August 30, 2004
One more thing ... 1year Old Blog!
I just realized that this blog has just passed it's 1st birthday ... since starting in August 22, 2003. It's been quite an experience indeed.
I've got to know new friends. I've grown in confidence (I think) in my writing or articulation of all sorts of thoughts inside me. My perspective has been stretched. New horizons have opened up far beyond my imagination. I've definately learnt a lot though the reading of other people's thoughts and the links they provide. It's even become a kind of spiritual disicpline. And when I find out some people have read the stuff I scribble and found help ... it really encourages me a lot... it's a very 2 Corinthians 4:7 thing ... (which has become another key verse for me personally togther with John 20:21), so I do hope "blogging" like many of the other things I do is an extension of who I am as a saint and sinner at the same time, journeying with Christ on earth and inviting others to come along as well ...
"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; ..." (NASB)
"But this precious treasure – this light and power that now shine within us – is held in perishable containers, that is, in our weak bodies. So everyone can see that our glorious power is from God and is not our own " (NLT)
"If you only look at us, you might well miss the brightness. We carry this precious Message around in the unadorned clay pots of our ordinary lives. That's to prevent anyone from confusing God's incomparable power with us." (Message)
Happy 47th Birthday, Malaysia!
I love this picture with the Malaysian flad hidden behind the people taken a couple of Sunday's ago at one of our LiFE Group parties. First, it reminds me of the photos we take in the 60's or 70's because of the way they look and the positioning of their postures :-) Secondly, I like it because each person represents all the new people who've come to join the BLC community and our journey with Christ together. There's Ken Beng on the far left who comes from a totally non-Christian background like Susan next to him and got baptised last year. This coming Sunday will be Susan's turn. And it's a great joy for me because we never pressured them in anyway, it was a slow and long process actually for each of them - first, Ken Beng and then Susan. Shereen second from the right said that she some how got "lost" along the way since her short connection with a church as a teenager (and got baptised then), she jokingly said she "poteng" (play traunt) as far as the school of followinf Christ is concerned and now is coming back for re-enrolment. What a joy it will be to see her re-affirm her faith this Sunday too! And of course, the one that's smiling until we can't she her eyes! Hoong Guit is the first female council member for our church starting this year (it's not that we didn't believe in female leadership - we really do support ladies to serve in leadership, it's a matter of timing for our young 4 year old church!). Anyway, to see her growth since she stepped into our midst and had more focus in her walk with God, slowly taking up serving in the LiFe Groups and especially doing an excellent job with our Library, and now playing a role in the council is simply just awesome.
All this is happenning right before our eyes, and seeing the grace of God at work is just phew! what can I say? And this is happening in our 47 year old Malaysia right in the Klang Valley, in the mist of a local congregation of Christians and friends (who are open to the Christian faith). I like Brian McLaren's little phrase ... in that our vision is to see "more Christians and better Christian living in community for the sake of the world" and my prayer is that as we genuinely fulfill this ... individually and collectively we really contribute to the betterment of our country. Our priority is the "kingdom of God" no doubt, but we also pray "Your Kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven ...", and I pray that god's kingdom will come amongst us in our nation in and through us! In many ways just like the picture above, we are enjoying the "full life" God offers through Christ especially in community but it goes beyond that ... helping us to look beyond ourselves to others around us or even far away from us!
So, as we celebrate Malaysia's National day tomorrow on the 31st August, Thanks to Roy Lim for this Sing-a-long
you might want to join me in singing the national anthem. But, I'd like to invite you to join me further to the kind of stuff that I tried so inadequately to talk about in my reflection on the picture above!:-)
God-daughter
I must say I have a "soft spot" for baby's toes ... they are just adorable! These toes belong to Gracelynn our new God-daughter! for us it's a great honour to be asked to be someone's God-parenst. And for May Chin and me yesterday was our initiation to be Gracelynn's godparents as she's welcomed to God's family through baptism. We already have two God-sons, so it's really awesome to take on one more ... but she's the first God-daughter.
As you can see she has these inquisitive eyes ... and I was so excited when I carried her for the first time after the baptism yesterday :-) Indeed, I pray that in days to come she'll become more and more conscious of God's promise of unconditional love towards her in Christ, and we the parents, Godparents and the church community will all together with God's help serve to help her along the way. And I'm sure we're actually looking at ourselves when we look into her eyes and are reconnected to God's promise for us as well.
I love the next picture because she looks like little eskimo (in Malaysia?!) or maybe a young explorer all ready for her little adventures and future expeditions in the vast terrains of human life! May we not lose that child-like desire to explore and discover new things in life ...
August 27, 2004
Heartbeat
When I saw the heart beating away strongly, my heartbeat increased and yet there was a sense of relief that all is well. "Lord, we are thankful for this new chance to serve you". May Chin and I still haven't fully got it all together in raising Gareth, and I wonder whether parents ever get a hang of it since every child is different.
No. 2 didn't really make it but God's grace was "sufficient" to get us through. We never expected it both the receiving part as well as the losing part. And personally, I was suddenly speechless and lost in processing the meaning of the ups and downs of losing No.2. And just recently, I heard of a pastor friend of mine also going through a similar experience. Experiencing "loss" doesn't need a multitude of words... "Lord Have mercy"
Mom was very excited when I told her and her joy was just bubbling over the phone. I jokingly said, "You're in charge of babysitting this one!" She replied, "No Problem!" :-)
Now, Gareth is going through intensive training to be the big brother ... I'm sure he'll be going major adjustments. But, for May Chin and I ... we're grateful and we genuinely put our trust in the one who has carried us thus far and will carry us on into the future ... which is full of unknowns ...
August 26, 2004
Two New Blogs I'm Reading
Here's two new blogs I'm reading ... both have sent me kind emails so that makes the connection tighter and the glue sticker :-) I've cut and paste some of their thoughts for preview ...
First, introducing subvergence...
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I finished reading The Spirit of the Discplines by Dallas Willard. It was recommended to me about 12 years ago and has been sitting on my bookshelf since—feel kind of foolish for not reading it before. It is very much in the vein of The Divine Conspiracy, which is no surprise since they are books one and three in a trilogy. I think it was actually easier reading than the Divine Conspiracy. There was a lot of underlining and many dog-eared pages when I was done. Here’s a few of the questions/thoughts I have in my book journal:
pg 99—We often gauge our religious services by how much people ‘feel good’ about them. We also feel like a service was good if it ‘went well.’ Neither of these ever would have crossed Paul’s mind. What does it look like when a religious service is successful? In what ways can we measure that people have encountered God?
pg 139—“The need for extensive practice of a given discipline is an indication of our weakness, not our strength.”—Brilliant! The disciplines are often talked about as if they are the pinnacle of Christian life. Truth is, they are useless if they don’t translate into action in our life. I will never get to the place where I have no need for disciplines, but the way he states this is a good way for me to keep perspective on why I need to do them.
pg 246—“Ministers pay far too much attention to people who do not come to services. Those people should, generally, be given exactly that disregard by the pastor that they give to Christ. The Christian leader has something much more important to do that pursue the godless. The leader’s task is to equip saints until they are like Christ, and history and the God of history waits for him to do this job.”—I’ll just leave that one to speak for itself and we can all ponder to what degree we agree or disagree…
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And another one, A Jewish God-fearer in a room full of Christians ...
