Faith - Hope - Love

EXCELLENCE - WINSTON CHURCHILL

2011-11-20T00:55:00.002-08:00

;Excellence is...Caring more than others think is wise; Risking more than others think is safe; Dreaming more than others think is practical. Expecting more than others think is possible' (Winston Churchill).

My simple quick reflective questions: Do I really have the desire to be excellent? Am I willing to do (to pay) the extra miles (cost) on the road to excellence?

MOTHER'S THERESA ON HUMILITY

2011-11-17T12:56:00.000-08:00

GHANDI'S 7 DANGERS TO HUMAN VIRTUE

2011-11-17T03:08:00.002-08:00

THREE REFLECTIONS ON 111111

2011-11-11T08:43:00.001-08:00

'This morning, I was reminded that if I start with loving other(s) or thing(s), I will never be able to love God wholeheartedly - but if I first love God with all my heart, I will be enabled to love other(s) or thing(s) in the right perspective - My reflection on Luke 14.25-27'

'If there is no other issue, can broken pieces establish a solid unity? They may or they may not - If there is no other issue, can solid pieces establish a solid unity? They may or they may not. The truth is: unity should never be a goal to pursue, but a means in which we reach glorious goals in the future. To dream a unity as a goal is deceiving'

'A desire to be united should not start with a discussion on what a unity is, but with a sincere attitude of humility'

WORDS TO REFLECT - OCTOBER 2011

2011-11-09T23:06:00.000-08:00

'I am convinced even more that our freedom to react is greater than our freedom to act' (Prasadja, October 2, 2011)

'Biblical happiness is passive happiness: YOU ARE BLESSED!' (Prasadja, October 2, 2011)

'Drinking coffee on a regular basis can keep a smile on your face' (Metro, October 4th, 2011)

This certainly is an unusual rare unrivaled commencement address offered by Apple's co-founder, the late Steve Jobs (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011) at Stanford University. Jobs offers extraordinary wisdom from his ordinary words and stories. Enjoy the speech: Stay hungry! - Stay foolish! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF8uR6Z6KLc (October 5, 2011)

'Revenge satisfies no one' (Prasadja, October 10, 2011)

'Although grace is sufficient, pain is real' (my paraphrase of a statement made in our prayer meeting) (October 12, 2011)

'Two prominent reasons why men should appreciate, respect and love their wives: 1) They have taken a big risk to entrust their lives to individuals completely different from them and previously unknown to them; and 2) They have been so dedicated in raising up and loving the kids in the family' (Prasadja, October 12, 2011)

I am reading this challenging book and am eager to learn from understanding its message (October 13, 2011)

'Berbagai doa makan yang sering saya dengar: 1) Bersyukur atas makanan yang telah tersedia; 2) Berkati orang-orang miskin yang tidak dapat makan; 3) Berkati dengan limpah mereka yang telah menyediakan makanan ini; 4) Kuduskan dan berkati makanan ini - maksudnya kira-kira bebaskan dari segala racun dan bahaya; 5) Kiranya makanan ini dapat menguatkan tubuh kami - kira-kira maksudnya supaya tidak saja kenyang, tapi juga sehat; 6) Tolonglah kami untuk dapat menikmati makanan ini; 7) Biarlah makanan yang sedikit ini boleh mengenyangkan semua yang hadir - ingat 2 ikan dan 5 roti; 8) Doa yang panjang sampai akhirnya ketika 'amin' diucapkan, ternyata lupa berdoa untuk acara makannya' (Prasadja, October 15, 2011)

'Listening skill is likely much more important than speaking skill' (Prasadja, October 19, 2011)

‘I am not what I wear; I am not what I say, I am not what I do, I am not what I accomplished – but I am my legacy’ (Prasadja, October 21, 2011)

'After two months of school, more frequent have I heard Keiko said: 'I do not understand what you are saying, Dad!' - Early sign of cultural and linguistic gap between daughter and daddy' (Prasadja, October 21, 2011)

'Lately Elliott has been improving significantly in his vocabulary. One of them is 'psssstttt' - every time he heard daddy is singing' (Prasadja, October 21, 2011)

KEY TO SUCCESS: METHODOLOGY, IDEOLOGY & MOTIVATION + GOAL (Prasadja, October 23, 2011)

A very good friend of mine told me a precious wisdom: 'If you begin with humility, you will never go wrong' (Prasadja, October 24, 2011)

'My major enemies as someone who lives in early third millennium AD: narrow mindedness, one sided judgment, and self righteous mentality' (Prasadja, October 31, 2011)

WORDS TO REFLECT - SEPTEMBER 2011

2011-11-09T23:03:00.000-08:00

'The task of a communication is not to tell the truth to your partner of conversation, but to make that truth available as answer to his or her deepest inquiries' (Prasadja, September 5, 2011)

This is the day she has really been longing for months: returning to school again - only by God's grace (Keiko on the 1^st day of school – September 6, 2011)

James D. G. Dunn wrote: 'Hi everyone. You will be saddened to hear that Kingsley Barrett, my predecessor, died last night (6.30 pm, 26.08.11) – aged 94. He was the greatest UK commentator on NT texts since J. B. Lightfoot, and much loved by a wide range of Methodist chapels to which he ministered for about 60 years. He will be much missed, but his commentaries will live on for many years, providing information and insight to future generations of students of the NT' (September 7, 2011)

'The size of your heart is expressed and measured by your patience, gentleness and humility in your relationship and interaction towards one another' (Prasadja, September 7, 2011)

'Life is happier, lighter and even more meaningful if you can apply these fundamental principles: (1) act motivated by sincerity and love; (2) always strive for excellence; (3) do not be afraid of making mistakes - mistakes are not your deadly monsters' (Prasadja, September 8, 2011)

Ten years ago .......... (http://ca.news.yahoo.com/photos/9-11-the-25-most-powerful-photos-1315611364-slideshow/25-most-powerful-photos-photo-1315610966.html) (September 11, 2011)

'As soon as Solomon finished his prayer, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple - As soon as we finished our prayer, .....' (2 Chronicles 7.1; ESV modified) (September 12, 2011)

'Our life is often like a ball: we do not go up before we touch the ground' (Prasadja, September 16, 2011)

What do you think is the reason behind this courageous statement of Jonah “Throw me into the sea,” Jonah said, “and it will become calm again. I know that this terrible storm is all my fault” (1.12)? If you were Jonah and were in his situation, would you do the same? (Prasadja, September 16, 2011)

Exploring National Parks and Cities in the US and Canada Chicago-Badlands-Mt. Rushmore-Yellowstone-Grand Teton-Glacier-Waterton Lakes-Calgary-Banff-Lake Louise-Vancouver-Victoria-Seattle-Portland-Canon Beach-Red Wood-San Francisco-Yosemite-Las Vegas-Zion-Bryce-Chicago (3 Weeks, 8,500 Miles, September 1996, Alone - 15th year anniversary) (September 19, 2011)

'Most failures begin with ears that are unwilling to listen' (Prasadja, September 19, 2011)

'Carnation is a shy flower. She is humble, gentle and wise. She is not attracting, but is calm. She is neither expressive nor emotional, but is always reflective and peaceful. Her fragrant is not worshiped, but her simplicity shines' (My eulogy on a flower I have closely known for more than 30 years now - Prasadja, September 20, 2011)

'I am too poor to buy humility' (Prasadja, September 21, 2011)

'Two aspects of humility listed in Philippians 1.1: (1) Acknowledging others' significances, and (2) Avoiding self-congratulation upon self-significances' (Prasadja, September 24, 2011)

'Being a respected person does not mean an isolation' (Prasadja, September 25, 2011)

Self-talk, 'I am good' is enough - 'I am the best' is too much and misleading sometimes; 'I am correct' is enough - 'I am the most righteous' is too much and arrogant sometimes (Prasadja, September, 26, 2011)

‘A pillow really add to the quality of your sleep: I confess’ (Prasadja, September 28, 2011)

STOP PRESS: 'TO LEARN & TO RISK' is launched at http://prasadja-ery.blogspot.com/ (September 29, 2011)

WORDS TO REFLECT - AUGUST 2011

2011-11-09T23:00:00.000-08:00

Reading two (2) classic books. One is a biography of a man of faith and miracles: George Muller (author: Basil Miller). The other is a full academic treatment on the historical Jesus by James M. Robinson (A New Quest of the Historical Jesus and Other Essays) (August 1, 2011)

One of the most important and strongest messages to the evangelicals who desire to live fruitfully in this 21st Century Post Christendom Era (from one of the most respected and influential Christian leaders: John Stott) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EU2jqP08bzo (August 1, 2011)

'Strong men or women cannot be hurt - only they can be broken' (Prasadja, August 4, 2011)

I traveled from Vancouver, BC to Portland, OR via Interstate 5: Last Tuesday with my family and fifteen years ago alone (Prasadja, August 13, 2011)

'Failure to discern the time is according to Jesus fatal' (a lesson from Luke 12.54-56) (Prasadja, August 14, 2011)

'On one of his sermons, Rev. Dr. Myles Munroe argued rightly that in the 21st Century, the church needs (1) wisdom; (2) an integrated perspective; (3) skill; (4) a relevant mission; and (5) diplomacy. These five elements will ensure the church to engage with and to bring about impact to the society effectively ' (Prasadja, August 14, 2011)

'Jesus said: 'I came to send fire on the earth' (Lk 12.49) Biblical fire may be a symbol of judgment, purification, passion for ministry, the Holy Spirit, and the presence of God. In all possibilities, fire is positive for believers in Christ' (Prasadja, August 14, 2011)

'The unfortunate people are those who live in the wrong season' (Prasadja, August 19, 2011)

'Forgiveness is possible, but with a boundary: Don't hurt me!' (Tatum O'Neal). What do you think? (August 23, 2011)

The late afternoon sunshine came through our window, and the curtain formation created stripes on our love seat (August 27, 2011)

'The chance to see a crisis is golden opportunity to develop passion and responsibilities for success' (Prasadja, August 28, 2011)

'Love is the greatest family tradition' (Barney on Family Tradition) (August 30, 2011)

SIX REASONS YOUNG CHRISTIANS LEAVE CHURCH (BARNA RESEARCH)

2011-10-27T00:40:00.000-07:00

Many parents and church leaders wonder how to most effectively cultivate durable faith in the lives of young people. A five-year project headed by Barna Group president David Kinnaman explores the opportunities and challenges of faith development among teens and young adults within a rapidly shifting culture. The findings of the research are included in a new book by Kinnaman titled You Lost Me: Why Young Christians are Leaving Church and Rethinking Church.

The research project was comprised of eight national studies, including interviews with teenagers, young adults, parents, youth pastors, and senior pastors. The study of young adults focused on those who were regular churchgoers Christian church during their teen years and explored their reasons for disconnection from church life after age 15.

No single reason dominated the break-up between church and young adults. Instead, a variety of reasons emerged. Overall, the research uncovered six significant themes why nearly three out of every five young Christians (59%) disconnect either permanently or for an extended period of time from church life after age 15.

Reason #1 – Churches seem overprotective.

A few of the defining characteristics of today's teens and young adults are their unprecedented access to ideas and worldviews as well as their prodigious consumption of popular culture. As Christians, they express the desire for their faith in Christ to connect to the world they live in. However, much of their experience of Christianity feels stifling, fear-based and risk-averse. One-quarter of 18- to 29-year-olds said “Christians demonize everything outside of the church” (23% indicated this “completely” or “mostly” describes their experience). Other perceptions in this category include “church ignoring the problems of the real world” (22%) and “my church is too concerned that movies, music, and video games are harmful” (18%).

Reason #2 – Teens’ and twentysomethings’ experience of Christianity is shallow.

A second reason that young people depart church as young adults is that something is lacking in their experience of church. One-third said “church is boring” (31%). One-quarter of these young adults said that “faith is not relevant to my career or interests” (24%) or that “the Bible is not taught clearly or often enough” (23%). Sadly, one-fifth of these young adults who attended a church as a teenager said that “God seems missing from my experience of church” (20%).

Reason #3 – Churches come across as antagonistic to science.

One of the reasons young adults feel disconnected from church or from faith is the tension they feel between Christianity and science. The most common of the perceptions in this arena is “Christians are too confident they know all the answers” (35%). Three out of ten young adults with a Christian background feel that “churches are out of step with the scientific world we live in” (29%). Another one-quarter embrace the perception that “Christianity is anti-science” (25%). And nearly the same proportion (23%) said they have “been turned off by the creation-versus-evolution debate.” Furthermore, the research shows that many science-minded young Christians are struggling to find ways of staying faithful to their beliefs and to their professional calling in science-related industries.

Reason #4 – Young Christians’ church experiences related to sexuality are often simplistic, judgmental.

With unfettered access to digital pornography and immersed in a culture that values hyper-sexuality over wholeness, teen and twentysometing Christians are struggling with how to live meaningful lives in terms of sex and sexuality. One of the significant tensions for many young believers is how to live up to the church's expectations of chastity and sexual purity in this culture, especially as the age of first marriage is now commonly delayed to the late twenties. Research indicates that most young Christians are as sexually active as their non-Christian peers, even though they are more conservative in their attitudes about sexuality. One-sixth of young Christians (17%) said they “have made mistakes and feel judged in church because of them.” The issue of sexuality is particularly salient among 18- to 29-year-old Catholics, among whom two out of five (40%) said the church’s “teachings on sexuality and birth control are out of date.”

Reason #5 – They wrestle with the exclusive nature of Christianity.

Younger Americans have been shaped by a culture that esteems open-mindedness, tolerance and acceptance. Today’s youth and young adults also are the most eclectic generation in American history in terms of race, ethnicity, sexuality, religion, technological tools and sources of authority. Most young adults want to find areas of common ground with each other, sometimes even if that means glossing over real differences. Three out of ten young Christians (29%) said “churches are afraid of the beliefs of other faiths” and an identical proportion felt they are “forced to choose between my faith and my friends.” One-fifth of young adults with a Christian background said “church is like a country club, only for insiders” (22%).

Reason #6 – The church feels unfriendly to those who doubt.

Young adults with Christian experience say the church is not a place that allows them to express doubts. They do not feel safe admitting that sometimes Christianity does not make sense. In addition, many feel that the church’s response to doubt is trivial. Some of the perceptions in this regard include not being able “to ask my most pressing life questions in church” (36%) and having “significant intellectual doubts about my faith” (23%). In a related theme of how churches struggle to help young adults who feel marginalized, about one out of every six young adults with a Christian background said their faith “does not help with depression or other emotional problems” they experience (18%).

