The Bible recognises that God do communicate in dreams.
An angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream when Joseph was considering what to do with Mary. It seems the angel appeared to Joseph again and again. (Matt 1: 20, Matt 2:12-13).
In the Book of Daniel, dreams and interpretation of dreams were mentioned.
I read that in islamic nations, where the spreading of gospel is not allowed, God could speak to certain people in their dreams.
I hope God will communicate with me in my dreams too. But, no, He has not yet communicated to me with such clarity.
Most of the time, I still have to use my own common sense, and an interpretation of His teachings in the Bible, to decide His answers to my prayers.
Sunday, 7 July 2013
Thursday, 4 July 2013
The 15 books we called "Deuterocanonicals/Apocrypha"
Some of my Christian friends do not know these books exist. I now give you an introduction.
Some Bibles include these other 15 books, besides the 39 old testament books and 27 new testament books. They are:
Tobit, Judith, Esther Greek Text,
Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach, Baruch,
Letter of Jerermiah, Song of the Three Young Men, Susanna,
Bel and the Dragon, 1 Maccabees and 2 Maccabees,
1 Esdras, 2 Esdras and Prayer of Manasseh.
These books are called "deuterocanonicals" by catholics to indicate that their canonical status as Scripture was settled later than that of the proto-canonical books. Protestants usually refer these books as Apocrypha.
These books formed part of the Septuagint Text (in Greek) and were interspersed among the other books of the old Testament.
Apparently it was only in the 4th century that the canonicity of Bible (books) arose, a situation which is reflected in Jerome's placing these books in a separated section in his Vulgate translation of the Old Testament.
In 1546 at the Council of Trent, the Roman Catholic Church officially declared these books to be sacred and canonical, and to be accepted "with equal devotion and reverence."
At the time of Reformation Martin Luther did not regard these books as Scripture, but as "useful and good for reading." In his German translation of the Bible, Martin Luther followed the practice of Jerome in placing these books at the end of the Old Testament.
Among Christians who do not accept these books as Scripture, there is however widespread agreement as to their importance in providing much valuable information on Jewish history, life, thought, worship and religious practice during the centuries immediately prior to the time of Christ.
(extracted from the GOOD NEWS BIBLE WITH DEUTEROCANONICALS/APOCRYPHA)
Some Bibles include these other 15 books, besides the 39 old testament books and 27 new testament books. They are:
Tobit, Judith, Esther Greek Text,
Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach, Baruch,
Letter of Jerermiah, Song of the Three Young Men, Susanna,
Bel and the Dragon, 1 Maccabees and 2 Maccabees,
1 Esdras, 2 Esdras and Prayer of Manasseh.
These books are called "deuterocanonicals" by catholics to indicate that their canonical status as Scripture was settled later than that of the proto-canonical books. Protestants usually refer these books as Apocrypha.
These books formed part of the Septuagint Text (in Greek) and were interspersed among the other books of the old Testament.
Apparently it was only in the 4th century that the canonicity of Bible (books) arose, a situation which is reflected in Jerome's placing these books in a separated section in his Vulgate translation of the Old Testament.
In 1546 at the Council of Trent, the Roman Catholic Church officially declared these books to be sacred and canonical, and to be accepted "with equal devotion and reverence."
At the time of Reformation Martin Luther did not regard these books as Scripture, but as "useful and good for reading." In his German translation of the Bible, Martin Luther followed the practice of Jerome in placing these books at the end of the Old Testament.
Among Christians who do not accept these books as Scripture, there is however widespread agreement as to their importance in providing much valuable information on Jewish history, life, thought, worship and religious practice during the centuries immediately prior to the time of Christ.
(extracted from the GOOD NEWS BIBLE WITH DEUTEROCANONICALS/APOCRYPHA)
Friday, 28 June 2013
The terrible experience of Taoist Funeral Rituals
I am a Christian.
When my mother passed away, my father indicated his wish to adopt Taoist funeral rites. As a son, it is my filial response not to oppose the wishes of my parents.
And hence I went through 5 days of Taoist rituals. It was truly a journey fraud with convoluted logic, unbelievable imagination, and extreme superstition about the unseen world.
Firstly it appears that Taoist belief assumes all deceased go to Hell. There were chantings and symbolic gestures to "open the path of passage", invitation of ancestral spirits to welcome a new in-coming soul entering their nether world, appeasing vagrant spirits who would otherwise disturb and bully the in-coming soul, and various offerings to reduce the degree of punishments for wrongdoings committed during the earthly life.
On the night before the cremation, Taoist priests were engaged to "Da Chai". It was 4 hours of activities to breach through the gates of Hell, to invite the ancestral spirits to return to receive the gifts of (burnt) incense and burnt paper house, car, treasure troves, etc. The burning itself caused a huge bonfire on an empty field nearby.
As a Christian, my response was to pray that God Jehovah, the God who opened the Red Sea, who appeared to Abraham and Moses, and who had spoken to His prophets, would take care of mother's soul. And that His mercy and lovingkindness will see her to Heaven to enjoy His presence forever. Amen
Below is a picture of some paper items burnt for the departed:
When my mother passed away, my father indicated his wish to adopt Taoist funeral rites. As a son, it is my filial response not to oppose the wishes of my parents.
And hence I went through 5 days of Taoist rituals. It was truly a journey fraud with convoluted logic, unbelievable imagination, and extreme superstition about the unseen world.
Firstly it appears that Taoist belief assumes all deceased go to Hell. There were chantings and symbolic gestures to "open the path of passage", invitation of ancestral spirits to welcome a new in-coming soul entering their nether world, appeasing vagrant spirits who would otherwise disturb and bully the in-coming soul, and various offerings to reduce the degree of punishments for wrongdoings committed during the earthly life.
On the night before the cremation, Taoist priests were engaged to "Da Chai". It was 4 hours of activities to breach through the gates of Hell, to invite the ancestral spirits to return to receive the gifts of (burnt) incense and burnt paper house, car, treasure troves, etc. The burning itself caused a huge bonfire on an empty field nearby.
As a Christian, my response was to pray that God Jehovah, the God who opened the Red Sea, who appeared to Abraham and Moses, and who had spoken to His prophets, would take care of mother's soul. And that His mercy and lovingkindness will see her to Heaven to enjoy His presence forever. Amen
Below is a picture of some paper items burnt for the departed:
The danger of Virus
Please note that old folks must avoid the flu virus at all cost. They must not be infected by the flu virus. Hence they should avoid anyone with sore throat, cough and fever.
Medication and antibiotics are ineffective against flu virus. The patient must fight off the virus on his own.
My mother passed away because she could not overcome the flu virus. Tests showed that her other organs were in good condition at the time of demise.
Hope this little information is useful.
Medication and antibiotics are ineffective against flu virus. The patient must fight off the virus on his own.
My mother passed away because she could not overcome the flu virus. Tests showed that her other organs were in good condition at the time of demise.
Hope this little information is useful.
Monday, 24 June 2013
Ashes to Ashes, Dust to Dust
I sent my mother to Tan Tock Seng Hospital on Tuesday 18 June, morning. She passed away on Wednesday 19 June, night.
She was cremated on Sunday 23 July morning. The urn with her remains was placed in a niche at PST columbarium in the afternoon on the same day.
She had Alzheimer's Disease for the past 10 years. The last 3 years was end-stage of the disease, meaning, she could not talk, could not recognise her own children, could not swallow normally and could not control her bowels. She was "mentally dead".
That's life on earth. It's a journey with an end. Finally, finally, it's ashes to ashes, dust to dust.
Or, is it ??? What is beyond ?
She was cremated on Sunday 23 July morning. The urn with her remains was placed in a niche at PST columbarium in the afternoon on the same day.
