In the absence of the Corps Officer, (pastor) Major Pascoe, my wife and I conducted the meeting at the William Booth Corps (church) where we belong. Normally we sit in the congregation, but last Sunday, we found ourselves on the platform leading the worship. We thank God for the privilege and the strength to do continue in this ministry.
Despite the fact that a number of regular folk were away, we still had a good congregation around 200 people. I was not feeling a hundred per cent, but the managed to get through the meeting.
It was Family Sunday, so we had children to take part as well. They sang some old choruses like "Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world" and "Joy is the flag". It's been ages since I heard these old children's songs.
The worship team sang two old time favourites "Majesty, worship His Majesty" followed by "Just a closer walk with Thee"
The Songsters sang that beautiful Song, "I'll not turn back" which relates well with the theme of the meeting.
"If crosses come, if it should cost me dearly
To be the servant of my Servant Lord;
If darkness falls around the path of duty,
And men despise the Saviour I've adored.
Chorus:
I'll not turn back whatever it may cost;
I'm called to live, to love and save the lost.
I'll not turn back whatever it may cost,
I'm called to live, to love and save the lost.
If doors should close then other doors will open,
The word of God can never be contained.
His love cannot be finally frustrated,
By narrow minds or prison bars restrained.
If tears should fall, if I am called to suffer,
If all I love men should deface, defame,
I'll not deny the One that I have followed,
Nor be ashamed to bear my Master's name. (John Gowans)
I was greatly touched to hear this beautiful song sung with much feeling. It related to the subject I had chosen for this first Sunday in Lent - The Temptations of Jesus.
Satan would want to get our Lord to turn back, but no, He fought temptation in the wilderness and came out victorious.
"No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it." 1 Cor. 10: 13
"Yield not to temptation,for yielding in sin, Each victory will help you some other to win" So let us "Ask the Saviour to help you, comfort strengthen and keep you. He is willing to aid you. He will carry you through."
Monday, February 27, 2012
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Preached at Eratchippu
At 8.45 a.m. I was down in the basement hall. When I arrived there was only one person, the Corps Sergeant Major Hemma kneeling at the Mercy Seat praying. I sat quietly on the front row and silently joined her in prayer. Gradually others arrived and so there were six of us praying.
The worship meeting began at about 9.15 a.m. The CSM led, all in Tamil. I only knew one song "What a friend we have in Jesus" sung in Tamil. Of course I sang in English.
I gave the message and it was translated by the CSM. The meeting ended at 10.30 a.m.
After the meeting I was introduced to a young man by the name of Abraham. He told me his great grandparents were Major and Mrs. Abraham who came from India to Singapore to pioneer Tamil work about 1938. Mrs. Abraham died and was buried at Bidadri cemetery at Upper Serangoon Road. I recall visiting her grave. What an interesting story.
The Tamil Corps at Race Course Rd closed down during the war. The few Tamil comrades joined the Central Corps. And it was in 1952, as a Candidate Helper that I went with Lieutenant Douglas Kiff to recommence the Tamil Outpost at Kolam Ayer in the home of Brother Sevanatham and family. Later it moved to the home of Mrs. Samuel until about 1975 when the Army moved to Kallang Baru. The Army changed the name to Kallang Baru Corps.
The Army had two meetings - in the morning we had English meeting, and in the evening Tamil meeting. Non Indian joined the Corps. Later the Corps closed down and the folk joined the Changi corps.
The Tamil comrades regrouped and form the Eratchippu Corps at Cuff road, in Little India. It moved a few more times, and finally ended up at Praisehaven. We live on the fourth floor, the William Booth Corps is on the ground floor and Eratchippu occupies the basement.
Major Pasoe is away in Kuala Lumpur for this weekend.
The worship meeting began at about 9.15 a.m. The CSM led, all in Tamil. I only knew one song "What a friend we have in Jesus" sung in Tamil. Of course I sang in English.
I gave the message and it was translated by the CSM. The meeting ended at 10.30 a.m.
After the meeting I was introduced to a young man by the name of Abraham. He told me his great grandparents were Major and Mrs. Abraham who came from India to Singapore to pioneer Tamil work about 1938. Mrs. Abraham died and was buried at Bidadri cemetery at Upper Serangoon Road. I recall visiting her grave. What an interesting story.
The Tamil Corps at Race Course Rd closed down during the war. The few Tamil comrades joined the Central Corps. And it was in 1952, as a Candidate Helper that I went with Lieutenant Douglas Kiff to recommence the Tamil Outpost at Kolam Ayer in the home of Brother Sevanatham and family. Later it moved to the home of Mrs. Samuel until about 1975 when the Army moved to Kallang Baru. The Army changed the name to Kallang Baru Corps.
The Army had two meetings - in the morning we had English meeting, and in the evening Tamil meeting. Non Indian joined the Corps. Later the Corps closed down and the folk joined the Changi corps.
The Tamil comrades regrouped and form the Eratchippu Corps at Cuff road, in Little India. It moved a few more times, and finally ended up at Praisehaven. We live on the fourth floor, the William Booth Corps is on the ground floor and Eratchippu occupies the basement.
Major Pasoe is away in Kuala Lumpur for this weekend.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Troubles
Most of our troubles are worries about troubles we expect to encounter. Our greatest trouble is our dread of trouble. It is like an iceberg, one fifth visible and four fifths submerged.
Anticipation of trouble often brings greater suffering than the trouble itself. To fret about today and to worry about tomorrow are human traits that no philosophy is going to greatly change or mollify.
It is important therefore to evaluate our problems properly. When we do that we can usually reduce the big ones to the size we can manage.
A lot of our troubles are largely the bogies of our own imaginations - small torments inflated by fear into large problems.
I've been meditating on Psalm 37. The writer had seen the wicked thrive and the righteoous suffer. In spite of that,he could still speak of safety of the righteous.
Anticipation of trouble often brings greater suffering than the trouble itself. To fret about today and to worry about tomorrow are human traits that no philosophy is going to greatly change or mollify.
It is important therefore to evaluate our problems properly. When we do that we can usually reduce the big ones to the size we can manage.
A lot of our troubles are largely the bogies of our own imaginations - small torments inflated by fear into large problems.