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Not many people who are looking to "reform" their current church can do something so drastic. So I had to think about what other options are available for those who were asking. After some prayer, contemplation, and saying to myself, "I think I can, I think I can..." over and over, a little engine train came out of nowhere and nailed me! I had been reading Journey Inward, Journey Outward, by Elizabeth O'Connor, in which she so eloquently told the story of Church of the Savior, and explored what it means to be the Church. What a wonderful way to give new life to the evangelical church! Finding those within the congregation that have the love and vision of a missionary for the local community. Helping them develop their gifts, the very things they love to do, helping them become the unique self that they were created to be, helping them become the GOOD NEWS! Then to set up a team of people around them to work together at bringing that vision to its fullness! Being about the business of calling out the depths of others, and teaching those around us to do the same. This would completely revitalize and reform the evangelical and traditional church. This would put the focus on being the Church, as opposed to "going to church."
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August 25, 2004
Good News ... for a change!
Just once a while, and I must say for a long while, there's a front page story that "moves" me at a deeper level. And a story like this on one, i.e. Abducted baby found safe made me pause for a moment to offer thanks. It's a story with its own twists and turns, highlighting danger, sadness, fear and all that goes with such an unwanted event.
It's so good to read "GOOD NEWS" for a change ... and though it does not ignore the crime committed, but to read that the mother got back her little ying Ying and the part that the Malay couple just "soften" my often "hardened" heart.
News like this "does" something beyond the words on the paper to people I believe who are willing to pause and allow some space for "spiritual formation" would really find meaning beyond the daily routine we so used to.
I was drawn back to God in a way that I needed to. Thinking about how often I've been "abducted" by all sorts of forces around me. I carved out time just to be in his presence and grateful that He came to "seek and save the lost", how lost we are - so often. I felt so grateful that he holds me in his arms in safety and security ... in Christ, there's power over sin, death and the devil that seeks to "abduct" me through all sorts of scheming and strategies.
The whole "Good News" theme rang this whole morning in me and how important "Good News" needs to penetrate the cloud of "Bad News" that keeps bombarding us non-stop. Of course, again and again ... I was just drawn in prayer with the Bible text before me after breakfast back to the "Good News" found in this person Yeshua, or some call Yesus (Malay), in Mandarin Yesu, and to the world mostly know as Jesus.
Grow by asking ...
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"We grow by asking the right questions not by getting answers."
~Gordon Cosby, CHURCH OF THE SAVIOR
Washington, DC
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Thanks pastordraven for this!
Thinking & Praying
"When we think we generally talk to ourselves, when we pray we talk to God." ~ Anthony de Mello via SacredGateway
For two mornings when I stepped into the AugustinerKloster church at Erfurt when I was staying there, I noticed this young lady kneeling in prayer both the two mornings I was sitting in the pews looking at the stain-glass windows. This picture stuck in my mind on how prayer is life and life is prayer. But, more so on how the day starts with God. Thus, the desire for continual growth in my prayer life with good starts in the morning deepened. I like the quote this morning ... I enjoy thinking (hmm .. talking to myself?) but maybe the nudge today was to go further to talk more to God.
Bible without verses?
I remember the last time I got some of my church members to read Winn's article on Story. many of them got "puzzled" by his challenge on "scripture memorization" :-) Somehow, many missed what he was really trying to get at.
Reading his Verses Quoting Sucks! (there's a specific context that helps me see why he's emphasizing STORY so much!) Allow me to take the middle chunk of his post to get our brain juices bubbling, but at the end it's better to read the whole post to get the full story!
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The Bible is God’s story. It is not God’s promise box full of little nuggets to rip out of context and quote at will. Fragmented memorization and quoting of verses produces fragmented followers of Jesus. The many and varied Bible programs both online and desktop only exacerbate the problem by the endless algorithms for searching and then presenting one with verses as a result (of course they can do more than that in most programs). You would have thought that God would have been smart enough to have written us a versified Bible or maybe even a topical Bible which is the child of versification, maybe God should have just skipped all the authors of the Old and New Testament, those poor shmucks who didn’t know anything about the joy of fragments, and had Nave born centuries earlier and had him produce his topical Bible. Wonder why God didn’t just give us a group of propositions like 7,777 of them so we could just mark off the ones we have “applied” to our lives. Yep, that would have done the job.
Hooray for Eugene Peterson, may his move to have Bibles without verses conquer the publishers of the world.
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An interesting comment on the post was "Winn...how the heck are we suppossed to find something without the verses? " which was quite a touch of humor. Thus, I still appreciate the chapters and verses purely for reference, but I do get what Winn is trying to get at and it has helped me become less fragmented. It has definately helped me get the flow of the story better and the message too! And I like the idea of "story memorization" ... a good alternative :-)
August 24, 2004
Money Matters ... again!
I was drawn to how phil from signposts felt about his talk on money at church and the post message reaction. I think I was drawn to his up and down feeling because I also tried in someway to talk about money and prosperity last Sunday!
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Ah money! You know I am becoming convinced that money is a huge challenge for the Church. We seem to have bought into the idea that it is a subject we can't talk about or even explore. When we do so we are so much more comfortable making motherhood statements or talking about someone else's attitude towards money.
And then I see Jesus talking about money quite a bit. I see Jesus saying that the way we use our money is a spiritual issue not only an economic one. When he says that "where your treasure is, your heart is" - I gulp because he is talking about me!
I preached about money on Sunday. It is always an interesting subject. Here were some of the tensions that I explored in how we approach money at Churches - perhaps you have some more.
Tension # 1 - Money is private v's Jesus teaching on money being a core issue for discipleship
Tension #2 - Collection for Church's costs v's offering to God
Tension #3 - Fund raising v's Spiritual Discipline
Tension #4 - Comfortable v's uncomfortable
Why is it that we always want to talk about the first group?
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Probably one tension I might at is Tension #5 - Guilt v's Gratitude! :-)
Stumped ...
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Jesus said to the crowds and his disciples, "But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you lock people out of the kingdom of heaven. For you do not go in yourselves, and when others are going in, you stop them. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cross sea and land to make a single convert, and you make the new convert twice as much a child of hell as yourselves." ~ Matthew 23:13-15
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Today's "Word" at SacredGateway stumped me ... 2 questions arise to challenge me (especially as a leader in some capacity) while I stopped for a while to allow these questions to haunt me ...
1. What kind of "converts" am I making? Are they "better" people because of the contact we've had?
2. What aspects of my life may have potentially "stopped" others from entering in the kingdom kind of life?
There's a strong pull towards an unhealthy guilt-trip here (the voices of accusation are somehow in the air though from within and outside)... the "Woe" is glaring (Could that be more of the voice of conviction from the Spirit calling?) ... in the context of Forgiveness and repentence it more of a growth-trip or the grace Christ offers for us to walk in his way not our own (Sounds like the Gospel at work here ...). Lord, Help! Amen
August 23, 2004
Random Thoughts after "The Village"
I actually liked the movie and in its simplicity sparked off some thoughts in my mind on a variety of issues ranging from fear to the desire to be protected and so on. I was wondering how come the Malaysian publicity posters in the papers at least seemed to give a wrong impression. I saw three posters online and wondered why we didn't really use it here. Hmm ... So, far this is the second movie I've watched after Spiderman 2 (which I also enjoyed very much). Both are quite different movies, but I enjoyed the sparks they gave me to think and to feel ... and it's always nice to talk with someone about the themes and insights raised in the movies.
