Sunday 30th May, I reached the ripe old age of 78! Hard to believe the sickly child that I was could live this long! I was told I was born prematurely, perhaps I was in too much of a hurry to come into this world! Now as I come to the last lap of my life's journey, I need to slow down.
I began my birthday celebrations first with a fall - yes flat on my face and damaged my spectacles and my watch! Now I am proud to wear a black right eye! Anyway I saw the doctor on Saturday and he assured me there was no internal injury. Thank God, it could be worse.
I received blessings galore. We had birthday dinner with our daughter and family on Thursday and had lunch in a restaurant with our son's family on Friday, a public holiday it being Vesak Day. A week before a couple from the Corps, very close friends took us to Raffles Town House and had a western dinner. I thank our friends for sending birthday wishes and gifts. God is so good and have blessed us with many relatives and friends.
Well the Facebook wall was full of messages from all over the world. Thank you friends for remembering my birthday.
Monday, May 31, 2010
The Seer and the Spirit
I did the third lesson on Revelation this morning - "The Seer and the Spirit." God had turned John's bondage into blessing, his prison island Patmos became an observatory that looked into the heavens and eternity. John was shut off from the rest of the world, but he entered into intimate communion with the Lord.
John's experience and testimony assures us that no matter how difficult are circumstances or situation are we can still know the joy and lifting of the Spirit. God still speaks to those who want Him. Meaningful communion with Him is not dependent on circumstances, but on our being in His will.
Captain Hary Haran, the Territorial Youth and Candidates' Secretary preached at our Corps on Sunday. Our Corps Officer is now in Port Dickson for the KL Corps Retreat.
John's experience and testimony assures us that no matter how difficult are circumstances or situation are we can still know the joy and lifting of the Spirit. God still speaks to those who want Him. Meaningful communion with Him is not dependent on circumstances, but on our being in His will.
Captain Hary Haran, the Territorial Youth and Candidates' Secretary preached at our Corps on Sunday. Our Corps Officer is now in Port Dickson for the KL Corps Retreat.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
This is my story - 30
30 – A special assignment by the Officer Commanding
One day I received an unusual letter marked “Private and Confidential” from the Officer Commanding, Lieut. Colonel George Engel. He requested me to go to Singapore to see him as he wanted to talk with me privately. The Engels were Americans, very godly, humble and most approachable people. They never stood on ceremony. Prior to their appointment as our leaders, he was the Social Secretary in Korea and they were quite used to working with people of another culture.
In those days the Army Headquarters staff was quite small; we did not have the layers of administration like we do today and life was much simpler. I went to his office and over a cup of coffee, he chatted with me. He expressed his concern that the Army was not working in Kuala Lumpur, the capital. Every year the Public Relations Secretary would spend quite a fair bit of time in the city and surrounding districts collecting donations from our many supporters and friends. Every now and then he or the General Secretary had to visit Kuala Lumpur to attend meetings such as the Annual General Meeting of the Council of Churches. Friends would often question him why the Army was not working there. He felt strongly the need for the Army to begin work in the city.
I felt quite overwhelmed and humbled when he added, “After much prayer and discussion with the General Secretary, we felt you are the one to undertake this responsibility. You just arrange your own programme and visit Kuala Lumpur and see what can be done. All expenses incurred will be reimbursed.” No deadline was set. I was told just to plan my work schedule with my wife. Then after a session of prayer, we parted and I left for Penang.
In the early days of pioneering work in Singapore, Lieut. Colonel Herbert Lord had set his sights on the mainland of Malaya and the first two towns targeted were Penang and Malacca. These two plus Singapore formed the British Straits Settlements each under the rule of a British Governor. I suppose we could consider them ‘warm’ areas ruled by the British. The rest of the country formed the Federation of Malaya, each state under the rule of the Sultan.
Previous leaders did try to establish work in the capital of Malaya. Shortly after the work began in Singapore, in 1941 Adjutant and Mrs. Harold King were sent to Kuala Lumpur to start Army work. He was appointed as the Army’s representative and worked for a short while as the Government Court Probation Officer. He was receiving Government salary, but only allowed take Salvation Army officers’ allowance. The balance had to be credited to Army funds for the work of the Army. As he was on the payroll of the Malayan Government, he was instructed not to wear his uniform when on duty at the court.
Captain George Tan Koon Hoe was appointed to assist him in establishing a Home for boys at Tyson Estate, Cheras Road. Work was progressing favourably and the project was almost completed when Adjutant King resigned and joined the Government as full time Chief Probation Officer. I suppose it was not easy for him serving two masters – the Government and The Salvation Army.
Then tragedy struck. The Japanese landed at Kota Baru and were making their way southwards towards Singapore. The Army had no choice but to close down the work and the young Captain George Tan moved to Singapore.
After the war, in 1945 Captain and Mrs. Sim Wee Lee were sent to restart the work in Kuala Lumpur, but somehow this did not take off. They were not altogether happy to be sent there. When Singapore surrendered to the Japanese, Lieut. Colonel Lord before being taken to Changi Prison had formed a Council of Officers and Captain Sim Wee Lee was appointed the Leader. Such was his Salvationism that even during the war, he and Captain Chua Yam Neo were married in full Salvation Army uniform at the St. Andrew’s Cathedral conducted by the Bishop of Singapore.
Captain and Mrs. Sim Wee Lee, after a short while in Kuala Lumpur, returned to Singapore. By this time Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. Lord had gone back to England prior to taking up leadership positions in Korea. They were succeeded by Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. John Wainwright with no missionary experience of working in a different culture. Captain and Mrs. Sim resigned from officership. He joined the Social Welfare Department. It was a pity for he was one of our very capable officers with leadership qualities.
In the mid fifties, Brother Don Morrish and his wife, both from England came to work in Penang, he as a lecturer at the College of Music in Penang. They were very good Salvationists and supported Penang Corps well. After a couple of years there, he was transferred to Kuala Lumpur. In 1961, Brother Neoh Ah How who was working at the Penang YMCA was also transferred to Kuala Lumpur. Neoh Ah How got in touch with the Morrishes and together started to hold Sunday school at the YMCA Brick Kiln Road in the name of The Salvation Army.
When the Morrishes returned to England at the end of their contract, Neoh Ah How was left to run the Sunday School on his own. It was difficult for a single man to manage his job and also run the outpost. Besides the YMCA building was to undergo major renovation and it was not practical for the Army to hold meetings there.
By 1965, there were at least three Salvationists we know of working in Kuala Lumpur – Neoh Ah How, Chau Chin Lye both from Penang Corps and Jimmy Lim from Balestier Corps, Singapore. Certainly there must have been others from other towns.
Timing is important and in all our planning we must wait on God. The secret of peace with God is to discover, accept and appreciate God’s perfect timing.