Turning Toward Connection

David Kinnaman, who is the coauthor of the book unChristian, explained that “the problem of young adults dropping out of church life is particularly urgent because most churches work best for ‘traditional’ young adults – those whose life journeys and life questions are normal and conventional. But most young adults no longer follow the typical path of leaving home, getting an education, finding a job, getting married and having kids—all before the age of 30. These life events are being delayed, reordered, and sometimes pushed completely off the radar among today’s young adults.

“Consequently, churches are not prepared to handle the ‘new normal.’ Instead, church leaders are most comfortable working with young, married adults, especially those with children. However, the world for young adults is changing in significant ways, such as their remarkable access to the world and worldviews via technology, their alienation from various institutions, and their skepticism toward external sources of authority, including Christianity and the Bible.”

The research points to two opposite, but equally dangerous responses by faith leaders and parents: either catering to or minimizing the concerns of the next generation. The study suggests some leaders ignore the concerns and issues of teens and twentysomethings because they feel that the disconnection will end when young adults are older and have their own children. Yet, this response misses the dramatic technological, social and spiritual changes that have occurred over the last 25 years and ignores the significant present-day challenges these young adults are facing.

Other churches seem to be taking the opposite corrective action by using all means possible to make their congregation appeal to teens and young adults. However, putting the focus squarely on youth and young adults causes the church to exclude older believers and “builds the church on the preferences of young people and not on the pursuit of God,” Kinnaman said.

Between these extremes, the just-released book You Lost Me points to ways in which the various concerns being raised by young Christians (including church dropouts) could lead to revitalized ministry and deeper connections in families. Kinnaman observed that many churches approach generations in a hierarchical, top-down manner, rather than deploying a true team of believers of all ages. “Cultivating intergenerational relationships is one of the most important ways in which effective faith communities are developing flourishing faith in both young and old. In many churches, this means changing the metaphor from simply passing the baton to the next generation to a more functional, biblical picture of a body – that is, the entire community of faith, across the entire lifespan, working together to fulfill God’s purposes.”

You Lost Me
Buy: the book
Download: free excerpt

About the Research

This Barna Update is based on research conducted for the Faith That Lasts Project, which took place between 2007 and 2011. The research included a series of national public opinion surveys conducted by Barna Group.

In addition to extensive quantitative interviewing with adults and faith leaders nationwide, the main research examination for the study was conducted with 18- to 29-year-olds who had been active in a Christian church at some point in their teen years. The quantitative study among 18- to 29-year-olds was conducted online with 1,296 current and former churchgoers. The Faith That Lasts research also included parallel testing on key measures using telephone surveys, including interviews conducted among respondents using cell phones, to help ensure the representativeness of the online sample. The sampling error associated with 1,296 interviews is plus or minus 2.7 percentage points, at the 95% confidence level.

The online study relied upon a research panel called KnowledgePanel®, created by Knowledge Networks. It is a probability-based online non-volunteer access panel. Panel members are recruited using a statistically valid sampling method with a published sample frame of residential addresses that covers approximately 97% of U.S. households. Sampled non-Internet households, when recruited, are provided a netbook computer and free Internet service so they may also participate as online panel members. KnowledgePanel consists of about 50,000 adult members (ages 18 and older) and includes persons living in cell phone only households.

About Barna Group

Barna Group (which includes its research division, the Barna Research Group) is a private, non-partisan, for-profit organization under the umbrella of the Issachar Companies. It conducts primary research, produces media resources pertaining to spiritual development, and facilitates the healthy spiritual growth of leaders, children, families and Christian ministries.

Located in Ventura, California, Barna Group has been conducting and analyzing primary research to understand cultural trends related to values, beliefs, attitudes and behaviors since 1984. If you would like to receive free e-mail notification of the release of each update on the latest research findings from Barna Group, you may subscribe to this free service at the Barna website (www.barna.org). Additional research-based resources are also available through this website.

BARBRA STREISAND - EVERGREEN

2011-10-13T22:52:00.001-07:00

Tearfully sppechless!

REASONS FOR MEN TO LOVE THEIR WIVES

2011-10-12T22:47:00.000-07:00

Two prominent reasons why men should appreciate, respect and love their wives: 1) They have taken a big risk to entrust their lives to individuals completely different from them and previously unknown to them; and 2) They have been so dedicated in raising up and loving the kids in the family

Steve Jobs' 2005 Stanford Commencement Address

2011-10-05T21:35:00.002-07:00

This certainly is an unusual rare unrivaled commencement address offered by Apple's co-founder, the late Steve Jobs (February 24, 1955 – October 5, 2011) at Stanford University. Jobs offers extraordinary wisdom from his ordinary words and stories. Enjoy the speech: Stay hungry! - Stay foolish!

WORDS TO REFLECT - JULY 2011

2011-10-04T23:02:00.000-07:00

Six Signs of Hypocrisy (Luke 11.37-54): (1) Focusing on rituals, but ignoring the real meaning behind the rituals; (2) Acting motivated by pride - not sincerity; (3) Promising but not delivering - life without impact; (4) Speaking boldly, but doing nothing; (5) Showing goodness, but attacking from the back; (6) Knowing the knowledge (truth), but disobeying it - and even preventing others to follow that truth (Prasadja, July 4, 2011)

'Three most vulnerable groups of people of being trapped into the sins of hypocrisy: (1) Religious leaders; (2) Political Leaders; (3) Celebrities/Public Figures' (Prasadja, July 4, 2011)

'We may have never been committing to crime, but we most likely have committed to the sins of hypocrisy. If you say 'NO' - at least you did once!' (Prasadja, July 4, 2011)

'I can teach you about changing' (Keiko said to me this morning, July 8, 2011) - and she literally does!

'You are not really a pastor - you are my dad' - Keiko said to me this morning (July 8, 2011)

'When you are in under pressure situation with insurmountable problems, remember: (1) Those problems can only kill your physical body at worst. Those problems do not have power and authority beyond that physical death' - My interpretation on Luke 12.4-5 (Prasadja, July 10, 2011)

'When you are in under pressure situation with insurmountable problems, remember: (2) God is always with you. To God, you are too precious to be neglected. His eye is on you' - My interpretation on Luke 12.6-7 (Prasadja, July 10, 2011)

'When you are in under pressure situation with insurmountable problems, remember: (3) Do not loose your faith! Be faithful in Christ Jesus' - My interpretation on Luke 12.8-9 (Prasadja, July 10, 2011)

'When you are in under pressure situation with insurmountable problems, remember: (4) The Holy Spirit will guide you, lead you and teach you with heavenly wisdom on what you should say and what you should do' - My interpretation on Luke 12.10-12 (Prasadja, July 10, 2011)

Some twenty two years ago this month, I reached for the first time the capital city of North Sumatra: Medan. I love the city for its cultural-ethnic diversity, great food and the unique Becak-Motor. This visit also marks my first sermon delivered in the context of a Sunday worship service (in Berastagi though - July 1989) (July 16, 2011)

'Two of the easiest and most common things to do in life are complaining upon our non-ideal situation and judging on others' weaknesses. But to tell you the truth: they are not precious!' (Prasadja, July 16, 2011)

To me, this certainly is the best rare performance of Michael Jackson. Listen to the lyric of the song: the words are so touching. I have been listening to this song hundred of times since 1990 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjmalHcQh54)

'If the verbal word 'love' as Diana Ross says is so powerful, the action verb 'to love' should therefore be even more powerful' (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/07/diana-ross-when-you-tell-me-that-you_20.html) (July 19, 2011)

I hope and pray that Charming Elliott will grow to be a simple and humble gentleman, but firm and strong in faith (July 25, 2011)

God is so good. After more than forty years living on earth, I and also my family had the opportunity for the first time to see with our own eyes God's famous creation: 'Blueberry' trees and flowers (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/07/blueberry-gods-famous-creation.html) (July 26, 2011)

My story with bottles and cans for recycle: 'For the opportunity to care for the environment, to help the lady cleaning up her house, and to treat my family with refreshment, I thanked God' (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/07/bottles-and-cans-for-recycle.html) (July 26, 2011)

'I am convinced even more today that according to human vocabulary, there is no instantaneous forgiveness. Forgiveness is an endless process, and knows no limit of sacrifice' (Prasadja, July 27, 2011)

RIP: John R. W. Stott passed away this morning (27 April 1921 - 27 July 2011)

'The one who loves you most is likely the one who hurts you most' (Prasadja, July 28, 2011)

In the right season, sweet Cherry are plenty here. We enjoy them so much (Prasadja, July 29, 2011)

'Love is so splendid and noble in its ability to embrace hurt and pain' (Prasadja, July 29, 2011)

Pure, simple and gorgeous - as always: Water Lily (Prasadja, July 30, 2011)

IN MEMORY OF JOHN R. W. STOTT (27/4/1921-27/7/2011)

2011-07-27T23:31:00.007-07:00

One of the most respected and influential Christian leaders, John Robert Walmsley Stott passed away this morning. Stott has been well known as the key thinker and drafter behind the Lausanne Covenant. He is the key founder and had been the key leader and figure of Langham Partnership International (http://www.langhampartnership.org/).

One of his best selling books, Basic Christianity is to me one out of two most important books (together with Bonhoeffer's Cost of Discipleship) that has been shaping my Christian perspective. His books have been translated in many foreign languages and sold in million copies. In my seminary teachings, I have been so much benefited from Stott's works.

I met Stott himself and was in a short conversation with him at the Oxford Centre for Mission Studies (OCMS) in September 26, 2002. In the picture, Stott was escorted by Dr. Christopher Sugden and speaking to me and one fellow OCMS scholar. Stott was there as part of his commitment to attend to the Centre for lunch gathering once a year. There he delivered the blessing for all scholars of the Centre. To me personally, John Stott is truly an example of a humble servant of God. Unquestionably, Stott was a fine scholar, a great pastor, a passionate preacher, a brilliant thinker and a respected Christian leader - but he also was someone who had been envisioning the whole Gospel by the whole church to the whole world.

Readers are invited to view the official memorial site of John R. W. Stott at

http://www.johnstottmemorial.org/

BOTTLES AND CANS FOR RECYCLE

2011-07-26T00:43:00.001-07:00

In one afternoon, I read an add at Craiglist Free Items. There, someone was offering recycle bottles and cans. Without any serious intention, but knowing that she lives only 10 minutes drive from my place, I replied the add, expressing my willingness to pick them up. In about 15 minutes, she called me asking if I still want the bottles and cans. To make the long story short, I went to her house and picked all the bottles and cans up. They were in total of four large plastic garbage bags. I loaded them into my car and brought them in to a Bottle Depot. For that less than an hour effort, I earned 18.5 CAD - or 16 CAD after counting the gasoline cost.

What have I learned from this process? First, I am so happy for being a positive actor in promoting GO GREEN movement. What I did is not so much motivated by money, it is however led by an environment awareness. Second, I am so happy for the opportunity to help a lady in throwing her recycle garbage. She must be very happy to see her house neater and to have some more space to store her other stuffs. Third, I am happy because I earned money - and immediately treated my wife an Ice Cappuccino and my daughter a Berry Smoothies. For the opportunity to care for the environment, to help the lady cleaning up her house, and to treat my family with refreshment, I thanked God.

The only sad part of the story is the fact that more people were probably or I am sure actually were expecting to get those bottles and cans to survive. For this, I do not know exactly what words should I say.

BLUEBERRY: GOD'S FAMOUS CREATION

2011-07-26T00:04:00.002-07:00

God is so good. After more than forty years living on earth, I and also my family had the opportunity for the first time to see with our own eyes God's famous creation: 'Blueberry' trees and flowers. Not only we saw the trees and the flowers with our own eyes, we also picked the fruits with our own hands, tasted the fruits with our own mouth, and payed the fruits with our own money :). July 23rd, 2011 at Emma Lea Farm, Ladner, British Columbia. I thank my long time friend Claudia for introducing the place and inviting us to experience God's wonderful blue creation.

ELLIOTT'S SHOW

2011-07-25T16:34:00.001-07:00

I can only pray and hope that Charming Elliott will grow to be a simple and humble gentleman, yet firm and strong in faith.

DIANA ROSS: WHEN YOU TELL ME THAT YOU LOVE ME

2011-07-20T00:27:00.002-07:00

If the verbal word 'love' as Diana Ross says is so powerful, the action verb 'to love' should therefore be even more powerful. This song comes with a great lyric and is delivered with a golden unrivaled voice of my favorite singer.

BLACKBERRY: LINGUISTIC OPPRESSION & MODERN COLONIZATION OF TECHNOLOGY OVER AGAINST NATURE

2011-07-18T15:24:00.001-07:00

This is what will happen if you type 'Blackberry' on Google Image: Out of more than 200 first entries of picture and website in Google image, only four (4) images show the real Blackberry in a category of fruits, the rest of the images show Blackberry mobile devices. Do you think our children and grandchildren will still recognize that God once created a kind of fruit called Blackberry? Shall I call this a linguistic oppression or a modern technology's colonization over nature?

FRESH READING FROM LUKE 12.1-12

2011-07-10T22:49:00.001-07:00

My fresh practical reading of Luke 12.1-12 (without neglecting the sitz im leben of the passage) says that when you are in under pressure situation with insurmountable problems, remember:

First, those problems can only kill your physical body at worst. Those problems do not have power and authority beyond that physical death. God is greater and stronger than your most horrific enemies (12.4-5);

Second, God is always with you. To God, you are too precious to be neglected. His eye is on you always and forever (12.6-7);

Third, 'Do not loose your faith! Be faithful in Christ Jesus!' (12.8-9);

Fourth, the Holy Spirit will guide you, lead you and teach you with heavenly wisdom on what you should say and what you should do (12.10-12)

ELLIOTT LAZZARO ATALAYA PRASADJA

2011-07-05T01:34:00.000-07:00

Our precious son and the joy in the family, Elliott Lazzaro Atalaya Prasadja - in one evening after a church service on July 3, 2011 (Surrey, British Columbia). Readers are invited to offer prayers for him as he is growing and maturing (Luke 2.52)

SIX SIGNS OF HYPOCRISY (LUKE 11.37-54)

2011-07-04T00:21:00.003-07:00

Focusing on rituals, but ignoring the real meaning behind the rituals (11.42)
Acting motivated by pride - not sincerity (11.43)
Promising but not delivering - life without impact (11.44)
Speaking boldly, but doing nothing (11.46)
Showing goodness, but attacking from the back (11.47-51)
Knowing the knowledge (truth), but disobeying it - and even preventing others to follow that truth (11.52)

MEMORABLE PICS OF 2011 - NO WORDS AVAILABLE!

