#61 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 07 19

作者 Article by: Chivas Chu 

記得在早前有一位主內的姊妹在疫中情的分享當中,敍述到她害怕自己會在不知不覺間有機會栽培出一個以自我為中心的 「小魔怪」孫女和Me Generation的下一代。一時之間對這個說法也產生了共嗚。在現今的世代,自己亦為人父親和長輩,也不時對這個問題作出反覆思考。這個問題的嚴重性跟父母灌輸的價值觀,家庭環境,生活環境,生活質素等等都有莫大的關係,而在發展中和發逹國家的家庭中這個問題更為常見。那麼,一個基督徒和一個非基督徒的家庭對他們孩子的培育,引導和成長又應否有所不同呢? 

或者試試這樣想,從非基督徒角度來看,孩子們出生時只像一張白紙,或多或少當孩子長大後,在孩子身上的一言一行,一舉一動也可以找到一些該孩子父母的影子。這當然也包含了一些從自己父母身上學到的價值觀。就如以前的一位牧師曾經告訴我,我們的孩子就好像我們面前的一面鏡子,我對此説法非常同意。正因如此,那麼在另一方面,在一個基督徒的家庭,倘若能夠靠著主,心裏面讓祂幫助我們去克服種種艱難, 慢慢一步一步去鍛煉和實踐聖經在哥林多前書第十三章4-8節的教導,並且讓這教導成為我們人生一部份的核心價值的話,相信前後者的結果也會不一樣。 

我自己亦曾經經歷這些掙扎,真是不容易。今天想帶出的一個分享,就是,雖然少年時的我已經洗禮信主,返了些主日學,但是那粒福音的種子種了去那處也不曉得。當時在家庭,工作和敎導孩子的掙扎上是沒有把主的話語放在心裡的。實在離開了祂太遠了。奇妙的是,以前從教會或主日學所聽到或學到的,跟本就已經不知不覺間隱藏在心裡面的深深處,只是自己不留意到。神一直也沒有離棄過我。我和太太現在之所以滿有感恩的心,連”幸運”兩個字都不感多講,就是不想搶走神的榮耀。因為當我們背棄神的時候,衪仍無時無刻的照顧著我和我的一家。 

親愛的主內姊妹弟兄們,在這疫情裏面,大家又有否細心地去數算一下神給了我們許多的恩典呢?就讓以下這段經文陪伴我們走餘下的人生: 

哥林多前書 13:4-8: 「愛是恆久忍耐,又有恩慈;愛是不嫉妒,愛是不自誇,不張狂, 不做害羞的事,不求自己的益處,不輕易發怒,不計算人的惡, 不喜歡不義,只喜歡真理; 凡事包容,凡事相信,凡事盼望,凡事忍耐;愛是永不止息。」 

#60 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 07 17

作者 Article by: Joel Chiu

早在十六世紀時,馬丁路德發表他對身處疫情肆虐時會採取的態度。大慨是:他會懇切地求上帝保護;恰當地服用藥物;避開那些不是必須去的地方和見的人,以免受到感染,從而造成感染他人的可能,並因自己的大意而導致別人死亡; 如果上帝想帶他去他那裏,上帝一定不會找不到他的,他已經滿足了上帝對他的期望,所以即使他的死或他人的死都不用他承擔任何責任。但是如果有人需要他,他將不會避開任何地方或人,會樂意地前去。那是一種敬畏上帝的信心,因為那樣既不是輕率的、也不是有勇無謀、更不是試探上帝。 

現時我們看見不少國民,都負責任地為保護其他人而肯居家減少外出;前線醫護人員,甚至本國的軍人,所採取的態度已經一如馬丁路德所說那樣,勇於為人。 新型冠狀病毒病在超越我們的世界面前重新顯露我們是如何的脆弱。單單就生命而言,我們最多衹可充其量是自己生命的看守者,但最終,那甚至也不到我們話事。基於幻覺,我們常常深信,世界就是我們想要的那樣。但是,世界沒有依從我們的願望。在許多方面,它根本忽略我們,傳染病也是如此。我們須時不時地忍受現實無動於衷的殘忍真理。痛苦是我們在個人生活中經常經歷的事情,就好像,在愉悅與痛苦,在愛與困惑,在成功與失敗及在生與死的循環中,我們身處不利一方時那樣。 可以稍為寬慰的是最近看見疫情有舒緩的跡象。我們的禮拜堂有望在兩個月後,可以小心謹慎地漸漸回復公禱崇拜。

Back in the sixteenth century, talking about whether one may flee from a deadly pandemic, Martin Luther once mentioned: “Therefore I shall ask God mercifully to protect us. Then I shall fumigate, help purify the air, administer medicine, and take it. I shall avoid places and persons where my presence is not needed in order not to become contaminated and thus perchance infect and pollute others, and so cause their death as a result of my negligence. If God should wish to take me, he will surely find me and I have done what he has expected of me and so I am not responsible for either my own death or the death of others. If my neighbour needs me, however, I shall not avoid place or person but will go freely, as stated above. See, this is such a God-fearing faith because it is neither brash nor foolhardy and does not tempt God.” (Martin Luther, Luther’s Works, Vol. 43: Devotional Writings II) We have seen Canadians stayed home in order to responsibly protect themselves and fellow citizens. Front-line medical and care personnel as well as those from the military acted selflessly like what Martin Luther said. COVID-19 exposes our vulnerability in the face of a world that exceeds us. With respect to life alone, at our best we are keepers of ours, but in the end even our own lives are not what we expect them to be. We are often convinced by illusions that the world is what we want it to be. But the world has not followed our desires. In many respects, it simply ignores us, as does infectious diseases. From time to time, we must suffer the merciless truth of the indifference of reality, as we are doing today. Suffering is something we often experience in our personal lives, just like when we are on the downside of cycles of pleasure and pain, love and loss, success and failure, and life and death. It is comforting that recent announcements from various government authorities reveal that COVID-19 has got lax. Because of that, St. E’s will after two months cautiously start in-person corporate worship again. 

#59 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 07 15 

作者 Article by: Margaret Loo 

前些時候,收到小女兒電郵傳來一份資料,內有截至本年六月十四日安省新冠病毒的數據。 

其中有一些有關老年人的數字著實令人難過。以下三組數字尤其令人沮喪。 

•  在總共32370例確診病例中,有5380例(17%)是老年人 

•  在總共2527例確認死亡中,有1629例(65%)是老年人 

•  在331所長期護理機構和151所護老院中爆發了疫情 

可以說,這場疫情暴露出加拿大護老體系各方面的問題,是時候對護老體系進行認真改革了。而在網上獲得的資料顯示,老年人, 尤其是護老機構的老年人,大量死於新冠病毒感染, 不是加拿大獨有的現象。 

這現象令我想起當年父母在老人護理院安度晚年的經歷。 

我的父母移民來加時, 身體十分健康, 和哥哥嫂嫂一家住,適應得不錯,直到父親患病入院治療後,生活起居開始需要特別的照顧, 我們為他們安排入住一所為華人長者而設的護老院。 我記得很清楚,他們對入護老院這個安排很抗拒,入院那天,母親還哭了,要求每個週末返回家住,我們都答應了。意料之外, 他們入住護老院後, 非常開心, 再也沒有要求周末要返回家住。家人和我對護老院為父母所提供的各方面的服務很滿意,我感受最深的,是院方對住院長者那充滿敬愛的服務的態度。 

現今社會講求效率,崇尚科技,長者是弱勢社群,絕對是被遺忘的一 群, 面對疫情反映令人難過的數據,除了要求政府對護老系統進行認真的檢討和改革,或許我們每一個人,可以透過主動對身邊長者的關懷和照顧,幫助建立一個敬老爱老的環境,讓老人家能安渡晚年。 

A few weeks ago, I received an email from my youngest daughter with information about the coronavirus in Ontario as of June 14 this year. 

