In 2008 I chose between volunteering at TYA and staying at my previous church. Among other disagreements on doctrine, my church wanted me to stop volunteering. I didn't understand why my involvement with TYA was construed as disobedience, especially when just a year ago, they had been the ones telling me to get more involved with it. So I did the unthinkable: I left the church.
Staying on at TYA now means I can never quite close that chapter of my life. Almost all of the other volunteers are from my previous church. I'm continuously reminded of the difficult circumstances under which I left. But the volunteers are genuinely some of the best people I've ever met. And the children are simply incredible. It's one of the greatest privileges of my life to serve there. It does mean partnering with an organisation I don't always agree with. But they have so much to teach me in terms of living and modelling Christian lives that I'm willing to pray fervently and work relentlessly for the fruitfulness of their ministry. It doesn't mean theology doesn't matter. I think the Christ-centredness of the gospel is so attractive that it will triumph in the end, regardless. Until then, we labour to know Christ and to make Christ known, in word and deed, wherever God places us.
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Between chalets and starting another year of university life, there's been New Year celebrations and barbecues and Rock Band and WEC meetings and Sherlock Holmes II. Given how manic the past week has been, I don't think I'm gonna be blogging too frequently over the next few weeks!
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Also, Jon arrived. :) And we've been cooking quite a lot. That's apple crumble, and leftover Christmas ham with vegetable pasta. I'm glad Jon's finally here. God has provided so marvellously. Here's to 6 years together in Singapore, and then to many more years together in mission abroad—God willing.
Lovely Instagrams :) That sounds like a very tough situation to have been placed in. Saying a prayer for His continued guidance! Happy New Year!
ReplyDeleteYay for instagram pics! Addictive isn't it?! Praying for you hun! You're amazing! Keep going! :)
ReplyDeleteJust found you as 'next blog' and subscribed via reader. Truly enjoy your observations.
ReplyDeleteIt's tough when what your pastor is telling you to do differs from what you feel God wants you to do. Just pray for peace about it all and He'll give it to you!
ReplyDeleteI love these photos!
despite the difficulties that brought you there, it sounds like you're in a fabulous place doing awesome work :)
ReplyDeleteHelping kids is truly rewarding. These kids will return the favor someday to the next generation.
ReplyDeleteLove your perspective ... so good!!
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