Sivin Kit's Garden

Random Link 93

Where was God? An interview with David Bentley Hart.(Interview)
Might jumpinto a book by Hart during Easter to "stretch" me ... paragraphs like this is enough to get me excited:

" Christians often try to distinguish between what God wills and what God permits or allows. But does this distinction really help? If God allows something, or creates a world in which evil is allowed, then in some sense isn't it part of God's will?

There is no other world that God might have created, not because he is bound by necessity, but because he is infinitely free, and so nothing can hinder him from expressing his essential and infinite goodness perfectly, in and through the freedom of creatures created to be the fellows of his eternal Son. "

POMOPOWERPOST
I'll pick one glaring statement ... "Jesus is Lord and neither modernity nor postmodernity are."

VineyardSongs.com
nice downloads here

In praise of SLOW
Thanks Maggi highlighting this from Carl Honore, In Praise of Slow. .. "Being Slow means never rushing, never striving to save time just for the sake of it. It means remaining calm and unflustered even when circumstances force us to speed up. One way to cultivate inner Slowness is to make time for activities that defy acceleration--meditation, knitting, gardening, yoga, painting, reading, walking …"

after evangelical terms
can we redeem the term?

Random Thoughts on a Quiet evening

It's quiet now ...

Traffic jams in KL nowadays are starting to drive me nuts. But then again, it has always been driving me nuts. some days more than others.

Posting "The Easter Kemunting Holiday" pictures has been therapeutic and is an exercise to suspend time a little longer or learn to re-live moments which often are left behind too quickly.

A conversation at a funeral on Friday made me ponder and wonder again our ethics in evangelism. Lord, have mercy on us ...

Highs and Lows can be so close to one another ....

Listening to some fascinating Malay songs right now.

The weather the past week has been in extremes ... daytime sunshines and evening storms :-P My health has not been tip top as well. And it's not just me.

Moved to listen to some English songs now.

I've been meeting many unchurched people lately ... each has a story to tell, is there anyone listening?

I know I've made many mistakes ... I know I've failed many expectations whether it's from myself or others.

James 1.22 stood out for me today at the LiFE Group meeting: "
"And remember, it is a message to obey, not just to listen to. If you don't obey, you are only fooling yourself." (NIV)

The space for prayer and meditation at the LiFE Group meeting today was so precious for me. I treasured the moment.

It's grace when one is offered a second chance ... even a third chance .... grace is rare these days.

Physically I was a wreck last Sunday, thankfully I still managed to pull through a 2 hour commissioning service translating here and there for a number of people.

I was surprised to hear some words from my aunty which lifted me up so much when I needed it. It's just so good to hear them from another human being and especially from one whom I respect and one who's paid the price in many ways to sow the seeds that now are growing in my life.

She made sure that I heard them again and clearly over the phone during the week. This is the season of Easter, I sense God is doing something to bring new life to me ... quietly and gently. I'm well aware the challenges are not over (when are they ever on this side of heaven) :-) I don't deny there comes a time when even when God places wonderful gifts before us, we may hesitate to recieve them ... but these are the gifts of grace he brings to us in our time of need.

Oh yes ... My aunty's name is ... GRACE.

The Easter Kemunting Holiday 2.5

I'm always fascinated by the "wonder" shown in a child ... and Gareth helps me a lot whenever I tempted to lose this "wonder". Our trip was full of surprises, one of them was meeting up with the Wong family who happened to be in Cameron for a holiday too! Then we also bumped into our German friends in Jalan Kemunting too!

Left on my own I probably would have cuddled in a bed and slept or found a quiet corner to sleep. But when we go as a family ... bringing our kids to the Butterfly farm and appreciating these flowers like these makes us take note of things we'd likely miss if we were left to our own devices!

it's nice to still manage a family photo ... :-)

Random Links 92

My DVC rant(via Stephen Shields ... amazing DVC linker)
quite a refreshing different take on the matter (I mean movie ... or novel). Some juicy sentences like "one of the first rules of exorcism is that you never answer the devil's questions. ... If you are going to risk your eternal soul, it should at least be over something noble and romantic and big. If you are bound to damn yourself, then at least let it be over a torrid and star-crossed love affair, or out of tragic hubris that sought know What Man Was Not Meant to Know, or over some insane and violent of country, or out of desire for titanic powers to manipulate nature or some Byronic despair over a cold world's rejection of a Great Artiste. " :-)

JKA Smith on Postmodernism
Let's see when this book will come to our shores ....

Defining Missional Church
A good one here ... "A missional church is a community of God’s people who live into the imagination that they are, by their very nature, God’s missionary people living as a demonstration of what God plans to do in and for all of creation in Jesus Christ.”

The Supposed Faith of our Founding Fathers
I come from a totally different context but see similar impulses ... but from an Islamic perspective?

The Catholic Luther
I couldn't help but pause and go to the link

Great quote from Foucault
Two years ago Ididn't even know who he was ... my favorite quotes for tonight are:
"Develop action, thought, and desires by proliferation, juxtaposition, and disjunction, and not by subdivision and pyramidal hierarchization."

and

"Do not become enamoured of power.

Pioneer Online Activist Dies
I'm beginning to appreciate contributions of people I never knew more these days.

People of the Way

"The early Christians were known for the way they lived, not only for what they believed. For them, the two were completely intertwined. The earliest title given to them reflected the importance of their kingdom lifestyle. They were not called the people of “the experience” or the people of “right doctrine” or even the people of “the church.” Rather, they were the people of “the Way.” It is equally significant that the Christians were known as “the people” of the Way. More than just individuals who had been converted, they were now a people, a new community of faith, which had embarked together on a new way of life. To follow Jesus meant to share Jesus’ life and to share it with others.", Jim Wallis, Source: The Call to Conversion, inward/outward

Thanks to Bob Hyatt for this important video clip ... good pre or post quote reading.

The Easter Kemunting Holiday 2.4

we were so excited on day two Monday and went to Boh Tea Plantation near Habu. Little did we know like pastors they take their sabbath on Monday :-)

But that didn't dampen our spirit, we got more educated that's all .. i.e. don't go to tea plantations in Cameron highlands on monday! I tried to make Elysia lighten up with our national flower ...

Another lesson, the next time .. stop read the sign properly and then decide whether to drive ALL the way up or not. A little pause makes a BIG difference. However, a follow up lesson is needed. After as a fool you still drove up, make the best of it and laugh all the way down. And learn ... internalize .. do whatever in order not to repeat the mistake ... share with others. Look closely: CLOSED ON MONDAY!

Later we checked out our upcoming August 31 - September 2 church retreat venue. Don't judge a camp venue by it's sign board, we're looking for vintage classic looks anyway. :-)

Nice chalets, walls that's got "feel" (and history), upgrades inside too - see the little girl crawling on the bed! This is authentic stuff .. minus the "flamboyance" of modern day hotels. There's lots of history and heritage here... lots of church camps. Some of us came here as kids and teenagers! There are stories to tell.

the tables at the canteen brings me sweet memories ... it's also equipped with a cool vintage pulpit ... it's going to be wonderful!!! :-) I can already imagine. check out that ping pong table!

Mrs. Leong (who's helping to manage this place) tender lovingly offers these gifts of beauty ... for the surroundings. I'll end this post by reminding myself... the country I call home and the beauty God's creative work is expressed here. Before we did anything (usually we make a mess of it), God's natural artistry as seen through the flowers especially has gone before us. We need to follow his lead ...

Romanopoly

Food .. fun .. friendship ... in no particular order :-) I'm looking forward for this ... hope everyone invited can make it so ... for more info email me!

That’s Who God Is

(From Maundy Thursday,
April, 23, 2006, Bangsar Lutheran Church)

"It is crucial to move from principle to practice — from idea to embodiment. The Word became flesh. And we beheld his glory. The essence, the very being of the ultimate, was there for us to look at, to behold, to touch, to be with. Just as we see God in the historical Jesus, now people will see God in us, as the resurrected Jesus forms us into a literal cell in his own global body.

Of the early Christians it was said, “See how they love one another.” About us will it be said: “If you want to know what God intended for human life to be, free of the idols which can’t produce, which can’t save us, look at that little group, that little cell. That’s who God is. Hang around with them. You’ll be touched by the divine, by eternity, by the holy.”~ N. Gordon Cosby, inward/outward ...

Easter 1.10: The Voice on Earth’s Wilderness

John 3:7 - 15

A late pastor once remarked that a lot of people go to church to escape reality. He remarked that some people lived a dream life in church while struggling to keep their lives in order. Sounds very much like us sometimes right? We too, seem too preoccupied with the joys of heaven but do not want to inherit the earth and be its salt.

Like Nicodemus, we have expected to hear the voice of God concerning “heavenly things” but have not stopped to discern the voice of God concerning “earthly things”. It is good that we believe in the unseen (John 20:29), but why is it hard to speak of what we know and “testify what we have seen” (v11)? It sounds more like “How can I love God who is in Heaven when I cannot love my own neighbor who is on earth? (1 John 4:20)” It sounds very harsh but the truth has to be squared out. When this question is brought up, what then does eternal life mean?

For us, eternal life must not just be about living forever (lets worry about that later), but about how we live the Christian life. Just as Moses lifted up the snake on the bronze serpent, how have we lived to lift up the Son of Man? We have done much to lift Him up on the cross, but have we lifted Him up on high, in glory here on earth, and most importantly, in our lives?

By baptism, our faith in Christ implies a love for God and neighbor (1 John 5:1-2). We can begin then, to discern His voice on Earth and live the eternal life by bringing the joy and hope that comes from Easter to those who need and yearn it. By our love and actions, not words, show Christ unto them. Amen.

REFLECTION: Open the ears of our hearts Lord, that we may hear Your voice here on Earth and lead the eternal life gained by faith.

(Meditations contributed by Collin Nunis)

Easter 1.9: What Does It Mean To Be Born Again?

