Reflections on the last day of 2012

I am getting rid of things - some books go to the library downstairs on level 2 of our building. I won't say good bye to those books, for I can visit the library from time to time to visit my old friends who have served me well and now will just sit there and wait for someone to pull them out and open its pages.

Some things go to the Thrift Store - these may end up in someone's home, or sit in the store for someone to buy them. Some may end up in the incinerator to be turned into ashes to feed and nourish our plants and trees and bless the environment.

End of the year - time to throw away.

Yes, old grudges, old sorrows, old tears, old quarrels of yesteryears, old fears, old regrets! New Year affords a new beginning. Come to think of it - everyday gives us the opportunity for a new beginning.

New every morning is the love
Our wakening and uprising prove;
Through sleep and darkness safely brought,
Restored to life and power and thought.

New mercies, each returning day,
Hover around us while we pray;
New perils past, new sins forgiven,
New thoughts of God, new hopes of heaven.

If, on our daily course, our mind
Be set to hallow all we find,
New treasures still, of countless price,
God will provide for sacrifice.

Old friends, old scenes, will lovelier be,
As more of heaven in each we see;
Some softening gleam of love and prayer
Shall dawn on every cross and care.

We need not bid, for cloistered cell,
Our neighbor and our words farewell,
Nor strive to find ourselves too high
For sinful man beneath the sky.

The trivial round, the common task,
Will furnish all we ought to ask;
Room to deny ourselves, a road
To bring us daily nearer God.

Seek we no more; content with these,
Let present rapture, comfort, ease—
As heaven shall bid them, come and go:
The secret this of rest below.

Only, O Lord, in Thy dear love,
Fit us for perfect rest above,
And help us, this and every day,
To live more nearly as we pray.  (John Keble)

Friends from Hong Kong visited us.

What a joy to welcome into our home two lovely friends Envoy and Mrs, Daniel Hui from Hong Kong this morning! They are such warm, positive Christians who truly love the Lord. They are salvationists of Kowloon East Corps, (it was called the Yau Tong Corps when were were there) I recall visiting the Corps many times during our time in Hong Kong. Every visit brought us blessing.

Although they are here for only three days, they are spending one whole day today just to visit old friends like Mrs. Colonel Alice Lau and Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. Tan Thean Seng and us.

I've been pondering over the matter of relationships. Healthy relationships need to be formed and cultivated through mutual respect, unconditional love, acceptance and forgiveness. Relationships grow in depth, meaning and stability over time. This is true in all our relationships in all areas of our lives - our friendships, our family relationships, marriage relationship, relationship and fellow church members.

Take a look at nature. Plants for example grow in relationship to their environment. They are rooted in the soil, they reach out to the sunlight, they depend on insects for their pollination, they depend on the wind to spread their seeds. Pull them out of the soil, they wither and die. Block them from the sunlight, they cannot grow. To survive they need to be connected with the environment. They cannot survive in isolation. So do we humans we need to stay connected to the Lord and to our friends who support each other.

I've been thinking, the bells have stopped ringing, but the real work of Christmas goes on. We go on to make, repair and build relationships. There are many lonely people who need that visit, that telephone call, that kind note to make them feel, there are people who care.

So I thank God for my friends, genuine friends whom the Lord sends into our lives.

I end with the singing of an old song:

Friendship with Jesus, fellowship divine, O what blessed sweet communion
Jesus is a Friend of mine.

Prayer meeting

The alarm rang this morning at 4.30 a.m. the usual time for getting up on a Thursday morning. This gives us time to go for our morning walk, have our breakfast, private prayers, change and be ready to leave by 7.00 a.m. That's a normal Thursday.

There were not many of us, but we had a good time nevertheless. The Bible tells us that Jesus Himself got up when it was still dark to spend time in prayer.

Christmas all the year round

It’s Christmas time. Lucy comes in where Charlie Brown is standing and says, "Merry Christmas, Charlie Brown. `Tis the season of peace on earth and good will toward men. Therefore, I suggest we forget all our differences and love one another."

Charlie Brown, whose face lights up at this, says, "That’s wonderful, Lucy. I’m so glad you said that. But tell me, do we have to love each other only at this season of the year? Why can’t we love each other all year long?" Lucy retorts, "What are you, a fanatic or something?"

Not fanatical but truly Christian is to love one another in our homes, in our community, in our church, wherever we may be. Practise the blessing of “peace and earth and good will toward men” not just at Christmas time, but throughout the whole year round.

Christmas Day with the family

Tuesday late afternoon, our son Stephen and family came to visit us with Christmas presents. That was great for Christmas is a family festival. We visit each other during Chinese New Year, and there is no reason why we should not make it for Christmas too.

Our Lord Jesus Christ was with the family, his parents in the stable or cave on that first Christmas Day. The shepherds came in haste to pay their visit to the Christ Child. The wise men from the east travelled all the way to Bethlehem guided by that special star to give gifts and spend time with the Holy family.

Earlier in the day after service, we joined in fellowship and Christmas lunch with the church family.

That same evening, our daughter Gladys and family took us to West Mall where we celebrated our grandson Emmanuel's birthday. He had just completed I.B course at ACS (Independent) and now doing his internship at the Ministry of Law. In February he will begin his national service. We had pasta at the restaurant, then moved to Swenson's restaurant to have our ice cream. O it was a real treat and we enjoyed every moment of it.

So it was a wonderful Christmas - to celebrate the coming of Christ into the world.  He is the reason for the season. What a great time we had with family, friends, enjoying food and fellowship.

O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good!

Christmas Day - 2012

This was the first Christmas in many years that we were not preaching elsewhere, so we spent the morning in the church where we normally worship which is only downstairs. The service began at 10.00 a.m. and ended at 11.30 a.m. The whole church including the gallery was full. There were a number who came for the first time.

Good to sing the familiar carols, like "Joy to the world," O come all ye faithful" Hark, the herald angels sing" "Angels from the realms of Glory" and "Silent night" These carols have stood the test of time - they have a message.

I personally love to begin Christmas Day service with "Christians awake, salute the happy morn" I don't think many of our people today know this song. I've not heard this carol sung in recent years.

Major Pascoe our pastor spoke on "Don't miss the Christ our of Christmas" She pointed out the way people today write Christmas as X-mas. She gave three reasons -

Maybe they have no time. No time to write Christ, so substitute with X.
Maybe they have no knowledge of Christ. Christ is unknown, so they use X. Unknown Mass
Maybe they have no space. In Singapore space is now at a premium. The city is building "shoebox" units - room enough for a shoe is it? People have room for everything else but Christ.

While she was still speaking I thought of the song, "Have you any room for Jesus" and the prayer
"Room and time now give to Jesus."

The songsters sang a song written by Major Joy Webb.

The children start to carol in the night,
The candles glow, and everything is bright,
The time we love so well is casting it’s old spell
If only it was always Christmas night.

For Christmas can be everyday for you,
and this year’ll be the best you ever knew.
If the love this child and part can be held within your heart
then Christmas can be everyday for you.

O everywhere the people stop to pray
To celebrate this very special day.
And friend is meeting friend, some happy hour to spend
If only it was always Christmas Day.

Tomorrow may hold everything you fear,
So take this day and hold it’s memory dear,
And you will find it’s true, whatever you may do,
That Christmas can be everyday for you.

After the service we adjourned to the Social Hall to have our Christmas lunch. There was plenty of food - western and eastern. It was a great time of fellowship.

