Anchored in Christ

I was born and bred in Tanjong Malim, a small town in Malaysia. I considered myself a "free-thinker" in primary school from 1959 until the upper six grades in 1971. My parents practiced Taoist ancestral worship and prayed to a deity called the God of Heaven. However, I myself did not believe in God or have faith in these religious rituals. My life was carefree and free of religion.

Through Bible studies and Christian fellowships, students of Varsity Christian Fellowship introduced me to Christianity in 1972 at the University of Malaya. They also took me on Church retreats. In the same year, during a difficult time in my life, I heard this Gospel again. The fact that Jesus is God in human form, His love for me, even though I am a sinner, and His sacrifice on the cross for my salvation, had a profound impact on me. After a heartfelt prayer, I accepted Jesus as my Savior and Lord. This was my commitment.

My life changed dramatically after I decided to become a Christian. Christianity brought me peace and purpose that I had never known before. It inspired gratitude, humility, and contentment. It also helped me to focus my attention on God and other people as I learned to trust Jesus in my journey, despite the challenges. He guided me through all my trials and tribulations.

In December 2019, I was involved in a serious accident that left me paralyzed. I was able to fully recover through God's mercy and grace, despite the fact that my accident should have left me tetraplegic. The experience confirmed my faith in Jesus, and I am deeply grateful for all He has done. Witness His transformation today in your life - all are welcome to witness its effects! https://drandrewcskoh.com/2023/08/22/my-testimony-revisited/

Threads of Connection: A Chance Encounter and a Life Remembered

Some time ago, an unexpected moment of joy emerged in my life. One day, a gentleman showed up at my doorstep. He was wearing a perfect pilot uniform, which made it clear that he was an airplane captain. His smile was warm, and his eyes held an instantaneous spark of recognition, even though I couldn't place him.

As we exchanged pleasantries and caught up, the mystery of our connection began to fade away. He shared a memorable story that connected all parts of his life. When he was young, he got sick and had to struggle for breath and survival against an invisible enemy. He spent all his time in the hospital, not knowing what each day would bring.

At one point in his struggle, he mentioned my name. This caught me by surprise; my memory searched desperately for any vestige that could explain his gratitude. During difficult days, I helped him, offered encouragement, and did something kind that made a difference. My presence gave him comfort and hope in that uncertain moment.

Listening to his account was truly inspirational; fate had connected our lives in ways neither one of us could have predicted. Now a young man who once struggled for breath was flying planes around the globe as proof of his resilience.

As our conversation continued, I thought about the unexpected ways our actions can touch others' lives. A small act of kindness or gesture of support can have a lasting impact. This encounter reminded me that all humans are interconnected, and even small actions can create positive change.

At the end of his visit, that gentleman gave me a renewed sense of purpose. The choices and compassion we show have lasting effects on others. Our lives are intertwined with others' and create shared experiences and cherished memories.

The Personal Odyssey of Blogging: Navigating Uncharted Waters

Three years ago, I embarked on a blogging journey that was similar to sailing into an unknown ocean. Little did I realize that the road ahead would be full of challenges, victories, and valuable lessons. As I reflect on my journey, the three key elements to becoming a successful blogger are: dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn.

During the early stages of my blog, I faced obstacles that challenged my resolve. It was a challenge to create engaging content. I was faced with an age-old problem: how do I keep my readers interested and coming back to read more? Deciphering SEO algorithms was also a challenge. These challenges pushed me to learn more, seek knowledge, and refine my craft.

There were also moments of inspiration or insight, which brought a feeling of fulfillment. I still remember how exciting it was to write a blog that connected with readers, and started discussions online with people who shared similar interests. These small victories were beacons of inspiration, which helped me keep going even when uncertainty threatened.

WordPress.com has been a constant ally in this journey. The user-friendly WordPress interface was a haven of creativity. It offered a variety of tools that helped me turn my blogging dreams into reality. I was able to customize the design and layout of my website in order to reflect my personal style. They also offered online courses that helped me improve my skills.

WordPress.com is a great tool that simplifies technicalities, allowing me to share my stories, thoughts, and insights. Join me as I navigate this constantly changing landscape.

What strategies have you used to overcome them? What strategies did you use to overcome these challenges? Please share your stories, successes, and lessons in the comments below.

