An Attractive Community

The Sanctuary - Charis Methodist Church

 

'Love each other deeply, because love will cause many sins to be forgiven. Open your homes to each other, without complaining. Each of you has a gift to use to serve others. Be good servants of God’s various gifts of grace.' 1 Pet 4:8-10.

After a long hiatus of more than 4 years, Charis Methodist Church returns to a new church building at Koon Seng Road. The church was rebuilt and renovated but it took longer than we expected as the Covid-19 pandemic affected the construction and development progress. Thankfully we enjoyed the tremendous hospitality of Living Hope Methodist Church who offered us their facilities so that we can continue to conduct our worship services.

Many Charisians braved on to worship together. But being away from our own premises have affected us, both in attendances at worship services and our close fellowship with one another. The leadership of the church faced many challenges including many criticisms regarding the Church development during this time but they journeyed on with faithfulness  and diligence. 

Today marks our first worship service at the new church building. Very appropriately we traditionally hold a Covenant Renewal Service on the last day of the year. As the body of Christ, we renew our covenant with God and with one another. 

GraceFields - The Charis Stained Glass Window 

The Congregation will stand before the altar facing the stained glass artwork beautifying the chancel, which I shall call, GraceFields. Credited to our brother Andrew Loh who visualised and conceptualised the work, this wonderful piece of art depicts the Holy Trinity represented by the Rays of Light breaking through Clouds for the Almighty Father, the Cross for Jesus Christ and the Dove for the Holy Spirit. The Triune God is entwined with the Body of Christ, His church in Charis, represented by the Communion Chalice and Bread. The Blessings of God in this Communion, shines like rays upon the wheat-fields ripe for harvest, the ministry and service of the Charis Methodist Church  

Indeed, when we committed ourselves to rebuild the church building we also pledged to improve our ministry and witness of the church by being An Attractive Community upon completion. What does it mean to be an Attractive Community? 

• A Engaged People. The Christian fellowship is described by the Greek word, Koinonia meaning a communion by intimate participation. It is used frequently in the New Testament to describe the relationships within the early Christian community. The early church members were committed to one another. Like them we should not be afraid to live lives of interdependence with one another. Koinonia carries the principle of Engagement; of Total Commitment.  The Bible describes this phenomenon like a living body with all the different parts gelled in unity.

'Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are many parts of one body, and we all belong to each other.' Romans 12:4-5 (NLT)

 

'He (Christ) makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts to grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.' Ephesians 4:16 (NLT) 

• A Sharing People We are a people whose relationships with one another are so deep that we share many things in common. It embraces the concept of joint participation, sharing together, caring of one another. But this closeness may present a danger of hurting one another either intentionally or unintentionally. Society often prevents itself from bearing the pain of hurt by raising up barriers and not getting too close to each other. The words of Simon and Garfunkel in the song “I am Rock” states “I have no need of friendship; friendship causes pain.”
  
  
  In contrast, the Christian network forces us to break down barriers and to share with each other; our possessions and our lives.

'All the believers are united in heart and mind. And they felt that what they owned was not theirs. so they shared everything they had.' Acts 4:32 (NLT)

'Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and be willing to share.' I Timothy 6:18

'And don't forget to do good and to share with others in need. These are the sacrifices that please God.' Hebrews 13:16 

• A Generous People An attractive community means a generous community. It is interesting that the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians used the adjective for the offering he was raising from the Greek churches in aid of their fellow Christians in impoverished Judea. The church is a fellowship of people who exhibit the principle of generosity. We should give freely as we see the needs of others within and without the church.

