Ministry Update December 2020-January 2021

 

Yes, I realized…I missed out on sending my update last month. After sending SAM Northern Centers Annual Report, I doubt you wanted to hear from me again…

 

We’ve been in and out of various versions of MCO throughout this year and the pattern is showing that we may continue with this, way into the first half of next year. What this means is that physical classes for SAM can only resume after the first half of next year. The urban center, ie, Prai, is able to proceed with online/hybrid classes but the rural centers, ie, Gopeng/Ipoh and Tapah will need to wait till the second half of the year. With the uncertainties of Tapah center (some local issues caused the current venue to be unavailable), the Lord opened the door in Temerloh. So, 2 physical classes are planned for the second half of next year. Therefore, SAM Penang (Prai) will proceed with 4 classes, ie., one at each quarter of the year; SAM Ipoh (Temerloh) will have 2 classes, ie., one at each quarter in the second half of the year. Will greatly appreciate your prayer partnership and support.

 

For myself here in STM, I have relinquished my administrative role in the BM department. I feel this is appropriate as there are vast prospects for the BM theological education but the many red-tapes and personality prevent fast response. This will also prevent a conflict of interest as I pursue SAM ministry. However, STM is exploring to offer a master degree program in BM which will avail advance ministry training for local BM pastors. Hopefully, this can launch in 2022. In the meantime, I have been given the task to be a registrar of the missions program in partnership with a mission organization. Yes, we are slow…in the BM program n in the missions endeavour. Nevertheless, it is the Lord’s timing and I seek your prayer partnership n support in these ministries. I also seek your partnership as I continue my studies, another post-graduate research program, with a seminary in Australia. It is because I am serious to explore the best teaching/learning approach for my indigenous church family to grow spiritually and theologically.

 

As we conclude the year n progress to another that holds similar uncertainties, I pray that we continue to be discerning and able to recognise God in the events that unfold locally n globally. I pray that we respond appropriately as the Lord will want us to – for this nation n beyond. I pray that each of us, forming the Body of Christ – will be the difference we are ordained to be in such a time as now and be that catalyst to propel our world to align with God’s will. Once again, I thank you for your partnership in ministry – in 2020 and I am sure for 2021 n beyond.

 

TSB

29122020

 

Ministry Update October-November 2020

Academic term concluded in silence as the pandemic challenges pushed towards precautionary measures. October used to be a busy month as everyone in campus rush to complete assignments in the midst of graduation events and its preparations. Then at the peak of it all, the Graduation Day! Unfortunately, the planned events did not take place. All was quiet in campus as the pandemic forced us to cancel those events while we watched helplessly the number of new positive cases escalate each evening when the information was reported. 2020 is reaching the end and it “feels” like a whole year being “wasted” staying indoors, cancelling activities, delaying travels, postponing events, etc.

SAM Northern Centres did not “accomplish” much either. In February, we had a physical class in Tapah attended by over 50 OA pastors and church leaders. Then the pandemic struck and the classes paused. Along the way, glimpses of hope appeared but as precautionary measures no other classes were held. In the meantime, there were some internal issues and Tapah centre had to take a break until a new venue can be identified. We are still unsure if by next year classes can resume in Tapah. It cannot be done online as it is located within the OA village and without internet access. Presently, the villages are taking preventive measures too as there were several COVID positive cases detected in a school nearby.

Elsewhere in Prai, Penang, one physical class took place successfully after the pandemic restrictions were lifted. Following that, two online classes took place. Online classes appear to be a preferred option in Prai which has good internet access and the hassle of travel/traffic can be overcome. For this centre, next year will see a mixture of online, hybrid, and physical classes.

Next year’s plans remain fluid with the pandemic-related uncertainties. There’s just so much that can be planned for the year ahead. In the meantime, the pandemic challenges also delayed the progress of registering SAM as a legal organization. Do join us to pray for God’s timing. For November/December, movements are limited due to preventive measures. But it will be a time to focus on my studies and preparations for the next academic year. There should at least be a trip up North, though. I am preparing SAM’s annual report. So, you should be hearing from me soon on the progress of the school. There’s not much activities due to the lock-down and restrictions. However, it’s precious times to be in the presence of God.

Thank you for your partnership in ministry

Blessings,

TSB 29102020

Ministry Update September-October 2020

 We are concluding three quarters of 2020 but since mid-March we have to re-schedule, cancel, or delay many activities. The rest of the year appears pretty “gloomy” with reports of new infection clusters popping up here n there. As I begin planning for next year, I’m also a bit cautious of the situation.

