things are beyond me,
too many for me to handle
Somehow, in the midst of chaos,
You help me work it out.
You help me to slowly untangle the issues.
Like the way I untangle my ipod earphone wires
after leaving them in my bag.

Things tend to end up that way after a while.

Help me to be patient.
As your nimble divine fingers go to work.
When I hit a snag, help me to remember
Things work out in the end.
And if it hasn't work out, well..
Its not yet the end.

So I have to be patient.

I'm just glad you are with me, Jesus.
Whatever would I do without You.
Besides making my life a mess.
I don't know how to do it on my own
Untangle me Lord.

And set me free.

thanks, Jesus. I appreciate it.


Leo

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Amplify Community Groups!

As our community grows bigger, as God adds to the number of young people that intersects with our lives in Amplify, we need to open our tents wider. (Isa 54:2-3)

I am deeply convinced that as we grow bigger, we need to get smaller. I believe the introduction and proliferation of small community groups in Amplify is of great importance going forward.

Made in the image of a Trinitarian God, the need for community and authentic relationships is hardwired into our DNA. To be connected to another human being is intrinsic to what it means to be human and alive. To feel belong, accepted and understood are deep desires with one’s soul. Our normal society often do not naturally provide the sort of environments that nurture these needs as well as provide the opportunity to extend it to others, and we are the worse for it.

We, who are disciples of Jesus Christ need to realize that Jesus himself, on the onset of his ministry established a community with his band of 12 disciples. Which points to us that Discipleship happens in the context of community – in fact to be His disciple is to Follow him and be part of a family. Both of intertwined and cannot be separated, no one can follow Jesus in isolation.

Authentic relationships cannot happen in large group gatherings. Even Jesus would often take his band of disciples away in private. He knew that a big group setting can nurture relationship and discipleship only so far – to go deeper, one must get smaller.


Thus, it is with this in mind that I call the Amplify Community to begin the task of nurturing a Small group culture. To find ways of gathering in smaller group settings to facilitate connection, life change and cultivate outreach.

I see us coming up with a way of doing community groups that is easy and simple. So simple that anyone can do it. So simple that all people from all stages of youth can take hold and form a group right where they are.

I see people forming Amplify Community Groups (ACGs) in schools. I see students who attend Amplify who are from the same school forming ACGs who meet after school to share. I see them praying together for their needs and the needs of their friends in school.

I see ACGs forming in the Universities and polytechnics, in between lunch breaks. I see small groups of young people, 6 or 8 of them, finding community at canteens and benches all over Campus.

I see ACGs happening in Cafes around City Hall, Bugis, Orchard, Jurong point, Parkway Parade and more. I see young working adults, still dressed in their work clothes leaned over a cup of coffee, sharing the bible and how their day went. I smell the aroma of coffee beans, hear the sounds of laughter and the honest discussion of how the word of God applies to the grey situations of their increasingly complicated lives.

I see a group of guys, just booked out of camp gathering in someone’s home and exchanging stories of their week. I see them challenging each other to live out their Christian calling in a very godless environment. I see them praying for each other and the one who couldn’t book out that evening because he got guard duty. I see them sms-ing the brother to encourage him.

I see a group of sisters meeting around the living room of a home. I see open hearts and open bibles. I see the sisters coming around someone who had just lost someone dear to them. I see them rally around the person offering the support of an authentic community.

I see a group of young married couples and parents gathering around the kitchen table of a newly renovated home. I see couples who have been married for long sharing stories and lessons. Exchanging tips on parenting and thoughts on what God says about an enduring fruitful marriage.

I see 2 or 3 community groups taking the initiative to come together to visit a home, help raise funds for a cause or just take a mission trip together. I see lives outside the groups being touched by the kindness of a group of Jesus followers who had challenged each together to really love.

I see people who showed up and at the end of it, were glad they came. And they look forward to coming again.

I see people experience connection, even if a bit, for the first time.

I see people who are usually socially awkward , find a place of acceptance and encouragement.

I see a place where people can be honest about their doubts about the faith and find their answers in a safe environment.

I see Groups where real life change happens.

I see a whole network of ACGs, hundreds of them throughout Singapore, proliferating everywhere, in every parish, campus and school. Everyday of the week.

