We were privileged to have the Chief Secretary Lieut. Colonels Bob Lee and his wife Wendy Lee to conduct the meeting this morning. It was our usual monthly family worship - combined worship with the youth and children.
In keeping with the Lenten season, he had for his theme of 'following Jesus.' His message was based on Mark 8: 31-38.
It was a lively meeting enjoyed by the whole congregation. Last week, we introduced an old song Number 483, "Follow, follow I will follow Jesus." Today, the Colonel chose this same song.
Down in the valley with my Saviour I will go,
Where the flowers are blooming and the sweet waters flow;
Everywhere He leads me I will follow, follow on,
Walking in His footsteps till the crown be won.
Refrain
Follow! follow! I will follow Jesus!
Anywhere, everywhere, I will follow on!
Follow! follow! I will follow Jesus!
Everywhere He leads me I will follow on!
Down in the valley with my Saviour I will go,
Where the storms are sweeping and the dark waters flow;
With His hand to lead me I will never, never fear,
Danger cannot fright me if my Lord is near.
Down in the valley, or upon the mountain steep,
Close beside my Saviour will my soul ever keep;
He will lead me safely in the path that He has trod,
Up to where they gather on the hills of God. (William Orcutt Cushing)
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Mary, Mother of Jesus
Our Bible study this morning was on "Mary the Mother of Jesus" Mrs. Lim Li Ching took us through the various portions of Scripture showing the role Mary played in the life of Jesus beginning from the Christmas story.
Then we moved on to "the boy Jesus at the temple (Luke 2: 41-51); 'the wedding at Cana' (John 2: 1-12) where Jesus performed His first miracle of turning water into wine. Our focus then moved on to 'Mary at the cross of Jesus.' The close mother-son relationship now had to be severed by death and replaced by the John-Mary relationship. Finally we moved to 'Mary and the apostles.' Luke provided this final glimpse when he stated that after the Ascension, Mary joined in continual prayer with the apostles (Acts 1: 14) Nothing more is recorded of her. Mary had fulfilled her task of bearing the Messiah. Once this work was accomplished she had to join other believers and be like them. When Luke recorded Peter's Pentecostal speech of Paul's work, he made no reference of Mary. Her place was in the church not in heaven as the dispensatrix of grace.
It was a very interesting study of Mary whom we honour by giving her the dignity that is hers in Scripture. However, we do not worship her. We worship God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit - the Holy Trinity.
I am very grateful to Mrs. Lim Li ching for role she plays in our Adult Bible class. Every now and then she takes a couple of studies. This allows me to have break especially when we have to conduct meetings either at our own or another church.
Then we moved on to "the boy Jesus at the temple (Luke 2: 41-51); 'the wedding at Cana' (John 2: 1-12) where Jesus performed His first miracle of turning water into wine. Our focus then moved on to 'Mary at the cross of Jesus.' The close mother-son relationship now had to be severed by death and replaced by the John-Mary relationship. Finally we moved to 'Mary and the apostles.' Luke provided this final glimpse when he stated that after the Ascension, Mary joined in continual prayer with the apostles (Acts 1: 14) Nothing more is recorded of her. Mary had fulfilled her task of bearing the Messiah. Once this work was accomplished she had to join other believers and be like them. When Luke recorded Peter's Pentecostal speech of Paul's work, he made no reference of Mary. Her place was in the church not in heaven as the dispensatrix of grace.
It was a very interesting study of Mary whom we honour by giving her the dignity that is hers in Scripture. However, we do not worship her. We worship God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit - the Holy Trinity.
I am very grateful to Mrs. Lim Li ching for role she plays in our Adult Bible class. Every now and then she takes a couple of studies. This allows me to have break especially when we have to conduct meetings either at our own or another church.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Meditation on God's word
Godward thoughts
“Remember that it is not hasty reading, but serious meditation on holy and heavenly truths, that makes them prove sweet and profitable to the soul. It is not the mere touching of the flower by the bee that gathers honey, but her abiding for a time on the flower that draws out the sweet. It is not he that reads most, but he that meditates most, that will proved to be the choicest, sweetest, wisest and strongest Christian” Thomas Brooks
During this Lent season, let us meditate on the events leading to Calvary. Evelyn Underhill said "We spend most of our lives conjugating three verbs: to want, to have and to do." Let us pause a while, take time to keep silent before God and listen to what He has to say to us.