2011-07-03T01:05:00.000-07:00

WORDS TO REFLECT - JUNE 2011

2011-07-03T00:50:00.002-07:00

Note from Patsy Oda, the author of Heart Desire (September 10, 2000) - (June 6, 2011)

One of the most influential books I have ever read: Heart Desire by Patsy Oda (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/influential-book-heart-desire-by-patsy.html) (June 6, 2011)

A brilliant book on prayer: a life-transforming to my own prayer life. Dick Eastman's No Easy Road (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/most-influential-books-1-no-easy-road.html) (June 6, 2011)

'Right choices lead to right destination - Wrong choices lead to destruction' (Prasadja, June 6, 2011)

'Right choices lead to right destination - Wrong choices lead to destruction' (Prasadja, June 2011): A reflection on Schuller's Turning Hurts into Halos and Scars into Stars (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/influential-book-turning-hurts-into.html) (June 6, 2011)

'My dead fear is not death, but hurting others whom I deeply love' (Prasadja, June 6, 2011)

For so many people who are tired of reading academic theoretical dry books on leadership, trust me that James Hunter's The Servant will excite you (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/influential-book-servant-simple-story.html) (June 7, 2011)

'When Christ calls a man, He bids him come and die' is a famous statement by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/influential-book-cost-of-discipleship.html)

'Your eye is the lamp of your body' (Jesus at Luke 11.34) (June 8, 2011)

'Celebrating the Pentecost Sunday! It is time for a revitalization by the Holy Spirit: longing for the Spirit's presence, gentle touch, comfort, guidance, empowerment and fire' (Prasadja, June 11, 2011)

With a long time very good friend, Virgo Handojo after the service at Surrey

We are not monkeys, but we often do like monkeys! (Prasadja, June 17, 2011)

‎

'Fatherhood is both a call and a gift' (Prasadja on Father's Day - June, 2011) (June 17, 2011)

This song has always been with me since the 2008 'incident' - when life is like a roller coaster.

'Is God really a good father to Jesus? Instead of saving his severely dying son from a brutal death, God opted to forsake him (Matthew 27.46)' (Prasadja, June 19, 2011)

Paul and the Problem of Suffering in Romans 8.18-30 is now available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/paul-and-problems-of-suffering-romans.html (June 20, 2011)

We are Secured in the Love of God (Romans 8.31-39) is now available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/why-are-we-secured-in-our-faith-in.html (June 20, 2011)

Is God a Good Father to Jesus? A reflection on Father's Day 2011 (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/question-1-on-fathers-day-2011-is-god.html) (June 21, 2011)

The Call of Fatherhood according to Luke 15.11-34. Another reflection on Father's Day 2011 (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/06/reflection-2-on-fathers-day-2011-call.html) (June 21, 2011)

Elliott in one of his strongest expression! (June 21, 2011)

This week 23 years ago, I began my journey as an under-graduate student at Bogor Agricultural Institute. I completed all requirements for the degree in the Department of Agronomy for five years. My dissertation is on 'In-Vitro Technique on the Propagation of Lilium Hybrid Casablanca' (Prasadja, June 21, 2011)

I am sad but so thankful: Earlier today a godly woman wisely and straightforwardly pointed out my daughter's major weaknesses (Prasadja, June 22, 2011)

'Life is all about interpretation - if you do not understand my statement, try to do your best interpretation on it' (Prasadja, June 22, 2011)

'Some people like to say positive on others; Other people like to say negative on others; And still some other people like to say positive to certain individuals and negative to other individuals. Who are the right ones? NONE - a lesson I learned yesterday' (Prasadja, June 22, 2011)

'Truth is I think a divine vocabulary. When human is tempted to talk about truth, the result is either (1) dominated by self interest, or (2) too abstract' (Prasadja, June 2011)

Our family with a very good friend of mine, Meliani Rim and her daughter at Sushi Town, Coquitlam, BC (June 26, 2011)

With sincere and faithful brother, very good friend, mentor, leader and pastor: Andreas Rahardjo - at Sushi Town, Coquitlam, BC (June 26, 2011)

'Today I passed a place with a very positive name: 'IMITATING CHRIST TRAINING CENTER' at 12969 Crescent Road, Surrey, BC. May our home be also a training center for imitating Christ' (Prasadja, June 27, 2011)

According to the sermon I listened to yesterday morning, 'If you feel that you are a better person compared to the particular others, then you will not be able to be a blessing for them' (I modify the vocabulary, but am faithful to the content) (Prasadja, June 28, 2011)

'Gossip is much faster than hard work!' (Prasadja, June 30, 2011)

WORDS TO REFLECT - APRIL 2011

2011-07-03T00:01:00.003-07:00

'If the disciples of Jesus were middle class outdoor activities oriented people living in a four season country, a prayer for a bright nice perfect day would have been necessarily added to the Lord's prayer' (Prasadja, April 4, 2011)

'Our transforming personal and private prayers should positively strengthen our self identity and our community' is a conclusion of my first short instant reflection on Pater Noster' available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/ (Prasadja, April 4, 2011)

'Since prayer is an approach to the holy throne of God, the most important and therefore the most necessary request would naturally be forgiveness' is one of the highlights of my second reflection on Pater Noster' available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/ (Prasadja, April 4, 2011)

My third reflection on Pater Noster says: 'Our daily bread' shows that Christian faith is a faith that believe in the continuity not only of God's providence for us, but also a continuity of our dependence on our heavenly Father (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (Prasadja, April 4, 2011)

Why does one quote someone else? (1) To convince the audience? (2) To support authority? (3) To show knowledge on good people and words? (4) To boast to the public: I discovered it and you do not? (5) Lack of confidence? (6) To share precious wisdom unknown to others? (7) To advertise the one being quoted? (8) Amazed - Do not know what to do but to quote? FB and Twitter tell us the truth (Prasadja, April 12, 2011)

THE MARRIAGE at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/: 'God is rich,’ say many modern evangelists and pastors, but he did not give us money or houses or cars or jeweleries. All of those things will do nothing to transform our eternal destiny. God gave his only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, the only effective, powerful, possible and authoritative agent of transforming and transporting us from eternal death to eternal life.' (Prasadja, April 12, 2011)

'As judging is unavoidable, helping others to be free from our judgment is doable and a must' (Prasadja, April 12, 2011)

The picture below is a book with a brilliant choice of title written by a very respected religious leader. The title itself says nothing but an essential truth of one of the highest commitments one can offer to her/his fellows (Prasadja, April 12, 2011)

THE MARRIAGE IN ROMANS 7.1-6 (PART 2): 'Christians are called to serve God in the spirit of love and excellence. We live for God because we love God. We love God because God first loved us by reaching us out and transforming our fatal destiny into a blessed life of salvation' (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (Prasadja, April 12, 2011)

Unlike adults, when kids laugh, they indeed do! (Prasadja, April 14, 2011)

With a very good friend Yunita and her husband Sudiro at Center Street Church, Calgary - after more than twenty years of not seeing one to another (April 16, 2011)

'Seeing the resurrected Jesus in our daily life (Easter's tips of holistic healthy life #1): Consuming enough healthy food!' (Prasadja, April 19, 2011)

'Seeing the resurrected Jesus in our daily life (Easter's tips of holistic healthy life #2): Having enough rest and sleep!' (Prasadja, April 19, 2011)

'Seeing the resurrected Jesus in our daily life (Easter's tips of holistic healthy life #3): Reading, meditating and applying the Word of God zealously!' (Prasadja, April 20, 2011)

'Seeing the resurrected Jesus in our daily life (Easter's tips of holistic healthy life #4): Managing your problems wisely! Do not be overwhelmed by the magnitude of your burden!' (Prasadja, April 20, 2011)

'Seeing the resurrected Jesus in our daily life (Easter's tips of holistic healthy life #5): Walking according to God's will! Do not be preoccupied by self ambition!' (Prasadja, April 20, 2011)

R. A. Kartini (21 April 1879 – 17 September 1904): 'HABIS GELAP TERBITLAH TERANG' (April 20, 2011)

'Jesus died WITH, INSTEAD OF and. FOR us' (Scot McKnight - http://bit.ly/git6Zq) (April 22, 2011)

Good Friday and Easter Sunday are both well known and crucial in Christian faith and tradition. What about the day between the two? What did Jesus do on Holy Saturday, and what is the significance of that sandwiched day for believers? A simple thought to all of you while enjoying a long weekend! Happy Easter from the Prasadjas to all of our precious friiends! (Prasadja, April 22, 2011)

'When one says to you: "It is up to you!" What does it mean to you? You may be graciously granted a freedom of choice; You may do what is insignificant; You may ask a stupid question; or You may be suffering of being neglected. For certain however you are lonely' (Prasadja, April 23, 2011)

James Wilhoit rightly argues that genuine spiritual formation should start from brokenness and a deep sense of need upon the grace of God. He calls it 'optimistic brokenness.' The author attacks the understanding of spiritual formation as a simply set of programmatic church activities (April 26, 2011)

Reading Critical Companion to the Bible: A Literary Reference (Martin Manser, et al). Few spontaneous questions: Does the Bible really need a companion? The more difficult question, and it should serve as the heart of the book is: What does it mean to be a companion that is critical? More practical inquiries are: Should believers approach the Bible critically or in simple obedience? What does it mean to be a critical reader of the Bible? Can we be both critical and obedient? ..... (Prasadja, April 27, 2011)

Reading The Bible in Modern Culture (Roy Harrisville and Walter Sundberg). Lutheran scholars elaborate the way theologians and biblicists from Baruch Spinoza to Brevard S. Childs have been working hard to make the 'non-modern' (my own stress) Bible be relevant and modern from time to time. Cultures are diverse and changing rapidly - Will the 'non-modern' Bible survive? (my question) (Prasadja, April 27, 2011)

Reading Justification: God's Plan and Paul's Vision (N. T. Wright). This piece of work is a response to John Piper's The Future of Justification: A Response to N. T. Wright. Both authors have passion not only in the academia but also in the church. Everyone who desires to re-evaluate his or her understanding of JUSTIFICATION should read this book (and also the one by Piper) (Prasadja, April 27, 2011)

'This morning, I listened to one of the best straight forward wedding sermons I have ever heard. The bishop of London, Richard Chartres did the sermon splendidly for the 2011 most celebrated royal couple, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge: William Arthur Philip Louis and Catherine Elizabeth. The wedding is truly a sharing of the Gospel to the whole world' (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (Prasadja, April 29, 2011)

"‘Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.’ So said St Catherine of Siena whose festival day it is today. Marriage is intended to be a way in which man and woman help each other to become what God meant each one to be, their deepest and truest selves" (Richard Chartres preached on Royal Wedding this morning, April 29, 2011). Read the whole sermon at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/

WORDS TO REFLECT - MARCH 2011

2011-07-02T23:52:00.001-07:00

'According to this morning's sermon: Be Joyful in all circumstances because we know that God is always with us - never he leave us alone' (March 6, 2011)

'Questions on and Questions to Ecclesia (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/). This post is only the beginning of hopefully fruitful discussions on why and how we do church' (Prasadja, March 11, 2011)

'Faith renewal literally means to return to our early faith. Renewing is a process to make thing (looks) new, though it is not. The phrase assumes that faith is leaking and is vulnerable to contamination and distortion' (Prasadja, March 12, 2011)

Keiko & Elliott (March 12, 2011)

'Crisis often produces vulnerability and openness to new insights' (from the article written by my professor, Daryl Busby, 2008 - March 18, 2011)

'We have been freed from the slavery of sin to be slaves of righteousness (Prasadja, March 20, 2011 - based on Paul's tension of slavery and freedom in Romans 6.16-19)

'Luke 10.25-37 is a wonderful New Testament Narrative. A teacher of law, a priest, a Levite and a Jewish man of whom were all Jews and religious people are contrasted against a 'non-religious' Samaritan businessman. Surprisingly, Jesus shocked his audience by opting for the least popular candidate to be hero of the episode. The text is so rich, powerful, inspiring and genuinely life transforming' (Prasadja, March 20, 2011)

'To think that biblical forgiveness is as simple as deleting files in the computer is unimaginable and most likely irresponsible. The basic premises are (1) we are living beings - computer is not. Computer possesses no personality and emotion; computer has no power to cry and protest; (2) the nature of God's forgiveness offered through Jesus Christ involves agony and pain. If forgiveness is as simple as deleting files in the computer, the cross would be unnecessary; (3) forgiveness and denial are completely different. They represent two different genre of action: the first requires love and commitment, while the later does not. Deleting files in computer fits better with denial - I think.' (Prasadja, March 22, 2011)

Most recent post is 'Adam and Christ in Romans 5.12-21' (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/), in which Paul contrasted the tsunami of sin over against the magnitude of God's gracious grace. Enjoy reading! (Prasadja, March 22, 2011)

Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor died today (March 23, 2011) at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California at the age of 79 (b. February 27, 1932) (March 23, 2011)

'Since believers are now God’s through baptism and the atonement, Paul was authorized to command: 1) Do not let sin rule your body; and 2) Do not offer your body as instrument of wickedness, but as instrument of righteousness. We have no business with sin anymore, because we now live in the new sphere of the gracious grace of God.' 'The Imagery of Baptism and Atonement in Romans 6.1-14' (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (Prasadja, March 24, 2011)

Live: Praise and Worship with Ron Kenoly (March, 24 2011, Langley, BC

'Believers are said to have been freed from slavery to sin. Are we really free? No! We are now still slaves, but to righteousness and subsequently we are not free to sin (Romans 6.15-23). According to Paul, the old slavery and the new slavery are incompatible. This was the concluding argument of a long battle of the tsunami problem of sin and the gracious grace of God in Romans 5-6' (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (March 30, 2011)

WORDS TO REFLECT - FEBRUARY 2011

2011-06-27T00:34:00.000-07:00

The title of the book is somehow provocative and critical. Please do think over and digest what the author wants to convey through that stimulating title. How far do you think can we trace and reflect on the relationship between the human earhtly Jesus and the Christ of the Christian church (faith)? (Prasadja, February 1, 2011)

'A humble openness to listen and be taught is the rich, fertile soil God delights to use to grow his good fruit' (James Wilhoit, 2008) (February 1, 2011)

'The Religion of Jesus and Christian Faith' is a simple reflection for those whose top desire is to imitate Jesus' authoritative teaching, simple but touching life, love for the undeserved, rigorous faithfulness, servant leadership, uncompromizing ethics and based on love-moral (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (Prasadja, February 1, 2011)

'More than ever before there is a need for a concerted and coordinated fight against cancer, and we believe that World Cancer Day can play its part by providing an even bigger platform for your cancer messages' (UICC). World Cancer Day is a global observance that helps raise people’s awareness of cancer and how to prevent, detect or treat it. This event is held on February 4 each year. It is a good moment to remember and to pray for our cancer suffering friends, relatives and their respected families (February 4, 2011)