Some of the figures about the elderly are really sad. The following three sets of numbers are particularly disheartening. 

•  Of a total of 32,370 confirmed cases, 5380 (17%) are elderly 

•  Of a total of 2,527 confirmed deaths, 1,629 (65%) are elderly 

•  Outbreaks occurred in 331 long-term care institutions and 151 nursing homes. 

It can be said that the epidemic has exposed various aspects of the Canadian long term care system, and it is time to seriously review and reform the system. Information on other countries obtained online shows that the elderly, especially the elderly in the nursing homes, have died of new coronavirus infections in large numbers. The situation is therefore not unique to Canada. 

This phenomenon reminds me of my parents’ experience in their old age in a nursing home. 

My parents came to Canada from Hong Kong. They were in good health and adjusted well to their new home in Canada, living with my brother’s family. They adapted well in the first few years until my father became ill and was admitted to hospital. After discharge from hospital, he required special care in his daily living. We arranged for both of my parents to stay in a nursing home for Chinese speaking elders. I remember very clearly that they were very resistant to this arrangement. On the day of admission, my mother cried sadly and asked to return home every weekend. We assured her she could definitely do so. Unexpectedly, they were very happy after staying in the nursing home. In fact, they never asked to return home for the weekend. My family and I were very satisfied with the various services provided by the nursing home. What impressed me most is the attitude of the staff. They treated the elderly people with respect and with love. 

In today's society where efficiency and technology are people’s primary concern, seniors are a vulnerable group. They receive very little attention and are often ignored and forgotten. In the light of the disappointing data from the pandemic, it seems we have to do more than asking the government to review and reform the nursing care system. Maybe each of us can make an effort to show our care and love to the elderly people around us. Together, we can help building an environment of love and respect for our seniors. 

#57 疫中情 Love in Pandemic

2020 07 11 

作者 Article by: Wilson Loo 

新冠疫情引致安省進入醫療緊急狀態三個多月了，跟其它聖公會一樣，頌主堂暫停實地崇拜, 不經不覺也十七個星期，在此危險時刻，對教友關顧，特別有些個別年長教友，愛心的關懷及實質的支持，至為重要， 在Canon Jim Woolley主任牧師及堂長的領導之下，我們的關顧部及團契部發揮了極大作用，不但用各種方法保持聯繫，更為有需要的教友購買餸菜及急需日用品，正如耶穌說，『你們既作在我這弟兄中一個最小的身上，就是作在我身上了。』也是在疫情蹂躪下，不少人默默共赴時艱，為人性光輝加點燈火。 

教會其它的粵語事工，也沒有完全停頓下來，查經小組，最初由應用Whatsapp程式的四人查經小組開始, 及至教區提供”Zoom”在線會議功能, 查經小組驟增到十人，研習時個個全神投入，踴躍討論，氣氛熱烈。大家都珍惜久違了的互動的機會。 

此外，疫中情這電郵網絡從隔離令開始就隔天寄出給予超過六十個受件人。多謝很多教友拿出時間執筆為會友分享他（她）們在這極不尋常時期的感受及經歷。而會友反應也極令人鼓舞，有些教友視隔日閱讀這電郵為必做之例行工作，很多就期待收到此等電郵。 

崇拜事工，最初只有講道之錄音幻燈，放在網上， 供教友聽閱， 隨著 “ Zoom” 在線會議功能開始熟習，在線粵語主日崇拜也開始實行， 竟然有超過卅人參加由余主教主持講道之第一次聚會，教友雖未能同在，但心仍繫於頌主堂，團契相通可見一斑。 

正如羅馬書第五章所說，『…在患難中，也是歡歡喜喜的，因為知道患難生忍耐，忍耐生老練， 老練生盼望， 盼望不至於羞恥，因為所賜給我們的聖靈，將神的愛澆灌在我們的心裡。』 

It has been three months since Ontario has been under medical emergency lockdown. Just like other Anglican churches, St. E has temporarily suspended its in-person worship services. During this critical period, caring and support for our parishioners, especially some of those who are older and more vulnerable. Under the guidance of Canon Jim Woolley, the interim priest-in-charge and the churchwardens, our caring ministry, and the small group fellowship ministry have been particularly busy. Not only do they maintain regular contact with parishioners, they also help selected needy parishioners to do groceries and purchase urgent everyday items. As Jesus said in the parable of the Sheep and the Goats, ”…whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” 

Other Cantonese ministries did not come to a total halt either. Bible study group initially utilized “Whatsapp” to organize a four member study group. With the availability of “Zoom”, the number of participants soared to ten. During the study, everyone is fully absorbed, and all involved in vigorous discussions. The atmosphere is warm and engaging. Members value the interaction they have after nearly three months’ separation. 

On the other hand, this “Love in Pandemic” email network, published on alternate days since the shut down, has been reaching out to more than 60 recipients. Thanks to the contribution of many parishioners who take the time to share their thoughts and experience during such unprecedented times. Many parishioners indicated that reading these articles every other day has become their routine and they look forward to receiving these sharing articles and the prayers. 

As for worship services, initially, only recorded sermons and power point slides are produced and put on St. E’s website. With the familiarity with “Zoom”, the Cantonese on-line worship service has been started. It is really a blessing to see more than 30 parishioners participating in our first worship- presided and sermon delivered by Bishop Yu. Parishioners may not be able to gather together to worship, but they are joined hand in hand, and their communion strong as ever. 

