Besides my blog, I keep a diary. What have I written in my personal diary for the last twelve months? Some days there are interesting stories, other days the pages are blank -nothing worth writing, just monotonous routine. Yes, house cleaning, laundry, sweep and mop floor. How simple life would be if we just follow a regular routine with fixed hours, fixed times for meals and very little original thinking to do. Life can be dull and monotonous.
Everyday I read and study God's word, preparing Bible studies for the Adult Bible Class and cell group, plus preparing sermons when invited to preach. But invitation to preach gets less and less these days. There is a time to preach there is a time to stop and listen to others preach.
But some days are exciting. Visiting a new places, meeting interesting people, reading an interesting book. Yes, my diary and blog too contain some interesting entries. Visiting old places and missing the old landmarks and finding new ones.
Some dark days too, strong reactions to persons or circumstances, deeply hurt by remarks and actions of others. Better for me not to dwell on those days. One day I'll go through the diaries and destroy those pages. Human beings annoy each other at times deliberately or unknowingly. I must be an irritation to many people and my friends are too polite to tell me. Lord forgive me.
The year is at an end. Yes, I've been up mountain tops, sunk in valleys of depression and gone through mood swings. Yet when I am out with people, I have to put on an appearance. What hypocrisy! But culture demands it. That's how I was brought up to maintain a stiff upper lip and don't show your feelings.
Ministry brings joy to our hearts. We paid our last visit of the year to Grace and Mary, both in their seventies and handicapped. Many years ago they used to attend Salvation Army meetings, in fact Mary sang in the songsters. With change of officers (pastors) they have been forgotten. In recent years TOUCH community services belonging to FCBC (Faith Community Baptist Church) have been fetching them to church. We are glad there are those who care for the needy elderly.
Thank God whatever the day brings, I take everything to the Lord in prayer. I give thanks to my Heavenly Father who is always there to sustain me.
The old year ends, and I pray this prayer, "Help me learn from my own mistakes and the mistakes of others, and help me start the New year worthily. I need your wisdom and your grace. Amen"
Let me share a poem written by a old friend of ours - Commissioner Harry Read.
The Old Year
I look with gratitude on this old year,
I have good cause to show that gratitude.
So many times I've seen God's loving care
A problem turn into beatitude.
Though ill the wind has seemed at times to blow,
And difficult indeed the course to hold;
All needed grace has then begun to flow,
And mercy rich, and mercies manifold.
It's true, I've sometimes worked below my best;
Have failed to work to my capacity.
Yet God has always love to be expressed,
Encouraged, strengthened and established me.
His goodness has o'er shadowed all these days,
And I looked backward, with a heart of praise.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Dinner with family
The days fly past quickly. We had less involvement with kettling this year, so had more time to do other things. We were involved with kettling only once, that was at Harbour Front Starbucks and really enjoyed that experience. It was my first visit to Starbucks and made history by taking the first cup of coffee there!
Another day a friend took us to lunch at Pizza Hut at Thompson Plaza and again it was a the first time for us. Yes, believe it or not, first time to have pizza at Pizza Hut. We made history!
Last evening, we had dinner with our son Stephen and family at Raja Seafood Restaurant Jurong East It was great to have the whole family plus the maid, eight of us to share a meal. It was the icing on the cake this Christmas - Christmas is a family occasion.
Everyday we thank God for family and friends. God gave us our family - three children and six grandchildren. Our youngest child, Dora Poh Chin is well cared for at The Salvation Army Nursing Home. She cannot celebrate Christmas like the rest of us, but we pray daily that in her own way she will enjoy her communion with the Lord. Her story is told in this blog -4th July 2009. The Lord has always been good to us and the family. Every morning we pray for them and every evening we commit them to the Lord.
Of all our social institutions, the family is perhaps the one with which we are most familiar. Life is about relationships. Without relationships what would become of us? So maintaining good relationships with our loved ones is the key to success and happiness. A strong civilization depends upon strong families which then depend upon warm, loving relationships within the family.
We thank God not only for our own biological family, but also for our extended family which include friends of all ages.
"Among Life's precious jewels,
Genuine and rare,
The one that we call friendship
Has worth beyond compare."
~ author unknown
"A friend loves at all times..."
Proverbs 17:17
Another day a friend took us to lunch at Pizza Hut at Thompson Plaza and again it was a the first time for us. Yes, believe it or not, first time to have pizza at Pizza Hut. We made history!
Last evening, we had dinner with our son Stephen and family at Raja Seafood Restaurant Jurong East It was great to have the whole family plus the maid, eight of us to share a meal. It was the icing on the cake this Christmas - Christmas is a family occasion.
Everyday we thank God for family and friends. God gave us our family - three children and six grandchildren. Our youngest child, Dora Poh Chin is well cared for at The Salvation Army Nursing Home. She cannot celebrate Christmas like the rest of us, but we pray daily that in her own way she will enjoy her communion with the Lord. Her story is told in this blog -4th July 2009. The Lord has always been good to us and the family. Every morning we pray for them and every evening we commit them to the Lord.
Of all our social institutions, the family is perhaps the one with which we are most familiar. Life is about relationships. Without relationships what would become of us? So maintaining good relationships with our loved ones is the key to success and happiness. A strong civilization depends upon strong families which then depend upon warm, loving relationships within the family.
We thank God not only for our own biological family, but also for our extended family which include friends of all ages.
"Among Life's precious jewels,
Genuine and rare,
The one that we call friendship
Has worth beyond compare."
~ author unknown
"A friend loves at all times..."
Proverbs 17:17
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Prayer meeting
We just returned from Bishan where a few of us met for our weekly Prayer meeting. We were blessed as we prayed for the church and its mission to the world. We prayed specially for the countries that are undergoing big challenges - North Korea facing a time uncertainty as leadership changes. We prayed for the Philippines affected by devastating floods and landslides. We focused our thoughts on the nation of Syria with its unrest and bloodshed. We prayed for Christchurch, New Zealand which have again been affected by earthquakes that have caused ground liquefaction and thousands of homes are full of sludge. Buildings have been damaged beyond hope of repair. Our Salvation Army Christchurch City Corps lost its building and our people meet at a school. Salvation Army Emergency services are providing emergency supplies and counselling services.
We prayed for our own territory of Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar. And we prayed for each other.
"Brethren, we shall never see much change for the better in our churches in general till the prayer-meeting occupies a higher place in the esteem of Christians. To mix it up with the week-night lecture, and really make an end of it, is a sad sign of
declension." C H Spurgeon
"A congregation without a prayer meeting is essentially defective in its organization,and so must be limited in its efficiency." J. B. Johnston
We prayed for our own territory of Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar. And we prayed for each other.
"Brethren, we shall never see much change for the better in our churches in general till the prayer-meeting occupies a higher place in the esteem of Christians. To mix it up with the week-night lecture, and really make an end of it, is a sad sign of
declension." C H Spurgeon
"A congregation without a prayer meeting is essentially defective in its organization,and so must be limited in its efficiency." J. B. Johnston
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Day at MacRitchie Reservoir
A friend of ours came and took us to Thompson Plaza for lunch, then we spent the afternoon at MacRitchie Reservoir. We really enjoyed the peace and quiet walking along the Boardwalk. It's wonderful to be so close to nature, listening to the chirping of the birds and sounds of insects.