One day I received an unusual letter marked “Private and Confidential” from the Officer Commanding, Lieut. Colonel George Engel. He requested me to go to Singapore to see him as he wanted to talk with me privately. The Engels were Americans, very godly, humble and most approachable people. They never stood on ceremony. Prior to their appointment as our leaders, he was the Social Secretary in Korea and they were quite used to working with people of another culture.
In those days the Army Headquarters staff was quite small; we did not have the layers of administration like we do today and life was much simpler. I went to his office and over a cup of coffee, he chatted with me. He expressed his concern that the Army was not working in Kuala Lumpur, the capital. Every year the Public Relations Secretary would spend quite a fair bit of time in the city and surrounding districts collecting donations from our many supporters and friends. Every now and then he or the General Secretary had to visit Kuala Lumpur to attend meetings such as the Annual General Meeting of the Council of Churches. Friends would often question him why the Army was not working there. He felt strongly the need for the Army to begin work in the city.
I felt quite overwhelmed and humbled when he added, “After much prayer and discussion with the General Secretary, we felt you are the one to undertake this responsibility. You just arrange your own programme and visit Kuala Lumpur and see what can be done. All expenses incurred will be reimbursed.” No deadline was set. I was told just to plan my work schedule with my wife. Then after a session of prayer, we parted and I left for Penang.
In the early days of pioneering work in Singapore, Lieut. Colonel Herbert Lord had set his sights on the mainland of Malaya and the first two towns targeted were Penang and Malacca. These two plus Singapore formed the British Straits Settlements each under the rule of a British Governor. I suppose we could consider them ‘warm’ areas ruled by the British. The rest of the country formed the Federation of Malaya, each state under the rule of the Sultan.
Previous leaders did try to establish work in the capital of Malaya. Shortly after the work began in Singapore, in 1941 Adjutant and Mrs. Harold King were sent to Kuala Lumpur to start Army work. He was appointed as the Army’s representative and worked for a short while as the Government Court Probation Officer. He was receiving Government salary, but only allowed take Salvation Army officers’ allowance. The balance had to be credited to Army funds for the work of the Army. As he was on the payroll of the Malayan Government, he was instructed not to wear his uniform when on duty at the court.
Captain George Tan Koon Hoe was appointed to assist him in establishing a Home for boys at Tyson Estate, Cheras Road. Work was progressing favourably and the project was almost completed when Adjutant King resigned and joined the Government as full time Chief Probation Officer. I suppose it was not easy for him serving two masters – the Government and The Salvation Army.
Then tragedy struck. The Japanese landed at Kota Baru and were making their way southwards towards Singapore. The Army had no choice but to close down the work and the young Captain George Tan moved to Singapore.
After the war, in 1945 Captain and Mrs. Sim Wee Lee were sent to restart the work in Kuala Lumpur, but somehow this did not take off. They were not altogether happy to be sent there. When Singapore surrendered to the Japanese, Lieut. Colonel Lord before being taken to Changi Prison had formed a Council of Officers and Captain Sim Wee Lee was appointed the Leader. Such was his Salvationism that even during the war, he and Captain Chua Yam Neo were married in full Salvation Army uniform at the St. Andrew’s Cathedral conducted by the Bishop of Singapore.
Captain and Mrs. Sim Wee Lee, after a short while in Kuala Lumpur, returned to Singapore. By this time Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. Lord had gone back to England prior to taking up leadership positions in Korea. They were succeeded by Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. John Wainwright with no missionary experience of working in a different culture. Captain and Mrs. Sim resigned from officership. He joined the Social Welfare Department. It was a pity for he was one of our very capable officers with leadership qualities.
In the mid fifties, Brother Don Morrish and his wife, both from England came to work in Penang, he as a lecturer at the College of Music in Penang. They were very good Salvationists and supported Penang Corps well. After a couple of years there, he was transferred to Kuala Lumpur. In 1961, Brother Neoh Ah How who was working at the Penang YMCA was also transferred to Kuala Lumpur. Neoh Ah How got in touch with the Morrishes and together started to hold Sunday school at the YMCA Brick Kiln Road in the name of The Salvation Army.
When the Morrishes returned to England at the end of their contract, Neoh Ah How was left to run the Sunday School on his own. It was difficult for a single man to manage his job and also run the outpost. Besides the YMCA building was to undergo major renovation and it was not practical for the Army to hold meetings there.
By 1965, there were at least three Salvationists we know of working in Kuala Lumpur – Neoh Ah How, Chau Chin Lye both from Penang Corps and Jimmy Lim from Balestier Corps, Singapore. Certainly there must have been others from other towns.
Timing is important and in all our planning we must wait on God. The secret of peace with God is to discover, accept and appreciate God’s perfect timing.
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Pastoral visitation
What a joy it was to visit our good friend and long time Salvationist - Sister Lim Kim Lui at her Ang Mo Kio home on her 90th birthday today. I went there to pray with her on this special day. At 90 she is still very alert although somewhat frail physically, but she is well able to look after herself and her own needs.
She lives with Joy, her very filial daughter and also faithful Salvationist. Both of them never miss a meeting at Central Corps on Sunday. I first met Joy when I was sent to Malacca as a cadet to do our field training way back in 1954. She is still faithfully serving the Lord. Praise be to God.
We talked about the good old days; we recalled many names of old friends who have gone to be with the Lord. As we talked we thank and bless the Lord for His wonderful grace and mercy.
When a good friend walks beside us
On the road that we must keep,
Our burdens seem less heavy
And the hills are not so steep.
The weariest miles pass swiftly,
Taken in a joyous stride.
Amd all the world seems brighter
When a friend walks by your side.
We thank God for our many friends in Singapore and overseas. E C Burke says,
"Of all the joys we bring into our lives, there is none so joyous as that which comes to us as a result of caring for others and brightening sad lives."
She lives with Joy, her very filial daughter and also faithful Salvationist. Both of them never miss a meeting at Central Corps on Sunday. I first met Joy when I was sent to Malacca as a cadet to do our field training way back in 1954. She is still faithfully serving the Lord. Praise be to God.
We talked about the good old days; we recalled many names of old friends who have gone to be with the Lord. As we talked we thank and bless the Lord for His wonderful grace and mercy.
When a good friend walks beside us
On the road that we must keep,
Our burdens seem less heavy
And the hills are not so steep.
The weariest miles pass swiftly,
Taken in a joyous stride.
Amd all the world seems brighter
When a friend walks by your side.
We thank God for our many friends in Singapore and overseas. E C Burke says,
"Of all the joys we bring into our lives, there is none so joyous as that which comes to us as a result of caring for others and brightening sad lives."