“Remember that it is not hasty reading, but serious meditation on holy and heavenly truths, that makes them prove sweet and profitable to the soul. It is not the mere touching of the flower by the bee that gathers honey, but her abiding for a time on the flower that draws out the sweet. It is not he that reads most, but he that meditates most, that will proved to be the choicest, sweetest, wisest and strongest Christian” Thomas Brooks
During this Lent season, let us meditate on the events leading to Calvary. Evelyn Underhill said "We spend most of our lives conjugating three verbs: to want, to have and to do." Let us pause a while, take time to keep silent before God and listen to what He has to say to us.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Six women named Mary
Yesterday in our Bible study, Mrs. Lim Li Ching spoke on five of the six Marys in the New Testament. A number of those attended were surprised to learn that the meaning of Mary, or Marian, Miriam. It means "the fat one."
Mary Magdalene whom Jesus cast out seven demons from her is sometimes mistakenly identified with the Mary in Luke 7 referred to as "the sinner" On the day of the resurrection she was among the first who went to the tomb to bring spices to Jesus.
Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. We remember her as the one who sat at the feet of Jesus while Martha was busy in the kitchen. Mary was very much devoted to Jesus. She anointed the feet of Jesus.
Mary, mother of James and Joseph was probably the wife of Clopas. She was with the first group at the empty tomb.
Mary the mother of John Mark who helped Paul and Barnabas.
Mary of Rome one of the 24 people Paul greeted.
Next week in this Lenten series we shall be looking at Mary, mother of Jesus.
Mary Magdalene whom Jesus cast out seven demons from her is sometimes mistakenly identified with the Mary in Luke 7 referred to as "the sinner" On the day of the resurrection she was among the first who went to the tomb to bring spices to Jesus.
Mary, sister of Martha and Lazarus. We remember her as the one who sat at the feet of Jesus while Martha was busy in the kitchen. Mary was very much devoted to Jesus. She anointed the feet of Jesus.
Mary, mother of James and Joseph was probably the wife of Clopas. She was with the first group at the empty tomb.
Mary the mother of John Mark who helped Paul and Barnabas.
Mary of Rome one of the 24 people Paul greeted.
Next week in this Lenten series we shall be looking at Mary, mother of Jesus.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
This is my story - 53
53 – Congress on Evangelism – All one in Christ!
It has been my privilege throughout my years of service to attend retreats, conferences and seminars organised by The Salvation Army and other church groups. There was one congress which made a great lasting impact on me. It was the Asia South Pacific Congress on Evangelism held at the Singapore Conference Hall in November 1968.
We had been sent to establish the work of The Salvation Army in Kuala Lumpur in 1966 and had been there for only two years when I had to leave the family for Singapore to attend this meeting. Our work was new and challenging. It was not easy to leave my wife and our two small children. The third child was on the way. I must confess I went with a certain amount of reluctance.
Looking back now, I believe the Lord wanted me to be present at this special Congress. Dr. Stanley Mooneyham, vice-President of inter relations of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association was the coordinating director of the Congress. In his opening address, he quoted Charles Dickens. “It was the best of times it was the worst of times.”
That statement described a different age but fitted the time of the Congress. Tensions were high politically. In Malaysia there was much unrest which led to the racial riots in May 1969. Our youngest child Dora Poh Chin was born on 26th April that year. She is now a resident of The Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home. (See chapter 34 of this series – ‘coping with crisis.’)
The relationship between Indonesia and Singapore the host country of the Congress was at very low ebb. There was the sacking of the Singapore Embassy at Jakarta just three weeks before the Congress.
India and Pakistan were not on good terms and beneath the layer of civility there was tension.
Philippines and Malaysia were arguing over the question of the sovereignty of Sabah.
And here we were Christians from twenty four nations were holding a Congress in Singapore with the theme –“Christ Seeks Asia.” It appeared to be the wrong time, yes, the worst of times, but God always keeps perfect timing always. Our timing and God’s are not always in sync; hence it is vital that we seek Divine wisdom always.
When we met for the eight day Congress, we did not feel any tension; on the other hand there was that wonderful unity of spirit. Indians and Pakistanis prayed together, Malaysians and Filipinos interceded for each other, Singaporeans and Indonesians held hands and pleaded with the Lord to save the nations. That Congress taught me an important lesson - the Kingdom of God transcends all boundaries.
