Walking in the Light of Holiness

Walking in the Light of Holiness
by Diana Winters

According to the pattern of 1 John 1:1–5, I testify to what I have heard, what I have seen, and what I have touched of the eternal life God has given me. I’m not sure I can connect all the pieces clearly yet. But I do know that at the root of it all are these words: “God is light; in him is no darkness at all.” I do understand that it is God’s express purpose, by whatever means possible, to rid us of the darkness in every part of our lives, and to walk with us forever in the blinding light of His glory.

Four things I have noticed among people who walk in the light of holiness:

1. They live at ease with the paradoxes of the Christian life. From their simple lives come profound insights. They are painfully aware of their weaknesses but have no problem with self–esteem. They lean as invalids on the Word of God but stride out to lead in spiritual battle. They enter fully into the turbulent emotions of life but have calm trust for the future.

2. They are generally unaware of the qualities they have. Much like those who are fearless (which these folk typically are!), they don’t have to fight fear—they just don’t have any. It’s like when my son, Luke, at age 5, had his first skiing lesson. The instructor showed him how to position the skis in order to stop or slow down. Luke’s response was, “Why?” (stop or slow down, that is).

Much like those who are humble (which these folk typically are), they just do what needs to be done, without even thinking about it.

I watched a high–ranking Salvation Army officer at a public event recently. As he happened to walk past the corps kitchen, he saw an expanding puddle of water spreading out from under one of the sinks. He simply went to look for a mop and got to work cleaning up the water. He was just intent on doing what needed to be done.

Much like Moses. He spent time with God, and only begged for his people and to see God’s face. All God showed him was the light of His BACK, and Moses came down the mountain with no idea that his face was gleaming until the people told him so. But even then, he never said, “I’m going back up the mountain to work on my gleam.” There is no record of Moses begging God, “Oh please, oh please come and give me some more gleam for my face!” He just spent time with God. THEN he was filled with light.

3. They are the most “feet–on–the–ground” people I have ever met. They are not dreamy–eyed, “have–to–spiritualize–everything” people. They know when a song on the radio is a sign from God, and when it’s just a song on the radio.

Much like my Grandma Veta Dearin. She had a continuous, intimate conversation with Jesus, and an uncanny capacity to meet practical needs. I think it is partly because she very matter–of–factly obeyed any of God’s leadings. Sometimes, she would suddenly announce she had an appointment on the corner of Main Street and 5th Avenue at 7 p.m. It didn’t bother her that she had no idea with whom or why. Sure enough … every time … someone would show up who needed help in some way. Somehow she knew which person was the one she was there for, and who were just the passersby. She used to laugh hard (I don’t think she ever laughed softly) and say, “I can’t even SPELL sanctification! I just know my Jesus.”

4. They have their “Ifs” and “Thens” straight. They don’t stress and strain to grow fruit of the Spirit, any more than an apple tree strains to produce apples. They know that IF they put their roots down deep into God’s Word, drink from the living water Jesus promised to give them, keep their faces turned towards the light of God—THEN God will do the growing of the fruit just fine. And the pruning. (See John 15.) But they are OK with that.

Five things I have found in 1 John, and Ephesians (my companions of late):

1. Since Jesus brings eternal life, and He is with me now, it is better called ETERNAL LIVING. I am not waiting for eternal life while I try to figure out what to do in the meantime. I am living eternally now; breathing eternal air.

2. To be holy is to BECOME MY WHOLE TRUE SELF—in the company of my Creator. It is to be EMPOWERED to complete my purpose on earth. My Granddad Lyell Rader told me, “The alternative to holiness is ‘halfliness.’ Why would anyone want to live that way?” God made us to be COMPLETE in Him.

3. There is such a thing as complete JOY, and it is the power that carried Jesus Himself through the crucifixion and the horror of its anticipation. Joy, and all that is in Jesus, He gives in perfection. Perfect peace. Perfect love. Perfect hope. Perfect confidence. Perfect trust.

4. There always seems to be LIGHT when God is around. Light was His first creation, and heaven will need no sun or moon because of God’s light there. Jesus called Himself “light of the world.” He lights my life path with His Word. So if anything in my life makes me prefer to stay undiscovered in the darkness, I know it is not from God. Ephesians 5:8–10 says that I myself used to be darkness. Now I want to live as a child of the light.

5. All of this is somehow crucial to my RELATIONSHIP with all of you (my church family) and leads to relationship with the triune God Himself!
So once again (as Ephesians tells us), we see that we are all in this together, aren’t we? I cannot grow in God without you, my friends. And we will not grow together to holy maturity without God. “If we walk in the light, as Christ is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all our sins.”

Diana Winters is a soldier (member) of the Salvation Army’s Oakbrook Terrace, Ill., Corps. She has been a missionary to Africa and is married to Dr. David Winters; they have four children, two adopted from Russia.

A new exodus?

Major Nigel Gotobed considers the implications of embracing the ‘new thing’ God is doing

STUDY PASSAGE: ISAIAH 43:1–19

WE hear a great deal these days about the urgent call to discover the ‘new thing’ that God is doing in the Church and in the world. I echo that clarion call. God is at work. God still has a future for the Church. I do not believe God has finished with The Salvation Army, nor do I subscribe to the sentiment that our best days are behind us.

What is clearly emerging in the Church is a renewed desire to connect in new ways to a generation that has been lost to it and to God. Far too many people have little or no comprehension of what the Church is or who it exists for.

Many corps are exercising faith and becoming risk-takers for Jesus, reaching out with new initiatives such as café church, Messy Church, cinema church and prayer bunkers. These are just some of the new things being attempted.

Some centres are rediscovering the core principles that enabled their birth and growth, while remaining firmly rooted in today’s generation with all its cultures and subcultures.

This leads me to ponder this week’s study passage and the new thing mentioned there – which some commentators call the new Exodus.

As we consider these verses we need to ask ourselves if our multifaceted God asks how his children found their way home, or does he just open his outstretched arms and say: ‘Welcome’?

Put another way, is The Salvation Army in danger of losing its spiritual DNA by embracing Emerging Church principles, or might we possibly rediscover some of those core principles that enabled our glorious Movement to experience significant growth in its early days? Revival is (still) our present need! (See SASB 760.)

Embracing Emerging Church principles includes taking risks, and implementing changes wherever and whenever they are necessary. As erstwhile Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson once declared: ‘He who rejects change is the architect of decay.’

Israel was a nation facing constant upheaval and change, and yet God had redeemed its people and called them by name to be those who belong to him (43:1). It’s important that we also remember who we are, and who our God is. We too are important to God; he calls us to himself and gives us his name (v7). Therefore, when we pass through stormy waters and face fires of judgment, we will not be burnt nor will the flames set us ablaze (v2).

Isaiah reminds the Israelites that they need not be afraid: Yahweh was with them and would bring about a significant homecoming (vv5–7), such as had not been seen before or since – yet.

All God’s people will be gathered from all parts of the earth when Christ comes to rule in peace.

Not all God’s people are gifted evangelists, but all are called to be witnesses (v10; see also Isaiah 44:8; Matthew 28:19; Acts 1:8). We share the responsibility of being God’s witnesses. Opportunities presented on Monday mornings when colleagues ask about our weekend are God-given moments when we can speak up for the Church and witness for Christ. Through our words and through our living, others may see, and be attracted to, God. Evangelism in the workplace depends on you and me telling our story, in words and in actions.

How’s your story? Is there a new chapter waiting to be written?

In 43:14–19 Isaiah addresses this issue to the Israelites. ‘I am the Lord, your Holy One,’ he reminds them (v15); the Lord who was and is and always will be.

Theologian John Drane says that the faith of the Old Testament is ‘a dynamic living faith that always expects God to do new things’. In choosing to embrace that reality we have a greater loyalty to the future than to the past. Yes, we need to respect it and learn from it, but we cannot afford to live in it (see v18).

General John Larsson (Retired) once urged cadets not to dwell on history, but to ‘go out and make history’. Where are today’s history-makers?

The Exodus was clearly included in the former things, and the ‘new thing’ (v19) was unfolding before the Israelites’ very eyes, but many did not perceive it. Their redemption – the new Exodus – would surpass the old, for all men would be redeemed.

Perhaps we too are witnesses to a missiological reformation as we seek to embrace the new thing that is emerging among us in these days. Do you perceive it?

• Major Gotobed is Divisional Director for Evangelism, Northern

(Salvationist UK Issue Date: October 2010)

Prayer Request

1. Pray for the Youth School Holiday Programme from 29 November 2010 until 31 December 2010. Pray for the youth, volunteers, sponsor and resources.

2. Pray for PMR, SPM, A'level students who will be sitting for their exam soon.

3. Pray for Christmas caroling practice, brass band, timbrel group and Christmas bells

4. Pray for Christmas Celebration with state government on 19 Dec 2010.

5. Pray for all other ministry that we are planning. Pray for God guidance and leadership to lead us. SAFE, Community Service, Youth & Children Program, Banana Leaf, Cell Group, etc

6. Pray for those who are sick, need financial blessing, etc issues.

Announcements

1. Self Denial Appeal 2010
We are now entering the Self Denial month of October. The Altar Service is on 7 Nov 2010. Bro and Sister are encourage to pray and also giving to mission.