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Blessed time at Peacehaven
Another day of blessing at Peacehaven Nursing Home! We did chapel service at Hope Centre - the residents here are in different stages of dementia. Nothing to be ashamed about that. We live in a fallen world marred by sin.
The folk love singing and one of the favourites is
"Jesus loves me this I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong.
They are weak and he is strong.
Yes Jesus loves me,
The Bible tells me so.
They may not remember what they heard an hour ago, but they certainly remember the truths of Scripture as expressed in the hymns like the one quoted. What a joy to see their smiling faces as they sang this morning. I was greatly touched. These gospel truths they learned in their younger days are imprinted indelibly in their minds. We've been encouraged and inspired to go on with our ministry of sharing the gospel with these lovely folk.
As usual we joined the staff for lunch. We had lovely fellowship and the Home provided a birthday cake for me as they always do on our birthdays. We feel ourselves part of the family of Peacehaven. Some of the nurses look upon us as their grandparents and addressed us as such!
Good friendships are not measured by the frequency of phone calls, or letters or visits. The best friendships are recognized by the quality of time and feelings shared.
Lord thank You for allowing us to minister to these dear people, residents and staff. In doing so, we have been ministered to.
The folk love singing and one of the favourites is
"Jesus loves me this I know,
For the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to Him belong.
They are weak and he is strong.
Yes Jesus loves me,
The Bible tells me so.
They may not remember what they heard an hour ago, but they certainly remember the truths of Scripture as expressed in the hymns like the one quoted. What a joy to see their smiling faces as they sang this morning. I was greatly touched. These gospel truths they learned in their younger days are imprinted indelibly in their minds. We've been encouraged and inspired to go on with our ministry of sharing the gospel with these lovely folk.
As usual we joined the staff for lunch. We had lovely fellowship and the Home provided a birthday cake for me as they always do on our birthdays. We feel ourselves part of the family of Peacehaven. Some of the nurses look upon us as their grandparents and addressed us as such!
Good friendships are not measured by the frequency of phone calls, or letters or visits. The best friendships are recognized by the quality of time and feelings shared.
Lord thank You for allowing us to minister to these dear people, residents and staff. In doing so, we have been ministered to.
Monday, May 24, 2010
When you get hurt by those you love.
I've experienced in life, we often get hurt. It often comes from those you love. The more one loves, the more one gets hurt. Moses was deeply hurt by the Israelites - the people he gave his life for. Pray this prayer.
O Lord, often we do not remember that You were hurt by those with whom You lived with and loved so dearly. Seeing You suffered in that way helps us better understand and deal with our own pain and hurts. We know we can bring them all to You the great burden bearer.
Have compassion on those who have been dreadfully hurt by those they love. Take their bitterness away and enable them to feel Your healing power. Bring reconciliation between those who should love and care for each other.
We confess, there have been times when others have been hurt by our own selfishness. May Your Holy Spirit give us new life so that we can overcome our selfish nature and serve You with love. We pray in Jesus' name.
O Lord, often we do not remember that You were hurt by those with whom You lived with and loved so dearly. Seeing You suffered in that way helps us better understand and deal with our own pain and hurts. We know we can bring them all to You the great burden bearer.
Have compassion on those who have been dreadfully hurt by those they love. Take their bitterness away and enable them to feel Your healing power. Bring reconciliation between those who should love and care for each other.
We confess, there have been times when others have been hurt by our own selfishness. May Your Holy Spirit give us new life so that we can overcome our selfish nature and serve You with love. We pray in Jesus' name.
Pentecost Sunday
We had our second lesson on the Book of Revelation. Let me highlight the first beatitude in Rev. 1: 3. "Blessed is the one who read the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear it and take to heart what is written in it." What a wonderful challenge and promise of a special blessing attached to the reading of it. Revelation exalts our Lord Jesus Christ and portrays Him in glory. Note the three verbs - 'read it, hear it and take it to heart.'
We celebrated Pentecost Sunday - the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on that special day. T W Tozer said, "The Spirit filled life is not a special deluxe edition of Christianity. It is part and parcel of the total plan of God for His people."
To me the living of the Spirit filled life is living the normal Christian life. Anything less is subnormal.
We celebrated Pentecost Sunday - the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on that special day. T W Tozer said, "The Spirit filled life is not a special deluxe edition of Christianity. It is part and parcel of the total plan of God for His people."
To me the living of the Spirit filled life is living the normal Christian life. Anything less is subnormal.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
This is my story - 29
29 – Penang Boys’ Home and Primary School.
We travelled by boat from Kuching to Singapore, then by train from Singapore to Butterworth and finally crossed from the mainland to Penang Island by ferry. Major Ivy Wilson, the Corps Officer was at the station to meet and take us to the Boys’ Home at Sungei Pinang off Jelutong Road. In the same compound was the Army’s Primary School which catered for the overage children from the Home as well as outsiders. This Home was started by Mrs. Major Connie Page, wife of the Superintendent of the Boys’ Home.
Well, both of us have never been trained as teachers, so first we had to register with the Malayan Education Department. We did not encounter any difficulty and I was gazetted as the Headmaster. My wife and I had to teach as we did not have enough teachers.
In the same compound was a chicken farm the purpose was to raise funds for the upkeep of the Home of 50 boys. All the boys had their work section and some boys were tasked to look after chickens, collect the eggs and clean the cages. We supplied eggs to the Seventh Day Adventist Hospital and others. I knew nothing about keeping chickens so had to spend a lot of time learning my trade. By the time we farewelled from the Home, I had become quite an expert in performing fowl deeds! I believe it is important whatever task one is given to put one’s whole heart and soul into it. We do everything for the Lord and His glory.
We had a senior housemaster – Cheong Meng Cheong a very loyal, capable worker and handyman. He had been in the Home for many years. His assistant Ong Chin helped him with the driving. There was a cook and another worker. Yes, four on the staff plus the two of us. Once a week I would help with the delivery of eggs to our customers. At the same time, I would take my wife to the Home League at the Corps and on the way pick up a few Home Leaguers. After the delivery I would pick the ladies up from the Corps to send them home.
One of the live-in staff was a widow Madam Loh Ah Kew whose job was to see to the smaller boys. The Army provided her a room where she and her daughter Poh Choo stayed. She was very hardworking lady. On the evenings when both of us had to go out, she would come to the quarters with her daughter to look after our two children. She was particularly helpful during the time when my wife attended the The Army’s centenary Congress in London. She still keeps in touch with us.
I was the Bandmaster and Songster Leader of Penang Corps. Major Ivy Wilson the Corps officer (pastor) had Lieutenant Florence Ee as her assistant. Later Florence was transferred to Batang Melaka where she was promoted to Glory at the age of twenty six. She was an excellent officer, totally dedicated to God and ministry in the Salvation Army.
