25.09.2016. Saturday. Rev. Thomas concluded his sermon by quoting the meaning of religion, “I obey; therefore, I’m accepted.”. In another word, “Only when I obey God, then I’m accepted and love in order to get things from God”.
Contrary with the message of Gospel, “I’m accepted; therefore, I obey.” Means, I’m accepted and love by god even though I do not know him.”
How was it possible? I’m still accepted and love by God even though I’m a total stranger to him.
In a slow pace the Holy Spirit gradually guided me to understood the meaning of Gospel that lead me to realize the essence of the word “God’s Grace”. It was signified through the redemptive act of Jesus Christ.
In his long-suffering on the cross, when he poised to look at those below from the cross, his downtrodden eyes does not expressed defeat as many of us might think; Instead, a loving eyes of grace because he knew he had conquered death. HIS victory over death marked the victorious living for each of us over sin and the removal of all barrier so that we are able to come to the presence of HIS father in heaven. St. Paul in the book of Roman 8 : 31-32, say it well,
"What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?"
26.09.2016. Monday. I was moved to watch the movie “Fireproof” directed by Alex Kendrick. I’d watch it twice. This would be the third. "What would I possibly learn if I watch it again?" I groaned. Moreover, it was quite late. Anyway, I sat through and the show stretch till 3am in the morning. After the show ended, I began to gain further insight on what was the Saturday sermon is all about.
A scene depicted Caleb confided his father caught my attention. Caleb angrily uttered, “How am I supposed to show love to somebody over and over and over.... who constantly rejects me?” when his effort to continue with “love dare 40 days guide” in order to save his marriage seem to give not fruitful result.
His father, calmly stood next to
a cross and replied, “That’s a good question!”.
The father lovingly consoled him, “You can't love her because you can't give her what you don't have.” He then confessed, “The cross was offensive to me until I came to it. That's when I truly began to love your mom.”
My journey to rekindle with my dear ones with God's love has reach rock bottom. The 'parasites'(impulsive behavior and uncontrolled temperament) within roam freely. After I diminished my desire towards material gains, my role as the head of the family was withdrawn and constantly in lackadaisical approach. Is there hope in all these? In human eyes, its a no-no. In the eyes of Christ, a big Yes. When and where the hope shines is solely in God's hand.
My mind lingered back to the year 2010. My Cell Group 11 had studied through a book entitled “Fireproof Your Life” written by Michael Catt, which uses references from the movie. The book began with sequoia tree. How the tree is able to withstand multiple fires outbreak because its bark is two feet thick. This is made possible as after each fire encounter, the tree can smolder for six to twelve months from the “pain and suffering” of the flames that lashed at the bark.
This book spur my spirit not to succumb to circumstances and always stand tall to face my challenges in Christ’s power. It is a painstaking journey for me to walk in a path to share God’s Love with others but I'm glad to live each day in gratitude. Being given a 2nd lease of life to pursue my passion is a gift that is beyond my comprehension.
Reliving my first love in Christ drawn me to attain peace and tranquility while at the same time declaring war against the 'parasites' within. It is my joy to constantly walk with Christ till the day HE bids me at the pearly gate. HIS generous strength and wisdom would be pour upon me whenever I seek them wholeheartedly. Sad to say, there are moments when the ups and downs of life cycle seems to cloud HIS generosity allowing doubt to sneak in. However, I had taken a firm stand before HIM that I will stay on course with HIS navigation in my life regardless any trials that comes my way.
To God Be the Glory, Amen.
My mind lingered back to the year 2010. My Cell Group 11 had studied through a book entitled “Fireproof Your Life” written by Michael Catt, which uses references from the movie. The book began with sequoia tree. How the tree is able to withstand multiple fires outbreak because its bark is two feet thick. This is made possible as after each fire encounter, the tree can smolder for six to twelve months from the “pain and suffering” of the flames that lashed at the bark.
This book spur my spirit not to succumb to circumstances and always stand tall to face my challenges in Christ’s power. It is a painstaking journey for me to walk in a path to share God’s Love with others but I'm glad to live each day in gratitude. Being given a 2nd lease of life to pursue my passion is a gift that is beyond my comprehension.
Reliving my first love in Christ drawn me to attain peace and tranquility while at the same time declaring war against the 'parasites' within. It is my joy to constantly walk with Christ till the day HE bids me at the pearly gate. HIS generous strength and wisdom would be pour upon me whenever I seek them wholeheartedly. Sad to say, there are moments when the ups and downs of life cycle seems to cloud HIS generosity allowing doubt to sneak in. However, I had taken a firm stand before HIM that I will stay on course with HIS navigation in my life regardless any trials that comes my way.
To God Be the Glory, Amen.
Written on 30 September 2016, Friday
by Ling Chin Hing.