I've been meditating on Psalm 37. The writer had seen the wicked thrive and the righteoous suffer. In spite of that,he could still speak of safety of the righteous.
Thursday, February 23, 2012
Forgetfulness
"O I forgot" - how often I hear these words spoken by the old, the middle age and the young.
Frankly, I've lost many books, CD's, tapes etc because friends borrowed and forgot to return.
The worst thing in life is to forget God and the blessings He bestowed upon us. Some tips for not forgetting.
1 Interest. We rarely forget the thing we are interested in. Courting couples remember their dates, because these dates are uppermost in their minds and not pushed into the sub-conscious.
If you are really a book lover, you will remember to read the book you borrowed and also the one who loaned it to you. Make sure you return it to him for it belongs to him. Don't be a "book-keeper" (I mean retainer) It is not yours.
Why do people forget God? Lack of love for Him. He loves us, let us love Him in return. Show your love for Him and interested in the things of His Kingdom.
2.Association. One of the secrets of remembering is association. Dr Dale Carnegie uses this method and recommends it to his students. We need to associate God with every area of our life. It is sad that many people draw a line of demarcation between the spiritual and physical or material. We matter to God and He matters to us in this life and the next.
Repetition. The oft repeated thing is a thing well remembered. If our worship of God is spasmodic, off and on, or just in times of emergency, then God is easily forgotten. Regular church attendance and fellowship with believers, listening to His word, prayers, all these help us to draw near to God.
Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. Psalm 103: 2
Frankly, I've lost many books, CD's, tapes etc because friends borrowed and forgot to return.
The worst thing in life is to forget God and the blessings He bestowed upon us. Some tips for not forgetting.
1 Interest. We rarely forget the thing we are interested in. Courting couples remember their dates, because these dates are uppermost in their minds and not pushed into the sub-conscious.
If you are really a book lover, you will remember to read the book you borrowed and also the one who loaned it to you. Make sure you return it to him for it belongs to him. Don't be a "book-keeper" (I mean retainer) It is not yours.
Why do people forget God? Lack of love for Him. He loves us, let us love Him in return. Show your love for Him and interested in the things of His Kingdom.
2.Association. One of the secrets of remembering is association. Dr Dale Carnegie uses this method and recommends it to his students. We need to associate God with every area of our life. It is sad that many people draw a line of demarcation between the spiritual and physical or material. We matter to God and He matters to us in this life and the next.
Repetition. The oft repeated thing is a thing well remembered. If our worship of God is spasmodic, off and on, or just in times of emergency, then God is easily forgotten. Regular church attendance and fellowship with believers, listening to His word, prayers, all these help us to draw near to God.
Bless the Lord, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless his holy name! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits. Psalm 103: 2
Monday, February 20, 2012
Major Norina Staples
Major Norina Staples was promoted to Glory on 3rd February 2011 and her funeral was on 15th February at Eastbourne, England.
She came as a young Lieutenant with Lieutenant Irene Holden in 1955 to Batang Melaka to pioneer the work in this village. I was a young Lieutenant stationed in Malacca Corps and was tasked to prepare the quarters for the two Lieutenants.
I recall going out with a young lad, Ng Kim Loh of Malacca Corps to clean and paint the place ourselves. I then bought some 'furniture' - two folding camp beds, some sheets, and two buckets. Old crockery, pots and pans came from the Headquarters' store room! The room was too small to put two beds.
Batang Melaka was in a curfew area and from 7.00 p.m. to 7.00 a.m. no one was allowed out. However special permission was given to our Lieutenants in times of emergency to deliver babies.
I used to go to the village once a week to help with the translation and also conduct meetings.
Norina later moved to other appointments - church, social work running Homes for children, Public Relations Officer, Editor of the War Cry and her final appointment as the Social Secretary. She served in both East and West Malaysia and Singapore.
When we were stationed in England we visited her a several times, including conducting meetings at her Corps (church) at Eastbourne.
The last time we met in Singapore was way back 2010. Lieut. Colonel Tan Thean Seng, Lieut. Colonel Pat Tan, Lieut. Colonel Prema Rajan, my wife and I had lunch together on June 24th 2010.
We give thanks to God for a life lived for His Glory. And now she is with the Lord in heaven waiting to welcome her many friends who will join her when the time comes.
She came as a young Lieutenant with Lieutenant Irene Holden in 1955 to Batang Melaka to pioneer the work in this village. I was a young Lieutenant stationed in Malacca Corps and was tasked to prepare the quarters for the two Lieutenants.
I recall going out with a young lad, Ng Kim Loh of Malacca Corps to clean and paint the place ourselves. I then bought some 'furniture' - two folding camp beds, some sheets, and two buckets. Old crockery, pots and pans came from the Headquarters' store room! The room was too small to put two beds.
Batang Melaka was in a curfew area and from 7.00 p.m. to 7.00 a.m. no one was allowed out. However special permission was given to our Lieutenants in times of emergency to deliver babies.
I used to go to the village once a week to help with the translation and also conduct meetings.
Norina later moved to other appointments - church, social work running Homes for children, Public Relations Officer, Editor of the War Cry and her final appointment as the Social Secretary. She served in both East and West Malaysia and Singapore.
When we were stationed in England we visited her a several times, including conducting meetings at her Corps (church) at Eastbourne.
The last time we met in Singapore was way back 2010. Lieut. Colonel Tan Thean Seng, Lieut. Colonel Pat Tan, Lieut. Colonel Prema Rajan, my wife and I had lunch together on June 24th 2010.
We give thanks to God for a life lived for His Glory. And now she is with the Lord in heaven waiting to welcome her many friends who will join her when the time comes.
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Weekend of rest.
Not feeling well this weekend so today, my wife did my Bible class for me. Good thing I had my notes on Judges all ready. I am usually about three or four weeks ahead. I don't believe in last minute preparation.
So I spent the weekend resting, reading and sleeping. I must have caught the 'flu bug last week in a crowded bus. Someone standing near me was coughing and sneezing.
Anyway, caught up with a lot of reading. There are blessings in adversity always.
Health is not valued till sickness comes. Thomas Fuller
So I spent the weekend resting, reading and sleeping. I must have caught the 'flu bug last week in a crowded bus. Someone standing near me was coughing and sneezing.