'..make sure the gift you promised is ready. But I want it to be a willing gift not one given grudgingly.' 2 Corinthians 9:5b (NLT)

 'You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.' 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NLT)

'Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous.' 2 Corinthians (9:11a) 

 

Now that we have the opportunity to worship and be a church at Koon Seng Road, we must not forget to go to church and worship at one of our several worship services. During the Covid-isolation months the churches were not able to meet and worship services were conducted online. Many of us, at first thought that technology and communications have enabled a new form of connectivity, welcomed the Zoom-enabled or Live-Streaming of church worship services. Even as the Covid-restrictions were lifted and worshipping in person as the body of Christ was made possible, many chose not to come to church but continue to worship online. This will be a mistake. The Bible states 

'And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another - and all the more as you see the Day approaching.' Hebrews 10:24-25

What is the cement? It is the love that God has for us, a love which we give to each another. For successful fellowship in this community of love, this love is also expressed practically by the ability to forgive and to receive forgiveness; the ability to mend broken relationships. Max Lucado (Ref 1) wrote “In repairing a relationship, it’s essential to realize that no friendship is perfect, no marriage is perfect, no person is perfect. With the resolve that you are going to make a relationship work, you can develop peace treaties of love and tolerance and harmony to transform a difficult situation into something beautiful."

The apostle Peter wrote, 

“Love each other deeply, because love will cause many sins to be forgiven. Open your homes to each other, without complaining. Each of you has a gift to use to serve others. Be good servants of God’s various gifts of grace.” 1 Pet 4:8-10.

An Attractive Community means we are true neighbours, brothers and sisters, sharing our joys and pains. We are united by common experiences, interests and goals. We are God’s Lively People. We are the Body of Christ.

One heart

One spirit

One voice to praise You

We are the body of Christ

One goal

One vision

To see You exalted

We are the body of Christ

And to this we give our lives

To see You glorified

Lionel

Ref 1. Max Lucado God's Inspirational Promise Book, Word Publishing Inc 1996

Let's Keep Christmas

"But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people." Luke 2:10

The Christmas lights and decorations are switched on along Orchard Road in Singapore for the festive season. The shops are loaded with goods and the streets aglow with Christmas decorations. Christmas is celebrated all over the world, the holiday and the most wonderful time of the year! It is celebrated by everybody; no matter one’s beliefs or culture.

BeckyAge2@Orchard Road, 1986

Now in its 40th year, Christmas on our shopping street is an annual light-up that transforms Orchard Road into a festive wonderland. 1985 was the first time Orchard Road was lit up. The Lee Family strolled down the brightly coloured streets when Rebecca was only 2 years old. 

There is a reason for this obsession with lights. This time of year in the Northern Hemisphere is the winter solstice. It is cold, damp, dark and dingy; the same conditions prevailed on that first Christmas in Bethlehem dark and dreary.

People needed something to lift up their spirits in the darkest day of winter which this year fell on 22nd December. On this day, the Chinese celebrate the Tang Yuan Festival by eating glutinous balls filled with peanuts, sesame seeds, or red beans in sweet peanut, almond or ginger soup. The Scandinavians celebrate 'Yule' with light and warmth at which time they burn the largest logs they could find to bathe in the warmth and light of the communal fire. They would cut down fir trees, the evergreens, and brought these trees into their homes to remind themselves that life persisted even in the darkest of times. 

Photo by Martin Ruegner on Getty Images

The Romans celebrated Saturnalia on the 25th Dec, a time of revelry in honour of the sun god. By the fourth century, the Christians had turned this pagan holiday from the feast day of the risen sun to that of the risen Son.

Modern traditions of Christmas are the carols, cards and Santa Clauses. Rudolph the red nose reindeer was a story written for the departmental store chain, Montgomery Ward to attract shoppers to its shops. The joy of opening gifts is a gleeful moment of every Christmas day. It is a sheer delight to see the glow and sparkle in little children's eyes when they open up their gifts. The glitter and the glow of this very commercial Christmas season entices people into believing that the message of Christmas is good tidings and good cheer for everyone. 

Now what is wrong with that? Isn't this the fulfillment of the prophecy of great joy which the angels gave to the shepherds? This joy and celebration is not a bad thing, it goes back to the sources of these holidays where at such times of cold, damp and loneliness people have needs. This year, 2023 especially, there is hardly anything nor any reason to celebrate with two major wars in the Gaza Strip and Ukraine. Covid-19 keeps coming back keeping us indoors and away from the crowds. 

