Please pray for the following
1) Pray that with Christmas nearing that more will hear about the Good News, that they will believe in the faith which we profess.
2) Pray for the people around us that have yet to hear about the Gospel, for divine intervention to be sending people to be befriending, ministering and caring for this group of people.
3) Pray for the “aliens” and those not of our nationality, as festive seasons are the prime time which pangs of homesickness will be the strongest.
4) Pray for the SM3 students that have just arrived in Singapore, that we will be warm hosts and be the crucial link in integrating them into the school and community.
5) Thanksgiving for Anntic ’09 that all have safely returned. Pray that the messages will continue to minister and serve to remind and build us up in our points of need.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Unity for our King
Unity for (our) King
Thais Unite for the King
http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/161893/thais-unite-for-his-majesty
Uniting to Wish King a Happy Birthday
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/12/05/national/national_30118005.php
The King of Thailand celebrates his 82nd birthday today (5 Dec) and it appears that all Thais, regardless of their political affiliations are going to place their disputes and disagreement aside for this occasion. Just a year ago, this every same occasion served as a platform for the intense face-off between the National United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD),an anti-People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) political pressure group in Thailand and the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), each aiming to further their own political agenda.
On one level, it seems to serve as a reminder for us Christians. Despite differences between the various denominations, we too serve the same King. While conflicts between Christians are a lot less prominent in Singapore, the fact remains that in this world, Christianity continues to exist as one of the most divided religion in the entire world.
A parallel between the situation in Thailand and the state of (dis)unity among Christians, in general, can be drawn. One reason for the intense Thai political conflict lies in each party wanting to establish their own beliefs and views (this is of course, a highly reductionist way of understanding the situation but aims to establish a common ground on this issue). In the same way, Christians with different agenda, backed by their convictions, result in disunity in the body of Christ.
A simple but pertinent case is the dichotomy between those who are termed “fundamentalists” and, by virtue of definition, the “liberals”. While we are not here to debate over which is better or correct, the point to be made here is that both camps have their own ideals that they hold onto. Both sides aim to glorify God – one choosing to remain as true to His Word as possible, the other often tries to ‘apply’ the Word into our context and circumstances. Yet, in our attempt to advocate one or the other, what results is disunity that stems from disagreement. Granted that there may be no, or little, explicit conflict, we have to acknowledge that these differences do drive a wedge between Christians as a whole.
Perhaps we ought to look towards the Thais and be reminded that despite the differences that may exist, the truth remains that we serve the same King. That, fundamentalists or not, we are all a part of the same body. And even as we approach Christmas – the ‘birthday’ of our King – perhaps we should learn to grow closer as one body even more. Just as the Thais are determined to show the world their reverence for their King, we should strive towards, as Jesus prayed in John 17: 20-26, being “brought to complete unity”.
Pray that
-The Thais will not simply ‘unite’ only for this day but learn to put aside their individual political differences
-For the Thai King’s health and wisdom as he remains the pillar of the country
-Christians will be brought into complete unity for Him and through Him
Written By Allan Lee
Thais Unite for the King
http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/local/161893/thais-unite-for-his-majesty
Uniting to Wish King a Happy Birthday
http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2009/12/05/national/national_30118005.php
The King of Thailand celebrates his 82nd birthday today (5 Dec) and it appears that all Thais, regardless of their political affiliations are going to place their disputes and disagreement aside for this occasion. Just a year ago, this every same occasion served as a platform for the intense face-off between the National United Front of Democracy Against Dictatorship (UDD),an anti-People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD) political pressure group in Thailand and the People's Alliance for Democracy (PAD), each aiming to further their own political agenda.
On one level, it seems to serve as a reminder for us Christians. Despite differences between the various denominations, we too serve the same King. While conflicts between Christians are a lot less prominent in Singapore, the fact remains that in this world, Christianity continues to exist as one of the most divided religion in the entire world.
A parallel between the situation in Thailand and the state of (dis)unity among Christians, in general, can be drawn. One reason for the intense Thai political conflict lies in each party wanting to establish their own beliefs and views (this is of course, a highly reductionist way of understanding the situation but aims to establish a common ground on this issue). In the same way, Christians with different agenda, backed by their convictions, result in disunity in the body of Christ.
