Month: September 2024

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article General testimony

Life After Cardiology

Rediscovering Purpose and Passion in Retirement

Excerpt

Retirement is not the end of life. It is a new beginning. A retired cardiologist reflects on transitioning from a medical career to a life of rediscovery. Learn how retirement can open doors to new passions, deeper faith, and continued engagement in your field. Embrace this new chapter with purpose and joy.

New Chapter

Retirement signifies a significant transformation in one’s life. I felt uncertain about retiring after many years in cardiology. Leaving patient care, hospital meetings, ward rounds, and medical conferences was both freeing and intimidating. After five years into retirement, I can confidently say that life is full of exciting opportunities. You will find them if you are open to them! Exploring new hobbies, volunteering, and spending time with family have brought me immense joy and fulfillment. Embracing this new chapter has allowed me to rediscover passions that had been overshadowed by my demanding career.

New Found Freedom

For a cardiologist, retirement is not just quitting a job. It is stepping away from a life filled with urgency, responsibility, and learning for over 30 years. My day-to-day life consisted of diagnosing and treating heart conditions. I performed procedures and gave hope for my patients during times of vulnerability. I am now involved in a space that promotes thinking and creativity. This environment allows me to focus on my well-being. I can now pursue interests I had ignored before. This newfound freedom, I believe, is a gift that encourages personal growth and deeper connections with those I hold dear. Each day is an opportunity to cultivate not just my hobbies, but also to nurture relationships that enrich my soul.

Rediscovering Purpose and Passion

One of the greatest joys of retirement has been rediscovering my true identity beyond professional practice. I have engaged in activities that make me truly happy. These activities have allowed me to discover talents I didn’t fully develop while working. This journey of self-discovery has renewed my enthusiasm and helped me connect with the world more meaningfully. With each new venture, I’ve found myself embracing new challenges that push my boundaries and broaden my perspective. My sense of adventure drives me to keep learning and growing, making my days purposeful and exciting.

Maintaining Connections

Even though I no longer practice medicine in its traditional sense, my passion for cardiology still burns bright. I stay updated by attending conferences whenever I can, and keep contact with former colleagues. Through these connections, I gain insights into the latest advancements and trends in the field. This ongoing engagement allows me to merge my medical knowledge with my newfound purpose in writing and sharing wisdom.

Exploring New Interests

One of the unexpected joys of retirement has been exploring interests I never had time for while practicing medicine. I have started writing Christian books, poems and songs, which nourish my spirit and give me a sense of achievement. This experience shows that it is never too late to learn something new. You can express yourself, regardless of your age or life experience! Each book, poem and song becomes a reflection of my journey. They capture the essence of faith and hope that sustains me. Embracing creativity not only enriches my life but also connects me with others who share similar passions and experiences.

Faith and Reflection

Retirement has given me an opportunity to deepen my relationship with God. Now that I’m retired and have more time for reflection, I can better understand how my faith influences my life. Writing devotionals and hosting Christian podcasts has helped me share my faith journey with others to grow spiritually. Retirement has felt like a spiritual rebirth, allowing me to think about how grace has guided my life. Every day offers an opportunity to inspire others and be inspired. It is a time to celebrate the colorful tapestry of life created by faith and creativity.

Takeaway

Retiring does not signal an end; rather it marks a new chapter waiting to be written. Retirement has allowed me to rediscover, contemplate, and renew myself. While I’m no longer practicing medicine, I stay connected to cardiology through pursuits that show my passion. I find fulfillment in sharing my knowledge and experience. This new phase in life has unveiled endless possibilities for growth and connection that I never anticipated.

Are you nearing retirement? Embrace it as a chance to explore, create, and grow instead of fearing it. After retirement, your life can be just as fulfilling by redefining success and exploring new opportunities.

Dr Andrew C S Koh

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bible study devotion

Revelation

Embracing God’s Sovereignty and Victory over Evil

Revelation, also known as Apocalypse in some traditions, is a very complex and symbolic book in the Bible. Apostle John wrote this book during his exile on Patmos Island. It provides hope and warning for believers then and now.