Fast forward ten years to 1978, when I attended the International Congress in London. I was privileged to witness the performance of the Musical “The Blood of the Lamb” It was based on Vachel Lindsay’s epic poem “William Booth Enters Heaven.” John Gowans himself acted the part of the Founder William Booth and John Larsson was the pianist. I can still visualise the scene, “William Booth” walking slowly, yet confidently leading his soldiers into Heaven singing “Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?” It was a very touching scene. Here are the words of that song.
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God;
Both the rich and the poor, the despised, the distressed,
They'll sit down in the Kingdom of God.
And none will ask what they have been
Provided that their robes are clean;
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God.
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God;
To be met by the Father and welcomed and blessed,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God.
The black, the white, the dark, the fair,
Your colour will not matter there;
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God.
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God;
Out of great tribulation to triumph and rest
They’ll sit down in the Kingdom of God.
From every tribe and every race,
All men as brothers shall embrace;
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God. John Gowans (SA Song Book 170)
Nations may be at war with each other today, but the Kingdom of God knows no boundaries. What keeps me going? I look to Jesus the author and finisher of my faith who is waiting to me in the Kingdom to come. What has kept me faithful to Him all these years? The grace of God and the support of friends all over the world, yes the international army of believers. To God be the glory!
It has been my privilege throughout my years of service to attend retreats, conferences and seminars organised by The Salvation Army and other church groups. There was one congress which made a great lasting impact on me. It was the Asia South Pacific Congress on Evangelism held at the Singapore Conference Hall in November 1968.
We had been sent to establish the work of The Salvation Army in Kuala Lumpur in 1966 and had been there for only two years when I had to leave the family for Singapore to attend this meeting. Our work was new and challenging. It was not easy to leave my wife and our two small children. The third child was on the way. I must confess I went with a certain amount of reluctance.
Looking back now, I believe the Lord wanted me to be present at this special Congress. Dr. Stanley Mooneyham, vice-President of inter relations of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association was the coordinating director of the Congress. In his opening address, he quoted Charles Dickens. “It was the best of times it was the worst of times.”
That statement described a different age but fitted the time of the Congress. Tensions were high politically. In Malaysia there was much unrest which led to the racial riots in May 1969. Our youngest child Dora Poh Chin was born on 26th April that year. She is now a resident of The Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home. (See chapter 34 of this series – ‘coping with crisis.’)
The relationship between Indonesia and Singapore the host country of the Congress was at very low ebb. There was the sacking of the Singapore Embassy at Jakarta just three weeks before the Congress.
India and Pakistan were not on good terms and beneath the layer of civility there was tension.
Philippines and Malaysia were arguing over the question of the sovereignty of Sabah.
And here we were Christians from twenty four nations were holding a Congress in Singapore with the theme –“Christ Seeks Asia.” It appeared to be the wrong time, yes, the worst of times, but God always keeps perfect timing always. Our timing and God’s are not always in sync; hence it is vital that we seek Divine wisdom always.
When we met for the eight day Congress, we did not feel any tension; on the other hand there was that wonderful unity of spirit. Indians and Pakistanis prayed together, Malaysians and Filipinos interceded for each other, Singaporeans and Indonesians held hands and pleaded with the Lord to save the nations. That Congress taught me an important lesson - the Kingdom of God transcends all boundaries.
Fast forward ten years to 1978, when I attended the International Congress in London. I was privileged to witness the performance of the Musical “The Blood of the Lamb” It was based on Vachel Lindsay’s epic poem “William Booth Enters Heaven.” John Gowans himself acted the part of the Founder William Booth and John Larsson was the pianist. I can still visualise the scene, “William Booth” walking slowly, yet confidently leading his soldiers into Heaven singing “Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?” It was a very touching scene. Here are the words of that song.
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God;
Both the rich and the poor, the despised, the distressed,
They'll sit down in the Kingdom of God.
And none will ask what they have been
Provided that their robes are clean;
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God.
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God;
To be met by the Father and welcomed and blessed,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God.
The black, the white, the dark, the fair,
Your colour will not matter there;
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God.
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God;
Out of great tribulation to triumph and rest
They’ll sit down in the Kingdom of God.