 SAM Ipoh (Tapah) closed after the scheduled February class. Due to COVID 19 n some leadership matters, it has remained closed till end of the year. Please pray that the students can continue at a different centre/kampong next year. In the meantime SAM Ipoh diploma students are attending STM TEE classes in Kampar. Though their sponsor permits fees only for classes conducted by SAM, I am grateful for the local church leadership who had approved sponsoring them for their classes with STM which cost 3x more.

Elsewhere in SAM (Penang) Prai, we had concluded one physical class, one online class, n currently one online class is progressing till next month.

What is in store for next year? For SAM Ipoh (Tapah) we may change venue to another kampong and conduct physical classes 3x in the year. For SAM Penang (Prai) we will continue with online classes 4x in the year. This is the tentative plan n I will greatly appreciate your prayer partnership as I explore possibilities for next year.

It has been quite an eventful month. In August I officially began my studies for a research PhD with a seminary in Australia. Funds expected to arrive were delayed due to the global pandemic and I was asked to raise funds to pay my fees. It was indeed a humbling experience. I have raised funds for my OA friends but this was the very first time I have to raise funds for myself! Though I know intellectually that God will surely provide, the heart somehow still worried. I asked for a delay to make payment and a few days later the request was granted. I asked for financial aid and the Seminary graciously waived my fees for this one semester due to the pandemic. Then I was told the expected funding came in….thus, the letters n requests that had gone out will greatly help us further to grow the missions department here in STM, not to mention other miscellaneous expenses related to the studies apart from tuition fees. I hv also applied for a scholarship from Langham. Please join me to pray for a favourable outcome.

The month concludes with major church events – the DWM Extraordinary Synod to nominate the next diocesan bishop, followed by the ordination service. Next month will also be full of events. As we gear up to end the academic year, there will be the graduation events – a very toned-down affair. This will be followed by the annual faculty consultation meetings. It is after that, that the phase will slow down with assignments grading n preparation for the next academic year.

I will greatly appreciate your prayers too for an upcoming webinar on inter-faith discourse on 9 Oct. (https://stm.edu.my/news-events/the-inclusive-and-exclusive-nature-of-the-gospel-faith-and-inter-faith-concerns-and-challenges-in-malaysia-a-zoom-webinar-organized-by-the-stm-center-for-religion-and-society-crs/)

 Once again, thank you for your partnership in ministry

TSB

30092020

Ministry Update August/September 2020

 

One year short of thirty I have been in the workforce with twenty years in fulltime ministry. In the eyes of the world, I am pretty much a “failure” because I finally own a new car. That too is no fancy vehicle but a simple Axia (with a Penang number plate). No, I am happy the way life is right now. I am happy I can be confident I am in God’s will. And I am happy that each turn of event is ordained by God. It has been an adventure walking with God and I have no regrets that I “missed out” on certain luxuries/comforts of the world. If there is any regret, it is the regret that I have not entered ministry much earlier. Yes, ministry is no bed of roses but through it all, God’s hand makes all things beautiful in its time. I have entered half a century old but that is just some chronological calculation. And I have made a new commitment to continue to pursue further training to better equip myself to train God’s people. So, I have begun my second doctoral studies which is completely research-based with a seminary in Australia. While the Seminary is sponsoring my studies, they have also asked if I can chip in, in partnership. As such, I would like to appeal for financial partnership. The total cost is AUS$51,840 but I would like to attempt in raising about one third of it. With the current exchange rate, it is equivalent to MYR 158,188. If God so moved you and I sincerely pray God will (to some or most of you), please send your contribution to

 

Seminari Theoloji Malaysia Public Bank Account No. 3-0647599-00; RHB Bank Account No. 2-14389-0006441-9

 

…indicating the fund is for my doctoral studies. And why am I pursuing a second doctorate? To replace my fellow colleagues with PhD who are retiring one after another. The number of PhD holders must be met in order to qualify for ATESEA accreditation for our Seminary degrees. (Btw, if you are wondering why I am pursuing another doctorate: My first doctorate is Doctor of Missiology and it is a professional doctorate while a PhD is an academic doctorate. That is how the academic circle defines doctorates)

 

SAM updates:

SAM Ipoh (Tapah) has taken a break. As mentioned earlier there are some leadership issues with the denomination leaders and I’m waiting for further updates on where/how to re-start the teaching point in that area.

 

SAM Penang (Prai) had completed two classes: one is the physical weekly class, the other an intensive zoom class. Next week, they are embarking on the third class, ie., weekly zoom class. Thus far, things are progressing well there. We are learning to use zoom n may continue to adopt a hybrid approach beyond 2020.