This is my Father's world,
and to my listening ears
all nature sings, and round me rings
the music of the spheres.
This is my Father's world:
I rest me in the thought
of rocks and trees, of skies and seas;
his hand the wonders wrought.
This is my Father's world,
the birds their carols raise,
the morning light, the lily white,
declare their maker's praise.
This is my Father's world:
he shines in all that's fair;
in the rustling grass I hear him pass;
he speaks to me everywhere.
This is my Father's world.
O let me ne'er forget
that though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father's world:
why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King; let the heavens ring!
God reigns; let the earth be glad! - Maltbie Davenport Babcock
This is my Father's world,
and to my listening ears
all nature sings, and round me rings
the music of the spheres.
This is my Father's world:
I rest me in the thought
of rocks and trees, of skies and seas;
his hand the wonders wrought.
This is my Father's world,
the birds their carols raise,
the morning light, the lily white,
declare their maker's praise.
This is my Father's world:
he shines in all that's fair;
in the rustling grass I hear him pass;
he speaks to me everywhere.
This is my Father's world.
O let me ne'er forget
that though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the ruler yet.
This is my Father's world:
why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King; let the heavens ring!
God reigns; let the earth be glad! - Maltbie Davenport Babcock
Real Christmas
When the song of the angel is stilled
When the star in the sky is gone,
When the kings and praises are home,
When the shepherds are back with their flock
Then the real work of the Christmas begins;
To find the lost,
To heal the broken,
To feed the hungry,
To release the prisoner,
To rebuild the nations,
To bring peace among brothers,
To make music in the heart
When the star in the sky is gone,
When the kings and praises are home,
When the shepherds are back with their flock
Then the real work of the Christmas begins;
To find the lost,
To heal the broken,
To feed the hungry,
To release the prisoner,
To rebuild the nations,
To bring peace among brothers,
To make music in the heart
Monday, December 26, 2011
Boxing Day
Christmas this year fell on a Sunday, so Monday was declared at Public Holiday. Our good friend Judy Chun came for us at 11.00 a.m. and gave us a wonderful Christmas surpise gift.
After picking us, she drove to Cashew Drive to pick up another former Peacehaven staff, Jennifer Loh.
Then we went to the famous tourist area of Orchard Road to have 'tim sum' at the Imperial Treasure Restaurant! Well it was real Hong Kong cuisine! You can see some pictures posted on Facebook by Chang Siew Mei. She and her mother were the other diners. It was a wonderful and memorable Christmas present for us!
We chatted, we laughed, we recalled old times, we conversed in English and Cantonese because Siew Mei's Mum 84 years of age, speak only Cantonese. It gave me the opportunity to use the Cantonese I learnt in Hong Kong days. My wife is Cantonese.
From there we went for a walk, then got into another resturant to have our coffee/tea and desert. And now we are home, tired but happy and writing my blog.
An English poet once penned these lines: "At Christmas, play and make good cheer, for Christmas comes but once a year." This is a time of good cheer and merry making and I don't see why not, for God wants us to enjoy ourselves. A gloomy Christian is a contradiction on terms and bad advertisement for the church. Enjoy Christmas, celebrate the birth of Christ. This is the time to be happy and make others happy. Life is too short to be miserable.
Another thought to share with you. Let's not pack away the spirit of Christmas like we do with the tree and decorations - to be kept for another year. Greetings, love, kind thoughts, best wishes, assurance of prayers that wing their way across the seas from country to country ought to be practised more often than once a year. With modern technology, this is made easy.
After picking us, she drove to Cashew Drive to pick up another former Peacehaven staff, Jennifer Loh.
Then we went to the famous tourist area of Orchard Road to have 'tim sum' at the Imperial Treasure Restaurant! Well it was real Hong Kong cuisine! You can see some pictures posted on Facebook by Chang Siew Mei. She and her mother were the other diners. It was a wonderful and memorable Christmas present for us!
We chatted, we laughed, we recalled old times, we conversed in English and Cantonese because Siew Mei's Mum 84 years of age, speak only Cantonese. It gave me the opportunity to use the Cantonese I learnt in Hong Kong days. My wife is Cantonese.
From there we went for a walk, then got into another resturant to have our coffee/tea and desert. And now we are home, tired but happy and writing my blog.
An English poet once penned these lines: "At Christmas, play and make good cheer, for Christmas comes but once a year." This is a time of good cheer and merry making and I don't see why not, for God wants us to enjoy ourselves. A gloomy Christian is a contradiction on terms and bad advertisement for the church. Enjoy Christmas, celebrate the birth of Christ. This is the time to be happy and make others happy. Life is too short to be miserable.
Another thought to share with you. Let's not pack away the spirit of Christmas like we do with the tree and decorations - to be kept for another year. Greetings, love, kind thoughts, best wishes, assurance of prayers that wing their way across the seas from country to country ought to be practised more often than once a year. With modern technology, this is made easy.
Christmas Day at Changi Corps
A joyous and blessed Christmas to our friends. We had a great time at Changi Corps (church) yesterday. We thank God for the privilege of sharing in fellowship with and ministering to our folk there and in so doing we were truly blessed. We thank Major Lim Chee Kwee for giving us the opportunity to preach the word at his church.
Madam Low Mui Lang, the CSM of the Corps came for us at 10.30 a.m. and because of the rain, the journey took longer than usual. We arrived and walked straight into the meeting.
We sang the familiar and well loved carols. Members of the The GoForth Traniing Services, more than 30 of them sang for us. They sang beautifully. These women, all from overseas, mainly from the Philippines provide excellent service at Peacehaven Nursing Home.
I gave the message on "God's unique gift." The text used was "Thanks be unto God for this indescribable gift."
After the service we had a lovely Christmas lunch.
Madam Low Mui Lang, the CSM of the Corps came for us at 10.30 a.m. and because of the rain, the journey took longer than usual. We arrived and walked straight into the meeting.
We sang the familiar and well loved carols. Members of the The GoForth Traniing Services, more than 30 of them sang for us. They sang beautifully. These women, all from overseas, mainly from the Philippines provide excellent service at Peacehaven Nursing Home.
I gave the message on "God's unique gift." The text used was "Thanks be unto God for this indescribable gift."
After the service we had a lovely Christmas lunch.
Saturday, December 24, 2011
Christmas celebration -Wiliam Booth Corps
Our Church held its Christmas celebration on Friday evening. A sumptuous Christmas dinner was provided for our people and the invited guests included folk from the Bukit Panjang Family Centre.
Then at 7.00 p.m we moved from the Social Hall to the main hall where a concert was held. We had the portrayal of the Nativity scene. The participants were the children from the Centre. In the audience were the parents and grandparents. Good to see the hall packed to capacity.
