The Offering of Two Copper Coins

I still remembered two years ago, a quiet Monday morning, most of my colleagues were away on leave and the students were on their yearend semester break. I was busy with work which had been delayed, due to the graduation service preparations. I overheard the Principal talking on the phone and giving directions to someone on how to come to STM.

After the call, the Principal instructed me to meet with this visitor as he had to attend another meeting. Shortly, a sister appeared in the office. When she arrived, she took out a few small bags and a box from her handbag and handed them to me. The box and the bags were filled with coins. There were also ringgit notes wrapped in paper and tied with rubber bands. As I recorded the names of the five brothers and sisters who donated the money, she told me that some of the donors were illiterate, unemployed senior citizens or low income workers. However they were faithful to their pledge as STM Friends. Every day without fail, they would put a small amount into a coin box for their pledged amount. When the coin box was full, they would ask her to send their pledge to STM. After recording the names and hearing the story of these donors whom I have never met, I was very grateful and touched by their generosity.

Thank God for his faithfulness and providence over the past 42 years. Thank God for our generous donors, both the rich and poor alike! Thank God for using STM in training nearly 1,500 students who have become preachers, teachers, missionaries, church workers, leaders and witnesses, both in Malaysia and abroad. Though their numbers might seem insignificant, those who have been blessed by them, and experienced the power of God through them, are beyond our imagination.  Theological education though costly, has priceless impact on lives.

I am reminded once again of the bible verses from Mark 12: 42-44, where Jesus commended the poor widow who gave up all that she had, two copper coins into the temple treasury. To our many STM supporters who have contributed your prayers, time, service and money, Jesus appreciates your gifts and service for the furtherance of His Kingdom.

Your invaluable support is crucial for the smooth running of the seminary. Please join us in the immense task   that God has entrusted us with by becoming “Friends of STM” or “Partners of STM”.

Please fill in the “STM Friends and Partners” sign up form at: http://tiny.cc/supportstmform