A simple but pertinent case is the dichotomy between those who are termed “fundamentalists” and, by virtue of definition, the “liberals”. While we are not here to debate over which is better or correct, the point to be made here is that both camps have their own ideals that they hold onto. Both sides aim to glorify God – one choosing to remain as true to His Word as possible, the other often tries to ‘apply’ the Word into our context and circumstances. Yet, in our attempt to advocate one or the other, what results is disunity that stems from disagreement. Granted that there may be no, or little, explicit conflict, we have to acknowledge that these differences do drive a wedge between Christians as a whole.
Perhaps we ought to look towards the Thais and be reminded that despite the differences that may exist, the truth remains that we serve the same King. That, fundamentalists or not, we are all a part of the same body. And even as we approach Christmas – the ‘birthday’ of our King – perhaps we should learn to grow closer as one body even more. Just as the Thais are determined to show the world their reverence for their King, we should strive towards, as Jesus prayed in John 17: 20-26, being “brought to complete unity”.
Pray that
-The Thais will not simply ‘unite’ only for this day but learn to put aside their individual political differences
-For the Thai King’s health and wisdom as he remains the pillar of the country
-Christians will be brought into complete unity for Him and through Him
Written By Allan Lee
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Christians In The Public Square
3rd November 2009 (Tues, 8 pm - 9.30 pm @ Cathedral New Sanctuary)
Speaker: Prof. Roland Chia
Recently, the role of religion in the public square has received some attention by the media. Should Christians be involved in public debates and discourse for the common good of society? Most Christians in Singapore would emphasize the importance of evangelism, but is Christian engagement in social and political issues part of Christian witness.
This talk will attempt to answer some of these questions by looking at the Bible and Christian tradition. The talk will develop a theology of Christian witness in an ideologically and religiously plural society like Singapore. It will also see to delineate the 'rules' of such engagement in the context of a profound Christian theological realism. The following questions will be discussed:
- What is the scope of the Christian's witness?
- Is Christian witness itself a political activity?
- What is the role of the Church (and Christians) in society?
- Is there a place for compromise in Christian social engagement?
About the Speaker:
Prof. Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor of Christian Doctrine and Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies at Trinity Theological College. He is author of numerous articles and books including, Hope for the World: A Christian Vision of the Last Things (2005) and The Right to Die? A Response to Euthanasia (2009).
To register, please email sacce@livingstreams.org.sg with your name, contact number, email address, and the Cathedral service you are currently attending.
Prayer points for the week #4
Matthew 5
9 This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
As we pray for the nations around us and even as we become affected by the turmoil and conflicts that go on, let us remember God's purposes for mankind: that they be prepared for God's kingdom.
Please pray for the following:
1) Pakistan - The nation is struggling with the Taleban. Pray for peace to be restored, above all, that more people from this war-torn nation will come to know the Lord.
2) Palestine and the Gaza strip - Israel continues to be overbearing upon the Palestinians. The latter are now dealing with water shortages, on top of a continually poor economy. Pray that God's message will still be believed in and preached, despite Israel's actions. Pray too that Israel will be compassionate and show the love of God to even their enemies.
3) Pray for the Islamic nations in our region. They struggle with balancing Islam and secular governance. Pray that despite the Islamic overtones, God's word will continue to make inroads in the hearts of every Muslim. It is not easy to believe in Christ in a Muslim context.
4) Pray for the Rohingya of Myanmar. They are still not recognised people of Myanmar. Many of them have been pushed into Bangladesh, where they are severely ill-treated. Some Rohingya are pushed back into Myanmar. Pray that the hearts of the junta wil be softened. Pray too, for the Rohingya.
5) i)Pray for Singapore citizenship matters, especially with regards to PRs. Consider the Christian response towards PRs, who do not have all citizenship rights but are able to buy houses and hold jobs here. Pray too for the foreign workers (maids, construction workers) in our midst, some of whom are ill treated, even in a country like Singapore.
ii) The economy is recovering. Thank God for it. Pray that the recovery may be sustained. Pray too that we, as Christians will continue to reach out to those around us, especially the poor and to those who may have lost their jobs.
Romans 8
26In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.
9 This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,10 your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
As we pray for the nations around us and even as we become affected by the turmoil and conflicts that go on, let us remember God's purposes for mankind: that they be prepared for God's kingdom.
Please pray for the following:
1) Pakistan - The nation is struggling with the Taleban. Pray for peace to be restored, above all, that more people from this war-torn nation will come to know the Lord.
