My wife and I are now living on Level 4 of Peacehaven Nursing Home. We are still in the midst of sorting out our personal belongings.
I had two falls within three weeks. I had the first fall on the first day of the Officers' Retreat at Pulau Springs and had to be rushed by ambulance to Johor Baru Hospital for treatment. Had to have four stitches on my upper lip. I mentioned this incident in an earlier blog.
I had my second fall three weeks later in our own bathroom and had to be rushed to National University Hospital. I had five stitches on my forehead.
Today I have to use a walking stick to help me get around. But we are surrounded by beautiful people - staff, nurses, caregivers and therapists of this Nursing Home. God has been good to us. We have been abundantly blessed.
Monday, December 22, 2014
Monday, December 8, 2014
Moving to Changi
At the moment we are busy packing for the move to Changi on 16th December 2014. Hence I have not been blogging. We shall live on the 4th Floor, above the Peacehaven Nursing Home. We shall be near our daughter, a resident of the Nursing Home. She resides on Level 2 so we will be able to visit her everyday.
We farewell from William Booth Corps (church) on 14th December. We shall be worshipping with our many friends at Changi Corps (church) from the 21st.
We believe this is God's timing for us.
We farewell from William Booth Corps (church) on 14th December. We shall be worshipping with our many friends at Changi Corps (church) from the 21st.
We believe this is God's timing for us.
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Timothy Ooi - Promoted to Glory
Timothy Ooi, 34 year old son of John and Esther Ooi of Balestier Corps was promoted to Glory on 27th November 2014. My wife and I went to the wake on the Thursday 28th November conducted by Major Ruth Pascoe at the void deck below their flat. The funeral was on Friday 29th November
Timothy had been a very faithful soldier and lovely Christian. Despite his handicapped he took an active part in the Corps especially with the sound system. He had been helping Changi Corps too.
We thank God for a life well lived for God's glory. We thank God for his lovely parents, soldiers of Balestier Corps for many years.
Timothy had been a very faithful soldier and lovely Christian. Despite his handicapped he took an active part in the Corps especially with the sound system. He had been helping Changi Corps too.
We thank God for a life well lived for God's glory. We thank God for his lovely parents, soldiers of Balestier Corps for many years.
Officers' Retreat -17-20 November
On my wife's birthday, Monday 17th November, Major Ruth Pascoe, Aux. Captains Raymond and Cathy Aloba and my wife and I travelled together to Johor to attend the Annual Officers' Retreat at Pulau Springs Resort. The speakers were Colonels Andy and Yvonne Westrup, Territorial Leaders of Papua New Guinea. They are New Zealanders on their way from IHQ to PNG.
The theme was "The Significant Life" - messages based on the life of Daniel. We had very good sessions.
We had the Welcome meeting on the first evening after dinner. It was a very interesting meeting. On the way back to the Hotel Room, I slipped and fell and injured myself and had to be taken by ambulance to the Hospital. There I was attended to by the doctors and even had stitches on my upper lip. Four men officers - Lieut. Tan Thean Seng, Major Lee Kong Yee, Major Tan Guat Hai and Lieutenant Andrew Lo followed in the van behind the ambulance and kept me company. We did not finish till about 2.00 a.m Tuesday morning. My wife was advised not to go with me as she has back problems and Major Pascoe and Major Pat Tan accompanied her back to her room and made sure she was all right. We thank God for such supportive friends who truly care for us.
I did not go to bed till 3.00 a.m. Anyway I did not want to miss any meeting, so was up early to join our comrades for the rest of the session even if it meant depending on the support of my wife and friends, plus my walking stick! The grace of God saw me through.
We returned on Thursday and Major drove us straight to see the doctor in Singapore who examined me and gave me medicine. I am recovering, thanks be to God who watches over all of us.
Life goes on as usual and we are busy packing to move to Changi in mid December. God is great, is good and gracious.
The theme was "The Significant Life" - messages based on the life of Daniel. We had very good sessions.
We had the Welcome meeting on the first evening after dinner. It was a very interesting meeting. On the way back to the Hotel Room, I slipped and fell and injured myself and had to be taken by ambulance to the Hospital. There I was attended to by the doctors and even had stitches on my upper lip. Four men officers - Lieut. Tan Thean Seng, Major Lee Kong Yee, Major Tan Guat Hai and Lieutenant Andrew Lo followed in the van behind the ambulance and kept me company. We did not finish till about 2.00 a.m Tuesday morning. My wife was advised not to go with me as she has back problems and Major Pascoe and Major Pat Tan accompanied her back to her room and made sure she was all right. We thank God for such supportive friends who truly care for us.
I did not go to bed till 3.00 a.m. Anyway I did not want to miss any meeting, so was up early to join our comrades for the rest of the session even if it meant depending on the support of my wife and friends, plus my walking stick! The grace of God saw me through.
We returned on Thursday and Major drove us straight to see the doctor in Singapore who examined me and gave me medicine. I am recovering, thanks be to God who watches over all of us.
Life goes on as usual and we are busy packing to move to Changi in mid December. God is great, is good and gracious.
Sunday, November 16, 2014
Pleasant surprise - birthday celebration
Life is full of surprises - sometimes unpleasant, perhaps the Lord allows certain things to happen to test us and help us in our spiritual growth. Most times we receive pleasant surprises for our encouragement. Thank God for surprises whatever kind they are. The Lord knows what is best for us.
Normally we go to our son Stephen's place for lunch with the family. One of the members of the family comes to fetch us usually about 12 noon, but yesterday we were told it would be a little later at 1 pm. At about that time our grandson David and his wife Yurong came for us.
What a lovely surprise greeted us on arrival. Some old friends were already there to greet us, others were on the way. A lunch party had been arranged to celebrate my wife's 78th birthday. The guests were some old friends - former Central Corps junior soldiers, Corps cadets, bandsmen, songsters etc! They are now in their late forties and mid fifties many with grown up children! Three were still single. Lydia one of the guests brought a lovely big birthday cake baked by herself! We knew her years ago when her boy friend used to fetch her on his motor cycle and yesterday, he brought her with her cake on his motor bike! What a lovely couple!
So we had our lunch and celebration. What a pleasant surprise to see these dear friends. They are planning to visit us one day when we move to Changi. We were Corps Officers (pastors) of the Singapore Central Corps from 1970-1974. What wonderful four years spent with these folk, and later when we moved to Headquarters' appointment continued to worship with them till we move to start another Corps at Pasir Panjang. What memories. Lovely to connect with old friends and spend a whole afternoon together in fellowship reminiscing the good old days!
