In the Bible we read about spiritual gifts. First the Holy Spirit distributes a variety of gifts to all believers; some get more, some less. Believers are to engage in a variety of ministries. We must all be united in exercising our gifts for the building up of the church to the glory of God.
There are some gifts that put believers in the limelight – preaching, singing, leading songs etc. Many believers are gifted in working behind the scenes – like cleaning the kitchen, preparing meals, sweeping the floor. They are all of equal importance.
We were at Central Corps last Sunday and I cannot help but notice the sharing of responsibilities. The church has more than one ‘praise and worship’ team and each team has its own leader. Even the leaders rotate. Each time we visit, we see a different leader. Last Sunday it was Guan You who led worship with sensitivity, feeling and skill. Daniel Ng was the bandmaster. The band played well in accompanying the singing. The pianist was Shermin who played beautifully the tune ‘Blacklands’ to accompany our singing of that song “He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater.” (I prefer this tune to 'The Ash Grove') Daniel did the opening prayer – he just prayed as requested without adding all kinds of comments. Elaine without making any comment read the Bible with thought and feeling.
There are many pianists at Central and they all take turns in providing music. In this way our young people get training and practice. We’ve done meetings when other pianists played – Daniel, Sarah, Rachel and others. Wonderful sharing of responsibilities! No wonder the church has so many youths participating.
I’ve learned this – no one is indispensable. It takes grace to learn to share and not hog the limelight. The church suffers when some people cannot let go! I've known of a 'praise and worship' leader who claimed that he heard the "voice of God" to move to another church. The real reason - the pastor felt it was time to give someone else the position. (There's a lot of church shopping and hopping) Learn to let go and let God have His way and let others have a chance. Do we care enough to share?
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Pain and suffering
I was led to speak on the subject of "God's grace for sufffering servants" at our church at Bishan - The Central Corps. Here are some thoughts on that subject.
The mystery of pain and suffering has baffled peoples’ minds all through the ages. Many books have been written, many sermons preached on this subject. The question is often asked, “If there is a God and He is our loving heavenly Father, as you claim Him to be, then how do you explain pain and suffering. If He does exist then He is either cold and indifferent, or powerless to act.” Really, pain, suffering and death seem inconsistent with a loving God.
I do not pretend in a short message to give all the answers, but some things relating to this subject can be explained. First, let us admit that pain does exist. It is not an illusion, as some people believe. Pain is real; we feel and suffer from pain.
Pain and suffering may be the result of our own or someone else’s sin. It is a law of nature that we reap what we sow. The Bible furnishes us with many examples to prove this point.
Let us look at our own situation today. If a person smokes, his lungs are likely to be affected. If he commits adultery he is likely to face psychological problems and his marriage might break up. If a man squanders his money on drinks or gambling and does not support his family, the family suffers. Pain and suffering are the consequence of man’s sin. We bring pain and suffering upon ourselves and those we love because we ignore the law of God. God’s law cannot be violated without serious consequences.
In John 9 verses 1-7 we read the incident of a man born blind. The disciples asked Jesus a question, “Who did sin, this man or his parents that this man was born blind.” It has always been man’s reaction to pain and suffering. Who and what is the cause? When something happens to cause us pain and suffering our immediate reaction is to ask the question Why? It is instinctive to think of punishment as the fruit of wrongdoing. Often we blame ourselves “What have I done to deserve this?”
It is not an adequate explanation to conclude that we suffer because we have sinned. When the tower of Siloam fell and killed sixteen people, Jesus quietly explained, “those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them – do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no!…” Luke13: 5
Volcano eruptions, floods, earthquakes, typhoons, fires, plane crashes kill sinners and saints alike.
Then why does God permit pain and suffering? A boy was born lacking the capacity to feel pain. Well, you say, that’s great! No pain! There was something wrong with his nervous system. The brain did not get the message from the part of his body that was hurt.
One day, his mother smelt the odour of burning flesh. She rushed into the kitchen only to find the fingers of her son badly burnt. He felt no pain, hence did not scream for help. He lacked the reflexes and sensitivity that are present in the normal person. One day he cut his foot resulting in much loss of blood but felt no pain and died a premature death.
The psalmist sang his song of praise, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14. We stand in awe and wonder as we ponder over creation and how God created this complex human being with the capacity to feel pain.
We need to think not just of physical pain, but emotional as well. Our capacity to feel pain enables us to relate to others in pain. The world has seen some notorious people who somehow could not relate to the suffering and pain of people. Think of Hitler, Mussolini, Pol Pot, Eichmann and others. Did they have that emotional pain for others? I often wonder how could they send so many to their deaths. Were they so hardened that they felt no pain?
Can you watch a film depicting some tragedy and suffering and not feel pain and sometimes even weep although it is mere acting? Watch out for the young man who boasts of his masculinity and remain unmoved and untouched by a tragic episode. Would he be able to relate to the needs of others in pain? We need not be ashamed of our God given emotions. The physical and emotional pain we feel enables us sympathise others.
There are lessons we can learn through pain and suffering. In this fallen world, God has allowed pain to exist for our own good. C.S Lewis refers to pain as “God’s megaphone.” To some of us we only turn to God because we suffer pain. It makes us more sensitive in this hurting world.
God in His own wisdom has allowed pain to exist, but He knows the limit we can take. He also has the resources to enable us to live through this world of pain and suffering. We can never fully fathom God’s way with us, especially when we are suffering pain, but we can trust his grace which is sufficient for every time of need.
The Apostle Paul had to accept the “thorn” in his body, which caused him pain. He prayed for this thorn to be removed, but God in his wisdom denied that request. Instead he was given the assurance, “My grace is sufficient for you.” God wanted Paul to remain sensitive to the pain and suffering of others.
He gives us the same promise today. We may not fully understand our present situation, which brings us pain, but we can trust our Heavenly Father and His eternal purpose.
The mystery of pain and suffering has baffled peoples’ minds all through the ages. Many books have been written, many sermons preached on this subject. The question is often asked, “If there is a God and He is our loving heavenly Father, as you claim Him to be, then how do you explain pain and suffering. If He does exist then He is either cold and indifferent, or powerless to act.” Really, pain, suffering and death seem inconsistent with a loving God.
I do not pretend in a short message to give all the answers, but some things relating to this subject can be explained. First, let us admit that pain does exist. It is not an illusion, as some people believe. Pain is real; we feel and suffer from pain.
Pain and suffering may be the result of our own or someone else’s sin. It is a law of nature that we reap what we sow. The Bible furnishes us with many examples to prove this point.
Let us look at our own situation today. If a person smokes, his lungs are likely to be affected. If he commits adultery he is likely to face psychological problems and his marriage might break up. If a man squanders his money on drinks or gambling and does not support his family, the family suffers. Pain and suffering are the consequence of man’s sin. We bring pain and suffering upon ourselves and those we love because we ignore the law of God. God’s law cannot be violated without serious consequences.
In John 9 verses 1-7 we read the incident of a man born blind. The disciples asked Jesus a question, “Who did sin, this man or his parents that this man was born blind.” It has always been man’s reaction to pain and suffering. Who and what is the cause? When something happens to cause us pain and suffering our immediate reaction is to ask the question Why? It is instinctive to think of punishment as the fruit of wrongdoing. Often we blame ourselves “What have I done to deserve this?”
It is not an adequate explanation to conclude that we suffer because we have sinned. When the tower of Siloam fell and killed sixteen people, Jesus quietly explained, “those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them – do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no!…” Luke13: 5
Volcano eruptions, floods, earthquakes, typhoons, fires, plane crashes kill sinners and saints alike.
Then why does God permit pain and suffering? A boy was born lacking the capacity to feel pain. Well, you say, that’s great! No pain! There was something wrong with his nervous system. The brain did not get the message from the part of his body that was hurt.
One day, his mother smelt the odour of burning flesh. She rushed into the kitchen only to find the fingers of her son badly burnt. He felt no pain, hence did not scream for help. He lacked the reflexes and sensitivity that are present in the normal person. One day he cut his foot resulting in much loss of blood but felt no pain and died a premature death.
The psalmist sang his song of praise, “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:14. We stand in awe and wonder as we ponder over creation and how God created this complex human being with the capacity to feel pain.
