In a typical chapter of a gongfu novel, a young man ascends a mountain to learn martial arts from a gonfu Master.  After years of rigorous training in gongfu skills and moral discipline, there will come a day when his teacher, the gongfu Master, tells him: “You can descend the mountain.”  He is equipped to return to the pugilistic world to render useful service to the common people.

After today’s worship service, we will set out for Malacca to hold our biennial Family Church Retreat.  Our objective is not to learn martial arts (much less tour Malacca) but to be equipped spiritually in order that we may be energized to better run the Christian race in a world filled with many challenges.  If you wish to benefit from this church retreat, do several things.

First, be ready to submit to instructions from God’s Word.  The highlight of the retreat is our six theme messages entitled “Obey and Succeed.”  We shall study the lives of several kings of ancient Israel in the Book of 2 Chronicles.  It is important that as you hear the Word of God, you do so with teachable hearts.  As you listen, your attitude should be: “Lord, what do you want me to change in my life that it may pleases you?”  Our Lord Jesus promises us  that “blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be filled” (Matt 5:6).  We need God’s Word because “man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord” (Deut 8:3).  If you hunger to understand God’s Word, you will receive skills, wisdom and strength and hence live victorious lives in the world.

Second, be kind to one another.  As we live together in the same room, it is important to be kind to your roommate.  Perhaps your roommate snores at night during sleep.  He or she may occupy the toilet for a longer time.  The problem may be more acute if there are more people sharing a room.  I know of some people who quarrel over such issues—DON’T.  Thus, be considerate.  If you know you need to use the toilet for a longer time, wake up early.  At the same time, be kind to people who have habits that are different from yours.  On the one hand, it can be challenging to have to live with someone who is different from you.  On the other hand, it is also good training.  “Blessed are the merciful for they will be shown mercy” (Matt 5:7).  May you be a good testimony to your roommate that by your kindness and patience, he or she experiences the love of God.  Also, remember to care for your “sheep” in the “Sheep and Shepherd” game.  Write a note of encouragement or give him or her something to eat or drink.  Be creative.  It will encourage your sheep.

Third, learn from others.  During group discussions, be ready to learn from others.  Be encouraging and listen actively.   During discussions, ask yourself: “What is it that I think is helpful about what he has just said?”  Also, contribute ideas.  This is not a time to be shy.  If you actively contribute ideas, you will encourage others to participate.  Group discussions are valuable because it is a pool of ideas.

Fourth, keep yourself healthy.  Please do not sleep late.  Get enough sleep so that you have a fresh mind to learn.  Drink lots of water.

I am sure that there will be oversights and things we can improve on.  If necessary, you can feedback to us but do so with gentleness.  Do know that the people in the committee have selflessly sacrificed many hours that we may enjoy the rest in this church retreat.  For now, may the Lord give to you physical and spiritual rest and “descend the mountain.”