ISSUE 099 OCTOBER TO DECEMBER, 2018
The God Who Speaks
Message from Senior Pastor
From the Editorial Team: We are living in an era of constant change, and we witness something new every day, to
October to December, 2018
the point that we may be numb to it. Nothing surprises us anymore. With instantaneous information available through social media, and the constant bombardment of “news”, today’s generation can be overwhelmed by what used
Message from Senior Pastor 1-3
Jesus Must Increase
Events
to be considered “unusual” or “shocking” in times before, and begin to believe that this is “acceptable” and “normal”. But it should
4-6
New Mummies: Family Day 2018
7-8
Overflowing Joy Of The Lord
not be “acceptable” nor “normal”. Romans 12:2 tells us “Do not conform to the
Message from Founding Senior Pastor
pattern of the world, but be transformed by the
9-11
Business Corporations And
test and approve what God’s will is – His good,
A Christian Response
Features
renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to
Jesus Must Increase
pleasing and perfect will”. Floodgates was created to be a vessel, a
12-13
Come To The Table
14-17
Nepal – The Land Of The Himalayas
18-21
The God Who Speaks: Have We
by the apostle Paul, and which will stand out
Made The Bible An Idol?
from the daily bombardment of confusing and
22-23
Parents Support Parents
platform where we can publish articles and testimonies to bless and inspire God’s people towards Godly renewal of the mind mentioned
possibly unhelpful “information”. In Floodgates we, as a Church body of Christ,
DUMC Stories 24
Reunion With The True God
25
My God, My Saviour
26-27
Alone But Never On My Own
can share stories and bear witness to God’s amazing grace and give Him the glory. Also, we can remind ourselves that we are nothing without Jesus, that we would just be part of a dying world and hopeless.
Getting to know 28-29
My God Who Speaks
On the cover, “G” is at the centre of the title,
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DUMC Ministries
centre of our all. Our name Floodgates originates
Floodgates, just as we need to place God at the from Malachi 3:10 “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
Damansara Utama Methodist Church
of heaven and pour out so much blessing that
Dream Centre, 2 Jalan 13/1, Seksyen 13,
there will not be room enough to store it.”
John 3:30
He must increase, but I must decrease. (NIV) He must become greater; I must become less. (ESV)
46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia T +603.7958 7388 E
[email protected]
F +603.7958 3787 dumcMY
Father God, may we all, children of God, be blessed when the “floodgates of heaven pour
W dumc.my
out…” and be reminded that the presence of God
The church office is closed on Mondays.
in our lives is the blessed life.
by Chris Kam, Senior Pastor
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Message from Senior Pastor
T
Message from Senior Pastor
hese are the words of John the Baptist.
20, 23). To the degree Jesus was exalted and
Let me set the context from John
worshipped, John became increasingly unnecessary
3:22-30. For a short period of time,
and faded away.
the ministry of John overlapped that of Jesus. The Judean countryside was
This story reminds us of the attitude we need
alive with the teachings of both cousins about
to adopt as Christ’s disciples. As we minister to
repentance and God’s kingdom. Large crowds
people, investing our time and life in others, our
followed both of them and many were baptised. An
purpose remains the same like John: “He must
argument broke out (v25) between John’s disciples
increase, but I must decrease.” If we do enough soul
and a certain Jew on why he should be joining
searching, we might be surprised to discover how
John’s group over the matter of ceremonial washing
often we have craved attention for the recognition
(baptism). More people were going to Jesus than
of what we do in His name. We are in some sense
John. John’s disciples were jealous and angry
“applause addicts”, who need our regular fixes to
as they were more interested in promoting their
draw attention to ourselves. To the degree we draw
movement and not committed to Jesus at all. They
attention to ourselves, to that degree or more, we
seemed to have the idea that they held a monopoly
draw attention away from Jesus.
on the ministry of baptism and they resented the fact that people were switching camps. They were reminiscing the former days when everyone went to hear their leader John (Mark 1:5). To appease them, John illustrated by referring to a wedding custom of his day. The friend of the bridegroom was only an assistant (v29), and not the main participant. In modern-day terms, John could have been the best man and Jesus the bridegroom. He has no other duty but to assist the groom in his marriage. He has no business trying to win the bride or drawing attention to himself. He waits for the groom and rejoices when he hears the voice of the groom at his arrival. His joy is complete when all attention is on the bride and groom on their wedding day. The bride is the church, or the people of God. All that John had to do in his ministry was to call attention not to himself but to the greatness of the Bridegroom. He had no other purpose but to prepare for the arrival of the Christ, the Groom. So, he said to his disciples, “He must increase, but I must decrease.” John baptised only with water, but Jesus baptised with the Holy Spirit. John reminded his disciples that he clearly taught them he was not the promised Messiah, but someone sent ahead to herald the coming of the Messiah (John 1:8, 15,
“As you minister to others let this be your job description, the gauge of your success: you and your opinions become less and less important while Jesus becomes more and more important.”
A great question to ask ourselves as we serve Him
and services, or even a great sermon? We can do
is to do with the first two of the five core habits of
all these well and yet miss the whole point of what
DUMC: “Honour” and “Humility”. To honour Jesus,
John is trying to say: “He must increase, but we
let us move away from our desire for self-honour
must decrease.” We are guilty of putting our faith
and recognition. To have a heart of humility as a
in our faith (also called a religion) rather than on
servant of Christ, let us remember that “….apart
the object of our faith, who is Christ! How deceptive
from me you can do nothing.” (John 15:5)
our hearts have become! As Apostle Paul wrote in
It is a frightening thought for me as the Senior
rebuke: “…having a form of godliness but denying
Pastor of DUMC to ask this question: What will the
its power.” (2 Tim 3:5)
church be like if we remove Jesus and the Holy Spirit? Would we function normally after that?
Let us be reminded that we lead people to Jesus,
God forbid that we discover we are merely relying
to cross-carrying, to self-denial, to a separation
on our human abilities and talents to do ministry,
from the world, to a crucifixion of our fleshly
and it does not really matter whether or not God
desires, to holy living, to nobility of godly character,
is present. God forbid that we draw attention to
to despise what the world has to offer, to self-
ourselves, our programmes, and even our ministries.
discipline, to a total commitment to Jesus, to Love God, Serve People and make disciples towards
I preached recently on the feeding of the 5000
Christlikeness, and to a BARE MINIMUM of just
(John 6:5-13). Why was the crowd there? There was
simply JESUS. Would we fade away as we herald
no music, no entertainment, no air-conditioning,
Christ and put Him in the fore? Our glory is not
and worse still, no food! Yet people were there,
found in having our names in our ministries and
hungering for Jesus. I wonder what would happen
as a church. Our purpose is simply that “He must
if we were to remove all that from our church
increase, but we must decrease.” Let us be found
today? Why do we come to our celebrations (or our
faithful in doing that in the coming days. “Come,
cell groups and all related activities)? Is it for Jesus,
Lord Jesus.” (Rev 22:20)
or for our uplifting worship, great cozy facilities
- Walt Henrichsen
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Events
Family Day 2018:
Making the most of every opportunity as a family. by Kenny Tan, PJN6
Events
MONTHS BEFORE...
