Finished
but not completed…that’s a dilemma. It has been 5 years of “toiling” effort but
I know it’s worth it. I’m dedicating it all to a people group worthy of that
much effort. I’ve had the privilege to learn from one of the most renowned
missiologists of our time n he managed to conclude all requirements for
graduation before he retired n return to the States. Then as the “completed”
dissertation was submitted for graduation, I was made aware that there are
“seemingly additional requirements” before graduation can be granted. Hmmm…it
was frustrating n I’ll still trying to get over that frustration – when u hv
finished a hard-earned work only to be informed that it’s not quite over yet. I
do agree with the rationale presented that:
1. This
will be the first time the Seminary is conferring the highest academic award n
there’s bound to be hiccups when we do things the first time
2. Endorsement
from wider academic community will certainly strengthen the credibility of the
degree
And
this is the “price” for being the first! Honestly, I m still harboring a hope,
even if there is the slightest of it, to graduate this year – the Jubilee year
for our nation. It will be spiritually significant as a breakthrough for a
maturing indigenous Malaysian church. So, as I’ve been made aware, there will
be another “round” of evaluation for the submitted n approved dissertation by
my initial supervisor. It will be reviewed by scholars in various (academic)
disciplines involved in the research of my dissertation “Raising Indigenous
Leaders through Christian Education: A Semai Model.” There may be further
corrections n amendments; perhaps also another round of oral defense. It really
feels like enrolling in a whole new program!
I’m
in Ipoh for a week-long class with my OA friends. It’s been interesting, as
always, to mutually learn from each other. August is a packed month filled with
activities. There are preaching engagements but I’m glad bcoz it gives me an
opportunity to share about the OA work n an attempt to impart the passion for
this ministry. September is also a packed month with almost all weekends
“booked” for speaking engagements. But I hope in between, I can attend to any
necessary “corrections” required for my “approved dissertation” to qualify it
for graduation. I’m in a dilemma – should I proceed to purchase the doctoral
graduation robe? If I drop the idea, what if I manage to complete the necessary
in time for graduation this year? If I proceed to buy the robe, what if I
cannot complete the necessary n hv to delay graduation to next year? Then I can
only “dream” of putting on the doctoral robe for a whole year! This is a
humorous situation. The truth is, I fully support the need for further
evaluation of my dissertation so that it gives stronger credibility to the
degree. Bcoz, the truth is, the rumor is true – it is easy to earn a degree in
MBTS!
Plz
pray for me n the OA ministry. Thank you.