'Swimming against the stream makes sense' (February 7, 2011)

'If you pursue happiness, you will never find it; Happiness is a by-product of other pursuit' (Prasadja, February 8, 2011)

A post on Jesus' Double Rejection is ready at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/. He was rejected first by his own Father, and second by the Samaritans. Please do grasp the message of the passage and find refreshing principles from the narrative. In the next following posts, I will try to write some short reflections on Positive Attitudes Facing Rejection - not a promise, but a wish! (Prasadja, February 9, 2011)

Good book to read (Prasadja, February 11, 2011)

'The Glory Beyond the Wall of Rejection' and 'Compromise is Unknown to Jesus' are two first biblical tips when life seems to be despair and gloomy (Still on Jesus' Double Rejection according to Luke 9.51-56). Enjoy the posts at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/. There are some more tips to appear next week (Prasadja, February 11, 2011)

'I believe in the sun, even when it is not shinning; I believe in love, even when I cannot feel it; I believe in God, even when he is silent' (February 11, 2011)'Season of love' asks if love is seasonal (Prasadja, February 13, 2011)

Only a person who risks is free (Prasadja, February 13, 2011)

'Failure is not a sudden misfortune. Failure is harvest of an enduring venture began with the unwillingness to learn' (Prasadja, February 17, 2011)

REJECTION IS A CALL TO PEACE WITH GOD AND SELF (LUKE 9.51-56): You are invited to rush to http://prasadja.blogspot.com/. This post is the third positive attitude in response to rejection (Prasadja, February 18, 2011)

‎'Money does not send you - Jesus does' (Prasadja, February 21, 2011)

'The Harvest is Great but the Laborers are Few: The Mission of Jesus in Luke 10.1-12' (most recent post available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/). The way Jesus understood and did mission seems to be far different from the way modern churches do mission. Hopefully the insights of the passage reconcile the discrepancies. Happy Reading! (Prasadja. February 22, 2011)

'The Unseen Beauty of Moving Backward' is the fourth in series of positive attitudes in facing rejection. Moving backward, a detour or a retreat is a gentle gesture of (1) acknowledging that God is the center of our lives, and (2) a moral exemplary of total humility. A detour also avoids unnecessary conflicts in accomplishing the commitment well (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (Prasadja, February 23, 2011)

My attempt to share with you on positive attitudes in facing rejection ends here with a challenging reflection: 'Forgive: Yes - Revenge: No'. Therefore, there are six posts on the issue. One explains the context of Luke 9.51-56, and five are reflection on the attitudes. This project was not planned, but I am grateful to see its completion (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (Prasadja, February 23, 2011)

WORDS TO REFLECT - JANUARY 2011

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'The most important and immediate responses and commitments upon seeing the glorious splendor of God and His mighty deeds is to give Him glory and praise. A praise to God is not simply an act to please Him, but also an act to proclaim Him publicly. A genuine praise to God is a direct invitation for others to join the worship of a splendid glorious awesome God' (Prasadja, January 1, 2011 - on Psalm 145)

With former student, pastor and very good friend, Wim Brataatmaja (January 4, 2011)

'What we perceive as faith often says: God will open doors, even the closed ones. This faith seldom say: God will close doors, even the opened ones' (Prasadja, January 5, 2011)

'PAIN AND PRAISE IN PSALM 146' is a new post now available in my blog. I invite you to come, visit and hopefully enjoy (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (January 6, 2011)

Two short posts on prayer are available in my blog (prasadja.blogspot.com). I may add some more posts on prayers this week - no promise though. Enjoy and use them to accompany your prayer life (January 11, 2011)

The reflection on prayers are enriched by three fresh posts last night. These posts are relatively short, practical and light. I still think to add 3 or 4 more reflections on that topic, but am not sure if time and energy allow (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (January 12, 2011)

The 7 inspiring posts on prayers are finally completed. You are invited to be enlightened through the reading of the fresh arguments presented. I posted them with a hope to bring the basic meaning of prayer back to a habit that we may have already been practicing for centuries (http://prasadja.blogspot.com/) (January 13, 2011)

'Tips for first year seminarians and fresh seminary graduates: We need to study hard, but we need to worship God harder' (Someone told me few days ago; Modifications are mine) (Prasadja, January 15, 2011)

My driving experience in BC is not too incredible. I drove car in BC only for two weeks on last Christmas holiday, and another week in 1996. I got my license days before Christmas. The intense process of getting the license and of familiarizing myself with BC traffic produced not only a confidence, but also a reflection that may help us to drive not only our car, but also our precious lives (prasadja.blogspot.com) (January 16, 2011)

An appealing message was delivered on last Sunday: 'We may have to fight hard to be the strongest, the fastest, the highest, the biggest, the richest, etc. Once we reach that top levels, we have to fight harder to stay humble' (January 18, 2011)

What is not there when God is there? - A retrospective question (January 19, 2011)

On my soccer play with Keiko, I made a beautiful 'ala Beckham' goal. Immediately I shouted, 'This is the best shot of the year!' Keiko instantly replied, 'I will make a more best shot daddy!' I tried to correct her grammar saying that there is no 'more best' in English. Suddenly she responded, 'Then I will make the bestest shot of the year!' Her spirit of excellence is too obvious! (Prasadja, January 19, 2011)

'ATTAINING THE GREATEST PERFORMANCES IN LIFE' is available fresh in http://prasadja.blogspot.com/. For Keiko, the best is not the end yet. The next step are a 'more best' and the 'bestest.' There seems to be no limit in attaining and growing into excellence. The real question, as Keiko challenged me this evening is: 'Will you step in that level of life?' (Prasadja, January 19, 2011)

My email address was hacked by unidentified person. If you received any emails with inapprropriate contents from my email address, simply ignore. I changed my password already, and hopefuly the problem will be solved within less than 24 Hours. Sorry for the inconvenience (January 20, 2011)

Will particularity and universality go hand in hand? (Prasadja, January 23, 2011)

'Feeling at home: Norma Marion Alloway Library, Trinity Western University' (January 24, 2011)

An unknown gentleman approached us this afternoon kindly granting us four bottles of organic orange juice. What a blessing from above (January 26, 2011)

At the wall of Don Bosco Youth Center, Surrey, British Columbia (January 26, 2011)

The title of the book is so provoking, yet the question is valid (Prasadja, January 27, 2011)

Here are some of the biggest miisconceptions about grief: 1) We grief in stages; 2) Express it - Don't repress it; 3) Grief is harder on woman; 4) Grief never ends; 5) Counseling helps (Time, Jan 24, 2011) (January 27, 2011)

Mommy was singing Ps 90.1-2. Keiko said, 'More mommy! More!' Daddy was singing Ps 27.1-2. Keiko closed her ears with both hands. Mommy said, 'Thank you Keiko for being honest!' (January 27, 2011)

The Religion of Jesus and the tests of Christian Leadership' is available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/ (January 29, 2011)

'It took only one day to take the Israelites out of Egypt, but it took 40 years to take out (the spirit of) Egypt from the Israelites' (a thoughtful sermon from a friend of mine this morning) (January 30, 2011)

WORDS TO REFLECT - OCTOBER-DECEMBER 2010

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What is the true weight of the term 'foolish obedience'? the foolishness or the obedience? (Prasadja, October 8, 2010)

Suffering from an extreme loneliness. Even God seems to be very far away. It is shocking but real (Prasadja, October 9, 2010)

Keiko is not a baby anymore (December 4, 2010)

'There is no complicated problem (singular); A problem is always simple - Only inter related-problems (plural) may be complicated' (Prasadja, December 16, 2010)

'God's extraordinary humility, His love for us, and His presence among us are remembered and celebrated through the sending of His only begotten Son: The Word became flesh' (Prasadja, December 16, 2010)

ODB-RBC: Leonard Ravenhill (1907–1994), a British evangelist, once said, 'The greatest miracle God can do today is take an unholy man out of an unholy world, make that man holy, then put him back into that unholy world and keep him holy in it.' - What a stunning statement? (December 16, 2010)

'Even if I were to live twice, I would have not been able to love her as she had been loving me' (Prasadja, December 22, 2010 - on Mother's Day)

'If the biggest enemy of you is you yourself, who then is the second biggest enemy of you? That question helps us to be a more realistic human being' (Prasadja, December 22, 2010)

‎'Where is Christ on your CHRISTmas celebration?' (Prasadja, December 24, 2010)

'I believe in the sun, even when it is not shinning. I believe in love even when I don't feel it. I believe in God even when He is silent.' (unknown) (December 25, 2010)

'Genuine FAITH is growing towards FAITHfulness' (Prasadja, December 29, 2010)

'Many people thank God for his kindness through the year of 2010 via FB - Do you think God has an account in FB? If he does: Does he open FB often enough?' (Prasadja, December 30, 2010)

'Please find the sharp differences between 'for ever' and 'every day' if any' (Prasadja, December 31, 2010)

WORDS TO REFLECT - SEPTEMBER 2010

2011-06-24T15:34:00.000-07:00

Esther Jr. (September 3, 2010)

'Sometimes good friends are more valuable than siblings. It is not unnatural indeed!' (Prasadja, September 4, 2010)

'Birds fly because of their wings; fish swim because of their fin; mamals run because of their feet; We serve the Lord because of His grace alone. It is not us, but You!' (Prasadja, September 7, 2010)

'Today I encountered a very strong message of the Bible I have never realized: 'This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. Let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth' (1 Jn 3.16, 18 - NIV). May God bless you!' (Prasadja, September 9, 2010)

I like 'Y' in integritY, honestY, humilitY, sinceretY! (Prasadja, September 11, 2010)

My review on Klyne Snodgrass' Stories with Intent is available at http://www.prasadja.blogspot.com/ (September 12, 2010)

Eagle's eyes (September 12, 2010)

Here is my most recent conversation with Keiko this morning as we were walking together: I asked, 'Do you think Jesus has a lot of money?' Keiko said, 'No way dad!' I asked, 'Are you sure?' Keiko responded, 'Yes! Jesus does not have a lot of money, because He gave all of his money to the poor!' I said, 'I am proud of you because my little princess knows that Jesus loves the poor.' Keiko said, 'I do love the poor too! (September 13, 2010)

'The fact that we are putting on some soap and wiping the dishes does not say that we are making them clean, even if we use the best and most expensive detergent, and even if we use our best energy. Good resources and big efforts alone do not lead us to our destination. We need to stay focus on our goals in every single action we do. Remember to live out our life on glorious purposes!' (Prasadja, September 15, 2010)

'The fact that we are helping the poor does not say that we love them. Only God and we know exactly what is inside our heart. Our good actions alone may only be valuable to others. Do those actions please God? The answer to that question requires a thorough investigation on the motive behind the actions. Remember to live out our life with sincere motivation!' (Prasadja, September 15, 2010)

'The fact that we are watching and playing soccer does not say that we love soccer. Love requires high commitment and practice. To love someone is to committ ourselves to him or her with right and excellent deeds. We never give second quality presents to the one we love. Remember to live out our life with high commitment and great actions!' (Prasadja, September 16, 2010)

'The fact that we are doing spiritual businesses does not say that we are spiritual. Subsequently, we are not righteous because of saying the truths alone. We are righteous by presenting a righteous life before God and others. Remember to live out our life with character and integrity!' (Prasadja, September 16, 2010)

'The beauty of an uncertainty is the awaiting of God's assurance. This I call: The Unfailing Hope' (Prasadja, September 17, 2010)

Elliott's 1st Candle (September 20, 2009)

'Trust but verify' (Ronald Reagan in ODB today) (September 21, 2010)

'I am not too interested in what you can do, I am more interested in what you cannot do' (said daddy to Keiko yesterday evening) (Prasadja, September 25, 2010)

'Does the place you are called to labor seem so small and little known? It is great if God is in it, and He will not forget his own' (Suffield-ODB) (September 2010)

'Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power' (Abraham Lincoln) (September 30, 2010)

'Tuhan tidak memanggil untuk menciptakan kekuatiran di dalam keluarga kita' (Rev. Andreas Rahardjo on his farewell speech this morning) (September 30, 2010)

WORDS TO REFLECT - JULY-AUGUST 2010

2011-06-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

'Positivism is not always positive' (Prasadja, July 7, 2010)

'I do not hear negativism too often. People normally do not condemn negativism as much as they worship positivism!' (Prasadja, July 7, 2010)

'The word 'ACTUALly' tells us that what we perceive as TRUTH is very dynamic. Truth lives, moves, is powerful, is up to date and is relevant. Truth is more than series of doctrines, dogmas or religious systems Eternal truth is therefore a truth that is ALWAYS actual' (Ery Prasadja, July 9, 2010).

'Sometimes alone is better than lonely!' (Prasadja, July 10, 2010)

'The better our outward appearance is, the bigger gap between what is outside and what is inside may be exist - most likely and for the majority. At least we are in danger of being in that situation!' (Ery Prasadja, July 10, 2010)

'It was, is and will be me' (on confessing my past, present and future wrongdoings, mistakes, weaknesses and sins) (Prasadja, July 11, 2010)

On a visit to my mother's grave. What a powerful words and life! (July 13, 2010)

'Condemn not, judge not' - Not to man is given his brother's faults to scan; One task is yours, and one alone - to search out and to subdue your own (Elliott). Be slow to judge others, but quick to judge yourself (ODB, July 16, 2010)

'Since God so loves the WORLD, the more intolerate and narrow-minded we are, the likelihood for God to accomplish His mission through us is rather limited' (Prasadja, July 18, 2010).