Excerpt


The Book of Revelation offers a profound vision of the end times, revealing Christ’s ultimate victory over evil. Through vivid apocalyptic imagery, it explores God’s judgment. It also examines the perseverance of believers. The book promises a new heaven and earth, where God will reign eternally with His people.

Structure

The Book of Revelation can be broken down into four main parts:

1. Introduction and Letters to the Seven Churches (Chapters 1-3).

The Risen Glorified Jesus appeared to John and told him to write letters to seven churches in Asia Minor. These letters highlight the unique struggles, shortcomings, and strengths of each of the congregations.

Ephesus was praised for working hard, but criticized for losing her first love.

Smyrna stood out by remaining faithful under persecution.

Pergamum was condemned for allowing false teachings to flourish freely.

Thyatira stood out due to its affectionate service but later condemned for allowing immorality to flourish within her walls.

Sardis was described as spiritually dead, although there were still some faithful followers.

Philadelphia was commended and offered protection during times of trial.

Laodicea was condemned for being lukewarm, neither hot nor cold in her faith.

These letters are warnings and encouragements for believers to stay strong in their faith. This is important even when facing false teachings. It is also crucial during persecution or spiritual complacency.

2. The Vision of Heaven and the Seven Seals (Chapters 4-7)

John sees God seated on His throne in heaven. He is surrounded by angels and elders. There is a scroll bearing seven seals that only Jesus can open.

The first four seals reveal the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, representing conquest, war, famine and death.

The fifth seal reveals martyrs crying out for justice.

The sixth seal brings about cosmic disturbances signaling God’s final judgment of humanity.

The seventh seal depicts seven trumpets that portend more catastrophic events on earth.

3. The Seven Trumpets and the Conflict Between Good and Evil (Chapters 8-14).

With the sounding of each trumpet, extra judgments are unleashed upon the earth.

The first four trumpets bring destruction to nature through land, sea, rivers, and skies.

The fifth and sixth trumpets release demonic forces like locusts and horsemen that represent demonic powers.

The sounding of the seventh trumpet announces the arrival of God’s kingdom in the world. “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.“Revelation 11:15.

After this, John sees great signs in heaven. John sees a pregnant woman (Israel) with the sun and the moon under her feet and crowned with 12 stars. A huge red dragon with seven heads, 10 horns, and 7 crowns (Satan) waited eagerly. It wanted to devour the baby (Jesus) as soon as he is born. When the woman gives birth to a son (Jesus), God snatched him up to heaven. The woman escaped to the wilderness, where she will find refuge from God for 1260 days.

4. The Seven Bowls, Final Judgment and Creation of a New Heaven and Earth (Chapters 15-22)

The final set of judgments are symbolized by God pouring out His wrath upon the earth through seven bowls. This results in plagues and devastation. It ultimately concludes with the battle of Armageddon, the Second Coming of Christ, and the establishment of the Millennial Kingdom.

After Satan and the Beast are defeated, there is a judgment called the Great White Throne Judgment. During this judgment, everyone is judged based on their works. It also examines whether their names are written in the book of Life. Anyone whose name is not found in the book of Life will be cast into the Lake of Fire.

Revelation then moves from judgment to hope. John sees a vision of a New Heaven, New Earth, and New Jerusalem. Former things have passed away. God dwells with His people. New Jerusalem is a kingdom of everlasting peace and beauty. In this kingdom, there will be no death, sorrow, or pain. It comes down from heaven to unite everything together.

Key Themes

1. God is sovereign

Despite depicting scenes of chaos and evil, God remains sovereign. Revelation consistently emphasized God as sovereign over his creations. God’s divine plan includes judgments, the rise of evil forces, and the eventual dethroning of Satan. His will shall prevail, despite how dire things are at any given moment.

2. Christ’s victory over evil

The main idea of Revelation is Jesus Christ’s victory over evil. This victory includes His death and resurrection as the victorious Lion of Judah. It also includes His future triumph when He returns in glory to create His eternal kingdom.

3. Judgment and Justice

Revelation vividly portrays God’s just judgment upon sin, evil, and rebellion. It clearly says that those who go against Him and follow the ways of this world will be judged. It also gives hope to those being persecuted by promising that justice will win in the end.