Normally we go to our son Stephen's place for lunch with the family. One of the members of the family comes to fetch us usually about 12 noon, but yesterday we were told it would be a little later at 1 pm. At about that time our grandson David and his wife Yurong came for us.
What a lovely surprise greeted us on arrival. Some old friends were already there to greet us, others were on the way. A lunch party had been arranged to celebrate my wife's 78th birthday. The guests were some old friends - former Central Corps junior soldiers, Corps cadets, bandsmen, songsters etc! They are now in their late forties and mid fifties many with grown up children! Three were still single. Lydia one of the guests brought a lovely big birthday cake baked by herself! We knew her years ago when her boy friend used to fetch her on his motor cycle and yesterday, he brought her with her cake on his motor bike! What a lovely couple!
So we had our lunch and celebration. What a pleasant surprise to see these dear friends. They are planning to visit us one day when we move to Changi. We were Corps Officers (pastors) of the Singapore Central Corps from 1970-1974. What wonderful four years spent with these folk, and later when we moved to Headquarters' appointment continued to worship with them till we move to start another Corps at Pasir Panjang. What memories. Lovely to connect with old friends and spend a whole afternoon together in fellowship reminiscing the good old days!
Saturday, November 8, 2014
Possesions
I've preached, taught, counselled others on the subject of possessions. Good to live simply. Don't be possessed by possessions! All sound advice and scriptural too. We came into the world with nothing, and will leave with nothing.
Job said, "I came naked from my mother's womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD!" Job 1: 21
"We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can't take our riches with us". (Ecclesiastes 5:15 New Living Translation)
We are in the midst of packing to move to Changi - from west to east. We shall occupy one of the units on the top floor of Peacehaven Nursing Home. We have to get rid of a lot of things that we have accumulated. Sadly I must confess some things do possess me and I need to be drastic and walk my talk. You see, the unit there is smaller than the current one we occupy. We are downgrading or downsizing and it will be easier to maintain.
We shall be near our special daughter, Dora Poh Chin, a resident of Peacehaven Nursing Home. We shall visit her everyday!
"In life we need to learn to let go of things. "Anything you cannot relinquish when it has outlived its usefulness possesses you and in this material age, a great many of us are possessed by our possessions." Peace Pilgrim
My simple prayer today is asking the Lord to help me learn not to cling on, but just hold lightly to this world's goods. They are on loan to me for the time being. There is a time to enjoy something, and a time to release and pass on to someone else who can make use of it.
"Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6: 33 (New Living Translation)
Job said, "I came naked from my mother's womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD!" Job 1: 21
"We all come to the end of our lives as naked and empty-handed as on the day we were born. We can't take our riches with us". (Ecclesiastes 5:15 New Living Translation)
We are in the midst of packing to move to Changi - from west to east. We shall occupy one of the units on the top floor of Peacehaven Nursing Home. We have to get rid of a lot of things that we have accumulated. Sadly I must confess some things do possess me and I need to be drastic and walk my talk. You see, the unit there is smaller than the current one we occupy. We are downgrading or downsizing and it will be easier to maintain.
We shall be near our special daughter, Dora Poh Chin, a resident of Peacehaven Nursing Home. We shall visit her everyday!
"In life we need to learn to let go of things. "Anything you cannot relinquish when it has outlived its usefulness possesses you and in this material age, a great many of us are possessed by our possessions." Peace Pilgrim
My simple prayer today is asking the Lord to help me learn not to cling on, but just hold lightly to this world's goods. They are on loan to me for the time being. There is a time to enjoy something, and a time to release and pass on to someone else who can make use of it.
"Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6: 33 (New Living Translation)
|
|
|
|
Monday, November 3, 2014
Mission Sunday - Self Denial Altar Service
Every year we take part in this important day. We set aside funds and give to mission. The International Self Denial Fund supports the missionary work of The Salvation Army around the world, now comprising 126 countries.
For us, this gift we bring to the Altar is apart from our regular tithe to the church. Many years ago we had an American officer, Lieut. Colonel George Engel in charge of The Salvation Army in Singapore and Malaysia. He made it a point after paying his tithe of 10% to the church, set aside another 2 % per month to give to missions. So in a year it is almost a quarter of his salary as his gift to Self Denial. His aim - one week's salary to missions.
We have adopted his system in our giving. God is no man's debtor and He honours and blesses those who bless others.
We are stewards of the time, the gifts and possessions that God has given us. Let us use them wisely and make sure He has the first claim to whatever we possess.
For us, this gift we bring to the Altar is apart from our regular tithe to the church. Many years ago we had an American officer, Lieut. Colonel George Engel in charge of The Salvation Army in Singapore and Malaysia. He made it a point after paying his tithe of 10% to the church, set aside another 2 % per month to give to missions. So in a year it is almost a quarter of his salary as his gift to Self Denial. His aim - one week's salary to missions.
We have adopted his system in our giving. God is no man's debtor and He honours and blesses those who bless others.
We are stewards of the time, the gifts and possessions that God has given us. Let us use them wisely and make sure He has the first claim to whatever we possess.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Wedding anniversary celebration.
The calendar does not lie. The days fly past at a terrific speed. We just cannot find the time to do the things we want to do. And as age catches up with us we slow down we find it takes longer to accomplish anything. Hence nowadays, there is less blogging and will get even less.
Yesterday, Sunday was a long day for us. We began the day with attendance at Prayer meeting, then conducted the Adult Bible class and this was followed by attendance at the Sunday morning worship at church.
Immediately after the benediction, we rushed upstairs, changed and made our way to North Border Restaurant for the Wedding Anniversary lunch. We met many of our old friends who attended the lunch. It was the 54th Wedding Anniversary of our friends - Ronnie Lim and Li Ching who attend our church, cell group and Adult Bible class.
The celebration ended at about 3.30 p.m. and by the time we got home, it was 4.00 p.m, a long day for us.
We thank God for the fellowship among believers.
Yesterday, Sunday was a long day for us. We began the day with attendance at Prayer meeting, then conducted the Adult Bible class and this was followed by attendance at the Sunday morning worship at church.
Immediately after the benediction, we rushed upstairs, changed and made our way to North Border Restaurant for the Wedding Anniversary lunch. We met many of our old friends who attended the lunch. It was the 54th Wedding Anniversary of our friends - Ronnie Lim and Li Ching who attend our church, cell group and Adult Bible class.
