Balm of Gilead

Spiritual Depression: Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones

2011-12-14T17:57:00.000-07:00

Spiritual Depression: Its Causes and Cures, 1

"This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope"

2011-12-03T10:14:00.031-07:00

In the book of Daniel chapter nine, Daniel identifies himself with the sins and transgressions of Israel through his prayer and supplication. Through visions, Daniel perceived that the calamity that was to come was a direct result of the unfaithfulness of God's people.

"we have sinned and committed iniquity, we have done wickedly and rebelled, even by departing from Your precepts and Your judgements." - Daniel 9:5

It was God Himself, not the surrounding enemies, who had driven His people from their land (v.7). At some point, Daniel must have recalled the curse and oath written in the Law of Moses in Leviticus 26: 17-45 and Deuteronomy 28:15-58. Daniel's heavy heart of conviction remind me of how it must have been for the people of Israel when Ezra read the law aloud and "all the people wept when they heard the words of the law." (Nehemiah 8:9).

Daniel must have also clearly recalled to mind the blessed hope and promise that remained for those who "return to the LORD your God and obey His voice" in Deuteronomy 30:2. After Daniel's confession of sin against the Lord, he then begins to pray for what all true followers of Christ depend on in the daily victory over our sin nature through the overcoming power of the Holy Spirit - God's mercy and forgiveness.

"To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, though we have rebelled against Him." - Daniel 9:9

Daniel was a man who knew his God. In the light of his own sin and the people's sin, Daniel looked to Him for mercy and forgiveness. In doing this he did not seek to establish his own or the people's righteous deeds that the Bible describes in Isaiah 64:6 as "filthy rags." Rather, by faith Daniel submitted to the righteousness of God.

"... for we do not present our supplications before You because of our righteousness deeds, but because of Your great mercies." - Daniel 9:18

God's mercy has nothing to do with who you are, but everything to do with who He is. Amidst life's trials, followers of Christ are prone to forget about the truth of God's mercy and grace. Through much anguish and despair, the prophet in Lamentations remembered and boldly declared:

"This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. Through the Lord's mercies we are not consumed. Because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." - Lamentations 3:21-23

Dear follower of Christ, remember, "we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy in and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:15,16). The Lord delights when we boldly come to Him to find grace to help in time of need.

Perhaps you are a person who has never known or heard about the everlasting love, grace, and mercy of God? You can find forgiveness today by repenting of your sins and put all your trust and hope in the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." - Romans 5:8

As the scripture says, "Whoever believes in Him will not be put to shame." (Romans 10:11). Do not run away from Him, but come to Him. Chose life both for yourself and the future generations after you. Call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved.

"that if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." - Romans 10:9,10

A Tribute to David Wilkerson

2011-10-04T13:30:00.000-06:00

A Tribute to David Wilkerson

To gain that which you cannot lose

2011-10-02T21:35:00.010-06:00

What will it cost me to follow Jesus Christ? It wasn’t until recently when I heard of Detrich Bonoeffer’s book, “The Cost of Discipleship”, where he boldly speaks of costly grace verses cheap grace. I have yet to read the book, but the title alone speaks of a longing desire to be a true Christ follower.

Shortly after work today while parked and sitting in my car, the Lord took me on a journey through Matthew 19: 16-22, where Jesus counsels the rich young ruler.

"Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. What do I still lack?” Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions."

For the first time while reading this passage I noticed that Jesus mentioned almost all but the most important commandment to “…’love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ …” Rather than directly answer the man’s question, “All these I have kept from my youth, what do I still lack?” (v.20), the Lord choose to reveal the heart and expose what is so often found in many Christian hearts today. The young man did well in keeping all those commandments from his youth, but we discover that his first love was found in his "great possessions” rather than his God. Remember the Lord’s word to the church of Ephesus?

“Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—unless you repent. But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.”’ – Revelation 2:4-7

As my wife said while driving home, “Jesus will not ask what we are willing to give up, but those things that we are unwilling.” How much of my life has not been completely surrendered to the God who loved me and gave His life for me? Is there anything in my life that I am unwilling to give up? It is by this measure that my heart has yet to be fully yielded.

O heart, I appeal to you to come to Jesus and surrender all at the foot of the cross! Only at this place of worship and surrender will you gain that which you cannot lose and find your first love.

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, in order to gain that which he cannot lose." - missionary martyr Jim Elliot

"...now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."

2011-09-06T10:25:00.027-06:00

As dear friend once told me, "Shane, tomorrow doesn't belong to us. We need to thank God for each day." Indeed life is uncertain and we need to be prepared to meet our God. Are you prepared to meet Him? Dear friend, please consider this question as you continue reading my testimony below.

My name is Shane Wright. I am 35 years old, married to a wonderful wife. Please allow me to first share some of my background with you. As with many women (and men), my mother carried the task of working full time while raising both my sister and myself. Early on in my mother's life she had been influenced by her older sister who was a Jehovah's Witness. Years later, following the divorce of my parents, my mother again became reacquainted with the Jehovah's Witnesses and we soon found ourselves sitting in a kingdom hall (church) each Sunday.

As early as I can remember the uncertainty of life wore heavy on my heart. The thought of returning to the ground as dust and no longer existing for a period of time, as JW's believe, was quite frankly, frightening. I was perplexed by the thought of the afterlife of nothingness. We were called to go to door to door and give people hope, and yet, I had no real assurance of this hope within me. My troubled heart was like "a wave of the sea, driven and tossed by the wind ". There was no peace, and nothing seemed to fill the void my heart longed for.

It wasn't long until I began to drift further into the depths of darkness falling head long into rebellion. Consequently, the wages of sin only brought me further away from the light of hope and purpose that I had longed for. The Bible says that there is pleasure in sin, but only for a season. I am reminded of this in the life of Moses who rightly chose "rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the passing pleasures of sin" (Hebrews 11:25). In hindsight, I clearly remember those days of passing pleasures with temporary highs followed by long lasting hangovers of emptiness.

"There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way of death." - Proverbs 14:12

The way of life that I had chose was taking me on a path of destruction and ultimate eternal separation from God. Life only seemed to get worse and it wasn't long until I was excommunicated from the JW organization. From that point on I could no longer speak with most family members and friends. According to JW doctrine, any further association with me was strictly forbidden.

After spending a year in Japan teaching English, I returned home. My quest in searching for life's meaning purpose continued. As much as I deeply admired the nation of Japan, I did not find hope in any temple or man-made buddha statue. I was also reluctant to return to the JW's despite the promise of restored relationships with family and friends. Not even the dating relationships that I been in over those past years had brought me closer to a fulfillment of heart. So my quest continued. I searched and searched. Eventually I found the One eternal hope that I had truly been searching for. I quickly discovered that He had never been too far. His name was Jesus Christ. The name of Jesus that had always been familiar to me, but the Person of Jesus Christ had never been made real in my heart. This is why I am sharing this testimony with you. It is hard to find the words to describe how awesome and wonderful Jesus is. Despite the trials and problems that arise in life, it is an amazing feeling to have a blessed assurance and living hope that Jesus is alive and lives in my heart. Jesus loves you and I pray that He would become real in your heart today.

It was in front of a coffee shop at Mount Royal College (now University) when I first began to open the door of my heart to my dear Christian friend. From the very the very first day we met, Shane (same name as I) took a genuine interest in my life. Shane and I would get together for coffee for at least once a week. We would talk about life, classes, and the common interests we shared. At some point of the conversation, Shane would begin to talk about the love of Jesus Christ. "Here he is goes again..." I would say to myself, as I sat and listened to him speak so passionately about a Person he seemed to know so intimately. As Shane spoke about Jesus, I would watch the countenance of his face glow with such joy. Tears of joy seem to always be at the threshold as he shared about the love of Jesus Christ. "God loves me?" ...."He sent His Son to die for me?" I had never heard such life giving words before! Without fully comprehending what it all really meant and its profound implication in relation to my life, a cry deep within my heart simply responded saying, "Yes, this is truth! This is what I have been searching for!" It was as if something on the inside was beginning to awaken. I was awakening to the love and truth of Jesus Christ as the Spirit of God was drawing me to Himself.

