Under The Shade Of His Grace

 

'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: I myself will take a shoot from the very top of a cedar and plant it;

I will break off a tender sprig from its topmost shoots and plant it on a high and lofty mountain. 

On the mountain heights of Israel I will plant it, it will bear fruit and become a splendid cedar.

Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches. 

All the trees of the forest will know that I the Lord will bring down the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall. I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish. 

I the Lord have spoken and I will do it' Ezekiel 17:22-24

The Charis Methodist Church's new sanctuary, building and renovated premises was consecrated and dedicated today, 21 January 2024, to the Glory of God. The theme of the worship service and the topic of the sermon delivered by Methodist Bishop, Rev(Dr) Gordon Wong was, 'Under The Shade of His Grace.'

The Bishop was quick to point out that the topic was well chosen because the name Charis comes from the Greek word Χάρις meaning grace and kindness. It is a prayer, said the Bishop, that Charis will be a church where many people will find comfort, salvation and fulfillment with the ministry of the church - under the shade of God's grace.

'Under the Shade of His Grace' used during the dedication service of the church, will likewise, be the theme of Charis Methodist Church's witness and ministry. In a world of trouble and tribulation, the church will reach out and welcome the community to enjoy the comfort and shelter of God's grace.

The Charis Congregation @ Dedication Service

Bishop Gordon Wong based his sermon on the passage Ezekiel 17:22-24. There are several lessons to be drawn from this bible passage:

• Charis Methodist Church is Established by the Design and Initiative of God. Pay attention to the positive actions of God's will,
• I myself will a take a shoot from the top of the cedar. 
• I will break off a tender sprig.
• I will plant it.

• Charis Methodist Church shall (will) Establish a Fruitful Ministry
• It will produce branches
• It will bear fruit
• It will become a splendid cedar

• Charis Methodist Church will Serve the Community and Needy
• Birds of every kind will nest in it
• Birds will shelter in it.

• Charis Methodist Church will Thrive but Only by God's Grace
• I the Lord bring down the tall tree and make the low tree grow tall
• I dry up the green tree and make the dry tree flourish
• I the Lord have spoken and I will do it

We celebrated the 35th Anniversary of the church today. This is because we count our age from the day we became independent of the mother church, on 1 January 1989, and became a local conference of the Methodist Church in Singapore. 

In reality the congregation of Charis Methodist Church started way back in 1966 when several of our pioneers started an English Worship Service at 4.30 pm at the Geylang Chinese Methodist Church in Aljunied Road. It was inaugurated by Bishop Robert F Lundy, the Bishop of the Malaysia-Singapore Methodist General Conference. 

The English Worship Service was managed autonomously by a English Working Committee. The Chairpersons of the Working Committees were Goh Say Hong (1968 to 1975), Victor Koh (1976), Lim Eng Chong (1977), Lionel Lee (1978 to 1982), Lim Eng Chong (1982/83), Lionel Lee (1983-1988) until the first Local Church Executive Committee was formed on 1 Jan 1989 with Lionel Lee as the Chairman. The LCEC chairpersons of Charis Methodist Church were Quek Koh Eng, Koh Hai Theng, Charles Loh, Khoong Hock Yun, Too Shiun Jye. In 2024, LCEC leadership transferred to the third generation under Gabriel Tham. 

That English Service included two worship services, Sunday School, two Methodist Youth Fellowships, the 17th Company Boys Brigade, Young Adult Fellowship, Adult Fellowship, Young Adult Bible Class, Children's Ministry called the Charis King's Army, Adult Choir, Children's Choir, Evangelism, Social Concerns and Missions Ministries. 

Thus, Charis Methodist Church existed as a congregation for 57 years since 1966.  For 37 years, from 1966-1993 when we acquired the present property upon which the new buildings were dedicated today, we were a Church without a Home. But it did not really matter to us, because we always knew that the Lord God will provide shelter and nest.

'Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches.' Ezekiel 17:23b

The Bishop pointed out that these two words nest and shelter are translated same in Mandarin as 'Home.' We are reminded that God has provided Charis Methodist Church with a home just as Christ said, 

'Upon this rock, I will build my church and all the powers of hell will not conquer it' Matthew 16:18b (NLT)

The Charis Methodist Church Choir sang the song, 'Upon This Rock' at the dedication service. The Choir sang the same anthem on the 3 Apr 1993 at the inaugural service at our newly acquired property. It sang again on the 20 Jan 2019 celebrating our 30th Anniversary as a independent local conference.