We need to think not just of physical pain, but emotional as well. Our capacity to feel pain enables us to relate to others in pain. The world has seen some notorious people who somehow could not relate to the suffering and pain of people. Think of Hitler, Mussolini, Pol Pot, Eichmann and others. Did they have that emotional pain for others? I often wonder how could they send so many to their deaths. Were they so hardened that they felt no pain?
Can you watch a film depicting some tragedy and suffering and not feel pain and sometimes even weep although it is mere acting? Watch out for the young man who boasts of his masculinity and remain unmoved and untouched by a tragic episode. Would he be able to relate to the needs of others in pain? We need not be ashamed of our God given emotions. The physical and emotional pain we feel enables us sympathise others.
There are lessons we can learn through pain and suffering. In this fallen world, God has allowed pain to exist for our own good. C.S Lewis refers to pain as “God’s megaphone.” To some of us we only turn to God because we suffer pain. It makes us more sensitive in this hurting world.
God in His own wisdom has allowed pain to exist, but He knows the limit we can take. He also has the resources to enable us to live through this world of pain and suffering. We can never fully fathom God’s way with us, especially when we are suffering pain, but we can trust his grace which is sufficient for every time of need.
The Apostle Paul had to accept the “thorn” in his body, which caused him pain. He prayed for this thorn to be removed, but God in his wisdom denied that request. Instead he was given the assurance, “My grace is sufficient for you.” God wanted Paul to remain sensitive to the pain and suffering of others.
He gives us the same promise today. We may not fully understand our present situation, which brings us pain, but we can trust our Heavenly Father and His eternal purpose.
Monday, September 28, 2009
At Central Corps - Bishan
It was a great day and we enjoyed every moment of it - time spent at the Singapore Central Corps. This is my wife's home Corps where she went through the different stages of her spiritual development. I came from Balestier but moved to Central to become the Candidate Helper assisting the then Lieutenant Douglas Kiff in 1952.
In 1970 we were appointed to take charge of this corps (church) and we had four wonderful and enriching years. So yesterday it was a delight to meet our many friends. The Sunday School kids like Toh Kian and others are now in their middle age with teen age children. It was a joy to meet the veterans like Goh Seow Kiang (who will be celebrating his 90th birthday next Saturday) and Esther Dail who still plays her timbrel in the meeting. Ng Seng Chow and his boys are in the band, his son Daniel is the bandmaster.
My wife's sister Angela, her daughter Elaine and son-in-law Lim Peng Soon, plus youngest daughter Jaclyn worship faithfully in this church. Yesterday, Elaine read the Bible for us.
In the congregation was Patrick Foo who told the congregation that I was his Corps Officer at Balestier when I was only a Lieutenant - that's half a century ago! Memories! Nostalgia!
Then of course, it's good to see our two grandchildren David and Rachel both playing in the band - David on cornet and Rachel on the trombone. They both played in their school bands so it's good they are able to continue with their music in the Army. Rachel is also in the worship band and David fills in every now and again on the keyboard.
And we were thrilled to meet many new friends who are actively involved in the Army.
We really appreciate Captains Lim Chee Kwee and Annie giving us the privilege of sharing their platform. You can see, the folk love their Corps Officers, pastors as Patrick testified yesterday - "they are always there for you when you need them." What a wonderful tribute. I wish this could be said of every Salvation Army officer regardless of the kind of appointment he or she holds.
After the meeting Elaine and Peng Soon took us for lunch with her family.
I used to drive my grandchildren - but times have changed. Rachel drove us to the Church and David drove us back. Both of them passed their driving test this year. I am no more the driver, nowadays I am being driven! Thanks be to God. He is indeed wonderful.
We got home at about 3.30 p.m. and thank God for another wonderful day spent with fellow believers in the house of God. To Him be the glory.
Some thoughts on worship by William Temple.
WORSHIP
To quicken the conscience with the holiness of God;
To feed the mind with the truth of God;
To purge the imagination with the beauty of God;
To open the heart to the love of God;
To devote the will to the purpose of God.
In 1970 we were appointed to take charge of this corps (church) and we had four wonderful and enriching years. So yesterday it was a delight to meet our many friends. The Sunday School kids like Toh Kian and others are now in their middle age with teen age children. It was a joy to meet the veterans like Goh Seow Kiang (who will be celebrating his 90th birthday next Saturday) and Esther Dail who still plays her timbrel in the meeting. Ng Seng Chow and his boys are in the band, his son Daniel is the bandmaster.
My wife's sister Angela, her daughter Elaine and son-in-law Lim Peng Soon, plus youngest daughter Jaclyn worship faithfully in this church. Yesterday, Elaine read the Bible for us.
In the congregation was Patrick Foo who told the congregation that I was his Corps Officer at Balestier when I was only a Lieutenant - that's half a century ago! Memories! Nostalgia!
Then of course, it's good to see our two grandchildren David and Rachel both playing in the band - David on cornet and Rachel on the trombone. They both played in their school bands so it's good they are able to continue with their music in the Army. Rachel is also in the worship band and David fills in every now and again on the keyboard.
And we were thrilled to meet many new friends who are actively involved in the Army.
We really appreciate Captains Lim Chee Kwee and Annie giving us the privilege of sharing their platform. You can see, the folk love their Corps Officers, pastors as Patrick testified yesterday - "they are always there for you when you need them." What a wonderful tribute. I wish this could be said of every Salvation Army officer regardless of the kind of appointment he or she holds.
After the meeting Elaine and Peng Soon took us for lunch with her family.
I used to drive my grandchildren - but times have changed. Rachel drove us to the Church and David drove us back. Both of them passed their driving test this year. I am no more the driver, nowadays I am being driven! Thanks be to God. He is indeed wonderful.
We got home at about 3.30 p.m. and thank God for another wonderful day spent with fellow believers in the house of God. To Him be the glory.
Some thoughts on worship by William Temple.
WORSHIP
To quicken the conscience with the holiness of God;
To feed the mind with the truth of God;
To purge the imagination with the beauty of God;
To open the heart to the love of God;
To devote the will to the purpose of God.
Hepatitis B Support Group
Last Saturday 26 September, my wife and I attended the Hepatitis B Support Group AGM held at National University Hospital. It was good to meet this group of caring people, all volunteers who could easily have spent their Saturday afternoon elsewhere with relatives and friends picnicking or doing other things.
This group began with a few concerned people who either they themselves or their relatives have been the victims of Hepatitis B. We heard many testimonies of what they had to go through. The group under the chairmanship of Mr. Ting Chung Hua have worked hard and given sacrificially of their time and money to get the group started. Eventually it was registered on 8th August 2007. The roll at the moment numbers more than 300 members and we are numbers 5 and 6. We have attended every seminar where experts were invited to talk on this subject. My sister in law, Angela Fong and daughter Jaclynn are also members in fact the latter is now the assistant Treasurer.
On Saturday at the AGM the newly elected committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Vincent Wee pledged to continue with the good work of the original committee take the group further. The group hopes to recruit more members for the stronger we are the more effective we can be in making representations to Government for support in our effort to make the public aware of the dangers of Hepatitis B. A/Professor Lim Seng Gee is the Advisor. He is the head of the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the National University.
We thank God for people who are passionate in working for the benefit of others.They deserve our support.
Anyone reading this, if you care to join this support group, please let us know and we'll get you the forms.
This group began with a few concerned people who either they themselves or their relatives have been the victims of Hepatitis B. We heard many testimonies of what they had to go through. The group under the chairmanship of Mr. Ting Chung Hua have worked hard and given sacrificially of their time and money to get the group started. Eventually it was registered on 8th August 2007. The roll at the moment numbers more than 300 members and we are numbers 5 and 6. We have attended every seminar where experts were invited to talk on this subject. My sister in law, Angela Fong and daughter Jaclynn are also members in fact the latter is now the assistant Treasurer.
On Saturday at the AGM the newly elected committee under the chairmanship of Dr. Vincent Wee pledged to continue with the good work of the original committee take the group further. The group hopes to recruit more members for the stronger we are the more effective we can be in making representations to Government for support in our effort to make the public aware of the dangers of Hepatitis B. A/Professor Lim Seng Gee is the Advisor. He is the head of the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the National University.
We thank God for people who are passionate in working for the benefit of others.They deserve our support.