Thoughts on Christmas Eve

A quiet Christmas Eve for me and my wife. Our church folk are now out singing carols, but we have decided not to join them.

There is a time for everything, a time to be actively involved, a time to take a back seat. At our age, we need to let go of some things and do the things we can. Ministry takes different forms and the Lord does not expect us to perform beyond our ability.

We cherish happy memories of past Christmases and thank God for the privilege.

We wish all those who read this blog - Happy Christmas and Blessed New Year.

May God richly bless you.

The Prophecy

"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. "
Micah 5: 2

Here, truth and beauty. time with eternity meeting,
(Town magnified beyond words could state!)
Heaven kisses earth, and God designs the greeting,
And with mankind a relationship will create.

How can it be - a virgin have a baby;
A branch grow on a seeming long-dead tree?
Is it a parable of truth? Well maybe
This is the way that God would speak to me.

But things occur which logic can't declare;
The world is full of wonders yet unknown.
Imagination's loftiest heights are prone
To midgetry when on them brought to bear.

I'll speak the words of faith while here on earth.
In Heaven perceive the mystery of his birth.  _Peter M Cooke

Christmas concert and dinner at Peacehaven

Another busy and interesting day for both of us. We began the day early and instead of seeing to house cleaning and laundry, as we normally do, we left home at 8.00 a.m. with Major Pascoe and a few others for Peacehaven Nursing Home to join them in their celebrations. We arrived nice and early and at 9.00 a,m. were assigned to carol at two Resident Living Areas - Grace Corner and Robin.

Each visiting group took on two areas. Some churches of other denominations sent their carol singers to participate in the exercise. This meant each group was able to give more quality time to the residents.

AT 10.00 a.m, a Christmas concert was held at the Changi Corps auditorium. Central Corps Band was the first group to perform and they played a number pieces of Christmas music much to the delight of the congregation. They did well and we feel proud of them. Two of our grandchildren played in the Central Corps band.

Balestier Corps which sent quite a large delegation participated in singing Hokkien gospel songs.
Groups from other denominations also gave items.

The special guest was Mr.Raymond Lim, Member of Parliament and representative of East Coast GRC of which Peacehaven and Bedok form part his constituency.

After the concert we adjourned to the Nursing Home dining areas for the Christmas dinner.

Peacehaven Nursing Home has a special place in our hearts as our youngest daughter, God's special child is a resident in this Home. We visit Peacehaven every Tuesday to minister to the residents, staff and nurses.

Christmas Celebration at William Booth Corps

What a great time we had on Friday at the William Booth Corps (church). First we met at the Social Hall for our Christmas Dinner and folk from Eratchippu, Gracehaven, Haven, Bukit Panjang, Bukit Batok in fact all the centres from the Western side of Singapore gathered for the combined celebration. Food, both western and eastern were available - roast lamb, roast turkey, curry chicken, fried chicken, spicy and non-spicy food all available. Desserts were plentiful.

After dinner, we assembled at the Worship centre for our programme. We sang carols accompanied by the band. Then the various centres presented items and final the drama "The Christmas Star' written by Zahrah Aloba, music by Joshua Wan. The participants comprised children and youth from the various centres. They did well.

I was asked to give a short message following the drama. I spoke in English and my wife interpreted into Chinese for the benefit of the parents of children from our various centres who do not understand English. It was a brief message on Christmas.

Christmas gives us Songs to Sing, A Star to follow, and a Saviour to save us from our sins.

He came into our world.

He didn't come to Jupiter,
He didn't come to Mars,
He didn't come to sun or moon
Or any of the stars,
Of all the vast created host
From his own hand unfurled
By Jesus Christ, His only Son,
He came into our world.

He came because He wanted most
To take away sin's blight:
To frustrate every devilish scheme
And put our wrong world right.
His own volition brought Him from
His throne with splendour pearled.
But only if invited will
He come into my world.   - Albert Hamilton.

Prayer: O come to my heart Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for Thee.

Celebrating Christmas at Peacehaven

Yesterday we joined the staff of Peacehaven for Christmas lunch. What a delightful time we had and we enjoyed a delicious Christmas lunch too! I was asked to use my piano accordion to accompany the singing of carols. We thank God for allowing us to pay a small part in this Nursing Home. It's a real privilege.

We visited our daughter Poh Chin who is well cared for by the nurses and staff of the Home. She is happy in her own way even if she cannot express herself.

Among the residents we visited was a Salvationist from Central Corps - Brother Tan Thuan Miang. He was in a good mood and despite his condition was cheerful. As usual I prayed with him and when I said Amen, he asked to pray with me. It was a beautiful prayer from his heart for me and for his many friends. I was truly blessed by being with him for that brief period of time.

We visit Peacehaven to bless the people, but in turn we have been blessed. It happens every week.

We are now looking forward to Saturday when carollers from the various Corps and centres will minister to the folk at Peacehaven.  It will be a great time of celebration.

Bethlehem

General John Gowans, retired General and good friend of ours was promoted to Glory on 8th December 2012. I thought of one of his poems in a book called "O Lord"

Bethlehem
I saw three wise guys
Yesterday
In Bethlehem!
I couldn't reach
Your 'birthplace'
For their postcards
And their junk
And camels to be photographed.
Lord, how the tourists
Groaned and laughed,
And how the gutters stunk!

A hundred wooden babies
In a hundred wooden mangers
Were going cheap
At half the price
To half a hundred strangers,

I couldn't but be cynical
However much I tried,
Till faint among the souvenirs
I thought a Baby cried?

Jesus gave everything

JESUS
He came not to a throne
but a manger.
He lived not as a king,
but as a servant.
He chose not an earthly kingdom
but a cross.
He gave not just a little
but everything.  Holley Gerth

Christ loved us and give Himself for us. Ephesians 5: 2

Thanks be unto God!

"Silent night" - but not too loud please

One of the most popular carols internationally is "Silent night, holy night."  Musicians please take note - not too loud or too fast please! The music must suit the words.

Once I was in Chinatown about Christmas time and heard the blaring of the carol "Silent night."  Josef Mohr and Franz Gruber must have turned over in their graves! Some of our young people and the not so young have the habit of strumming the guitar and banging their drums so loudly and at great speed that it makes you cringe,

Please be sensitive to the words, "Silent night, holy night, all is calm all is bright" Sing and play it gently please!

Silent night, holy night

The year was 1818. The night was cold in the old church.  The poor church mouse was hungry and he wanted something to eat and the bellows of the old organ gave him a delicious meal.

He had always lived in the old church. When his town friends came to visit him, he shared with them his meagre larder, the organ bellows.

Then suddenly the church door opened and he and his friends scampered into his hole and watched. He relaxed. He knew this good man Josef Mohr who preached to the people. With him was the school master. The two men were talking, and then one sat down at the old organ.

“Oh dear” lamented the mouse as he remembered the organ bellow meals he had been sharing with his friends. Sure enough the old organ was silent, no sound at all.

“Let’s take a look” said the pastor creeping around the organ. “Oh dear, the bellows have been eaten right through.”

“Yes” said the school master, “even the mice are hungry and now there will be no music for Christmas Eve Service.” The mice watched the two sad faced men with their faces buried in their hands.

Music? He remembered the queer instrument that stood behind the door. Once he had run by it had fallen with the 'plink' sound. He moved quickly and with a push it dropped to the ground with as sound that attracted the two gentlemen.

“What’s that?

“A guitar”

“A guitar here?

“Yes, it’s a musical instrument.”

