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A unique journey of a lifetime

Watching an active volcano on the Big Island of Hawaii

volcano crater
volcano crater

I attended a cardiology event in Honolulu many years ago. After that, I flew with a professor from the University of Honolulu, Manoa, to the Big Island for a short vacation.

Remembering my trip to the Big Island gave me chills and goosebumps. I can still vividly see the live volcano eruptions, which are unforgettable parts of my travels. It became an unforgettable memory that will remain an integral part of my travel adventures for life.

The Big Island welcomed us with its lush landscapes and pristine beaches with open arms. The warm and welcoming locals truly enhanced our explorations, making them even more extraordinary. We didn’t know then that an extraordinary show would unfold before our eyes!

When we got to the Big Island, we were amazed by its different landscapes, like rainforests and lava fields. We were excited to see an active volcanic eruption at the Hawaai Volcanoes National Park. When we approached Kilauea Crater, an active volcanic crater spewing red-hot lava, our senses were overtaken with amazement!

As we gazed into the molten core of Earth, we felt an intimate link with its forces that shape it. The red and orange lava seemed to dance in front of the stars, creating an unreal spectacle, as if nature was performing exclusively for us.

Crackling lava and thunderous sounds from below provided a spectacular visual display, as lava flowed and cascaded. We could only marvel at nature’s raw power and beauty as this incredible spectacle unfolded before us.

At night, we stood quietly, amazed by the forces that formed the Hawaiian islands over thousands of years. The experience reminded us of the beautiful and ever-changing nature of Earth and our small place in it.

We explored the diverse landscapes of the Big Island on our second day, from the Waipio Valley to the summit of Mauna Kea. We were amazed by the stars above the clouds! Each moment served as proof of this island’s immense geological and cultural history.

We also paid a visit to the mesmerizing Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. The black sand at Punalu’u Beach was formed by volcanic eruptions when lava flowed into the ocean, leaving behind black sedimentary layers.

We are grateful to have witnessed live a volcanic eruption on Hawaii’s Big Island during our unforgettable journey. It was a remarkable and breathtaking experience that will remain etched in our memories forever.

If you are planning to visit Hawaii, include the Big Island into your itinerary.

black sand beach
black sand beach
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bible study

Reading for Lent

Reading for Lent

Andrew And Peter

Prayer

Heavenly Father, may the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to You, in Jesus’ name, Amen. 

John 1:35-42

Verses 35-39, 35 Again, the next day, John was standing with two of his disciples, 36 and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” 37 The two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus. 38 Jesus turned and saw them following, and said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which is to say, being interpreted, Teacher), “where are you staying?” 39 He said to them, “Come, and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they stayed with him that day. It was about the tenth hour.

Reflection

      The was first day of Jesus’ public ministry. Upon hearing John the Baptist’s testimony that Jesus was the Lamb of God, two of John’s disciples, Andrew and his brother Simon, followed Jesus. They asked Jesus where He stayed. Jesus turned around and invited them to His place of abode. They spent the rest of the day with Him. 

Verses 40-42, 40 One of the two who heard John and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. 41 He first found his own brother, Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah!” (which is, being interpreted, Christ. 42 He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him, and said, “You are Simon the son of Jonah. You shall be called Cephas” (which is by interpretation, Peter).

Reflection

     Jesus changed Peter’s name from Simon, which means “he has heard” to Peter which means ‘’rock.” Jesus’ first and second disciple, Andrew and Peter were fishermen from Bethsaida in Galilee. Andrew was a connector. He connected his brother Peter to Jesus. In John 6:I-9, he connected a small boy who had 5 loaves and 2 fishes to Jesus. In John 12:21-22, he connected some Greek God-fearers to Jesus. Aramaic for Peter is Cephas which means “rock.” Jesus chose Peter to be the rock upon which He would build the Church, Matthew 16:8. Jesus became the leader and spokesman for the first century church. 

John 6:8-9 (NIV), Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, “Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?” 

John 12:21-22 (NIV), “They came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida in Galilee, with a request. “Sir,” they said, “we would like to see Jesus.” Philip went to tell Andrew; Andrew and Philip in turn told Jesus”. 