Anyone reading this, if you care to join this support group, please let us know and we'll get you the forms.
Friday, September 25, 2009
The Red Sea - an obstacle
Following yesterday's blog on Facing Obstacles, let me share with you this poem which has blessed me many times when I have to face seemingly impossible situations.
Have you come to the Red Sea place in your life,
Where in spite of all that you can do,
There is no way out, there is no way back,
There is no other way but through?
Then wait on the Lord with a trust serene
Till the night of your fear is gone;
He will send the wind, He will heap the floods,
When He says to your soul, “Go on.”
And His hand will lead you through – clear through-
Ere the watery walls roll down,
No foe can reach you, no wave can touch,
No mightiest sea can drown;
The tossing billows may rear their crests,
Their foam at your feet may break,
But over their bed you shall walk dryshod
In the path that your Lord shall make.
In the morning watch, ‘neath the lifted cloud,
You shall see but the Lord alone,
When He leads you on from the place of the sea
To the land that you have not known;
And your fears shall pass as your foes have passed,
You shall no more be afraid;
You shall sing His praise in a better place.
A place that His hand has made. (Annie Johnson Flint)
Have you come to the Red Sea place in your life,
Where in spite of all that you can do,
There is no way out, there is no way back,
There is no other way but through?
Then wait on the Lord with a trust serene
Till the night of your fear is gone;
He will send the wind, He will heap the floods,
When He says to your soul, “Go on.”
And His hand will lead you through – clear through-
Ere the watery walls roll down,
No foe can reach you, no wave can touch,
No mightiest sea can drown;
The tossing billows may rear their crests,
Their foam at your feet may break,
But over their bed you shall walk dryshod
In the path that your Lord shall make.
In the morning watch, ‘neath the lifted cloud,
You shall see but the Lord alone,
When He leads you on from the place of the sea
To the land that you have not known;
And your fears shall pass as your foes have passed,
You shall no more be afraid;
You shall sing His praise in a better place.
A place that His hand has made. (Annie Johnson Flint)
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Facing Obstacles
A new Nature Park, a tourist attraction has opened near where we live at Upper Bukit Timah and is attracting crowds at weekends and public holidays. Those who come by vehicles can park at Car Park A which is adjacent to our Salvation Army compound. The advertisement in the Straits Times has the name The Salvation Army on the map. Those who come by bus are to disembark outside the Army and walk through the park to the destination.
From my balcony, I found it very interesting to watch vehicles entering Car Park A from Dairy Farm Road last weekend – Saturday, Sunday and Hari Raya. Most drivers got into the car park with no difficulty; others were put off by the sight of the barriers. They stopped at the entrance, reversed their vehicles and drove off to park elsewhere in Dairy Farm estate. Some might even have sneaked into our Army compound to get free parking!
Please note, when you approach the barrier your vehicle triggers the sensor and the bar automatically lifts up and allows your vehicle to enter. When you leave the same thing happens. You must not be put off by the sight of the barrier; just keep driving right into the car park – it’s free parking. In life don’t be put off by obstacles. Rich rewards await you when you dare challenge obstacles.
The dictionary defines obstacles as ‘something that stands in the way or opposes - something that is between where you are, and where you want to go or want to achieve.' Life is filled with obstacles. Some are small some are big but they can be overcome.
Thomas Edison was deaf. Alexander Pope was a hunchback. Admiral Nelson had only one eye. Julius Caesar was an epileptic. The list can go on. All of these people and many others faced obstacles that stood between where they were and where they wanted to go or wanted to achieve. They triumphed over obstacles.
I’ve been doing a series of studies on Joshua and we are almost at the end of it. I myself have been much blessed and challenged as I prepare each lesson. With Moses and the Israelites Joshua crossed the Red Sea; as leader of the nation, he led them across the River Jordan. He and his army marched round Jericho and the walls came tumbling down. What’s the secret? Moses, Joshua and others trusted in and obeyed God.
Obstacles appear in life and they will continue to come. Don’t let obstacles defeat you. Let us trust God, be sensitive to His presence, seek His power and direction and we too can conquer obstacles if we dare to move on. The barriers before you will be lifted up. Praise the Lord.
From my balcony, I found it very interesting to watch vehicles entering Car Park A from Dairy Farm Road last weekend – Saturday, Sunday and Hari Raya. Most drivers got into the car park with no difficulty; others were put off by the sight of the barriers. They stopped at the entrance, reversed their vehicles and drove off to park elsewhere in Dairy Farm estate. Some might even have sneaked into our Army compound to get free parking!
Please note, when you approach the barrier your vehicle triggers the sensor and the bar automatically lifts up and allows your vehicle to enter. When you leave the same thing happens. You must not be put off by the sight of the barrier; just keep driving right into the car park – it’s free parking. In life don’t be put off by obstacles. Rich rewards await you when you dare challenge obstacles.
The dictionary defines obstacles as ‘something that stands in the way or opposes - something that is between where you are, and where you want to go or want to achieve.' Life is filled with obstacles. Some are small some are big but they can be overcome.
Thomas Edison was deaf. Alexander Pope was a hunchback. Admiral Nelson had only one eye. Julius Caesar was an epileptic. The list can go on. All of these people and many others faced obstacles that stood between where they were and where they wanted to go or wanted to achieve. They triumphed over obstacles.
I’ve been doing a series of studies on Joshua and we are almost at the end of it. I myself have been much blessed and challenged as I prepare each lesson. With Moses and the Israelites Joshua crossed the Red Sea; as leader of the nation, he led them across the River Jordan. He and his army marched round Jericho and the walls came tumbling down. What’s the secret? Moses, Joshua and others trusted in and obeyed God.
Obstacles appear in life and they will continue to come. Don’t let obstacles defeat you. Let us trust God, be sensitive to His presence, seek His power and direction and we too can conquer obstacles if we dare to move on. The barriers before you will be lifted up. Praise the Lord.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Let go and let God
As children bring their broken toys with tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God, because He was my friend.
But then instead of leaving Him in peace to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help, with ways that were my own.
At last, I snatched them back and cried, "How can You be so slow?"
"My child," he said, "What could I do? You never did let go."
How many times we think we know better than God. Let us leave God to order all our ways.
I brought my broken dreams to God, because He was my friend.
But then instead of leaving Him in peace to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help, with ways that were my own.
At last, I snatched them back and cried, "How can You be so slow?"
"My child," he said, "What could I do? You never did let go."
How many times we think we know better than God. Let us leave God to order all our ways.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Hari Raya - Public holiday
Monday 21 September – Hari Raya, public holiday. We left home at 9.15 a.m. took Bus No. 67 for the long journey to Tampines Interchange where we waited for half an hour for the feeder bus No. 37 to arrive. We were on our way to see Mrs. Esther Foo at Lengkok Mariam, but we did not realise this bus does not pass her place; instead it went to the Factory areas. Eventually the bus took us back to the bus stop outside the Japanese school, next door to Peacehaven Nursing Home. While waiting for another bus, who should turn up? Majors Darrell and Katrina Thomas who stopped the car and gave us a lift to Mrs. Foo. This was much appreciated. It was so kind of them to do so and we enjoyed the short time of fellowship together. We were able to tell them something about Mrs. Foo.
Well, I believe the Lord’s hand was in this for we were able to introduce them to Mrs. Foo. As always, Mrs. Foo is very hospitable and bought out a cake to share with us. She also offered us moon-cakes for this is now the season. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and ended up with prayer together. Major Katrani Thomas will be seeing her from time to time to give her the War Cry. We do try to visit Mrs. Foo every now and again – like Chinese New Year, on her birthday and Mother’s Day, but distance makes it difficult for us to visit her as often as we would like to.
Towards the end of 1941, Esther Lau and Lim Kim Lui (blog on 28 May) were accepted as candidates for officership, but before they could enter Training College, war came and Lieut. Colonel Herbert Lord, Officer Commanding immediately commissioned these two ladies as Lieutenants even without training! Immediately they were given assignments to help war victims and other Salvation Army activities. The Army closed down soon after that. The reinforcement officers were arrested and imprisoned in Changi Prison for three and half years. Married women with children were sent to Australia.
