Getting to Jonker Street was also a challenge: there were difficulties with various options including taking the hotel’s mini-van, hiring a taxi or walking there. Upon arrival, the hotel staff told us a bad news: he claimed that there were over a million Singaporeans visiting Malacca that night. It had been very crowded the previous day (Saturday) and would be worse that night (Sunday). We chose to walk there. The streets were surprisingly not crowded. They enjoyed the shopping. Above all, they had a wonderful time of fellowship and came back safely.
During my previous stay in the hotel, I felt that the standard of the food was below average. This time, many agreed that the food very good.
Many also shared that this was one church retreat that they had a very good physical and spiritual rest. They could be away from work, children and distraction due to physical fatigue so that they could just sit down and listen to God’s Word. It was encouraging to hear that the sermons (a total of six over two days) on the Book of 2 Chronicles had ministered to many.
The history recorded in the Book of 2 Chronicles teaches the theme of immediate retribution for obedience or disobedience to God. This history records the reasons for the success or failure of the kings of Southern Israel (Judah). As history repeats itself because the nature of human beings does not change, the successes and failures of these kings demonstrate critical factors that bring success or failure in this life.
During (three) group discussions, campers discussed how to apply the principles learnt during the sermon to analyse real life cases. There were a total of 4 groups, a group of elderlies, a Chinese speaking group, an English speaking group and a group comprising students in the age group 11-15 years old. After discussion, each group would present their answers. It was fruitful. Our young people gave us a pleasant surprise when they gave many practical and spiritual insights into problems faced by adults. I believe that many parents were comforted at the mental and spiritual growth of their children.
During the family night (after the last sermon), each group was given 45 minutes to prepare a skit. Each group drew a lot and had to act out the principles learnt in a particular sermon. We enjoyed the humour. Above all, we learnt practical applications of the spiritual principles learnt.
God also provided for us a teacher who loves children. This allowed the adults to listen to sermons and participate in group discussions without distraction. During the Family Night, the children also presented the gospel using songs. Thank God for the teacher and the children.
God’s Word reminds us that “whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it–not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it–they will be blessed in what they do” (James 1:25). I trust that the spiritual principles learnt have equipped you to “descend the mountain” and triumph over the daily grind of life.