Will there be any stars?
This past Sabbath afternoon was a wonderful celebration of renewed life as two of my very good friends, Lily and Nyari, made public declarations of their love for Jesus through baptism. Hearing the testimonies of God’s workings in their lives deeply touched everyone who was there; even those who have witnessed a fair few agree that it was one of the most moving baptisms – to God be the glory.
God can use anyone to reach those who need Him most, and I am humbled to be a part of Lily and Nyari’s spiritual walks. Lily and I went to high school together in Bangkok, but after finishing her university studies in Canada, she ended up in Melbourne. We’d catch up once in a while over the years, but the Melbourne City Adventist Church family was just the place which would enrich her growth. And slowly, but surely, Roy and Jinha and the church family embraced Lily until it bore fruit in the form of her baptism. My role in Nyari’s journey seems quite insignificant. Apparently, my Burmese soup played a part, and if that is what God will use to draw someone to Him, I will be happy to cook many more pots.
A couple of friends came to me afterwards to express their happiness with my role in Lily and Nyarai’s walks, mentioning that two “stars” have been added to my crown. This made me reflect on a few things. I remember singing the song “Will there be any stars?” as a child and wondering exactly that: will there be any stars in my crown?
As I spiritually mature, I realise that God is the One who made us cross paths. Not only that, He is the One who has helped foster organic friendships with every hang-out, cooking sesh and the endless laughter. It is such an awesome privilege to be active in others’
spiritual growth, whether it’s planting, watering, or harvesting (1 Corinthians 3:6).
Despite my human weaknesses and frailties, God is able to use me as part of that process. Joseph in Egypt and Daniel in Babylon are perfect role models to aspire to when reaching out to people for Christ. But, realistically, I’m much more like Jonah many times. Our decisions can jeopardise what God has in store but praise God that He is able to accomplish His will regardless. Our prayer should ever be modelled after Christ’s in Gethsemane: Not my will, but Thy will be done.
At the baptisms, I also discovered for the first time that an Auntie and Uncle in the US have been praying for me every single day! I am truly encouraged to know that my name is taken to the God of the universe on a daily basis; and with incredible power, He can guide me to accomplish His will.
I believe that on that day when we see our Saviour who paid it all for us, we will cast our crowns with all those dazzling stars at
His feet just as the twenty-four elders did.
In Revelation 4:10-11 NKJV, the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying:
“You are worthy, O Lord, To receive glory and honor and power; For You created all things, And by Your will they exist and were created.”
I look forward to that day when we, along with many dear friends who have crossed paths in our spiritual walks, gather together to worship the only One who deserves the crown with countless stars! Amen.
