The Art of Sacrifice & Jesus’ Sacrifice

Dear brothers and sisters,

I cannot wait to write to share with you my encounter with Jesus after I play 2 games of Chinese Chess with my 96 year old father-in-law.

I experienced a important points which I link to Jesus’ sacrifice and my faith in Him.

1. My father-in-law as usual attack me and as usual I am on the defence. I was losing (I lost the first one) my second game because my cannon and vehicle were finished by him owing to my miscalculations. I thank God that throughout the second game, I kept reminding myself as long the game was not over, I had a chance to come back and beat him. I was not frustrated but I enjoyed it. I am so glad I can play the chess with him as he has the strength to do it with me. He likes to play chess and I love to learn from him. In this way, I experience our close relationship in Christ.

2. My chance did come. I counter attack after he could not finish me. My counter attack actually threatened his game. However, he was willing to sacrifice a cannon in order to brush off my dangerous attack; and counter attacked me and beat me! After the game, he told me the need to make a sacrifice in order to solve a problem in the chess. He said I need to know the timing to make the sacrifice in order to make a difference in the game. I link this to the sacrifice that Jesus made the cross. Biblical scholar taught that Jesus was attacked 5 times and only the last time He allowed Himself to be crucified. He knew the best timing to make a sacrifice that that made the difference of shedding His blood for mankind.

3. In ministry, I also need to learn the art of sacrifice, in the sense of the right timing, the need to do it, and the necessity of allowing others to misunderstand you and hurt you and condemn you. But, in making the sacrifice, I make sure I do not regret and hate others. I believe when I do so, it is in the name of Jesus.

4. My father-in-law also commented about my cannon which was placed in the middle for the purpose of attacking his king. He said once I did not fulfil that function, I must quickly move away and use it for other purpose. Otherwise, it can become a stumbling block. I reflected that in life and ministry, once I serve in a position and if it is not bearing fruit I should quickly allow others who are effective to take over. Otherwise, I become a stumbling block in ministry.

What a wonderful encounter I had with Jesus in those few minutes of my father-in-law comments and my linking to Jesus Christ. I pray we all learn the art of sacrifice and letting go of our position if we are not bearing fruit.

A faithful disciple of Jesus,

Pastor Law Hui Seng

(STS, KK, 23rd July, 2012, Monday)

Posted By Teresa Han