My wife and I use the WORDS OF LIFE for our devotions every morning. Today we came to the last page of this quarter's reading - a meditation on Psalm 37: 1-8. the writer ends with Lieut. Colonel Mina Russell's poem "Commit your way to the Lord"
We met the Colonel many years ago, in the seventies. She was on transit at Singapore Airport. Her flight to Australia was cancelled for some reason. It was midnight. So she telephoned The Salvation Army Headquarters and at that time, after office hours, all calls were directed to the General Secretary's quarters. I answered her call, then drove to the Airport and brought her to our place and billeted her for the night. She was very tired and her arm was in a sling. She really appreciated the hospitality given.
She then made arrangements to stop at Singapore on her way home to the States. We arranged accomodation for her and also invited her to speak at the Women's Fellowship one evening. She spoke on "The Motherhood of God."
Well we became friends and before she left for the airport, she gave us some of her notes of her lectures which I have kept to this day. We were blessed by this saintly lady.
Commit my way?
The way so pleasing in the past?
Commit my way?
The way I live and walk today?
Commit my way?
The way I think and feel and do?
Commit my way?
The way I see for days ahead?
This means there's nothing left for me,
No way that I can choose to go.
It can't be so, that I must give
To God my rights, my will, my way.
And yet, if I would follow Christ,
This is his way, the Calvary way;
The Father's will,his plan, his way,
The only way to save the world;
The way for me if I am called-
The way of love, the Jesus way.
I'm glad I am still walking the Jesus' way. There have been disappointments, discouragements, but no regrets whatsoever. God gives the best to those who leave the choice with Him.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Lunch with an old friend.
Yesterday, we were invited out by an old friend from Hong Kong the Rev. Stephen Ng for lunch at the Marriot Hotel. He is a retired minister of the gospel, now in his eighties, but still physically and mentally fit. He is here on holiday to visit his son who is married to a Singaporean. Unfortunately his wife was not able to come with him due to health reasons.
He was at one time the General Secretary of The Salvation Army in Hong Kong, appointed about the same time as I got my appointment in the same capacity in Singapore 1973. For some reason, he left The Army, joined the Rhenish Church and went to England to pastor a church there. To me former salvationists are still brothers and sisters in Christ.
When we were appointed to Hong Kong in January 1983, he had already returned to the colony and was chaplain of Chung Chi College at College, one of the constituent colleges of the University of Hong Kong. He invited me to speak at his chapel services from time to time. He supported The Salvation Army in whatever way he could, preached at some of our Salvation Army Corps (churches) when invited by the officers.
Later he joined the Church of Christ in China and was their General Secretary till he retired. He and his wife Esther gave us a farewell dinner before we left for the Philippines in 1990.
We have kept in contact all through the years and every time he comes to Singapore he invites us for a meal with him. Although we belong to different denominations, we love and serve the same God and engage in the same mission of saving souls, growing saints and caring for suffering humanity.
We thank God for friends both local and overseas. Now with the internet it is easy to keep in touch. Let us value our friends. Solomon wisely penned these words, “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labour. (10) For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10
I came across this thought recently - a 2.00 a.m. friend! A friend is the kind of person if you call him at 2:00 in the morning and tell him you need him he does not ask, “So what’s the problem” and then decide whether or not to come. He simply asks, “Where are you?” as he is getting dressed! Yes, we have a number of 2a.m. friends, but I won't mention their names in this blog. I know whom to call at 2.00 a.m. “A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17: 17 (I use the pronoun his/him, but you know it includes she/her as well. The masculine embraces the feminine)
Another thought came to my mind, A real friend never stabs you in the back, he guards your back! He stands by you and gives you all the support you need, physical, emotional and spiritual.
The best friend I have - Jesus. What a friend we have in Jesus! He is there for me, any time - be it day or night. And for you too if you accept His love and friendship.
He was at one time the General Secretary of The Salvation Army in Hong Kong, appointed about the same time as I got my appointment in the same capacity in Singapore 1973. For some reason, he left The Army, joined the Rhenish Church and went to England to pastor a church there. To me former salvationists are still brothers and sisters in Christ.
When we were appointed to Hong Kong in January 1983, he had already returned to the colony and was chaplain of Chung Chi College at College, one of the constituent colleges of the University of Hong Kong. He invited me to speak at his chapel services from time to time. He supported The Salvation Army in whatever way he could, preached at some of our Salvation Army Corps (churches) when invited by the officers.
Later he joined the Church of Christ in China and was their General Secretary till he retired. He and his wife Esther gave us a farewell dinner before we left for the Philippines in 1990.
We have kept in contact all through the years and every time he comes to Singapore he invites us for a meal with him. Although we belong to different denominations, we love and serve the same God and engage in the same mission of saving souls, growing saints and caring for suffering humanity.
We thank God for friends both local and overseas. Now with the internet it is easy to keep in touch. Let us value our friends. Solomon wisely penned these words, “Two are better than one, Because they have a good reward for their labour. (10) For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, For he has no one to help him up. Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10
I came across this thought recently - a 2.00 a.m. friend! A friend is the kind of person if you call him at 2:00 in the morning and tell him you need him he does not ask, “So what’s the problem” and then decide whether or not to come. He simply asks, “Where are you?” as he is getting dressed! Yes, we have a number of 2a.m. friends, but I won't mention their names in this blog. I know whom to call at 2.00 a.m. “A friend loves at all times, And a brother is born for adversity.” Proverbs 17: 17 (I use the pronoun his/him, but you know it includes she/her as well. The masculine embraces the feminine)
Another thought came to my mind, A real friend never stabs you in the back, he guards your back! He stands by you and gives you all the support you need, physical, emotional and spiritual.
The best friend I have - Jesus. What a friend we have in Jesus! He is there for me, any time - be it day or night. And for you too if you accept His love and friendship.
God has His reasons
Today is a Public Holiday - Hari Raya. So instead of going to Peacehaven, we are home.
God has His reasons
For times and seasons,
For the changes in pattern and line;
The good and the bad,
The joyful, the sad,
Find a place in His ordered design.
God has His reasons
For times and seasons,
And His love in His purpose is shown;
He gives and He takes,
He makes no mistakes,
Give or take He enriches His own.
God has His reasons
For times and seasons,
Though so much we may not comprehend;
But this we can know,
However things go,
All will work for our good in the end
God his His reasons
For times and seasons,
So why question His will and His way?
He knows what is best,
Acceptance brings rest,
He'll explain at the end of the day.
Mona Westergaard.
God has His reasons
For times and seasons,
For the changes in pattern and line;
The good and the bad,
The joyful, the sad,
Find a place in His ordered design.
God has His reasons
For times and seasons,
And His love in His purpose is shown;
He gives and He takes,
He makes no mistakes,
Give or take He enriches His own.
God has His reasons
For times and seasons,
Though so much we may not comprehend;
But this we can know,
However things go,
All will work for our good in the end
God his His reasons
For times and seasons,
So why question His will and His way?
He knows what is best,
Acceptance brings rest,
He'll explain at the end of the day.
Mona Westergaard.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Sunday - a day of Remembrance and Rejoicing
We woke up as usual at 5.00 a.m. and listened to BBC news and one of the items was the result of the Presidential Election. Dr. Tony Tan was elected President for the next six years.