She had Alzheimer's Disease for the past 10 years. The last 3 years was end-stage of the disease, meaning, she could not talk, could not recognise her own children, could not swallow normally and could not control her bowels. She was "mentally dead".
That's life on earth. It's a journey with an end. Finally, finally, it's ashes to ashes, dust to dust.
Or, is it ??? What is beyond ?
Thursday, 13 June 2013
Pity, Pity! All along, you believed in a lie !
Now if Christ is preached, that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead ?
But if there is no resurrection f the dead, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain.
Moreover we are even found to be false witnesses of God, because we witnessed against God that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise, if in fact the dead are not raised.
For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins.
Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.
If we have only hoped in Christ in this life, WE ARE, of all men, MOST TO BE PITIED.
But if there is no resurrection f the dead, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain.
Moreover we are even found to be false witnesses of God, because we witnessed against God that He raised Christ, whom He did not raise, if in fact the dead are not raised.
For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, your faith is worthless; you are still in your sins.
Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.
If we have only hoped in Christ in this life, WE ARE, of all men, MOST TO BE PITIED.
Wednesday, 5 June 2013
Are You Greek or Jew??
When I have a problem, I ask God for wisdom to resolve it the best possible way. Like King Solomon, I ask for wisdom, not wealth.
1 Cor 1:22 says Jews ask for signs, and Greeks search for wisdom.
St Paul went on to say (with their wisdom) the Greek will find the idea of Jesus Christ's claim as the Son of God, foolishness. 1 Cor 1:23.
Since I ask God for wisdom, so am I like the Greek ??
No. I am not. Paul went on to explain another kind of wisdom in 1 Cor 1:30: Because I believe Jesus, He has became to me wisdom from God, and God's righteousness and sanctification and redemption.
The wisdom that I asked for is not the kind Greeks and non Christians asked for. It is the kind that comes from God.
(Note: This is a print from my T-shirt Printing Class.)
1 Cor 1:22 says Jews ask for signs, and Greeks search for wisdom.
St Paul went on to say (with their wisdom) the Greek will find the idea of Jesus Christ's claim as the Son of God, foolishness. 1 Cor 1:23.
Since I ask God for wisdom, so am I like the Greek ??
No. I am not. Paul went on to explain another kind of wisdom in 1 Cor 1:30: Because I believe Jesus, He has became to me wisdom from God, and God's righteousness and sanctification and redemption.
The wisdom that I asked for is not the kind Greeks and non Christians asked for. It is the kind that comes from God.
Thursday, 23 May 2013
How God Communicates With Us
God communicates with us in many ways:
1) In His Words - Read the Bible and God will speak to us. We just have to receive what He says.
2) In a still small voice - God literally speaks to us in a voice, a still small voice. We can listen.
3) In a dream - ...an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..." (Matt 1: 19). Yes, sometimes God speaks to us in our dreams.
4) In our conscience - The Spirit of God reveals and teaches us in our conscience.
5) In nature - When we look at nature, the stars above and the earth below, sometimes we see God in His handiworks.
Amazing ! So many ways ! Yet sometimes we choose to ignore !!
1) In His Words - Read the Bible and God will speak to us. We just have to receive what He says.
2) In a still small voice - God literally speaks to us in a voice, a still small voice. We can listen.
3) In a dream - ...an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream..." (Matt 1: 19). Yes, sometimes God speaks to us in our dreams.
4) In our conscience - The Spirit of God reveals and teaches us in our conscience.
5) In nature - When we look at nature, the stars above and the earth below, sometimes we see God in His handiworks.
Amazing ! So many ways ! Yet sometimes we choose to ignore !!
The many realms of existence
Okay, I just like to share what I learnt about Buddhism recently.
1) There are different realms of existence. The 6 main realms are: Hell, Animal, Hungry Ghost, Demon, Human and Heaven, (Page 43: Just be Good). Each main realm may be sub-divided into a few more realms. Some realms were 'overlapping', e.g. Animal, Hungry Ghost, Human.
2) The highest realm is Heaven. But the goal is not just to reach the realm of Heaven. It is to reach beyond Heaven, called Nirvana (in Sanskrit) and Nibbana in Pali language. Once you reach Nirvana, you are out of the endless cycle of birth and re-birth within the various realms.
3) Those who reached Nirvana is called Arhat (check Dictionary.com).
4) Those who reached Nirvana, but voluntarily chose to remain outside (to help others) is called Bodhissattva. They are often represented by paintings and sculptures.
5) I understand that Buddha is a Bodhisattva.
Well I am intrigued by this Buddhist teachings !!!!!! Buddhism is a non-thestic religion. They don't believe in a personal God.
But I believe in a personal God. !!!
1) There are different realms of existence. The 6 main realms are: Hell, Animal, Hungry Ghost, Demon, Human and Heaven, (Page 43: Just be Good). Each main realm may be sub-divided into a few more realms. Some realms were 'overlapping', e.g. Animal, Hungry Ghost, Human.
2) The highest realm is Heaven. But the goal is not just to reach the realm of Heaven. It is to reach beyond Heaven, called Nirvana (in Sanskrit) and Nibbana in Pali language. Once you reach Nirvana, you are out of the endless cycle of birth and re-birth within the various realms.
3) Those who reached Nirvana is called Arhat (check Dictionary.com).
4) Those who reached Nirvana, but voluntarily chose to remain outside (to help others) is called Bodhissattva. They are often represented by paintings and sculptures.
5) I understand that Buddha is a Bodhisattva.
Well I am intrigued by this Buddhist teachings !!!!!! Buddhism is a non-thestic religion. They don't believe in a personal God.
But I believe in a personal God. !!!
Tuesday, 21 May 2013
Buddhism: Kindness and Compassion
I am always intrigued by Buddhism. To me, it is more difficult to understand than Christianity which can be summarised by the Niceed Creed. Below is a very good articles. I capture it in this blog so that I can read it again and again.
( from The Catholic News June 2007)
Compassion a Way of Life
BUDDHISM is the largest religion in Singapore with 1.1 million followers (representing 42.5 percent of the adult population). There are an estimated 400 million Buddhists worldwide. The word Buddhism means "the teaching of the awakened one". It is a dharmic, non-theistic religion, often described as a way of like or a practical philosophy. Dharmic religions are a family of religions (with origins in the Indian subcontinent) based on the concept of dharma, a Sanskrit term for "fixed decree, law, or duty". Buddhism focuses on the dharma or teachings of Siddhartha Gautama - "the Buddha"- who was born in Lumbini (today's Nepal) around 580 years before Christ. The Buddha's quest for Enlightenment attracted followers, and Buddhism spread throughout the Indian subcontinent in the five centuries after his death, then to the rest of Asia. It has attracted some following in the West in recent years too.
Essential Beliefs
Buddhists do not belief in a personal god. They believe that all life is interconnected and that compassion is a way of life. Buddhists believe in karma (the concept that one's life is conditioned by one's past actions)
Buddhists do not believe in a personal god. They believe that all life is interconnected and that compassion is a way of life. Buddhists believe in karma (the concept that one's life is conditioned by one's past actions) and in rebirth/reincarnation (the concept that consciousness continues after death and finds expression in a future life).
The highest goal for a Buddhist is to reach Enlightenment, a state of being which is beyond suffering and whence a deep insight into the true nature of life has been attained. The path to Enlightenment is advanced through the practice and development of morality, meditation and wisdom.
The core of the Buddha's teaching is found in the Four Noble Truths (below) which, according to tradition, he gained insight into while seated beneath a Bodhi tree (a sacred fig or banyan fig tree).
Dukkha: All existence is unsatisfactory and filled with suffering.
Trsna: The root of suffering can be defined as a craving or clinging to the wrong things; searching to find stability in a shifting world is the wrong way.
