Twelve of us met early this morning for our usual weekly Prayer meeting. This week our focus is on "The teaching of holiness."
The Spiritual Life commission issued 12 calls to Salvationists and these form the basis of our territory's Spiritual Life Commission focus. This week we dwell on the sixth call.
"We call Salvationists worldwide to restate and live out the doctrine of holiness in all its dimensions - personal, relational, social and political - in the context of our cultures and in the idioms of our day while allowing for and indeed appreciating each diversity of experience and expression as in accord with the scriptures."
As usual we prayed for our General Linda Bond and other subjects especially for Myanmar.
I believe prayer is our response to the outpouring of God's love to us. How can I not come to Him when He loves me so much. Yes, we adore Him, praise Him, exalt Him.
And I come to Him with my petitions knowing He loves to answer prayer.
Thou art coming to a King,
Large petitions with thee bring;
For His grace and power are such,
None can ever ask too much. John Newton.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Humility in service
Jesus Washes His Disciples’ Feet John 13: 1-5
"It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him."
We were at Peacehaven Nursing Home this morning and once again witnessed the caring and compassionate ministry of the nurses, therapists and other staff. There are the other support staff working in the office, manning the reception desk of cooking in the kitchen.Perhaps I may liken the Home to a big beehive, each bee performing a certain function and all working for the same purpose and towards the same end. Our staff are following the footsteps of our Lord in caring for suffering humanity.
My mind went to the ministry of our Lord, healing the sick, comforting the broken hearted. He knew His days on earth were numbered.
Shortly before His death, He had his last meal with His disciples. What a beautiful statement "Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end." He loved them to the highest degree, to the very limit, extremely, to the very end. John would have us see that wonderful example of humble service our Lord gave before His departure for heaven.
I've been thinking about this beautiful song written by Bramwell Coles.
How can I better serve thee, Lord,
Thou who hast done so much for me?
Faltering and weak my labor has been;
O that my life may tell for thee!
Chorus
Here at the cross in this sacred hour,
Here at the source of reviving power,
Helpless indeed, I come with my need;
Lord, for thy service, fit me I plead.2.
Dull are my ears to hear thy voice,
Slow are my hands to work for thee,
Loath are my feet to conquer the steeps
That lead me to my Calvary.
Strength for my weakness, Lord, impart;
Sight for my blindness give to me;
Faith for my doubtings, Lord, I would crave,
That I may serve thee worthily.
"It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. The evening meal was in progress, and the devil had already prompted Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot, to betray Jesus. Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under his power, and that he had come from God and was returning to God; so he got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist. After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him."
We were at Peacehaven Nursing Home this morning and once again witnessed the caring and compassionate ministry of the nurses, therapists and other staff. There are the other support staff working in the office, manning the reception desk of cooking in the kitchen.Perhaps I may liken the Home to a big beehive, each bee performing a certain function and all working for the same purpose and towards the same end. Our staff are following the footsteps of our Lord in caring for suffering humanity.
My mind went to the ministry of our Lord, healing the sick, comforting the broken hearted. He knew His days on earth were numbered.
Shortly before His death, He had his last meal with His disciples. What a beautiful statement "Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end." He loved them to the highest degree, to the very limit, extremely, to the very end. John would have us see that wonderful example of humble service our Lord gave before His departure for heaven.
I've been thinking about this beautiful song written by Bramwell Coles.
How can I better serve thee, Lord,
Thou who hast done so much for me?
Faltering and weak my labor has been;
O that my life may tell for thee!
Chorus
Here at the cross in this sacred hour,
Here at the source of reviving power,
Helpless indeed, I come with my need;
Lord, for thy service, fit me I plead.2.
Dull are my ears to hear thy voice,
Slow are my hands to work for thee,
Loath are my feet to conquer the steeps
That lead me to my Calvary.
Strength for my weakness, Lord, impart;
Sight for my blindness give to me;
Faith for my doubtings, Lord, I would crave,
That I may serve thee worthily.
Monday, March 26, 2012
God and the Ancient Chinese
Last Sunday, Corps Secretary Terence Tan took Bible class and gave an interesting talk on "God and the Ancient Chinese." Using power point, he was able to show us a number of Chinese characters that depicted the fact that the Chinese were aware of the events recorded in Genesis like the Fall, the Great Flood and Tower of Babel. For example the Chinese character boat shows a vessel with eight people or mouths. Chinese legends tell us of a man named Nu-wa. Obviously the Chinese were aware of the great flood in Noah's time and the tower of Babel etc.
Terence showed us the parallel of Biblical chronology, Chinese chronology and Hebrew chronology. We now look forward to next Sunday when he will continue with this interesting study.
We have a group of mature adults who are keen on the word and are willing to share their knowledge of the Scriptures with others. As age creeps up on me, I am gradually relinquishing responsibilities to others. This will ensure continuity of the Adult Bible class started some ten years ago when Major Allen Satterlee was our pastor.
Terence showed us the parallel of Biblical chronology, Chinese chronology and Hebrew chronology. We now look forward to next Sunday when he will continue with this interesting study.
We have a group of mature adults who are keen on the word and are willing to share their knowledge of the Scriptures with others. As age creeps up on me, I am gradually relinquishing responsibilities to others. This will ensure continuity of the Adult Bible class started some ten years ago when Major Allen Satterlee was our pastor.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Meeting God’s Requirement - Social justice, mercy and humility
Some people strive hard to live up to the expectations of others, such as peers, colleagues or rivals. The big question is always, “What impression will they have of me?” Others set their own benchmarks based on personal ambition to achieve success, often resulting in disappointment or frustration.
We are fearfully, wonderfully and uniquely made by God and our focus should be meeting God’s expectations of us. According to Micah the prophet, the people of Israel and Judah were searching to discern God’s requirement of them. They were under the impression that God only required a religious response – such as Sabbath keeping, animal sacrifices and rituals. There are Christians who think the same way –church attendance, observance of rituals prescribed by the denomination to which they belong, tithing to support the church and other church related activities. All very good, but we need to go beyond such so-called ‘religious activities.’
The Lord desires our praise and worship. He accepts the gifts we bring to Him. But God’s requirement extends beyond Sunday to the rest of the week, beyond the confines of the church to the world we live in. Our mission is to save souls, grow saints and care for suffering humanity. Christianity is not just about religious rites but human rights of justice, fairness and mercy as well.