There was a cute little twist for yesterday's worship gathering (nothing like the movies I mentioned above of course!). As I rushed out of the house with May Chin & Gareth to make it for the pre-worship rehearsal (I was playing bass), I left my message mind-map notes at home (opps!!!). Thankfully, somehow and in someway ... I still managed to share the message pretty smoothly. :-) Not sure whether people noticed that I was "note-less"!! :-)
Last night's steamboat party for the "LightHouse" LiFe Group was really fun! Our family really enjoyed ourselves in spite of a difficult Sunday afternoon without a decent nap (Gareth was somehow very energetic!) It's great to celebrate the groups mini-resurrection :-) and the new relationships formed between new members ...
Saturday night was quite a long evening. I felt very honored to be given the chance to share at my friend's 3rd church anniversary celebration. I realize that my Mandarin is still much to be desired from a Chinese church point of view. But, thankfully I survived and was able to get the message across :-) I admit, there is a cultural gap for me as I participated in the service even though I'm Chinese (in a way .. that's another story). But, that does not need to dampen the participation and the support I can offer to this congregation and others like them. And I can remain open to learn from them as well ... and indeed there are aspects BLC for example can learn from them ... but this growing awareness of the nuances even in our own Christian context here in Malaysia has been stronger nowadays as I keep my links with other churches. How one thinks about these differences and handles them requires much thought and tolerance ...
I'm also catching up with some blog reading and maybe commenting today ... but later tonight will be our council meeting so I hope to have enough energy to focus on some "immediate" & "important" matters for my final "re-orientation" back to ministry in Malaysia - i.e. BLC leadership. so, that's all for now .... maybe more tomorrow.
August 20, 2004
Theology or Practical Religion
I was quite overwhelmed with the task of sharing on apostle Paul in two meetings with Help Institute Christian Fellowship. First, the whole topic was huge so I had to focus on more specific aspects. I decided to title part one "Paul: The Man and His Messiah" and next week will be part two "Paul: His Message". It's not a scholarly talk (thought some help from NT Wright was good) but I hope the students get some start in this area or a good stir! Second, I believe that opportunities like this is great to encourage hunger for good, sound theology shared in an unstuffy way ... and try to help my audience think with me ... and even with a humourous touch (when appropriate). Third, I sincerely hope to play a part in encouraging these guys and gals to not only live for Christ as individuals but also see their "vocation" during their term as students and beyond. On a side note, I've always enjoyed hanging out with them anyway! :-) Some longer term relationships have been cultivated from this Christian Fellowship which I treasure.
When I look at all these varsity students or psychology, mass comm. , economics, etc, I don't want to treat them as "fools" or like "children" but with sincerity open up conversations during my speaking as well as pre or post meeting conversations to introduce and/or reaffirm good and right ideas about God. I believe this is a Spirit-filled endeavor, and a commitment to be faithful to Christ and obedient to the Father (phew! Trinitarian indeed!). Thus, this C.S Lewis quote really means a lot to me ...
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“Everyone has warned me not to tell you what I am going to tell you…They all say “the ordinary reader does not want Theology; give him plain practical religion.” I have rejected their advice. I do not think the ordinary reader is such a fool. Theology means “the science of God,” and I think any man who wants to think about God at all would like to have the clearest and most accurate ideas about Him which are available. You are not children: why should you be treated like children?
“Theology is practical. Everyone reads, everyone hears things discussed. Consequently, if you do not listen to Theology, that will not mean that you have no ideas about God. It will mean that you have a lot of wrong ones—bad, muddled, out-of-date ideas. For a great many of the ideas about God which are trotted out as novelties today, are simply the ones which real Theologians tried centuries ago and rejected. To believe in the popular religion of modern England (or America) is retrogression—like believing the earth is flat” Mere Christianity, p.135-136.
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(Another word of thanks to Winn again for the quote)
Two Thoughts on "Life" & "Living"!
Thanks to Winn for these thought nuggets!
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"The biggest mistake people make in life is not making a living at doing what they most enjoy."— Malcolm S. Forbes (1919-1990)
"We act as though comfort and luxury were the chief requirements of life, when all that we need to make us happy is something to be enthusiastic about."
— Albert Einstein (1879-1955)
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Easy to die ... Hard to live ...
Thanks Leaving Munster for this gem ...
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It is easy to die for Christ.
It is hard to live for him.
Dying takes only an hour or two,
but to live for Christ
means to die daily.
Only during the few years of this life
are we given the privilege of serving
each other and Christ…
We shall have heaven forever,
but only a short time for service here,
and therefore we must not waste the opportunity.
~ 
Sadhu Sundar Singh
(1889-1929)
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August 19, 2004
Untamed Vessels
When I first got the news that these young Malaysian songwriters (namely untamed vessels) wanted to try something, as usual I'm supportive (furthermore we had and have a relationship that goes way back to my former church). And the question goes how far would I support them. Can BLC play a little part as encouragement? So, let's see what happens on September 4th 2004 as mentioned in the info up there :-)
So, on a personal level especially I want to encourage the growing passion and sincere desire of young songwriters who are Christians to jump into creative and constructive expression of worship.
But deep down I want to encourage more than passion in creativity and a good start, I sincerely would like to see a growing genuine wisdom and depth of reflection that will take them further in the long run. Thus, I think An Open Letter to Worship Songwriters is a must read for serious minded Worship songwriters in Malaysia (so we can avoid some unnecessary pitfalls and truly focus of the God-given potential for quality songs!)
After reflecting on the open letter above then check out An Unauthorized Postscript (pdf file here) on the open letter. Let's learn from many of the current worship songwriters who do a good job, and let's also make our little contributions as Malaysians with originality and flavour that's more than a nice sounding melody and rhythm, but really from the depths of a genuine spirituality combined with lyrics that opens our eyes to see a vision of God that changes our lives and beyond. That would be my personal words of exhortation to ...
... and all those who would like to embark on the worship songwriting journey!
August 18, 2004
Faith, Health & Prosperity
I found this book edited by Andrew Perriman to be an engaging read as I'm preparing in re-looking at "Faith, Health & Prosperity". I found the whole treatment on the history and teaching of the "Word of Faith" Movement to be both informative and insightful. Thus, I munched 5 chapters yesterday.
