When Hope is Lost

TITLE: When Hope is Lost
Date: 22 June 2011
Written by: Conrade Yap

As it is written: “There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands, no one who seeks God. All have turned away, they have together become worthless; there is no one who does good, not even one.” (Rom 3:10-12)

MAIN POINT: What do we do when all hope is lost? Some vent frustrations outside through riots, or sinful acts. Others through depression inside. Christians need not fret about either. They have the Person of Jesus to hope in.

Last week, Vancouver’s hockey team lost the deciding game of the Stanley Cup final. Despite the many positive signs that this year is THE year of Vancouver lifting the coveted cup, the team lost badly. Hopes were dashed. Crowds gathered downtown to watch the game became frustrated that they may never get to see the Cup in their city during their lifetime. As the home team faded away during the game, negative energy rose among the crowds. Disappointment led to sadness. Aggravated sadness led to anger. Anger led to public unrest, and riots led to vandalism and widespread looting. You can see some pictures and videos in my blog here.

I stayed glued to the TV set after hearing news about car explosions, overturned trucks, broken windows, and senseless looting. Stunned, I saw people flinging newspaper bins at glass panels of a major department store. Some tried to set fire to police cars. Many chants include:

• “Flip the truck!”
• “Burn the car!”
• “Break the window!”

The police had identified the culprits as a ‘small group’ of trouble-makers who are not hockey fans. The day after, Vancouver Police chief, Jim Chu blamed the riots on a small group of ‘criminals, anarchists, and thugs.’ Public outcry blamed the whole situation on the city of Vancouver, and the way the authorities have allowed such a huge gathering in the first place. Some blamed the hockey team for not winning! The game of hockey has become a game of blame.

I think two factors stand out clear. People riot because they feel a deep sense of injustice and an utter loss of hope.

A) A Feeling of Injustice

I remember seeing the 1992 LA riots on TV in a hotel room in San Jose. On that infamous day, many blacks attack a sense of injustice when the policemen who are white, were acquitted after having beaten up a black man, Rodney King. Now in 2011, there is also a feeling of injustice. After all, the Vancouver Canucks has been ranked #1 in the league this year. They have scored the most number of goals, allowed the least, and boasts many highly ranked players. They have a hugely important psychological advantage of playing at home to Boston. On top of that, the signs all point to a Vancouver victory. Sports commentators declare it. Canadian politicians affirm that. Psychics predict it. The entire city embraces the ‘guarantee’ of a victory. With such a high hope and expectations, more than a hundred thousand people throng the streets of Vancouver to watch the final game from huge TV screens specially delivered from California.

The team loses. Badly. The people take it. Badly.

When hyped up expectations are rudely taken down, it is like pouring petrol on the streets waiting for someone to fling a lighted match. Feelings of injustice ignite the whole tragedy.

B) A Feeling of Helplessness

Those of us watching the whole riot scenes unfold on TV feel utterly helpless. There is not much we can do from such a remote distance, except to call our loved ones to leave the downtown neighbourhood as fast as possible. Thankfully my daughter has the sensibility to stay away, opting to hang out in her friend’s house instead.

The thing that troubles me is not the rascals hurling chairs and tables at windows, or burning and property. It is the hundreds of people raising their Smartphones or digital cameras to film or capture the entire riots scenes. I ask:

• “Are you guys some reporter for some news agencies?”
• “Are you a licensed representative for the press?”
• “What are you doing there?”

In other words, if you are not helping, then get out! If you are simply standing by not doing anything, move away so that the police can catch the culprits. By standing around videotaping the scenes, curious bystanders are shielding the police from the rioters. They are forming an unnecessary barrier. Their very presence are encouraging the rioters to continue their acts, even to raise their boldness in committing bigger crimes. Worse, those observers can become caught up in a mob-mentality, that will tempt the inner demons in them. For instance, if one sees looters running into an electronics shop and grabbing an iPhone, will that not tempt a man to shed his innocence and to grab one for self?

Contrary to what the police has said, two days ago, out of the 8 persons who gave themselves up, 6 of them are first time offenders. This is a fact. There are no such thing as an innocent person. All are guilty. All are in fact one offense away of committing a crime. All it needs is a spark or light. That is injustice. When injustice is sensed all over, people fling rule books out of their vocabulary. Anarchy reigns, spurred on by the nonchalant looks of many bystanders who can do something but chooses not to. Feelings of helplessness erase tangible hope of a better tomorrow.