From every tribe and every race,
All men as brothers shall embrace;
They shall come from the east, they shall come from the west,
And sit down in the Kingdom of God. John Gowans (SA Song Book 170)
Nations may be at war with each other today, but the Kingdom of God knows no boundaries. What keeps me going? I look to Jesus the author and finisher of my faith who is waiting to me in the Kingdom to come. What has kept me faithful to Him all these years? The grace of God and the support of friends all over the world, yes the international army of believers. To God be the glory!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Selah
Our age is obsessed with speed. We want instant answers; we eat instant food, drink instant coffee and make instant decisions! “In vain… reflections we would make, when half our knowledge we must snatch, not take” wrote Alexander Pope. We are pressed for time, so we snatch at knowledge or information in school or when we attend seminars. We have no time to reflect – this is the symptom of our age. Hurry, quick or you get left behind! What a sorry state we are in today.
Let me draw your attention to a word that appears repeatedly in the psalms. The word ‘Selah’ appears 71 times in psalms and three times in Habakkuk. When we come to this word, we take note of it, but do not read it aloud. It is a pause or musical intermission, rest, a period of silence. It comes from the Hebrew word meaning ‘to suspend in a balance’ or ‘to weigh’. In other words we suspend all other thoughts and weigh or reflect on the words we have just read or heard.
Picture a basket or some container. When you come across this word; pause, put the thoughts or ideas into the basket of your mind before moving on. Reflect, meditate or ponder. Reflect on the testimony given by a comrade. Ponder over the sermon you have just heard. Listen to the child who has just spoken to you. The poet Edward Young in his ‘Night Thoughts’ wrote:
‘A soul without reflection, like a house
Without inhabitant, soon run to ruins.’
Psalm 1 counsels us to ‘meditate on His law, (meaning His word) day and night.’ Selah. The prophet Jeremiah speaking of long list of afflictions and sorrow said, ‘Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope.’ Lamentations 3: 21 He knew how to reflect or ponder. Selah.
To my friends who stop to read this blog. It is Selah for you and for me. Think, ponder, and reflect on His word, His goodness, His love and mercy. It will do you good. It does to me always.
Let me draw your attention to a word that appears repeatedly in the psalms. The word ‘Selah’ appears 71 times in psalms and three times in Habakkuk. When we come to this word, we take note of it, but do not read it aloud. It is a pause or musical intermission, rest, a period of silence. It comes from the Hebrew word meaning ‘to suspend in a balance’ or ‘to weigh’. In other words we suspend all other thoughts and weigh or reflect on the words we have just read or heard.
Picture a basket or some container. When you come across this word; pause, put the thoughts or ideas into the basket of your mind before moving on. Reflect, meditate or ponder. Reflect on the testimony given by a comrade. Ponder over the sermon you have just heard. Listen to the child who has just spoken to you. The poet Edward Young in his ‘Night Thoughts’ wrote:
‘A soul without reflection, like a house
Without inhabitant, soon run to ruins.’
Psalm 1 counsels us to ‘meditate on His law, (meaning His word) day and night.’ Selah. The prophet Jeremiah speaking of long list of afflictions and sorrow said, ‘Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope.’ Lamentations 3: 21 He knew how to reflect or ponder. Selah.
To my friends who stop to read this blog. It is Selah for you and for me. Think, ponder, and reflect on His word, His goodness, His love and mercy. It will do you good. It does to me always.
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Judas Iscariot - the man who betrayed Jesus
Judas Iscariot was one of the twelve privileged men chosen by Jesus to be disciples. He spent three years with Jesus. He witnessed Jesus performing many miracles. He listened to His teachings. He was given the responsible task of looking after the common purse.
Many theories have sprung up through the ages concerning the reason why Judas betrayed Jesus. They often sound logical, but we need to go to Scriptures to find out. He betrayed Jesus for money. He made that decision himself.
Even at the Last Supper in the Upper Room, Jesus washed the feet of the disciples, and Judas was included. Even at that hour, Jesus held out His hand to save him, to prevent him going through with this evil deed. Judas was given an option, but he chose to go through with his evil deed. Yes, he sold Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.
We criticise Judas and justifiably so. During this Lenten season let us look at ourselves. What is our relationship with Jesus? Are we selling Jesus for a few pieces of silver? Do we stifle our convictions for material gain?
Lent is a time for soul searching. Let us examine our relationship with our Lord. Above all else, we need to stay close to the Lord.
We take a break from our studies of the Book of Revelation to focus our thoughts on Lent. The above was what we studied this morning at out Adult Bible class.