As written in Roman, Chapter 5,” …but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” 

#56 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 07 09 

作者 Article by: Grace Liu 

疫中情 - 一個選擇

記得在 六月廿三号疫中情，作者講述英國一間酒店作出與别不同的選擇。當很多地方在疫情爆發時酒店不接受來自疫情嚴重地區旅客，又或者拒绝政府提議開放酒店成為臨時隔離中心之用時，這所酒店竟選擇免费開放给無家者留宿，並提供三飧膳食。 

單看酒店老板選擇所作的巳很值得敬佩。像當天「疫中情」作者，我自已也即時想起了聖經好撒馬利亞人的故事。老板完全没有把自己生意損失放上事上，更没有計算是否會得到回報。 其次是那一群酒店員工的選擇，每天接待的並非達官貴人，雖有防護衣物，但乃要走有前線服侍一班基層客人。相信都是被老板愛心感動。愛心行動便一環緊扣一環；以至客人們被受感動而選擇作出不同行動的回應。 

這裡，也和大家分享另一則故事。是我在父親節當天收到的。 在一間便利店收銀處出現了一條人龍。站在最前的一位客人和他女兒正在為手上揀好的幾項貨品作決定性取捨，因為他們没有足夠錢把全部買下。女兒苦苦哀求要買蛋糕，理由是今天是爺爺生日，又是父親節。可惜，價錢仍超出他們所有的。後面排隊有幾位客人開始不耐煩地幾次叫囂，要他們馬上付錢免阻礙大家。最後，蛋糕仍然被留下來。 

離開便利店，父親正在路上安慰女兒。特然來了一位年青人，就是剛才排在他們身後的一位。他手拿蛋糕說要送給這兩父女。一個特然其來的驚喜令兩人除面露感激之情外實無言以對。年青人隨即遞上一張咭，上面寫着：「他日有機會請作同一行動」。原來年青人兒時也曾受惠於一位長者從而獲得手上那這咭。他選擇要回饋有需要的人。 兩父女來到爺爺家，送上生日蛋糕並把一切告知爺爺。當爺爺看到手上的咭時，淚水從眼流出。最初選擇寫這咭的人，竟然就是他！ 

一個選擇，一個決定，一次愛心行動，可以有意想不到的連鎖改變。 對個人，對教會，對社區，種族，國家甚至整個世界！今日，你的選擇又是甚麼？ 

#55 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 07 07 

作者 Article by: Elaine Wong 

新型冠狀病毒可以致命，為了防疫和抗疫，我們每一個人都要遵守各種各樣的隔離令，諸如社交距離、身體距離和居家隔離等。在禁令之下，絕大多數的人都不用回到平日工作的地方工作了，他們工作只需留在家中；學校要停課了，學生們只得安在家中從網上學習；餐館不設堂食了，食物只許外賣和外送；我們不能上教會崇拜和聚會了，唯有靠賴網上平台來進行…………總而言之，如非必要，人們都要待在家中，與人保持距離。 

在這期間，若到超級市場買菜或到銀行辦事，排隊進出，選購貨物，或跟接待員交通時，人與人之間都要保持兩米距離；除了戴上口罩之外，有人還會加戴面罩，或更配上防護衣帽；而超市的收銀台和銀行的工作櫃台，亦以透明膠板圍隔，避免員工與顧客之間有近距離的接觸，防範病毒傳播。 

疫情之下，人與人之間就是這樣隔著一重又一重的屏障，彼此之間一定要保持住最少兩米的距離。基於眼下的大環境，人們都只有好無奈地去過著這種與人隔離，情況仍不知要持續多久的生活，真個是痛苦難捱！但是感謝神，際此孤寂難熬、前景不清的日子中，讓我們這些屬神的子民，仍有一位知心的朋友常居於我們的心中，祂與我們形影不離，跟我們全無隔膜。祂聽我們的悲與喜，解我們的憂與惑，慰我們的心與靈；只要我們去找祂，心靈便即得安寧；祂的話是我們腳前的燈，路上的光；祂的愛讓我們有力量繼續支撐下去。這位寶貴的知心友，就是我們那位親愛的救主━━耶穌基督。哈利路亞！感謝神。 

以下兩段經文，請大家同來默想： 

「誰能使我們與基督的愛隔絕呢？難道是患難嗎？是困苦嗎？是逼迫嗎？是飢餓嗎？是赤身露體嗎？是危險嗎？是刀劍嗎？如經上所記：我們為你的緣故終日被殺；人看我們如將宰的羊。然而，靠著愛我們的主，在這一切的事上已經得勝有餘了。因為我深信無論是死，是生，是天使，是掌權的，是有能的，是現在的事，是將來的事，是高處的，是低處的，是別的受造之物，都不能叫我們與神的愛隔絕；這愛是在我們的主基督耶穌裡的。」 

（ 羅馬書8:35-39 ） 

「你們要常在我裡面，我也常在你們裡面。」（約翰福音15：4上） 

〈 突發： 剛要遞稿時看到了以下一則安省的即時新聞，真要感謝神！2020年6月8日 〉 

【明報專訊】安省道格福特今(8)日下午宣布，省內的限聚令由周五(12日)零時1分開始，由5人增加至10人，全省有效。所有宗教場所，都可以重新開放，但可容納人數不能超過最高限制人數的30%。 

#54 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 07 05 

作者 Article by: Yvonne Zheng 

疫中情 七月五日 

小孫女九個月大，開始懂得認人。見到婆婆就伸出小手、翘起小嘴、發出「噢噢」聲要人抱。做婆婆的就放下手頭上的所有事情，有求必應。有時連要照顧的公公也忽略了。「小心寵壞」這幾個字開始在耳邊聽到了。是有必要自我檢討的時候了。硏究一下，怎樣和小孫女相處，才不會栽培出一個以自我為中心的 「小魔怪」出來。上網查了幾個術語和大家分享： 

" Me generation“ - 在北美是指美國戰後嬰兒潮的一代人，他們比較以自我為中心。 

" Me generation“ - 也是中國人對八零年後「一孩政策」下出生獨生子女的一個稱號。他們擁有較高的消費能力，並可以使用優質的教育設施以及最新的產品和服務。 

"Karen"- 美國術語，通常應用在抱種族主義的白人婦女身上。她們經常利用自己是白人的關係，做出自覺有特權一樣的行為。 

有時我會問問自己是不是一個只懂得「 Me , Me , Me 」的人。在最近熱門話題「黑人人權」上, 我又會思想到自己有沒有做「 Karen 」的時候。其實我們每一個人，或多或少都有自我為中心或自以為是的時間。住在北美的人，更加是被「寵壞」的一羣。在物質上，在人權上有一定的保障。很多事情都覺得是必然的。在這「以我為先」的世代，要活出基督的生命不是一件易事。我們要緊記主耶穌给我們的誠命。除了「要盡心、盡性、盡意、盡力愛上帝」之外，「要愛鄰如己」 (馬可福音 12:28-34) 。腓立比書 2:3-4 教訓我們「凡事不可自私自利，不可貪圖虛榮；只要心存謙卑，各人看別人比自己強。 各人不要單顧自己的事，也要顧別人的事。」哥林多前書 13:4-8: 「愛是恆久忍耐；又有恩慈；愛是不嫉妒；愛是不自誇，不張狂， 不做害羞的事，不求自己的益處，不輕易發怒，不計算人的惡， 不喜歡不義，只喜歡真理； 凡事包容，凡事相信，凡事盼望，凡事忍耐。」基督徒能不能做到呢? 基督徒在世上的使命是用愛去成就他人。愛是無私的，愛是關心別人多於關心自己的。不要以自我為中心，要以上帝為中心。。要做到自己不是自私自利的 「魔怪」，才不會栽培出一個以自我為中心的 「小魔怪」出來。讓我們時常警醒，彼此互勉。 