But a celebration, both sacred and secular help relieve the stresses of these times. So, Christmas has become a cultural tradition for everyone, every year. I hope that this will not change for many more generations to come.

It is true that the commercialization of the Christmas can confuse its central message. What is Christmas all about?  In a Charlie Brown cartoon video, Linus  answers this question in a his most imitable manner.

Let us keep in mind the central message of Christmas - Christ came from heaven to earth and by His birth, God dwells among us. Share the good news! All religions teach of the hunger for God. What is uniquely Christian is that God reaches out to establish a warm and personal relationship. Emmanuel - God with us.

Worship of Shepherds 1539 Bronzino

'Hark the Herald Angels Sing' is an English Christmas carol written by Charles Wesley and George Whitfield in 1739. Charles Wesley was inspired by the sounds on church bells while walking to church on Christmas day. He started the first stanza with the words 'Hark.' His compatriot George Whitfield came up with closing phrase, 'the newborn King.' The current tune is adapted from Felix Mendelssohn's cantata, Festagang.

As we sing carols this Christmas, let us take the time to think about the message of the songs and the truths they proclaim. We can then join the Wesleys in singing "Glory to the newborn King.

1. Hark! The herald angels sing,
   “Glory to the newborn King;
   Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
   God and sinners reconciled!”
   Joyful, all ye nations rise,
   Join the triumph of the skies;
   With th’angelic host proclaim,
   “Christ is born in Bethlehem!”
   • Refrain:
     Hark! the herald angels sing,
     “Glory to the newborn King!”
2. Christ, by highest Heav’n adored;
   Christ the everlasting Lord;
   Late in time, behold Him come,
   Offspring of a virgin’s womb.
   Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;
   Hail th’incarnate Deity,
   Pleased with us in flesh to dwell,
   Jesus our Emmanuel.
3. Hail the heav’nly Prince of Peace!
   Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
   Light and life to all He brings,
   Ris’n with healing in His wings.
   Mild He lays His glory by,
   Born that man no more may die;
   Born to raise the sons of earth,
   Born to give them second birth.

So let's be inspired like Charles Wesley and celebrate Jesus' birthday. Come on Ring those Bells

Merry Christmas!

Lionel

Updated First published 25 Dec 2007

Similar posts on Contemplation

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2022/12/peace-and-goodwill-to-all-men.html

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2021/12/i-heard-bells-on-christmas-day.html

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2020/12/what-can-i-give-to-him.html

Joy To The World

© Worship Leaders University

'Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all the earth:

Make a loud noise, and rejoice and sing praise.

Sing unto the Lord with the harp;

With the harp and the voice of a psalm.

With trumpets and sound of cornet

Make a joyful noise before the Lord, the King' Psalm 98:4-6 (KJV)

On the third Sunday of the Advent, 17 Dec 2023, we lit the third candle signifying Joy. This is often known as the Shepherds' Candle and the words accompanying the lighting are, 'Today we light the pink candle, known as the candle of Joy. We also light the candle of Hope as well as the candle of Peace. The joyful chorus of the angels, appeared to the shepherds in bleak dark winter in the fields of Bethlehem near the stable where the baby Jesus was born. As we light this candle, we remember the shepherds who were in the field watching their flocks when, all of a sudden a bright light shown around them and everything changed.'

While shepherds waited for the dawn, and the dark skies began to turn pink, the angel of the Lord appeared singing the proclamation of the good news that will bring great joy.

'And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in the manger."