John 3:1 - 8

Nicodemus was a closet disciple. He seeks Jesus out, though surreptitiously in the dead of the night. Why? Nicodemus is a "leader of the Jews", "a teacher of Israel" (3:10), and a member of the religious party most opposed to the teaching of Jesus. In fact, in John 12, the summary statement says that it was Nicodemus' own group, the Pharisees, which intimidated the authorities against confessing Jesus.

Jesus does not directly answer Nicodemus' question. Instead He engages him in a seemingly unrelated topic of conversation. Jesus says that rebirth is necessary to enter the kingdom of God. Of course, Nicodemus the Pharisee has already found religion, so he thinks that Jesus must be referring to physical rebirth. No, Jesus responds, someone who is reborn spiritually knows the experience as surely as one who has been refreshed by an invisible breeze. How can a respected rabbi among the Jews not know this (3:10)? And that is precisely the point.

Nicodemus is the first of what we might loosely call the official clergy with whom Jesus has personal engagement. In John, chapter 7, the Gospel portrays Nicodemus as a defender of Jesus' right to a fair trial (7:-51); in chapter 19, Nicodemus helps to bury Jesus with honor. Nicodemus did not understand the new birth which Jesus spoke of until the resurrection. What does it mean to be reborn? The new birth Jesus speaks of is a spiritual birth to new life and relationship with God as his sons and daughters.

This new birth is made possible when one is baptized into Christ and receives the gift of the Holy Spirit. God wants to renew all his people in the gift of new life in his Holy Spirit. This new life brings us into God's kingdom or heavenly rule. What is God's kingdom? God's kingdom is that society in which God's will is done on earth as it is in heaven.

However, this new birth implies change. It calls for a change of heart and mind, most importantly, attitude. It is Jesus who works this change in us, and when we allow Him to take charge, we are empowered to become what we could never have been, and able to do what we ourselves thought we could never do (v8). And if we have not been able to emulate Christ previously, let this Easter be a starting point.

REFLECTION: Lord Jesus Christ, you offer us a new birth in the Holy Spirit. Renew in me the gift of faith and new life in your Holy Spirit. Grant that we allow Your wonders to work in us.

(Meditation contributed by Collin Nunis interesting that when the readings were assigned, I didn't purposefully give this to Collin who's a member of the Roman Catholic Church in Malaysia ... I appreciate his unique contribution to our series thus far... he even got one of the Jesuit Fathers to guest write for us, this is exciting isn't it? ~ Sivin)

Easter 1.8: In Touch with "Thomas"

I'd like to introduce my young Roman Catholic friend Collin Nunis who's our next contributor after Alwyn takes a break ~ Sivin.

John 20:19 – 31

Thomas was the last apostle to meet the resurrected Lord but was the first to go with Him to Jerusalem at Passover time. The apostle Thomas was a natural pessimist. When Jesus proposed that they visit Lazarus after receiving news of his illness, Thomas said to the disciples: "Let us also go, that we may die with him" (John 11:16).

While Thomas deeply loved the Lord, he lacked the courage to stand with Jesus in His passion and crucifixion. After Jesus' death, Thomas made the mistake of withdrawing from the other disciples. He sought loneliness rather than fellowship in his time of adversity. He doubted the women who saw the resurrected Jesus and he doubted his own fellow brother disciples. When Thomas finally had the courage to rejoin the other disciples, the Lord Jesus made His presence known to him and reassured him that He had indeed overcome death and risen again. When Thomas recognized his Master, he believed and exclaimed that Jesus was truly Lord and truly God!

Have there been times where we have doubted our Lord? Have there been times where we have doubted the presence of the Risen Christ, a symbol of hope and joy, in the faces and the lives of people? Its time to believe in the unseen, that we may see it from our hearts. Besides, if there are people who forgive and intend to make peace with us who sometimes offend, isn’t it a sign of the Lord’s presence? Amen.

REFLECTION: Jesus, You are a source of hope. Let us be instruments of the joy, hope and warmth that only Your resurrection can bring. Amen.

Easter Meditations: Coming Soon

My sincere apologies for the delay in getting the pdf done. Fingers crossed. This Week .. let's make it so!!!

The Easter Kemunting Holiday 2.3

These would be some of my favorite artsy photos on the second day first morning.

there's always something special about the sunrise.

my "Joshua flower" and "Joshua Tree" :-)

The sunrise and sunflowers are a perfect match.

from a different point of view

The Easter Kemunting Holiday 2.2

We had the same breakfast everyday ... cornflakes, milk, juice, bacon & eggs, toast, jam and coffee .. and they were all good.

It's been quite a while since we have had breakfast together as a family. Nowadays, May Chin and Elysia will be off early to my mum's place. Gareth then would wake up to have his cereal and I my coffee. So, these times were precious. As usual I land up finishing off what the others "left behind".

By the way, as far as these pictures are concerned we are still in "day 2"! As you can see I am savoring the moments. :-)

An "early" Response to another Response

I read this letter with interest highlighted a blog post by Egalitaria (please go to her link to read the full letter). It represents one response to efforts like Reaffirming the supremacy of the Federal Constitution. so with my morning coffee I send her a comment to contribute some questions to what is raised in the letter. Here's my humble breakfast offering:

1.

Sivin said,

April 24, 2006 at 7:52 am

like it or not this is the kind of response we will need to grapple with. Sounds like a more “layman” view where technical nuances of law, history and language are unclear or even confused. To this person, I think approaching the subject via the route of Malaysia is a secular state and we need to restore a constitutional Malaysia seems to backfire even though I’ve heard speakers linked with Article 11 clearly stating they are not against Islam the religion but against it being used in a way that may be abused - and would affect the over all well being of the country.

I see the process of engaging views like this response to be a challenge and requires something more than a “constitutional” approach - which to me appeals very much to “the clear mind and cold head” this author is talking about while I “feel” his concerns are more “warm” hearted. so, again we have a situation where there’s no one size fit all approach. I think the Art 11 and Bar council efforts are appealing (and targetting) a segment that is not represented by this author. Perhaps, a “conversational” approach which touches on his/her concern as following might be helpful:

1. historical perception and interpretation (e.g. “Malaysia is an Islamic country not just from 1957 but dated from Malacca Sultanate. “) - Can one see Malaysia as an “Islamic state” metaphorically like people perceive the USA as a “Christian Nation” even though technically or consitutionally it’s more nuanced and complicated? Is there space for that for the common Malaysian Muslim.?

2. Political education and clarification (e.g. “The model of secularism such freedom to profess any religion, freedom of speech and human right already delivered by Malaysia. I see the secularism is carries by the people with hidden agenda.”) - what is the political or governing model of Malaysia? a hybrid or has it evolved? there’s appeal to the past for continuity but how can we talk about the future considering current realities?

3. Confusion and misinformation (e.g. “… requesting the abolishment of Article 121 (1A). This is totally absurd and unjust to Malaysian Muslim. The amendment introduce because the Muslim had treated unjustly by court before the amendment took place. And now we heard that this small group wants to reintroduce this unjustly article under banner of justice.”) - What was the context of the amendment of Article 121 (1A) - the history, the process and outcome? Then list down the examples of how perhaps because of this Article or the interpretation of the artilce that has caused injustice either way.

4. A “Better” Malaysia (e.g. “For sake of this country lets focus on more important issue such as the merger of different school system that creates and nurture division among us. And I do believe we should move forwards for better Malaysia.”) - What is a “better” Malaysia? How can we move towards a better Malaysia internally between people who are similar as well as different? How can we collectively work towards our agreements and work through our disagreements that sets us apart in this globalized conflicted world? Education is one important place to start … but what are we educating?

I thought I’d try to let some of my questions emerge hopefully graciously as “inspired” by this response.

The Easter Kamunting Holiday 2.1

My first two morning photos. I miss the cool early morning and the beautiful sunrise. The freshness, the morning dew, the sunflowers, the smell of morning grass ... ahhh. These pictures are my way of savouring the moment in my imagination. What an awesoem God given gift to humans. :-)

I love this swing where the family can sit and enjoy the sunrise. it's been a while since could sit with my kids and have a good swing. With that kind of whether cuddling Elysia took on new meaning. She's always "cool" and "calm" no matter what (apart from times when she's irritated.

Cute to see Gareth adjusting his pants while coming down the stairs. One thing for sure this is all a fresh experience for Elysia.

I love this scene where Gareth walks with May Chin along the road for the cars to come in and out. The leisurely pace of the mornings is something I REALLY miss right now. Every morning was a breath of fresh new life. I'll keep that in my imagination this Easter season.

Emergent Easter Eggs

The truth the whole truth and nothing but the truth
Yes ... it's out in the open ... emergent doesn't mean "I am a relativist!".

Church Emerging by Brian D. McLaren (pdf)
So that's why Brian doesn't like the term "emerging church". :-)

this is emergent
this is good ... I like the botanical metaphor.

Origin of the terms "Emerging" and "Emergent" church - Part 1
This post brings back some memories of the days I saw this development from afar via the internet.

Origins of the terms "Emerging" and "Emergent" church - Part 2
This following paragraph might actually summ up what many of us feel ... "It is confusing and I get confused thinking through the terminology sometimes as they mean so many different things to different people. But it really is not important to be making any distinctions of the terms "emerging" or "emergent anymore. What is important is whether or not our churches are faithful in serving Jesus on the mission He sent us on, and whether we are seeing the gospel of Jesus change lives and make a difference - not whether we are "emerging" or "emergent" or anything else for that matter."

An Interview with Brian McLaren (Criswell Theological Review pdf)
I think Brian does well in interviews. A number of us here in Malaysia are looking forward to a face to face conversation with him when he comes to our humble home.

