Marking Another Milestone
By Ps Dev Menon
Over the last 2 months, I celebrated two big milestones: 15 years on staff at Zion Bishan, and the 12th anniversary of my ordination as a Minister of the Gospel. This prompted much reflection…
For those who didn’t know, my first career was in research. I trained as a scientist and spent 4 years working in a hospital laboratory in central London, developing viral vectors for gene therapy.
During that time, God was doing His work. He brought me back to church, showed me who Jesus is – ever so personally, and made me excited about the gospel and His kingdom.
As I turned my eyes upon Jesus, indeed the things of the world – including my scientific pursuits and career ambitions – grew strangely dim. All I wanted was to get to know Jesus better.
That began the unexpected path into full-time ministry. Through a series of miraculous events, I ended up as an apprentice at All Souls London, and trained under incredible pastors for 2 years.
Unfortunately, the UK then changed its visa policy. We were forced to leave. It was crushing. However, God timed it perfectly. At that time Zion Bishan was on a path of renewal and searching for new staff. Things came full circle & God brought me home.
It was an exciting time. I anchored the ‘outreach’ portfolio. We started up Christianity Explored, Goody Bag door-to-door visits, and even a chess ministry! Yet what bore most fruit, was meeting up with small groups of guys, 1 on 3. We met every week, read the Bible, studied theology and shared life – it was so encouraging to see them grow, as did I. They are still so dear to me.
Despite not knowing what to do most of the time and feeling significantly inadequate the rest – God did the work, not me. God brought in the people, the resources, even the money – and He built up His church… but more than that, He built up me.
Indeed what a privilege it is to serve the Lord in this capacity, so much He will show you, so much of Jesus you will see! I have much more to say, but now no time & space for long story… so till next time & to God be the glory!
Psalm 90:17 – Let the favor of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands upon us; yes, establish the work of our hands!