2. Corps T-Shirt
Please see Bro Tan or Bro Steven, those who interested to purchase. Dry Fit T-Shirt of RM30 each.

3. Prayer Ministry
Date: 22 Oct 2010, Time: 8pm Venue: Penang Children's Home.
Please share your prayer request with Major Kamala or any corps council.

4. Corps Sport and Outing
Date: 6 Nov 2010, Time: 7:30am, Venue: Teluk Bahang National Park. Please contact Sister Jasinta for more details.

5. Christmas Carol Practice
Please see Bro Tan / Sis Carmen / Bro Steven for more information, we encourage all to join as away to the share good news through caroling during Christmas season.

Obey God: Love others

When Jesus’ followers saw what was going to happen, they said, “Lord, should we strike with our swords?” And one of them struck the servant of the high priest, cutting off his right ear. But Jesus answered, “No more of this! And he touched the man’s ear and healed him.”

—Luke 22:50–51

“Lord, should we strike with our swords?” was Peter’s question. But so caught up in the moment was he that Peter (most likely he was the one) couldn’t wait for his Master’s response—he took matters into his own sword–wielding hand. Peter probably thought, “The Lord allowed me to carry a sword, didn’t He? So why not use it?”

Had you been the man with the severed ear, which act would have likely convinced you that Jesus was Lord: the stings of Peter’s swift sword or Jesus’ compassionate and healing touch?

Since 9/11, sharp swords and tongues have exacerbated the tensions in today’s troubled times. “The world is in serious trouble, needing serious help,” said Commissioner R. Steven Hedgren, territorial commander, during his recent charge to the Friends of Christ session of cadets.

I believe that God is calling us to initiate His divine love—even toward people we perceive to be our enemies. For only by our love will the world know that we are Christians.

God is fully capable of defending Himself; He doesn’t need us to do that. He needs us to obey His commands.

Long before an international debate on religious tolerance captured headlines, I frequently joined forces with street evangelists and went “toe–to–toe” in spirited conversations with members of the Nation of Islam in Harlem. Many times we traded theological truths in the shadow of the 116th Street mosque.

Although our discussions were always “hot,” we never burned one another’s sacred texts in effigy. We respectfully “agreed to disagree.”

Interestingly, we always found common ground on the topic of meeting human need. We agreed that the community was hurting physically, emotionally, and spiritually. And if we were “worth our salt,” we had to address those felt needs.

A rabbi who actually taught religion at a Christian university explained to me, “Mutual respect [between believers of different faiths] is the foundation of constructive dialogue.”

During these troubled times, let us not be ashamed to stand and speak the name of Jesus—even in the face of no agreement. But may we also remember that He wants Christians to obey Him, not defend Him. “If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat, and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink, for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you.” (Proverbs 25:21–22)

by Warren L. Maye (TSA USA Eastern Territory)

Why you should be more weedy

Major Tim Johnson considers the lilies

IT’S one of my jobs at home to do most of the gardening. It has to be said that – despite fine examples from my dad and grandad – I’m not a great gardener. The plants that typically do best in my garden are weeds.

Time and again, I expend energy getting rid of them, yet these horticultural adversaries pop up the moment I turn my back. I’ve spent long hours grubbing up these gardening foes, and they have earned a grudging respect from me. Why are they so resilient and so successful in their field?

I also recently learnt more about the words behind the translation of Matthew 6:28: ‘Consider the lilies of the field’ (King James Version). The Greek verb has the sense of ‘to examine closely’ – in other words, take a microscope to it, analyse what’s going on. What are these weeds doing right? And what can we do to imitate them, so that we can be as steadfast as they are?

Here are some thoughts that occurred as I was weeding.

DEEPLY AND WIDELY ROOTED
One pet hate I have inherited from my father, gardening-wise, is about bindweed. It’s a pest, both above and below ground, and a horror to get rid of. The roots are an easy-to-see white when you dig them up, but to be rid of it requires you to remove every trace of root from the soil. Bindweed also loves to lurk near tree roots and under fences – the ‘difficult-to-dig’ areas. The smallest overlooked fragment will grow and spread. It has roots that sustain it through the most difficult and destructive of times.

This summer’s project was to clear the border at the front of the house, which involved removing lots of ornamental holly, a plant with an extensive root system. After several marathon sessions of digging and pursuing roots, I finally gave up on one root that was as deep as the house foundations and was still heading downwards. Deeply rooted indeed!

It’s no surprise that Paul uses the metaphor of being deeply rooted in love (Ephesians 3:17) when he prays for the growth of his fellow Christians. With deep roots – the ability to draw strength from God through prayer and the Bible – even the ‘weediest’ of us can face the most testing of times.

STAY CLOSE TO THE EARTH
This is another survival technique that allows weeds to thrive. Hugging the earth and spreading sideways, rather than upwards, allows harmful things to go past without causing injury.

I get into a lot of trouble with my family for mowing the lawn and taking out the daisies and buttercups. The reality is, I don’t do a lot of damage; I just nick off the open flowers. The reason there isn’t much damage is that most of the plant is flat on the ground. A plant that stays close to the earth could quite easily be called humble. (The root word means ‘earthed’).

So here’s weed lesson number two: don’t be in a hurry to grow up and be vulnerable. Go low, grow wide and stay close to God. Read Peter’s advice to the Church: ‘Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time’ (1 Peter 5:6 New International Version).

DYING TO BECOME FRUITFUL
I mentioned this Bible study in a corps home group and someone immediately said: ‘There’s the dandelion, you know; it has a beautiful flower, yet unless it dies, the seed will not grow.’ This thought echoes the words of Jesus in John 12:24.

There are times when the sweet things of life have to be put aside so that better things can happen, when we need to make a sacrifice of personal desires to allow the gospel to thrive. For example, time usually spent on hobbies invested for the Kingdom to help an event take place; when what might be family time is used to build a relationship with someone seeking Christ – the flower put aside for the seed.

A WEED AGLOW WITH GOD
A visiting preacher once made a comment on Exodus chapter 3 and the burning bush. His words were akin to: ‘The Hebrew is “Ceneh” but “bush” is really too much. “Ceneh” means weed.’

So God used a weed to accomplish his purpose and save a nation – a weed aglow with the very presence of God became a pathway to service for Moses, a holy place of commitment and decision.

The strength, the glory, were all God’s; the weed was just the vessel for his work.

It really doesn’t matter how weedy we think we are. If we are rooted in God’s love, stay humble and close to him, if we are willing to obey and be open to his will, God’s purpose will be accomplished.

• Major Johnson is the corps officer at Hemel Hempstead
(Salvationist UK Issue Date: October 2010)

Announcements

1. Self Denial Appeal 2010
We are now entering the Self Denial month of October. The Altar Service is on 7 Nov 2010. Bro and Sister are encourage to pray and also giving to mission.

2. Corps T-Shirt
Please see Captain Brenda, those who interested to purchase. Dry Fit T-Shirt of RM30 each.

3. Adult Cell Group
Date: 15 October 2010, Time: 8:00pm. Venue. Bro Tan house

4. Youth School Holiday Programme
Date: 29 Nov 2010 - 31 Dec 2010. Please register with Capt Tan those who are interested. This is also open to the public.

5. Attending Seminar and Furlough
Please be informed that Capt. Tan and Brenda will be going to Hong Kong for seminar, followed by their furlough for 3 weeks.

6. Christmas Carol Practice
Please see Bro Tan for more information, we encourage those who like to go caroling to attend the practice.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for the Youth School Holiday Programme from 29 November 2010 until 31 December 2010. Pray for the youth, volunteers, sponsor and resources.

2. Pray for PMR, SPM, A'level students who will be sitting for their exam soon.

3. Pray for Major Kamala on her cataract surgery on 12 October 2010.

4. Continued to pray for Brother Sam in Kuching.

5. Pray for all other ministry that we are planning. Pray for God guidance and leadership to lead us. SAFE, Community Service, Youth & Children Program, Banana Leaf, Cell Group, etc

6. Pray for those who are sick, need financial blessing, etc issues.

Self Denial 2010

Our 2010 Self Denial partner in mission are Kenya East/West, India West and Latvia region. Please pray for these country and ourselves as we remember our brother and sister who are in need.

Please get yourself a prayer booklet at the church or contact us to send you a copy.

We pray that God will multiple your sacrificial giving to help those needy in those part of the world.

On 7 November, we will be having a self denial service for the collection. For those who cannot made it and wish to contribute, please send us your contribution. Contact Capt Tan or Brenda for more information.

Adult Fellowship 25 Sept 2010

Praise be to God, that we have a warm and successful Adult Fellowship and get together with adult, children, friends and family. It was a wonderful evening sharing fellowship in food, catching up with friends, look at the picture to reflect of the Salvation Army work in Penang.



We thank Bro Gerard Khaw for being our speaker for the night. His testimony was a touch to many attended and focus on "The Father" of God. In his closing, he reminded all to focus their live on Jesus in any good or stormy days. He will be our God and carry us through and walk beside us as His has promise us.



We have also Lt. Colonel Tan to share with us that we all have a choice to make in life as Bro Gerard did. He share his story of making the right choice to follow Jesus and give his life in the Salvation Army ministry together with his wife Lt. Colonel Patrica. Putting trust and faith in Jesus along the way bear fruit and joy along the life journey.



God is there to forgive those to come to Him. He will also be their God, The Father,love and care for them. God is good all the time.

