Archive for the ‘Meditation’ Category
The nice thing about being in a conference is the rhythm of a schedule. I don’t need to worry what is going to happen next.
The conversations during the meal times are usually unexpected and interesting. So far, I found myself engaged in topics such as young adults today, the ups and downs of secondary schools, the issue of land and church buildings, and of course, the regular toppings on politics and the current climate we are in.
Good to be reminded that God not only worked in the past, and revealed himself in the past, he continues to do so today in the life experience and history of today. I’m listening to a series of examples in a community like what we read in Exodus, and also in a person like Job. This is also found in the New Testament, and the scripture reading for today included the letter to the Ephesians.
Oh yes, I need to spend some time on Ephesians. I’m a little overdue for my proper “solitude” day.
So I wonder how does God manifest himself in our day to day life today? How does God show himself even through people whom we consider “unable” to perceive God or not the “chosen people”?
Obviously, there are examples to clearly in the scriptures that God showed up in the lives of the non-privileged groups. “God’s revelation is not frozen” has been one phrase repeated thus far.
back to some random thoughts.
It’s always nice to see the variety of church leaders in a context like this. Bishops in their purple, Salvation Army leaders in their uniform, those from the Orthodox tradition with their cassocks, some in batik, and me? I’m happy with jeans and I’ll put on a collar later (it’s comfortable)! 
I realized so often while we may not like it, we tend towards what Luther calls “the Law” – what we should or shouldn’t do, what we have or have not done. A lot of our discourse also can be captured by the phrase the “paralysis of analysis”. The tendency towards raising questions (which is great) but I wonder whether so much of it, it’s actually disempowering.
The seeds of transformation to me seems to be sown and later will grow in the midst of discourse which is “creative” and even “playful”. Break out of our polarities a bit, or come out of our boxes, and a surge of energy oozes out. But of course, there’s also the ground experience is that we won’t see transformation happen speedily. I do think however, that this “experimental” and “open” space is crucial because if not we’ll be bogged down by “analysis”.
I’m learning more and more the need for deep analysis, as well as more detailed thinking. But only when it’s backed by more free wheeling explorations of possibilities, that we can break free from the past.
Since, the Bible study is about God still manifesting himself himself past and present. So, he shows up as we analyze the past and present, and he also shows up from the future helping us to relook at the past and present.
I think the coffee is finally kicking in. The Bible study is probably coming to an end. And we’ll have another long day.
It’s good to return to Parker Palmer’s book, A Hidden Wholeness the last couple of days. How often we start reading a book without finishing it and then return to it later to devour its treasures.
What has been lingering in my mind since resuming my reading has been the whole idea of “the Empty Self”.
The contrast which Palmer draws with reference to “Secularism” (which focuses on the self as a “social construct”) and “Moralism” (with is focus on “selfishness”) has been most helpful. Perhaps a quote to let us hear him out, he obviously wants to move deeper and beyond this polarity:
I have met too many people who suffer from an empty self. They have a bottomless pit where their identity should be – an inner void they try to fill with competitive success, consumerism, sexism, racism, or anything that might give them the illusion of being better than others. We embrace attitudes and practices such as these not because we regard ourselves superior but because we have no sense of self at all. Putting others down becomes a path to identity, a path we would not need to walk if we knew who we were. (p.38)
In Malaysia, we’ve been bombarded in public discourse on the superiority of race. Either all out in the open, or secretly in private conversation. I’ve read it in the news, and I’ve heard it over coffee. Just when we think it’s the problem of some supremacist fanatic, we suddenly realize we’re talking the same lingo in private.
And isn’t it true we usually go along the lines that the “self” is either a “social construct”, i.e. the product of years of indoctrination, propaganda, lack of education, and so on. Or, we swing to the other side and claim it’s plain “selfishness”. The fact is it’s probably a messy mix of both. But Palmer’s words made me pause, because this is one key insight we often miss. There’s so much effort to “fill” ourselves in public or in private because we’re simply empty.
Once we recognize that in us and even in others, there is less anger or fury but more sadness and tragedy. How did we land up this way? What do we need to do now? How can we move forward with freedom? These are inner battles one needs to engage in.
But alas, it’s hard because it’s not easy to translate the honest recognition of the empty self in public. It’s not easy to enjoy a cup of coffee when bullets are flying across the table. But having said that, I hope there will be some of us who can find gaps between the fire power, and breakthrough the smoke and damage. Perhaps, even starting with ourselves, our families, our faith communities, we can begin reassessing ourselves. The moment more of us do that, then an sample group or environment is cultivated for us to then find our true selves (in Palmer’s words), and with that form true communities.
This requires such a long term commitment. All levels need to work on this. As a person of faith, I see this as a deeply spiritual and theological process. Others might see it simply as getting back to basic humanity. Well, where we start, we better get started before we destroy ourselves. Or more tragically, we won’t have a world left behind for our children.