I prayed for all our officers who would be leading in worship and proclaiming the word day. I prayed for the Central corps Band which is now in Kuching. Two of our grandchildren, David and Rachel are in the band. Kuching has a special place in our hearts as we spent three very happy years there - 1962 to 1965.
I felt very relaxed as Terence Tan our Corps Secretary would be doing the Adult Bible class this morning. I would take a rest this week from teaching or preaching. It was a good session, plenty of participation and discussion as we reflected on Genesis.
We attended the Holiness meeting conducted by Major Ruth Pascoe who had returned to Singapore only last last night.
Sunday is a Day of Remembrance. God specifically commanded, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy." The majority of Christians have accepted Sunday, the Lord's Day as the day of rest and worship. I am not here to argue the virtues of Sunday Worship over against Sabbath observance, the reasons for the church to change from the seventh to the first day are simply this - our Lord Jesus Christ rose on the first day of the week. When we meet we are reminded of the great christian doctrine of the Resurrection. Jesus is alive! According to First Corinthians, the early church worshipped on the first day of the week.
One of the things we do in our worship is singing. I enjoy music and singing. What better way is there to express the joy in our hearts than through music. Paul tells us we should speak with each other in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in our hearts to the Lord.
Thank God we have religious freedom in our country. Let us value and enjoy this freedom.
The Bible tells us 'let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - all the more as you see the Day approaching.' Hebrews 10: 25
Philippians 4:4 says "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
I prayed for all our officers who would be leading in worship and proclaiming the word day. I prayed for the Central corps Band which is now in Kuching. Two of our grandchildren, David and Rachel are in the band. Kuching has a special place in our hearts as we spent three very happy years there - 1962 to 1965.
I felt very relaxed as Terence Tan our Corps Secretary would be doing the Adult Bible class this morning. I would take a rest this week from teaching or preaching. It was a good session, plenty of participation and discussion as we reflected on Genesis.
We attended the Holiness meeting conducted by Major Ruth Pascoe who had returned to Singapore only last last night.
Sunday is a Day of Remembrance. God specifically commanded, "Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy." The majority of Christians have accepted Sunday, the Lord's Day as the day of rest and worship. I am not here to argue the virtues of Sunday Worship over against Sabbath observance, the reasons for the church to change from the seventh to the first day are simply this - our Lord Jesus Christ rose on the first day of the week. When we meet we are reminded of the great christian doctrine of the Resurrection. Jesus is alive! According to First Corinthians, the early church worshipped on the first day of the week.
One of the things we do in our worship is singing. I enjoy music and singing. What better way is there to express the joy in our hearts than through music. Paul tells us we should speak with each other in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in our hearts to the Lord.
Thank God we have religious freedom in our country. Let us value and enjoy this freedom.
The Bible tells us 'let us not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - all the more as you see the Day approaching.' Hebrews 10: 25
Philippians 4:4 says "Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!"
Preidential Election
On Saturday 27th August, we joined our fellow citizens to vote for the President. We left home at 7.40 am. and walked to Chestnut Drive Secondary School where we cast our votes. It was a wet day, but we had our umbrellas. Glad of the privilege to take part in the affairs of our country.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Fellowship of believers
Saying Good bye to Gary Barto
Every Friday, we hold a cell group meeting at our home commencing at 10.00 a.m. and usually ending at 11.30 a.m. Some stay for lunch afterwards, others make their way home.
Today, Mr. Gary Barto, an American working as an engineer on the MV Doulous Phos for the last ten years hosted the cell members to a farewell lunch at North Border Restaurant at Rochester Park. He started attending our cell more than a year ago when he and his mother stayed at our Retreat Centre. Recently, his son and daughter-in-law came to Singapore for a holiday. His 95 year old mother came with them; it was her second visit to our country. The whole family attended our cell.
On 20th August 2010, our cell group members paid a visit to Doulos. Gary had made all the arrangements. We had a great time exploring the ship anchored at Tuas. We were told the interesting history of the Doulos.
On 2nd September 2010 Gary invited our cell group members to the RIVERBOAT for dinner. We enjoyed the fellowship and the delicious dinner. This floating restaurant is moored at Marina South Pier. We met the owner Mr. Eric Saw a very humble devout Christian who gives a wonderful testimony of his walk with the Lord.
We thank God for good Christian friends who visit and share fellowship with us. Not all belong to our church, but the important thing is, they are citizens of the Kingdom of God. We have been blessed by our friends local and from overseas fellow pilgrims on the journey of life.
Many times in the New Testament, we are exhorted to relate to one another. If all fellow believers are obedient to these instructions, then truly there is real unity of love in the church of Christ.
Let me share with you some of the verses that tell us of our duties towards our fellow members of the church.
We must bear one another’s burdens whether spiritual or material. ‘Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.’(Gal. 6: 2) We are to be a sharing community. Sometimes a brother or sister may be compelled to bear burdens due to the chances and changes of life. It comes from outside – some crisis, some emergency, some sorrow may suddenly descend upon a person. We are told to give support and in doing so, fulfil the law of Christ.
We are to consider how we may ‘spur one another on toward love and good deeds.’ (Hebrews 10: 24) We live in a world where bad people incite others to do wrong.
We Christians need to encourage each other to noble living. We can best do this by setting the fine example. We can do it by reminding others of our tradition of doing good deeds without thinking of reward.
Let us edify or build each other up by our speech and actions. ‘Therefore encourage one another and build each other up....’ (1 Thes.5: 11) We do this by our speech and actions. Honour and esteem other members of the church as better than ourselves. ‘Be devoted to one another by brotherly or sisterly love. Honour one another above yourselves.’ (Rom. 12: 10)
This list is not exhaustive, so add to it your own verses. One thing I want to emphasise – unity is a very important aspect of the well being of our church. It is a very powerful testimony to the world that we are Christ’s followers.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
Before our Father’s throne,
We pour our ardent prayers;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
Our comforts, and our cares.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.
When we asunder part,
It gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be joined in heart,
And hope to meet again. John Fawcett
(SA Song Book 660)
‘
Every Friday, we hold a cell group meeting at our home commencing at 10.00 a.m. and usually ending at 11.30 a.m. Some stay for lunch afterwards, others make their way home.
Today, Mr. Gary Barto, an American working as an engineer on the MV Doulous Phos for the last ten years hosted the cell members to a farewell lunch at North Border Restaurant at Rochester Park. He started attending our cell more than a year ago when he and his mother stayed at our Retreat Centre. Recently, his son and daughter-in-law came to Singapore for a holiday. His 95 year old mother came with them; it was her second visit to our country. The whole family attended our cell.
On 20th August 2010, our cell group members paid a visit to Doulos. Gary had made all the arrangements. We had a great time exploring the ship anchored at Tuas. We were told the interesting history of the Doulos.
On 2nd September 2010 Gary invited our cell group members to the RIVERBOAT for dinner. We enjoyed the fellowship and the delicious dinner. This floating restaurant is moored at Marina South Pier. We met the owner Mr. Eric Saw a very humble devout Christian who gives a wonderful testimony of his walk with the Lord.
We thank God for good Christian friends who visit and share fellowship with us. Not all belong to our church, but the important thing is, they are citizens of the Kingdom of God. We have been blessed by our friends local and from overseas fellow pilgrims on the journey of life.
Many times in the New Testament, we are exhorted to relate to one another. If all fellow believers are obedient to these instructions, then truly there is real unity of love in the church of Christ.
Let me share with you some of the verses that tell us of our duties towards our fellow members of the church.
