Innocent Pleasures

In this season of Thanksgiving, I enjoyed an article from my CCEF class called "Innocent Pleasures," by David Powlison (from the Journal of Biblical Counseling, Fall 2005). In the article, he poses the question: "What are the supreme pleasures of life? What are the truest, most satisfying, most purposeful and lasting pleasures? In other words, what pleasures in your life leave no greasy residue—no regret, no stain of guilt, no hiding, no obsession, no sour fatigue, no negative consequences?" His conclusion...People—God and neighbor—are the supreme pleasure.

Considering all the things that give us pleasure, that's quite a bold claim. But as I think about the things I'm thankful for here, it has a ring of truth. Thinking over the last month...

Where the Klang and Gombak Rivers come together

Walking home along my favorite stretch of river in central KL, I was filled with a sense of worship, the beauty of the world around me, the remarkable privilege of being involved in change in a person's life. I was on my way back from a counseling session that I thought went really well, turning a corner it seemed, with someone I've spent quite a few weeks with. How great to see God at work in someone's life!

Recently I surprised a new young friend, a student from mainland China studying in a nearby university, with a Bible in simple English and Chinese. Her spontaneous hug made words unnecessary, but she said it was the most precious of gifts. She's full of questions about the Christian faith, eager to have an "adopted Mom & Dad" while far away from home, and I look forward to future time spent together, learning from one another.

Just yesterday, what a great feeling it was, while waiting on the street for my ride, to recognize another young woman from my apartment floor who gave me a warm smile and greeting. We met her on the elevator, another international student eager to come over and practice English while getting to know an American.

Sunway University entrance

As for Tom, he has greatly enjoyed attending the weekly Christian Fellowship meetings at Sunway in the last month, after being invited by one of his students who deduced he was a Christian from some of his remarks. It's been a great opportunity to get to know and encourage some of the students on campus, as they seek to grow in their faith.

How encouraging it was for him to receive an email from a student who was as eager as he was to start a book club on campus! She invited another friend, and after a couple of organizational meetings, they are excited to try their first meeting later this month before students hit finals and the semester break.

People--God and neighbor--are indeed a supreme pleasure. And so we are full of thanksgiving for these and many other opportunities God is giving us, as we encounter God and his work in us and others here in Malaysia.

Blessings,

Janet & Tom