An Interview with Brian McLaren - Circuit Rider
Another interview here .... I like his last answer which is not the final answer :-)

Easter 1.7: Life Overflowing

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. (2Cor 4:16-18)

It’s a prize which eludes most people, even the successful ones. How many multi-A students do you know who never seem to be satisfied with their grades, always in fear of the next exam (I’m a teacher, so I see this a lot…)? How many richer-than-average people are there who look and talk like they’re about to be food insecure very soon? How many prettier-than-plastic women (they’re usually women but men aren’t entirely exempted here) behave as if three new moles are about to erupt on their cheeks, even after spending bombs and bombs in the salon? How many more techie whiz kids will our society produce who never seem to enjoy his new toys for more than a week or so (this is one reason why I find repulsive the idea that I need to actually spend money to replace my 10-year-old cancer afflicted hand-phone when there are so many non-used, ignored though perfectly functioning mobiles just SITTING in many a teenagers’ cabinet!)?

It’s almost as if no matter how much one attains the symbols of success in this life, one is never gratified. It’s like the finish line keeps moving. Like the policy which never matures, the sleep-debt that’s never paid off, the sickness that doesn’t leave.

Now we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life.” (2Cor 5:1-4)

What you can see won’t last. What can die isn’t life. What’s embodied isn’t near to God. Maybe that’s the answer. That the here-and-now life we have is also the less-than-full one awaiting us.

I can’t wait to be ‘swallowed up’ by the life God wants to give me. In the meantime, I will look forward to my heavenly residency and new God-sown clothes by inviting Him spread the sweet honey of eternity over the stale bread of the present. That our time here would be deliciously full, fulfilling and overflowing with the goodness of Jesus.

(Meditation contributed by Alwyn)

The Easter Kamunting Holiday 1.2

Our destination was the Lutheran Mission Bungalow, Jalan Kamunting (now I've leaked out why it's called the Easter Kamunting Holiday). We've tried booking it before but failed everytime. After there's a change of management this year, we're happy to finally get a room.

The food that welcomed us the first evening ... was totally designed for someone like me. Western food - with a cool evening. Mummy May Chin was excited as you can see! The kids were ready ... and I finished off whatever the other family members couldn't finish!

The food was great .. the environment just what we needed. The service was simple and nice. We were surprised to meet someone though :-) what a small world.

We checked into room no. 2. The kids were fascinated by the bed lights. Glad to have had some to help me read before I slept. I didn't manage to read as much as I wanted as it turned out more time were trying to get our "younglings" to sleep!!!!

The Easter Kamunting Holiday 1.1

My longest distance so far lately has been to down south Seremban, Port Dickson or Malacca. I've always liked the scenic drive up north towards Ipoh and this round Cameron Highlands. We chose to use the new highway which was 40km more but a smoother drive. It rained heavily when we left Kuala Lumpur. But we had clear skies as we approache the foothill of Cameron Highlands.

We made one pit stop at the Tapah R & R ... I bought some chips to energize me for the long drive (it did!) Gareth was sleeping most of the journey. When he got up he had lots to say about the hills and the mountains he saw. Elysia is seen here having fun with her hat! Mummy May Chin looks happy ... this has been a long awaited family trip. We missed th last post Christmas holiday because the kids and later May Chin fell sick. We're grateful this Easter holiday materialized ... more on why "Kamunting" tomorrow.

Easter Season Family Photo

Finally I could upload the latest family photo we took at Cameron Highlands. The rest will be either one of us missing because we're holding the camera. :-)

Easter 1.6: Mega(-Real) Movie

As vampire movies go, Underworld is one of my favourites. It’s got just the right amounts of action, gothic style, ‘intelligent dialogue’ and adrenaline-pumping thrills. And in the second movie, Underworld: Evolution, we had a powerful vampire lord whose sole mission in life was to discover the whereabouts of his brother, a werewolf, in order to set him free from his lifelong imprisonment - how many monster movies have brotherly love as a driving force?

The underlying motif of both films was the creation of a superior hybrid of either vampire or werewolf, one more powerful than the existing species. And which vampire movie fan hasn’t secretly half-fantasized about actually being a vampire and be immune to disease, have super-human strength/agility/senses, maybe even the power to become invisible every now and then?

“For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality.” (1 Cor 15:53)

Immortality. Christians believe in this, too. Except it’s not expressed in the form of un-aging, bullet-proof bodies, but as that which God’s children get to wear as their reward. Like brand new gown or tuxedo which exudes a – ooh! - splendid shine on their wearers, make them look more beautiful, newer even.

Our promised imperishability reflects power over death and all that might quench true life away. For when we are decked out in glory,

…then the saying that is written will come true: "Death has been swallowed up in victory." "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?"

This is where, I suppose, Jesus has a major point against any Master Vampire. Because even thought vampire bodies are far more powerful than normal, they are not indestructible. There’s still the stake-in-heart gig (plus lots of other unpleasant outcomes) which a vampire fears. ‘Eternal life’, for these bat-people, is a matter of continued earthly existence. One would imagine such a creature fearing death even more, clinging on to life because there is nothing beyond.

Disciples of Jesus, on the other hand, have nothing to fear. They look forward to conquering death. They work joyously to give their lives in labour and love, the labour of love, for their communities.

“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Cor 15:58)

Victory. Power. Everlasting life. Eternal value for all our hard work. This is no Underworld myth, but the universe under Christ.

Coming soon.

(Meditations contributed by Alwyn)

Easter 1.5: The Jesus Product

“Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:16-20)

The next few paragraphs might come across as offensive to those involved in some way with MLM companies. One pastor I know compared MLM with Mammon. A god with a life of his own, an expansion plan which has found its way into today’s churches. I personally agree, if only because with MLM schemes one doesn’t sell products. One sells the opportunity to make more money – how? By getting others to buy into the opportunity as well. The ‘product’ or ‘service’ is an enticement to greater wealth. No one who isn’t extremely naïve realises this after a while.

Jesus’ most popular post-resurrection directive to his disciples was to go and make more of themselves. They were to tell people about Jesus, baptise them, teach them His commandments and instruct them to do the same. And on and on it goes. A little like multi-level marketing (MLM), except no ‘upline’ gets credited with a certain number of ‘down-liners’.

It wasn’t about organising something against their persecutors, be it the Pharisees or the Romans. It wasn’t about making money or improving their self-esteem. It wasn’t about separating themselves from their context and communities in the world. It was sharing the message. It was about creating Jesus-valued and Jesus-following individuals throughout the world.

What’s the pitch? What’s so fantastic about ‘signing up’? It won’t be because one gets to earn big bucks in a matter of months. It won’t be because one could earn a trip to Sydney after attaining a certain downline target. Nada. Yet the Christians grew at a phenomenal rate a few decades after the resurrection of Jesus, effectively taking over the Roman empire within a few hundred years.

It was because people – amazingly, incredibly – find attractive the idea that their Maker is going to make the cosmos right, including their very lives and has in fact completed the first phase of this rescue mission by sacrificing Himself for us. And this loving Creator calls us to continue the battle until the whole world is redeemed. This message, in some uncanny Jerry Maguire sense, completes us. The idea that life might be about radical giving, about welcoming the outcast, about proclaiming freedom to the oppressed and those in bondage - maybe this is what we were made to be.

Action: Compare the reasons for joining MLMs’ and the reasons for becoming a disciple of Jesus. Do you agree with the assertion that MLM is a modern-day manifestation of the God of Mammon Jesus warned about? (You don’t have to agree, of course – but it’s certainly a question worth asking, don’t you think?)

(Meditation written by Alwyn Lau, note: MLM is Multi-level marketing ... I also noticed thar Alwyn is REALLY good with titles ~ Sivin)

Random Thoughts while I can't upload my photos!

I'm wondering what on earth is going on with my server or whatever ... I've got loads of photos to upload and show the world!!!

patience .. I'm growing older ... noticed more and more greys on my head .. hope it's signs of wisdom or lots of folly :-P

The Cameron Highland Family trip was indeed a breath of fresh air ... in fact lots of fresh air. Funny we stayed on a road called "Jalan Kamunting" :-)

Still warming up my "engine" ...

what series shall I try once I can upload pictures?

I've been eating pototoes everyday since Sunday. It's Easter friends!

The traffic in Kuala Lumpur is crazy!

nothing much to say ... perhaps I should do some random links...

but before that, I'll put up another Easter meditation .. hope to get the design and pdf done ASAP.

Feast for our Bodies

We're back from Cameron Highlands. I'm deeply grateful to God we as a family could start our Easter Season with a much needed time away from the busy hurried stuffy draining enviroment of Kuala Lumpur (and all that's connected not just with the city physically but also metaphorically). We definately had a good feast for our bodies up there in the highlands :-) That's why the following paragraph caught my attention this morning. Our bodies (and all that can be connected to it metaphorically *smile*) are not something we try to escape from but is God's creation which he redeems and resurrects!

"This is a feast for our bodies, these marvellous shapely organisms that we have lived with for years, and are as central to us as our minds or memories. We shape our bodies, especially our faces, as the years pass. As the proverb has it, the face we have at forty is the face that we deserve. But we feel the body’s frailty in every scratch and hiccup, in every backache and sleepless night.

The apostles and the holy women did not see a ghost of Jesus. They saw him in the flesh, but in different flesh, as the oak tree is different from the acorn from which it grew. We touch on the mystery of a body, not just Jesus’ body but our own, which will express us at our best, will not blunt our spirit with weariness and rebellion, but express it with ease and joy. This is a mystery beyond our imagination, but it is the centre of our faith. As we grow older, nothing in our faith makes more sense than the Passion and Resurrection, the certainty that our body, like Jesus’, must suffer and die, and the certainty that we, in our bodies, have a life beyond death."~ Sacred Space

Easter 1.4: Triumphant Tremors

“There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and…rolled back the stone…(Jesus) has risen from the dead and is going ahead of (the women) into Galilee...they were afraid yet filled with joy…” (Matthew 28:1-8)

A colleague of mine showed me an email she wrote as a challenge to a recent management decision. In the letter she spoke up for certain individuals whom she felt didn’t deserve the treatment they were receiving. She voiced a concern that should the decision be accepted, an injustice would’ve been done and that the integrity of the organisation would be in jeopardy.