2) Palestine and the Gaza strip - Israel continues to be overbearing upon the Palestinians. The latter are now dealing with water shortages, on top of a continually poor economy. Pray that God's message will still be believed in and preached, despite Israel's actions. Pray too that Israel will be compassionate and show the love of God to even their enemies.
3) Pray for the Islamic nations in our region. They struggle with balancing Islam and secular governance. Pray that despite the Islamic overtones, God's word will continue to make inroads in the hearts of every Muslim. It is not easy to believe in Christ in a Muslim context.
4) Pray for the Rohingya of Myanmar. They are still not recognised people of Myanmar. Many of them have been pushed into Bangladesh, where they are severely ill-treated. Some Rohingya are pushed back into Myanmar. Pray that the hearts of the junta wil be softened. Pray too, for the Rohingya.
5) i)Pray for Singapore citizenship matters, especially with regards to PRs. Consider the Christian response towards PRs, who do not have all citizenship rights but are able to buy houses and hold jobs here. Pray too for the foreign workers (maids, construction workers) in our midst, some of whom are ill treated, even in a country like Singapore.
ii) The economy is recovering. Thank God for it. Pray that the recovery may be sustained. Pray too that we, as Christians will continue to reach out to those around us, especially the poor and to those who may have lost their jobs.
Romans 8
26In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express. 27And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints in accordance with God's will.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Prayer points for the week #3
Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono as he has just been sworn in again as President of Indonesia. Pray for wisdom for President Yudhoyono and his cabinet as he will have to take Indonesia through challenging times; the economy, rescue and restoration efforts for the spate of natural disasters and balancing the views of Islamic conservatives. Pray too, that the gospel will continue to be shared.
Pray too for disaster relief efforts that are still ongoing in the Philippines and Padang, Indonesia. Pray for not only God’s peace but that the victims can come to know Christ.
Pray for the troubled waters around the African nation of Somalia. Somali pirates have hijacked a Chinese ship and threaten to execute all its crew if the pirate demands are not met. Pray for a resolution of the problem of piracy, which will take strong political will and a lot of help from outside nations, as piracy is tied to Somalia’s poverty. Pray for the pirates, that they and their people will come to know the Lord.
Pray for the ASEAN summit that will be held this weekend. ASEAN looks to establish stronger connections with India and China. Pray for safety for Thailand, the host country. Pray too for wisdom and unity for the ASEAN leaders, that they will make decisions that are best for their people. Pray that the leaders of ASEAN will know better.
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Social Activism for the Young
Just 2 months ago, there was a 3-part report that covered the issue of social activism in Singapore among the younger generation. It showed of how proactive and passionate some young people of today are, engaging and taking practical action in issues that they might or might not have first-hand experience in, including that of Youths At Risk, Law, Social Issues, Education and the Environment. Even though evidence from polls show that only 45% feeling that active volunteering was important, and this seemingly bleak statistics is pointing towards the existence of a nonchalant and idle young population, this small group of passionate individuals are still determined to rise above the crowd.
Many adults would, more often than not, label young people of today as being “socially and politically apathetic”. Clueless about the current affairs of today, young people seem to live in their own dimension, one of entertainment, play and decadence. But how does a young person react to such a comment? As one who has spent all my life in the Singaporean education system, I would say that the State encourages, but does not promote, social activism. Students have to go through mandatory primary and secondary school education, which encompasses a 16-hour Community Involvement Programme (CIP), whereby community projects are randomly allotted to us. Indeed, this exposes young persons to the gratifying feeling of cleaning up a beach, or altruistic fulfillment after spending an afternoon talking with a widowed, childless old lady. But it stops there. Period. Chalk up the hours and end the mission. Love and personal conviction are missing from the equation.
As believers of Christ, how are we then supposed to respond in such a society that prides itself in economic status, rather than altruistic accomplishments? And what attitude should we have with regards to helping others?
34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
- Matt 25:34-40
Jesus not only asks of us to do good unto others, but also asks of us to serve others as if we are serving Him directly. When one understands the implications of this, one would realize that we are not to merely serve through habit, but that God would desire for a genuine heart of service as well. This can also be seen through the verse, Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.”
In addition, something else to take note from this verse would be the fact that service must also never be self-seeking. This can often be the case when one steers away from a God-centred passion and begin running on a “purely altruistic” sense of fufillment.
Hence, as Christians, it is important to centre our convictions in God, and at the same time, desire to serve God by serving the least of His people.