The discussion on "Prosperity and the law of Moses" had some parts that caught my attention this morning over breakfast cornflakes and coffee :-):
"The basic rule is very simple: if the people kept the law of God, they would enjoy a comprehensive prosperity that included both health and wealth: ... (Deut. 7:12-15; cf. Ex. 23:25-26; Deut. 6.-3; 15:4-6; 28:1-14)." (p.158)
"This is not a prosperity to be claimed by faith. The focus is quite different: it is bestowed upon people in response to their obedience to the law. the basic formula is: keep the law, please God, do justice, and you will be blessed. Prosperity is not so much a goal as a by-product. Jesus' argument about seeking first the kingdom of God (Mt. 6:33; Lk. 12:31) is a natural develoment of this principle." (p.158)
"There is no doubt validity in the argument that the ideal lifestyle consists in an avoidance of both extremes and their concomitant dangers: 'Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that I need, or I shall be full, and deny you, and say"who is the LORD?" or shall I be poor, and steal, and profane the name of my God.' (Prov. 30:8-9), But the more powerful ideal is probably that of the righteous individual who, with his family, is blessed by the Lord with abundance and security and who gives generously to the poor (cf. Ps. 37:25-26; Ps. 112)." (p. 167)
What made me buy this book and read it immediately when I saw it in Evangel Bookstore? The reasons are a mixture of autobiographical-historical factors and pastoral-theological necessity:
1. I recall how much I devoured Kenneth Hagin books when I was a teenager, first, they were more affordable and of course the way he wrote and brought out a more "triumphant" and "victorious" faith was attractive to me then. I even bought some and gave it away as presents. I've seen a number of books critique the movement and Hagin's writings specifically and even though now I shifted away from much of the "word of faith" movement teachings ( "prayerfully" more towards what I believe is the core of Christian faith), I felt it's a good time to re-look at it with the help of this book.
2. The mere mention of Morris Cerullo in the introduction and the little episodes that ignited the need for this book also drew me in. For at least a year, I used to go every Saturday to MCA hall and sit under Morris Cerullo & friends' teachings. We had our workbooks ready, we rode two buses to get there. We were younger and we were hungry. And again, I changed due to many factors (cf. some good theological training, practical ministry problems arising from the teachings, personal faith-doubts struggles, fresh reading of the "common texts" used, etc). But, how the Evangelical Alliance of UK handled the situation was interesting ...
3. I haven't seen much of Hagin's or Cerullo's books lately ... but, there are many who preach on "Faith, Health & Properity" within a wide spectrum here in Malaysia. We still have loads of guest speakers from overseas who carry the mantle of proclaiming this "Word of faith movement"-influenced message. some conciously, other maybe unconsciously ... many churches and pastors seem to have a strong "emphasis" on "success" often seen through achieving their desired potential, purpose and of course prosperity. The whole "formula of faith" is also a much emphasised aspect. So in someways especially within those of us who are connected more to the "pentecostal-charismatic" flavour of Christianity here in Malaysia, these dishes are constantly served in our roundtable of spiritual feasting. How shall we deal with this? And do we have a TINA syndrome - There is No Alternative?
4. I've been reading and reflected with interest for some time now how some have been "burnt" in churches or environments fed much by this kind of emphasis. They range from individuals (who sincerely want to follow Christ!), to groups of people often leaving existing structures (which they often feel aren't plugged in enough to God's purposes and success plan) to form new churches. I found some interesting email conversations and comments on blogs sparked by issued sometimes related to traditional controversies like the place of Charismatic gifts but often to high profile individuals or churches connected to the "Word of Faith" movement. There are some undercurrent "questioning" going on ... and it's real and authentic. But, I haven't seen much discussed in the public discourse involving the higher folks in power and position. But, then again, I understand, it does appear unkind and rude to raise question about those who are "successful" in ministry - there's a who am I a small congregation pastor to say anything about a more than thousands of member mega-church practice or teaching kind of reservation. How can we proceed?
5. And of course, as always .. I'm interested in alternatives ... and let's say we get a better grasp of "Faith, Health & Prosperity" as it should be and could be, how can we see all this worked out in concrete forms and models. I was listening and observing to two worship services from two famous churches websites yesterday afternoon - one full one which lasted about 2 hours, another one more of excerpts to 30minutes. The music still moves me here and there, the speakers are "powerful" communicators, technology is used to the fullest, etc. Of course as far as content is concerned, it's a mixture of what I'd agree with and also a big chunk that somehow doesn't sound right. So it's a delicate process and tiring too ... It's obvious that these churches have become a "model" for many here in our country ... I was listening to a local preacher online and felt "hey! it's like a Malaysian copy of what I saw online! wow!", the tone, the moves, the style ... so, like it or not the influence is here to stay ... and maybe this kind of Christianity might become the mainstream (I don't know and also hope not). But sitting with like minded people and complaining is not going to help, more constructive work is needed, good articles and books written, not so much to attack the "Word of Faith" movement (I think there's quite a substantial balanced critical work done in the Perriman edited book), we need to sit down and reflect .. yes! and then resolve to get on with "excellence" in providing what we perceive to be healthier alternatives which are Biblically grounded, theologically sound, historically informed, reasonably constructed, spiritually vibrant and practically engaging! Phew that was a mouthful .. (often smart people or those with sound theology have a poor way of communicating their thoughts *grin*) we dont have to be fluffy and flamboyant, being faithful doesn't have to eliminate the fun factor or creativity ...
So, this has been another long post .... now back to getting ready for the "Rich Dad, Poor Dad"sermon this week ...
August 17, 2004
We want to go far ... together!
"if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together." ~ African saying
I read Brian's African Report with much interest. Strangely, he went south to Africa, I went North to Germany :-) I'm no Brian McLaren and have much less wisdom and insight to contribute *grin*. This humble chap has struck more than one chord in me with some of these reflections I'll pick out. I thought I'll just duet with them a little ... (Brian's words in bold, mine in italics)
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We talked about the gospel in a post-colonial setting. I truly believe that the way ahead lies for Christians in the global north (who face a postmodern transition) and those in the global south (whose transition is post-colonial) to be in close dialogue as partners. That dialogue began happening during our time together.
"Close dialogue" is going to be beautiful music. There's a place for "debate" I suppose (dissonance and tension is part of music too). But, before we get at each others throats, it's wise to listen with our ears and hearts, to learn even with so much "puzzlement" going on in our heards often sparked by "the other" and love in our words and deed the way we're called to be.
That little remark on "the gospel in a post-colonial setting" indeed resonates more with us here (at least in Malaysia) as compared to "the gospel in a post-modern setting". As a Malaysian (and Asian), I need to be more confident in working through how the Gospel is speaking into our context and articulating the way we're wrestling withthe issues that confront us. There's more work that needs to be done here especially at the local church setting to make time for the conversation on "the gospel in a post-colonial setting" vibrant.
I went to Africa with a hypothesis: that the conversation in America and Europe (and elsewhere) about the postmodern transition had a counterpart conversation in Africa - a conversation about post-colonialism. I come home very certain that these two conversations are part of one larger conversation, and that the larger conversation is the one worth having. This confirms my conclusions from similar experiences in Latin America over the last several years, and I hope to add Asia to my "research" in the next year or two.
"Your most welcome to come to Malaysia, Singapore is nearby, Brian!" :-)
I have also found a a kind of "freshness" in some of my conversations with a German pastor who's serving in our denomination as a Theological consultant. On one hand, Asians need to rise up and be heard and of course communicate clearly what are our real concerns are (either we've been too busy or too silent or both!). On the other hand, we need to guard against a kind of over-reaction and isolate ourselves in our own worlds (which is increasingly impossible) Thus, I agree with what Brian says about finding ways to get Christian Leaders from the four corners of the earth talking
The next step is to try to find ways to get Christian leaders in the global north and south and east and west talking. There´s a saying in Africa: if you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together. I trust we can go far, together with these emerging leaders from the global south. We have much to learn from their faith, their vibrancy, their courage, and their experience. And perhaps we can offer them gifts in return.
