Despite the postponement and changes, the upcoming NDP would still be held, albeit as a scaled-down affair. Even so, we are reminded of the theme of the parade which will be “Together, Our Singapore Spirit.” The theme builds on last year’s, which was “Together, A Stronger Singapore,” and aims at celebrating the spirit of Singapore which has continued to keep us strong.

Our country, like many other countries, is not spared from the Covid-19 pandemic. However, we are grateful for an excellent government which has managed the situation well and kept her people safe from the pandemic and protected our livelihood through the Job Support Scheme of over S$25b and supported 150,000 employers for up to 17 months.

There are many challenges facing our country during this unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic. We need to pray for wisdom for our leaders so that they can see our country through this Covid-19 pandemic and emerge stronger than before as a country. Let us uphold our government in prayer that God will grant it wisdom to navigate our country through this Covid-19 pandemic.

It is important for our country to manage the Covid-19 pandemic to save lives, secure jobs and livelihood. It is equally, if not more important for us to continue with the gospel work during this Covid-19 pandemic. One critical factor for gospel work is prayer. Paul, in the book of 1 Timothy 2 instructs us to pray for all the people, kings and those in authority. 1 Timothy 2:1-4—“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

It is important to pray for our country and her government so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives. 

This peace allows Christians to do the gospel work. This is God’s desire as recorded for us in 2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead, He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” Saving souls is the heartbeat of our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus saw the multitude of people and He was moved with compassion. “When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd” (Matthew 9:36).

May we have the same heartbeat for saving people from damnation in hell. May we have the same passion and heartbeat to share the glorious gospel of our LORD Jesus Christ.

As much as God has given us peace, let us seize every opportunity to reach out to our unsaved loved ones, friends and colleagues with the gospel of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. We can reach out to our unsaved loved ones in various ways. We need to pray for their salvation. We should also make an effort to stay in close contact either through meals or sports. We can invite them to attend our church. Lastly, let us be exemplary Christians so that through our lives, we can attract them to our Saviour. Let us be earnest in labouring for our Lord in the gospel work.  May God grant us the courage and love for our friends and family. As much as we love our country, may we have compassion for our unsaved loved ones.

As our country battles the Covid-19 pandemic with the world, we are reminded to wear safety masks, ensure social distancing, maintain hygiene and get vaccinated against the Covid-19 virus to keep us and those around us safe.

In the same way, we need to take measures to keep away from sin and live a godly life. To achieve this, we are exhorted to live according to God’s word in Psalm 119:9, “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” Let us commit time to read our Bible daily and pray often. We must resolve in our hearts to follow our God wholeheartedly and keep away from sin.  Let us keep our life pure and holy, remain faithful in our worship and service for God.  Let us commit to take time to build lives. In endeavouring to live a godly life, God can definitely use us for His service and as a witness to bring others to the Saviour.

May God continue to bless our great nation, keep our nation safe and prosper our gospel work in this great country of ours!