15 – Ancestor worship
The Lord has a wonderful way of preparing his servants for service in His Kingdom. In an earlier chapter, I mentioned the fact that my mother inherited the religious icons from her mother. I can still picture right in our sitting room facing the front door was the Christian altar with the cross of Jesus Christ and the candlesticks. Of course there was also the picture of Mary the Mother of Jesus. We all adored her and never failed to cry out “Hail Mary.” Neighbours passing our flat would know we were a Christian family.
This was during the Japanese occupation (1942-45) when our family attended the Catholic Church of St. Peter and Paul at Queen Street. Our knowledge of the Christian faith was very limited and we still practised ancestor worship. (The Salvation Army was proscribed during this period)
In our Lorong Limau flat, in the kitchen at the back, the family still kept the ancestral tablets, plus the kitchen god whom we feared and revered. Every year just before Chinese New Year, like many Chinese families we would offer the sticky sweet cakes called “ti kway” to give the kitchen god a good send off on his way to report to the god of heaven! The report of the kitchen god to the god of heaven on the individual family is generally believed to have much to do with family fortunes for the next year.
My mother became a Christian, but in her spiritual immaturity, she still revered and worshipped our dead ancestors. She wanted to remain filial to both her parents! Mother did not let the priest know we still retained and worshipped the ancestral tablets and kitchen god.
Like all ancestor worshippers, Mother believed life in the other world parallels life on earth. The departed still live in the same way as we do and have the same needs, therefore filial descendents must continue to provide the deceased with their needs – food, clothing etc. Failure to do so will leave them in want. The ancestral tablet is carefully kept and worshipped. As a child, I was taught to hold joss sticks and pray to my ancestors. On special days food was offered so that the souls of our ancestors would not go hungry. In gratitude and in respect, even the poor will scrape together enough money to offer a chicken, some fruit or wine to their ancestors on auspicious occasions.
As Christians we know the state of the dead is not a continuation of this life neither is it the same as life on earth like having physical needs for food, clothing, money, and so on.
As I grew grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ, I learned to reject the beliefs which contradict Scripture. Filial duty is a virtue we all need to practise, but we should worship only God who is sovereign. “And God spoke all these words, ‘I am the LORD your God….you shall have no other gods before Me.” (Exodus 20: 1-3)
In my last chapter I mentioned the incident of the lady who came with the request that her ancestral tablets and idols be removed. Because of my background and with divine guidance I was able to act in a very sensitive manner, removing the religious icons, placing them neatly in a pile, saying a prayer before burning them. Then we returned to the house to give thanks to the Father and to pray that prayer of cleansing and purifying the home of our sister and her family.
Most of the folk attending our Malacca Salvation Army Church were very simple kampong folk with very limited understanding of the Christian faith. It was a big challenge for me in my first appointment to guide these in their Christian faith. Those days in Malacca, stationed alone were very challenging days.
Thank God, we know Jesus Christ came to earth, died on the cross and on the third day rose again. Thus He has abolished death and those who believe in Him and accept Him as Saviour has eternal life. When we leave this world of sin, we go immediately to be with Him.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Men's Fellowshsip
I was invited to the launch of the Men's Fellowship at Central Corps, Bishan last night.
When I first received the invitation I felt like declining it as I don't like going out in the evenings. I enjoy being in my cosy home, reading or listening to music and going to bed early. However, pondering over the matter further, I felt somewhat guilty for being selfish and thinking of my own comfort. Last Sunday's Bible Study came to mind when I emphasised the words of Paul "Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also the interest of others." Phil. 2: 4. How could I say no to my good friend Patrick Foo who sent the invitation?
David our grandson had heard about the invitation and offered transport. He, Rachel and Yurong had to go for band practice at Central Corps in any case, and there was room for me in the car. My wife felt I should go to give support. And I am glad I went.
I had a glorious time - good food, good fellowship and I was inspired and encouraged by the lovely spirit of the men there. I think the leaders are very passionate about this fellowship. A good programme has been planned and I believe this additional activity will add to the growth of the church and the kingdom.
I've been in The Salvation Army for 72 years but this is the first time I have attended a Men's fellowship! This is making history and I hope it gets recorded in our History Book and our Archives!
Captain Lim Chee Kwee in his epilogue spoke on Nehemiah and the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem. Each person was responsible for the repair of a certain gate. It speaks of Christian unity - certainly a timely message for such a time as this.
I came home thanking God for the men of Central Corps who care enough to do something 'to repair the gate and wall' of our Army. These men could have spent the evening at home watching television or doing their own thing, but they are concerned for the Kingdom of God. May God bless the Men's Fellowship.
Before we left the building I met Daniel Ng who took me to the band room and showed me three piano accordions. They have been forgotten and left lying in the band room and last night I was given the opportunity to test them. I hope our young people will make use of them and form the first piano accordion band!
God bless Central Corps! it always has a special place in our hearts.
When I first received the invitation I felt like declining it as I don't like going out in the evenings. I enjoy being in my cosy home, reading or listening to music and going to bed early. However, pondering over the matter further, I felt somewhat guilty for being selfish and thinking of my own comfort. Last Sunday's Bible Study came to mind when I emphasised the words of Paul "Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also the interest of others." Phil. 2: 4. How could I say no to my good friend Patrick Foo who sent the invitation?
David our grandson had heard about the invitation and offered transport. He, Rachel and Yurong had to go for band practice at Central Corps in any case, and there was room for me in the car. My wife felt I should go to give support. And I am glad I went.
I had a glorious time - good food, good fellowship and I was inspired and encouraged by the lovely spirit of the men there. I think the leaders are very passionate about this fellowship. A good programme has been planned and I believe this additional activity will add to the growth of the church and the kingdom.
I've been in The Salvation Army for 72 years but this is the first time I have attended a Men's fellowship! This is making history and I hope it gets recorded in our History Book and our Archives!
Captain Lim Chee Kwee in his epilogue spoke on Nehemiah and the rebuilding of the wall of Jerusalem. Each person was responsible for the repair of a certain gate. It speaks of Christian unity - certainly a timely message for such a time as this.
I came home thanking God for the men of Central Corps who care enough to do something 'to repair the gate and wall' of our Army. These men could have spent the evening at home watching television or doing their own thing, but they are concerned for the Kingdom of God. May God bless the Men's Fellowship.
Before we left the building I met Daniel Ng who took me to the band room and showed me three piano accordions. They have been forgotten and left lying in the band room and last night I was given the opportunity to test them. I hope our young people will make use of them and form the first piano accordion band!
God bless Central Corps! it always has a special place in our hearts.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Satan is always active
In a little book called the Gospel in Genesis, Henry Law, nineteenth century preacher wrote about Satan's ceaseless ministry of mischief.
"He never slumbers, never is weary, never relents, never abandons hope. He deals his blows alike at childhood's weakness, youth's inexperience, manhood's strength and the tottering of age. He watches to ensnare the morning thought. He departs not with the shades of night. By his legions he is everywhere, at all times. he enters the palace, the hut, the fortress, the camp, the fleet he invests every chamber of every dwelling, every pew of every sanctuary. He is busy with the busy. He hurries about with the active. He sits by each bed of sickness and whispers into each dying ear. As the spirit quits the tenement of clay, he still draws his ow with unrelenting rage."
How true! But we need not be defeated. One of the most encouraging verses is 1 Corinthians 10: 13 "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
"He never slumbers, never is weary, never relents, never abandons hope. He deals his blows alike at childhood's weakness, youth's inexperience, manhood's strength and the tottering of age. He watches to ensnare the morning thought. He departs not with the shades of night. By his legions he is everywhere, at all times. he enters the palace, the hut, the fortress, the camp, the fleet he invests every chamber of every dwelling, every pew of every sanctuary. He is busy with the busy. He hurries about with the active. He sits by each bed of sickness and whispers into each dying ear. As the spirit quits the tenement of clay, he still draws his ow with unrelenting rage."
How true! But we need not be defeated. One of the most encouraging verses is 1 Corinthians 10: 13 "No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it."
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Sunday blessings
"This is the day that the Lord has made!"
Sunday is a day of rejoicing. "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto His name, O most high." Psalm 92: 1
Sunday is the day of reflection, rest and restoration.
We had our Adult Bible study and focused out thoughts on Philippians 2:3-11 - The humility of Christ." The first part was on "Christ's humility and humiliation" and the second part on "Christ's exaltation and glorification."
There was much discussion on the incarnation of Christ - He was truly God and truly man - this 'emptying of Himself.' He did not cease to be God; He divested Himself of self-interest; He did not set aside His Divine attributes. What He set aside was the pursuit of His personal interests, interest that would have been in competition with the Father.
We ended the lesson with the exaltation and glorification of Christ. "Every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord." It is a terrifying thought that anyone should bow the knee to Jesus Christ as His defeated enemy. We who have accepted Him as Saviour and Lord look forward to that great day of His return. It will be a great day of rejoicing and we shall be with Him forever. Hallelujah!
This lesson certainly impresses on us the urgency of sharing the gospel.
We moved to the main hall for our adult worship - the hall was quite full, there must be at least 200 people in the congregation. Our pastor gave an excellent message based on the Shepherd Psalm. She told us of the circumstances surrounding this turbulent time in David's life- 2 Samuel 15 when his son Absalom rebelled against him. David was on the run like a refugee and experienced the care and protection of His Shepherd.
We felt blessed, comforted and challenged this morning in our worship. Thank God for Sunday, and thanks be to God for the freedom of worship in our country.
Sunday is a day of rejoicing. "It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto His name, O most high." Psalm 92: 1
Sunday is the day of reflection, rest and restoration.