We must bear one another’s burdens whether spiritual or material. ‘Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ.’(Gal. 6: 2) We are to be a sharing community. Sometimes a brother or sister may be compelled to bear burdens due to the chances and changes of life. It comes from outside – some crisis, some emergency, some sorrow may suddenly descend upon a person. We are told to give support and in doing so, fulfil the law of Christ.
We are to consider how we may ‘spur one another on toward love and good deeds.’ (Hebrews 10: 24) We live in a world where bad people incite others to do wrong.
We Christians need to encourage each other to noble living. We can best do this by setting the fine example. We can do it by reminding others of our tradition of doing good deeds without thinking of reward.
Let us edify or build each other up by our speech and actions. ‘Therefore encourage one another and build each other up....’ (1 Thes.5: 11) We do this by our speech and actions. Honour and esteem other members of the church as better than ourselves. ‘Be devoted to one another by brotherly or sisterly love. Honour one another above yourselves.’ (Rom. 12: 10)
This list is not exhaustive, so add to it your own verses. One thing I want to emphasise – unity is a very important aspect of the well being of our church. It is a very powerful testimony to the world that we are Christ’s followers.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
Before our Father’s throne,
We pour our ardent prayers;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims are one,
Our comforts, and our cares.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.
When we asunder part,
It gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be joined in heart,
And hope to meet again. John Fawcett
(SA Song Book 660)
‘
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Ministering to residents at HOPE Centre
We count it a privilege to be able to visit Peacehaven every Tuesday. Yesterday, it was at HOPE Centre, the Home that caters for those with dementia in various degrees. We were blessed conversing with these dear folk, listening to their stories about their families and their adventures of the past. True, we listen to the same stories every time we meet them, but it gives them the opportunity to talk with visitors.
The Salvation Army put up this building adjacent to Peacehaven Home and opened a conference hall and hostel some years back. Somehow things did not work out. There were reasons and I do not want to join in the speculation. But I firmly believe the Lord has His own purpose for us, so today it is the HOPE Centre which meets a great need. The Lien Foundation has been supporting our work.
We wish we could be with the residents and staff every week, but Peacehaven is very big, there are more than 400 residents and we are able to visit HOPE Centre only once a fortnight - on the second Tuesday of the month only to do pastoral work and on the fourth Tuesday to conduct chapel service. We use Chinese and English in the meeting. Yesterday as soon as I started the meeting, one lady called out, "Please sing 'What a Friend we have in Jesus.'" Another wanted, "Jesus love me this I know." My concertina is well used in Peacehaven!
After each chapel service, I spend time at the piano playing their favourite hymns, like "Blessed assurance" "To God be the glory" and the one they love best, "Jesus loves me this I know."
Every time we visit them, we are always greeted with the complaint "It's been a long time since you last came to see us." Then when we leave them, we hear the same words every time,"When are you coming again?" We all have our sense of time and as we get older time just flies. We often hear the lament, "Where has all the time gone"
Well, we all look forward to spend eternity in heaven. We live in time, but the word of God speaks of time in terms of quality and quantity. We are used to the latter way of reckoning of years and months or chronological time. Peter tells us "With the Lord one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day" 2 Peter 3: 8
Time is something that belongs to our present world as we know it. It is part of the created order and we have no conception of eternity until we get there. Eternity is fully quality time.
We live in time and we live in hope. So it is appropriate that the centre is named HOPE Centre. We hope our visits will encourage the residents to continue to live in hope for Christ is our Hope.
"Praise be the the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead," 1 Peter 1: 3
The Salvation Army put up this building adjacent to Peacehaven Home and opened a conference hall and hostel some years back. Somehow things did not work out. There were reasons and I do not want to join in the speculation. But I firmly believe the Lord has His own purpose for us, so today it is the HOPE Centre which meets a great need. The Lien Foundation has been supporting our work.
We wish we could be with the residents and staff every week, but Peacehaven is very big, there are more than 400 residents and we are able to visit HOPE Centre only once a fortnight - on the second Tuesday of the month only to do pastoral work and on the fourth Tuesday to conduct chapel service. We use Chinese and English in the meeting. Yesterday as soon as I started the meeting, one lady called out, "Please sing 'What a Friend we have in Jesus.'" Another wanted, "Jesus love me this I know." My concertina is well used in Peacehaven!
After each chapel service, I spend time at the piano playing their favourite hymns, like "Blessed assurance" "To God be the glory" and the one they love best, "Jesus loves me this I know."
Every time we visit them, we are always greeted with the complaint "It's been a long time since you last came to see us." Then when we leave them, we hear the same words every time,"When are you coming again?" We all have our sense of time and as we get older time just flies. We often hear the lament, "Where has all the time gone"
Well, we all look forward to spend eternity in heaven. We live in time, but the word of God speaks of time in terms of quality and quantity. We are used to the latter way of reckoning of years and months or chronological time. Peter tells us "With the Lord one day is as a thousand years and a thousand years as one day" 2 Peter 3: 8
Time is something that belongs to our present world as we know it. It is part of the created order and we have no conception of eternity until we get there. Eternity is fully quality time.
We live in time and we live in hope. So it is appropriate that the centre is named HOPE Centre. We hope our visits will encourage the residents to continue to live in hope for Christ is our Hope.
"Praise be the the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In His great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead," 1 Peter 1: 3
Monday, August 22, 2011
Engaging in ministry
It was a packed Sunday. In the absence of Major Pascoe I did the meeting at Eratchippu (Tamil Corps) at the basement of Praisehaven. There was first the Prayer meeting where five of us were present. Then we began our Worship at 9.00 a.m. with seven people but as the meeting progressed more people turned up till we had a congregation of about 40. Our Corps Secretary Terence Tan did my Bible class for me.
Brother Mani was very kind to interpret the message into Tamil.
We joined our many friends at the William Booth corps. Again it was our privilege to conduct the meeting. My wife led and I spoke and a number of folk participated by reading the Scriptures and prayer. We had a good congregation of about 200 people. There were several new comers.
We had our usual Prayer meeting after lunch, then we rushed to attend the wake at Kwong Avenue. The mother of Jessie and Anne Kwong was promoted to Glory. Mrs. Kwong has been a member of the Balestier Corps for many years and no doubt will be greatly missed by the folk. We got home quite late and by the time we had our dinner it was time to go to bed. It was a busy day, but we thank God for the privilege of engaging in ministry of preaching, teaching and visiting the people.
God's word declares "Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction."
2 Timothy 4:2
Brother Mani was very kind to interpret the message into Tamil.
We joined our many friends at the William Booth corps. Again it was our privilege to conduct the meeting. My wife led and I spoke and a number of folk participated by reading the Scriptures and prayer. We had a good congregation of about 200 people. There were several new comers.
We had our usual Prayer meeting after lunch, then we rushed to attend the wake at Kwong Avenue. The mother of Jessie and Anne Kwong was promoted to Glory. Mrs. Kwong has been a member of the Balestier Corps for many years and no doubt will be greatly missed by the folk. We got home quite late and by the time we had our dinner it was time to go to bed. It was a busy day, but we thank God for the privilege of engaging in ministry of preaching, teaching and visiting the people.
God's word declares "Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction."