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,"Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace and goodwill toward men.' Luke 2:8-14 (KJV)

Christians celebrate every Christmas with great joy and rejoicing. This is well expressed in the carol, 'Joy to the World'

Joy to the world, the Lord is come

Let Earth receive her King

Let every heart prepare Him room

And Heaven and nature sing

And Heaven and nature sing

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

Joy to the Earth, the Savior reigns

Let all their songs employ

While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains

Repeat the sounding joy

Repeat the sounding joy

Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy

He rules the world with truth and grace

And makes the nations prove

The glories of His righteousness

And wonders of His love

And wonders of His love

And wonders, wonders, of His love

Joy to the world, the Lord is come

Let Earth receive her King

Let every heart prepare Him room

And Heaven and nature sing

(And Heaven and nature sing)

And Heaven and nature sing

(And Heaven and nature sing)

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

Joy to the world, the Lord is come

Let Earth receive her King

Let every heart prepare Him room

And Heaven and nature sing

(And Heaven and nature sing)

And Heaven and nature sing

(And Heaven and nature sing)

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

The lyrics of the song did not convey the usual Christmas imagery. There is nothing about shepherds, a manger, wise men, or angels which are normally associated with the Christmas story. It written as a poem by an English minister, Isaac Watts in 1719. It was based on the 98th Psalm which some say it reflects the triumphant second coming of Christ rather than the first coming. A century later this poem was put to music by Lowell Mason and released around Christmas time and  quickly became one of the most beloved Christmas carols.

Psalm 98 celebrates God as King, it is one of seven 'enthronement' psalms. It can be divided into three parts

• Praise the Lord for the great and mighty things He has done. Psalm 98:1-3 (NKJV) 

'Oh sing to the Lord a new song! For the He has done marvelous things;

His right hand and His holy arm have gained Him the victory.

The Lord has made known His salvation;

His righteousness He has revealed in the sight of the nations

He has remembered His mercy and His faithfulness to the house of Israel;

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.'

• Praise the Lord with great joy and worship Him as King. Psalm 98:4-6 (NKJV)

'Shout joyfully to the Lord, all the earth;

Break forth in song, rejoice and sing praises

Sing to the Lord with the harp,

With the harp and the sound of a psalm,

With trumpets and the sound of a horn;

Shout joyfully before the Lord, the King.'

• Praise the Lord of all nature anticipating the coming King Psalm 98:7-8 (NKJV)

'Let the sea roar and all its fullness,

The world and those who dwell in it;

Let the rivers clap their hands;

Let the hills be joyful together before the Lord.

For He is coming to judge the world

And the peoples with equity'

Reading the Psalm and singing the carol, one cannot help but be filled by the sense of exceeding great joy. It is exuberant joy!

But what is Christian Joy? Many think of joy as a emotive response, a feeling, as celebration of happy circumstances and oftentimes a mood. However, I think of Joy as a virtue, a gift of character from God. This joy is not circumstantial but given as an inner beauty. It is perpetual not fleeting. This is Jesus' Joy in us,

'I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.' John 15:11

At Garden of Gethsemane, Jesus prayed for his followers,

'....so that they will have the full measure of my joy within them.' John 17:13b 

That this joy is permanent and not affected by circumstances is noted by Timothy Keller in a short monogram, The Christian's Happiness (Ref 1) based on Romans 8:28-30. He stated, "If you’re a Christian, you know that Christianity is supposed to be about joy. You probably also know that you’re supposed to experience joy in spite of circumstances. The Bible clearly teaches that joy is available that should make us happy no matter the circumstances. There’s a joy that the deepest trouble can’t put out and, if properly nourished and nurtured, can even overwhelm the greatest grief."

St Paul also stressed the permanence and lasting value of Christian Joy because God is at work in us. 

'And we know that all things work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For whom He foreknew, He also predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom He predestined, these He also called; whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified.' Romans 8:28-30 (NJKV)

Timothy Keller explained that in the pursuit of happiness, the joy found in Christians is always secure, always unwavering. We should realise that the circumstances in any Christian's life, good or bad, are no different than anybody's. Many Christians believe that if we love and serve God, then we will not have as many bad things happen to us. But Timothy Keller wrote, "That's not true! Horrible things can happen to us and believing in and loving God will not keep them from happening. All the same things that happen to everybody else will happen to people who love God." 