I see Amplify becoming a Community of communities, comprising of people from every place and phase of life, spreading a passion for Jesus Christ in togetherness.

“Everyday, they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all people. and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:46-47.

O Lord, it is your will that we your disciples be in community. It is the pattern you have set for us as your disciples. We thank you Lord, that if it isn’t enough that you gave us your love, you also give us each other. Help us as a community in Amplify, to love more people and love people more. Help us Lord, as we lay the gound work for Community groups in Amplify. Bless our efforts, increase our understanding and give us the courage to take action. May you grant us good leadership in this lasting endeavor.

Rise up good Community Group leaders who are godly, wise, compassionate, responsible and hospitable. Help stir up the hearts of those you are calling to be shepherds of their people. May they imitate you, the Good shepherd in taking care and feeding of your flock.

May you cause Community Groups to grow and flourish in Amplify and in our diocese. And reach the emerging generation for your glory.

In Jesus name,
Amen.

A Christmas Poem

What If Christmas Never Happen?

What if Christmas never happen?
Would there still be jingle bells and silver bells
Would Frosty still exist?
Would Rudolph be the one we love
Couples linger mistletoes above

Would we get our two front teeth
And Partridges in pear trees.
Would we deck the halls
Or kiss Santa Claus
And still be home for Christmas?

well, probably...


But what if Christmas never happened?
What will we see?
What if God didn't love the world
And the Child never came to be
With the world in sorrow pining
Will hope still sail the seven seas

If Christmas never happened
What glad would tidings be?
Will shepherds still prolong their strains
Will Nations come on bended knees
Will there be rest for merry gentlemen
Had not the Herald Angels sang

In this season that came to be
Silent night of our Savior's birth
Tucked away in a manager
Lies our soul's great worth

So come celebrate the love divine
Join the Angels heard on high
Leave the trample of the Sales
And join the Triumph of the Skies.

- Leonard, written on 12 Dec 2006

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Have a Blessed Christmas!
Leonard & Cassilda

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A Peek at the Crib

A preview of my new home!

The Art of Living

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Recently I acquired a new appreciation for furniture. It started of course, from my purchase of my first house.

Most people would regard furniture as something purely functional. Something I put some part of my body on for a certain task. A chair is for sitting, a table for eating, writing, talking, a shelf is for books and floor is to put my feet on.

Practical. Functional.

But to me, furniture is more than that. Furniture defines the very space we live in. Not only do they allow us to go about our tasks and lives with ease, they have the ability to add beauty and creativity. As human beings, we are very affected by our environment. thats is why places look they way they do. Officers are grey and serious, fast food resturants are bright and cheery, starbucks are warm and plush and shopping malls are spacious and well-lited, clubs are dark and funky, Churches are tall and white.

Environments have the power to shape a human being's perception and well-being. They constantly communicate subconsciously to a person, affecting mood, thinking, judgment, purpose and subsequently well-being and happiness. They have the same effect as food, drink and friends - they can shape us, affect us, persuade us.

Furniture is a huge part of one's environment. We are so surrounded by it that we don't notice them anymore. But they communicate to us none the less. They can add beauty and grace into a home or it can make it ugly and frustrating. Those of us more visual are of course more affected and sensitive to it, others, well, it is doesn't get in the way and I can use it its good enough for me.

For me, furniture goes beyond just function. To me, furniture is like Art. They can make a house beautiful, pleasant, exciting, alluring, comfortable. Why do I pay $7 bucks for coffee in starbucks? Coffee don't cost that much! Its all in the interior and how one feels when one is in it. So I think to myself, why do I want to pay StarBucks $7 bucks for the rest of my life when I can create a alluring environment in the comfort of my own home?

Choosing furniture to me is akin to choosing a sculpture. Art, but functional. We are affected by art. All human beings are. In a sense, we are artistic in nature. We create art and we are affected by it. We can appreciate it and that is a feeling of emptiness when we don't see it. We can tell what is beautiful and what is not. We cry when we see a sunrise, we cry when we see a disaster zone. What we see and appreciate is important to our souls. Art is important to life.