'Elliott now walks. Everytime he makes his step, his proud sister and parents give him big claps. What a solid team we are!' (Prasadja, July 22, 2010)

'Many people speak of good words, and some of them speak of positive words. But only few do speak of words that challenge me: words that I may not be comfortable with, but help me to live my life in a more righteous way' (Prasadja, July 22, 2010)

'God gives me ears to listen, but the voices that I listen to are not always true. God gives me mouth to speak, but my words are not always true. God gives me brain to think, but my wisdom sometimes fails. God gives me hands to act, but often my deeds bring no glory to Him. God gives me His words - These words are always true. The solemn duties of mine are to listen to, to speak of, to think about and to do His words!' (Prasadja, July 22, 2010)

'If you are struggling to love your neighbor, do not be anxious; true love is growing!' (Prasadja, July 26, 2010)

'Worse than a nightmare is being unable to sleep' (Prasadja, July 28, 2010)

'Humility is a free good will within the heart - It is not an action caused by external pressures' (Prasadja, July 28, 2010)

'No hero in a Christian ministry. The true hero is God himself' (Prasadja, July 29, 2010)

'One of the biggest risks - if not the one biggest risk - is to obey God and his sovereign will! (Prasadja, July 31, 2010)

'Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts!' (Heb 3.7-8; 4.7; Ps 95.7-11) (August 8, 2010)

'Jesus never sleep' (Keiko, five minutes before she started her nap) (Prasadja, August 9, 2010)

My prayer this morning: 'God, I want to live the way you want me to live my life, I want to do things you want me to accomplish, and I want to be in a place you want me to grow. God, give me your divine love! Love for you and people whom you love!' (Prasadja, August 9, 2010)

'He who was seated on the throne said, I am making everything new!' (Rev 21.5) (August 9, 2010)

'To love someone intensely doesn't mean you have to understand her or him completely. That's good news, because there's no way we can begin to grasp the deep mysteries of the God we love. With our finite minds and our self-centered views, we can't deduce why God does what he does' (Dave Branon - ODB) (August 14, 2010)

'God doesn't waste anything! Everything happens in our lives for a reason, and a great part of that reason is to help us grow in our faith' (RBC) (August 14, 2010)

The black coffee beans have their flowers shinny and white (Prasadja, August 14, 2010)

'You are only young once, but you can be immature forever' (Annon) (August 19, 2010)

Beautiful princess (August 20, 2010)

Blooming Cempaka in front of our house (August 22, 2010)

Keiko's most recent amazing statements: (1) I do not want to get married because I want to be an Indonesian Idol; (2) I love money!; (3) Dad, how to spell 'Do you still love me?'? - Dad was confused not knowing to whom the question is directed (Prasadja, August 24, 2010)

'If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were raising himself against me, I could hide from him. But is is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I enjoyed sweet fellowship as we walked with the throng at the house of God' (Ps 55.12-14) (August 26, 2010)

'My companion attacks his friends; he violates his covenant. His speech is smooth as butter, yet war is in his heart; his words are more soothing than oil, yet they are drawn swords' (Ps 55.20-21) (August 26, 2010)

I said, 'Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest - I would flee far away and stay in the desert; I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm' (Ps 55.6-8) (August 26, 2010)

My first mobile phone: a made in Germany Siemens S-25 (1999) (August 26, 2010)

White Beautiful Poisoneous Bintaro (August 31, 2010)

WORDS TO REFLECT - APRIL-JUNE 2010

2011-06-24T01:59:00.000-07:00

'In the US, today is established as National Honesty Day to honor the honorable and to encourage honesty. Honesty is not easy as it seems, but we please God by striving for it. My prayer: Lord, help me to be honest and true in all that I say and in all that I do; give me courage to do what is right, to bring the world a glimpse of your light (ODB-Fasick)' (Prasadja, April 29, 2010)

'Are difficulties and challenges a grace or a thread?' (Prasadja, May 16, 2010)

'Staying in the same room with my college roommate some 19 years ago - what a touching moment in an island West of Sumatra' (Prasadja, May 25, 2010)

'Today three years ago, Moravidelita El Nitya was delivered. We miss her and we love her so much!' (Prasadja, May 25, 2010)

'Dosa yang paling besar di tengah-tengah bangsa ini adalah kemunafikan' (Hotman Paris Hutapea on 'Advokat Hitam' (May 27, 2010)

Reading 'Seeking the Identity of Jesus: a Pilgrimage' (eds: Richard Hays and Beverly Gaventa) (Prasadja, May 30, 2010)

Out of the blue while having dinner, Keiko asked, 'Dad, will I still be your princess if I were fat?' (June 3, 2010)

'Why do I eat cold rice?' (June 14, 2010)

My Birthday in Kupang - with my former students (Prasadja, June 17, 2010)

WORDS TO REFLECT - FEBRUARY-MARCH 2010

2011-06-24T01:47:00.001-07:00

'Unless God ask us to do what is not rational, we are responsible to be rational' (Prasadja, February 1, 2010)

Keiko said, 'On Chinese New Year, the grown ups have to give children an ANTELOPE with some money inside' (Prasadja, February 4, 2010)

Unintentionally and spontaniously, I have to start from today train Keiko to be a good leader, otherwise..... 1st principle of a good leader: 'Good leaders always give good examples!' (Prasadja, February 8, 2010)

Life is like weather. Sometimes it is bright and shinny; sometimes it is grey and gloomy; and sometimes it is even stormy and dark (Prasadja, February 9, 2010)

Second leadership principle for Keiko: 'Good leaders obey God and listen to others' (Prasadja, February 10, 2010)

Third Leadership Principles for Keiko: 'Good Leaders always tell the truth' (Prasadja, February 12, 2010)

Fourth Leadership Principles for Keiko: 'Good Leaders are humble themselves and do avoid self-congratulation' (Prasadja, February 20, 2010)

'The true spirit of servanthood leadership is a worship of truth' (Prasadja, Maret 6, 2010)

Fifth leadership principle for Keiko: 'In every situation, Jesus is always number one!' (Prasadja, Maret 13, 2010)

Keiko learns to ride! (Prasadja, March 13, 2010)

'True courage aims at God's glory, springs from genuine faith, and takes risks' (Prasadja March 14, 2010)

'What good leaders should do to the people they lead? Protecting, covering, interceeding, and serving them at any cost' (Prasadja, March 15, 2010)

'God must increase and I must decrease!' (Prasadja, March 15, 2010)

'One of the most natural errors leaders often do is misusing power and authority' (Prasadja, March 16, 2010)

'When you do good to the good, it is a barter - but when you do good to the bad, it is a freedom!' (Prasadja, March 28, 2010)

WORDS TO REFLECT - JANUARY 2010

2011-06-24T01:34:00.001-07:00

'Life is an endless school. subsequently, a school should enable and empower her students to live the God granted lives unregretfully' (Prasadja, January 6, 2010)

'Why do plants need to be watered? Perhaps they are thirsty? Perhaps they are dirty? Perhaps they are smelly? Perhaps they are sleepy? But most likely we water the plants because of our unconscious and sometimes selfish habit. Now ask ourselves: Why do we pray? Why do we go to church? Why do we tithe? Why do we fast?' (Prasadja, January 7, 2010)

'I have not met you, but I already miss you!' (Prasadja, January 8, 2010)

'Reading is a very important skill' (Prasadja, January 8, 2010)

'I just finished my quick lunch, and my daughter who was ready to take a nap shouted from the second floor: 'Dad, I smell noodle - Are you eating noodle?' Amazing sense of smell?' (Prasadja, January 11, 2010)

'The grand of true intercession: Loving God and loving others wholeheartedly!' (Prasadja, January 11, 2010)

'Prayer Request: Keep Haiti as one of your tops prayer priority' (Prasadja, January 13, 2010)

'Keiko told me that she was taught how to play golf at school - thing that was totally alien to me when I was her age' (January 20, 2010)

'Is reality real?' (Prasadja, January 23, 2010)

'School of life #1: The purpose of your life is NOT you' (Prasadja, January 25, 2010)

'School of life #2: You are your legacy' (Prasadja, January 25, 2010)

'School of life #3: There is no discipline without forgiveness; They go hand in hand' (Prasadja, January 26, 2010)

'School of life #4: Conscience outworking of faith' (Prasadja, January 26, 2010)

'10 most intimate moments with Keiko are 1) putting her to sleep; 2) walking around with her; 3) driving her to school; 4) reading a story for her; 5) playing badminton with her; 6) drying her hair; 7) feeding her; 8) bathing her; 9) singing and dancing after her; 10) hugging her after crying' (Prasadja, January 29, 2010)

WORDS TO REFLECT - DECEMBER 2009

2011-06-24T01:19:00.001-07:00

Paul's vision of a father: '...encouraging, comforting and urging his children to live lives worthy of God,...' (1 Thess 2.11-12 NIV modified) (Prasadja, December 2, 2009)

Paul's vision of a mother: '...gently caring for her children and sharing her life with them...' (1 Thess 2.7-8 NIV modified) (Prasadja, December 3, 2009)

'One who graduated yesterday and stops learning today is uneducated by tomorrow' (I am not sure who is the author of the wise words above, I found it at the University of Oxford, UK) (Prasadja, December 6, 2009)

I am reflecting on Friedrich Nietzsche' s statement 'God is dead; and we have killed Him' - One reason (among others) behind the statement was Nietzsche's frustration on the gap between Christian faith and Christian morality (Prasadja, December 8, 2009)

Hari 'Anti-Korupsi Se-Dunia' di Indonesia dinodai kekerasan dan tindak anarkis. Seandainya ada Hari 'Anti-Kekerasan Se-Dunia' - kira-kira bakal terjadi demo disertai kekerasan dan tindak anarkis ngga? Khususnya di negeri Indonesia tercinta (Prasadja, December 9, 2009)

I may not be a good man, but still I am a man. I may not be a good father, but still I am a father. I may not be a good believer, but still I am a believer (Prasadja, December 16, 2009)

Last night before I brought Keiko to sleep, she said to me, 'Dad, my eyes were tearing when I worshipped the Lord.' (commenting on her school's Christmas celebration yesterday in exactly perfect English grammar and in pure expression of her heart) (Prasadja, December 17, 2009)

A teen asked in her FB status: 'why sad loosing something you never had?' Here is my response to her: 'You do not have all, but you do have hope for all things. When you hope things too strong, many times you feel that you already possess the things you hope for, though in reality they do not belong to you. When those things do not become realities, you are sad for loosing something you never had' (Prasadja, December 29, 2009)

Then she wrote: 'I don't want to wake up and face the reality.' To this statement, I responded: 'Even if you do not wake up, you already face the reality' (Prasadja, December 30, 2009)

WORDS TO REFLECT - NOVEMBER 2009

2011-06-24T01:09:00.000-07:00

Princess Keiko and Charming Elliott were waiting and listening their dad and mom praying together for about an hour. What a warm fellowship this afternoon for the Prasadjas! (Prasadja, November 1, 2009)

Another intimate hour of prayer with Esther. God is there! God is not only showing the direction, He is also walking with us. This time, however, princess Keiko and charming Elliott were sleeping nicely (Prasadja, November 5, 2009)

Many of us perhaps are afraid of staying away from our own mostly selfish (or even unselfish) dreams - Hopefully it is humble enough to say that I am terribly afraid of staying away from the will of God (Prasadja, November 10, 2009)

Can we claim of anything to be ours or originated in us? Isn't life merely God's gracious grace? (Prasadja, November 10, 2009)

November the 14th is the birthday of (among others): French painter Claude Monet (1840), the first Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru (1889), Boutros Boutros-Ghali (1922), former General Secretary of the United Nations, the late King Hussein of Jordan (1935), Charles the Prince of Wales (1948), former US Secretary of State Condoleeza Rice (1954), and my mother (b. 1936; d. July 8, 2005) (Prasadja, November 14, 2009)

We are often asked not to limit God's miraculous power in our life: God can do all and make the impossible possible - that is true. Unfortunately seldom are we asked not to impose our selfish will against the supreme will of God (Prasadja, November 15, 2009)

Travelling through snowy Canada Rockys from Vancouver to Calgary. I did the reversed trip some 13 years ago alone. Calgary was the host of the 1988 15th Winter Olympics Games, while Vancouver is the host of the upcoming 2010 21st Winter Olympics Games (Prasadja, November 16, 2009)

This evening God allowed me to listen ad to sing together with the congregation, a song that is so much touching, the Hillsong's Hosanna: 'Heal my heart and make it clean; Open up my eyes to the things unseen; Show me how to love like You have loved me; Break my heart for what is yours' - Notice the four main shocking verbs: heal, open, show and break (Prasadja, November 17, 2009)

'Success Leaders are victims of Goodluck - or God's Providence?.' That statement is my free impression and interpretation of Dr. Glenn Smith's speech on the Church Planting Congress in Calgary yesterday morning (Prasadja, November 18, 2009)

'The more comfortable your church is, the more difficult your congregation is to engage in transforming the community. Stop making your church be more comfortable, unless you are keen to worshiping God in a community-non-impacting church!' - my personal summary from what Juliet Kilpin said yesterday afternoon on the Church Planting Congress in Calgary (phrases and emphasis are mine) (Prasadja, November 19, 2009)

Holy Communion this morning at Calgary Church Planting Congress: It is holy and sacred - yet it is a communion involving the community, and marked by the togetherness (Prasadja, November 20, 2009)

'You give and take away. My heart will choose to say: Lord, blessed be Your name!' (Beth & Matt Redman - 2005) (November 23, 2009)

I have been thinking in these last few days of five major virtues in Cristian ministry: (1) the ultimate goal is to glorifying God; (2) the attitude is being a humble servant; (3) the value is integrity; (4) the motivation is loving God wholeheartedly and loving others compassionately; (5) the foundation is our sincere gratitude toward God's goodness and love (Prasadja, November 23, 2009)

'Cancer is a Word, not a Sentence' (That statement is taken from a profound title of an inspiring book by Robert Buckman) (November 28, 2009)

'Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you know how to answer everyone' (St. Paul at Colossians 4.6 NIV) (November 28, 2009)

A gentle reminder from God this morning: Will you be 'always wrestling in prayer for them, that they may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured' (St. Paul's final greetings to the Colossians; 4.12 NIV modified) (Prasadja, November 29, 2009)

'...in spite of severe suffering, you welcomed the message with the joy given by the Holy Spirit. And so you became a model to all the believers...' (St. Paul at 1 Thess 1.6b-7a NIV); Lead me to that level of faith Lord!: my prayer (Prasadja, November 30, 2009)

WORDS TO REFLECT - MAY 2011

2011-06-22T22:46:00.001-07:00

I now start to collect what I have been writing in my FB wall, and share them with you readers on a monthly basis. I begin with May 2011.

'"United we stand!" If we want to be united, do not learn it from the church, but from the kingdom of Be........b. Am I correct in interpreting and understanding Luke 11.17-18? For thousand of years this kingdom of Be......b has been standing and tirelessly delivering products with consistent quality. The key is, Jesus said, UNITY' (Prasadja, May 3, 2011)

'Can one serve God without ego and self interest? I am curious to know what the real meaning of love and service are' (Prasadja, May 6, 2011)

'Looking forward to read Jimmy Dunn's most recent publication: Jesus, Paul and the Gospel. Great book written by great scholar' (Prasadja, May 7, 2011)

'Is your mother happy on Mother's Day?' (Prasadja, May 8, 2011)

'Don't miss it: Mama Mary and Son Jesus were in dialogue of choosing the best wine to serve at the wedding feast in Cana. And they both did a great job according to John 2.10. This is a post that will entertain us with biblical truth: refreshing yet challenging. And also a tribute to mothers all over the earth' (May 11, 2011)

'Three most recent posts on Luke 11.14-23 (JESUS AND BEELZEBUB) are available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/. I did some revisions on them. They are wild but constructive!' (Prasadja, May 11, 2011)

'To me, the most difficult period of life has not been failures, but time when to hope is no longer possible' (Prasadja, May 11, 2011)

'Like mother like daughter' - by Keiko (May 11, 2011)

’Today will kill me not regardless how bad it is, since I desire to see a brighter tomorrow’ (Prasadja, May 11, 2011).

