The Incomparable Love - Nicole Chung

The 3-week long STEP programme has come to an end. Through this journey, I have gained new knowledge and cultivated new habits but one of my biggest takeaways is Love. The word ‘Love ‘ has been mentioned 538 times in the Bible but how deep is our understanding of Love? John 3:16 says.” For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” 

As God’s precious children, we are blessed to have a Father that loves us unconditionally; a kind of love that cannot be found on earth. Even though our love cannot be compared to his, we should still reach out and bless the people around us. Apart from the people we are familiar with; let us not neglect the poor, the needy and the underprivileged as they require genuine care and support in order to fit into our society.

Leadership and Service

I have learnt that leadership is about knowing where God wants people to be. In order for that to happen, we need to know God very well. A quote from John Piper states, “I define spiritual leadership as knowing where God wants people to be and taking the initiative to use God’s methods to get them there in reliance of God’s power.” 

As leaders in church, it is crucial to take the initiative to do things and lead people to the Lord. Mark 1:35 says, “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.” 

By taking the initiative to pray early in the morning even though everyone else was asleep, he was able to spend more time and have a better connection with God. Likewise, as leaders of the church, we should take the initiative to get to know the members of the church and unify the congregation as the body of Christ. 

Even simple greetings when we see each other could be helpful in building good relationships with our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. Some of us may not be leaders of the church but there are still many ways in which we can serve him to show our love and gratitude for what he has done for us. 

It can be as simple as using the musical talent that God has given you to serve him in the worship ministry. As long as we bear the right mentality and attitude, anything can be seen as service to the Lord.

Out and Above

Through the lessons about missiology and evangelism, I have learnt that we are often too comfortable living the “Christian” life that we forget to bring others to God. The individual pastors have also highlighted that we should not see Christianity as a routine; going to church every Sunday, but going out to serve the people who may not know about our God. 

Matthew 10:7-9 says, “As you go, proclaim this message: ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received; freely give. Do not get any gold or silver or copper to take with you in your belts”. 

As faithful disciples of God, we should go out and spread the good news about Jesus Christ our saviour. Since we have been constantly blessed abundantly, we should take the initiative to bless others around us and lead them to God.  We are saved to be part of God’s mission, not only just to “claim” our ‘eternal life’. 

I also learnt that Evangelism does not only encompass spreading the gospel; even simple acts that are pleasing to God can be considered as Evangelism. For example: helping an old lady cross the road etc.

Vulnerable Wings

As we toured around Geylang and visited Healthserve, I realised that there are many people who are vulnerable in our society. With most of them being foreigners, they come from afar to work in this developing city where growth is rapid. 

Some are worried about their family back in their hometown; some are worried about their safety at work, while others are satisfied just by getting a job in Singapore. 

At Healthserve, we were informed that many migrant workers are getting injured and being exploited by their bosses. While interviewing one of the migrant workers, what struck me the most was when he said, “I don’t know what will happen tomorrow, I’m worried.” 

I realised that at times, we take for granted the things we have and often ask for more. What we see as worthless may sometimes be a necessity to someone else. Proverbs 11:25 says, “The one who blesses others is abundantly blessed; those who help others are helped.” 

God has sent us to this world to be a blessing to others and to express our love for those who are in need. Many of them have dreams, just like us; but sacrifice them in order to provide for their families.  

Empathy

Our visit to Sarah Senior Activity Centre taught me many lessons that cannot be learnt through textbooks. As I visited the old folks there, I realised that most of them were very cheerful and lively. 

Some may not be able to move around very well but when it was time to praise the Lord, a smile was forged on their faces throughout the time of worship. During the home visit, I visited a non-Christian elderly couple who had gone through thick and thin together for at least 40 years. 

Even though it was a tough 40 years, they fought through all obstacles and relied on each other. It was heart warming to feel their love for each other even though their days may be numbered. 

Even as a guest, I felt very welcome and loved; a feeling I do not always get often. As my group was conversing with the couple, I was constantly reminded about my maternal grandparents who are also non-Christian. I have always struggled to talk to them about religion as I was afraid that they would turn me away. 

I was always afraid of rejection and my lack of knowledge but this visit has helped me keep the faith and try. Matthew 17:20 says,” He replied, "Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there,' and it will move. 

Nothing will be impossible for you." I have learnt that with faith, God will work out something in me and help me to lead more people to Christ.

As the programme comes to an end, I give thanks for everything that has been taught and learnt. As we go back to our own lives, let us not forget about the love that God has showered upon us and apply the lessons learnt. 

Let us not forget to be a blessing to others and give all glory to God. 1 Corinthians 13:4-5 says: “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs." Above all else, love one another because God is love. Without love, we are nothing.