We had our Adult Bible study and focused out thoughts on Philippians 2:3-11 - The humility of Christ." The first part was on "Christ's humility and humiliation" and the second part on "Christ's exaltation and glorification."
There was much discussion on the incarnation of Christ - He was truly God and truly man - this 'emptying of Himself.' He did not cease to be God; He divested Himself of self-interest; He did not set aside His Divine attributes. What He set aside was the pursuit of His personal interests, interest that would have been in competition with the Father.
We ended the lesson with the exaltation and glorification of Christ. "Every knee should bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is Lord." It is a terrifying thought that anyone should bow the knee to Jesus Christ as His defeated enemy. We who have accepted Him as Saviour and Lord look forward to that great day of His return. It will be a great day of rejoicing and we shall be with Him forever. Hallelujah!
This lesson certainly impresses on us the urgency of sharing the gospel.
We moved to the main hall for our adult worship - the hall was quite full, there must be at least 200 people in the congregation. Our pastor gave an excellent message based on the Shepherd Psalm. She told us of the circumstances surrounding this turbulent time in David's life- 2 Samuel 15 when his son Absalom rebelled against him. David was on the run like a refugee and experienced the care and protection of His Shepherd.
We felt blessed, comforted and challenged this morning in our worship. Thank God for Sunday, and thanks be to God for the freedom of worship in our country.
Friday, January 22, 2010
This is my story - 14
14- Life in Malacca
I was quite excited to be the Corps Officer (pastor) of Malacca Corps (church). The first Sunday Lieutenant and Mrs. Douglas Kiff were there to welcome me. In those days officers were not installed not even the Officer Commanding. The Army has progressed and become more sophisticated with installation meetings. This is good as it involves the people in making pledges and be reminded of their responsibilities.
The Corps Programme was a follows:
Holiness meeting 10.00 a.m.
Sunday School 3.00 p.m.
Open air meeting 6.00 p.m.
Salvation meeting 7. 30 p.m.
Weekdays we had Joy Hour plus a Thursday night Holiness meeting. Later I started an English meeting for the youth of the Corps. Every night we had free English and tuition classes for those who attended our meetings. The text book was the New Testament in modern English.
The Sunday morning meeting was not well attended, usually we had about half a dozen worshippers but the Sunday night was well attended, about 30 to 40 people – all Hokkien or Teochew speaking. The meetings were conducted in Hokkien. We used the Methodist Hymn Book because this was written in Chinese characters as well as Romanised Hokkien. I acquired a Romanised Hokkien Bible and learned read in dialect.
Every Wednesday, Mr. C Y Chang, a Methodist Lay preacher (brother-in-law of CK Tang) would come and help me with words pertaining to the Christian message – words like salvation, holiness, sanctification etc – theological words not used in our everyday conversation. He taught me a lot of hymns and choruses in Chinese that they used in the Methodist church.
Every month I would visit their shop at Newcome Road to collect their monthly contribution to the Army. Mrs. Chang ran the shop while Mr. Chang concentrated on church and mission work. They made sure that every Chinese New Year Eve I would join them for their family reunion dinner. The Changs, all Methodists were very caring people.
Mr. and Mrs. Ng See Siah were very good Salvationists. Mr.Ng was quite placid and spent his time looking after their sundry goods shop. Mrs. Ng was the unofficial Corps Sergeant Major. She was illiterate, but she knew her songs and Bible and quite often would give her testimony. Her stories were quite colourful and relevant to the people. She never missed an open air meeting or salvation meeting and always ready to testify or pray in the meetings.
In the early part of my command, she would accompany me on my pastoral visitation. We would go in a trishaw – she occupying two thirds of the space, while I squeezed into one third holding on to the side of the trishaw for dear life for fear of falling out of the vehicle! She knew everyone in the Church and also had many friends she was so eager to introduce to her Bok Su (pastor).
Her son Ng Kim Loh was a great supporter in all meetings. He was not schooling but helping out at the ‘kedai’ (sundry goods shop). One day with the agreement of his parents, I got him registered at the Methodist Afternoon School. It was bold move when I took him to see the principal who agreed to accept him on condition that I tutor him to keep up with the Primary 4 pupils! Well I kept my promise and gave him lessons everyday. He did well and later entered the Day Training College for teachers and became a school teacher.
Joy Goh and her cousin Edward Yeo both still in school were excellent supporters in the Corps and the tuition programme. A group of young people from the neighbourhood started to attend our meetings and tuition programme. One of them was Pauline Ho. Well, she and Edward fell in love; later got married and raised a family. One of their sons is Raymond Yeo who came to Singapore to study, became a Salvationist and was commissioned Bandmaster of Singapore Central Corps. He went to Australia for further studies and is now working in Kuala Lumpur. Sister Joy Goh and her mother, both retired, worship regularly at Singapore Central Corps.
It was mandatory for Corps Officers to fulfil a minimum of 18 hours of visitation per week. I carefully recorded the hours in the statistical returns sent to Headquarters every month. In any case, regulation aside, I found it necessary to keep in contact with my folk. I cannot see how any pastor can have an effective ministry if he is not in touch with his people - in church as well as in their homes. Pastoral visitation is an indispensible part of his ministry.
When officers from Headquarters came to visit the corps, they would occupy my bedroom, while I slept on a grass mat on the platform in the hall. It was good to receive visitors as there was no other officer in the area. Good to hear of happenings in other parts of the Command.
I had some very interesting encounters and experiences in Malacca. One day during the meeting an old Chinese man with a long beard walked into the meeting. He must have heard the singing and decided to find out what it was all about. At the end of the meeting when the invitation was given for those who wanted to accept Jesus, he went forward to the Mercy Seat. Then he told us his story.
He had been searching for his son who had left home many years ago for overseas. War came and they lost contact. Word got to this elderly man that his son was somewhere in this part of the world so this father from China came searching for his lost son in Malaya. That night at the Army hall he heard the message of the loving God who gave of His Son to come into the world to seek and save he lost. He came to the Mercy Seat and made his decision to return to the Heavenly Father. During the week I met him and spent much time counselling him. Then one day he just disappeared no doubt to continue his journey looking for his prodigal son.
Another time an elderly lady who had been attending the meeting came forward to the Mercy Seat to accept Christ. As she progressed spiritually she expressed her desire to have her idols and ancestral tablets removed, but did not know what to do. These icons had meant a lot to her in the past. She didn’t need them anymore but she was afraid of the consequences of upsetting the gods and her departed ancestors. After much prayer, I took a few of our members and went to her home. We had a house meeting, sang Christian hymns, read the Bible and prayed. Then I gently took these icons outside and burned them and gave glory to God. To the ancestor worshippers this was a major decision to make, for to get rid of the ancestor tablets would be tantamount to cutting ties and disowning their ancestors.
In 1955 there were severe floods in Malaya and Malacca was badly affected. Most of our folk lived in Kampong Bukit China a badly affected area. I hired a sampan and went to rescue those who were stranded and filled the hall with these flood victims. The sampan was leaking and I had to keep bailing out the water from the boat. And I could not swim and still can’t! I waded through the flood waters to the General Post Office and made a telephone call to the Officer Commanding, Lieut. Colonel Harvey. Obviously he was pleased with what I was doing and said to me, “Do what you can, I’ll send you a cheque immediately.” These folk stayed for about a week in the hall till the waters subsided.
After three wonderful years in Malacca, I received farewell order to return to Singapore to take charge of Balestier Corps – my home Corps.
My successors were Lieutenants Norina Staples and Fong Pui Chan. The latter and I were officially courting. The moves were made so that Pui Chan and I could be nearer to each other – 150 miles apart and permission was granted for us to meet once every six weeks! No daily or weekly dating! Only one day every six weeks! But we wrote each other everyday. We had no telephone in our quarters and had to use public telephones, so no phone conversation either! She would travel on the Sing Lian Singapore/Malacca express on Wednesday and return to Malacca after the Thursday night Holiness meeting. Of course expenses were personal.
I was quite excited to be the Corps Officer (pastor) of Malacca Corps (church). The first Sunday Lieutenant and Mrs. Douglas Kiff were there to welcome me. In those days officers were not installed not even the Officer Commanding. The Army has progressed and become more sophisticated with installation meetings. This is good as it involves the people in making pledges and be reminded of their responsibilities.
The Corps Programme was a follows:
Holiness meeting 10.00 a.m.
Sunday School 3.00 p.m.
Open air meeting 6.00 p.m.
Salvation meeting 7. 30 p.m.
Weekdays we had Joy Hour plus a Thursday night Holiness meeting. Later I started an English meeting for the youth of the Corps. Every night we had free English and tuition classes for those who attended our meetings. The text book was the New Testament in modern English.
The Sunday morning meeting was not well attended, usually we had about half a dozen worshippers but the Sunday night was well attended, about 30 to 40 people – all Hokkien or Teochew speaking. The meetings were conducted in Hokkien. We used the Methodist Hymn Book because this was written in Chinese characters as well as Romanised Hokkien. I acquired a Romanised Hokkien Bible and learned read in dialect.
Every Wednesday, Mr. C Y Chang, a Methodist Lay preacher (brother-in-law of CK Tang) would come and help me with words pertaining to the Christian message – words like salvation, holiness, sanctification etc – theological words not used in our everyday conversation. He taught me a lot of hymns and choruses in Chinese that they used in the Methodist church.
Every month I would visit their shop at Newcome Road to collect their monthly contribution to the Army. Mrs. Chang ran the shop while Mr. Chang concentrated on church and mission work. They made sure that every Chinese New Year Eve I would join them for their family reunion dinner. The Changs, all Methodists were very caring people.