Click here for more photos

Combine Cell Group 19 Sept 2010

A combine cell group was recently on 19 Sept 2010. From the oldest and youngest came to have the fellowship and share with each other in fellowship.



Also in that evening, Bro Chin Khen wife celebrated her birthday.



The event bring all closer as one family joining in fellowship with Jesus.

Click here for more photos

Announcements

1. Senior Citizen (Over 60th Club) Breakfast
Date: 9 October 2010, Time: 08:00am, Venue: Macalister Road.

2. Youth School Holiday Programme
Date: 29 Nov 2010 - 31 Dec 2010. Please register with Capt Tan those who are interested. This is also open to the public.

3. Self Denial Appeal 2010
We are now entering the Self Denial month of October. The Altar Service is on 7 Nov 2010. Bro and Sister are encourage to pray and also giving to mission.

4. Super Ten Sunday.
Date: 10/10/10(Sun), 10 minutes of 10 persons giving thanks and testimony to God.

5. Corps T-Shirt
Please see Captain Brenda, those who interested to purchase. Dry Fit T-Shirt of RM30 each.

6. Special Thanks
Special thanks to Major Darrell & Katrina Thomas for their spiritual ministry this morning.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for Senior Citizen (Over Sixties Club) Breakfast, 9 October 2010, Time 8:00am, Venue: Macalister Road.

2. Pray for the Youth School Holiday Programme from 29 November 2010 until 31 December 2010. Pray for the youth, volunteers, sponsor and resources.

3. Pray for PMR, SPM, A'level students who will be sitting for their exam soon.

4. Pray for all other ministry that we are planning. Pray for God guidance and leadership to lead us. SAFE, Community Service, Youth & Children Program, Banana Leaf, Cell Group, etc

5. Pray for those who are sick, need financial blessing, etc issues.

GRATITUTE

PASTORAL LETTER TWENTY-ONE

GRATITUDE (2)

Dear Fellow Salvationists,

Once more it is my great honour and privilege to be in touch with you through a Pastoral Letter.

Commissioner Helen Clifton joins me in sending greetings to you just where you are, thanking God for your fidelity to the gospel and for your service in his great Army of Salvation.

I am writing this Letter from my office in our home because recently I have undergone further surgery, this time for a heart bypass procedure. This took place unexpectedly six weeks ago and I thank God that I am making good progress and am able to keep up with all official matters through the kindness of the Chief of the Staff who meets me in our home regularly to discuss key matters of business and policy and also through the great help of my personal staff at International Headquarters.

Commissioner Helen Clifton is taking wonderful care of me but is also facing her own health challenges at this time. So your prayers are very, very precious to us both and to our family.

The theme of this Letter, as with Pastoral Letter 20, is gratitude. It is a theme that can never be exhausted. It is a natural theme for us at this time for we feel indebted to so many for loving support. Many of you have sent messages of prayer and encouragement. These have blessed and helped us so much.

I want to record heartfelt thanks to Almighty God for his unfailing love to us all. You will know of those times when you have experienced the loving closeness of our Heavenly Father. Sometimes he is so near to us that we can almost reach out and touch him. May you each be drawn closer and closer to God in this wonderful way.

We praise and thank God because he is able to save us from our sin and from the overarching rule of self and selfish ambition. Acts 4:12 tells us that there is no other name by which we can be saved. God the Father has given us Jesus, God the Son, to be our only Saviour. Our hearts fill up again with gratitude.

We have still further cause to be glad and grateful to God. He alone can make us holy. He alone can purify us and sanctify us through and through. In the words of the old chorus, not only is he 'able to save', but he is 'able to keep' - to keep us pure and victorious day by day from falling to temptation. Our part is to consecrate ourselves to God without reserve. He then does his part in cleansing us through and through, again and again.

In closing this Letter, I salute you and thank God for you. I commend each of you - just where you live and serve - to the infinite care of the Father, to the safe and loving hands of Jesus, and to the cleansing and enabling power of the Holy Spirit.

Yours in Sacred Service,

Shaw Clifton

General

Birthday Girl

Recently Allison Foo celebrated her 6 yrs old at the Corps on the 18th Sept 2010.

All present on that day sang the Happy Birthday song to her. Capt Tan say a word of prayer for her.

Everyone then enjoyed the big piece of cake.

Jericho

INTRODUCTION
After the glorious victory fall of Jericho, Israelites must be over proud, and with great rejoicing celebration. They must be felt, a grasshopper can take down the giant wall, there is nothing they can’t be taking down, surely they faith has raised.

Joshua sent 2 spies, they came back saying: “Not all the people will have to go up against Ai. Send two or three thousand men to take it and do not weary all the people, for only a few men are there.” Hence Joshua sent three thousand people, but they lost the war, and 36 people have killed. This failure mission, make Joshua terribly sad! With the elders of Israel, they bow down before God and asking: “why”?

The answer to Joshua was very straight forward, there is sin in the camp! Achan took the devoted things! What it mean by “devoted things”, according to the Bible, some of the booty must be destroy and the remaining will be sanctify and safe keep in God’s treasure house. Devoted things mean: that thing belongs to God. Joshua 6:18-19 “But keep away from the devoted things, so that you will not bring about your own destruction by taking any of them. Otherwise you will make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble on it. All the silver and gold and the articles of bronze and iron are sacred to the LORD and must go into his treasury."
The act of Achan taken the Devoted things, which involving, “Stolen”, “lied” and this sum up the consequences of “violate (break) God’s covenant”. God’s covenant with Israelites is, He will be their Holy God and the people will be His holy nation.

In our today Individualism society, all of us might think that, self sinning is individual action, does not relate with the Church! But Biblically, Paul has taught us in Romans 12:4-5 “Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” 1 Corinthians 12:12 “The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; and though all its parts are many, they form one body. So it is with Christ.”


Achan’s unfaithful act remind us:
DEVOTED THINGS
We need to examine ourselves, did we take things that is belong to God?
Malachi 3:8-11 "Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. "But you ask, 'How do we rob you?' "In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—the whole nation of you—because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit," says the LORD Almighty.
Mark 12:17 "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's."

FINANCIAL TEMPTATION
Because of personal financial, some people cheating company, gambling, embezzlement, using future money (credit card), end up debt to bank or load shark, and without help, they end their life. In today world people are looking forward to materialism, personal computer, television, mobile phone, car, luxury house, some youth end up stealing, some girl end up prostitution.
1 Timothy 6: 9-11 remind us: “People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.”

CONCLUSION
Romans 5:19 “For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.”

Announcements

1. Senior Citizen (Over 60th Club) Breakfast
Date: 9 October 2010, Time: 08:00am, Venue: Macalister Road.

2. Youth School Holiday Programme
Date: 29 Nov 2010 - 31 Dec 2010. Please register with Capt Tan those who are interested. This is also open to the public.

3. Self Denial Appeal 2010
We are now entering the Self Denial month of October. The Altar Service is on 7 Nov 2010. Bro and Sister are encourage to pray and also giving to mission.

4. Secret Angles
Today is the last day of our secret Angel mission. Thank you all who participated in this programme.

5. Super Ten Sunday.
Date: 10/10/10(Sun), 10 minutes of 10 persons giving thanks and testimony to God.

6. Special Thanks
We wish to extend our special thanks to Bro Gerard Khaw and Lieut-Colonels Tan and Patricia to be our special guest speaker for Adult Fellowship held 25 Sept 2010.

Prayer Request

1. Over Sixties Club, breakfast with senior citizen on 9 October 2010, Time 8:00am, Venue: Macalister Road. Please give your names to Mrs Tan or contact Capt Tan for more information.

2. Pray for the Youth School Holiday Programme from 29 November 2010 until 31 December 2010. Pray for the youth, volunteers, sponsor and resources.

3. Pray for Susan Zechariah, who is going to sit for examination next week.

4. Remember PMR, SPM, A'level students who is sitting for their exam soon.

5. State Christmas Open House on 19 December 2010

6. General's call to pray: Pray for Victims of Sex Trade Trafficking

7. Pray for all other ministry that we are planning. Pray for God guidance and leadership to lead us.

8. Pray for those who are sick, need financial blessing, etc issues.

It's a family affair

IT has been ten years since we were introduced to the Harper family in BBC One’s sitcom My Family. Each episode offers an insight into a family life that never runs as smoothly or harmoniously as parents Ben and Susan would like.

Over the years the make-up of the family has changed. Originally it was mum and dad and the three children. But grandparents, cousins, the children’s partners and even work colleagues and lodgers have become part of the popular sitcom.

Perhaps the changing dynamics of this fictional family reflect the changing understanding of what makes a family in the West today.

‘Family’ can have many different connotations and include adopted and fostered children, single-parent families, separated families and same-sex parents.

Families can be small and very large. (A Romanian family living in Canada is reported to have 18 children. The couple said they never intended to have so many children, but were thrilled nonetheless.)

Different cultures have varied ideas of what makes a family. In some, generations will live their whole lives side by side, whereas in others parents live miles away from their grown-up children and have very little contact.

In his Gospel, Mark recounts an incident involving Jesus and his family.

Because people were keen to hear what he had to say, Jesus was often surrounded by crowds. Sometimes he and his disciples wouldn’t even get the chance to break for something to eat. His family heard about this and went to see him.

They arrived outside the house where Jesus was speaking, and he was told they were waiting. Instead of going out to meet them Jesus posed the question: ‘Who are my mother and my brothers?’ (Mark 3:33 New Inter­national Version).

