In her younger days, my wife used to make hot cross buns for Easter. In recent years when we lived at Upper Bukit Timah we used to buy some each year from the nearby supermarket Cold Storage. Yes, hot cross buns for Easter and minced pie for Christmas - a tradition we observe.
Last year when we moved to Changi, we did not know where to buy hot cross buns. We mentioned this to someone who quickly got us some. We were indeed grateful to two friends who got us the buns.
God knows the desires of our heart. On Good Friday, after the meeting, Major Pascoe handed me a parcel and in it were four hot cross buns! This came from our very good friend, Susan Lim Miang Cherng who is now staying at the Assissi Hospice. She knows her days on earth are numbered and she will see the Lord face to face in Heaven soon. In her condition she still thought of us and made arrangements to ensure we had hot cross buns for Easter. How touching!
We are reminded of the incident recorded in 2 Samuel 23: 13-17. King David was taking refuge in a cave and in a moment of weariness, expressed his longing for water from Bethlehem. Three of his very loyal mighty men, at great risk to their lives made their way to the well at Bethlehem now under enemy control to get the water for David. He was so touched, he could not drink it but poured it out as an offering to the Lord.
We felt like David, but did not do as he did. We kept it for Easter morning and as we ate the buns, thought and prayed for the many relatives and friends who have blessed us like Susan. Yes, we have them all over the world.
Monday, March 28, 2016
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Easter Sunday.
Easter Sunday morning. We were up early and attended the Sunrise Service at 6.30 a.m. held outside the corps (church) building.
This was followed by the fellowship breakfast for the folk who came. Then a film was shown.
I was asked to give the Easter message at this meeting and my wife read the Scripture. I based my sermon 1 Corinthians 15 - a whole chapter devoted to the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jesus said “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, John 11: 25 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 1 Peter 1:3
The Lord is risen. Hallelujah
This was followed by the fellowship breakfast for the folk who came. Then a film was shown.
I was asked to give the Easter message at this meeting and my wife read the Scripture. I based my sermon 1 Corinthians 15 - a whole chapter devoted to the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jesus said “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, John 11: 25 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 1 Peter 1:3
The Lord is risen. Hallelujah
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Alone the Saviour prayed in Gethsemane
Jesus took three of His disciples to the garden of Gethsemane to pray. They were to be His praying companions. But they were too tired to concentrate and fell asleep. Twice He had to wake them, after that He left them and went alone to pray.
A song writer has beautifully described the scene in the garden.
It was alone the Saviour prayed
In dark Gethsemane.
Alone He drained the bitter cup
And suffered there for me.
Alone, alone, He bore it all alone;
He gave Himself to save His own.
He suffered, bled and died alone. Ben H Price
Jesus had to bear the impending cross alone. The mission to save the world rested on Him alone.
Alone in the Garden of Gethsemane, He made that final submission - "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." Luke 22:42
A song writer has beautifully described the scene in the garden.
It was alone the Saviour prayed
In dark Gethsemane.
Alone He drained the bitter cup
And suffered there for me.
Alone, alone, He bore it all alone;
He gave Himself to save His own.
He suffered, bled and died alone. Ben H Price
Jesus had to bear the impending cross alone. The mission to save the world rested on Him alone.
Alone in the Garden of Gethsemane, He made that final submission - "Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." Luke 22:42
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
The Last Supper - the Missing cup
During Holy week, my thoughts turn to the events leading to Calvary where our Lord was crucified on the cross. One of the scenes that came to my mind was the Last Supper. I turned once again to Leonardo DaVinci's painting of the event.
The artist worked painstakingly for a period of three years to complete the painting. In the picture the disciples were on either side of Jesus; on each side two groups of three. The arms of Jesus were stretched out and in His right hand He was holding the cup.
He invited a good friend to view his painting and give his honest opinion. This friend was very impressed and mentioned specially about the cup in Jesus's hand. "That cup is so real, I simply cannot keep my eyes off it."
DaVinci immediately took his brush and drew it across the sparkling cup. He did not want anything or anyone to detract attention from Jesus. He must be the main character and remain preeminent. He said to his friend, "If the cup affects you in that way, it must nor remain, nothing shall distract attention from the figure of Christ."
Years rolled on, people still admire the painting by Leonardo DaVinci - Jesus and His disciples but on the table there is no cup.
"fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2) (NASB)
Paul writing to the Colossian believers sail, “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:2-3)
I love the song written by Helen H Lemmuel many years ago. It is still my prayer and share it with you.
O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Saviour,
And life more abundant and free!
Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
O’er us sin no more hath dominion—
For more than conqu’rors we are!
His Word shall not fail you—He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!
The artist worked painstakingly for a period of three years to complete the painting. In the picture the disciples were on either side of Jesus; on each side two groups of three. The arms of Jesus were stretched out and in His right hand He was holding the cup.