BUT although bad things happen, God works them for our good eventually. The promise is that though things and circumstances may be bad, God will take them and work them to good effects in our lives. 

With this assurance, we can have exceedingly great joy. Keller put this very plainly, "Why can you be joyful no matter what? Your bad things turn out for good, your good things can never be lost, and the best is yet to come." 

 

Lionel

Ref 1: Timothy Keller, The Christian's Happiness. 

https://www.monergism.com/christian%E2%80%99s-happiness-romans-828-30

Similar post on Contemplation, Excessive Happiness

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2020/08/excessive-happiness.html

The Elusive Peace

The Straits Times Singapore 10 Dec 2023

'Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.' John 14:27

On the 10 Dec 2023, in churches and Christian homes, the second Advent candle symbolising peace was lit. It represented that proclamation of peace and goodwill to all men sung by the angels in the fields of Bethlehem at that first Christmas 2030 years ago. 

But there is no peace today in that part of the world. The Israel-Hamas War at the Gaza Strip entered its 72nd day with unrelenting destruction. Israel launched a massive offensive in Gaza, in response, after the surprise attack by Hamas gunmen in Israel killing 1200 people and taking around 240 hostages. To date more than 18,700 Palestinians were estimated to be killed and 116 Israeli soldiers lost their lives in the fighting. Apocalyptic conditions grip Gaza. 

St Paul in Ephesians Chapter 2 wrote that Christ has brought peace to us by uniting Jews and Gentiles into one people, that is by becoming Christians. The Israelis are mostly Jews and the Hamas militants are mostly Muslims. This leaves the Palestinians Christians in the middle having to suffer no peace on earth.

'He (Christ) made peace between Jews and Gentiles by creating in Himself one new people (Christians) from the two groups. Together as one body, Christ reconciled both groups to God by means of His death on the cross, and our hostility toward each other was put to death.' Ephesians 2:15b-16 (NLT)

Unfortunately from the Battle of Jericho to the Battle of the Gaza Strip the people living on the piece of land on this earth, often referred to as the Holy Land, know only war throughout their history. 

There are three kinds of peace.

• Relational Peace.  This is the peace between one person to another, between communities, ethnicities, people groups, nations and religions. This is often the only kind of peace we think about; the peace we hope for. This peace is elusive especially when there is no real desire for it. Many Christians believed that Jesus Christ came to establish this kind of peace but they are mistaken. Violence seem to be the only way to resolve national and boundaries differences. There is no harmony. The Gospel of Matthew recorded these words of Jesus

"Don't imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword." Matthew 10:34 (NLT) 

• Psychological Peace. This is inner peace. 'Peace begins within, at the centre of your being. You experience it at the core, deep within your heart, like a still stream, a millpond of calm, where soft ripples gently flow through you out to others.' (Joy Lenton Ref 1). This kind of peace does not mean that externally, things are always peaceful or there is no adversity. This is the peace that can occur even in the midst of stress and trouble. This is the peace Jesus promised His followers.

'I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart because I have overcome the world.' John 16:33 (NLT)

This is a comprehensive well-being, peace in the soul. 

• Spiritual Peace. This is the peace between God and Man. The  reconciliation is made possible by the saving grace, the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Jesus gave us this peace, Peace with God.

'Therefore, since we have been made right in God's sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of underserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward  to sharing God's glory.' Romans 5:1-2

Having been reconciled with God we have peace in the spirit.  

The reality is, as the Bishop Robert Solomon observed, "Peace seems to be in short supply, in a world throbbing with tension and trouble." (Ref 2) The Prophet Habakkuk had similar complaints,

'How long, O Lord, must I call for help? But you do not listen! "Violence is everywhere!" I cry but you do not come to save. Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look, I see destruction and violence. I am surrounded by people who love to argue and fight.' Habakkuk 1:2-3 

We should not be surprised, looking at the landscape of 2023, that the world's population are disheartened, discouraged and disillusioned. World peace eludes us.