C) "These Are NOT Vancouver Canucks Fans"

With many rioters wearing hockey jerseys doing their criminal acts, it is understandable that people watching the riots from afar tends to paint every single Canucks fans with the same brush, that "Canucks fans are rioters." That too is an injustice. Sensing the negative perception, something good starts to happen.. . . . . . .

A man from Victoria decides to do something about the image of Vancouver hockey fans. Proclaiming that the rioters are not ‘true Canucks fans, thousands sign up for a citywide cleanup campaign. Many volunteer with brooms, scrubs, soap, and cleaning equipment. Within hours after the riots, the city redeems itself once again, as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Touching indeed. The worst and the best of Vancouver happening within a span of 24 hours. I figure it is pride at stake. I think people who does something good has the sense to realize that injustice does not reign forever. Hope lasts longer.

That day, I went downtown. I feel for the city. I feel for the people. I feel for the image. Imagine my surprise to see much of the city returning to normal, with the riot zones the night before, becoming a tourist attraction the day after. I join in to write this:

“True fans win gracefully; lose graciously.”

It is my contribution to remind people that a sports game is a game. We need to bear witness as people to people, and not judge one another on the basis of wins or loss, or pride. Sportsmanship is not about winning or losing. It is about bringing out the best in sports, and sportsmanlike behavior.

D) When Hope is Lost

Photo Credit: Rich Lam

When the Vancouver Canucks lost the final game, I sense that the loss is much greater in the hearts of people. It is a feeling of hope being lost. If the best team after 40 years cannot even win, then where is hope? What is there to hope about?

Many find hope that with the public display of images and videos of culprits on social media networks, the guilty will eventually be punished. If not, the images will haunt the guilty ones. They find hope in justice being served in due course. They find hope even in romance during a time of trouble, like this picture which has gone viral. They find hope that there is still something good when everything around looks bad. 

I remember how the disciples of Jesus behave in the gospels after Jesus was arrested and crucified. Peter deny him three times. The other disciples flee. The women weep. Everyone goes back to their original occupations. In their hearts, Jesus is not the Messiah or the Powerful King they expect. In their minds, Jesus is a loser. There is no more hope. Only later, they will realize that Jesus is that 'something good' that will shine forth more, when all hope seems lost.

E) Looking to Jesus

What do we do when all hope is lost? Hang on to the promise. Hold on to our hopes. Never give up. The gospels reveal something more. It reveals Jesus appearing to the disciples and hundreds of eye-witnesses that he has been resurrected from the dead. This is hope. This is the evidence that the disciples all need to see. This is the reason why the Christian Church grows, and grows and grows.

When hope is lost, wait for the appearing of Jesus. Read the promises of Scripture. Remember that Jesus has come, and will come again.

The Vancouver Canucks may have lost this year’s hockey game to Boston. There is always a next year. There is always another chance. There is no reason to riot like crybabies. We all need hope, otherwise, we become easy pickings for anarchic behaviour.

For Christians, there is no reason to fret or worry about tomorrow. In Christ, we have the assurance that He will come one day, in the most perfect moment, to love all, and to call those who follow Him faithfully to enter into his kingdom, a new Jerusalem come on earth as it is in heaven. Yes, on earth, there is no one righteous, not even one. That is why we need to hope in Jesus, the only fully righteous man to walk the brutal earth. It is because he will come again, we have this everlasting hope. A hope that refuses to be defeated. A hope that never says die.

Thought: We may face many defeats in this life, but there is no reason to let our spirits become defeated.

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Copyright by SabbathWalk. This devotional is sent to you free of charge. If you feel blessed or ministered to by SabbathWalk weekly devotionals, feel free to forward to friends, or to invite them to subscribe online at http://blog.sabbathwalk.org . You can also send me an email at cyap@sabbathwalk.org for comments or enquiries.

Cultivating the Whole Brain

TITLE: Cultivating the Whole Brain
WRITTEN BY: Conrade Yap
Date: 13 June 2011

“When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me.” (1 Cor 13:11)

MAIN POINT: The way we do Bible studies need to be re-examined. We need to adapt. We need to grow. We need to cultivate our whole minds for God.

A few weeks ago, while trying to explain how I resolve a certain situation, my daughter exclaims: “Dad, you’re so left brained.” I smile as I remember that it is not the first time I have heard that.

