THE PILGRIM’S FAMILY 

The Christian pilgrim is not alone in his sojourn. There are others whom the Lord has called to undertake in this celestial journey. Thus, the title, “The Pilgrim’s Family”.

There are two perspectives in which we can understand the title, “The Pilgrim’s Family”.

The Pilgrim’s Earthly Family
Some of us are most blessed to be part of a family of believers on this earth. Such a family is truly blessed because they know Christ.

How can we have a successful family on this earth? Read Psalms 127 and 128. Let the father fulfil his role in leading the family to fear the LORD.

When the family is wholly devoted in the pursuit of spiritual things, the LORD can use that family to be a powerful witness for Jesus Christ.

Never forget that Christ is that essential ingredient to a successful and happy family (and not money like some advertisements proclaim on television). “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.” (Ps. 127:1) No Christ, no family!

On the other hand, some of us may be part of a family of unbelievers. In such cases, our duty is to reach out to our unsaved loved ones with the gospel of Christ. Our testimony at home will be critical. We must also keep praying for the LORD to be gracious to save, for salvation is of the Lord (Jon. 2:9). Come to church prayer meeting and the brethren will also pray for your loved ones. May the Lord find it pleasing to visit those whom He ordained to eternal life with His salvation.

The Pilgrim’s Church Family
Secondly, the pilgrim has his spiritual brothers and sisters in the church. When the mother and brother of Jesus sought for Him in Mark chapter 3, our Lord remarked, “Who is my mother, or my brethren? And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.” (Mk. 3:35)

Psalm 133 lauds the unity of the pilgrim’s spiritual family. Such unity is precious because it is founded upon Christ and His Word. Only Christ can bring about this unity. And we know that one day when our journey is done, we will join the rest of our spiritual family throughout all ages singing praises to our Lord and King.

In view of this, the church theme for year 2020 will be on how the church family is also God’s family. Looking forward to the Lord teaching us this precious truth from His precious Word.

In the mean time, let us do our part in encouraging one another in the pilgrim journey. “But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” (Heb. 3:13) “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (Heb. 10:25)

THE CHURCH PREMISES FUND
More than a year has passed since the church premises fund was initiated. We are pleased to announce that we have collected $36,500 as of 24 Dec 2019.

The worship halls are currently sufficient to sit our English and Chinese congregations every Lord’s Day. The auditorium has also proven adequate for our combined services. However, we will struggle to allocate space should the number of worshippers and visitors increase. Thus, there is a need now to search for a larger space where we can worship the Lord every Sunday. We hope to be able to find a larger space in about 3-4 years time.

On the other hand, the purpose of the fund is also to cater for the purchase of a more permanent place to hold the church’s activities. As such, we hope that we can find a place in about 10-12 years time.

In view of these, the Session has decided to set a target of $500,000 to be achieved in three years’ time. This target will probably grow as plans become more concrete. However, for now, we believe this to be a conservative target. May the Lord move your heart to give to His work. God loveth a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7).

Of course, as all these plans are made, we must never forget that it is the Lord who directs. Man can propose, but God may dispose. Every plan must always be “God being willing”. In the meantime, let us do our human responsibility to lay up for future needs.

We are also pleased to announce that PSB has renewed our contract for 2020. They have been most excellent hosts. The Lord has been so good to us. We must give thanks for this.

Yours affectionately,
Pastor Clement Chew