But Jesus Christ did come and we celebrate this Advent by lighting the second candle of peace. Christ did bring peace with the first Christmas, a peace that is not what we all expected. 

"I am leaving you with a gift - peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don't be troubled or afraid." John 14:27 (NLT)

It is a peace which transcends all understanding. Receive this wonderful peace this Christmas.

'Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus' Philippians 4:7 (NLT) 

1. Far away in the depths of my spirit tonight
   Rolls a melody sweeter than psalm;
   In celestial-like strains it unceasingly falls
   O’er my soul like an infinite calm.
   • Refrain:
     Peace, peace, wonderful peace,
     Coming down from the Father above!
     Sweep over my spirit forever, I pray
     In fathomless billows of love!
2. What a treasure I have in this wonderful peace,
   Buried deep in the heart of my soul,
   So secure that no power can mine it away,
   While the years of eternity roll!
3. I am resting tonight in this wonderful peace,
   Resting sweetly in Jesus’ control;
   For I’m kept from all danger by night and by day,
   And His glory is flooding my soul!
4. Ah soul, are you here without comfort and rest,
   Marching down the rough pathway of time?
   Make Jesus your friend ere the shadows grow dark;
   Oh, accept this sweet peace so sublime!

Shalom!

Lionel

Ref 1 Joy Lenton, 13 June 2022 https://joylenton.com/2022/06/13/peace-why-its-not-as-elusive-as-you-might-think/

Ref 2 Robert M Solomon, The Sermon of Jesus, Chap 9 Making Peace in Troubled Souls and Societies. Genesis Books, 2013

Other Contemplation articles on Peace:

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2022/12/peace-and-goodwill-to-all-men.html

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2019/12/a-time-for-peace.html

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2021/10/perfect-peace.html

https://contemplation-lionel.blogspot.com/2020/06/costly-peace.html

The Light Shines In the Darkness

 

'His Life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness can never extinguish it.' John 1:4b-5 (NLT)

The nights in Bethlehem during the cold of winter are usually dark and dreary at this time of year. However during the days around the birth of Jesus Christ, about 2030 years ago, a brilliant star shone over the night skies in Bethlehem.

In the year 2020 from the 21st Dec, the planets Jupiter and Saturn lined up so close together that they appeared as a bright shining star. Johannes Kepler, an astronomer in the 17th Century, calculated that a similar conjunction occurred in the year 7 BCE when three planets Mars, Jupiter and Saturn aligned to produce a supernova. The next time such a phenomenon may occur again will be in the year 2080.

A graphic made from a simulation program, showing

 a view of the 2020 great conjunction through the

naked eye just after sunset at approximately 5:15 p.m.

 (EST) on 21 Dec 2020 - Nasa 

The Apostle John connected the supernova event, now referred to as the Christmas Star to the birth of Jesus, in the opening sentences of the Gospel of John.

'In Him (Jesus) was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.' John 1:4-5 (NKJV)

  

The Light shines in the darkness over the night skies of Bethlehem. In 7 BCE no one anticipated this event nor understood its significance save the wise men, astronomers or astrologers, who came from the east. They connected the supernova with the birth of the Baby Jesus and went in search of Him.

'Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea, in the days of Herod the king, behold wise men came to Jerusalem, saying, "Where is he who was born the King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him."  Matthew 2:1-2 (NKJV)

They knew that the prophecy of Isaiah was being fulfilled

'The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of darkness a light has dawned.' Isaiah 9:2 

 

The Advent season is celebrated by Christians in various churches and homes during the 4 Sundays leading to Christmas day. The lighting of a candle at the start of the worship service signifies the light that shines in darkness. There are 5 candles altogether, three purple candles symbolising Hope, Peace and Love. A rose red candle is lit for Joy on the 3rd Sunday. Then, at the Christmas service, a white candle is lit together with the other four candles. 

This period of the Advent, marks the beginning of the liturgical year in the Methodist and other western Christianity Calendar. Christians wait and anticipate the celebration of Jesus' birth on Christmas Day and at the same time eagerly yearn for the Second coming, when Christ shall come again victoriously. 