'I was terrified of reading this, "And the last state of that man is worse than the first" (Luke 11.26c - NKJV). Trembling, I asked myself: Will I be that man? - My humble prayer: God, guide and protect me!' (Prasadja, May 16, 2011)

Ten purposes of suffering are available at http://prasadja.blogspot.com/2011/05/purposes-of-suffering-valuable-older.html (My reflection upon sitting in a lecture on suffering facilitated by an Indian Christian leader - 2006) (Prasadja, May 16, 2011)

'I always have a choice: to do good or to do a better one. I always have a choice: to give or to give more. I always have a choice: to love others halfheartedly or to love others wholeheartedly' (Prasadja, May 17, 2011)

I did a review on "The Word Leaps the Gap: Essays on Scripture and Theology in Honor of Richard B. Hays" (Eds: J. R. Wagner, C. K. Rowe, A. K. Grieb). Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2008 (710pp) (Prasadja, May 18, 2011)

A nice reunion with high school mates: Krisman and Claudia (downtown Vancouver) - after not seeing one another for more than 23 years (May 19, 2011)

'Today, You are surrounded by nothing ..... but love,' said Tom Hanks to Oprah Winfrey at farewell celebration of the OW talk show (May 20, 2011)

'Often one says: "I have no intention to be arrogant" - but he has been big-headed; "I have no intention to judge" - but he has been condemning; "I am objective" - but he has always been subjective; "I am doing well" - but he has been severely hurt' (Prasadja, May 20, 2011; you are free to change the hes to shes)

'Good thought alone does not make us righteous, if it is not accompanied by good deeds. Evil thought alone however is enough to make us unrighteous' (Prasadja, May 22, 2011)

'Maintaining, nurturing and improving unity is the energy of a winning team' (Prasadja, May 22, 2011)

To tell you the truth: 'Anything that places God as the priority is always great and will never go wrong' (Prasadja, May 23, 2011)

'The battle of minds: Life in the Spirit according to Romans 8.5-8. Readers, to what direction do you set on your minds, and how do you operate them in day to day life? And at the end of the day, we all need to ensure the compatibility of our minds in God's global economy!' (Prasadja, May 23, 2011)

'H5W on Life in the Spirit according to Romans 8.1-4. Readers, I only want to share a good news delivered by God through his only Son: 'If you believe in Christ Jesus, there is now no more condemnation!' Rejoice in the lord and be joyful always!' (Prasadja, May 23, 2011)

'Personal judgment often comes with wrong content, wrong motif (i.e. jealousy, self righteous, pride) and wrong mode of delivery - this is a devastating activity to the victim, to the actor, and to the relationship between the two' (Prasadja, May 25, 2011)

'The salvation is offered by God's amazing grace; It is made possible through the death of Christ who is also God himself; And God the Holy Spirit secures the promise until the consummation of the eternal glory before the Triune God. This amazing cycle shows God's powerful, wonderful and complete plan of salvation' (Prasadja, May 25, 2011)

'While sin always slaves and condemns us, the Spirit of God assures us of our new status and privilege as children of God' (Prasadja, May 26, 2011).

'Genuine reconciliation restores broken relationship and maturing parties in conflict' (Prasadja, May 26, 2011)

'Two or three years ago, I read a book "12 Leadership Principles" from Gallups Survey, saying that three most difficult positions are 1) head of a country; 2) president of a university; and 3) pastor of a church' (Prasadja, May 28, 2011)

'Do we really need a church? Or is the world really in need of a church?' (Prasadja, May 28, 2011)

A good friend of mine who is a pastor quoted Rick Warren, saying 'Your greatest ministry will likely come out of your greatest hurt.' I replied saying, 'Your greatest hurt will likely come out of your (greatest) ministry' (Prasadja, May 29, 2011)

'This is the end - for me the beginning of life' (Dietrich Bonhoeffer to Bishop of Chichester, George Bell via Payne Best days before the execution) (May 31, 2011)

BILA TUHAN MENGUJIMU - FRANKY SIHOMBING

2011-06-21T03:18:00.002-07:00

This song has always been with me since the painful 2008 incident - when life was indeed like a roller coaster.

REFLECTION #2 ON FATHER'S DAY 2011: THE CALL OF FATHERHOOD ACCORDING TO LUKE 15.11-34

2011-06-21T01:19:00.004-07:00

We are all created in the image and likeness of God. Sin has broken that divine image in us. If one aspect of God is God being a father, and if the goal of our faith is the restoration of God's image and likeness in us, therefore the tasks of fatherhood apply to all of believers in Christ both male and female. Am I correct?

One of the most vivid pictures of the fatherhood of God is presented in the Gospel of Luke (15.11-32). Many people know and enjoy the parable of the Prodigal Son, though in my view (and certainly in the older son's view), the father of the prodigal son is somehow also 'prodigal.'

What did the younger son do? He asked for shared property in advance before the death of his father (v.12). He spent all the money in a reckless living among others with prostitutes (vv.13, 30). By asking his shared property before the death of the father, this younger son certainly had hurt his father's heart. By spending his money with prostitutes, this younger son had certainly brought shame to the family, and especially to his own father whose last name attached to him. By living a reckless lifestyle, this younger son paid no respect to the father who had taught him to live according to God's law (according to Jewish tradition).

Is it worth to keep this younger son as son? Is it beneficial at all to welcome him back home? What other horror reputations will be labelled to this family by accepting him back? If I or you were the father of this son, what would we do?

This son returned home hungry, not properly clothed and shoeless, weak, dirty, smelly, and discouraged. This prodigal son felt that his identity as his father's son had lost by what he had done to himself, to his family and especially to his father. The narrative assumes that no good father will be willing to welcome this horrible son back in the family.

Surprisingly, when the father saw his son, he felt compassion, and ran and embraced his son and kissed him affectionately, though his body was smelly and dirty - and though this son had hurt him so much (v.20). Not only that, the father ordered the servant to bring the best robe, and put it on the son, and put a ring on his son's hand, and shoes on his son's feet. The father also celebrated the return of his son with a big party (vv.22-23).

The older son and some of us thought that his father is 'prodigal.' Why did this father spend a lot of money to welcome this prodigal son who had brought shame to the family and hurt his own heart? Only prodigal father would do that. Crowd including us would agree that this younger son was not deserved for that generous loving welcome from his father. But....... do you know what? This younger son however is a picture of no one but you and me. We all were dirty, smelly and prodigal boys and girls. We were actually not deserved to receive a warm, loving and generous welcome from God. But God's love alone overcome the deadly barrier. We are loved though we are not deserved to be loved.

What did this father do to his once lost son? This father loved his son with an unchangeable, undeniable and eternal love. This is agape: a love that is offered to the undeserved without any requirements in advance and without any expected return. This son once left his father, but his father's love towards him was consistent and still.

This father showed compassion and care to his once lost son. This father's love was not merely a lip service nor an abstract commitment. He loved his son, he showed compassion to him and he cared for him by actively welcoming, embracing and kissing him, saying, 'You are my son still.' While his son rightly felt that he is no longer worthy to be called as the son of this father, the compassionate heart of his father embraced and cared for him warmly. This parable teaches that genuine compassion always brings all puzzles together in peace and reconciliation.

The son was forgiven and restored by his father. The giving of clothes, shoes and food signifies physical restoration. The giving of a ring on his hand signifies social restoration. The one who once lost is now found - The one who once left me, now is mine again, said the father. The ring claimed publicly that this younger son was forgiven and hold the status of an official son to this father.

As father, God does loving, caring for, forgiving and restoring his beloved children. We are all male and female believers called to these tasks of fatherhood exemplified by the father in this parable. The prodigal son is a picture of us and our failures. The father is a picture of God the father who loves, cares for, forgives and restores our lives. It is in that image and likeness have we been created - and it is in that image and likeness, has the goal of our faith been set for. The parable of the Prodigal Son is indeed a true story of us.

REFLECTION #1 ON FATHER'S DAY 2011: IS GOD A GOOD FATHER TO JESUS?

2011-06-20T23:35:00.001-07:00

Few days before the 2011 Father's Day, I asked myself reflective questions. One of those question is, 'Is God a good father to his only Son, Jesus?' If God really is a good father, why did he not save his severely dying Son from a brutal death on the cross? Instead, as Jesus cried aloud, saying, 'Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?' that is, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?' If I were Jesus, and in this specific horror incident, it is honestly unimaginable to call God as a good father. Expert in family and counseling understand and exactly agree that a father is expected to provide security for members of his family. Well, God the father was certainly able to save Jesus from all inhuman physical tortures he had to go through some two thousand years ago, but God opted not to do the otherwise. But.......

Since I asked this question to myself - I tried to answer the question myself. And again, If I were Jesus, I would have been proud of God the father, since he is not self centered. As most fathers do say and it is good: my family is number one; my wife is number one; my children is number one; financial security for my family is number one; health insurance for my family is number one; vehicle for my family is number one. All number ones are MY....... God the father is different. As Paul said in Romans 8.32, 'He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all - how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?' The sacrifice of God's only Son is justified because God's love is not a MY type of love - God, the father of Jesus shows love that is not self centered. The love of God is agape, a love that is consistent, eternal and offered to the undeserved folk like us. And for that I bet Jesus would have been proud of his father.

Again, if I were Jesus, I would have been proud of God the father because he shows no compromise to sin and injustice. The sacrifice of Jesus, the only Son of God is not purposeless. The scandal of the cross was a fight for justice and righteousness. Through the death of Jesus, the Son, the power of sin has been defeated. The cross is certainly the absolute ground for a theological theme Christus Victor. God's commitment for truth is unshakeable. This commitment brings the consequence that all kinds of sin and corruption have to be eradicated. In the light of this commitment, the sacrifice of Jesus is justified. God's absolute commitment for truth, justice and righteousness is one prime among reasons why Jesus was proud of his heavenly daddy.

Now we know God better. First, God is not a father who focus on MY......., including to his only Son. God's love and compassion to the world is absolute and obvious. Second, God is a father whose commitment to truth, justice and righteousness is absolute. God is a father who stands firm against all kinds of sin, corruption and evil things. What a happy reality for Jesus to have a daddy like God the father: Jesus must have been proud of him.

SECURED IN THE LOVE OF GOD (ROMANS 8.31-39)

2011-06-20T01:04:00.004-07:00

Romans 8.31-39 does not simply serve as the ending of Romans 8, but also of a larger unit of Paul's argument in Romans 5-8. In Romans 5.1-11, Paul said that God offered his love to us when we were weak, sinful and still the enemy of God. We were not actually deserved to receive the love of God, but God loved us anyway. This type of love is unconditional and undeniable. A love from a man to a woman simply because of the outward beauty at her youth is vulnerable since everybody is growing old. God's love is however different. God loved us even when we were enemies of him. We who were actually deserved of eternal punishment, are saved by God's love.

Believers are inseparable from the love of God at least because of three reasons. Reason #1 can be read in verses 31-32, in which Paul argued that God has given us his only most precious own Son, Jesus Christ. If God has given the best and the most precious gift he could give, then the rest are minor, inferior and no longer significant in the life of believers. God's love is attached to us with the strongest glue ever exists that is through Jesus Christ the most and only beloved of him. If the least of God is bigger than all human's endeavors, then the most precious of God is unparalleled.

Reason #2 is explained in verses 33-34. We are saved and justified by the precious blood of Christ. We are already purchased by the right amount and method of payment. The payment is once and complete. No one or no party should question what Christ has done for us on the cross. Paul argued even stronger saying that Christ not only has died for us, but Christ has risen and ascended to the right throne of God, a position that is unrivaled. And this powerful Christ is indeed our (believers') advocate. Thus, our love bonding with God is absolutely secured.

Paul continued with reason #3 in verses 35-39. Both now and in the future there are and there will be no power and authorities who are able to separate us from the love of God (vv.38-39). Sufferings may come everyday in so many various unexpected forms of accident such us war, hunger, poverty, sickness and tortures (vv. 35-36) - Paul seemed to say: do not be surprised! Paul quoted Psalm 44.23 to say that those kinds of sufferings are not unnatural, and thus we need to be prepared. The good news is: the work of Christ on the cross has transformed us from our old deadly life into a new victorious life. This transformation is not a subject to be cancelled and is not reversible. The most difficult, the most painful and the most miserable accidents in life - though they are real - will therefore not change our status as victorious people of God.

Combined with Romans 5.1-11, Romans 8.31-39 argues for the superiority and the undeniably of God's love. God's love is eternal and most powerful. God's love is comforting, strengthening, life-changing and transforming.

To close the large unit of Romans 5-8, allow me to point to two fundamental truths: (1) God's love is superior over against the problem of sin and the helplessness of the law (Romans 5.25-7.25). Unlike the law, the love of God is able, powerful and willing to save us. The love of God is also transforming our life from the old slavery of sin to the new slavery of righteousness; (2) God's love is superior over against the deepest and the most painful problems of human earthly suffering (Romans 8.1-30). The salvation given to us by God is waiting for its consummation. The waiting period is not painless and free from infliction. The love of God and the presence of the Holy Spirit among us however to go through the miseries of life victoriously.

PAUL AND THE PROBLEMS OF SUFFERING IN ROMANS 8.18-30

2011-06-19T23:32:00.007-07:00

One of the most controversial modern scholars on the Bible is Bart Ehrman who now hold the James A. Gray Distinguish Professor at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Ehrman himself decided to leave his evangelical faith to become an agnostic because he feels that the Bible is not able to provide sufficient answers to the critical question of 'Why do we suffer?' The question of human suffering is certainly one of the most fundamental and critical issues world religions including Christianity try to answer.

Paul in Romans 8.18-30 offered principles to tackle the issue of human suffering. Principle #1: Believers in Jesus Christ do not free from earthly suffering. In verses 19-25, Paul maintained the use of 'the whole creation' instead of 'only believers' to say that all living beings in this universe are now groaning and suffering. The only single difference between believers and the rest of the creation is the existence of a living hope available for believers. Believers are now living in intermediate period of tension between the inauguration and the consummation of their salvation. The period of waiting for the consummation however signifies by the existence of hope that is alive. This is not an empty hope, but a living hope promise by God through Christ Jesus sealed by the Holy Spirit.