The celebration ended at about 3.30 p.m. and by the time we got home, it was 4.00 p.m, a long day for us.
We thank God for the fellowship among believers.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Visited an elderly salvationist
Last Saturday we were invited to the birthday party of an old friend, 96 years old! She is a Salvationist but no Corps Officer has visited her for the last three years. Pastoral visitation is not a priority with our Corps Officers (pastors) any more, it seems to me.
Her children's pastor now visits her once a month to give her communion, read the Bible and pray with her. Thank God for those who care. God bless them.
Our Lord told the parable of the lost sheep. The shepherd leaves the 99 safely in the fold to seek and save the lost sheep.
Peter challenges his fellow elders to "shepherd the flock of God among you" by "exercising oversight" (1 Peter 5:2.) God entrusts them with the authority and responsibility of leading the flock. Pastors are accountable for how they lead, and the flock for how they follow (Heb 13:17)
Besides teaching, the pastor exercises oversight of the flock by the example of his life. Being a pastor requires getting in among the sheep. It is not leadership from above so much as leadership from within. An effective pastor does not herd his sheep from the rear but leads them from the front. They see him and imitate his actions.
Her children's pastor now visits her once a month to give her communion, read the Bible and pray with her. Thank God for those who care. God bless them.
Our Lord told the parable of the lost sheep. The shepherd leaves the 99 safely in the fold to seek and save the lost sheep.
Peter challenges his fellow elders to "shepherd the flock of God among you" by "exercising oversight" (1 Peter 5:2.) God entrusts them with the authority and responsibility of leading the flock. Pastors are accountable for how they lead, and the flock for how they follow (Heb 13:17)
Besides teaching, the pastor exercises oversight of the flock by the example of his life. Being a pastor requires getting in among the sheep. It is not leadership from above so much as leadership from within. An effective pastor does not herd his sheep from the rear but leads them from the front. They see him and imitate his actions.
Friday, October 17, 2014
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Question
Cowardice asks the question "Is it safe?"
Expediency asks the question, "Is it politic?"
Vanity asks the question, "Is it popular?
But conscience asks the question, "Is it right" (By Dr Martin Luther King Jr.)
Expediency asks the question, "Is it politic?"
Vanity asks the question, "Is it popular?
But conscience asks the question, "Is it right" (By Dr Martin Luther King Jr.)
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Farewell of Majors Raelton and Lynn Gibbs
We were invited to join the staff of Territorial Headquarters and representatives from the various centres to bid farewell to the Majors who will be leaving for England on 24th October 2014. They both served for one term of three years in this territory, Raelton as the Programme Secretary and his wife Lynn as the Assistant Programme Secretary and Editor of the War Cry.
As retired officers we have little interaction with them except when we see them in meetings or when we happened to meet at Territorial Headquarters. They have always been friendly and courteous.
We recall during their term of office, they came to our home twice to make pastoral visits. This was much appreciated.
God bless our comrades as they leave us to take up their new appointments in the United Kingdom Territory.
As retired officers we have little interaction with them except when we see them in meetings or when we happened to meet at Territorial Headquarters. They have always been friendly and courteous.
We recall during their term of office, they came to our home twice to make pastoral visits. This was much appreciated.
God bless our comrades as they leave us to take up their new appointments in the United Kingdom Territory.
Sunday, October 12, 2014
The Glory of the Lord
One of the daily devotionals I use regularly is "Words of Life" published by The Salvation Army. From 15th September to 8th October, the writer took us through a series of Ezekiel's visions for our meditation.
The phrase "The Glory of God" is used very often and I wonder what comes to the mind of the reader when he hears of it?
Exodus 33 gives us one of these strange occasions when a question is asked and God refuses to comply to the request. Moses has been walking with God, in fact very closely to Him and verse 18, Moses makes a request, "Now show me Your glory"
Now God gives a response seems rather strange to one whom He has been very pleased with. "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy,and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. But, you cannot see my face, for no one my see me and live." (19-20)
I have been pondering over this passage. What did Moses want to see? Moses wanted to see God's character in all its fullness - God's very being! This is more than anyone can ever know. As human and being finite and morally imperfect we cannot while clothed in human flesh see God as He is. I can only see the evidence of His existence, or to use the phrase 'see God's back' or where He has passed by. We can only know Him by His acts. We cannot fully fathom God as He really is apart from Jesus Christ. "He who has seen me has seen the Father" " John 14: 9
Today we are faced with the same situation. We want to know God better. But how? How can we know anything about the glory of the Lord? Does God manifest Himself to us? Yes, the Bible tells us of the ways and means He manifests Himself. We can understand about His glory.
First we see God's glory when we look at nature and its phenomena around us. My wife and I sleep early and get up early. We love to take morning walks around the compound, hear the sound of insects, the chirping of birds; in other words enjoy nature. Psalm 19: 1 says, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork."
When we go outdoors and look into the sky we see the beauty of God's handiwork that declares the glory of God. Our minds boggle when we think of the trillions of heavenly bodies we cannot see with our eyes. God designed all these to show us His glory.
I look out of the window and see squirrels prancing around, monkeys jumping from tree to tree, birds flying, I see the glory of God.
We lived in England for four years. One winter's morning it was my delight to watch from the comfort of our lounge, snow flakes falling on the grass. It was a beautiful sight. Nature declares the glory of God.
We are surrounded displays of God's workmanship. As we look at God's handiwork in nature and in the heavens we thank and praise Him and give Him the glory. Let us not be so busy that we do not stop and meditate on His glory.
"Almighty God, thank you for surrounding us with such beauty. We stand in awe as we ponder how you place the stars in place, the heavenly bodies move with such precision in accordance with Your Divine planning. We give You praise and glory."
The phrase "The Glory of God" is used very often and I wonder what comes to the mind of the reader when he hears of it?
Exodus 33 gives us one of these strange occasions when a question is asked and God refuses to comply to the request. Moses has been walking with God, in fact very closely to Him and verse 18, Moses makes a request, "Now show me Your glory"
Now God gives a response seems rather strange to one whom He has been very pleased with. "I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you, and I will proclaim my name, the LORD, in your presence. I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy,and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion. But, you cannot see my face, for no one my see me and live." (19-20)
I have been pondering over this passage. What did Moses want to see? Moses wanted to see God's character in all its fullness - God's very being! This is more than anyone can ever know. As human and being finite and morally imperfect we cannot while clothed in human flesh see God as He is. I can only see the evidence of His existence, or to use the phrase 'see God's back' or where He has passed by. We can only know Him by His acts. We cannot fully fathom God as He really is apart from Jesus Christ. "He who has seen me has seen the Father" " John 14: 9
Today we are faced with the same situation. We want to know God better. But how? How can we know anything about the glory of the Lord? Does God manifest Himself to us? Yes, the Bible tells us of the ways and means He manifests Himself. We can understand about His glory.
