Running Water in the Long Rill
Amy Fan
“… THEREFORE, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith…” (Hebrews 12:1-2)
These verses were my closing prayer at JHTIII, Dr Taylor’s final interview in accepting me as a full time volunteer into the early incepted MSI headquarters in 2000. I then joined the team with Dr Matthew, director for medical programme and his capable personal assistant, Maggie. In liaison with the zealous international medical specialists and the local officials in mainland China, we were in our days of many unknown and uncertainties. It was truly a time resonating with the very popular saying in China: “fumbling on all fours while crossing the river”. Yet, looking back, with reverential hearts and enthusiasm, we had a tremendous period in spiritual growth, fellowship in the body of Christ and witnessed, HE is the perfecter of all the work we responded to HIS sovereign salvation, and call to HIS field. Eric Liddell ran his races at the Olympics and later finished well at the Japanese war prisoners’ camp at Weifeng, Shandong, where JHTIII a young teen was also there. When Eric coached the missionary kids until his home going. Eric saw the pleasure in God’s eyes.
So five long years passed by until my autoimmune system compromised to a breaking point. Dr JHTIII suggested I took a break to go home. Seeing the disappointment in my eyes, he further suggested that I re-establish a prayer group in my home town. In June 2006, Dr Matthew, president of MSI, and Dr Po Kee, executive director for international mobilisation were making a tour in Northern Hemisphere. Thus, our first prayer meeting was set up. From then on, every month, we gathered like nomads at various people’s homes, park sites and quiet cafés. We prayed according to the prayer updates sent from headquarters. We were edified in prayers, in fellowships and most times got to share good foods. Our team members vary due to their joining short-term missions or long-term mission commitments, yet, it never changes, because this is HIS work, His grace and His providence.
Last but not least, though 15 years ago, my autoimmune system blasted out a red light alarm, I did not suffer too much permanent irreversible bodily damage. Particularly during this pandemic Covid-19, a lockdown new norm, we met on Zoom, on phone, or at public parks. It has given me a chance to view our majestic God of the universe in a purer and clearer awe.
