3 MAY 2020
THE CHRISTIAN BADGE

Schools have badges. Aristocratic families have coats of arms. These designs are guided by the origins and history of the schools and families. They represent their founders’ desires for the future descendants to carry the traditions of high moral values and beliefs. Look carefully at some school badges. On these, we find a lion head, eagle wings, a dragon body with claws. Each tells something of its past, origin and character to be upheld by those who wear the badge or crest. A crown would symbolize the victory of faith over evil. A shield represents the knightly virtues of chivalry, righteousness, loyalty and valour. A kris symbolizes heroism. These symbols are to remind the wearer that being part of each esteemed cohort, all are to carry their affiliation with pride and honour.

Christians also wear the “badge” that Jesus gave to his disciples. On our badge we have a sheep, a snake and a dove. We are sheep being sent out among wolves and as sheep we look to our Shepherd for leadership, provision, care and protection. It may appear to the world that Christians are meek as sheep and can be taken advantage of. It is counter culture to be submissive and peaceable. This is precisely what Jesus wants of us. As sheep we are not to dominate and be strong-handed towards people but to be peaceable, non-violent and vulnerable, fully trusting our Lord. Our vulnerability is not a weakness and has a strength that is underpinned by the commandment to love others. We are to be shrewd as snakes, not to be easily taken in and persuaded by the worldly-wise but be led by the divine, and the humility of the Holy Spirit. As innocent doves, we are to uphold justice and godly morals; we maintain God-honouring standards of holiness and righteousness. We are to wear this badge with respect and in submission to the lordship of Christ. It holds true that we will bring dishonour to our badge when we act contrarian.

Christ’s disciples are taught to expect dangers and hatred; be prepared for trouble and discrimination. Missionaries have such personal experiences of hardship and persecution but the ordinary Christian may have little sense of such a dangerous life. This is especially so in safe Singapore where there is freedom and mutual religious tolerance. We become inoculated to a false perception of comfort and safety. We become complacent and happy with our church-going routine. The reality is that in many parts of the world, our Christian brothers and sisters are being persecuted, thrown in prisons, hated and betrayed. Our hearts must feel the pain and our lips must intercede in prayer.