On February of 2004, I made the most important decision I could ever make by trusting in Jesus Christ for salvation. I called upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and asked Him to be Saviour and Lord of my life. Jesus answered my cry and saved my life and He wants to save your life and your family’s life too.

The problem of sin

It was sin that had separated the human race from God. It is though faith in Jesus Christ that one is saved from God’s wrath and eternal condemnation. Dear reader, God does not want to condemn you but He wants to receive you with open arms. However, the wages of sin is death and sin demands just punishment by a Holy God. I heard someone say that there are those who say God is too good to punish sin, but in reality God is too good not to punish sin.

A person may ask, “Who are we to define what sin is?” It is important to remember, as I once heard a preacher say, that sin is not what we think it is, but rather what God says it is. One could also argue that “If you feel in your heart that it is right, then it must be okay?” However the Bible says that the heart of man cannot be trusted. Jeremiah 17:9 says that “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?”

Sin entered the human race in the Garden of Eden through the lives of Adam and Eve who disobeyed God and ate the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. The first human couple and our first human parents willingly chose to believe the lie of satan who said, “ you will not surely die.” (Genesis 3:4) after God said, “…for in that day you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:17). Since the fall of man, the curse of sin and death has come to all people conceived, born, and who live in this fallen world. Sin is against the very character of God and it is in this fallen condition that a person separated from Him.

Have you been angry with someone without a cause? The Bible says that this anger is equivalent to murder (Matthew 5:21,22) and that a person is in danger of being judged as a murderer on the day of judgement. Have you ever looked at woman to lust for her in your heart? God’s word says that when a person lusts for a woman in his heart, he has already committed adultery with her and will thus be judged as an adulterer. (Matthew 5:28). Furthermore Jesus said, “For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witnesses, blasphemies. These are the things that defile a man.” (Matthew 15:19). The Bible calls those things which defiles people sin. The inherited curse of sin from Adam and Eve has not only brought both physical and spiritual death, but also separation from God.

If you see what is happening in the world today there is so much evidence of the consequences of sin. Instead of an improved world with all the medicine, increased knowledge, and technology, the world we live in is getting worse. Murder, wars, violence, broken homes, suicide rates, disease, substance abuse, and mental illnesses have all risen to unprecedented figures. The Bible says that in the last days you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. Nation will rise against nation and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines, pestilences, and earthquakes in various places. It also says that many will be offended and will betray one another. Jesus also warned that there will be many false prophets and they will rise up and deceive many. Because of lawlessness, the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:5-13). The Bible accurately depicts what we see all over the world today. Can you see how destructive sin is not only to our own lives, but more importantly, in relation to the character of a Holy God?

The Way back to God

"Jesus said to him, " I am the way, the truth, and the life." No one comes to the Father except through Me." - John 14:6

If you were to die today, do you know for sure, without a shadow of a doubt, that you would go to heaven? There was a point in my life when I was faced with this same question. It is not God’s will that any should perish in hell but for all people to come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9). Being a good person, or doing good works and charitable deeds, will never be sufficient to cover your sins. It is not about what you have done or who you are, but it is everything to do with who Jesus Christ is and what He has done. We can only come to God by His grace through faith in His Son Jesus Christ. Jesus’ shed blood on the cross and resurrection broke the power of the curse death and sin. God loves you and He has a plan for your life.Will you call upon His name today?

Here are some promises from the Bible that tell of God’s plan of salvation.

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." - Romans 3:23.

"The wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ." Romans 6:23.

"Whoever calls upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." - Romans 10:13

Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God and He died for your sins? Just as you are, right where you are at, you can call upon his name by repenting of your sins and surrendering your life to Jesus Christ. This will be the most important decision that you can ever make, not only for yourself, but for your family and possibly future generations. Ask Him help you change, to wash you, and help you to fulfill the plan he has for your life through the power of the Holy Spirit. Begin a new life of prayer and thank Him every day for allowing you to live another day and life in Him. Read His word, the Bible daily, and ask the Lord to help you find a good church where the cross is preached and the Bible is taught. Be in fellowship with other Christians, praying for each other daily as you grow the knowledge and love of Christ. Jesus also came to heal the broken hearted. Allow Him to heal wounds in your heart and of your broken past. The Bible declares that you are fearfully and wonderfully made created in the likeness and image of God. Let your light shine and allow Him to channel His love through you to others, and use you to share the good news, the gospel of salvation. Never forget, but always remember, that nothing can separate you from the love of Jesus Christ (Romans 8:39).

“Grace, mercy, and peace will be with you from God the Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of the Father, in truth and love.” – 2 John 1:3

Journal notes on the book of Ruth

2010-04-21T20:48:00.006-06:00

In the natural realm, things seemed quite bleak for the three widows, Naomi, Ruth, and Orphah (1:1-5). From God's eternal perspective, however, "All things work together for the good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose." God is looking for those whose hearts are wholly committed to following Him. He found such a person in Ruth.

"...your people shall be my people, and your God, my God..."(1:16) Naomi's journey with Ruth to the land of Isreal at "the beginning of barley harvest" (1:22) seems to imply the Lord's divine timing in His ordained set of circumstances that followed. Ultimately, the Lord opened the door to Ruth for her to meet relative of Elimelech, and future husband, Boaz, the kinsman redeemer. Ruth responds to this open door as she 'puts her feet' to her prayer, "Please let me go to the field, and glean heads of grain after him in whose sight I may find favour (2:2).

Divine instruction and application

"Do not glean in another field, nor go from here..."(2:8). Divine instruction is accompanied with divine protection so that God's blessing comes to pass without hindrance. Ruth begins to reap all that she sowed since following Naomi to the land of Israel. The sowing of sincere love to her mother-in-law and the sowing of commitment to follow Naomi and her God, the God of Israel, would reap blessing and favour resulting in a good report (2:11,12). Thus, Ruth receives the full reward of her faith.

"Under whose wings you have come for refuge" (2:12). This reminds me that abiding in Christ comes with a promise of divine protection as the Psalmist declares in Psalm 91:4, "And under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler." Obedience to God's command again bring blessing in chapter 3:5. "For you have shown more kindness at the end than at the beginning..."(3:10). It is not how ones begins the race, but how one finishes. When it is God's will, through faith filled prayers, it will come to pass no matter what the situation may look like (3:13).

(4:1-12) God's will comes into fruition. Ruth is redeemed and a match made in heaven is established. This heavenly match also included a royal line and genealogy from King David to the Lord Jesus Christ. Bless God!

Abide in Christ and take refuge under His wings!

Divine Appeal - Come to Jesus

2010-03-26T17:12:00.000-06:00

Jesus - Our Eternal Reward Awaits

2010-03-21T08:30:00.010-06:00

Dear friend~

Faith, as the scripture says, "...is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1)

As I meditated on the final few verses in Hebrews 11, I envisioned a runner entering into a large stadium on his final lap. This was no ordinary race, but rather the most important race of his life - the race of faith. The stadium was filled with the Lord's saints, yea, "innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore." As the runner entered the stadium, the crowd arose to their feet in one accord roaring with shouts of praise and songs of victory to the glory of the King who sat upon His throne. There at the finish line awaited his eternal reward - the Lord Jesus, author and finisher of his faith.

"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." - Hebrews 12:1,2

The battle is not yours, but God's

2010-02-26T12:27:00.003-07:00

Bible Notes on 2 Chronicles 20:1-37

20:3 - The right response to adversity

20:4 - "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them" (Matthew 18:20)

20:6 - Declare God's sovereignty and power over your situation

20:7 - Remember what the Lord has done in your life and what He has accomplished on the cross of Calvary

20:9 - By faith, trust in the Lord and know that He will hear you and save you from your affliction.

20:12 - Never trust in your own strength, but rather look to the Author and Finisher of your faith

20: 15 - the battle is not yours, but God's

20:17 - Be still and know that He is God. Go on His command and timing

20:18 - Worship Him

20:19 - Praise Him

20:20 - Believe!

20:22 - Worship, praise, and trust is followed by victory

20:30 - The promise of God's rest

20:37 - warning: We avoid shipwreck only when we abide in Christ

Reflections on November 15, 2009

2009-11-21T19:19:00.012-07:00

The bulk of this entry is from an e-mail I recently wrote to my pastor and friend in Vancouver. I decided to share it here in the hope that it will be an encouragement, even in some small way, to you as the reader.