Here is an important injunction concerning our relationship with our fellowmen. “And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” Micah 6: 8 (NIV)
Jesus spoke strongly against the teachers of the law and the Pharisees for neglecting the more important matters of the law, namely justice, mercy and faithfulness. (Matt. 23: 23). They were punctilious when it came to the observance of the law, obeying to the letter, but negligent when it came to practising their faith and doing right towards others in acting justly.
Our faith in God must not just be treated as insurance for getting into Heaven when we leave this world, but also to be expressed in everyday relationships. It must begin in the family. Do we deal fairly with our loved ones, parents, siblings, spouses, and children? We owe them our duty of fairness. Charity begins at home.
We value the fellowship of believers in church. “In a Christian community, everything depends upon whether each individual is an indispensable link in a chain. Only when even the smallest link is securely interlocked is the chain unbreakable. A community which allows unemployed members to exist within it will perish because of them. It will be well, therefore, if every member receives a definite task to perform for the community, that he may know in hours of doubt that he, too, is not useless and unusable. Every Christian community must realize that not only do the weak need the strong, but also that the strong cannot exist without the weak. The elimination of the weak is the death of the fellowship.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Christians must possess the right attitudes within the church – having the right heart and maintaining right relationships with each other.
What about our responsibility outside the family and church? As employers how do we treat our employees? As employees, do we give fair service even when the employer is not around? Justice or fairness must be upheld always. To act justly is to accept the well being of others in society.
God requires us to ‘love mercy’ not just to have and show mercy. Let us show compassion for others not just from a sense of duty or obedience to rules set by the church, organisation or company. Mercy must be inherent in our lives. The follower of Christ must always portray the spirit of Christ in a forgiving spirit. “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” (1 Peter 3: 8)
The third but not least requirement from God of His servants is to walk humbly with God. No arrogance or elitist attitude, but having the humble spirit of Christ. The Bible tells us “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” (Phil. 2: 3)
(This article was written for The Salvation Army War Cry Singapore.Malaysia/Myanmar
March issue.
.
We are fearfully, wonderfully and uniquely made by God and our focus should be meeting God’s expectations of us. According to Micah the prophet, the people of Israel and Judah were searching to discern God’s requirement of them. They were under the impression that God only required a religious response – such as Sabbath keeping, animal sacrifices and rituals. There are Christians who think the same way –church attendance, observance of rituals prescribed by the denomination to which they belong, tithing to support the church and other church related activities. All very good, but we need to go beyond such so-called ‘religious activities.’
The Lord desires our praise and worship. He accepts the gifts we bring to Him. But God’s requirement extends beyond Sunday to the rest of the week, beyond the confines of the church to the world we live in. Our mission is to save souls, grow saints and care for suffering humanity. Christianity is not just about religious rites but human rights of justice, fairness and mercy as well.
Here is an important injunction concerning our relationship with our fellowmen. “And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” Micah 6: 8 (NIV)
Jesus spoke strongly against the teachers of the law and the Pharisees for neglecting the more important matters of the law, namely justice, mercy and faithfulness. (Matt. 23: 23). They were punctilious when it came to the observance of the law, obeying to the letter, but negligent when it came to practising their faith and doing right towards others in acting justly.
Our faith in God must not just be treated as insurance for getting into Heaven when we leave this world, but also to be expressed in everyday relationships. It must begin in the family. Do we deal fairly with our loved ones, parents, siblings, spouses, and children? We owe them our duty of fairness. Charity begins at home.
We value the fellowship of believers in church. “In a Christian community, everything depends upon whether each individual is an indispensable link in a chain. Only when even the smallest link is securely interlocked is the chain unbreakable. A community which allows unemployed members to exist within it will perish because of them. It will be well, therefore, if every member receives a definite task to perform for the community, that he may know in hours of doubt that he, too, is not useless and unusable. Every Christian community must realize that not only do the weak need the strong, but also that the strong cannot exist without the weak. The elimination of the weak is the death of the fellowship.” Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
Christians must possess the right attitudes within the church – having the right heart and maintaining right relationships with each other.
What about our responsibility outside the family and church? As employers how do we treat our employees? As employees, do we give fair service even when the employer is not around? Justice or fairness must be upheld always. To act justly is to accept the well being of others in society.
God requires us to ‘love mercy’ not just to have and show mercy. Let us show compassion for others not just from a sense of duty or obedience to rules set by the church, organisation or company. Mercy must be inherent in our lives. The follower of Christ must always portray the spirit of Christ in a forgiving spirit. “Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” (1 Peter 3: 8)
The third but not least requirement from God of His servants is to walk humbly with God. No arrogance or elitist attitude, but having the humble spirit of Christ. The Bible tells us “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” (Phil. 2: 3)
(This article was written for The Salvation Army War Cry Singapore.Malaysia/Myanmar
March issue.
.
Prayer - its importance
We just came home after attending the weekly prayer meeting. Not many turned up today, only four of us from Praisehaven, Captain Hary and Major Lim Chee Kwee. But we prayed earnestly just the same. Our leaders Colonel Gillian Downer, Lieut. Colonels Bob and Wendy are away in Myanmar. They are regular participants.
When the subject of prayer is mentioned we can be assured many agree with us on its importance and necessity for our spiritual life. As the poet has said, Prayer is the Christian vital breath and native air. We cannot survive spiritually without prayer. After my many years of prayer, I feel I am still a student of prayer. There is so much to learn.
There are some elements we need to have in our prayers - we should begin with praise, thanksgiving and worship.We come to him in humble submission and exalt the Lord our God.
Prayer should include others. We need to talk about people to God. Quite simply, intercessory prayer is the act of praying on behalf of others.God wants every believer be active in intercessory prayer. What a wonderful and exalted privilege we have in being able to come boldly before the throne of Almighty God with our prayers and requests for ourselves and others.
Of course, prayer is petition. "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4: 16. In petition, we are not seeking to overcome God's reluctance; not at all, we are laying hold of of His willingness. He bids us pray.
John Newton's beautiful hymn is worth reading and praying aloud often.
Come, my soul, thy suit prepare:
Jesus loves to answer prayer;
He Himself has bid thee pray,
Therefore will not say thee nay.
Thou art coming to a King,
Large petitions with thee bring;
For His grace and power are such,
None can ever ask too much.