 

When others see with earthly eyes

Just what they want to see

You will see the things that never die

You will know and recognize

By simple child-like faith

The priceless truth that

Others will deny.

When others say I'm just a man

Who likes to dream His dreams

When others call a miracle a myth

You'll listen for eternity

In moments as they pass

And see with spirit eyes

What others miss.

Upon this rock I'll build My kingdom

And on this rock forever and ever it shall stand

And all the powers of Hell itself

Shall never more prevail against it

For Satan's thrones are built on sinking sand

Upon this rock I'll build My kingdom

And on this rock forever and ever it shall stand

Upon this rock of revelation

I'll build a strong and mighty nation

And it shall stand the storms of time

Upon this rock.

If in a simple carpenter

You see the Son of God

If you would chose to lose

When you could win

If you would give your life away

For nothing in return

Then you are where

My kingdom will begin.

Upon this rock I'll build My kingdom

And on this rock forever and ever it shall stand

Upon this rock of revelation

I'll build a strong and mighty nation

And it shall stand the storms of time

Upon this rock

I'll Build My church

Upon this rock

I'll Build My church

Upon this Rock

Upon this Rock

The clarion message, is that Christ alone will build Charis Methodist, His Church.

Lionel

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

Somebody's Praying For Me

 
'I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people.... that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.' 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Intercession is a Christian privilege. The word “intercessor” has roots in Greek, and the Greek meaning is “to meet with, come between." When we pray an intercessory prayer for someone, we stand in the gap between that person and God, we make representations on behalf of a beloved friend or family member to God

There is a small group of intercessors in Charis Methodist Church who have been meeting weekly for many years to pray for the church and its members. These Christians will receive prayer requests and commit the items to God. 

Recently both Pat and I experienced the power of this intercession and the effects it has on our faith when these dedicated prayer warriors prayed for Pat as she undergoes chemotherapy for lymphoma. To be sure we do not know yet how and when God will answer this intercession but we are sure that we are blessed. Our hearts are warmed by the ministry. 

One of the ladies will telephone Pat prior to any major treatment and pray with her. When she prays, I feel that she is praying as naturally as birds sing; so sincere, full of faith and with quiet passion.

In these days on the social media, the WhatsApp Chatgroups are also the places where Christians in small groups, bible studies, choir and praise groups are interceding for one another. Recently several choir members were down with the Covid-19 infection, the Choir WhatsApp chatgroup became abuzz with short messages of intercessory prayers. There are so many friends and family praying for us that we feel the grace of God upon us. We are very encouraged and uplifted, knowing how  fervently they are praying.

The power of intercession is not just about the results nor the effectiveness of the prayer. It is really about how much love is put into the prayer. A dramatic example of 'standing in the gap' intercession is found in the healing of the paralysed man told in the Gospels. 

'A few days later, when Jesus again entered Capernaum, the people heard that he had come home. They gathered in such large numbers that there was no room left, not even outside the door, and he preached the word to them. Some men came, bringing a paralysed man, carried by four of them. Since they could not get him to Jesus because of the crowd, they made an opening in the roof above Jesus by digging through it and then lowered the mat the man was lying on. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralysed man, "Son your sins are forgiven." Mark 2:1-5

This paralysed man had no way to reach Jesus by himself. His four friends helped him and they went to great lengths to bring him to Jesus. They lowered him from the roof. They interceded for this man in a dramatic fashion. Eventually Jesus not only healed the paralysis but he noted and commended the faith of the four men. 

What does this teach us about intercessory prayer? It is not the prayer itself, not the content or even the words that were uttered that matter. What really matters is the fervency of the heart. 

To this end, we realise that Jesus Christ is our ultimate intercessor. Jesus Christ is the one who stands between and pleads the case for us all. He paid the ultimate price, He sacrificed His life.

'For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all people' 1 Timothy 2:5-6

We thank God for the many who are praying for us. There is a wonderful song, 'Somebody's Praying For Me' written by Don Moen. In one of the introductions to this song, Don Moen quoted from the Epistle of James,

'The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.' James 5:16

Don Moen said, "The effective fervent prayer of a righteous man or woman makes all the difference in the world. You are here today because someone prayed for you and we must continue to pray for one another during these times."  

