Nanson Lai: FPC Intern

Friendship Presbyterian: Tell us about what brought you from Malaysia to Taiwan in the first place.
Nanson Lai: I was a college student in Malaysia. In March of 2017, I sensed a calling to begin my seminary studies. I looked for seminaries that upheld the Reformed faith, and China Reformed Theological Seminary (CRTS) became my first choice. There are, of course, Reformed seminaries in other countries, particularly in the West. But I preferred to do my first theological degree in Chinese. Since Malaysia has no Reformed Chinese seminaries, Taiwan became an ideal option. My enrollment was confirmed at the end of May, and I came to Taiwan on 23 August 2017.

FP: How did you come to be an intern at Friendship Presbyterian?
NL: In January of this year, while serving in CRTS, I got to know [former Elder] Kalan Spencer. He informed me that FPC was hiring an intern and asked if I was interested. Coincidentally, I was looking for a church to intern at. So, I applied and went for the interview. By the grace of God and the generosity of the church, here I am!

FP: What are your main priorities as an intern at Friendship?
NL: I am currently undergoing training to lead the University Ministry, Gospel 2 the Campus (G2C). This will be my main priority. I will also be assisting the senior pastor in various tasks.

FP: What do you find most challenging about being a Christian today?
NL: I find it challenging to set aside time every day to seek the Lord. Preoccupation with tasks and assignments always seems to be of greater priority. My assignments may be faith-related, but they are not devotional, so a separate session is still necessary. It is easy to preach the great love of Christ in the gospel and that we should respond to it by walking close to him every single day. But when it comes to practice, I am much in need of his mercy and grace.

FP: What is your favorite book of the Bible?
NL: Romans. I like the way Paul presents the Gospel, systematic yet expressing the glorious beauty of God's salvation plan. Pastor Dennis' current sermon series makes it even more fascinating!

FP: What is something people might be surprised to learn about you?
NL: I hope it is safe to put this out there: I am generally afraid of insects, especially cockroaches. Flying ones are worse. So, I am not really enjoying the summer.