Mr. and Mrs. Ng See Siah were very good Salvationists. Mr.Ng was quite placid and spent his time looking after their sundry goods shop. Mrs. Ng was the unofficial Corps Sergeant Major. She was illiterate, but she knew her songs and Bible and quite often would give her testimony. Her stories were quite colourful and relevant to the people. She never missed an open air meeting or salvation meeting and always ready to testify or pray in the meetings.
In the early part of my command, she would accompany me on my pastoral visitation. We would go in a trishaw – she occupying two thirds of the space, while I squeezed into one third holding on to the side of the trishaw for dear life for fear of falling out of the vehicle! She knew everyone in the Church and also had many friends she was so eager to introduce to her Bok Su (pastor).
Her son Ng Kim Loh was a great supporter in all meetings. He was not schooling but helping out at the ‘kedai’ (sundry goods shop). One day with the agreement of his parents, I got him registered at the Methodist Afternoon School. It was bold move when I took him to see the principal who agreed to accept him on condition that I tutor him to keep up with the Primary 4 pupils! Well I kept my promise and gave him lessons everyday. He did well and later entered the Day Training College for teachers and became a school teacher.
Joy Goh and her cousin Edward Yeo both still in school were excellent supporters in the Corps and the tuition programme. A group of young people from the neighbourhood started to attend our meetings and tuition programme. One of them was Pauline Ho. Well, she and Edward fell in love; later got married and raised a family. One of their sons is Raymond Yeo who came to Singapore to study, became a Salvationist and was commissioned Bandmaster of Singapore Central Corps. He went to Australia for further studies and is now working in Kuala Lumpur. Sister Joy Goh and her mother, both retired, worship regularly at Singapore Central Corps.
It was mandatory for Corps Officers to fulfil a minimum of 18 hours of visitation per week. I carefully recorded the hours in the statistical returns sent to Headquarters every month. In any case, regulation aside, I found it necessary to keep in contact with my folk. I cannot see how any pastor can have an effective ministry if he is not in touch with his people - in church as well as in their homes. Pastoral visitation is an indispensible part of his ministry.
When officers from Headquarters came to visit the corps, they would occupy my bedroom, while I slept on a grass mat on the platform in the hall. It was good to receive visitors as there was no other officer in the area. Good to hear of happenings in other parts of the Command.
I had some very interesting encounters and experiences in Malacca. One day during the meeting an old Chinese man with a long beard walked into the meeting. He must have heard the singing and decided to find out what it was all about. At the end of the meeting when the invitation was given for those who wanted to accept Jesus, he went forward to the Mercy Seat. Then he told us his story.
He had been searching for his son who had left home many years ago for overseas. War came and they lost contact. Word got to this elderly man that his son was somewhere in this part of the world so this father from China came searching for his lost son in Malaya. That night at the Army hall he heard the message of the loving God who gave of His Son to come into the world to seek and save he lost. He came to the Mercy Seat and made his decision to return to the Heavenly Father. During the week I met him and spent much time counselling him. Then one day he just disappeared no doubt to continue his journey looking for his prodigal son.
Another time an elderly lady who had been attending the meeting came forward to the Mercy Seat to accept Christ. As she progressed spiritually she expressed her desire to have her idols and ancestral tablets removed, but did not know what to do. These icons had meant a lot to her in the past. She didn’t need them anymore but she was afraid of the consequences of upsetting the gods and her departed ancestors. After much prayer, I took a few of our members and went to her home. We had a house meeting, sang Christian hymns, read the Bible and prayed. Then I gently took these icons outside and burned them and gave glory to God. To the ancestor worshippers this was a major decision to make, for to get rid of the ancestor tablets would be tantamount to cutting ties and disowning their ancestors.
In 1955 there were severe floods in Malaya and Malacca was badly affected. Most of our folk lived in Kampong Bukit China a badly affected area. I hired a sampan and went to rescue those who were stranded and filled the hall with these flood victims. The sampan was leaking and I had to keep bailing out the water from the boat. And I could not swim and still can’t! I waded through the flood waters to the General Post Office and made a telephone call to the Officer Commanding, Lieut. Colonel Harvey. Obviously he was pleased with what I was doing and said to me, “Do what you can, I’ll send you a cheque immediately.” These folk stayed for about a week in the hall till the waters subsided.
After three wonderful years in Malacca, I received farewell order to return to Singapore to take charge of Balestier Corps – my home Corps.
My successors were Lieutenants Norina Staples and Fong Pui Chan. The latter and I were officially courting. The moves were made so that Pui Chan and I could be nearer to each other – 150 miles apart and permission was granted for us to meet once every six weeks! No daily or weekly dating! Only one day every six weeks! But we wrote each other everyday. We had no telephone in our quarters and had to use public telephones, so no phone conversation either! She would travel on the Sing Lian Singapore/Malacca express on Wednesday and return to Malacca after the Thursday night Holiness meeting. Of course expenses were personal.
The Presence of God
Yesterday my wife and I went for a lovely stroll to the Quarry near where we live. It is a tourist attraction and many people, tourists and local residents visit this place to enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Glad we went. We saw many beautiful butterflies, insects and birds. We came to the park; it was quiet and peaceful and we spent time enjoying God's creation. I was particularly interested in the dragon flies and damsel flies with their large multifaceted eyes. Each has two pairs of wings and an elongated body. I understand they can fly like helicopters.My mind went back to my childhood days when in Lorong Limau I used to catch dragon flies, grasshoppers,crickets and all sorts of insects.
In the pond we saw fish of all sizes and the birds hovering over the pond trying to catch fish. O it was beautiful and we felt the wonderful presence of God. Songs such as "Dear mother earth, who day by day unfoldest blessings on our way, O praise Him, alleluia!The flowers and fruits that in thee grow, Let them his glory also show."
I sang, "This is my Father's world."
We were in the presence of the Almighty God our Creator. I kept reflecting on the greatness of God and how wonderful His presence is with us all the time.
When we got home, I spent time preparing for our cell group meeting the next day. Our subject was the presence of God.
This morning nine of us gathered in our lounge to have fellowship. We had a great time of sharing our own thoughts about the presence of God. God is with us all the time, but sometimes we distance ourselves from him.
I have in my possession a book called "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence a seventh century French monk. It is a collection of documented conversations and letters that reveal the heart of this humble servant of God. His spiritual insights have helped me a lot in coming closer to God.
Yes, I need to be aware of His presence. That walk yesterday gave me an overwhelming sense of His presence in nature. This morning's sharing brought the nine of us close to God and to each other. The Psalmist declared, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." Psalm 133:1. When there is unity among God's people, in the family, in church, in any organisation, then God is pleased and grant us rich blessings.
In the pond we saw fish of all sizes and the birds hovering over the pond trying to catch fish. O it was beautiful and we felt the wonderful presence of God. Songs such as "Dear mother earth, who day by day unfoldest blessings on our way, O praise Him, alleluia!The flowers and fruits that in thee grow, Let them his glory also show."
I sang, "This is my Father's world."
We were in the presence of the Almighty God our Creator. I kept reflecting on the greatness of God and how wonderful His presence is with us all the time.
When we got home, I spent time preparing for our cell group meeting the next day. Our subject was the presence of God.
This morning nine of us gathered in our lounge to have fellowship. We had a great time of sharing our own thoughts about the presence of God. God is with us all the time, but sometimes we distance ourselves from him.
I have in my possession a book called "The Practice of the Presence of God" by Brother Lawrence a seventh century French monk. It is a collection of documented conversations and letters that reveal the heart of this humble servant of God. His spiritual insights have helped me a lot in coming closer to God.
Yes, I need to be aware of His presence. That walk yesterday gave me an overwhelming sense of His presence in nature. This morning's sharing brought the nine of us close to God and to each other. The Psalmist declared, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity." Psalm 133:1. When there is unity among God's people, in the family, in church, in any organisation, then God is pleased and grant us rich blessings.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
This is my story - 13
13- My first appointment – Malacca Corps
The weekend’s meetings over, all new Lieutenants had to wait till the Thursday to move to our appointments. Three days of waiting seemed like eternity for me because I had wanted to get to my first appointment straightaway! The commissioning was the climax for the weekend’s events, and we were all on fire for the Lord!!
Thursday came, and the Public Relations Secretary, Major Stanley Gordon, fetched me to the Sing Liang Malacca/Singapore Express Bus terminal at Beach Road to begin a six hour journey by bus to Malacca. It had to cross two ferries, at Batu Pahat and Muar. There were no expressways then!
On arrival, I was met by my predecessor, Lieutenant Douglas Kiff. He and his newly married wife, Jean, had delayed their departure for Penang in order to conduct my welcome meeting. Douglas and I sat in one trishaw, while all my worldly possessions, comprising a suitcase, a small bag and a carton of books, went into another. We did not have far to go from the bus station to 69-A Wolferstan Road. Malacca Corps occupied the premises above the wine shop.
On the front of the building was the sign board with the words THE SALVATION ARMY in English, Malay and Chinese. Directly below it was another signboard - CHOP SI SOON, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS. What a strange juxtaposition!
We ascended a narrow staircase and entered the corps premises. The main floor area was the corps hall, with 30 chairs. A small corner at the back was partitioned off for quarters - a cubicle, which served as a bed-sitting room cum office for the Corps Officer. It was most convenient for the officer to get out of bed and there was the office desk to work! At the back was a small kitchen and bathroom, but toilet facilities were downstairs. To get there meant descending the spiral staircase, walking past the living area of the people living downstairs, past a fierce German shepherd, tied up during the day and freed at night to roam the backyard!