Years ago, a good friend with a psychological training background said the same thing to me. They call me logical and systematic. They say I am one that prefers to quantify things. They say I am rational and like most engineers, very methodical and analytical. Given my training as an engineer, and my experience as a technologist, these skills are vital. I am a problem solver. I like to see myself as a solutions provider, dishing out answers to complex problems. When friends who have problems with their computers approach me for help, I will give them suggestions and tips. Problems can range from a slow performing computer, to a virus-infected software. Once resolved, there is a certain satisfaction I have, just to know that I have accelerated the computer performance, or vanquished the pesky viruses.

Petty Christianity

TITLE: PETTY CHRISTIANITY
Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 7 June 2011

“Then the master called the servant in. ‘You wicked servant,’ he said, ‘I canceled all that debt of yours because you begged me to. Shouldn’t you have had mercy on your fellow servant just as I had on you?’” (Matthew 18:32-33)

MAIN POINT: Pettiness is a behaviour symptomatic of a 'small-heart.' Some people call it a sign of ungrace. Others call it selfishness. I call it a lack of a big-heart.

A few weeks ago, I notice a small interest charge on my card account. That irritates me. The credit card issuer insists it is due to me not paying the due amount in time. I dispute the charge, claiming my good payment record. They say otherwise, claiming their computers are correct. After some tussle back and forth, they finally agree to waive all interest charges on the basis of my track record. A small victory for me.

A) Pettiness: Losing Sight of the Big Picture

Ebenezer Scrooge: Rich but Miserly

As I reflect on my unhappiness over a few couple of cents, I wonder if my anxiety over a few cents is an indicator of small-hearted behaviour. I feel ashamed. The phrase: “Penny wise, pound foolish” seems highly appropriate. Guilty as charged. In winning a 'penny' of waiving a few cents, I lose a 'pound' of human courtesy. Though I maintain a cordial tone throughout, there are times in which I nearly dump a barrage of irritation on someone just doing their job.

Pettiness is basically being too fixated on the little things in life, and missing out the big picture. Pettiness magnify little things out of proportion. It focuses on trivial things. It is narrow-minded, selfish, even downright rude. Most tragically, it lacks the generosity that we so freely receive from God. It lacks grace.

Pettiness is a stumbling block both to others as well as to ourselves. It makes one bitter, not better. Pettiness can appear in many forms.

• Like honking the driver in front who fails to respond quick enough (within 2 seconds) when the green light comes on;
• Getting our change that is one penny less, and making a big fuss out of it;
• Being so calculative that we would rather sacrifice relationships in order to get our own sense of ‘rightness.’
• Insisting on a 'minimum-payment' mindset;
• Becoming so ultra-competitive that 99% is not enough.
• Seeing ourselves more important than others;
• Living as if the whole world owes us a living.

Losing sight of the big picture is the beginning of small-hearted behaviour. I remember hearing a story of a child coming home:

“Daddy, Daddy, I got 95 marks out of 100 for my Math test?”

A petty father will say things like, what happened to the other 5 marks? Or questions the child whether the test is really that simple. Pettiness lets the 5% becomes so big that it overwhelms the 95% obtained.


B) Petty Christianity

One can become very calculative, like the parable of the Unmerciful Servant. In that parable, the context is forgiveness on the basis of being forgiven first. Jesus uses this parable to teach the disciples that the essence of forgiveness is to remember always that we are huge beneficiaries of the greatest forgiveness ever given to men. A man owes the king 10000 talents. In modern terms, think of this ‘talent’ in terms of millions of dollars in debt. This man is unable to pay, and so the king orders that he and his entire family be sold to repay the debt. After much plea and promise to repay, the king relents. The debt is canceled and the king lets the debtor free.

If I am that man, I will be jumping up and down for joy. Like a creditor bank who tells me that I do not have to pay back monthly mortgage payments, or a car loan that has been fully redeemed, I will certainly be grateful. Unfortunately, the story does not end in gratitude. It ends in greed and ungracious behaviour. The servant quickly forgets his canceled million dollar debt. He pounces on one of his fellow servants over a small debt of 100 denarii (this amounts to a few dollars). Imagine one who have just received a million-dollar pardon, refusing to forgive another over a few dollars, is that just?

Like a coin, grace has two faces. The first side receives grace and mercy. The second side GIVES grace and mercy. A life of gratitude. A life of generosity. A life of graciousness.