With my burden I begin:
Lord, remove this load of sin;
Let Thy blood, for sinners spilt,
Set my conscience free from guilt.
Lord, I come to Thee for rest,
Take possession of my breast;
There Thy blood bought right maintain,
And without a rival reign.
As the image in the glass
Answers the beholder's face;
Thus unto my heart appear,
Print Thine own resemblance there.
While I am a pilgrim here,
Let Thy love my spirit cheer;
As my Guide, my Guard, my Friend
Lead me to my journey's end.
Show me what I have to do,
Every hour my strength renew:
Let me live a life of faith
Let me die Thy people's death.
When the subject of prayer is mentioned we can be assured many agree with us on its importance and necessity for our spiritual life. As the poet has said, Prayer is the Christian vital breath and native air. We cannot survive spiritually without prayer. After my many years of prayer, I feel I am still a student of prayer. There is so much to learn.
There are some elements we need to have in our prayers - we should begin with praise, thanksgiving and worship.We come to him in humble submission and exalt the Lord our God.
Prayer should include others. We need to talk about people to God. Quite simply, intercessory prayer is the act of praying on behalf of others.God wants every believer be active in intercessory prayer. What a wonderful and exalted privilege we have in being able to come boldly before the throne of Almighty God with our prayers and requests for ourselves and others.
Of course, prayer is petition. "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4: 16. In petition, we are not seeking to overcome God's reluctance; not at all, we are laying hold of of His willingness. He bids us pray.
John Newton's beautiful hymn is worth reading and praying aloud often.
Come, my soul, thy suit prepare:
Jesus loves to answer prayer;
He Himself has bid thee pray,
Therefore will not say thee nay.
Thou art coming to a King,
Large petitions with thee bring;
For His grace and power are such,
None can ever ask too much.
With my burden I begin:
Lord, remove this load of sin;
Let Thy blood, for sinners spilt,
Set my conscience free from guilt.
Lord, I come to Thee for rest,
Take possession of my breast;
There Thy blood bought right maintain,
And without a rival reign.
As the image in the glass
Answers the beholder's face;
Thus unto my heart appear,
Print Thine own resemblance there.
While I am a pilgrim here,
Let Thy love my spirit cheer;
As my Guide, my Guard, my Friend
Lead me to my journey's end.
Show me what I have to do,
Every hour my strength renew:
Let me live a life of faith
Let me die Thy people's death.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Judas Iscariot
Judas Iscariot, we know him as traitor. His name is a stigma. At this time of the year, during Lent, his name comes up for mention repeatedly.
Few men have had the privileges that were accorded to him. He sat at the feet of Jesus, walked with Him as He went round teaching, preaching and healing the sick. He certainly knew Jesus first hand. Judas probably had all the appearances of a good disciple. Apparently he was reverent, charitable, well disposed and took care of the common fund.
That Judas was a conspirator was not known to the other disciples. After Jesus had celebrated the passover with His disciples, they were wondering within themselves who was going to betray their Master. Judas was not wondering. He knew what he was going to do. "As soon as Judas had taken the bread, he went out. And it was night." John 13: 30 Sin loves darkness, this was no exception. Judas met the enemies of Christ and agreed to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver - the price of a slave!
When he came to the realization of the wickedness of his action,he tried to free his smitten conscience somewhat by returning the money. "I have betrayed innocent blood." It was too late. The evil deed was done. We know the rest of the story. Our Lord was crucified on the cross.
We criticise and condemn Judas. At this Lenten season, let us examine our own hearts. Are we selling Christ for a few pieces of silver? Are we stifling our convictions for material gain?
The forces of sin that beset Judas beset us as well. Take heed.
Few men have had the privileges that were accorded to him. He sat at the feet of Jesus, walked with Him as He went round teaching, preaching and healing the sick. He certainly knew Jesus first hand. Judas probably had all the appearances of a good disciple. Apparently he was reverent, charitable, well disposed and took care of the common fund.
That Judas was a conspirator was not known to the other disciples. After Jesus had celebrated the passover with His disciples, they were wondering within themselves who was going to betray their Master. Judas was not wondering. He knew what he was going to do. "As soon as Judas had taken the bread, he went out. And it was night." John 13: 30 Sin loves darkness, this was no exception. Judas met the enemies of Christ and agreed to betray Jesus for 30 pieces of silver - the price of a slave!
When he came to the realization of the wickedness of his action,he tried to free his smitten conscience somewhat by returning the money. "I have betrayed innocent blood." It was too late. The evil deed was done. We know the rest of the story. Our Lord was crucified on the cross.
We criticise and condemn Judas. At this Lenten season, let us examine our own hearts. Are we selling Christ for a few pieces of silver? Are we stifling our convictions for material gain?
The forces of sin that beset Judas beset us as well. Take heed.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Othiel the first judge
This morning our Bible study was on Judges 3: 1-11 on Othiel the first judge.
'Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord." This statement is used each time when the cycle of sin begins throughout the Book of Judges which we have been studying.
When they cried to the Lord, The Lord raised up a deliverer. This was after eight years of captivity and slavery to the King of Amram. The people had reached the point of desperation and in answer to their pleas, God moved in. God always does. I always remember the phrase in one of our hymns -"My need and His great fullness meet." God looks at our hearts, He is near to those who cry out in sincerity to Him.
Othniel, filled with the Spirit went out to battle with the enemy and won a great victory. And the land had rest for the next 40 years.
Obviously, Othniel was a courageous always willing to undertake difficult tasks given him. Earlier on he volunteered to to fight the Anakim near Debir. These were the descendants of giants who had caused great fear among the ten spies sent out to spy the land earlier on at Kadesh-barnea as recorded in Numbers 13: 32- 33.
We are engaged in spiritual warfare. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6: 12
Fight the good fight with all thy might;
Christ is thy Strength, and Christ thy Right;
Lay hold on life, and it shall be
Thy joy and crown eternally.
Run the straight race through God’s good grace,
Lift up thine eyes, and seek His face;
Life with its way before us lies,
Christ is the Path, and Christ the Prize.
Cast care aside, upon thy Guide,
Lean, and His mercy will provide;
Lean, and the trusting soul shall prove
Christ is its Life, and Christ its Love.
Faint not nor fear, His arms are near,
He changeth not, and thou art dear.