I was lost in a desert land

So dry and thirsty

But God was there where he'd always been

Giving grace and mercy

So hard to sing and hard to pray

Yet I knew His word was true

And then one day my faith returned

And suddenly I knew

Somebody's praying for me

Somebody's knocking on heaven's door

Somebody's praying for me

Somebody's lifting me up to the Lord

I knew it had to be

Somebody down on their knees

Somebody praying for me

I've been spared by so many prayers

How many times I could not say

What a difference a prayer can make When it's offered up in faith

God has always made a way

When I didn't know what to do

Just when I needed a miracle

That's when your prayers broke through

Somebody's praying for me

Somebody's knocking on heaven's door

Somebody's praying for me

Somebody's lifting me up to the Lord well I knew it had to be

Somebody down on their knees

Somebody praying for me

Now I know that friend was you

You were the gift God gave me

'Cause when you prayed

His love broke through

It was your prayer that saved me

Thank you for praying for me

Thank you for knocking on heaven's door

Thank you for praying for me

Thank you for lifting me up to the Lord now I can clearly see

That you were the one on your knees

So thank you for praying for me

Somebody's praying for me

Somebody's knocking on heaven's door

Somebody's praying for me

Somebody's lifting me up to the Lord well I knew it had to be

Somebody down on their knees

Somebody praying for me

Lionel

A People After God's Heart

'But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that you should show forth the praises of him who had called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.' 1 Peter 2:9 

What a strange way to describe Christians? A peculiar people. Perhaps this peculiarity describes a special relationship of Christians as a people belonging to God. Why? There is a covenant made between God and us as there is a covenant made between God and Israel in the desert of Sinai.

A covenant is a formal agreement between two or more persons or groups of people. This covenant was first described in Exodus Chapter 19. Here God tells the Israelites that they will be His chosen people, ”out of all the nations you will be my treasured possessions.” 

These people will enjoy special privileges. Their part of the bargain was to obey God fully. After hearing from Moses the covenant God had to offer, the people responded together 

'We will do everything that the Lord has said.' Exodus 19:18

God promised 

'I will look on you with favour and increase your numbers and I will keep my covenant with you. I will walk among you and be your God and you will be my people.' Leviticus 26:9 and 12.

But the Israelites failed miserably to keep to their side of the agreement. Even in the Sinai Desert, through the times of the Kings and Prophets we read of numerous occasions when the Israelites deliberately disobeyed God. 

By the time of the Gospels, this blatant disobedience had turned the people towards a self-centredness, that brought forth the legalism of the Pharisees; a religion built on man’s ability to meet the demands of religious laws.

Then Jesus Christ came and the covenantal relationship was renewed. In the Last Supper, Christ’s mentioned this new covenant which He said was sealed in His blood. He was referring to the imminent sacrifice for us on the Cross by which we are set free from sin. By Christ's sacrifice we receive freedom from sin and enter into this special relationship between God and us. 

'This cup is the new covenant in my blood which is poured out for you' Luke 22:20b 

How do we now translate our part of the covenant? There is a question in the Scottish catechism which asks, “What is the Chief aim of man?” To which, the answer is “the chief aim of man is glorify God and to enjoy him forever.”

The apostle Paul wrote 

“whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 1 Cor 10:31

In the simplest of terms this is the answer to why we exist, to our purpose in life and to the mission of our churches.

How to make this practical? Charles Swindoll wrote 3 suggestions which are worth repeating.

(1) Cultivate a habit of including God in every segment of our lives. Everything we do, every plan we make; Is God in it? Is God getting the glory?

(2) Refuse to accept any of the glory that should belong only to God. Our selfish nature are huge sponges always ready and willing to soak up all praises. We should constantly remember to claim nothing for ourselves and give all the glory to God.

(3) Maintain a priority relationship with God that is more important than any other on earth. There are many challenges to this priority e.g our children, our spouses, our families. Nothing wrong with loving our families or planning for the future but keep our total commitment to God.

This special relationship is not to be expressed only in personal terms but collectively as well. A church share values together in a collective desire to be God's Chosen People. When Charis Methodist Church became independent, we chose a motto that is also an aspiration; to be “A people after God’s heart.”

With that the aspiration Charis Methodist Church emphatically looked to God to 'Build His church.'  