C) Pettiness in Church

Pettiness is widely seen in Churches too. For a community that claims to worship God, sometimes, it appears like the true god tends to be ‘self.’

• "Why must I serve this week? Didn’t I do it last week?"
• "I’ve already paid my tithes this month? Why is the Church asking me to give MORE to the mission fund?"
• "Why does Missionary A need so much money for his work? I hear of Missionary B in another Church that lives on 50% less than what A is getting."

It is sad when money becomes a divisive factor in Churches. One of the biggest joys I have experienced is the growth of small groups. When people come together, there is fun, conversation, and great fellowship. Adults hang out. Kids have fun. For all the efforts at organizing the event, the food, and the party, there is the hard fact that many of these things are not free. Food needs to be paid. Members need to sacrifice their discretionary time to organize the event. Miscellaneous things need money too. The issue of ‘fairness’ invariably comes up. What is fair to A may not be fair to B. What is equitable to one may not be equitable to another. Some examples:

• Should a family of 1 contribute the same amount as a family of 5?
• Should a family who is away on a business trip be exempted from giving to the common fund for that month?
• I missed out on the past few functions because I have been away. Should I then be exempted from paying?

The list goes on. If one is full of calculative pettiness, nothing is ever fair. Pettiness makes us so calculative that we allow ‘cents of pettiness’ to replace a ‘sense of graciousness.’ Pettiness lets two small coins of MATERIALISM come so close to our eyes that they blind us from the big picture of LOVING RELATIONSHIPS. When the love of MONEY gushes in, the love of PEOPLE oozes out. When graceless behavior takes over, graciousness lets go.

I believe giving must always be voluntary. "Give all you can" is good advice, that comes from the founder of Methodism, John Wesley. It must be given with a cheerful heart. It can be given with an attitude of worshiping God.

D) PETTINESS: Sign of a Shrinking Heart

Wayne Cordeiro relates how easy it is for any successful church to forget their roots. His Church, New Hope Oahu is now a thriving Church in Hawaii. In 2008, their weekly attendance numbers nearly 15000 people. In 1984, the Church started with only 35 people. However, membership growth does not translate to a growth of a big-heart. It is worrying that growing membership can often lead to shrinking hearts. One of the pioneers laments:

“We have such talented musicians and such wonderful services at this church. Yet I remember the early days when we had little or nothing. I am sure it’s still there, but it’s hard to see anymore. Where’s the heart gone?” (Wayne Cordeiro, The Irresistible Church, MN: Bethany House, 2011, p47)

Cordeiro goes on to talk about a healthy irresistible church is one that ‘lives heart first.’ He says: “A mind will reach a mind, but only a heart will reach a heart.”

He warns us about programs starting to replace community life, and taking a life of its own.

“The danger comes when our programs outgrow our hearts. Usually in the beginning of any ministry-oriented initiative, we lead with our passion. We take more risks. We develop things with a sort of raw energy. Yet once a program is implemented, the temptation exists to endlessly produce the same results. The problem is that our hearts start to depend on the programs. We can have programs going, but no heart behind them. ” (p48)

E) Pettiness: Putting Programs Before People

I think part of the reasons for pettiness among Christians is that our hearts have not kept up with the programs. Most critically, our hearts have not kept up with the grace of God. When we remember the things people owe us, we forget the things we owe God. When we are petty over a few cents, we forget how God has forgiven and paid all of our debts. We forget that all that we have belongs to God in the first place. Pettiness comes about because we have misplaced our heart. We let programs assume the responsibility of relationships.

Let me urge you my readers to remember the grace of God. Remember that we are born into this world with nothing, and we shall leave this world with nothing. Remember that whatever God has given us, God has every right to take that away. If we are petty over little things, be warned that if God treats us the same way we treat others, we will be worse off. May we all be grateful servants, who are mindful of the big picture, to grow our heart full of gratitude to God and to one another.

• Give one another the benefit of the doubt;
• Forgive one another, as Christ has forgiven us;
• Do not let money come in between relationships;
• Rather empty our pockets, than to empty our relationships.

Petty Christianity sucks the joy out of being a Christian. We should not shoot our own community on its foot by petty behaviour. Adopt grace. Sandwich each 'right' of ours with TWO 'layers' of responsibility.