#53 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 07 03 

作者 Article by: Sunny Wong 

新冠第二阶段 

经过三个多月的隔离，现在多伦多及皮尔区终于进入第二阶段， 更多 的工商业及店铺可以开始营业了。 但仍要遵守社交距离及戴口罩， 勤洗 手， 防止病毒的散布。 

条文中没有太多的具体说明， 很多具体情况得用常识去处理。 好像 2 米的社交距离， 同坐一桌吃饭可以保持吗？吃饭时不能戴口罩， 边吃边说 又安全吗？ 

隔离令到经济瘫痪， 不重启经济不行， 所以政府只能硬着头皮开，各 自好自为之， 如果情况一转坏， 又得回到第一阶段。 新冠再次反覆的机会 很高。 中国的北京已是 0 增长了一段时间， 仍不敢全面开放， 最近又发生 了三十多起。 夏去秋来，新冠在这里再次复燃的机会率仍很高， 所以大家 还得非常小心。 

我的一些排舞班的学生经过三个多月的隔离， 已开始按捺不住，见第 二阶段开启， 纷纷询问我们可以复课吗？我问了一间任职的老人中心， 他 们地处密市护照办理处的二楼，他们在考虑试用所处商场的停车场教健身， 如果无人投诉就再加多一些课程。 又有学生想试着去公园跳舞。 我要他们 问清楚， 结果市里的回复是：每次不能超过 10 人， 要保持两米的社交距 离，还不能放音乐。跳舞能保持距离吗？没音乐能跳舞吗？不行。又有人说 来我家后院跳，我说如果是跳舞又得保持距离，后院大概只能容 5，6 个 人，邻居会投诉音乐噪音吗？有人在石地上跌倒谁负责？我不觉得可行。不 行，还是耐心等待吧。其实我已将排舞的视屏放在网上，各人可以在家里练 习。但是人是社交动物，具有自然属性及社会属性，隔离限制了人的社交属 性， 一个人跳舞缺乏了社交及沟通的部分， 感觉不一样。 

新冠肺炎影响了全世界及全人类，也改变了我们的生活习惯，我们工 作少了，开车少了，购物少了，和人接触少了， 活动少了， 吃少了，穿简 单了，花费也少了。我们不知还要等多久生活才可以恢复正常， 一切在上帝 手中。我们所要做的是信靠及忍耐。有如罗马书 15:5 所说： 

但愿赐忍耐安慰的上帝叫你们彼此同心， 效法基督耶稣。 

也愿全能上帝赐我们的忍耐和安慰能可以带领我们同心战胜病毒，迎来新生 活。 

Stage 2 

After more than three months of quarantine, the Toronto and Peel region have finally entered Stage 2, and more businesses and shops can be opened. However, it is still necessary to observe the social distance, wear masks, wash hands frequently, and prevent the spread of the virus. 

There are not many specific explanations in the provisions, and many specific situations need to be handled with common sense. It seems that the social distance of 2 meters can not be maintained at the same table, you can’t wear a mask when eating. Is it safe to talk while eating? 

Isolation has paralyzed the economy, and it will not work without restarting the economy, so the government can only open up its own head and do its own thing. If the situation deteriorates, it must return to stage 1. The chance of the Covid-19 second wave is high. China Beijing had zero new cases for some time, and it still not fully open. More than 30 new cases have occurred recently. Fall is coming soon, the chance of the second wave is high, so everyone has to be very careful. 

After more than three months of isolation, some of my Line dance students start impatient, they are asking me when we can resume the class? We are in stage 2 now. I asked one of the senior centers. They are located on the second floor of the passport office in Mississauga. They are considering trying to use the parking lot of the shopping mall to teach fitness. If there is no complaint, they will add more courses. Another student wants to try dancing in the park. I told her to ask the city. As a result, the city's response was: no more than 10 people at a time, to maintain a social distance of two meters, and no music play is allowed in the park. Can dancing keep the distance? Can you dance without music? No way. Another one said we can dance in my backyard. I said but we have to dance 2 meters away from each other, the backyard could only accommodate 5 or 6 people. Will neighbors complain about music noise? Who is responsible for someone falling on the stone ground? I don't think it works. No. Please wait patiently. In fact, I have put the line dance videos online, everyone can practice at home. However, people are social animals, with natural and social attributes. Isolation limits the social attributes of a person. dancing along it lacks the social and communication parts, it feels not the same. 

Covid-19 affects the whole world and all human beings, and it also changes our life. We do less work, less driving, less shopping, less communication, less activity, eat less food, wear simple clothes, and spent less. We don’t know how long to wait for life to return to normal, everything is in God’s hand. All we have to do is trust and be patient. As Romans 15:5 says: 

Now the God of patience and of comfort grant you to be of the same mind one with other according to Christ Jesus. 

May the patience and comfort given by Almighty God lead us to overcome the virus and back to normal life soon. 

#52 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

 2020 07 01 

作者 Article by: Bonny Kwok 

小男孩問母親:「媽咪,為什麼你睡覺的時候,也要皺眉頭?」 

母親訝異地回答:「真的是這樣嗎?」 

小男孩點點頭,請母親閉上眼睛,然後將他的嘴角往上提,接著說:「媽咪只要嘴角往上,就不會皺眉頭囉! 」 

自從兒子多年前的提示,我就開始提醒自己要多些笑!我發覺好多人都會不知不覺皺起眉頭,可能連自己也不察覺。我們今天就輕輕鬆鬆地講講微笑的奇妙。有人話笑是良藥,其實已經有好多不同的研究員,做個不少關於微笑的研究,好處例如: 

微笑可以令你更年青; 

微笑可以提升你的心情,營造幸福感; 

即使是勉強地微笑,也會導致情緒升高; 

微笑使你顯得有禮貌,討人喜歡和顯得有自信; 

微笑可以促進血液循環,幫助消化; 

「哈哈大笑」紓解壓力、平和情緒; 

微笑是會傳染的,也會傳給你身邊的人,增加快樂感。 

在台灣一間醫院,有一個這樣的實例。在星期天的上午,院方召集所有病患者來到大廳,讓大家觀賞喜劇,實施半年之後,病人身體康復的狀況出奇的好。這是因為哈哈大笑,可以促進免疫系統強化,如此一來,身體自然健康起來了。 

其實笑係人類本能,笑是天父的禮物, 

「喜樂的心,乃是良藥,憂傷的靈,使骨枯乾」箴言17章22節 

當失意時,不妨學習使用「十字箴言」的力量「這也將過去,神必看顧你。」不如由今天開始,大家學習多些微笑,讓細胞充滿快樂的能量,讓思維與身體出現你想不到好的效果。開心是健康的泉源!不如而家就試試開懷地笑三聲「哈、哈、哈」。若是仍然笑不出來,可以觀看以下的笑片吧! 

祝大家在國慶日,滿有喜樂的一天! 

https://youtu.be/hUOTCw2nAYI 

The little boy asked his mother, "Mommy, why do you frown when you sleep?" 

The mother surprisingly replied: "Is it true?" 