Nirvana: It is possible to find an end to suffering through enlightenment.
The Noble Eightfold Path is the way to finding the solution to suffering and bringing it to an end.
The Noble Eightfold Path, in turn, is divided into three sections: Sila (wholesome physical actions), Samadhi (the meditative concentration of the mind) and Prajñâ (spiritual insight into the true nature of all things).
Sila is morality - abstaining from unwholesome deeds. It includes right speech (speaking in a non hurtful, not exaggerated, truthful way); right actions (avoiding action that would do harm); right livelihood (a livelihood that does not harm oneself or others, directly or indirectly).
Samadhi is developing mastery over one's own mind. It includes: right effort/exercise (making an effort to improve); right mindfulness/awareness (mental ability to see things for what they are); right concentration (being aware of the present reality within oneself, without any craving or aversion).
Prajñâ is the wisdom which purifies the mind. It includes: right thoughts (change in the pattern of thinking); and right understanding (understanding reality as it is, not just as it appears to be).
Today, Buddhism is divided primarily into three traditions: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. While all three traditions share essential core beliefs, there are variations in sacred texts, doctrines, and practice.
Theravada (Southern Buddhism) or Pali Buddhism - is practised mainly in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and parts of Malaysia, Vietnam, China and Bangladesh.
Mahayana (Eastern Buddhism), also known as Chinese Buddhism, is practised predominantly in China, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Singapore and parts of Russia. A branch of Mahayana Buddhism is Zen Buddhism - a mixture of Mahayana Buddhism and Taoism which spread from China to Korea and Japan.
Vajrayana (Northern Buddhism), or Tibetan Buddhism, is practiced largely in Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan and parts of Nepal, India, China and Russia.
Buddhism in Singapore
Left, the largest Buddhist temple in Singapore is the Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (1920) located in Bishan which can hold thousands of devotees for its wide range of spiritual activities. (For information on the monastery and the Vesak celebrations visit http://www.kmspks.org/)
Most Buddhists in Singapore belong to the Mahayana tradition. However there are also Theravada and Vajrayana communities present here. It is important to note that Buddhist traditions are not exclusive and a Buddhist can be both Theravada and Mahayana at the same time, or non-denominational.
Buddhism came to Singapore primarily through the Chinese migrants who settled on the island in the early 19th century. However these migrants brought with them Chinese syncretistic religions which combined Buddhism with Confucianism and Taoism. The first Buddhist temple was built as early as 1828 but activities there were limited to chanting and rituals. It was only in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that Chinese Buddhist monks were invited to cater to the spiritual needs of the migrants and to conduct dharma talks.
While older generation Buddhists in Singapore still practise their religion with a mixture of Chinese folk traditions, there has been a reformist movement since the 1980s, sometimes called Protestant Buddhism, which seeks to purify Buddhism from a diluted belief to one that is focused on canonical and orthodox teachings.
There is a great variety of Buddhist scriptures and other texts, and different traditions place varying levels of reverence and value on them. Some view the texts as religious objects in themselves, others take a more scholarly approach. Unlike many religions, Buddhism has no single central text that is universally referred to by all traditions. This complexity of the Buddhist canons present a barrier to a wider understanding of Buddhist philosophy.
There are currently between 300-400 Buddhist temples (or centres) in Singapore, some with links to Thailand, China, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and even the U.K. and the U.S.A. Buddhist temples are funded mainly by donations from their devotees. There are also some which raise funds by selling religious items (e.g. statues, rosary) and books. While not all temples have monks or nuns in residence, all would have one or more of the following: preaching, chanting, dharma talks or classes, and meditation. Some centres also offer religious counselling and praise and worship services.
Unlike Christians who worship on Sundays and Muslims who worship on Fridays, Buddhists do not have a set day in the week to worship as a community. The Buddhist calendar is based on the lunar calendar and the monthly full-moon days are usually days of worship. Most temples observe activities for the whole day during a full moon. Some temples also run "Sunday Schools", where children from as young as three years are taught religious and human values.
Although there is no central authority or governing body for Buddhists in Singapore, they have an umbrella organization, Singapore Buddhist Federation (SBF), that represents the various Buddhist organizations. The SBF established the Buddhist College of Singapore which opened last September. The college is administered by the Kong Meng San Phor Khar See Monastery. The college specializes in Mahayana Buddhism but welcomes staff and students of other traditions. It offers a bilingual programme that leads to a BA degree in Buddhist Studies. The SBF has also set up and funded many charity organizations such as free clinics and homes, and other institutions.
Besides the SBF, there is also the Buddhist Fellowship, a non-sectarian lay Buddhist organization founded to propagate the dharma in new and creative ways whilst promoting fellowship amongst Buddhists. More English-speaking Chinese, especially the younger Singaporeans, have been embracing Buddhism in recent years because of the availability of modern Buddhist music, Buddhist books, websites and courses conducted in English.
A person who wants to officially be a Buddhist would normally undergo a religious ceremony in the temple known as "taking refuge in the Triple Gem" - the Buddha, dharma and Sangha (community of ordained monks and nuns). It is called the Triple Gem because it represents three qualities regarded as excellent and precious, like a gem. As they pay respect to the Buddha, learn the dharma, and follow the advice of the Sangha, Buddhists believe they are able to attain wisdom and happiness.
As Buddhists, they also willingly follow the Five Precepts, which are the avoidance of killing, of stealing, of misusing sex, of lying and of using intoxicants.
Popular Buddhism
Owing to the syncretism of Chinese religions and the influence of folk traditions on Buddhism, there is sometimes confusion, even among those who call themselves Buddhists, on the topic of deities and prayer. Because of their non-belief in the existence of a God or a supreme being, adherents of Buddhism in its original form take Buddhism to be more a philosophy than a religion; for some others, Buddhism is not even a philosophy but an education with the Buddha as the great teacher.
The goal of the Buddha's teachings is to break through delusion and achieve enlightenment which is obtained at three levels: Arhat (Proper Enlightenment), Bodhisattva (Equal and Proper Enlightenment) and Buddha (Perfect, Complete Enlightenment). Buddha, Bodhisattva and Arhat are common titles, not names for specifi c persons. Analogously, they are comparable to titles like Doctor, Master or Graduate for those who have earned educational degrees.
Contrary to what some people think, the many variety of Buddha and Bodhisattva statues do not represent polytheism, the worship of more than one god. Rather, each statue serves to inspire wisdom and awakening. They represent certain aspects of Buddhism and remind followers of a particular virtue. A statue of the Buddha with hands rested gently in the lap and a compassionate smile serves as a reminder to strive to develop peace and love within oneself. Bowing to the statue is an expression of gratitude for the teaching.
Guan Yin Bodhisattva, the most popular Bodhisattva in Singapore, represents great compassion and kindness. Her statue would serve as a reminder to apply compassion when dealing with the world, both with persons and the environment.
Above, a statue of the Buddha with hands rested gently in the lap and a compassionate smile serves as a reminder to develop peace and love within oneself. Buddhist monk Venerable K. Gunaratana expresses his gratitude for this teaching at the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple, Singapore.
However, there are "Buddhists" who worship images of the Buddha and Guan Yin Bodhisattva as deities and pray for the relief of suffering, to eliminate obstacles and even to ask for special favours. This is regarded by Buddhist purists as a misconception and even superstition because the statues are merely expressions of concepts in Buddhism.
Joss sticks or incense, an influence from Chinese folk traditions, have merely a symbolic function in Buddhism. The fragrance from the joss sticks symbolizes the fragrance of pure moral conduct. This reminds Buddhists to cultivate good conduct.
Orthodox Buddhists say that they do not pray. When they chant, they chant the Buddha's sacred words of love, wisdom and compassion from scriptures which help them to meditate.