A NEW CAUSE…
When my wife asked if she should take on the role
For the New Mummies Ministry (part of Women
of chairing the next Family Day, without missing a
to Women), Family Day has always been about
beat, I confidently assured her with a “Why not?”
bringing families together. For the past few years,
Little did I think of how deep the proverbial rabbit
we encouraged that with wholesome outdoor
hole would go; who knew that with my wife’s
games and sports. Fathers, mothers, sons and
newfound responsibility would come sleepless
daughters all working together towards a single
nights, endless stress, and unexpected recruitment.
goal – to lead their teams towards undisputed
That last bit really threw me for a loop; I, a quiet
victory (and fun, let us not forget fun)! But we were
introvert with a healthy fear of being at the centre
led to grow to be more than just getting together
stage and microphone, volunteered to be the
as a family, but getting together for a purpose.
emcee for the day. Like any good supportive
Conveniently, we did not have to look too far for
husband would do, I suppose.
it – DUMC’s theme of the year, “Step In”. With that, Family Day 2018 became a day of working together
MOTHERS’ SACRIFICES…
and reaching out to the community together – as a
But to talk (too much) about my struggles
family.
would be to undermine the Herculean effort,
There were only just six more hours before I had to go on that dreaded stage. “What are you doing?!” my subconscious screamed. “We simply don’t EVER speak in public, much less volunteer to be an emcee!” Never mind that! What about this last minute presentation? It’s not even ready! I’m not ready! How did I get here?
undiminishing steadfastness, and boundless energy
GAMIFYING OUTREACH…
that the ladies demonstrated over the months of
The games, which were usually competitive in
planning. And they were not just ladies. They were
nature, had to be rethought. Of course we were
wives and mothers too. Ladies who will almost
not going to throw out all the fun. No one said
never get the chance to clock out of work. Ladies
that community outreach and fun were mutually
without which a household would fall apart. Yet,
exclusive (if someone did, no one told us). So the
here they were, managing their 24/7 job and Family
amongst the first challenges were how to create
Day planning altogether.
activities that were cooperative in nature. We wanted to exemplify all of us being part of the body of Christ working together towards His Glory.
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Events
Events
Have you been in a place where the joy of the Lord was literally overflowing?
CAREY ISLAND… Community outreach would not be one without a community to reach out to. Thanks to the hardworking and resourceful team members planning the event, we reached out to the Mah Meri tribe of Carey Island. More specifically, a selfless couple, Paul and Helena of the Jubilee Ministry. And they had a very immediate and pressing mission – to help a single mother of the Mah Meri whose three-year-old daughter was suffering severe developmental impairment. With a daily household income of just RM20 on a good day, she was unable
ALL IN A DAY’S WORK… At the end of the day, I have come to realise, not one of us could have put together this monumental task alone. It takes a village to raise a child. And this Family Day 2018 was our metaphorical child that we nurtured together for the Kingdom of God as a family. Without the drive, dedication and skills of every mother that God brought to the table, this year’s Family Day would not have been what it became – another opportunity to reach out for His Glory.
Overflowing Joy Of The Lord by Low Mei Ling, PJN2
to meet her nutritional and nurturing needs.
WRAPPING UP… With all that said and done, we managed to wrap up 2018’s Family Day with great success. Everybody left having being part of something greater, which we hope would lead up to even greater things in the future. With the help and support of sponsors and the families that came that day, we supplied the family with enough educational toys, nutritious powdered milk and financial support to last them
“You are the body of Christ. Each one of you is a part of it.” 1 Corinthians 12:27
months on end. And just as importantly, we all did it as a family and had fun doing it.
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Message from Founding Senior Pastor
Events
Business Corporations & A Christian Response by Dato’ Dr Daniel Ho, Founding Senior Pastor
That was how I felt on the morning of 1 October at
that morning and after one rehearsal, her ankle
Hall 1 in Dream Centre. The hall was filled with 350
was in acute pain. Various members prayed and
happy people who had come to watch the famous
administered first aid to her. But when she was
play, ‘The King and I’ staged by the Golden Club
on the dance floor, no one could tell. As Shalynn
and directed by Chow Hung Lan.
committed to give her best to the Lord, He was there to help her.
Those on stage looked like they were ‘on top of the world’ while everyone else in the hall was beaming.
Many people also complimented Song Har for the
It did not matter if your neighbour was someone
beautiful red gown she wore in the play. It was
you had never met before. Everyone was friendly
actually her wedding dinner gown. Isn’t it amazing
to one another. In this club, every member is ‘very
that now in her 6-series, she can still fit into her
precious’ and is likened to the premium BMW cars.
wedding dinner gown? All these stories just show
Apart from their names, each one is introduced as a
that we worship an amazing God who never fails to
‘5-series, 6-series, 7-series or 8-series’.
amaze us. With Him all things are possible.
In the show, the King’s role was played by 8-series Uncle Eng Kong. He had such long and difficult lines. Yet, he delivered every word and line with such perfection. After watching him, all the ‘cannot do’ in one’s mind will be thrown out of the window. Anna, the school teacher was played by the
After ‘The King and I’, there were at least another
beautiful 6-series Song Har. She was very much in
dozen more solo, duet and group performances by
her character. After the show, she shared, ‘It was all
various Golden Club members. Some of them went
possible because of God’s amazing grace. I was full
up to the stage with their walking sticks but once
of fear but once on stage, the Holy Spirit took over.’
they started to sing, they did not need their sticks.
As Song Har was educated in a Chinese school, the
These members have all been trained by the Golden
songs and the storyline were all new to her.
Club’s very own vocal coach, Shirley.
Before the start of this project, the whole cast gathered to watch a video of ‘The King and I’.
I asked 86-year-old aunty known as ‘Sim Chei’ who
All the other cast members mostly in their 6 and
sang a Cantonese opera number if she was nervous
7-series were just as inspiring and their singing as
on stage. She gave me a puzzled look and then she
mesmerizing as in the video. With this show, they
answered, ‘I am happiest when I am up on stage!’
demonstrated that they can do all things through
Praise God for the Golden Club. Rupert Ling who
Christ who gives them strength.
heads the Golden Club believes that all senior citizens should not be lonely but be involved
While the show was impressive, the behind-the-
in activities that bring them joy and meaning.
show stories were just as amazing. One of the
DUMC’s Golden Club welcomes everyone
dancers, 7-series Shalynn had a problematic ankle.
irrespective of one’s faith. The Club meets every
She drove one-and-a-half hours to Dream Centre
Monday in Dream Centre.
How can we talk about Christian stewardship regarding businesses in the world of the 21st Century? On what basis do we premise our evaluation?
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Message from Founding Senior Pastor
Message from Founding Senior Pastor
I recently read Public Theology and Political
WHAT ARE THE CONSEQUENCES?
VOCATION
and to future generations. How should we live out
Economy – Christian Stewardship in Modern Society
It alienates human beings and sometimes
We are to respond to a call and not just simply a job
such covenantal relationships so that we do not
by Max Stackhouse (Eerdmans, 1987), a book that
dehumanises human society. Employees are treated
to undertake. Be conscious that we are responsible
become consumeristic only in our stewardship
I have been wanting to read for years. There is one
like money-making machines. As a result, loyalty
and accountable to God ultimately and not just our
of the resources that God has given to us in this
particular aspect which Stackhouse focuses in the
and commitment level may be low on both sides.
bosses and the corporation. It will require discipline,
world?
book that I would like to elaborate in this article.