That may sound harsh, but what did Jesus mean? As he looked around him at those who were listening he added: ‘Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother’ (3:34, 35).

Jesus didn’t narrow his definition of family to his own flesh and blood. He extended it to include everyone who believed in him. Even today, if we are prepared to follow him and live the way he shows us, we can all be part of God’s family.

UK War Cry - August 2010

Banana Leaf Ministry 11 Sept 2010

Picture taken from the Banana Leaf Ministry 11 Sept 2010



We pray for good health and financial of the needy that the Army is helping.

Click Here for more photos.

Commissioning of Local Officer 29 Aug 2010

Recently on 29 August 2010, Penang Corps commissioned a new team of local officer for a term of 2 years under the leadership of Capt Tan and Brenda. This new team will help Capt Tan and Brenda as the local church representatives to carried God's work. They will meet regular on monthly and adhoc basis to discuss matter about the church issues, programmes, etc.



Click here for more photos.

We are pleased to have Capt Harry to carry out the commissioning on that day.

Corps Officer - Captain Tan Guat Hai (Chair person)
Corps Sergeant Major - Bro Tan
Corps Secretary - Bro Steven Foo
Corps Treasurer - Bro Kim Aun
Quarters Master - Bro Francis Elias
Corps Youth Secretary - Sis Carmen
Penang Children Home representative - Major Kamala
Women Ministry - Capt Brenda

Announcements

1. Adult Fellowship
Date: 25th September 2010, Venue: Corps Community Hall, Time: 07:00pm
Pot Bless Dinner, please come and bless the others. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw. Please inform Mrs Tan for food co-ordinating

2. Senior Citizen (Over 60th Club) Breakfast
Date: 9 October 2010, Time: 08:00am, Venue: Macalister Road.

3. Combined Cell Group
Date: 19 September 2010, Sunday, Time: 7pm: Venue: Penang Corps
Pot Bless BBQ, and each family bring one favourite moon cake to share with others.

4. Super Ten Sunday.
Date: 10/10/10(Sun), 10 minutes of 10 persons giving thanks and testimony to God.

5. Cadets Commissioning Brochure
Cadets Andres and Fiona will be commissioning on 26 November 2010, hence a brochure will be produce, brothers and sister are welcome to contribute.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for Adult Gathering fellowship on 25th September 2010. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw.

2. Over Sixties Club, breakfast with senior citizen on 9 October 2010. Another who are above Fifties are also welcome to join in. Pray some donor for this breakfast.

3. Pray for Capt Brenda's social visit pass and PR status.

4. State Christmas Open House on 19 December 2010

5. General's call to pray: Pray for Peace

5. Pray for all other ministry that corp is planning. May God will be done and led us as our leader in all we do.

6. Pray for those who are sick, need financial blessing, etc issues.

Friends will be friends

THE military conflict in Afghanistan has produced many examples of selfless bravery from soldiers and civilians in the line of fire – sometimes at the cost of the individual’s life.

Last month Private Thomas Sephton of the 1st Battalion, The Mercian Regiment, died after being wounded in an explosion. His patrol was providing protection for a force clearing explosives.

‘Sefo was my closest friend,’ said Private Charlie Emina. ‘He loved his friends and family more than anything. He saved the lives of his section on two occasions and on that tragic day he saved my life and gave his own.’

Private Sephton’s commanding officer, Lieut-Colonel Andrew Hadfield, paid this tribute to him: ‘He was courageous and selfless to the last, placing himself in harm’s way to save others.’

The bond of true friendship can be deep and lasting. Most of us will never have to decide whether to lay down our life for our friends. But there will be times when we have to decide if we will put ourselves out for them.

Chapter two of Mark’s Gospel has an example of friends who did just that when they decided to take a paralysed friend to Jesus for healing.

The house that Jesus was in was crowded as many people wanted to meet him. There was no easy way into the house. The men had to lower their friend through the ceiling on a stretcher to give him access to Jesus. What an entrance! There were obvious barriers in reaching Jesus, but the friends committed themselves to helping their pal. Their efforts were rewarded – Jesus healed the paralysed man.

Jesus himself knew the importance of friendship. A verse often quoted at military memorial occasions are the words of Jesus: ‘Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends’ (John 15:13 New International Version).

Jesus put his words into action by taking the punishment for the wrong things we do when he died on a cross. His death and resurrection opened a way for us to have a friendship with God.

Jesus’ selfless act gives us the opportunity to experience a new life as God’s friend. If we accept that opportunity, we receive more help and support than we could ever imagine. Now that’s a friendship worth having.

UK War Cry - August 2010

Announcements

1. Adult Fellowship
Date: 25th September 2010, Venue: Corps Community Hall, Time: 07:00pm
Pot Bless Dinner, please come and bless the others. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw. Please inform Mrs Tan for food co-ordinating

2. Senior Citizen (Over 60th Club) Breakfast
Date: 9 October 2010, Time: 08:00am, Venue: Macalister Road.

3. Combined Cell Group
Date: 19 September 2010, Sunday, Time: 7pm: Venue: Penang Corps
Pot Bless BBQ, and each family bring one favourite moon cake to share with others.

4. Super Ten Sunday.
Date: 10/10/10(Sun), 10 minutes of 10 persons giving thanks and testimony to God.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for Adult Gathering fellowship on 25th September 2010. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw.

2. Over Sixties Club, breakfast with senior citizen on 9 October 2010. Another who are above Fifties are also welcome to join in. Pray some donor for this breakfast.

3. Combine Cell Group on 19 September 2010

4. Pray for Bro Sam for his mission trip at Kuching.

5. Pray for all other ministry that corp is planning. May God will be done and led us as our leader in all we do.

6. Pray for those student facing coming exam.

7. Pray for those who are sick, need financial blessing, etc issues.

Wanted: Followers

ONLINE social networking is part of modern living. Millions of people around the world use it for work and pleasure. In a very short time it has become a global phenomenon and many people wonder how they ever managed without it.

Girls with laptop computerI was interested to discover that on Twitter the people who receive ‘tweets’ are called ‘followers’. The Twitter rules state no one may follow more than 2,000 people at a time – that’s a lot of following.

This is not the same as becoming a friend, as happens on other social networking sites, because following on Twitter is not by invitation. In other words, if someone thinks you’re interesting they just start following. They don’t have to ask first, nor do you have to invite them.

In contrast, in his Gospel, Mark writes about Jesus calling people to follow him and become his disciples. ‘As Jesus walked beside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting a net into the lake, for they were fishermen. “Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will make you fishers of men”’ (Mark 1:16, 17 New International Version).

Jesus started his teaching by recruiting people to share their lives with him. He didn’t just sit back and hope people would decide to become his disciples. Instead Jesus took the initiative.

He didn’t call educated men or students of religion but ordinary working men, busy in their everyday activities supporting their families and communities. He wanted them to use their life skills as fishermen to serve God and to change the world.

They accepted Jesus’ invitation and followed him. ‘At once they left their nets and followed him. When he had gone a little farther, he saw James son of Zebedee and his brother John in a boat, preparing their nets. Without delay he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired men and followed him’ (1:18–20).

Today Jesus still calls people – people such as you and me – to follow him. But, like those fishermen, we don’t know where following Jesus will take us. There may be challenges to face, but the life of opportunity and purpose Jesus offers his followers makes facing those challenges worthwhile.

UK War Cry - August 2010

Announcements

1. Banana Leaf Ministry
Date: 11th September 2010, Time 11:00am Venue: Corps

2. Adult Fellowship
Date: 25th September 2010, Venue: Corps Community Hall, Time: 07:00pm
Pot Bless Dinner, please come and bless the others. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw

3. Senior Citizen (Over 60th Club) Breakfast
Date: 9 October 2010, Time: 08:00am, Venue: To be advised.

4. Combined Cell Group
Date: 19 September 2010, Sunday, Time: 7pm: Venue: Penang Corps
Pot Bless BBQ, please come prepared.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for Adult Gathering fellowship on 25th September 2010. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw.

2. Pray for Banana Leaf Ministry to be held on 11 September 2010. Please come and help and show your love for the needy.

3. Over Sixties Club, breakfast with senior citizen on 9 October 2010. Another who are above Fifties are also welcome to join in. Pray some donor for this breakfast.

4. Combine Cell Group on 19 September 2010

5. Pray for Bro Sam for his mission trip at Kuching.

6. Pray for all other ministry that corp is planning. May God will be done and led us as our leader in all we do.

7. Pray for those student facing coming exam.

8. Pray for those who are sick, need financial blessing, etc issues.

Hiking Trip - Youth Park #3 Station

(Write up contributed by by Sis Jacinta - 31 Aug 2010)

While our nation celebrated its 53rd birthday, we took time off to hike up to Youth Park # 3 station at 7.30am in the morning. Weather was good and Bro Tan “flagged” us off with a word of prayer. There were 27 of us, young and not so young ones, all energetic and excited to start the day with some form of exercise.



More photos....

Bro Kim Aun led the way with Fernando (our 7-year old active hiker) tagging on and keeping up with the pace, putting the rest of us to shame. Everyone hiked up comfortably and managed to reach station # 3 safe and sound. Well, the more energetic ones could not stop there so they continued up to station # 5 while the rest of us were happy to wait for them at Station # 3 and chit chat with one another.