On November 11, 2009, a beloved man of God by the name of, David Bedwell, passed away and went to be in the care and loving arms of the Lord, Jesus Christ. On Sunday, November 15, 2009 I attended a celebration of his life at Immanuel Church. Many friends, missionaries, pastors, and family spoke about David's blessed life in the Lord. I was so touched and almost moved to tears as I heard how selfless, humble, loving, and Christlike he was. I was truely inspired how committed and faithful David was to God's call, serving Him as a missionary for 30 years in Taiwan. Dr. John Lukas's message at the very end was powerful, heart moving, and in Pastor Lukas like-fashion, quite humorous with lot's of amazing stories. David continued to praise and worship the Lord even unto death. He was no doubt sustained by the everlasting hope and power of the resurrection life of our Lord. We sung classic hymns such as How Great Thou Art, To God Be the Glory, I Surrender All, and It is Well With My Soul in praise and worship to our God.

I believe that I felt a breakthrough and revival within my heart that evening. My heart sensed that still quiet voice speaking from morning to evening. Prior to that day, I had been feeling a little stuck and felt somewhat unsure of God's plan ahead. I felt that I was even beginning to complain within my heart about 'things' in life being difficult, rather than being thankful each day for salvation and the finished work on the cross. Being single was beginning to occupy too many of my thoughts rather than being consumed with the daily joy and presence of my First Love.

When Thou didst say, "Seek My face", my heart said to Thee, "Thy Face, O LORD, I will seek." - Psalm 27:8.

In hindsight, this is what I sense God has been saying all along. Last Sunday, I felt the need to consecrate myself, repent, and commit my life once again to a full and complete surrender to God's will and plan. That my will would be one with His will. That His desire be my desire and that He change my heart to see things just as He sees. Blessed be His name forever and ever. I love Jesus, more than ever, and by His grace will continue to seek Him each day.

Prayer ~

"Teach me, Your way, O LORD;

I will walk in Your Truth;

Unite my heart to fear Your name" - Psalm 86:11

Come to Jesus

2009-09-26T18:58:00.001-06:00

Song of Everlasting Hope

2009-08-22T21:13:00.010-06:00

Unpolished and with very little performance - Ethel Waters sings an ageless hymn, "His Eye is on the Sparrow", with the sweet presence and glory of the Lord Jesus. You have to wait for about three minutes and fifty seconds until she begins to sing. Dear Ethel, we will be looking for you in heaven.

I praise God for each beautiful moment throughout this day. The Lord opened a door to share the meaning of this song to three Japanese students. In conclusion to the class, I played this very same version online from a little laptop computer. They all watched intently to song's message of everlasting hope.

Dear Lord I pray that you would cause the seeds that were sown to grow in accordance to Your perfect will. I pray for Your protection over those three precious lives so that the seeds which were planted will not be snatched from the evil one. In Jesus' wonderful name. Amen.

Beloved, there is way! Jesus said, I am the way...

From my Journal

2009-08-13T20:22:00.016-06:00

June 19th - Mark 15-16. It's been a busy four days (since my last entry), so I'm eager to write today. Thankfully, I had some time for Bible reading, but little time for actual study. But praise be to God for my day off today! Twice in the first part of the chapter (vs. 15: 3,5) it reads that Jesus "...answered nothing". Am reminded of 1 Peter 2:21-23:

"For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: Who committed no sin, Nor was deceit found in His mouth"; Who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously;"

Lord, when I face such trials in life, bring to my remembrance Your holy example.

We, as the Church, are a "certain" people called to take up our cross, deny self, and follow Him (vs. 15:21). Lord, what does it really mean to minister unto You? (vs.15:41). Let my life hold fast and never lose sight of the Great Commission, knowing this truth, "And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen." (vs.16:20)

July 2nd - Luke 7. I seek to be more like the "certain centurion" and display love and compassion to those who are dear to me by seeking the will of God for their lives. The centurion knew that he was unworthy to come to come to Jesus (vs 6) but also demonstrated and acknowledged how worthy He was. Knowing how unworthy I am, Lord, let me not forget Your word in Hebrews 4:16:

"Let us therefore come boldly before the throne of grace, that we we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need."

(vs. 36-50) Love covers a multitude of sins. Forgive me, Lord, for the times when I have failed to see people through Your eyes, but instead, rather, seeing their sins. Cleanse me, Lord, and constantly remind me to take the plank out from my own eye. Let Your love work through me like never before, I pray. Your will be done according to Your word. Amen.

July 17th - Luke 10 - Go and do likewise. Recently, I have been inconsistent in my daily devotions. Realised a few moments ago what I have been missing since Wednesday. Meditating on the Lord's instructions when He commissioned the seventy to go into every city (vs. 1-16). Always give thanks to God for the greatest gift of salvation (vs. 20). Who is my neighbor? (vs.29). I pray that I would not miss the people who You direct me to. May I never forget Your words, Go and do likewise (vs.37). Out of all the worries and troubles, One thing is needed. That is, to sit at Jesus' feet, and hear His word (vs. 38-42). Thank you, Father.

August 4th - Luke 18. Lord Jesus, please direct my every step this day. My desire is to walk in complete humility (vs 14). (vs 18-23) Jesus may have told that rich young ruler to keep those possessions after all. Perhaps the Lord was testing the young man's heart to see where his loyalty really was? Father, I pray that I become like Moses, who readily denied the passing pleasures of sin in order to gain all that is eternal.

The Place of Unforgotten Prayers

2009-06-14T15:30:00.020-06:00

Recently I decided to go for a walk after work to one of my favourite neighborhoods in the city. The area's name is Mission, an inner city neighborhood located along the Elbow River. Mission is an area where I often like walk and talk with the Lord. It has been that way since I first surrendered my life to the Jesus back in winter of 2004.

I usually enter into the neighborhood at the same place, near the old train station. The train station is a place where I once took black and white portraits of my two good friend's, Shane and Sarah. I treasure those photos and memories to this very day.

Once you pass the train station, you will find a bridge that takes you across a section of the Elbow River. Once you cross the bridge, you are immediately greeted by green rolling hills, picnic benches, and tall trees hovering and swaying up above.

It was at this place where I recently went for a walk after a long day at the office. I had every intention of sitting down on one of the nearby benches to read my Bible. I did sit on a nearby bench, however, the warm breeze of the wind helped to keep my eyes fixed on the gentle sway of the trees. To my left, I could see a man who appeared to have decided to take a nap in the shade under one of the trees. In another direction, I could also see and hear kids cheerfully playing on the newly built playground.

Then, in what seemed like a passing God thought, something dropped into my spirit that I had never considered in my previous visits to the area. I thought to myself, "Perhaps this is a place, where for generations, many prayers were offered up to the Lord?"I began to picture and imagine men and women, long before my time, walk through the grassy knolls surrounded by much smaller trees, doing just as I have often done there, walk and talk with the Lord. "Perhaps timeless hymns such is, How Great Thou Art and Great is Thy Faithfulness, were heard from heaven just steps from where I was sitting? Perhaps there were fervant prayers accompanied with tears over a loss of a loved one or personal matters being prayed through at the threshold of a breakthrough?" Whatever the need for prayer was for these people, a comforting thought came to my heart. "Surely", I deeply sensed, "this area must be a place of unforgotten prayers."

"Now when He had taken the scroll, the four living creatures and twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb, each having a harp, and golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints." - Revelation 5:8

I am often encouraged when reading this verse. Faith filled prayers as golden bowls of incense from followers of Christ, both past and present, unforgotten, and timely answered according to His perfect will. Imagine, here and now, mighty moves of the Holy Spirit sweeping across this city initiated by certain people who long ago lifted their voices to heaven? "Are some of these miracles today made possible as a result of unforgotten prayers of the past?", I thought.