We had our Territorial Commander, Colonel Gillian Downer to conduct our Holiness meeting this morning. She chose for her theme for this first Sunday in Lent - "The temptation of Jesus" found in Matthew 4: 1-11
Many theories have sprung up through the ages concerning the reason why Judas betrayed Jesus. They often sound logical, but we need to go to Scriptures to find out. He betrayed Jesus for money. He made that decision himself.
Even at the Last Supper in the Upper Room, Jesus washed the feet of the disciples, and Judas was included. Even at that hour, Jesus held out His hand to save him, to prevent him going through with this evil deed. Judas was given an option, but he chose to go through with his evil deed. Yes, he sold Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.
We criticise Judas and justifiably so. During this Lenten season let us look at ourselves. What is our relationship with Jesus? Are we selling Jesus for a few pieces of silver? Do we stifle our convictions for material gain?
Lent is a time for soul searching. Let us examine our relationship with our Lord. Above all else, we need to stay close to the Lord.
We take a break from our studies of the Book of Revelation to focus our thoughts on Lent. The above was what we studied this morning at out Adult Bible class.
We had our Territorial Commander, Colonel Gillian Downer to conduct our Holiness meeting this morning. She chose for her theme for this first Sunday in Lent - "The temptation of Jesus" found in Matthew 4: 1-11
Friday, March 11, 2011
Lent - soul searching
During the week in my reading my attention was brought to an important subject of bitterness in the heart of people. J S Bonnell said this:
"Whenever one finds an individual who has become a fount of bitterness, taunting and criticising people, saying cruel things that wound the hearts of friends, one may be sure that he is dealing with someone who hates himself, who loathes and despises himself, and that the bitterness manifested by such a person is but the projection of his own contempt for himself."
Lent is a time of soul searching, confession and repentance. May the Holy Spirit search my own heart. I pray that any feeling which is unChristlike be revealed to me. I need His help to get right with God and my fellowmen.
I love the children's hymn which says
"If Jesus Christ was sent
To save us from our sin.
And teach all children to repent,
We should at once begin.
I am coming, Lord,
Coming now to Thee;
Wash me,cleanse me in Thy blood
That flowed on Calvary.
'Tis not enough to say,
We're sorry and repent,
While going on from day to day
On sinful ways still bent.
Repentance is to leave
The sins we loved before,
And show that we in earnest grieve
By doing so no more.
Lord, make us thus sincere.
To watch as well as pray;
However small, however dear,
Take all our sins away. (Ann Gilbert (verses) Lewis Hartsough (chorus)
"Whenever one finds an individual who has become a fount of bitterness, taunting and criticising people, saying cruel things that wound the hearts of friends, one may be sure that he is dealing with someone who hates himself, who loathes and despises himself, and that the bitterness manifested by such a person is but the projection of his own contempt for himself."
Lent is a time of soul searching, confession and repentance. May the Holy Spirit search my own heart. I pray that any feeling which is unChristlike be revealed to me. I need His help to get right with God and my fellowmen.
I love the children's hymn which says
"If Jesus Christ was sent
To save us from our sin.
And teach all children to repent,
We should at once begin.
I am coming, Lord,
Coming now to Thee;
Wash me,cleanse me in Thy blood
That flowed on Calvary.
'Tis not enough to say,
We're sorry and repent,
While going on from day to day
On sinful ways still bent.
Repentance is to leave
The sins we loved before,
And show that we in earnest grieve
By doing so no more.
Lord, make us thus sincere.
To watch as well as pray;
However small, however dear,
Take all our sins away. (Ann Gilbert (verses) Lewis Hartsough (chorus)
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Ash Wednesday
Today is Ash Wednesday, first day of Lent. It occurs 46 days (40 days not counting Sundays) before Easter. It is a movable feast, falling on a different date each year because it is dependent on the date of Easter. It can occur as early as February 4 (February 5 on leap years) or as late as March 10.
Ash Wednesday derives its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of adherents as a sign of mourning and repentance to God. The ashes used are typically gathered after the palms or Palm Crosses from the previous year's Palm Sunday are burned.
During the Lent season we reflect on spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting and self denial and almsgiving. Most of us live very busy lives. Pressure is on us to get things done and how easy it is to neglect the things of the spirit.