From the employer’s side, if one cannot churn
commitment and sacrifice. As we are doing this for
It is that of the business corporation. Stackhouse
out those figures one is on the way out. From the
the Lord’s sake and not just towards our employers
The above are some of the issues Stackhouse
discusses the “quadrilateral” touchstones of
employee’s side, once there is a better offer, even
and the corporation, our quality and our standards
suggests we should deal with in our Christian
authority in Scripture, in tradition, in reason and
a few ringgit more, he will jump ship.
should be different. We should contribute not only
response to the corporate world. We can and
towards the good of mankind materially but also
should engage with peoples across the board, from
As Christians, we should ask these questions.
spiritually. The same should be said of corporations.
different ethnic, social and religious backgrounds so
from which he draws out principles of public theology and a Christian response.
Does the business corporation we are involved in
That they have a duty towards people, its staff,
that our biblical emphases and public theology are
Every business corporation, including public entity,
produce items of little value or non-lasting value?
society and the nation in contributing materially and
applied in the corporate world. Then can the Church
has a character that must be assessed on moral and
Does it satisfy a need or is it only producing to
towards the good and total well-being of mankind,
be relevant in a nation, even our nation Malaysia!
spiritual grounds. This inner quality or ‘soul’ of these
satisfy the wants of the people?
society and the nation. There is the business
entities can and should be reformed and renewed from a Christian perspective.
corporation’s vocation too! Often, we like to compare characters of business corporations in terms of:
Stackhouse identified the following to be some of the problems of business corporations namely: • The emphasis on the profit motive which can
MORAL LAWS AND FREEDOM We are called to promote truth, justice and
• The depth or humane fabric of human
righteousness. Corporations are expected to do the
relationships or the lack of depth in the
same as well. Together, we must make sure that
corporation.
truth is upheld and that rules, policies, programmes,
play into greed resulting in the worship of
• The sense of purpose and the direction it takes.
projects and its implementation are just and fair
mammon.
• About disciplined work ethics and professional
across the board irrespective of ethnic, social and
• A subtle mechanism to engineer needs and sometimes unnecessarily. As a result, we buy
excellence. • About a responsible attitude towards
religious backgrounds. One’s life should be upright or righteous. Where there is injustice, oppression
things we don’t need to impress people we
employees, for example, in remuneration,
or exploitation we must be unafraid to speak out
don’t like with monies we don’t have!
safety standards, housing, health benefits,
and work against it, in and outside the corporations.
healthy and safe working environment, dignity
This may be costly but that is the call of Christians
and respect towards all, a family environment
in public life and its political economy. It must
and being personal.
promote greater equality and freedom for all.
• There is also the inequitable distribution of items or goods and sometimes producing items of little lasting value. • Some of these corporations cooperate with
• Finally, a responsible attitude on the part of
some of the most exploitative forces in other
the employees such as discipline, diligence,
SIN
lands, for example, with cheap labour to
determination/perseverance, intensity of
Greed, selfishness and all forms of idolatry must be
produce goods at the lowest of costs and the
participation, loyalty, stewardship, ownership,
tackled. Idols are not just what we make with our
greatest of profits.
sense of belonging is needed as well.
hands and worship but also what we make with our
• It is machine-like and often churns on
hearts and worship such as career, money, power,
relentlessly and people in the corporation are
While we may rail against the profit motive and
position, fame, success and profits. Dehumanisation,
like little cogs only in a giant cogwheel. It can
the greed of corporations we also rejoice when
alienation and environmental pollution must be
get truly impersonal where people are treated
our family or church members work in “quality”
tackled and dealt with seriously, diligently and
as just numbers and digits. In such a system
corporations or organisations.
conjointly.
What therefore should be some of the themes of
COVENANT
public theology that we should emphasise on so
We are in a covenant with God, with fellow human
that in our biblical evaluation and teaching we
beings and with the environment which God has
could bring these to bear on corporate life and the
given to mankind to steward properly. We are
business corporations? Stackhouse suggests the
therefore accountable to Him and to one another
it is natural for one sometimes to feel small, insignificant and helpless.
following:
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Features
Features
I look forward to, and that is the remembrance
WHO EARNESTLY REPENT OF THEIR SIN…
of Christ together with the family of believers in
We are all and without exception sinners, touched
DUMC. It gives me a sense of togetherness as we
and saved by grace from our sin. It is the sick who
remember the body of Christ, broken for us and
need the doctor and we are tired of being infested
the blood of Christ, shed for us – acts that our Lord
with the rot and destruction that comes with a
provided to us as His people, as a means of grace
life that is curved inward. Repentance is a relief
for our lives.
to those who know that our ways do not work
I chanced upon a book by Rowan Williams, the
anymore, and we need God. Repentance is a relief
former Archbishop of Canterbury some time
to those who feel stuck and trapped in our ways
ago, that sparked some treasured reflections on
with no way out. Repentance is a comfort to those
communion.
who have reached the end of ourselves and realise
There is something about Holy Communion that
that we need God. There is little wonder that there
Come To The Table by Debbie Loh, PJN3
Christ our Lord invites to his table all who love him, who earnestly repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. The Invitation to Communion, Methodist Liturgy
CHRIST OUR LORD INVITES TO HIS TABLE…
is blessedness for being poor in spirit, because
It is Christ our Lord who invites us to this Table of
grace there is in repentance!
spiritual poverty is the true assessment of us. What
Communion, with Him and one another. The table Jesus, and not because of our status in society
… AND SEEK TO LIVE IN PEACE WITH ONE ANOTHER.
that is given by our performance, our ethnicity,
The invitation by Christ is one for sinners to the
our cultural linkages, our education level, our class,
table, who are willing to look at one another and
our age and many other things by which society
say, “Peace”. Despite our differences, peace.
identifies us.
Despite our unlike-mindedness, peace. Despite
We simply come because we love Him who called
our ministry priorities, peace. Despite our different
us and enabled us to love Him. And hence, this
preferences and unmet needs, peace.
invitation is given even to those we do not like, are
This table is not a gathering of “great minds” who
at war with, cannot relate to or dislike. We do not
“think alike”. This table is not a gathering of “birds
get to choose who eats at the table – it is Christ’s
of a feather”.
invitation.
And therefore we do not despise those who are not
is a great equaliser. We come at the invitation of
as intellectual, or creative, or trendy, or pious, or
… ALL WHO LOVE HIM,
punctual, or excellent, or laidback (the list goes on)
Do you love Jesus? What does this love mean?
as us.
As Asians, love to us often means a series of
Instead, we make peace. Paul says in Philippians
actions and service. But actions and service can
2:2, “complete my joy by being of the same mind,
be disconnected from the sense of belonging to
having the same love, being in full accord and of
Jesus, being ministered to by Him, or allowing Him
one mind.” Being of the same mind, having the
to wash our dirty “feet” i.e. the darkest parts of
same love, being in full accord and of one mind is
our lives. Part of loving Jesus is to know that we
not something we find ourselves in. It is something
are fully loved by Him. This is because Christ is
to be worked on. In doing so, we are not frustrated
the source of our love – it is He who defines what
by differences. But differences give us clues on
love means. Therefore, we cannot know what love
areas to work together to be of the same mind, as
means unless we have first experienced His kind of
guided by the Spirit.
love – the kind that made Him take the form of a
In our prayers, let us come to God in repentance,
servant and wash our feet.
confessing ways in which we have thought
And therefore, if we are willing, even the dirtiest
ourselves more worthy than others. Let us confess
sinner is capable of returning Christ’s love, if we
our sins before God when we have judged our
would allow His transforming love to wash us clean.
brothers and sisters, when we are after all one body, receiving from the same bread and cup.