The hike down was of course much easier and faster. Nevertheless the more cautious ones took a little longer but still, it was a great achievement for many of those who were first timers. You could see the satisfaction on everyone’s face as they reached the finishing point!

And surprise surprise, we had a birthday cake for Bro Tan, Mrs Tan and Bro Kim Aun whose birthdays fall on Aug 30th & 31st! It was a “sweet reward” for our sweaty activity and to make it even better, we had egg sandwiches for everyone. What else can we ask for?

Thank God for the perfect weather, great fellowship and wonderful outing. More to come!

Do all religions lead to God?

IT may be politically correct to say that all religions lead to God, but is it the truth?

We live in a world in which it’s cool to be broadminded and tolerant. One of the implications of the idea that ‘all religions lead to God’ is that it doesn’t matter about finding a right path because one belief system is as good as another. Those who insist that there is only one way are often considered bigots.

If God insists that there is only one way to him, the argument goes, then he is being, at best, elitist and, at worst, cruel. Advocates of the multi-path approach often talk about sincerity. If a devotee is sincere, their faith is regarded as authentic. But people can be sincere in what they believe, yet also wrong.

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me’ (John 14:6 New International Version).

Christian scholars have pointed out that Jesus is the only religious leader who claimed to bring God to our world through his own life. He also proved that claim through the miracles he performed while on earth.

Jesus taught that he was bringing God to where people were so that God could deal with the things they do wrong and show them the right way to live.

Additionally, no other spiritual leader or teacher offers to live inside those who believe in him.

The Christian believes that no religion, not even Christianity, can save us. Only Jesus can do this. Salvation is not about belonging to a particular group. It is not about having the right thoughts and feelings or the correct theological beliefs. Christianity’s claim to exclusivity is not for the religion but for Jesus. It is a claim that Jesus is the only true Saviour.

C. S. Lewis put the choices like this: If Jesus claims to be the Son of God, then we can conclude only one of three things about him: that he is mad, that he is bad (because he knows he is lying) or that he is who he says he is, including his claim that he is the only way to God.

UK War Cry July 2010

Open Day 2010 Pictures Album

28th August 2010, Open Day was held at PCH. The events started since early 7am where many of the stall holders came and setup their stall. By 8am, more stall holders came and many people help to organized the running of the open day.

Penang Chief Minister secretary, Mr Ng arrived at 8:30am. He was accompanied by Major Kamala, Capt Harry, Capt Tan to the event site. Mr Ng represent Chief Minister for this event who is unable to attend due to other appointment.

By, 9am, the event was started with a speech from Mr Ng followed by Capt Harry, Major Kamala and Capt Tan. An opening dance were held by the PCH boys. Then it was followed by the open ceremony with a balloon piecing from Mr Ng and all TSA officers.

Many of public give their support towards the event and came and join the purchase of food, items, etc using their purchased tickets. By 12:15pm many of the stall food, items are sold out. The event was continue until 2pm on the same day.

We want to thank all of those who came and involved in succeeding this event. A big thanks also to the donors, public and friends of the Salvation Army. May God Bless the fund raise and use it to the fullness to help the needy.

Below are picture album taken and contributed by certain individual.





More pictures in the album Click Here

Announcements

1. TSA Open Day
Thank you everyone who help on the Open Day. We thank God for his blessing and providing all the needs to archive and carried out the Open Day.

2. Corps Sport and Outing
Date: 31st August 2010, Time: 7:30am, Venue: Youth Park

3. Banana Leaf Ministry
Date: 11th September 2010, Time 11:00am Venue: Corps

4. . Adult Fellowship
Date: 25th September 2010, Venue: Corps Community Hall, Time: 07:00pm
Pot Bless Dinner, please come and bless the others. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw

5. Senior Citizen (Over 60th Club) Breakfast
Date: 9 October 2010, Time: 08:00am, Venue: To be advised.

6. Combined Cell Group
Date: 19 September 2010, Sunday, Time: 7pm: Venue: Penang Corps
Pot Bless BBQ, please come prepared.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for Adult Gathering fellowship on 25th September 2010. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw.

2. Pray for Banana Leaf Ministry to be held on 11 September 2010. Please come and help and show your love for the needy.

3. Over Sixties Club, breakfast with senior citizen on 9 October 2010. Another who are above Fifties are also welcome to join in. Pray some donor for this breakfast.

4. Combine Cell Group on 19 September 2010

5. Pray for PCH boys for their better behaviour and manner.

6. Pray for all other ministry that corp is planning. May God will be done and led us as our leader in all we do.

Breaking open the sacraments

Many Salvationsists are unclear about the status of the sacraments
in the church. Major DEAN SMITH (Australia Territory) brings the topic to the table in a theological reflection on the subject.

Is it any wonder that we Salvationists are at times confused about our stance on the acraments? On the one hand it is claimed that we are non-sacramental in our observance yet on the other that we are a sacramental community. What are we to make of such a seeming contradiction?

Perhaps the problem lies in our use of the terms. The word sacrament can be used to refer to historical rites or practices of the church like baptism and the Lord’s Supper. In this sense it is acknowledged that we are non-sacramental because we do not observe these rites or practices.
The word sacrament may also refer to a theological principle. In this sense we are indeed sacramental because we do embrace a sacramental theology. Or, to put it in the language of our doctrine book, we are a sacramental people because we are in communion with Jesus Christ the one true sacrament. As I will argue, not observing particular sacraments is perfectly compatible with being a sacramental people.

Now the debates within Salvation Army circles over the sacraments have traditionally centred not on the use of the term sacrament as a theological principle, but rather on the use of sacrament as it refers to the historical rites or practices of the Church. More specifically I am referring to the practice that has come to be known as the Lord’s Supper or Communion.

Much heat has been generated over the years as Salvationists worldwide have sought to understand their position on ‘non-sacramental’ observance as a legitimate response to the Biblical revelation. More often than not the justification for non-sacramental observance has focused on the Scriptural warrant for such a stance. The problem here is that the great majority of Christians throughout the world believe there is strong Scriptural warrant for that same sacramental observance.

If history has taught us anything it is that there are no winners in a debate that is dependent on Scriptural proof-texting to settle a matter. Combatants in such a debate simply end up talking past each other and there is nothing gained on either side. I don’t think in any case that arguing over different church practices really gets us to the heart of the matter.

Incarnation of Christ
I believe that there is more to be gained, both in our own understanding of our position, and for our contribution to the church universal, if we take as our starting point for reflection on the sacraments the Incarnation of Christ. By beginning here we will find ourselves on ground shared by orthodox Christians everywhere. Here we move away from debating Church practices and instead focus on the theological principles underpinning such practices. If we can find common ground here then we might be surprised to find that we have been arguing against a straw man all along.

The traditional definition of a sacrament is ‘an outward and visible sign
of inward grace’. Jesus Christ is himself the sacramental reality par excellence. It is in the humanity of Christ that we have the outward and visible sign of inward divine grace. In Christ we have the most profound sacramental reality. As Salvation Story affirms our life centres on Christ ‘the one true sacrament’.

Now the Church has always been careful to protect the real connection between the humanity and the divinity of Christ, between the outward and visible sign and the inner divine reality. The technical term for this connection is the hypostatic union. What this means in the case of Christ is that the outward and visible sign (the humanity of Christ) not only stands for or points beyond itself to another (divine) reality, but it is ‘tied’ to that reality in such a way that it actually is the mediator of grace to the world.

Signs of love
The Catholic theologian Karl Rahner provides a beautiful analogy from everyday experience to explain the importance of a real connection between a sign (the outward manifestation) and that which is signified (the inward reality). Rahner offers the kiss or the handshake as examples of the outward signs of love. It would make very little sense for us to think of love without its physical or ‘outward’ manifestations or signs. We show love (an inner disposition) by way of physical signs (outer manifestation).

Psychologists have conclusively shown that without human touch infants simply do not develop properly and may even die. It would be no defence for a parent up on a charge of neglect to say that although they offered no physical signs to their child they nevertheless really loved them. It would also be a most unsatisfactory situation if one of the partners in a marriage were to suggest to their spouse that henceforth the marriage would be conducted on a purely ‘platonic’ or ‘spiritual’ plain without the diversions of physical signs. I am not just referring here either to the sexual union of husband and wife, but rather the entire range of physical signs of love and affection.

Nobody would seriously consider this as a legitimate course of action, yet it is sometimes imagined that when it comes to divine reality the outward sign or mediation of this reality is somehow unnecessary. It is only when we lose sight of the Incarnation as our model for sacramentality that we can fall into the trap of thinking that a real connection between the outward and visible sign of inward divine grace is not important. To do so, however, is to sever the connection between the human and divine in Christ and to call into question the very act of Incarnation itself.

Sacramental debate
In the debate over the sacraments there are those who do reject the notion of a real connection between the outward and visible sign and the inner grace that is ignified in the Lord’s Supper. This in fact was the position of the Reformer Huldrych Zwingli who believed that sacraments were nothing more than memorials and so no real means of grace.

The other Reformers, it must be pointed out, rejected this view and retained the more traditional understanding of Christ being in some sense present in the act of communion. We come close to the view of Zwingli whenever we make the claim that outward signs are no more than pointers to grace. Indeed this distinction has sometimes been emphasised to the point where one is encouraged to focus on the purely ‘inward’ experience of grace without the outward sign or symbol being necessary.