He invited a good friend to view his painting and give his honest opinion. This friend was very impressed and mentioned specially about the cup in Jesus's hand. "That cup is so real, I simply cannot keep my eyes off it."
DaVinci immediately took his brush and drew it across the sparkling cup. He did not want anything or anyone to detract attention from Jesus. He must be the main character and remain preeminent. He said to his friend, "If the cup affects you in that way, it must nor remain, nothing shall distract attention from the figure of Christ."
Years rolled on, people still admire the painting by Leonardo DaVinci - Jesus and His disciples but on the table there is no cup.
"fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2) (NASB)
Paul writing to the Colossian believers sail, “Set your mind on the things above, not on the things that are on earth. For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ in God” (Colossians 3:2-3)
I love the song written by Helen H Lemmuel many years ago. It is still my prayer and share it with you.
O soul, are you weary and troubled?
No light in the darkness you see?
There’s light for a look at the Saviour,
And life more abundant and free!
Refrain:
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim,
In the light of His glory and grace.
Through death into life everlasting
He passed, and we follow Him there;
O’er us sin no more hath dominion—
For more than conqu’rors we are!
His Word shall not fail you—He promised;
Believe Him, and all will be well:
Then go to a world that is dying,
His perfect salvation to tell!
Monday, March 21, 2016
Family get together
My family comprising my father, mother plus a girl and three boys grew up in poverty. They have all gone to be with the Lord. The last one to leave this world was my younger brother who left us on 5th January 2009. All of them died in their seventies, in fact my elder brother passed away at the age of 55 a week after my wife and I were appointed to take charge of The Salvation Army in Hong Kong and Taiwan. He had a stroke and was in a wheelchair for five years.We could not come home for the funeral as we were being welcomed in Hong Kong.
None in my family reached the age of 80 and here I am coming to almost 84, still alive. Well, I come to the conclusion there is still work to be done and I've not completed by task yet.
Last Saturday, my sister-in-law Agnes and her only daughter visited us and took us out for lunch. What a lovely time we had as we reminisced, recalling the past. Adeline and her family decided to move in and look after her Mum and when the latter suggested she would like to see us, the daughter quickly made arrangement for us to meet.
What a great time of fellowship we had. When we were overseas for the last 15 years in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines and London this younger brother always made it a point to visit our special daughter Dora Poh Chin. He became very good friends with the people in charge of the Home where Dora was at Upper Bukit Timah and gave good support.
In retirement, he volunteered to help out at Gracehaven.
God has been good to us and our family. We thank God for family and friends who have blessed us.
"Families and friends form some of the closest of bonds you will ever experience. It is almost impossible for you to lead a happy life without support from these important groups of people." Jeffrey Dawson, Boundaries: Line Between Right And Wrong
None in my family reached the age of 80 and here I am coming to almost 84, still alive. Well, I come to the conclusion there is still work to be done and I've not completed by task yet.
Last Saturday, my sister-in-law Agnes and her only daughter visited us and took us out for lunch. What a lovely time we had as we reminisced, recalling the past. Adeline and her family decided to move in and look after her Mum and when the latter suggested she would like to see us, the daughter quickly made arrangement for us to meet.
What a great time of fellowship we had. When we were overseas for the last 15 years in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Philippines and London this younger brother always made it a point to visit our special daughter Dora Poh Chin. He became very good friends with the people in charge of the Home where Dora was at Upper Bukit Timah and gave good support.
In retirement, he volunteered to help out at Gracehaven.
God has been good to us and our family. We thank God for family and friends who have blessed us.
"Families and friends form some of the closest of bonds you will ever experience. It is almost impossible for you to lead a happy life without support from these important groups of people." Jeffrey Dawson, Boundaries: Line Between Right And Wrong
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Jesus and disciples sang
We are in the season of Lent - a 40-day period of fasting and prayer. It is the annual period of Christian observance that precedes Easter. The dates of Lent are defined by the date of Easter, which is a movable feast.
We hear sermons on Jesus praying, teaching, preaching, healing, but we do not normally hear of Jesus singing. Yet, the Bible states clearly that Jesus and his disciples after the Last Supper sang. "When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives." Matthew 26:30 Mark 14:26.
The hymns or songs would be the Psalms 113-118 - psalms of joy, praise, thanksgiving, of affirmation of faith in God's goodness.
Death was coming, the hour was near. Soon He would be going to Gethsemane to pray and agonise. Soon He would be betrayed by one of His disciples; be arrested, tortured and crucified like a common criminal.
What about the disciples? They joined Jesus in the singing to praise God. Then they moved on to into the Mount of Olives.