First we see God's glory when we look at nature and its phenomena around us. My wife and I sleep early and get up early. We love to take morning walks around the compound, hear the sound of insects, the chirping of birds; in other words enjoy nature. Psalm 19: 1 says, "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork."
When we go outdoors and look into the sky we see the beauty of God's handiwork that declares the glory of God. Our minds boggle when we think of the trillions of heavenly bodies we cannot see with our eyes. God designed all these to show us His glory.
I look out of the window and see squirrels prancing around, monkeys jumping from tree to tree, birds flying, I see the glory of God.
We lived in England for four years. One winter's morning it was my delight to watch from the comfort of our lounge, snow flakes falling on the grass. It was a beautiful sight. Nature declares the glory of God.
We are surrounded displays of God's workmanship. As we look at God's handiwork in nature and in the heavens we thank and praise Him and give Him the glory. Let us not be so busy that we do not stop and meditate on His glory.
"Almighty God, thank you for surrounding us with such beauty. We stand in awe as we ponder how you place the stars in place, the heavenly bodies move with such precision in accordance with Your Divine planning. We give You praise and glory."
Monday, October 6, 2014
Servants together. Spiritual Leadership Conference 2014
This conference is being held during the weekend 4th to 6th October 2014. Eighty Delegates came from all over the territory to participate in this conference organised by Major Ruth Pascoe. Today is the last day and many delegates will be leaving after lunch at 12.30 p.m.
The delegates from Myanmar and Sabah will be staying on a little longer and leave during the week.
On Sunday we were invited to join them for Prayer Breakfast and I was asked to pray the Prayer of blessing just before the benediction.
The emphasis is on being "Servants Together." Yes we need to emphasise the importance of emulating the example of our Lord who left the precincts of Glory to come down to us to take on human flesh and blood and eventually died the cross for our sakes. May the Lord grant us this attitude of Christ.
Make me a servant like you, Dear Lord,
Living for others each day
Humble and meek,
Helping the weak,
Loving in all that I say.
Give me Lord, a servant's heart
Here's my life, take ev'ry part.
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart.
Help me draw so close to You
That Your love comes shining through
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart,
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart.
Make me a witness like You, Dear Lord,
Showing the love of the cross,
Sharing Your Word till all have heard,
Serving whatever the cost.
Give me Lord, a servant's heart
Here's my life, take ev'ry part.
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart.
Help me draw so close to You
That Your love comes shining through
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart,
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart. (Ron Hamilton)
The delegates from Myanmar and Sabah will be staying on a little longer and leave during the week.
On Sunday we were invited to join them for Prayer Breakfast and I was asked to pray the Prayer of blessing just before the benediction.
The emphasis is on being "Servants Together." Yes we need to emphasise the importance of emulating the example of our Lord who left the precincts of Glory to come down to us to take on human flesh and blood and eventually died the cross for our sakes. May the Lord grant us this attitude of Christ.
Make me a servant like you, Dear Lord,
Living for others each day
Humble and meek,
Helping the weak,
Loving in all that I say.
Give me Lord, a servant's heart
Here's my life, take ev'ry part.
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart.
Help me draw so close to You
That Your love comes shining through
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart,
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart.
Make me a witness like You, Dear Lord,
Showing the love of the cross,
Sharing Your Word till all have heard,
Serving whatever the cost.
Give me Lord, a servant's heart
Here's my life, take ev'ry part.
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart.
Help me draw so close to You
That Your love comes shining through
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart,
Give me, Lord, a servant's heart. (Ron Hamilton)
Sunday, October 5, 2014
Wedding of Cheryl Heng and Mark Foo - 4th October 2014
We attended the wedding of Mark Foo and Cheryl Heng, We have known Cheryl for the last seventeen years. When we took over the Central Corps (church) as Acting pastor for three months in 1997 it was a privilege to have the Heng family worshipping with us.
The wedding was held at the Bethesda Church at Bedok. Mark is the son of the senior pastor of this church. God bless the Cheryl and Mark.
.
The wedding was held at the Bethesda Church at Bedok. Mark is the son of the senior pastor of this church. God bless the Cheryl and Mark.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Marilou Ventura - farewell - Sunday 28th September 2014
We first came to know Marilou Ventura when we were stationed in the Philippines. She was a bandswoman, songster, timbrellist, a very active Salvationist.
Eighteen years ago she came to work at the Home for the Aged in Singapore and attended the meetings at the Pasir Panjang Corps (church) which shared the same premises with Home. We were asked to hold on as pastors for the church in 1998 for ten months. So we worked closely with Marilou. She gave excellent support.
The Home later moved to Changi and a few years later was changed to the Peacehaven Nursing Home. Marilou of course had to move to Changi, but she continued her membership with church.
Pasir Panjang Corps later moved to Upper Bukit Timah and became the William Booth Corps. Marilou continued worshiping with us at William Booth Corps.
Last Sunday was her farewell. As usual she took part in the band, and worship team and after the message by our pastor Major Ruth Pascoe, it was my privilege to offer the special prayer for Marilou.
She is leaving today for the Philippines. She will be living at Tondo and look after he aged mother and support the family. She will be back in the Tondo band and Songsters and take an active part once again at the home church.
God bless Marilou. She has relinquished her responsibilities in Singapore but that is not the end of the road for her. It was just a bend and the journey resumes that will take her to new responsibilities or ministries bringing glory to God.
The closing song was No 821 which says,
"We're an Army fighting for a glorious King;
We will make the world with hallelujahs ring;
With victorious voices we will ever sing:
There's salvation for the world.
Chorus:
For the world, for the world, Jesus died, Jesus died,
For the world, for the world, there is room in Jesus' side.
All the world to save, to battle we will go,
And we ever will our colours boldly show
With a trumpet voice we'll let the millions know
There's salvation for the world.