Like the miracle birth of Samuel in 1 Samuel 1, you may be a person who is an answer to your mother's prayer. Praise God for praying mothers around the world! Or, you may one who has been praying and believing God for His promise to come to pass. Be encouraged and know that, "...The effective fervant prayer of a righteous man avails much." (James 5:16)

Perhaps you never prayed before and are longing to seek a life of peace and freedom within your heart and soul? Jesus loves you and your soul is worth more to Him than all this world has to offer you. The world really has nothing to offer. Only in Christ you will find life, and life everlasting.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." - John 3:16

I realize now that it wasn't so much the place of prayers that beared significance, but rather the unforgotten prayers in that place that had long ago ascended to heaven. In the very place where you are, the most important and unforgettable prayer for you now, and for eternity, can be a simple response to this divine invitation:

"Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." - Revelation 3:20

Pray and sincerely ask Jesus to come into your life today. Ask Him to forgive you of your sins and wash you with His cleansing blood that was shed on the cross. Commit your life to following Him for as long as you have breath on this side of eternity. Let Him be the Lord of your life and Saviour of your soul. Study His word, the Bible, and pray that God would connect you to a good church with other Christian believers. Finally, be sure to walk and talk and grow in relationship with Jesus each and every day.

Mark 6 - Compassion for the Multitudes

2009-05-24T21:40:00.004-06:00

Jesus was moved with compassion when He saw the multitudes (vs. 34). I pray, Lord Jesus, that you would soften my heart so that I may respond just as you did whenever I see lost sheep with no Shepherd.

"When we weigh the future and seek the will of God, may we be as moved with compassion as our Lord." - Nathaniel Saint

The Value of One Soul

2009-05-17T20:48:00.024-06:00

(I spoke on this subject today as a guest speaker to a dearly beloved group of brothers and sisters in Christ. It was a real privilege and honour to stand in His grace and presence with you all. - Lord Bless you. Forever in the Lord, Shane.)

"Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, "This Man receives sinners and eats with them." So He spoke this parable to them, saying: "What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness, and go after the one which is lost until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and neighbors, saying to them, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep which was lost!' I say to you that likewise there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine just persons who need no repentance."Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp, sweep the house, and search carefully until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls her friends and neighbors together, saying, 'Rejoice with me, for I have found the piece which I lost!' Likewise, I say to you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents." - Luke 15:1-10 (NKJV)

The other day, I could not help to think that if there is much joy in the presence of angels of God over one sinner who repents, I can't imagine how it must deeply grieve the Lord and the hosts of heaven over one soul that is lost for eternity. Today, I would like to focus on the value of one soul and reaching the lost with the good news, the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. The hope is that we, as the Church, may gain a new revelation on the true value of ones soul so that our hearts may be stirred with compassion with a deep burden to reach a dying world with the message of the divine light of the Gospel.

Personal Testimony

Back in 2003, I met a couple, who in turn, introduced me to Jesus. There names were Shane and Sarah. I will never forget that day when I met Shane in front of a coffee shop, in midst of a food court, in the heart of Mount Royal College campus. From our initial introduction, I immediately began to open up to him. As soon as I made mention of my past as being a Jehovah's Wittness, Shane took a special interest in learning more of my history and background.

From that day forward, week after week, Shane and his wife began to invest their time into my life sowing seeds of hope and destiny into my heart. Shane and I would often meet at least once a week for coffee. Some days we spent anywhere from two to three hours talking about various topics, mostly related to school. At one point of the conversation, Shane would almost always begin to talk about Jesus. As he did this, his eyes would be lit with so much joy. Through Shane and Sarah's testimonies, I also began to understand what it meant to be born again as spoken by the Lord in the Gospel of John Chapter 3. I began to see from Shane and his wife Sarah's life, that life in Christ was based on a relationship with Him that ultimately would transform ones heart from the moment of repentance and complete surrender. The more time I spent with Shane and Sarah, the more I wanted what they had. As they carefully explained and lived the gospel before me, my heart began to open to their life giving words of salvation. February of 2004, I received Jesus as the Lord of my soul and Master of my life. The decision to commit ones life for Christ is most important decision anyone can have ever make.

As I mentioned, I saw the living gospel in action through two of my good friends, Shane and Sarah. Their acts of love towards me opened the eyes of my heart to see the living God for who He really is and what He is really like. Jesus is same yesterday, today, and forever. God IS love. And through Shane and Sarah’s acts of love, His Spirit freely wooed me unto Himself until the day when I finally returned to my Shepard and Guardian of my soul (1 Peter 2:25). What an unspeakable joy it is to know that you have been purchased and bought by the Blood of Jesus! We all belong to Him.

What motivated Shane and his wife to share about what God did to reconcile man to Himself? Surely it was their love for God and love for people. Through the eyes of Jesus, the were able to see the value of my soul.

Mission Calling

"...Behold, I say to you, lift your eyes and look at the field, for they are already white for harvest!" - John 4:35.

I have a heart for the nations. Nations, regions, and continents such as Japan, North Korea, all of Asia, Israel, Middle East and all of Africa are all on my heart. Last year, the Lord opened the door to go on a three week missions trip to Japan. Japan is a nation that has yet to see a real harvest of souls. It is estimated that 0.5% of the a population of 127,000,000 people are Christian. Ever since my return my heart often repeats the words of the prophet Isaiah, "Here am I! Send me!" If the Lord wills, the door to Japan or another nation will surely open. Upon my return from my mission trip to Japan last spring, I began to see my own community here in Calgary in a new light. The Lord began to show me that many of the people who were walking outside and around my community, or in my office, were also lost without Him. I also remember how my pastor once said that our families are our first mission field. How true this is for many of us who have unsaved family members. If we take a look around us, we find ourselves in a sea of lost souls. Many people right here in this city are perishing without hope. I believe many of these precious souls are longing to hear life giving words of hope and salvation.

Some statistics on death and suicide in and outside Canada

Last month, the Government of Canada dedicated one week to mental health awareness. According to a 1998 Canadian study on death and suicide, approximately 3,700 Canadians took their own lives, and average of 10 suicides a day (Langois, p.1 stat Canada). In Japan, it is estimated that about 100 people commit suicide each day. Hundreds of souls lost for eternity. These grievous statistics may cause our hearts to break, but how much more does God's heart break over those who are slipping into eternal separation from Him? Many of these people, who cross our paths each day could be having suicidal ideations without displaying any real outward signs. Our hearts must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit when reaching out the lost at any given time so that the hope of glory in us may also touch and transform their lives with the love of Jesus.

What does the Bible say about the value of ones soul?

"Now when He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue. And behold, there was a man who had a withered hand. And they asked Him, saying, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?"--that they might accuse Him. Then He said to them, "What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep?" - Matthew 12:9-13

So here Jesus gives us an illustration of a common situation between a man and his lost sheep while contrasting sheep and man, thus emphasising the value of a person's soul.

"Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will. But the very hairs of your head are numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are more value than many sparrows." - Matthew 10: 30,31

Within the context, Jesus teaches us to fear God and not man. Yet, the value of person's life is again emphasised. Sparrows during Christ's time on earth were considered of little value. If sparrows, which were considered little in value have a place and purpose in God's creation, how more value is a human life to God?

"For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?" - Matthew 16:26

Not even all the riches and wealth in the whole world can measure the value of one soul. The other day, I heard a testimony of a very rich man who lived right here in Calgary. The man's profession was in the field of developing custom made dentures. He owned a half million dollar house along with all trimmings of a nice car as well as expensive clothing. The man thought he had it all, even to the point of boasting in all his riches. His wife, who was a believer, had spent many years praying for him. His heart, however, always seem to be closed to the gospel. In recent months, this man suffered from a brain aneurysm which left him physically disabled and confined to a hospital bed. One day, he saw as it were in a vision where the ground beside him had opened up revealing the depth and darkness of hell below. It was if he was on the very threshold of being lost for eternity. In the next moment, Jesus came and swept him away preventing him from swallowed into the depth of the dark pit. The prayers of his wife and others were finally answered. In the midst of near death and a significant loss of all his wealth, this dear man found his life in Christ. He is more alive than he ever was without Jesus.

This testimony reminds me of the passage in Luke 18:25-27:

"For it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle then for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God. And those who heard it said, "Who can be saved?" But He said, "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God."

Perhaps one of verses in scripture that best and clearly proves God's heart on the value of the human soul is found in John 3:16.

"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."

Being a witness for Christ

The Bible says in Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord."

Are we as the Church willing to be yielded vessels and share about the gift of God that we received by grace through faith with the lost? As King David of old said, "Is there not a cause?" Jesus has not only entrusted us with the gospel to reach lost souls but He also has commissioned us.