To night our folk are out carolling. My wife and I have chosen to remain at home and take a little rest. It has been a hectic week and we know our limitations.
There is a time for everything, a time to start, to take part and a time to let others carry on the work.
This is Christmas Eve and we need to conserve our strength for tomorrow when we shall be leading the worship at Changi Corps. We are looking forward to this.
Then at 7.00 p.m we moved from the Social Hall to the main hall where a concert was held. We had the portrayal of the Nativity scene. The participants were the children from the Centre. In the audience were the parents and grandparents. Good to see the hall packed to capacity.
To night our folk are out carolling. My wife and I have chosen to remain at home and take a little rest. It has been a hectic week and we know our limitations.
There is a time for everything, a time to start, to take part and a time to let others carry on the work.
This is Christmas Eve and we need to conserve our strength for tomorrow when we shall be leading the worship at Changi Corps. We are looking forward to this.
Funeral of Andrew Ong
We attended Andrew Ong’s funeral service and the committal at the Mandai Crematorium today. As I came away the words of Job kept ringing in my mind.
Job writes, “I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; (Job 19: 25-26)
Like Job even in our pain there are some things that we can know and be certain about. Twice in this passage Job states there are some things that he knows (vv. 25, 26) with certainty.
It’s wonderful for a man, like Job living so many years before Christ, to affirm that he knows that there is a Redeemer. In verse 25 “I know that my Redeemer lives….” Job states that he is “my” redeemer; he had a personal relationship with the Redeemer. This is truth uttered from a heart of assurance and firm conviction.
Another thought came to my mind. Paul the Apostle many years later put it this way, "For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, (2 Corinthians 5:1-2). In death we move from living in a tent to life in a mansion our Lord has gone to prepare for us.
Funerals need not be morbid. When we know the Lord as our Redeemer we can rejoice.
Job writes, “I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; (Job 19: 25-26)
Like Job even in our pain there are some things that we can know and be certain about. Twice in this passage Job states there are some things that he knows (vv. 25, 26) with certainty.
It’s wonderful for a man, like Job living so many years before Christ, to affirm that he knows that there is a Redeemer. In verse 25 “I know that my Redeemer lives….” Job states that he is “my” redeemer; he had a personal relationship with the Redeemer. This is truth uttered from a heart of assurance and firm conviction.
Another thought came to my mind. Paul the Apostle many years later put it this way, "For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, (2 Corinthians 5:1-2). In death we move from living in a tent to life in a mansion our Lord has gone to prepare for us.
Funerals need not be morbid. When we know the Lord as our Redeemer we can rejoice.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Andrew Ong promoted to Glory
Andrew Ong was promoted to Glory yesterday at the age of 65. I have known Andrew since he was a baby. His parents Mr. and Mrs. Ong Kay Sung were the first Salvationists of Balestier Corps (church) Andrew was a faithful and enthusiastic salvationist.
He leaves behind his wife Irene, three children - Janaine, Aaron and Amelyn, son-in-law Christopher Loh and two grandchildren, Hannah and Ariele.
His sisters, Ruth and Janet residing in Canada are now on their way to Singapore to attend the funeral.
My wife and I attended the wake last night. The funeral will be on Christmas Eve. He will be cremated at the Mandai Crematorium at 1.00 p.m.
Promoted to Glory is a term used by The Salvation Army to describe the death of a Salvationist.The term was actually coined by Herbert Booth, son of the Founder William Booth, following the death of Catherine Booth, the Mother of the Salvation Army
Promoted To Glory (funeral Song written by Herbert Booth)
Summoned home, the call has sounded,
Bidding a soldier his warfare cease;
And the song of angels resounded,
Welcomes a warrior to eternal peace.
Praise the Lord! from earthly struggles
A comrade has found release.
Death has lost its sting, the grave its victory;
Conflicts and dangers are over;
See him honored in the throne of glory,
Crowned by the hand of Jehovah!
Refrain
Strife and sorrow over,
The Lord’s true faithful soldier
Has been called to go from the ranks below,
To the conq’ring host above.
Once the sword, but now the scepter,
Once the fight, now the rest and fame,
Broken every earthly fetter,
Now the glory for the cross and shame;
Once the loss of all for Jesus,
But now the eternal gain.
Trials and sorrow here have found their meaning
Mysteries their explanation;
Safe, forever in the sunlight gleaming
Of His eternal salvation.
He leaves behind his wife Irene, three children - Janaine, Aaron and Amelyn, son-in-law Christopher Loh and two grandchildren, Hannah and Ariele.
His sisters, Ruth and Janet residing in Canada are now on their way to Singapore to attend the funeral.
My wife and I attended the wake last night. The funeral will be on Christmas Eve. He will be cremated at the Mandai Crematorium at 1.00 p.m.
Promoted to Glory is a term used by The Salvation Army to describe the death of a Salvationist.The term was actually coined by Herbert Booth, son of the Founder William Booth, following the death of Catherine Booth, the Mother of the Salvation Army
Promoted To Glory (funeral Song written by Herbert Booth)
Summoned home, the call has sounded,
Bidding a soldier his warfare cease;
And the song of angels resounded,
Welcomes a warrior to eternal peace.
Praise the Lord! from earthly struggles
A comrade has found release.
Death has lost its sting, the grave its victory;
Conflicts and dangers are over;
See him honored in the throne of glory,
Crowned by the hand of Jehovah!
Refrain
Strife and sorrow over,
The Lord’s true faithful soldier
Has been called to go from the ranks below,
To the conq’ring host above.
Once the sword, but now the scepter,
Once the fight, now the rest and fame,
Broken every earthly fetter,
Now the glory for the cross and shame;
Once the loss of all for Jesus,
But now the eternal gain.
Trials and sorrow here have found their meaning
Mysteries their explanation;
Safe, forever in the sunlight gleaming
Of His eternal salvation.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Twelve days of Christmas
A friend from New Zealand shared this interesting article with me.
"What in the world do leaping lords, French hens, swimming swans, and especially the partridge who won't come out of the pear tree have to do with Christmas?
From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practise their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which the children could remember.
-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.
-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.
-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.-
-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.
-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.
-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.
-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.
-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.
-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.
-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.
-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.
-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.
So there is your history for today. This knowledge was shared with me and I found it interesting and enlightening and now I know how that strange song became a Christmas Carol...so pass it on if you wish.'
"What in the world do leaping lords, French hens, swimming swans, and especially the partridge who won't come out of the pear tree have to do with Christmas?
From 1558 until 1829, Roman Catholics in England were not permitted to practise their faith openly. Someone during that era wrote this carol as a catechism song for young Catholics. It has two levels of meaning: the surface meaning plus a hidden meaning known only to members of their church. Each element in the carol has a code word for a religious reality which the children could remember.
-The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Christ.
-Two turtle doves were the Old and New Testaments.
-Three French hens stood for faith, hope and love.-
-The four calling birds were the four gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John.
-The five golden rings recalled the Torah or Law, the first five books of the Old Testament.
-The six geese a-laying stood for the six days of creation.
-Seven swans a-swimming represented the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit--Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Contribution, Leadership, and Mercy.