Only believe, and thou shalt see
That Christ is all in all to thee
John Samuel Bewley Monsell
'Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord." This statement is used each time when the cycle of sin begins throughout the Book of Judges which we have been studying.
When they cried to the Lord, The Lord raised up a deliverer. This was after eight years of captivity and slavery to the King of Amram. The people had reached the point of desperation and in answer to their pleas, God moved in. God always does. I always remember the phrase in one of our hymns -"My need and His great fullness meet." God looks at our hearts, He is near to those who cry out in sincerity to Him.
Othniel, filled with the Spirit went out to battle with the enemy and won a great victory. And the land had rest for the next 40 years.
Obviously, Othniel was a courageous always willing to undertake difficult tasks given him. Earlier on he volunteered to to fight the Anakim near Debir. These were the descendants of giants who had caused great fear among the ten spies sent out to spy the land earlier on at Kadesh-barnea as recorded in Numbers 13: 32- 33.
We are engaged in spiritual warfare. "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms." Ephesians 6: 12
Fight the good fight with all thy might;
Christ is thy Strength, and Christ thy Right;
Lay hold on life, and it shall be
Thy joy and crown eternally.
Run the straight race through God’s good grace,
Lift up thine eyes, and seek His face;
Life with its way before us lies,
Christ is the Path, and Christ the Prize.
Cast care aside, upon thy Guide,
Lean, and His mercy will provide;
Lean, and the trusting soul shall prove
Christ is its Life, and Christ its Love.
Faint not nor fear, His arms are near,
He changeth not, and thou art dear.
Only believe, and thou shalt see
That Christ is all in all to thee
John Samuel Bewley Monsell
Friday, March 16, 2012
Jesus prayed for all believers - John 17: 20-26
Jesus’ prayer for all believers – “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” This remarkable petition was answered by the advent and gift of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. The Spirit came and took up permanent residence in the newly formed church, the body of Christ, corporately (Eph. 2: 22) and individually (1 Cor; 6: 19, Rom 8: 9)
Jesus’ prayer for the spiritual unity of all believers centred in the Spirit’s work of baptizing believers into a living union with Christ and with one another in Him – the Holy Trinity.
Our Lord was praying that the positional unity effected in Christ’s mind might be realized in experiential unity. The purpose of this was to convert what we are before God into what we ought to be before men so that the unsaved might come to know Christ as Saviour.
The best advertisement for the gospel of God’s love for all mankind is the genuine operation among believers, that spirit of unity among believers. They truly manifest their love for God and love for each other.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
Before our Father's throne
We pour our ardent pray'rs;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims, are one,
Our comforts and our cares.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.
When we asunder part,
It gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be joined in heart,
And hope to meet again. - John Fawcett
Jesus’ prayer for the spiritual unity of all believers centred in the Spirit’s work of baptizing believers into a living union with Christ and with one another in Him – the Holy Trinity.
Our Lord was praying that the positional unity effected in Christ’s mind might be realized in experiential unity. The purpose of this was to convert what we are before God into what we ought to be before men so that the unsaved might come to know Christ as Saviour.
The best advertisement for the gospel of God’s love for all mankind is the genuine operation among believers, that spirit of unity among believers. They truly manifest their love for God and love for each other.
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
Before our Father's throne
We pour our ardent pray'rs;
Our fears, our hopes, our aims, are one,
Our comforts and our cares.
We share our mutual woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.
When we asunder part,
It gives us inward pain;
But we shall still be joined in heart,
And hope to meet again. - John Fawcett
Jesus Prayer for His disciples -John 17:6-19
Our Lord now turned from praying for Himself to praying for His disciples whom He thought of as a special group separate from the world (6: 37-40, 15:19) and given Him as a gift by the Father. To this small group He declared he manifested the Father’s name.
This revelation of God’s name was given to make Him known in His essence and being as the only true God. Jesus had already declared earlier that He was the ‘way, the truth and the life – the only way to the Father (John 14: 6) He had said that because of His oneness with the Father in essence (10: 30) whoever had seen Him had seen the Father. The Son had accordingly manifested or revealed the Father in His Person. He had also made Him known to men by His work in glorifying Him on the earth by the unswerving obedience that eventuated in His completing the redemptive mission the Father had given Him.
The Father’s name is an expression indicating God’s whole character and attitude toward fallen humanity. In this gospel God is portrayed as full of grace and wonderful love. Grace came by Jesus Christ and love for sinners was that which shone most splendidly thought Jesus Christ.
“I am praying for them… I am not praying for the world.” His own prayer for His enemies on the cross (Luke 23: 34) as well as His injunction to His disciples for those who despitefully used them (Matt 5: 44) indicates this passage does not refer to His general practice of prayer.
The Lord’s high priestly by its very nature and circumstances of its utterance is applicably only to His disciples. He was about to leave them so solemnly commended them to the Father’s care. In commending the disciples to the Father, Jesus mentioned the reason He had for doing so. They had been the Father’s before they were given to Him. This gift, however, only made them more fully the Father’s and vice versa. Indeed Jesus declared the absolute community of property in all things between Father and Son.
“My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” (15-17) He wanted His disciples to be set apart and make righteous by the Word of God; in one sense this had already happened. In once sense this had already happened, in another sense they were being sanctified.
The mission of Jesus is here clearly stated in His prayer.” As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.”
This revelation of God’s name was given to make Him known in His essence and being as the only true God. Jesus had already declared earlier that He was the ‘way, the truth and the life – the only way to the Father (John 14: 6) He had said that because of His oneness with the Father in essence (10: 30) whoever had seen Him had seen the Father. The Son had accordingly manifested or revealed the Father in His Person. He had also made Him known to men by His work in glorifying Him on the earth by the unswerving obedience that eventuated in His completing the redemptive mission the Father had given Him.
The Father’s name is an expression indicating God’s whole character and attitude toward fallen humanity. In this gospel God is portrayed as full of grace and wonderful love. Grace came by Jesus Christ and love for sinners was that which shone most splendidly thought Jesus Christ.
“I am praying for them… I am not praying for the world.” His own prayer for His enemies on the cross (Luke 23: 34) as well as His injunction to His disciples for those who despitefully used them (Matt 5: 44) indicates this passage does not refer to His general practice of prayer.