I feel really blessed to be part of some events that encouraged this kind of "talking" whether it was the Asian Mission conference last year, or the little connection I've had with those working in the Lutheran World Federation and especially the recent Summer School (and of course the bonus of meeting up with Jason and Maggi). Just the last month alone in Malaysia there were two events which I believe is supposed to encourage such conversations namely the International Association of Missions Studies conference and WCC's Faith & Order Commission Meetings. So, all these experiences make me feel the urgency for this kind of "close dialogue". I'm grateful for these "not so frequent" chances offered to me some how ... I'm sure God has his purposes in his divine wisdom for me to have these adventures (trying to sound "spiritual" here *grin* and yet I do believe He's surely hup to something though I'm not too sure about the details!)
I guess, the challenge is how can we have something that's more long term rather than just short term "highs". And most important for me, is how can these conversations really get to the "grass root" level especially in some ways in the local churches and pastors. And then how can we involve emerging leaders from those in their late teens, to twenties and people like me in our thirties :-)
The modern western colonial gospel was a beginning, for them and for us, with many strengths and weaknesses; now we must press on together to learn what the gospel "after modernity" and "after colonialism" says to us and our changing, dangerous, hopeful, unpredictable, needy, glorious, and gifted world. All we do as a local church here at Cedar Ridge is part of a larger symphony that the Holy Spirit is conducting around the world. May the music be beautiful, to the glory of God!
I was really touched by Brian's encouragement to Cedar Ridge (his church) and how what happens locally is part of what's going on globally. That would be my prayer for our young congregation too ...as well as every local church in Malaysia and beyond ...
And I really agree with the saying Brian quoted ... if we want to go far, we need to go together!
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August 14, 2004
Advice to a church planter
I found the "Advice to a church planter" given by Brian McLaren on his dialogue page quite useful to reflect on my own journey thus far. (His words in bold, mine in italics) Often interactions like this opens up one to see "new horizons" that will lead to "fresh directions" :-)
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--OK. Here’s what I’d want to say to any church planter.
1. Ask yourself what the gospel is, and then ask if you’re sure that’s what the gospel is. If you’re not, there are no shortcuts – you have to rethink things, go back to Jesus, etc. I hope my new book, A Generous Orthodoxy, would be of help to you in that rethinking process.
It's scary, the re-thinking and questioning began in a more focused way more than four years ago and I found I was often left in a very "vulnerable" state during those times. I suppose there were times I wouldn't have survived if not because of good support from those who journeyed together in this way and thanks to the internet the chance to eavesdrop and peek into other people's stories. Connecting with new found friends also helped my confidence to grow and be affirmed that this process is worthwhile and rewarding.
2. Build a team that’s not working from a model-mentality, but that’s on a journey mentality. They want to journey with you, explore with you, think and learn and grow with you. That’s an important difference.
I must admit I wasn't too sure how our team really functioned when we began. I suppose we had our illusions and expectations, loaded with other baggages we brought along with us form our previous experiences. Coupled with all that most of us were and still are in a life-stage where we just got married and are having our first and second child. Others are happily single! We did start with some kind of "model-mentality" I think (more experimental at least for me) but indeed the "journey mentality" is crucial because then we are more willing to learn from failure rather than beat ourselves up with guilt. I guess, right now we need to allow these values to surface up clearer and with more focus so we won't fall back into a rigid reigning model-mentality which has infected practically everyone who seeks to have a "successful" church.
3. Think about what kind of people you want to form. What do you want them to look like? Not look like?
I think these are very important questions because so often we're talking the language of the abstract when we need the concrete pictures before us. And yet, the sensitivity not to turn these into a new legalism must be there. I like the phrase "New Obedience" I glanced in the Augsburg Confession a few nights ago. As far as fashion sense is concern (in terms of clothes), I think we're not dogmatic at all :-) Seriously though, it's been a great challenge to work out how Kingdom values (as we discover it slowly) looks like in our fast changing world. I have some "image" and "idea" like a sermon forming in my mind (e.g. a kind of order and balance in our life, work and ministry, the way we relate to people especially those who don't profess to be Christians, the little we can do to make a difference in our world like blogging, etc) but the challenge of usually language that's full of clarity and charity in word and deed is a long term "work in progress"
4. Think about how people like that could be formed. What kinds of experiences, services, activities, practices, traditions, rituals, learnings, involvements, and forms of community would form people in the desired way?
I must admit we have tried quite a lot of different ways and yet old thinking habits die hard even if we change the outward ways we do things. At times, I'm clear with why we use certian activities and projects, but suddenly I'd realize that many might do it without that kind of awareness which I was hoping for. The other aspect is how these forms can be long term and also integrated first in our local congregation, and then somehow reaching beyond us into our neighbourhood and networks, the wider church etc.
5. Think about how people who will subvert your mission can be politely redirected. Decide whether you will take adequate action in this regard, and realize it will be costly.
I guess this is one area that I struggle with the most. I seen more than a few leaving us for all sorts of reasons. Most of the time it's not so much of an upfront desire to "subvert our mission" but more of the inability to "connect" with what we want to do. It's never pleasant to face these realities and dealing with it face to face is somehow not easy. Learning to "let go" was one painful lesson through the past 4 years, and yet maintaining a posture that "invites" others to this mission is still a strong value for me.
6. Take whatever timelines you are thinking about and multiply them by 10, or maybe 20 or 100. In other words, prepare to be patient. Fast results are usually about ego needs, not effectiveness for the kingdom of God.
This is one of the best advice given here so far. Almost everything I wanted to do is delayed at least 4 years!!!! And that's a little faster than the 10, 20 and 100 McLaren suggests. I attribute that to pure "surprises by God" then. And there's still so much more to do ... I often wake up wondering which on first, and how long, what's next?, what now?, that kind of questions
7. Stay close to God. Smoke what you’re selling (as my friend Rob Bell says): in other words, make you number one priority to actually live the kind of life you want people to live through your church.
In all honesty, I really believe in the values, vision, and mission I believe God has entrusted our young congregation. There are times when we stumble and I personally struggle a lot to live them all out. It's a constant battle behind the scenes in heart, mind, spirit and soul even body. At times a kind of "Elijah"-I'm alone syndrome sets in and then quickly God reminds me of the bigger picture and others along the journey. After my mini-one-month-sabbathical, I feel affirmed and energized to persist on this journey with more confidence and clarity. Who I am and who I'm becoming with Christ as my center is of utmost priority ... then I can serve out of honesty and integrity. I'm so thankful that there are family and friends who also believe in this ... we don't walk alone ... we walk on together!
I hope that’s helpful.
Brian has been one of the most helpful English writers I've read so far and also he's been very consistent in providing quality reflective insights in all his writings. For that I'm grateful ...
Malaysian Idol
Ok! I was away from my home country Malaysia and was wandering in UK and Germany :-) so, I was never really in the "craze" that's come to our warm climate. Last night was the first time, I actually sat down and watched the show "live" on TV while jumping on and off to check out the "Disney's the Kid movie on the other channel.
There were times when the songs and the singers managed to tug me a little, and other times the were goose bumps all over. And often due to the comments by the judges :-P Our Malaysian contestants are so so shy overall and a little reserved. There were some nice moments and there are good singers, the moves are usually jerky (but then I'm clumsy *grin*). Judges maybe trying hard to do a "Simon" here and there (if you know what I mean). It's a fabulous idea to make money through SMS for the respective parties (that's just an uneducated guess!?). And I wonder how much of the results were due to important forces of "family" (both distant and near) and "friends".