That is why God cloth the flowers that is 'here today and gone tomorrow', that is why He put the Orion and the Eagle Nebular in Space, the purple orange drama that is every sunset. God makes Beauty - He is Beautiful. He is Beauty itself.

A beautiful Home is important to me because I know how it can affect a person. Art moves the soul. A chair can be four-legged wood with back rest but it can also be a piece of art, designed by an artisan and now gracing within the walls of your home. It adds a touch of grace, of beauty, a tinge of excitement of a otherwise mundane existence. It makes coming home a joy. Like how going to Starbucks feels good. But why let Starbucks earn all my money?

It does not, of course, come cheap. Beauty seldom does. Nether do things that are important and valuable. But to me, its worth it. I don't live for it, its not what I'm all about - but it I have can the means, I would. Its like buying art. A nice sofa is better than a ugly sofa. But it doesn't have to cost a lot. You just need to take time to FIND. Buying Art is like that. But once you find something at the right price, its great!

"By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established;
through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures."
Proverbs 24:3


Leo

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These are the final days of single hood
Life as I know it will forever change.
As I take these steps toward a new Dawn
I recount the blessings that has been.

I am grateful...


1. that God has given me the most beautiful, wisest, devoted and God-loving woman to be my wife, lover and best friend.


2. that He gave us such a long, wonderous and challenging courtship. We have been through so many seasons together and have learn to love each as we discover more and more the beauty and imperfections of each other. I am sure I want to spend the rest of my life with Cassilda.


3. that God gave us an opportunity to spend a year at Hillsongs College, Sydney for a year. Learning to do life together, cook, study, explore, pray, serve, give, suffer and overcome together. Through it all, we have learn much about fighting together and not each other.


4. that we have the most wonderful community in Amplify, whose passion, love, friendship, support and belief has mould us to be who we are today, together. Our community will always be a part of our lives, the air we breathe and on which we mount on wings.


5. that we had the most memorable wedding proposal. One that I have been dreaming about since I was a young boy. One day, I will propose to my girlfriend with a 1000 roses and fill the entire place with it. Iggy, Josie, Linus and Ann helped make that dream come true. and most importantly, she said 'YES!'. and Life was never the same again. I will never forget.


6. that we got our flat sooner exceeding faster than we expected. We did not expect to get a flat until 2010. I had already made plans to move into Cassilda's room after the wedding. Guess what? Last I checked, they have finished installing the doors on our kitchen cabinet - in our very own flat - in Bedok Central.

Every time I step in, I am in awe. I still can't believe God's goodness to us. How can it be? Except that every good and perfect gift comes from our heavenly Father!


7. that we got a english speaking Contractor who so far has done a pretty decent job. We are quite happy with the work so far...and so fast. I think I will be ready before the wedding!


8. that we found a beautiful dining table after searching every corner of Singapore. (serious!) A Restored import piece from Holland. It was love at first sight for the both of us. Can't wait to move it in.


9. that we got our good wedding wine at great prices!


10. that my Father sponsored my air-conditioning and lights.


11. that our caterer is a generous man


12. that we settle our March In music 9 months before the wedding


13. that we found the perfect wedding bands. I absolutely love them! Simple and meaningful. I really can't wait to wear them on Cassilda.


14. that our parents have helped us a great deal in setting up the home.


15. That through it all, these months of intense preparation, I have grown to love and appreciate Cassilda more. We have grown closer and happier as we plan our home together, as we make decisions and faced down suppliers together. She has been so loving and patient with my obsession with every house and furniture detail.


16. And that God, whose mercies are New every morning, never fails to be faithful. Our Jehovah Jireh has given us so much and I can feel his Love from everything that has transpired so far. I can only bow my head in gratefulness for my God who love me and takes care of the both of us.

"Surely goodness and kindness will follow me all the days of my life."

Praise and Glory to You. My God. My All.


Leo

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St. Bartholomew's Church by Qubus Studio

O.M.G...

The priest can preach as long as he wants...



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Reno Rants (4)

Our Home is coming together!


In the midst of a flurry of activities, avalanche of choices and impending decisions tearing at our insanity and the every present gravity of the race towards the Big day, the home is taking shape and form.