There are many forms of meditation in Buddhism. Yoga, in the form of mental exercise, is just one form and is distinct from the popular Yoga practised widely today as a physical exercise.
Buddhism and Christianity
Buddhism shares some features with Christianity in areas of morality, justice and peace. Two Buddhist texts parallel Christ's golden rule in Mt 7:12: "In everything do to others as you would have them do to you.":
- "... a state that is not pleasing or delightful to me, how could I inflict that upon another?" Samyutta NIkaya v. 353.
- "Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful." Udana-Varga 5:18.
A famous Buddhist
TENZIN GYATSO, 72, is the 14th and current Dalai Lama, the head monk of Tibetan Buddhism. (In Mongolian Dalai means ocean and Lama means teacher, signifying the depth of his wisdom).
After the collapse of the Tibetan resistance movement in 1959, Tenzin Gyatso fled to India, where he established the Tibetan government-in-exile) and sought to preserve Tibetan culture and education among the thousands of refugees who accompanied him.
A charismatic figure and noted public speaker, Tenzin Gyatso is the first Dalai Lama to travel to the West, where he has helped to spread Buddhism and to publicise the ideal of Free Tibet. In 1989, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
Right, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama prays at the shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal in November 2001 during a visit to Portugal. CNS photo
Here are some of his quotable quotes:
- If you want others to be happy, practise compassion. If you want to be happy, practise compassion.
- My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.
- Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them, at least don't hurt them.-
- Whether one believes in a religion or not, and whether one believes in rebirth or not, there isn't anyone who doesn't appreciate kindness and compassion.
( from The Catholic News June 2007)
Compassion a Way of Life
BUDDHISM is the largest religion in Singapore with 1.1 million followers (representing 42.5 percent of the adult population). There are an estimated 400 million Buddhists worldwide. The word Buddhism means "the teaching of the awakened one". It is a dharmic, non-theistic religion, often described as a way of like or a practical philosophy. Dharmic religions are a family of religions (with origins in the Indian subcontinent) based on the concept of dharma, a Sanskrit term for "fixed decree, law, or duty". Buddhism focuses on the dharma or teachings of Siddhartha Gautama - "the Buddha"- who was born in Lumbini (today's Nepal) around 580 years before Christ. The Buddha's quest for Enlightenment attracted followers, and Buddhism spread throughout the Indian subcontinent in the five centuries after his death, then to the rest of Asia. It has attracted some following in the West in recent years too.
Essential Beliefs
Buddhists do not belief in a personal god. They believe that all life is interconnected and that compassion is a way of life. Buddhists believe in karma (the concept that one's life is conditioned by one's past actions)
Buddhists do not believe in a personal god. They believe that all life is interconnected and that compassion is a way of life. Buddhists believe in karma (the concept that one's life is conditioned by one's past actions) and in rebirth/reincarnation (the concept that consciousness continues after death and finds expression in a future life).
The highest goal for a Buddhist is to reach Enlightenment, a state of being which is beyond suffering and whence a deep insight into the true nature of life has been attained. The path to Enlightenment is advanced through the practice and development of morality, meditation and wisdom.
The core of the Buddha's teaching is found in the Four Noble Truths (below) which, according to tradition, he gained insight into while seated beneath a Bodhi tree (a sacred fig or banyan fig tree).
Dukkha: All existence is unsatisfactory and filled with suffering.
Trsna: The root of suffering can be defined as a craving or clinging to the wrong things; searching to find stability in a shifting world is the wrong way.
Nirvana: It is possible to find an end to suffering through enlightenment.
The Noble Eightfold Path is the way to finding the solution to suffering and bringing it to an end.
The Noble Eightfold Path, in turn, is divided into three sections: Sila (wholesome physical actions), Samadhi (the meditative concentration of the mind) and Prajñâ (spiritual insight into the true nature of all things).
Sila is morality - abstaining from unwholesome deeds. It includes right speech (speaking in a non hurtful, not exaggerated, truthful way); right actions (avoiding action that would do harm); right livelihood (a livelihood that does not harm oneself or others, directly or indirectly).
Samadhi is developing mastery over one's own mind. It includes: right effort/exercise (making an effort to improve); right mindfulness/awareness (mental ability to see things for what they are); right concentration (being aware of the present reality within oneself, without any craving or aversion).
Prajñâ is the wisdom which purifies the mind. It includes: right thoughts (change in the pattern of thinking); and right understanding (understanding reality as it is, not just as it appears to be).
Today, Buddhism is divided primarily into three traditions: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. While all three traditions share essential core beliefs, there are variations in sacred texts, doctrines, and practice.
Theravada (Southern Buddhism) or Pali Buddhism - is practised mainly in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and parts of Malaysia, Vietnam, China and Bangladesh.
Mahayana (Eastern Buddhism), also known as Chinese Buddhism, is practised predominantly in China, Vietnam, Korea, Japan, Singapore and parts of Russia. A branch of Mahayana Buddhism is Zen Buddhism - a mixture of Mahayana Buddhism and Taoism which spread from China to Korea and Japan.
Vajrayana (Northern Buddhism), or Tibetan Buddhism, is practiced largely in Tibet, Mongolia, Bhutan and parts of Nepal, India, China and Russia.
Buddhism in Singapore
Left, the largest Buddhist temple in Singapore is the Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery (1920) located in Bishan which can hold thousands of devotees for its wide range of spiritual activities. (For information on the monastery and the Vesak celebrations visit http://www.kmspks.org/)
Most Buddhists in Singapore belong to the Mahayana tradition. However there are also Theravada and Vajrayana communities present here. It is important to note that Buddhist traditions are not exclusive and a Buddhist can be both Theravada and Mahayana at the same time, or non-denominational.
Buddhism came to Singapore primarily through the Chinese migrants who settled on the island in the early 19th century. However these migrants brought with them Chinese syncretistic religions which combined Buddhism with Confucianism and Taoism. The first Buddhist temple was built as early as 1828 but activities there were limited to chanting and rituals. It was only in the late 19th and early 20th centuries that Chinese Buddhist monks were invited to cater to the spiritual needs of the migrants and to conduct dharma talks.
While older generation Buddhists in Singapore still practise their religion with a mixture of Chinese folk traditions, there has been a reformist movement since the 1980s, sometimes called Protestant Buddhism, which seeks to purify Buddhism from a diluted belief to one that is focused on canonical and orthodox teachings.
There is a great variety of Buddhist scriptures and other texts, and different traditions place varying levels of reverence and value on them. Some view the texts as religious objects in themselves, others take a more scholarly approach. Unlike many religions, Buddhism has no single central text that is universally referred to by all traditions. This complexity of the Buddhist canons present a barrier to a wider understanding of Buddhist philosophy.
There are currently between 300-400 Buddhist temples (or centres) in Singapore, some with links to Thailand, China, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and even the U.K. and the U.S.A. Buddhist temples are funded mainly by donations from their devotees. There are also some which raise funds by selling religious items (e.g. statues, rosary) and books. While not all temples have monks or nuns in residence, all would have one or more of the following: preaching, chanting, dharma talks or classes, and meditation. Some centres also offer religious counselling and praise and worship services.
Unlike Christians who worship on Sundays and Muslims who worship on Fridays, Buddhists do not have a set day in the week to worship as a community. The Buddhist calendar is based on the lunar calendar and the monthly full-moon days are usually days of worship. Most temples observe activities for the whole day during a full moon. Some temples also run "Sunday Schools", where children from as young as three years are taught religious and human values.
Although there is no central authority or governing body for Buddhists in Singapore, they have an umbrella organization, Singapore Buddhist Federation (SBF), that represents the various Buddhist organizations. The SBF established the Buddhist College of Singapore which opened last September. The college is administered by the Kong Meng San Phor Khar See Monastery. The college specializes in Mahayana Buddhism but welcomes staff and students of other traditions. It offers a bilingual programme that leads to a BA degree in Buddhist Studies. The SBF has also set up and funded many charity organizations such as free clinics and homes, and other institutions.