There are some thoughts that sprang up relating this to Malaysian Christianity but then I'll let that "itch" left unscratched for now.... I'll leave that to the imagination of the reader.
Truth
I got this from Answering Islam which is resourceful and informative Christian-Muslim dialog site.
August 13, 2004
Random Thoughts before picking up Gareth
I was tremendously encouraged, blessed and energized by the kind words offered in Messy Christian's post on "Church of Bloggers" . When some of us started blogging and I speak especially for myself, I don't think we could imagine some of the "blessings" that came out of the exercise-discipline-habit-obsession?! It's always nice when someone else mentions you in their blog especially when it's on the "blessing" side of the spectrum :-)
Nice to get quoted in the LWF News (hehehe) on "LWF Study Team Considers Lutheran “Grammar” to Engage Current Ethical Topics". I said nothing profound just some genuine hopes that we grassroot fellas truly benefit from the hard work from those at the top. The quote made me feel someone actually listened and felt what I said was important.
Last night, I also enjoyed the energy bubbling in our last Baptism & affirmation class (classically called catechism). Still infected with the Luther Bug, I actually read through some parts of Martin Luther's Large Catechism (which was designed for pastors) and found it refreshing. The Group has glued pretty well and I believe it'll will morph into a genuine missional community as a LiFE Group.
Slowly, I'm settling into my "normal" life and ministry mode. There have been some disturbances in my system maybe because after being away, one is more sensitized by stuff that I have not felt so strongly about in the past. Here's a sampling ..
- I was troubled to look with "fresh" eyes some pamplets promoting some Christian meetings and was struck by the lack of Christ-focus and the overwhelming personality focus and human centredness.
- Walking through a Christian bookstore, I wished that some good books to be present because somehow if that's all the Malaysian Christian public is digesting then it's a sad state of affairs. I feel God has better goodies for people who are open to be "shaped" by His agenda.
- May Chin told me about some interesting comments and conversations she heard on "Christians", it convinced me again that many "versions" of Christianity displayed by well meaning and maybe sincere believers do not represent the best that the Gospel has to offer. We are seen as people who talk much but do little, proclaim one message but live another, and we're quick to give advice, answers, and instructions or solutions without really listening and connecting with those around us.
- I was appalled (again!) at how ungracious and unkind and downright ungodly Malaysian Christians can be towards other people (especially their fellow brother and sister in Christ). Rumors unchecked and spread, dogmatism on areas where actually there's a good variety of solid options, power-play that stiffles creativity and stops healing possibilities, the list goes on. Worse is when we hide behind so called intellectual-issue based discussions.
The UK-Germany trip helped me unplug and gain some perspective for me personally which I much needed. In the process I felt that coming back there's fresh "perspective" on other matters as well. It's not that there's nothing good happening in Malaysian Christianity but there's much that will harm us and stop us from truly living to our God given potential from the grass-roots to the top!
Well, no matter what... it's good to be plugged back into "home improvement" realities. I pray that there will be ordinary people amongst us that will do what's needed to see "better Christians, more Christians in community" emerge "for the sake of the world" and "for His glory"... Amen
How to be Creative
Thanks DB for this link ... I'll just cut and paste the main points (for more you need to click the "more" in the original post!)
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So you want to be more creative, in art, in business, whatever. Here are some tips that have worked for me over the years:
1. Ignore everybody.
The more original your idea is, the less good advice other people will be able to give you. When I first started with the biz card format, people thought I was nuts. Why wasn't I trying to do something more easy for markets to digest i.e. cutey-pie greeting cards or whatever?
(more...)
2. The idea doesn't have to be big. It just has to change the world.
The two are not the same thing.
(more...)
3. Put the hours in.
Doing anything worthwhile takes forever. 90% of what separates successful people and failed people is time, effort and stamina.
(more...)
4. If your biz plan depends on you suddenly being "discovered" by some big shot, your plan will probably fail.
Nobody suddenly discovers anything. Things are made slowly and in pain.
(more...)
5. You are responsible for your own experience.
Nobody can tell you if what you're doing is good, meaningful or worthwhile. The more compelling the path, the more lonely it is.
(more...)
6. Everyone is born creative; everyone is given a box of crayons in kindergarten.
Then when you hit puberty they take the crayons away and replace them with books on algebra etc. Being suddenly hit years later with the creative bug is just a wee voice telling you, "I’d like my crayons back, please."
(more...)
7. Keep your day job.
I’m not just saying that for the usual reason i.e. because I think your idea will fail. I’m saying it because to suddenly quit one’s job in a big ol' creative drama-queen moment is always, always, always in direct conflict with what I call “The Sex & Cash Theory”.
8. Companies that squelch creativity can no longer compete with companies that champion creativity.
Nor can you bully a subordinate into becoming a genius.
(more...)
9. Everybody has their own private Mount Everest they were put on this earth to climb.
You may never reach the summit; for that you will be forgiven. But if you don't make at least one serious attempt to get above the snow-line, years later you will find yourself lying on your deathbed, and all you will feel is emptiness.
(more...)
10. The more talented somebody is, the less they need the props.
Meeting a person who wrote a masterpiece on the back of a deli menu would not surprise me. Meeting a person who wrote a masterpiece with a silver Cartier fountain pen on an antique writing table in an airy SoHo loft would SERIOUSLY surprise me.
(more...)
11. Don't try to stand out from the crowd; avoid crowds altogether.
Your plan for getting your work out there has to be as original as the actual work, perhaps even more so. The work has to create a totally new market. There's no point trying to do the same thing as 250,000 other young hopefuls, waiting for a miracle. All existing business models are wrong. Find a new one.
(more...)
12. If you accept the pain, it cannot hurt you.
The pain of making the necessary sacrifices always hurts more than you think it's going to. I know. It sucks. That being said, doing something seriously creative is one of the most amazing experiences one can have, in this or any other lifetime. If you can pull it off, it's worth it. Even if you don't end up pulling it off, you'll learn many incredible, magical, valuable things. It's NOT doing it when you know you full well you HAD the opportunity- that hurts FAR more than any failure.
(more...)
13. Never compare your inside with somebody else's outside.
The more you practice your craft, the less you confuse worldly rewards with spiritual rewards, and vice versa. Even if your path never makes any money or furthers your career, that's still worth a TON.
August 12, 2004
Unnatural Toil
"Unnatural, frantic, anxious work, work done under pressure of greed or fear or any other inordinate passion, cannot properly speaking be dedicated to God, because God never wills such work directly. He may permit that, through no fault of our own, we may have to work madly and distractly, due to our sins, and to the sins of the society in which we live. In that case we must tolerate it and make the best of what we cannot avoid. But let us not be blind to the distinction between sound, healthy work and unnatural toil."
~ Thomas Merton, New Seeds of Contemplation, p.16
There are groups (even so called "Christian" ministries or businesses) that seem to glorify "work done under pressure" and often in the name of serving God's vision when it seems to me there's more of other motivations hidden which I suspect is not close to Kingdom values at all (it's just gut intuition mixed with careful observation has sparked such statements). Worse is when I can't see "space" given to those working or serving in these organizations for reflection and rest. Of course, I don't deny that there will be times when one will "have to" work under such circumstances (we don't live in an ideal world) and I've had my own share of this in my 7 years of "full-time" ministry and other years serving as "non-full-time".