How do we get out of petty Christianity? Here are seven pointers:

1. Be People-Wise, Penny-Foolish
2. Avoid Calculative-Christianity. Allocate your giving on the HIGHER side, not minimum requirement.
3. Giving people the benefit of the doubt, especially small matters.
4. Put People before Programs.
5. Let graciousness enlarge our hearts.
6. Each time we name 1 'right' of ours, sandwich it with 2 layers of our 'responsibility.'
7. Live Heart First

Thought: There are three kinds of givers -- the flint, the sponge and the honeycomb. To get anything out of a flint you must hammer it. And then you get only chips and sparks. To get water out of a sponge you must squeeze it, and the more you use pressure, the more you will get. But the honeycomb just overflows with its own sweetness. Which kind of giver are you? (Source: Unknown)


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Copyright by SabbathWalk. This devotional is sent to you free of charge. If you feel blessed or ministered to by SabbathWalk weekly devotionals, feel free to forward to friends, or to invite them to subscribe online at http://blog.sabbathwalk.org . You can also send me an email at cyap@sabbathwalk.org for comments or enquiries.

A People-Scented Worship (Part 2 of 2)

TITLE: A People-Scented Worship (Part 2 of 2)
Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 31 May 2011

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship." (Romans 12:1)

MAIN POINT: While it is true that worship is all about God, the condition of the worshiper is also crucial. The quality of our worship to God hinges on two elements. Our inner spiritual well-being and our outer relationships with others. 

Worship is all about God. It is also about the quality of our worship. The Psalmist cries out:

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." (Ps 51:10)

Each time we come to God, we need to be reminded of this. No matter how hard we try, we can never cleanse ourselves. We can never redeem ourselves on our own strength. We need God's help.

In this second part of worship, I shall talk about the quality of the worshiper's heart. This is what I call being 'people-scented.' Scented from within. Scented from without. Both needs to be strung together with a scent of thanksgiving.

Worship as God-Centered (Part 1 of 2)

TITLE: WORSHIP AS GOD-CENTERED (Part 1 of 2)
Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 23 May 2011

"Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." (1 Sam 15:22)

MAIN POINT: Much controversy has been occurring in Christian circles. On the one hand, theologically, we agree that God is the main audience in any worship. Yet, in terms of practice, we often behave as if the congregation is the main target. For two weeks, SabbathWalk will attempt to shed some light on this, that worship is God-Centered as well as People-Scented. Part One deals with God-Centered aspect. Part Two will be published next week.

Credit: VickyBeeching.com

Last week, I had an interesting discussion in Church. We were talking about the state of worship not just in our Church but in general. Worship has been a rather controversial matter through the ages. The first murder on earth happened after a dispute over worship style. Cain was mightily unhappy that the LORD had accepted Abel's worship more than his. We also read about King Saul's act of sacrifice, which was reprimanded by the Prophet Samuel. The prophet rapped the first king of Israel,

But Samuel replied: "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? To obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed is better than the fat of rams." (1 Sam 15:22)

Thinking that by simply going through the motions of sacrifices, Saul has forgotten and taken for granted that worship is about God, not about following certain rituals. The history of Israel is also checkered with instances where Israel offered the acts of sacrifice without the attitude of obedience.

When you bring blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice crippled or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?" says the LORD Almighty. (Mal 1:8)

So the LORD was very angry with Israel and removed them from his presence. Only the tribe of Judah was left, and even Judah did not keep the commands of the LORD their God. They followed the practices Israel had introduced. Therefore the LORD rejected all the people of Israel; he afflicted them and gave them into the hands of plunderers, until he thrust them from his presence. (2 Kings 17:18-20)

Throughout the discussion last week, I emphasize the need to educate people that worship is not merely the choosing of songs, the sub-contracting to experts, or experience seeking. Worship is in essence a delicate exercising of two aspects: God-Centered and People-Scented. Being God-centered means we adopt a stance of letting God speak even though we do not feel like singing, or when we do not feel like worshiping.

Four Critical Moods in Preaching

TITLE: THE FOUR CRITICAL MOODS IN PREACHING
Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 17 May 2011

"Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage--with great patience and careful instruction." (2 Tim 4:2)

MAIN POINT: This week's article is a note to preachers, in particular myself, that preaching requires four critical moods.