But Christians of an orthodox stripe simply cannot make such a claim without falling into the not so uncommon dualistic heresy of docetism. Docetism was an early belief that Jesus was purely spiritual in his manifestation and only appeared to be a real human being. Some Christians, and dare I here include Salvationists, come terribly close to this view when they imagine that spirituality is some reality divorced from its historical and physical instantiation. This has for some become the rationale for not practicing the traditional sacramental rites. We can experience the inner grace, so the logic goes, without the outward sign. Again, to reach such a conclusion is to lose sight of the Incarnation as the basis of our deep sacramental view. If we accept the truth of the Incarnation then we cannot but be a sacramental people in the very deep sense. That is, grace is experienced through its outward manifestations or signs.

God’s grace
The difference between ourselves and other Christians then is not that we reject their signs or sacramental rites, only that like Oliver Twist we dare ask for more, more signs of divine grace in a grace-starved world. We differ not in our deep sacramental theology, but rather in the way in which we have interpreted our ractice in light of that theology. In this we are closer in our position to the Catholics and the mainstream Reformers. As Salvationists we believe that our entire reality can be the site or locus of God’s grace. Paul refers to believers as being ‘in Christ’ and Peter speaks of our participation in the divine life. Our life ‘in Christ’ is the sign of God’s grace because of our union with Christ the one true original sacrament. Here we share much with the Quakers. Consider the following profound passage by the pen of Quaker Thomas R Kelly.

I believe that the group mysticism of the gathered meeting rests upon the Real Presence of God in our midst. Quakers generally hold to a belief in Real Presence, as firm and solid as the belief of Roman Catholics in the Real Presence in the host, the bread and wine of the Mass. In the host the Roman Catholic is convinced that the literal, substantial Body of Christ is present. For him the Mass is not a mere symbol, a dramatizing of some figurative relationship of man to God. It rests upon the persuasion that an Existence, a Life, the Body of Christ, is really present and entering into the body of man. Here the Quaker is very near the Roman Catholic. For the Real Presence of the gathered meeting is an existential fact. To use philosophical language, it is an ontological matter, not merely a psychological matter. The bond of union in divine fellowship is existential and real, not figurative. It is the life of God himself, within whose life we live and move and have our being. And the gathered meeting is a special case of holy fellowship of
the blessed community.

Salvationists everywhere could say amen to this. We would want to add, however, that not just the gathered meeting, but also the sent or scattered community is the Real Presence of Christ in the world. As believers incorporated in spiritual union with Christ the one true sacrament, the body of Christ the Church, is God’s sign of atoning grace in the world. We are the Real Presence of Christ in the world.

Divine reality
This profound sacramental reality could be easily referred to as Life with a capital ‘L’. This is indeed the life of Christ. But let us be clear here, while we might recognise a real (ontological) connection between the divine Christ and his continued embodied existence in the world (the Church) there needs to be an actualising of the divine reality at the psychological level as well.

As the Wesleyan scholar Randy Maddox has made clear, our relationship with God is to be thought of in terms of both grace and responsibility. In our ongoing experience of redemption there is God’s part and there is our part. Our part is to consciously actualise the grace that in reality informs our life. Without psychological intention on our part the sacramental remains only a possibility for us and we live life with a small ‘l’.

It is intention that is the key to living the truly sacramental Life. And it is
discipline that helps us to train our vision so that we can learn to ‘see’ the reality before us as God’s redeemed people. Our Life, our activities our multifarious being in the world can be truly sacramental but only to the degree that we learn to ‘see’ things in a sacramental way.

The sharing of a meal at the family table can be a true sacrament, a true ‘breaking of bread’ or it can be simply individuals meeting their basest needs. Our work can be a sacrament if it is seen in the right way or it can simply be an encumbrance. It is important to realise that there is nothing automatic about living a sacramental life. Without intention there can only be for us an unrealised or impoverished existence.

Let us then not squabble over why we don’t observe the traditional sacraments of the Church. Rather, let us train our vision so that we will ourselves become the sign of divine grace in the world. Then we will not be focused on two or seven sacramental rites but rather on our entire being in the world. As Salvation Story puts it:

We observe the sacraments, not by limiting them to two or three or seven, but by inviting Christ to suppers, love feasts, birth celebrations, parties, dedications, sick beds, weddings, anniversaries, commissionings, ordinations retirements and a host of other significant events – and where he is truly received, watching him give a grace beyond our understanding. We can see, smell, touch and taste it. We joyfully affirm that in our presence is the one, true, original Sacrament. And we know that what we have experienced is reality.

Major Dean Smith PhD is the Dean of Higher Education at Booth College in Sydney

Birthday boy - Fernando

Recently Fernando celebrate his birthday after the Sunday service.
The congregation sang him a birthday song accompany by the musician.

A short prayer was performed by Capt Tan for Fernando.

















Following that, Fernando performed the cake cutting and everyone share a piece of cake together.

Announcements

1. TSA Open Day
Date: 28 Aug 2010, Venue: Penang Children's Home
Store holder please meet at PCH at 7:00am.
1.1 There will be no Cell Group on coming Friday (27 August 2010)
1.2 Stall holders meeting on 25 August 2010, 7pm at PCH. All are encouraged to help to manage the stalls.

2. Corps Sport and Outing
Date: 31st August 2010, Time: 7:30am, Venue: Youth Park

3. Banana Leaf Ministry
Date: 11th September 2010, Time 11:00am Venue: Corps

4. . Adult Fellowship
Date: 25th September 2010, Venue: Corps Community Hall, Time: 07:00pm
Pot Bless Dinner, please come and bless the others. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw

5. Senior Citizen (Over 60th Club) Breakfast
Date: 9 October 2010, Time: 08:00am, Venue: To be advised.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for Adult Gathering fellowship on 25th September 2010. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw.

2. Penang Open Day on 28th August 2010, pray for our sponsors and donors and selling of the coupons. Please pray for everyone involving on this event.

3. Pray for Banana Leaf Ministry to be held on 11 September 2010.

4. Pray for all other ministry that corp is planning. May God will be done and led us as our leader in all we do.

Does religion cause war?

ONE of the reasons sometimes offered for not believing in God is that ‘religion causes war’. Some wars have indeed been waged in the name of Christianity. But atrocities committed in the name of Christ have been carried out by people who either were not really Christians or were not following the teachings of Jesus.

Face showing image of war‘Religious’ conflicts (whichever faith is said to be involved) are often motivated by political or economic concerns but given religious overtones to convince the masses that it is in their best eternal interest to fight.

From Christianity’s early history, many of its adherents have opposed armed conflict. Some have refused to have any part in it. Others see war as a lesser of two evils – a last resort when all attempts at a resolution have failed.

It is easy to smear Christianity as being a bellicose faith, a malicious influence on the world. But, as well as being inaccurate, such an assessment is also inadequate.

Christianity has made a huge, positive contribution to society. Most of our educational institutions came out of it. Many of the founders of modern science were Christians. The revivals of the 18th and 19th centuries produced social reforms that led to the abolition of slavery and the improvement of conditions for women and children.

Charitable organisations such as The Salvation Army, the Red Cross and the YMCA arose from these revivals. Today many Christian-based organisations help to relieve suffering all over the world.

So, rather than judging Christianity by the actions of warmongers, we should judge it by the teachings of its founder and leader, Jesus Christ.

Jesus said: ‘If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also’ (Matthew 5:39 New International Version), ‘Blessed are the peace­makers’ (5:9), ‘Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you’ (5:44) and ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’ (19:19).

These are not the sayings of a belligerent, war­mongering leader. They are lifestyle requirements from someone who laid down his life so people could find peace with God.

UK War Cry July 2010

Salvation Army Penang Historical Pictures

We are proud to present some of the historical photos of Salvation Army in the early years in Penang. We would like to thanks those who share these photos with us containing great sentimental value. This is our heritage for the future generation to view until the Lord Jesus comes again.



Click Here For More

If you have any old photos, we hope could share with us by scanning a copy to us or use your digital camera to take a copy and send to us or contact us for help.

We hope to collect as much as historical picture as possible.

"To God be the Glory"

Announcements

1. TSA Open Day
Date: 28 Aug 2010, Venue: Penang Children's Home
Target to raise RM60,000.00 for Corps, Children's Home and Community Service Centre. Please help to sell coupons. Store holder please meet at PCH at 7:00am.

2. Adult Fellowship
Date: 25th September 2010, Venue: Corps Community Hall, Time: 07:00pm
Pot Bless Dinner, please come and bless the others. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw

3. Secret Angels
This program will end 26th September 2010, encourage all Angles (Boys & Girls) to write to their Secret Angels.

4. Council of Churches of Malaysia
Next Sunday 23rd August 2010, Corps will have a additional collection of offering for Council of Churches of Malaysia.

5. Prayer Ministry
Date: 21t August 2010 (Friday), Time: 8pm, Venue: Corps
Please let us know your prayer request.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for Adult Gathering fellowship on 25th September 2010. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw.

2. Penang Open Day on 28th August 2010, pray for our sponsors and donors and selling of the coupons. Please pray for everyone involving on this event.