The little boy nodded, asked his mother to close her eyes, and then lifted the corner of her mouth upwards. Then he said, “Mommy won't frown as long as the corner of the mouth is upward! " 

Since my son's prompt years ago, I started reminding myself to smile more! I noticed that many people frowned unconsciously, maybe even not noticed by them. Today, we will talk about the 

wonderful smile. Some people say that laughter is a good medicine. In fact, various researchers have already compiled a long list of the benefits of smiling, such as: 

Smiling can make you look younger; 

Smiling elevates your mood and creates a sense of well-being; 

Smiling induces more pleasure in the brain more than chocolate; 

Even a forced smile can lead to a mood boost; 

Smiling makes you seem courteous, likable, and competent; 

Smiling can promote blood circulation and help digestion. "Laughing" can relieve stress and calm emotions; 

Smiling is contagious. If you like to help others and lift the spirits of everyone you see, just smile. 

There was a study in a Taiwan hospital. In every Sunday morning, the hospital will convene all patients to the hall to let them watch comedy films. After six months of implementation, the patient's physical recovery is surprisingly good. This is because laughter can promote the strengthening of the immune system, so that the body is naturally healthier. 

In fact, laughter is a human instinct, laughter is a gift from God. 

"A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones." 

Proverbs 17:22 (NIV) 

When you are frustrated, you may learn to use the power of "Cross Proverbs" – “this will soon pass & God will take care of you.” It's better to start now, everyone learns to smile more, fill the cells with positive energy, and let the brain and the body have good impact that you can't think of. Happiness is the source of health! Let’s try to laugh three times with “ha! ha! ha!” If still not working, let’s watch it. Happy Canada Day!! 

https://youtu.be/hUOTCw2nAYI 

#51 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 29 

作者 Article by: Chivas Chu 

主內的各位弟兄姊妹安好。 

上星期忙完了自己的事和預備教會的第一次廣東話網上崇拜後,太太取了一個星期的假期,所以在星期日當晚便很快地安排一下如何利用這短短的一週去讓大家好好的放鬆休息一下。得知Old Montreal 和Quebec City當地的旅遊區食市在星期一巳經重開,疫情也相對受控。我們決定重遊三十五年前渡蜜月去過的地方。 

星期一早上,預備好口罩,消毒液等物品,便開始我們四曰三夜的⾏程。在途中經過在公路上的加油站,食市和洗手間都一樣有社交距離的限制,而自己下車後也帶上口罩。做好自己應該做的防護工作。 

講真,當我們傍晚入住酒店後,步⾏到舊城區的一些餐館晚膳時,坐下來的時候,大家惱裏面所想的也是一樣,就是或者已經三個多月沒有在外面用膳,突然而來的那份感覺就是珍惜和感恩。服務員是帶上面罩而不是口罩,坐下前也要先用提供的洗手液消毒。再講,餐廳的人流也不算多。有少部分餐廳也因未能預備做好市政府的防疫要求而未重開。 

或者是因為我們已經很久沒有回到這處來,一時之間都被四週的建築物和景色吸引住。另外,在差不多一千八百公里的車程,大家可以輕輕鬆鬆地在車廂內談及天南地北,在過去三十五年一起的許多回憶,包括:兒子、家庭、教會、親人和許多好朋友的點滴等等。 

在結尾這個分享時,忽然想起六個字,就是

“盡人事看天命”, 但因為我是基督徒,我覺得將個”天”字改為”主”字更為洽當。就是我們盡力做好上主所吩咐我們要做的事,盡了自己的責任,其他的一切就由主去帶領吧。 

#50 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 27 

作者 Article by: Joel Chiu 

隨著安省在三月中宣報進入緊急狀態以來，不覺過了百多日，剛剛過去的星期三，我們所在的皮爾區，開始第二階段恢復經濟，可算是等了不少日子的令人雀躍的消息。再者，本省的疫情亦稍露曙光，昨日的公佈新增感染病毒單日個案數目是三月廿五日以來最少的１１１人。我上次在這裏寫的分享（六月初）提到期望粵語崇拜如果仍然不能在教堂舉行，希望盡早以網上形式進行，也是不錯的代替，結果，上主日我們開始了第一個頌主堂的粵語網上虛擬崇拜。相信當日有近百分之八十經常參加粵語崇拜的會友參加了那個崇拜。為了迎接那重要日子，有份事奉的弟兄姊妹在事前都不敢怠慢，連原本答應了為我們證道的余主教亦是第一次用ＺＯＯＭ講道，所以他說他也嚴陣以代。一方面期待再次與教友見面，一起祈禱、唱詩，互相問安；一方面又要確保教友預先下載好有關的應用軟件，好使他們都能夠參與這種對大家來說都是新方式的粵語網上虛擬崇拜。感謝上主，我們都克服了障礙。明早十一點十五分我們會作第二次這樣的粵語網上虛擬崇拜。最後和大家分享撒母耳記下廿二章七節： 

我在急難中求告耶和華， 

向我的上帝呼求。 

他從殿中聽了我的聲音； 

我的呼求進入他的耳中。 

More than a hundred days have passed since the Ontario Government announced an emergency. Last Wednesday, Our Premier allowed Peel Region to start venturing into the second stage of economic reopening. It is considered as one of the exciting news for months. Furthermore, COVID-19 influence lessened lately. New confirmed case number announced yesterday for a single day in Ontario was 111 which was the fewest since March 25. In my last sharing in early this month, I said I anticipated a workable form of virtual worship service in the Cantonese congregation if this suspension of worship at church would last for some time longer. Thankfully, Saint Elizabeth’s saw her first Cantonese virtue worship on-line on last Sunday. I believe about 80% of regular Cantonese congregationers joined. In order to make that service a smooth one, brothers and sisters who were to lead it took it seriously, even Bishop Yu who promised to give his homily for us on that Sunday felt similarly for that was his first time using Zoom to deliver a sermon. On one hand, we longed for seeing our fellow parishioners once again to say prayers, sing hymns and greet one another together; on the other hand, we need to make sure the necessary software app is properly downloaded to parishioners’ devices so that they can join this new type of on-line worship service. We are grateful to God, all technical obstacles have been overcome. We are having another such virtual worship service on the internet for our Cantonese congregation tomorrow morning.

May I share 2 Samuel 22:7 with you: 

In my distress I called upon the LORD; 

to my God I called. 

From his temple he heard my voice, 

and my cry came to his ears. 

#49 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 25 

作者 Article by: Fung Ping Chan 

疫中情 

當閲畢“疫中情” 42A, “民主和自由”後,對文中論題頗有同感,許多事都有正、負面,不論正面也好,負面也好,只要處理恰當,亦無可厚非,況且在非常时期也得採取相應措施,懂變通,不能黙守成規.

現正處於抗疫期間,日常生活受影响,未能運作如常,帶來不便,除購買食品外,絶無外出,看来像是籠中鳥,受制肘,失去自由,實則不然,只是負上個人責任,䕶己䕶人而已. 

民主、自由、人權是每個人應有的權利,當我們行使這權利而超越行為操守,道德範畴,以致影响他人,甚至使他人受到伤害的话,那就得當作別論,并須慎而行之,民主、自由、人權并不代表你想做什麽就做什麽,妄顧他人安危. 