Paul and Silas sang in Acts 16:25. 1 Corinthians 14:15 talks about singing with the spirit and singing with the mind. Hebrews 2:12 tells us about singing in the church. James 5:3 says to let the joyful sing, let the sorrowful pray "among you" (in church). Revelation 15:3 describes singing in heaven.
Move to 1913 and think of the sinking of the Titanic. The great ship struck an iceberg and as it was sinking the band started to play "Nearer my God to Thee, nearer to Thee." What an appropriate hymn for such a hour. The strains of the music continued till they were silenced by the icy waters. Such courage could only be inspired by those who had hope in Christ.
Thank God death is not the end for the believer. There is Hope of the resurrection.
1 Corinthians 15:55-57New International Version (NIV)
We hear sermons on Jesus praying, teaching, preaching, healing, but we do not normally hear of Jesus singing. Yet, the Bible states clearly that Jesus and his disciples after the Last Supper sang. "When they had sung a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives." Matthew 26:30 Mark 14:26.
The hymns or songs would be the Psalms 113-118 - psalms of joy, praise, thanksgiving, of affirmation of faith in God's goodness.
Death was coming, the hour was near. Soon He would be going to Gethsemane to pray and agonise. Soon He would be betrayed by one of His disciples; be arrested, tortured and crucified like a common criminal.
What about the disciples? They joined Jesus in the singing to praise God. Then they moved on to into the Mount of Olives.
Paul and Silas sang in Acts 16:25. 1 Corinthians 14:15 talks about singing with the spirit and singing with the mind. Hebrews 2:12 tells us about singing in the church. James 5:3 says to let the joyful sing, let the sorrowful pray "among you" (in church). Revelation 15:3 describes singing in heaven.
Move to 1913 and think of the sinking of the Titanic. The great ship struck an iceberg and as it was sinking the band started to play "Nearer my God to Thee, nearer to Thee." What an appropriate hymn for such a hour. The strains of the music continued till they were silenced by the icy waters. Such courage could only be inspired by those who had hope in Christ.
Thank God death is not the end for the believer. There is Hope of the resurrection.
1 Corinthians 15:55-57New International Version (NIV)
“Where, O death, is your victory?
Where, O death, is your sting?"
Where, O death, is your sting?"
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ
Friday, March 11, 2016
Thank God for the blessing of work
Some people seem to think that living here in Changi, at Peacehaven Nursing Home we have nothing to do, just eat sleep and perhaps watch television.
On the contrary, We can't find enough time to do the things we want to do. There are always people to visit, certainly housework has to be done, clothes need to be washed and some iron.
There are two ways to live in this world.
1 Escapism - just ignore others. It's a selfish life. It's for the weak.
2 Involvement - in society, give and receive, interact. We bless others and in return richly blessed.
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
1) Work, for the night is coming,
Work through the morning hours;
Work while the dew is sparkling,
Work 'mid springing flowers;
Work when the day grows brighter,
Work in the glowing sun;
Work, for the night is coming,
When man's work is done. Anna Louisa Walker
On the contrary, We can't find enough time to do the things we want to do. There are always people to visit, certainly housework has to be done, clothes need to be washed and some iron.
There are two ways to live in this world.
1 Escapism - just ignore others. It's a selfish life. It's for the weak.
2 Involvement - in society, give and receive, interact. We bless others and in return richly blessed.
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
1) Work, for the night is coming,
Work through the morning hours;
Work while the dew is sparkling,
Work 'mid springing flowers;
Work when the day grows brighter,
Work in the glowing sun;
Work, for the night is coming,
When man's work is done. Anna Louisa Walker
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Mrs. Chee promoted to Glory
Word has been received that another old friend of ours has been promoted to Glory on 6th March 2016.
Mrs. Chee was a very faithful member and devoted Christian of Central Corps in Singapore. She was a very enthusiastic Home League and was always ready to help and bless others. She has been sick for a long time and now has been released from her suffering.
There will be two nights of wake service at Singapore Casket, and the funeral will be on Wednesday 9th March at 3.00 p.m at the Crematorium.
We do not know when the summons from God will come for each one of us. This means we need always be ready when the Lord calls us home.
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die" John 11: 25
Mrs. Chee was a very faithful member and devoted Christian of Central Corps in Singapore. She was a very enthusiastic Home League and was always ready to help and bless others. She has been sick for a long time and now has been released from her suffering.
There will be two nights of wake service at Singapore Casket, and the funeral will be on Wednesday 9th March at 3.00 p.m at the Crematorium.
We do not know when the summons from God will come for each one of us. This means we need always be ready when the Lord calls us home.
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die" John 11: 25
Sunday, March 6, 2016
Loving God and loving our neighbour
Love is putting our faith into practice - or holiness in action. Holiness is expressed in loving God and loving our neighbour.