3. Pray for Sis Elizabeth & Susan who work and study in KL.

4. Pray for Bro Scott, for his commitment in School CF.

5. Pray for officers who attending SPECO in Singapore.

6. Pray for Shirley Lee, that God will continue be with her during this recovery period.

7. Pray for those who have not come to corps for sometime now.

Corps Cleaning Day - 7th August 2010

Recently, Corps members gather together to clean up the Corps premises on the 7th August 2010.

Most of the unwanted trees, grass, etc were uprooted. The Corps planned to replant some trees and also vegetables.

We want to thank all corps member who have come forward to help.

Some of the TSA Penang Boys were there to help out. We want to thank the boys for the hard work and also 2 members from the thrift store.

There were total about 22 person involved in the clean up activity.

After that, we had a lunch together at the community hall sponsor by Mr & Mrs Tan.



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Annoucements

1. TSA Open Day
Date: 28 Aug 2010, Venue: Penang Children's Home
Target to raise RM60,000.00 for Corps, Children's Home and Community Service Centre. Please help to sell coupons.

2. Adult Fellowship
Date: 25th September 2010, Venue: Corps Community Hall, Time: 07:00pm
Pot Bless Dinner, please come and bless the others. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw

3. Old Photos (Penang Corps Heritage Collection)
Any of our corps members who have the old photos which regarding to The Salvation Army, kindly gave it to Captain Tan to have it scan. We want to make it a heritage collection for Penang Corps. Original copy will be given back once scanned is completed.

4. Band Practice
Those who involve or interested please stay back after the refreshment. We will start commencing the practice every sunday after refreshment.

Prayer Request

1. Continue to pray for Bro Tan Thean Sin, the brother of Colonel Tan who still on recovery. Pray also for his family as well.

2. Penang Open Day, pray for our sponsors and donors and selling of the coupons

3. Pray for Shirley Lee, that God will grant her speedy recovery

4. Pray for Corps Retreat, and Adult Gathering fellowship. Speaker: Lt-Colonel Tan and Bro. Gerard Khaw

5. Pray for those who have not come to corps for sometime now.

Why is there suffering?

THE title of the sermon advertised on the poster outside the church caught my eye. It made me stop and think. It was: ‘Where was God in Auschwitz?’

It is a profound and challenging question. There have been many other examples of humans’ capacity for evil, but the Holocaust still shocks and disturbs people today.

Prison camp image the suffering that the Jews experienced is central to Frank Cottrell Boyce’s film God on Trial. Set in the Nazi concentration camp, it asks a question that has challenged theologians and thinkers through the centuries: ‘If God is good, why is there evil and suffering?’

Some people use the existence of evil in the world as evidence that God, certainly a loving God, does not exist.

But the Bible says that God’s plan at Creation was to allow humans to make their own choices. Our choices can result in good, but sometimes we make bad decisions that lead to suffering. If God didn’t allow us to make those bad choices – despite their consequences – we would merely be puppets with no will of our own.

God has always dealt with humankind this way. He allowed Adam and Eve to make choices. In the account in the Bible’s Book of Genesis, Adam and Eve made bad decisions in the Garden of Eden which resulted in suffering and chaos being brought into the world.

The reality is that much of the pain and evil in the world is indeed brought about by bad human choices. It is humanly caused pain – the result of human sin.

But God’s work in the world is not finished. The Bible promises that God will create a new Heaven and a new earth and that there will be no more suffering or pain. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain’ (Revelation 21:4 New International Version).

In this new creation sin will be gone, and God’s perfect way will be followed. But that is still to come. In the meantime, while we may have questions, there is hope. God has not abandoned humankind, and he has promised to help us through times when others are causing us to suffer. God will be there in our tough times if we are ready to look for him.

UK War Cry 2010

Annoucements

1. TSA Open Day Store Holder Meeting
Date: 3rd Aug 2010, Time 8:00pm, Venue: Penang Children's Home

2. Prayer Ministry
Date: 6th Aug 2010, Time 8:00pm, Venue: Corps
Please let the group know the items you want us to pray for.

3. Corps Cleaning Day (Gotong Royong)
Date: 7th August 2010, Time: 08:00am Venue: Penang Corps
Cleaning the Corps compound and beautify the house of the Lord.

4. Old Photos (Penang Corps Heritage Collection)
Any of our corps members who have the old photos which regarding to The Salvation Army, kindly gave it to Captain Tan to have it scan. We want to make it a heritage collection for Penang Corps. Original copy will be given back once scanned is completed.

5. TSA Open Day
Date: 28 Aug 2010, Venue: Penang Children's Home
Target to raise RM60,000.00 for Corps, Children's Home and Community Service Centre. Please help to sell coupons.

6. Band Practice
Those who involve or interested please stay back after the refreshment. We will start commencing the practice every sunday after refreshment.

Prayer Request

1. Prayer for Bro Tan Thean Sin, the brother of Colonel Tan who still on fever after the operation. Pray God for healing and speedy recovery.

2. Penang Open Day, pray for our sponsors and donors and selling of the coupons

3. Pray for Shirley Lee, she will be going through the operation on Monday.

4. Pray for Corps Retreat, and Adult Gathering fellowship.

5. Pray for Bro Lenny Yeoh, Bro Soon Bee and wife Wei Lin.

Pastoral Letter - July 2010

Dear Fellow Salvationists,

I greet you each one in the sacred Name of Jesus. His Name is without equal. Only under his Name can salvation for our souls be found. Let our hearts leap upward with gratitude.

As I write to you, London is going through a mid-summer heat-wave - or at least a heat-wave by London standards! We are grateful for every comfort in this sophisticated western city, yet we remain mindful that not every Salvationist has such things. I thank God for the Army world that shares more and more regularly, more and more effectively, as a global family. We remember constantly our Lord's teaching that we should carry one another's burdens. We are partners in a holy mission and must be watchful of each other's needs.

I hear many prayers in all kinds of places and settings. You also hear them where you are. I am moved by the prayers I hear being offered by my fellow Salvationists. God is helping us to be more and more a prayerful Army. At the heart of prayer is thanksgiving. We come before our Heavenly Father in a spirit of humble gratitude. Philippians 4:6 teaches us to come to God in prayer with a grateful heart. As we pray, we must offer thanks more than offering requests. The Holy Spirit helps us as we pray and in this way we can get the balance right.

'Thank you' is a phrase on every Salvationist's lips, many times each day. We affirm one another in this way and at the same time we honour the God we all adore and obey. When we know how to thank God, we will also know how to thank our fellow believers. Similar courtesy can and should be offered to the unbeliever so that others see the courtesy of Christ in us.

Luke's Gospel (in chapter 17) tells us about the ten lepers healed by Jesus. Only one healed leper went back to Jesus to express gratitude for his healing. One in ten! Only a tenth! Just 10%! It is difficult to understand why the other nine offered no gratitude. It costs very little to say 'thank you'. I am asking God to make us more and more a grateful Army, an Army that constantly gives thanks for every help and blessing.

You will know the Old Testament account of Hannah and her longing for a child (see 1 Samuel 1:9-28). She offered a sacrifice of thanksgiving to God for her son, Samuel. He became a great man of God.

In 1 Corinthians 15:57 the Apostle Paul declares gratitude to God for spiritual victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. We join Paul in that burst of thanksgiving. Try to read the words for yourself and perhaps say them aloud as you read. You can say 'me' instead of 'us' and in that way make the verse very personal. It is a verse that you could include in your prayers every day. What a great way to begin and end a prayer.

As I end this Pastoral Letter I offer deep gratitude to God for your faithfulness. I thank God for you! You are my comrade, my sister or my brother in Christ. God bless and keep you in all things.

May you know the Lord's loving touch today.

I commend you to his matchless grace.

Sincerely in him,



Shaw Clifton
General

What is truth?

ALMOST half the people who took part in a poll carried out by American Marie Claire magazine said that they lie up to three times a day while they are at work. The survey also found that when it came to calling in sick, 71 per cent admitted to ‘stretching the truth’.

One feature writer admitted to inventing a sick aunt to gain a day off work and knowing a woman who massaged her CV by making up previous projects in an effort to boost her job prospects.

If we discover that someone has lied, it can be easy to take the moral high ground and shake our heads at the untruths told. But what about us? Do we always tell the truth?

What would we do if in a war zone we were hiding some refugees and a soldier knocked at the door, demanding to know if anyone was hiding inside the house? Tell the truth and condemn those people to certain death or lie to protect them? Many people would lie, and such scenarios have helped to bolster the belief that there are no moral absolutes.

So do we believe in right and wrong? Is ‘fibbing’ the same as lying? What circumstances, if any, condone the telling of untruths?

People may argue that there are degrees of lying, of right and wrong. It is argued that things are not always black and white – there is a grey area. Some people claim to be moral relativists, saying that what is right for one person is not necessarily right for another. Or that ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ depend on the situation.

Sometimes ‘the truth’ is not as straightforward as we think. Consequently making the right decisions becomes difficult and makes life confusing.

Jesus said some very strong things about the truth. Often he told his listeners: ‘I tell you the truth.’ The Bible says that ‘truth came through Jesus Christ’ (John 1:17 New International Version).

If we are looking for truth in a way that we can apply to our lives, we can find it by following Jesus. He said: ‘If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free’ (John 8:31, 32).

When we know Jesus’ truth, decision-making can become easier. The truth that Jesus offers can remove confusion and give direction to our lives.