She signed off with a light-hearted, though paradoxically apt, phrase made famous by Kierkegaard: “Sincerely yours…with fear and trembling.” She meant, of course, to describe her own feelings about having confronted her superiors but the nuances are irresistibly abundant. Was it necessarily fear she was trembling with or could it have been anticipation and excitement? Was the fear meant only for her or also those she was addressing? Who or what would be trembling? Just her, or other people, or the situation as a whole?

In the Bible reading today, Matthew writes about an earthquake, an angel, a miracle involving the supernatural movement of physical matter (what else do you call an angel pushing a large stone away?), an unthinkable, unimaginable announcement: Jesus, the One who when alive embodied symbols, worked miracles and made claims in a way one could only describe - with fear and trembling no doubt - as the Messiah of God, was no longer in the tomb. He was, in the ultimate (trans-)embodied act of Jewish redemption, risen from the dead.

Jesus was right. His enemies were wrong. Jesus was favoured by God. His enemies cursed. Jesus’ message was the true one. His enemies’ were lies. God’s vindicating act is embodied in the man and message of Jesus. No wonder the women at the tomb were afraid yet filled joy – they had just been given news of an act of God. Who wouldn’t tremble with euphoria? Who wouldn’t shudder at the realisation that one is standing at the locus, in the presence, of the divine? Only those who have decided God isn’t worth taking seriously.

In the presence of holiness, awe. In times of shame, stillness. When carnal meets consecrated, trembling. When death meets Jesus – resurrection.

Action:
1. If Jesus’ resurrection represented a defeat of evil at its core, how can we manifest this victory in our everyday lives? What specific acts or habits or policies or attitudes must we confront with the power of God?

Easter 1.3: To Dance Again

“But Christ indeed has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.” (1Corinthians 15:20-23)

I have sat by the bedside of two grandparents days (and even seconds) before they passed away. I can recall their flesh having given up on them, their strength withering away like the beating of their hearts. My weeping for them couldn’t prolong their life, my prayers felt empty. And while I am convinced their time here has not been in vain and that they have given all the love they could, a part of me wish they – and every other sufferer – didn’t have to face mortality in all its ghastly reality.

Can I believe, and act like I believe, that I will see my grandmother again? In much better shape than my last memory of her? Do I dare to dream of hugging my grandfather and dancing with him and his new creation leg (replacing the one that was amputated at the knee to stop the spread of gangrene up his body)?

No, the Christian faith isn’t a just-you-and-God-alone affair. Eternal life in Jesus isn’t about your ‘personal salvation’ alone. It’s really about everything. It’s your new life, your new body. A new life and body for your family and your community. A new life, even, for knowledge, for emotions, for animals, for flora and fauna, for the stars (and the quarks), for the cosmos.

New! Fresh! Nothing any eye has seen or ear heard! Up-to-the-eternal-minute pristine!

Thank you, Jesus. For the newness you will infuse into our souls and bodies.

Action:
1. How does the knowledge that we will receive new, glorified bodies impact the way you think and treat about your body here and now? How does it change (of at all) how you perceive a situation involving the death of a loved one?

~ contributed by Alwyn

Easter 1.2: How Real The Gap

“He has risen!” (Mark 16:1-8)

Dead and rotting. Alive and powerful! The images couldn’t be more different, more disparate. One is filled with the darkness of nothingness, the stench of decay, the sorrow of loss. The other has the light of being, the aroma of new humanity, the joy of living loving and sharing. One exposes ultimate weakness, the other perfecting newness.

Maybe we don’t draw this contrast deeply enough. Too many glorious Easter church services, too many Easter cards, too many happy-looking Easter bunnies and yummy-fied Easter eggs. We can’t feel and can barely imagine the utter dryness and complete negation of the tomb.

We are worlds (almost literally) away from the first women on that first Easter morning. Jesus’ mum, Mary Magdalene and another woman named Salome set off expecting to find sad traces of a love forever vanquished only to be witnesses to undying love and incorruptible life as never before. “He has risen!” rings very differently in modern capitalist 21st century than it did in the feudal-agrarian first.

Jesus has risen.
Jesus has risen from the dead.
Jesus has risen from the dead against the odds.
Jesus has risen from the dead against the odds and against every evil in the universe.
Jesus has risen from the dead against the odds and against every evil in the universe so the universe is given a new birth.
Jesus has risen from the dead against the odds and against every evil in the universe so the universe is given a new birth and we are re-birthed too when we accept this newness He has to offer.

Action:
1. Think hard: What surprises you most about Easter? What do you think should surprise all of us?
2. What analogies or stories can you use to communicate the surprise and awe of that first Easter morning?

~ meditation by Alwyn

Easter 1.1: Eternal Word, New Writing

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)

Think of yesterday. Then the day before. Then another day back. And another. Keep thinking. Roll back time alllllllll the way back as faaaaaaaar as you can – bump! What do you get? Here’s what I think: You get Jesus. He’s at the beginning. He’s the start of time. He presses Play. In fact, this story is His. It’s grand, it’s big, it’s full of life, it’s filled with light. But it’s also been spoilt, it’s been contaminated with sub-stories not meant to be there, it’s got some bad words inserted by an enemy (and anti-story teller, if you will), it’s even been swerved away from the direction it was meant to go.

Kinda like Star Wars having Anakin Sky-Walker transformed into the meanest bad guy the galaxy has seen when he should’ve been the Saviour of all. Thank George Lucas for Luke Sky-Walker.

“In Him was life, and that life was the light of men…the true light that gives light to every man…” (John 1:4, 9)

And thank God for Jesus. Jesus, the Word of God has come to set the story right again, to restore all words. He’s the author who’s jumped into His own story to repair, renew and redeem it. No way in heaven or hell (or earth, for that matter) is the Bad Guy going to emerge triumphant. This isn’t some dumb Hollywood horror script leaving a nasty taste in the mouth when the curtain descends.

“(To) all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God...children born of God.” (John 1:1)

Whatever your story is, the invitation is open. All are welcome to partake of God’s great story, to merge your chapters into His book. To let the Great Author Himself copy (write) His idioms onto yours. Holy Ghost(-writing) into your heart, birthing God’s vivacity into your style, your plot, your very design.

~ Contributed by Alwyn

Easter 1.0: Foreword

A group of us managed to sit down and contribute a series of meditations. I will tell you more about how I got to know these wonderful individuals and how we became friends. Most of us are part of the emergent Malaysia conversation (some are friends of those part of the conversation) I'll be on holiday for a couple of days (thus I take full responsibility for the delay in getting the pdf file ready *sorry*) Once I'm back the pdf file should be ready and I'll post it up. For now, I start with Sherman's kind foreword and followed by Alwyn Lau's first contributions. I felt it would be good to have something to help us along the Easter Season (another 50days I think!).

________________________________________________________________________

Foreword

What happens when a bunch of friends comes together? They talk. They talk about things that matter to them. And as they talk, there is an overflow from this conversation into other facets of their lives. And soon, other people too are affected by this conversation.

It is in such a spirit that this series of Easter Meditations was written. It represents the heartbeat of a group of people who identify themselves as friends. This writing is their invitation for you to "eavesdrop" on the subjects of their discussion as people who are constantly discovering what it means to be friends of God.

Much time and effort has been poured into this simple piece of work. It is as simple as are our conversations and our friendships. It is our hope that you too will find your place in this conversational symphony. Join us as we seek to love the world and be loved in the Spirit of Christ. Have a blessed Eastertide.


Sherman YL Kuek
www.ShermanKuek.net
__________________________________________________________________________

Lent 47.1: ON FOCUS

This was meant to be tomorrow's meditation and it overlaps with Easter ... Thanks Sherman for your contributions. I will close the Lent Meditations on this Holy Saturday. The Easter Meditations (for 50 days I think) have already come in and I need to wait for three more people's submissions. Many thanks to the company of friends that has made the "Nails and Thorns" possible and are making the Easter meditations available too. ~ Sivin

This is a world characterised by many fads, frenzies, and fashion. As we journey through life, many voices seem to call for our attention, and we are bombarded daily with an unending array of choices and decisions to make and things to attend to. But this is not the way life is supposed to be for the believer who lives in the power of the resurrection of Christ. We are not supposed to live our lives in a state of unsettledness, for the ultimate work that was to be done is now already completed by Christ.

It is the power of the resurrection that enables us to live the focused life. We live not in the hope of a work that is yet to be completed, but with a confidence in a work that is finished. And because this work has been finished by Christ, who is now “seated at the right hand of God” in all victory and majesty, we are called to set our focus right. Our focus is no longer on the values and preoccupations of the current order of things, but rather, on the values and the cause of the Kingdom of God, on “things above” (Col 3.2). It sounds easy enough, but the things of this world have a greater power of attraction than we often realise.

Reflection: What are the main areas of commitment in your life? How can each of these areas of your commitments be focused on the values and the cause of the Kingdom of God?

Tenebrae Thoughts ...

(photo by ireneQ)

Reading this Meaningful post helped me recall my own thoughts for tonight's Tenebrae Service (which is a first for me too). Before I jot down my thoughts... thank you, Doulos for yours ...

"The drizzling unending downpour was clearly a foreshadow for an evening of significance. A day culminating in a night of solemn remembrance. Remembrance of what our Lord went through. The unbearable, unimaginable, unspeakable suffering and despair. As I sat in my chair during the Tenebrae service, a service of darkness, tears could not be withheld. It was a service of the darkness with a profound meaning. As each candle was blown out, my being was being overwhelmed by the sheer intensity of the emotions that I feel when thinking and trying to capture what Jesus went through. The stations of the Cross were a blessing as well. The service has helped me appreciate a little more the meaning of good friday.

