A Vision of Truth in the Heart of Sabah - Pastor Daniel and beloved wife Jacinta

Pastor Daniel and beloved wife Jacinta 

Blog: "A Vision of Truth in the Heart of Sabah"

In the heart of Sabah, nestled beside a gentle river, a peaceful Kampung setting captures the essence of both nature and spirituality. The image before us—a serene oil painting—invites the viewer to reflect on the deep, transformative journey that Pastor Daniel hopes for the Kadazan people, a community in which 60% follow Roman Catholic traditions, including his own immediate family. This painting isn't just a depiction of nature; it is a metaphor for the pastor's heartfelt desire to see his people, including his family, truly born again, mentally renewed, and freed from the entanglements of deceptive theology.

The Serene Kampung Setting: A Symbol of Peace and Reflection

The painting portrays a tranquil Kampung landscape, a familiar sight in rural Sabah. The soft, misty morning sun breaks through the mist that envelops the scene, representing divine enlightenment and the dawning of spiritual awakening. The mist itself symbolizes the obscured truth that often surrounds the hearts of many, clouded by centuries of tradition and misguided beliefs. But as the sun breaks through, it highlights the spiritual truth Pastor Daniel so deeply desires for his people.

The gentle river, meandering through the Kampung, symbolizes the flow of the Holy Spirit, guiding and cleansing those who walk by faith. It’s a reminder of John 7:38, where Jesus says, "Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them." This flowing river represents the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit that Pastor Daniel wishes to see manifest in the lives of his people, washing away old beliefs and false teachings.

The Presence of Mount Kinabalu: A Silent Witness to Faith

In the distance, Mount Kinabalu, Sabah's majestic and sacred peak, stands tall. This towering mountain represents the strength of faith and the steadfastness of God's truth. Its solid, unshakeable presence offers a spiritual anchor for Pastor Daniel’s community. It serves as a reminder that, despite the uncertainties and trials faced by believers, the foundation of truth in Christ remains steadfast, like a mountain standing firm through all seasons.

The Blooming Wildflowers: A Metaphor for Spiritual Growth

In the foreground, wildflowers are in full bloom, their colors vibrant against the soft, morning light. These flowers represent the spiritual growth Pastor Daniel prays for in the hearts of the Kadazan people. The vibrant colors—lush yellows, purples, and reds—are symbolic of the joy, peace, and love that come with being truly born again and walking in the fullness of the Spirit. Each flower, in its own unique shape and hue, also symbolizes the diversity of the Kadazan people and their individual journeys toward faith and freedom.

The Students: Reflecting the Struggle and Hope for Renewal

The group of students from the Catholic theological seminary sits near Pastor Daniel, eagerly listening to his words. Their body language speaks volumes. Some are seated attentively, while others, with furrowed brows, reflect deeply on the pastor’s words. A few students may have slight hesitations, their posture betraying the internal struggle between tradition and the call for spiritual renewal. But their presence in this intimate discussion symbolizes the desire for truth and transformation that Pastor Daniel believes is stirring within them.

Their openness to engaging with a pastor from another denomination reveals the seeds of spiritual hunger that God is planting in their hearts. They are no longer satisfied with surface-level theology but are seeking a deeper, personal encounter with Christ—one that goes beyond rituals and traditions. As they listen to Pastor Daniel, they begin to understand that true faith comes not from religious rituals or the Eucharist alone, but from a genuine, born-again experience of receiving the Holy Spirit and being transformed from within.

Pastor Daniel’s Desire for True Spiritual Renewal

Pastor Daniel’s journey has always been rooted in a deep love for the Kadazan people, and his heart aches for them to experience true freedom in Christ. This freedom, according to Pastor Daniel, is only found when believers are born again, baptized in the Holy Spirit, and walk in the renewed mind that comes from following Christ’s teachings, rather than centuries of convoluted theology.

For Pastor Daniel, it’s not just about doctrinal differences or theological debates. It’s about the freedom that only Christ can bring, breaking the chains of spiritual deception and selfishness. He desires for his people to experience the fullness of life that comes when the flesh is denied, and the spirit is set free by the Holy Spirit’s power. This renewal is the true essence of spiritual transformation—one that does not merely adopt religious practices but embraces a living, dynamic relationship with Jesus Christ.

A Vision for the Kadazan Community

Pastor Daniel’s genuine desire for his community is to see them move beyond the traditions that have bound them to rituals and doctrines that cannot bring salvation. He yearns to see the Kadazan people, including his own family, experience the baptism of the Holy Spirit—an infilling that will bring both empowerment and clarity of mind. It is through this renewal that they will be able to break free from the convoluted theology that has plagued their spiritual walk for generations.

Through his prayers, preaching, and personal interactions, Pastor Daniel is committed to guiding his people toward the truth that is found in God’s Word. He believes that when the Kadazan people experience a true revelation of Christ, they will be free from Satan’s deception and embrace the spiritual freedom Christ offers—freedom to live according to His will, walk in His truth, and experience His power in their daily lives.

Conclusion: A Call for Genuine Spiritual Renewal

This painting, with its serene landscape and vibrant imagery, serves as a visual metaphor for the spiritual journey Pastor Daniel prays for every Kadazan in his community. The misty morning symbolizing hidden truths, the river of living water representing the Holy Spirit, and the wildflowers of spiritual growth point to the spiritual freedom that comes when individuals are truly born again and walk in the renewal of the Holy Spirit.

In the heart of Sabah, Pastor Daniel’s passion for true transformation resonates deeply, not just for the Kadazan people but for all who are caught in the web of false theology. Through this heartfelt desire, Pastor Daniel believes that when the light of Christ shines through the mist of spiritual darkness, the Kadazan community will experience true freedom and renewal—mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.