2 Timothy 4:2
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
This is my story - 60 (Hong Kong/Taiwan)
60 – Our visit to Taiwan Division
In 1928 Colonel Yasowa Segawa of Japan pioneered the work of The Salvation Army in the then Formosa, (in Portuguese meaning ‘beautiful island’) but the work was curtailed by the Second World War. When war ended in 1945, Formosa was freed from Japan. The Allied nations agreed that the island should be returned to China. Taiwan had been ceded to Japan by China during the Qing Dynasty at the signing of the Treaty of Shimonoseki after the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895.
When the Communists took over mainland China in 1949, the Nationalist government under Generalissimo Chiang Kai Shek retreated to Formosa, set up a separate Government and called it by its original name Taiwan. He ruled the island as the President of the Republic of China until his death in 1975 when other leaders took over.
The Salvation Army did not operate during this period till the arrival of two American servicemen, Leslie Lovestead and Robert McEaneney, both Salvationists from America. The Sunday before Leslie’s departure to Taiwan, his parents, Corps Officers of Ocala Corps Florida, Major and Mrs. Lloyd Lovestead prayed and presented him with the Army flag.
Leslie befriended two former Salvationists – Liu Hsiu Huo, former Salvation Army officer during the Japanese rule in Taiwan, and the Reverend Hsieh Po Wu, pastor of a large Baptist Church in Taichung. The latter too was a former Salvation Army Officer in mainland China. Rev. Hsieh subsequently resigned from the Baptist church and became the first unofficial officer of The Salvation Army in Taiwan! One day Leslie playing a mouth organ and Liu Hsiu Huo beating the drum marched through the streets in Taichung. This parade of two witnesses of Christ attracted much attention! I wonder how many Salvationists would be brave enough do the same thing today!
Thus the Army re-commenced in Taiwan with no instruction from Headquarters, no fund to pay for expenses, no hall, no one to be responsible to except to the Lord! This Corps grew rapidly. Help later came from the Florida Division of The Salvation Army in response to Leslie Lovestead’s appeal for support. Lieut. Colonel J Clinton Eacott who had spent some twenty nine years as a missionary in China shared the vision and encouraged friends to contribute. That’s one of the great advantages of an international organization like The Salvation Army – mutual support. Let’s value and cherish this international spirit.
Before Leslie returned home to America, he wrote to International Headquarters. General Frederick Coutts sent two retired officers, Colonel and Mrs. George Lancashire, who had spent sixteen years as missionaries in China to Taiwan. They arrived on 30th September 1965 and were warmly welcomed by Leslie Lovestead and McEaneny and other civic dignitaries. They came to a thriving Corps with some forty adults ready to be enrolled as Salvationists!
Leslie Lovestead with his new bride Li Meng of Taiwan were now ready to return to the States, mission accomplished!
Fast forward to January 1983, my wife and I made our first official visit to the Division under the leadership of Captain and Mrs. James Lau Man Kin, Hong Kong officers serving in Taiwan since 1977. They and their two boys, Michael and Kenneth lived in one of the rented units in the compound of the Presbyterian Church. We were billeted with them, and enjoyed a great time of fellowship.
Divisional Headquarters and the Taipei Central Corps (church) shared the same building – the Corps occupying ground level and the DHQ located in the basement. We had our welcome meeting at the Central Corps during a weeknight meeting; then the next day went for a tour of Taipei centres.
The Army in the capital Taipei had three corps at that time– the Central corps, Nei Hu and Kuting. There was also a very large kindergarten operating in a rented building. The Central Corps ran a Day care centre and much community work under the direction of Captain and Mrs. Arthur Chen.
The same week Captain and Mrs. Lau took us for a tour of the rest of the Division, visiting first the Taichung Corps and finally ended up at Tainan Corps where we conducted the Corps anniversary. The dialect used in Tainan is Hokkien, which we speak, so we were able converse freely with the people without using an interpreter.
With the exception of Central and the newly acquired hall at Nei Hu, all the centres were using rented property. This meant constant changes of location thus causing much disruption to our work. So during our term we were able to get international support to purchase some new properties.
The Army was very small like Gideon’s army, but it had an important role to play in the community. We thank God for the dedicated leadership of Captain and Mrs. James Lau.
Colonel James Lau was promoted to Glory in 1999. Mrs. Colonel Alice Lau is retired and lives in Hong Kong. Michael and Kenneth and their wives now live in Singapore and United States respectively.
In 1928 Colonel Yasowa Segawa of Japan pioneered the work of The Salvation Army in the then Formosa, (in Portuguese meaning ‘beautiful island’) but the work was curtailed by the Second World War. When war ended in 1945, Formosa was freed from Japan. The Allied nations agreed that the island should be returned to China. Taiwan had been ceded to Japan by China during the Qing Dynasty at the signing of the Treaty of Shimonoseki after the First Sino-Japanese War in 1895.
When the Communists took over mainland China in 1949, the Nationalist government under Generalissimo Chiang Kai Shek retreated to Formosa, set up a separate Government and called it by its original name Taiwan. He ruled the island as the President of the Republic of China until his death in 1975 when other leaders took over.
The Salvation Army did not operate during this period till the arrival of two American servicemen, Leslie Lovestead and Robert McEaneney, both Salvationists from America. The Sunday before Leslie’s departure to Taiwan, his parents, Corps Officers of Ocala Corps Florida, Major and Mrs. Lloyd Lovestead prayed and presented him with the Army flag.
Leslie befriended two former Salvationists – Liu Hsiu Huo, former Salvation Army officer during the Japanese rule in Taiwan, and the Reverend Hsieh Po Wu, pastor of a large Baptist Church in Taichung. The latter too was a former Salvation Army Officer in mainland China. Rev. Hsieh subsequently resigned from the Baptist church and became the first unofficial officer of The Salvation Army in Taiwan! One day Leslie playing a mouth organ and Liu Hsiu Huo beating the drum marched through the streets in Taichung. This parade of two witnesses of Christ attracted much attention! I wonder how many Salvationists would be brave enough do the same thing today!
Thus the Army re-commenced in Taiwan with no instruction from Headquarters, no fund to pay for expenses, no hall, no one to be responsible to except to the Lord! This Corps grew rapidly. Help later came from the Florida Division of The Salvation Army in response to Leslie Lovestead’s appeal for support. Lieut. Colonel J Clinton Eacott who had spent some twenty nine years as a missionary in China shared the vision and encouraged friends to contribute. That’s one of the great advantages of an international organization like The Salvation Army – mutual support. Let’s value and cherish this international spirit.
Before Leslie returned home to America, he wrote to International Headquarters. General Frederick Coutts sent two retired officers, Colonel and Mrs. George Lancashire, who had spent sixteen years as missionaries in China to Taiwan. They arrived on 30th September 1965 and were warmly welcomed by Leslie Lovestead and McEaneny and other civic dignitaries. They came to a thriving Corps with some forty adults ready to be enrolled as Salvationists!
Leslie Lovestead with his new bride Li Meng of Taiwan were now ready to return to the States, mission accomplished!
Fast forward to January 1983, my wife and I made our first official visit to the Division under the leadership of Captain and Mrs. James Lau Man Kin, Hong Kong officers serving in Taiwan since 1977. They and their two boys, Michael and Kenneth lived in one of the rented units in the compound of the Presbyterian Church. We were billeted with them, and enjoyed a great time of fellowship.
Divisional Headquarters and the Taipei Central Corps (church) shared the same building – the Corps occupying ground level and the DHQ located in the basement. We had our welcome meeting at the Central Corps during a weeknight meeting; then the next day went for a tour of Taipei centres.