For I’m Building A People Of Power

And I’m Making A People Of Praise

That Will Move Through This Land By My Spirit

And Will Glorify My Precious Name

Build Your Church, Lord

Make Us Strong, Lord

Join Our Hearts, Lord, Through Your Son

Make Us One, Lord

In Your Body

In The Kingdom Of Your Son

Lionel

Updated 1st Published on 1 Dec 2007

Perfect Peace

UN Peace Stamps

'You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, all all the trees of the field will clap their hands.' Isaiah 55:12

'Give Peace A Chance' became the anti Vietnam war song at a time when many of my generation were growing up; either studying or starting our careers. That was from 1969 to 1975. It had a rather quirky beginning in that it was written by John Lennon and Yoko Ono during their 'Bed-In' honeymoon in Montreal, 31 May 1969, an attention capturing international display.

On the 15 Nov 1969, this song was sung in Washingston DC by more than half a million demonstrators against the Vietnam war. Pete Seeger who led the singing shouted over the microphone, "Are you listening, Nixon?" as the protestors sang "All we are saying is give peace a chance."

John Lennon stated at one of his last interview, in 1980, "It wasn't like you have to have peace! Just give it a chance. We ain't giving any gospel here - just saying how about this version for a chance? We think we have the right to have a say in the future. And we think the future is made in the your mind."

Really? Even though the idealists thought that the song and protests brought about the end of the Vietnam war, after nearly 40 years later where is the peace? John Lennon was right when he sarcastically mentioned there is no gospel in the song. Forty years hence still no chance of peace; where there is no gospel there is no peace.

Those who live by the gospel that Jesus Christ brings are at peace with ourselves even though there is no peace in the world. There will not peace so long as sin prevails and we can only hope to wait for the second coming of Jesus Christ to establish a new heaven and a new earth. 

That is when Christ will establish Perfect Peace. Till then, my church's choir, the Charis Methodist Church's Choir sang out what is the deep yearning of our hearts, to be at peace with ourselves, with others and with God.

When life’s burdens get so heavy

 And it seems I’m all alone,

I cast my care on Jesus

 And come boldly to His throne.

I find His grace sufficient

 When His promises I heed.

For His very life He sacrificed,

And He lives to intercede.

He is the Lord of Lords, 

And when He speaks winds and waves obey.

When Jesus whispers “Peace be still,”

Then darkness turns to day.

And as I’m trusting in my Savior’s Word

 Doubts and fears all cease,

And beneath the shelter of His wings

 I’m at rest in perfect peace.

I will seek for souls in darkness,

Calvary’s love with them to share.

Empowered by His Spirit

I will follow anywhere.

For I know whate’er befalls me

My Lord is in control.

And as my mind is stayed on Him

Perfect peace he gives my soul.

The peace that Jesus promises is different. Although there will be trouble and tribulation, Jesus tells us not to worry for He has overcomed the world.

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

'I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.' John 16:33   

St Paul recognised that in a troubled world there are insecurities and worries and he pointedly advised, 

'Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.' Phil 4:6-7 

Living in peace with each other was strongly advocated for the early church, 

'If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.'Romans 12:18 

'Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.' Romans 14:19

As God's people, we can to offer this peace. Let there be Peace on Earth and Let it begin with Me.

Let there be peace on earth

And let it begin with me

Let There Be Peace on Earth

The peace that was meant to be

With God as our Father

Brothers all are we

Let me walk with my brother

In perfect harmony.

Let peace begin with me

Let this be the moment now.

With ev'ry step I take

Let this be my solemn vow

To take each moment and live

Each moment in peace eternally

Let there be peace on earth

And let it begin with me

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you.' Isaiah 54:10

Lionel

How Great Is Our God

Butterflies Will Soon Be Free

'Great Is the Lord and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom. One generation commends Your works to another; they tell of Your mighty acts. They speak of the glorious splendour of your majesty.' Psalms 145:3-5

These are uncertain times. When will the Covid pandemic end? Can we return to the normalcy of pre-Covid days? When will we be able to travel? Will the vaccinations confer adequate personal and herd immunity? Can we eradicate the Coronavirus from the face of the earth? 

At such times, Christians turn to God holding on to the promises God has given us. We reflect on the greatness and goodness of God, convincing ourselves that in the end God is greater than the Covid-19 pandemic and he will deliver us from this scourge. 

In a virtual format, the Charis Methodist Church choir sang a lovely hymn, extolling the promises of God, The Hymn Of Promise. Drawing on God's creative powers, this hymn reminds us, even in these uncertain days, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, for at last will come a victory.