It can be said that it was to be expected as when I awoke from my brief slumber this morning (sleep has scarce these days), a felt a deep tugging within me. I sensed that, today, was going to be a day unlike any other day. In the end, if you measure a day by the turn of events, it turned out that the day was as ordinary as any other day where college and work predominates. However, I felt a sense of meaning, a sense of melancholy, a sense that perhaps touches the very peripheralry of what Jesus went through.

I have never experienced a service such as this. I must say it was quite odd at the beginning but I enjoyed it. The atmosphere was absolutely wonderful and beautiful beyond words. The service was also conducted alike to a narrative. The reading of the gospel, the singing of songs without music that resonates so much deeper and the silent contemplation that speaks into the uttermost, was so meaningful.

Today, is a meaningful day for me. The best good friday I ever had. I would like to say, thank you Lord, thank you Lord…I cry, I weep,….thank you for what you have done……it means so much……

The darkness,………………….."

Journey (again) to the Cross

The last couple of years we've used and adapted from the free resource Journey to the Cross at BLC. I'll put some phrases for each stations to capture my own reflections for this season. I find everytime there's new "illuminations" ...

* Station 1, Outer Noise.

Distractions are loud. Crossing the threshold to stillness ... Seeing "what is there" or "who is there".

* Station 2, God in the Flesh.

My High Priest ...I come to you ... You made the first step first!
"That is why we have a great High Priest who has gone to heaven, Jesus the Son of God. Let us cling to him and never stop trusting him. This High Priest of ours understands our weaknesses, for he faced all of the same temptations we do, yet he did not sin. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it." ~ Hebres 4.14-16

* Station 3, Mary Anoints Jesus.

I pour out whatever I have ... Christ knows the cost it involves ...

* Station 4, Judas Betrays Jesus.

Why did it have to be a friend
Who chose to betray the Lord
Why did he use a kiss to show them
That's not what a kiss is for
Only a friend can betray a friend
A stranger has nothing to gain
And only a friend comes close enough
To ever cause so much pain
~ Michael Card, Why

* Station 5, The Last Supper.

We sit together with Jesus ... as friends.

* Station 6, Gethsemane.

There in the garden of tears
My heavy load He chose to bear;
His heart with sorrow was torn,
“Yet not my will, but Yours” he said.
~ Graham Kendrick, The Servant King

* Station 7, Jesus' Arrest.

Knocked down. Left alone. Thrown aside. Kicked around.

* Station 8, Jesus' Trial.

Firmness in gentleness.

* Station 9, Jesus' Crucifixion.

Tried to be there ... deeper tonight. "Jesus, remember me, When you come into your kingdom"

* Station 10, Jesus' Death.

*no words*

* Station 11, Jesus' Burial.

*no sound*

* Station 12, Jesus' Resurrection.

I'm waiting for Sunday. "Death is swallowed up in victory."

* Station 13, Crossroads

There are so many along the pathway ... it's not "what" that must occupy my thoughts it's "Who" that's more important.

Being A Christian ...

I finished reading John 18.1-19.42 this afternoon as the rain slowly stopped and now it's in the cool of the afternoon. The following words come timely and is "Good News" for me. ... I believe.

"Being a Christian does not mean being religious in a certain way, or on the basis of some methodology to make something out of oneself, such as a sinner, penitent, or saint. It means being a human being. Christ creates us to be human, not to be some special type of human being. It is not some religious act that makes one a Christian, but taking part in God's own suffering amid worldly life. That is what conversion means. Not to think first of one's own distress or questions or sins or fears, but rather to allow oneself to be swept onto the path of Jesus Christ, into the messianic event itself, into realization that Isaiah 53 is now fulfilled. Hence: "Believe in the gospel," or John's reference to the 'Lamb of God, who bears the sin of the world' ...

... Jesus calls us not to a new religion, but to life."
~ Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Poem and Letter to Eberhard Bethge, Tegel Prison, July 18, 1944, Meditations on the Cross, pp. 60-61

Good Friday: Tenebrae Tonight

We will gather at The Father's House (BLC Premises) tonight at 8pm for A Service of Tenebrae, or "Darkness," (for more info: check What is a Tenebrae Service?). After the service ends, there will still be some time for people to walk through the Stations of the Cross and then we await for Easter.

Baptism Revisited

Interesting insight from Rite of baptism trickles away. I most definately "resonate" and echo what Brian says ... I liked how the final words in the article was a twist from the title.

To me it's true that Baptism is rising in significance in my life and practice! :-) I will be conducting one baptism this Sunday and it's most definately significant ... and recalling the story of how our baptismal candidate has come to this point .. many major and minor decisions were involved both by him as well as others on him!

"We focused so much on the personal decision, the big deal of turning your life over to Christ, that the public, external identification — baptism — was less important in practice," says the Rev. Brian McLaren, who co-founded the non-denominational Cedar Ridge Community Church in Spencerville, Md.

Yet McLaren, who retired in January to write and lecture, sees change in the air, particularly when he looks at young church leaders such as the Rev. Rob Bell, 35, who Christianity Today once said "puts the hip in discipleship."

At Bell's non-denominational Mars Hill Bible Church in Grandville, Mich., where 12,000 worshipers gather weekly in a former mall, they roll in a portable tank every few weeks so baptismal candidates can witness their conversion to the whole congregation. "We are baptizing more people than ever," because "people are desperate for something ancient and lasting and meaningful," Bell says.

Even if baptisms aren't rising in numbers, they're on the rise in significance, McLaren says.

Baptism is "a commitment to a lifelong spiritual practice, a discipleship, not a one-time event."

Maundy Revisited

I haven't got my thoughts organized yet. There are many pictures, many moments and many reflections awaiting to be posted. It's like this opening picture I took of the tables getting ready for the Maundy Thursday service and meal yesterday.

These words in Passover Meal by DB (who has a newly designed blog!) from our church captures the feel of the event (and more). Thank DB..

"Will be good to see some pictures from our intrepid camera men so will be looking for their blogs/shots soon. Very much enjoyed the whole night which was on a bigger scale than last year where we had a small group at home and I cooked with along with Adeline. The intimacy and Jewish recipes we used made it an altogether different kind of feeling. Tonight was like a huge family gathered around a large table with many ages represented. I would like to think that eating in heaven will be like that where we can gather with many and fellowship.

It is also good to re-connect with how Jesus related the passover using his Jewish roots to what it would mean for all to follow. Having only just watched The Passion last weekend when we spent some time in silence I thought about what he went through for us. I am very grateful that in spite of the fact we mostly don't deserve it he still loves us and wants us to be with him.

This time of Lent has been odd for me in 2006 as I have been under much pressure on many fronts and I have not used the time to properly reflect on God and his sacrifice but tonight it all came together. I did not take even the small cup of wine for the toasts and I said to Sigrun when she said why not for the passover meal that I had not kept any other promises to God for Lent but that I had kept this one and it stands until Sunday.

Thanks God for taking these times to show us your love and grace even to a poor helpless sinner..."

LENT 46.1: ON BAPTISM

Rom 6.3-11

Throughout the history of the Church, people have debated over several issues surrounding the sacrament of baptism. They have argued over the significance of baptism, what sorts of people were eligible to be baptised, and even how much water should be used in baptism. The Apostle Paul clearly enunciates the significance of this sacrament: it is the believer’s identification with the death of Christ, so that in dying with Christ, we may also live a new life through the power of His resurrection (Rom 6.3-4).

Many Christians have sought the Lord as a God of power and might, but few have come to understand the paradox of the cross that bids the believer to come and identify with the death of Christ. It is only in dying with Christ that we may also live in the power of the resurrection. This death signifies the death of the old self that is to be replaced with the new self given through the resurrection of Christ. The cross is a symbol of death. We who confess the cross also confess our death, so that Christ may live in us.

Reflection: As you ponder on your “old self”, what areas of your life do you think need to be “put to death” in order that the power of the resurrection may be seen in your life?

(meditations by Sherman)

LENT 45.1: ON TRIALS

Jn 18.1-19.42

The life journey of the one who truly desires to follow Christ is one that is commonly characterised by trials and suffering. We grapple with various complications such as broken dreams, broken relationships, broken sexuality, and a host of other forms of brokenness in our lives. These experiences potentially affect the way we understand God. The important thing, in the face of these trials, is to remember the most excruciating suffering that Christ Himself had to endure in life (Jn 18.1-19.42). So painful and gory was his torment that “his appearance was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness” (Is 52.14). Our God suffered.

Similarly, our lives will never be free from trials and suffering. But we can cling to this counsel: “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the LORD. (Ps 31.24)”. Augustine of Hippo once offered this prayer in resolving to embrace the trials of life: “Is not the life of man upon earth a trial? You command us to endure them, not to love them. No person loves what he endures, though he may love the act of enduring.”

Reflection: During times of trials and suffering, what can you do to ensure that your experience does not lead to utter despair, but rather, hope in the Lord?

(meditations by Sherman)

LENT 44.1: ON GRATITUDE

Ex 12.1-8,11-14

The Passover was the occasion of God’s mighty act in delivering the Israelites from the hands of the Egyptians. As He did so, God also desired that they never forget what He had done for them (Ex 12.14). Many years later, just before the Passover Feast that God had instituted since the time of Moses, Jesus showed his disciples the very reason for the Passover itself. It was a demonstration of the full measure of His love (Jn 13.1) which would bring to light the reason for his excruciating experience on the cross. He got into the dress code of a slave. And He washed His disciples’ dirty feet.

The love of God is so compelling that the one who truly desires to understand the magnitude of that love would surely cry out “How can I repay the LORD for all his goodness to me? (Ps 116.12)”. Eternal and unending gratitude that grips the heart is the only possible response for those who have met with the God who has delivered them with His mighty hand, and then became a slave and washed their feet, and then gave His life that they might live.

Reflection: How far have you been convicted of the measure of God’s love for you? In what way is this gratitude to be made visible in your life?