-The eight maids a-milking were the eight beatitudes.
-Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of the Holy Spirit--Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, and Self Control.
-The ten lords a-leaping were the ten commandments.
-The eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven faithful disciples.
-The twelve drummers drumming symbolized the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' Creed.
So there is your history for today. This knowledge was shared with me and I found it interesting and enlightening and now I know how that strange song became a Christmas Carol...so pass it on if you wish.'
Sunday, December 18, 2011
Christmas Parties - Gracehaven and Peacehaven
It rained cats and dogs when we made our way to Gracehaven Home. We went by public transport which took us slightly over an hour. This year there was no drama, but the Home Youth and children put on very good items. Anyone can tell, they have rehearsed well. This was followed by a sumptuous dinner. This was the first Christmas for Lieutenants Anthony and Wai Chan Yong who are in charge of the Home.
Then on Saturday, Majors Lim Chee Kwee and Annie came for us and took us to Peacehaven for their celebration. The nurses and staff put on a good programme. Sister Linda Lim a former resident of Children's Home many years ago and now retired had trained 'line dance group' at Peacehaven. We have known Linda for many years, perhaps half a century. Good to see these former girls returning to the Army to give of their service. Just imagine I was compelled to join them on the platform to do line dance - fortunately because of my height (I'm taller than most of the folk participating) I stood at the back, so my mistakes were not seen by the audience. This was the first time, I took part in the line dance.
Chaplain Jimi Tan, put on a special item depicting the Army's theme - One Army, One mission, One message. The play began with the Genesis story and concluded with the nativity scene. When the singing group sang, "They shall come from the East, they shall come from the west and sit down in the kingdom of God" folk dressed in different national costumes, streamed in from all over the building to pay homage to Christ the King.
Jimi Tan and and the staff certainly must have put in hours of practice. The nurses and therapists and other staff could only practise during their time off. God bless them for their commitment and sacrificial service for the sake of the kingdon.
We than adjourned to have our dinner prepared by the chef Patrick and the kitchen staff.It was a sumptous Christmas dinner.
Yes, both Homes, Gracehaven and Peacehaven put on excellent programmes.
Then on Saturday, Majors Lim Chee Kwee and Annie came for us and took us to Peacehaven for their celebration. The nurses and staff put on a good programme. Sister Linda Lim a former resident of Children's Home many years ago and now retired had trained 'line dance group' at Peacehaven. We have known Linda for many years, perhaps half a century. Good to see these former girls returning to the Army to give of their service. Just imagine I was compelled to join them on the platform to do line dance - fortunately because of my height (I'm taller than most of the folk participating) I stood at the back, so my mistakes were not seen by the audience. This was the first time, I took part in the line dance.
Chaplain Jimi Tan, put on a special item depicting the Army's theme - One Army, One mission, One message. The play began with the Genesis story and concluded with the nativity scene. When the singing group sang, "They shall come from the East, they shall come from the west and sit down in the kingdom of God" folk dressed in different national costumes, streamed in from all over the building to pay homage to Christ the King.
Jimi Tan and and the staff certainly must have put in hours of practice. The nurses and therapists and other staff could only practise during their time off. God bless them for their commitment and sacrificial service for the sake of the kingdon.
We than adjourned to have our dinner prepared by the chef Patrick and the kitchen staff.It was a sumptous Christmas dinner.
Yes, both Homes, Gracehaven and Peacehaven put on excellent programmes.
This is my story - 66 (Hong Kong/Taiwan)
66 – Opening of New Command Headquarters
One big important file marked “New Command Headquarters’ Building” was handed to me when I took office in January 1983. The old Headquarters along Nathan Road was quite inadequate to cater for the needs of the growing work of The Salvation Army. Our predecessors had secured from the Hong Kong Government an arrangement to erect the present 14- storey building in exchange for the return of the Nathan Road land.
Of course, the Property Department under the leadership of Major Joseph Wilcox an Australian officer handled the details. They received very good support from the Property Committee of the Advisory Board a group of businessmen well versed in property and legal matters.
It was a busy time for those involved – the calling of tenders, the choice of contractors and the negotiations took up a lot of our time. When work was about to begin, the contractor wanted to bring in Toaist priests to conduct rituals and cast out evil spirits a custom prevalent in Hong Kong. Captain James Lau the Field Secretary strongly opposed the contractors and insisted that he would perform the ceremony. So the Captain went with a group of Salvationists and prayed loudly in Cantonese over the land! He then turned to the contactors and said, “Now the land is cleansed, no evil spirits will trouble your workers.” We took our stand as a church and Christian organisation.
On 26th November 1984 we began our move to the new building. Of course, we had to deal with many teething problems initially. However, we had a good team of officers and staff who worked extremely hard to get the place ready for the official opening.
The official opening of the new Command Headquarters building on 20th April 1985 was a thrilling and exhilarating experience for us and the members of The Salvation Army. It was one of the highlights of our time in Hong Kong. The Chicago Staff Band (Bandmaster William Himes) from America came and participated on this historic event. It added colour to the occasion.
Busy Nathan Road was closed to traffic for The Salvation Army band and representative Salvationists to march from the old to the new Headquarters. I was informed that the only other time that had happened was when Queen Elizabeth II visited the colony. The Governor of Hong Kong, Sir Edward Youde was the guest of honour who officiated. The International Secretary of South Pacific and East Asia Commissioner William Cairns was there to dedicate the building and to lead the weekend’s meetings.
The new building provided facilities for the Central Corps (church); one floor was reserved for services to the elderly and two floors for a Day Care and Kindergarten. We kept two floors, the fourth and fifth for Headquarters administration. My wife and I had offices on the fourth floor. The sixth and seventh floors were reserved for the Training College. Officers’ quarters occupied the top floors.
We knew it would be costly to maintain such a big building, so we set aside the rest of the building to provide accommodation for international visitors. Profits from the centre named Booth Lodge went towards the running expenses of this building.
In faith we requested International Headquarters to send us officers for training of cadets. The last principal Captain Peter Chang of Korea left Hong Kong for USA in 1972 for further studies and the training work ceased. Three cadets were sent to the School for Officer Training in the Philippines. Now with the new facilities and the promise of overseas personnel, we were ready to open the Training College in the new building.
Commissioner Eva Burrows responded to our need for personnel by sending from the Melbourne Training College Captain and Mrs. Robert Paterson, so in the same year we were able to admit six new cadets. Among these were Cadets Simon and Belinda Tso who are currently the General Secretary and Secretary for Women’s Ministries of the Command respectively. Mrs. Captain Margaret Hay wife of the Principal of William Booth Secondary School Captain Laurence Hay was appointed as the Education Officer.
One big important file marked “New Command Headquarters’ Building” was handed to me when I took office in January 1983. The old Headquarters along Nathan Road was quite inadequate to cater for the needs of the growing work of The Salvation Army. Our predecessors had secured from the Hong Kong Government an arrangement to erect the present 14- storey building in exchange for the return of the Nathan Road land.