I love to preach. Having gone through theological training, and being schooled by some of the best preachers in the world, I still feel frequently inadequate. The irony is that when I feel confident, and when I think I have preached well, there seem to be very little effect on the people. On the other hand, when I feel weak, and inadequate after my preaching, strangely, lives are touched. Preaching can be a humbling experience. I have a world-class professor as my mentor. He has been voted one of the top 12 best preachers in North America. Sitting through his class is an experience in itself. With great training comes a heavy responsibility.

I write the following to remind myself about the FOUR critical moods needed before, during, and after preaching. If you are a preacher, or one who may be called upon from time to time to preach the gospel, feel free to listen in. You may want to share this with your pastor, leader or anyone who from time to time, are called to preach.

Leaving Without a Goodbye

TITLE: Leaving Without a Goodbye
Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 9 May 2011

"And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him." (Gen. 5:24)

MAIN POINT: Life hurts. Sometimes the cruellest hit to take is an unexpected death, especially when one leaves without saying a proper ‘goodbye.’ I recommend three thoughts about coping with sudden departure of loved ones.

Life hurts.

On May 4th, 2011, a friend of mine went out for an evening run. It was nothing unusual. He had been doing it for many years. A marathon runner, an avid sportsman, he would achieve distances that his peers can only dream about. He ran out but never came back. It was reported that he collapsed in the middle of the run due to chest complications. In one evening, two grown children lost a father. A devoted wife became a widow. I lost a dear brother in Christ.

My children were stunned when I told them the news. My wife was shocked. I remained in a state of anguish that translated into an absence of blog updates. As I collect past photos and videos of my brother in Christ, I cry inside. I grieve within. I question above.

A) Leaving Without a Goodbye

Shock. Incomprehension. Dumbfounded. These are immediate emotions to news of a person who leaves this earth without a decent goodbye. Like a family that perishes after a horrible highway crash. Like a teenager who drowns during an excursion. A Church elder I know is still crushed by the memories of a boy who died at a school outing many years ago, when he was a teacher in charge. The recent tsunami in Japan leaves many people no chance of saying goodbye to their loved ones. Michiko Segawa of Chiba a survivor from the tsunami disaster shares her grief:

“I can’t explain how I feel for the victims and their family. Did they have a happy life? How cruel to lose something so precious to a tsunami. They could not even say goodbye to those they loved. I only hope at least all the bodies can go back to their waiting families.” (Quakebook Community, 246 Aftershocks, Quakebook.org, 2011, p38)

When one leaves without a goodbye, imaginations run wild. How did the person die? What was he thinking just before dying? What last wishes did he have for his loved ones? Is there a last goodbye he had wanted the family to know about? What will happen to the family he/she leaves behind? What about the many projects and things undone?

Such questions may never be answered. It only ushers in a painful flood of emotions beyond our own understanding. Emotions flip flop in all directions.

• I think I know why. No I don’t know why.
• I think I understand his intentions. Maybe, I don’t really know.
• Perhaps, he had wanted to leave this earth sooner than later. Maybe he does not.
• Is she happy just before she died? Or are there some unresolved issue that saddens her?

Stubborn questions can only face up to mere speculations. As I read Genesis 5:24 about Enoch, I wonder: “What was Enoch doing just before God took him?”

B) Enoch Walked With God

Enoch is an interesting biblical character who has a very brief mention in the Bible. He is the son of Jared, and the seventh descendent from Adam. The name of Enoch means ‘consecrated’ or ‘dedicated.’ He lived 365 years, which is by modern standards practically impossible. Perhaps, the environmental conditions during that time allows for a longer life. Without the threat of radiation in the atmosphere, global warming or polluted natural resources, life is certainly cleaner then. The most significant part in Gen 5:24 is the phrase “Enoch walked with God.” This is significant for at least 3 reasons. Firstly, his name (consecration) reflects a life totally dedicated and reserved for God. Secondly, like Noah later on, he walked with God. Later we will read about Abram who walked before God in Gen 17:1. At 99, Abram heard the LORD saying to him:

“I am God Almighty; walk before me and be blameless.” (Gen 17:1)

Interestingly, for Enoch, no such conversation is recorded. It simply mentions ‘Enoch walked with God.”

Some scholars prefer to see Enoch as someone who has not actually seen death. God just took him. They quote Hebrews 11:5 which says:

“By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found because God had taken him away.” (Hebrews 11:5)

By faith, Enoch walked with God. By faith, God took him away. By faith, he did not actually see death.