Anyway, caught up with a lot of reading. There are blessings in adversity always.
Health is not valued till sickness comes. Thomas Fuller
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Prayer meeting
What a privilege to spend time with fellow believers in prayer! An enthusiastic group met this morning at THQ chapel to spend time in prayer.
There were two new people with us - a stranger named Irene walked in and joined us. Obviously she is a mature Christian and could participate in praying. That was a real encouragement to us.
Jeffrey Jiang whose testimony appeared in the February issue of the War Cry joined us for the first time. He is at the moment in Singapore waiting for his visa to go to Bintulu. He has a wonderful testimony to give. Let me quote what he wrote in the War Cry "..my grandmother in China used to believe in 'I-Kuan Tao which is a traditional Chinese religion rooted in Chinese traditions., with teachings emphasising universal values such as family, honour, respect and moderation. When my grandfather, who was Deputy Commissioner of Customs, was persecuted during the Cultural Revolution, my grandmother accepted Christianity. She was among the first group of believers who accepted Christ when the Church reopened in the 1980s in China.
It was my grandmother's numerous prayers that I have experienced many miracles of God......Following my time as a theological student..... I finally became a pastor in the Da Lian Christianity Association which had more than 300 thousand members in three provinces.....During this period I obtained a graduate diploma and MBA degree.
...God has blessed me with a family."
His wife and daughter are still in China. He had been awarded a Masters Degree in Theology from a Malaysian Bible College. He has become a Salvationist and wants to serve full time with The Salvation Army.
We thank God there are people who want to join our Army to spread the gospel. We prayed for our brother in Christ. The fields are white unto harvest, let's welcome those who want to join us in ministry of sharing the gospel with others.
There were two new people with us - a stranger named Irene walked in and joined us. Obviously she is a mature Christian and could participate in praying. That was a real encouragement to us.
Jeffrey Jiang whose testimony appeared in the February issue of the War Cry joined us for the first time. He is at the moment in Singapore waiting for his visa to go to Bintulu. He has a wonderful testimony to give. Let me quote what he wrote in the War Cry "..my grandmother in China used to believe in 'I-Kuan Tao which is a traditional Chinese religion rooted in Chinese traditions., with teachings emphasising universal values such as family, honour, respect and moderation. When my grandfather, who was Deputy Commissioner of Customs, was persecuted during the Cultural Revolution, my grandmother accepted Christianity. She was among the first group of believers who accepted Christ when the Church reopened in the 1980s in China.
It was my grandmother's numerous prayers that I have experienced many miracles of God......Following my time as a theological student..... I finally became a pastor in the Da Lian Christianity Association which had more than 300 thousand members in three provinces.....During this period I obtained a graduate diploma and MBA degree.
...God has blessed me with a family."
His wife and daughter are still in China. He had been awarded a Masters Degree in Theology from a Malaysian Bible College. He has become a Salvationist and wants to serve full time with The Salvation Army.
We thank God there are people who want to join our Army to spread the gospel. We prayed for our brother in Christ. The fields are white unto harvest, let's welcome those who want to join us in ministry of sharing the gospel with others.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
70 years ago today
Three and a half months short of my 10th birthday! Singapore fell to the dreaded Japanese forces which had been bombing Singapore. We had been running to and from the bomb shelter our hiding place. It was a relief, the end of bombings but what about the future? For comfort I held on to my one eyed black toy dog, given one Christmas by the Salvation Army Balestier Corps!
Japanese soldiers soon came round to our housing estate. They knocked on the doors looking for young women. Every time we received a knock on the door, my sister would climb up the ladder and hide on the flat roof under the eaves. Many women were raped, often in front of their parents or husbands! Young men were forcibly taken away, some never to return.
One day news came round and the Japanese would take over the estate to house their soldiers. My mother, my older sister, my younger brother and I fled. My older brother a young man of 16 ran to hide under bridges or anywhere he could find safety. My father was out looking for job and he tried to evade the Japanese soldiers.
We walked to Jalan Besar and a shop owner gave us some space in their shop. There were other refugees and the place was overcrowded. However people were kind enough to give us tapioca and sweet potatoes to eat. We scouted around and then moved to a more "comfortable" place, under the staircase of a shop house. We were there a few days, but without food supplies, we just could not survive. So we took the risk to return home. When we got home, no soldier was around and we were safe. We had been so gullible to listen to false rumour. Still we learned some hard and painful lessons.
A few days later my older brother returned home. He had been captured by the Japanese but fortunately was released. Others including some of his friends were taken away and were killed at Changi or Ponggol. This was infamous Sook Ching Massacre. My uncle never returned probably shot by the soldiers. Among the salvationists was an ex-officer, Koh Liang Seah. He had resigned from Salvation Army officership to work for the local press. He had written many articles against the Japanese. When the Japs invaded Singapore, he was one of the first to be beheaded.
The Sook Ching Massacre, which began on February 18, 1942 and ended on March 3rd, claimed according to the Japanese 5000 lives. That's the “official” number. Other sources have put the count at more than 100,000 killed. The true number will never be known.In Chinese language, “sook ching” roughly means “a purge through cleansing”.
When war ended, several Japanese officers were tried for leading the massacre. Two were executed while the others received life sentences. Japan eventually made reparations payments to Singapore but, to our knowledge never officially apologized for the actions of its military.
Yes, that fateful day, the beginning of three and half gloomy years. Salvation Army was proscribed so I went with my family to the Roman Catholic church - Church of St. Peter and Paul at Queen Street. Every Sunday I kissed the feet of St. Peter and St Paul and asked for their blessing! It was the first time I heard of the word Purgatory. We went through three and half years of purgatory!
Looking back I thank God for His provision. We learned some valuable lessons in life. My family have all gone to be with the Lord and I am the sole survivor of those dark days.
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley,I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23: 4
Japanese soldiers soon came round to our housing estate. They knocked on the doors looking for young women. Every time we received a knock on the door, my sister would climb up the ladder and hide on the flat roof under the eaves. Many women were raped, often in front of their parents or husbands! Young men were forcibly taken away, some never to return.
