As I have never gone through any structured instruction on Methodism, it is sometimes a challenge for me to provide an explanation of its core tenets and practices. Rather, my understanding of Methodism was developed through the actions of my fellow Methodists around me.
When I was in Anglo-Chinese School (ACS), those in the ACS family, my teachers, classmates and peers in the Boys’ Brigade showed me through their actions what God’s love is and how this mighty educational institution was established by the faithfulness of an impoverished preacher who answered God’s call. When I was in the army, my commanding officer inspired me to invest my energies to care for those who had been incarcerated, something which I am still motivated to do today. In church, I was blessed by pastors such as the Rev Dr Malcolm Tan and the Rev Dr Chiu Ming Li, who reminded me through their actions whilst the big picture is important in Christian leadership, we are to never forget to love and care for the individual, for the God we serve is as concerned for the humble sparrow as much as he is for mighty nations.
For me, being a Methodist is about not only knowing His Word but living it as well. It is to “preach the gospel at all times; use words if necessary”.
Christopher Chow is a member of Barker Road Methodist Church. He is the chairperson of the Prison Ministry and Epworth Community Services. / Photo courtesy of Christopher Chow