Lieutenant Esther Rengasamy after her commissioning in New Zealand was appointed to assist Major Wilson. While stationed in Penang, she met Stephen Rengasamy and brought him to the Army. He became a Salvationist, entered our Training College and later married Esther. Both of them are now retired.
Once a week, on her day off, Major Wilson would take our children out to the swimming pool in Tanjong Bungah.
We took an active part in the Corps and did meetings once a month. We would take our boys to the Corps Directory Class on Sunday morning, and then stayed for the Holiness meeting. In the evening we attended the open air meeting at Dato Keramat Park. We then joined in the march led by the band to the Corps for the evening meeting. We did this every Sunday except when it rained.
My wife was commissioned as the Home League Secretary. It was during this time that we had the mothers of two of our young people Tan Thean Seng and Pat Loo (now Lieut. Colonels working in Singapore) started coming to the Home League. Among the converts was one called Mooi Ah Ngan a mother of one of our boys from the Home. That year for Self Denial, she volunteered to go without meat for a whole month. What she had saved she added to her gift for Self Denial Fund. We were very touched with such commitment from a new Christian. I believe she still attends the Corps meeting today.
In the Corps there was a British couple, very faithful Salvationists – Joe and Pam Wilkinson. Joe stammered a lot but sang very well. Often he would get up during testimony time to sing his testimony. The couple would be in every meeting, both of them sang in the Songsters and he played the percussion in our band. Once a week I would drive to their house with eggs and they would sell them to the servicemen and their families in the base.
M wife came home from London after the centenary meetings with a whole group of Salvationists on the SS Chusan which called at Penang. Among the group was a couple, Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. Fred Searle. The Colonel after touring the Home turned to me and asked “What can we do for the Home?” Well, our refrigerator was a rented one, so I told him we could do with a refrigerator.
They got back to New Zealand and sent out an appeal. Within a short time, he was able to send us the bank draft for the whole amount. The first donor gave a few dollars and the second donor donated the rest. Thank God for the internationalism of the Salvation Army. There is only one Army working in many countries!
We travelled by boat from Kuching to Singapore, then by train from Singapore to Butterworth and finally crossed from the mainland to Penang Island by ferry. Major Ivy Wilson, the Corps Officer was at the station to meet and take us to the Boys’ Home at Sungei Pinang off Jelutong Road. In the same compound was the Army’s Primary School which catered for the overage children from the Home as well as outsiders. This Home was started by Mrs. Major Connie Page, wife of the Superintendent of the Boys’ Home.
Well, both of us have never been trained as teachers, so first we had to register with the Malayan Education Department. We did not encounter any difficulty and I was gazetted as the Headmaster. My wife and I had to teach as we did not have enough teachers.
In the same compound was a chicken farm the purpose was to raise funds for the upkeep of the Home of 50 boys. All the boys had their work section and some boys were tasked to look after chickens, collect the eggs and clean the cages. We supplied eggs to the Seventh Day Adventist Hospital and others. I knew nothing about keeping chickens so had to spend a lot of time learning my trade. By the time we farewelled from the Home, I had become quite an expert in performing fowl deeds! I believe it is important whatever task one is given to put one’s whole heart and soul into it. We do everything for the Lord and His glory.
We had a senior housemaster – Cheong Meng Cheong a very loyal, capable worker and handyman. He had been in the Home for many years. His assistant Ong Chin helped him with the driving. There was a cook and another worker. Yes, four on the staff plus the two of us. Once a week I would help with the delivery of eggs to our customers. At the same time, I would take my wife to the Home League at the Corps and on the way pick up a few Home Leaguers. After the delivery I would pick the ladies up from the Corps to send them home.
One of the live-in staff was a widow Madam Loh Ah Kew whose job was to see to the smaller boys. The Army provided her a room where she and her daughter Poh Choo stayed. She was very hardworking lady. On the evenings when both of us had to go out, she would come to the quarters with her daughter to look after our two children. She was particularly helpful during the time when my wife attended the The Army’s centenary Congress in London. She still keeps in touch with us.
I was the Bandmaster and Songster Leader of Penang Corps. Major Ivy Wilson the Corps officer (pastor) had Lieutenant Florence Ee as her assistant. Later Florence was transferred to Batang Melaka where she was promoted to Glory at the age of twenty six. She was an excellent officer, totally dedicated to God and ministry in the Salvation Army.
Lieutenant Esther Rengasamy after her commissioning in New Zealand was appointed to assist Major Wilson. While stationed in Penang, she met Stephen Rengasamy and brought him to the Army. He became a Salvationist, entered our Training College and later married Esther. Both of them are now retired.
Once a week, on her day off, Major Wilson would take our children out to the swimming pool in Tanjong Bungah.
We took an active part in the Corps and did meetings once a month. We would take our boys to the Corps Directory Class on Sunday morning, and then stayed for the Holiness meeting. In the evening we attended the open air meeting at Dato Keramat Park. We then joined in the march led by the band to the Corps for the evening meeting. We did this every Sunday except when it rained.
My wife was commissioned as the Home League Secretary. It was during this time that we had the mothers of two of our young people Tan Thean Seng and Pat Loo (now Lieut. Colonels working in Singapore) started coming to the Home League. Among the converts was one called Mooi Ah Ngan a mother of one of our boys from the Home. That year for Self Denial, she volunteered to go without meat for a whole month. What she had saved she added to her gift for Self Denial Fund. We were very touched with such commitment from a new Christian. I believe she still attends the Corps meeting today.
In the Corps there was a British couple, very faithful Salvationists – Joe and Pam Wilkinson. Joe stammered a lot but sang very well. Often he would get up during testimony time to sing his testimony. The couple would be in every meeting, both of them sang in the Songsters and he played the percussion in our band. Once a week I would drive to their house with eggs and they would sell them to the servicemen and their families in the base.
M wife came home from London after the centenary meetings with a whole group of Salvationists on the SS Chusan which called at Penang. Among the group was a couple, Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. Fred Searle. The Colonel after touring the Home turned to me and asked “What can we do for the Home?” Well, our refrigerator was a rented one, so I told him we could do with a refrigerator.
They got back to New Zealand and sent out an appeal. Within a short time, he was able to send us the bank draft for the whole amount. The first donor gave a few dollars and the second donor donated the rest. Thank God for the internationalism of the Salvation Army. There is only one Army working in many countries!
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Dr. Goh Keng Swee
Singapore mourns the loss one of its great sons - Dr Goh Keng Swee former Deputy Prime Minister of Singapore. He has gone to be with the Lord on 14th May 2010. The state funeral will be held at the Conference Hall on 23rd May and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew who is currently on a visit to China and Japan is expected to return in time to attend and speak at the funeral.