4. Perseverance and Faithfulness

This book encourages believers to persevere even during times of struggle and persecution, through letters to seven churches. Remaining faithful is crucial, even in the face of opposition, false teachings, or persecution. Those who overcome will be rewarded with eternal life.

5. Hope and Restoration

While Revelation includes several disconcerting images of destruction and judgment, its ultimate message is one of hope. The final chapters describe a perfect world. In this world, evil is gone and God’s people have eternal peace and communion with Him. It is an image that promises us the coming of a New Heaven and New Earth. In this new heaven and earth, all things shall be made new once more.

Symbolism

Revelation is known for its complex use of symbolic language and numbers that can be difficult to interpret, including various significant symbols like:

Lamb: Representing Christ who was crucified yet triumphant over sin and death.

Dragon: Representing Satan, God’s primary antagonist.

Beast: Representing Antichrist, a political dictator who opposes God.

7: a symbol of perfection and completeness. There are 7 seals, 7 trumpets, 7 bowls, 7 letters, 7 churches 7 lampstands, etc.

666: the number of Satan, a symbol of imperfection and opposition against God.

Applications

Revelation assures Christians that God is in control and has already triumphed through Jesus Christ, even in difficult times. This message provides strength to endure trials and persecution with faith.

God values perseverance, even in tough times. He encourages believers to stay faithful, rejecting compromise with worldly values, and resisting spiritual complacency.

Christians should always be ready for Christ’s return. They should live holy lives and be vigilant in their faith. He will come back again to rescue Israel in the baatle of Ammageddon. This is a prompt reminder from the book of Revelation.

This book reminds us of the consequences of sinful behaviors against God. It encourages us to repent and align ourselves with His will.

Revelation gives believers hope for an eternal transformed universe if they stay faithful. It promises a new heaven and earth to expect. Prioritizing spiritual matters over temporary concerns and focusing on developing one’s relationship with God is encouraged by this perspective.

Studying Revelation can remind Christians of hope, victory, and eternal promises. It also encourages them to live faithfully and expectantly in the current age.

Conclusion

The Book of Revelation stands as an extraordinary and mysterious text, filled with prophecy, symbolism and apocalyptic imagery. The text explains the spiritual battle between good and evil, with warnings of judgment and hopeful visions for believers. The book of Revelation has a significant message. Despite the difficulties in life and Satan’s temporary successes, Jesus Christ will come back to judge the world. He will create His eternal kingdom, where righteousness, peace, and joy will prevail forever.

Dr Andrew C S Koh

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article dream General

Dream Interpretation

Coping with sudden loss and anxiety

In my dream, I was walking through a bustling city, feeling the energy of the crowd around me. The streets were filled with people. I was enjoying the sights and sounds. I felt a sense of freedom and excitement. I decided to stop at a small café to grab a coffee and rest for a moment. As I reached into my bag to pay, I suddenly realized that my wallet was missing.

Panic surged through me. I frantically searched my bag, patting down every pocket, but it was gone. My heart raced as I tried to remember where I last saw it. I retraced my steps in my mind, thinking back to the crowded market I had walked through earlier. I remembered the jostling crowd, the strangers brushing past me. It must have been then, I thought, when someone took it.

A wave of dread washed over me as I realized the loss wasn’t just the cash. My credit cards, my ID, everything important was in that wallet. I felt a sinking feeling in my stomach. I imagined the hassle of canceling my cards and replacing my ID. I also feared someone using my identity. I ran out of the café, frantically looking around. I hoped to catch sight of the thief or find some clue. The crowd was too thick, and everyone seemed like a suspect.

I felt helpless and vulnerable. I knew I was in a strange place with no way to pay for anything. I had no access to money and no identification. I tried to call my bank, my hands shaking as I struggled to remember the number. The operator’s voice was calm, almost robotic, as I explained my situation. I felt overwhelmed by the realization of how much I had lost in just a few moments.

As I hung up the phone, a sense of hopelessness washed over me. I sat down on a nearby bench, feeling defeated. Then, as suddenly as the dream began, I woke up. My heart was pounding, and I quickly checked beside me, relieved to find my wallet safe on the bedside table. It was just a dream. Yet, the feeling of panic and loss lingered with me. It was a stark reminder of how vulnerable we can feel when something so important is suddenly taken away.

Dr Andrew C S Koh