我們懂得表達意見,提出要求,在不合理的情况下,提出反对,行使自己的權利,這是值得高興的,然而當我們懂得自己的權利時,勿忽略了自己的義務,有權利就必有義務,兩者缺一不可. 

要維持社會秩序有條不紊,運作正常,除了用法律監管人的行為外,也需要道德倫理的觀點和正確的價值觀去指引我們,那些行為應做,那些行為不應做,最重要的是個人自覺地去履行自己在社会上的義務和責任,縱觀现在社会上的情况,這些基本慨念,似乎巳被遺忘了. 

社会是由千千萬萬人所组成,一切福利設施,共同享用,人人有份有責,假若各人都能多行一義,多負一責,攜手合作,共同建立一個健康和諧的社会,社会好了,那麽世界就更美麗了. 

感谢神賜我身心健康,讓我有机会到教會崇拜,聽道,參加團契活動,研經,自我靈修,藉此可多聽神的話語,豐富我的靈糧,使我靈命增長,更從十誡中得到明確的啟示,讓我在思想和行為上有所領悟、警惕,求神継續引領扶持,直到永遠. 

#48 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 23 

作者 Article by: Margaret Loo 

最近在報紙看到一則新聞， 覺得很特別， 借疫中情這平台和大家分享這則新聞的內容和感想。 

新型冠狀病毒疫情下， 英國一間酒店繼續開放， 免費讓無家者留宿， 受惠者為表謝意， 決定為酒店做一些小事， 包括整理花園， 打掃房間和砌磚牆等。從三月份開始，這間酒店邀請超過45名無家者免費入住。這酒店共有60間房間， 平日每晚房價可達155英鎊。 

其中一位受惠者表示， 很感謝酒店的員工的照顧， 所以他為酒店砌磚牆， 以表謝意。另一位受惠者， 已流浪了25年， 認為酒店救了他。酒店方面則表示， 疫情下繼續開放是希望可幫助有需要的人， 又稱這批新的客人很可愛， 對得到幫助充滿感恩。酒店為員工提供全套保護裝備，包括手套， 口罩等。酒店並為客人提供三餐膳食， 食物直接送到各人房間，以減低傳播病的風險。酒店至今並沒有人感染新冠病毒。

看了這則新聞，第一個反應是想起了好撒馬利亞人的故事， 這間英國的酒店，在疫中情免費為流浪者提供飲食和住宿， 就好像聖經中的撒馬利亞人， 在路上遇上了被强盜打得半死的猶太人， 不認識他， 亦不介意撒馬利亞人和猶太人不相往來的傳統，動了慈心，不但替傷者包裹傷口，還親自送他去客店養傷，又替他交客店的宿費。 

但想深一層，覺得好撒馬利亞人的故事只是這則新聞的上集，這則新聞，繼續講述受惠者充滿感恩， 主動地為酒店提供各樣的服務，而其中有個別受惠者，更宣稱這受惠的經驗， 改變了他的生命。 

這則新聞令我想起有位牧師曾這樣說：「感謝不是句號，它是個逗點，因為感謝好像一把鑰匙，會開啟了神賜下更多的恩典。」 

I recently read a story from the newspaper, which I would like to share with you. 

Under the pandemic, a hotel in the UK remained open, making it available to the homeless to stay overnight for free. The beneficiaries expressed their gratitude and decided to do some small things for the hotel, including gardening, cleaning the room and building brick walls. Starting in March, this hotel has invited more than 45 homeless people to stay for free. There are 60 rooms in this hotel, and the daily room rate can be up to £155 on weekdays. 

One of the beneficiaries said that he was very grateful to the hotel staff for their care, so he built a brick wall for the hotel to express his gratitude. Another beneficiary, who has been homeless for 25 years, says the hotel has saved his life. The hotel management indicated that it was their intention to help the needy by making the rooms available to them during the pandemic. The management commented that the guests have been very grateful for the help offered. The hotel has been providing employees with a full set of personal protective equipment, including gloves and masks. The hotel also provides guests with three meals, and the food is delivered directly to everyone's room to reduce the risk of spreading the disease. No one has been infected with the virus so far. 

Initially, this story from the newspaper reminds me of the story of the Good Samaritan. It seems that this hotel, by providing free food and accommodation for the homeless in the pandemic, is acting like the Good Samaritan in the Bible. The Good Samaritan came to the rescue of a stranger, a Jew who was beaten to near death by a robber, despite the tradition that Samaritans were hated by Jews. He had compassion for the victim. He cleaned his wounds, sent him to rest in a motel and paid for the boarding fees. 

On second thought, it seems the story of a Good Samaritan is just Part One. This news story continues to tell how the beneficiaries were full of gratitude and actively provided various services for the hotel. One individual claimed that this experience has changed his life. 

This news story reminds me of a pastor who once said, "Gratitude is not a “period. “ It is a “comma”. Gratitude is like a key that will open the door for more grace from God." 

#47 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 21 

作者 Article by: Rev. Jim Woolley 

Sometimes people become concerned about what kind of posture should be used in prayer.

After all, Moses held his arms in prayer. Others folded their hands. Some prostrated themselves, At times Jesus knelt. 

The following poem by Sam Walter Foss humorously expresses this: 

“The proper way for a person to pray,” 

Said Deacon Lemuel Keyes, 

“And the only proper attitude 

Is down upon the knees.” 

“Nay, I should say the way to pray”, 

Said the Reverend Doctor Wise, 

“Is standing straight with outstretched arms 

And rapt and upturned eyes.” 

“Oh, no, no, no” said Elder Snow, 

“Such posture is too proud, 

A person should pray with eyes fast closed 

And head contritely bowed.” 

“It seems to me the hands should be 

Austerely clasped in front. 

With both thumbs pointing toward the ground.” 

Said Reverend Doctor Blunt 

“Last year I fell into Hodgkin’s well 

Head first,” said Cyrus Brown 

“With both my heels a-stickin’ up, 19 

My head a-pointing down; 

An’ I made a prayer right then an’ there- 

Best prayer I ever said, 

The prayingest prayer I ever prayed, 

A-standing on my head.” 

#46 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 19 

作者 Article by: Grace Liu 

疫中情~人生舞台 今天有機會上網重温盧醫生於 3 月 8 号的講道 篇。當中提醒我要學習『與神共舞』。在再三思考時卻浮現了另一埸景，我看到的是人生舞臺......... 