Immediately after the war in 1945, the British Military Administration (known as BMA) requested Lieut. Colonel Herbert Lord, the Officer Commanding of The Salvation Army to postpone his return to England and assist in organizing relief for the suffering people. Colonel Lord was even offered military rank and pay, but he turned down the offer. However he accepted the challenge to form a committee of representatives from different sectors of the population.
Captain Frank Bainbridge was put in charge, assisted by Captain Tan Beng Neo and a number of officers and salvationists and friends. Among the helpers was Dr. Goh Keng Swee who volunteered his services.
Dr. Goh Keng Swee was a quiet man, but one who walked the talk. At one time he worked for the Social Welfare so had much to do with The Salvation Army. We thank God for people like Dr. Goh.
Immediately after the war in 1945, the British Military Administration (known as BMA) requested Lieut. Colonel Herbert Lord, the Officer Commanding of The Salvation Army to postpone his return to England and assist in organizing relief for the suffering people. Colonel Lord was even offered military rank and pay, but he turned down the offer. However he accepted the challenge to form a committee of representatives from different sectors of the population.
Captain Frank Bainbridge was put in charge, assisted by Captain Tan Beng Neo and a number of officers and salvationists and friends. Among the helpers was Dr. Goh Keng Swee who volunteered his services.
Dr. Goh Keng Swee was a quiet man, but one who walked the talk. At one time he worked for the Social Welfare so had much to do with The Salvation Army. We thank God for people like Dr. Goh.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
The King is coming
I began my new series on the Book of Revelation. Much encouraged by the attendance this morning. Revelation is the most difficult book of the Bible to understand, but it should not be ignored. In Revelation, we see Jesus bring God's purposes to completion.
For this first lesson we looked at the different views, or traditional interpretations applied to this book. I cannot be dogmatic and say, who is right. Within each category there are differences of opinion, so we need to practise Christian charity when we deal with such a subject as eschatology. No one on earth has the monopoly of the truth. We need to be able to disagree without questioning each other's sincerity or spirituality.
The great theme of Revelation is the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ. He will certainly come again.
In the early church it was customary to greet one another with the word "MARANATHA" meaning "The Lord is coming soon." May we all be filled with the expectation for His Coming. In my younger days, we used to sing,
"He's coming soon, He's coming soon.
I know the Lord is coming.
It may be morn, it may be night or noon.
I know the Lord is coming soon.
After Bible class we congregated at the main hall for our worship. Major Ruth Pascoe's theme for the meeting was - "The King is coming." She spoke on the Ascension of Jesus - Luke 24: 50-53 and Acts 1: 1-11. On the bulletin she wrote "We have the promise that Jesus who has gone back to heaven will one day return. This is an important promise. It reminds us that God's plan includes an end time when all wrongs will be put right and we will rejoice as Jesus comes to reign over us Hallelujah!"
Last Thursday was Ascension Day. I wonder how many preachers preach on this subject on Sunday. I did last year at Central Corps. After the meeting, someone remarked that it was the first time he had heard anyone preach on the Ascension.
For this first lesson we looked at the different views, or traditional interpretations applied to this book. I cannot be dogmatic and say, who is right. Within each category there are differences of opinion, so we need to practise Christian charity when we deal with such a subject as eschatology. No one on earth has the monopoly of the truth. We need to be able to disagree without questioning each other's sincerity or spirituality.
The great theme of Revelation is the ultimate triumph of Jesus Christ. He will certainly come again.
In the early church it was customary to greet one another with the word "MARANATHA" meaning "The Lord is coming soon." May we all be filled with the expectation for His Coming. In my younger days, we used to sing,
"He's coming soon, He's coming soon.
I know the Lord is coming.
It may be morn, it may be night or noon.
I know the Lord is coming soon.
After Bible class we congregated at the main hall for our worship. Major Ruth Pascoe's theme for the meeting was - "The King is coming." She spoke on the Ascension of Jesus - Luke 24: 50-53 and Acts 1: 1-11. On the bulletin she wrote "We have the promise that Jesus who has gone back to heaven will one day return. This is an important promise. It reminds us that God's plan includes an end time when all wrongs will be put right and we will rejoice as Jesus comes to reign over us Hallelujah!"
Last Thursday was Ascension Day. I wonder how many preachers preach on this subject on Sunday. I did last year at Central Corps. After the meeting, someone remarked that it was the first time he had heard anyone preach on the Ascension.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
May 13th - That terrible day
Forty one years ago, today, we were right in the centre of a storm - May 13 riots in Kuala Lumpur. Memories are still vivid.
The government imposed 24-hour curfew. I was on my way to an inter church prayer meeting when someone shouted to me 'Go home quick, there's curfew on." I rushed home and within minutes Police and the army vehicles were right in our street.
Our three week old baby, Dora Poh Chin was sick most of the time. My wife who was breast feeding her did not have enough milk for the baby. Perhaps the tension and anxiety had contributed to this state. Soon we ran out of food and milk powder and I had to slip out of the house when the police or soldiers were not around. Yes, I broke the emergency law, but what could we do? I would run to the back lane, knock on the doors of the shops to buy provisions. Then I would stealthily and prayerfully made my way back.
We've been through storms - but I think the 1969 one was the worst and most frightening. But the Lord was with us and He protected us.
This morning when I turned to my devotional book, Words of Life and saw 13th May, memories came back and I thank God for what He has done and been to us all through the years.
All through the years, His providence has led me,
His abounding goodness has been all my song;
All through the years I tell His love and mercy,
Singing Ebenezer as the years roll on.
I'm so thankful to God.
The government imposed 24-hour curfew. I was on my way to an inter church prayer meeting when someone shouted to me 'Go home quick, there's curfew on." I rushed home and within minutes Police and the army vehicles were right in our street.
Our three week old baby, Dora Poh Chin was sick most of the time. My wife who was breast feeding her did not have enough milk for the baby. Perhaps the tension and anxiety had contributed to this state. Soon we ran out of food and milk powder and I had to slip out of the house when the police or soldiers were not around. Yes, I broke the emergency law, but what could we do? I would run to the back lane, knock on the doors of the shops to buy provisions. Then I would stealthily and prayerfully made my way back.
We've been through storms - but I think the 1969 one was the worst and most frightening. But the Lord was with us and He protected us.
This morning when I turned to my devotional book, Words of Life and saw 13th May, memories came back and I thank God for what He has done and been to us all through the years.
All through the years, His providence has led me,
His abounding goodness has been all my song;
All through the years I tell His love and mercy,
Singing Ebenezer as the years roll on.
I'm so thankful to God.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Take time to appreciate God's blessings
Blessings are all around us.