There was plenty to occupy me – Sunday Holiness meeting in the morning, and Salvation meeting at night, the Sunday School in the afternoon and an open-air meeting prior to the night salvation meeting. During the week there was a tuition programme, Joy Hour and Thursday night Holiness meeting. Later on I added Youth fellowship, plus Saturday night English meeting.
Malacca Corps has an interesting history. Early in 1940 Adjutant and Mrs. Harold Matthews were appointed to pioneer the work. Soon after their arrival they befriended a Mr. Tan Kok Liat who gave them considerable assistance. The upstairs of the shophouse mentioned above was rented to hold meetings. At the end of that year twelve senior and a number of junior soldiers were enrolled.
From the first session of cadets, Lieutenant Edward Touruan was appointed as an assistant. He was of Indonesian origin and spoke the language widely used by the peranakans in Malacca. Sadly, he resigned after less than a year and Lieutenant Mollie Yeo Phaik Lean (later became Mrs. Captain George Tan) was appointed to replace him. (Mollie now lives in Australia and attends the Chatswood Corps)
The Corps Officers were greatly helped by Mr.C.Y Chang (brother-in law of the well-known C.K Tang of Singapore.) They were very good supporters of the Salvation Army.
When Malacca was invaded by the Japanese, Adjutant Matthews was arrested and put into an internment camp in Malacca. Amongst the prisoners was one of Adjutant Matthews’ converts. He had been engaged in raising funds to help China fight the Japanese. Now he and his friends were in prison awaiting execution. Adjutant Matthews was able to comfort and pray with him. Another man, Mr. Ong Teck Ee a confucianist, accepted the Lord and prior to being executed said, “I don’t mind death now that I have found Jesus as my Saviour.”
After the war, in 1946 Adjutant and Mrs. Stanley Gordon were appointed to reopen the Malacca Boys’ Jubilee Club. This was sponsored by the Silver Jubilee Fund of Singapore set up in honour of King George V. (Malacca was one of the states which made up the British Straits settlements.). Adjutant Gordon was designated as the superintendent of this centre, which had twenty-one boys in need of care and protection living there. At the end of 1947 the Club ceased to operate and Adjutant and Mrs. Gordon were transferred to Ipoh.
In the meantime Adjutant and Mrs. Gordon worked hard to re-establish our Corps work. The downstairs tenants – the Wine Shop, now occupied the whole property at 69 Wolferstan Road, including the upstairs part rented by the Army before the war. Adjutant Gordon managed to persuade the owner to agree to lease it to the Army again, but there was some difficulty in getting the new tenants to move out! After some hard negotiations the Army managed to regain occupancy.
In March 1948, Captain and Mrs. George Tan were appointed as Corps Officers. The Tan family with three children used the hall as part of the quarters. On Sunday and weeknights the place was a worship hall again. Everything had to be moved into the cubicle at the back.
The pre-war soldiers who had been worshipping at the Chinese Methodist Church returned to the Army. They brought their friends along as well to the Army meetings held above the wine shop. Captain George Tan soon found himself busy with social work in the community. He was a member of the Prisoners’ Aid Society, Association for the prevention of Tuberculosis and other welfare groups. For his services to the community Captain George Tan was awarded the Malayan Defence Medal (Civil). The British Government awarded the captain with the British Defence Medal and the 1939-45 Service Star.
In 1953, Lieutenant Douglas Kiff was appointed to command the Corps. Malacca was a Hokkien speaking corps and the he had to depend on interpreters amongst whom was Mr. C. Y. Chang, now a Methodist lay preacher. The Lieutenant started tuition classes for the young people and the corps continued to grow.
So here I was at the age of 22, becoming the “Bok Su” (pastor) as the people would address me. The nearest Salvation Army was 150 miles away in Singapore. I was alone, but not lonely for there was much to occupy my time.
The weekend’s meetings over, all new Lieutenants had to wait till the Thursday to move to our appointments. Three days of waiting seemed like eternity for me because I had wanted to get to my first appointment straightaway! The commissioning was the climax for the weekend’s events, and we were all on fire for the Lord!!
Thursday came, and the Public Relations Secretary, Major Stanley Gordon, fetched me to the Sing Liang Malacca/Singapore Express Bus terminal at Beach Road to begin a six hour journey by bus to Malacca. It had to cross two ferries, at Batu Pahat and Muar. There were no expressways then!
On arrival, I was met by my predecessor, Lieutenant Douglas Kiff. He and his newly married wife, Jean, had delayed their departure for Penang in order to conduct my welcome meeting. Douglas and I sat in one trishaw, while all my worldly possessions, comprising a suitcase, a small bag and a carton of books, went into another. We did not have far to go from the bus station to 69-A Wolferstan Road. Malacca Corps occupied the premises above the wine shop.
On the front of the building was the sign board with the words THE SALVATION ARMY in English, Malay and Chinese. Directly below it was another signboard - CHOP SI SOON, WINE AND SPIRIT MERCHANTS. What a strange juxtaposition!
We ascended a narrow staircase and entered the corps premises. The main floor area was the corps hall, with 30 chairs. A small corner at the back was partitioned off for quarters - a cubicle, which served as a bed-sitting room cum office for the Corps Officer. It was most convenient for the officer to get out of bed and there was the office desk to work! At the back was a small kitchen and bathroom, but toilet facilities were downstairs. To get there meant descending the spiral staircase, walking past the living area of the people living downstairs, past a fierce German shepherd, tied up during the day and freed at night to roam the backyard!
There was plenty to occupy me – Sunday Holiness meeting in the morning, and Salvation meeting at night, the Sunday School in the afternoon and an open-air meeting prior to the night salvation meeting. During the week there was a tuition programme, Joy Hour and Thursday night Holiness meeting. Later on I added Youth fellowship, plus Saturday night English meeting.
Malacca Corps has an interesting history. Early in 1940 Adjutant and Mrs. Harold Matthews were appointed to pioneer the work. Soon after their arrival they befriended a Mr. Tan Kok Liat who gave them considerable assistance. The upstairs of the shophouse mentioned above was rented to hold meetings. At the end of that year twelve senior and a number of junior soldiers were enrolled.
From the first session of cadets, Lieutenant Edward Touruan was appointed as an assistant. He was of Indonesian origin and spoke the language widely used by the peranakans in Malacca. Sadly, he resigned after less than a year and Lieutenant Mollie Yeo Phaik Lean (later became Mrs. Captain George Tan) was appointed to replace him. (Mollie now lives in Australia and attends the Chatswood Corps)
The Corps Officers were greatly helped by Mr.C.Y Chang (brother-in law of the well-known C.K Tang of Singapore.) They were very good supporters of the Salvation Army.
When Malacca was invaded by the Japanese, Adjutant Matthews was arrested and put into an internment camp in Malacca. Amongst the prisoners was one of Adjutant Matthews’ converts. He had been engaged in raising funds to help China fight the Japanese. Now he and his friends were in prison awaiting execution. Adjutant Matthews was able to comfort and pray with him. Another man, Mr. Ong Teck Ee a confucianist, accepted the Lord and prior to being executed said, “I don’t mind death now that I have found Jesus as my Saviour.”
After the war, in 1946 Adjutant and Mrs. Stanley Gordon were appointed to reopen the Malacca Boys’ Jubilee Club. This was sponsored by the Silver Jubilee Fund of Singapore set up in honour of King George V. (Malacca was one of the states which made up the British Straits settlements.). Adjutant Gordon was designated as the superintendent of this centre, which had twenty-one boys in need of care and protection living there. At the end of 1947 the Club ceased to operate and Adjutant and Mrs. Gordon were transferred to Ipoh.
In the meantime Adjutant and Mrs. Gordon worked hard to re-establish our Corps work. The downstairs tenants – the Wine Shop, now occupied the whole property at 69 Wolferstan Road, including the upstairs part rented by the Army before the war. Adjutant Gordon managed to persuade the owner to agree to lease it to the Army again, but there was some difficulty in getting the new tenants to move out! After some hard negotiations the Army managed to regain occupancy.
In March 1948, Captain and Mrs. George Tan were appointed as Corps Officers. The Tan family with three children used the hall as part of the quarters. On Sunday and weeknights the place was a worship hall again. Everything had to be moved into the cubicle at the back.
The pre-war soldiers who had been worshipping at the Chinese Methodist Church returned to the Army. They brought their friends along as well to the Army meetings held above the wine shop. Captain George Tan soon found himself busy with social work in the community. He was a member of the Prisoners’ Aid Society, Association for the prevention of Tuberculosis and other welfare groups. For his services to the community Captain George Tan was awarded the Malayan Defence Medal (Civil). The British Government awarded the captain with the British Defence Medal and the 1939-45 Service Star.
In 1953, Lieutenant Douglas Kiff was appointed to command the Corps. Malacca was a Hokkien speaking corps and the he had to depend on interpreters amongst whom was Mr. C. Y. Chang, now a Methodist lay preacher. The Lieutenant started tuition classes for the young people and the corps continued to grow.
So here I was at the age of 22, becoming the “Bok Su” (pastor) as the people would address me. The nearest Salvation Army was 150 miles away in Singapore. I was alone, but not lonely for there was much to occupy my time.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Dr. Billy Graham
During the week I listened again to the CD on Billy Graham and his homecoming. Once someone loaned me a DVD which records the same meeting. I've read a lot about Billy Graham and greatly admire this wonderful man of God. I have in my possession his autobiography which I have read more than once.
Dr. Billy Graham visited Singapore many years ago to conduct meetings at the Singapore Stadium. Many people were saved in that campaign. I remember our Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel George Engel was on the Executive Committee and took an active part in the planning of that campaign. Salvationists took part in the choir, acted as counsellors and ushers. The uniform was quite promiment.