The Lord’s high priestly by its very nature and circumstances of its utterance is applicably only to His disciples. He was about to leave them so solemnly commended them to the Father’s care. In commending the disciples to the Father, Jesus mentioned the reason He had for doing so. They had been the Father’s before they were given to Him. This gift, however, only made them more fully the Father’s and vice versa. Indeed Jesus declared the absolute community of property in all things between Father and Son.
“My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it. Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” (15-17) He wanted His disciples to be set apart and make righteous by the Word of God; in one sense this had already happened. In once sense this had already happened, in another sense they were being sanctified.
The mission of Jesus is here clearly stated in His prayer.” As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be sanctified in truth.”
Thursday, March 15, 2012
A morning at Territorial Headquarters
It was a joy to meet with fellow officers and comrades at Territorial Headquarters for the Global Prayer meeting from 7.30- 8.30 a.m.
"Intercessory prayer is the purifying bath into which the individual and the fellowship must enter every day." Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
We believe in the priesthood of all believers and as such we are expected to pray for one another. As priests anointed by God we have the privilege of going before the Almighty God on behalf of others. This is not something optional, but a sacred responsibility and privilege.
We stayed on to participate in the THQ prayer meeting. We had been invited to lead prayers this morning. Thank God for the privilege of sharing.
We also took the opportunity to visit some of our friends and shared prayers with them.
We spent some time with Jessie Kwong at the Archives, identifying pictures of former officers, the majority have gone to be with the Lord.
"Intercessory prayer is the purifying bath into which the individual and the fellowship must enter every day." Dietrich Bonhoeffer.
We believe in the priesthood of all believers and as such we are expected to pray for one another. As priests anointed by God we have the privilege of going before the Almighty God on behalf of others. This is not something optional, but a sacred responsibility and privilege.
We stayed on to participate in the THQ prayer meeting. We had been invited to lead prayers this morning. Thank God for the privilege of sharing.
We also took the opportunity to visit some of our friends and shared prayers with them.
We spent some time with Jessie Kwong at the Archives, identifying pictures of former officers, the majority have gone to be with the Lord.
Jesus prayed for Himself John 17: 1-5
Sweet were the moments the disciples heard the Lord’s high priestly prayer. Jesus in His prayer requested the Father to glorify Him, so that He in turn might glorify the Father, as He reverently lifted up His eyes to Heaven. He knew the hour had come when He was about to be glorified through suffering and death.
The Father’s glorifying the Son thus refers to the dark path of death that must be taken before the glory of the resurrection, ascension and exaltation at the Father’s right hand would be realized.
This thought of glorification of the Father is expanded in John 17: 2-4. It entails His authority over the entire fallen human race to grant eternal life to all whom the Father has given Him.
The Son confessed that He had glorified the Father on earth by perfect obedience to His will. This gave the Son a triumphal testimony. “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.” (17: 4)
Jesus prayed that He might be restored to the divine glory of His pre-incarnate state. (17:5) This was the “form of God” (Phil. 2: 6) in which He existed co-eternally with God as the “Word” which was God.
By the “world” Jesus meant the material universe. Thus the Son was the Creator of all things and hence existed before all things. As the pre-existent One, co-eternal and co-equal with the Father, He was only Creator but also Life Giver – the source of all physical, spiritual and eternal life. (John 1: 4) His glory was the majestic, ineffable splendour of the “the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him. (John 1: 18 American KJV)
The Father’s glorifying the Son thus refers to the dark path of death that must be taken before the glory of the resurrection, ascension and exaltation at the Father’s right hand would be realized.
This thought of glorification of the Father is expanded in John 17: 2-4. It entails His authority over the entire fallen human race to grant eternal life to all whom the Father has given Him.
The Son confessed that He had glorified the Father on earth by perfect obedience to His will. This gave the Son a triumphal testimony. “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.” (17: 4)
Jesus prayed that He might be restored to the divine glory of His pre-incarnate state. (17:5) This was the “form of God” (Phil. 2: 6) in which He existed co-eternally with God as the “Word” which was God.
By the “world” Jesus meant the material universe. Thus the Son was the Creator of all things and hence existed before all things. As the pre-existent One, co-eternal and co-equal with the Father, He was only Creator but also Life Giver – the source of all physical, spiritual and eternal life. (John 1: 4) His glory was the majestic, ineffable splendour of the “the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him. (John 1: 18 American KJV)
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Jesus Prayer for His disciples
John 17 records the prayer of Jesus for His disciples. He had instructed them, lovingly counselled them and consoled them. Now He prayed for them. This wonderful prayer conducts us into the Heavenly Holy of Holies and is often spoken of as our Lord's high priestly prayer.
In this prayer, we come to understand the cryptic words of Jesus to Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22: 31-32.
In the course of His intercession Jesus prayed for Himself (John 17: 1-5) for His disciples (6-19) and for all future disciples (20-26)
I've been reflecting on this beautiful prayer of Jesus during this Lent season.
In this prayer, we come to understand the cryptic words of Jesus to Peter, “Simon, Simon, Satan has asked to sift all of you as wheat. But I have prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail. And when you have turned back, strengthen your brothers.” Luke 22: 31-32.
In the course of His intercession Jesus prayed for Himself (John 17: 1-5) for His disciples (6-19) and for all future disciples (20-26)
I've been reflecting on this beautiful prayer of Jesus during this Lent season.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
This is my story - 67 (Hong Kong/Taiwan)
67 – Evangelical, Social and Educational Ministries
The Salvation Army in the Hong Kong and Taiwan Command (as it was called then) had a lot of social and educational work. In 1997, Taiwan became a separate Region and came directly under International Headquarters. To day, the Command includes Macau, hence it is called the Hong Kong/Macau Command.
In 1983, there were seven primary and one secondary school operating in Hong Kong. Each school had two sessions – one in the morning and one in the afternoon. A number of children and youth also attended our Corps meetings on Sundays or in the evenings for children and youth activities in the same buildings. Most of the principals were Salvationists. On the whole the principals and teachers worked well with our Corps officers (pastors)
The Army also ran seven kindergartens and 37 social centres. In some of these we were able to have Corps.
Lands and buildings were provided by the Government, and we were at liberty to carry out our evangelical activities using the premises on weekends and in the evenings. Of course attendances at our corps were totally voluntary. But these social and educational centres provided the opportunity for our outreach programme.