These two ladies and others went through very hard times during the war. Esther married Lieutenant Foo Kia Pang and after the war in 1945 became officers for some time before they resigned. Foo Kia Pang joined the social welfare department as the superintendent of Government Home called Perak Boys' Home at Pasir Panjang. Mrs. Foo remained a housewife to bring up six lovely children, most of them now are engaged in Christian ministry. She gave volunteer service at this Home.
In retirement they first moved to Pasir Panjang where Mrs. Foo kept a lovely orchid garden and when it came to Mothers' Day, she would provide the Corps with flowers. She maintained an open house and showed hospitality to all her visitors, especially Salvation Army folk.
Four of their children and their families have emigrated to Australia, England and Canada. Two sons and their families remain in Singapore. Mr. Foo Kia Pang was promoted to Glory in 1997 and Mrs. Foo has been living alone since in this big house with a compound. She is now 91 years old, quite frail, but still very alert.
We give thanks to God for such saints and count it a privilege to share fellowship with them from time to time.
Well, I believe the Lord’s hand was in this for we were able to introduce them to Mrs. Foo. As always, Mrs. Foo is very hospitable and bought out a cake to share with us. She also offered us moon-cakes for this is now the season. We had a wonderful time of fellowship and ended up with prayer together. Major Katrani Thomas will be seeing her from time to time to give her the War Cry. We do try to visit Mrs. Foo every now and again – like Chinese New Year, on her birthday and Mother’s Day, but distance makes it difficult for us to visit her as often as we would like to.
Towards the end of 1941, Esther Lau and Lim Kim Lui (blog on 28 May) were accepted as candidates for officership, but before they could enter Training College, war came and Lieut. Colonel Herbert Lord, Officer Commanding immediately commissioned these two ladies as Lieutenants even without training! Immediately they were given assignments to help war victims and other Salvation Army activities. The Army closed down soon after that. The reinforcement officers were arrested and imprisoned in Changi Prison for three and half years. Married women with children were sent to Australia.
These two ladies and others went through very hard times during the war. Esther married Lieutenant Foo Kia Pang and after the war in 1945 became officers for some time before they resigned. Foo Kia Pang joined the social welfare department as the superintendent of Government Home called Perak Boys' Home at Pasir Panjang. Mrs. Foo remained a housewife to bring up six lovely children, most of them now are engaged in Christian ministry. She gave volunteer service at this Home.
In retirement they first moved to Pasir Panjang where Mrs. Foo kept a lovely orchid garden and when it came to Mothers' Day, she would provide the Corps with flowers. She maintained an open house and showed hospitality to all her visitors, especially Salvation Army folk.
Four of their children and their families have emigrated to Australia, England and Canada. Two sons and their families remain in Singapore. Mr. Foo Kia Pang was promoted to Glory in 1997 and Mrs. Foo has been living alone since in this big house with a compound. She is now 91 years old, quite frail, but still very alert.
We give thanks to God for such saints and count it a privilege to share fellowship with them from time to time.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Worship at William Booth Corps
We thank God for another good day - the Lord's Day when we are reminded of His resurrection and also day of rest and renewal.
We studied Joshua 23 this morning. Joshua had given 25 years leadership to the nation in the conquest and settlement of the land of Canaan. This was his farewell speech in which he highlighted areas the people were most likely to slip – obedience to God’s law, associations with surrounding nations, dangers of idolatry and intermarriage with the people of the land.
His days on earth were coming to the end. So he called the leaders together to give them his final words of warning and encouragement. He wanted to pass on his legacy to them. We all need to be reminded of God’s goodness and grace to us. That’s why it is important to study God’s word.
After half an hour’s break, we gathered in the main hall for our Holiness meeting. The meeting began with that lovely song of praise – “How great Thou art.” Yes, God is indeed great and we were blessed as we sang praises to God.
Our Pastor continued with her series on “The Armour of God” and today she spoke on two parts of the armour – ‘the beautiful feet of peace’ and the ‘helmet of salvation.’
The first part fitted in with the request of the General to pray for world peace. World peace begins with peace in the heart of the individual. “Where there is peace in the heart, there is peace in the home; when there is peace in the home, there is peace in the nation: where there is peace in the nation, there is peace in the world.” Let us all be proclaimers of peace.
The second part hammered home the truth we had at our Bible study earlier on – the importance of God’s word in our hearts. Earlier on I was emphasising on the importance on memorising scripture and here in the meeting she said the same thing.
We thank God for freedom of worship in this country. We thank Him for another good day when we could meet, share fellowship and the word.
Well, next week my wife and I won’t be around as we. God willing shall be conducting the meeting at Central Corps. We are really looking forward to meeting our many friends there.
We studied Joshua 23 this morning. Joshua had given 25 years leadership to the nation in the conquest and settlement of the land of Canaan. This was his farewell speech in which he highlighted areas the people were most likely to slip – obedience to God’s law, associations with surrounding nations, dangers of idolatry and intermarriage with the people of the land.
His days on earth were coming to the end. So he called the leaders together to give them his final words of warning and encouragement. He wanted to pass on his legacy to them. We all need to be reminded of God’s goodness and grace to us. That’s why it is important to study God’s word.
After half an hour’s break, we gathered in the main hall for our Holiness meeting. The meeting began with that lovely song of praise – “How great Thou art.” Yes, God is indeed great and we were blessed as we sang praises to God.
Our Pastor continued with her series on “The Armour of God” and today she spoke on two parts of the armour – ‘the beautiful feet of peace’ and the ‘helmet of salvation.’
The first part fitted in with the request of the General to pray for world peace. World peace begins with peace in the heart of the individual. “Where there is peace in the heart, there is peace in the home; when there is peace in the home, there is peace in the nation: where there is peace in the nation, there is peace in the world.” Let us all be proclaimers of peace.
The second part hammered home the truth we had at our Bible study earlier on – the importance of God’s word in our hearts. Earlier on I was emphasising on the importance on memorising scripture and here in the meeting she said the same thing.
We thank God for freedom of worship in this country. We thank Him for another good day when we could meet, share fellowship and the word.
Well, next week my wife and I won’t be around as we. God willing shall be conducting the meeting at Central Corps. We are really looking forward to meeting our many friends there.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Wedding at Methodist church
We just came home after attending our third wedding this month. This time it was the wedding of Junian and Wanjing (Esther) held at the Ang Moh Kio Methodist church. The bride works as secretary to our Youth Secretary, Captain Hary Haran. Quite a large number of our Headquarters' staff were present at the wedding. So it was a bonus to meet our many friends from THQ and to enjoy fellowship with them.
It was a beautiful service for a lovely Christian couple. Fifty one years ago, our wedding service and ceremony took exactly 30 minutes. This new generation do things differently. They had a session of 'praise and worship', a video presentation plus a dance on the platform beautifully performed. It was like a concert. Well, we live and learn and try to keep up with the times.
There was a reception after the wedding and we were able to mingle with the guests as we enjoyed the food.
Before I end this blog I want to share with you the thoughts Matthew Henry wrote about the first couple on earth.
"The woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam. Not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be loved."
Married couples please take note and love each other at all times.
It was a beautiful service for a lovely Christian couple. Fifty one years ago, our wedding service and ceremony took exactly 30 minutes. This new generation do things differently. They had a session of 'praise and worship', a video presentation plus a dance on the platform beautifully performed. It was like a concert. Well, we live and learn and try to keep up with the times.
There was a reception after the wedding and we were able to mingle with the guests as we enjoyed the food.
Before I end this blog I want to share with you the thoughts Matthew Henry wrote about the first couple on earth.
"The woman was made of a rib out of the side of Adam. Not made out of his head to rule over him, nor out of his feet to be trampled upon by him, but out of his side to be equal with him, under his arm to be protected, and near his heart to be loved."
Married couples please take note and love each other at all times.
Friday, September 18, 2009
Amazing Grace
We had our usual cell group this morning and watched again the DVD on "What's so amazing about grace?" by Phillip Yancy. I feel every Salvation Officer, every pastor and lay worker, in fact every Christian should read this book. I've read it several times and it always speaks to my heart. Grace is indeed amazing. Many of you are familiar with the hymn Amazing Grace.
John Newton wrote “Amazing Grace” at a time when he was haunted by the 20,000 African ghosts of his past. At the age of 11 he set sail for the first time and for over 30 years he sold and traded slaves from Africa to West Indies.