If we look we can recognize a blessing in
each day, each hour,each minute,
each family member, each friend, each neighbour,
each community, each city, each nation,
each challenge, each word of encouragement,
each flower, each sunbeam, each raindrop,
each awesome wonder crafted by God,
each star, each sea, each bird, each tree,
each sorrow, each disappointment,
each faith, each prayer - Helen Steiner Rice
If we look we can recognize a blessing in
each day, each hour,each minute,
each family member, each friend, each neighbour,
each community, each city, each nation,
each challenge, each word of encouragement,
each flower, each sunbeam, each raindrop,
each awesome wonder crafted by God,
each star, each sea, each bird, each tree,
each sorrow, each disappointment,
each faith, each prayer - Helen Steiner Rice
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Mother's Day
We left home with the cadets at 8.15 a.m. for Changi Corps. The road was clear and we got there very early. Attended Prayer meeting at 9.15 a.m led by the Corps Officer, Lieut. Colonel Prema Rajan.
I led the meeting and my wife gave the Bible message. After the meeting, Captain Hary took us, his mother and the two cadets to Pasir Ris for lunch.
Good to worship with the Changi comrades once again. We were delighted to see again our old friends - Emelie, her husband Johnny and her daughters and grand daughter- the whole family worshipping together. I've known Emelie since childhood days when we lived in Lorong Limau and we both attended Balestier Corps. That goes back more than 60 years ago. And there was Charles Lim and family, formerly Balestier folk. There was Beatrice Lim, my old neighbour and former Balestier Corps comrade.
Fifty years ago in Penang, on Mother's Day, our first child came! What a lot has happened since then. Now we thank God for our three children, and six grandchildren, the first grandson will graduate from University soon.
I led the meeting and my wife gave the Bible message. After the meeting, Captain Hary took us, his mother and the two cadets to Pasir Ris for lunch.
Good to worship with the Changi comrades once again. We were delighted to see again our old friends - Emelie, her husband Johnny and her daughters and grand daughter- the whole family worshipping together. I've known Emelie since childhood days when we lived in Lorong Limau and we both attended Balestier Corps. That goes back more than 60 years ago. And there was Charles Lim and family, formerly Balestier folk. There was Beatrice Lim, my old neighbour and former Balestier Corps comrade.
Fifty years ago in Penang, on Mother's Day, our first child came! What a lot has happened since then. Now we thank God for our three children, and six grandchildren, the first grandson will graduate from University soon.
Friday, May 7, 2010
This is my story - 28
28 - Confrontation by Indonesia
In 1961, the island of Borneo was divided into four separate states - Kalimantan comprising four Indonesian provinces located in the south of the island. In the north, separated from Kalimantan by a border some 1000 miles long were the Sultanate of Brunei (a British protectorate) and two British colonies—Sarawak and British North Borneo (which was later renamed Sabah).
As a part of its withdrawal from its colonies, Britain moved to combine its colonies on Borneo with the Federation of Malaya (which had become independent from Britain in 1957), and Singapore (which had become self-governing in 1959) to form Malaysia.
President Sukarno opposed the move. His argument was that Malaysia was a British puppet state, and that the consolidation of Malaysia would increase British control over the region, ‘threatening Indonesia's independence’ so he claimed. So he began his “konfrontasi” – an undeclared war over the future of Borneo.
Philippines also made a claim for Sabah, (British North Borneo) arguing that it had historic links with the Philippines through the Sulu archipelago.
North Borneo and Sarawak, anticipating a pro-Malaysia result, declared independence on the sixth anniversary of Merdeka Day 31 August 1963 before the outcome of the vote were reported. The Indonesian government saw this as proof of British imperialism.
President Sukarno saw the formation of Malaysia as an obstacle to his dreams of a Malay empire covering Malaya, Philippines and Indonesia. The Philippine president was not initially opposed to this idea but, while the Philippines did not engage in hostilities, they did break off diplomatic relations with Malaysia.
We lived in Kuching during these so called confrontation days. When it came to our Annual Appeal, I volunteered to be the one to go to the towns bordering Indonesia and suggested our reinforcement officers should just keep within the city. It would be unsafe for our overseas officers to venture to those areas. The others very reluctantly agreed to this suggestion. A Caucasian would be very conspicuous in the villages bordering Indonesia.
I was doing the Lord’s work and surely I could rely on His protection. We did not have Red Shield Industries or Thrift Shops in those days and we totally depended on grants from the Government, Command Headquarters and locally generated income through programmes like sewing, carpentry, kindergarten and donations
The Boys’ Home generated income from the sale of furniture from its carpentry shop. The Children’s Home residents did sewing and embroidery work for sale. The two Homes also received Government grants. Corps (church) income came from what we term in Salvation Army terminology ‘cartridges’ – tithing and free will offerings from our soldiers and friends, plus income generated from the kindergarten. We raised a substantial amount through the Annual Appeal and Annual Sale of work to support our work in the three centres.
One day the Police and welfare officer brought an Indonesian youth to our Home. He had wandered crossed the border illegally and was apprehended and brought to our Home. His name was Isa (in Malay meaning Jesus). Isa was a big boy, very simple, perhaps naïve in his ways. We had to ensure he did not run away from the Home so the boys took good care of him.
He would appear in the garden or even for his meals in his pyjamas. It was his favourite garment. He claimed that my wife had given it to him. I was puzzled as my wife did not hand out clothes to the boys; that was done by the staff. Later on in conversation, I discovered he was under the impression that all the ladies working in the Home were my wives! As a Muslim he thought I had four wives!
It was great working with the boys in the Home. Every evening after their bath, my wife would see to the little boys before they went to bed. She would give them their medicine and attend to their wounds or scratches. They loved the attention given them.
When people have to work closely together for a common purpose they develop feelings towards each other. Team work requires mutual trust, openness and support. We all looked to Brigadier Elsie Willis, a very saintly lady as our leader. In all my years working in The Salvation Army, I have never experienced a better team of officers than the one in Kuching. Thank God for such comradeship as we worked to ‘save souls, grow saints and caring for suffering humanity.’
Well, we were happy in our new appointment and were making plans to improve the Home and the welfare of the boys under our care. Then suddenly much to our surprise we received a telegram from Headquarters – “Farewell orders – appointed to Penang Boys’ Home. Spencer.’
The Officer Commanding, Lieut. George Spencer in the letter that followed informed us that Captain and Mrs. Keith Sharp from UK would be succeeding us some time after May 1965 and in the interim, Major Maria Scherpennisse, a Dutch officer would be appointed to run the Home.
So once again we had to pack our belongings and prepare to move back to Penang where we had left only three years earlier in 1962, this time to the Home and School.