In the bulb, there is a flower

In the seed, an apple tree

In cocoons, a hidden promise

Butterflies will soon be free

In the cold and snow of winter

There's a spring that waits to be

Unrevealed until its season

Something God alone can see

There's a song in every silence

Seeking word and melody

There's a dawn in every darkness

Bringing hope to you and me

From the past will come the future

What it holds, a mystery

Unrevealed until its season

Something God alone can see

In our end is our beginning

In our time, infinity

In our doubt, there is believing

In our life, eternity

In our death, a resurrection

At the last, a victory

Unrevealed until its season

Something God alone can see

With the uncertainty of these times in mind, our choir director, Rosalind Goh, made these comments in introducing this hymn,

 

"Against the bleak background of an uncertain future, we, God’s children, can rest securely on His unbreakable promises. God’s promises reflect His limitless power as Creator God, His loving faithfulness as a caring Father and His omnipotent rule as Sovereign God.The assurance that God fulfills His promises in His season, is our blessedness and enduring hope."

Rosalind explained that in a surprisingly gentle and flowing manner, this hymn that celebrates the Greatness of God which is  

• Evident in the activity of creation 
• Unravelled in processes of nature
• Displayed in the turning of the seasons
• Secured in the fulfillment of every promise
• Experienced in the resurrection after death

Those who have eyes will see the greatness of God and enjoy His goodness. Isaiah 40:25-31 declared:

 

"To whom will you compare me? 

Who is my equal?" asks the Holy One. 

Look up into the heavens. Who created all the stars? 

He brings them out one after another, 

calling each by its name. 

And he counts them to see that none are lost

 or have strayed away. 

O Israel, how can you say 

the LORD does not see your troubles? 

How can you say God refuses to hear your case? 

Have you never heard or understood? 

Don’t you know that the LORD is the everlasting God, 

the Creator of all the earth? 

He never grows faint or weary. 

No one can measure the depths of his understanding.

He gives power to those who are tired and worn out; 

he offers strength to the weak. 

Even youths will become exhausted, 

and young men will give up. 

But those who wait on the LORD will find new strength. 

They will fly high on wings like eagles. 

They will run and not grow weary. 

They will walk and not faint.

Do we worry about the uncertainties, pain and suffering of the Covid crisis? 

While in prison facing the uncertainty of death the apostle Paul recalled his personal deprivations and hardships, wrote:

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:38  

God is a God of Promise. How great is our God!

Lionel

More Than Conquerors

The Covid-19 Virus

'Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution of famine or danger or sword? No for all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.' Romans 8:35,37

The whole world seems to succumb to the Covid-19 pandemic. Today on the 25 October 2020, 42,946,446 of the world's population had contracted the Covid-19 virus infection and 1,154,857 had died from the disease. For a protracted and unrelenting period, countries and cities around the world are in some form of lockdown, isolated from each other with borders closed and economies devastated. In our lifetime, we have not witnessed a scourge such as this which threatens to bring us to our knees.

This tiny virus may have wreaked havoc to our physical bodies, our mental health and our livelihood but yesterday, a small group of elderly Christians from my church, Charis Methodist Church refused to allow this virus to dampen our spirits. Yesterday, more than 50 of us decided to meet in the Zoom Virtual Meeting platform to lift up our spirits. Despite restrictions of physical meetings we felt we could still show that even the more elderly among us have found ways to keep active within the Covid-19 restrictions. 

We showed pictures and videos of our interactions, all wearing masks or using virtual platforms. The older members quickly learnt to use WIFI and the Internet. We shared how our younger church members helped the elders to shop for groceries and to deliver food. We were encouraging each other and learning the heartfelt lessons from the exhortation of the prophet Isaiah,

"Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you.' Isaiah 54:10

Indeed these are troubling times, the Corona virus has spun the world into a global depression. Many of us lost our jobs or took substantial pay-cuts. At such times, a long forgotten Christian chorus comes to mind, 'In Times Like These.'

In times like these you need a Savior,

In times like these you need an anchor;

Be very sure, be very sure,

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!

This Rock is Jesus, Yes He's the One,

This Rock is Jesus, the only One;

Be very sure, be very sure,

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!

 

In times like these you need the Bible,

In times like these, O be not idle;

Be very sure, be very sure,

Your anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!

In times like these I have a Savior,

In times like these I have an anchor;

I'm very sure, I'm very sure

My anchor holds and grips the Solid Rock!

So, we decided that although the virus may affect our bodies and health, it shall never affect our spirit because we have Jesus as the anchor of our souls.