“If we can write a simple hymn tune that could be accompanied by a guitar, it would be the answer.”

The two men stayed up late writing a hymn for Christmas. They even had some bread late at night and the mice enjoyed the crumbs that dropped on the floor. Delicious! The church mice huddled in the hole and smelled the fragrance of the pine boughs and burning candles.

Soon people arrived - the people of Oberndorf, Austria. Men, women, children sat in the old church waiting for the service to begin.

The resident poor church mouse felt his whiskers twitch and a little tear splashed down his long nose. He had no intention to cause these humans grief. He pricked his ears and heard the preacher’s voice.

“Our organ will not play. But we have written a new Christmas hymn. I will teach you the words. Now listen carefully.” There was a hush and a clear voice sang accompanied by a guitar.

“Silent night, Holy night, all is calm, all is bright….” When he had finished the congregation all joined in. It was the most beautiful song and music the poor church mouse had ever heard.

Franz Gruber the organist from the neighbouring village of Arnsdorf composed the lovely tune with the aid of his guitar. The tune is wedded to Josef Mohr’s lyrics. Because the church organ was out of order at the time, this beautiful carol was used for the first time.

Christmas celebration at Kallang

Had a great and blessed time at Kallang Centre last evening, sharing fellowship, Christmas dinner, singing of carols and the word with the folk. The young, the middle age and the elderly were present to celebrate Christmas.

They sang most of the time in Hokkien for the sake of the elderly all from the Kallang area. Brother Tommy and Sister Jessica led the singing with guitar accompaniment.

Our own church folk were there to serve. The youth contributed items and sang in English.

Wonderful outreach by the Balestier folk under the direction of Captain Hary the pastor.

We were truly blessed!

A Christmas prayer

Lord Jesus Christ,
Child of Bethlehem and Son of God;
Help us this night to join our songs of glory
to those of the heavenly host,
that the joy of the church on earth
may be heard in the praise of heaven. Amen
C N R Wallwork.

God rest you merry gentlemen

This is an ancient carol familiar to the older generation. I don't think it is used much these days. I have deliberately left the punctuation out and leave you to place the coma.

God rest you, merry gentlemen.  OR
God rest you merry, gentlemen.

The first with the coma after you, indicates 'merry gentlemen.' It might give the picture of a group of gentlemen having a merry, hilarious, wild celebration perhaps after a drinking session! No the adjective 'merry' does not qualify 'gentlemen."

The second is correct. "God rest you merry, gentlemen." "Rest" is old English for "Keep"
"Merry has the connotation of "mighty or strong under difficult circumstances"

So the meaning of the carol is clear. In this world of trials and temptations, ups and downs, may the Lord keep you gentlemen from fear. Let nothing disturb your  equanimity. May you    still have that joy in your hearts.  "Let nothing you dismay" It reflects the message of the angels to the shepherds, "Do not be afraid, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."

Notice the ending of each verse, or chorus if you like with the words "Comfort and joy"  "Comfort" comes from the Latin words "With strength" So gentlemen, may the Lord keep you joyful and strong in this trouble world. A lovely Christmas wish or greeting.

God rest ye merry, gentlemen
Let nothing you dismay
Remember, Christ, our Saviour
Was born on Christmas day
To save us all from Satan's power
When we were gone astray
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

In Bethlehem, in Israel,
This blessed Babe was born
And laid within a manger
Upon this blessed morn
The which His Mother Mary
Did nothing take in scorn
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

From God our Heavenly Father
A blessed Angel came;
And unto certain Shepherds
Brought tidings of the same:
How that in Bethlehem was born
The Son of God by Name.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

"Fear not then," said the Angel,
"Let nothing you affright,
This day is born a Saviour
Of a pure Virgin bright,
To free all those who trust in Him
From Satan's power and might."
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

The shepherds at those tidings
Rejoiced much in mind,
And left their flocks a-feeding
In tempest, storm and wind:
And went to Bethlehem straightway
The Son of God to find.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

And when they came to Bethlehem
Where our dear Saviour lay,
They found Him in a manger,
Where oxen feed on hay;
His Mother Mary kneeling down,
Unto the Lord did pray.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy

Now to the Lord sing praises,
All you within this place,
And with true love and brotherhood
Each other now embrace;
This holy tide of Christmas
All other doth deface.
O tidings of comfort and joy,
Comfort and joy
O tidings of comfort and joy.

General John Gowans - promotion to Glory.

General John Gowans (R) was promoted to Glory on 8th December after a long period of declining health. The funeral will be on Friday 14th December conducted by General John Larsson (R) at 12.30 p.m. The Committal Service will be held at Hither Green Crematorium at 2.30 p.m.

Folk in Singapore will remember  his visit to our territory with Commissioner Gisele Gowans for our Congress. I recall meeting them at the air port. When he saw me, he rushed to me, gave me a big hug and said, "You old beggar, what are you doing here?"  That's the first and only time, I've been called a 'beggar' Only good friends who know each other well can talk like that.

Commissioner Gisele Gowns now lives in the flat exactly opposite to the one we used to live at Highcliffe, Albermarle Road, Beckenham. We keep in touch with her by e-mail.

Of course we will always remember his writings. Singapore comrades performed a number of the musicals, the lyrics written by him. General John Larsson wrote the music. Bandmaster Jim Webb was the director of the musicals we performed in Singapore Central Corps. I recall taking part in the following musicals in the 70's. Our daughter Gladys played the piano.

Glory, Jesus Folk, Spirit and  Hosea

Not so long ago the William Booth Corps did "Jesus Folk" directed by Songster Leader Ann Devadas.

Christmas carolling at Peacehaven

There are about 400 residents, not counting staff at The Salvation Army Nursing Home. Last Tuesday we began our carolling on Levels 1 and 3. Today we sang carols to our residents on Level 2 and Hope Centre.

My concertina is getting on in years, somewhat out of tune and leaking in the bellows and it will retire when I am gone from this earth. Anyway there is no one who knows how to play this ancient instrument. So I've been using my piano accordion which I bought at our Salvation Army Thrift Store some ten years ago. I quite enjoy playing it and it's good for physical exercise as well.

I had my first piano accordion given me when we were stationed in Penang. I bought a tutorial book from a music shop and learned from it. Since then I've worn out a few piano accordions. It's a lovely instrument.

We thank God for health and strength. Despite our age, we can still sing and proclaim the message of the gospel. We will continue doing so as long as the Lord and Peacehaven needs us.

Jesus was born in Bethlehem.

At this time of the year shopping centres or plazas are crowded with people - shoppers and window shoppers.

Turn the clock back to 2,000 years ago. Crowds were streaming into Bethlehem a town some seven miles south of Jerusalem. Amongst the crowd were a simple humble couple - Mary and Joseph. They were responding to the decree sent out by Caesar Augustus, the ruler in Rome to return to their ancestral homes to register.

Rome was unpopluar with the Jewish people, but they had no choice but to comply to this decree, enacted for the purpose of taxation. What could a subject people do, but to obey the law.

Mary the expectant mother and Joseph her husband looked everywhere for shelter to no avail. Everywhere the rooms were full. "Sorry no room" was the message they recieved. We feel sorry for the innkeeper who has become the target of criticisms of preachers through the years. Really the place was full, he could not turn the other guests out. No heavenly messenger had come to reveal to him who these two strangers were.

