Brisbane 090109

Hi dears,

This is an update of how God has blessed me since I left Singapore. Specifically, I saw God’s power in 3 special events.

The Jetstar flight was filled with anticipation of life in Brisbane and also home-sickness (yes.. already!) after a touching farewell by many friends at Changi. Thanks to many (esp LK and Dar) who made the “Farewell CD” which I watched during the flight. Almost teared!! * The CD never fails to make me almost cry*

As I look back at the past month of how you have celebrated my birthday and farewell, of meeting up with mentors and friends and the generous gifts I’ve received, I thank God for you people and truly humbled by the fact that I have so many friends who stood by me and supported me. Continue to keep me in prayer k? I miss you all.

1) When I touched down at Darwin for a 2 hour stopover, I checked into the “Transit” channel instead of the “Darwin” one (Bad mistake!) which led me to gate 5A. Horror of horrors when I checked the flight display TV. *Cold sweat* haha.. Immediately, I sought help from an official lady who didn’t ridicule me but got a police officer to bring me back to the right check out point. Thank God for the calmness of mind and those angels who helped me.
Lesson learnt: Exit arrival gate to Darwin, then Re-enter departure gate to Brisbane. The main transit was for Cairns passengers.

2) Thank God for a smooth flight from SG to Brisbane!! On touchdown at Brisbane 1015am, I was expecting a person waving a “Welcome to UQ” sign at me (UQ Reception =) But there was none.. I began to think whether UQ has asked me to wait at a other gates. Going in and out of the airport exit and searching around for anybody who looked UQ-ish for 20 min, I contemplated on taking a taxi. (Could have cost me Aud$50!) I must decide.. began to ask God for help.. A prompting came that I should wait till 11am. Sounds like a plan! I put down my HUGE luggage and stood there, waiting and searching. A few min later, lo and behold when I turned my head, I saw an elderly man dishing out a UQ sign at me. He pointed at me and asked whether I was going to UQ.. Spirits lifted with tonnes of joy.. Eventually, I reached Sir Fred Schonell safe and sound. Apparently, he was held back cos he’s picking up students and nurses taking other flights as well. He’s a nice man. Nice ‘mate! Haha..
Lesson learnt: Ask and you shall receive. Thank God.

3) God’s blessings cannot be more evident than allowing me to meet more than 20 Christian friends on my first day in Brisbane. Well, I met up with Evelyn (mate whom I took over the room from) and I got a phone card immediately. Called home and we had lunch and shared about many things in Bris. It was then that she invited me to her church “Life Group” gathering. The “Life Group” is similar to our BS or PCG or cell that we have in Singapore. Just that this was a little unusual with 4 Life Groups gathering together. Rationale being many of them went back to SG, Malaysia and other hometowns. Nonetheless, the numbers went up to 20+ ppl. It was a time of fun “get-to-know one another” games, dinner, worship, testimonial sharing and small group meeting. The worship was good and the interaction better.
God’s love is so evident. Why did He choose Friday for such a gathering? (Maybe so that I can attend straight away after touchdown) Why did God allow me to meet Evelyn? (Maybe so that I can receive this invitation) Why did God give me the courage to go attend? (I cant imagine myself spending that time alone in my house. Definitely more worth attending the gathering than tearing and missing home in for 3 hours.) Thank God for his guidance and love. There is a reason and purpose for everything.

I thank God for these experiences and entrust many days to come, in Him. Will share with you guys more on my encounter with Christ and how I lead my life in Brisbane. Also, an opportunity for you to pray for me. If you have any prayer request, can email me as well yup. Appreciate it.
Add www.kideon.blogspot.com into ya “favourites” tab so you wont forget.

Once again, thank you for your gifts and love.

God bless you.

Love,
Jun