The lighting of these candle enacts the light that shone during that first Christmas to announce the birth of Jesus Christ, the Light of the World.

'When Jesus spoke again to the people, He said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the Light of Life." John 8:12 

Simeon at the temple in Jerusalem was also waiting and anticipating the coming of the Messiah.

'At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and devout and was eagerly awaiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he he had seen the Lord's Messiah.' Luke 2: 25-26 (NLT) 

When the boy Jesus was presented to Simeon, he proclaimed

'For my eyes have seen Your salvation, which You have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles and the glory of Your people Israel.' Luke 2:30-31 

Like the wise men from the East, in this season, let us we keeping watch and looking for the Light of Jesus Christ to shine upon us. 'Shine Jesus Shine'

Lord, the light of your love is shining

In the midst of the darkness, shining

Jesus, Light of the world, shine upon us

Set us free by the truth you now bring us

Shine on me, shine on me

Shine, Jesus, shine

Fill this land with the Father's glory

Blaze, Spirit, blaze

Set our hearts on fire

Flow, river, flow

Flood the nations with grace and mercy

Send forth your word

Lord, and let there be light

Lord, I come to your awesome presence

From the shadows into your radiance

By the blood I may enter your brightness

Search me, try me, consume all my darkness

Shine on me, shine on me

Shine, Jesus, shine

Fill this land with the Father's glory

Blaze, Spirit, blaze

Set our hearts on fire

Flow, river, flow

Flood the nations with grace and mercy

Send forth your word

Lord, and let there be light

As we gaze on your kingly brightness

So our faces display your likeness

Ever changing from glory to glory

Mirrored here may our lives tell your story

Shine on me, shine on me

Shine, Jesus, shine

Fill this land with the Father's glory

Blaze, Spirit, blaze

Set our hearts on fire

Flow, river, flow

Flood the nations with grace and mercy

Send forth your word

Lord, and let there be

Send forth your

Send forth your word

Lord, and let there

Send forth your word

Send forth your word

Lord, and let there be light

Lionel 

Let There Be Praise

'Praise the Lord

Praise God in His sanctuary; praise Him in His mighty heavens

Praise Him for His acts of power; praise Him for His surpassing greatness.

Praise Him with the sounding of the trumpet, Praise Him with the harp and lyre, praise Him with timbrel and dancing, praise Him with the strings and pipe, praise Him with the clash of cymbals, praise Him with resounding cymbals.

Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.

Praise the Lord.' Psalm 150.

  

Is there any reason to praise God? 

Today, the wars in Gaza and Ukraine rage on. Countries such as Algeria, Burkina Faso, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Tunisia, Uganda, and Yemen are all currently experiencing some form of terrorist insurgency. Others like Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Libya, Mali, Myanmar, Somalia, South Sudan, and Syria are all currently experiencing civil wars and ethnic cleansing. In many places in the world there are racial and religious persecutions. 

In the Israel-Hamas war, Israeli tanks surround Gaza's hospitals with patients still inside and others seeking refuge. Israel claims that hospital and schools sit atop a labyrinth of underground tunnels housing the Hamas control centre, fighters and caches of weapons. They say that Hamas had contravened the Geneva Convention and use civilians and patients as human shields. Hamas denies this vehemently.

A seven-day humanitarian truce allowing for exchange of hostages and prisoners and the delivery of much needed disaster relief, food, fuel, etc ended. The fighting resumes. In the fog and wounds of war, many of us are left broken hearted at the untold human suffering. We question, What is there to be happy about? Where is God? Why would we sing praises?

There is a rather strange incident recorded in 2 Chronicles 20 during the time when Israel was at war with the surrounding nations. It was a time much like what is happening today in Israel's southern and northern borders. The armies of the Moabites, Ammonites and Meunites declared war on King Jehoshaphat. Jehoshaphat was terrified by the news and begged the Lord for guidance. As they went out to face the enemies they were led to sing and praise the Lord.