My problem is when this "acknowledged reality" is turned into the "routine ideal" often as a sign of success or even higher spirituality that irritates me. The worse, is the over-reaction to such "non-sense" that creates another group that swings to the other pendulum and won't do anything unless there is "pressure". I look forward to a time where our motivation and efforts are birthed out of love and grace as the primary source (in the midst of the non-ideal environments). We're looking into the long term here ... God's agenda not human ambition and fame dressed in "spiritual-sounding-seem-to-be-noble" aspirations which often and most of the time crowds out the God whom we proclaim to serve and set up an idol which is very much in our own image..
Ok! I admit there are specific contexts and distinctly Malaysian experiences that's behind the mini-rant above. I'm just sick and tired of people abusing the good intentions and sincere desire of those who genuinely want to love God and serve people. Count this as one of my first complaints or "laments" before the Almighty (in the tradition of the Psalter) and pray with me (and if there's opportunity do something about it!). I pray many will see the greener pastures and refreshing trees that awaits them outside of the "prison" that they are locked in. "Bring Freedom to the Captives, Lord!"
August 11, 2004
Inside Worship
I think this library of a variety of articles and videos would be more accessible to those who had difficulty with the more theological stuff in the last post.
The Revisioning of Worship
Back to "normal life" today, looking at what I've missed for a month and what's coming up for the rest of the month. I was delighted to be drawn back to the topic of "Worship" eavesdropping as well as conversing through a couple of emails.
After a few pretty good knocks on the head and sqeezing of my heart, i've sought to invite those who are interested in the topic (especially corportae worship) to move beyond songs and music (though they have an important role especially in recent years). "Liturgy" is now a good word for me (redeemed and repolished!) and I'm more interested with the our deeper understanding of how corporate worship is to be understood and how it shapes the people of God. Now for that understanding to progress, we must shift into more "solid" writings :-)
I'm interested to swim a little more in the 1991 April issue of Theology Today on "The Revisioning of Worship" and exercise the matter between the ears!
August 10, 2004
When Christians Do Not Agree
I've read this paper before and forgot whether I posted it up or not. But I do think there's a lot of wisdom in ths paper on "Discussing Issues on which Christians Do Not Agree" . One thing I've realized how hard it is for us Malaysian Christians to agree (ok! that's just a fact!), but I have a sense many of us find it harder how to disagree with one another with clarity and charity. Hope we'll progress in time!
A Generous Orthodoxy
During the flight back from Germany with an overdose of "Luther" and spending time with Lutherans from 25 different countries and cultures, I was thinking back about the conversations we had and the influences that shaped us. And I found a fresh appreciation of my own unique journey thus far with much gratitude to God. During one talk with my new Hong Kong friend the last night before we left, I found myself freely sharing the interesting theological and spiritual traditions and a variety of individual authors that I drew from. The whole conversation was actually quite energizing for me! :-) And it somehow helped me to know myself better and be open for new developments because one becomes more secure in ones identity.
Thanks to Pomomusings for getting some excitement sparked on Brian McLaren's possibly most anticipated book this year. The reaction to this book I suppose might be as engaging as the content of the book, we'll see.
August 09, 2004
Two Films, Two Questions
I confess I've finally managed to watch Spiderman 2 with May Chin only last Friday (better late than never even then it was not easy to get decent seats). It was one of the things I wanted to do when I returned and just before I start my whirlwind season of ministry again. I loved the movie and there were quite a number of moments where the heart and mind was thoroughly engaged and there's lots to think and talk about as well. I like the little slogan in the Eis Webzine's Two Films, Two Questions: "Don't just see films, talk about them, think about them" Here's the 2 questions for the webslinger movie! (Thanks to Si Johnston)
1. Society teaches us that we are the centre of the world; consequences beyond ourselves are of little to no importance. Peter Parker (Toby Maguire) realises that his 'lifestyle choices' are coming at a cost to others around him. Raimi's summer hit then becomes just as much about in(ner)security, personal turmoil and identity crisis as it is about a web-slinging superhero bringing salvation for New York. How does Peter Parker's (Toby Maguire) schizophrenia mirror Christian life in contemporary culture?
2. 'With great power comes great responsibility', warns Dr. Octavia (Alfred Mollina) before he suffers at his own hands. Today, on both a personal and international level, power is an oft abused commodity. But interestingly, even in the film; redemption is born out of sacrifice. Should Christians ever work at becoming powerful? In what concrete ways can they / should they remain responsible?
Home Sweet Home
Gareth's welcome has been very warm indeed. He's grown quite a bit after one month. There are some areas that will require more fatherly discipline from my side (but that's for another day). It's just been great for father and son to reconnect after such a long separation from each other.
Ah yes! Must not forget to mention my one and only wife May Chin who has "persevered" much when her husband (me!) was running from one plane to another, walking from one Luther site to another, and sitting through loads of lectures and working groups, etc. As always, she's been keeping the "stability" and "organization" of the home in tact. There's so much going on in Gareth's development now and then there's always other expectations at work plus neverending lists of things to take care of. I really do appreciate God's special gift to me ...
"Home" is more than the place we reside in, it's the people whom we live with and share our lives with. I recall before I left for Germany I was told that I'll be separated from two important life-support systems of my life - i.e. family and church. The last few days has been wonderful to just get glued back closer with family. Yesterday, the re-orientation with the BLC family began as well with a good start. As usual, the creative work of God is constant and continuing ... :-)
August 06, 2004
Lost & Found ... On the way!
It's been quite a roller coaster ride at least emotionally. Here's how I'd look back at it ...
I was elated when I could get an upgrade from economy class to business class for the flight to Doha (as you can see in my previous post) . It was like God saying to me, "You've been serious about my Kingdom business so here's a little bonus for you, have some space to rest!" On the way to the gate though the security was so tight that everyone had a "decent" check before we entered. Gareth's present had to go through another scan just to make sure it's "safe" (seems that a "Thomas the Train set" looks suspicious under X-rays). One already upset traveller had to take off his boots for another examination. hmmm ... :-) you could imagine his mood that time.
The flight was delayed and the air-conditioning of the plane was obviously not working (by Malaysian standards) and we were all baked liked muffins (or like my Canadian seat mate in the plane said, "It's a sauna in here!" The funny thing was when the pilot apologized for this and gave the reason that we're hot because the temperature outside is hot. *grin*
Off we go about 2 hours late ... It was a good flight. These "business class" seats were really cool and I managed to get some needed "shut eye" time. Before we arrived, both Jennifer (the Canadian) and I had a good laugh watching "Just for laughs" and I was in high spirits considering that I'm going home.
My next flight was 2300 at Doha, and we arrived at 2240 so you can imagine how the high spirits changed to some other kind of excitement. As some of you know, I missed a connected flight before 10 years ago in China (now that's another story!). It's quite an experience when your name is called over the PA system in an international airport. so, I dashed to gate 4 and got on the bus taking me to the plane. It seemed they were all waiting for me (ok! there were another 4-5 others who came after me) It was a great relief when I sat down in my narrow economy seat. Phew! But somehow, I had this itching feeling that the adventure was not over yet ...