UK War Cry July 2010

Announcements

1. Corps Cleaning Day (Gotong Royong)
Date: 7th August 2010, Time: 08:00am Venue: Penang Corps
Cleaning the Corps compound and beautify the house of the Lord.

2. Old Photos (Penang Corps Heritage Collection)
Any of our corps members who have the old photos which regarding to The Salvation Army, kindly gave it to Captain Tan to have it scan. We want to make it a heritage collection for Penang Corps. Original copy will be given back once scanned is completed.

3. TSA Open Day
Date: 28 Aug 2010, Venue: Penang Children's Home
Target to raise RM60,000.00 for Corps, Children's Home and Community Service Centre. Please help to sell coupons.

4. Band Practice
Those who involve or interested please stay back after the refreshment. We will start commencing the practice every sunday after refreshment.

Prayer Request

1. Prayer for Bro Tan Thean Sin, the brother of Colonel Tan for speedy recovery.

2. Penang Open Day, pray for our sponsors and donors and selling of the coupons

3. Please keep Brother Sam in prayer who will be going on 3 months mission trip to Kuching.

4. Pray for SAFE commmittee in the planning for the coming Corps Retreat, and Adult Gathering fellowship.

The man who gives life

SO, how clean is your house? Do you know what not to wear or how to eat yourself thin?

A flick through the TV channels will uncover programmes advising how we should be looking after our homes, looking our best, eating well and – if we have them – bringing up our children.

Whether it is Gok Wan in Fashion Fix, Kim and Aggie in How Clean is Your House? or Dr Christian Jessen in Supersize vs Superskinny, there are no end of experts telling us how to get the most out of our homes, food and clothes and feel better about ourselves.

They are broadcasting’s life coaches who come into our homes for free.

It’s just as well they are free on telly as a personal life coach is expensive. For anything up to £200 an hour these gurus will help their clients determine and achieve their personal goals.


Dr Christian Jessen from TV show 'Supersize vs Superskinny'

There are numerous adverts in newspapers and on the internet that offer, or sometimes ‘guarantee’, success because of the input of professional life coaches. Some people might wonder how we can possibly live in the modern world without their help.

But this raises the question of whether we really need someone to tell us how to live our life, what to wear, where to live or with whom to have a relationship.

Life is a journey, and we do well to look to someone to guide us through. But that guidance can be given only by someone who totally understands us, is purely altruistic and has no other agenda than our best interests.

It might sound impossible to meet someone like that – but it’s not. Jesus matches up to all those requirements.

When he was on earth he said: ‘I am … the life’ (John 14:6 New International Version). The life that Jesus embodied was a life of fullness in which we get the most from every day, regardless of our circumstances.

Not only can Jesus guide us through life, but he is also the source of a full and purposeful life. We don’t need to spend large amounts of money paying for life coaches when the best coach of all is available.

If we commit ourselves to following him, Jesus will show us how to clean up our lives and enjoy a great life that will last for ever.

UK War Cry July 2010

The man with a name

WHAT’S in a name? I wonder if you have ever thought about what your family name means, pondered its origin and speculated about who else may be related to you. They are big questions. In England alone there are around 45,000 different surnames, each with a unique history attached to it. Our name identifies who we are, or at least narrows it down a little.

Before the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, people did not have family surnames that were passed down generations. They were known simply by a personal name or nickname. That was OK in a hamlet or village, but imagine how confusing it would be among millions of people.

The sources from which surnames were drawn were many and varied – nicknames, physical attributes, counties and trades. Later, with immigration, new names were brought into the country.

In biblical times, a baby might be given a name from circumstances associated with his or her first days – as in the case of ‘Moses’ which means ‘draws out’, after he was discovered and pulled out of some reeds where he had been hidden for safety. In other cases children were named from nature – for example Deborah, which means ‘bee’, and Jonah, which means ‘dove’.

Some names were given at the prompting of God and some hinted at the destiny of the child or of a whole nation.

Jesus was given the name that the angel Gabriel instructed his earthly father Joseph to give him – a name of divine inspiration and destiny. Jesus means ‘God is salvation’.

After Jesus had completed his work on earth and had returned to Heaven he made a supernatural appearance to Saul on the road to Damascus. He declared: ‘I am Jesus’ (Acts 9:5 New International Version).

God used Jesus to bring salvation to all people.

Unfortunately, today the name of Jesus is often used disrespectfully as a swear word. But his name means everything to people who love and follow him.

It is the name that reminds them they are free to live the full life God wants them to have. It means that they can be forgiven for the wrong things they have done and receive a new start from God.

The Bible also says that Jesus is ‘the name that is above every name’ (Philippians 2:9) – it is the name that can change our lives.

UK War Cry June 2010

TSA Penang Corps Outing

Corps member enjoyed the journey to the Penang BM MengKuang Dam Outing on the 10 July 2010. The journey started from the Corps at 6:30am and reach there around 7:20am. Everyone enjoy the nature walk and jogging around the dam. Bro Chin Keng who was our tour leader took us to the location and also brought us to nice coffee shop for Hokkien Mee breakfast at Taman Indrawasih.

We praise God for this great outing. Our numbers are few, however the end result count ~ "God is Good all the time".

Announcements

1. Corps Cleaning Day (Gotong Royong)
Date: 7th August 2010, Time: 08:00am Venue: Penang Corps
Cleaning the Corps compound and beautify the house of the Lord.

2. Adults Cell Group
Date: 16th July 2010, Time: 08:00pm Venue: Community Hall

3. TSA Open Day
Date: 28 Aug 2010, Venue: Penang Children's Home
Target to raise RM60,000.00 for Corps, Children's Home and Community Service Centre. Please help to sell coupons.

Prayer Request

1. Pray for our Candidates & Potential Candidates

2. Pray for Cadet Andrew and Cadet Fiona who on SFOT training till end of this year.

3. Penang Open Day, pray for our sponsors and donors, selling of the coupons.

4. Continue to pray for Sis Jenny Ooi who is now at Australia.

The man who makes things possible

IT was impossible to miss the hype. In 1996 Ethan Hunt, played by Tom Cruise, burst on to cinema screens in the action thriller Mission: Impossible.

Hunt is a secret agent framed for the deaths of his espionage team. Fleeing from government assassins, breaking into the Central Intelligence Agency’s most impenetrable vault and clinging to the roof of a speeding bullet train, the action man raced to stay one step ahead of his pursuers.

Cinemagoers were so taken with the action that a further two Mission: Impossible films have been made since. Another is on its way.

The films are based on a television drama series. The episodes chronicled the missions of a team of American government secret agents known as the Impossible Missions Force.

The missions on which they were sent seemed so difficult that only this particular force could hope to tackle them.

The Impossible Missions Force revelled in the challenge; but describing a mission as doomed from the start is not normally the best way to recruit people. Failure is not held in high esteem. To have tried and failed is not acceptable to our modern way of looking at things. Credit is not given just because we tried.

Jesus sent his followers out on a mission. ‘I am sending you,’ he said (John 20:21 New International Version). The mission was to go into the world and spread the good news of what Jesus was doing and teaching.

This may have appeared to Jesus’ followers as another mission impossible. What could they do that he had not already done?

But Jesus sent his friends out with all the resources they needed. They would not be left on their own. He would be with them all the way.

This is the amazing thing about the ‘sending Jesus’. He does not ask us to do something or go somewhere and then leave us to fend for ourselves. Through his Spirit, he goes with us, helping us every step of the way.

Jesus really is the best person to have by our side, the one who will never let us down or forsake us. He makes the impossible mission possible.

It all boils down to trust. Can we trust Jesus, who sends his followers out to do a job? The answer from thousands of people who have followed his way is a resounding yes.

UK War Cry June 2010

The man who'll be back

I’LL be back’ is the catchphrase associated with Arnold Schwarzenegger. He spoke these words in the 1984 science fiction film The Terminator. The words that Arnie uttered were a slight departure from the original line ‘I’ll come back’, which might not have been as memorable. In 2005 the American Film Institute ranked Arnie’s promise as No 37 in their top 100 movie quotes.

So successful was the phrase that it was used in subsequent Terminator films, and Schwarzenegger introduced it into many of his other movies. It could be said he has made it his personal quotation. Even as Governor of California he has used the phrase during public speeches.

Like many a catchphrase, it often raises a wry smile when people use it in everyday conversation.

Although ‘I’ll be back’ was used as a threat – an intention to return for revenge – not all promises to return are so terrifying.

Welsh boxing hero Joe Calzaghe is rumoured to be looking to return to the ring. The unbeaten fighter known as ‘The Pride of Wales’ turned 38 this year, and has not fought since November 2008. Such a promise of a return would be welcomed and applauded by sports fans in Wales and further afield.

A promise of return can generate hope. The promise of Jesus, ‘I am coming soon’ (Revelation 22:7 New International Version) filled his early followers and, indeed, Christians through the centuries with hope.

History tells of the dark times Christians have endured around the world. Many still suffer persecution and marginalisation today.

On his return Jesus will gather his followers to be with him and establish a new Heaven and a new Earth. In this new world Jesus will rule with justice, put right iniquity and enable us to live as God originally intended, free from the taint and curse of sin.

When Jesus returns there will be no more suffering, sorrow or pain. Death and sin will finally be defeated.

Although Jesus says ‘I’ll be back’ he hasn’t told us when. Whether his words are a threat or a promise depends on our attitude towards him.

UK War Cry June 2010