This song was written by William J Pearson (1832-92) an early day salvationist. Converted at the age of 14 he later became a local preacher. He moved from Derby to London in 1874 and joined The Christian Mission (which later became The Salvation Army) He travelled a lot preaching the gospel and was well known for his ministry of faith healing. For a number of years he wrote on song per week and contributed to the Army's publication "The War Cry" and occasionally "The Musical Salvationist" In our present Song Book there are 21 songs written by him, e.g
"Come join our Army to battle we go" 681
Joy, joy joy there is joy in The Salvation Army"807
"O Thou God for every nation" 622
"I'm set apart for Jesus" 495
Eighteen years ago she came to work at the Home for the Aged in Singapore and attended the meetings at the Pasir Panjang Corps (church) which shared the same premises with Home. We were asked to hold on as pastors for the church in 1998 for ten months. So we worked closely with Marilou. She gave excellent support.
The Home later moved to Changi and a few years later was changed to the Peacehaven Nursing Home. Marilou of course had to move to Changi, but she continued her membership with church.
Pasir Panjang Corps later moved to Upper Bukit Timah and became the William Booth Corps. Marilou continued worshiping with us at William Booth Corps.
Last Sunday was her farewell. As usual she took part in the band, and worship team and after the message by our pastor Major Ruth Pascoe, it was my privilege to offer the special prayer for Marilou.
She is leaving today for the Philippines. She will be living at Tondo and look after he aged mother and support the family. She will be back in the Tondo band and Songsters and take an active part once again at the home church.
God bless Marilou. She has relinquished her responsibilities in Singapore but that is not the end of the road for her. It was just a bend and the journey resumes that will take her to new responsibilities or ministries bringing glory to God.
The closing song was No 821 which says,
"We're an Army fighting for a glorious King;
We will make the world with hallelujahs ring;
With victorious voices we will ever sing:
There's salvation for the world.
Chorus:
For the world, for the world, Jesus died, Jesus died,
For the world, for the world, there is room in Jesus' side.
All the world to save, to battle we will go,
And we ever will our colours boldly show
With a trumpet voice we'll let the millions know
There's salvation for the world.
This song was written by William J Pearson (1832-92) an early day salvationist. Converted at the age of 14 he later became a local preacher. He moved from Derby to London in 1874 and joined The Christian Mission (which later became The Salvation Army) He travelled a lot preaching the gospel and was well known for his ministry of faith healing. For a number of years he wrote on song per week and contributed to the Army's publication "The War Cry" and occasionally "The Musical Salvationist" In our present Song Book there are 21 songs written by him, e.g
"Come join our Army to battle we go" 681
Joy, joy joy there is joy in The Salvation Army"807
"O Thou God for every nation" 622
"I'm set apart for Jesus" 495
Saturday, September 27, 2014
Thoughts on a Saturday evening.
We may desire to bring to God a perfect work. We would like to point, when our work is done, to the beautiful ripened grain and bound up sheaves, and yet the Lord frustrates our plans, shatters our purposes, lets us see the wreck of all our hopes, breaks the beautiful structure we thought we were building and captures us up in his arms and whispers to us, 'It's not your work I wanted, but you.'
From an unknown source quoted by General Shaw Clifton (R) in his book, "Something Better"
From an unknown source quoted by General Shaw Clifton (R) in his book, "Something Better"
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Monday, September 22, 2014
Sunday at Changi Corps
Despite my pain in the knee, I got up the same time and together with my wife went for our early morning walk. But I had to be careful; I took my walking stick with me and confined myself to a certain area and avoided the steps. Early rise gives us time to have a leisurely breakfast and devotions. Quiet time with the Lord is important and just to be still and ponder over His love gives a good start for the day. The older I get the more I need this time of stillness.
AT 9.00 a.m. Jacob Tan and his wife Patricia with their two lovely children, Joseph and Justus were here to meet and take us to Changi Corps. We have known Jacob for many years. He started as a policeman patrolling the Choa Chu Kang area, but now holds a fairly high post at Police Headquarters. Jacob was the worship leader on Sunday 21st September.
Good to see quite a number of Salvationists in uniform too. We were very impressed with two uniformed Filipino salvationists Anne and Lady. Both are working in Singapore (not at Peacehaven) Sunday is their day off and they spend the time at the Salvation Army. They were busy welcoming visitors. It shows they are well integrated with our local folk. Some people like to keep their own group, but not these two who were so helpful looking after others especially the elderly. I was greatly encouraged and inspired by these two sisters.
After the usual formalities my wife took leadership of the meeting and I gave the message based on 1 Corinthians 13 "The Excellence of Love."
Thank God for the privilege of ministry even in retirement. We will continue as long as we have the strength to do so. God is great, is good and gracious.
Two lovely Christians - John and Ruth Samuel volunteered to fetch us home. In fact they wanted to give us lunch, but we had to decline as we already had something to eat earlier on immediately after the meeting. What a joy to share fellowship with these two friends in the car. We were truly blessed.
AT 9.00 a.m. Jacob Tan and his wife Patricia with their two lovely children, Joseph and Justus were here to meet and take us to Changi Corps. We have known Jacob for many years. He started as a policeman patrolling the Choa Chu Kang area, but now holds a fairly high post at Police Headquarters. Jacob was the worship leader on Sunday 21st September.
Good to see quite a number of Salvationists in uniform too. We were very impressed with two uniformed Filipino salvationists Anne and Lady. Both are working in Singapore (not at Peacehaven) Sunday is their day off and they spend the time at the Salvation Army. They were busy welcoming visitors. It shows they are well integrated with our local folk. Some people like to keep their own group, but not these two who were so helpful looking after others especially the elderly. I was greatly encouraged and inspired by these two sisters.
After the usual formalities my wife took leadership of the meeting and I gave the message based on 1 Corinthians 13 "The Excellence of Love."
Thank God for the privilege of ministry even in retirement. We will continue as long as we have the strength to do so. God is great, is good and gracious.
Two lovely Christians - John and Ruth Samuel volunteered to fetch us home. In fact they wanted to give us lunch, but we had to decline as we already had something to eat earlier on immediately after the meeting. What a joy to share fellowship with these two friends in the car. We were truly blessed.
Once to every man and nation
1 Once to ev'ry man and nation
Comes the moment to decide,
In the strife of truth and falsehood,
For the good or evil side;
Some great cause, some great decision,
Off'ring each the bloom or blight,
And the choice goes by forever
'Twixt that darkness and that light.
Comes the moment to decide,
In the strife of truth and falsehood,
For the good or evil side;
Some great cause, some great decision,
Off'ring each the bloom or blight,
And the choice goes by forever
'Twixt that darkness and that light.
2 Then to side with truth is noble,
When we share her wretched crust,
Ere her cause bring fame and profit,
And 'tis prosperous to be just;
Then it is the brave man chooses
While the coward stands aside.