Principle #2: God does not let us struggling alone. God is with us - Immanuel. In the midst of challenges and painful road, the Spirit of God is always ready to help. The Parakletos (Holy Spirit) is the Spirit of intercession (vv. 26-27). This Holy Spirit is able to intercede on behalf of us even to the unspeakable items of prayer. In other words, the Holy Spirit understands and prays for the deepest problems and the most difficult issues we are now facing. Don't worry! Since the Holy Spirit is God himself, God the Father will not misunderstand the content of the intercession offered by God the Spirit. And God the Father will answer those prayers according to his will. Thus, we are secure, since never God neglect and never he ignore us. Others may not understand our problems, but God knows. Others may not be able to feel our sufferings, but God is able to feel them since he had gone through the most painful and brutal tragedy of the cross. We are not alone in the midst of unexpected miserable situations. Believers are safe and guided by God's sovereign and wonderful will.

Principle #3: God is at work in every single path of our life. God is not simply a reacting being. God's works are not simply responses towards human's calamities. God is not a relief social development agency. God's work is detail and in every single aspect of the believers' life (v.28). For example, God is at work before we think, God is at work when we consider to make a decision, God is at work when the decision is made, God is at work in all consequences of the decision we made. For the believers in Christ, there is no place or time in which God is not at work. The real good news is the fact that the quality of God's work is always good (v.28). Knowing this principle is truly comforting. Though we may make mistakes, God never! Though we sometimes do stupid decision, we are reminded that God's work in us is always good.

Now, we still have three verses left. The opening verse (8.18) is an encouragement to those who are in the dark valley of calamities. No matter how painful our present sufferings are, the awaiting future glory is unparallelled and incomparable.

The last two verses (8.29-30) are somehow complicated. Followers of Calvinism often find these two verses as indisputable ground and support for the doctrine of absolute election. Though Calvin was without doubt a great theologian, and though the doctrine of election is positive, I am far from certain that Paul intended to tackle the delicate issue of election in these two verses. It is enough to say that all good things in the life of believers including justification, salvation, election and glorification find their source only in God, since God is active, gracious and sovereign. This theme of God's sovereign grace over against the helplessness of the law is indeed the Leitmotiv behind Romans 5-8.

What is then the relationship between human sufferings and the sovereign grace of God? At the center of the argument is divine assurance, especially to those who are going through the misery of life. God has chosen, elected, justified and saved us through the death of his only Son, Jesus Christ. Earthly sufferings though they are undeniably painful are inferior compared to the future eternal glory promised by God to all who believe in Christ Jesus. The word 'glory' in verse 18 and 30 indeed serves as sandwich for Paul's whole argument of human suffering, noting that suffering is not an end to itself. Suffering is only the beginning of a future eternal glory promised by God himself.

66 books in 66 seconds

2011-06-11T01:39:00.000-07:00

INFLUENTIAL BOOK: COST OF DISCIPLESHIP (NACHFOLGE) BY DIETRICH BONHOEFFER

2011-06-07T01:47:00.005-07:00

I was introduced to the name of Dietrich Bonhoeffer at a seminar on 'Family and Christian Faith' back in 1992. I began to read Cost of Discipleship during my first year as a seminarian in a windy Chicago approaching the end of 1994. I took one semester-full course on Dietrich Bonhoeffer through which I was introduced to the person, his life, his works, and his theology.

Bonhoeffer is an awesome figure both in the academia and in the church. He was extraordinarily brilliant in the academia, but completely submit to the Bible in his ordinary life as a churchman. For some (if not many) people, Bonhoeffer's interpretation of Christian faith may be disturbing and annoying. Bonhoeffer is for some believers extreme in understanding the texts of the Bible. To be a true and genuine Christian for Bonhoeffer is not a decision with light consequences. Discipleship is not free, but costly. The grace of God is free but is not cheap. Bonhoeffer seemed to argue that many Christians live in a cheap grace perspective and therefore are in need of (re)-repentance. Honest readers of the book will agree that in no point where readers can discover the unbiblical Bonhoeffer.

Bonhoeffer could opt for a more comfortable life, but his commitment to serve in his own troubled land costs his very own life. He was executed at Flossenbürg Concentration Camp only weeks before NAZI was forced to surrender. Bonhoeffer is not only a good author, he also lived what he wrote. Allow me to share with you one famous statement of Cost of Discipleship: 'When Christ calls a man, He bids him come and die.' Last but not least: books under Bonhoeffer's pen are worth and important to read!

The statue of Bonhoeffer was launched at the West Entrance of Westminster Abbey in 1998 to pay tribute to one of the most respected modern Christian martyrs.

INFLUENTIAL BOOK: THE SERVANT: A SIMPLE STORY OF THE ESSENCE OF LEADERSHIP BY JAMES HUNTER

2011-06-07T00:46:00.003-07:00

The book was given to me as part of reading assignments from Compassion International in approaching Area Annual Meeting in Hongkong in December 2008.

At the beginning I was not too enthusiastic to read the book mainly because of two reasons (1) I was too busy with my work load and my family and thus had no enough time to read; (2) I have read some (or perhaps many) books on leadership, and find them bore and monotone. I however successfully completed the whole book before my arrival at Chek Lap Kok Hongkong International Airport - and for that, I am so thankful to God.

As it is mentioned in the title, the book is nothing but a simple story. Though the subject is on leadership and looks heavy, the packaging is delivered in a popular-novella form of literature. It is about a successful businessman, John Daily who was frustrating with his roles as husband, father and business leader. He then was suggested to take a week-long retreat in a monastery. There he was mentored by a monk who previously was a famous business executive. That one week retreat had been a life changing experience for John Daily: from a reluctant at the beginning to a desire at the end.

The title of the book clearly indicates that behind the tale of John Daily are principles of servant-leadership. Through reading the tale, readers will be led to be more sensitive in recognizing characteristics of servant leadership. Hunter seems to argue through the story that servant leadership serves not only as the best leadership model, but also the only true (and biblical) leadership principle. Since the core principle of leadership is according to Hunter to serving, the message can be applied to all kind of people in different situations. I think it is not unfair to say that biblically we (believers) are all called to serve (or to lead) one toward another in love (as Hunter rightly places 1 Corinthians 13 as the foundation of his servant leadership principles).

For so many people who are tired of reading academic theoretical dry books on leadership, trust me that James Hunter's The Servant will excite you!

INFLUENTIAL BOOK: TURNING HURTS INTO HALOS AND SCARS INTO STARS BY ROBERT SCHULLER

2011-06-06T23:36:00.002-07:00

Schuller is a pastor and best-selling author. He is also the founder of Crystal Cathedral in Garden Grove, California, a church that he had been leading for so many years. He is also famous among his opponents because of his positivism.

Turning Hurts into Halos and Scars into Stars is a genius choice for a title of a book - to be honest with you, I could not think of better possible titles. Even if we have a very limited time to view only the title of this book (and do not care for the content of it), we already are amazed and challenged. From this brilliant title, readers will not only be motivated to read the book, but also to transform their old binding perspective into a new liberating one - especially when readers are in the midst of and facing difficult situation.

I read the book about six years ago, few months after my new life as a husband of Esther. Life was not easy, I and my wife made adjustments in so many areas of differences. This process was sometimes frustrating. On one morning I found this book on the shelf at our rent pavilion - it actually belongs to my wife. I read the book page after page, and I could not stop my eyes from reading the entire book.

Well, difficulties are still difficulties, challenges are still challenges, obstacles are still obstacles: they are real. Schuller does not call us to deny realities anyway. Yet, as I reflect on the book and on myself, I discover two very precious principles: (1) Our perspective determines our destiny; difficulties are always there for all kind of people. However, when we involve God in such unwanted situations and view challenges as opportunities, our end will be victorious. (2) Difficulties are always there, but we have the choices how to respond to those blocks. Right choices lead to right destination, while wrong choices lead to destruction.

INFLUENTIAL BOOK: HEART DESIRE BY PATSY ODA

2011-06-06T22:44:00.003-07:00

Heart Desire is an inspiring life-testimonial of Patsy Oda, a Japanese-American woman in finding her desired husband according to the will of God. Patsy Oda herself is the author of the book. I read the book some 25 years ago, thinking that I will soon have similar wonderful experience as hers. The fact is different: I had to wait for almost 20 years before finally I got married.

In the year of 2000 when I was facing heavy problem in relationship, I decided to contact Patsy Oda herself. The long distance e-mail conversations between Deutschland and the West Coast of America were proved to be fruitful. I truly thank God and her for her gentle and mature guidance on me. She helped me to understand both my self-desire and the will of God - and to grasp the tension between the two. Guess what!!! Patsy Oda sent me a copy of Heart Desire with her autograph on it.

INFLUENTIAL BOOK: NO EASY ROAD BY DICK EASTMAN

2011-06-02T03:23:00.003-07:00

No Easy Road (1973) by Dick Eastman is a life changing book on prayer. I first read the book in 1985, when I was in grade 10. Since then, I always desire to read Eastman's books. And I did for two other great books of him: The Hour that Changes the World (1986) and Love on Its Knees (1989). These are best selling books on prayer and intercession. After I completed No Easy Road, I purchased more than 200 copies of that book and shared them with friends of mine inviting them to enter the beauty of prayer ministry.

Inspired by the book and realizing that prayers are significant in a meaningful Christian life, I began to distribute prayer letters to friends. I started with only less than twenty people. Today amazingly more than one hundred prayer partners receive prayer letters from me: as they commit to pray for me and my family, I also commit to pray for them. The distribution of these prayer letters truly exemplifies a worldwide prayer loving community.

The book I believe was also an intended gift from God. No one (including me) ever thought that In 1991, I and four other friends initiated and led what now known as Student Prayer Network. The network calls students from all campuses from different regions in Indonesia to offer intercessory prayers. The ministry was widened as I was appointed to be the executive secretary of National Prayer Network in 1993. Together with church leaders in Indonesia we calls all believers in Indonesia to pray in unity.

Without No Easy Road, I may not be interested in a prayer ministry at all. God however opened my eyes through reading the book, that such ministry is very crucial and not replaceable in a victorious Christian life. At the end, allow me to ask you one important question: Do you pray or do you 'pray'? I do really hope that you do really pray real prayers. No Easy Road has been changing my 'prayer life' into a true meaningful prayer life.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT PART 4: I AM THE CHILD OF GOD (ROMANS 8.14-17)

2011-05-26T07:12:00.002-07:00

Believers not only belong to Christ, but are the child of God. The Spirit of God is not only a seal through which our attachment to Christ is secured, but also a seal through which our attachment to God the father is officiated. The Spirit of God is the Spirit of adoption. God the father through Jesus Christ not only saves us from the deadly destiny, but also adopts us as his children legally through and legalized by the Holy Spirit (8.14).

The Spirit of God confirms our legal status as children of God. Paul even went furthermore to claim that the adoption is not only legal at the beginning, but also realized through the journey of life until the consummation time. The adoption is therefore secured by the Spirit of God. In verse 17, Paul said that we are heirs of God.

On approaching death many people write a testament, through which they mention their wishes after their departure. Normally, a testament will name the heirs of the deceases (children, grandchildren, brothers, sisters, etc.). A testament will prove whether someone is truly a heir of the decease or not. Thus, the Spirit of God serves as both a birth certificate and a testament confirming one legal status as a child of God. Our adoption is one legalized by the Spirit of God, two it is realized in our status as heirs of God, and three it is irreversible: once and forever (my understanding of Paul). We are children of God and therefore we are heirs of God, now and forever.

Even more amazingly, our status as heirs of God is not different from Christ: we are Christ co-heirs of God the father. What had happened to Christ will happen to us (8.17). If we share in Christ's suffering then we also will share in his glory. The promise of adoption is therefore not a painless and easy life. Paul indicated potential hardships and inflictions experienced by children of God as Christ had been suffering from all those tortures. The promise of adoption is thus one the awaiting eternal glory through the drama of suffering as we are longing to be united with Christ, and two the leading, guiding, comfort and protection through difficult circumstances by the (parakletos) Spirit of God.

The adoption is real, sincere and full of love. We are not saved to be slaves, but to be children of God. There is no negative motif behind the salvation offered by God through Jesus Christ. We even are empowered to call God the Father, Abba (an Aramaic word for English equivalent 'daddy). This use of Abba illustrates the potential closeness and intimate relationship between believers and God (8.15). While sin always slaves and condemns us, the Spirit of God assures us of our new status and privilege as children of God (8.16).

Finally, our status as children of God is again recognized by a Spirit-led life (8.14). At this point, we may have in mind the idea of a business franchise. As Starbucks in all over the globe have certain standard of quality and service, children of God in this world also are expected to bear certain intrinsic godly characteristics. I think it is not unfair to say that the characteristics meant by Paul are moral characteristics. We are called to live a life led by the Spirit. We are called to live according to what the Spirit desires. We are called to leave our fleshly desires. We are called to be righteous as God is righteous. Those are pillars of godly life according to Paul in Romans 8. Our righteous deeds however are again not an obligation to the law, but a cheerful response to our loving Abba.

Romans 8.1-17 begins with 'no more condemnation' and ends with our new adopted status as children of God. The adoption pays ahead all future possible condemnation and punishment: that is the ground of a Christian life. The adoption secures our journey of faith through different difficult circumstances: that is the encouraging promise of a Christian life. The adoption carries out certain godly living standard according to what the Spirit desires: that is the very call of a Christian life.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT PART 3: I BELONG TO CHRIST (ROMANS 8.9-13)

2011-05-25T02:39:00.003-07:00

An official document is often officiated by a seal and authorized by a signature. A business deal is often guaranteed by certain amount of cash known as down payment. In a similar imagery, God's promise of salvation to those who believe in Christ Jesus is sealed by the Spirit of God.

The dwelling of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers is the most undisputed sign of the new status and identity in Christ. The cross is once, final and complete. The blood of Christ guarantees that there is no more condemnation not only for days, weeks or months, but forever. This sealing by the Spirit of God brings up three significant points.

First, believers now belong to Christ (8.9) and are secured in Christ. Though life is fragile and most of the time is not painless, God's promise of salvation in Christ is sealed and secured by the Holy Spirit (Gk. Parakletos), who always leads us, guides us, comforts us, encourages us, protects us and be with us. We are not alone as we journeying from the initiation of our faith to the consummation of our salvation. Unlike the passive worldly down payment or seal, the Holy Spirit is active in accompanying us to stepping our path aiming to the eternal glory.

The salvation is offered by God's amazing grace; It is made possible through the death of Christ who is also God himself; And God the Holy Spirit secures the promise until the consummation of the eternal glory before the Triune God. This amazing cycle shows God's powerful, wonderful and complete plan of salvation. The very truth is: We contribute nothing from the beginning to the end.