'The king appointed singers to walk ahead of the army, singing to the Lord and praising Him for His holy splendour. This is what they sang:

"Give thanks to the Lord; his faithful love endures forever!"

At the very moment they began to sing and give praise, the Lord caused the armies of Ammon, Moab and Mount Seir to start fighting among themselves.' 2 Chronicles 20:21-22

The Israelites learnt that even in the times of war to give praise. By the time the army of Jehoshaphat arrived on the battlefield all they saw were the dead bodies of their enemies on the ground. The war was over.

It is strange that at hard times Christians are told to praise God. Eugene Petersen in his book Answering God admitted that this is not the easiest thing to do, "It is easy to be honest before God with our hallelujahs; it is somewhat more difficult to be honest in our hurts; it is nearly impossible to be honest before God in the dark emotions of our hate."

Yes the Bible tells us that in all circumstances, in good times and bad, the Lord God is to be praised. Timothy Keller gave a series of 7 short meditations entitled 'Trusting God in Difficult Times' (Ref 1) which are worth listening to, if you are in the predicament of asking God, Why the suffering? And there is no answer yet forthcoming.

Even so we need to continue praying. Prayer is the most honest way to face these difficult circumstances, these difficult times. By praying we come face to face with reality, dealing with our problems, viewing the world with honesty and with the very depths of our hearts. Yes, we travail and agonise.

But Eugene Petersen concluded, “No matter how much we suffer, no matter our doubts, no matter how angry we get, no matter how many times we have asked in desperation or doubt, ‘How long?’, prayer develops finally into praise. Everything finds its way to the doorsteps of praise. Praise is the consummating prayer. This is not to say that other prayers are inferior to praise, only that all prayer pursued far enough, becomes praise."

This brings us to the very last Psalm, Psalm 150. Timothy Keller emphatically explained this Psalm,

• Where should God be praise?     Everywhere
• Why should we praise God?  for Everything
• How should we praise Him?    in Everyway
• Who should praise Him?            Everyone    

Petersen wrote “Prayer is the language of the people who are in trouble and know it, and who believe or hope that God can get them out." That is why your prayer will end in praise. 

Christians are often told to praise God in every situation, even in deprivation, our vocation is to praise God. Let everything that has breath, praise God.

'I provide water in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland, to give drink to my people, my chosen, the people I formed for Myself that they may proclaim My praise.' Isaiah 43:20b-21

'So we praise God for the glorious grace He has poured out to us who belong to His dear Son.' Ephesians 1:6 (NLT)

'The Spirit is God's guarantee that He will give us the inheritance He promised and that He purchased us to be His own people. He did this so we would praise and glorify Him.' Ephesians 11:14 (NLT) 

   'But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.' 1 Peter 2:9

That is why the Psalms, a book of prayer and worship ends finally with praise; 'Let There Be Praise'

Let there be praise

Let there be joy in our hearts

Sing to the Lord

Give Him the glory

Let there be praise, let there be joy in our hearts

Forevermore, let His love fill the air

And let there be praise, let there be praise

Let there, let there be praise

He inhabits the praise of His people

And dwells deep within

The peace that He gives none can equal

His love, it knows no end

So lift your voices

With gladness sing

Proclaim through all the earth

That Jesus Christ is King

When the Spirit of God is within us

We will overcome

In our weakness His strength will defend us

When His praise is on our tongue

So lift your voices

With gladness sing

Proclaim through all the earth

That Jesus Christ is King

Let there be praise

Let there be joy in our hearts

Sing to the Lord

Give Him the glory

Let there be praise

Let there be joy in our hearts

Forevermore, let His love fill the air

And let there be praise

And let there be praise

Let there be singing

Let there be music

Let there be honor

Let there be glory

Majesty worship and praise

Let there be praise

Lionel

Ref 1; Timothy Keller, Trusting God in Difficult Times

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gjQM7uZcbbM&list=PLqdAeLCMehGFJ0Q-8Ll1y0t5ml6qWYHiz