Besides the SBF, there is also the Buddhist Fellowship, a non-sectarian lay Buddhist organization founded to propagate the dharma in new and creative ways whilst promoting fellowship amongst Buddhists. More English-speaking Chinese, especially the younger Singaporeans, have been embracing Buddhism in recent years because of the availability of modern Buddhist music, Buddhist books, websites and courses conducted in English.
A person who wants to officially be a Buddhist would normally undergo a religious ceremony in the temple known as "taking refuge in the Triple Gem" - the Buddha, dharma and Sangha (community of ordained monks and nuns). It is called the Triple Gem because it represents three qualities regarded as excellent and precious, like a gem. As they pay respect to the Buddha, learn the dharma, and follow the advice of the Sangha, Buddhists believe they are able to attain wisdom and happiness.
As Buddhists, they also willingly follow the Five Precepts, which are the avoidance of killing, of stealing, of misusing sex, of lying and of using intoxicants.
Popular Buddhism
Owing to the syncretism of Chinese religions and the influence of folk traditions on Buddhism, there is sometimes confusion, even among those who call themselves Buddhists, on the topic of deities and prayer. Because of their non-belief in the existence of a God or a supreme being, adherents of Buddhism in its original form take Buddhism to be more a philosophy than a religion; for some others, Buddhism is not even a philosophy but an education with the Buddha as the great teacher.
The goal of the Buddha's teachings is to break through delusion and achieve enlightenment which is obtained at three levels: Arhat (Proper Enlightenment), Bodhisattva (Equal and Proper Enlightenment) and Buddha (Perfect, Complete Enlightenment). Buddha, Bodhisattva and Arhat are common titles, not names for specifi c persons. Analogously, they are comparable to titles like Doctor, Master or Graduate for those who have earned educational degrees.
Contrary to what some people think, the many variety of Buddha and Bodhisattva statues do not represent polytheism, the worship of more than one god. Rather, each statue serves to inspire wisdom and awakening. They represent certain aspects of Buddhism and remind followers of a particular virtue. A statue of the Buddha with hands rested gently in the lap and a compassionate smile serves as a reminder to strive to develop peace and love within oneself. Bowing to the statue is an expression of gratitude for the teaching.
Guan Yin Bodhisattva, the most popular Bodhisattva in Singapore, represents great compassion and kindness. Her statue would serve as a reminder to apply compassion when dealing with the world, both with persons and the environment.
Above, a statue of the Buddha with hands rested gently in the lap and a compassionate smile serves as a reminder to develop peace and love within oneself. Buddhist monk Venerable K. Gunaratana expresses his gratitude for this teaching at the Sri Lankaramaya Buddhist Temple, Singapore.
However, there are "Buddhists" who worship images of the Buddha and Guan Yin Bodhisattva as deities and pray for the relief of suffering, to eliminate obstacles and even to ask for special favours. This is regarded by Buddhist purists as a misconception and even superstition because the statues are merely expressions of concepts in Buddhism.
Joss sticks or incense, an influence from Chinese folk traditions, have merely a symbolic function in Buddhism. The fragrance from the joss sticks symbolizes the fragrance of pure moral conduct. This reminds Buddhists to cultivate good conduct.
Orthodox Buddhists say that they do not pray. When they chant, they chant the Buddha's sacred words of love, wisdom and compassion from scriptures which help them to meditate.
There are many forms of meditation in Buddhism. Yoga, in the form of mental exercise, is just one form and is distinct from the popular Yoga practised widely today as a physical exercise.
Buddhism and Christianity
Buddhism shares some features with Christianity in areas of morality, justice and peace. Two Buddhist texts parallel Christ's golden rule in Mt 7:12: "In everything do to others as you would have them do to you.":
- "... a state that is not pleasing or delightful to me, how could I inflict that upon another?" Samyutta NIkaya v. 353.
- "Hurt not others in ways that you yourself would find hurtful." Udana-Varga 5:18.
A famous Buddhist
TENZIN GYATSO, 72, is the 14th and current Dalai Lama, the head monk of Tibetan Buddhism. (In Mongolian Dalai means ocean and Lama means teacher, signifying the depth of his wisdom).
After the collapse of the Tibetan resistance movement in 1959, Tenzin Gyatso fled to India, where he established the Tibetan government-in-exile) and sought to preserve Tibetan culture and education among the thousands of refugees who accompanied him.
A charismatic figure and noted public speaker, Tenzin Gyatso is the first Dalai Lama to travel to the West, where he has helped to spread Buddhism and to publicise the ideal of Free Tibet. In 1989, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.
Right, Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama prays at the shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal in November 2001 during a visit to Portugal. CNS photo
Here are some of his quotable quotes:
- If you want others to be happy, practise compassion. If you want to be happy, practise compassion.
- My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness.
- Our prime purpose in this life is to help others. And if you can't help them, at least don't hurt them.-
- Whether one believes in a religion or not, and whether one believes in rebirth or not, there isn't anyone who doesn't appreciate kindness and compassion.
Saturday, 18 May 2013
The Beauty Of Fantasies
Sight and sound can induce fantasies. I like fantasies. They are beautiful. But they are just ... fantasies.
First hear the fantasy in sound:
Then view the fantasy by sight:
First hear the fantasy in sound:
Then view the fantasy by sight:
Friday, 10 May 2013
There will be Afflictions
"For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ... 2 Cor 1:5.
Ha Ha! Those of us who think being christians will solve all our problems and sufferings, you have mistaken. In all Paul's epistles in the New Testament, he always talked about being badly treated and having lots of difficulties. "Afflictions" was the word he used.
But he was always joyful. He said "Blessed be the God ... the Father of mercies and God of all comfort." 2 Cor 1:3.
So being a christian, we continue to have lots of afflictions, but we also have lots of joy and comfort.
How can afflictions and joy happen at the same time ??!?? Walk with the Lord, and you would experience both, yourself.
Ha Ha! Those of us who think being christians will solve all our problems and sufferings, you have mistaken. In all Paul's epistles in the New Testament, he always talked about being badly treated and having lots of difficulties. "Afflictions" was the word he used.
But he was always joyful. He said "Blessed be the God ... the Father of mercies and God of all comfort." 2 Cor 1:3.
So being a christian, we continue to have lots of afflictions, but we also have lots of joy and comfort.
How can afflictions and joy happen at the same time ??!?? Walk with the Lord, and you would experience both, yourself.
Sunday, 7 April 2013
Remain useful and productive
I have friends who are retired. They spend all their time exercising and maintain healthy. Wake up in the morning - exercise, eat, rest, and buy food, wash up and personal chores. Afternoon - eat, sleep, rest and exercise. Evening - some light entertaining, sleep. And the daily routine repeats the next day.
To me, retirement must not be 'total retirement' (defined as doing nothing productive). As we grow old, we need to ease down our workload, but still need to do some productive work.
Exercising and keeping fit is not an end in itself. It is a means for us to remain productive as we grow old gracefully.
Physically, we are weaker, and mentally we are slower as we age.
Between 50 to 60 years, our work capacity should be reduced gradually to 80% to 60%.
Between 60 to 70 years, our work capacity should be reduced further to 60% to 30%
Between 70 to 80 years, our work capacity should be reduced further to 30% to 10%.
After 80 years old, we should be working at 10% capacity or less. Well after 85 years, it time to rest our hearts that have been working non-stop since we were born.
So, yes, keep fit. But do it for a purpose.
To me, retirement must not be 'total retirement' (defined as doing nothing productive). As we grow old, we need to ease down our workload, but still need to do some productive work.