There is an interesting story told about Dr. Billy Graham.In January 2000, leaders in Charlotte, N.C. invited him to a luncheon in his honour. I don't know who wrote this, but it has been circulating in the Internet.
Mr. Graham initially hesitated to accept the invitation because he struggles with Parkinson’s disease. But the city leaders said, “We don’t expect a major address. Just come and let us honour you.” So he agreed.
After wonderful things were said about him, Dr. Graham stepped to the rostrum, looked at the crowd, and said, “I’m reminded today of Albert Einstein, the great physicist who this month has been honoured by Time Magazine as the Man of the Century.
Einstein was once traveling from Princeton on a train when the conductor came down the aisle, punching the tickets of every passenger. When he came to Einstein, Einstein reached in his vest pocket. He couldn’t find his ticket, so he reached in his trouser pockets. It wasn’t there, so he looked in his briefcase but couldn’t find it. Then he looked in the seat beside him, and it wasn’t there either.
The conductor said, “Dr. Einstein, I know who you are. We all know who you are. I’m sure you bought a ticket. Don’t worry about it.”
Einstein nodded appreciatively. The conductor continued down the aisle punching tickets. As he was ready to move to the next car, he turned around and saw the great physicist down on his hands and knees looking under his seat for his ticket.
The conductor rushed back and said, “Dr. Einstein, Dr. Einstein, don’t worry, I know who you are. No problem. You don’t need a ticket. I’m sure you bought one.”
Einstein looked at him and said, “Young man, I too, know who I am. What I don’t know is where I’m going.”
Having said that, Billy Graham continued, “See the suit I’m wearing? It’s a brand new suit. My wife, my children, and my grandchildren are telling me I’ve gotten a little slovenly in my old age. I used to be a bit more fastidious. So I went out and bought a new suit for this luncheon, and one more occasion.
You know what that occasion is? This is the suit in which I’ll be buried. But when you hear I’m dead, I don’t want you to immediately remember the suit I’m wearing. I want you to remember this: I not only know who I am. ... I also know where I am going.”
Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life! We used to sing this chorus in our meetings.
'I am the Way, the Truth, the Life' that's what Jesus said,
Without the way, there is no going
Without the truth there is no knowing,
Without the life there is no going,
'I am he Way the Truth, the Life,' that's what Jesus said,
Dr. Billy Graham visited Singapore many years ago to conduct meetings at the Singapore Stadium. Many people were saved in that campaign. I remember our Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel George Engel was on the Executive Committee and took an active part in the planning of that campaign. Salvationists took part in the choir, acted as counsellors and ushers. The uniform was quite promiment.
There is an interesting story told about Dr. Billy Graham.In January 2000, leaders in Charlotte, N.C. invited him to a luncheon in his honour. I don't know who wrote this, but it has been circulating in the Internet.
Mr. Graham initially hesitated to accept the invitation because he struggles with Parkinson’s disease. But the city leaders said, “We don’t expect a major address. Just come and let us honour you.” So he agreed.
After wonderful things were said about him, Dr. Graham stepped to the rostrum, looked at the crowd, and said, “I’m reminded today of Albert Einstein, the great physicist who this month has been honoured by Time Magazine as the Man of the Century.
Einstein was once traveling from Princeton on a train when the conductor came down the aisle, punching the tickets of every passenger. When he came to Einstein, Einstein reached in his vest pocket. He couldn’t find his ticket, so he reached in his trouser pockets. It wasn’t there, so he looked in his briefcase but couldn’t find it. Then he looked in the seat beside him, and it wasn’t there either.
The conductor said, “Dr. Einstein, I know who you are. We all know who you are. I’m sure you bought a ticket. Don’t worry about it.”
Einstein nodded appreciatively. The conductor continued down the aisle punching tickets. As he was ready to move to the next car, he turned around and saw the great physicist down on his hands and knees looking under his seat for his ticket.
The conductor rushed back and said, “Dr. Einstein, Dr. Einstein, don’t worry, I know who you are. No problem. You don’t need a ticket. I’m sure you bought one.”
Einstein looked at him and said, “Young man, I too, know who I am. What I don’t know is where I’m going.”
Having said that, Billy Graham continued, “See the suit I’m wearing? It’s a brand new suit. My wife, my children, and my grandchildren are telling me I’ve gotten a little slovenly in my old age. I used to be a bit more fastidious. So I went out and bought a new suit for this luncheon, and one more occasion.
You know what that occasion is? This is the suit in which I’ll be buried. But when you hear I’m dead, I don’t want you to immediately remember the suit I’m wearing. I want you to remember this: I not only know who I am. ... I also know where I am going.”
Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life! We used to sing this chorus in our meetings.
'I am the Way, the Truth, the Life' that's what Jesus said,
Without the way, there is no going
Without the truth there is no knowing,
Without the life there is no going,
'I am he Way the Truth, the Life,' that's what Jesus said,
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Fellowship among believers
We read in Acts of the Apostles that the Christians ‘devoted themselves on the apostles’ teaching, and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.’ (Acts 2: 42) So when we meet in church on Sunday or in the homes of fellow Christians during the week we are following an old tradition.
What did they teach? Without doubt at all, they taught the word of God, the Scriptures of the Old Testament. The apostles taught what they had heard and seen of Jesus – his life, his teachings, his miracles, his death and resurrection and ascension.
So the church is a sharing community, the sharing of the word of God and the sharing of experiences in our walk with God. A church without a teaching and sharing ministry cannot survive and be vibrant church.
Apart from the sermon on Sunday, we have our Adult Bible class where we go through the Bible systematically book by book chapter by chapter.I count it a privilege to be given the responsibility of leading the Bible class every Sunday at our church.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3: 16-17. In other words, we need to be taught to be usable and useful in the community we are in and the world in which we dwell. It is vitally important for every church to have good sound teaching.
My wife and I host a cell group in our home from 10.00 – 11.30 a.m. every Friday. It is always a time of fellowship and sharing of the Word. We all have much to learn from each other. We have been blessed by our friends who come to our home to share fellowship.
What did they teach? Without doubt at all, they taught the word of God, the Scriptures of the Old Testament. The apostles taught what they had heard and seen of Jesus – his life, his teachings, his miracles, his death and resurrection and ascension.
So the church is a sharing community, the sharing of the word of God and the sharing of experiences in our walk with God. A church without a teaching and sharing ministry cannot survive and be vibrant church.
Apart from the sermon on Sunday, we have our Adult Bible class where we go through the Bible systematically book by book chapter by chapter.I count it a privilege to be given the responsibility of leading the Bible class every Sunday at our church.
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3: 16-17. In other words, we need to be taught to be usable and useful in the community we are in and the world in which we dwell. It is vitally important for every church to have good sound teaching.
My wife and I host a cell group in our home from 10.00 – 11.30 a.m. every Friday. It is always a time of fellowship and sharing of the Word. We all have much to learn from each other. We have been blessed by our friends who come to our home to share fellowship.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
This is my story - 12
12 – Shepherds Session of Cadets
The Training College started with three cadets – Chan Chin Chai, Fong Pui Chan and myself. Teo Poh Leng arrived about three weeks later as he had to give a month’s notice to his employer. This was the first session of cadets after the war.
The two girls shared the room adjacent to the sitting cum dining room. There were four chairs and a small table in the lounge, plus a library – all the books in one glass cupboard with three shelves. On the other side was the dining table with six chairs.
The boys shared the room on the other side of the lecture hall and next to their room were the Central Corps Officers’ quarters. Major and Mrs. Arthur Hall were the Corps Officers, very godly officers from the United Kingdom.
The General Secretary Major Will A Price, who was to be the Principal, had to return to England for personal reasons. I was sad for Mrs. Major Price was my mentor and did a lot for me in preparing me for training. I always went to her with all my problems. I was also giving private tuition to her son Nigel which brought me a little income.
So the Officer Commanding, Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey added on the responsibility as Training Principal to his portfolio. Mrs. Lieut. Colonel Mabel Harvey was the Acting Finance Officer. Major Arthur Hall became our Bible and doctrine teacher and his wife, Mrs. Major Vera Hall was the matron. Lieutenant Jean Milton who later became Mrs. Douglas Kiff taught us field training. There was no full time staff at the Training College. All the Command Headquarters’ staff took turns to give lectures. There were occasions when our teachers were too busy and we were told to do private study.
Subjects included were Bible, Doctrine, Orders and Regulations, public speaking, sermon preparation. Unlike modern day training, we did not have subjects like Pastoral Theology, but the teachers drummed it into us to make sure we spend a minimum of 18 hours a week visiting our folk. We were taught how to care for our flock, to feed them lead them along the highway of holiness. We did not study eschatology, but we were told to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus. We knew nothing about pneumatology, but our teachers taught us about Holy Spirit, His work and ministry in the lives of believers. No high sounding terms for us, but we received solid teaching to prepare us for the future.
Major Stanley Gordon, the Public Relations Secretary gave us music lessons. He was the Songster Leader of Central Corps and every Wednesday evening all four cadets joined the songsters.
There was the cook Poon Wai Ying and she would get from Mrs. Harvey the princely sum of $5.00 per day to shop for rice, groceries etc. And each day one officer would come to join us for lunch! So we cadets made sure we did not take more than our portion to ensure there was enough to go round.
We had our lessons and field appointments. At one time the two boys were sent to Ipoh Boys’ Home for our social training. The superintendent was Captain George Wright whose wife was very sick. Throughout our stay at the Home, his wife was in Tapah Hospital. The captain would leave early morning and return about 10.00 p.m. at night and we were left in the care of a housemaster – Mr. Krishnan. You can imagine the kind of training we received. The condition of the Home was indeed pathetic.
