After twenty years of on and off attending classes, writing assignments, and sitting for tests, I am finally attending the last class for a certificate course in religious studies this evening.
The course which is conducted at a Bible College for the School of Theology consists of sixteen units, broken down into the following subjects:
- Old Testament (4 units)
- New Testament (4 units)
- Doctrine (2 units)
- Missions (2 units)
- Christian Education (2 units)
- Electives (2 units)
At this end of the course, students will obtain the Certificate in Christian Studies.
Some people has asked me why I have taken up this course, since it does not add up to provide any transferable credits for a degree or higher course in any theological seminary, nor am I planning to become a lay leader, pastoral or full-time church staff. After all, it does not provide credits to greater spirituality or entry to heaven.
Well, don't ask me why. I take it because as a young Christian years back, that was my interest, and I don't like to do things half way or leave it uncompleted. It's a promise I want to keep with God, after completing my academic studies.
Just last year, after six years of anxiety, stuggle and many sleepless nights, I have finally completed my degree in media studies. Now is the time to 'pay back' what I have started to do a long time ago, and although there have been much inconveniences weekly in getting to the classes, it is all well worth it. My academic study is not wasted too, as it helped me hone my skills in preparing for the assignments in this course, and to obtain better grades.
This is a day for celebration!
I have been running and rushing my entire life. I rush to catch the bus, I rush to catch the train, I rush to get to work, and I rush to get home. Few are the moments I have paused to catch my breath or to take an extended break (except maybe once a year), a sure sign of an impending breakdown, and possibly, a prelude to a heart attack.
Not many years ago, God decided that I should take a rest, and rest I did, first in hospital for a surgery, then at home for recovery. During that one month, I learnt to be still before God and to be at peace. I knew with all the rush, I have gained nothing much, except in jeopardizing my own health.
When I finally recovered, I was back once again to my rushing game, rushing to clear my studies, and rushing to clear my work. Till this day, although I have completed my studies, I have yet to learn how to completely rest, without feeling unrest or guilty of wasting away my free time. Maybe I am too conscious about time, or maybe subconsciously I have hardened myself in understanding the need to spend my time meaningfully. For long ago, I have understood and held fast one fact, to be accountable for my time and days on earth, as the Bible said ...
Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12 NIV)
Yet, I know and understand ...
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven: (Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV)
For God ...
... has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end. I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil -- this is the.gift of God. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. God does it so that men will revere him. Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before; and God will call the past to account. (Ecclesiastes 3:11-15 NIV)