The Army in the capital Taipei had three corps at that time– the Central corps, Nei Hu and Kuting. There was also a very large kindergarten operating in a rented building. The Central Corps ran a Day care centre and much community work under the direction of Captain and Mrs. Arthur Chen.
The same week Captain and Mrs. Lau took us for a tour of the rest of the Division, visiting first the Taichung Corps and finally ended up at Tainan Corps where we conducted the Corps anniversary. The dialect used in Tainan is Hokkien, which we speak, so we were able converse freely with the people without using an interpreter.
With the exception of Central and the newly acquired hall at Nei Hu, all the centres were using rented property. This meant constant changes of location thus causing much disruption to our work. So during our term we were able to get international support to purchase some new properties.
The Army was very small like Gideon’s army, but it had an important role to play in the community. We thank God for the dedicated leadership of Captain and Mrs. James Lau.
Colonel James Lau was promoted to Glory in 1999. Mrs. Colonel Alice Lau is retired and lives in Hong Kong. Michael and Kenneth and their wives now live in Singapore and United States respectively.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Be strong in the Lord
In the absence of our Corps Officer (pastor) on holiday in New Zealand, our Territorial Commander, Colonel Gillian Downer conducted the meeting. It was a good meeting, we felt the presence of God in our midst and received much blessing. Her message was on Ephesians 6: 10-18 and the text chosen was "Be strong in the Lord."
We live in a time of crisis. I recall reading a statement which says, "Crisis comes, crisis goes, but Christ remains." I cannot remember where I read it, or who wrote it, but that statement was printed indelibly in my mind. Yes, we need to be strong to survive and when I got home I looked up for some quotes on "Be strong" so here are some.
Solitary trees, if they grow at all, grow strong. Winston Churchill
The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. Mohandas Gandhi
Character is higher than intellect. A great soul will be strong to live as well as think. Ralph Waldo Emerson
The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places. Ernest Hemingway
Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect. Ralph Waldo Emerson
Paul has this say, "I can do all things though Christ who strengthens me."
We live in a time of crisis. I recall reading a statement which says, "Crisis comes, crisis goes, but Christ remains." I cannot remember where I read it, or who wrote it, but that statement was printed indelibly in my mind. Yes, we need to be strong to survive and when I got home I looked up for some quotes on "Be strong" so here are some.
Solitary trees, if they grow at all, grow strong. Winston Churchill
The weak can never forgive. Forgiveness is the attribute of the strong. Mohandas Gandhi
Character is higher than intellect. A great soul will be strong to live as well as think. Ralph Waldo Emerson
The world breaks everyone, and afterward, some are strong at the broken places. Ernest Hemingway
Shallow men believe in luck. Strong men believe in cause and effect. Ralph Waldo Emerson
Paul has this say, "I can do all things though Christ who strengthens me."
Saturday, August 13, 2011
The kingdom of God
It is Saturday evening and I've been going through the lesson I shall share with my comrades tomorrow. It's about the millennium, a highly controversial subject. The disagreement seems to hang on one one phrase 'a thousand years.' I read through many books, went to the Internet and found a bewildering array of diverse interpretations. Bible scholars of high repute are found on different sides, in opposing camps. Yes, we walk on a tight rope, but I am convinced God's Spirit will prevent us from falling into cynicism on one side, or fanaticism on the other. We must continue to search the Scriptures.
One commentator gives wise counsel with this sentence, 'It is necessary to approach this chapter,(Revelation 20) with humility and charity. The most enlightened of Bible students know that his or her view is partial and incomplete. We continue to seek the Spirit's enlightenment and guidance. One day we shall see Him face to face and everything will be made clear. O for that day when the Kingdom comes.
As I study and reflect on His word, I realise the Kingdom of God is already here. The blessings of the Kingdom are realised by those who have accepted and embraced Kingdom values.The manifesto of the Kingdom is in the teaching of Jesus, especially the Beatitudes found in Matthew 5. When Christ takes full control of our lives, the Kingdom is in our hearts.
In another sense we await the Kingdom - the Kingdom is yet to come. As I look around in my own country and situation in the world today, the suffering, pain and injustice, man's inhumanity to man, the Kingdom is yet to come. We have a duty to share the gospel with others and continue to pray, "Your kingdom come."
One thing is certain. I have a class of mature Christians who are not afraid to speak up and give their views. All of them have that spirit of charity in sharing the word of God. I teach every week, but I learn much more from them. As I write, I whisper a prayer for those who will be sharing with word to morrow at our William Booth Corps (church)
One commentator gives wise counsel with this sentence, 'It is necessary to approach this chapter,(Revelation 20) with humility and charity. The most enlightened of Bible students know that his or her view is partial and incomplete. We continue to seek the Spirit's enlightenment and guidance. One day we shall see Him face to face and everything will be made clear. O for that day when the Kingdom comes.
As I study and reflect on His word, I realise the Kingdom of God is already here. The blessings of the Kingdom are realised by those who have accepted and embraced Kingdom values.The manifesto of the Kingdom is in the teaching of Jesus, especially the Beatitudes found in Matthew 5. When Christ takes full control of our lives, the Kingdom is in our hearts.
In another sense we await the Kingdom - the Kingdom is yet to come. As I look around in my own country and situation in the world today, the suffering, pain and injustice, man's inhumanity to man, the Kingdom is yet to come. We have a duty to share the gospel with others and continue to pray, "Your kingdom come."
One thing is certain. I have a class of mature Christians who are not afraid to speak up and give their views. All of them have that spirit of charity in sharing the word of God. I teach every week, but I learn much more from them. As I write, I whisper a prayer for those who will be sharing with word to morrow at our William Booth Corps (church)
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Be thankful
Everyday I wake up with a thankful heart for another day the Lord is giving me. "This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it." Every new day is a bonus for me. I thank the Lord for saving me and keeping me. He provides for all my needs- material and spiritual.
Matthew Henry, who wrote a commentary on every book of the Bible, was once robbed. The thieves took everything of value that he had. Later that evening he wrote in his diary these words, “I am thankful that during these years I have never been robbed before. Also, even though they took my money, they did not take my life. Although they took all I had, it was not much. Finally, I am grateful that it was I who was robbed, not I who robbed.”
Let's be thankful. The Lord is great, good and gracious.
Matthew Henry, who wrote a commentary on every book of the Bible, was once robbed. The thieves took everything of value that he had. Later that evening he wrote in his diary these words, “I am thankful that during these years I have never been robbed before. Also, even though they took my money, they did not take my life. Although they took all I had, it was not much. Finally, I am grateful that it was I who was robbed, not I who robbed.”
Let's be thankful. The Lord is great, good and gracious.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Pressure
We live in a pressure cooker society. Let us remember to turn to God who says to us "Be still and know that I am God."
Pressed out of measure and pressed to all length;
Pressed so intensely, it seems beyond strength;
Pressed in the body, and pressed in the soul;
Pressed in the mind, till the dark surges roll.
Pressure by foes, and pressure by friends--
Pressure on pressure, till life nearly ends.
Pressed into knowing no helper but God;
Pressed into loving the staff and the rod.
Pressed into liberty where nothing clings;
Pressed into faith for impossible things.
Pressed into tasting the joy of the Lord;
Pressed into loving a Christlife outpoured.
Author unknown.