One day news came round and the Japanese would take over the estate to house their soldiers. My mother, my older sister, my younger brother and I fled. My older brother a young man of 16 ran to hide under bridges or anywhere he could find safety. My father was out looking for job and he tried to evade the Japanese soldiers.
We walked to Jalan Besar and a shop owner gave us some space in their shop. There were other refugees and the place was overcrowded. However people were kind enough to give us tapioca and sweet potatoes to eat. We scouted around and then moved to a more "comfortable" place, under the staircase of a shop house. We were there a few days, but without food supplies, we just could not survive. So we took the risk to return home. When we got home, no soldier was around and we were safe. We had been so gullible to listen to false rumour. Still we learned some hard and painful lessons.
A few days later my older brother returned home. He had been captured by the Japanese but fortunately was released. Others including some of his friends were taken away and were killed at Changi or Ponggol. This was infamous Sook Ching Massacre. My uncle never returned probably shot by the soldiers. Among the salvationists was an ex-officer, Koh Liang Seah. He had resigned from Salvation Army officership to work for the local press. He had written many articles against the Japanese. When the Japs invaded Singapore, he was one of the first to be beheaded.
The Sook Ching Massacre, which began on February 18, 1942 and ended on March 3rd, claimed according to the Japanese 5000 lives. That's the “official” number. Other sources have put the count at more than 100,000 killed. The true number will never be known.In Chinese language, “sook ching” roughly means “a purge through cleansing”.
When war ended, several Japanese officers were tried for leading the massacre. Two were executed while the others received life sentences. Japan eventually made reparations payments to Singapore but, to our knowledge never officially apologized for the actions of its military.
Yes, that fateful day, the beginning of three and half gloomy years. Salvation Army was proscribed so I went with my family to the Roman Catholic church - Church of St. Peter and Paul at Queen Street. Every Sunday I kissed the feet of St. Peter and St Paul and asked for their blessing! It was the first time I heard of the word Purgatory. We went through three and half years of purgatory!
Looking back I thank God for His provision. We learned some valuable lessons in life. My family have all gone to be with the Lord and I am the sole survivor of those dark days.
"Even though I walk through the darkest valley,I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." Psalm 23: 4
Monday, February 13, 2012
Valentine Day quotes
Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity. ~Henry Van Dyke
A bell is no bell 'til you ring it,
A song is no song 'til you sing it,
And love in your heart
Wasn’t put there to stay -
Love isn’t love
'Til you give it away.
~Oscar Hammerstein, Sound of Music, "You Are Sixteen (Reprise)"
Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end. ~Author Unknown
A bell is no bell 'til you ring it,
A song is no song 'til you sing it,
And love in your heart
Wasn’t put there to stay -
Love isn’t love
'Til you give it away.
~Oscar Hammerstein, Sound of Music, "You Are Sixteen (Reprise)"
Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end. ~Author Unknown
Do it anyway
Someone sent me the following. I think it's worth pondering and put into action. Love is patient and endures all things.
"Here's a great reminder about living a good life and how we shouldn't let the world stop us or hold us back...
People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered.
Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.
If you are successful, you win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you help them.
Help people anyway.
Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you've got anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, It is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway."
"Here's a great reminder about living a good life and how we shouldn't let the world stop us or hold us back...
People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered.
Love them anyway.
If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Do good anyway.
If you are successful, you win false friends and true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight.
Build anyway.
People really need help but may attack you if you help them.
Help people anyway.
Give the world the best you have and you'll get kicked in the teeth.
Give the world the best you've got anyway.
You see, in the final analysis, It is between you and God;
It was never between you and them anyway."
Sunday, February 12, 2012
Searching the Scriptures
Among Bible believing Christians there are those who believe the Bible is so simple that there is no need for anyone to explain the Scriptures to us. They claim ‘we have the Holy Spirit to instruct us.’ They claim they have been in the church for many years, they know all the stories of the Bible, and there is no further need for any Bible study.
Let’s face facts. The Bible was written so many years ago on so many different subjects. People lived in cultures very different from ours. We do need the help of commentaries and people who have spent time prayerfully searching and studying the Bible.
We attend church not just to worship but to hear the word of God explained to us. What an awesome responsibility is placed upon our preachers and teachers of the word. In this church we have Bible classes for children, youth and more mature adults. Those who take the time and make the effort to attend Bible classes can testify of the blessings received. We study systematically through the Bible – both Old and New Testaments.
No one should stop learning. In life we keep pursuing knowledge. There is so much to learn about our Christian faith and it is important that we know the word of God as revealed in the Bible.
Study the Bible to be wise; believe it to be safe; practise it to be holy. Search the Scriptures and you will be richly rewarded.
God has given us the Holy Spirit to illumine our minds (1 John 2: 20, 27). He has also appointed ‘pastors and teachers for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry (Eph. 4: 11, cf Acts 20: 28, 1 Pet. 5: 2) God works through means for the salvation and sanctification of His saints (meaning Christians) He uses pastors, teachers and in Salvation Army terminology, officers and local officers who are held accountable by God for the spiritual well being of people in the church.
I count it a privilege to be responsible for the Adult Bible class held every Sunday in our church. For the last few weeks, we have been studying the book of Judges, probably a closed book to many. It is often looked upon as too long and uninteresting. Some consider this book as irrelevant to warrant our time and effort studying it. This is a serious mistake for the Old Testament is alive with interest and highly relevant for our day an generation.
Look at the world today, confused and chaotic. I believe in democracy, but not the kind as found in Judges and in some countries. "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit." Judges 21:25 (NIV) There was no king in Israel, no supreme magistrate, Joshua being dead, Everyone did that which was right in his own eyes; there being none to restrain him from it, or punish him for it.
Call it democracy? I call it twisted and skewered democracy!
Let’s face facts. The Bible was written so many years ago on so many different subjects. People lived in cultures very different from ours. We do need the help of commentaries and people who have spent time prayerfully searching and studying the Bible.
We attend church not just to worship but to hear the word of God explained to us. What an awesome responsibility is placed upon our preachers and teachers of the word. In this church we have Bible classes for children, youth and more mature adults. Those who take the time and make the effort to attend Bible classes can testify of the blessings received. We study systematically through the Bible – both Old and New Testaments.