In the end the only place available for him to allocate was the stable where the animals were kept. To us living today accustomed to modern amenities of life, this offer of accomodation seemed so cruel and degrading. But to the couple this offer may have been a blessing in disguise. The shelter, probably a cave would have been warmed by the body heat of the animals. It gave central heating on that cold night! They would be away from the crowds and be assurred of privacy. There the humble Jesus was born.

We may not have the means or the ability to get to Bethlehem to worship Christ, but we can where we are right now kneel before Him in humble adoration. Make room for Jesus Chrst right now.

O come to my heart Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for Thee.

Christmas activities in two Homes

Last Saturday 1st December, we were at the Gracehaven Christmas Carnival. The residents contributed items to entertain us. We were able to spend a few dollars to buy some food for lunch and rushed home as it was raining.

This afternoon we were at another Home - the Haven at Pasir Panjang. They put on a concert followed by refreshments.

To night the band and carollers are at Tangs Plaza, but we have decided to stay home. This year we have cut down on some Christmas activities. For the first time since we returned home to retire, we are not involved in kettling.

There is a time for everything and as age creeps up on us we need to be wise and work within our limitations.

Emmanuel - God with us.

What does Christmas mean to you? To some, it means getting gifts, to others it means hard work, or stressful shopping. To some it is a sad memory of the loss of a love one. To others it is party time and plenty of fun. To many people Christmas means nothing. It is just another day in their life.

But to the person who truly knows Christ and has received Him as Saviour and Lord, Christmas means everything. It means God loves us with all His heart and He has given the best gift He could give, His Son, Jesus Christ. What a beautiful assurance as I go through life knowing His eternal presence helping me, guiding me, sustaining me whether I am awake or asleep. He is our Immanuel. This recorded in Isaiah 7: 14 “The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel.” (Immanuel in Hebrew or Emmanuel in Greek means “God with us.”

We have a grandson born on Christmas Day and the parents named him Emmanuel. As his birthday falls on 25^th December friends and relatives tend to forget his birthday because everyone is busy celebrating the birthday of Jesus Christ.

Strictly speaking Jesus Christ was not born on Christmas Day for He is the Eternal God, no beginning or end. He existed before the world was created. December 25^th was chosen by the Christian church to celebrate the Incarnation when God took on human flesh and was born as a Baby in Bethlehem.

We may forget someone’s birthday, but let us not forget the reason for our celebration – Christ’s coming into the world to be our Saviour. He is our Emmanuel – GOD WITH US!

This is my story - Hong Kong/Taiwan - 74

74 – Visiting the old Salvation Army Headquarters and former officers

Salvationists visiting China gravitate towards 26 Wang Fu Jian Street like Muslims toward Mecca. The old Territorial Headquarters stood (and still stands) despite its age and somewhat forlorn appearance. It had seen better days, but without Salvation Army activity, maintenance and upkeep it was deteriorating. Beneath the peeling red paint one could still see and decipher the words “The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters” (Chiu Shih Chun) Time seemed unable to obliterate its name.

On arrival we were warmly welcomed by the old faithful Salvationists – Lieutenants, Captains, Majors in their seventies, eighties and nineties! Some were still strong and fit, others frail in body, but still indomitable in spirit.

Of course, the leaders from International Headquarters representing the General deserved a welcoming party to escort him and his entourage into the building sacred to Chinese Salvationists. It was their Jerusalem Temple! We moved slowly up the dark staircase to the third floor and entered a spacious room, beautifully kept and maintained by Major Ying Hun-shun who had been paying the rent to the authorities from his own pocket although he no longer lived there. It served as his “board room” or hotel room for Salvationists from other towns coming to visit Beijing.

Refreshments were on the big rectangular table at the centre of the room. The Commissioner was escorted to take his seat at the head of the table and the rest of us filled up the other places. Again he and the team were warmly welcomed and after giving a brief message did the roll call according to the list kept at International Headquarters. Those present responded with “Hallelujah.”  Then there were those who had gone to be with the Lord, some had died of old age, others for their faith. Some lived too far to join us on that day. The cloud of witnesses looking down from heaven rejoiced to see the Army spirit was very much alive. Names were taken off the roll and marked ‘Promoted to Glory’ a term widely used in The Salvation Army for those who have gone to meet the Lord in Heaven.

Major Ying, our senior man and obvious acknowledged leader among the Chinese Salvationists read from John 14: 1-6. We were once again reminded of the mansions of Glory the Lord has gone to prepare for His people. After I had prayed the of thanksgiving, giving glory to God for His mercies, the congregation rose as one body to sing the well beloved hymn “What a Friend we have in Jesus.” In China no meeting or fellowship was complete without the singing of the Founder’s song, “O boundless salvation, deep ocean of love.”

We had brought with us from Hong Kong Salvation Army miniature flags and each person was given one. All stood up waved their flags and then spontaneously burst forth in singing “Lift up the Army banner blood and fire. Lift it higher.” Even the physically frail old saints seemed suddenly renewed in strength into fighting soldiers as they sang and waved the flags! The Salvation Army spirit was alive and well. After the benediction I noticed many of them were in tears. They wanted to know when we would visit them again. We assured them Salvation Army comrades would visit them again.

That afternoon we took a short break to visit some ancient historical places like the Great Wall of China. China is a land with rich history. The Chinese people have gone through trials and tribulations and today as I write China is fast overtaking many other countries in wealth and material prosperity. It has been reported that today there are more Christians in China than when the communists first took over the country. The verse of Scripture comes to my mind as I write, “Look at the nations and watch – and be utterly amazed. For I am going to do something in your days that you would not believe, even if you were told.” Habakkuk 1: 5 The Salvation Army owns no hall or church for worship, but our folk worship in spirit and in truth and are rich in spiritual fellowship.

A Prayer during Christmas

"Lord Jesus Christ, come and dwell in our hearts this Christmastide, so that our home may have you in it and be full of joy and peace. May no ill temper, impatience, envy or jealousy spoil the gladness of your birthday, but my love shine in our midst, bringing light to all our hearts and minds."
J McDouogall Ferguson

"O come to my heart Lord Jesus, there is room in my heart for Thee."

Carolling at Peacehaven - just the two of us.

Instead of the usual chapel service in one area, my wife and I decided to sing carols to the first and third level residents. I've not used my piano accordion for a long time, but today I took it to Peacehaven and what a great time we had.

As we approached each Residents' Living Area, I played quietly "Silent Night" the best known carol. Then the music crescendoed and once the residents and staff saw us, those who were familiar with the carols joined in the singing. I then played and my wife and I sang other well known carols like "O come all ye faithful." She would give a brief Christmas message in Chinese and I translated into English. Finally we ended with "We wish you a merry Christmas" and prayed for the residents. This is repeated nine times this morning. We began at 9.15 a.m and ended by 12 noon! We then joined the staff for lunch.

We went round and shook hands with every resident, nurse, care giver wishing them a Happy and Blessed Christmas. Tired yes, but well worth the effort when we saw the beaming faces of the people.

The verse we used for our message was "Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill toward men."

We will continue in ministry as long as God wants us and grant us the health and strength we need.

Funeral of Allan Ng

We were at Mandai Crematorium for the funeral of Allan Ng this afternoon. Good thing we were early as the service scheduled for 5.00 p.m  began at 4.45 p.m. It was conducted by a Peter Goh a close friend of Allan.

Quite a number of Salvation Army folk were there to join the family to bid farewell to Allan who has gone to be the Lord in Heaven. Our prayers are with the bereaved family. 