 

I am hoping to raise more local teachers into the teaching team n also to provide a platform for young ministers to build their teaching skills through SAM. This year I have managed to recruit some new names. COVID has delayed n changed many plans but I invite you to join me in praying for this ministry and opportunities to enlarge its capacity to train indigenous local leaders, either as teacher or as student.

 

Once again, thank you for your partnership in ministry

 

TSB

29082020

 

Ministry Update July-August 2020

Praise God that I had the opportunity to briefly visit Penang in early July to savour the delicacies not found anywhere else. And the food tasted even better as I was surrounded by good company. There’s still so much uncertainty caused by COVID. At home I happened to see a box of gift I received from a Korean missionary, once upon a time. It was two sets of cutlery – a pair of chopsticks n a long spoon – gold plated. It looked too delicate n costly for daily use n it only stayed in the box. But with this COVID uncertainties, I asked myself why not use it?! Keep keeping it for what?! So, these days I am eating “in style.” Every day, I am eating my food with gold-plated cutlery. So, does my food taste better? Unfortunately, they still taste the same – whether I use a pair of gold plated chopsticks or wooden disposable chopsticks!

 

The adventure continues as we adjust to virtual activities. Patience is tested as we seek to move around the SOPs. I feel it is very much like a “push” into a new era of doing things/lifestyle. Online activities suddenly become a necessity rather than an option.

 

SAM Penang (Prai) has started classes while abiding by the necessary SOP. There will be a scheduled one-week intensive class in August. SAM Ipoh (Tapah) had taken a break till further notice. Some unfortunate issues arise in the church leadership and it will probably only resume next year.

 

Elsewhere, COVID related issues are pushing towards online activities – classes, discipleship training, etc. Recent days’ developments are causing some worrying trend. Many people seemed to have let down guard till the authorities are bringing back certain restrictions. So, let’s be more disciplined, responsible, and civic-conscious. #kitajagakita #yesusjagakita

 

TSB27072020

Ministry Update June-July 2020

June is drawing to a close n the second half of the year is right around the corner. For about four months half the world hid away in our individual caves while the “angel of death” stalked the corners of the globe. As we emerge from our caves, the feeling is like learning to walk all over again. At least for me…Online classes approach is the main talk of this hour.  Second semester just started with each one adjusting to stand on unfamiliar ground. In the midst of all these is the haunting fear of COVID still lurking unseen all around us. News of good progress is abundant at the eastern side of the globe while at the western hemisphere, the battle is bitter with a lot more casualties in this unprecedented “battle of the century.” Again, I’d like to meditate on what God is saying to us in this emerging pattern.

In Malaysia, restrictions are slowly being relaxed with even cinemas permitted to start operation.  Several view this cautiously referring to countries like South Korea and Australia who experienced sudden spike after relaxing restrictions. Should we or should we not? I am one who would vote to take the risk. After all, how can we continue staying in our individual caves…forever? Life has enough risks. What is one more to that? Of course we need to comply to the long list of SOPs which can be pretty troublesome.

SAM Penang (Prai) is starting its physical class. The rest may be online classes. SAM Ipoh (Tapah) paused after its February class n we are planning for an early October class before concluding the academic year. As with many other activities, plans are paused, cancelled, changed, or cut short. In a few short months’ time I will have to begin planning for SAM’s 2021 class schedule. Will appreciate your prayer support. Will also greatly appreciate your continuous partnership in this exciting n challenging times as we witness God unfolding His great plans locally n globally today.

Ministry Update MayJune 2020

My google calendar reminded me…I should be in Sabah for a mission trip. Again my google calendar reminded me…I should be in Tapah for a class. Everything seemed to pause and the pause is getting long. From mid of March till almost mid of June, that is about 3 months pause. And everyone is still unclear what holds after 9^th June. Will the Conditional Movement Control Order continue with lesser restrictions. For sure big gatherings n international travels will still be restricted. How about domestic travel? Wondering, wondering…with safety in mind; not so much for self but for people around in the community I am in.

What transpire along the months of MCO n CMCO: weekly broadcast of panel discussions aimed at the young adults segment trying to understand God in the midst of the COVID crisis. It started as a live stream on FB and later “progressed” to pre-recorded sessions on FB n Youtube. We started as “Teh Tarik sessions” n later became “Into the Unknown” series. We are also discussing to “expand” to another mid-week devotional. Apart from this, everything is pretty much normal except for the restricted movements. I used to go out once a week to get supplies during MCO n now during CMCO, twice a week to get supplies. NS is still pretty much a RED zone area, after Selangor n KL. Seremban district itself doesn’t seem to break away from RED; still swaying regularly between RED n ORANGE . My office is just about 2-3 minutes walk away from my apartment in campus. So, I still regularly go to the office for online classes, grading assignments, preparing for next semester, etc. Besides, the internet here is stronger than the one in my apartment block. And talking about the apartment block, it has been a mystery game for all dwellers in the apartment block to guess the water supply that comes on n off in our kitchens. We even hv a whatsapp chatgroup to update each other on whether water is here or water is gone on a daily basis! Well, that seems to be our only “entertainment” during this MCO/CMCO.