There were 17 Corps (churches) in Hong Kong and four in Taiwan. On the whole the officers (pastors) worked well with the principals of Schools, or superintendents. Sometimes there were conflicts between the officers and some the superintendents of our social centres. If the local folk were not able to resolve the conflicts, the Divisional Commander’s help was sought. Rarely did the conflicts have to be taken further to involve Command Headquarters’ intervention.
The Army also owned two camps – one in Ma Wan Island not far from where we lived. The other was the Cheong Chau Holiday Camp. In 1983, we received funds from Bradbury Foundation to replace the old with a new building. It was completed in mid 1984. This provided good recreational, educational and evangelical facility for our people. We had Women’s camps, Youth camps, Music camps and retreats.
Almost every Sunday we were out conducting meetings at the various Corps. Not far from where we lived was a small Corps at Kwai Chung. So on our free Sunday; we worshipped at the Kwai Chung Corps. In the same compound was The Army’s Girls’ Home.
In 1984 saw also the building of an extension to the William Booth Secondary School. This provided additional facilities for the School as well as premises for the Corps. The work here was the most successful and William Booth corps became the largest Corps in the Command.
We were able to use the William Booth corps auditorium for our Command Congresses and other special meetings.
We count it a privilege to be given the responsibility of running the Command for seven and half years – January 1983 to June 1990 when we moved to the Philippines.
The Salvation Army in the Hong Kong and Taiwan Command (as it was called then) had a lot of social and educational work. In 1997, Taiwan became a separate Region and came directly under International Headquarters. To day, the Command includes Macau, hence it is called the Hong Kong/Macau Command.
In 1983, there were seven primary and one secondary school operating in Hong Kong. Each school had two sessions – one in the morning and one in the afternoon. A number of children and youth also attended our Corps meetings on Sundays or in the evenings for children and youth activities in the same buildings. Most of the principals were Salvationists. On the whole the principals and teachers worked well with our Corps officers (pastors)
The Army also ran seven kindergartens and 37 social centres. In some of these we were able to have Corps.
Lands and buildings were provided by the Government, and we were at liberty to carry out our evangelical activities using the premises on weekends and in the evenings. Of course attendances at our corps were totally voluntary. But these social and educational centres provided the opportunity for our outreach programme.
There were 17 Corps (churches) in Hong Kong and four in Taiwan. On the whole the officers (pastors) worked well with the principals of Schools, or superintendents. Sometimes there were conflicts between the officers and some the superintendents of our social centres. If the local folk were not able to resolve the conflicts, the Divisional Commander’s help was sought. Rarely did the conflicts have to be taken further to involve Command Headquarters’ intervention.
The Army also owned two camps – one in Ma Wan Island not far from where we lived. The other was the Cheong Chau Holiday Camp. In 1983, we received funds from Bradbury Foundation to replace the old with a new building. It was completed in mid 1984. This provided good recreational, educational and evangelical facility for our people. We had Women’s camps, Youth camps, Music camps and retreats.
Almost every Sunday we were out conducting meetings at the various Corps. Not far from where we lived was a small Corps at Kwai Chung. So on our free Sunday; we worshipped at the Kwai Chung Corps. In the same compound was The Army’s Girls’ Home.
In 1984 saw also the building of an extension to the William Booth Secondary School. This provided additional facilities for the School as well as premises for the Corps. The work here was the most successful and William Booth corps became the largest Corps in the Command.
We were able to use the William Booth corps auditorium for our Command Congresses and other special meetings.
We count it a privilege to be given the responsibility of running the Command for seven and half years – January 1983 to June 1990 when we moved to the Philippines.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Mrs. Colonel Alice Tong-Lau
We were delighted to welcome Mrs. Colonel Alice Lau to our Corps (Church), no more as visitor but as a soldier (Salvation Army terminology for full member) for she has farewelled from Hong Kong and come to live with her son Michael and daughter-in-law Gina in Singapore.
My wife and I have known her since 1983 when when we were appointed to Hong Kong/Taiwan Command. At that time she as her husband Captain James Lau were stationed in Taiwan as the Divisional Commander. Their two sons, Michael and Kenneth were still in School.
Later they were appointed to Hong Kong as the Field Secretary responsible for our evangelical work. A few years later they were transferred to Singapore/Malaysia Command, first as General Secretary, then promoted to Officer Commanding.
Colonel James Lau's final appointment was Officer Commanding of Hong Kong/Taiwan Command. He was promoted to Glory while still in active service. Mrs. Lau retired and lived in Hong Kong till last Saturday 10th March when she moved to Singapore. Mrs. Lau was the President of Women's Ministries.
Mrs. Colonel Lau is a very gracious, friendly and godly lady. She is well loved by folk in Singapore. Kenneth and family live in USA. Michael Lau is our Corps Sergeant Major.
My wife and I have known her since 1983 when when we were appointed to Hong Kong/Taiwan Command. At that time she as her husband Captain James Lau were stationed in Taiwan as the Divisional Commander. Their two sons, Michael and Kenneth were still in School.
Later they were appointed to Hong Kong as the Field Secretary responsible for our evangelical work. A few years later they were transferred to Singapore/Malaysia Command, first as General Secretary, then promoted to Officer Commanding.
Colonel James Lau's final appointment was Officer Commanding of Hong Kong/Taiwan Command. He was promoted to Glory while still in active service. Mrs. Lau retired and lived in Hong Kong till last Saturday 10th March when she moved to Singapore. Mrs. Lau was the President of Women's Ministries.
Mrs. Colonel Lau is a very gracious, friendly and godly lady. She is well loved by folk in Singapore. Kenneth and family live in USA. Michael Lau is our Corps Sergeant Major.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Disobedience and Defeat
After an absence of two successive Sundays preaching at other Corps (Churches), we were back at our home church to conduct Bible studies. We studied Judges Chapter 2 this morning.
The generation under the leadership of Joshua, very successful in defeating the Canaanites and taking the land had now gone. A new generation had arisen and they did not possess the same spiritual quality as their ancestors. They did not know the greatness of God's power. They had broken the covenant, and forsaken their faith. They chose to take the easy route, co-existed with the Canaanites and even joined them in worshipping Baal and Ashtart.
Israel's failure brought danger of pagan influence. If the Israelites lived near the former inhabitants of Canaan they could easily learn their ways. The Canaanites were a people of advanced culture. They had superior technical knowledge which became an attraction to the Israelites, especially in knowledge of farming. Israel had not farmed in the wilderness and this new generation had not even farmed in Egypt. They were born in the desert.
