A Journey of Grace!

Lam Ka-hung and his wife

In His Time

　　In the twinkling of an eye, the master’s degree program which spanned over three years is now completed. I finally graduated from HKBTS! Looking back on these few years, I find laughter, sweat, friendships, reflections and intellectual improvements in abundance. I feel like I came with empty hands but left with them full of riches. My heart is so full of gratitude. How can one be so blessed to have the opportunity to devote more than three years of time to theological studies? How fortunate and blissful it is to have one’s faith nurtured! Thanks to God for giving me the chance to leave my career and a familiar environment, move into a different field and join a new community. I was given an opportunity here to experience renewal and changes in my life as well as to ponder deeper such questions as: What is the meaning of the Christian faith? What significance does it hold for me?

　　I have been a Christian and gone to church since the age of fifteen. The idea of becoming a pastor someday had never crossed my mind. However, the gracious hands of our Lord often lead us to places beyond our expectations. All will come to pass in His time. Perhaps, when a man reaches middle age, he will have a greater desire to discover the value of life and to figure out the plan God has for him. God has allowed me to see His plan in my life. In the summer of 2013, through the message of a preacher in the Hong Kong Bible Conference God called me to serve Him as a full-time pastor. In 2014, I entered HKBTS for theological training.

Hardship and Joy along the Journey of Learning

　　Studying in the seminary is not as romantic as I once imagined. I thought that the experience would be like going to a “retreat,” but in reality, it is more difficult than I could have imagined. My three years of study at HKBTS is several times more difficult than all my previous study experiences combined! I felt like I had fallen into a vast ocean as I set foot on the field of Christian theology. There is so much to learn, and the theological materials I have to get to know are extensive. In just a few years, one has to pick up Greek, Hebrew, Bible studies, systematic theology, philosophy, Christian history, pastoral skills and knowledge about the Church. Apart from all these, one also has to take part in internships and look after one’s own family. This kind of life is so busy; I have no idea how I managed to get through all these difficulties. However, thanks to God for His grace. I was given strength from Him amidst this hectic schedule. Whenever I felt weak, I would look upon the Lord and pray for wisdom. Thanks to God for helping me go through every difficulty. When I could not memorize all the biblical texts in their original language, I would pray and ask the Lord to give me a better memory. This reminds me of a saying I once heard: “In theological education, it is not good grades but God’s miracles that lead us to graduation!” Now I know that these words are very true.

　　At HKBTS, I gained not only abundant knowledge but also inspiration. Many teachers edify us with diligence and devotion. Their lives and knowledge encourage us tremendously. They are our caring pastors and good friends whether it is in the classroom or at the dining table. They teach us and care for us like spiritual fathers. Their lives have also inspired mine. They are our mentors as well as friends. This kind of relationship is one of many treasured memories from my seminary years.

　　My fellow students have become my fellow travelers on this journey of learning and serving our Lord. Each student has their own strength. Thus, on our journey together we were able to complement each other and overcome challenges together. We have established life-long friendships. During our seminary studies, some students encountered difficulties in their lives, but blissfully none of us was ever alone. We took care of each other and were cowalkers serving our Lord.

Endless Thanksgiving

　　Looking back, I have a profound feeling that it is indeed a great privilege and a blessing to be chosen by God! Just to deepen my understanding of my faith alone would have been wonderful enough, but now I am called by God to tend His flock and build up the body of Christ. God knows that I have many limitations and shortcomings, but He is still willing to choose me as one of his disciples and call me to lead my brothers and sisters in Christ to be His disciples too. My heart is overwhelmed with joy as if I were one of the workers who stood outside the vineyard all day waiting for work, and finally got chosen to go inside. How gratifying and joyful it is!

　　Now, as the theology courses have come to an end, I am convinced that a new phase of my life is just beginning. There are still many areas in my life that I need to improve and much that I need to learn. I would like to thank my wife Merody, my family and brothers and sisters in Christ for their support, encouragement, cheering and prayers and for being my companions along this journey of serving our Lord. Thank you!