In 1961, the island of Borneo was divided into four separate states - Kalimantan comprising four Indonesian provinces located in the south of the island. In the north, separated from Kalimantan by a border some 1000 miles long were the Sultanate of Brunei (a British protectorate) and two British colonies—Sarawak and British North Borneo (which was later renamed Sabah).
As a part of its withdrawal from its colonies, Britain moved to combine its colonies on Borneo with the Federation of Malaya (which had become independent from Britain in 1957), and Singapore (which had become self-governing in 1959) to form Malaysia.
President Sukarno opposed the move. His argument was that Malaysia was a British puppet state, and that the consolidation of Malaysia would increase British control over the region, ‘threatening Indonesia's independence’ so he claimed. So he began his “konfrontasi” – an undeclared war over the future of Borneo.
Philippines also made a claim for Sabah, (British North Borneo) arguing that it had historic links with the Philippines through the Sulu archipelago.
North Borneo and Sarawak, anticipating a pro-Malaysia result, declared independence on the sixth anniversary of Merdeka Day 31 August 1963 before the outcome of the vote were reported. The Indonesian government saw this as proof of British imperialism.
President Sukarno saw the formation of Malaysia as an obstacle to his dreams of a Malay empire covering Malaya, Philippines and Indonesia. The Philippine president was not initially opposed to this idea but, while the Philippines did not engage in hostilities, they did break off diplomatic relations with Malaysia.
We lived in Kuching during these so called confrontation days. When it came to our Annual Appeal, I volunteered to be the one to go to the towns bordering Indonesia and suggested our reinforcement officers should just keep within the city. It would be unsafe for our overseas officers to venture to those areas. The others very reluctantly agreed to this suggestion. A Caucasian would be very conspicuous in the villages bordering Indonesia.
I was doing the Lord’s work and surely I could rely on His protection. We did not have Red Shield Industries or Thrift Shops in those days and we totally depended on grants from the Government, Command Headquarters and locally generated income through programmes like sewing, carpentry, kindergarten and donations
The Boys’ Home generated income from the sale of furniture from its carpentry shop. The Children’s Home residents did sewing and embroidery work for sale. The two Homes also received Government grants. Corps (church) income came from what we term in Salvation Army terminology ‘cartridges’ – tithing and free will offerings from our soldiers and friends, plus income generated from the kindergarten. We raised a substantial amount through the Annual Appeal and Annual Sale of work to support our work in the three centres.
One day the Police and welfare officer brought an Indonesian youth to our Home. He had wandered crossed the border illegally and was apprehended and brought to our Home. His name was Isa (in Malay meaning Jesus). Isa was a big boy, very simple, perhaps naïve in his ways. We had to ensure he did not run away from the Home so the boys took good care of him.
He would appear in the garden or even for his meals in his pyjamas. It was his favourite garment. He claimed that my wife had given it to him. I was puzzled as my wife did not hand out clothes to the boys; that was done by the staff. Later on in conversation, I discovered he was under the impression that all the ladies working in the Home were my wives! As a Muslim he thought I had four wives!
It was great working with the boys in the Home. Every evening after their bath, my wife would see to the little boys before they went to bed. She would give them their medicine and attend to their wounds or scratches. They loved the attention given them.
When people have to work closely together for a common purpose they develop feelings towards each other. Team work requires mutual trust, openness and support. We all looked to Brigadier Elsie Willis, a very saintly lady as our leader. In all my years working in The Salvation Army, I have never experienced a better team of officers than the one in Kuching. Thank God for such comradeship as we worked to ‘save souls, grow saints and caring for suffering humanity.’
Well, we were happy in our new appointment and were making plans to improve the Home and the welfare of the boys under our care. Then suddenly much to our surprise we received a telegram from Headquarters – “Farewell orders – appointed to Penang Boys’ Home. Spencer.’
The Officer Commanding, Lieut. George Spencer in the letter that followed informed us that Captain and Mrs. Keith Sharp from UK would be succeeding us some time after May 1965 and in the interim, Major Maria Scherpennisse, a Dutch officer would be appointed to run the Home.
So once again we had to pack our belongings and prepare to move back to Penang where we had left only three years earlier in 1962, this time to the Home and School.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
This is my story - 27
27 – Kuching Boys’ Home
We really enjoyed our work ministering to the folk in Kuching Corps, especially when we received tremendous support from our fellow officers and local officers.
The kindergarten was doing well; in fact we received high commendation from the Inspector of Schools, Mrs. Kong, who said she would like to register her own grandchildren in it.
One day we received word from our Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel George Spencer, instructing us to take on additional responsibility of the Kuching Boys’ Home to enable Captain and Mrs. Robert Webb to go on homeland furlough in Australia. The Webbs had already served their five year term. We were to stay at the Boys’ Home, but continue to run the Corps and kindergarten as well.
We requested Chan Ee Hong the girl who had been helping us at the Kindergarten to transfer to the Boys’ Home to do the laundry and other duties and at the same time help look after our two small children. We knew we would be much pressurised running Home, Corps and Kindergarten. We were glad she agreed. She loved our children and took good care of them. Every morning my wife would take the two children with her to the kindergarten. In the evenings we had to go back to the Corps for other activities.
Captain Janos Wasagam was appointed to assist us part time at the Corps and kindergarten. She stayed at the Corps quarters but would commute to the Home as she was still the assistant there. She was very good and hardworking. Every morning she saw to the opening of the premises for kindergarten class and got things ready for the children. She helped us in whatever way she could.
Captain Wasagam had a great love for the people, and she would cycle to do pastoral visitation on our behalf. She would also help my wife with the Home League and other Corps activities. We worked well together and we were grateful for her support.
While still on furlough in Australia, Captain and Mrs. Webb were told they would not return to Kuching. Instead they received marching orders to proceed to Singapore to take charge of the Singapore Children’s Home at Pasir Panjang. We received orders via telegram to farewell from Kuching Corps and appointed to Kuching Boys’ Home.
It was announced that Captains Kylikki Vataja and Ruth Piutunun, Finnish officers would succeed us at the Kuching Corps. Well, we started moving all our personal belongings from the Corps quarters to the Home.
We were happy with the boys, fifty of them, ages ranging from six to seventeen. We continued soldiering at the Corps. In any case the new Corps officers could not speak Chinese, so we had to take or turn in translating at the meetings.
Vong Ah Nyian a Salvationist was the Housemaster and supervisor of the carpentry workshop and vegetable garden. His wife Chor Fah was the cook. There were two other ladies who assisted in looking after the fifty boys. We had no vehicle, so Ah Nyian would use his own motor bike to go to the market each day for fresh meat, fish, vegetables and fruit.