The long flight about 7 hours 55 minutes was not so nice ... after a spacious business class to economy class. Plus, the whole plane was packed on this flight to KLIA and later goint to Jakarta. Quite a number of people sleeped on the floor considering it's always impossible to get decent sleep in these seats. Watched 3 movies here and there. Only concentrated on Shrek 2 which was a nice second watch for me. Managed to read a couple of chapters of a book ... but the rest of the time was a drag and a pain.
so, you can imagine my delight when we touched down on Malaysian soil and I strolled to my Baggage claim after getting Benedictine D.O.M (which somehow I knew May Chin would have wanted me to get. I was right!) And there, my eyes went round and round for I don't know how long and my two pieces of luggage didn't come out.
The adventure has not ended yet. Hmm ... The "humour" of God maybe? What a ride ... Next. it's filing forms making a report and walking to the KLIA express train with a heavy heart. Most of my souvenirs and all my clothes were in the bags there, not mentioning the last minute chocolates I got. It was a long ride emotionally to KL Sentral station.
There was much joy in the midst of the disappointment when Gareth was "so excited" to see me. He's changed much after a month, grown up a lot. He danced round and round, hugged me and totally "accepted" me home much better than I expected (I thought he might have forgotten me after a month's absence.) How soothing!
Later when May Chin came home she told me the people in charge of "Lost and Found" in KLIA called and said that my luggage should arrive today. Of course, I'm still waiting today and hope that this little adventure will have a good ending (or more of a bonus ending). Somehow, my trips always has some juicy episodes.
So, they were lost ... and found ... and on the way ... very much like our adventures in daily life I suppose and life as a whole ... once we were lost and in Christ we're found (as the good old hymn rings!) and in many ways we're still on the way before arriving our final destination. Life doesn't have to be boring or routine, and of course, I wouldn't want to have too many "ups & downs" like this one .. and yet, what's most important goes beyond the "lost & found plus on the way" journey, it's about the meaning we discover in the midst of these outer events and the whole array of thoughts and feelings that's on the inside. So far the lesson that comes back again and again is more than "There's is a God and we humans are so so limited". It's more about "There is a Gracious God, and he's so gracious to me even though so often I'm such a mess!" ...
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound!
August 04, 2004
Surprising Upgrade
It´s great to have free internet access at Frankfurt international airport thanks to Samsung *grin*. Anyway, I´m delighted to be suprised by a random pick to get upgraded from economy class to business class untl Doha. After that it´s back to economz class It´s really nice when the Lord gives extra little bonuses like this. So, until we meet again :-D
Time to Go Home
This is my final picture here in Neuendettelsau with a Cola Beer in hand ...
It's been quite a month ...
Finally I´ve finished packing my luggage now I'm just getting my heart and mind in shape to return to Malaysian soil. Because it´s more than luggage that needs unpacking when I return ... I pray I´ve become a better human being during my time here.
I'm using the last bit of energy of the notebook battery for this post ... so when the notebook shuts down it marks a kind of closure for my mini-sabbathical. Now it's time to travel back to my "real home" ...
Whatever it is and this strange feeling I´m feeling right now (which I can´t explain), I just want to offer a big cheers to God for all the Good work he's done and I trust he'll be faithful to complete it!
"Prost! "to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit!! Amen ...
August 03, 2004
Complete ... Beginning ... Celebration
The summer school may be completed but for me as this trip is coming to an end in actual fact there are also new beginnings waiting to blossom as some important seeds have been sown in my time here. The certificate (which maybe just a piece of paper with important signatures and information) represents more than the words written there, it's about all the days I've spent here, the people I've met and hope to meet again, the lessons interwoven in the official programme and the informal times, the ups and the downs ... etc.
It was good to just have a nice farewell party ... the celebration may mark the end of the summer school 2004, but I think it marks more of a beginning of more that God intends to do in us and through us. Celebration has both a "past", "present" and a "future" dimension, I love it! How about seeing celebration as "transition" to better tomorrows?
The two guys make the best BBQ pork I've had for a long time (the chef marinated the "yummies" with wonder!)
People lining up for the goodies ... yummy!
The feast before us ...
A toast is in order ... Prost!
Participants fooling around and having fun
Manfred our faithful companion for all these weeks giving thanks you speeches to those in front and behind the scenes.
The people are responsive! Happy people! There were lots of table talk too ...
August 02, 2004
Missional Church
"The church is not simply a gathering of well-meaning individuals who have entered into a social contract to meet their privately defined self -interests. It is, instead, an intentional and disciplined community witnessing to the power and presence of God’s reign." ~ Missional Church, Darrell L. Guder (ed.) Eerdmans 1998 (Thanks signposts for the reminder!)
As I'm getting ready to go home back to serve in Bangsar Lutheran Church , Malaysia, I'm once again reminded of the book that seriously challenged me and turned my heart and mind inside out and upside down. And yet, on the more hopeful side, the concepts I discovered there helped me have some directions to integrate theology and methodology. I still find myself unpacking so much there even until today ... and the framework has helped me re-think church, our mission, and even my own Christian faith in this fast-changing world as well as open up some directions theologically and practically for the future.
Random Thoughts after "coming back"
In many ways especially after staying in Germany for almost three weeks now, Neuendettelsau has become our "home" and all of us were really looking forward to come back. But, deep down I feel it and I can sense it from most of the others, it's time to go back to our "real home". I'm counting the days and the hours.
The past three days has been so full of walking that my toes have gone sore. The mixture of the Luther sites tour, two visits to more "recent German history" sites plus all the informal walks have been good for the mind and heart but the body has got some "beating"!
During the whole trip I was thinking a lot about home and some issue that cropped up, but God indeed has been gracious and pulled me through. There's a lot to catch up back home with May Chin and Gareth as well as friends, church and much much more.
It was already overwhelming with tons of information on Martin Luther and the reformation as well as the real life stories of the concentration camps of world war two and also the final input on the wall that divided east and west Germany. And then when I begin to think about the work that's due when I return I feel a mixture of joy and some "overwhelming" feeling too .... it's a real paradox.
I've taken more than 2000 photos so far and will be sorting them out in due time. And hopefully manage to post them on the photo gallery in this site. And there's also so much "raw" material for deeper "reflection" that requires a kind of slowing down so I could process all these insightful information given.
I was very encouraged when I got a little news about BLC's Orphanage visit by reading Daniel's blog here . I really wanted to be part of the trip but somehow couldn't make it. But, I believe I managed to be part of it through prayer as I timed myself to intercede for this important small step for us.
Today is the last Sunday I'll spend here for my mini-sabbathical here and it was kind of a climax as well given a chance to worship at the church where J.S. Bach was the church musician and where his grave is located. For me, I felt it was special because music and the arts has always been very much part of my Christian life and ministry.
Yesterday we had a kind of climax for the Luther sites with the visit to Wittenburg where the spark of reformation got started. It was quite sobering to take pictures at the grave of Martin Luther and also his good friend Philip Melancthon . An interesting comment by the guide (who is a Finnish Luther Scholar) is how both of them were great friends as well as co-partners during the reformation even though they were vastly different espcially in terms of personalities and temperament. When the focus is on God's agenda I believe we can move beyond the difference we have in the way we are wired and put out energies in what's beyond us! I REALLY pray for that to happen in the ministry I'm involved in.
Well it's a late night ... I thought I'd try to put some random thoughts up before I sleep. Prost! (cheers! ... in German)