The second time we went out was for field training and both of us were sent to Malacca Corps when Lieutenant Douglas Kiff was sick. So we had the corps to ourselves and we enjoyed the time doing our own campaigning! We trained ourselves! Among the contacts was Joy Goh who is still an active soldier of Central Corps.
We had our weekly field training – Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey and Major Arthur Hall took turns to take us for training at the Corps – Central, Balestier and Tamil (now called Eratchippu Corps).
At the end of nine months we were commissioned as Probationary Lieutenants! The congregation waited in suspense for the Officer Commanding to announce and hand out the letters of appointments to the four cadets of the Shepherds’ Session. When my name was called, I stepped forward, saluted Lieut. Colonel Frederick Harvey, and waited with bated breath for a few tense moments! “Probationary Lieutenant Lim Ah Ang (that was the rank given to all newly commissioned officers) I appoint you as Commanding Officer of Malacca Corps” There was loud applause followed by shouts of Hallelujah.
The other appointments were
Chan Chin Chai – assistant Kuching Children’s Home under the leadership of Major Elsie Willis
Fong Pui Chan -assistant Kuching Corps under the leadership of Senior Captain Agnes Morgan
Teoh Poh Leng -assistant Ipoh Boys’ Home under the leadership of Major Joseph Jordan.
For me it was the fulfilment of a dream and a calling to serve full time as a Salvation Army officer. And even as I write these memoirs, that calling is still clear and insistent - to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity.
In retirement, we still remember we are shepherds who follow the instruction of the Great Shepherd – Jesus Christ our Lord. We do not have a specific flock, like a pastor with a church, but we still try to seek and save the lost. We still try to gather the strays and bring them into the fold of the kingdom.
I seek God’s grace to carry out Peter’s injunction to church leaders, “Here’s my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way. When God who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with His rule, He’ll see that you have done it right and commend you lavishly.” (1 Peter 5: 1-4 The Message)
The Training College started with three cadets – Chan Chin Chai, Fong Pui Chan and myself. Teo Poh Leng arrived about three weeks later as he had to give a month’s notice to his employer. This was the first session of cadets after the war.
The two girls shared the room adjacent to the sitting cum dining room. There were four chairs and a small table in the lounge, plus a library – all the books in one glass cupboard with three shelves. On the other side was the dining table with six chairs.
The boys shared the room on the other side of the lecture hall and next to their room were the Central Corps Officers’ quarters. Major and Mrs. Arthur Hall were the Corps Officers, very godly officers from the United Kingdom.
The General Secretary Major Will A Price, who was to be the Principal, had to return to England for personal reasons. I was sad for Mrs. Major Price was my mentor and did a lot for me in preparing me for training. I always went to her with all my problems. I was also giving private tuition to her son Nigel which brought me a little income.
So the Officer Commanding, Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey added on the responsibility as Training Principal to his portfolio. Mrs. Lieut. Colonel Mabel Harvey was the Acting Finance Officer. Major Arthur Hall became our Bible and doctrine teacher and his wife, Mrs. Major Vera Hall was the matron. Lieutenant Jean Milton who later became Mrs. Douglas Kiff taught us field training. There was no full time staff at the Training College. All the Command Headquarters’ staff took turns to give lectures. There were occasions when our teachers were too busy and we were told to do private study.
Subjects included were Bible, Doctrine, Orders and Regulations, public speaking, sermon preparation. Unlike modern day training, we did not have subjects like Pastoral Theology, but the teachers drummed it into us to make sure we spend a minimum of 18 hours a week visiting our folk. We were taught how to care for our flock, to feed them lead them along the highway of holiness. We did not study eschatology, but we were told to be prepared for the second coming of Jesus. We knew nothing about pneumatology, but our teachers taught us about Holy Spirit, His work and ministry in the lives of believers. No high sounding terms for us, but we received solid teaching to prepare us for the future.
Major Stanley Gordon, the Public Relations Secretary gave us music lessons. He was the Songster Leader of Central Corps and every Wednesday evening all four cadets joined the songsters.
There was the cook Poon Wai Ying and she would get from Mrs. Harvey the princely sum of $5.00 per day to shop for rice, groceries etc. And each day one officer would come to join us for lunch! So we cadets made sure we did not take more than our portion to ensure there was enough to go round.
We had our lessons and field appointments. At one time the two boys were sent to Ipoh Boys’ Home for our social training. The superintendent was Captain George Wright whose wife was very sick. Throughout our stay at the Home, his wife was in Tapah Hospital. The captain would leave early morning and return about 10.00 p.m. at night and we were left in the care of a housemaster – Mr. Krishnan. You can imagine the kind of training we received. The condition of the Home was indeed pathetic.
The second time we went out was for field training and both of us were sent to Malacca Corps when Lieutenant Douglas Kiff was sick. So we had the corps to ourselves and we enjoyed the time doing our own campaigning! We trained ourselves! Among the contacts was Joy Goh who is still an active soldier of Central Corps.
We had our weekly field training – Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey and Major Arthur Hall took turns to take us for training at the Corps – Central, Balestier and Tamil (now called Eratchippu Corps).
At the end of nine months we were commissioned as Probationary Lieutenants! The congregation waited in suspense for the Officer Commanding to announce and hand out the letters of appointments to the four cadets of the Shepherds’ Session. When my name was called, I stepped forward, saluted Lieut. Colonel Frederick Harvey, and waited with bated breath for a few tense moments! “Probationary Lieutenant Lim Ah Ang (that was the rank given to all newly commissioned officers) I appoint you as Commanding Officer of Malacca Corps” There was loud applause followed by shouts of Hallelujah.
The other appointments were
Chan Chin Chai – assistant Kuching Children’s Home under the leadership of Major Elsie Willis
Fong Pui Chan -assistant Kuching Corps under the leadership of Senior Captain Agnes Morgan
Teoh Poh Leng -assistant Ipoh Boys’ Home under the leadership of Major Joseph Jordan.
For me it was the fulfilment of a dream and a calling to serve full time as a Salvation Army officer. And even as I write these memoirs, that calling is still clear and insistent - to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity.
In retirement, we still remember we are shepherds who follow the instruction of the Great Shepherd – Jesus Christ our Lord. We do not have a specific flock, like a pastor with a church, but we still try to seek and save the lost. We still try to gather the strays and bring them into the fold of the kingdom.
I seek God’s grace to carry out Peter’s injunction to church leaders, “Here’s my concern: that you care for God’s flock with all the diligence of a shepherd. Not because you have to but because you want to please God. Not calculating what you can get out of it, but acting spontaneously. Not bossily telling others what to do, but tenderly showing them the way. When God who is the best shepherd of all, comes out in the open with His rule, He’ll see that you have done it right and commend you lavishly.” (1 Peter 5: 1-4 The Message)
Monday, January 11, 2010
The "Allah" issue
We join our many friends in prayer for the situation in Malaysia. The "Allah" issue is a matter of concern for people of all faiths.
So far seven churches have been attacked or torched, but Christians have continued with their worship on Sunday. This attack on churches is a great concern for us all and we all need to pray that wise sense will prevail. Pray for our fellow believers as well as the Muslims.
Muslim protesters have objected to the Court's ruling allowing non Muslims to use the word "Allah" for God. They contend that Allah should only be used by Muslims.
We must all pray for the nation of Malaysia. May peace and harmony to preserved.
So far seven churches have been attacked or torched, but Christians have continued with their worship on Sunday. This attack on churches is a great concern for us all and we all need to pray that wise sense will prevail. Pray for our fellow believers as well as the Muslims.
Muslim protesters have objected to the Court's ruling allowing non Muslims to use the word "Allah" for God. They contend that Allah should only be used by Muslims.
We must all pray for the nation of Malaysia. May peace and harmony to preserved.
God's mercies new every morning
The Year is still quite new. We have used up ten days. It was great to meet our many friends in church and to enjoy worship and fellowship with them yesterday. There is a revival among our youth in the church. Thanks be to God.
Not by change nor happenstance
Into our lives come many things to break the dull routine,
The things that we had not planned on that happen unforeseen,
The unexpected little joys that are scattered on our way,
Success that we did not count on or a rare, fulfilling day -
A catching, lilting melody that makes us want to dance,
A nameless exaltation of enchantment and romance -
The unsought word of kindness, a compliment or two
That sets the eyes to gleaming like crystal drops of dew -
The unplanned sudden meeting that comes with sweet surprise
And lights the heart with happiness like rainbow in the skies.
Now some folks call it fickle fate and some folks call it chance,
While others just accept it as a pleasant happenstance-
But no matter what you call it, it didn't come without design,
For all our lives are fashioned by the hand that is Divine-
And every happy happening and every lucky break
Are little gifts from God above that our ours to freely take.
Helen Steiner Rice
Not by change nor happenstance
Into our lives come many things to break the dull routine,
The things that we had not planned on that happen unforeseen,
The unexpected little joys that are scattered on our way,
Success that we did not count on or a rare, fulfilling day -
A catching, lilting melody that makes us want to dance,
A nameless exaltation of enchantment and romance -
The unsought word of kindness, a compliment or two
That sets the eyes to gleaming like crystal drops of dew -
The unplanned sudden meeting that comes with sweet surprise
And lights the heart with happiness like rainbow in the skies.
Now some folks call it fickle fate and some folks call it chance,
While others just accept it as a pleasant happenstance-
But no matter what you call it, it didn't come without design,
For all our lives are fashioned by the hand that is Divine-
And every happy happening and every lucky break
Are little gifts from God above that our ours to freely take.