At times he felt so wretched that even his crew regarded him as little more than an animal. Once he fell overboard and his ship’s crew refused to drop a boat to him. Instead they threw a harpoon at him and they dragged him back into the ship.
In March of 1748, Newton found himself in the most desperate situation of his life. During the voyage the crew had repeatedly heard his bitter boasting of being a freethinker who did not believe in God. He had even lashed himself to a mast during a storm and dared God to strike him dead, in order to prove Himself real. The ship was leaking badly and in danger of sinking. Terribly frightened, he cried out: “Lord, have mercy on us.” This was the first time he had prayed since childhood.
By the time the storm ended, most of the rigging had been blown away, making navigation almost impossible. After seven days of drifting with no land in sight, the crew was practically without hope. One man had already died when the captain came to challenge John Newton. The captain believed Newton was somewhat like Jonah: “A curse to the ship”. The crew had even discussed throwing him overboard, but decided not to.
As Newton returned to work, he recalled a Bible verse that he had learned as a child. Luke 11:13 “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children; how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" Coming to the end of himself, he prayed: “God, if You’re true, You’ll make good your Word. Cleanse Thou my vile heart.”
Four weeks later, the crippled ship made port in Ireland, and there he went to a church and made public his faith. He became a powerful preacher, and song writer: Amazing grace! How sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost but now am found, was blind, but now I see.
He died in London December 21, 1807. He wrote his own epitaph on the tombstone, “John Newton, once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was, by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he had long laboured to destroy.”
Just before his death in 1807 at 82, a fellow pastor came to have breakfast with him. John Newton was blind and unable to read, so he sat and listened to his friend read 1 Corinthians 15. When he reached verse 10, “But by the grace of God I am what I am” Newton began to speak. He said, “I am not what I ought to be. Ah! How imperfect and deficient! I am not what I hope to be. Soon, soon, shall I put off, with mortality, sin and imperfection. Though I am not what I ought to be, nor what I hope to be, I can truly say, I am not what I once was, a slave to sin and Satan; and I can heartily join with the apostle and acknowledge, By the grace of God I am what I am.”
John Newton wrote “Amazing Grace” at a time when he was haunted by the 20,000 African ghosts of his past. At the age of 11 he set sail for the first time and for over 30 years he sold and traded slaves from Africa to West Indies.
At times he felt so wretched that even his crew regarded him as little more than an animal. Once he fell overboard and his ship’s crew refused to drop a boat to him. Instead they threw a harpoon at him and they dragged him back into the ship.
In March of 1748, Newton found himself in the most desperate situation of his life. During the voyage the crew had repeatedly heard his bitter boasting of being a freethinker who did not believe in God. He had even lashed himself to a mast during a storm and dared God to strike him dead, in order to prove Himself real. The ship was leaking badly and in danger of sinking. Terribly frightened, he cried out: “Lord, have mercy on us.” This was the first time he had prayed since childhood.
By the time the storm ended, most of the rigging had been blown away, making navigation almost impossible. After seven days of drifting with no land in sight, the crew was practically without hope. One man had already died when the captain came to challenge John Newton. The captain believed Newton was somewhat like Jonah: “A curse to the ship”. The crew had even discussed throwing him overboard, but decided not to.
As Newton returned to work, he recalled a Bible verse that he had learned as a child. Luke 11:13 “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children; how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?" Coming to the end of himself, he prayed: “God, if You’re true, You’ll make good your Word. Cleanse Thou my vile heart.”
Four weeks later, the crippled ship made port in Ireland, and there he went to a church and made public his faith. He became a powerful preacher, and song writer: Amazing grace! How sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me! I once was lost but now am found, was blind, but now I see.
He died in London December 21, 1807. He wrote his own epitaph on the tombstone, “John Newton, once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was, by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he had long laboured to destroy.”
Just before his death in 1807 at 82, a fellow pastor came to have breakfast with him. John Newton was blind and unable to read, so he sat and listened to his friend read 1 Corinthians 15. When he reached verse 10, “But by the grace of God I am what I am” Newton began to speak. He said, “I am not what I ought to be. Ah! How imperfect and deficient! I am not what I hope to be. Soon, soon, shall I put off, with mortality, sin and imperfection. Though I am not what I ought to be, nor what I hope to be, I can truly say, I am not what I once was, a slave to sin and Satan; and I can heartily join with the apostle and acknowledge, By the grace of God I am what I am.”
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Down memory lane
When we retired twelve years ago, I was asked to take responsibility for the Archives. I gladly accepted the assignment. It was very challenging and interesting going through old records and putting facts together. I sorted out old issues of the War Cry and filed them in chronological order. I also spent a lot of time writing for the War Cry. I went through my old diaries, sorted out old programmes and went through many old files. I depended a lot on the power of recall. It was good memory exercise for me.
I did this on a volunteer basis and Lieut. Colonel Tan Thean Seng very kindly compensated me by allowing me the use one of the cars. It was a happy win-win arrangement. I used that red car till it was scrapped. (And by the way, I kept a log book and reimbursed the Army for personal use of the car.)
Then came the day when I was relieved of the responsibilities for the Archives and Jessie Kwong took over. In life there is always a time for everything - time to take on, and time to release. She has been able to continue doing research and has made a lot of improvements. She has done an excellent work with the Archives. She is very passionate about the Archives.
We keep in touch regularly and she sends me old photographs for us to identity places and people. We are glad we can still contribute in some small way to the archives. As age catches up with us and visits to clinics and hospitals increase in frequency it becomes necessary for us to reduce our involvement in Army or other activities.
Yesterday my wife and I had lunch with Jessie Kwong and naturally our conversation was on the history of The Salvation Army.
I recall the statement made by Will Durant ""Those who do not know history are forever condemned to repeat it." It is important that we know our history. A new book "Men in white" has just been off the press and already is going into the fourth printing! It's going to be the best seller. It is history of Singapore that all Singaporeans should read.
Salvationists should know our Salvation Army history. I was only three years old when the Army began in Singapore in 1935. At the age of five I began my association with the Army till today, except for the three and half years during the Japanese occupation. I am writing my autobiography, but at the moment have not decided whether to blog it or not. Certainly when it is completed it will be sent to the Army archives and be kept for posterity. Our lives are closely intertwined with The Salvation Army so in a way it is part of our Army history.
As I reflect on the past, walking down Memory Lane I give thanks to God for His saving and keeping power. The Lord has done great things for us for which we are glad. To Him be the glory.
I did this on a volunteer basis and Lieut. Colonel Tan Thean Seng very kindly compensated me by allowing me the use one of the cars. It was a happy win-win arrangement. I used that red car till it was scrapped. (And by the way, I kept a log book and reimbursed the Army for personal use of the car.)
Then came the day when I was relieved of the responsibilities for the Archives and Jessie Kwong took over. In life there is always a time for everything - time to take on, and time to release. She has been able to continue doing research and has made a lot of improvements. She has done an excellent work with the Archives. She is very passionate about the Archives.
We keep in touch regularly and she sends me old photographs for us to identity places and people. We are glad we can still contribute in some small way to the archives. As age catches up with us and visits to clinics and hospitals increase in frequency it becomes necessary for us to reduce our involvement in Army or other activities.
Yesterday my wife and I had lunch with Jessie Kwong and naturally our conversation was on the history of The Salvation Army.
I recall the statement made by Will Durant ""Those who do not know history are forever condemned to repeat it." It is important that we know our history. A new book "Men in white" has just been off the press and already is going into the fourth printing! It's going to be the best seller. It is history of Singapore that all Singaporeans should read.
Salvationists should know our Salvation Army history. I was only three years old when the Army began in Singapore in 1935. At the age of five I began my association with the Army till today, except for the three and half years during the Japanese occupation. I am writing my autobiography, but at the moment have not decided whether to blog it or not. Certainly when it is completed it will be sent to the Army archives and be kept for posterity. Our lives are closely intertwined with The Salvation Army so in a way it is part of our Army history.
As I reflect on the past, walking down Memory Lane I give thanks to God for His saving and keeping power. The Lord has done great things for us for which we are glad. To Him be the glory.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Songs and music
Had a good day at Peacehaven. Most of the residents may be old, but how they love to sing. And I love singing too. My concertina has been my constant companion for years. It has served me well as I accompany the singing every week. Good to make melody unto the Lord.