Exercising and keeping fit is not an end in itself. It is a means for us to remain productive as we grow old gracefully.
Physically, we are weaker, and mentally we are slower as we age.
Between 50 to 60 years, our work capacity should be reduced gradually to 80% to 60%.
Between 60 to 70 years, our work capacity should be reduced further to 60% to 30%
Between 70 to 80 years, our work capacity should be reduced further to 30% to 10%.
After 80 years old, we should be working at 10% capacity or less. Well after 85 years, it time to rest our hearts that have been working non-stop since we were born.
So, yes, keep fit. But do it for a purpose.
Wednesday, 3 April 2013
Agnus Dei
Let me share with you another Easter Song. Agnus Dei or Lamb of God.
It is a worshipful song. Powerful. Repetitive. Emo. Speaks right to the heart. Praise the Lamb of God - The most holy.
It is a worshipful song. Powerful. Repetitive. Emo. Speaks right to the heart. Praise the Lamb of God - The most holy.
Sunday, 31 March 2013
Today is Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday. Today I renewed my baptismal vow.
This holy week I was reminded what I believe. - Christ had died, Christ had risen, Christ will come again.
Today I was in a reflective mood. How come I believe in a God whom I have not seen ??
I just realised that the SNGLE MOST IMPORTANT thing I gained from my 12 years in St. Andrew's School was getting to know God and the wonders of His grace. Sure, I also learnt to play all kinds of games, made life-long friends, and obtained grades good enough to go to Uni. But all these are no longer important to me as I grow old.
The Love of God, the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Fellowship of the Holy Spirit, is what goes with me to eternity.
(note: I learnt this hymn in school long time ago.)
This holy week I was reminded what I believe. - Christ had died, Christ had risen, Christ will come again.
Today I was in a reflective mood. How come I believe in a God whom I have not seen ??
I just realised that the SNGLE MOST IMPORTANT thing I gained from my 12 years in St. Andrew's School was getting to know God and the wonders of His grace. Sure, I also learnt to play all kinds of games, made life-long friends, and obtained grades good enough to go to Uni. But all these are no longer important to me as I grow old.
The Love of God, the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the Fellowship of the Holy Spirit, is what goes with me to eternity.
(note: I learnt this hymn in school long time ago.)
Sunday, 24 March 2013
Upon this Rock, I will build My Church...but Peter you have much to learn..
Jesus appointed the first Pope many days before His death on the cross. In Matt 16:18, Jesus said, in front of all His disciples "...You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church...".
By and by, many days passed. Jesus mounted on a donkey and entered Jerusalem. Again many days passed.
It was now the night before Jesus was cruxified. Jesus and His disciples were in the Upper Room for the Last Supper. Here Peter pledged his loyalty to Jesus and claimed "Even though all may fall away from You, I will never fall away." But Jesus said to him, "I say to you that this very night, before the cock crows, you shall deny Me 3 times." Matt 26:33-35.
We all know what happened after that. Peter denied 3 times that he knew Jesus.
So even though Peter was appointed to be the first Pope, he still had much to learn. What did Peter learn? Learn about his tendency to crumple under persecution, his tendency to feel ashamed of Jesus, avoid trusting himself, acknowledging his human weaknesses?
The first Pope had much to learn after his appointment. But, in the end, he did not fail Jesus -- he was cruxified too, but upside down.
By and by, many days passed. Jesus mounted on a donkey and entered Jerusalem. Again many days passed.
It was now the night before Jesus was cruxified. Jesus and His disciples were in the Upper Room for the Last Supper. Here Peter pledged his loyalty to Jesus and claimed "Even though all may fall away from You, I will never fall away." But Jesus said to him, "I say to you that this very night, before the cock crows, you shall deny Me 3 times." Matt 26:33-35.
We all know what happened after that. Peter denied 3 times that he knew Jesus.
So even though Peter was appointed to be the first Pope, he still had much to learn. What did Peter learn? Learn about his tendency to crumple under persecution, his tendency to feel ashamed of Jesus, avoid trusting himself, acknowledging his human weaknesses?
The first Pope had much to learn after his appointment. But, in the end, he did not fail Jesus -- he was cruxified too, but upside down.
Tuesday, 19 March 2013
What an Inauguration !!
I happened to turn on the TV at 4+ pm this afternoon. The new Pope's Inauguration was being televised. It was amazing ! A million people was at St. Peter's Square ! Pope Francis is the 266th successor of St Peter the Apostle, whom Jesus Christ said "Peter, you are the Rock, and upon this Rock I will build my Church."
So many priests, cardinals, bishops, nuns, etc, etc, were there. In my mind, I asked whether all these faces, people who spent their lives believing that Christ is the Son of God -- "Are you sure or not? Are you believing the truth or believing a 2000 year old lie??"
As for me, I believe in Christ. I also believe that the church of Rome, passed down from St Peter, is the mother church.
Saturday, 2 March 2013
See His Glory? Then acknowledge Him.
In my previous entry, I mentioned that I was reading this "JUST BE GOOD" Buddhist book.
Page 36. Question: "In Buddhism, why isn't there a belief in a supreme god that created the universe?"
Answer: "Buddhists tend to be fairly realistic in such matters and do not believe in creation myths such as the universe emerging from a cosmic egg, or created by an old man with a long white beard. If anything we believe that the universe has always existed. If it is said that an omnipotent being or 'intelligent designer' did create the universe, then it begs the obvious question of who then created or 'designed' that being? And if that being has always existed, then isn't it more believeable that the universe has always been in existence instead?"
Personally, I am sad that some people could not acknowledge that the creator God exists. Ever since I was a small child, when I look at the night sky, I would know in my heart that God exists. Much later, when I was older and know how to read the Bible, Psalm 19:1 expresses what had always been in my heart -- The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork.
Look carefully. And you can see God in His handiwork. When you do, acknowledge God and God will lead you to Christ.
He did that to me, for me.
Page 36. Question: "In Buddhism, why isn't there a belief in a supreme god that created the universe?"
Answer: "Buddhists tend to be fairly realistic in such matters and do not believe in creation myths such as the universe emerging from a cosmic egg, or created by an old man with a long white beard. If anything we believe that the universe has always existed. If it is said that an omnipotent being or 'intelligent designer' did create the universe, then it begs the obvious question of who then created or 'designed' that being? And if that being has always existed, then isn't it more believeable that the universe has always been in existence instead?"
Personally, I am sad that some people could not acknowledge that the creator God exists. Ever since I was a small child, when I look at the night sky, I would know in my heart that God exists. Much later, when I was older and know how to read the Bible, Psalm 19:1 expresses what had always been in my heart -- The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork.
Look carefully. And you can see God in His handiwork. When you do, acknowledge God and God will lead you to Christ.
He did that to me, for me.
Thursday, 21 February 2013
Just be Good...
I saw and picked up this booklet along a walkway. I read it and learnt a few things. It is interesting.
Page 9 says..."The Buddha never said anything like 'worship me and you shall be rewarded'. He also never threatened to punish anyone should they not believe in Him or follow His Teachings.
He stressed that everyone should seek, understand and experience the Truth for themselves, and not to have blind faith in anyone or anything.
THUS CHRISTIANS, HINDUS, MUSLIMS, JEWS, BUDDHISTS, TAOISTS, AND EVEN ATHEISTS, ARE ALL ABLE TO ENJOY AFTERLIFE. BUT OF COURSE PROVIDED, THAT THEY HAVE BEEN 'GOOD' PEOPLE."
Page 36 says...Question: "In Buddhism, why isn't there a belief in a supreme god that created the universe?" Answer: "Buddhists tend to be fairly realistic in such matters and do not believe in creation myths such as the universe emerging from a cosmic egg, or created by an old man with a long white beard. If anything we believe that the universe has always existing..."