打從在母腹成長的一刻開始，天父巳為我們每人編寫了一本屬於個人劇本。17 

無論是喜劇、悲劇、動作片或音樂劇，形形式式都逃不出編者思路。而我們便成為人生舞台的一個角色。 這角色隨着時間和環境轉變而交替更換。今天是主角，明天或許成為配角甚至茄喱啡；若干時日又可能因環境改變而再度成為主角。無論願意與否，行出來由不得你。 當然，作為一個基督徒，我們都是神的兒女，假若能定睛在十架而願意由祂帶領，全然信靠，我們的路會行得輕省。即亦如此，也不能確保所演的必定是一部喜劇。相反，當我們踏上這人生舞台，就要珍惜並做好自己角色。有句話: 台上一分鐘，台下十年功。原來我們不斷學習，選定目標，堅持到底，立志不移便必有成効。所有學習和努力耕耘都會結出果子來。 然而，也不乏面對試鍊，逆境和挑戰時刻。正如現時大家面對新冠疫情一樣。但這都是人生的一部份。慶幸我們可以回到主耶稣面前，向祂祈求，嘗試洞悉神為我們编寫那劇本的心意。神要我們在逆境中擔演一個怎樣的角色，從而讓自已在這個舞台上努力演出，直到閉幕那天。到時，我們可以欣然微笑，相信天父也會為我們鼓掌。 去年聖誕前參加了小孫兒學校晚會。最後一項節目由幼稚園同學加入齊唱「普天同慶」。小孫當時兩歲半扮演一棵樹，音樂一起，他和其他四歲以下小朋友舉起雙手，做了個"高舉" 手勢，小小身段隨着音樂節拍向左右搖擺，直至全首歌唱完, 老師做了一個靜止手勢後才停止。全体謝幕時更把氣氛带進高潮，家長們都為此豉掌。 

但願我們都像孩子一般，以一顆純真的心去愛主頌主，靠着神去經歷這次疫情。 

#45 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 17 

作者 Article by: Elaine Wong

新型冠狀病毒不只恐怖，還極兇殘，見人就殺，見命就取，不幸落在其手，備受煎熬。而且，它那強勁的傳染力，更會令施救者稍一輕忽防護旋即中招；所以在竭盡全力，用盡方法後，施救人員往往都只好哀傷無奈地目送病者痛苦地離逝，這種情況在早期醫療防護設備奇缺，疫症瘋狂飆發的疫區尤為多見，他們箇中感受，豈能言喻？ 

明知山有虎，偏向虎山行，奮身盡職的醫護和所有在前線救人的工作人員，於此大疫艱難時刻全無畏縮後退，他們履行使命，當中更或有只穿戴上可能並非是最嚴密的防護裝備後，便奮不顧身， 勇往直前，捨命與病毒爭戰，拚死去搶救病人，挽救生命，人性光輝盡顯，溫暖滿載人心，問誰不向他們致敬？他們每一位都是真英雄 ！ 

昔日使徒保羅寫信給以弗所眾聖徒，論到與邪惡爭戰，須穿戴神所賜的全副軍裝，經文如此記載：「我還有末了的話：你們要靠著主，倚賴祂的大能大力作剛強的人。要穿戴神所賜的全副軍裝，就能抵擋魔鬼的詭計。因我們並不是與屬血氣的爭戰，乃是與那些執政的、掌權的、管轄這幽暗世界的，以及天空屬靈氣的惡魔爭戰。所以，要拿起神所賜的全副軍裝，好在磨難的日子抵擋仇敵，並且成就了一切，還能站立得住。所以要站穩了，用真理當作帶子束腰，用公義當作護心鏡遮胸，又用平安的福音當作預備走路的鞋穿在腳上。此外，又拿著信德當作籐牌，可以滅盡那惡者一切的火箭；並戴上救恩的頭盔，拿著聖靈的寶劍，就是神的道；靠著聖靈，隨時多方禱告祈求。」（弗6:10-18上） 

面對慘礉疫戰，醫護義不容辭，穿戴裝備，自動入伍，奮勇抗敵。萬世戰爭，已臨我們時代，上帝召喚兵馬，要跟惡魔交戰，你也有那股勇毅，那份忠誠，那種擔當，肯迎著上帝的旌旗，攜械應召，披甲上陣嗎？ 

#44 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 15 

作者 Article by: Mandy Li 

警醒

近日看到耆暉會梁姑娘在Chit Chat節目的訪問，才知道在三月中至五月期不足兩個月多倫多就已發生了七百多宗因疫情關係的詐騙案件，對象多是長者。 

因禁聚令，亦為小心防疫菌四散受感染而留在家中不宜外出，但由於日常所需頗多，如超市買食品，各種各樣交費，醫生檢查預約，配藥，稅單或政府文件理解等等都需要解決，騙徒就藉著幫助那些有需要的長者騙走資料盜用，騙去金錢，更騙了信心呢 ！ 

不要以為老人家才會易受騙，根據新聞報導大量假口罩，不合格的消毒清潔液都大有人多量搶購。或網購附費沒貨收。 

由於各地各國封關，多人搶著離境歸家的心情而墮騙。有英國學生是香港人，收到假官方指控有洗黑錢嫌疑而被騙去大筆金錢，當時對方表示有學生個人証件的資料令他自以為有可能被害誤犯了罪，所以信了騙徒而損失金錢，估計學生當時擔心不能過境而滯留不能歸家心情，所以未能細心分析求證。 

如此騙案當然不止一單半單，但因疫情緊張影響了判斷力而受騙的就真係有排數。在此，我們只能多祈禱求天父看顧，並賜予精伶的頭腦，細心的分析免致錯了才後悔 

約8:44 耶穌說，魔鬼是説慌的，也是說慌之人的父。 

帖前5:21 但要凡事察驗，善美要持守。 

#43 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 13 

作者 Article by: Yvonne Zheng 

後園有三棵小果樹，已經種了廿多年, 想要有好收成, 就要按時施肥，除蟲和修剪。每年三四月, 樹未出芽時要灑硫磺。而噴有機除蟲劑, 就要在花蕾未出時，花落時及以後每十天做一次, 直至收成前十日才停止。施肥較容易。只要按樹身大小, 在泥土鬆軟時，埋下一枝枝的果樹肥料就可以。天冷後、入冬前一定要修剪樹枝。天熱修樹會縮少樹的壽命。以上的工序, 只要做足, 就會體驗到果實纍纍的喜悦。可惜的是, 這種喜悦, 我只嘗過一兩次。因為知易行難, 理由很多, 有時是天氣冷、雨水、事忙、又或者是健忘。總是做漏這、做漏那。農作物的栽種, 是非常講究時間性的。日子一過就是過了。不可以回頭補做。真的是幾分耕耘、幾分收獲。所以豐收的日子少之又少。 

我們和神、和人建立關係都是有時間性的。時間過了、機會就少了。小時候知有神的存在、知道在學校早會要祈禱。大一些有機會認識上帝，開始和衪建立關係。加入教會、熱心參與團契生活。婚後因工作關係、因帶小孩關係、因照顧家人關係、遠離上帝、遠離教會。現在年紀大些、時間好似多14 

些、再一次踏足教會、溶入上帝的大家庭中。但是錯失了的聽道時機、錯失了的研經機會、錯失了和上帝説話的時間, 是一去不復返的。 

在新冠疫情下，有些人時間好像多了、有些人時間好像少了。假如你是時間多了的一羣，你又怎讓分配多餘的時間呢？你會在靈修上下多一些功夫? 在侍奉上下多一些功夫? 又或者在禱告上下多一些功夫嗎? 