Till the multitude make virtue
Of the faith they had denied.
When we share her wretched crust,
Ere her cause bring fame and profit,
And 'tis prosperous to be just;
Then it is the brave man chooses
While the coward stands aside.
Till the multitude make virtue
Of the faith they had denied.
3 By the light of burning martyrs,
Christ, Thy bleeding feet we track,
Toiling up new Calv'ries ever
With the cross that turns not back;
New occasions teach new duties,
Ancient values test our youth;
They must upward still and onward,
Who would keep abreast of truth.
Christ, Thy bleeding feet we track,
Toiling up new Calv'ries ever
With the cross that turns not back;
New occasions teach new duties,
Ancient values test our youth;
They must upward still and onward,
Who would keep abreast of truth.
4 Tho' the cause of evil prosper,
Yet the truth alone is strong;
Tho' her portion be the scaffold,
And upon the throne be wrong;
Yet that scaffold sways the future,
And, behind the dim unknown,
Standeth God within the shadow,
Keeping watch above His own. -James Russell Lowell
Yet the truth alone is strong;
Tho' her portion be the scaffold,
And upon the throne be wrong;
Yet that scaffold sways the future,
And, behind the dim unknown,
Standeth God within the shadow,
Keeping watch above His own. -James Russell Lowell
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Household duties
Although my knee hurts, life has to go on. My wife and I share responsibilities. I always make it a point to clean the house and do the laundry on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. It took me longer time to do the house chores.
She sees to the meals. Yes, all through our married life, we have shared household duties.
"As your days so shall your strength be." Deuteronomy 33: 25
She sees to the meals. Yes, all through our married life, we have shared household duties.
"As your days so shall your strength be." Deuteronomy 33: 25
Sunday, September 14, 2014
The Lord heals
God is still working miracles. I had excruciating pain on my left leg because of my arthritis and could hardly walk. Had to use a walking stick to move around. By Saturday it was terrible and I was wondering how I could preach the sermon at our Church. But I had faith in our Almighty God and prayed for healing.
Our grandson Daryl and his wife Christine, and Emmanuel came to visit us. That evening Daryl and Christine took me to the Central 24- hour clinic at Clementi to see the doctor. This clinic has the CHAS sign and there was a big sign board announcing their participation in the Pioneer Generation Progamme.
Well, it did not take long when I was ushered into see the doctor who after examination and advice, prescribed medication. We returned home and had a good rest.
I have faith in God and our medical doctors. This morning I was able to go up to the pulpit to preach the word. No walking stick was needed. Faith in God and our doctors plus prayer support from friends and loved ones bring miracles. God is a God of healing.
Psalm 103:1-3 103:1 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, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases
At even, ere the sun was set,
the sick, O Lord around thee lay;
O in what divers pains they met!
O with what joy they went away!
Once more 'tis eventide, and we
oppressed with various ills draw near;
what if thy form we cannot see?
we know and feel that thou art here.
Thy touch has still its ancient power;
no word from thee can fruitless fall:
hear, in this solemn evening hour,
and in thy mercy heal us all. (Henry Twells)
Our grandson Daryl and his wife Christine, and Emmanuel came to visit us. That evening Daryl and Christine took me to the Central 24- hour clinic at Clementi to see the doctor. This clinic has the CHAS sign and there was a big sign board announcing their participation in the Pioneer Generation Progamme.
Well, it did not take long when I was ushered into see the doctor who after examination and advice, prescribed medication. We returned home and had a good rest.
I have faith in God and our medical doctors. This morning I was able to go up to the pulpit to preach the word. No walking stick was needed. Faith in God and our doctors plus prayer support from friends and loved ones bring miracles. God is a God of healing.
Psalm 103:1-3 103:1 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, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases
At even, ere the sun was set,
the sick, O Lord around thee lay;
O in what divers pains they met!
O with what joy they went away!
Once more 'tis eventide, and we
oppressed with various ills draw near;
what if thy form we cannot see?
we know and feel that thou art here.
Thy touch has still its ancient power;
no word from thee can fruitless fall:
hear, in this solemn evening hour,
and in thy mercy heal us all. (Henry Twells)
Tuesday, September 9, 2014
What is love?
What is love?
It is silence - when your words would hurt.
It is patience - when your neighbour's curt.
It is deafness - when a scandal flows.
It is thoughtfulness - for other's woes.
It is promptness - when stern duty calls.
It is courage - when misfortune falls
It is silence - when your words would hurt.
It is patience - when your neighbour's curt.
It is deafness - when a scandal flows.
It is thoughtfulness - for other's woes.
It is promptness - when stern duty calls.
It is courage - when misfortune falls
Saturday, September 6, 2014
The Tallest Moon Cake Festival Lantern
The tallest Moon Cake Festival Lantern in Singapore, a new record at 5 metres (more than 16 ft.) tall built by residents with dementia, ITE students and other volunteers. This two storey lantern was made with 10,240 drinking straws, plus lights.
It was put on Singapore Records.
We were privileged to be present for this special occasion part of The Salvation Army Peacehaven Nursing Home celebration of Moon Cake Lantern Festival.
Monday, September 1, 2014
When we are old, whom do we depend
All being well, before the year ends, we shall be moving to a smaller unit at Changi. We shall be near our youngest daughter, Dora Poh Chin a resident at Peacehaven Nursing Home, Changi.
There is a time for everything! Time to stay, time to move on.
Someone sent us the following and I thought I would share with the readers of this blog.
Ourselves, ourselves, only ourselves, ... & God(The truth, as disclosed by a group of old folks). "Have your own abode. No matter what, do not lose it, until your death! If you have an old companion Keep each other good company. Watch your health while it is still good
Maintain a positive outlook and you will be happy.
Now, our health is still good Our mind still clear. But on whom can we depend in our old age ? We will have to analyse in various stages.
1st Stage : (Just after retirement, between 60 to 70 yrs old) Our health will still be comparatively good So too our financial means. Eat moderately while we have the means
At times. wear what we fancy Those who like it, have some fun. Do not be hard on yourself Our days are numbered So, grasp the opportunity. Have some savings !Keep the house !Make arrangements for the days ahead or retreat. If the kids are well off, It is their business ...If the kids are filial They have good traits .... We need neither decline financial help from our kids Nor decline their respect. But we should remain independent &
Live our own life well.