Note: As for me, I believe in the Triune God. And when I pray or talk with Him, He comforts me and touches my heart. God is real to me. Alleluia !
Wednesday, 13 February 2013
Wish you Happiness... CNY...
It's Chinese New Year, 4th day. Xin Nian Kuai Le.
My past year had been both unkind and kind. My sister had died of Acute Myeloid Leukemia, that was unkind. She suffered 5 long months, that was unkind. But she did not suffer 5 long years, that was kind.
Last Friday, 2 days before the New Year, the mother of another friend died suddenly. That was unkind. She died without having to suffer, and she was over 90 years old. I think that was kind.
For years, I prayed that God will grant me 'enough'. Enough, so that I will remember living in God's grace, and not living in abundance through my own effort, forgetting God in the process. God answered that prayer. I had 'enough', just enough and not more. That was kind. (Judges 7:1-4)
So here I am, relentlessly adding new year after new year to my age. I wish all peace and happiness. Amen.
My past year had been both unkind and kind. My sister had died of Acute Myeloid Leukemia, that was unkind. She suffered 5 long months, that was unkind. But she did not suffer 5 long years, that was kind.
Last Friday, 2 days before the New Year, the mother of another friend died suddenly. That was unkind. She died without having to suffer, and she was over 90 years old. I think that was kind.
For years, I prayed that God will grant me 'enough'. Enough, so that I will remember living in God's grace, and not living in abundance through my own effort, forgetting God in the process. God answered that prayer. I had 'enough', just enough and not more. That was kind. (Judges 7:1-4)
So here I am, relentlessly adding new year after new year to my age. I wish all peace and happiness. Amen.
Everyone must go...
My wife has a colleague X. The husband of colleague X had been told by doctors that he has 1 week to 7 weeks more to live. It's due to multiple types of cancer in his body.
Well, its sad. There is nothing anyone can do at this final hour. God has mercy. Let the end be sweet and easy. Amen.
Status on 5 Mar 2013:
On Saturday 2 March 2013, he died. He breathed his last peacefully.
Lord have mercy !
Tuesday, 22 January 2013
Christ was sincere...
My friends and I use Facebook.
I appreciate my Facebook friends when they are sincere. A lot of Facebook users write and comment only on things 'others will agree on'. So they comment on the weather, post photos of the food they ate, post photos of places they visited. These users avoid expressing any views that others may disagree. They say only the nice things, and silent on their deeper thoughts which others may find disagreeable or may have differing views.
Not with Jesus. He was sincere. He did not hesitate to say things that others did not want to hear him say aloud. Luke 12: 49 to 59, "I have come to cast fire upon the earth...Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division....I say to you, you shall not get out of there until you have paid the very last cent."
Jesus told the people the truth, though the truth is not nicey sweety stuff. He did not sell himself by saying only "nice words". He was not a hypocrite !!
Personally, I prefer friends who express themselves freely, and not hiding their differing views, not filtering away the disagreeable stuff on Facebook. That's what friends should be - , sincerity, honest, and not pretentious.
So what if they think they are always right? I think I am always right too. We still can be friends.
I appreciate my Facebook friends when they are sincere. A lot of Facebook users write and comment only on things 'others will agree on'. So they comment on the weather, post photos of the food they ate, post photos of places they visited. These users avoid expressing any views that others may disagree. They say only the nice things, and silent on their deeper thoughts which others may find disagreeable or may have differing views.
Not with Jesus. He was sincere. He did not hesitate to say things that others did not want to hear him say aloud. Luke 12: 49 to 59, "I have come to cast fire upon the earth...Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division....I say to you, you shall not get out of there until you have paid the very last cent."
Jesus told the people the truth, though the truth is not nicey sweety stuff. He did not sell himself by saying only "nice words". He was not a hypocrite !!
Personally, I prefer friends who express themselves freely, and not hiding their differing views, not filtering away the disagreeable stuff on Facebook. That's what friends should be - , sincerity, honest, and not pretentious.
So what if they think they are always right? I think I am always right too. We still can be friends.
Sunday, 20 January 2013
Perhaps there are no Atheists..
At certain times of our lives, we may think God does not exist. But then at other times, we are not so sure, and so we declare being agnostic. It is common for some people to swing between being an atheist and an agnostic.
However, when one is 50 or 60 years old, one would have gone through much of life's experience - periods of joy, periods of disappointment, periods of trials and tribulations. Yet, one may not have been touched by God. One may still waver and swing back and forth between being an atheist and an agnostic.
But in my opinion, I honestly believe a person could not be an atheist beyond middle age. He is likely to be 'not sure', an agnostic; rather than 'definitely no God'.
I came to this conclusion because I believe a human would have experienced the wonders of nature by then. I believe the wonders of nature carries a still small voice which prompts the divine presence. That voice may be very soft, fade and intermittent. And a human may be unsure whether he heard it - he is not sure, so he is an agnostic. He cannot say its definitely not there!
"The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanses is declaring the work of God's hand." Psalms 19:1
Saturday, 19 January 2013
Thanks for the Peace
Jesus came to give us Peace. He is the Prince of Peace.
By accepting Christ, we enjoy peace with God, and peace within our soul.
But, mind you, NOT ALL KINDS of peace. In fact, many Christians are continuously troubled by other things! Believing in Christ does not give us peace in many other instances.
Luke 12:51-52 says "Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division; for from now on 5 members in one household will be divided, 3 against 2, and 2 against 3...father against son, and son against father...."
Believing in Christ could divide the family, divide the community and divide the nation. Christianity, together with other religions, fragmented the world and spark wars.
But, I say again, by accepting Christ, we, the created, finally enjoy peace with God our creator, and hence peace within our soul.
God, thank you for this peace that surpasses all understanding. Sincerely.
By accepting Christ, we enjoy peace with God, and peace within our soul.
But, mind you, NOT ALL KINDS of peace. In fact, many Christians are continuously troubled by other things! Believing in Christ does not give us peace in many other instances.
Luke 12:51-52 says "Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division; for from now on 5 members in one household will be divided, 3 against 2, and 2 against 3...father against son, and son against father...."
Believing in Christ could divide the family, divide the community and divide the nation. Christianity, together with other religions, fragmented the world and spark wars.
But, I say again, by accepting Christ, we, the created, finally enjoy peace with God our creator, and hence peace within our soul.
God, thank you for this peace that surpasses all understanding. Sincerely.
The Curse of Long Life ...
Today is Saturday 19 Jan 2013.
In the newspaper Today The New York Times International Weekly, page 8, the headline is "A SHAME IN SOUTH KOREA: SUICIDES OF SENIORS RISE AT AN ALARMING RATE".
I have came across a few deaths in recent years. I know that the suicide rate of seniors in Singapore is relatively high as well.
Why are older people committing suicide ? Basically its due to no family support, no money, and the realisation that one is becoming a burden to the family members when one grows old and infirm.
I see a lot of old retirees exercising in the parks in the morning. If they are trying to keep fit to live long lives, then they need to consider and to prepare for the 'curse of long life'.
Not being able to die once material resources are depleted is the curse of long life. When one has no children to provide the care require is the 'curse of long life'.
For old folks, there is an average of 5 years of disability before death. Our aim should be to reduce this period of disability, say from 5 years to 1 year. Aiming for long life itself is not correct because it carries a curse.
It's OK to live not-too-long. And drop death without lengthy period of disability. Lets hope for that.
Just my view.
In the newspaper Today The New York Times International Weekly, page 8, the headline is "A SHAME IN SOUTH KOREA: SUICIDES OF SENIORS RISE AT AN ALARMING RATE".
I have came across a few deaths in recent years. I know that the suicide rate of seniors in Singapore is relatively high as well.
