From the Desk of Pastor Kim

"You Will Be Hated by All" is not a popular idea or title to use for a Sunday sermon. Many people imagine Christianity to be a solution that will get rid of all our issues in life. If we become a Christian, then we would no longer need to struggle with finances or health. Our marriages would become better and our businesses would succeed. Our families would be peaceful, and our friendships would be plentiful. However, this simply is not true. Yes, Christians can experience a better life, more abundant life, but it may not be free of troubles. Jesus said that, as Christians, we would be hated by all on account of his name. Some Christians would face betrayal, imprisonment, beatings, and perhaps all kinds of loss. To get a glimpse of what some of our brothers and sisters have gone through, check out https://www.persecution.com.

Last Sunday's sermon was focused on what to do when we face circumstances similar to persecution that may cause us to despair. An additional thought that I would like to share is that it is possible to prepare for actual persecution. How? Basically, by turning to the Lord, keeping your hope in Him, when going through the difficult, unimaginable situations that you may be facing right here, right now. Billy Graham has said, "Many souls are anemic and starved for the things of God. They are totally unprepared for a time of crisis." If we are not well prepared to fight in circumstances that we face today, how do we expect to fight and turn to the Lord when much harsher circumstances arise? In other words, we need to keep turning to the Lord no matter the circumstances, whether or not we are facing persecution. The answer always is and always will be: turn to Jesus.

Check out Billy Graham's message speaking about how to prepare for persecution.
https://billygraham.org/decision-magazine/november-2015/prepare-for-persecution-a-message-from-billy-graham/

5 Questions With...Joy Wei

1. How did you first get involved with Friendship Presbyterian?  I am a native, but I have lived in Melbourne for 5 years. After returning to Taiwan from Australia, I was experiencing some reverse culture-shock. To help myself deal with this situation, I started to look for a church that could be a bridge between Taiwan and Australia, (and a place that would let me continue to speak English, otherwise it would get rusty.). I also wanted to find a place where I could establish connections with people who understood my situation. 

After attending the Sunday service in FPC, the worship and sermon really touched my heart. Therefore, I decided to continue to come and eventually commit to serving the Lord in this church. 

2. What do you do Monday through Saturday?  I am a graphic designer and have been freelancing for quite a while. During the weekdays (and on some weekends, too) I work for my clients and rack my brain trying to come up with creative design ideas. I also hit the gym on a regular basis to keep myself active. Did I mention that my family owns two very active dogs? I usually spend a portion of my day taking them out for a stroll or a run in the dog park. (the perks of freelancing!) So, I would probably say that my second profession is dog-walker. :D

3. What is something people might be surprised to know about you?  I was born in Aberdeen, Scotland and lived there for 8 years. People are usually surprised to hear it because now I have an American accent instead of a Scottish one. (I used to have a strong Scottish accent, but I lost it after my family moved back to Taiwan.)

4. What do you find most challenging about being a Christian today?  Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will (Romans 12:2).

It is a constant challenge for Christians, nowadays, when a lot of our values have been challenged by the world. Many times, when we are challenged/confronted, we do not know how to respond or even respond in the wrong way. In a world filled with sin, temptation, and distractions, it is so easy for a Christian to fall—even doubt their faith. Therefore, I think it is a lifelong challenge to stand firm in God's words and Jesus's teaching, and remain faithful, and to speak to the world with His wisdom in mind.

5. What is one of your favorite books of the Bible?  The book of Psalms. As a major in language and literature (a.k.a. English) in university, I have learned to appreciate the beauty of poetry and songs. The book of Psalms is filled with beautiful analogies, metaphors, and ways to express the human self—the turmoil of life, the cry out for help, the praises to God. What I love about these poems/songs are that they are still very relevant to our lives, and I can often read them as my prayer to God. 

On a side note, when I was two years old, my dad taught me to memorize Psalm 23. I often reflect on it when I am in need of God. It is still and will always be my favorite psalm in the Bible.

5 Questions With...Charles Farrell

1. How did you first get involved with Friendship Presbyterian?  When I was still living in South Africa, I would often get inspired by missionary presentations given at my home church. I then decided to follow a strong desire I had to go to Southeast Asia. Five years ago, I brought my family to Taiwan after securing employment with Morrison Academy in Taipei. We attended FPC for a time while Dennis Brown was still the pastor. We then visited other reformed churches for about two years before returning to FPC when Peter Kim became the new pastor. We have since become members and my wife and I have joined the worship team.

2. What do you do Monday through Saturday?  During the week I work at Morrison Academy as a library assistant and grade 8 Bible teacher. I am also responsible for a weightlifting and cycling class. In the evenings I enjoy jogging or working out at the gym. On the weekends I like to take my children to a waterpark.  

3. What is something people might be surprised to know about you?  I appreciate music of many genres. I have been known to do Elvis impersonations and I also provide a service as an event DJ.

4. What do you find most challenging about being a Christian today?  I find being a Christian today can be challenging in a world that constantly elevates people and celebrates their success and achievement. This mindset has even infiltrated churches and Christian organizations. It is a constant battle not to seek the approval of men but rather to find favor with God.

5. What is one of your favorite books of the Bible?  The book of Job is one of my favorite books of the Bible as it emphasizes God’s sovereignty over Satan, over nature and over suffering. Knowing that God controls all these aspects brings me great comfort and security.