2nd Stage : If no mishap and illness strike after we are 70, We will still be able to take care of ourselves. Not a major problem. However, we must realise we are really getting old Gradually, .. our body and mind will give way. Our reflex will slow down with time ...We will have to eat slowly, to avoid choking. We will have to walk slowly, to avoid falls. We can no longer put on a front, we have to look after ourselves! Do not meddle anymore with this and that, or control the kids! Some even interfere with the third generation !!!We have intervened our entire life, It is time for us to be a little selfish .....
Take hold of ourselves. Life must come full circle. Help with the cleaning chores ....Try to maintain our health for as long as possible. Give ourselves more opportunities to take control of our own life.....We lead an easier life when we do not have to solicit help from others .....
3rd Stage:- Our health begins to fail .... We have to request help from others ....We have to be mentally prepared for it. The majority of us cannot escape this hurdle. We have to prepare ourselves, emotionally, to accept that :-In life, living and aging, sickness and death are milestones we have to encounter. This is the final stage in life .....Nothing to fear !Be prepared for it in advance and we will not be too depressed.
Either check into a private nursing home ...Or an old folks home ....
Depending on affordability, of course.
There must be a way out ....The idea is not to add to the kids' burden, emotionally, increase their chores & their financial commitments.
Try our best to overcome -
What hardship has our generation not endured ? What disasters have we not experienced ?
Trust us to take life's last lap in our stride.
4th Stage:- Our mind is still clear, but We are terminally ill,
When our quality of life has deteriorated drastically ..We must be courageous enough to face death! Insist that the family not try to prolong our life ....Do not incur unnecessary expenditure .....
WHEN WE ARE OLD, WHOM DO WE DEPEND ON : -
Ourselves, Ourselves, only Ourselves... & God.
Maintain a positive outlook and you will be happy.
Now, our health is still good Our mind still clear. But on whom can we depend in our old age ? We will have to analyse in various stages.
1st Stage : (Just after retirement, between 60 to 70 yrs old) Our health will still be comparatively good So too our financial means. Eat moderately while we have the means
At times. wear what we fancy Those who like it, have some fun. Do not be hard on yourself Our days are numbered So, grasp the opportunity. Have some savings !Keep the house !Make arrangements for the days ahead or retreat. If the kids are well off, It is their business ...If the kids are filial They have good traits .... We need neither decline financial help from our kids Nor decline their respect. But we should remain independent &
Live our own life well.
2nd Stage : If no mishap and illness strike after we are 70, We will still be able to take care of ourselves. Not a major problem. However, we must realise we are really getting old Gradually, .. our body and mind will give way. Our reflex will slow down with time ...We will have to eat slowly, to avoid choking. We will have to walk slowly, to avoid falls. We can no longer put on a front, we have to look after ourselves! Do not meddle anymore with this and that, or control the kids! Some even interfere with the third generation !!!We have intervened our entire life, It is time for us to be a little selfish .....
Take hold of ourselves. Life must come full circle. Help with the cleaning chores ....Try to maintain our health for as long as possible. Give ourselves more opportunities to take control of our own life.....We lead an easier life when we do not have to solicit help from others .....
3rd Stage:- Our health begins to fail .... We have to request help from others ....We have to be mentally prepared for it. The majority of us cannot escape this hurdle. We have to prepare ourselves, emotionally, to accept that :-In life, living and aging, sickness and death are milestones we have to encounter. This is the final stage in life .....Nothing to fear !Be prepared for it in advance and we will not be too depressed.
Either check into a private nursing home ...Or an old folks home ....
Depending on affordability, of course.
There must be a way out ....The idea is not to add to the kids' burden, emotionally, increase their chores & their financial commitments.
Try our best to overcome -
What hardship has our generation not endured ? What disasters have we not experienced ?
Trust us to take life's last lap in our stride.
4th Stage:- Our mind is still clear, but We are terminally ill,
When our quality of life has deteriorated drastically ..We must be courageous enough to face death! Insist that the family not try to prolong our life ....Do not incur unnecessary expenditure .....
WHEN WE ARE OLD, WHOM DO WE DEPEND ON : -
Ourselves, Ourselves, only Ourselves... & God.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Our small group meeting
We've been studying the Book of Job in our small group that meets every Friday morning; the drama reflects our own deep struggle trying to comprehend the ways of God. He moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform.
Job suffered one calamity after another. He lost his sons, lost his possessions, lost his health, lost the support of his wife. His three friends came to comfort him; they noticed this pathetic figure, his horrible plight, his calamities and to give them credit, they sat with him for seven days and seven nights without saying word.
Sadly when the friends began to speak, their words brought no comfort. They only added to his grief. They gave him 'advice' in rounds of discussion, blaming poor Job that he was suffering for his own personal sins. They did not see the reason God permitted the sufferings to come to Job.
For weeks we have been going through the discourses. What valuable lessons we learned from them in this book. Job's friends talked about God, but Job talked to talk. He could be frank with God.
One thing is clear, God never allows us to suffer more than we can bear through His help. I am reminded of Ballington Booth's lovely song which has brought much encouragement and comfort to my own heart.
Job suffered one calamity after another. He lost his sons, lost his possessions, lost his health, lost the support of his wife. His three friends came to comfort him; they noticed this pathetic figure, his horrible plight, his calamities and to give them credit, they sat with him for seven days and seven nights without saying word.
Sadly when the friends began to speak, their words brought no comfort. They only added to his grief. They gave him 'advice' in rounds of discussion, blaming poor Job that he was suffering for his own personal sins. They did not see the reason God permitted the sufferings to come to Job.
For weeks we have been going through the discourses. What valuable lessons we learned from them in this book. Job's friends talked about God, but Job talked to talk. He could be frank with God.
One thing is clear, God never allows us to suffer more than we can bear through His help. I am reminded of Ballington Booth's lovely song which has brought much encouragement and comfort to my own heart.
- The cross that He gave may be heavy,
But it ne’er outweighs His grace;
The storm that I feared may surround me,
But it ne’er excludes His face.- Refrain:
The cross is not greater than His grace,
The storm cannot hide His blessed face;
I am satisfied to know
That with Jesus here below,
I can conquer every foe.
- Refrain:
- The thorns in my path are not sharper
Than composed His crown for me;
The cup that I drink not more bitter
Than He drank in Gethsemane. - The light of His love shineth brighter,
As it falls on paths of woe;
The toil of my work groweth lighter,
As I stoop to raise the low. - His will have I joy in fulfilling,
As I’m walking in His sight;
My all to the blood I am bringing,
It alone can keep me right.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Alex and Ruth Craig visit to Singapore
On Wednesday, we had fellowship lunch with three old friends. The lunch was hosted by Mrs. Lim Soo Noi at Tung Lok Vivo City. Soo Noi and her husband were salvationists of Central Corps - he was the Corps Secretary and she the Corps pianist. Soo Noi now worships at Wesley Methodist church. Tee Houw was promoted to Glory three years ago. Soo Noi was my wife's Sunday School teacher. She was a school teacher by profession and her last posting was to Raffles Girls' Primary School as the principal.