There was the need to learn then and the logical teachers were the former inhabitants. as long as they lived as neighbours.
Sadly they were also influenced in moral and religious practices. And the influence degenerated into worship of other gods or deities. How tragic.
Here is an important lesson for us to learn. We need to pass on our moral and spiritual values to the next generation.
The generation under the leadership of Joshua, very successful in defeating the Canaanites and taking the land had now gone. A new generation had arisen and they did not possess the same spiritual quality as their ancestors. They did not know the greatness of God's power. They had broken the covenant, and forsaken their faith. They chose to take the easy route, co-existed with the Canaanites and even joined them in worshipping Baal and Ashtart.
Israel's failure brought danger of pagan influence. If the Israelites lived near the former inhabitants of Canaan they could easily learn their ways. The Canaanites were a people of advanced culture. They had superior technical knowledge which became an attraction to the Israelites, especially in knowledge of farming. Israel had not farmed in the wilderness and this new generation had not even farmed in Egypt. They were born in the desert.
There was the need to learn then and the logical teachers were the former inhabitants. as long as they lived as neighbours.
Sadly they were also influenced in moral and religious practices. And the influence degenerated into worship of other gods or deities. How tragic.
Here is an important lesson for us to learn. We need to pass on our moral and spiritual values to the next generation.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Major William Davies - Promotion to Glory
We were Corps Officers of Penang Corps (November 1959- May 1962) During this period we worked with Major and Mrs. Roy Page for about a year. He dedicated our first child Gladys in 1960. They farewelled and were appointed to Children's' Home Singapore.
Their successors were Captain and Mrs. William Davies who took over the Home in 1961.
He dedicated our second child, Stephen in 1962. We then farewelled and moved to Kuching, East Malaysia. Three years later, we were reappointed to Penang, this time to succeed Captain and Mrs. Davies at the Boys' Home and Primary School.
They served only one term of four years in the same appointment, so not many folk outside Penang knew them. They returned to UK and were Corps officers till they retired. We met them once at Bromley when we were living at Beckenham.
Major William Davies was promoted to Glory on 6th March 2012.
Their successors were Captain and Mrs. William Davies who took over the Home in 1961.
He dedicated our second child, Stephen in 1962. We then farewelled and moved to Kuching, East Malaysia. Three years later, we were reappointed to Penang, this time to succeed Captain and Mrs. Davies at the Boys' Home and Primary School.
They served only one term of four years in the same appointment, so not many folk outside Penang knew them. They returned to UK and were Corps officers till they retired. We met them once at Bromley when we were living at Beckenham.
Major William Davies was promoted to Glory on 6th March 2012.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Promotion to Glory - Lieut. Colonel Wright
We were saddened to receive news of the passing of Lieut. Colonel Moira Wright. She was a good and close friend of ours.
My wife and I had the privilege of working with her for many years in the Singapore/Malaysia Command. She was always very loyal and supportive of her leaders and subordinates. She really cared for people and would go the extra mile to minister to those in need.
There are many people today who still remember her with affection. Many of her former boys and girls are where they are today because of her ministry of caring. She learned to speak Malay and Hokkien so that she could better communicate with them. And in Hong Kong, despite her heavy schedule, she learned some Cantonese so that she could reach out to the people.
When we were appointed to Hong/Taiwan command, what a thrill it was for us on arrival at the airport to be met by Major Moira Wright the then General Secretary. For four years we worked very well together till she was re-appointed to Singapore to be the Officer Commanding where she served till she returned to her homeland New Zealand.
She had always kept contact with her wide circle of friends, always with a word of encouragement and support for those in need. Even in retirement, thanks to modern technology, we had been in regular contact. She never complained about her illness, but remained cheerful.
We give thanks to God for His servant who expressed her faith with practical service for others.
I recall in one of her recent e-mails to us she mentioned that she was living on borrowed time. She was suffering from cancer, but that did not deter her from carrying on with her ministry of caring for others.
We give thanks to God for Moira Wright - a true servant of Christ.
My wife and I had the privilege of working with her for many years in the Singapore/Malaysia Command. She was always very loyal and supportive of her leaders and subordinates. She really cared for people and would go the extra mile to minister to those in need.
There are many people today who still remember her with affection. Many of her former boys and girls are where they are today because of her ministry of caring. She learned to speak Malay and Hokkien so that she could better communicate with them. And in Hong Kong, despite her heavy schedule, she learned some Cantonese so that she could reach out to the people.
When we were appointed to Hong/Taiwan command, what a thrill it was for us on arrival at the airport to be met by Major Moira Wright the then General Secretary. For four years we worked very well together till she was re-appointed to Singapore to be the Officer Commanding where she served till she returned to her homeland New Zealand.
She had always kept contact with her wide circle of friends, always with a word of encouragement and support for those in need. Even in retirement, thanks to modern technology, we had been in regular contact. She never complained about her illness, but remained cheerful.
We give thanks to God for His servant who expressed her faith with practical service for others.
I recall in one of her recent e-mails to us she mentioned that she was living on borrowed time. She was suffering from cancer, but that did not deter her from carrying on with her ministry of caring for others.
We give thanks to God for Moira Wright - a true servant of Christ.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
In the still air the music lies unheard
I love the poems by Horatius Bonar. This week I've been pondering and reciting this lovely poem which has brought much blessing to me.
IN the still air the music lies unheard;
In the rough marble beauty hides unseen;
To wake the music and the beauty needs
The master’s touch, the sculptor’s chisel keen.
Great Master, touch us with thy skilful hand,
Let not the music that is in us die;
Great Sculptor, hew and polish us; nor let,
Hidden and lost, thy form within us lie.
Spare not the stroke; do with us as thou wilt;
Let there be nought unfinish’d, broken, marr’d;
Complete thy purpose, that we may become
Thy perfect image, O our God and Lord. Horatius Bonar
IN the still air the music lies unheard;
In the rough marble beauty hides unseen;
To wake the music and the beauty needs
The master’s touch, the sculptor’s chisel keen.
Great Master, touch us with thy skilful hand,
Let not the music that is in us die;
Great Sculptor, hew and polish us; nor let,
Hidden and lost, thy form within us lie.