Helen Steiner Rice
Sunday, January 10, 2010
International visitors
Today we had the visit of the International Secretary for SPEA Commissioner Robert Street, his wife the Zonal Secretary for Women's Ministries Commissioner Janet Street and the Under Secretary Lieut. Colonel Gillian Downer at our Ccrps (church) They were accompanied by our Territorial Leaders Colonels Keith and Beryl Burridge. Colonel Keith Burridge led the meeting and Commissioner Robert Street gave the message.
We first met Commisioners Street at Norwich, England when we visited the Division to conduct meetings about fourteen years ago.
Lieut. Colonel Gillian Downer is an old friend. She first came out to the Philippines when my wife and I were the Territorial Leaders. Later on she was appointed to our Command as the General Secretary and when the Command was elevated to be a Territory, she was promoted to be Lieut. Colonel. She was a soldier of William Booth Corps.
Later on in the year we shall be welcoming her as our new Territorial Commander.
They are here for a conference to be held at our Retreat Centre this week.More visitors will be joining them later.
It is always a joy to welcome visitors to the Corps.
We first met Commisioners Street at Norwich, England when we visited the Division to conduct meetings about fourteen years ago.
Lieut. Colonel Gillian Downer is an old friend. She first came out to the Philippines when my wife and I were the Territorial Leaders. Later on she was appointed to our Command as the General Secretary and when the Command was elevated to be a Territory, she was promoted to be Lieut. Colonel. She was a soldier of William Booth Corps.
Later on in the year we shall be welcoming her as our new Territorial Commander.
They are here for a conference to be held at our Retreat Centre this week.More visitors will be joining them later.
It is always a joy to welcome visitors to the Corps.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Integrity
Last Sunday at our Prayer meeting, Major Pascoe read Psalm 25 which contains a beautiful prayer "Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me Your paths; guide me in Your truth and teach me for You are my God and my Saviour." Then in verse 21 we read, "May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope is in You." I have been reflecting on that word "integrity."
'INTEGRITY' indicates completeness, wholeness, soundness of principles, the character of uncorrupted virtues, uprightness, honesty, sincerity. Or to put it another way, "Be holy as God is holy."
The Bible clearly indicates that our lives should be one of integrity. Jesus tells us that we should be as good as our word. Are we as good as your word? As Christians we must show integrity in our words and deeds. The keeping of our word depends on the actions that we take.
We must be people of integrity when we deal with all people - inside and outside the church. When we say we are going to do something, it is as good as done! Proverbs 20:7 A righteous man who walks in his integrity How blessed are his sons after him.
I refer to my blog posted on 3rd January 2010 when I asked the question, "Is The Salvation Army still effective?" We can be effective only when God and the people can still trust us. We must be people of integrity, be transparent in all our dealing with people.
Before Thy face, dear Lord,
Myself I want to see;
And while I every question sing,
I want to answer Thee.
While I speak to Thee,
Lord Thy goodness show;
Am I what I ought to be?
O Saviour let me know. Herbert Booth (SASB 409)
'INTEGRITY' indicates completeness, wholeness, soundness of principles, the character of uncorrupted virtues, uprightness, honesty, sincerity. Or to put it another way, "Be holy as God is holy."
The Bible clearly indicates that our lives should be one of integrity. Jesus tells us that we should be as good as our word. Are we as good as your word? As Christians we must show integrity in our words and deeds. The keeping of our word depends on the actions that we take.
We must be people of integrity when we deal with all people - inside and outside the church. When we say we are going to do something, it is as good as done! Proverbs 20:7 A righteous man who walks in his integrity How blessed are his sons after him.
I refer to my blog posted on 3rd January 2010 when I asked the question, "Is The Salvation Army still effective?" We can be effective only when God and the people can still trust us. We must be people of integrity, be transparent in all our dealing with people.
Before Thy face, dear Lord,
Myself I want to see;
And while I every question sing,
I want to answer Thee.
While I speak to Thee,
Lord Thy goodness show;
Am I what I ought to be?
O Saviour let me know. Herbert Booth (SASB 409)
Monday, January 4, 2010
This is my story - 11
11 – Preparation for training
The call of God to be an officer was very definite and there was no getting away from it. The Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel Frederick Harvey offered me a job in The Salvation Army as a Candidate Helper of Central Corps. I assisted Lieutenant Douglas Kiff the Corps Officer who at that time was still single.
My duties involved Corps activities and in those days we had them almost every evening and whole day Sunday. There was a full programme on Sunday – Prayer meeting, Directory Class, Holiness meeting, Sunday school, Open air meeting and Salvation meeting. During the week we had band and songsters’ practice, United Holiness meeting, and Torchbearers! During the day time, we were busy with Prisoners’ Aid programme. Ex-prisoners would come to the Army to seek financial assistance. We had to visit their homes to investigate the extent of their need. Then there were visits to two prisons – Queenstown and Changi. We went everywhere on the motor-bike and I rode pillion.
During this time, Lieutenant Douglas Kiff felt the Lord was telling him to recommence Tamil work at Kolam Ayer in the home of Brother Sevanathan who at that time was worshipping at Central Corps. Before the war there was Tamil work at Race Course Road, the work pioneered by Major and Mrs Abraham, officers from India. The Corps closed down during the war. Lieutenant Kiff and I went to the Kolam Ayer area visiting every Tamil family. The area was predominantly Tamil. And we got the work started – the first Tamil corps was formed after the war.
It was a seven day work week for us plus evening duties as well. But I was happy nevertheless. My salary was $80.00 per month. I did not mind that, but I had problem with my family as my mother expected me to contribute to the family budget. My younger brother was still in school and I had to support him. By the time I contributed to the family expenses, I hardly had anything left for myself – enough just for lunch and bus fares.
Much pressure was put on me by my family to get a job with a better salary. In the end I caved in, resigned from my employment with the Army and joined the commercial world. I worked for Singer Sewing Machine Company which paid me a good salary. I was able to contribute significantly to the family budget.
I still spent my evenings in the Army and very much involved in activities at the Central Corps. I was commissioned as the YPSM and Torchbearer Secretary. I enjoyed every moment my ministry at the Central Corps.
Prospects of promotion at Singer Sewing Machine were good and the thought came to me that I might as well continue with secular employment and give my time to the Army as a lay person. My parents were happy now I was able to increase my contribution to the family budget. Surely the Lord would understand my circumstances and after all I could still be a faithful soldier and local officer. The vision of the call began to fade as I prospered materially.
I wrote to Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey expressing my desire to terminate my candidateship and assuring him of my commitment to remain a good soldier of the Army. When he received my letter, he came immediately to my work place and requested me to see him the next day. He waited for me in his office after office hours. We sat down and he listened to all that I had to say before giving me his counsel. He assured me that God would open a way for me and that I had to learn to trust Him.
He then assured me that a session would commence shortly. At that time there were only two candidates (the other was Fong Pui Chan) and he would begin a session in January 1954 regardless of the number of the cadets. I greatly respected and loved Lieut. Colonel Harvey. He was my mentor and even long after they left Singapore kept in contact with me.
I sold my small accordion to a friend for $30.00 and put that towards my uniform. Then I sat for a Corps Cadet Exam and was awarded a small sum of money. I managed to scrape enough to buy my uniform and equipment to enter Training College. I went to Sungei Road and bought a second hand suitcase to put all my earthly belongings. I had to close my Post Office Savings account as it reached zero balance! I had nothing, but I was rich in blessings.
When I told my Father, he was non committal. He had thought at least one of his three sons would one day take over his tools and be a builder. My elder brother became a mechanic and was happy in his work. Physically I was not fit to do such heavy manual work and it would appear my younger brother would not be much good either.
Mother was upset, almost bursting into tears but what could she do, but just had to let me go. She knew my mind was made up. For me there was no option but to obey the call.
So I worked till the end of December 1953 and entered training in January 1954. There were three cadets and the fourth one, Teo Poh Leng was accepted at the last minute and he had to give a month’s notice at Tan Tock Seng Hospital where he was working. So there were four cadets – Fong Pui Chan, Chan Chin Chye, Teoh Poh Leng and myself.
As I look back I give thanks to God for officers like, Captain Cecil Watts, Mrs. Major Rosa Price one of my Corps Officers and certainly the Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey who contributed much to my spiritual development.
The call of God to be an officer was very definite and there was no getting away from it. The Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel Frederick Harvey offered me a job in The Salvation Army as a Candidate Helper of Central Corps. I assisted Lieutenant Douglas Kiff the Corps Officer who at that time was still single.
My duties involved Corps activities and in those days we had them almost every evening and whole day Sunday. There was a full programme on Sunday – Prayer meeting, Directory Class, Holiness meeting, Sunday school, Open air meeting and Salvation meeting. During the week we had band and songsters’ practice, United Holiness meeting, and Torchbearers! During the day time, we were busy with Prisoners’ Aid programme. Ex-prisoners would come to the Army to seek financial assistance. We had to visit their homes to investigate the extent of their need. Then there were visits to two prisons – Queenstown and Changi. We went everywhere on the motor-bike and I rode pillion.
During this time, Lieutenant Douglas Kiff felt the Lord was telling him to recommence Tamil work at Kolam Ayer in the home of Brother Sevanathan who at that time was worshipping at Central Corps. Before the war there was Tamil work at Race Course Road, the work pioneered by Major and Mrs Abraham, officers from India. The Corps closed down during the war. Lieutenant Kiff and I went to the Kolam Ayer area visiting every Tamil family. The area was predominantly Tamil. And we got the work started – the first Tamil corps was formed after the war.