Second, this complete plan of God is pictured by the link of Christ Jesus, the Holy Spirit and the believers. The three parties are related not only in the issue of salvation, but also in the issue of bodily resurrection (8.10-11). Our salvation ends not in eternal death and futility, but in eternal life marked by our bodily resurrection. Paul himself boldly argued that the Spirit who raised Jesus from the death is exactly the same as the One who dwells in the life of believers. This same Spirit will gives life to our mortal body. The Spirit of God who dwells in us therefore gives us confidence to live our life enthusiastically longing for a time and place full of glory before the Triune God. Once again: Be enthusiastic for your very life in Christ!

Third, the new identity in Christ brings moral consequences. By belong to Christ we are invited to live in righteousness (8.10, 12-13): that is a life according to the will of the Spirit of God over against a life according to our sinful nature. This requirement is not asked for attaining our salvation. We indeed contribute nothing for our salvation. This requirement is intrinsically related to the very character of the Holy Spirit, and to the work of the cross. The scandal of the cross is indeed a turning point in the history of human kind, when sin found its most destructive attack, and subsequently death found its ultimate death. And as the Spirit of God is holy, he will lead and guide us from one righteousness to another righteousness. Our obedience and righteous living is now no longer a response to the requirement of the law, but a response to the love of Jesus shown on the cross, and to the gentle touch of the Holy Spirit. Our most precious response to the cross and obligation the leading of the Spirit of God is nothing but to obey!

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT PART 2: THE BATTLE OF MINDS (ROMANS 8.5-8)

2011-05-23T02:54:00.004-07:00

To live according to the sinful nature is to live with minds set on what the flesh desires, but to live according to the Spirit is to live with minds set on what the Spirit desires (8.5). Setting on is to fix the direction or to aim. The first real question is therefore: 'What is the goal of our minds?' And in its simplest expression: 'What is the purpose of our life?' Is God at the center of our life, or I? Life in the Spirit of God is a perspective that always places God at the center of everything: Gott ist über alles. To tell you the truth: 'Anything that places God as the priority is always great and will never go wrong' (Prasadja, May 2011).

The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace (8.6). The second question on mind is therefore: 'How do we operate our mind? A mind controlled by the Spirit of God brings peace and life. It unifies, builds, edifies, strengthens, develops, bears fruits, regenerates, and brings life. The sinful mind breaks, destroys, devastates, weakens, provokes conflicts, kills, and ends in futility. The Spirit of God leads our minds to healthy relationship (with God, with others, with self and with the environment) ends in fruitful life. Our fleshly-self-ego sinful nature leads our minds to broken relationship ends in destruction and death. The idea brought up by Paul is not so much on direct actions producing peace or conflicts, but a state of mind and identity. According to Matthew 5.9, the peacemakers are the children of God. My simple logic might be wrong, but it should be not too far from the truth to say that the conflict-makers are therefore the children of the enemies of God. John 17 recognizes that through our unity, the world may believe in God who sent Christ Jesus (v. 21). Unity and peace seem to be two most important characteristics of Spirit-led-community of believers.

The sinful mind disobeys God and therefore is hostile to God. This evil mind is not compatible with the mind of God (i.e. failures of pleasing God; 8.7-8). The third question on mind is thus: 'To which party does our mind belong? Our mind's belonging determines our compatibility with God. Our service to God whatever perfect it is is futile when sinful mind operates. We may spend tons of energy in our ministry, without obedience however, we will not be able to please God. And I think it is fair enough to say that 'the worst tragedy in one's life regardless what his/her religious identity is is the incompatibility with God' (Prasadja, May 2011).

Readers, to what direction do you set on your minds, and how do you operate them in day to day life? And at the end of the day, we all need to ensure the compatibility of our minds in God's global economy!

Paul seemed to obviously steer the discussion of 'life in the Spirit' to the battle of minds. Deeds are without doubt important, as 'Good thought alone does not make us righteous, if it is not accompanied by good deeds. Evil thought alone however is enough to make us unrighteous' (Prasadja, May 2011). As Jesus once also indicated in Matthew 5.27-30, the sins of adultery are most of the time executed not by our sexual organs, but by our minds (literally: eyes). In a totally different context and setting, Franklin D. Roosevelt once said 'Men are (not prisoners of fate), but only prisoners of their own minds' (brackets and italic are mine). The 'no condemnation' motif in Romans 8 by no means give us room to sin, but a strong encouragement to overcome our sinful nature and to win the battle of our minds.

LIFE IN THE SPIRIT PART 1: H5W (ROMANS 8.1-4)

2011-05-23T01:01:00.010-07:00

Who: Those who are in Christ Jesus; If we believe in Christ Jesus we live in the Spirit of God. In Romans chapter 8, Paul used both Spirit and Christ Jesus interchangeably. Life in Spirit is a sign of Christ dwelling in us.
Where: Those who are in Christ Jesus; There is no other way to live in the Spirit of God but Christ. Jesus claimed in John 14.6, 'I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.' The language of salvation is effective only in Christ's sphere of influence.
When: It is now; Life in the Spirit of God is not an abstract future entity, but a present real reality. The 'no more condemnation' is active in our present day to day reality of life.
What: No more condemnation; Life in the Spirit of God is free from condemnation. Christ Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalties of our past, present and future sins. The fulfilling requirements of the law in verse 4 should not be understood as our improving ability to obey the law. The fulfilling requirements of the law does mean that even in our continuously upcoming sins and failures, God has paid the penalties in related to those sins and failures: once and complete! What a great and wonderful divine assurance!
Why: To live according to the Spirit; Life in the Spirit of God is an obedience to (the Spirit of) God over against our natural (literally: fleshly) desires.
How: God did through the sending of his own Son, Jesus Christ; Human efforts are futile, and the law (Torah) has been powerless. But thank to God for graciously giving us his only Son to die on the cross, delivering freedom from the slavery of sin and condemnation to those who believe in Christ Jesus.
Conclusion: If we are in Christ Jesus, sealed by the Spirit of God, we are commanded:

First to rejoice in the lord and be joyful always, since there is no more condemnation.
Second, to live a life according to the desires of the Spirit of God (i.e. Live in obedience), not because of fearing of the failures of attaining the requirements of the law, but because of a sincere gratefulness upon the grace of God who sets us completely free from the condemnation of sin and death.

A BOOK REVIEW: THE WORD LEAPS THE GAP: ESSAYS ON SCRIPTURE AND THEOLOGY IN HONOR OF RICHARD B. HAYS

2011-05-18T00:50:00.003-07:00

The Word Leaps the Gap: Essays on Scripture and Theology in Honor of Richard B. Hays (Eds: J. R. Wagner, C. K. Rowe, A. K. Grieb). Grand Rapids: Wm. B. Eerdmans, 2008 (710pp).

It is unusual to have a festschrift extending beyond 700 pages such as the one for Richard B. Hays. The length of the festschrift with a total of thirty-three contributors is a testimony of the greatness of the honoree. It does not take too long to recognize that Hays is not only a brilliant scholar, but one who is influential in New Testament scholarship. His publications and speeches are often like a breath of fresh air. Hays' discussion on the Bible, especially the New Testament, has made significant contributions in the areas of hermeneutics, ethics, and Christian faith (Bockmuehl, p. 498). Hays' interest extends to the relationship between the Old and the New Testament which is adeptly captured by John Barclay (p. 409). Apart from being an active member of the academy, Hays is a person who possesses an interesting personality, a wide network of friends and contacts, and good interpersonal skill. Most importantly, apart from the Bible, the New Testament, literature and art in general, Hays loves his family very much and this is something that is not normally mentioned in a festschrift.

The list of contributors includes his friend George Hobson who wrote a poem entitled 'For Richard Hays,' his daughter Sarah Hays Coomer who wrote a touching testimony on her amazing experience with her father and her unpredictable journey of faith, and his wife of more than 40 years, Judith Hays, who co-authored with Hays on 'The Christian Practice of Growing Old' at the end of the book. The rest of the contributors are former students, colleagues, and New Testament scholars. Six contributors are from the United Kingdom: five of them reside in Durham, the other being Markus Bockmuehl of Oxford . Four of these five scholars are associated with the Department of Religion and Theology at the University of Durham. The Durham group is made up of James D. G. Dunn, John M. G. Barclay, Walter Moberly, Francis Watson, and Nicholas T. Wright. Two other contributors are from the Catholic University, Notre Dame, while another three come from Fuller at Pasadena. More than one third of the contributors are Hays' colleagues at Duke.

The contributions span a range of issues like hermeneutics, the relationship between the Old and the New Testament, ethics, and Pauline theology. The resources used in the essays cover the canonical literature, the apocrypha, as well as ancient and classic literature. Some of the issues raised have been a long standing debate in the area of New Testament studies, for example, the issue and interpretation of 'the faith of Christ' is discussed by James D. G. Dunn. This issue has been an on-going point of debate between Dunn and Hays since 1991. Ed Sanders' essay on the development of Paul's theology moves into another area exemplifying the classic tension between the conservative wing and the liberal wing. N. T. Wright's proposal on virtue as the direct implication or definition of faith is another example of reaching a conclusion after years of discussion and debate. The length of the book does not permit a comprehensive review of all the essays and only a few can be highlighted here. Some of the contributions in this festschrift are important to help us understand the issues involved as well as the honoree himself.

The following selected reviews are taken from Stanley Hauerwas’, Ed Sanders’, James Dunn’s, N. T. Wright’s and Sara Hays Coomer’s contributions.

The festschrift begins with a reflection from Hays' colleague, Stanley Hauerwas, on the issue concerning hermeneutics and scripture reading (pp. 1-19). Without a doubt, Hays' art of scripture reading is extraordinary (p. 543). Hauerwas views Hays' approach in reading and interpreting scripture as very strict and less contextual. Such a comment is expected since Hays is a Biblicist while Hauerwas is not (though he now claims that he is a biblical scholar upon the completion of his 2006 commentary on Matthew in the BTCB Series). Hauerwas expresses his worry that hermeneutics can become too theoretical and less contextual (p.2). In appreciating of John Howard Yoder's work, Hauerwas seems to view the Bible as a 'means' to confront the contemporary context of our world. Hauerwas is not against Hays' approaches and interpretation methodologies of the Bible. He only warns that such approaches may place the Bible far from the real needs of the world. Hauerwas notices the importance of building a bridge between hermeneutics and theology to avoid an isolated reading and interpretation of scripture.

Ed. P. Sanders also contributes to the classic issue of the development of Paul's thought and theology. In his essay, 'Did Paul's theology develop?' (pp. 325-350), Sanders lucidly explains the development of Paul's theology by using three significant terms: consistency, coherence, and systematic. Sanders carefully analyzes the meaning of the three words and argues that (1) Paul was not ‘systematic’ in that he did not write a systematic theology book (p. 326); (2) Paul was consistent in his theological view, but he was not too consistent in practical level. According to Sanders, there is at least one instance where Paul was inconsistent and Sanders shows this by comparing 1 Cor 11.5 and 14.33-34. For Sanders, inconsistency at the practical level is something that is not unnatural. In page 326, Sanders strongly says that perfect consistency is inhuman mainly because the context is always changing. In Sanders’ viewpoint, Paul thought from solution to problem rather than the reverse (p. 327). In other words, Sanders seems to place context as something that heavily drives Paul's theology; (3) Paul's thought is coherent. Paul's thought operates on two principles: (a) The God of Israel is the God of the whole world. He called out the Jewish people, brought them out of bondage, and gave them the law. Nevertheless, all creation is His. (b) In later days, God sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to save the whole world from the wrath to come regardless of whether the person is Jewish or not (p. 328). Sanders believes that Paul's statements are heavily dependent on these two principles.

In pp. 330ff, Sanders tries to build his argument based on Douglas Campbell's monograph, The Quest for Paul's Gospel: A Suggested Strategy (London: T&T Clark, 2005). According to Campbell's argument, Sanders seems to be anti-theological, anti-rational, and anti-systematic, to which Sanders disagrees. For Sanders, Paul was a splendid creative theologian (p. 331). According to Sanders, Campbell uses the terms ‘systematic, coherence, and consistency’ without paying enough attention to the fact that each word has its own distinctive meaning. Despite the differences, it is interesting to read what Sanders says: 'Campbell's own view of Paul's theology is not all that different from mine' (p. 332).

Another notable contributor is James D. G. Dunn who is unquestionably one of the most productive New Testament scholars. Dunn has a long history of debate and friendship with Hays. This is seen in Dunn's essay which is both personal and academic (pp. 351-366). In it, Dunn disagrees with Hays on the interpretation of phrase 'the faith of Christ Jesus' (pistis Christou). The disagreement stretches back seventeen years and involves numerous articles and monographs. Dunn recognizes that Hays' position is persuasive as many younger scholars are in Hays’ side. Some senior scholars, such as Leander Keck, J. L. Martyn, and Morna Hooker, have also been persuaded by Hays' interpretation. This goes to show how influential Hays' interpretation is in the world of New Testament scholarship (p. 352)

According to Hays, the phrase pistis Christou should be translated as 'the faithfulness of Christ.' Christ is the subject; thus Christ is faithful (to die on the cross). The faithfulness of Christ is the prime cause of salvation. Dunn and the majority of German scholars offer a different interpretation which is along the traditional line. Dunn believes that pistis Christou should be understood as 'we have faith in Christ.' This is the ground of human salvation: we have faith in Christ.

The formerly Bishop of Durham, N. T. Wright, writes on the issue of virtue in relation to faith (pp. 472-497). By bringing virtue closer to faith, Wright is building a bridge between the two extreme poles of faith and work. This is a classical issue which has been discussed for many years by both Wright and Hays.

The final essay to note is the public personal testimony written by Hays' daughter, Sara (pp. 646-648). Sara tells us that Hays has always been a caring father who loves her very much. Though Hays brought Sara up in Christian tradition from her childhood, Sara decides to hold a different religious view as she wants to be honest to herself. Hays does not force Sara to follow his religious view but actually encourages her to continue to search for the truth. It is not a normal trend to include a personal testimony like this in a festschrift, but from my perspective, this significantly adds value to the festschrift. Readers are thus invited not only to know about Hays' academic achievements, but also his life as a Christian and as a loving father to his daughter.

The focus of the festschrift is rather lacking, but it is understandable, especially because Hays is influential in so many areas in Biblical studies. The various topics included in this festschrift in fact shows how wide Hays' contributions have been. The names of the contributors to this festschrift show how influential Hays has been among other biblical scholars. The high quality of the essays will appeal to those who love biblical hermeneutics and ethics; those who search for the meaning of faith; those who seriously study the relationship between the Old and the New Testament; those who love literature; and those who want to know Hays and his work better.