(meditations by Sherman)

LENT 43.1: ON TRUST

Ps 69.8-10,20-21,31-34

Part of the suffering that Jesus endured was that of betrayal. Besides dying for the sins of the world, he died a broken-hearted man, for he had been betrayed by a friend who had eaten at the same table as he did. It must have hurt him so deeply to have a fellow brother give him over to be scorned at and tortured (Ps 69.20).

Walking in the way of Christ can at times be a heart-breaking experience. Others around you, whom you deem to be trusted friends, can at times turn you over to suffer for your convictions to follow Christ. And despite knowing these possibilities, we are still called to trust these friends in a posture of vulnerability, just like Jesus kept on trusting Judas.
William Tyndale was the man best known as the first translator of the Bible from Hebrew and Greek into the English language. In 1535, he was betrayed by a friend, taken prisoner to the castle of Vilford, and continued to work on his translation. He was unable to finish his work because he was sentenced to die a heretic's death: strangulation and burning at the stake. Such was the life of a faithful follower of Christ.

Reflection: Have there been times when you have felt betrayed by trusted Christian friends? Will you keep on trusting like Christ? Trust does not reflect on the trustworthiness of the one being trusted, but rather, on the virtue of the one who chooses to trust.

(meditations by Sherman)

LENT 42.1: ON FAITHFULNESS

Jn 13.21-33,36-38

Of all the people in the world who would deny Christ and frustrate the plans of God, we may often think that we are the least inclined to do so. Just like Simon Peter, we would seize every opportunity to say “I will lay down my life for you” (Jn 13.37). Such confidence commanded no honour from the lips of Christ, because it represented Simon Peter’s over-evaluation of his own nobility.
The path of the Christ-follower is the path of the cross. In professing that we turn to Christ and that we follow Christ, we are also stating a commitment to be conscious of the cost that we will have to pay to follow him. It is important that we be cautious to understand the demands placed upon the one who claims to follow the way of Christ before we flippantly profess “I will lay down my life for you”. The Greeks had a race in their Olympic games that was unique. The winner was not the runner who finished first. It was the runner who finished with his torch still lit. In promising to run the race well, will we be able to deliver a torch that still remains lit at the end of our race?

Reflection: Have you at times caught yourself professing a little too boldly, in speech or in song, that you would be willing to abandon almost everything for Christ?

(meditations by Sherman)

Random Thoughts before going to light candles

It's going to rain tonight. I noticed every holy week we have a good dose of rain in Malaysia. Hmm ...

Wonder who will come tonight? What can we expect?

Nice to get an encouraging email today.

the preparation for the Good Friday service was most spritiually rewarding and thought provoking.

Gareth was very good this morning. Again my son brings joy to me. Sure there's the not so pleasant times to. But it's times like this morning that eclipses the more challenging ones.

the sky is darkening.

I need to get Elysia fast! Oh my ... the whole process of getting in and out of the small car is going to be tough. Getting wet is "inevitable".

Lent is coming to a close. And Easter is awaiting us. There's no hurry. "keep hope alive!" is the phrase that rings in my ears right now.

"Advocate" and "innovator"? what's next?

There was an "evangelistic" dimension last night in a closing conversation. The stations of the cross provided a story-framework for our newcomer to get into the life, death and resurrection of Christ.

I hear the thunder ....

time to go.

BTW, the picture above is Station 13.

PersonalDNA

It's been a while since I've tried this kind of stuff ... interesting experience. Anyway, here's
My Personal Dna Report. Is this me? or ...?

LENT 41.1: ON FORBEARANCE

Ps 27.1-3,13-14

There are times when evil does seem to rule the earth. The greedy seem to prosper, and the selfish seem to rise to positions of authority. Those who truly love God sometimes cannot help but secretly ask themselves if this universe is truly governed by a righteous God.

We live under the reign of a God who is patient, forbearing and long-suffering. When the world opposes him and tramples on His authority, He is not hasty to uphold justice by taking action and punishing them according to that which they deserve. Rather, He is slow to anger. He waits, gives them time to consider and turn back from their cruel ways, and bears long with their abuses.

For some of us who agonise at the thought of living in the midst of such dark times characterised by injustice and evil, we are counselled by our understanding of God to “be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (Ps 27.14). Whilst being intolerant of evil is a Christian virtue, we must wait for the appropriate time when God will dispense His judgement on all good and evil. For now, we must wait.

Reflection: How do you tend to react at times when you find that you have been treated unfairly? Knowing the forbearing nature of God, how will you resolve to respond in such situations in the future?

(Meditations by Sherman)

LENT 40.1: ON OBEDIENCE

Phil 2.6-11

Many Christians are like little children who obey their parents with the hidden purpose of gaining favour so that they may acquire something they desire. The moral wrongness of this kind of obedience lies in its focus; the one who obeys is fixated not on the desires of God, but rather, on the ultimate gratification of his/her own desires.

Christ our Lord showed us the perfect way of obedience. He lived a life of obedience – not instrumental obedience for his own gratification – but obedience even to death (Phil 2.8). In the same way, God’s desire for His children is that they may learn to submit to Him in obedience; even to death. Obedience is not an instrument for gaining God’s favour; it is an expression of our intentions to lay down our lives for the One who gave His life for us. In the words of Thomas Aquinas, “Obedience is the perfection of the religious life; by it man submits to man for the love of God, as God rendered Himself obedient unto men for their salvation.”

Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on how far you are willing to live a life of obedience unto God. What price are you willing to pay to exercise the measure of obedience required by God? What are some things in your life that may require you to exercise a deeper magnitude of obedience towards God?

(Meditations by Sherman)

LENT 39.1: ON RETURNING

*Note: I realized when we allocated the verses for the Lent Meditations we included Sundays ... so this series will have more than 40 meditations thus far. I've been slow to post them up. So, today I'll make sure it catches up first. Sorry if it appears to overwhelm at one go. Anyway, Sherman's writings are short and to the point. ~ Sivin*

Eze 37.21-28

God’s people had been scattered and even divided into two kingdoms. They were lost, like a herd of cattle without a shepherd. But their loving God confidently proclaimed that he himself would gather them back unto him again, so that they need not be lost anymore. They would then be one nation under God, and the rest of the nations would see that they truly belonged to God (Ezekial 37.21-28).

The entire message of Good Friday and Easter rests on God’s sovereign act of gathering his people unto him; a people who are lost and who have no way of finding their way back into the arms of the loving Father. The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ shows us that this act of making a way for people to return to God was not an easy feat. It cost God the life of his Son, not to mention the emotional and physical anguish he had to suffer. Once again, this season of Lent is a reminder that God bids us to return into his arms.

Reflection: Have you found yourself straying away from your relationship with the Lord in the past year? Have the troubles of life interrupted your communion with the Lord? Come back to the Lord in honest prayer now, expressing your real desire to return into his arms. Ask for strength to endure and to keep your faith in this complex and challenging world.

(Meditations by Sherman)

LENT 38.1: ON DEPENDANCE

Ps 18.2-7

The furiously jealous king was after his life. Young David was helpless, for the king had his men sent after him. His heart was pervaded with the anguish of fear, helplessness, and perhaps even a sense of hopelessness. But he willed himself, even at such an hour, to depend on the ability of his God to deliver him from the most impossible of his life’s situations (Psalm 18.2-6).

Such is life; impossible situations are thrown at us sometimes. At times, such situations propel us into a state of helplessness wherein even our own family members and friends may not be able to help us. But such situations in life can be placed in a proper perspective. It is God’s way of teaching us total dependence upon him where human strength and abilities fail us. In times of trouble, it is God who is our fortress, our deliverer, our rock, our refuge, our shield, and our salvation.

Reflection: What are some of the situations you have faced in life that have seemed hopeless? How have you tended to react in such situations? Instead of allowing “hopeless” situations in our lives to bring us into a state of despair, we can look to God and cry out to him for help. He is indeed the deliverer who brings hope to the hopeless, and who gives strength to the wounded.

(Meditations by Sherman)

Random Thoughts before I blow out the candles

There's something special about walking through the Stations of the Cross ...

even lighting up the candles to set the stations up and blowing them out before I go home is part and parcel of the whoel experience for me.

But the greatest sense of fulfilment is when I see people coming and having the "Space" to allow Jesus to meet them and the Spirit to move amongst them. Tonight, I know there's one new friend who's not yet a Christian and I'm praying for her to meet Jesus.

There was a little post-session debrief which opened up insights on how different people responded in unique ways as they "journey to the Cross" with Jesus. The needed "pause" is critical in times like these which is "drowned" by darkness and the sight of the "light" that can't be swallowed up is "freeing!".

I didn't have a chance to make my own journey yet. Managed to take some pictures ... I hope to walk it prayerfully unhurried. The Stations of the Cross has become for me an important yearly discipline to come close to Christ. And in that process, allow my heart to disentangle from anything "suffocating!".

I like the simplicity of the stations this year.

A special was the inclusion of an Eastern orthodox icon for Station 13. That somehow served as a "window" to someting deep.

Looking at the station done with the help of the children that had the 12 disciples lined up caused me to see myself standing there as well. The question of the tempation of "betrayal" is always a challenging one. Kyrie Eleison.

The night will fade quietly... I'll be off to snuff the candles now. Perhaps with a little debrief with the last two participants.

Random Thoughts before the "Stations" Tonight

It's been a while since I did random thoughts and I haven't blogged the few series I had in mind "slow cooking".

These are "strange times".

Glimpses of grace here and there - very often when i least expect them.

where does our credibility in the constructive work of theology, spirituality and ministry come from in our quest towards what is "envisioned" as a better way?

My digital photo taking has decreased tremendously.

Once we step into an "unknown" circle or embrace "others" into our circle - possibilities arise and perspectives are introduced. This is part of "maturing" and "expanding".

Living in "liminality" stretches me ... much more than I could ever imagined. It's a necessary place for me to be ...

A glimpse of grace just penetrated through 2 seconds ago ... when Gareth laughed at his "curry puff" hairstyle.

