I was deeply touched when I read Justice Tay Yong Kwang's words to convicted soldier Dave Teo, on the premium page of The Straits Times, Tue 8Jul08. I'm sure many felt that way too, like good friend Carolina who agreed keenly; and no less the paper's editor. This is one of the very rare occasions in which our national papers would highlight a judge's comments on its front page and top position to cap it all.
The poignant part of his advice to Dave was: "It has been written, 'To everything there is a season'. There was a time when you loved, there came a time when you hated. There was a time when you felt you wanted to kill, now is the time for you to heal. There was a time you were broken down, now is the time to build yourself up. There was a time when you were at war in your being, now is the tme to restore peace within." (you can click on the photo to enlarge it if you wish to read the Justice's other comments) I recognize that the exhortation reflects God's words in the book of Ecclesiastes chpt 3.
The shepherd-heart of Justice Tay is so crystal clear for all to see. He didn't assume his seat with a judge-heart. It is so easy to use words that beat the errant. It is indeed precious that he chose words that feed the soul and the spirit. Words that build up, words that edify, words that encourage.
My prayers go to Dave that he shall one day open his heart to The Good Shepherd Jesus Christ. The Good Shepherd is the only one who can heal the wounds, restore the broken heart, give rest for the soul, and love unceasingly. May God continue to bless Justice Tay that he'll continue to minister wisely to persons brought before his judgement. And may Abba nurture a shepherd-heart in me - so that my words feed, not beat. These I pray in Jesus' Name, amen.
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