Lent is a special time to pray and meditate on God's word and His love for us. Ponder on the sacrifice of Jesus Who left Heaven to come down to earth and die for our sins. Let us spend time and ponder on verses of Scripture such as the following.
Remember, O man, that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return.— Genesis 3:19
Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.— Mark 1:15
Repent, and hear the good news. — Mark 1:15
Let this Lent season be a time of spiritual renewal.I make this my daily prayer especially during this Lent season.
"Search me O God, and know my heart today;
Try me O Saviour, and know my thoughts I pray;
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin and set me free." Edwin Orr
I share with you a prayer written many years ago by an old saint.
"O Lord and Heavenly Father, Who has given unto us Your people the true bread that comes down from heaven, even Your Son Jesus Christ, grant that throughout this Lent our souls may be fed by Him that we may continually live in Him and He in us; and that day by day we may be renewed in spirit by the power of His endless life, Who gave Himself for us and now lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever"
Frederick B Macnutt (1873- 1949)
Ash Wednesday derives its name from the practice of placing ashes on the foreheads of adherents as a sign of mourning and repentance to God. The ashes used are typically gathered after the palms or Palm Crosses from the previous year's Palm Sunday are burned.
During the Lent season we reflect on spiritual disciplines such as prayer, fasting and self denial and almsgiving. Most of us live very busy lives. Pressure is on us to get things done and how easy it is to neglect the things of the spirit.
Lent is a special time to pray and meditate on God's word and His love for us. Ponder on the sacrifice of Jesus Who left Heaven to come down to earth and die for our sins. Let us spend time and ponder on verses of Scripture such as the following.
Remember, O man, that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return.— Genesis 3:19
Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel.— Mark 1:15
Repent, and hear the good news. — Mark 1:15
Let this Lent season be a time of spiritual renewal.I make this my daily prayer especially during this Lent season.
"Search me O God, and know my heart today;
Try me O Saviour, and know my thoughts I pray;
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from every sin and set me free." Edwin Orr
I share with you a prayer written many years ago by an old saint.
"O Lord and Heavenly Father, Who has given unto us Your people the true bread that comes down from heaven, even Your Son Jesus Christ, grant that throughout this Lent our souls may be fed by Him that we may continually live in Him and He in us; and that day by day we may be renewed in spirit by the power of His endless life, Who gave Himself for us and now lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever"
Frederick B Macnutt (1873- 1949)
Sunday, March 6, 2011
A day of worship
We focused our thoughts on Revelation 13: 1-10 - The Beast of the Sea. The sea is often in the Old Testament a symbol of the abyss or bottomless pit. So from the sea came this beast at the command of the dragon, Satan. Ironically, even though the beast is extremely repulsive and scheming, people seem to desire its ways. The beast uses deception that amazes the people who are drawn to be its followers. Satan always seeks to wipe out the church, but we are assured, God is still on the throne and He will remember His own.
This passage was written specifically to the seven churches facing persecution. It also applies to us today.
Following the Bible class we went to the Holiness meeting at the main hall. The message was based on Psalm 33. Major Pascoe commented on this psalm with three sub headings
1. A Song from God's word (4-5)
2 A Song from God's works ( 6-9)
3 A new song from our personal walk with the Lord (18)
We thank God for the freedom of worship in our country. We don't take this for granted. Let us continue to pray for our leaders that they be given wisdom to run our country.
This passage was written specifically to the seven churches facing persecution. It also applies to us today.
Following the Bible class we went to the Holiness meeting at the main hall. The message was based on Psalm 33. Major Pascoe commented on this psalm with three sub headings
1. A Song from God's word (4-5)
2 A Song from God's works ( 6-9)
3 A new song from our personal walk with the Lord (18)
We thank God for the freedom of worship in our country. We don't take this for granted. Let us continue to pray for our leaders that they be given wisdom to run our country.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Wedding of Toh Soon and Barry Chittendon
Attended the wedding of Toh Soon and Barry this morning. It was conducted by Major Ruth Pascoe our Corps officer (pastor) We have known Toh Soon for many years and it was such to joy to be part of the congregation to witness this wedding. Toh Soon was one of the staff of the Children's Home at Pasir Panjang for many years.
The meeting began with the singing of the great hymn "How great Thou art"- Toh Soon's favourite hymn. Then it was my privilege to do the opening prayer thanking God for bringing us together for this special occasion and asking for His blessing specially for the bridal couple.