Elysia added on by pushing the little plastic car.

Rules of engagement make us able to "engage" meaningfully. We don't have to speak the same lingo but understand what "lingo" we are operating in is essential.

Trying to get two kids in a small car while its pouring combined with a mini flood has been major undertakings!

Love the ways my kids sing.

May Chin is doing minor deco with both of them right now. The conversations are "ecologically" informed.

Lunch yesterday with a 42year old and a Twenty something was fun! They had Indian food - Banana leaf rice! I had dry pork noodles. They came earlier to finish up their stations of the cross.

"Stillness" is precious these days.

LENT 37.1: ON REMEMBERING

Gen 17.3-9

God made a covenant with Abraham and promised to bless his descendents and to be their God (Genesis 17.3-8). It was a covenant that was to be unceasing and perpetually binding. It was God’s instruction that Abraham’s descendents in the generations to come would have to also retain their memory of this covenant with God (Genesis 17.9).

We are God’s people, and he has likewise initiated a covenant with us. But in a world that often distracts us from the things of God and from our relationship with him, our memory of the covenant is often dissipated by more “urgent” matters. For this reason, we are instructed by the Psalmist to remember. It is our remembrance that will be a source of encouragement during times of trials and temptations. It is our remembrance of God’s marvellous work in our lives that will be the driving force for us to abide in him as we face the different challenges in our life situations.

Reflection: Have you often taken time to remember how God has worked in your life in the past throughout your faith journey? Take a moment to reflect on how faithful he has been through all the challenges that you have faced in the past. Speak a word of encouragement to yourself, resolving to remember that he is your God and you are his child.

(Meditations by a href="http://www.shermankuek.net/">Sherman)

LENT 36.1: ON ALLEGIANCE

Dan 3.1-30

These three men were held in high esteem by the king and appointed to high-ranking positions. But it did not take too long before their attitude caused them to fall into the king’s disfavour: they refused to worship his gods (Daniel 3.13-15). Thus began the persecution of the faithful servants of God.

We often forget that a very significant segment of the Christian believers in this world live in trying conditions. They have to suffer for their faith, and their lives are constantly at stake because of their allegiance to the way of Jesus Christ. Whilst most of us in Malaysia are preoccupied with concerns of our livelihood, our studies, and our social relationships, many of our brethren in other parts of the world are paying a high price for their faith. In the final analysis, it is necessary for us to understand how much this faith means to us. It is about knowing whom we worship.

Reflection: Have we sometimes “cheapened” the Christian faith in the way that we live? Have there been times when the goodness of God has been taken for granted in our lives? Take a moment to consider the cost of discipleship and what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. Resolve in your heart to pledge your allegiance to him through your lifestyle as a disciple of Christ.

(I realized that the meditations we did was until April 16! Thanks Sherman again for these contributions!)

LENT 35.1: ON CONTENTMENT

Num 21.4-9

God was in the process of delivering the Israelites from Egypt into the Promised Land. He took great care of them by even feeding them to ensure they would not suffer from hunger. But apparently, he provided insufficient luxuries that would satisfy their appetites and gratify their desires. Hence, they complained against God (Numbers 21.4, 5). And for their ungratefulness, they were taught a painful lesson.

God often withholds luxuries from us, for he knows the potential damage that such luxuries can cause in the life of a Christian. Materialism can kill the soul of a person. But yet, God never fails to provide for our needs, for he loves us and seeks our well-being all the time. After all, it is he who created us with his hands. But it is up to us to learn the secret of contentment in life so that we can live as people who are filled with gratitude towards God for all he has given us.

Reflection: Have you sometimes compared yourself with others and found your life wanting? Have you often taken notice of others who look physically more pleasing than yourself or who have capabilities that surpass yours? Have these thoughts sometimes caused you to complain against God? How can you exercise an attitude of gratitude as a spiritual discipline in your life?

(Meditations by Sherman)

God’s Dream

Thanks Prodiglal Kiwi(s) for this gem to bring to the surface the heart of God in all Christian ministry .

" I myself will dream a dream within you…

Good dreams come from me, you know

My dreams seem impossible,

not too practical,

not for the cautious man or woman

a little risky sometimes

a trifle brash perhaps

Some of my friends prefer

to rest more comfortably,

in sounder sleep,

with visionless eyes

But, from those who share my dreams

I ask a little patience

a little humour,

some small courage,

and a listening heart

I will do the rest

Then they will risk

and wonder at their daring

Run…and marvel at their speed

Build…and stand in awe at the beauty of their building

You will meet me often as you work

in your companions, who share the risk

in your friends, who believe in you enough

to lend their own dreams

their own hands

their own hearts

to your building

In the people who stand in your doorway,

stay awhile,

and walk away knowing that they, too, can find a dream

There will be sun-filled days

and sometimes it will rain

a little variety –

both come from me.

So come now, be content

It is my dream you dream

my house you build

my caring you witness

my love you share

and this is the heart of the matter.
"~ French Poet Charles Peguy (1873-1914)

Stations of the Cross 2006

For directions please check this or a more detailed map here.

I'm here waiting for 2 others to come and complete our stations before the event begins tomorrow night. The Holy Week has become a "sacred" time for me providing the needed reminder in the calendar to meditate of Jesus specifically his journey to the Cross. The practice of the stations of the cross has become a helpful "means" for me (and I believe for others) to encounter the wonderful grace of God in times where ungrace seems to have won the day. I'm looking forward to spending this whole week saturated in this "reality of Jesus".

Little Kit Interlude

Baby Kye Xin (Elysia) ... you bring so much joy to papa. Everytime you get excited when papa and mummy comes to fetch you from Grandma Kit's place, you welcome us with a cheeky (and very happy) smile.

Big Bro Gareth ... Papa loves it when we talk about everything from trains to tadpoles, why this and why that, going to school and going for "gaigai" (going out) -- and swimming is our favorite right?

I thank God for his gifts of joy and wonder through these two young "kits". They have indeed been special highlights during this Lenten Season (in fact since the day they were conceived!) All praise to the Creator!

Practice

" ... practice is the visible criterion that we have seriously received grace and also that we have entered effectively into God's plan. For Paul, as for Jesus, practice is the touchstone of authenticity. We are in the presence here of something that is constant across the centuries." ~ Jacques Ellul, The Subversion of Christianity, p. 6

Random Links 91

The Stages of Faith Development
Helpful not just when considering adults but also right from infancy/childhood. This caught my attention : "Pretend play or sometimes called symbolic play gives the child an opportunity to practice the roles and behaviors of their culture. As a mother cleans at the altar after worship services, her young daughter, four years old, blesses the congregation in words and movements. It is “as if” she were the pastor. This is important play! " Important play it is!

Vocation: The Crux of the Matter
This looks like a good article --> The climax at the end is good ... "we should remember that without invocation, without inviting the Word of God into our lives, our attempts to discern our own vocation will always echo back to us our own sound and fury, signifying nothing.

Those who hear God’s summons to their own full and free being IN the need of the world are truly blessed. They live at the intersection of the vertical and the horizontal. They experience the mystery of the cross. And that…is the crux of the matter." But, I think reading the whole piece gives a better flow.

Spiritual Formation Forum 2006
Looks inviting. again too far for me geographically.

The Theological Basis of the Christian Witness to the State (pdf)
After an email and engaging conversations with a group of "interesting" people .. I'm drawn to read this Yoder paper.

Lent 34.1: ON GRACE

Jn 8.1-11

She was caught in a grave act: adultery (John 8.3-5). What a shameful act to have been caught in. They were literally waiting to pound her flesh, for justice had to be served, and the one who had been caught in such a grievous act of sin deserved to be punished; even if it meant death. But when they asked Jesus what they should do with this woman, after a brief moment of silence, he dismissed their charges by pronouncing that all these “judges” were no different from this adulteress herself.

God knows the state of the human heart. We have a propensity to sin from which we cannot escape. But the grace of God is far different from the judgement of humankind. Where humankind seeks to condemn, God simply says “Go, and sin no more”. Where humankind seeks to pound the flesh and to punish, God looks at the sinner through eyes of compassion and grace. And he leads the sinner gently into the path of righteousness. He is indeed the shepherd of those who have lost their way (Psalm 23.1-6). He restores the fallen.

Reflection: Knowing the gracious heart of God and how he seeks to restore those who have fallen instead of condemning them, how would you treat a fellow brother or sister who is found to have committed a serious sin?

(meditation by Sherman)

My response:
Makes me "retrieve" this ad ...in my mind.

Random Links 90

Are There Errors in Bible?
I tried to contribute in the comments section here. :-) which landed up in a long "short" comment below :

"I'll try to keep it short. 1. I'm not comfortable with the term "inerrancy". But, I'm happy that there are more "refined" discussion on the matter through people like Vanhoozer.

2. I'm ok and respect people would want to use the term .. But feel it's important to make it a sub-catergory on the discussion on the doctrine of Scripture and revelation rather as a main catergory (even as a litmus text of one's orthodoxy.) I think the Scriptures we have is primarily a theological document (which doesn't mean that it's not scientific or not historical - but then even these "scientific" and "historical" biases are often superimposed on the texts!) The catergories of "authority", "truthfulness", "reliability" do offer a more possitive way forward at least for our internal discussions.

3. I think our "debate on inerrancy" especially in Malaysian evangelicalism (at least discussed here) is shaped much by western evangelical debates and formulations (well, we are limited in resources and still depend much on western scholarly material). perhaps as you've indicated in our interaction with how people of other faiths view their scriptures we would be "challenged" to formulate our understanding and presentation. Further more, "correctly interpreted" by who and based on what assumptions (My Luther Bug is itching here!)? That would move us into "hermeneutics" which perhaps is more of where our solutions may be discovered.

4. In terms of relating to the "others". I think the better tactical move in "conversations" and "dialogues" with other faiths and their views of Scripture is on the message they see their scriptures s well as their religion convey (cf. the last forum I went for at UM moved in that direction.