“Optimism hopes for the best without any guarantee of its arriving and is often no more than whistling in the dark. Christian hope, by contrast, is faith looking ahead to the fulfillment of the promises of God.... Optimism is a wish without warrant; Christian hope is a certainty, guaranteed by God himself. Optimism reflects ignorance as to whether good things will ever actually come. Christian hope expresses knowledge that every day of his life, and every moment beyond it, the believer can say with truth, on the basis of God's own commitment, that the best is yet to come.” 
J I Packer

Allan Ng - Promotion to Glory

Brother Allan Ng of Central Corps was promoted to Glory on Friday 30th November 2012. We have known Allan for many years - truly a man of God who lived his life for God and for others.

We all have to face the reality of death. Death has been called "The Grim Reaper" - He is shown as a skeletal figure carrying  a large scythe and clothed in a black cloak with the hood.   He relentlessly shows no respect for age, race, position or wealth.

Death can come any time to anyone. Death robs parents of the precious child, leaving them to mourn the loss. Death snatches the breadwinner from a family and deprives the spouse and children leaving then vulnerable in this hostile world.. Death grabs the aging spouse leaving the white haired  elderly partner without a life long companion and closest friend. Yes, death is cruel.

But in Christ we know death is not the end. There is life after death. Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Death has no sting, grave has no victory for Jesus is alive and when we are in Him, at death we go to meet Him.

Last night I was invited to conduct the Wake at the void deck at Yishun. In my message I reminded the friends and relatives at the wake of the resurrection.

Allan Ng is not dead but alive forevermore and we shall meet him in Heaven. Let us continue in our walk of faith and one day it will be our turn to leave this world and meet our loved ones there.

God's choice - A Way in a Manger

It's a mystery that God should choose of all places for His Son Jesus to be born. Yes, God found
A way in a manger.

This time of the year it is customary for people to set up the nativityy scene in church or outside in church compound. It is a reminder that Jesus left the realms of Glory and descended to earth to take on our humanity not in a palace, or even in the middle class home, but in the stable with animals. He truly humbled Himself.

"Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death-- even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted him to the highest place and gave him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. " Philippians 2: 5-11 (New International Version)

Glory to God

Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, And to present you faultless
Before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, To God our Savior, Who alone is wise,
Be glory and majesty, Dominion and power, Both now and forever.
Amen. Jude 24-25

This beautiful benediction is quoted in today's reading - Words of Life.

The writer in her commentary of this letter written by Jude, the brother of James and half brother of Jesus exhorts us to do three things.

Remember Christ's words.

Remain in God's love.

Remove those who speak against the truth of the gospel.

The priority of prayer

It's a busy time for everyone, but let us not forget the importance of prayer. A small group of us met at Territorial Headquarters to have our regular prayer meeting. We are part of the chain and we cannot afford to break this chain.

While we are celebrating Christmas,  people in other parts of the world are suffering. We specially remember countries like Bangladesh where the fire has killed many people. We prayed for DR Congo. We prayed for peace in the Middle east, the conflict between Israel and Gaza. May wise sense prevail.

We thank God the Army has started work in Cambodia - the 126th country the Army is at work now. Plans are in hand for the pioneering work in Thailand.

It was good for us to meet in this way. We cannot survive without prayer.

"The men who have done the most for God in this world have been early on their knees. He who fritters away the early morning, its opportunity and freshness, in other pursuits than seeking God will make poor headway seeking Him the rest of the day. If God is not first in our thoughts and efforts in the morning, He will be in the last place the remainder of the day. " E M Bounds.

Christmas carolling and celebrations

I started carolling when I was in my teens during the late forties. Captain Cecil Watts our Corps Officer (pastor) took a group of us to sing carols in the Balestier area. He played his piano accordion to accompany the singing.

Since then I’ve participated in carolling in Singapore and in different parts of the world. We sing carols proclaiming the message of Christmas.

The William Booth Corps band plays outside Tang’s Plaza every Tuesday and Saturday evening. Here The Salvation Army has a kettle stand and many people stop to listen to the band and drop money into the Collecting tin.

Other churches go out carolling too. They visit Homes for the elderly, the handicapped and other charitable Homes to sing the message of Christmas.

“CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN SINGAPORE” is looking for volunteers to form a 1,500 choir for its inaugural Mass Carolling segment of the programme this year. This will take place at Marina Square Outdoor Area facing Raffles Avenue/Esplanade. It is scheduled to be held 23^rd and 24^th December.

Orchard Road as usual is lighted up at this time of the year and there is plenty of celebration during this period of Christmas. This year’s light-up called “Christmas on a Great Street has three zones each with its own motif.

1. Tree for Joy at Tanglin
2. Heart for Joy at Orchard
3. Dove for Peace at Somerset.

 Every night from 17^th to 25^th December there will be musical shows in the areas of Orchard, Scotts and Bideford Roads.

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.” Luke 2: 14

The Christmas Kettle

The year was 1891. Captain Jospeh McFee of The Salvation Army San Francisco, USA wanted to provide a free Christmas Dinner for about a thousand people. Good thought but where was he to get the funds to do this charitable deed?

He pondered over this vision and his mind went back to the days when he was a sailor in Liverpool, England. He remembered seeing on the stage landing a large pot called "Simpson's Pot." Passers by dropped donations into this pot.

The next morning, he obtained permission from the authorities to place a similar pot conspicuously at the Oakland Ferry landing, at the foot of Market Street. It attracted the attention of the people and they placed their donations into this pot. He collected enough for the project. His vision was realized and the poor and needy enjoyed a special Christmas dinner.

Christmas kettling spread to other parts of USA. Soon other territories including Singapore copied the idea to raise finds during this time to help the needy in our many centres.

Adult Bible Study.

To day we had our last Adult Bible Class for the year. For the month of December all of us will be busy with Christmas activities - celebrations, parties, kettling etc. We shall recommence classes in January.

This morning, we had a review of the first 16 chapters of Judges. Time was given for questions and sharing among the group.

Compromise is one of the main themes of Judges. God set them a standard, but they failed to seek His help and guidance in living to God's Kingdom values. They left themselves open to influences from the people of the land - chiefly idolatry and immorality. They went to the land and fought the Canaanites, but in the end they were like the Canaanites. Sad story.

God used the oppressors to punish His people. They had to accept painful consequences.

Remember your Creator

I thank God for the gift of memory. Writing my memoirs involve a lot of research through old papers, letters, programmes etc but most of all on my memory. As age catches up with me, I sense my power of recall is getting weaker. Still I should not complain when I see people half my age don't seem to remember much.

Remembering the past teaches us countless lessons about how to live today. I have been teaching the Book of Judges and notice one thing that stands out in the book. The Israelites forgot!! They did not remember or chose not to remember the miraculous events that brought them to the land of Canaan, or the covenant that united them to God. But God did not forget His covenant and because of His love for His people, He disciplined His sinful children so that they might return to Him.

"Forget not His benefits." "Remember your Creator" these and many other verses of Scripture call upon us not to forget God. I learned a new word today from a report in the Straits Times. The leader in Hong Kong used an interesting word which I've not heard before. He said, "I mis-remember that I had up illegal structures."

Some of us don't forget, we just mis-remember!! So readers, let's 'mis-forget' and remember God. We must not forget the great work God has done in our hearts and the things He has done for us.

This is my story - 73 - Hong Kong/Taiwan

73 – Our visit to China with the International Secretary

In May 1989 the International Secretary Commissioner Robert Bath and Mrs. Bath visited Hong Kong to conduct meetings following which Mrs. Major Karen Lam and I joined them on this their first visit to China. Mrs. Major Lam was our interpreter.

