by Eng Kim Leng, Kota Kemuning church of Christ
The bible in James 4:14, teaches, ‘whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away’. We have often been reminded of this scripture when we lose loved ones, or read accounts of those who met untimely departures due to accidents, natural disasters or illnesses. Life is indeed short and often unpredictable; today we are fine and in a moment, eternity comes knocking on our door. The Covid-19 pandemic is one such recent event that reminded us of the fragility of life, and that we are vulnerable mortals who are sustained by the almighty God – everyday is a gift from Him. Life is uncertain and our plans that were so well laid out could come crashing down just when we least expect it. Whether it’s a holiday, wedding, career or personal plans, these can all be disrupted when the unexpected happens. Covid-19 is one such intrusion in our lives.
The dreaded day came when the government announced the start of MCO, and my first thought was the impact on church assembly. In preparation for the lockdown, bro Chan Khoon and I, together with bro Andrew, discussed the alternative to physical assembly – specifically using technology to live-stream the services. Almost providentially, it was just the week before when bro Trent Kennedy visited us, that the cable and streaming network were completed, tested and found to be in good working condition. We were ready to live-stream lessons from the church building if we were required to stay at home. On the night of the announcement, our message of assurance that worship would continue virtually went out to the congregation. While we initially thought some men could still assemble and conduct the proceedings from the church building, but alas even the men-to-serve were not allowed to meet. Everyone had to stay home. Our plans changed and we streamed remotely from bro Andrew’s home instead, after he had dismantled the equipment and re-installed them in his home. We appreciate his diligence, technical expertise and arrangements leading to the smooth broadcasting of lessons and worship services over the Internet since then.
Professionally, work continued for all of us… In fact, I felt it was even more taxing as there were extra efforts needed to address the new challenges that arose. The property sector, which I am in, is one of the industries most affected by the lockdown, and the deals we were working on suffered from delay – several were even aborted. The company nevertheless kept us active with lots of virtual meetings, presentations and assignments. Working hours were sometimes extended, as the hours at home were not as clearly defined as when we were working at the office. With that said, I am glad that most of us are still gainfully employed, although some of us received a minor salary cut. On a personal front, I had more time with family members, was able to tend to the garden and catch up on some sleep.
For the congregation, there was a need to keep members in constant communication, informing each other of what is going on, reassuring them that we care. We wanted to keep checking on brethren’s welfare, and encouraging each other as the days, weeks and months dragged on. Members could be suffering from stress as a result of being isolated for too long, from lack of fellowship, or even falling ill without medical attention. We were reminded of Philippians 2:4, ‘Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.’ There were brethren in the vulnerable category (continuous engagement with members of the public, in their daily work and service), or perhaps living alone with little support from family members. This was a time for members to display brotherly love for each other, and I am glad to say that we have done well as a congregation. The church rose to the occasion, with words of encouragement, care and concerns, sending of gift packs, messages from EVM, Members Affairs and Benevolence to the members – We exhibited good family spirit. A review of the messages over the period would bring back fond memories of how we supported each other. Paul commanded in Galatians 6:10, ‘as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.’ We did that and went on to check on others, asking whether there were prayers that we could petition on their behalf. Members participated and prayers were offered for those who needed them. What a blessing, what a fellowship of saints, what joy to be part of God’s family!
For the congregation, there was a need to keep members in constant communication, informing each other of what is going on, reassuring them that we care. We wanted to keep checking on brethren’s welfare, and encouraging each other as the days, weeks and months dragged on. Members could be suffering from stress as a result of being isolated for too long, from lack of fellowship, or even falling ill without medical attention. We were reminded of Philippians 2:4, ‘Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.’ There were brethren in the vulnerable category (continuous engagement with members of the public, in their daily work and service), or perhaps living alone with little support from family members. This was a time for members to display brotherly love for each other, and I am glad to say that we have done well as a congregation.
The church rose to the occasion, with words of encouragement, care and concerns, sending of gift packs, messages from EVM, Members Affairs and Benevolence to the members – We exhibited good family spirit. A review of the messages over the period would bring back fond memories of how we supported each other. Paul commanded in Galatians 6:10, ‘as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.’ We did that and went on to check on others, asking whether there were prayers that we could petition on their behalf. Members participated and prayers were offered for those who needed them. What a blessing, what a fellowship of saints, what joy to be part of God’s family!
After a three months absence, the church re-commenced congregational assembly on 21st June, with members eagerly returning to the services. Observing the strict SOP, we kept social distancing; and to provide more capacity, some were seated on the first floor. We have overcome our fear! We no longer ‘huddled’ like the disciples in the locked upper room out of fear (John 20:19). Like the risen Christ, we arose, stronger and more determined to do His will. The pandemic has taught us to depend more on God, not just for the things that we hope to receive, but also for everyday sustenance, the very basics of life that we often take for granted. The pandemic has deepened our faith and spirituality. It teaches us what God’s grace means and offers us a better understanding of humility. He who upholds all things by His word (Hebrews 1:3) has this day reminded us that He and He alone sustains and delivers us.
The world continues to reel from the effects of the virus. The far-reaching extent of its damage is seen in numerous deaths, forced business closures, financial losses and panic throughout the world. While many see it from a negative position, there is also a silver lining – good has also come out of it. It is timely for mankind collectively to reflect on our wasteful living, to live a more responsible life and to care for the environment. It offers mankind an opportunity to re-consider their ways and to appreciate God’s goodness and His creation in its unspoiled splendor. As COVID-19 continues to plague the world, we praise our benevolent God for keeping us safe and close to Him throughout the crisis; edifying us by His words (even virtually), for answered prayers, and the opportunity to return back as a congregation to worship Him. May He bless the world with a cure and solution to this pandemic, and may we take the opportunity from the current respite to serve more diligently, and our service that brings glory to Him.