And He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover." - Mark 16:15-18

Let us also take heed to the Lord's reminder to those He has commissioned.

"Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven." - Matthew 10:32,33

What an "awesome responsibility", as Billy Graham once said, to share the divine message of the gospel with people. I heard a person once say, "People are more willing to listen than we are willing to share." If this is true, than we as the church must turn the tide and be the Church to our neighbors, in our classrooms, offices, homes and street corners. But are we truly willing to deny self, take up our cross and follow after Him?

Kingdom keys to reach out to the lost

1-It all begins with our walk with God. Daily and intimate fellowship with the Holy Spirit through prayer, praise and worship.

2-Daily studying and reading of the Word of God. This will help us to grow in deeper relationship with the Lord, equip us with the full armour of God and enable us to be ready to preach the gospel both in and out of season. Washing and renewing our minds with the watering of the Word of God will also help us to fully appreciate who we are in Christ and empower us to withstand the attacks of the devil.

3-Now step out of the boat and put your full trust in Jesus! Some of us may feel shy in opening up a discussion with others. Most of us however have felt the prompting of the Holy Spirit to speak into a persons life. I often find that once I open my mouth (when being prompted by His Spirit), God will take it the rest of the way. Also remember these words of truth and encouragement: "....the word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart." - Romans 10:8

Recently, before meeting people who don't know the Lord, I open my Bible and claim Isaiah 61:1-3 knowing that just as the Father sent Him, now He sends us empowered by the Holy Spirit.

"The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, Because the Lord has anointed Me To preach good tidings to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, To proclaim liberty to the captives, And the opening of the prison to those who are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord, And the day of vengeance of our God; To comfort all who mourn, To console those who mourn in Zion, To give them beauty for ashes, The oil of joy for mourning, The garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; That they may be called trees of righteousness, The planting of the Lord, that He may be glorified." - Isaiah 61: 1-3

4-Intercede for your unsaved family and friends. I encourage you to continue to stand in the gap for them and remember the precious promise in 2 Peter 3:8,9:

"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some count slackness, but is long suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance."

Pray that God's will be done for your dad, mother, brother, sister, relatives and friends.

5-Finally, being a witness for Jesus may involve sowing a seed of love and blessing into a person's and even a stranger's life. One day my friend and brother in Christ, Rick White, said to me, “Imagine how one act of love can impact a life?”. He then paused in thought and continued saying, “Imagine how 400 acts of love can impact our city?”

Rick White's Testimony

As it is his daily custom, Rick will often stop by at Starbucks after work. Whether it is the store on 8th & 12th, or 8th & 5th, most of the staff know him by name and know exactly to make him. Rick in turn also knows most, if not all, the employees by name. Over time he built relationships, and got to know many of them on a personal level. On one particular occasion, a Starbucks employee opened up to Rick and told him about her struggle in making ends meet. The young woman was paying an exceedingly high rental fee while not having money enough left over to buy groceries. Rick came prepared that day. In his pocket was a small gift card for a local grocery store that just happened to have her name on it. With tears welling up in her eyes, she thanked him over and over. I can’t imagine how much that one act of love has already impacted her life. I thank You Jesus for Rick's unwavering acts of love and obedience to Your word. I pray that that door of that woman's heart will only continue to hear the knock of Your Holy love and kindness.

"Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?" - Romans 2:4 (NASB)

Perhaps the Lord has put one soul, a number of people, a city, or a nation on your heart? I challenge you today to begin to see the true value in the souls around you. Step out of the boat and reach out to them. Whoever God causes to cross our path or whatever mission field He has us labouring in, my prayer is that each of us would be faithful and obedient to The Great Commission. I pray that we may be bold and uncompromising like Daniel while we let our lights shine for His glory and Namesake. I pray that we may see many lost souls enter into the kingdom of Light from the kingdom of darkness.

Daniel vs. Peter by Arun Jeyasingh

2009-02-15T22:59:00.002-07:00

We know Daniel was very bold and stood for God, God saved him and God was with Him. God lifted him up and he was great in the whole province.

On the other hand, Peter was a person who was scared to stand up for God. He even betrayed God. The bible also says, "he was with Jesus". This gives a real picture that I can be walking with Jesus yet can put Him down.

But see the heart of my God, whether it's Daniel or Peter , He doesnt care.
His love is uncomprehensable.

Later, the same Peter became a mighty vessel, healed the sick in Jesus name.. also became so bold to give this statement, "Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole"..

How did this happen??

verse 11 says "STONE which was rejected by you builders which has become the chief corenerstone."

Here is an expample of Peter's boldness. Verse 13 says, "Now when they saw the BOLDNESS of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated and untrained men, they marveled. And they realized that they had BEEN WITH JESUS". Amen!!!!!!

For my Jesus, Daniel (a brave man) and Peter (a coward man) are the same. He can make anything out of a vessel which is willing to surrender. He can make me also IF ONLY I WEEP AND CRY FOR MY SINS like Peter did.

Peter was not BOLD because he was bold , its all God's grace .. isn our God awesome!!!! Halleuiah!!!

I am so thankful for having such a merciful and loving God. Thank you Father.

This side and That Side

2009-01-21T15:06:00.006-07:00

Our time here is brief compared to what awaits us on the other side of Eternity. But in this brief moment of life, before, "...the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God...", we have this glorious opportunity to not only live for Christ, but take up our cross and follow Him along the narrow path that leads us to everlasting life. We have this golden privilege to partake as yielded vessels, and see lives, cities and nations transform from the work and the power of the Holy Spirit. We have this blessed honour in expressing our love toward Him, and then channelling this holy love, which He has so abundantly bestowed upon us, to others. Then, "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet...", we shall be with our Lord forever. The former things - heartache, tears and pain will have passed away. The fruit, however, will remain, and we shall stand in awe before our God and behold His brilliant light, love, and presence forever.

Dedicated to my good friend and fellow servant of the Lord, Shane Rooney (A.K.A. Shane #1) , and Allan Cooper, who continually abides under the Shadow of the Almighty.

"The Cross is the Tree that sweetens the waters."

2008-09-09T21:44:00.007-06:00

While I read this quote just over a week ago, I wondered as to whether or not Jim Elliot was referring to a Bible verse. Then, the next morning, I opened my Bible to Exodus 15:22-27, and there it was!

I thank You Lord that You have turned the waters of Marah into sweet living water. No longer shall people say, "What shall we drink?" But rather, one just needs to ask You for that living water.

"but whoever drinks of the water I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."- John 4:14

Test of Faith

2008-08-09T17:46:00.010-06:00

I was reading in John 6:5 where Jesus asks Philip, "Where shall we buy bread, that these may eat?" I stopped and paused on the next verse where it reads: "But this He said to test him, for He Himself knew what He would do." In other words, it was already as good as done. Completed! Finished! All that Philip had to do to pass this test was believe. O Lord, may I pass each test on this side of eternity!

TEST ME

Test me, Lord, and give me strength
to meet each test
unflinching, unafraid;
not striving nervously to do my best,
not self-assured, or careless as in jest,
but with Your aid.
Purge me, Lord, and give me grace to bear the heat
of cleansing flame;
not bitter at my lowly lot,
but mete to bear my share of suffering
and keep sweet,
in Jesus name. - Ruth Bell Graham

Daily Yearning for Christ

2008-08-07T21:54:00.004-06:00

Almost ready for bed. Dear Lord, satiate my weary soul. Help and enable me to sleep well this night and thereafter. Strengthen me as I wait on You. Continue to equip me to be a good soldier for Christ, that I may boldly march under Your banner with Your love indwelling. I love You Jesus. Thank you for this word this evening:

"Most assuredly I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain." - John 12:24

Great is Thy Faithfulness

2008-07-13T20:29:00.005-06:00

I came across this timeless old hymn titled, “Great is Thy Faithfulness”. As I listened to this timeless song of praise, written in 1926, I thought about how the lyrics have remained fresh to those who have put all their trust in Him through each generation. What an inexpressible joy and hope it is know the goodness and mercy of the Lord Jesus. What more shall I say?