We can use our collective wisdom to chart our own unique paths as we explore the world of blogging. In the spirit of camaraderie, I look forward to connecting with all of you as we travel through the blogosphere.

Touching the hem of God

In the streets of Capernaum, I carried the burden of a name that had haunted me for a dozen years—the woman, with the issue of blood. My illness had left me weak. Without means, and hope always seemed out of reach. However, deep inside my heart, a flicker of faith persisted, leading me to the day that would forever change my life.

One morning, I heard whispers about a miracle healer called Jesus. Tales of His compassion and power to heal ignited a glimmer of hope within me. Somehow I knew in my soul that He held the key to free me from my affliction. Emboldened by faith and hope, I embarked on a journey to find Him and witness His power.

I pressed forward, inching my way through the immense crowd. I felt uncertain about how to reach Him in my state. Nevertheless, my yearning for healing overcame any doubts I had, compelling me to move on. As I drew nearer to Him, excitement mingled with apprehension in my heart.

I gazed upon the light emanating from Jesus, fully aware that this was the moment of my redemption. A simple touch on the hem of His robe, hold the promise of healing. With determination, I pushed my way through the crowd, feeling a surge of faith, with each step. The unwavering assurance of His power filled me with a sense of serenity. I knew I was on the brink of a breakthrough. 

Then it happened. Just as Jesus passed by, I reached out my hand, and touched the hem of His robe. A tremendous surged of energy flowed from my head to my toes like an electric shock. It was as if a river of healing flowed from Him into me.

In the blink of an eye, years of suffering vanished into thin air. All of a sudden, the constant flow of blood stopped. The pain and weakness that had plagued me for so long were completely gone.

As I stood there in awe, Jesus, looked around and asked, "Who touched me?" His disciples were shocked because everyone was touching Him. He persisted in his search for the person whose faith had summoned forth His healing power.

With fear and trembling, I stepped forward to reveal myself as the one who had touched Him. Then, with sincerity, I shared my testimony in front of the crowd. Jesus looked at me with compassion and spoke softly, "Your faith has healed you. May you find peace in your journey."
Tears of happiness rolled down my face. From that moment, my life took on a new meaning. I became a living testament to the power of God.

After this divine encounter, I felt forever grateful and loved because my Savior not only healed me but also gave me a new beginning. I am no longer defined by my past struggles. I am someone forever connected to Jesus Christ.

This story is taken from Mark 5:25-34, Luke 8:43-48. and Matthew 9: 20-22.

The Miracle Lunch Box- a short story by Dr. Andrew c S Koh

On a day, near the Sea of Galilee, I decided to offer my lunch, consisting of five barley loaves and two fish to Jesus. Little did I anticipate that this simple gesture would transform into a feast for thousands of people.

As the crowd gathered around Jesus, eager to hear His teachings, I searched for a spot where I could listen attentively. Despite my hunger, I knew that my meager lunch wouldn't suffice for such a number of people. Jesus started to speak. His words captivated us all for hours on end.

As the sun started its descent, hunger began to gnaw at the crowd. Jesus turned to His disciples and inquired about acquiring food for everyone. Philip expressed doubts about the feasibility of feeding such a multitude. It was then that Andrew noticed my lunch box and led me towards Jesus.

With anticipation, I presented Him with my offering. Jesus offered up a prayer to His Father, blessed the food before Him, broke it into pieces and started distributing it among the crowd. To my amazement, those five loaves and two fish multiplied miraculously, continuously satisfying everyone's hunger. Enough, there were even leftovers!

This miracle extended beyond satiating their physical appetite; it touched their hearts deeply and provided them with spiritual nourishment as well. From that day I dedicated myself wholeheartedly as a follower of Jesus Christ. Spreading His teachings with unwavering enthusiasm.

Word quickly spread about the event, attracting people from near and far who were eager to witness the power of Jesus. I eagerly shared my account, emphasizing the profound truth that even the smallest offering can hold immense significance in the hands of the Almighty.

The miraculous occurrence, with the lunch box served as a reminder of God's unwavering provision and boundless love. Every time I encounter bread or fish it instantly brings back memories of that day by the Sea of Galilee.