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Features
Nepal — The Land Of The Himalayas Nepal is a land of natural beauty coupled with cultural richness just waiting to be discovered. Many have travelled there to conquer the majestic Mount Everest, still others to trek the Everest or at least to reach the Annapurna Base Camp. But for the seven of us, we were sent on a mission by His Majesty the King of kings. We had a unique team because we represented three different congregations in DUMC. Unity was the word the Lord impressed on my heart during our pre-trip preparations and it was emphasized again during the church prayer. Pastor Kelvin Yong shared Psalm 133 during our ministry time with the Crossfields leadership. Praise the Lord for the unity among us that despite all the hardship and challenges we faced during the trip, the team stood united. God met with each of us at our different points of need. We came back from Nepal truly blessed.
JIN SWAN, PJN6
Trip: challenging and amazing.
Semasa morning devotion, saya merasakan Roh Kudus bekerja ke
I am thankful to be able to
atas peribadi saya. Dua minggu
witness how God used us to
EVELYN BANDONG, BM CONGREGATION
minister to the people through
Nepal sangat istimewa bagi diri
bergumul terutamanya dalam
the sharing of our testimonies
saya kerana saya merasakan
hal keluarga, pekerjaan serta
at the home visitations, the
memori masa kecil bersama
pelayanan saya. Saya sangat
Sangati (Celebration) and Youth
keluarga. Pastor Man dan
tertekan sehingga menangis.
& Discipleship Teaching. Indeed,
isterinya mencurahkan kasih
Pada saat saya menyatakan
only God can make the trip
sayang dan menjaga anak-anak
bahawa Tuhan saya tidak
possible and He opened my eyes
di Living Faith Orphanage seperti
mampu dan tidak berdaya
to see the living conditions of the
anak kandung sendiri. Dari mata
untuk menghadapi segalanya,
people in Nepal.
anak-anak kecil itu terpancar
Tuhan katakan, “Serahkan
harapan dan damai sukacita
segalanya dalam tangan-Ku,
I had an incredible adventure
dalam diri mereka kerana ada
Aku akan mengerjakannya dan
during the trip and saw how God
yang peduli tentang peribadi
janganlah khuatir akan hidupmu”.
prepared us during the weekly
mereka.
Wow! Tiada apa yang boleh
serve with the team and to
sebelum ke Nepal, saya sangat
diungkapkan melainkan saya
pre-trip meetings. It is one of those countries that stays with
Saya tidak dapat lupakan Maidi
mengasihi Engkau Tuhan dengan
you and one visit is just not
kerana di sini saya mengalami
segenap hatiku. Tiga kunci yang
enough. In closing, the two words
proses kesembuhan dan damai
saya dapat dari trip ini adalah
that describe my Nepal Mission
sejahtera dalam diri saya.
love, healing dan peace. 15
Features
PING YIN, PJN 6
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GRACE TOH, KL
promises for He is faithful. A few
JAGAT PHERWANI, NEPALI SANGATI, PJN4
say “Amazing team and serving
We were grateful that we could
Him is our privilege!”
spend some time with Agnes and
This journey was truly an amazing
We visited the Nepalese Migrant
days before our trip to Nepal,
and exciting one. I was worried
Unity Network (NEMUN) in
work in the office was piling
This was my third mission trip
that I would not be able to
Kathmandu, an NGO set up to
up and things were not going
to Nepal. God laid in my heart
KHOON LAN, PJS1
lives in Kathmandu. Kat took us
perform well in my assigned task
advocate for Nepalese workers
as planned but by the grace of
a burden for the women and
When Pastor Shambhu told us
to visit some of the businesses
as a prayer secretary because I
abroad, and to help Nepalese
God, all worked out well when
children who are left behind to
that we would be visiting the
she is helping to build through
am a 3-year-old Christian but God
returning from overseas to
I committed and surrendered
fend for themselves while the
home of a young couple whose
the Business for Transformation
spoke to me through answered
settle back in Nepal. We met a
everything to Him.
men go overseas to earn a living.
husband dabbled with evil spirits
(B4T) program. It opened our
prayers along the journey.
couple of NEMUN leaders who
Kat and caught a glimpse of their
One day, after prayer walk, our
and had evil manifestations
eyes to see the unconventional
team boarded a bus. I started
before, some of us felt uneasy.
way of reaching out. What a
When our team’s luggage was
were previously from DUMC’s
Our journey to Maidi and back
overweight by 24 kilos, I prayed
Nepali Sangati (celebration).
was tough and full of challenges
talking to a 15-year-old bus
The first thought that came to
brilliant business strategy!
hard as the luggage was being
They came to faith in Malaysia
especially during the monsoon.
conductor who has an interesting
mind was that I was ill-equipped.
As we marvel at God’s beautiful
checked in. Miraculously we
and after working for a couple
Our truck got stuck many times
name – Mission. He dropped
My late mother used to share her
creation in Nepal, we are also
managed to get all the luggage
of years, had returned and were
but each time we sought Him,
out from school because he felt
experiences in doing deliverance
reminded that He loves the
through without paying a single
expanding His Kingdom in Nepal.
God sent help. I am reminded that
bored attending classes. He had
but I had never done it. The team
Nepalese too. If you have not
cent.
It was such a privilege to witness
I am not alone even when I am
a tag line: ‘I have no height, but
prayed for God’s protection,
been or are contemplating to go
I learnt that it is not about me
the diaspora ministry in action.
going through challenges in life
I can fight’. I invited Mission to
wisdom, discernment and
on a mission trip, then we would
but it is all about my praying
I am reminded that every life
for He is always with me. This trip
come to our children’s program
committed the visit to the Lord.
ask you to quickly sign up for the
heart. I became more sensitive
is precious, every encounter is
gave me excitement, a sense of
which he did without hesitation.
As four of us stepped into the
next Nepal mission team. The
to God’s presence and was able
an opportunity to share Christ
fulfilment and it was eye-opening.
At the end of the program, he
home, we had no fear because
journey was so enriching and
to release words and scriptures
and every life transformed is a
gave his life to Jesus. My prayer
the presence of God was with us.
unforgettable. As Jin Swan puts
when I prayed for the Nepalese.
life God can and will use for His
is that Mission will grow to be
When the young man manifested,
it, one visit is just not enough...
This was something I had never
glory. The trip opened up new
a man after God’s heart and
we prayed in tongues and
experienced before in Malaysia.
perspectives for me!
he will fight the good fight to
commanded the evil spirit to
Furthermore, I discovered the gift
Mee Chien, PJN4
please God all his life. Truly, God
leave him. Praise God, he was
of distinguishing between spirits.
When we are obedient and step
prepared us and used us as His
delivered. What an awesome
What an amazing discovery!
out in faith, we can rest on His
vessel to touch lives. I can only
faith-building trip!
