Madonna’s Material World was released in 1985 and the blatant declaration that ‘I am a material girl living in a material world’ probably struck the right chord with many females who had high aspirations of having a career. And those familiar with the song would know it issued a challenge to the boys that they had to step it up a notch or two to woo the gals.
It was probably at this time in the 1980s that Singaporeans were also hungry for more. Remember the 5Cs? Can you name them? I bet some of you surely can – cash, credit card, car, condominium and country club membership.
The idea of success then and now has moved more than a few inches with each generation. We can tell priorities have changed. The young want a gap year to enjoy themselves before any commitment. Why rush to work in an office? The seniors want to travel before their knees buckle (like me!) Work is important but work-life balance is better so DINKs* are off to the gym, to Spinning sessions or Pilates classes.
We still chase the dream for a better life. Amidst all these ambitions, where is God in our lives?
My 5Cs, Maybe Yours too?
So I think it is time we change it up! Are we hungry for our faith? Do you believe that there is a greater purpose in life? Let’s not be shy about our faith. As Christians, we aspire to achieve great things in life. We are Big, Bold and Beautiful!
So what are your 5Cs for success?
Christ
Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. We have everything to gain from His sacrifice, His wisdom, His love for us.
Cross
Take up your cross and follow me. We believe and victory and salvation is ours.
Church
We are one body; we are responsible for each other.
Community
Together we are a sacred community, connected and serving one another.
Commitment
Our Lord commands us to spread the Good News.
Armed to Evangelise?
So when you head out the door to evangelise by your grace and example, don’t forget God’s gear and armour. St. Paul outlines the spiritual armour every Christian must be clad in if we are to have victory in the spiritual life (Ephesians 6: 10 – 18)
I needed a way to remember this, so here it is 2B, 3S & 1HP…
- Belt of truth
- Breastplate of righteousness
- Sandals of peace
- Shield of faith
- Sword of the Spirit (the Word of God)
- Helmet of salvation
- Prayer
The seventh piece of armour to consider (which shouldn’t surprise us given the importance of the number seven in the Bible). It’s in the final verse where St. Paul says, “Pray at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication” (Ephesians 6:18). We are engaged in an intense battle, and if we ever hope to stand (a term St. Paul will use four times in these verses), we have to spend significant time on our knees.
“Against our dullness and laziness, the battle of prayer is that of humble, trusting, and persevering love” (CCC 2742).
“Our time is in the hands of God: It is possible to offer fervent prayer even while walking in public or strolling alone, or seated in your shop, … while buying or selling, … or even while cooking” (CCC 2743).
Shared by Karen R-Fong, a wannabe tai-tai who wants to retire in a library of books and to read with our Lord to her last days.
Reference:
https://media.ascensionpress.com/2020/04/03/putting-armor-god-2/
* ”DINKs” Dual income, no kids