The first day of the second last month of the year…wow, it
feels like just yesterday that we entered a “new year” n now we r gearing up
for another new year. I hv next year to look forward to as I (hope) to graduate
n thus (to finally) conclude my formal education (hopefully). It’s been 17 years
in the Seminary for me! I first stepped into MBTS on 26Dec 1995 n officially
enrolled into the January 1996 intake. Since then I’ve been in the Seminary
pursuing one program after another n even serving in various capacity.
So, what’s next? I asked myself…pursue another post, post
graduate program? I m praying for more ministry opportunities n trust that they
will come at the right time, in the right manner. I so look forward to new challenges
as I encounter this “closure” next year. My dissertation supervisor is now busy
playing grand-dad. Twin grand-daughters in the US
n now twin grand-sons in Makassar. He’ll be
retiring next year; so, I really need to complete my studies by next year.
Should he decide to leave n return to the US, there leaves a “void” to train
another (local) missiologist. Perhaps, I m privileged to be the sole person?! I
shld be able to complete all the necessary (the latest) by the first half of
next year. Therefore, I’m seeking new challenges to fill in the “void.”
October began with the final class of SAM Ipoh Dip track.
Going to Kinta Valley a day earlier enabled me to also
attend the OA Church Anniversary. There was a spread of OA delicacy for the
“VIP” guests. Rebung (bamboo shoots) were presented in two dishes: spicy n
non-spicy. It was at this meal that I was “introduced” to buah perah a.k.a.
buah hutan. A jungle nut that taste like a cross between cashew n almond. It is
amazing how the jungle can provide the best for these “hidden people” n God
simply provides the best; something we, urban folks r not aware. I was reminded
of an old hymn n I re-wrote its lyrics:
I stand amaze in the presence
Of Jesus the Nazarene
And wonder how He could call me
A true urban freak like me
How marvelous, how wonderful
And my song shall ever be
How marvelous, how wonderful
Is the jungle call to me
SAM Academic term is concluding. In both Penang n Ipoh, the certificate
module through evening classes r on-going. I will soon be expediting reports to
compile to all sponsors. I m now in the midst of preparing next year’s schedule
n promotional materials.
October
ended marvelously with a trip into the interior with AIMC team. As I shared
over FB, I seldom encounter such a beautiful togetherness between a visiting
team, visiting the OA village for the first time n the local OA community. I
was very much encouraged, edified, n truly blessed. The Lord revealed to me
that it is the spirituality element that binds us together. When both r praying,
passionate, humble servants of God seeking to please Him, it matters not the
color of our skin nor the language we speak. The Spirit of God in us is awaken
to recognize the Spirit of God in the other person n that forms the spiritual
unity; a true Body of Christ, a family of God.
Thank
you for your partnership in ministry. Join me to pray for the establishment of
an authentic indigenous Malaysian church.
SB