Of course, the Property Department under the leadership of Major Joseph Wilcox an Australian officer handled the details. They received very good support from the Property Committee of the Advisory Board a group of businessmen well versed in property and legal matters.
It was a busy time for those involved – the calling of tenders, the choice of contractors and the negotiations took up a lot of our time. When work was about to begin, the contractor wanted to bring in Toaist priests to conduct rituals and cast out evil spirits a custom prevalent in Hong Kong. Captain James Lau the Field Secretary strongly opposed the contractors and insisted that he would perform the ceremony. So the Captain went with a group of Salvationists and prayed loudly in Cantonese over the land! He then turned to the contactors and said, “Now the land is cleansed, no evil spirits will trouble your workers.” We took our stand as a church and Christian organisation.
On 26th November 1984 we began our move to the new building. Of course, we had to deal with many teething problems initially. However, we had a good team of officers and staff who worked extremely hard to get the place ready for the official opening.
The official opening of the new Command Headquarters building on 20th April 1985 was a thrilling and exhilarating experience for us and the members of The Salvation Army. It was one of the highlights of our time in Hong Kong. The Chicago Staff Band (Bandmaster William Himes) from America came and participated on this historic event. It added colour to the occasion.
Busy Nathan Road was closed to traffic for The Salvation Army band and representative Salvationists to march from the old to the new Headquarters. I was informed that the only other time that had happened was when Queen Elizabeth II visited the colony. The Governor of Hong Kong, Sir Edward Youde was the guest of honour who officiated. The International Secretary of South Pacific and East Asia Commissioner William Cairns was there to dedicate the building and to lead the weekend’s meetings.
The new building provided facilities for the Central Corps (church); one floor was reserved for services to the elderly and two floors for a Day Care and Kindergarten. We kept two floors, the fourth and fifth for Headquarters administration. My wife and I had offices on the fourth floor. The sixth and seventh floors were reserved for the Training College. Officers’ quarters occupied the top floors.
We knew it would be costly to maintain such a big building, so we set aside the rest of the building to provide accommodation for international visitors. Profits from the centre named Booth Lodge went towards the running expenses of this building.
In faith we requested International Headquarters to send us officers for training of cadets. The last principal Captain Peter Chang of Korea left Hong Kong for USA in 1972 for further studies and the training work ceased. Three cadets were sent to the School for Officer Training in the Philippines. Now with the new facilities and the promise of overseas personnel, we were ready to open the Training College in the new building.
Commissioner Eva Burrows responded to our need for personnel by sending from the Melbourne Training College Captain and Mrs. Robert Paterson, so in the same year we were able to admit six new cadets. Among these were Cadets Simon and Belinda Tso who are currently the General Secretary and Secretary for Women’s Ministries of the Command respectively. Mrs. Captain Margaret Hay wife of the Principal of William Booth Secondary School Captain Laurence Hay was appointed as the Education Officer.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Christmas Trees
We used to put up a Christmas tree in our lounge during the festive season when the children were with us. Nowadays with just the two of us, we just don't bother to put up the tree. We can enjoy the tree when we go downstairs on ground floor or at the church.
This morning we joined our friends for the Prayer meeting at Territorial Headquarters. In the introduction to her devotion, Major Pascoe mentioned about the Christmas Tree.
Christmas trees originated among early Christians as a symbol of eternal life. As evergreens, they became a witness to their faith in Jesus and His gift of eternal life. One night in the forest, Martin Luther noticed that the hundreds of millions of stars looked like they were resting on the branches of the giant fir trees. So he put tiny candles on his tree and lit them on Christmas Eve as a witness to his family and neighbours that Jesus is the Light of the world.
" A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit." Isaiah 11: 1.
This morning we joined our friends for the Prayer meeting at Territorial Headquarters. In the introduction to her devotion, Major Pascoe mentioned about the Christmas Tree.
Christmas trees originated among early Christians as a symbol of eternal life. As evergreens, they became a witness to their faith in Jesus and His gift of eternal life. One night in the forest, Martin Luther noticed that the hundreds of millions of stars looked like they were resting on the branches of the giant fir trees. So he put tiny candles on his tree and lit them on Christmas Eve as a witness to his family and neighbours that Jesus is the Light of the world.
" A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots a Branch will bear fruit." Isaiah 11: 1.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Christmas dinner at Tangs
Last night, I joined our many friends as guests of Mrs. Janet Liok at Marriot Hotel. The William Booth Corps band was on duty playing carols. At 9.15 p.m. we all went to the Hotel to have this lovely Christmas dinner. Mrs. Liok, her son Kelvin and Katherine her sister worship at the William Booth Corps (Church)
I sat next to Janet Liok's cousin Mrs. Khai-Eng Tyler from England the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C Y Chang of Malacca. I first met this lady when I took up my appointment as the Corps Officer (pastor) of Malacca Corps (church) in 1954. The Changs owned a shop selling all kinds of knick knack, pictures, lamp shades etc. at Newcome Road. Mr. C Y Chang was a Methodist lay preacher and quite often came round to help The Salvation Army. Mrs. Chang who ran the shop was the niece of C K Tang of Singapore.
The Changs were very kind to me during my three years in Malacca. Every Chinese New Year they would invite me to share their family reunion dinner. I was at that time in my early twenties living alone. Every month they contributed their donation to The Salvation Army.
Mrs. Tyler is going to visit her brother Joseph and his family in Malacca. In the meantime she is staying with her cousin Janet Liok in Singapore.
Many friends, past and present have contributed much to my spiritual growth through the years. Christmas is the time we hear from many, either by e-mail, or snail mail. As each greeting comes in I whisper a prayer for these good people God has brought into our lives.
I sat next to Janet Liok's cousin Mrs. Khai-Eng Tyler from England the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. C Y Chang of Malacca. I first met this lady when I took up my appointment as the Corps Officer (pastor) of Malacca Corps (church) in 1954. The Changs owned a shop selling all kinds of knick knack, pictures, lamp shades etc. at Newcome Road. Mr. C Y Chang was a Methodist lay preacher and quite often came round to help The Salvation Army. Mrs. Chang who ran the shop was the niece of C K Tang of Singapore.
The Changs were very kind to me during my three years in Malacca. Every Chinese New Year they would invite me to share their family reunion dinner. I was at that time in my early twenties living alone. Every month they contributed their donation to The Salvation Army.
Mrs. Tyler is going to visit her brother Joseph and his family in Malacca. In the meantime she is staying with her cousin Janet Liok in Singapore.
Many friends, past and present have contributed much to my spiritual growth through the years. Christmas is the time we hear from many, either by e-mail, or snail mail. As each greeting comes in I whisper a prayer for these good people God has brought into our lives.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Jesus - the servant
Jesus
He came not to a throne, but to a manger.
He lived not as a king, but as a servant.
He chose not a kingdom, but a cross.
He gave not just a little, but everything.
- Holley Gerth
He came not to a throne, but to a manger.
He lived not as a king, but as a servant.
He chose not a kingdom, but a cross.
He gave not just a little, but everything.