Why are older people committing suicide ? Basically its due to no family support, no money, and the realisation that one is becoming a burden to the family members when one grows old and infirm.
I see a lot of old retirees exercising in the parks in the morning. If they are trying to keep fit to live long lives, then they need to consider and to prepare for the 'curse of long life'.
Not being able to die once material resources are depleted is the curse of long life. When one has no children to provide the care require is the 'curse of long life'.
For old folks, there is an average of 5 years of disability before death. Our aim should be to reduce this period of disability, say from 5 years to 1 year. Aiming for long life itself is not correct because it carries a curse.
It's OK to live not-too-long. And drop death without lengthy period of disability. Lets hope for that.
Just my view.
Thursday, 17 January 2013
It's a trick question....
Many people like to ask a trick question -- "Where is Jesus Christ now ??"
In Acts 1:9-11, it says "And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight...Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into Heaven."
So the answer to the trick question is - Jesus is now in Heaven. He 'flew' there as seen by hundreds of amazed onlookers!
In Acts 9:4-5, it says "he (Saul/Paul) fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?' And Saul said "Who art Thou, Lord?' And He said, 'I am Jesus whom you are persecuting."
So the answer to the trick question is - Jesus is here on Earth. He spoke to Saul!
Combining the 2 answers, Jesus is physically in Heaven; but spiritually, He is everywhere. He is God. He is All-presence.
So God the Father is here and everywhere. Jesus is here and everywhere. The Holy Spirit is also here and everywhere.
Spiritually, the Triune God is everywhere and even in our hearts. But someday, Jesus will come again PHYSICALLY "just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven,"
Interesting!
Alleluia!
In Acts 1:9-11, it says "And after He had said these things, He was lifted up while they were looking on, and a cloud received Him out of their sight...Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into Heaven."
So the answer to the trick question is - Jesus is now in Heaven. He 'flew' there as seen by hundreds of amazed onlookers!
In Acts 9:4-5, it says "he (Saul/Paul) fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, 'Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?' And Saul said "Who art Thou, Lord?' And He said, 'I am Jesus whom you are persecuting."
So the answer to the trick question is - Jesus is here on Earth. He spoke to Saul!
Combining the 2 answers, Jesus is physically in Heaven; but spiritually, He is everywhere. He is God. He is All-presence.
So God the Father is here and everywhere. Jesus is here and everywhere. The Holy Spirit is also here and everywhere.
Spiritually, the Triune God is everywhere and even in our hearts. But someday, Jesus will come again PHYSICALLY "just the same way as you have watched Him go into heaven,"
Interesting!
Alleluia!
Monday, 14 January 2013
Is this correct??
Many people brand Benny Hinn as a false teacher. But in his books, he did explain very profound things which others could not grasp easily.
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (KJV)
Holy Ghost first, the comes power.
What is Holy Ghost? It is the Presence, the person, the fruit.
What is Power? Anointing is the Power of God. It is spiritual gifts.
What is fruit? They are qualities or characteristics, attributes of God.
Fruit: When God is with you, His fruit will come with Him. When God's presence leaves you, His fruit will leave too.
Power: Not so with power. The power of God comes upon you as a gift. It stays with you. It's possible that when God's presence leaves, the power will not leave. It's a gift, it stays, at least for a while. ("The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable." Rom 11:29)
The presence of God, the Holy Spirit, leads to the anointing of the Spirit, which is the power of God. The anointing cannot be seen, but the power (which is the manifestations)can be seen. Benny called it (the power, the manifestation) "tangible anointing".
A bit 'chim' or difficult to understand, right?
Think about these words: Fruit, Power, Presence, Anointing.
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." (KJV)
Holy Ghost first, the comes power.
What is Holy Ghost? It is the Presence, the person, the fruit.
What is Power? Anointing is the Power of God. It is spiritual gifts.
What is fruit? They are qualities or characteristics, attributes of God.
Fruit: When God is with you, His fruit will come with Him. When God's presence leaves you, His fruit will leave too.
Power: Not so with power. The power of God comes upon you as a gift. It stays with you. It's possible that when God's presence leaves, the power will not leave. It's a gift, it stays, at least for a while. ("The gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable." Rom 11:29)
The presence of God, the Holy Spirit, leads to the anointing of the Spirit, which is the power of God. The anointing cannot be seen, but the power (which is the manifestations)can be seen. Benny called it (the power, the manifestation) "tangible anointing".
A bit 'chim' or difficult to understand, right?
Think about these words: Fruit, Power, Presence, Anointing.
I Found An Explanation...
I was puzzled and amazed by Apostle Paul. He was Saul, not a follower of Jesus. Then he was blinded on the road. When he was healed of his blindness, he immediately loved and preached God. He was transformed -- behold, a totally new person.
For years I was wondering where Apostle Paul learned about Christ. He did not follow Christ, nor was taught by Christ, before Christ's death. He did not sit down and be tutored by the other 11 Apostles. He did not attend a crash course for a Degree or a Doctorate in Divinity!
Benny Hinn's, in his book "The Anointing" explained that Paul's knowledge on Jesus Christ was INSTANT or instantaneous. The Holy Spirit came to Paul. He received the ANOINTING, which is the power of God. He was filled with the knowledge to preach and lived as an Apostle INSTANTLY. No need to attend any Theology courses. No need to be taught by humans.
I have to say, Benny Hinn's explanation is possible.
For years I was wondering where Apostle Paul learned about Christ. He did not follow Christ, nor was taught by Christ, before Christ's death. He did not sit down and be tutored by the other 11 Apostles. He did not attend a crash course for a Degree or a Doctorate in Divinity!
Benny Hinn's, in his book "The Anointing" explained that Paul's knowledge on Jesus Christ was INSTANT or instantaneous. The Holy Spirit came to Paul. He received the ANOINTING, which is the power of God. He was filled with the knowledge to preach and lived as an Apostle INSTANTLY. No need to attend any Theology courses. No need to be taught by humans.
I have to say, Benny Hinn's explanation is possible.
Wednesday, 26 December 2012
Christmas - Blessed Be God
It was a good Christmas Day yesterday. I do not like all the commercial gifts and non-christian christmas carols. I just like a quiet time to remind myself of God's goodness.
Just a wonderful, simple song like this will make my day...
Blessed Be God.
Just a wonderful, simple song like this will make my day...
Blessed Be God.
Saturday, 15 December 2012
God was not there !
The 12.12.12 news headlines screamed "Gunman killed 26 in US suburban Connecticut School " - 20 young children and 6 teachers.
As a christian, I need to reflect on this in relation to my belief in an all-powerful, all-knowing, all-present God who is loving and kind.
My conclusion is that, if God was there at the time of incident, God would have stopped the killing.
God is kind and loving and will not allow innocent lives to be taken away this way. My conclusion is that, during the few minutes of killing, God was not there. Although He is all-present, somehow, I cannot explain why, He was not there during that few minutes.
My conclusion is the only way my finite mind can justify both the existence of God, and the existence of disasters like this, concurrently at the same time.
Now He is there in Connecticut to comfort those who pray.
Alleluia ! Photo From Roving-light.com
As a christian, I need to reflect on this in relation to my belief in an all-powerful, all-knowing, all-present God who is loving and kind.
My conclusion is that, if God was there at the time of incident, God would have stopped the killing.
God is kind and loving and will not allow innocent lives to be taken away this way. My conclusion is that, during the few minutes of killing, God was not there. Although He is all-present, somehow, I cannot explain why, He was not there during that few minutes.
My conclusion is the only way my finite mind can justify both the existence of God, and the existence of disasters like this, concurrently at the same time.
Now He is there in Connecticut to comfort those who pray.
Alleluia ! Photo From Roving-light.com
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