“Through the Lord’s mercies we are not consumed,
Because His compassions fail not.
They are new every morning;
Great is Your faithfulness.” - Lamentations 3:22-23

A Revolution Within the Heart...

2008-07-01T21:18:00.003-06:00

happens when...

He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. - Colossians 1:13-14.

Father's Day tribute

2008-06-15T21:28:00.005-06:00

Dear Dad,

I love you and honour you this special day. I enjoy each moment that I spend in your company. I will always make mention of you in my prayers and pray that "you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God..." (Colossians 1:10). HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

My Hero of the Faith (you know who you are)

As my dear friend, I just want to honour and pray a blessing over you this Father's Day. You are continually in my thoughts, prayers, and I often thank the Lord for both you and your wife. Thank you always for all that you poured into my life. The fruit of your love, encouragement, and godly wisdom have indeed remained to this very day. I will continue to imitate your faith and always remember your kindness and love towards me and others. You are my hero of the faith. Praise God!

Dear Heavenly Father,

You are everything and everything is You. Ancient of Days, Wonderful Jesus, thank You for saving my lost soul in 2004. I thank You for my Dad and also all the spiritual Father's You sent forth in my direction. You ensure all those who trust, believe, and put their hope in You one thing - that they will find their rest and security in the very nature of who You are, and who forever You will be. As Paul, the apostle of Jesus Christ once wrote, "For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain." My Rock and my Shield -blessed be Your name forever and ever. Amen.

The Day When Salvation Came to Zacchaeus' House : Pictures of Salvation Pt. 1

2008-03-08T22:58:00.007-07:00

Luke 19: 1-10

Zacchaeus sees Jesus

Zacchaeus is foreknown and called by Jesus

Zacchaeus makes haste and comes to Jesus
Zacchaeus, a sinner, is loved by Jesus
Zacchaeus receives Jesus
Zacchaeus is forgiven by Jesus
Zacchaeus is restored by Jesus

"for the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which is lost."

Covenant of Love

2008-02-02T13:35:00.000-07:00

Song of Solomon

Intimacy with Jesus - Song of Solomon 1

Come to Jesus - 2:10-14

Let nothing spoil the covenant of love between Christ and you - 2:15-16

Pure love is without spot or blemish - 4:7

God produces the fruit in our garden. May we bear fruit for Him to enjoy - 4:16

Open the door of your heart and let Jesus in - 5:2-5 (Revelation 3:20)

God is never afar. Seek Him and you will find Him - 5:6 (Jeremiah 29:12-13)

Never forget the promise of His return - 5:6 (2 Peter 3:10-18)

God's desire is toward you - 7:10

Perfect love is Christ's love dwelling within your heart - 8:6-7

Declare His Holy name

2008-01-28T21:04:00.000-07:00

The year is 1971 Chicago, Illinois. Yet, the Message still speaks the same today, yesterday and forever.

Luke 16:10

2007-12-24T22:24:00.004-07:00

Be faithful and abide in God's faithfulness. When you are faithful in the little things, He will entrust you with much. Being unfaithful is disobeying. Disobedience is sin and the wages of sin is death. But since God sent His only begotten Son to take away the sin of the world, you can now have eternal fellowship with God through His Son Jesus Christ. Turn towards the light and receive Him as the Savior and Lord of your life. Love God and love one another just as He loves you. Serve Him and be faithful, just as He is faithful. Only then will you enter in and taste the true riches which are abundantly stored for you in heaven.

But love remembers when...

2007-11-23T23:05:00.000-07:00

I apologize to my dear friends for my lack of posts. I seemed to have been writing much more in my journal these days. Let me say that God's love and infinite grace and mercy and has been more real, in both the dry desert and the greenest of green pastures.

The song, "When you were a child", by Jason Upton, reminds of the many recent discussions I've been having with one of my co-workers at the office where I work. I pray that he may come to know Jesus as He really is.

I dedicate this song to him.

When you were a child

When you were a child
I called you my own
And you were mine
When you were a child
You could not stand alone
But you were fine

I want to know that child again
Maybe time has changed you
But Love remembers when
You called my name and like the wind
I carried you away
It seems like only yesterday
When You were a child

When you were a child
The world was the unknown
But you were wise
To simply trust in me
That I will never leave
And hold on tight

© 2002 Jason Upton & Key of David Ministries. All rights reserved

Filled with Hope and Inspiration

2007-10-13T22:49:00.001-06:00

"He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose." - Jim Elliot

I'm reading a book that is titled, "Through the Gates of Splendor", by Elisabeth Elliot. Like the Bible - the Book of all books - this true story of five men and their wives who go to the jungles of Equador as missionaries, is both compelling and inspiring. I often find myself thinking those young men and women who laid their lives down for a - Cause above all causes - to share the Divine Light of the Gospel in a remote region of the earth. I'm not even at the half-way point and the book has already had a profound impact on me. I find myself slowly reading through each sentence only to stop and open my Bible to a referred passage of scripture and focus, understand, or confirm what the Lord is speaking to me. I thank our Lord Jesus for those missionaries. I look forward to the day when I see Nate Saint, Roger Youderian, Ed McCully, Pete Fleming and Jim Elliot home in heaven - glorified in body, soul and spirit.

I know that I am being prepared for the mission field. Countries such as Japan and North Korea have been on my heart since the moment I was saved. There is a deep longing in my heart to bodly preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who have yet to know Him personally. I pray that the Lord will continue to prepare, lead and guide me towards the work He has set out for me to accomplish in His glorious name. There will be a cost for sure...

Praise Report from Japan - Part 2

2007-08-26T21:59:00.000-06:00

I recently received this message (below) from my friend Miho in Japan. I was really blessed while reading it, and I'm sure you will be too.

"How amazing God’s grace is!! His love endures forever! Amen.

I attended the Kingdom Come Camp held from August 17th - 19th in the Kansai region. It was full of blessings. I was amazed by their wonderful work in Japan. Appx. 70 people gathered at this camp - from babies, seniors and international residents. People in their 30’s and 40’s were leading every meeting. They were not pastors, just people who love God deeply and who are standing on the firm foundation of truth like us. They gave the strong messages and informed God’s will in grace and love. To remind us our ID in Jesus, to know correctly about the love of heavenly father, to listen God’s voice, deliverance, divine-healing…many many more was talked at the camp.

One program was the challenging for me, it was Out-reach. They provided us the chance to reach the people who need to hear the good news. Such as homeless people and young people who are kicked out from their home, drinking alcohol (some people are taking drug) and lay down on a street all day.

I ended up to join in the group of reaching homeless people. The ideas came up that to hand out drink, foods, shirts, underwear, ice-candies and shower-tickets. It was hot and humid day, heavy air made us feel pressure in the chest. Homeless people were laid down on the street everywhere. We just talked to them like usually we talk to our friends and tell them Jesus loves them. However they didn’t allow us to talk for very long. Instead they would turn their back as soon as they received some foods… Some of them refused us, but others listened to us for a short time. As we saw the reality of homeless people, I realized there’s limitation in ourselves for helping people. On the other hand, it reminds us almighty God is with us. Nothing impossible with God!! When I’m weak, I am strong in God!!

I was also learned how we can serve God through this experience. Thanks God!

Another group did play treasure hunting using God’s precious kids. They are so pure, they just say what God shows or tells them without fear and shyness. One child said “Beach”, another child said “Orange”…As soon as they started walking, they found “Beach” on a TV screen at one super market, so they went into the store, again, found “orange” at the front of the fruits shop!! They were getting goose bumps as they moved forward. They also found a man who injured his hand. He couldn’t bend his fingers. They all started praying for him. Then his fingers were healed!! Praise the Lord!

I was overwhelmed with God’s amazing work in Japan. God is in Japan too!! It is the harvest time. We just need more people who work with us for God’s glory.

On second day of camp, they prepared us in 6 meetings and we chose where we want to attend. My friend Sapna lead one of meetings about Baptism by Holy Spirit. After the meeting, one lady testified she received the gift of tongues. Isn’t this great!?"

Hebrews 12:1-3

2007-08-12T22:05:00.000-06:00

Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

400 Acts of Love: From impacting lives to impacting nations

2007-08-06T15:09:00.001-06:00

It was both a blessing and privilege to have breakfast today with my dear friend Rick. Our morning fellowship inspired me to write this post on acts of love. I pray that it will both bless and encourage you.