Spare not the stroke; do with us as thou wilt;
Let there be nought unfinish’d, broken, marr’d;
Complete thy purpose, that we may become
Thy perfect image, O our God and Lord. Horatius Bonar
Sunday, March 4, 2012
A Day at Balestier
It was 'balek kampong' (back to home village) for me again and what a day I had and I am still praising the Lord for giving us this day and this wonderful privilege of sharing fellowship and the word with our many friends there.
Transport came for us at 10.15 a.m. and as we drove through Balestier Road memories flooded my mind and I became very nostalgic. I was born in Norfolk Road, grew up in the Balestier area.
We arrived at the church early so were able to spend time chatting with our many friends. The meeting began at 11.00 a.m. We had our opening song, prayer and singing of some contemporary choruses, the children we called to the front. I prayed for the children, then they moved upstairs for Sunday School. Everything was done in an orderly way.
There was a lovely mix of youth, middle aged and elderly in the congregation in the congregation.
After the benediction, some went home, others stayed to have lunch cooked by the comrades. The Corps Council members took us to the Hotel across the road to have buffet lunch. We reached home about 4.30 p.m. It was a long day for us, but we were thoroughly blessed.
It is not a big church nowhere near a mega church but lovely spirit.
Captain Hary Haran the pastor is on leave in Malaysia. He is well supported by the comrades of the church as they reach out to the community in the neighbourhood.
Transport came for us at 10.15 a.m. and as we drove through Balestier Road memories flooded my mind and I became very nostalgic. I was born in Norfolk Road, grew up in the Balestier area.
We arrived at the church early so were able to spend time chatting with our many friends. The meeting began at 11.00 a.m. We had our opening song, prayer and singing of some contemporary choruses, the children we called to the front. I prayed for the children, then they moved upstairs for Sunday School. Everything was done in an orderly way.
There was a lovely mix of youth, middle aged and elderly in the congregation in the congregation.
After the benediction, some went home, others stayed to have lunch cooked by the comrades. The Corps Council members took us to the Hotel across the road to have buffet lunch. We reached home about 4.30 p.m. It was a long day for us, but we were thoroughly blessed.
It is not a big church nowhere near a mega church but lovely spirit.
Captain Hary Haran the pastor is on leave in Malaysia. He is well supported by the comrades of the church as they reach out to the community in the neighbourhood.
World Day of Prayer
My wife and I attended the World Day of Prayer at the Telok Ayer Methodist Church last Saturday. Our Territorial Band was on duty and they played well. Our two grandchildren, David and Rachel were in the band and we felt very proud of them.
The service was conducted in three languages - English, Chinese and Tamil.
The Rev. Lim-Sim Swee Kee from the Baptist Theological College gave an excellent message on the subject "Let Justice Prevail." It was one of the best sermons I've heard for a long time. She was ably interpreted by Dr. Lee Swi Hong also from the same college.
The World Day of Prayer Singapore also celebrated its 60th Anniversary, so it was a time of celebration and thanksgiving to God.
The World Day of Prayer is a world wide movement which started in the United States in 1875 and brings together people of various races, cultures and traditions in more than 170 countries and regions to observe a common day of prayer on the first Friday or Saturday of March each year.
In the 1970's Mrs. Lieut. Colonel Grace Sloan, wife of the Officer Commanding Lient. Colonel James Sloan was a member of the committee and when we were appointed to Singapore Central Corps, she used to take my wife to these meetings. Gradually she passed on the responsibility to my wife who served for many years in the Committee until 1983 when we left the country for Hong Kong. The Sloans were godly people and influenced us greatly. We give thanks to God for such saints. Both of them are now with the Lord in heaven and one day we shall meet them. What a great day it will be.
So it was wonderful for us to meet these World Day of prayer ladies yesterday. We cherish memories of our days working with church people.
It used to be called Women's World Day of Prayer, but nowadays, it is just simply World Day of Prayer and men a included.
The Order of Service this year was planned by Women of Malaysia. Next year women in France will prepare the programme. The Theme given is "I was a stranger and you welcomed Me."
I was glad I went with my wife. I was truly blessed by interacting with members of other denominations and listening to the sermon.
One thing that somewhat marred the service in the beginning was the intrusion of the shofar players who started blowing their shofars while the band was still playing their piece. This cacophony of sounds created a terrible discord that jarred the ears of many! In their enthusiasm and eagerness to play the shofar, they took no notice of the band which was still playing.
I had to pray hard that I do not allow that intrusion to spoil my worship and relationship with the Lord.
The service was conducted in three languages - English, Chinese and Tamil.
The Rev. Lim-Sim Swee Kee from the Baptist Theological College gave an excellent message on the subject "Let Justice Prevail." It was one of the best sermons I've heard for a long time. She was ably interpreted by Dr. Lee Swi Hong also from the same college.
The World Day of Prayer Singapore also celebrated its 60th Anniversary, so it was a time of celebration and thanksgiving to God.
The World Day of Prayer is a world wide movement which started in the United States in 1875 and brings together people of various races, cultures and traditions in more than 170 countries and regions to observe a common day of prayer on the first Friday or Saturday of March each year.
In the 1970's Mrs. Lieut. Colonel Grace Sloan, wife of the Officer Commanding Lient. Colonel James Sloan was a member of the committee and when we were appointed to Singapore Central Corps, she used to take my wife to these meetings. Gradually she passed on the responsibility to my wife who served for many years in the Committee until 1983 when we left the country for Hong Kong. The Sloans were godly people and influenced us greatly. We give thanks to God for such saints. Both of them are now with the Lord in heaven and one day we shall meet them. What a great day it will be.
So it was wonderful for us to meet these World Day of prayer ladies yesterday. We cherish memories of our days working with church people.
It used to be called Women's World Day of Prayer, but nowadays, it is just simply World Day of Prayer and men a included.
The Order of Service this year was planned by Women of Malaysia. Next year women in France will prepare the programme. The Theme given is "I was a stranger and you welcomed Me."
I was glad I went with my wife. I was truly blessed by interacting with members of other denominations and listening to the sermon.
One thing that somewhat marred the service in the beginning was the intrusion of the shofar players who started blowing their shofars while the band was still playing their piece. This cacophony of sounds created a terrible discord that jarred the ears of many! In their enthusiasm and eagerness to play the shofar, they took no notice of the band which was still playing.
I had to pray hard that I do not allow that intrusion to spoil my worship and relationship with the Lord.
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