Lament in a Time of Pandemic
Photo: OMF Literature Inc., Philippines
How do we survive this pandemic? Through lament or grieving.
One of the reasons the Old Testament Israelites were able to endure so many calamities was they knew how to lament. When their crops failed or they were defeated in a war, they would gather together to grieve. That is why there are so many laments in the Bible, including more than a third of the 150 psalms. There is even a whole book called “Lamentations.”
For the rest of the article, click here. The writer is Dr Rico Villanueva, an EAST visiting faculty who teaches Old Testament and a Regional Commissioning Editor for Langham Publications.
O Lord, My Rock and Redeemer
May this song reminds us of Who God is, and to Whom we do belong and pay homage as we ponder Why is Good Friday, good?
He is our Rock and Redeemer who defends, fights, and shields our weary hearts; He thus brings a song, hope, joy, and refuge in our times of need so that He is glorified through it all.
Mindset of Hope in Crisis
At an online Chapel organised by the EAST Student Council on 25 March 2020, the President of EAST, Rev Dr Chan Chong Hiok or CCH as he is also known, spoke on “Mindset of Hope in Crisis.” He was on Zoom being broadcasted online to listeners who were observing safe distancing.
In the midst of COVID-19 pandemic, he spoke words of hope and encouragement to all present online. Quoting from Habakkuk 3, he exhorted all to continue trusting the LORD amidst challenging situations. The LORD is everpresent in our midst, and we can rejoice in Him. He also referred to Psalm 91 where the faithfulness of God is truly our shield and rampart in times of need. As we meditate on His Word, we will discover afresh that He is indeed our refuge.
The Love of God
Design: Blessed Ong
“The love of God is greater far
Than tongue or pen can ever tell
It goes beyond the highest star
And reaches to the lowest hell…”
To hear the song, “The Love of God,” by Frederick Lehman, view below or click the picture above.
New Testament Resources Free During COVID-19
There are some generous publishers and resource providers who have made their books and journal articles available online for free during the present COVID-19 outbreak. See the listing below (valid as of 20 March 2020) or click this Google Doc link for the most updated list. The list is originally compiled by Steve Walton.
Anyone can also add more links to the list for other New Testament studies free resources. May this be a blessing to many during this challenging season.
EAST Library Catalogue
EAST Populi
National Library Board eResources
The Digital Theological Library