Rick said something today that I’ll never ever forget. He said, “Imagine how one act of love can impact a life?” He then paused in thought while stirring the cream in his coffee, and continued saying, “Imagine how 400 acts of love can impact our city?”

First, I would like to say how much I deeply admire Rick. If anyone in the church has a need, he will do whatever it takes to make sure that need is met in His name. On weekends he visits local community residences for the elderly. Whether he is exchanging laughs with old friends or giving thanks in communion, Rick’s weekly presence brings comfort to those who are quite often forgotten and lonely in Western culture. Not only does he radiate God in love, but also reflects Him by his sense of humour. He loves a good joke, and his laugh can be heard from afar. He has the heart of David. He loves the Lord and he loves people. Moreover, Rick’s love for people and coffee makes Starbucks one of his favourite mission fields.

Sharing God's Love

As it is his daily custom, Rick will often stop by at Starbucks after work. Whether it is the store on 8th & 12th, or 8th & 5th, most of the staff know him by name and know exactly to make him. Rick in turn also knows most, if not all, the employees by name. Over time he built relationships, and got to know many of them on a personal level. On one particular occasion, a Starbucks employee opened up to Rick and told him about her struggle in making ends meet. The young woman was paying an exceedingly high rental fee while not having money enough left over to buy groceries. Rick came prepared that day. In his pocket was a small gift card for a local grocery store that just happened to have her name on it. With tears welling up in her eyes, she thanked him over and over. I can’t imagine how much that one act of love has already impacted her life. I thank You Jesus for Rick's unwavering acts of love and obedience to Your word. I pray that that door of that woman's heart will only continue to hear the knock of Your Holy love and kindness.

Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance? - Romans 2:4

Long before I received Christ as my personal Lord and Saviour, I saw the living Gospel in action through two of my good friends, Shane and Sarah. Their acts of love towards me opened the eyes of my heart to see the living God for who He really is and what He is really like. Jesus is same yesterday, today, and forever. God IS love. And through Shane and Sarah’s acts of love, His Spirit freely wooed me unto Himself until the day when I finally returned to my Shepard and Guardian of my soul (1 Peter 2:25). What an unspeakable joy it is to know that you have been purchased and bought by the Blood of Jesus! We all belong to Him.

I have a big heart for Japan. God loves the Japanese people and so do I. One particular group I have an affection for are youth who come from single parent households. Recently, my prayer has been to ask the Lord to show me how I can be more of an effective witness in advancing the Gospel in Japan. The other day I thought about what it would take to offer free English conversation lessons to kids in Japan from single parent families who can't afford to pay the regular fees elsewhere. And to then take the extra step and invest time and build relationships whether it be over a convenience store obento lunch or by shooting a few hoops at the local basketball court (I speak from a guys perspective, but you get what I’m saying :). All these kids need is to feel loved and accepted with Christ living in their hearts. Can you hear their testimonies? How ordinary believers reached out and touched lives in an extraordinary way. From suicidal thoughts to a spirit filled life eternal with Jesus.

Or how about the orphans in South Korea? As much as one, two, or three hours of volunteer time a week could radically impact one single life for eternity. Imagine how one of these young men or women could be like another Samuel, David, Esther or Paul, and in turn impact thousands or millions in their generation? All because of the acts of love sown into their lives. What an awesome privilege it is to serve an awesome God!

Is there not a cause? I heard someone say, “People are more willing to listen than we are willing to share.” If this is true, then we as the church must turn the tide by stop playing church and start being the Church - with our neighbors, in the classrooms, offices, or Starbucks coffee shops. But are we willing? I don’t think this requires that we hit someone over the head with the Bible. But it does require an act of genuine love. And through His chosen vessels, they may come to know the agape love of God. Imagine the impact 400 or more acts of love will have in nations like Japan, North Korea, Israel and Iran? Imagine the impact 400 or more acts of love will have in the communities and cities we currently live in?

Together, let us begin right where we are, and show an act of love of to someone right where they are in life. I thank the Lord that He met me where I was at. And how it was not by works, but by His grace through faith that I am saved and am free to come boldly before His throne. Whatever, wherever or whomever God has put on our hearts. Let us take the first step of faith, and watch God take it the rest of the way. It’s all about relationship. It’s all about You Jesus.

What then is Apollos? And what is Paul? Servants through whom you believed, even as the Lord gave opportunity to each one. I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth. – 1 Corinthians 3:5-6

Dearly Loved

2007-08-04T14:52:00.000-06:00

My sister recently enlightened me with the song, "Dearly Loved", by Jimmy Needham. This song of praise speaks of a profound truth embodied in an everlasting covenant between God and His beloved.

Be blessed in Jesus' name!

Honouring Ruth Bell Graham - 1920-2007

2007-06-16T11:27:00.000-06:00

Dear friends,

Late last night I learned that a precious woman of God, Ruth Bell Graham, went home to be with our Lord. I once heard someone say, "It's not how you start the race, but how you finish". What a finish to a life devoted to serving Jesus, and radiating His love!

As much as I deeply admire Billy Graham and his ministry, until recently, I knew little about the Graham family - particularly Ruth Graham Bell. I did not know that at the age of 13 she spent time in Pyongyang, North Korea, as well as doing missions in China. While reading about her, I discovered that she was a woman of faith, hope, and love. She was a Proverbs 31:10-31, woman. She was a woman deeply loved by her family, friends, and the all people whom the Lord divinely connected her with.

She raised the bar for all us to go higher and deeper in God and finish well...

Below is Ruth Bell Graham's tribute website which will broadcast her funeral this afternoon (2:00pm Eastern - 12:00pm Mountain time).

http://www.billygraham.org/RBG_default.asp

Showers of blessings,

Shane

Mother's Day: Honour, Blessing, and Love

2007-05-13T21:03:00.000-06:00

We find such honour and blessing represented all throughout the book of Ruth. By honouring her mother-in-law, Naomi, Ruth entered into the fullness of her calling and destiny. Ruth’s choice to honour Naomi sowed a seed of blessing that would reap big fruit and glorify God.

Ruth...honouring Naomi…Marriage to Boaz (the Kinsman Redeemer)…Obed…Jesse…David……JESUS!

I am grateful for the blessings that come with honouring my own mother, but the motivating drive behind this honour comes from the love that I have for her.

My mother has yet to meet the Lord (she has been a Jehovah’s Witness for 29 years). Thanks to His grace, mercy, and love, salvation of a household often begins with one member of the family. I look forward to the day when my mother, father, and the entire family come to know the inseparable love of Jesus. The promise in Acts 11:14 is for those of you with a similar set of circumstances. Embrace it!

Thank you mom for everything you have done for me. As a single parent, you sacrificed and laid your life down for your two children. I honour and thank you for being a woman of excellence.

Lord, I ask that You bless each of my friends with a mother’s heart…who is a mother…or who aspires to be a mother. You know who you are :)

May the Lord reward your work, and your wages be full from the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge. - Ruth 2:12

Praise Report From Japan!

2007-05-09T18:09:00.000-06:00

Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. - John 8:36

Dear Friends,

I just read this praise report (below) from my friend Miho in Japan. This testimony will both bless and encourage you. May Jesus, from whom all blessings flow, continue to draw millions of hearts to Himself during this time of harvest in Japan and around the world!

Good News!!

Hello, my friends in Jesus! How are you doin'? I wanted to let you know about the good news and I also wanted to ask you for the prayer support.

As you know, we had the blessing service in Tokyo, Japan with Pastor Tano a couple weeks ago. It was great moment. I believe each one of us were fulfilled with grace from God in His marverous presence.

One of my friends who attended at this service. She received Jesus as her saviour last sunday!! Praise the Lord!! Actually she didn't confess her faith at the service, but a week after. As I met her last sunday, she started talking about her current problems as crying hard, however, it was not only depressed story, but blessing story.

In that service, Pastor Tano was lead to pray for her with prophetic words and she was freed from suffering and pain. I noticed the difference in her immediately as I talked to her after the service.I believe everyone should know this difference if you hang out with her recently. Unfortunately...? Fortunately!! only me knows. It is always great to see someone's changes by God, isn't it? I was totally amazed and filled with joy.