The plane touched down at Beijing Airport, and after the usual custom and immigration formalities, we walked through the gate and there to greet us were a group of former Salvation Army officers and their families. Their faces were beaming with smiles when they saw us in our uniform. “Huang Yin” (welcome in Chinese) and shouts of hallelujahs burst forth from the group. Cameras began to click for such an historic occasion, the visit from the International Secretary from International Headquarters and team had to be recorded and kept for posterity. Major Yin Hung-shun their leader introduced us to the rest of the welcoming group! They still addressed each other by their ranks – Lieutenants, Captains, Majors and the obsolete rank of Adjutant!

The sun beat down upon us mercilessly and we were glad to get into the van waiting for us. These dear folk, a number from nearby towns had been waiting at the airport for hours, were glad to join the group making our way to the hotel. Motor vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians competed for space in the busy streets. The tourist guide wanted to know who we were and we took the opportunity to tell them about The Salvation Army. 

We arrived at our Hotel, checked in and before long were sitting down with the folk at the lounge. They all wanted to know what was going on in the Army world. Commissioner Bath responded to their welcome and brought greetings from General Eva Burrows. He assured them that International Headquarters and the international Army had not forgotten our Chinese comrades. It was great time of sharing fellowship and news. These dear folk had gone through trials and tribulations and had proved the grace of God sufficient. Tears of joy flowed freely as they recalled their experiences and their joy in seeing us.

Beijing was in a festive mood. Crowds lined the streets waiting for the procession making the celebration of the 70^th anniversary Youth Festival.

But there were those who were in no mood to rejoice and chose to congregate at the famous Tiananmen Square with placards and banners calling for democracy. China with its six thousand year history was at that time undergoing great changes. China was going through a crisis and was the object of international spotlight.

Our visit was from 5^th to 8^th May and in less than two weeks on 20^th May, martial law was declared! The tragic episode - Tiananmen massacre was on 4^th June 1989 a dismal page in Chinese history.

The vehicle taking us inched its way through the crowded streets packed with people. The atmosphere was tense. Everywhere police were out in full force controlling the crowds and directing traffic, but the mere mention of the name Deng Pu-feng, (son of Premier Deng Xiau-ping) whom we were to visit was sufficient to get us through even the streets that were out of bound to other traffic! I believe the Lord miraculously opened the way for us.

Prior to leaving Hong Kong we had done our homework. Contact had been made with Mr. Deng  Pu-feng the Director of China’s Disabled Persons’ Federation. In 1984, he had made a visit to our Salvation Army Home for the handicapped at Lai King, Hong Kong!

The leadership in Hong Kong and the National Council of Churches in Hong of which the Army was a member had kept contact with the Chinese authorities.

During the Cultural Revolution, Deng Xiau-ping and his family were targeted by Mao Zedong. Deng Xiau-ping was branded as a ‘capitalist’ and on one occasion was forced to kneel to the ground with his arm stretched out behind him and over his head. His family watched as the Red Guards forced him to confess to capitalist ways of thinking.

Mao’s Red Guards imprisoned Deng Pu-feng. He was tortured and thrown out of the window of the three storeyed building at Beijing University in 1968. He was rushed to hospital but was denied admission because he was the son of a ‘capitalist.’ By the time he reached another clinic he was paralysed. His back was broken and he remained a paraplegic for the rest of his life.

After a tense journey, we finally arrived at our destination – the office of Mr. Deng Pu-feng. We were warmly welcomed by the staff and Mr. Deng Pu-feng himself. Between sips of Chinese tea conversation flowed freely. Commissioner Bath brought greetings from our General and then congratulated Mr. Deng for the charitable work he was doing for his people.

Mr. Deng Pu-feng told us about his plans for the future for the handicapped. He thanked us for the warm reception he had received when he visited the Salvation Army in Hong Kong. He seemed to have considerable knowledge of the Army for he had travelled widely. We thanked him for giving us time in busy schedule. We assured him of our support.

I believe that brief visit helped to build bridges and prepared the way for more involvement of the Army in China. In 1996 The Salvation Army established an office in Kunming (Yunnan) to oversee its growing portfolio of projects in south west China. In 2001 a second office was established in Beijing to cover north China. This oversees ongoing community development programmes in Inner Mongolia and forestry projects in Hebei, Hubei and Anhui.

We believe God raised up The Salvation Army and it is important that we seek His will and work according to His will and timing. Jesus was very conscious of timing and lived His life with an acute awareness of God’s timing for His life. I believe that visit was timely. Whether the Army will be able to work in the same way as we do elsewhere is a matter for God to decide.

Majors Ian and Isobel Robinson

The Majors are on furlough in Singapore and today is their last day before returning to U S A.  It was good to see these folk again. We had lunch with them at Peacehaven today and after that we went with them to visit Balestier Corps. We worked closely with them when they were running Peacehaven Nursing Home at one time.

Normally we visit Peacehaven on a Tuesday, but we had to miss the last two weeks - one week was a public holiday and last week we had medical appointment.

We did chapel service on the third floor - Skylark. The folk here are quite responsive. We then went round to visit the other residents.

God has been good  to keep us in fairly good health and we are able to still do ministry.

Nursing Homes need visitors. People need friendship and encouragement and even if we cannot communicate in the language or dialect of the residents we can still hold their hands, read or pray with them.

Gratitude and Thanksgiving

“Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse.” Henry Van Dyke

George Herbert the 17^th century English poet wrote this poem and it is good we pray this prayer too.

“Thou hast given so much to me;

Give me one thing more – a grateful heart

Not thankful when it pleaseth me;

As if thy blessing has spare days:

But such a heart, whose pulse may be Thy praise.”

The Americans celebrate Thanksgiving Day on the fourth Thursday in November and this year it falls on 22^nd November. Canadians celebrate theirs on the 2^nd Monday in October.

The Jews have been celebrating their Thanksgiving Day for centuries. It is not called Thanksgiving but the Feast of Purim. In the Book of Esther, we read of the wicked Haman who plotted to exterminate of the Jews in the Persian kingdom. To win favour of the gods Haman cast lots to determine the date the massacre was to take place. The Hebrew word of ‘lots’ was ‘pur.’ He cast so many times to determine, first the month then the date they had to cast ‘purim’ (plural of pur) (In English we add "s or es"to form the plural, in Hebrew "im" is added hence cherub becomes cherubim, seraph becomes seraphim.

Read the story in the book of Esther and see how the story ends. God used Esther as an instrument to save the nation. Miraculously the tables were turned, the Jews were saved and Haman ended up dead on the gallows he had built to kill Mordecai.

The Feast of Purim is a time of celebration. Singapore does not hold a Thanksgiving Day, but let each day begin with thanksgiving. God has done so much for us let us thank Him everyday. I begin the day with thanksgiving and praise.

One of our favourite songs is "Thank you Lord for all Your goodness through years of yesterday." by August Ludvig Storm and translated into English by Flora Larsson

Birthday blessings

Christmas, New Year and occasions likes these including birthdays, provide opportunities for celebration.. On 17 November, it was my wife's birthday and we had a few dinners and lunches with family and friends.

Our children and grandchildren took us out for meals on different occasions and on the very day itself, our pastor and friend took us to Jack's place to have lunch. We celebrated with our Cell group members when we went to Food Haven for buffet lunch.