Thirdly, when one walks with God, one fears neither life nor death. I am encouraged as I reflect on the life of Enoch. In faith, Enoch has eyes only for God. In faith, he walked with God, indicating that it is a life where all of his plans, his actions, his words, his deeds are done with glorifying God first. I am encouraged because as far as God’s children is concerned, God will take them away in the most comforting manner. I am encouraged because when one walked with God, there is no need to fear. There is no need to worry about the uncertainties ahead. God walks besides Enoch. God talks to Enoch. God takes care of Enoch. Enoch was no more because he has gone to a better place.

C) Preparation For End-of-Life

I first learned about end-of-life (EOL) when I was working in the manufacturing industry. Months before a product reaches its end-of-life, engineers would have several new alternatives to take its place. One of the end-of-life responsibilities for support staff will be to advise customers about continuing support as well as upgrade options. Both manufacturer and clients will then be in constant talks about possible options to tackle the product’s end-of-life.

One of my personal beliefs is that no one is indispensable anywhere. A replacement is always available. Thus, there is no need to try to puff up one’s importance. Instead, it is always a responsible move to train the next generation of leaders, to plan ahead, to discuss options, to prepare for end-of-life scenarios. If we in the workforce are intelligent enough to make strategic plans about a product’s end-of-life activities, how much more our own human end-of-life?

I have three thoughts to share. If it is helpful, use them. Otherwise, just consider them.

D) Coping with Sudden Deaths

First, take a photo from the past and give thanks. A good way is to collect a pool of photographs through the years, piece them together to tell a story of the deceased life. With each photo, arrange them together with a thankful heart. Some experiences are heartwarming. Others not so. Yet, all of them are part and parcel of the life of the cherished one. Just honour the story.

Second, capture a memory from the past, and see if there is something it can be used to honour the deceased. Remember what the person stands for. It can be faith. It can be a work of art, or a project. It could even be a surprise for another person. Maybe, look forward to fulfilling that wish of the deceased. It could be elaborate. It could be simple. Most importantly, offer it as a loving parting gift, to honour the life of the deceased. I like to add a small caution. Always maintain a balanced approach. Some memories are good while others are not so good. Do not pack all the good together until the memory of the deceased are polished to perfection. Neither should we go to other extreme of loading ourselves with bad memories that depresses us. You can choose to fulfill the dream of the deceased, or to live your life to honour him/her by fulfilling your own dreams in his/her honour.

Thirdly, at some point, think about our own end-of-life preparations. What are we doing ourselves to prepare for our own death? Are we prioritizing our most important things in life? Are we responsible only for current matters? What about the future? Have we done more than just talk when it comes to reconciliation and healing of relationships? What about our own deepest desires and plans of our heart? Are we doing something about them, or are we procrastinating?

Let me end with this story. It is about balancing our need to grieve together with our desire to celebrate the life of someone who left without a proper goodbye.

“One man, in speaking at his father’s memorial service, began his comments with a remark about how his father had been an intensely stubborn and frugal man. ‘You could say that my father was cheap and uncompromising,’ he said. Looking out on those assembled for the funeral, he could see a few faces tighten, and a few people shifted uncomfortably in their chairs. Then he said, “And I’m just like him, thank God!’ The audience cracked up.” (Barbara Okun & Joseph Nowinski, Saying Goodbye, Harvard: Berkley Books, 2011, 278)

Yes. Life hurts. Life is also full of the overcoming of hurts. Live a balanced life of grieving as well as celebration. Do not let one overwhelm the other. For some of us who are grieving loved ones who have died without leaving a proper goodbye, it can hurt real bad. Let us look to Christ for help to enable us to balance grieving with celebration; thankfulness with every memory; and a continued faith, just like our dear brother or sister who have died. For men and women of faith, people who have passed away, we can honour them well through our faithfulness to God, and a perseverance of faith in God.

Personally, I do not think that it makes any big difference whether one is an Enoch or not. What is most important is that when we can, like Enoch, walk with God. If we are able, like Paul, run for God. If we are able, always be prepared. Be prepared to say goodbye. Be prepared to meet God. Be prepared to continue running the race of faith. Until God calls us home.

For my brother Paul, I like to say that in my years of fellowship with him, I can firmly say that Paul did not just walked with God, he ran for God. The best compliment and honour that I can do for him, is to walk and run for God, like him. What earth has lost, heaven has gained. Hallelujah!