Deck the Halls
Rough cement floors are dressed up in (almost) white tiles, slate and laminates. The ceiling is a stage set for various lights to make their brilliant performance by next week. The kitchen foundations are laid, the counter is elected and I can almost smell the pasta cooking. (seafood marinara)

The air-conditioning is being installed even as I am writing this and the painting works will start tomorrow. I did not choose any crazed colours in case anyone is expecting us to. Keeping it simple.

Basically the renovations part of the house is like the backdrop of a stage. It should be a background that sets the context for the drama, not the drama itself. I don't like renovations that scream - "I just had a renovation". It should be functional, consistent and subtle in bringing out the best of the furniture and the stories of life unfolding within its embrace. Too loud and it becomes an end to itself and not a means to an end.


The Shape of Things to come
Next will be Carpentry. Jesus' own forte. The cabinets, the shelfs, the consoles and the cupboards. I'm pretty excited and at the same time nervous about it. Unlike going to a shop where I know exactly what I'm buying - Carpentry works in renos, you don't until its done. what looks good on paper may not look too fantastic when its standing before you. Or, it could look even better than you imagined it to be. Going to leave it in the hands of the Carpenter of Nazareth to cause all things to work out for good. Especially good ABS trimmings.


Furnishings is a 4-letter Word
IKEA is the name of the game. Every new home owner's savior. The rock on which more expensive and lasting furniture will replace in the near future. The sweet smelling air of swedish affordability and cheap practical brilliance line the walls of the mammoth blue and yellow building, holding out promises to people who hope they don't have to that rich to be clever.

"Buy from Ikea lor" is the mantra. ("Buy from EKia" if you are born before 1975) But seriously, if you take time to study the catalog, which I know sounds kinda strange to you non-house owners, you can pretty much pull off a decent looking house you'll be proud to bring your mother home to.

Furniture, my friend, in the real world, is expensive. I was brought up on a furnishing diet of IKEA in my current home and naively thought that all furniture companies cost like that. They don't. And not all sell great hot dogs and meat balls either. That in itself is pretty sad. What next? That Santa Claus is not real? Sheesh. So sad. Which is how I feel when I look at the price tag on most furniture shops I...erm...fancy.

While you don't have to be rich to be clever, it certain would help a bit if you actually are.

Frankly, I blame my expectations on Interior books with their slick Photoshopped interiors and designer furnitures conveniently placed in the background. I should have seen through it! Come on! there is no way anyone can affort SIX pieces of Philip Starck Ghost Chairs and even if they do, why on earth do they leave it in the grimmey kitchen!


Planting Seats
But I do need to admit something at this point. I've found a new hobby - chairs. I love chairs. I don't know why but these little legged things you put your butt on has captured my heart. After days of pouring over furniture books and websites, I now know the history of at least 15 chairs and can call them by name. Chairs are to the furnishing world what Tee shirts are to the fashion realm. They are the main stay of every home and common as dust. Yet, they can be art pieces - just sittable.

Some of the chairs we take for granted, stack, kick when we are angry or thrown when someone insults our mother (I've seen it.), took years to develop. I know I know. Whats so hard putting 4 legs on something. Well, its the same why Giodano can sell black tees for $10 and Simon Cowl can buy his for $270. (yes, all three hundred of them) Its all in the details. The material. The angles. The finish. the ergonomics.

Okay, I think I better stop here before I sound mildly obsessive, won't want you to think that I really am, although I really am. Ask Cassilda. She will be more than happy to demonstrate some of the most amazing eye-rolling you'll ever see in this part of the world. she has gotten a lot of practice lately.

K. So I'll end here. For you guys reading this and could potentially be invited to our house warming held somewhere between this century and next, better start sourcing for gifts. Appliances, chairs and pillows are welcomed. Sofas, spare beds, lamps are advised. Fridges, 42" LCD Flatscreens, Herman Miller furniture and MacG5s come highly recommended.

Just let us know in advance so we know what to do with all the extra LCD Tvs.

8)

Leo

Standing in my freshly painted Study
with my photoshopped Eames Chair.
Exactly the way our ancestors did it in interior magazines.

God save the milk!



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