Love God supremely or wholeheartedly and love your neighbour as yourself.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself. " Matthew 22: 37-39
The second part prompts an immediate reaction. Is it possible for us to be ordered to love someone? Can love be ordered? We like some people, some we don't quite like, they get on our nerves! We choose our friends because they appeal to us, we have the same chemistry. We enjoy their company.
Next question. Who is my neighbour? My neighbour is not necessarily the one who lives next door on in the same block of flats, or in the same condominium, or someone belonging to the same club or fellowship.
My neighbour is the person God has sent into my life, in other words, he is my concern, my opportunity to show the love of Christ. His needs become my needs even if he is not one I like.
Jesus gave a beautiful illustration in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10: 25-37
Let us view anyone who is in need as our neighbour not just those who are in our circle. Although the Samaritan was not a Jew, he was indeed the true neighbour of the injured Jew, because he showed mercy and love. Love in action.
"I must love thee, love must rule me,
Springing up and flowing forth
From a childlike heart within me,
Or my work is nothing worth.
Love with passion and with patience,
Love with principle and fire,
Love with heart and mind and utterance,
Serving Christ my one desire." Albert Orsborn (1886-1967)
Love God supremely or wholeheartedly and love your neighbour as yourself.
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself. " Matthew 22: 37-39
The second part prompts an immediate reaction. Is it possible for us to be ordered to love someone? Can love be ordered? We like some people, some we don't quite like, they get on our nerves! We choose our friends because they appeal to us, we have the same chemistry. We enjoy their company.
Next question. Who is my neighbour? My neighbour is not necessarily the one who lives next door on in the same block of flats, or in the same condominium, or someone belonging to the same club or fellowship.
My neighbour is the person God has sent into my life, in other words, he is my concern, my opportunity to show the love of Christ. His needs become my needs even if he is not one I like.
Jesus gave a beautiful illustration in the parable of the Good Samaritan. Luke 10: 25-37
Let us view anyone who is in need as our neighbour not just those who are in our circle. Although the Samaritan was not a Jew, he was indeed the true neighbour of the injured Jew, because he showed mercy and love. Love in action.
"I must love thee, love must rule me,
Springing up and flowing forth
From a childlike heart within me,
Or my work is nothing worth.
Love with passion and with patience,
Love with principle and fire,
Love with heart and mind and utterance,
Serving Christ my one desire." Albert Orsborn (1886-1967)
Friday, March 4, 2016
World Day of prayer
Friday 4th March - World Day of Prayer.
The subject chosen for this year is "Receive children, Receive Me." The women of Cuba were chosen to prepare the outline of the prayer meeting held all over the world.
Jesus said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
What we do to others, we do it unto the Lord and this certainly applies to children.
We may not be able to join others in a prayer meeting for certain reasons, but we all can join them in prayer even in our own homes.
Let me quote a prayer written in the Words of Life for today.
"Gracious Father, we come before you in prayer right now - on this World Day of Prayer. We have been asked to pray relating to our theme for this year. As we receive your children , love and care for them, we in fact receive you.
Give to us open minds, open hearts, open spirits. Take away any prejudice we might have hidden in our heart. Give to us instead loving and receptive hearts, the desire to embrace all of humanity. Help us to bless others as you blessed the children.
Help us never to be afraid in reaching out, and showing compassion to our brothers and sisters around the world, as well as those in our communities. And help us to give financially where we can, to help feed the poor and clothe the naked.
We love you, Jesus, and the way we can show you best is by loving one another - as you commanded us. Help us to do this well to the very best of our ability. All these things we ask in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen
The subject chosen for this year is "Receive children, Receive Me." The women of Cuba were chosen to prepare the outline of the prayer meeting held all over the world.
Jesus said to them, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.”And he took the children in his arms, placed his hands on them and blessed them.
What we do to others, we do it unto the Lord and this certainly applies to children.
We may not be able to join others in a prayer meeting for certain reasons, but we all can join them in prayer even in our own homes.
Let me quote a prayer written in the Words of Life for today.
"Gracious Father, we come before you in prayer right now - on this World Day of Prayer. We have been asked to pray relating to our theme for this year. As we receive your children , love and care for them, we in fact receive you.
Give to us open minds, open hearts, open spirits. Take away any prejudice we might have hidden in our heart. Give to us instead loving and receptive hearts, the desire to embrace all of humanity. Help us to bless others as you blessed the children.
Help us never to be afraid in reaching out, and showing compassion to our brothers and sisters around the world, as well as those in our communities. And help us to give financially where we can, to help feed the poor and clothe the naked.
We love you, Jesus, and the way we can show you best is by loving one another - as you commanded us. Help us to do this well to the very best of our ability. All these things we ask in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen
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