17
Features
THE GOD WHO SPEAKS:
HAVE WE MADE THE BIBLE AN IDOL? By Alex Tung, PJN1
It is generally agreed that God speaks to us in three ways – explicitly (through dreams, divine visitations, etc, that may result in prophesies), through the counsel of others (pastors, leaders, other mature Christians) and most commonly, through the Bible. As Christians, we believe that although the Bible may be written by man, it is inspired by God. Hence, we refer to the Bible as God’s Word in the written form. But what makes the Bible, the “Bible”?
Features
We ask the question what the Bible is – the best way to say it is the Bible is God’s written revelation to His people; now God reveals Himself in all kinds of ways and He actually speaks in ways outside the Bible in days of old to prophets and the people of God. And so, you’d hear the voice of the Lord and call that the Word of the Lord, and over time that became inscripturated, became written down into His Word and over time we’ve collected the books that contain those Words into 66 smaller books that collectively we call the Bible. Michael J Kruger, Professor of Early Christianity Reformed Theological Seminary At the commencement of
crystal clear on this – there is
we still diligently read and study
(almost) every Saturday and
nothing wrong with treating the
the Bible? Or, only scramble
Sunday Celebration, just before
Bible with honour and reverence.
to it when we are faced with
we read from the Scripture,
In fact, it is commendable and a
life’s urgent woes, and for quick
the congregation will stand
prudent thing to do! The Bible is,
solutions?
with their Bibles held out, and
after all, God’s Holy Word to us
proclaim, “This is my Bible, it is
and should be acknowledged for
THE BIBLE IS A TOOL
the Word of God – it informs
its holiness.
The Bible is God’s revelation to us in order that through our
my mind, inspires my heart and instructs my behaviour, so help
The problem is this: that an
study of the Bible, we would
me God.” This habit which our
increasing number of Christians
come to know Him better.
Senior Pastor instils into the
today, in their impatience of
Regardless of how much we
congregation is a wonderful
wanting quick answers from the
trust in or revere the Bible, the
reminder of the Bible’s utility
Bible, fail to realise that there is
Bible can never replace God. As
i.e. the Bible is God-breathed
a difference between the Bible
important as the Bible may be
and is useful for teaching,
and God. Whilst we as Christians
to the Christian faith, we do not
rebuking, correcting and training
claim that the Bible is central
pray to it like how we pray to
in righteousness. Undisputedly
to our faith and our relationship
God. In that sense, the Bible is a
then, DUMC members, Christians
with God, how many of us truly
complementary tool to explain
and, to some extent, even non-
regard and use the Bible as a
the Divine God and not an
Christians regard the Bible as
tool to hear God’s voice and to
addition to it. The Divine Trinity
a holy book and confer upon it
deepen our relationship with
remains Father, Son and Holy
much honour and reverence.
Him rather than merely using the
Spirit, not Holy Scripture.
Bible to obtain quick answers to From the onset and for the
our immediate questions? When
avoidance of doubt, let us be
life is comfortable and well, do 19
Features
The danger is seeking the Bible itself to be the source of the answers rather than seeking God whom the Bible points us to
Features
THE BIBLE IS NOT AN EASY TOOL
is exactly the case. An improved
for the trees. In our pursuit of
THE THIN LINE
academic knowledge of the Bible
studying His Word, we must not
If we were to treat the Bible as
Perhaps the reason Christians
should be the by-product of an
confine our focus to the limited
the sole source of God’s word
err in their effort from focusing
enhanced relationship with God,
print estate between the covers
to us, we would have missed the
on God to idolising the Bible
never the other way around.
of the Bible as no single book can
entire plot that is Christianity as
comprehensively encapsulate
that would be akin to treating the
the divine revelation of our
Bible as if it were the testament
relationship with Him.
of a dead god and that the Bible
is because the Bible itself is a
Bible a compilation of numerous
CHRISTIANITY IS NOT A BOOK, IT IS A RELATIONSHIP
literary works ranging from
The origin of Christian teaching,
eyewitness accounts to poems
unlike other faiths, did not start
and from letters to sermons, all
from a book. There was not first
spanning across thousands of
a “divine book” from which God
years of authorship from multiple
quoted and Jesus preached
authors, and with each book set
from. Rather, the inverse is true
in different settings and cultures,
– it was God’s speaking to His
Again, let us be clear that there
it was also originally written in
people and Jesus’ teachings and
is nothing wrong with seeking for
different languages. Even after
parables as well as accounts of
answers in the Bible as the Bible
all 66 books of the Bible were
circumstances surrounding these
remains an excellent avenue to
eventually translated to the
that were eventually transcribed
seek His guidance – it is, after
English language, still there are
into a written form. Once we
all, God’s blueprint for how we
numerous versions of English
understand this, we can begin to
should live our lives. The danger
translations with each version
appreciate that the Bible is only
that drives our will to study
is seeking the Bible itself to be
suggesting a different angle and
an extract of God’s instructions
the Bible. If it is merely to gain
the source of the answers rather
emphasis.
to us and does not reflect the
clarity and an education, then it
totality of God’s Word.
is time we took a step back to
thoroughly difficult book to understand. Not only is the
than seeking God whom the
is all that we have left of that god. No, God is not dead – He is alive
The Bible is essentially God’s selfrevelation and God doesn’t just reveal Himself in terms of what you must do – that is the consequence of who He is and the way in which He wants us to understand His will.
and well for Jesus rose from the dead and His speaking to us goes far beyond the 800,000+ words of the Bible. On its surface, it may seem a thin line to tread between treating the Bible with reverence and respect versus making an idol out
Conrad Mbewe, Pastor Kabwata Baptist Church
of it. Intrinsically, however, the difference is stark – particularly when we examine the inspiration
Bible points us to. If we use our
It is not difficult to see then how
Bible as God intended, the Bible
a full and proper understanding
The undeniable truth is simply
our motivation. If, however, it is
is an effective tool to change the
of the Bible is no easy feat. So
this – that whilst studying the
to better understand God and to
weather of our hearts and not
complex is the Bible as a piece of
Bible daily is valuable, it is
spur your commune with Him,
merely to educate our minds.
literature for study that it would
nowhere near as valuable as
then, in my humble opinion, I
be almost impossible for any
developing and maintaining
reckon you are doing just fine.
When understood in this light,
two theologians to unanimously
a daily relationship with God
we see how the Bible is far from
agree with each other on their
Himself. As Christians, the first
merely a self-help textbook.
views and interpretation of the
step in our daily walk with God
A proper study of the Bible as
Bible. Therefore, whilst the Bible
is to develop a daily intentional
a tool to commune with God
is an effective tool to cultivate a
habit of reading the Bible. But it
would open opportunities for
relationship with God, the Bible is
does not and must not stop there.
transformation of hearts, the
an effective tool only if we invest
Our reading and studying the
manifestation of which will
much time and effort in correctly
Bible must be understood to be a
be evident from the outward
studying it.
means of building a relationship
re-evaluate if we have misplaced
with Him.
conduct of our more godly and Christlike lives. Used wrongly,
It may seem counterintuitive that
however, the Bible would only
the goal of studying a book is
The problem then is not that our
serve to factually educate the
to promote a relationship rather
reverence and respect for the
mind – and erroneously too –
than to an academic end, but
Bible is misplaced, rather that
without a dent on our hearts.
when it comes to the Bible, that
we may have missed the forest
21
Features
Parents Support Parents by Lynn Foo, PJN6
Features
It is generally agreed that God speaks to us in three ways – explicitly (through dreams, divine visitations, etc, that may result in prophesies), through the counsel of others (pastors, leaders, other mature Christians) and most commonly, through the Bible. As Christians, we believe that although the Bible may be written by man, it is inspired by God. Hence, we refer to the Bible as God’s Word in the written form. But what makes the Bible, the “Bible”?
