Every year, in the beginning of July, huge banners and signages will be erected at the void deck of my flat that announce the celebration of Singapore’s National day.  As 9^th of August approaches, the neighborhood will be peppered with more decorations.  Many will start to display the national flag outside their own HDB apartment and one can see more red and white themed decorative ribbons.  When I walked down the streets, I couldn’t help but feel the atmosphere of National Day’s celebration.  Every National Day celebration will not be complete without reminiscing the country’s past years of nation development.  This independence of 48 years is the source of pride and dignity for every Singaporean.  The fighting spirit and sacrifices made by the founding fathers, their far-sighted national policies, made Singapore what she is today.  Be it the education arena, public administration, urban development and many others, Singapore has become a model for many to visit and learn from.  Our citizens’ unity and cohesiveness have also helped the country tide through various crises.  Many will agree that Singapore is a safe place to live in where parents do not have to overly worry about their kids when they are out.  They also need not face contaminated food scares in the markets.

As Christians, we should be grateful for the convenience that we are now enjoying and the life we are living.  None of these should be taken for granted.  Of course, there is no perfect place on earth and Singapore is no exception.  As a cosmopolitan city, we have to face the challenges urbanization brings, such as a more hectic life, increasing population density and limited resources.  In the face of real life pressure, it is understandable that people might grumble and complain.  As Christians, however, we should not adopt a complaining lifestyle because the life which is in us is stronger than these external pressures.  Furthermore, we are capable of creating a better living environment for the country we live in.

First, we have within us a special trait called “love” because we all have the life of God.  Jesus said: “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).  Can others see it evidently that we reflect God’s love in our daily lives?  Minimally, we should learn to give way and forgive others.  When others offend us, we should not be in a hurry to retaliate.  Instead, we should first seek to understand the intention behind those words or behavior.  That aside, we should be less self-centered and care more about the needs of others.  Get to know your neighbors or colleagues and become their friend.  Then, when they need help, you can provide timely assistance.  This is what “kampong spirit” is all about.

In addition, we should always pray for the country: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— or 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 Savior” (1Timothy 2:1-3).  The apostle Paul tells us the importance of prayer for the country.  We should cherish the freedom we have in Singapore today where we can worship the Lord Jesus in safety and also continue to pray for this.  Pray that our country will continue to have an upright and honorable government so that when they govern the country, they would do so with integrity.  In this way, Singapore may receive God’s blessing: “righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people” (Proverbs 14:34).

We wish Singapore a Happy 48-year-old Birthday!  May God bless our nation’s leaders and their families with health, wisdom, and righteousness to lead and govern the country.  Finally, may God bless the people here with peace and prosperity and the ability to enjoy this wonderful home.