No one should stop learning. In life we keep pursuing knowledge. There is so much to learn about our Christian faith and it is important that we know the word of God as revealed in the Bible.
Study the Bible to be wise; believe it to be safe; practise it to be holy. Search the Scriptures and you will be richly rewarded.
God has given us the Holy Spirit to illumine our minds (1 John 2: 20, 27). He has also appointed ‘pastors and teachers for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry (Eph. 4: 11, cf Acts 20: 28, 1 Pet. 5: 2) God works through means for the salvation and sanctification of His saints (meaning Christians) He uses pastors, teachers and in Salvation Army terminology, officers and local officers who are held accountable by God for the spiritual well being of people in the church.
I count it a privilege to be responsible for the Adult Bible class held every Sunday in our church. For the last few weeks, we have been studying the book of Judges, probably a closed book to many. It is often looked upon as too long and uninteresting. Some consider this book as irrelevant to warrant our time and effort studying it. This is a serious mistake for the Old Testament is alive with interest and highly relevant for our day an generation.
Look at the world today, confused and chaotic. I believe in democracy, but not the kind as found in Judges and in some countries. "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as they saw fit." Judges 21:25 (NIV) There was no king in Israel, no supreme magistrate, Joshua being dead, Everyone did that which was right in his own eyes; there being none to restrain him from it, or punish him for it.
Call it democracy? I call it twisted and skewered democracy!
Friday, February 10, 2012
Farewell to the Founder
I have just read "Farewell to the Founder" written by R Gordon Moyles, Professor Emeritus at the University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada. This year, the Army commemorates the 100th Anniversary of William Booth's promotion to Glory. The General died on 20th August 1912.
The writer gives a full and comprehensive account of General Booth's final moments on earth, his death and funeral. He records the reaction of salvationists and friends and even his critics. Condolences poured in from Presidents, Prime Ministers, Emperors, Kings and Queens, including one from Britain's King George V who sent a four foot floral wreath. This was placed at the head of the coffin.
More than 100,000 people stood in line for hours to pay their respects at a four day public viewing at Clapton Congress Hall in London. On the day of the funeral more than two million people flanked the streets of London to view the five mile long funeral cortege pass by. As I read this interesting account, I could picture myself among the crowd.
The book became more interesting as the author Mr. Moyles and his wife were here in Singapore to visit their daughter Kathy Wallace who is a lecturer in music at the University of Singapore. The Wallaces live just across the road from our William Booth Corps and of course the Moyles, very good salvationists joined us in worship on Sundays. They also attended the official opening of Balestier Corps on 11 November. They spent about three months in Singapore. He spent quite a lot of time helping Major Pascoe sort out the books in our library.
On 1st July, my wife and I will be conducting Founder's Day meeting at Changi Corps in the absence of the Corps Officer Major Lim Chee Kwee who will be attending the International College for officers in London. So this book came in handy for my preparation for this special Sunday.
Should anyone want to have a loan of the book, please let me know as eventually, I shall put it in the Army's library.
The writer gives a full and comprehensive account of General Booth's final moments on earth, his death and funeral. He records the reaction of salvationists and friends and even his critics. Condolences poured in from Presidents, Prime Ministers, Emperors, Kings and Queens, including one from Britain's King George V who sent a four foot floral wreath. This was placed at the head of the coffin.
More than 100,000 people stood in line for hours to pay their respects at a four day public viewing at Clapton Congress Hall in London. On the day of the funeral more than two million people flanked the streets of London to view the five mile long funeral cortege pass by. As I read this interesting account, I could picture myself among the crowd.
The book became more interesting as the author Mr. Moyles and his wife were here in Singapore to visit their daughter Kathy Wallace who is a lecturer in music at the University of Singapore. The Wallaces live just across the road from our William Booth Corps and of course the Moyles, very good salvationists joined us in worship on Sundays. They also attended the official opening of Balestier Corps on 11 November. They spent about three months in Singapore. He spent quite a lot of time helping Major Pascoe sort out the books in our library.
On 1st July, my wife and I will be conducting Founder's Day meeting at Changi Corps in the absence of the Corps Officer Major Lim Chee Kwee who will be attending the International College for officers in London. So this book came in handy for my preparation for this special Sunday.
Should anyone want to have a loan of the book, please let me know as eventually, I shall put it in the Army's library.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
The Love of God
Valentine’s Day is universally observed on 14th February. This may be a good time for the young man to send his girl-friend a lovely bouquet of flowers, even if it costs more this time of the year! Or it may be the opportune moment to have a romantic dinner by candlelight in a restaurant! What about sending a Valentine card expressing sentiments of an amorous and sentimental nature? Or a trip to Sentosa island to spend the evening.
Love is the most used and perhaps the most abused words in our vocabulary. It may describe the intense affection between two people who have fallen in love. It could be the description of friendship like David and Jonathan in the Bible. Good to see family members loving and caring for each other. Fondness, relationship ties, sharing the same chemistry or emotional love is not out of place, however, such love cannot compare with the love of God.
Much of the love we talk about today cannot survive without reciprocity. It is often conditional and mercurial. This is seen in the number of broken marriages when couples fall out with each other. The media reports of family breakups which sometimes end up in court.
When we ask the question to some of the people we minister to,“Is there a song you want us to sing today?” The response is invariably “Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so.” I am not referring to Sunday School or Children’s meeting, but to the chapel service that we conduct every Tuesday at The Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home. The congregation comprises the elderly, the handicapped, the blind, the deaf, the wheelchair bound – all with some form of infirmity. Some can recall the song they learned during childhood days.Someone remarked, “Everything I need to know about theology I learned from this song. ‘Jesus loves me.’” It has been translated into many languages and is universally loved.
“For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3: 16.) “God is love.” (1 John 4: 8) It is surely to us a mystery we cannot fully comprehend - how He could send his only Son into the world to die for our sins.
The word ‘love’ in the English language is used to describe four different words in the Greek. When it refers to God the word ‘agape’ is applied. God’s love transcends human love. It is unconditional and not based on merit, feelings or emotions. We are loved not because we are lovable, good or deserving. God loves because it is inherent in His nature. He created and redeemed us so that we can have this loving relationship with Him.