5. So, now ... from your description of the presenters above - that people of other religions are using the same tactic we've used to battle Science in the west. So, now we have the Buddhist, Muslim, Hindu and Christian all claiming "proofs" of divine origin. Where do you think this will lead to? This is an interesting development on their end especially for the Buddist and Hindu faiths. My question is why did they make this "move"?

6. Thus, I don't find focusing or fixation on "inerrancy" (i.e. free from errors/mistakes) to be that relevant overall in the schemes of things. It's necesary to clarify when they point out what our neighbors see as "errors" or "mistakes" (of course, I;d ask what are they?) - thus, the work of apologetics right?

7. I have confidence in the "inherent" :-) truthfulness in the Scriptures as the library of documents (we consider canon)and external and internal work of the Spirit ... and thus, the priority of the "good news" being heard first (trusting in faith much that can happen), rather than ... trying to convince people this is "accurate news" (which may unconsciously give too much weight resting our faith on science and history - defined much by enlightenment impulses)- of course, this is more complex than this comment can convey.

8. as for context, the critique of "postmodern" thinkers as well as those advocating "postfoundational" moves (cf. Stanley Grenz, LeRon Shults) has to me brought to my awareness how deeply intertwined much modern evangelical thought (as well as the "liberals") is with the struggle with modernity (I think this is important for us "evangelicals" here in Malaysia to take note). Bishop Hwa Yung argues along the same line in his "Mangos and Bananas" piece. I've heard from people in the NECF research commission say, "we are no friend of modernity". I think there's this engagement DR. NKW wrote which didn't seel as much as purpose-drive life! I sense there's a "fear" of people buying into "postmodernism" (whatever that means to different people "from relativism to pluralism") uncritically (personally, I see the need to anchor the discussion on postmodernism better in terms of its reaction against the modern west). Like it or not, we get the "debris of modernity" here in asia (to use Sherman's quote) and the "dust of postmodernity" (in some form or another). I think each generation needs to engage our times and the voices that are "speaking" out (and that depends on who are we listening to. A little side track, The little I know about "postcolonial" thought is that what those engaging "postmodernity" is doing "self-critically" for the west, we are doing as the generation "after the colonial" era in the mess of globalization in terms of breaking out of a "colonial" mindset of the past and a "neo-colonial" mindset of today(which is deeper that just buying Malaysian products *grin* which is a good start). That's just about context.

9. I think I went a little too long ..and may have rambled. Back to our topic, I'll submit this link for your reference:-)for another perspective http://www.luthersem.edu/ctrf/JCTR/Vol06/Perry.htm (more specific to our discussion on inerrancy).

now for some mental rest

The Bible for the Post Modern World
Bishop Wright says, "The Bible does not tell us to ignore postmodernity and carry on as though modernity were still what mattered. Far from it. The Bible tells a story which will lead us through postmodernity's necessary critique of modernity and on, through, out the other side. "

The Doctrine of the Trinity and Subordination
Interesting to see how the doctrine has effects in everyday life matters.

Lent 33.1: ON FORGIVENESS

Sherman is back with his contributions ...

Jeremiah 31.31-34

They were a people who had forgotten their covenant with the Lord. The sinned against him and adultered their relationship with him (Jeremiah 31.32). But God never forgets a covenant, and he never breaks a covenant. What he promises, he will invariably fulfil. Hence, he renews his covenant with Israel and promises to make them his people (Jeremiah 31.33).

We are often told that we must forgive those who sin against us, so that unforgiveness does not have a hold on us. But this is not why God forgives. God forgives because he loves. And for the sinner who truly grieves over his/her sin (Psalm 51.3, 4), God will surely renew his covenant with him/her. He will continue to be our God, and we, his people (Jeremiah 31. 33). And when we have known the magnitude of God’s forgiveness, we have a story to tell the world (Psalm 51.13).

Reflection: How often have you found yourself grieving over your state of sinfulness? How assured are you, upon repentance, that God truly desires to walk in faithful covenant with you? Look to him and be thankful that God forgives truly and deeply. Also, have you found a capacity within yourself to forgive others, not simply because you want to be free from unforgiveness, but more so because you want to love in the way that God loves?

Escaping the Matrix

I saw the book at the MPH bookstore that day. I'm glad they made the Mp3s and pdfs available. I was surprised that I found some help in the sessions. Alwyn blogged about it here True Meets Real. Interesting stuff ..

Random Links 89

Life lost over RM4,000
My deepest condolences to the family of Strudels Café manager Azman Khairuddin. This news is even more shocking to me personally as I drive past the Café almost every day.

Pelita Hati House of Art
Spent some time there this after noon. It's across the road of the Father's house (our church premises). The conversation with the owner was REALLY good.

Parliament speech: MCA Youth stands by Loh Seng Kok
So what does it mean to Respectfully engage each other as fellow citizens who have concerns?

Kingdom Confusion: Is the quest for political power destroying the church?
Kingdom Confusion 2: The danger of believing in a Christian America
Greg Boyd is no stranger to controversy. To have about 1000 people leave his church now that's something that needs attention.

15 Best Skylines in the World
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is no. 8. Cool.

The Inerrancy of Scripture
Kevin Vanhoozer works towards keeping the terms "inerrancy" and "infallibility".

thoughts on inerrancy
Interesting response to a blog series I've been following which closed with this summary podcast (where I get mentioned once! heheh).

Lent 32.1: TRUTH SEEKERS

One more from Rhema (thanks for all your hardwork)

John 7:40-53

Imagine a court hearing. The accused is at the dock. The charges are read and the evidences are examined. If you were the defending lawyer, what would be your main goal at this hearing? You would surely want to present the relevant evidences supporting your argument. You would challenge the assumptions of the opponent and present the actual facts of the case. Some Jewish authorities at Jesus’ time knew clearly about His claim concerning Himself. But what amazes me was that Jesus didn’t present the evidence of His birth place and lineage to the people: that he was born in Bethlehem and a descendant of David. Wouldn’t this have cleare the doubts that existed in the minds of some of the Jews who questioned His origin and mission on earth?

The problem with this situation is not that the evidences are hidden but people could only see what they wanted to see. They knew that there was something different about Jesus, but they were not willing to go an extra mile to investigate the actual facts of their situation. Their own prejudices and assumptions blinded them from seeing the truth of the matter. The question that confronts us in today’s meditation is this: how far are we willing to go to know the truth about God? When confusing and difficult situations arise, are we willing to work through the issues and seek God with a sincere heart? Or do we take the easy way out by jumping into conclusions based on our past experiences and pre-suppositions?

Reflection:
“You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart” – God
(Jeremiah 29: 13)

Lent 31.1: CLEAR AND PRESENT DANGER

John 7:1-2, 10, 25-30

The apostle John records strong opposition to Jesus, including repeated references to threats on his life. (7:1, 25, 30) Some of the Jews could not accept that Jesus was the Messiah because they claimed to know where He came from when they actually believed that no one will know of Christ’s origin. It is an irony, in a sense they knew Jesus and that He had come from Nazareth but in a deeper sense they did not know Jesus or the Father. Jesus mentioned again His dependence on the Father and went on to declare that He had real knowledge of God and that they did not. Both His origin and mission were from God. What struck me in this passage was verse 30, where we find that Jesus’ enemies were powerless against Him until His time came.

How many of you have experienced threats on your life either by illness or some form of danger. I know of someone who has been in and out hospital for the past 2 years. He was always suffering from some form of ailment or other. He hit the panic button many times and so felt that he was dying. It was very difficult to walk with him through those times. As we prayed and cried with him, we felt that God was in control but because he was constantly in a state of fear, he was unable to see God’s sovereignty. The Lord Jesus was so aware of His Father’s will and timing that He was able to continue working despite the threats that He faced on His life. May we not give up in our service for the Lord despite the opposition and hardships we may face.

Reflection:
1. Reflect on a time when you had hit the ‘panic button’ in your life. How was your faith in God affected by such a situation?
2. What can you do in order to prepare for such a situation in the future?

(Meditations contributed by Rhema)

Lent 30.1: HEART OF THE MATTER

*I realized that I haven't posted up the Lent Meditations ... Rhema Here they are and then we'll need to move on Sherman's contributions ~ Sivin*

John 5:31-47

A few months ago, I attended a wedding. Both the bride and groom are friends of mine. At wedding dinners, I’m usually most interested to hear about the ‘testimonies’ of the bride and groom usually shared by the best man or bridesmaid. It gives me a deeper glimpse into their lives. To my utter disbelief, the emcee for the dinner that night got a bit carried away and to all our embarrassment, said some negative things about the groom, though I believe it was done in jest. Because I knew the groom personally, my perception of him did not change. Unfortunately, I wasn’t so sure of some people in that room especially the relatives of the bride!

The reason why the Pharisees found it difficult to accept Jesus is not because of the lack of evidence or testimony concerning Himself. There were sufficient evidence in the Scripture and in the work that Jesus did that pointed out to who He really is. The real problem was one concerning relationship (verse 42). Because they had no relationship with God the Father, God’s testimony concerning His Son was of no significance to them. In one sense our view of God’s Word would very much depend on the quality of our relationship with God. An intimate relationship with God would lead to honouring His Word in our lives.

Reflection: How do you view God’s Word? What does this tell you about your relationship with God?

What the clergy do all week

Thanks Dave Walker for "good supplements" (i.e. cartoons) like this one. Helps to cultivate a merry heart which is good medicine!

Happy Belated Birthday BLC!

Lead us Lord ... as you've done so the last 6 years starting from April 1, 2000!

Signpost to a tired & lost traveller

"To depend on God is to be free of men, things and self. It is to be able to take pleasure in all his gifts without being slave of any. It is to be able, as occasion demands, to spend and to save, to speak and to forbear, to act and to rest, to be grave and gay, to defend oneself and to surrender." ~ Paul Tournier, The Meaning of Persons, p. 228