Sister Anne van Gaalen read the well known "Love chapter" 1 Corinthians 13. It was beautifully read with much feeling and it blessed us all. Anne and her husband served in Singapore and Kuching as Salvation Army officers many years ago. When we were Corps Officers (pastors) of Central Corps they were our soldiers and took very active part in the Corps. They related well with local folk and are remembered with much love and affection. She came specifically for the wedding.
William Booth Songsers sang Stan E Ditmer's song "I'm in His hands," At Toh Soon's request I sang the second verse as a solo. We thank God the couple know the Lord and are certainly in His hands.
In the congregation were many whom we have known for many years. They used to be children in the Children's Home at Pasir Panjang. Now they have their own families. A number of Toh Soon's relatives were present to celebrate with them.
Barry's brother Peter came from Sydney, Australia to be the best man. Barry is from Brisbane, Queensland.
This was the first time I've witnessed a wedding where the bride entered the church in a wheel chair and left in the same way.
After the wedding we all adjourned to the social hall for the reception. It was a time of good fellowship and enjoyment of good food provided by the couple.
I am pleased I belong to the family of God. William Booth Corps is like a family and there is wonderful support for each other.
The meeting began with the singing of the great hymn "How great Thou art"- Toh Soon's favourite hymn. Then it was my privilege to do the opening prayer thanking God for bringing us together for this special occasion and asking for His blessing specially for the bridal couple.
Sister Anne van Gaalen read the well known "Love chapter" 1 Corinthians 13. It was beautifully read with much feeling and it blessed us all. Anne and her husband served in Singapore and Kuching as Salvation Army officers many years ago. When we were Corps Officers (pastors) of Central Corps they were our soldiers and took very active part in the Corps. They related well with local folk and are remembered with much love and affection. She came specifically for the wedding.
William Booth Songsers sang Stan E Ditmer's song "I'm in His hands," At Toh Soon's request I sang the second verse as a solo. We thank God the couple know the Lord and are certainly in His hands.
In the congregation were many whom we have known for many years. They used to be children in the Children's Home at Pasir Panjang. Now they have their own families. A number of Toh Soon's relatives were present to celebrate with them.
Barry's brother Peter came from Sydney, Australia to be the best man. Barry is from Brisbane, Queensland.
This was the first time I've witnessed a wedding where the bride entered the church in a wheel chair and left in the same way.
After the wedding we all adjourned to the social hall for the reception. It was a time of good fellowship and enjoyment of good food provided by the couple.
I am pleased I belong to the family of God. William Booth Corps is like a family and there is wonderful support for each other.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
I would be true
In the Salvation Army Song Book, the song "I would be true" has only two verses, but with a chorus added, "Jesus will help me,"
I came across the song which has six verses.
I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend of all - the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love and lift.
I would be faithful through each passing moment;
I would be constantly in touch with God;
I would be strong to follow where He leads me;
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod.
Who is so low that I am not his brother?
Who is so high that I've no path for him?
Who is so poor, that I may not feel his hunger?
Who is so rich that I may not pity him?
Who is so hurt I may not know his heartache?
Who sings for joy my heart may never share?
Who in God's heaven has passed beyond my vision?
Who to hell's depths where I may never fare?
May none, then, call on me for understanding,
May none, then, turn to me for help in pain,
And drain alone his bitter cup of sorrow,
Or find he knocks upon my heart in vain.
Impossible to accomplish what I desire to be and to do without the help of God. So I need to add that prayer
Jesus will help me
He is my Friend;
He'll lead I will follow
Till life's very end.
I came across the song which has six verses.
I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend of all - the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love and lift.
I would be faithful through each passing moment;
I would be constantly in touch with God;
I would be strong to follow where He leads me;
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod.
Who is so low that I am not his brother?
Who is so high that I've no path for him?
Who is so poor, that I may not feel his hunger?
Who is so rich that I may not pity him?
Who is so hurt I may not know his heartache?
Who sings for joy my heart may never share?
Who in God's heaven has passed beyond my vision?
Who to hell's depths where I may never fare?
May none, then, call on me for understanding,
May none, then, turn to me for help in pain,
And drain alone his bitter cup of sorrow,
Or find he knocks upon my heart in vain.
Impossible to accomplish what I desire to be and to do without the help of God. So I need to add that prayer
Jesus will help me
He is my Friend;
He'll lead I will follow
Till life's very end.
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