【ICMDA: A Blessed Sinner】


文/Amy Lin 林宜慧( Taipei Medical University 台北醫學大學 )

When I first heard of the opportunity to attend an International Christian Medical Conference held here in Taiwan, I was extremely excited. I wanted to sign up immediately. However, there was something holding me back. My parents, especially my Mom, are strongly opposed to me and my brother being Christians, so I knew that my Mom would definitely not let me go...unless, I didn’t tell her it’s a Christian event. After some friends’ persuasion and reasoning, I decided I would sign up first, tell my Mom it’s a medical conference, and then when the time comes closer, I’ll just hope my Mom doesn’t know it’s Christian.

You see, this conference meant much more to me than just any conference. In a way, it was God’s reminder to me that He is not just moving in the United States, where I came to know Him, but He is also working all over the world, even in Taiwan. Also, I have been really missing the opportunity to speak in English and sing English worship songs. Furthermore, because it was held in Taiwan, I was able to participate in the preparation process, from which I learned a lot about the planning and hard work that was required behind the scenes, that I usually forget and take for granted.

Though the seminars were great, and I am sure the speakers all spent a lot of time and effort preparing for them, but to be honest, I am not sure how much of the information I will remember a month, a year, a decade from now. Instead, I think the things that I truly took away with me after the conference ended were the precious times of fellowship I had, learning to get along with brothers and sisters in Christ from different places and cultures, and hearing about how they share their faith with their classmates or patients. The friendships I made and the people I met are the true “resources” for my future as a Christian doctor, members of the Christian family.

At first, I was skeptical of how good use of time it was to set aside time to watch the World Cup during the conference. I’m not a sports fan, so I was not interested. But knowing that it was the finals and so many Christian brothers and sisters are so crazy about it, I thought it would be worth watching at least the second half. So, I joined the people in the auditorium and noticed people taking pictures or filming the reactions on people’s faces. It was a very interesting phenomenon. When Brazil shot 2 consecutive goals, I felt bad for Germany. Afterall, I had a German brother in my small group and he was so excited the whole week. For a minute, I wanted to leave right then. I thought it would be pointless to continue watching, because I would already know who would win. However, I am very thankful I did not, because I would have missed something really great.

   At the end of the game, I saw 3 guys kneeling down on the ground, holding hands, praying together, and the camera man (even in Taiwan) was willing to focus on them! This was the first time I have ever witnessed something like this. Then, when they got up and one guy took off his jersey and written underneath is, “I belong to Jesus!,” I was so incredibly joyful and touched! Everyone cheered so loudly, including me. It was so incredible for me to be able to share that experience with so many brothers and sisters, because it gave me a glimpse of what heaven may be like.

   It is one thing to hear about missionaries, pastors, and even celebrity changing people’s lives and bringing people into God’s kingdom, but it has a much deeper impact when you realize that a friend you know personally is living a life that truly reflects Jesus’ love, and their boldness in sharing the gospel is something you can’t help but be encouraged and want to do likewise.

   This year, God has been opening my eyes beyond the country I live in and across the world. He is reminding me that He is not just God of Taiwan, God of US, or God of Zimbabwe, but He is God of the whole world. My own slight persecution at home is nothing in comparison with those brothers and sisters in Christ who live in countries where they are constantly persecuted for their faith by the government, their family and friends, some even risk their lives and die for Christ. This helped me put my situation in perspective. Rather than being bitter and angry, but actually thankful.

   While I was at the conference, my Mom found out through the news that the conference I was attending was a Christian conference. She was devastated, angry, and upset that I lied to her. At first, I still tried to defend myself, saying I didn’t do anything wrong, even denying that I lied, but with time, God made it clear to me (through friends) that I have truly lied by only telling the half truth. Therefore, I have undoubtedly sinned and need to confess my sins. Thankfully, as it says in 1 John1:9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” I know God has forgiven me, and once again, I have experienced his love, grace and mercy.

Despite my sin, God still greatly blessed me at the conference, and through it, I have also learned many lessons. I know I will still face many difficult situations, and sometimes, I will fail. However, I am thankful and confident that our Heavenly Father will not give up on me, and will always be there, with open arms, lifting me up when I fall, and waiting for this prodigal daughter to turn back home.