Prayer Pointers
1) Pray that God will stir up personal convictions within us, to be proactive in social issues
2) Pray that our efforts will be sincere and overflowing with love, and not one out of obligation
3) Pray for encouragement and strength for those already involved heavily in social activism, that their passion in making a difference will continue to burn and remain God-centred
Written by Diana Kang and Ho Kah Yoke
Many adults would, more often than not, label young people of today as being “socially and politically apathetic”. Clueless about the current affairs of today, young people seem to live in their own dimension, one of entertainment, play and decadence. But how does a young person react to such a comment? As one who has spent all my life in the Singaporean education system, I would say that the State encourages, but does not promote, social activism. Students have to go through mandatory primary and secondary school education, which encompasses a 16-hour Community Involvement Programme (CIP), whereby community projects are randomly allotted to us. Indeed, this exposes young persons to the gratifying feeling of cleaning up a beach, or altruistic fulfillment after spending an afternoon talking with a widowed, childless old lady. But it stops there. Period. Chalk up the hours and end the mission. Love and personal conviction are missing from the equation.
As believers of Christ, how are we then supposed to respond in such a society that prides itself in economic status, rather than altruistic accomplishments? And what attitude should we have with regards to helping others?
34"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.'
37"Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?'
40"The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me.'
- Matt 25:34-40
Jesus not only asks of us to do good unto others, but also asks of us to serve others as if we are serving Him directly. When one understands the implications of this, one would realize that we are not to merely serve through habit, but that God would desire for a genuine heart of service as well. This can also be seen through the verse, Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.”
In addition, something else to take note from this verse would be the fact that service must also never be self-seeking. This can often be the case when one steers away from a God-centred passion and begin running on a “purely altruistic” sense of fufillment.
Hence, as Christians, it is important to centre our convictions in God, and at the same time, desire to serve God by serving the least of His people.
Prayer Pointers
1) Pray that God will stir up personal convictions within us, to be proactive in social issues
2) Pray that our efforts will be sincere and overflowing with love, and not one out of obligation
3) Pray for encouragement and strength for those already involved heavily in social activism, that their passion in making a difference will continue to burn and remain God-centred
Written by Diana Kang and Ho Kah Yoke
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Prayer points for the week #2
1) Thank God that Singapore is gradually recovering from the economic recession. Pray especially for those who have lost their jobs and the working poor, that they will benefit from this. Pray that the effects of economic recovery will trickle down soon.
2) Pray also for the Singapore government. There has been a spate of news reports reflecting people's disgruntled feelings with regards to various policies; housing and giving out of PR statuses amongst others. Pray for wise governance that does not go after pragmatic economic gains at the expense social and moral issues.
3) Continue to pray for foreign students on campus. It can be challenging to study in a country whose peoples are struggling with acceptance of foreigners.
4) Pray for Myanmar and Bangladesh. There are new border tensions as Myanmar builds up troop levels at the border. Pray that this will not develop into any skirmishes or conflicts.
5) Pray for Thailand, which has yet to resolve its political issues. Protests by the Red Shirts are scheduled to occur this Saturday and the Thai government will invoke its internal security act to prevent disruptive protests as leaders of ASEAN meet.
6) Pray for relief efforts in Philippines, Padang and Samoa as these countries struggle in the aftermath of typhoons and earthquakes. Pray for better preventive measures against future earthquakes, especially for the implementation of better building policies.
2) Pray also for the Singapore government. There has been a spate of news reports reflecting people's disgruntled feelings with regards to various policies; housing and giving out of PR statuses amongst others. Pray for wise governance that does not go after pragmatic economic gains at the expense social and moral issues.
3) Continue to pray for foreign students on campus. It can be challenging to study in a country whose peoples are struggling with acceptance of foreigners.
4) Pray for Myanmar and Bangladesh. There are new border tensions as Myanmar builds up troop levels at the border. Pray that this will not develop into any skirmishes or conflicts.
5) Pray for Thailand, which has yet to resolve its political issues. Protests by the Red Shirts are scheduled to occur this Saturday and the Thai government will invoke its internal security act to prevent disruptive protests as leaders of ASEAN meet.
6) Pray for relief efforts in Philippines, Padang and Samoa as these countries struggle in the aftermath of typhoons and earthquakes. Pray for better preventive measures against future earthquakes, especially for the implementation of better building policies.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