- Holley Gerth
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Message from the angels or angles
Is it a typographical error or is it spelling mistake? I don't know but the thought came to my mind that during Christmas we can listen to the message from the angels that proclaim "Unto you is born a Saviour who is Christ the Lord" and again, "glory to God in the highest, peace on earth goodwill to men."
Or do we listen to the Christmas message from different angles. Some angles have the tendency to keep us away from the nativity scene. Spend more at the department store, big bargains, sales! Nothing wrong in going shopping, but be careful we can lose our focus.
In some countries the authorities are advocating the change of name for example to "Winterval" and the Christmas tree is called the "Holiday Tree." They don't want to offend other faiths by using the name Christ, so advocate the change leaving Christ out. Christmas is about Christ coming into the world to save sinners.
Let's listen the message from God given through His angels and reject the message from other angles.
We were at Haven Children's Home this afternoon to join in the celebration of Christmas. Good to listen to the children sing the Christmas message. What a joy to listen to the angels choir! God bless the children.
Or do we listen to the Christmas message from different angles. Some angles have the tendency to keep us away from the nativity scene. Spend more at the department store, big bargains, sales! Nothing wrong in going shopping, but be careful we can lose our focus.
In some countries the authorities are advocating the change of name for example to "Winterval" and the Christmas tree is called the "Holiday Tree." They don't want to offend other faiths by using the name Christ, so advocate the change leaving Christ out. Christmas is about Christ coming into the world to save sinners.
Let's listen the message from God given through His angels and reject the message from other angles.
We were at Haven Children's Home this afternoon to join in the celebration of Christmas. Good to listen to the children sing the Christmas message. What a joy to listen to the angels choir! God bless the children.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Kettling at Starbucks
Every year during the month of December, Starbucks in Singapore set aside one day to raise funds specifically for The Salvation Army. In Singapore the company has been doing this for at least the last ten years. On a chosen Thursday from 5.00 to 7.00 p.m all customers are given free drinks. They are requested to put their donation into what is called the 'kettle' hence the appeal is named 'kettling.'
This custom originated in America. In December 1891 San Francisco, California was paralysed with a dock workers strike. A Salvation Army officer Captain Joseph McFee wanted to provide a Christmas dinner for the poor but lacked the funds. He obtained permission from the authorities and placed an empty kettle on a kettle stand. He appealed to the public for funds. People dropped their donations into the kettle. This noble approach was an instant success. Soon other Salvation Army churches or centres picked up the idea and eventually spread across the United States and to other parts of the world.
The bell was added a few years later when a Salvation Army volunteer was tired of being ignored by passersby. She went inside the department store where the kettle was located and bought a small bell. The idea worked and bells became a permanent feature of the kettles. Later The Salvation Army Christmas bell was immortalised in the popular Christmas song, "Silver bells."
My wife and I were at Starbucks, Harbour Front yesterday 8th December to do kettling. We arrived about 15 minutes before time, so had a little rest and spent our time chatting with the staff. We were warmly welcomed by the branch manager a 26-year old named Jack and the representative from Starbuck Headquarters Ms. Sabaria Suri-Morrison.
At exactly 5.00 p.m. Ms. Sabaria rang the bell and she kept ringing for the full two hours walking up and down inviting people to join the queue. She was very enthusiastic and full of energy. Later one of the staff came with a bigger bell. She must have found our bell too small and not loud enough.
We stood at the entrance and as the people entered they put in their donations. The queue grew longer and longer and we had to request the people to wait as they could only cater for only a certain number of people at a time. Extra workers were recruited for the day and a number of ex-employees of Starbucks volunteered their services.
We thank God for health and strength and the privilege of serving Him by serving in the Army and people.
Salvationists feel that the Christmas kettle not only provides as means to raise funds but also as a reminder to the public that the true spirit of Christmas is found in remembering others.
I remember an old chorus we used to sing at Sunday School to the tune of Jingle Bells.
"J-O-Y, J-O-Y this must surely mean
Jesus first, yourself last, others in between."
This custom originated in America. In December 1891 San Francisco, California was paralysed with a dock workers strike. A Salvation Army officer Captain Joseph McFee wanted to provide a Christmas dinner for the poor but lacked the funds. He obtained permission from the authorities and placed an empty kettle on a kettle stand. He appealed to the public for funds. People dropped their donations into the kettle. This noble approach was an instant success. Soon other Salvation Army churches or centres picked up the idea and eventually spread across the United States and to other parts of the world.
The bell was added a few years later when a Salvation Army volunteer was tired of being ignored by passersby. She went inside the department store where the kettle was located and bought a small bell. The idea worked and bells became a permanent feature of the kettles. Later The Salvation Army Christmas bell was immortalised in the popular Christmas song, "Silver bells."
My wife and I were at Starbucks, Harbour Front yesterday 8th December to do kettling. We arrived about 15 minutes before time, so had a little rest and spent our time chatting with the staff. We were warmly welcomed by the branch manager a 26-year old named Jack and the representative from Starbuck Headquarters Ms. Sabaria Suri-Morrison.
At exactly 5.00 p.m. Ms. Sabaria rang the bell and she kept ringing for the full two hours walking up and down inviting people to join the queue. She was very enthusiastic and full of energy. Later one of the staff came with a bigger bell. She must have found our bell too small and not loud enough.
We stood at the entrance and as the people entered they put in their donations. The queue grew longer and longer and we had to request the people to wait as they could only cater for only a certain number of people at a time. Extra workers were recruited for the day and a number of ex-employees of Starbucks volunteered their services.
We thank God for health and strength and the privilege of serving Him by serving in the Army and people.
Salvationists feel that the Christmas kettle not only provides as means to raise funds but also as a reminder to the public that the true spirit of Christmas is found in remembering others.
I remember an old chorus we used to sing at Sunday School to the tune of Jingle Bells.
"J-O-Y, J-O-Y this must surely mean
Jesus first, yourself last, others in between."
Christmas Gift suggestions
To your enemy, forgiveness.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
... To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.
To an opponent, tolerance.
To a friend, your heart.
To a customer, service.
... To all, charity.
To every child, a good example.
To yourself, respect.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Visit to Choa Chu Kang Columbarium
My wife and I thought it was time for us to pay a visit to our departed ancestors! So yesterday, my sister-in-law Angela came and three of us went to the Choa Chu Kang Columbarium.
We went to have a look at the niches for my father and my wife's aunt. We have lost the numbers of the niches, but thought we remembered the location. We searched the whole of second level at Block A, but could not find the niches.
Eventually we went to the office where we met a Mr. Ng, who was very kind and friendly. We gave him the names and the dates of their burial. Well, he made a search on his computer and found the numbers of the niches for us. The niches were on Level 3 and not 2. Thank God for modern technology and thank God for kind people who are always willing to be of assistance.
Well, the dead do not know whether we visit or not, but we do it for our sakes. We owe much to our ancestors, and the older we get the more we appreciate what they had gone through and the sacrifices they made on our behalf.
If there is one sin that most prevalent today, it is the sin of ingratitude. We are grateful to God and to our many loved ones and friends who have been of great support and encouragement to us.
