homeschool

Could You Be Messiah

March 26, 2018 Leave a Comment

It was the year 1991, I was walking along the school grounds and feeling sad. I felt lonely and that no one really cared for me. But there was a song that kept playing in head- it was Gary Valenciano’s Could You Be Messiah?

The lyrics felt like it was a prayer straight from my heart. It was asking God if He was really there and if He really cared for me? As a 14 year old teenager, it was a very emotional time for me and sensing that God was there for me meant a lot. Indeed, I was deeply touched by His unwavering love for me.

Fast forward to year 2018, yesterday while I was listening to the preaching, the song was played and we were asked to reflect on our lives and if Jesus really is our messiah. I listened intently and read the lyrics as it was flashed on the screen. My memories of 1991 flashed back and allowed me to see – that it doesn’t matter if we are a new Christian or a long time one. Our need for a messiah is the same. I had an overwhelming sense of His presence and I just wanted to be there with the Lord. I didn’t want the moment to end.

I am grateful that He has always been there. Truly, he is my precious one. He is my messiah.

Is He yours too?

“Now I’ve been looking for someone like You
And I’m so tired, I’m tired
I’ve read every book and I’ve sang every song

My mind maybe right but my heart feels so wrong
Tell me how much further can my life go along
Which way do the roads lead where do I belong…

Are You forgiver
Of my most unknown secrets
Provider of all that I need

Could You be brother
The one who knows better
Would You now stand in the lead

When all this is over all the thunder and lightning
In the daylight just what will I see
The answers to my questions to all of my questions

Could You be Messiah to me”

Lyrics from Gary Valenciano’s Could You Be Messiah

Filed Under: my thoughts, reflections

My 3 Fs for 2018

January 10, 2018 2 Comments

SIMPLIFY was the word for 2017 but unfortunately, as I evaluate the year that has been. I have not been able to SIMPLIFY life in several areas. Though I have simplified our home by decluttering consistently, I feel like I have not been successful in simplifying my schedule. I unexpectedly have more people to meet both for work and for ministry which led me to have no peace over where my life was headed.

Before the year ended, I had a divine appointment with Pastor Tony Yeo of Covenant Evangelical Free Church from Singapore. I was actually praying and contemplating how I want my 2018 to be. He shared 3 Fs that will serve as my guide for 2018.

FOCUS. Ask the Lord what He wants you to focus upon in ministry, in work and in life. What is that one thing that the Lord wants me to do? I need to realize that there are several things that I can do in my current age but am I building a life of depth? a life which would leave a legacy as I age?

FAMILY. Spend more time with the family especially as the children are growing up. In the teenage years, as they become more independent, it is essential that I spend more time with them. Days can pass by rather quickly and soon enough, the children will be starting their own life.

FAITH. Think BIG because our God is BIG and CAPABLE and trust Him.

I am committing my 2018 to God – may He go before me every day.

Filed Under: reflections

A Look at 2017 – The Year That Was

January 3, 2018 Leave a Comment

2017 has ended a few days ago and as I look back, I can say that my year was truly a busy one. Compared to the previous years, 2017 was filled with activities and it was definitely a year of stretching.

We continued homeschooling this year and we are on our 8th year of homeschooling. There has been a tremendous amount of adjustment as I had to work on my schedule since I am also working part time as a tutor and as a family advisor. I also am meeting young adults and discipling them during weekends and night times. The Lord has allowed me to talk to more people and even let me attend the IDMC in Singapore.

While there were many ups, I was quite disappointed with a few things. I was able to continue my journaling but towards the latter part of the year, I was not able to be consistent at all. I fell below my target number of books that I wanted to read. I didn’t get to save as much as I hoped. At the end of the year, I just wanted to quit everything I was doing – I was overwhelmed.

I realize that there was just too much on my plate. I was thankful for the year end break and the few days of rest that the Lord granted me. I am still processing how I want my 2018 to be but I definitely will be changing my involvement in some things.

2017 passed by like a breeze. Some goals were achieved but most were not. But through it all, God has been faithful and I have seen him work in my life.

Filed Under: reflections

Joy and Peace

December 5, 2017 Leave a Comment

As the Christmas season approaches, it brings different emotions to people. For some, it may bring many pleasant memories but for others, it may bring a sense of loneliness and to others, they may get overwhelmed by the festivities and the busyness of the season, Truly, as Christmas comes, we must intentionally grab some alone time and process the state of our hearts. It is important that we look deep and assess if we have the joy that surpasses getting materials things during Christmas season and the peace of God amidst all the busyness that the season brings.

If we find that joy and peace is not present in our lives, let us call upon the Lord Jesus. Let us remember the true meaning of Christmas – that Jesus came to the world not to be served but to serve and that he came to save the lost. Reflecting on who God is and how much He loves us would truly fill our hearts with joy. Knowing that Jesus is with us, no matter what we are going thru is enough to give us peace in our lives.

As you take a moment to enjoy your hot cup of coffee this Christmas season, look deep within your heart and ponder upon what Jesus Christ has done for you. May joy and peace fill your hearts this season.

Filed Under: reflections

Homeschool Help: Multiple Intelligences

November 21, 2017 Leave a Comment

Have you heard of the theory of multiple intelligences by Howard Gardner? He states that there are a number of ways by which students learn and develop. Knowing these intelligences can help us teach our children more effectively. There are 8 dominant learning styles:

Visual Spatial – they think in terms of space. They like jigsaw puzzles, draw, read maps and daydream. They can be taught through drawings, visuals and physical imager
Bodily Kinesthetic – they use the body very effectively. They like movement, making things, touching, They learn best through role-playing and hands-on learning.
Musical -they are sensitive to sound in the environment. They appreciate musical instruments, music and can learn by turning lessons into lyrics.
Interpersonal – they often interact with others. They thrive in group activities and workshops. They need time and attention from the instructor.
Intrapersonal – they have a deep understanding of their own goal and interests. They are usually in tune with their feelings, and have strong opinions. They thrive in self-study and they like journaling, books and creative materials.
Linguistic – they use words effectively. They are auditory learners and enjoy word games, making up stories or poetry. They learn through read alouds and lectures.
Logical-Mathematical – they excel in reasoning and calculating. They can think abstractly and see patterns easily. They love mystery games, investigations and logic games.
Naturalistic – they learn best with an experience in the natural world. They love to be outside and learn as they get their hands dirty. They are naturally curious about their environment and surroundings and ask endless questions.

Filed Under: homeschool help