I agree with Palmer and won’t ignore the reality of selfish acts which will hurt us. He says it better than I do:
There are selfish acts, to be sure. But those acts arise from an empty self, as we try to fill our emptiness in ways that harm others – or in ways that harm us and bring grief to those who care about us. When we are rooted in true self, we can act in ways that are life-giving for us and all whose lives we touch. Whatever we do to care for true self is, in the long run, a gift to the world. (p. 39)
From today onwards, when I say “take care” (which is take care of yourself in short I think), it would carry the depth of this blog post meaning “take care of your true self”. That’s our gift to the world.
EACH TIME I SPEAK or teach or gather together in some other way with folk from our local congregation, I am aware that each one of us sits next to a pool of tears. Each one of us carries in our hearts personal wounds as well as the wounds of the nation. Each one of us groans, not only with our own painful longings, but also with the painful longings of that part of the world where we live.
- Trevor Hudson with Stephen Bryant
Listening to the Groans: A Spirituality for Ministry and Mission
It’s been a while since I’ve posted reflections based on the quotes like the one above. I know for many people it’s hard to deal with “tears”. We are uncomfortable to feel vulnerable. The pain may be too hard to bear. We might be concerned how others view us. For some, it might be a sign of weakness or immaturity – move on, get over it quickly they say. Well, perhaps it’s easier for those words to come out when we are at a distant (or choose to be distant).
For me, while I must admit I like many are not most comfortable with “tears”, but I’m learning to understand more and more, what “a pool of tears” means for those who carry “wounds” that cannot be simply ignored. There’s something about being human that requires us to feel deeply. Sure, being immobilized with emotions is one thing. But then, shoving them aside or burying them prematurely may not really be a true sign of maturity or intelligence.
We don’t have to fear tears – whether our own or others. One day there won’t be any more tears. For now, we embrace them as part of our pilgrimage.
With so much disturbing news these days, is it too much to pray for at least one good day? And then savor it fully. One for the evening, and for the week ahead.
The whole 8 minutes is worth every second. Jonathan Brink’s words below kind of lead me there:
"Perhaps we will find ourselves drawn to the author who believes in us enough to leave so many pages blank
(HT: Aaron Loy )
BECAUSE GOD INTENDS OUR ENEMIES TO BE OUR ALLIES and friends someday, Jesus insists that we pray for them. Such universalism is a challenge to any age. People find it far easier to write off individuals, even whole groups, as evil than to maintain a sense that we’re all in this together and need to work out differences.
- Robert Corin Morris
Provocative Grace: The Challenge in Jesus’ Words
I don’t think it’s ever easy. But that’s the least some of us can or are willing to do. It’s not the end, but a start. Enough said for now.
I’m a little more tired than usual. so, less normal blogging. This short animation made me think and feel. I don’t think enjoy is the best word, perhaps pause and see what happens is better.
MERCY IS NOT MERELY FEELING SYMPATHY. Mercy is extended by one who has the power to condemn or punish but chooses not to. We choose not to criticize, not to say, “I told you so,” not to exact our “pound of flesh” – not to avenge. As Jesus shows us in his interaction with the woman caught in adultery, mercy does not look back at what the person has done but forward to what the person can do in the future.
- Mary Lou Redding
The Power of a Focused Heart: 8 Life Lessons from the Beatitudes
The temptation to exercise that power to punish or condemn is so real in personal relations with those whom have wronged us or simply in our view is wrong. The whole debate on who’s on the right or on the wrong will never end. And whenever possible a particular judgment or position must be made, but that doesn’t stop us from extending mercy.
Recently, as I was asked to step in to help in a conflict situation in a official and organic capacity. This was foremost in my mind, how does one make sure justice and what is right is upheld and yet at the back of my mind recognize that fragile human beings are involved in this. It’s too easy to reduce the “other” or “another” in black and white terms when often it’s not the case, even if what has been done is clearly out of line.
Being conscious of the need to extend mercy at least on a personal level keeps me sane even when on a public official level one needs to operate in a way which seems at first not that merciful.
THE CLASSIC DEFINITION of humility offered by Teresa of Ávila is to walk in the truth of who we are. This means accepting our weaknesses and our limitations as gifts of God as well as our strengths and talents. Given that definition, what does walking in the truth mean for you? How can you regard yourself as God regards you? How can you become more grateful for the way God has created you — in light of both your strengths and weaknesses? Meditate on these words and let them give you the courage to fulfill your calling as a minister of the new covenant. “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”
- Meeting God in Scripture: Entering the New Testament (via Walking in the Truth)
A lot of the our inner tensions and frustrations stems from the fact that we find it hard to accept ourselves. In our cultural context, especially in one that’s less affirming, sometimes we feel guilty for even appreciating our strengths.
Teresa of Avila’s definition of humility is good stuff.
to walk in the truth of who we are.
Nothing more. Nothing less. The more we are able to do that for ourselves, the more we are able to offer that kind of space to others. So often, we’re focused on other people’s issues, and get uptight on why they are or are not truthful, the fact is this will always be the case whether we are stressed out or disappointed. It won’t change the fact that it’s more preferable to hide behind the safety of a mask.
