Came back from the HopeKids Leadership retreat. Encouraged to see 19 people from different congregations with diverse background come together for 2 days of planning and retreat. We have only 2 things in common - Jesus and Kids Ministry. From as young as 19 to as 'mature' as 4o plus, it was a strong witness to what unity in diversity means.

The theme with a touch of 'fear' in it didn't seem to hinder many of us. Each of us were to answer 2 out of any 3 questions posed by the rest of the group throughout the retreat. All of us went through it without problems even though it was slightly uncomfortable opening up to private topics in a big group. We shared our memorable, joyful and embarassed moments and some of us private stories and well kept secrets as required.

I was amazed by the trust we have in the group by what was shared. It really demonstrated that in Christ, there's openess of lives as many of us don't know each other very well. I applaud those who dare to be vulnerable with one another.

People are in general not very good at trusting. It's a pity because that will mean a lot of life gets taken away. If we prefer a mask than the face of truth, we get further away from the core of who we are. I'm glad all of us were open. It was a wild time for me too.

Other than that, with the lessons, sharing, praise, worship and fellowship, I hope it was a good 2 days for everyone. To recap what I shared, THE CORE is...

C=Calling ..... We are God's beloved and we have a calling or purpose in our life to fulfill the great commission

O=Organisation ... We need discipline and organisation to get us going to fufill that calling. It is a tool to be used to make us effective in what we do.

R=Relationship .... We ought to develop trusting spiritual friendships where where's mutual exchange of leaning, sharing and Godly counsel. It helps us and supports us through difficult times.

E= Expression .... We are salt of the earth and light of the world. We have a unique voice which we can use to express our deep faith to others and to the world. We are superstars for Christ.

My prayer is that all may confront what our CORE is and with it, make a big difference in the lives of children and adults all over the world begining now ... or if not, the new year where we are 'moving out' in a bigger way to bless children and their families in Singapore.

Be His,