Without a song the day would never end;
Without a song the road would never bend;
When things go wrong a man ain't got a friend,
Without a song.
I got my trouble and woe.
But sure as I know the Jordan will roll,
I'll get along as long as a song is strong
In my soul.
How true - the right combination of words, the melody, the harmony, rhythm. Great to sing unto the Lord.
Some people sing like nightingales, others like gales in the night. It does not matter just sing from your heart. I own a keyboard, a piano accordion and a concertina and they are my good friends. I am no musician, but I make a joyful noise unto the Lord. Music lifts my soul up even if it means agony to my long suffering neighbours who have to put up with it. So far there has been no complaints, so I take it - it's all right
Without a song the day would never end;
Without a song the road would never bend;
When things go wrong a man ain't got a friend,
Without a song.
I got my trouble and woe.
But sure as I know the Jordan will roll,
I'll get along as long as a song is strong
In my soul.
How true - the right combination of words, the melody, the harmony, rhythm. Great to sing unto the Lord.
Some people sing like nightingales, others like gales in the night. It does not matter just sing from your heart. I own a keyboard, a piano accordion and a concertina and they are my good friends. I am no musician, but I make a joyful noise unto the Lord. Music lifts my soul up even if it means agony to my long suffering neighbours who have to put up with it. So far there has been no complaints, so I take it - it's all right
Monday, September 14, 2009
Appointment with God
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed. Mark 1:35 (NIV)
It is important for all of us to set time for devotions. Select a specific time and this has to do with when we should have our quiet time and how long this should be. Let us give God the best part of our day, when we are still fresh and alert. We should not serve God with leftover time. Of course my best time may be different from yours.
Lieut. Colonel Duck-Chong a good friend of ours, used to tithe his time and spent hours interceding for his many friends in Australia and all over the world. This wonderful saint of God went to the Lord many years ago.
Whatever time we set aside for prayer,let us be consistent in practice. We need to discipline ourselves to keep the appointment with God.
“How much time should I spend with the Lord?” If you’ve never had a consistent quiet time before, you may want to start with a short period, say ten minutes. Then let it grow naturally. You may need to split into two or three different times. The important thing to remember is quality time with God, and not necessarily quantity time. Those who have to travel have to make the necessary adjustments.
Discipline is very important. We wake up at 5.30 a.m., then at 6.00 a.m. go for our walk and have our breakfast at about 7.00 a.m. Then I go to the balcony and have my quiet time while my wife does the washing up and have hers after that.
We go to sleep early. We normally do not accept evening appointments except in very special circumstances, like attending a wake of a relative or close friend. For one thing I don't own a car and certainly do not like driving at night.
Both of us always end the day with prayer together. It is important for married couples to have prayers together. And when you have a family, make sure you hold family prayers. My wife always sleeps before I do. I always watch the 9.30 pm news and do some reading. It's a habit of a life time - go to bed with a book.
God is great, God is good, God is gracious. We firmly believe if we seek first the Kingdom of God, all other things fall in the right place. Life is indeed great. Yes, make sure you have your time with the Lord.
It is important for all of us to set time for devotions. Select a specific time and this has to do with when we should have our quiet time and how long this should be. Let us give God the best part of our day, when we are still fresh and alert. We should not serve God with leftover time. Of course my best time may be different from yours.
Lieut. Colonel Duck-Chong a good friend of ours, used to tithe his time and spent hours interceding for his many friends in Australia and all over the world. This wonderful saint of God went to the Lord many years ago.
Whatever time we set aside for prayer,let us be consistent in practice. We need to discipline ourselves to keep the appointment with God.
“How much time should I spend with the Lord?” If you’ve never had a consistent quiet time before, you may want to start with a short period, say ten minutes. Then let it grow naturally. You may need to split into two or three different times. The important thing to remember is quality time with God, and not necessarily quantity time. Those who have to travel have to make the necessary adjustments.
Discipline is very important. We wake up at 5.30 a.m., then at 6.00 a.m. go for our walk and have our breakfast at about 7.00 a.m. Then I go to the balcony and have my quiet time while my wife does the washing up and have hers after that.
We go to sleep early. We normally do not accept evening appointments except in very special circumstances, like attending a wake of a relative or close friend. For one thing I don't own a car and certainly do not like driving at night.
Both of us always end the day with prayer together. It is important for married couples to have prayers together. And when you have a family, make sure you hold family prayers. My wife always sleeps before I do. I always watch the 9.30 pm news and do some reading. It's a habit of a life time - go to bed with a book.
God is great, God is good, God is gracious. We firmly believe if we seek first the Kingdom of God, all other things fall in the right place. Life is indeed great. Yes, make sure you have your time with the Lord.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Sunday worship
We woke up as usual at 5.30 a.m. went for our walk, had our breakfast, quiet time and before long we were all dressed up in our uniform for another Sunday's meetings. We thank God we have freedom of worship and we are well enough to join in worship with fellow believers. Sunday reminds us again that Jesus lives and we adore Him.
For our Bible study this morning we did Joshua 22 and I used for the title – ‘Spreading out and staying united.’ We are almost near the end of the series on Joshua and today we saw how misunderstandings can arise because of wrong perception. Those on the western side of Canaan almost went to war with their brethren on the eastern side when they found out the latter had built a replica of the Shiloh altar. It was clearly a misunderstanding and they were able to sort things out when wise sense prevailed.
We learned some important lessons. We sometimes make the mistake in forming opinions and passing judgement on our brothers and sisters based on perception. We jump into wrong conclusions. Paul exhorts us ‘love thinks no evil.’ We all must learn not to impute motives and also to communicate with each other.
There was good discussion and I personally learned a lot from the contribution made by the participants.
At our Holiness Meeting, the sermon this morning was on “Called to a life of integrity.’ The Major is doing a series on the Letter to the Ephesians and has come to the part of ‘The Armour of God.’ Last Sunday she spoke of the “Belt of Truth” and this morning “The Breastplate of Righteousness.”
This breastplate covers or protects the most vital part of the body – the heart. It symbolises the believer’s righteousness in Christ. Or to use a more modern analogy – the bullet proof coat! This is the believer's breastplate - his right standing with God and his right state before all people.
There is the contrast of two kinds of righteousness – our righteousness and God’s righteousness. Our righteousness emphasises on ‘DO’-for example, the Pharisees who boasted about their own righteousness based upon the keeping the Law. We think we need to DO something to gain this righteousness. Man’s own righteousness is like ‘filthy rags.’ The righteousness Paul talks about is God’s righteousness. He means first that we must be rightly related to God through having received His free gift of salvation provided by the death of His Son Jesus Christ. He has DONE it all for us! The emphasis is not on ‘DO’ but on ‘DONE.’ And we cannot go to heaven unless we have this righteousness of Christ referred to as ‘the breastplate of righteousness.’
The message ends with the plea from one of the beatitudes – ‘to hunger and thirst for righteousness and be filled.’ When we sincerely seek after righteousness, we are guaranteed success - satisfied or filled!
If you do not attend another place of worship, you are cordially invited to join us every Sunday. Start the day with the Word of God at our Bible Study – 9.30 a.m. - 10.30 a.m. and after half an hour break we join in worship at the main worship hall which begins at 11.00 a.m.
For our Bible study this morning we did Joshua 22 and I used for the title – ‘Spreading out and staying united.’ We are almost near the end of the series on Joshua and today we saw how misunderstandings can arise because of wrong perception. Those on the western side of Canaan almost went to war with their brethren on the eastern side when they found out the latter had built a replica of the Shiloh altar. It was clearly a misunderstanding and they were able to sort things out when wise sense prevailed.
We learned some important lessons. We sometimes make the mistake in forming opinions and passing judgement on our brothers and sisters based on perception. We jump into wrong conclusions. Paul exhorts us ‘love thinks no evil.’ We all must learn not to impute motives and also to communicate with each other.
There was good discussion and I personally learned a lot from the contribution made by the participants.
At our Holiness Meeting, the sermon this morning was on “Called to a life of integrity.’ The Major is doing a series on the Letter to the Ephesians and has come to the part of ‘The Armour of God.’ Last Sunday she spoke of the “Belt of Truth” and this morning “The Breastplate of Righteousness.”