Chinese New Year, we allowed the staff to take leave. Most of the boys would go to their parents or relatives, but there were those who had nowhere to go. On New Year’s Eve we had our reunion with these boys. We explained to them our Chinese customs and on New Year’s Day they came to visit us in our quarters and we gave them ‘ang pows’ red packets with money inside. They were allowed to go out and visit their friends. A few of the big boys volunteered to stay behind or return earlier to cook for the others. I was very touched by their sense of ownership of the Home.
While Brigadier Willis was away on furlough, Pang Soon Nyuk one of the elderly ladies of the Home and soldier of the Corps passed away. She had no relatives so the Army had to arrange her funeral. Money was scarce, so we approached a casket company who graciously provided a free coffin.
The other churches owned their private cemeteries which catered for their own Christians, but not the Army. So we had to bury this lady at the Government cemetery which catered for the rest of the community mainly non- Christian. The Muslims had their own cemetery. It does not matter where the body is buried as long as the soul goes to heaven.
The boys from our carpenter shop made a cross to place it on the grave. The elderly ladies from the Army Home were the mourners. Our boys went round and got flowers to put on the grave and we had our Christian ceremony there. There in this mainly Buddhist and Toaist cemetery the cross stood very prominently as a witness to our Christian faith.
We did our duty as soldiers of the Corps, paid our tithe and did what the Corps Officers wanted us to do, but not interfere with the administration of Corps affairs. The new Corps Officers requested that I should continue leading the band while my wife continued as the Home League Secretary. My wife and I took turns to interpret in the meetings.
We really enjoyed our work ministering to the folk in Kuching Corps, especially when we received tremendous support from our fellow officers and local officers.
The kindergarten was doing well; in fact we received high commendation from the Inspector of Schools, Mrs. Kong, who said she would like to register her own grandchildren in it.
One day we received word from our Officer Commanding Lieut. Colonel George Spencer, instructing us to take on additional responsibility of the Kuching Boys’ Home to enable Captain and Mrs. Robert Webb to go on homeland furlough in Australia. The Webbs had already served their five year term. We were to stay at the Boys’ Home, but continue to run the Corps and kindergarten as well.
We requested Chan Ee Hong the girl who had been helping us at the Kindergarten to transfer to the Boys’ Home to do the laundry and other duties and at the same time help look after our two small children. We knew we would be much pressurised running Home, Corps and Kindergarten. We were glad she agreed. She loved our children and took good care of them. Every morning my wife would take the two children with her to the kindergarten. In the evenings we had to go back to the Corps for other activities.
Captain Janos Wasagam was appointed to assist us part time at the Corps and kindergarten. She stayed at the Corps quarters but would commute to the Home as she was still the assistant there. She was very good and hardworking. Every morning she saw to the opening of the premises for kindergarten class and got things ready for the children. She helped us in whatever way she could.
Captain Wasagam had a great love for the people, and she would cycle to do pastoral visitation on our behalf. She would also help my wife with the Home League and other Corps activities. We worked well together and we were grateful for her support.
While still on furlough in Australia, Captain and Mrs. Webb were told they would not return to Kuching. Instead they received marching orders to proceed to Singapore to take charge of the Singapore Children’s Home at Pasir Panjang. We received orders via telegram to farewell from Kuching Corps and appointed to Kuching Boys’ Home.
It was announced that Captains Kylikki Vataja and Ruth Piutunun, Finnish officers would succeed us at the Kuching Corps. Well, we started moving all our personal belongings from the Corps quarters to the Home.
We were happy with the boys, fifty of them, ages ranging from six to seventeen. We continued soldiering at the Corps. In any case the new Corps officers could not speak Chinese, so we had to take or turn in translating at the meetings.
Vong Ah Nyian a Salvationist was the Housemaster and supervisor of the carpentry workshop and vegetable garden. His wife Chor Fah was the cook. There were two other ladies who assisted in looking after the fifty boys. We had no vehicle, so Ah Nyian would use his own motor bike to go to the market each day for fresh meat, fish, vegetables and fruit.
Chinese New Year, we allowed the staff to take leave. Most of the boys would go to their parents or relatives, but there were those who had nowhere to go. On New Year’s Eve we had our reunion with these boys. We explained to them our Chinese customs and on New Year’s Day they came to visit us in our quarters and we gave them ‘ang pows’ red packets with money inside. They were allowed to go out and visit their friends. A few of the big boys volunteered to stay behind or return earlier to cook for the others. I was very touched by their sense of ownership of the Home.
While Brigadier Willis was away on furlough, Pang Soon Nyuk one of the elderly ladies of the Home and soldier of the Corps passed away. She had no relatives so the Army had to arrange her funeral. Money was scarce, so we approached a casket company who graciously provided a free coffin.
The other churches owned their private cemeteries which catered for their own Christians, but not the Army. So we had to bury this lady at the Government cemetery which catered for the rest of the community mainly non- Christian. The Muslims had their own cemetery. It does not matter where the body is buried as long as the soul goes to heaven.
The boys from our carpenter shop made a cross to place it on the grave. The elderly ladies from the Army Home were the mourners. Our boys went round and got flowers to put on the grave and we had our Christian ceremony there. There in this mainly Buddhist and Toaist cemetery the cross stood very prominently as a witness to our Christian faith.
We did our duty as soldiers of the Corps, paid our tithe and did what the Corps Officers wanted us to do, but not interfere with the administration of Corps affairs. The new Corps Officers requested that I should continue leading the band while my wife continued as the Home League Secretary. My wife and I took turns to interpret in the meetings.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
Everything has its time
Today we completed our study of Paul's letter to the Philippians - fifteen lessons in all. It contains only four chapters and is one of the simplest book to study. The heart of Philippians is joy. Paul wrote this letter from prison, not a nice place to be in! Joy, unlike happiness defies circumstances. Happiness tend to depend on happenings, but joy does not.
Major Ruth Pascoe who accompanied Colonel Beryl Burridge home to England came back last Friday evening. She did the meeting this morning and gave a good sermon based on Ecclesiastes 3: 1-14. Her three points were:
Look up - God is in control of time.
Time to be born, time to die. We have no control.
Look within - God has put eternity in our hearts.We need to have that relationship with our Eternal God to find life meaningful.
Look ahead - our ability to find satisfaction in our work depends largely to our attitude. With God we can look ahead.
There is plenty for us to ponder or reflect on this message on Labour Day.
Major Ruth Pascoe who accompanied Colonel Beryl Burridge home to England came back last Friday evening. She did the meeting this morning and gave a good sermon based on Ecclesiastes 3: 1-14. Her three points were:
Look up - God is in control of time.
Time to be born, time to die. We have no control.
Look within - God has put eternity in our hearts.We need to have that relationship with our Eternal God to find life meaningful.
Look ahead - our ability to find satisfaction in our work depends largely to our attitude. With God we can look ahead.
There is plenty for us to ponder or reflect on this message on Labour Day.
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