By Lim Jen Huat

CHRISTIAN SPIRITUALITY MEANS “being in Christ”. In discovering this new relationship “in Christ”, we are made new creations (2Cor. 5:17). We no longer answer to our old nature but live a new life for and through Him (Gal.2:20). As long as we keep fellowship in Him we are living the Christian life.

Christian spirituality has to be “in Christ”; centred and inspired about Him. It is not about becoming more religious, or pious, or adopting a new Christian culture. The context and goal of this new life has to be Jesus Christ. He is God’s Word and revelation; the fullness of God’s grace and truth. In Him we receive forgiveness and have peace and reconciliation with the Father. Christian spirituality must be Christological. A spirituality that deviates from Jesus the Christ is some other. 

“Being in Christ” is like moving into a new home; this new home is Christ. We become conscious of and “at home” in this new dwelling (Ps.90:1). Thus, we must live in a constant awareness and receptivity to His presence. Being mindful and responsive to His presence is essentially communion with Him, praying unceasingly, waiting on the Lord, and abiding in Him. 

“Being in Christ” means perceiving life through Christ. Not only were we freed from our old habits, we find ourselves living in a new reality; the Father’s world. We discover that God is active and concerned for His world. We define past, present and future in His light. Life has to be comprehended and expressed according to the Creator and Lord of Life; He is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. In Him are the keys for life and death.

“Being in Christ” also means resting. The words of the Psalmist, “when I awake, I am still with you,” (Ps.139:18b) declared his state of rest. Not only was he conscious of God’s presence, he rejoiced that even in his unconscious sleep, God was there for him. He was resting in God’s abiding love and grace. Even during those periods of unknowing, dreaming and messing-up of our lives, God had been there for us. He would never leave us nor forsake us (Heb.13:5). We always rested on His almighty providence. He is mighty to save (Isa.63:1), His grace is always sufficient (2Cor.12:9), and in all things He works for the good (Rom.8:28).

The Rev Lim Jen Huat is the Pastor-in-Charge of Bedok Methodist Church. He also serves as the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) Secretary.