You cannot be grateful and bitter.
You cannot be grateful and unhappy.
You cannot be grateful and without hope.
You cannot be grateful and unloving.
So just be grateful.
Author Unknown
We went to have a look at the niches for my father and my wife's aunt. We have lost the numbers of the niches, but thought we remembered the location. We searched the whole of second level at Block A, but could not find the niches.
Eventually we went to the office where we met a Mr. Ng, who was very kind and friendly. We gave him the names and the dates of their burial. Well, he made a search on his computer and found the numbers of the niches for us. The niches were on Level 3 and not 2. Thank God for modern technology and thank God for kind people who are always willing to be of assistance.
Well, the dead do not know whether we visit or not, but we do it for our sakes. We owe much to our ancestors, and the older we get the more we appreciate what they had gone through and the sacrifices they made on our behalf.
If there is one sin that most prevalent today, it is the sin of ingratitude. We are grateful to God and to our many loved ones and friends who have been of great support and encouragement to us.
You cannot be grateful and bitter.
You cannot be grateful and unhappy.
You cannot be grateful and without hope.
You cannot be grateful and unloving.
So just be grateful.
Author Unknown
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Visit to Peacehaven Nursing Home
Had an interesting day at Peacehaven. We did chapel service at the Ward called Flamingo. Present were all ladies in different stages of dementia or handicapped in other ways. As it is December we told the Christmas story. We sang as usual "Jesus loves me this I know." "Christmas is love" and that is the theme for this year's celebration at Orchard Road shopping area.
We visited the whole of Level one. The ward called Sunbird has now been renamed "Grace Corner." It has been renovated and refurbished at Government expense. It is now taking patients from Changi Hospital. The Army's Peacehaven Nursing Home is now gazetted as an integral part of the Eastern Cluster. The Ministry of Health recognises the part the Army plays in elderly nursing care and supports our programme. At the moment there is only one resident, a lady in her nineties. She had a fall and fractured her hip. She speaks only Cantonese, but none of the staff can speak in this dialect, so my wife spent about half an hour chatting with her.
There were quite a number of students from National University of Singapore who are doing their assignments at Peacehaven. These are third year students and next year will graduate and be appointed as Staff nurses in the various hospitals. We get students also from Polytechnic and ITE as well. The Salvation Army Nursing Home is accredited by the Government in the training programme.
We thank God the Army has an important part to play in caring for the elderly and the handicapped. Yes, the mission of the Army is to save souls, grow saints and care for suffering humanity.
We visited the whole of Level one. The ward called Sunbird has now been renamed "Grace Corner." It has been renovated and refurbished at Government expense. It is now taking patients from Changi Hospital. The Army's Peacehaven Nursing Home is now gazetted as an integral part of the Eastern Cluster. The Ministry of Health recognises the part the Army plays in elderly nursing care and supports our programme. At the moment there is only one resident, a lady in her nineties. She had a fall and fractured her hip. She speaks only Cantonese, but none of the staff can speak in this dialect, so my wife spent about half an hour chatting with her.
There were quite a number of students from National University of Singapore who are doing their assignments at Peacehaven. These are third year students and next year will graduate and be appointed as Staff nurses in the various hospitals. We get students also from Polytechnic and ITE as well. The Salvation Army Nursing Home is accredited by the Government in the training programme.
We thank God the Army has an important part to play in caring for the elderly and the handicapped. Yes, the mission of the Army is to save souls, grow saints and care for suffering humanity.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Salvationist influence
Have you read the War Cry - the official organ of The Salvation Army? It is a well produced monthly magazine for the territory of Singapore,Malaysia and Myanmar. On the front cover of the December issue is the picture of two girls - the older one, the pretty teen ager is Bernice Tong, eldest daughter of Danny and Siew Kim Tong. The whole family worships at Changi Corps (church) I've known Danny for more than 40 years. He was originally from Ipoh. It's always a joy to meet this lovely Christian family who gives good witness to the Christian faith.
What a joy to watch him grow up, married a lovely lady from Kallang Corps and now have four children - Bernice, Eunice, Glennice and Philemon. Glennice was named after Major Glennice Bonnar wife of the former General Secretary Major Ken Bonnar.
There are quite a number of Salvationist children named after reinforcement officers. Our local folk admire the dedication of our overseas friends serving in this country and want their children to grow up to be like these dedicated missionaries.
Well this year on Christmas Day my wife and I will be conducting the meeting at Changi. We are looking forward to this day to join our Changi folk in worship.
What a joy to watch him grow up, married a lovely lady from Kallang Corps and now have four children - Bernice, Eunice, Glennice and Philemon. Glennice was named after Major Glennice Bonnar wife of the former General Secretary Major Ken Bonnar.
There are quite a number of Salvationist children named after reinforcement officers. Our local folk admire the dedication of our overseas friends serving in this country and want their children to grow up to be like these dedicated missionaries.
Well this year on Christmas Day my wife and I will be conducting the meeting at Changi. We are looking forward to this day to join our Changi folk in worship.
Second Sunday Advent.
I preached twice today. At 9.00 a.m my wife and I went to Eratchippu (Tamil) Corps. First we had Prayer meeting where five of us took part. Then slowly others streamed in. the meeting was all done in Tamil. I only gave the message which was interpreted by Corps Sergeant Major Hemma. The meeting lasted one and half hours.
I rushed home, upstairs on the fourth floor to have a cup of coffee (in case I fall asleep during the meeting) and went to the William Booth Corps for the next meeting. My wife led the meeting and I spoke on the need for spiritual preparation - message based on the prophecy of Isaiah 40. This is the second Sunday in Advent.
We had a good congregation of about 200 people. Among them was Colonel Mrs. Alice Lau from Hong Kong. She has come to spend Christmas and Chinese New Year with her son Michael and daughter-in-law, Gina. Good to see her again. We've been good friends for many years.
After lunch, we added the prayer meeting. We give thanks to God for health and strength to continue serving Him.
I rushed home, upstairs on the fourth floor to have a cup of coffee (in case I fall asleep during the meeting) and went to the William Booth Corps for the next meeting. My wife led the meeting and I spoke on the need for spiritual preparation - message based on the prophecy of Isaiah 40. This is the second Sunday in Advent.
We had a good congregation of about 200 people. Among them was Colonel Mrs. Alice Lau from Hong Kong. She has come to spend Christmas and Chinese New Year with her son Michael and daughter-in-law, Gina. Good to see her again. We've been good friends for many years.
After lunch, we added the prayer meeting. We give thanks to God for health and strength to continue serving Him.
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Christmas activities
We are now in the month of December and soon it will be Christmas. Normally my wife and I would be busy with kettling, standing outside Tangs ringing the bell and receiving donations from the public. We've been doing this every year since we returned to Singapore. We've been retired for almost fifteen years.
This year, our Corps Officer (pastor) has put a ban on us taking part in kettling. We have offered but she feels strongly that it is time we retire from kettling and let the younger ones do it. However, we shall do our share in fund raising by taking our turn at Starbucks on Thursday 8th December. This will be our first time at Starbucks and we are looking forward to it.
