This is the 6th church camp of TOLCC. The previous five were held in Malaysia, so this is the first time in Indonesia, and is a new experience. Just to be clear, we are not doing this for just for a new experience. The previous hotels and villas were too run-down or the price had racked up. Choosing Batam’s Holiday Inn was a result of numerous filtering. The church had to consider price, venue, amenities, food and if it suited Singaporeans’ palettes across the ages, and much more. We thank God for leading us to this location. During our negotiations with the resort’s staff, they had given way to many things and provided discounts where they can. God has prepared this place, let us go forth with a grateful hearts. At the same time, the committee has gone back and forth with the staff to feedback on the venue, room allocation, usage of amenities, and food to make sure everyone will be satisfied. However, as much as we are the guests and have some authority, we must remember we also hold the identity of Christians. In front of staff members, unbelieving friends, even other resort customers — our behaviour will reflect if our religion is truly loving and kind, or if it was just inconsequential words. We need to ensure that our testimony as an individual or a group honours God. Specifically, let us handle all inconveniences at the resort with a good temper. There is no need to be angry or complain when giving feedback or requests. When using any amenities, let us keep things tidy. When participating in events, let us be punctual. When you observe those with disabilities or children, let us take care of each other. Let us learn to lower ourselves to serve others using the love we received from God and the gratitude we have towards Him. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34-35). This is also a very honourable service. Pastor Andrew will be preaching on 2 Corinthians this church camp in 5 messages. The theme is, “A More Glorious Ministry.” We have scheduled the sessions in the morning when everyone is more alert, for better absorption. It is different listening to sermons at church camp — five in 3 days, that’s five to six hours of spiritual nourishment. Such a spiritually rich banquet requires some preparation to fully appreciate its spiritual food. First, everyone should read 2 Corinthians at least once before to have some basic understanding. Surely, you will have questions after reading. So come with a curious and eager heart to listen to pastor’s explanations. Second, listen attentively during sermons. There will be space in the camp booklet for you to take down notes and questions. Third, we will have three periods to discuss the message. I encourage everyone to take this time to ask questions. Through this, we can deepen our understanding of God’s Word not only from the pastor’s sermons but also from each other’s sharing.
What do you hope to achieve in this church camp? To take a break? To have fellowship with brothers and sisters? To listen to 2 Corinthian’s message? To enjoy a relaxing time with brothers and sisters, and getting to know them better? To be testimony as a church for unbelieving friends? I pray that God uses this church camp through His word, through our fellowship, and through your prayers to God so that you will live with more strength, joy, and peace. For this camp, please pray for your own participation, for everyone participation, health and peace, and for good weather to have activities. Let us work together to have a memorable church camp.
translated by Davina Seet