As time went on I was fortunate enough to witness an array of miracles performed by Jesus, – healing, feeding, and even raising the dead. However, among all these awe-inspiring events there was something about the miracle involving that humble lunch box. It reminded me to offer everything I have to Jesus, no matter how small, and trust that He can use it in amazing ways.

Reflecting upon that day fills my heart with gratitude for having been a partaker, in such a divine moment. My simple meal transformed into a testament to God's provision and unending love. Now countless individuals are inspired by this memory – it continues to ignite faith and instill hope within their hearts.

A tale of love and friendship

The Pandemic

Silent streets and empty skies,

A world brought down to its demise,

A virus spread from land to land,

Holding all of us in its tight command.

Shops closed down, people in despair,

The pandemic sweeping everywhere,

Doctors and scientists in the fray,

Working tirelessly day by day.

Families torn apart, loved ones lost,

The pandemic came with a massive cost,

We kept our distance, stayed away,

Hoping and praying for a brighter day.

Yet through the darkness, hope did shine,

People came together, fighting the fight,

Soldiers on the front lines took up the chase,

And we emerged stronger in the aftermath of this race.

The feast of Tabernacle

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we pray for soft, responsive, and receptive hearts to hear You speak to us. We pray for the transformation of our hearts and minds, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Setting

Jesus left Judea and came to Galilee because the Jewish religious rulers were plotting to harm Him. The Israelites were celebrating the feast of Tabernacles for 8 days. This feast commemorates the 40 years of wilderness wandering. The highlight of the feast was the water ceremony on the last day.

John 7: 37- 39

Now on the last and greatest day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink! He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, from within him will flow rivers of living water.” But he said this about the Spirit, which those believing in him were to receive. For the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus wasn’t yet glorified.

Reflection

The priest performed the water ceremony on the last day of the feast of Tabernacle. The priest will take water from the pool of Siloam with a golden pitcher, walk around the altar 7 times, and pour the water on the altar. Just when the priest was pouring out the water, Jesus declared in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Who ever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them.” The Holy Spirit is symbolically represented by living water. Jesus is symbolized by the rock. The water ceremony was a profound way to remember the story in Exodus 17:6. "Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb, and you shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel." 

Application

The promise of salvation is a universal promise. If you come to Jesus and receive Him as your Lord and Saviour, you will be saved, and the Holy Spirit will enter into you. To be saved, one must accept Jesus' invitation with a positive response and believe in Him. The joy of the Holy Spirit will overflow from within you to others. 

Matthew 11:28, "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

Prayer

Dear God, we believe that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah and the Holy One of Israel. Thank You for salvation, justification, sanctification and eternal life. Thank You for mercy and grace, in Jesus name, we pray. Amen.

Devotion

Wise and foolish people

Matthew chapter 7, verses 24 to 29

Everyone therefore who hears these words of mine and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on a rock. The rain came down, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it didn’t fall, for it was founded on the rock. Everyone who hears these words of mine and doesn’t do them will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand. The rain came down, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell—and its fall was great. When Jesus had finished saying these things, the multitudes were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them with authority, and not like the scribes.

Reflection

There are two kinds of people and two types of houses. Wise people who build their houses with Jesus as the foundation will be able to withstand the onslaught of trials and persecution. Foolish people who build their houses with sand as the foundation will be washed away by the floods, storms, and natural disasters of life. When the multitude heard these sayings, they were amazed because Jesus taught with authority, unlike the Pharisees and scribes. 

Application

Praying is asking, seeking, and knocking on God. The Greek verbs, ask, seek, and knock are in the present, active, and imperative tense. This is a continuous action i.e. go on asking, go on seeking, and go on knocking. Prayer involves persistence, perseverance, and determination. 

We must avoid hypocritical, judgmental, and self-righteous attitudes. We must be able to spot and discern false teachers by inspecting their fruits. Do they have the fruit of the Holy Spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control?

We must build the foundation of our faith in Christ the solid rock through faith and obedience. 

As the Second Person of the Trinity, Jesus taught with the authority of the Godhead. Jesus is the Word of God, who became flesh and lived with us. He is the Son of God and Son of Man, fully divine and fully human.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching us on judging, spiritual discernment, relationship, and wisdom. Help us to build our faith with Jesus as our foundation to withstand the storms of life. Help us to be prayer warriors who will ask, seek, and knock with persistence, perseverance, determination and faith, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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