Anyway there are other things we can do. Major Pascoe is away at Banting, Malaysia this weekend, so my wife and I will be conducting the meetings at Eratchhippu and William Booth Corps (church) at 9.00 a.m. and 11 a.m respectively. Well, we are happy to do this as it is part of our calling. As for me, the word of God is burning like fire in the bones! We thank God for health and strength and the privilege to share the word with our people.
It will be the second Sunday in Advent and my message will be "Preparation for Christ's coming" based on Isaiah 40: 3-5.
"A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.
And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together.
For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”
Let's make spiritual preparation for Christmas.
This year, our Corps Officer (pastor) has put a ban on us taking part in kettling. We have offered but she feels strongly that it is time we retire from kettling and let the younger ones do it. However, we shall do our share in fund raising by taking our turn at Starbucks on Thursday 8th December. This will be our first time at Starbucks and we are looking forward to it.
Anyway there are other things we can do. Major Pascoe is away at Banting, Malaysia this weekend, so my wife and I will be conducting the meetings at Eratchhippu and William Booth Corps (church) at 9.00 a.m. and 11 a.m respectively. Well, we are happy to do this as it is part of our calling. As for me, the word of God is burning like fire in the bones! We thank God for health and strength and the privilege to share the word with our people.
It will be the second Sunday in Advent and my message will be "Preparation for Christ's coming" based on Isaiah 40: 3-5.
"A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God.
Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain.
And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together.
For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”
Let's make spiritual preparation for Christmas.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
The importance of Integrity
The Chinese built the Great Wall of China to prevent their enemies from the north entering their land. It is remembered as one of the Seven Wonders of the ancient world. It was so high no one could climb over it. It was so thick that made it impossible in those days for anyone to break it. The Chinese were happy and they felt secure.
However, during the first one hundred years of the wall's existence, the enemies invaded China three times despite the strong high wall. No, the enemies did not climb in nor break it. They just could not. Each time the enemies marched right in through the gates. According to the historians, the Chinese spent so much time and effort to build the great wall, they neglected to teach their children the importance of integrity.
What is integrity?
1.The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness.
2.The state of being whole and undivided: "territorial integrity".
Synonyms: honesty - probity - entirety - rectitude - wholeness.
Integrity is a value that an individual may choose whether or not to use or demonstrate.
God wants us to be people of integrity and honour, people who are truly trustworthy. A person who has integrity does not have any hidden agendas or ulterior motives. He is true to his word and keep commitments.
We live in a time where integrity means very little or nothing to people. Today it is difficult to tell good people from the bad ones.
Integrity does not mean that a person is perfect, but it does imply the type of character that would admit wrongdoing and repent of it.
Joseph was the first son of Jacob and Rachel. Jacob loved Rachel and because of this he favoured Joseph. Because of jealousy, Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers to the Midianites, who then sold him to Potiphar. But in the house of Potiphar Joseph’s unique talent for administration and honesty were clearly seen.
In Genesis 39, we see that Joseph was put in charge of Potiphar’s household. Because of his godly character and integrity, he found favour with Potiphar. Look at it in verses 4-6.
And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. – Genesis 39:4-6
Joseph’s character was such that Potiphar did not concern himself with anything but the food he ate. True character and integrity puts a person in the position to be trusted to the point that they do not need constant supervision. While there are those that say that it is difficult to maintain personal integrity in a different culture with a different value system, the clearest example of Joseph’s Integrity was when he was tempted by Potiphar’s wife. A man of lesser character would have given in. But Joseph would rather go to prison than to betray his master and his integrity.
Note his response to Potiphar’s wife in verse 9. "There is none greater in this house than I; neither has he kept back any thing from me but you, because you are his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" – Genesis 39:9
Think about this for a moment. He knew that if he gave in to the temptation, he would betray not only his master but more importantly his God. God held such a high position in the heart of Joseph, and because Joseph honoured God, he would honour Potiphar. Even with this temptation, he would not give in; even when the situation was such that no one else would know.
All of us have at some time or other call upon to make a decision concerning our personal integrity. Joseph teaches us that integrity means not compromising God’s standards.
"A life lived with integrity - even if it lacks the trappings of fame and fortune is a shinning star in whose light others may follow in the years to come." Denis Waitley
"Don't worry so much about your self-esteem. Worry more about your character. Integrity is its own reward." Laura Schlessinger
However, during the first one hundred years of the wall's existence, the enemies invaded China three times despite the strong high wall. No, the enemies did not climb in nor break it. They just could not. Each time the enemies marched right in through the gates. According to the historians, the Chinese spent so much time and effort to build the great wall, they neglected to teach their children the importance of integrity.
What is integrity?
1.The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles; moral uprightness.
2.The state of being whole and undivided: "territorial integrity".
Synonyms: honesty - probity - entirety - rectitude - wholeness.
Integrity is a value that an individual may choose whether or not to use or demonstrate.
God wants us to be people of integrity and honour, people who are truly trustworthy. A person who has integrity does not have any hidden agendas or ulterior motives. He is true to his word and keep commitments.
We live in a time where integrity means very little or nothing to people. Today it is difficult to tell good people from the bad ones.
Integrity does not mean that a person is perfect, but it does imply the type of character that would admit wrongdoing and repent of it.
Joseph was the first son of Jacob and Rachel. Jacob loved Rachel and because of this he favoured Joseph. Because of jealousy, Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers to the Midianites, who then sold him to Potiphar. But in the house of Potiphar Joseph’s unique talent for administration and honesty were clearly seen.
In Genesis 39, we see that Joseph was put in charge of Potiphar’s household. Because of his godly character and integrity, he found favour with Potiphar. Look at it in verses 4-6.
And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph’s hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. – Genesis 39:4-6
Joseph’s character was such that Potiphar did not concern himself with anything but the food he ate. True character and integrity puts a person in the position to be trusted to the point that they do not need constant supervision. While there are those that say that it is difficult to maintain personal integrity in a different culture with a different value system, the clearest example of Joseph’s Integrity was when he was tempted by Potiphar’s wife. A man of lesser character would have given in. But Joseph would rather go to prison than to betray his master and his integrity.
Note his response to Potiphar’s wife in verse 9. "There is none greater in this house than I; neither has he kept back any thing from me but you, because you are his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?" – Genesis 39:9
Think about this for a moment. He knew that if he gave in to the temptation, he would betray not only his master but more importantly his God. God held such a high position in the heart of Joseph, and because Joseph honoured God, he would honour Potiphar. Even with this temptation, he would not give in; even when the situation was such that no one else would know.
All of us have at some time or other call upon to make a decision concerning our personal integrity. Joseph teaches us that integrity means not compromising God’s standards.
"A life lived with integrity - even if it lacks the trappings of fame and fortune is a shinning star in whose light others may follow in the years to come." Denis Waitley
"Don't worry so much about your self-esteem. Worry more about your character. Integrity is its own reward." Laura Schlessinger
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)