Pressed out of measure and pressed to all length;
Pressed so intensely, it seems beyond strength;
Pressed in the body, and pressed in the soul;
Pressed in the mind, till the dark surges roll.
Pressure by foes, and pressure by friends--
Pressure on pressure, till life nearly ends.
Pressed into knowing no helper but God;
Pressed into loving the staff and the rod.
Pressed into liberty where nothing clings;
Pressed into faith for impossible things.
Pressed into tasting the joy of the Lord;
Pressed into loving a Christlife outpoured.
Author unknown.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Reflection on National Day
It's National Day today, and we are enjoying the peace and quietness of our surroundings for a change. I'm glad the workers are given the day off; they are foreign workers, but they deserve a day of rest and relaxation too.
It has been said, “Rests or pauses in music contribute to the finer expressions of harmony and melody.” Life is full of stresses and strains and it is necessary for us to take time to rest and reflect on the goodness and glory of God.
We do not have a perfect Government; no country has! We thank God due to good governance, there is peace in our land. We need to realise that it is not easy to be leaders, especially of a small nation 'the little red dot' like ours. We are a multi racial, multi-cultural and multi-religious country. There is a wide diversity of views among our people on how things ought to be done. People these days have high expectations of their leaders. We may not agree with every decision the Government makes, but as loyal citizens, let us not punch holes in the ship of which we are all passengers. Seriously they need our support and prayers.
Paul writing to young Timothy says, "The first thing I want you to do is to pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Saviour God wants us to live."
1 Timothy 2: 1-3 (The Message)
It has been said, “Rests or pauses in music contribute to the finer expressions of harmony and melody.” Life is full of stresses and strains and it is necessary for us to take time to rest and reflect on the goodness and glory of God.
We do not have a perfect Government; no country has! We thank God due to good governance, there is peace in our land. We need to realise that it is not easy to be leaders, especially of a small nation 'the little red dot' like ours. We are a multi racial, multi-cultural and multi-religious country. There is a wide diversity of views among our people on how things ought to be done. People these days have high expectations of their leaders. We may not agree with every decision the Government makes, but as loyal citizens, let us not punch holes in the ship of which we are all passengers. Seriously they need our support and prayers.
Paul writing to young Timothy says, "The first thing I want you to do is to pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Saviour God wants us to live."
1 Timothy 2: 1-3 (The Message)
Monday, August 8, 2011
The Christian holds dual citizenship
National Day is a day set aside to mark the nationhood of a sovereign state or the day of its independence. Both Singapore and Malaysia celebrate National Day on 9th August and 31st August respectively. The day is always celebrated with parades and speeches by the leaders of the nation with the exhortation to be good citizens.
We as citizens give thanks to God for our nation and pledge our support and loyalty to our Government. We thank God for peace and prosperity the result of good governance.
As we celebrate National Day once again, we pause to consider what the relationship between the church and state is, and to consider the duty of the Christian towards the state, individually and corporately. Let us remind ourselves that we are not only members of the church, but also citizens of the nation. Though our permanent citizenship is in Heaven with Christ the King, we must not forget that by the providence of God we are also citizens of the nation. What should we do about our double citizenship and as it appears dual allegiance?
God’s word is clear that Christ is the supreme Lord and King over the whole universe (Rev. 17: 14) True there are those who refuse to accept His lordship and kingship but this does not diminished His authority over the whole universe, for God Almighty has highly exalted Him and given Him a name that is above every other name. (Phil. 2: 10-11) All will one day acknowledge Him as King of kings and Lord of lords – some with joy, others with fear and dread.
Does this mean that the kingship of Christ is only to be in the future? The ignorance of the Athenians (Acts 17: 22) did not make them any less the creatures and subjects of God, the Creator of all things and the Lord of Heaven and earth. In fact the Bible tells us that all civil governments in the world are established by divine ordination to be under Him and over the people, therefore derive their authority from God. So Paul admonishes us, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” Romans 13: 1-2 Paul goes on to explain that the civil government’s authority is to inflict temporal punishment upon wrong doers and reward those who do well.
The purpose of government is to promote righteousness for the good of the people. “When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish there are shouts of joy. Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.” (Proverbs 11: 10-11) When just and compassionate people gain influence in the community the morality of public life is raised as well as quality of life for the people. Blessings are the results of good influences, but curses are the consequences of wrong actions. The Government is entrusted with responsibility of working out of righteousness.
The church is also an establishment of God. Authority is vested on the leaders in church. It is our responsibility to give them respect because they are ordained by God, and therefore are accountable to Him for the flock. Every denomination has its own structure and discipline and it is important leaders and members are aware of these disciplines. It is up to us to work within the structure and discipline of the church.
So as temporary citizens of earth and permanent citizens of heaven, we belong to both realms. We are to ‘give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s’ (Matt. 22: 21)
(This article was written for The Salvation Army War Cry August issue. -Singapore/Malaysia/Myanmar Territory)
We as citizens give thanks to God for our nation and pledge our support and loyalty to our Government. We thank God for peace and prosperity the result of good governance.
As we celebrate National Day once again, we pause to consider what the relationship between the church and state is, and to consider the duty of the Christian towards the state, individually and corporately. Let us remind ourselves that we are not only members of the church, but also citizens of the nation. Though our permanent citizenship is in Heaven with Christ the King, we must not forget that by the providence of God we are also citizens of the nation. What should we do about our double citizenship and as it appears dual allegiance?
God’s word is clear that Christ is the supreme Lord and King over the whole universe (Rev. 17: 14) True there are those who refuse to accept His lordship and kingship but this does not diminished His authority over the whole universe, for God Almighty has highly exalted Him and given Him a name that is above every other name. (Phil. 2: 10-11) All will one day acknowledge Him as King of kings and Lord of lords – some with joy, others with fear and dread.
Does this mean that the kingship of Christ is only to be in the future? The ignorance of the Athenians (Acts 17: 22) did not make them any less the creatures and subjects of God, the Creator of all things and the Lord of Heaven and earth. In fact the Bible tells us that all civil governments in the world are established by divine ordination to be under Him and over the people, therefore derive their authority from God. So Paul admonishes us, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” Romans 13: 1-2 Paul goes on to explain that the civil government’s authority is to inflict temporal punishment upon wrong doers and reward those who do well.
The purpose of government is to promote righteousness for the good of the people. “When the righteous prosper, the city rejoices; when the wicked perish there are shouts of joy. Through the blessing of the upright a city is exalted, but by the mouth of the wicked it is destroyed.” (Proverbs 11: 10-11) When just and compassionate people gain influence in the community the morality of public life is raised as well as quality of life for the people. Blessings are the results of good influences, but curses are the consequences of wrong actions. The Government is entrusted with responsibility of working out of righteousness.
The church is also an establishment of God. Authority is vested on the leaders in church. It is our responsibility to give them respect because they are ordained by God, and therefore are accountable to Him for the flock. Every denomination has its own structure and discipline and it is important leaders and members are aware of these disciplines. It is up to us to work within the structure and discipline of the church.
So as temporary citizens of earth and permanent citizens of heaven, we belong to both realms. We are to ‘give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s’ (Matt. 22: 21)
(This article was written for The Salvation Army War Cry August issue. -Singapore/Malaysia/Myanmar Territory)
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Captain Zane Haupt
It was good to have the new Territorial Youth Secretary Captain Zane Haupt as our special guest at our Corps (church) this morning. Quite a number of folk were away this week, besides it rained heavily thus many were prevented from coming. Despite the smaller congregation, we had a good time.