We are reminded that this experience of living under some form of oppression, even persecution was also lived by the early Christian church. Yes, the apostles and the early Christian churches lived through untold hardships, yet they were not downtrodden. St Paul wrote to the Corinthians (2 Cor 4:8,9)

'We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down but not destroyed. 

The early church under the Roman empire persevered until respite came with the conversion of Emperor Constantine to Christianity. Since then and down through the ages, the Church and God's people experienced periods of blessings interspersed with periods of great difficulties and through it all we have prevailed. We are more than conquerors.

Lionel  

Out Of Chaos Comes A Calm

'I lift up my eyes to the hills - where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip - he who watches over you will not slumber' Psalms 121:1-3

On 11 Mar 2020, the World Health Organisation declared the Corona Virus, COVID-19 infection a pandemic which affected many countries and continents. Many are afraid to contract the virus. Although for the most parts, the disease is quite mild, mortality rate is significant in older people who have underlying health concerns. The death rates among the elderly in China, South Korea, Iran and Italy are extremely high. The virus is highly contagious and some countries resorted to closure of schools, large public events and curtailed travel. It may even derail the Olympic Games to be held in Japan later this year. Several churches in Singapore and other countries are no longer meeting but virtually beam the worship services to parishioners through the Internet.

In times like these, people of all faiths turn to prayer. Christians pray, expectantly, that God will answer just as the Psalmist declared in Psalms 121. This assurance of help from God is the cornerstone for our confidence which allows us to live a full life even in periods of adversity. 

There is a favourite anthem of the Charis Methodist Church Choir. Noel Ong, who helps select songs for the choir wrote, "On Path to Answered Prayer' is a beautiful and touching piece that Heidi Fuller wrote after going through much trial and seeming unanswered prayer, as well as helping a close friend through similar issues. Their specific circumstances were different, but the underlying issues of faith in God, whether he hears and answers prayer, and waiting for God's timing and plan, were underlying both their journeys. Indeed, they underlie the journeys that each one of us Christians would take in our respective life journeys. Indeed, we can be encouraged through the message of this song because God brings amazing things through the trials of life and we need to 'learn to trust Him as you (we) travel on the path to answered prayer."

My favourite phrase in this song is "Out of chaos comes a calm". It assures me that the COVID-19 pandemic will dissipate, this world will return to normal, the economic recession will pass and God will restore the earth.

"Have you ever wondered if your prayers are really heard?

Why is your path so lonely if God listens to each word?

When answers seem so distant through years of faithful pleas.

Still your Guide is right beside you each moment on your knees.

In the wilderness He’s working, in the dark, do not despair.

In the storms, He’s sanctifying, in the thunder He is there!

Out of valleys, He gives vict’ries, out of chaos, comes a calm.

Out of testing, He brings triumph, out of sorrow, comes a song.

There comes a song.

So find power in His promise, though at times not understood,

as you love the God who leads you He will guide your paths to good.

Though there’s weeping in the waiting, in the morning, joy is there.

Learn to trust Him as you travel, learn to trust Him as you travel,

learn to trust Him as you travel on the path to answered prayer.

He answers prayer."

It is this song that the chairperson of our choir, Raymond Chiang clung to as he lived through cancer affecting his health. He prayed for healing of a colon cancer he suffered which had spread to his liver and subsequently he lived a normal and active life through two surgeries and chemotherapy. Click to hear, Raymond's encouraging testimony, how God gave him the faith to overcome his illness. 

Raymond spoke about trusting God and praying for healing. After a colectomy, it was found a year later, that there was a secondary to the liver. He underwent surgery to remove the tumour in the liver. After the surgery, the surgeon asked whether he had undergone chemotherapy prior because 70% of the tumour cells from the liver was found to be not viable on the biopsy. Raymond answered negatively which surprised the surgeon. When informed, the oncologist replied, "A supernatural force is at work here". Today Raymond has completed the post-surgery chemotherapy and he is hale and hearty.

The response to the corona virus pandemic in almost every country, underlies the innate fear and panic in many people, they run to the supermarkets and pharmacies to hoard daily essentials. People were jostling for rice and canned food, masks and alcohol wipes and even toilet paper to the point where nothing was available on the shelves and the national stockpiles were depleted.

Fear and panic are not the ways we should confront the challenge of COVID-19 pandemic; instead of fear there should be faith and instead of panic there should be prayer. There is a light at the end of the tunnel!

Lionel