Suffering

In a world as white as Thine;
As grey as mine, or as black as evil can define.
The Son came with grace and mercy so that the Father's glory will shine.
White and black stand in animosity; some grey purifying while the others darken into atrocities.
When the light shines, darkness cease to exist; so I ask.

"Has the heaven already come on earth, or that the Gospel no longer confronts?" For we only stand by righteousness and peace, and the battle only stops when either is true.

Martyrs chose a bloody path, glory entailed their tracks. People have lived by their faith and died. What right have we to say suffering is a forfeiting of privileges? I say, suffering is the giving up of self- when we no longer hold tight to what the world says is our right.

In this age, the struggle persists and we stand wary of a false sense of peace. Being accepting doesn't mean unity, for light and darkness would never unite.

I pray a day that light would prevail, and darkness cease. And that I remain hopeful for the Word hold true to a wonderful promise.

Until that day, I continue to carry my cross, and I shame away to even liken my suffering to that of Christ.

Bless the Lord o my soul as I worship Your holy name.

One Year Ago, Today...

Last year this time (2014), I took my bow and walked out from my university. 3 years of education drew quickly to a close. Much of the time I was searching for something- a purpose, a meaning, or perhaps even an escapade. But in searching for an answer, I gained much much more- friends who would walk with me for the rest of my life; friends who would transform my perspectives; friends whom I like and like me. 

Last year this time, I made a bold decision to graduate. It was a sacrifice to make, but more so a relief. That was quickly followed by my first solo-trip to conquer Rinjani, and then a trip to Kupang to visit my siblings from different parents, finally rounding off with my first ever trip to Khek Noi with Radion. 

I don't think it is fair to attribute any singular event as the milestone or turning point; but those were definitely significant moments in my life. A year on, the sentiments have only grown, and the convictions stronger.