His message was based on 1 John 3: 11-18 - "What the world needs now.." of course is love. It is easy to talk about loving God. Yes, love God, we also need to love others. Let us pray this prayer:
Lord I come to You
Let my heart be changed, renewed
Flowing from the grace
That I have found in You
And Lord I have come to know
The weakenesses I see in me
Will be stripped away
By the power of Your love
Hold me close
Let Your love surround me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side
And as I wait
I will rise up like the eagle
And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love
2.Lord unveil my eyes
Let me see You face to face
The knowledge of Your love
As You live in me
And Lord renew my mind
As Your will unfolds in my life
In living every day
By the power of Your love (Don Moen)
Amen.
His message was based on 1 John 3: 11-18 - "What the world needs now.." of course is love. It is easy to talk about loving God. Yes, love God, we also need to love others. Let us pray this prayer:
Lord I come to You
Let my heart be changed, renewed
Flowing from the grace
That I have found in You
And Lord I have come to know
The weakenesses I see in me
Will be stripped away
By the power of Your love
Hold me close
Let Your love surround me
Bring me near
Draw me to Your side
And as I wait
I will rise up like the eagle
And I will soar with You
Your Spirit leads me on
In the power of Your love
2.Lord unveil my eyes
Let me see You face to face
The knowledge of Your love
As You live in me
And Lord renew my mind
As Your will unfolds in my life
In living every day
By the power of Your love (Don Moen)
Amen.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Peacehaven Nursing Home Staff Retreat
On Tuesday, we were invited to join the executive staff of Peacehaven Nursing Home for their Retreat at Pasir Ris. We arrived at about 11.00 a.m. and joined them in their discussion group. Then the Territorial Commander Colonel Gillian Downer arrived and we all had lunch together - delicious steam boat!
After lunch, we had the next session and Colonel Downer was the speaker. She gave a talk on the Army's mission, using power point. This was very interesting. We were then divided into groups for discussion. She re-emphasised the Army's Mission statement. We all need to be reminded and new staff need to know our mission.
I could sense the unity of spirit of the group to carry out the Army's mission, so beautifully summed up by General Gowans - "to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity." The team led by Salvationist Madam Low Mui Lan who is also the Corps Sergeant Major of Changi Corps are doing a great work.
Peacehaven is now a model for other Nursing Homes and our Executive Director Madam Low is often called for consultation by the Ministry for her input on Nursing Homes.
I am glad we have kept to the Army's mission in this Home. She has good contacts with Government officials and the public.
We live in challenging times. The need is great and labourers are few and it is our prayer that our people will feel the burden to support the work of the Army. The Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home is the biggest one in Singapore with more than 400 residents!
Please pray for our Peacehaven Nursing Home and Madam Low and staff. They are doing a great work.
After lunch, we had the next session and Colonel Downer was the speaker. She gave a talk on the Army's mission, using power point. This was very interesting. We were then divided into groups for discussion. She re-emphasised the Army's Mission statement. We all need to be reminded and new staff need to know our mission.
I could sense the unity of spirit of the group to carry out the Army's mission, so beautifully summed up by General Gowans - "to save souls, grow saints and serve suffering humanity." The team led by Salvationist Madam Low Mui Lan who is also the Corps Sergeant Major of Changi Corps are doing a great work.
Peacehaven is now a model for other Nursing Homes and our Executive Director Madam Low is often called for consultation by the Ministry for her input on Nursing Homes.
I am glad we have kept to the Army's mission in this Home. She has good contacts with Government officials and the public.
We live in challenging times. The need is great and labourers are few and it is our prayer that our people will feel the burden to support the work of the Army. The Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home is the biggest one in Singapore with more than 400 residents!
Please pray for our Peacehaven Nursing Home and Madam Low and staff. They are doing a great work.
This is my story - 59 (Hong Kong/Taiwan)
59 – Bustling Hong Kong kept us busy
From the moment we landed, warmly welcomed at the airport by the officers and soldiers, driven through the busy streets of Kowloon and finally arriving at our quarters in the New Territories we knew we were going to have a great and exciting time in this bustling territory. Realising this appointment was from the Lord we came wholeheartedly to serve the people of Hong Kong and Taiwan.
The quarters provided for the Officer Commanding was beautiful – a two storeyed bungalow called Pink Villa situated on a hill and facing the sea at Castle Peak Road. Living above us was the General Secretary whom we had worked together for many years in Singapore and Malaysia. We have known her since the mid 1950’s and have worked closely with her in Singapore.
When we left for Hong Kong, my elder brother was seriously ill. He had suffered a stroke at the age of fifty and went to be with the Lord a week or so after our arrival in Hong Kong. It would be impossible for me to return to Singapore for the funeral as we were in the rounds of welcome at the various Centres. I believe it was the right decision we made as in life we need to have our perspectives right. However, our two older children were very good and did their duty to represent us at the wake and funeral.
As mentioned in earlier chapters, my wife was born in Hong Kong. Her father returned to Hong Kong just before World War 2 started, and so throughout the years there was no contact with him. He had remarried and raised up another family in Hong Kong. Suddenly I discovered I had a mother-in-law and brothers and sisters-in-law! Well, they heard about our appointment and of course all turned up to welcome us to Hong Kong. It was a great time of reunion! My sister-in-law Pui Ying keeps regular contact with us and recently visited us in Singapore again.
There was plenty to do in Hong Kong, so it was important that we set our priorities. We had to plan for the visit of the International Secretary Commissioner Edwin Marion and Mrs, Marion. They would spend a few days in Hong Kong before leaving for the Zonal Conference in Bandung, Indonesia. I was given a paper to prepare for the conference.
I recall as the General Secretary in Singapore/Malaysia Command I attended the first Zonal Conference in Tokyo in 1978 with Lieut. Colonel Arthur O’Neil. It was held at the Fuji Hotel at the foot of Mount Fuji. That Conference was chaired by General Arnold Brown. It was good we were able to interact with our International Leaders. General and Mrs. Brown were very friendly people and we all felt at ease with them.
On the last day of January 1983, Major Moira Wright and I left for Jakarta to attend the second Zonal Conference chaired by the International Secretary Commissioner Marion. This was my second visit to Indonesia, the first time, accompanied by my wife was to conduct Officers’ Retreat in various parts of the Territory. Indonesia is a beautiful country; the people are always very hospitable. Since then my wife and I have made several visits to this very hospitable country.
We stayed the night at the Training College and left the next morning by train for Bandung where the conference was held. In those days, only the Territorial Commanders, Officers Commanding, Chief Secretaries and General Secretaries attended the Zonal Conference. Wives of Territorial Commanders and Officers Commanding were not included. We had an enjoyable and profitable week discussing matters of mutual concern.
We returned to Hong Kong just before Chinese New Year, the first Lunar New Year spent without our own family together. In Singapore all the Corps Officers (pastors) plus Headquarters officers were out in full force visiting the comrades. As Corps officers of Central Corps, we used to go with the Officer Commanding in the morning and the General Secretary in the afternoon to visit our folk. Not so in Hong Kong. We were told to make sure we were home as the officers, plus some comrades would be visiting us on the first two days of Chinese New Year. We were their ‘bishops’ or elders and they would come to pay respects to us and the General Secretary even though she was not Chinese. That is the Chinese culture, the younger visiting their seniors.