Matthew 16:18 (NKJV), “and I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gate of Hades shall not prevail against it”. 

     Application

In today’s lesson we are introduced to Andrew and Peter. Andrew was a connector who connected other people to Jesus. Are you a connector? Do you connect other people to Jesus? Will you invite someone to come and see what the Lord has done for you? Peter was a leader of the first century church. Are you a leader of your church?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to imitate Andrew by connecting people to Jesus. Help us to be soul winners. Help us to imitate Peter’s leadership qualities, in Jesus’ name, Amen

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An Iconic Bridge

Exploring the Bridge Over the River Kwai

Many years ago, I attended a Cardiology conference in Bangkok. After the conference, I visited the famous World War II Bridge over the River Kwai in the Kanchanaburi district of Thailand. The tour started at 6 am from the hotel and ended late into the night. The coach ride from the hotel to the bridge took several hours.

I was interested in The Bridge over the River Kwai after watching the World War II, 1957, Hollywood Epic movie with the same title. I wanted to explore into its history and tales. I wanted to discover stories from World War II and visit meaningful places that symbolize sacrifice and resilience.

A monument to History

The journey was long, but when I arrived at the bridge, I was impressed by its structure and the history. As I walked over the bridge, I felt its significance and the stories embedded in its iron and concrete. I finally touched this iconic old bridge loaded with stories of wartime history. This bridge was built by prisoners of war during World War II. It serves as a reminder of the hardships and sacrifices they endured. I learned about the strategic importance and the hard work of those who built it as I followed its history. The bridge is a symbol of the strength of those who fought and suffered in the war, and it reminded me of the sacrifices that were made. Walking on the iconic bridge, I felt very grateful for the people who went through so much hardship.

The Human Experience of World War II

As I explored the nearby museum, the history of World War II unfolded before my eyes. The exhibits displayed the experiences of Allied prisoners of war and Asian laborers who worked under tough conditions on building the Death Railway. Each artifact and photo reminded me of the high price of war and the strength that arose from its darkest moments in history. It was a humbling experience to see the personal belongings of those who had endured unimaginable hardships. From tattered uniforms to handwritten letters, each item told a story of resilience and courage amidst adversity. Reflecting on the narratives, I realized how humans can endure, rebuild, and find hope despite unimaginable suffering.

Kanchanaburi

My trip to Kanchanaburi mirrored that of many during World War II. The picturesque scenery on the coach ride offered breathtaking views of the lush landscapes and meandering rivers. I felt a contrast between the beautiful sceneries and the haunting history of this place while the coach moved.

Timeless Light and Sound Show Experience

At night, the bridge comes alive with the captivating show of lights and sounds. It uses vivid imagery and haunting tunes to resurrect its wartime history. The projected images brought the past to life, while the unfolding melodies transported me back in time. As I gazed at the remarkable display, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of appreciation for the event. The show was well-made and it was both entertaining and educational. It taught me about the importance of the River Kwai and its history. I experienced all this firsthand while realizing what had transpired along the River Kwai. After the light and sound show, the coach took me back to Bangkok, exhausted yet satisfied.

Hidden Gems

Moving beyond its iconic bridge, Kanchanaburi also has an incredible treasure trove of cultural richness which I did not have time to visit. Kanchanaburi has other museums and waterfalls showcasing the region’s history and traditions. River Kwai is not just a historical site, but an important part of the Thai community. The waterfalls showcased the natural beauty of Kanchanaburi and its surrounding areas.

Life-Changing Experience

Bridge Over the River Kwai left an indelible mark on me. The stories, resilience, and historic significance in every beam made my trip more than just a travel experience. It was a journey through history, making me think about how peace can be so fragile and how the past can still affects the present and the future. The River Kwai stands as a testament to the resilience of human spirit.

If you’re planning to visit Thailand, add this destination into your itinerary. I hope that you too will be touched by the history and the spirit of the place. It was a truly powerful experience to walk in the footsteps of those who came before us. 

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