How are we to respond to God’s love? We do so by first of all accepting this gift of love and then honouring, loving and worshipping Him. God is worthy of our adoration and praise. We are to heed and obey His teaching. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and all your strength and with all your mind” and “Love your neighbour as yourself.” (Luke 10: 27)
Receiving the love of Jesus and living in His love everyday, is the first and most essential step we all need to take. Accept the wonderful, undeniable truth that Jesus loves you, then draw close to Him and allowing Him to pour His love into your heart. “Greater love has no one than this, that He lay down His life for His friends.” (John 15: 13)
Love has the vertical and horizontal dimensions. The vertical extends to our Lord and the horizontal to our fellowmen. It is imperative that once we have accepted God’s love we are to heed His command to love others. Our Lord was specific when He said, “My command is this: love each other as I have love you (John 15: 12). We cannot limit the scope or intensity of our love.
Christian love is the reflection of God’s love expressed in that word ‘agape’. It is undeserved love. “God demonstrates His own love for us in this” While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5: 8.
(This article is printed in the February issue of The War Cry - Singapore/Malaysia/Myanmar Territory)
Love is the most used and perhaps the most abused words in our vocabulary. It may describe the intense affection between two people who have fallen in love. It could be the description of friendship like David and Jonathan in the Bible. Good to see family members loving and caring for each other. Fondness, relationship ties, sharing the same chemistry or emotional love is not out of place, however, such love cannot compare with the love of God.
Much of the love we talk about today cannot survive without reciprocity. It is often conditional and mercurial. This is seen in the number of broken marriages when couples fall out with each other. The media reports of family breakups which sometimes end up in court.
When we ask the question to some of the people we minister to,“Is there a song you want us to sing today?” The response is invariably “Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so.” I am not referring to Sunday School or Children’s meeting, but to the chapel service that we conduct every Tuesday at The Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home. The congregation comprises the elderly, the handicapped, the blind, the deaf, the wheelchair bound – all with some form of infirmity. Some can recall the song they learned during childhood days.Someone remarked, “Everything I need to know about theology I learned from this song. ‘Jesus loves me.’” It has been translated into many languages and is universally loved.
“For God so loved the world that he gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3: 16.) “God is love.” (1 John 4: 8) It is surely to us a mystery we cannot fully comprehend - how He could send his only Son into the world to die for our sins.
The word ‘love’ in the English language is used to describe four different words in the Greek. When it refers to God the word ‘agape’ is applied. God’s love transcends human love. It is unconditional and not based on merit, feelings or emotions. We are loved not because we are lovable, good or deserving. God loves because it is inherent in His nature. He created and redeemed us so that we can have this loving relationship with Him.
How are we to respond to God’s love? We do so by first of all accepting this gift of love and then honouring, loving and worshipping Him. God is worthy of our adoration and praise. We are to heed and obey His teaching. “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and all your strength and with all your mind” and “Love your neighbour as yourself.” (Luke 10: 27)
Receiving the love of Jesus and living in His love everyday, is the first and most essential step we all need to take. Accept the wonderful, undeniable truth that Jesus loves you, then draw close to Him and allowing Him to pour His love into your heart. “Greater love has no one than this, that He lay down His life for His friends.” (John 15: 13)
Love has the vertical and horizontal dimensions. The vertical extends to our Lord and the horizontal to our fellowmen. It is imperative that once we have accepted God’s love we are to heed His command to love others. Our Lord was specific when He said, “My command is this: love each other as I have love you (John 15: 12). We cannot limit the scope or intensity of our love.
Christian love is the reflection of God’s love expressed in that word ‘agape’. It is undeserved love. “God demonstrates His own love for us in this” While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5: 8.
(This article is printed in the February issue of The War Cry - Singapore/Malaysia/Myanmar Territory)
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
The healing power of empathy
We were at Peacehaven this morning and spent the whole morning talking to nurses, residents and today one lady took up a lot of my time. I don't resent this intrusion, but it gave this lady the opportunity of unburdening her heart. I was blessed as I heard the story, how grateful she is today to her adopted mother who brought her up. Thank God for such a filial daughter who has given up her job to care for the mother and now visits her everyday at Peacehaven. Thank God she has a very understanding husband, an Englishman working in Singapore.
The nurses have their stories to tell and I thank God my wife and I are given this privilege to share their burdens as well as their joys.
When I got home in the afternoon the words 'empathy' and 'sympathy' kept ringing in my mind. According to Carl Rogers 'empathy "is to perceive the internal frame of reference of another person with accuracy and with emotional components and meanings that pertain thereto as if one were the person but without losing the as-if condition."
Some people do not seem to differentiate the meaning of the two words. I may have sympathy for another without truly understanding another's situation. Sympathy is triggered by the awareness of others based on my own feelings and experiences. Empathy on the other hand goes further. I take that extra step by trying to fathom the feelings and experiences of the other person.
So when I sympathise with another, it is quite likely I feel sad because of my own experience. I've been through such pain and I am displaying my own feelings.
But when I empathise, I am motivated by the desire to help the other person in the resolution in whatever situation the other person is going through. I project myself to the person's needs, I make effort to understand. Empathy then is making a deliberate attempt to understand the inner feelings of another. It takes a lot out of you.
When speaking to the nurses from overseas, now working in Peacehaven, I try to project myself, put myself in their place, leaving parents, spouses, children and aged grandparents to come to our land to care for our people in need. To some extent my experience working overseas help me to sympathise as well as empathise with these folk.
One difficulty and I need the Lord's wisdom or discernment. As humans we all tend to see other people and events through our distinct personal and cultural perspectives. We need the grace of God to enable us to cross the cultural and racial gap. Lord help me to bridge that gap.
To the lady I referred to earlier, I try to empathise, projecting myself to her inner world of struggle. Anyway I was able to spend time in prayer with her and hope and pray that encounter be a blessing to her. Now I go back to chorus I quoted recently, "Make me a blessing to someone today."
The nurses have their stories to tell and I thank God my wife and I are given this privilege to share their burdens as well as their joys.
When I got home in the afternoon the words 'empathy' and 'sympathy' kept ringing in my mind. According to Carl Rogers 'empathy "is to perceive the internal frame of reference of another person with accuracy and with emotional components and meanings that pertain thereto as if one were the person but without losing the as-if condition."