But when we start even in small ways an honest assessment of ourselves, and if possible through the eyes of God – whether at our best, or worst, as well as that which we are growing , and other aspects which are stagnant, it’s a better place to start.
Good for meeting ourselves, definitely the place to meet God, and surely others would find it safe to meet us too.
My dear children, don’t let anyone divert you from the truth. It’s the person who acts right who is right, just as we see it lived out in our righteous Messiah.
- 1 John 3:7, THE MESSAGE
Dream Awakener JR Woodward was kind to invite me to contribute for an on-going blog series called The Good News, which is taking place throughout the Easter Season, from Easter to Pentecost. Please read on below, and check out the others on JR’s site.
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04.17.2009
Illustration by Nidhi Balwada from India
This entry is a part of an on-going blog series called The Good News, which is taking place throughout the Easter Season, from Easter to Pentecost. A full list of the contributors can be found here. Sivin’s local city newspaper is The Sun of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia . Here is Sivin Kit on the Good News.
THE GOOD NEWS
There has been a lot of bad news in Malaysia for quite a while. Perhaps more will come. The fabric of Malaysian society in public and in private are faced with forces pulling people apart and pulling people down, crushing dreams and aspirations, and sowing seeds of distrust or destruction.
We are moving into the 6th By-election in the coming month after a roller coaster ride in Malaysian politics since the last 12th General Elections March 8, 2008. Corruption, power play, law suits, racial religious sentiments played up, political coups and turmoil occupy our newspaper every day until I have concluded subscribing to cable TV is a waste of money when reading the front page has more twists and turns.
We have had a new prime minister sworn in during April 2009. But we don’t know whether it means we are geared to a better future. That is front page news.
Out of the sight of the public eye, there battles with cancer, struggles with credit card debt, shaky marriages, children at risk, no job security, refugees on the run, the list goes on and on. Life must go on, somehow. Of course, there are those who will say it is not that bad. Maybe, but we have to tell it as it is. In all honesty, we all know it is not that good either. Let’s agree it is a mixed bag of news for now.
So, What is the Good News for our city? What is the Good News for the people living in Malaysia?
The story is not over yet.
As a Christ-follower, I do not want to and cannot slip into hopelessness, numbness or worst cynicism. On Easter Sunday, I heard the good news again – in the form of a personal reflection after meditating on the words of the Apostle Paul in his letter to a young church found in the New Testament (1 Corinthians 15:1-11).
“Everything can change, will change, or more precisely has changed because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Every change we desire, or better God desires for the good of the world and all people works through us not out of obligation but from an overflow of the grace of God in us, and working out through obedience and an ongoing re-orientation to the reality of our Living Lord.”
It is good news when after I sat and listened to my new Buddhist monk friend share about how and why she became one, the parting words were, “How did you become a pastor?” We will continue this conversation again as we work together to share strategies on Religion and Society for common good in a project directed to the government and the public.
It is good news when more than a few Muslim friends who are unhappy with the way Islam is used for political mileage in our country, have begun to sit down and work things through with respect in small steps. It begins as simple as an email exchange on a controversial topic on the use of the word “Allah” to translate “God” in the national language Bahasa Malaysia which we have done for ages.
It is good news when two car loads of people could sit with new friends who ran away from their home country and have been stuck here for the past 5 years weaving palm crosses celebrating Christ and God who has not abandoned them. There was no short term possibility yet, mere presence of people who cared enough to be there was sufficient for now.
It is good news when the life story, convictions and dreams of my 23 year old friend and fellow Christ-follower Markus impacted almost every sphere of society that is fragmented by race, religion, national identity, economic standing, and politics. He died in his sleep on February 4, 2009.
Yes, even death cannot stop this change where glimpses of the kind of world God is dreaming of is caught by those who stop and take notice. A fresh look at Christ’s resurrection invites us to stop and take notice of the influence and ongoing impact of this person Jesus Christ – his life, his death and most of all his resurrection, who’s story is not frozen in the past but continues in the present.
There’s something good in this story of Jesus. The good news is there is something good which can and will happen here and now even in the midst of a world full of bad news, death and destruction. God is not finished with us yet. I think the good Archbishop of Canterbury says it quite well:
“Resurrection has started. How do we know? Not by working it out and adopting it as well-founded opinion, not by deciding that this idea suits us, not by getting all the arguments straight, but because we are dimly aware of something having changed around us.”
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Sivin is the Husband of one wife May Chin, and Father of three children Gareth (7), Elysia (4) and Ewan (1). He’s the pastor of Bangsar Lutheran Church, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia which was resurrected in 2000. He finds some time to be involved with Friends in Conversation and The Micah Mandate. He is wondering whether he will ever finish his part-time Masters of Theology with The South East Asia Graduate School of Theology. Finally, He is addicted to Potato Chips and blogging at his garden. He needs prayer is all areas