Parenting is an adventure, a
support and encouragement, is so
continuous journey filled with
priceless.
joy and laughter. However, it is
TELL US MORE ABOUT PSP PSP is founded on the core
also a journey fraught with much
Under DUMC’s Family Life
values, AUTHENTICITY &
heartache, tears and frustrations.
Ministry, Parents Support Parents
ACCOUNTABILITY, COMMUNITY
As parents embark on this
(PSP) is where that someone
and STEWARDSHIP.
journey, nothing prepares them
can be found. Here, parents can
PSP began in July 2017, when
for the many responsibilities
connect with one another —
we sighted an opportunity –
and tasks ahead. Throughout
providing support, a listening
parents whose children were
this lifelong journey, parents are
ear and mutual encouragement.
in Children’s Church, who had
constantly challenged by many
In this informal environment,
a lot of free time. This, coupled
uncertainties, leading them
parents will know they are not
with a growing need amongst
to feel inadequate and often,
alone in this journey.
struggling parents, birthed the
troubled. It is in such times
Here, we spoke to Dennis Ngai
idea of PSP, with the blessings
of our leaders, TC Lau and Jean.
children. The second group would
inspired in this ministry. Besides
On the first Saturday of every
be parents whose children are
that, seeing parents come
month, we gather from 3.00 p.m.
in the pre-teen ages. They often
regularly and at the same time
to 4.30 p.m. at the Café Function
share that their children are no
reaching out to others to join us,
Room. As the programme was
longer compliant and show signs
really spurs us on. The pastors
well received, we progressed to a
of rebellion. Sadly, one common
and leadership of the church have
bi-weekly session.
problem is parents leave church
also been supportive and that too
Once every three months, there
because they find coming to
has cheered us on!
is a Hangar Talk (a talk held in
church (or joining a CG) too
the Hangar) where we invite a
cumbersome.
speaker and a sofa couple to
PSP does not provide answers or
have a conversation and dialogue
solutions but it is through open
TELL US WHAT YOU ENVISION FOR PSP IN THE FUTURE
with parents.
sharing and discussion that we
There are also the Parenting
can learn from one another and
Courses (for children and
WHAT IS THE AGENDA OF A TYPICAL SESSION OF PSP?
so are encouraged to press on
teenagers) which run
despite the many challenges
concurrently for five weeks. In
faced. It is also our desire to
2019, we hope to bring these
Each session begins with a video
direct parents to a cell group if
courses to the zone and cell
presentation. So far, our source
they have not joined one yet. We
group levels.
is from Right Now Media. For
do not counsel and if there is a
example, our last series was
need, we will direct them to other
For PSP, we hope to strengthen
entitled You and Me Forever by
parents who may have more
the current programme,
Francis & Lisa Chan. Following
experience or whom we know
particularly, the Live Hangar
this, we will break into groups,
have gone through similar issues.
Talk where we intend to have
where participants can share
more speakers or panelists from
have a pair of facilitators to assist
DO SHARE WITH US SOME TESTIMONIES OF SEEING GOD MOVE IN THIS MINISTRY
in the discussion. The session
We are blessed to be able to see
ends with a time of prayer for one
parents accepting Christ through
another. Throughout the session,
this ministry. We are also able
light refreshments are provided
to reach out and invite parents
and this helps to maintain a
to join cell groups, where they
relaxed atmosphere, like chatting
can grow in their relationship
over a cup of coffee!
with God. The ministry has been
key learning points, experiences and discuss how to apply these practical handles. Each group will
a good platform to re-integrate
WHAT ARE SOME STRUGGLES THAT ARE COMMONLY FACED BY PARENTS AND HOW DOES PSP STEP IN TO ADDRESS THESE CHALLENGES?
many young parents into a community of believers.
Generally there are two groups
WHAT MOTIVATES BOTH OF YOU TO CONTINUE SERVING IN THIS MINISTRY?
of parents. The first group
Our team has greatly motivated
comprises new parents — parents
us to keep going. As we see our co-workers serve diligently and sacrificially, we are indeed
that having someone who can
and his wife, Yew Joo Wei from
with young children. They lack
come alongside and offer some
PSP:
experience in handling their
diverse backgrounds.
Join PSP held bi-weekly on Saturday from 3.00 p.m. - 4.30 p.m. at the Café Function Room in Dream Café. The next Live Hangar Talk is on December 1, 2018. Stay tuned for more activities at http://dumc.my/connect/ adults.family-life/ DUMC Family Life on Facebook or email parenting.
[email protected]
23
DUMC Stories
DUMC Stories
REUNION
“Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer” Psalm 61:1
With The True God By Janice Khoo, KL I was a short-tempered person
those who needed prayer to
and used to be very easily
come forward. I went forward as
irritated. I could not understand
I needed God’s help in controlling
why I behaved in such manner. I
my temper. As I was being
was always at home, undergoing
prayed for, I was touched by the
stress while taking care of my two
Holy Spirit, and cried profusely.
lovely and active grandchildren.
Immediately, I fell under the
At that time, I was a devotee to
power of the Holy Spirit. When I
a Chinese deity including many
got up, my hands were cold. My
other idols and images which I
body was trembling as I walked
placed on a big altar in my home.
back to my seat. My son-in-law,
My God, My Saviour by Boey Mun Seng, PJN6
Joel approached Pr. Moy How On several occasions, in the
to pray for me. He told me that
middle of the night, I would
I had been touched by the Holy
catch a glimpse of a strange
Spirit. Pr. Moy How later led my
my eyes, the light disappeared.
shadow passing in front of me.
husband in the sinner’s prayer
When I closed my eyes again,
These night experiences were
to accept Jesus as his Lord and
the light reappeared. It was an
too frightening for me. When I
Saviour, too.
assurance of God’s presence
tried to recite prayers before all
being with me.
my idols on my big altar, I did
Today, I am more tolerant
not fully understand what I was
and peaceful after the prayer
During the BMEW, the most
reciting and meditating on.
encounter.
significant moment was when my husband and I received the
One day, my youngest daughter
Within the same week, I
baptism of the Holy Spirit. Once
Winnie brought my husband,
requested my cell members to
again, I cried profusely but this
Robert and me to DUMC. We
help in removing all the idols and
time, it was a cry of release as I
were encouraged to join and
images on my big altar from my
fell under the power of the Holy
attend a cell group. Soon after,
home. After all the idols were
Spirit, and immediately, I spoke in
we were assigned to a cell group.
removed, the disturbing shadow
new tongues.
In the cell group, we met and
ceased manifesting. My home is
got to know many new and nice
now filled with peace. Whenever
Recently, I received my water
friends besides learning more
I pray to God the Father, I now
baptism — cleansed of all my past
about Jesus. In January 2018, I
know who I am praying to and
sins, and spiritually born again,
accepted Jesus as my personal
what I am praying about.
following Jesus as my Saviour.