In Singapore and Malaysia because of the climate we offer cold drinks and Chinese New Year delicacies to our relatives and guests. However, in Hong Kong we made sure there was plenty of hot Chinese tea for the visitors. Each country has its own culture and we had much to learn from the local folk their way of doing things.
Soon Major Moira Wright was due for homeland furlough, so she made sure that everything was in order. We were also preparing to farewell our Financial Secretary Major Helen Prosser. She was soon to return to the United States for retirement. Major Wright advertised and selected a young lady to be my private Secretary. She was not a Salvationist but a very good and efficient Secretary which made things much easier for me. Miss Orenda Law served me very well for several years. We thank God for faithful employees who made our work much easier.
From the moment we landed, warmly welcomed at the airport by the officers and soldiers, driven through the busy streets of Kowloon and finally arriving at our quarters in the New Territories we knew we were going to have a great and exciting time in this bustling territory. Realising this appointment was from the Lord we came wholeheartedly to serve the people of Hong Kong and Taiwan.
The quarters provided for the Officer Commanding was beautiful – a two storeyed bungalow called Pink Villa situated on a hill and facing the sea at Castle Peak Road. Living above us was the General Secretary whom we had worked together for many years in Singapore and Malaysia. We have known her since the mid 1950’s and have worked closely with her in Singapore.
When we left for Hong Kong, my elder brother was seriously ill. He had suffered a stroke at the age of fifty and went to be with the Lord a week or so after our arrival in Hong Kong. It would be impossible for me to return to Singapore for the funeral as we were in the rounds of welcome at the various Centres. I believe it was the right decision we made as in life we need to have our perspectives right. However, our two older children were very good and did their duty to represent us at the wake and funeral.
As mentioned in earlier chapters, my wife was born in Hong Kong. Her father returned to Hong Kong just before World War 2 started, and so throughout the years there was no contact with him. He had remarried and raised up another family in Hong Kong. Suddenly I discovered I had a mother-in-law and brothers and sisters-in-law! Well, they heard about our appointment and of course all turned up to welcome us to Hong Kong. It was a great time of reunion! My sister-in-law Pui Ying keeps regular contact with us and recently visited us in Singapore again.
There was plenty to do in Hong Kong, so it was important that we set our priorities. We had to plan for the visit of the International Secretary Commissioner Edwin Marion and Mrs, Marion. They would spend a few days in Hong Kong before leaving for the Zonal Conference in Bandung, Indonesia. I was given a paper to prepare for the conference.
I recall as the General Secretary in Singapore/Malaysia Command I attended the first Zonal Conference in Tokyo in 1978 with Lieut. Colonel Arthur O’Neil. It was held at the Fuji Hotel at the foot of Mount Fuji. That Conference was chaired by General Arnold Brown. It was good we were able to interact with our International Leaders. General and Mrs. Brown were very friendly people and we all felt at ease with them.
On the last day of January 1983, Major Moira Wright and I left for Jakarta to attend the second Zonal Conference chaired by the International Secretary Commissioner Marion. This was my second visit to Indonesia, the first time, accompanied by my wife was to conduct Officers’ Retreat in various parts of the Territory. Indonesia is a beautiful country; the people are always very hospitable. Since then my wife and I have made several visits to this very hospitable country.
We stayed the night at the Training College and left the next morning by train for Bandung where the conference was held. In those days, only the Territorial Commanders, Officers Commanding, Chief Secretaries and General Secretaries attended the Zonal Conference. Wives of Territorial Commanders and Officers Commanding were not included. We had an enjoyable and profitable week discussing matters of mutual concern.
We returned to Hong Kong just before Chinese New Year, the first Lunar New Year spent without our own family together. In Singapore all the Corps Officers (pastors) plus Headquarters officers were out in full force visiting the comrades. As Corps officers of Central Corps, we used to go with the Officer Commanding in the morning and the General Secretary in the afternoon to visit our folk. Not so in Hong Kong. We were told to make sure we were home as the officers, plus some comrades would be visiting us on the first two days of Chinese New Year. We were their ‘bishops’ or elders and they would come to pay respects to us and the General Secretary even though she was not Chinese. That is the Chinese culture, the younger visiting their seniors.
In Singapore and Malaysia because of the climate we offer cold drinks and Chinese New Year delicacies to our relatives and guests. However, in Hong Kong we made sure there was plenty of hot Chinese tea for the visitors. Each country has its own culture and we had much to learn from the local folk their way of doing things.
Soon Major Moira Wright was due for homeland furlough, so she made sure that everything was in order. We were also preparing to farewell our Financial Secretary Major Helen Prosser. She was soon to return to the United States for retirement. Major Wright advertised and selected a young lady to be my private Secretary. She was not a Salvationist but a very good and efficient Secretary which made things much easier for me. Miss Orenda Law served me very well for several years. We thank God for faithful employees who made our work much easier.
Monday, August 1, 2011
The Bride of the Lamb
At Bible class we had the 41st lesson on the Book of Revelation last Sunday. We focused our thoughts on Revelation 19: 1-10. God has punished Babylon described as the harlot for her sins and corruption of the earth and the people.
John in his vision hears the resounding Amens and Hallelujahs, the praises and thanksgiving all coming from heaven. Salvation comes from the Lord, He is worthy of our praise! Revelation is about worship and there is plenty of it in the book.
This portion gives a description of the 'the marriage of the Lamb to the church.' The church of Christ, the people of God is the bride of the Lamb. The Lord described as the Bridegroom, had paid the dowry or price - the pain, suffering and death on the cross on Calvary. No one else could do it. Now is the glorification of the church, the body of Christ.
It is interesting to note the metaphor of marriage to describe the full and final union between Christ and the Church. In the New Testament we read of marriages and weddings in the parables of Jesus. Paul uses the picture of marriage in 2 Corinthians 11: 2 "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to Him." I pray daily for myself and my many friends that we be kept pure and holy and be ready for our Lord when He comes again to receive us into Glory and to be with Him forever!
Let me end with some thoughts on marriage. There are four elements we need to bear in mind.
Love - the basis of relationship
Intimacy - the two are one flesh.
Joy - the joy of loving and being loved.
Fidelity - faithfulness to each other always.
May the Lord by His grace keep us faithful to Him.
John in his vision hears the resounding Amens and Hallelujahs, the praises and thanksgiving all coming from heaven. Salvation comes from the Lord, He is worthy of our praise! Revelation is about worship and there is plenty of it in the book.
This portion gives a description of the 'the marriage of the Lamb to the church.' The church of Christ, the people of God is the bride of the Lamb. The Lord described as the Bridegroom, had paid the dowry or price - the pain, suffering and death on the cross on Calvary. No one else could do it. Now is the glorification of the church, the body of Christ.
It is interesting to note the metaphor of marriage to describe the full and final union between Christ and the Church. In the New Testament we read of marriages and weddings in the parables of Jesus. Paul uses the picture of marriage in 2 Corinthians 11: 2 "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to Him." I pray daily for myself and my many friends that we be kept pure and holy and be ready for our Lord when He comes again to receive us into Glory and to be with Him forever!
Let me end with some thoughts on marriage. There are four elements we need to bear in mind.
Love - the basis of relationship
Intimacy - the two are one flesh.
Joy - the joy of loving and being loved.
Fidelity - faithfulness to each other always.
May the Lord by His grace keep us faithful to Him.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)