Every day when I wake up, I wonder why and how I can be accepted by TTC. Obviously, this is because of the grace and love of God that enabled me to travel abroad from Medan to Singapore. I was serving in Methodist Gloria Church for almost 15 years – since I was a teenager. Truly, whenever I am asked about my conversion and calling, I can hardly remember it. Maybe there is nothing special or supernatural. Sometimes when I see people coming forward to serve as full time servants, they often have supernatural or memorable moments. I keep questioning myself why can’t I have one, so that this can be my sign from God? But until now, I don’t have such a sign. From what I felt and learned over the past years, my perspectives are broadened by God to see His vision. I have learned that the true sign is the journey that I have to take by faith.

My conviction to serve full-time grew over the years. But I don’t think that the time was ripe, so I applied to become a biology teacher at a Methodist school. Teaching has always been my passion. I enjoy sharing, discussing and getting my students involved. My experience in teaching has enriched my life, and it also increased my burden to share the gospel and answer the tough questions regarding the Christian faith and science. My passion is seeking for truth in science, theology and philosophy. Faith in Christianity is not a blind faith. But to fulfill this passion, I have to be equipped with a good theology and a deeper understanding of the Christian faith.

In my church, my ministry involved drama, being a coordinator of the youth ministry. I met my close friend who influenced and encouraged me to study abroad. When he mentioned TTC, I just thought that was impossible, because I didn’t have a strong English background. But he keenly pushed me and convinced me about God’s will, and encouraged me to trust in His strength that will make it possible. He is my sparring partner in ministry and his life-example taught me that God never forsakes His people. He dropped out of primary school, but by the grace of God, he is now studying at STM ( Seminari Theoloji Malaysia ) and taking Chinese. He always said that if a drop-out student like him can study aboard, why can’t a bachelor degree holder like me take up the challenge?

We study and share our dreams together. I am here because we have a dream together. Thus far, I believe that our dream comes from God. A dream that one day in the future, we will become the servant of truth to establish the Christian faith in Medan, which we believe by faith and His Word.

Of course, until now, I am still facing many challenges and problems. I believe all this have a purpose, that is, to train and help me to grow into a deeper knowledge of His will. I have to overcome the English language barrier, widen my views, and cultivate my relationship with God. On the other hand, I am constantly challenged to trust God for my financial needs. But I have decided, although there are many uncertain paths ahead of me, my faith will always be in God. Maybe my dream cannot come true, or maybe, I may fail in someone’s opinion, but I want to use what the writer of Hebrews said: “Yet all these, though they were commended for their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had provided something better so that they would not, apart from us, be made perfect.” ( Hebrews 11:39-40)

As Martin Luther said “Here I stand”. I can only submit my faith to the faithfulness of the Lord. I know my faith comes from Him and He will always keep my faith in His way. Thanks for this opportunity to share my testimony. God bless us.

TOMMY WIJAYA, 06-08-2010