Lord and Saviour.
And I know I cannot be separated Two nights before the Baptism &
On March 31, 2018, I experienced
Membership Encounter Weekend
the touch of the Holy Spirit. It
(BMEW) which was held on
was during an Easter celebration
August 23, 2018, a bright light
when Senior Pastor Chris asked
shone in my eyes. When I opened
from the love of God.
In May 2017, I went to see a
Christians were praying for me.
days), and drove on my own to
doctor at the Ampang Hospital
My wife and I had this sense of
the hospital from Petaling Jaya,
due to shortness of breath, and
awe — there was no fear, worry
most of the time.
was recommended to take a
or anxiety from the time of the
blood test. The results showed a
first blood test to the confirmed
In fact, two specific prophecies
very high white blood cell count,
diagnosis of the cancer and
were released by Senior Pastor
and an alarming low red blood
through the long period of
Chris Kam in church about God’s
cell count. The doctor insisted
chemotherapies. “Peace I leave
healing upon me. My loved ones
that I must be admitted to the
with you; my peace I give you. I
claimed them on my behalf. I can
hospital as soon as possible.
do not give to you as the world
only give all glory and honour to
Further tests in Ampang Hospital,
gives. Do not let your hearts be
God Almighty for His mercy on
which has a reputable team
troubled and do not be afraid.”
my life and for bringing me out of
of haematologists, confirmed
(John 14:27)
the doldrums.
Stage 4 chronic lymphocytic
Over a period of time, I
“He reached down from on high
leukaemia (CLL) which affects
recuperated well and a final
and took hold of me; he drew me
the blood and bone marrow.
blood test was done on June 13,
out of deep waters.” Psalm 18: 16
Many other tests and procedures
2018. Praise God I was given a
were conducted on me during
total clean bill of health by the
the 9-days of hospitalization. I
oncologist as the blood profile
went on to have a total of six
was completely normal. I can only
intravenous chemotherapies, five
say — it is God’s hand in my life.
as out-patient, and numerous
Psalm 119:50 says “My comfort in
blood tests.
my suffering is this: Your promise
a blood disorder classified as
preserves my life.” There were The words from Jeremiah
practically no side effects at all.
17:7, “but blessed is the one
I was eating well (I ate all the
who trusts in the Lord, whose
hospital food!), had only slight
confidence is in him” assured
nausea (probably twice), slept
me to rely totally on Him as
very well most of the nights (and
PRAISE THE LORD.
“For I know the plans I have for you, Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, Plans to give you a hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29: 11 25
DUMC Stories
DUMC Stories
Alone But Never On My Own by Jaya B, PJN4
A few years ago after a series
to take care of three children
I moved out one night. It took
celebrate the joy and share the
PWP, a trading arm called Jumble
was established in 2007. There
of extra-marital affairs, my
and study at the same time. The
two days to shift all our things,
moment with me.
Station exists to generate income
are many single parents under our
ex-husband left me to be with
burden was too much for me
which required making a few trips
My life started to become better.
for PWP.
care who need financial help and
someone else.
to bear and I even thought of
up and down the stairs! Through
We attend church celebrations.
When I got this job in 2014, I was
moral support. Besides offering
Even before that painful day, our
suicide but I could not as I had to
these helpers, I saw God’s mercy
We attend cell group meetings.
not sure what to do. So I asked
financial and grocery aid, and job
home had not been a home, and
think about my children’s welfare.
with my own eyes. It was as
The children attend Children’s
God. And He answered, “...do
placement, this year PWP is
family was not a family. There
Some church friends, who had
though God himself came to help
Church. My children are now
the same as I have done for you,
supporting single parents in
were rarely good words spoken
been keeping in touch with me,
me. My neighbours were startled
being surrounded with loving
share love, show compassion
a counselling program, skills
between us. There was domestic
heard of my plight and offered
to see us moving out, and they
aunties and uncles whom God has
and show them that there is
training and a financial literacy
violence (which not many knew
help to bring me out of the mess
commended the generous help of
put them to be with.
hope...” So I went on with His
program (through collaboration
about), then he walked out of
I was in. At first, I refused their
these Christians.
Is my wound healed? Have I
guidance in this work. It is a
with other bodies). We also have
the family, leaving the entire
offer of help as I was determined
Since we did not have a place
recovered? How am I moving on?
journey that I could not have
an online store where hand-made
responsibility to me, including his
to make it on my own. I was
to stay, we stayed in our cell
How is my life?
comprehended with my own
items are sold to support the
debts.
wrong. The tears of my eldest
leader’s house for more than
Today I can gladly say that I am
understanding. I needed God
cause.
That was when darkness,
son made me accept my friends’
a month. Once again, I saw
healed, and able to live again. I
to give me wisdom, strength,
loneliness, isolation and pain
help. My son was emotionally
God’s compassion through this
am smiling more, laughing a lot,
courage, confidence, blessings
PWP needs your generous
gripped me. I felt unwanted. My
affected as he could not accept
family. Never have I seen such
happier now, and I love the life
and much more to be involved
support so that we can continue
children and I were left destitute,
the absence of a father in his life,
generosity — they gave us a roof
that God has given me and my
in this ministry. The passion to
with our mission and be a
with unresolved problems
a person to whom he was very
over us and gave us food to eat.
three children. Now I have a job
advocate for these single parents
blessing to the community out
including mounting debts, and
close.
During our stay with this family,
that can provide for me and my
grew in me. Through this ministry,
there. Share our passion for a
having to survive on whatever
When my parents found out
I learnt how to live again. Every
children. Today I can say what
I understand why God called me
better future for single parents
was left behind for me. Worst
what had happened, they were
member of the cell group helped
I went through was an episode
to be part of this organization
and their children!
of all, I did not know what to do
devastated. I managed to
us financially, gave us a lot of
that God knew I could go through
— to reach out to the broken, the
next. All I could think of were
convince them that I could handle
encouragement, and showed us
by relying on Him.
shattered, and the lost, and to
Contact:
uncertainties—why me, and what
my situation. Since they were
what love really was.
Currently, I am working for a
share God’s love, the gift of hope.
Email:
[email protected]
had just happened? What did
working overseas, they graciously
Finally, I managed to find a place
non-profit organization called
At the same time, I have learnt
Estore: www.jumblestation.com.
I do wrong to deserve all this?
sent me some financial aid. To
to stay and graduated from my
Parents Without Partners (PWP)
to be humble and grateful and
my
What was going to happen to
alleviate their fears and concerns
studies. I was really proud of
as a Social Coordinator. My role
to count my blessings for what
PBB Account: Parents Without
my children? Would there be any
for me, I told my parents that I
myself that I was able to finish
is to interview single parents and
He is doing in my own personal
Partners Bhd 3155836224
future for them? When would it
would finish my studies and move
what I had started, with God’s
evaluate their needs. I am also
life, and to grow deeper with Him
FB: Parents Without Partners,
end? It was a hard time for me.
on in life.
help. Though my parent could
heading a reading program which
through this ministry.
jumblestationpwp
I remember how difficult it was
Soon with the help of church
not be around for my graduation,
caters to the needs of a group of
To-date, PWP has helped more
Blog: jumblestation1.blogspot.
friends and even some strangers,
my family in Christ was there to
underprivileged children. Under
than 200 single parents since it
com 27
Getting to know..
