"You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness" - 2 Tim 3:10 (NIV).

Recently I came across a book with a title, "God's Generals!" I glanced at its cover and saw some famous faces. I decided one day I must read it. But then I realised I must have met some of God's General too, though it occurred to me they may not make it there.

Once a friend of mine in Wheaton, US invited me to attend a Bible study over at a special friend. We got to the house late and found the study was already going on. I was at pains to identity the owner of the house for there was no fuss about him. It was only at the end that I finally heard him gently introduce himself, "I am Ken Taylor!

Here is the man who translated all by himself the KJV Bible into ordinary English, what became the "Living Bible!" It was such a huge success that went on to sell over 40 million copies. Ken and his wife Margaret decided to pour all the royalties from this and other books they wrote into a Foundation that to this day supports Christian work worldwide. Theirs was a modest house and easy to pass.

A few years later I nearly passed a man who was described a "giant of faith" for his ministry which had a worldwide impact. Sewellyn Hughes, author of "Everyday with Jesus" devotions and over 50 books was visiting Uganda. I found him seated all by himself in a KPC parking lot. Like Ken Taylor, for all his accomplishments, there was nothing large around him.

This reminds me too of Dr. John Stott, recognised as one of the most influential Christian leaders in the 20th century, whom I shared I also once bumped into and we chatted freely. A friend who had a longer encounter wrote back to me, "Before I went to embark on my PhD, Dr Stott took me to lunch to a restaurant not far from All Souls Langham Place. Afterward, he took me to his apartment for tea or coffee. I was completely taken aback, or rather appalled, by the spartan simplicity of his studio apartment! To put this in perspective, I can say that, even by standards of that time, my bedroom then had more creature comforts than his!"

You may be surprised. God's Generals may be your neighbour who is going about God's work in ordinary ways than you can imagine. There is nothing fancy about such- no worshiping entourage, limo fleets, body guards, designer suits- as you see common these days with some "Generals! In fact, were the Lord Jesus Christ visiting today, I wonder, how many do you think might miss Him!

Prayer for today: Lord Father God of Abraham, creator of heaven and earth, I thank you for your Generals faithfully and in all simplicity serving you in ordinary walks of life and pray that you continue to bless them.