Some people do not seem to differentiate the meaning of the two words. I may have sympathy for another without truly understanding another's situation. Sympathy is triggered by the awareness of others based on my own feelings and experiences. Empathy on the other hand goes further. I take that extra step by trying to fathom the feelings and experiences of the other person.
So when I sympathise with another, it is quite likely I feel sad because of my own experience. I've been through such pain and I am displaying my own feelings.
But when I empathise, I am motivated by the desire to help the other person in the resolution in whatever situation the other person is going through. I project myself to the person's needs, I make effort to understand. Empathy then is making a deliberate attempt to understand the inner feelings of another. It takes a lot out of you.
When speaking to the nurses from overseas, now working in Peacehaven, I try to project myself, put myself in their place, leaving parents, spouses, children and aged grandparents to come to our land to care for our people in need. To some extent my experience working overseas help me to sympathise as well as empathise with these folk.
One difficulty and I need the Lord's wisdom or discernment. As humans we all tend to see other people and events through our distinct personal and cultural perspectives. We need the grace of God to enable us to cross the cultural and racial gap. Lord help me to bridge that gap.
To the lady I referred to earlier, I try to empathise, projecting myself to her inner world of struggle. Anyway I was able to spend time in prayer with her and hope and pray that encounter be a blessing to her. Now I go back to chorus I quoted recently, "Make me a blessing to someone today."
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Experiencing Spiritual Revival Daily
In the absence of our pastor Major Pascoe who is in Penang, Lieut. Colonel Bob Lee conducted the meeting. What a lovely and inspiration time we had. His message was on Asa the king.
In Asa's 36th year, King Baasha of Israel attacked the Kingdom of Judah (2 Chronicles 16:1) Baasha built the fortress of Ramah on the border, less than ten miles from Jerusalem. The result was that the capital was under pressure and the military situation was precarious. Asa took gold and silver from the Temple and sent them to Ben-Hadad I, king of Aram Damascus, in exchange for the Damascene king canceling his peace treaty with Baasha. Ben-Hadad attacked Ijon, Dan, and many important cities of the tribe of Naphtali, and Baasha was forced to withdraw from Ramah. Asa tore down the unfinished fortress and used its raw materials to fortify Geba and Mizpah, on his side of the border. (2 Chronicles 16:1-7)
Hanani the a prophet,reprimanded Asa for relying on the King of Syria as opposed to Divine help in defeating Baasha (2 Chronicles 16:7-10). Asa became very angry and threw Hanani into prison.
In the 39th year of his reign, Asa developed a severe disease in his feet, for which he sought the help of physicians, not the Lord (2 Chronicles 16:12). Asa died two years later and was buried with his ancestors in Jerusalem, in the grave that he had dug for himself (2 Chronicles 16:13-14).
Lieut. Colonel Bob Lee used this story to warn us not to be slack in seeking the Lord at all times. His subject was "Experiencing Spiritual Revival Daily." How easy it is for us in times of crisis, instead of seeking the Lord, we turn to other sources for help. It is always good to be reminded of our need to keep our relationship with the Lord right. We always need to seek the Lord and commit our lives to Him daily.Satan is alive and active and seeks to draw us away from God.
Earlier on I did my Adult Bible class - the third lesson in Judges "Living with the enemy." Our thoughts moved in similar pattern. We learned of the success and failures of the Israelite tribes in possessing what had been taken by them under the leadership of Joshua.
It is always good to spend the day with the word of God in our worship.
In Asa's 36th year, King Baasha of Israel attacked the Kingdom of Judah (2 Chronicles 16:1) Baasha built the fortress of Ramah on the border, less than ten miles from Jerusalem. The result was that the capital was under pressure and the military situation was precarious. Asa took gold and silver from the Temple and sent them to Ben-Hadad I, king of Aram Damascus, in exchange for the Damascene king canceling his peace treaty with Baasha. Ben-Hadad attacked Ijon, Dan, and many important cities of the tribe of Naphtali, and Baasha was forced to withdraw from Ramah. Asa tore down the unfinished fortress and used its raw materials to fortify Geba and Mizpah, on his side of the border. (2 Chronicles 16:1-7)
Hanani the a prophet,reprimanded Asa for relying on the King of Syria as opposed to Divine help in defeating Baasha (2 Chronicles 16:7-10). Asa became very angry and threw Hanani into prison.
In the 39th year of his reign, Asa developed a severe disease in his feet, for which he sought the help of physicians, not the Lord (2 Chronicles 16:12). Asa died two years later and was buried with his ancestors in Jerusalem, in the grave that he had dug for himself (2 Chronicles 16:13-14).
Lieut. Colonel Bob Lee used this story to warn us not to be slack in seeking the Lord at all times. His subject was "Experiencing Spiritual Revival Daily." How easy it is for us in times of crisis, instead of seeking the Lord, we turn to other sources for help. It is always good to be reminded of our need to keep our relationship with the Lord right. We always need to seek the Lord and commit our lives to Him daily.Satan is alive and active and seeks to draw us away from God.
Earlier on I did my Adult Bible class - the third lesson in Judges "Living with the enemy." Our thoughts moved in similar pattern. We learned of the success and failures of the Israelite tribes in possessing what had been taken by them under the leadership of Joshua.
It is always good to spend the day with the word of God in our worship.
God's love has no limits
Early this morning, I got up praising the Lord for another day that He has made. In my meditation, I turned to the "Words of Life" and the writer in today's message draws the readers' attention to the lovely song written by Annie Johnsone Flint.
He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.
The writer has written many inspiring poems dealing with faith and triumph in times of trial and suffering. She was born in Vineland, NJ. She lost both parents before she was six years old. Adopted by a childless couple, she became afflicted with arthritis as a teen. She became weaker and weaker and eventually was unable to walk.
She aspired to be a composer and concert pianist but when illness deprived her of her ability to play the piano she resorted to writing poetry. Some of her poetry she set to music. Later in life, being unable to open her hands, she wrote many of her poems on the typewriter, using but her knuckles.
The song “He Giveth More Grace” was based on three Bible promises “He giveth more grace” (James 4:6); “He increaseth strength” (Isaiah 40:29); and “Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied” (Jude 2).