It was a seven day work week for us plus evening duties as well. But I was happy nevertheless. My salary was $80.00 per month. I did not mind that, but I had problem with my family as my mother expected me to contribute to the family budget. My younger brother was still in school and I had to support him. By the time I contributed to the family expenses, I hardly had anything left for myself – enough just for lunch and bus fares.
Much pressure was put on me by my family to get a job with a better salary. In the end I caved in, resigned from my employment with the Army and joined the commercial world. I worked for Singer Sewing Machine Company which paid me a good salary. I was able to contribute significantly to the family budget.
I still spent my evenings in the Army and very much involved in activities at the Central Corps. I was commissioned as the YPSM and Torchbearer Secretary. I enjoyed every moment my ministry at the Central Corps.
Prospects of promotion at Singer Sewing Machine were good and the thought came to me that I might as well continue with secular employment and give my time to the Army as a lay person. My parents were happy now I was able to increase my contribution to the family budget. Surely the Lord would understand my circumstances and after all I could still be a faithful soldier and local officer. The vision of the call began to fade as I prospered materially.
I wrote to Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey expressing my desire to terminate my candidateship and assuring him of my commitment to remain a good soldier of the Army. When he received my letter, he came immediately to my work place and requested me to see him the next day. He waited for me in his office after office hours. We sat down and he listened to all that I had to say before giving me his counsel. He assured me that God would open a way for me and that I had to learn to trust Him.
He then assured me that a session would commence shortly. At that time there were only two candidates (the other was Fong Pui Chan) and he would begin a session in January 1954 regardless of the number of the cadets. I greatly respected and loved Lieut. Colonel Harvey. He was my mentor and even long after they left Singapore kept in contact with me.
I sold my small accordion to a friend for $30.00 and put that towards my uniform. Then I sat for a Corps Cadet Exam and was awarded a small sum of money. I managed to scrape enough to buy my uniform and equipment to enter Training College. I went to Sungei Road and bought a second hand suitcase to put all my earthly belongings. I had to close my Post Office Savings account as it reached zero balance! I had nothing, but I was rich in blessings.
When I told my Father, he was non committal. He had thought at least one of his three sons would one day take over his tools and be a builder. My elder brother became a mechanic and was happy in his work. Physically I was not fit to do such heavy manual work and it would appear my younger brother would not be much good either.
Mother was upset, almost bursting into tears but what could she do, but just had to let me go. She knew my mind was made up. For me there was no option but to obey the call.
So I worked till the end of December 1953 and entered training in January 1954. There were three cadets and the fourth one, Teo Poh Leng was accepted at the last minute and he had to give a month’s notice at Tan Tock Seng Hospital where he was working. So there were four cadets – Fong Pui Chan, Chan Chin Chye, Teoh Poh Leng and myself.
As I look back I give thanks to God for officers like, Captain Cecil Watts, Mrs. Major Rosa Price one of my Corps Officers and certainly the Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel Fred Harvey who contributed much to my spiritual development.
Watchnight service and New Year
We had a great time at our church on New Year Eve. At 9.00 pm folk gathered for a barbecue. There was plenty of food for all of us and plenty left over for the weekend.
At 10. p.m. we all gathered at the main hall for our Watch night Service. Many testified of God's goodness during the past year. It was great to hear testimonies - it's like old times, people thanking and praising the Lord. Nowadays that testimony period during the meeting seems to be missing in many of our Churches.
There was silence and at the stroke of 12 midnight, we all burst into cheers and shouts of laughter as we greeted each other "Happy New Year." I'm glad I belong to The Salvation Army and the family of God. Never a moment of regret.
After the service, the youth of the Corps held a retreat under the leadership of Marcus Moo. His wife Maureen was there to be the mother of the group seeing to all their physical needs. I was very impressed with their commitment to the Lord. The group began their retreat at 1.00 a.m. on 1st January and this went on till 5.00 a.m.
They resumed their retreat the next day and I was invited to join them from 1.30 - 3.30 p.m. I was very impressed by their enthusiasm and their desire to grow the church particularly among the youth. The retreat lasted till Sunday - they were physically exhausted. Thank God for our youth. We need to pray for them.
At 10. p.m. we all gathered at the main hall for our Watch night Service. Many testified of God's goodness during the past year. It was great to hear testimonies - it's like old times, people thanking and praising the Lord. Nowadays that testimony period during the meeting seems to be missing in many of our Churches.
There was silence and at the stroke of 12 midnight, we all burst into cheers and shouts of laughter as we greeted each other "Happy New Year." I'm glad I belong to The Salvation Army and the family of God. Never a moment of regret.
After the service, the youth of the Corps held a retreat under the leadership of Marcus Moo. His wife Maureen was there to be the mother of the group seeing to all their physical needs. I was very impressed with their commitment to the Lord. The group began their retreat at 1.00 a.m. on 1st January and this went on till 5.00 a.m.
They resumed their retreat the next day and I was invited to join them from 1.30 - 3.30 p.m. I was very impressed by their enthusiasm and their desire to grow the church particularly among the youth. The retreat lasted till Sunday - they were physically exhausted. Thank God for our youth. We need to pray for them.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Paul's perspectives
First Sunday in January, we resumed our Adult Bible Studies after a month's break. This morning we continued with our studies on the letter to the Philippians. We studied Paul's perspectives on pain and pettiness (Philippians 1: 12-18)
Although in prison Paul continued to witness for Christ. He made a deep impression on the guards as well as the workers in Caesar's household. We learned one very important fact - Paul got on top of his circumstances. How easy it is for us to succumb to circumstances and situations. I pray daily that His grace will enable me to be 'more than conquerors' even over the most difficult of circumstances.
Nothing could rob Paul of the joy in the Lord. Even in prison he could write "Rejoice in the Lord." The secret - he had the right goal. He focused on Christ and had the attitude of his Lord.
Although in prison Paul continued to witness for Christ. He made a deep impression on the guards as well as the workers in Caesar's household. We learned one very important fact - Paul got on top of his circumstances. How easy it is for us to succumb to circumstances and situations. I pray daily that His grace will enable me to be 'more than conquerors' even over the most difficult of circumstances.
Nothing could rob Paul of the joy in the Lord. Even in prison he could write "Rejoice in the Lord." The secret - he had the right goal. He focused on Christ and had the attitude of his Lord.
Is The Salvation Army still effective?
Every morning my wife and I wake up at 5.30 a.m. and listen to BBC, then we go for our morning walk. At 7.00 a.m. we have our breakfast and again listen to the news in full.
This morning we listened to the programme called Global Business and the subject was "The Salvation Army." It was a very interesting commentary on the Army. It began with Peter Druckers' comment on the Army in USA. It was very positive.
The commentator then raised a question "Is The Salvation Army still as effective?" It recorded the interviews with a number of people who had benefited from the Army's social programme. We also heard the comments from our own people - Commissioner Bill Cochrane, Lieut. Colonel Marion Drew and a number of others.
Why do the Government and public still support us? Our two senior officers used one word -TRUST. I thought to myself - what a responsibility for us. We need to keep renewing ourselves, find new ways to meet changing trends and be true to our mission. General John Gowans sums this up beautifully - to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity. Above all we need to be people of high integrity so that others can trust us. What an awesome responsibility.
This morning we listened to the programme called Global Business and the subject was "The Salvation Army." It was a very interesting commentary on the Army. It began with Peter Druckers' comment on the Army in USA. It was very positive.
The commentator then raised a question "Is The Salvation Army still as effective?" It recorded the interviews with a number of people who had benefited from the Army's social programme. We also heard the comments from our own people - Commissioner Bill Cochrane, Lieut. Colonel Marion Drew and a number of others.
Why do the Government and public still support us? Our two senior officers used one word -TRUST. I thought to myself - what a responsibility for us. We need to keep renewing ourselves, find new ways to meet changing trends and be true to our mission. General John Gowans sums this up beautifully - to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity. Above all we need to be people of high integrity so that others can trust us. What an awesome responsibility.
Friday, January 1, 2010
The Gate of the Year
In his Christmas broadcast in 1939, King George VI quoted from a poem entitled The Gate of the Year published privately in 1908 by Marie Louise Haskins, a lecturer at the London School of Economics.
His Majesty quoted:
“I said to the man who stood at the Gate of the Year.
‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.’
And he replied, ‘Go out into the darkness, and put your hand into the hand of God.
That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.’
The Christmas we anticipated has come and gone. We have just crossed over into the New Year 2010. Time with relentless motion has carried us through all sorts of situations and circumstances. We’ve been through joy and pain, laughter and tears, yes varied have been the experiences. We have had our moments of rejoicing and times of regret. Now we wonder what this year will bring.
We can take a new road in company with Jesus our Lord. The world without Christ is one of darkness and insecurity. Jesus the Light of the world dispels the world’s spiritual darkness.
Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom.
Lead Thou me on!
The night is dark and I am far from home:
Lead Thou me on!
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask the see
The distant scene; one step enough for me. (John Newman)
His Majesty quoted:
“I said to the man who stood at the Gate of the Year.
‘Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.’
And he replied, ‘Go out into the darkness, and put your hand into the hand of God.
That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way.’
The Christmas we anticipated has come and gone. We have just crossed over into the New Year 2010. Time with relentless motion has carried us through all sorts of situations and circumstances. We’ve been through joy and pain, laughter and tears, yes varied have been the experiences. We have had our moments of rejoicing and times of regret. Now we wonder what this year will bring.
We can take a new road in company with Jesus our Lord. The world without Christ is one of darkness and insecurity. Jesus the Light of the world dispels the world’s spiritual darkness.
Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom.
Lead Thou me on!
The night is dark and I am far from home:
Lead Thou me on!
Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask the see
The distant scene; one step enough for me. (John Newman)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)