Visiting Singapore were two Australian Salvationists - Alex and Ruth Craig from Canberra. The last time we saw them was 41 years ago! They worshipped at Central Corps in the 60's and 70's. He played in the band and both sang in the Songster Brigade. We came to know them well when were appointed as Corps Officers from 1970 to 1974. They left Singapore in 1973 and went to work in Vietnam.
What a lot to share with each other after all these years. Good to journey down memory lane. Thank God for friends.
"Life brings tears, smiles and memories. The tears dry, the smiles fade and the memories last forever."
Precious memories, unseen angels,
Sent from somewhere to my soul;
How they linger, ever near me,
And the sacred past unfold.
As I travel on life's pathway,
Know now what the years may hold;
As I ponder, hope grows fonder,
Precious memories flood my soul.
Precious memories, how they linger
How they ever flood my soul.
In the stillness of the midnight,
Precious sacred scenes unfold. " J B F Wright
Visiting Singapore were two Australian Salvationists - Alex and Ruth Craig from Canberra. The last time we saw them was 41 years ago! They worshipped at Central Corps in the 60's and 70's. He played in the band and both sang in the Songster Brigade. We came to know them well when were appointed as Corps Officers from 1970 to 1974. They left Singapore in 1973 and went to work in Vietnam.
What a lot to share with each other after all these years. Good to journey down memory lane. Thank God for friends.
"Life brings tears, smiles and memories. The tears dry, the smiles fade and the memories last forever."
Precious memories, unseen angels,
Sent from somewhere to my soul;
How they linger, ever near me,
And the sacred past unfold.
As I travel on life's pathway,
Know now what the years may hold;
As I ponder, hope grows fonder,
Precious memories flood my soul.
Precious memories, how they linger
How they ever flood my soul.
In the stillness of the midnight,
Precious sacred scenes unfold. " J B F Wright
Wednesday, August 20, 2014
The Wounded earth in Paradise Lost
How can a powerful and loving God allow all the disasters that are happening in this world today?Just saw the news of the landslide in Japan killing at least 36 people. The search may uncover more victims. Think of what is happening in Africa - senseless slaughter of innocent people. Such pain and suffering; we cannot answer the question.
We live in a fallen world, tainted with sin, afflicted with sorrow. John Milton in Paradise Lost mentioned that when the forbidden fruit was taken in Eden "earth felt the wound." Curse entered the world. The effects of sin are still felt today - suffering, death, disasters plague mankind and will continue to do so till the Lord returns in all His glory.
God has not promised us immunity from suffering. It is the common heritage of mankind. We suffer not in despair, but in hope. God will wipe all tears from the eyes.
Last Sunday, we sang again my favourite song,
I'm in His hands, I'm in His hands,
Whate'er the future holds, I'm in His hands.
The days I cannot see, have all been planned for me.
His way is best, you see, I'm in His hands.
We live in a fallen world, tainted with sin, afflicted with sorrow. John Milton in Paradise Lost mentioned that when the forbidden fruit was taken in Eden "earth felt the wound." Curse entered the world. The effects of sin are still felt today - suffering, death, disasters plague mankind and will continue to do so till the Lord returns in all His glory.
God has not promised us immunity from suffering. It is the common heritage of mankind. We suffer not in despair, but in hope. God will wipe all tears from the eyes.
Last Sunday, we sang again my favourite song,
I'm in His hands, I'm in His hands,
Whate'er the future holds, I'm in His hands.
The days I cannot see, have all been planned for me.
His way is best, you see, I'm in His hands.
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Trust in the Lord
We began the day with Prayer meeting. We specially prayed for the Christians in Iraq, Syria and Nigeria. People are suffering from persecution and dying for their faith at the hands of terrorists. Our hearts bleed when we think of the suffering of these people. We cry like Habakkuk did.
"How long, O Lord, must I call for help, but You do not listen? Violence is everywhere! I cry but You do not come to save. Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look I see destruction and violence."
The message this morning was on Psalm 37. Very appropriate indeed as we cry out to God. We are assured we need not worry about the fate of the wicked because their destruction is inevitable. We are asked to do four things:
* Trust in the Lord verses 3 and 5
* Delight in the Lord verse 4
* Commit your way to the Lord. verses 5 & 6
* Be still in God's presence and wait patiently for Him to act. verse 7.
"How long, O Lord, must I call for help, but You do not listen? Violence is everywhere! I cry but You do not come to save. Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look I see destruction and violence."
The message this morning was on Psalm 37. Very appropriate indeed as we cry out to God. We are assured we need not worry about the fate of the wicked because their destruction is inevitable. We are asked to do four things:
* Trust in the Lord verses 3 and 5
* Delight in the Lord verse 4
* Commit your way to the Lord. verses 5 & 6
* Be still in God's presence and wait patiently for Him to act. verse 7.
Be still, for the presence of the Lord, the holy One, is here;
Come bow before him now with reverence and fear
In him no sin is found we stand on holy ground.
Be still, for the presence of the Lord, the holy One, is here.
Be still, for the glory of the Lord is shining all around;
He burns with holy fire, with splendour he is crowned
How awesome is the sight our radiant king of light!
Be still, for the glory of the Lord is shining all around.
Be still, for the power of the Lord is moving in this place:
He comes to cleanse and heal, to minister his grace - no work too hard for
Him.
In faith receive from him.
Be still, for the power of the Lord is moving in this place. (David J Adams)
Come bow before him now with reverence and fear
In him no sin is found we stand on holy ground.
Be still, for the presence of the Lord, the holy One, is here.
Be still, for the glory of the Lord is shining all around;
He burns with holy fire, with splendour he is crowned
How awesome is the sight our radiant king of light!
Be still, for the glory of the Lord is shining all around.
Be still, for the power of the Lord is moving in this place:
He comes to cleanse and heal, to minister his grace - no work too hard for
Him.
In faith receive from him.
Be still, for the power of the Lord is moving in this place. (David J Adams)
Let us continue to pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ. Those who died for their faith are with the Lord in Heaven where neither sorrow, suffering or death can touch.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)