[...when the desire comes, it is a tree of life. Proverbs 13:12]
We all can taste the ripe fruits from this tree of life. Isn't it
wonderful!? Now is the time for harvest. YEAH!!!

Anyway, she will receive water baptism by Pastor Tano tomorrow, 10th/7pm~-Japanese time.(Yeah, I caught him just before he flys!-he flys back to Canada on 11th) So please, please pray for the day of her renewal. I want you to pray for her to receive baptism by holy spirit and also all of the spiritual blessing!!(please matt!!pray for us, specially for mighty anointing to Tano-san)

Thank you for your support all the time. I continue pray for each one of you. God bless you !!

Miho

Defining moments

2007-05-02T00:12:00.000-06:00

…and I show you a still more excellent way. - 1 Corinthians 12:31

Saturday, April 21st ...

I saw Jesus work through the heart a dear woman - Mrs. Mei Kwong. I had made plans that Saturday afternoon to meet a good friend for coffee. On the way to his place, I figured that I would stop at a local car wash to say hello to another friend who was working there. It was in the middle of that car wash parking lot where I saw a little lady collecting empty bottles from a garbage bin. My heart began to stir... There was something about her… Within minutes she walked up to where my friend and I were standing, and introduced herself as Mrs. Kwong. Almost immediately she began to open up and tell us about how her 86 year old mother in China who was being treated for cancer. With business being slow at her family owned restaurant, Mrs. Kwong spoke about how she spent most days searching for bottles and cans to contribute towards covering the expense of her mother’s monthly medical bills. She also revealed that she too had cancer, and how the chemotherapy treatments were leaving her feeling weak and tired.

Have you ever had a conversation with someone while simultaneously talking to the Lord (quietly:) ? Such a moment was this! “Lord, what do You want to show me about this precious women?" “Father, help me to see her through Your eyes.” The next moment I began to tell her of a certain Healer named Jesus. As soon as I said JESUS, she leaped with joy. It was then when I learned that she too was a Christian, and how she believed through faith in the healing touch of God. By this time my friend had left Mrs. Kwong and I to attend some customers. Prompted by the Holy Spirit, I began to pray for her. We both bowed our heads and called out to the Lord in agreement with His promises – that His will be done!

Sunday, April 29th

After the morning church service I made my way home reflecting on some of the defining moments in this great journey with Jesus. 20-meters later, I pulled a 180 degree turn, and proceeded to walk downtown without having any particular destination. After a few blocks, I found myself walking right behind the same dear lady I had met a week prior. That familiar twinkle once again radiated as Mrs.Kwong turned around to greet me. “Have you eaten lunch yet?”. “Come, and I will to introduce you to my husband at our restaurant.”

While her husband was preparing lunch she reached into a plastic bag and pulled out a little mandarin orange. She must have figured that I was hungry since it was already well past noon. I really was not that hungry, but she insisted that I should eat it, claiming how sweet and juicy the orange was. Later that evening, I could not think about that orange in her hand stretched out toward me without tears welling up in my eyes. The presence of God filled that restaurant. It was as if Jesus had joined us, and was sitting right there beside us. Jesus, Mr. & Mrs. Kwong, and I - all dining together.

In spite being exhausted from numerous chemotherapy treatments, Mrs. Kwong could still find joy in being a blessing to others. I was deeply moved by the love she displayed towards her family, and how she placed her own life as secondary to others. I thought of Paul’s words in Philippians 2:3:

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;

Perhaps Mrs.Kwong’s joy came from understanding that no matter kind of adversity she may face, she is always secure in the nature of His goodness (Now that is joy!). The orange reminded me of the memorial stones in Joshua 4. Perhaps this is why something so little, like a mandarin orange, meant so much. Not only does the orange serve as a memorial and testimony of Mrs. Kwong’s kind heart, but also reaffirmed and reminded me of how “we love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19).

I'm happy to report that Mrs. Kwong has felt an improvement in her health and healing. The cancer is almost completely gone, but she still has several more chemo- treatments left. Please join me in prayer for this precious woman of God and her family. By His stripes she is healed in Jesus name!

Jesus, our Source of Joy, continue to show us how to walk in a more excellent way…

The Spirit of Revelation

2007-04-28T23:43:00.000-06:00

Within these past few weeks, I have read some of most inspiring messages, prayers, visions, and testimonies from friends around the world – all who are blessed with the heart of David. Let's continue to press deep into His presence!

I was going through my journal this afternoon and found this quote that I would like to share.

"The spirit of revelation doesn't create anything.
The spirit of revelation reveals what already exists.
And if we knew what was already in reach, it would
completely transform our life." - Bill Johnson

Balm of Gilead - by Smith Wigglesworth

2007-04-27T21:12:00.000-06:00

God is pleased when we stand on the Rock and believe that He is unchangeable. If you will dare to believe God, you can defy all the powers of evil. There have been times in my experience when I have dared to believe Him and have had the most remarkable experiences.

One day I was traveling in a railway coach, and there were two people in the coach who were very sick, a mother and her daughter. I said to them, “Look, I’ve something in the bag that will cure every case in the world. It has never been known to fail.”

They became very much interested, and I went on to tell them more and more about this remedy that had never failed to remove disease and sickness. At last they summoned up the courage to ask for a dose. So I opened my bag, took out my Bible and read them the verse that says, “I am the Lord who heals you” (Exod. 15:26).

God’s Word never fails. He will always heal you if you dare to believe Him. Men are searching everywhere today for things with which they can heal themselves, and they ignore the fact that the Balm of Gilead (Jer. 8:22) is within easy reach.

As I talked about this wonderful Physician, the faith of both mother and daughter went out toward Him, and He healed them both right in the train.

God has made His Word so precious that if I could not get another copy of it, I would not part with my Bible for all the world. There is life in the Word. There is power in it. I find Christ in it, and He is the One I need for spirit, soul, and body. It tells me of the power of His name and the power of His blood for cleansing. “The young lions lack and suffer hunger, but those who seek the Lord shall not lack any good thing.”(Ps. 34:10)

"When Heaven Invades Earth" in Japanese

2007-04-24T20:36:00.000-06:00

A few years ago, two close friends of mine recommended the book, “When Heaven Invades Earth”, by Bill Johnson. It has been awhile since I have read that book, but I remember how quickly I shifted from an earthly to a Kingdom mindset once I was finished reading it. My mind had no choice but to agree with what my spirit was yearning for - to start walking in authority of Christ our Saviour!

Today I learned that a friend of mine in Japan has also read, “When Heaven Invades Earth” (translated in Japanese). The book confirmed a vision she had received where the Lord was showing her that Japan would be covered in red-the Blood of Jesus. You can learn more about "When Heaven Invades Earth" (Japanese) by visiting: http://onfire.jp/

Lord we agree with ALL that You have in store for Japan. As Martin Luther King Jr. once decreed over America, “from every mountainside, let freedom ring!” Father, let freedom, truth, and light increase and set people free! Let the prayers of Your people ascend and descend upon Japan as the sweet fragrance of Your glory. That the people may know the depth of Your love. And "that they may know that You alone, whose name is the LORD, are the Most High over all the earth" (Psalm 83:18). Thank you Jesus!

Passion of The Christ - How Great is Our God

2007-04-21T22:08:00.000-06:00

This video features clips from the film, “The Passion of the Christ”, as well as worship song, “How Great is our God.”

"The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice ..."

Divine connection: a tribute

2007-04-14T16:50:00.000-06:00

Our true destiny is always connected with certain people. The good news is that God, the author of our destiny, already has these people lined up. I am forever grateful for my two dear friends, Shane and Sarah Rooney (see top picture). It was through their love, fervent prayers, and endearing friendship where I first came to know the grace and the unchanging love of Jesus. In February of 2004, I found that the promise is true in Romans 10:9, "that if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;". Inviting Jesus into my heart, and receiving Him as my Lord and Saviour, will always be the most important and best decision I have ever made.

Wonderful Jesus, I thank You for every divine connection You use to bring Your people to their destiny. I pray that You continue to draw Your beloved deeper into Your loving arms so that the earth will be filled with the knowledge of Your glory, as the waters cover the sea. In Jesus marvellous name. Amen.