I planted three dwarf fruit trees in my backyard twenty something years ago. Despite their small size, pound for pound, they are supposed to produce the same amount of fruit compared to regular fruit trees. At least that’s what it says in the gardening books. Throughout the years, I might have had two or three bumper crops. So what was the problem with my trees? Well, the gardening books also say one has to dust and spray the trees with sulphur and insecticidal soap, fertilize and prune the trees at specific times of the year. Of course, I miss a few of these time sensitive events every year due to snow, rain, being busy or just plain forgetfulness. Hence, I get small, sour and/or rotten crops most of the time. Time is like that, you snooze, you lose. 

Have you been snoozing when it comes to building relationship with God and people? What have you missed while you are busy living your life? Many of us feel like our life has come to a standstill during this COVID-19 Pandemic. Are you willing to grasp this God given time and opportunity to work on the most important business? God’s business! 

#42B 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 11 

Canon Jim Woolley 

“Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord God Almighty” 

This past Sunday, Trinity Sunday we heard, “sang” in the English Zoom service the hymn “Holy, Holy. Holy, Lord God Almighty. This hymn is found in almost all hymn books. In Common Praise, as with many other hymn books, it is the first hymn. The hymn is based on a free paraphrase of Revelation 4:8-11. 

The hymn was written by Reginald Heber, born on August 21, 1783 in England. His father was an Anglican priest and Heber himself, a graduate of Oxford University, was ordained an Anglican priest in 13 

1807. Heber was approached twice to be the bishop of Calcutta and each time he refused. On the 3rd occasion, against the advice of friends, he accepted. When he reached India in 1823 he soon discovered that his diocese covered the whole of British India and included a lot of travel. He was considered a wise and energetic bishop. The strain of being the bishop was too much for him and he died suddenly on April 3, 1826 at the age of 43. 

He was one of the first hymn writers to either write or gather hymns that reflected the themes of the Epistles and Gospel throughout the year. His hymns began appearing in 1811. His first collection of hymns was truned down by the Archbishop of Canterbury but was published by his widow and accepted by the Archbishop a year following his death. 

The tune Nicaea, composed by John Dykes, accompanied the hymn when it was published in the hymn book entitled Hymns Ancient and Modern in 1861. The tune was named after Nicaea, the city in Asia Minor where the first general council of the Christian Church, convened by Constantine in 325, took place. At this Council the doctrine of the Trinity as expressed in the Nicene Creed was formulated. 

Jim 

#42A 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2020 06 11 

作者 Article by: #42A Sunny Wong 

⺠主和自由 

新冠肺炎袭击全球, 各国都经历不同程度的病情。政府尽力控制, 在无药无防疫针的情况下, 只能要求人们自我隔离, 保持社交距离及关闭商铺来控制病菌传播。个人生活受影响, 经济更是受到重创。 11 

最近看到美国, 加拿大有人示威抗议政府的关闭及隔离政策, 要求全面开放, 令生活恢复正常。这些人不带口罩, 不保持社交距离, 在公众场所大叫大闹表示不满。我想为什么会有这种事发生? 因为我们是民主国家, 民众有充分的民主及表达己⻅的自由。 

反观没有那么多民主自由的国家, 控制病情的政策比较容易实施。在中国上海的朋友告诉我, 每人都需在手机上下载一个应用程式, 上面有你的名字, 照片及新冠肺炎的身体状况。绿色是健康, 红色是带菌者, 黄色是新冠肺炎康复者。进入每个地方, 都需显示才能进入。韩国也这样做。这对控制病情有好处, 但在民主国家行不通, 因为这侵犯了私隐及人权。 

太多的人权不好, 没人权也不好。太多的民主自由, 国家不易管理, 太少民主自由, 一党专制。任何的事物都需找到一个平衡点, 走极端无利反弊。在病情流行期间, 控制病情是大前提, 只有病情得到控制, 生活才能逐步恢复 正常 

圣经里有犹大王亚玛谢的故事。 

年轻的犹大王亚玛谢在登基后, 扩张了犹大王国, 击败东边的以东人, 但被自己的胜利冲昏头脑, 改拜异端神, 主动向北国以色列挑起战争, 最后战败被俘, 所累积的财富都被北国夺走。在他的晚年, 发生在他父亲身上的事, 也发生在他身上, 大臣叛变把他杀了。 

以色列人出埃及的故事。 

摩⻄带领以色列人出埃及后的两个半月, 众人发怨言说: 巴不得我们早死在埃及地, 在那里我们可以吃饱, 你把我们带来这个旷野，我们要饿死了。耶和华对摩⻄说, 我要将粮食从天降给你们。 之后所有的人都有了足够的食物。摩⻄坚定了信心, 众人看到了奇迹都相信了主的大能。 

人生有很多未知数, 世界也有很多变迁, 这些都是我们无法预知和控制的, 只有信靠上帝的大能才能带领我们走出旷野, 渡过难关。 

Freedom and Democracy 

The new Covid-19 attacking the world, all countries experiencing different degrees of illness condition. The government tries it best to control, in the case of no medicine and no vaccinations, only way to control spread virus is self quarantine, social distancing and close businesses. Personal life is affected, economy is suffering. 

Recently, I saw some people in the United States and Canada are demonstrating against government shutdown and social distancing, demanding a full opening to restore normal life. These People don't wear masks, don't maintain social distance, and scream in public places to 12 

express their anger. Why this happened? Because we are democracy country, people have full freedom to express themselves. 

In other hand, countries with less democracy and freedom, control the disease easier. A friend in Shanghai, China told me that everyone there needs to download an app on your cell phone, there has your name, photo and physical condition of Covid 19. Green is healthy, red is carrier, yellow is the recovered from Covid 19. You need to display it for get into any places. South Korea does the same. This is good for control of spread virus, but it doesn’t work here because it violates privacy and human rights. 

Too much or too little human rights are not good. With too much freedom, country is hard to manage, with too little freedom it become one-party autocracy. Everything needs to find balance, go extreme always danger. During the pandemic, controlling the virus spread is the main goal, only the condition improved, life can return to normal gradually. 

Here is a story of King Amaziah of Judah in Bible 

After the ascension of the throne, the young king of Amaziah of Judah, expanded the kingdom of Judah and defeated the Edom to the east. The victory stuns his mind and he also forgot God. He provoked war against Israel in the north, and finally been defeated and captured, the accumulated wealth was taken away by the north. In his later years, what happened to his father also happened to him. His minister betrayed him and killed him. 

Also a story of the Israelites leaving Egypt. 

On the fifteenth day of second month after the Moses leads the Israelites out of Egypt, all the people against Moses and Aaron, they complained: we wish we died early in the land of Egypt, where we have enough food to eat. You bring us to this wildness, we are going to starve to death. The Lord said to Moses, I will give you food from heaven, and everyone will have enough food. Moses strengthened his confidence, people saw miracle happened all believed in the power of the God. 

There are so many unknowns in our life, and there are so many changes in the world. These are things that we cannot predict and control. Only by trusting our almighty God can take us out of the wildness, go through the difficulties.