So the last week or so we must have added on extra calories and increased the level of cholesterol to our bodies!  Everyone tells us "once in a while it does not matter." I've yet to truly understand the meaning of "once in a while."   This week we really need to go back to simple meals to keep healthy. But then it will soon be Christmas and we once again will indulge in the "once in a while" feasting.
Some people seem to think in life we just "Eat, drink and me merry, for tomorrow we diet."

God wants us to enjoy life. He wants us to enjoy our fellowship with family and friends. We also need to discipline ourselves. The word 'disciple' and 'discipline' derive from the same root word.

Fellowship meeting and thanksgiving lunch

Eleven of us met this morning for our cell meeting. We spent much time discussing  the subject of "Death and Resurrection.' We then adjourned to Food Haven at Dover Road  for our Thanksgiving lunch. It was a great time of fellowship. We have two more weeks and not meet till the new Year 2013.

Fellowship in the family of God and with God Himself is one of the greatest blessings of being a followers of Christ.  Fellowship suggests something of purpose, partnership and interest. We mutually help and strengthen each other as we share fellowship week after week. Christian fellowship is more than just friendship with like-minded people, we meet to help and build each other up in the Christian faith.

Jesus prayed “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.: John 17: 20- 23

Purpose of Prayer

"The purpose of our praying is not to force or coerce his will; never that. It is to free his will of the warping influences that now twist it awry. It is to get the dust out of his eyes so his sight shall be clear. And once he is free, able to see aright, to balance things without prejudice, the whole probability is in favor of his using his will to choose the only right."

 S D Gordon

We were at the Global Prayer meeting this morning. Thank God for the privilege of sharing fellowship and prayer with fellow Christians who believe in the importance of prayer

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Deepavali -Festival of Lights

To day our Hindu friends celebrate Deepavali. Darkness signifies ignorance, but light is for knowledge. The lighting of lamps symbolizes the destruction through knowledge of negative forces like wickedness, violence, lust, anger, envy, jealousy, greed, bigotry, fear, injustice, oppression, suffering, the list goes on.

We believe Jesus Christ is the Light of the world. When He indwells in us we are in the light. We believers are to reflect this light and shine as lights in this dark world of sin.

I ponder once again the words of our Lord, ".. let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."Matthew 5:16

Prayer by St. Columba (521-597)

O Lord, give us we beseech You in the name of Jesus Christ Your Son our Lord, that love which can never cease, that will kindle our lamps but not extinguish them, that they may burn in us and enlighten others..

Do You, O Christ, our dearest Saviour, Yourself kindle our lamps that they may evermore shine in your temple and receive unquenchable light from You that will  enlighten our darkness and lessen the darkness of the world."

Balestier 76th Corps anniversary

To God be the glory! What a great day we had with the folk at Balestier to celebrate their 76th Corps anniversary and the end of first year in this new building. Now the folk begin with the second year and I am sure more progress will be made. It is a growing church, thanks to God and the wonderful team ministry under the leadership of Captain Hary.

Very early in the year, Captain Hary booked us for this special event. Unfortunately he was not able to be present himself as he is attending the International College for Officers in London and will not be back till early December.

Sister Anne Kwong was at Praisehaven to pick us at 10.00 a.m. for Balestier. Thus we were able to spend some time with the folk before the commencement of the meeting. The celebrations began with the singing of the Song "Thank You Lord for all Your goodness."  Yes, we have much to thank God for His leadings throughout the 76 years.

It had its humble beginning at Lorong Limau in the home of Mr.and Mrs. Syd Henson. The officers appointed to the Boys' Home at Kim Keat Road, Adjutant and Mrs. Harold Matthews reached out to the neighbourhood where our family lived. He held open air meetings and started a Sunday School in the home of Mr. Syd Henson.

The work grew and the Corps was opened at Balestier Road, hence it was called Balestier Road Corps in the beginning. And that's where  I began my spiritual pilgrimage at the age of five.

When Singapore fell to the Japanese in February 1942, the Corps closed down. Salvation Army officers were imprisoned at Changi Prison. But some of the folk met in secret to worship. In August 1945 when the Japanese were defeated and the British returned to rule Singapore, the Army restarted at Martaban road, on land owned by Mrs. Palmer. She later sold the land at a token sum of $3,000.00. In 1961, The Salvation Army built a new hall and quarters which served the community till it was sold during the time of Colonel David Bringans for about $7 million. The corps continued worshipping at Bishan till it moved into the present building. It had its official opening on 11th November 2011.

Time was given for testimonies and it was heart warming to hear folk praising God for what He has done for them. After the benediction the young people performed some items. There was also a power point presentation of the year's activities.

We concluded the celebrations with the singing of the well know Salvation Army song, "Come join our Army to battle we go, Jesus will help us to conquer the foe.."  The Salvation Army marches forward at Balestier.

We then adjourned upstairs to have lunch brought by the comrades of the church. It was a sonderful time of fellowship.

A beautiful sight -the New Charis Mission

This morning when we went downstairs for our usual morning walk, we were greeted by some men from the New Charis Mission.They had been using our Retreat Centre temporarily. This Christian charity is doing a tremendous work among the ex-drug addicts, ex-offenders/prisoners and men who had gotten into trouble. Wonderful cases of conversion.

They were getting ready to go out on their daily routine and what impressedme was to see them gathering in a group at our car park to pray. I could hear a loud chorus of Amen, then they dispersed and got into their vehicles to work in different parts of Singapore.

As they left they waved to us. We were truly encouraged at the start of the day!  God is using the New Charis mission to touch lives.

Prayer and pastoral visitation

This morning we attended the Prayer meeting at THQ. Good to be part of the Prayer chain that binds the whole Salvation Army around the world.

After the meeting we were about to take a bus from Bishan to Singapore General Hospital to see one of our friends. Lieutenant Anthony Yong came to know about it and he volunteered to take us there for he knows this sister too. We also spent some time chatting with the other patients in the same ward.

We were about to take a bus home from there, but the Lieutenant insisted to fetching us back. It was so kind of him for we know he has a busy schedule himself. We stopped at the Kopitiam to have a drink then made our way back to Upper Bukit Timah.

We are truly blessed by friends who care and often go out of the way to be helpful.

We were without the internet access for the last three days. Jason came this afternoon and fixed the system for us and restore our connectivity. Jason and the staff of the IT Department are always very supportive.

Thank God for friends He has sent to bless us.

"The greatest service one can perform is to be a friend to someone. Friendship is not only doing something for someone, but it is also caring for someone which is what every person needs."
G Neil. Strait.

Giving To God - Self Denial Altar Service

"And now, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. In the midst of a very severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the Lord’s people. And they exceeded our expectations: They gave themselves first of all to the Lord, and then by the will of God also to us. So we urged Titus, just as he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part. But since you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in the love we have kindled in you—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.
I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich "2 Cor. 8: 1-9

To day we had our Self Denial Altar Service and the above portion of Scripture was used. Paul used the Macedonian Christians as example of human giving. It was certainly sacrificial giving. They were poor and suffering persecution. Yet in their poverty and affliction they gave sacrificially, yes beyond their ability.

One verse really struck me - "they gave themselves first to the Lord..." The grace of giving begins there - the giving of ourselves first. In other words their giving was the outward manifestation of their total dedication to God. Someone put it this way, "The crowning point of their generosity was their complete surrender."

Victory in Jesus

There is much report in the media regarding sensuality, lust and lack of integrity in our modern world today.