Thought: “Pain is never permanent.” (Teresa of Avila, 16th Century Spanish Saint)

sabbathwalk

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Christianity: Arrogant and Exclusive?

TITLE: Christianity: Arrogant and Exclusive?
Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 2 May 2011

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6)

MAIN POINT: Tackling the issue of exclusivity claimed by the Christian faith. Truth by nature is exclusive.

Credit: David Gunter

Many years ago, as a young Christian, I will engage in a vigorous debate with my well-educated uncle. A firm atheist, he is much against anyone who ventures beyond a private-only faith, to start sharing about their beliefs to others. In his view, a religion is for personal consumption. Anything other than a personal religion is considered a ‘crusade,’ a fanatical movement that attempts to shove the faith down another person’s spiritual throat. For my uncle, there is no need to be so serious about any religion. After all, he says defiantly:

• That all religions are the same.
• That all religions teach people to do good deeds.
• That Christianity is wrong to claim sole right to eternity in heaven.
• That it is preposterous for Christians to insist that Jesus is the ONLY way to heaven?

We debate through the night. We argue the pros and cons of religion. Like a chess game, we start well with our pieces on the board, exchange pieces throughout the game, and conclude at a stalemate. My uncle was at that time, an atheist. I think he died a free thinker, still refusing to believe in anything religious.

The Second Question

TITLE: THE SECOND QUESTION
Written by: Conrade Yap
Date: 27 April 2011

TEXT: "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another." (Proverbs 27:17)

MAIN POINT: Are we ‘doing’ Church or ‘being’ Church? If anyone asks you the first question, see it as an opportunity to VOLUNTEER the second question. Are we stuck in doing church? (1st question). Or are we being Church? (2nd question)

What comes to mind when you think of Church? For some of us, it is basically going to Church for Sunday services. Be on time. Be on our best attire. Be present with others in worship. For many, it is also a time of spiritual nourishment, through the sermons and the overall worship experience. In any church, there are ordinary church-goers, sprinkled with a small group of gutsy church-servers. Based on the ‘pareto principle,’ a large group is served by a small group. A typical 'pareto principle' for Church is 80-20. It basically means 80% of the work is done by 20% of the people at any one time. In some cases, I hear that it can be lower than the 95-5 percentile.

Credit: Xarisbob

Over time, if there are no changes, we see a deterioration of this figure. The committed becomes overcommitted. The overcommitted gets burned out. The cost of ‘doing’ church results in the sacrifice of ‘being church.’

Efforts to address the lack of servers in Church are met with standard replies like "I'm busy," or "I don't have the time," or "I am not gifted," or "Thanks, but no thanks!"

Having served in various leadership positions in churches, I am used to people replying in the negative when it comes to serving in church. It can be discouraging. What makes it even more disconcerting is that many churches seem to be fighting a losing battle as far as the 'pareto principle' is concerned. You can say that the Church is God's House, but chances are people are more likely to tend to their own houses first. They quote 1 Tim 3:5 about the need to manage their own households first, as a convenient escape clause from Christian service.

In some cases, some church-goers even think that all the work should be done by all the paid staff in church! Why are there so few volunteers in church ministries? In this article, I shall try to list three common reasons, followed by a proposed paradigm shift for all members.

Be Thankful

TITLE: BE THANKFUL
WRITTEN BY: Conrade Yap
DATE: 19 APRIL 2011

“The two choirs that gave thanks then took their places in the house of God; so did I, together with half the officials,” (Nehemiah 12:40)

MAIN POINT: Thanksgiving is more than a ‘Thank-You.’ Three lessons to learn from the meaning of 'Todah.'

A story is told about Michael the Archangel giving 2 angels the responsibility to travel around the world to collect requests from people. The first angel carries a basket labeled: “Prayer Requests.” The second angels carries a similar basket, but is labeled: “Thanksgiving.” Within minutes, the first angel returns with a basketful of prayer requests. The first angel decides to wait at heaven’s gate for the second angel. Minutes creep to hours. Hours become days. After more than a week, the second angel returns with only a few scraps of paper. Unlike the first angel where prayer requests come fast and furious from a world every hungry to have their needs met, thanksgiving seems to be hard to find. The second angel has to rummage through the far corners of the earth just to get the few miserable pieces of thankfulness.

The question is why are people so generous in dishing out prayer requests, but are such misers when it comes to thanksgiving?