Getting to know..
My God Who Speaks
Design, especially abstract art,
deeply involved in church work,
time employment in DUMC. He
has always fascinated Joshua
filling the gap for DUMC’s design
had always thought himself to
San. His love for design is one
needs. At the same time, he
be a marketplace guy, and did
that is matched only by his
also poured his soul into the cell
not give much thought to those
interest in people. He believes
group he was leading, doing his
offers. In 2017, during the LEAD
in creative representations and
by Stella Lau, PJN6
best to be their spiritual leader,
conference in DUMC, he had an
communications which are
a brother and a friend.
encounter with God. God showed
presented in forms best received
GOD’S GOODNESS WAS EVIDENT
and the role Josh was to play in it.
recipients must first be attracted and captivated long enough for
That year, Josh’s friends pooled
approached to consider a very
the message to be conveyed. The
their money to buy him his first
specific position in DUMC, one
content on the other hand must
smart phone. His investment
tightly related to what God
be true, constructive and genuine.
and influence in their lives was
had revealed to him during the
Due to the categorization of our
apparent as the money collected
LEAD conference. Back home,
education system that defines
also paid his phone bill for a full
without being prompted, his wife
‘smart’ and ‘less smart’ students
year. That same year, Josh got a
unknowingly said what he needed
into the science and art streams
new fully paid car from his father.
to hear — if he wanted to go into
respectively, Josh did not pursue
Their family is not exactly well
full-time ministry, she would be
graphic design in secondary
to do. The sabbatical year was a
supportive of the decision. She
school. Fortunately for Josh, his
promise from God to Josh that
assured him that they did not
parents believed in supporting
He will take care of his needs. All
need a lot of money to get by,
their son’s interest. Josh furthered
Josh needed to do was to obey.
and that they would have faith
his studies in graphic design after
Towards the end of the sabbatical
that God will take care of them.
Form Five. He later spent years
year, Josh was approached by an
Her support was the confirmation
in various advertising agencies,
entrepreneur who was already
he needed from God to answer
wondering if there was more that
running a group of companies
the call.
his passion could be used for
dealing with cyber-security,
God. When he gradually availed
IT services, photography and
his talent and time for the use of
event management. Josh was
His kingdom, God spoke.
offered the opportunity of a
GOD USED MANY WAYS TO SHAPE, MOULD AND SPEAK INTO JOSH’S LIFE.
partnership to start a design
He gave Josh words and vision,
In 2012, after eight years of
company within the group.
He sent an entrepreneur, pastor
working in the industry, Josh was
After much consideration and
and also his wife as confirmation.
convicted by the Holy Spirit to
prayer, Integricity Creatives
Josh now spends his every
take a one year sabbatical leave.
was created with the vision to
working day in DUMC being
It was not an easy choice to
increase the standard of design
conscious that he is doing
make as he did not earn enough
and creative communications
God’s work. He spends less time
to have excessive savings to fall
between churches and Christian
struggling with his limitations,
back on in case he could not
organisations in Malaysia. The
instead he surrenders them to
find a job at the end of one year.
company was open to receive
God with prayer. Even when
However, truly assured by the
business from both Christian and
things are urgent, he spends time
Holy Spirit, he took the leap of
non-Christian associations such
waiting on God because he knows
faith to trust in God’s providence.
as TNCC, Alpha Malaysia, YWAM
that he serves a God who speaks.
Josh made a commitment to be
and Asian Beacon.
Especially when visions are so
by the recipients. However, the
He had an encounter with God...
him the plans He had for DUMC Not long after, Josh was again
big that it seems impossible, he
productive every day during his sabbatical year. He kept a record
There were occasions when Josh
knows that is exactly where God’s
of what he did daily and got
had been asked to consider full-
power will prevail.
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DUMC Ministries
DUMC Ministries
DUMC Ministries COMMUNITY YOUTH
CONGREGATIONS
CHILDREN’S CHURCH Pr Jonathan Yeoh
[email protected]
ENGLISH Pr Tan Moy How
[email protected]
NEXTGEN Terry Yeow (Teen)
[email protected]
BAHASA MALAYSIA Pr Eddy Marson
[email protected]
COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA
Sara Leong (Campus)
[email protected]
CHINESE CHURCH Pr Dr Ling Shui Nyuk
[email protected]
DEW CREW Tan Chee Meng
[email protected]
NEPALESE Alvin Yeo
[email protected]
DEW DESIGN Melody Soh
[email protected]
MYANMAR Pr Sarah Aye
[email protected]
FLOODGATES (Church Magazine) Petulia Lun
[email protected]
MEN ALIVE! Fong Siew Keong
[email protected]
PHOTOGRAPHY Stanley Woo
[email protected]
WOMEN2WOMEN Stella Hoh
[email protected]
TAMIL Pr Ravindren Arumugam
[email protected]
CREATIVE ARTS PUNCTUATION (Performing Arts and Drama ministry) Pr Gilbert Tan
[email protected] RESONATE (Worship ministry) Pr Gilbert Tan
[email protected]
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS MINISTRY Thomas & Cynthia Lim
[email protected]
ADULTS
MISSIONS CROSSFIELDS Pr Kelvin Yong
[email protected]
BREAKTHROUGH DRUG REHABILITATION CENTRE Pr Samuel Krishnan breakthrough.rehab@dumc. my
FAMILY
CITIZENS NETWORK FOR A BETTER MALAYSIA
[email protected]
FAMILY LIFE MINISTRY T C and Jean Lau
[email protected]
EXCEL TUITION CLUB Yuen Ting Ai
[email protected]
PREMARITAL COUNSELLING Bob and Ruby Chee
[email protected]
GOLDEN CLUB Rupert Ling
[email protected] FOODBANK Tan Hong Looi
[email protected] S.T.A.R YOUTH (Ministry for Intellectually Challenged Youth) Tracey Chan
[email protected] STREET MINISTRY (Ministry to the Homeless) Jerry Teo
[email protected]
FIRST TOUCH
MARRIAGE Adrian Chen & Susan
[email protected] PARENTING (Children) Ronnie and Ivy Khoo Dennis Ngai and Joo Wei
[email protected] PARENTING (Teens) Vincent and Lily Wong
[email protected] WEDDING PLANNING Elizabeth Lee
[email protected]
CONNECTORS Pr Alex Tan
[email protected] SECURITY Pr Adrian Chong
[email protected] USHERING Dr Tham Kok Wah
[email protected]
OTHERS FORERUNNERS (Intercessory Prayer Ministry) Pr Chris Manivannan
[email protected] LIBRARY Pr Michael Ngui
[email protected] TADIKA JUARA CERDIK Yuen Ting Ai juaracerdik@dreamacademy. edu.my
URBAN COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Sophy Lim
[email protected]. my YOUTH EXCEL SERVICES (Football Coaching) Pr Samuel Krishnan
[email protected]
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LOVE GOD. SERVE PEOPLE. MAKE DISCIPLES. We are DUMC. A church for all generations - an exciting community of families, senior citizens, young adults, teenagers, and young children, doing life together. Our primary purpose is not to make nice religious Christians. Our purpose is to build passionate disciples of Jesus Christ.
