We gathered at Ps Ben’s place last Saturday together with the youth and young adults. It was a vibrant gathering as always and we had a few guests who joined us that evening. It was heartwarming to see our guests settling in comfortably. Despite the little hiccups during worship, the presence of Lord was strong.
We started on a new series, The Way Of Life by Bill Johnson. This book tells us about God’s dream to bring Heaven on Earth. It prompts us to examine God’s heart to partner with us to bring healing and abundant life to those around us. The first chapter already evoked a deep sense of gratitude - God’s will is to bring on earth the culture of heaven, even when mankind had corrupted His perfect creation. How amazing is that!
The Chinese fellowship spoke about what heaven feels and looks like. What does the culture of heaven look like on earth? What is our role as disciples of Christ in creating a culture of heaven in a world around us? Is Heaven on Earth even possible? We concluded that if this is God’s will, then He will be able to fulfil it.
We are thankful that God calls us to be part of this big kingdom mission. As unique individuals playing our part in this mission, individual conviction is the crucial driving force of the movement. We cannot be just the hearers and live on knowledge only. We pray that as we continue our study of the series, we will push one another towards action, to be doers of His word. No one is indispensable, neither is one too insignificant to do God’s work. Everyone is part of the body of Christ. Auntie Cecelia said during the discussion:
“I can’t read or preach and I can’t do the job of a pastor but when I give a hug to the needy and pray for the sick and bring food to the weak, I know my act of love brings tears of joy and comfort to those who need the embrace of the Father.”
Truly it is the right heart that counts when we serve the Kingdom.
This week, Ps Ben led a team to Samarinda. Our youth leader Zoe and our prayer warrior Susan stepped up to deliver a message, and other members joined in prayer and worship. Their hearts were fired up for God! We thank God for a spirit of unity: despite the differences in language and culture, they were able to minister to our church family in Samarinda. Lives were changed and hearts were touched; isn’t that a picture of heaven on earth?
We pray that many more will choose to ignite their heart for God, and each movement will be a step closer to God’s dream.
As God’s great commission is for all of us, I pray that God aligns our heart with His will, opens our eyes to see past the present to eternity, gives us wisdom and strength to be His courageous soldiers in His army even when we enter the unknown. God, bless all my brothers and sisters to know how much they are empowered by You. As we close the lunar new year, let’s welcome each day in 2024 with a grateful heart, ready to journey with God.
Signing off
Emily
中文小组 (Chinese group)
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