William Shakespeare in his play, 'Cleopatra' presents Antony as one of the great soldiers of the world. He was one of the triple pillars of the Roman Empire. Lust of the flesh slowly reduced him to become the fleshly slave of Cleopatra - 'a strumpet's fool, reduced to dotage and disgrace.'

"O God! Am  I to run a race,
Who lack the very self-restraint
That would all subtle lust abase
and win the laurel of a saint?"

We strive to obey the command of the Lord, "Be holy, as I the Lord am holy." But then lust crouches like a tiger, waiting to spring in upon our flesh. We are urged to  indulge in passion. The world, the flesh, the devil flashing on the TV screens, on the internet and elsewhere, yes temptations attack.

We need the indwelling and power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Holiness can be lived in the flesh. Jesus lived in the flesh - He became flesh and dwelt among us and we are told experienced temptations in all points as we do. Jesus overcame, Her conquered, He was victorious. We too can be more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

A word of encouragement

Who is my neighbour? We know how Jesus responded to that question. From His teaching, we gather Jesus is not only the person who lives next door to us, he is also the person we meet in the street, the person we interact with each day, my colleague, my classmate, the foreign worker who cleans our street, yes anyone whom we meet at the point of need.

I went to NUH yesterday and met the Nurse who was to take my blood. The first thing I did was to greet her "Good morning, how are you today?"  She responded politely then  apologised for keeping me waiting so long.

"Not at all" I said, "you are busy people, thank you for your service." She took my blood and when I was leaving she said to me, "You made my day." Well, I'm glad I can bring a word of encouragement to some. It made my day too! The nurses, doctors, receptionists in fact all of us need some word of encouragement.

I am sure each day we can find someone whom we can give that word of encouragement. On the way home I was crossing the road when I met an Indian foreign worker. I wished him "good morning' and he seemed surprise. He responded with a beautiful smile and we chatted as we crossed the road together. He must have received a big surprise when I thanked him for coming to Singapore to work on the construction site and help build our train station.

Come 2015 there will be the Hillview Station. Anyone coming to The Salvation Army Upper Bukit Timah Road need just get to this station and you will be right where the Army is. Thank God for the many workers mostly from foreign countries working in the hot sun building this station. They need our encouragement for they are our neighbours.

Make your message clear and plain

It's a pity that some of our pastors in trying to impress the congregation that he is a man of much learning get lost in a plethora of big words and high sounding phrases. The ordinary man in the street or should I say in the congregation sometimes get confused and I don't blame them for switching off and have a little nap during the sermon. My advise to my fellow preachers of the word - Keep your message simple, and use picture words.

"Make the message clear and plain, Christ receiveth sinful men" says the hymn writer.
Another writer says, "Tell me the story simply as to a little child, for I am weak and weary and helpless and defiled."

This is my story - 72 Hong Kong/Taiwan

72 – Links with China

After that wonderful experience at the International Conference of Leaders and participation at Crystal Cathedral, we flew back to Hong Kong. I felt like the disciples, Peter, James and John after the glorious experience at the Mount of Transfiguration returning to the valley of need. They had to go down from the mountain to heal the sick, feed the hungry, save the lost and bring the lost sheep to the Shepherd.

China was very much in the news. Hong Kong people were jittery because of 1997 the year when the territory would be returned to China. Those who could afford or had connections were emigrating to other lands they reckoned to be safe. The fearful felt the sword of Damocles hanging over their heads.

We received word from the International Secretary for South Pacific and East Asia Commissioner Robert Bath asking us to make arrangements to take him and his wife to visit China. Our leaders at International Headquarters wanted us to keep contact with former Salvationists and prepare for the day when the door hopefully would open for the Army to return to China.

As the Officer Commanding, I represented the Army in the Executive Council of the Hong Kong Christian Council. Apart from attending meetings, I was invited to dinners when prominent officials from overseas visited Hong Kong. One of the frequent visitors was Bishop K H Ting, the President of China Christian Council and leader of TSPM (Three Self Patriotic Movement.) He was also the founder and President of the Amity Foundation and Principal of Nanjing Union Theological Seminary. He was a man with tremendous influence. He was friendly and had a high regard for The Salvation Army.

Earlier in 1985, my wife and I together with Major James Lau and Corps Sergeant Major Wilbur Walker of Dulwich Hill Corps made an initial visit to China. We contacted former officers who warmly welcomed us. For Wilbur Walker it was returning to the land he grew up. Wilbur Walker was only three months old when his parents Major and Mrs. George Walker left Australia for China as Salvation Army missionaries. He lived there with his parents till he was eighteen when he went home to Australia for further education. Wilbur had never forgotten China, the land he spent his childhood.

Major James Lau having been stationed in Taiwan for a few years spoke fluent Mandarin and was our interpreter. We visited Beijing, Nanjing and Shanghai and met a number of former Chinese officers. It was a great experience to visit the land of our forefathers for the first time.

Way back in 1912, the Founder General William Booth on his deathbed said to his son Bramwell, “I have been thinking very much during the last few nights about China. I greatly regret that the Lord has not permitted me to raise our flag amongst the wonderful people. Promise me that you will begin the work in China.” Father and son then clasped their hands and prayed together.

In 1906 Commissioner George Scott Railton had visited Tianjin and Shanghai. During the next couple of years he had a Rescue Home in Tianjin. Brigadier Matilda Hatcher was the officer in charge of this Home for two years. Since then different officers at various times had visited China to survey the land. But the time was not ripe for official opening.

On 1^st December 1915 a pioneer team of six officers arrived in Beijing. They started to learn Mandarin and a month later on 20^th January 1916 the Army officially opened work in China and the name was translated “Chiu Shih Chun” literally meaning “Save World Army.”

The work grew despite trials and tribulations. Twice the work of the Army was proscribed. In 1937 work in North China was closed because of the war and the Army moved to South China. The Salvation Army ceased to function during the dark days of Japanese occupation of China including Hong Kong.

Fast forward to 1949, Chairman Mao Zedong announced to the world the formation of the People’s Republic of China. New guidelines were given to the churches including The Salvation Army.

In 1951 The Salvation Army joined the Chinese Christian Patriotic Three Self Movement under the name of The Salvation Army of China. It had to sever links with International Headquarters. Major Liu Fong was selected as leader and Major Ying Hung Shun as assistant. Finally in 1958 The Salvation Army ceased to exist in China and compelled to merge completely with the The Three Self Movement.

After years of isolation in 1979 Major Yin Hung Shun made contact with The Salvation Army in America. Different people including General Arnold Brown then visited China and made contact with the former Chinese officers.

In1985, it was our privilege to make our first trip. We went on social visit pass and did not wear our uniform neither did we conduct official meetings. We did our pastoral visitation, read the Bible and prayed with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Everywhere we went we were warmly welcomed.

We met many former officers among them Brigadier Su Chien-Chi. I recall when we called on him the first thing he did after greeting us was to sing “Lift up the Army banner, blood and fire!”  We met Major Yin Hung-Shun and officers in Beijing. He had rented the old office of the Territorial Commander at the former Territorial Headquarters from the Three Self Movement and used it to meet visitors. When the group of former officers met us in this room, we shared the word of God and prayers and sang the Founder’s Song “O boundless salvation deep ocean of love.” By the time we reached the last verse tears flowed freely as we sang

“And now hallelujah the rest of my days shall greatly be spent in promoting His praise

Who opened His bosom to pour out this sea of boundless salvation for you and for me.”