This breastplate covers or protects the most vital part of the body – the heart. It symbolises the believer’s righteousness in Christ. Or to use a more modern analogy – the bullet proof coat! This is the believer's breastplate - his right standing with God and his right state before all people.
There is the contrast of two kinds of righteousness – our righteousness and God’s righteousness. Our righteousness emphasises on ‘DO’-for example, the Pharisees who boasted about their own righteousness based upon the keeping the Law. We think we need to DO something to gain this righteousness. Man’s own righteousness is like ‘filthy rags.’ The righteousness Paul talks about is God’s righteousness. He means first that we must be rightly related to God through having received His free gift of salvation provided by the death of His Son Jesus Christ. He has DONE it all for us! The emphasis is not on ‘DO’ but on ‘DONE.’ And we cannot go to heaven unless we have this righteousness of Christ referred to as ‘the breastplate of righteousness.’
The message ends with the plea from one of the beatitudes – ‘to hunger and thirst for righteousness and be filled.’ When we sincerely seek after righteousness, we are guaranteed success - satisfied or filled!
If you do not attend another place of worship, you are cordially invited to join us every Sunday. Start the day with the Word of God at our Bible Study – 9.30 a.m. - 10.30 a.m. and after half an hour break we join in worship at the main worship hall which begins at 11.00 a.m.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Grace of forgiveness
“He who cannot forgive another breaks the bridge over which he must pass himself.” George Herbert.
We have come almost to the end of our studies on “What’s so amazing about grace?” This morning I decided to play again the DVD the first five lessons just to refresh the memory. Very touching indeed to listen once more to the testimonies of grace filled Christians who healed relationships.
Forgiveness is an unnatural act. Grace is the opposite of gravity. Grace lifts one up, gravity pulls one down. Philip Yancy said: “I know of nothing harder than forgiveness, and also nothing more urgent.”
Lewis Smedes wrote: “When you forgive:
1. Your surrender your right to get even.
2. You give your enemy’s humanity back.
3. You get the freedom to wish that person well.
4. You are willing to be open to what God wills.
It’s lovely to share fellowship every Friday morning at our home. We learn from God’s word and from each other. We thank God for these good people who have been such a blessing to us.
After lunch I took Bus No. 171 and spent time at Tecman's Book store. It's most relaxing to browse through the books. I ended up with another Study Bible. It's on offer and defintely worth the price.
We have come almost to the end of our studies on “What’s so amazing about grace?” This morning I decided to play again the DVD the first five lessons just to refresh the memory. Very touching indeed to listen once more to the testimonies of grace filled Christians who healed relationships.
Forgiveness is an unnatural act. Grace is the opposite of gravity. Grace lifts one up, gravity pulls one down. Philip Yancy said: “I know of nothing harder than forgiveness, and also nothing more urgent.”
Lewis Smedes wrote: “When you forgive:
1. Your surrender your right to get even.
2. You give your enemy’s humanity back.
3. You get the freedom to wish that person well.
4. You are willing to be open to what God wills.
It’s lovely to share fellowship every Friday morning at our home. We learn from God’s word and from each other. We thank God for these good people who have been such a blessing to us.
After lunch I took Bus No. 171 and spent time at Tecman's Book store. It's most relaxing to browse through the books. I ended up with another Study Bible. It's on offer and defintely worth the price.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Wedding dinner
We were invited to another wedding dinner last night at Marriot Hotel. I was there to give the exhortation and pray for the couple who were already married at the Registry on 2nd June. They are not church goers, but the parents wanted them to receive the Lord’s blessing. Mother belongs to the Chinese Methodist church, Father claims The Salvation Army as his church. Anyway the couple are quite happy to have us there to give the blessing.
A couple of months ago we did the same for their daughter and son-in-law, both practising Christians residing in Australia. They worship at Hillsongs, Australia. I must have done all right for them to invite us again this time for their son and daughter in law. And the bride's mother has been a Christian for only three months!She became a Christian through the witness of her son, the bride's brother who attends City Harvest in Kuala Lumpur. What a delight to hear her testimony.
Well my wife and I went in our uniform and what an opportunity to witness for the Lord. Many people are unaware that we are a church and think of us as just another Christian welfare organisation doing good work in the community. For want of a better term we refer to ourselves as ‘retired pastors.’ We are retired in the sense we are not pastoring a church, or run a Corps to use Army terminology, but we are still active in ministry.
We seize every opportunity to preach the word – be it at weddings, funerals, birthday parties. (O by the way we enjoyed the free dinner!) On this occasion and the previous one they even provided us with transportation to and from the hotel. The parents personally came to fetch us. What a privilege.
We thank God that even in retirement, we are given many opportunities to do ministry.
And no one forbids us to wear our uniform!
A couple of months ago we did the same for their daughter and son-in-law, both practising Christians residing in Australia. They worship at Hillsongs, Australia. I must have done all right for them to invite us again this time for their son and daughter in law. And the bride's mother has been a Christian for only three months!She became a Christian through the witness of her son, the bride's brother who attends City Harvest in Kuala Lumpur. What a delight to hear her testimony.
Well my wife and I went in our uniform and what an opportunity to witness for the Lord. Many people are unaware that we are a church and think of us as just another Christian welfare organisation doing good work in the community. For want of a better term we refer to ourselves as ‘retired pastors.’ We are retired in the sense we are not pastoring a church, or run a Corps to use Army terminology, but we are still active in ministry.
We seize every opportunity to preach the word – be it at weddings, funerals, birthday parties. (O by the way we enjoyed the free dinner!) On this occasion and the previous one they even provided us with transportation to and from the hotel. The parents personally came to fetch us. What a privilege.
We thank God that even in retirement, we are given many opportunities to do ministry.
And no one forbids us to wear our uniform!
Monday, September 7, 2009
Dr. Billy Graham and the word
Major Pascoe in her message given on Sunday morning made reference to Dr. Billy Graham and the word of God. She is doing a series on Ephesians and has come to the Armour of God. Her text was "Therefore put on the whole armour of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist... and the sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God."
It so happened that during this week I was re-reading "Just as I am" - the autobiography of Dr. Billy Graham. I have a CD of his songs which I listen to often and receive much blessing doing so.
The Salvation Army was very much involved in the Billy Graham Evangelistic meetings held at the Singapore National Stadium in 1978. Amongst the converts who linked up with The Salvation Army was Tan Bee Yit. What a trophy of grace!
When my wife and I were stationed in Kuala Lumpur, we took part in the Dr. Grady Wilson Campaign. I served as the vice-chairman of the Executive Committee. Although the Kuala Lumpur Corps was still very new and not many members, we were very much involved in the campaign. It also helped to put The Salvation Army on the map.
I don't think Graham is respected because he is a brilliant speaker, evangelist, obvious leader, or has had great success in the growth of his organization. All those things are true. But what we all respect him is his integrity and his humility, more than anything else. Billy Graham doesn't draw attention to himself. In one of his biographies the author wrote about Graham's accountability to other men. He was always saying, "Brothers, what do you see in my life? What are the failures, what are the mistakes?" The author spoke of Graham spending time on his knees before the Lord, asking God's forgiveness for failure in his life and ministry, asking God to be at work through him as a leader and a preacher.
According to one biographer at one time or another in the fifty years of Billy's public life, both the Republicans and the Democrats asked him to run for vice president on their ticket. He was also offered roles in Hollywood as a young man, because he was so handsome and charismatic, they reckoned he would be a box office smash! Graham talked about the struggles he had with all of those offers, because he could rationalize, "Well, I could have more exposure for Christ, the gospel could be expanded."
But Graham was aware that the God who sees the human heart and who defines what success is would not allow him any of those opportunities. Billy Graham is somebody who for fifty years has given success in ministry back to the Lord and has acknowledged his total dependence on God for effectiveness.
I am no Billy Graham, but whatever I have accomplished or what man calls 'success or accomplishments' I give to God. I owe it all to Him whose grace has always been my sufficiency.
Billy Graham believes in the Word of God and his messages are based entirely on the Bible. It was in this context that the Major made reference to Billy Graham.
I thank God for the opportunity to conduct the Adult Bible class every Sunday morning. I pray daily that the Lord will grant me spiritual discernment in teaching the word and even more important to live out the Word in my life.
