I’m happy about how the recent Annual Congregational Meeting proceeded last Sunday.  First, I thought that the church committee had prepared and conducted the meeting well despite my absence (I was and still am on study leave).  For instance, the reports, especially the financial data were clearly presented.  The queries from the congregational were well clarified, a sign that they had been thorough in their research.  This preparedness, as I understand it, came after many hours of meetings and discussions.

I appreciate the questions asked which helped to shed light on how the funds were managed.  That in turn enabled the congregation to better understand the priorities of the church and also how money, both the church’s and ours, should be used—we would have grown spiritually and in wisdom.  This is one of the important reasons why everyone should attend annual congregational meetings.  You pick up practical wisdom.

Third, I appreciate the mood in which the meeting was carried out—there was courtesy and cordiality.  I know of some churches where annual congregation meetings are times when people cross swords.  Hurtful and rude remarks are exchanged.  Such a conduct hurts leaders and those who have been working very hard (voluntarily) to prepare the reports and stumbles people.  It displeases the Lord.  Thus, I was very happy with last Sunday’s meeting: there was Christian grace and kindness during question and answer time.

Fourth, the meeting was well attended by both members and friends of this church.  It shows you care about first this church and more importantly, God’s work.  This encourages the leaders and more importantly, God’s children that we should all be concerned about God’s family.  I believe all who attended had found this time worthwhile because you would have fanned up your own spiritual zeal and taken home spiritual wisdom.  Thus, do attend the next annual congregational meeting.

Fifth, I must congratulate all the leaders as members have demonstrated excellent support for you.  Dear members, on behalf of the leaders, thank you for showing your support through your votes.  This encourages the leaders to press on in serving the Lord and in serving you.  Such an encouragement is needful as serving the Lord is hard work.  Thank you for loving your leaders.  Deacon Koo Sin Kok and Deaconess Foo Sio Siong have been re-elected.  The church committee of Tree of Life Christian Church for the year 2013 has also been re-elected with Elder Teo Chin Tian as president, Elder Liu Kerh Li as secretary, Deacon Koo Sin Kok as treasurer and Deaconess Foo Sio Siong as member.  We want to thank them for being willing to shoulder the responsibility of leading the church.

I urge the church to often pray for your leaders.  Also, “remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you.  Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith” (Hebrews 13:7).  As for you leaders, keep away from sin.  Do not love the world.  Draw close to the Lord every day.  Be grounded in God’s Word.  Pray unceasingly.  Love God’s children.  Be kind to them.  Be good examples.  The Lord will give you the necessary strength and grace.