Several things I hv learned during this “confinement” period:

1.      Crisis brings out the “real” person: It is in such times that we see who really has the “substance” or they are just full of empty air. Some people talk big but when it gets to real work, there’s nothing at all. Some just cringe at the sudden change n cannot function all together; unable to make decisions, or just waiting for someone else to make decisions. I suppose it is in a crisis that we can clearly see the leadership quality of an individual (or the extreme lack of it)

2.      The “underdog” winners: several nations are confronting COVID more successful than others. I noticed (n I’m sure many too) that the “lesser known” nations are doing better than “developed” nations. I read these articles (https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/may/21/africa-coronavirus-successes-innovation-europe-us; https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-52628283; https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/05/whats-south-koreas-secret/611215/; https://www.leadersleague.com/en/news/here-s-how-taiwan-succeeded-in-containing-covid-19) African nations, Vietnam, South Korea, Taiwan…just to name a few. Nations the world overlook in many aspects. Malaysia…I remember someone was sharing of his Singaporean friend’s response to COVID. The gist of it was that this doctor in Singapore was overwhelmed by the task to control COVID n I remember the comment…If Singapore finds it too overwhelming, how about Malaysia? We’re doomed! The next few weeks we surprisingly see Malaysia doing better than Singapore! Even videos uploaded to Youtube praised Malaysians for chipping in regardless of background to be united to fight COVID. Honestly, watching this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__G7wcGW43s; one I’m sure many Malaysians watched n moved to tears. On the other hand, the big developed nations, ie, the obvious Big Bro a.k.a. US, already had 1.68 million infections n over 98k deaths as of today 25052020, with its first case reported in late Jan while news reported that on 12 Apr US became the nation with the most deaths by COVID. What is God telling us? The “big nations” vs the “small nations”

3.      Church: everything we hv falsely built to define “church” are being challenged. Church is NOT buildings, traditions, structures. We are re-defining church n recognizing it as the people of God. Live streaming breaks down every boundary of geography n denomination. Finally, Christians come together to sing of blessing over our nations. Hey, wait a minute – do we need a crisis before we come together? In Haggai 2:6-7, For this is what the LORD of Hosts says: “Once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth, the sea and the dry land. I will shake all the nations, and they will come with all their treasures, and I will fill this house with glory, says the LORD of Hosts.  and Hebrews 12:26
At that time His voice shook the earth, but now He has promised, "Once more I will shake not only the earth, but heaven as well."

I think this is the time that the Lord breaks down everything that hinder us from drawing close to Him so that what remain are what truly matter – our faith, our love, n our trust in Him n Him alone

4.      Of prophecies and miracle healings: can one still believe in prophecies n miracle healings today in light of what’s happening? Several prophecies stated that COVID will fade away after April. Today is almost the end of May n COVID is still very much in the news every day. Some are even growing tired of it. So, what about the prophecy that COVID will end in April? All I can say is I STILL BELIEVE in prophecy! Look at ALL “predictions” n they all show cases dropping AFTER the month of April. WE may hv expected God to work the way we wanted Him to but He has His own ways. Healing? Look at nature n the many reports of how the pause is healing nature. For the first time in many decades the top of famous mountains can be seen, rivers are flowing clear, clean water, the ozone layer is recovering, etc. The problem is more of – can we RECOGNIZE the work of God in the events/news that we read each day. (https://www.india.com/viral/after-several-decades-mount-everest-visible-from-kathmandu-as-covid-19-lockdown-reduces-pollution-4032223/; https://www.freemalaysiatoday.com/category/nation/2020/04/11/mco-lets-nature-repair-rivers-in-the-klang-valley/; https://www.independent.co.uk/environment/ozone-layer-healing-coronavirus-climate-sun-uv-rays-a9429341.html)

For the next few days till 9^th June, I pray we use it wisely n to spiritually discern God in the events that unfold each day – locally n globally. Let us adopt the new normal n practice what we know we should. We hv reached a junction n beyond this is a whole “new world” where the “old” is in the past. It is both a reset/pause n an accelerator. It is both scary and exciting as God takes us to the next level. Once again, thank you for your partnership in ministry