What an inspiration to wake up on a Sunday morning!
He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.
The writer has written many inspiring poems dealing with faith and triumph in times of trial and suffering. She was born in Vineland, NJ. She lost both parents before she was six years old. Adopted by a childless couple, she became afflicted with arthritis as a teen. She became weaker and weaker and eventually was unable to walk.
She aspired to be a composer and concert pianist but when illness deprived her of her ability to play the piano she resorted to writing poetry. Some of her poetry she set to music. Later in life, being unable to open her hands, she wrote many of her poems on the typewriter, using but her knuckles.
The song “He Giveth More Grace” was based on three Bible promises “He giveth more grace” (James 4:6); “He increaseth strength” (Isaiah 40:29); and “Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied” (Jude 2).
What an inspiration to wake up on a Sunday morning!
Friday, February 3, 2012
Cell group at Jalan Jendala
Every Friday morning, a group of us meet for cell meeting at our home. Today, we had a change of venue. We met at the home of Ronnie and Li Lim at Jalan Jendela near Mandai.
I was not able to join them in the early part as I had a hospital appointment and left home before 7.00 a.m. One of our cell members very kindly came at 11.15 a.m, to fetch me from hospital and took me to Jalan Jendala. I was able to join in the discussion at the tail end of the meeting.
We adjourned for a lovely lunch - Lo Hei to celebrate Chinese New Year. Our hosts certainly went to a lot of trouble preparing the delicious meal. We had a great time of fellowship and feasting - spiritual and physical food.
We are reminded of the Early church when it has been recorded. "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." (Acts 2:42; see also v. 43-47)
I was not able to join them in the early part as I had a hospital appointment and left home before 7.00 a.m. One of our cell members very kindly came at 11.15 a.m, to fetch me from hospital and took me to Jalan Jendala. I was able to join in the discussion at the tail end of the meeting.
We adjourned for a lovely lunch - Lo Hei to celebrate Chinese New Year. Our hosts certainly went to a lot of trouble preparing the delicious meal. We had a great time of fellowship and feasting - spiritual and physical food.
We are reminded of the Early church when it has been recorded. "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." (Acts 2:42; see also v. 43-47)
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Global Prayer meeting
We commenced our Prayer meeting with the reminder from Jeremiah 33: 2 & 3. "This is what the Lord says, He who made the earth, the Lord who formed it and established it - the Lord is His name: 'Call to Me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.'" Then we praised God by singing "Joyful, joyful we adore Thee."
A reminder from the Founder William Booth, "We are a salvation people - this is our specialty - getting people saved and keeping them saved, and then getting somebody else saved..rescue the perishing. They are all around you everywhere, crowds upon crowds, multitudes. Be skillful. Improve yourself. Study your business. Be self sacrificing. Remember the Master. What you lose for His sake, and for the sake of the poor souls for whom He died, you shall find again.Stick to it. Having put your hand to the salvation plough, don't look behind you."
For the hour we prayed. We prayed for our own territory, the the new work in Togo and Solomon islands. We cried out to God to bless our people, to secure young people to to be Salvation Army officers.
We reminded ourselves of the early church. One fantastic result seen in Acts 4: 31 "After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the Word of God daily." Lord so it again.
We dismissed after singing the prayer, "Give us a day of wonders"
A reminder from the Founder William Booth, "We are a salvation people - this is our specialty - getting people saved and keeping them saved, and then getting somebody else saved..rescue the perishing. They are all around you everywhere, crowds upon crowds, multitudes. Be skillful. Improve yourself. Study your business. Be self sacrificing. Remember the Master. What you lose for His sake, and for the sake of the poor souls for whom He died, you shall find again.Stick to it. Having put your hand to the salvation plough, don't look behind you."
For the hour we prayed. We prayed for our own territory, the the new work in Togo and Solomon islands. We cried out to God to bless our people, to secure young people to to be Salvation Army officers.
We reminded ourselves of the early church. One fantastic result seen in Acts 4: 31 "After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the Word of God daily." Lord so it again.
We dismissed after singing the prayer, "Give us a day of wonders"
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Sharing blessings with the housebound
Last day in January, Tuesday - we visited Peacehaven Nursing Home, Hope Centre and did chapel service at Second Level. With the growing number of dementia residents, it is now necessary to have three separate services on three floors. The chaplain was on one level, Major Lim Chee Kwee on another and we were assigned to Level two.
Quite a number of off duty nurses from Changi Hospital were at the Nursing Home acting as volunteers to help the elderly and the sick as they celebrated Chinese New Year.
After lunch with the staff, we went to visit two elderly salvationists both housebound to share new year blessings. It was pouring rain, but Captain Hary came to bless us with transport. That was a tremendous help. We got home almost 6.00 p.m, tired but delighted we were able to share blessings with others.
"Thank You Lord for giving us another day of great blessing. We bless You and thank You for health and strength even though we feel old age creeping up on us. Thank you for blessing us, thank You for the privilege of sharing Your blessing with others. We've been blessed by the folk we visited."
"Seventy years are given to us! Some even live to eighty.But even the best years are filled with pain and trouble;soon they disappear, and we fly away.Teach us to realize the brevity of life,so that we may grow in wisdom." Psalm 90: 10 & 12 Living Bible)
One month of 2010 has gone by quickly.
Quite a number of off duty nurses from Changi Hospital were at the Nursing Home acting as volunteers to help the elderly and the sick as they celebrated Chinese New Year.
After lunch with the staff, we went to visit two elderly salvationists both housebound to share new year blessings. It was pouring rain, but Captain Hary came to bless us with transport. That was a tremendous help. We got home almost 6.00 p.m, tired but delighted we were able to share blessings with others.
"Thank You Lord for giving us another day of great blessing. We bless You and thank You for health and strength even though we feel old age creeping up on us. Thank you for blessing us, thank You for the privilege of sharing Your blessing with others. We've been blessed by the folk we visited."
"Seventy years are given to us! Some even live to eighty.But even the best years are filled with pain and trouble;soon they disappear, and we fly away.Teach us to realize the brevity of life,so that we may grow in wisdom." Psalm 90: 10 & 12 Living Bible)
One month of 2010 has gone by quickly.
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