It so happened that during this week I was re-reading "Just as I am" - the autobiography of Dr. Billy Graham. I have a CD of his songs which I listen to often and receive much blessing doing so.
The Salvation Army was very much involved in the Billy Graham Evangelistic meetings held at the Singapore National Stadium in 1978. Amongst the converts who linked up with The Salvation Army was Tan Bee Yit. What a trophy of grace!
When my wife and I were stationed in Kuala Lumpur, we took part in the Dr. Grady Wilson Campaign. I served as the vice-chairman of the Executive Committee. Although the Kuala Lumpur Corps was still very new and not many members, we were very much involved in the campaign. It also helped to put The Salvation Army on the map.
I don't think Graham is respected because he is a brilliant speaker, evangelist, obvious leader, or has had great success in the growth of his organization. All those things are true. But what we all respect him is his integrity and his humility, more than anything else. Billy Graham doesn't draw attention to himself. In one of his biographies the author wrote about Graham's accountability to other men. He was always saying, "Brothers, what do you see in my life? What are the failures, what are the mistakes?" The author spoke of Graham spending time on his knees before the Lord, asking God's forgiveness for failure in his life and ministry, asking God to be at work through him as a leader and a preacher.
According to one biographer at one time or another in the fifty years of Billy's public life, both the Republicans and the Democrats asked him to run for vice president on their ticket. He was also offered roles in Hollywood as a young man, because he was so handsome and charismatic, they reckoned he would be a box office smash! Graham talked about the struggles he had with all of those offers, because he could rationalize, "Well, I could have more exposure for Christ, the gospel could be expanded."
But Graham was aware that the God who sees the human heart and who defines what success is would not allow him any of those opportunities. Billy Graham is somebody who for fifty years has given success in ministry back to the Lord and has acknowledged his total dependence on God for effectiveness.
I am no Billy Graham, but whatever I have accomplished or what man calls 'success or accomplishments' I give to God. I owe it all to Him whose grace has always been my sufficiency.
Billy Graham believes in the Word of God and his messages are based entirely on the Bible. It was in this context that the Major made reference to Billy Graham.
I thank God for the opportunity to conduct the Adult Bible class every Sunday morning. I pray daily that the Lord will grant me spiritual discernment in teaching the word and even more important to live out the Word in my life.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Wedding
Just returned home after attending the wedding of How Ran and Wang Yu at Bishan. Both are China nationals who came to Singapore to study. Several years ago, How Ran lost his wallet and was in a desperate state when he met Captain Tan Guat Hai, Corps Officer (pastor) of Chinese Corps. The Captain arranged for him to stay at Praisehaven Hostel.
He attended Chinese Corps, got converted and became a Salvationist. Later Wang Yu from the same village also came to Singapore. The two met and she started to attend meetings, got converted, became a Salvationist. Today they were joined together in holy matrimony. The wedding was conducted by Captain Tan Guat Hai. The present Corps Officer (Pastor ) Lieut. Colonel Tan Thean Seng took the place of Wang Yu’s father and gave her away.
In his testimony, How Ran broke down when he recalled how he as a foreigner in Singapore in his desperate plight found the Lord through The Salvation Army. The church became his family who has given him tremendous support.
Such testimonies warm the heart. God is still working miracles in our midst.
He attended Chinese Corps, got converted and became a Salvationist. Later Wang Yu from the same village also came to Singapore. The two met and she started to attend meetings, got converted, became a Salvationist. Today they were joined together in holy matrimony. The wedding was conducted by Captain Tan Guat Hai. The present Corps Officer (Pastor ) Lieut. Colonel Tan Thean Seng took the place of Wang Yu’s father and gave her away.
In his testimony, How Ran broke down when he recalled how he as a foreigner in Singapore in his desperate plight found the Lord through The Salvation Army. The church became his family who has given him tremendous support.
Such testimonies warm the heart. God is still working miracles in our midst.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Visit to Chinatown
It’s been a long time since I last visited Chinatown to do my shopping. I took Bus 961 just outside our place and it took an hour to get to my destination, Clark Quay Station then to Hong Kong Street where I usually get my dried fruit, nuts, ikan bilis etc from the wholesalers. It’s so much cheaper than buying these things elsewhere. Besides, I always enjoy the walk around the area. It's a good form of exercise.
On the return trip I decided to walk to Stamford Road to take Bus 171. It’s a shorter trip home, but fares are the same. We senior citizens do get concession rate after 9.30 a.m. So shopping in Chinatown does save the dollars. During off peak hours, the buses are not crowded, so it’s quite relaxing to sit in the air conditioned buses and enjoy the scenery.
While I am still mobile I should make use of the pair of good legs I am endowed with. The day may come when I may not be able to move about like I do. By the way, I do carry an umbrella which doubles as a walking stick, as this helps me when I have to climb up the overhead pedestrian crossing.
At one of the bus stops I saw an elderly lady trying to get into the bus. A young lady behind her stretched out her hand to help her, but the old dear just pushed her away. That kind young lady must have felt embarrassed; her kindness was rebuffed. We all need to learn to be gracious.
It reminds me of another incident which happened many years ago in London, when an old retired Commissioner in her eighties sitting on the platform. She was about to stand up to give her testimony. She looked quite frail. A younger officer sitting nearby went to help her but she pushed him away. Help was rejected.
We senior citizens have spent our lives giving help to others now need to learn to be humble enough to accept help from others. Pride goes before a fall – that’s a reality we need to learn.
“There is a certain pride in man that will give and give, but to come and accept is another thing” says Oswald Sanders. Our Christian life begins from the point of acceptance of Jesus Christ and His gift of salvation.
On the return trip I decided to walk to Stamford Road to take Bus 171. It’s a shorter trip home, but fares are the same. We senior citizens do get concession rate after 9.30 a.m. So shopping in Chinatown does save the dollars. During off peak hours, the buses are not crowded, so it’s quite relaxing to sit in the air conditioned buses and enjoy the scenery.
While I am still mobile I should make use of the pair of good legs I am endowed with. The day may come when I may not be able to move about like I do. By the way, I do carry an umbrella which doubles as a walking stick, as this helps me when I have to climb up the overhead pedestrian crossing.
At one of the bus stops I saw an elderly lady trying to get into the bus. A young lady behind her stretched out her hand to help her, but the old dear just pushed her away. That kind young lady must have felt embarrassed; her kindness was rebuffed. We all need to learn to be gracious.
It reminds me of another incident which happened many years ago in London, when an old retired Commissioner in her eighties sitting on the platform. She was about to stand up to give her testimony. She looked quite frail. A younger officer sitting nearby went to help her but she pushed him away. Help was rejected.
We senior citizens have spent our lives giving help to others now need to learn to be humble enough to accept help from others. Pride goes before a fall – that’s a reality we need to learn.
“There is a certain pride in man that will give and give, but to come and accept is another thing” says Oswald Sanders. Our Christian life begins from the point of acceptance of Jesus Christ and His gift of salvation.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Beatitudes for the Age
As usual on a Tuesday, my wife and I were at Peacehaven to do chapel service. It was good to talk with the residents and nurses, to listen to their stories, their joys and sorrows. We thank God He has given us the privilege to provide the listening ear.
Let me share the following with you.
Beatitudes for the Aged – by Elsie Gilchrist
Blessed are they who understand my faltering step and palsied hand.
Blessed are they who seem to know my eyes are dim and wits are slow.
Blessed are they who look away when coffee was spilt on the table today.
Blessed are they who, with cheery smile, stop to chat for a little while.
Blessed are they who never say; ‘You’ve told the story twice today.’
Blessed are they who know the way to bring back memories of yesterday.
Blessed are they who make it known I’m loved, respected, and not alone.
Blessed are they who ease the days on my journey Home in loving ways.
Let me share the following with you.
Beatitudes for the Aged – by Elsie Gilchrist
Blessed are they who understand my faltering step and palsied hand.
Blessed are they who seem to know my eyes are dim and wits are slow.
Blessed are they who look away when coffee was spilt on the table today.
Blessed are they who, with cheery smile, stop to chat for a little while.
Blessed are they who never say; ‘You’ve told the story twice today.’
Blessed are they who know the way to bring back memories of yesterday.
Blessed are they who make it known I’m loved, respected, and not alone.
Blessed are they who ease the days on my journey Home in loving ways.
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