This camp was well organized with the balance of important messages, family activities and team pursuit time. Not only did we gain many precious truths, we lived out God’s family in a natural way. Quite a few brothers and sisters expressed their amazement that they found no hierarchy in this church. I give thanks that God has given us the truth about the church being God’s family, and we can live out and enjoy this precious truth! How wonderful that this family is also God’s desire, His eternal resting place.
To practice the truth of global unity can be costly. Before the trip, I questioned myself: is it really worth the money and effort to organize this camp? Isn’t it good enough to acknowledge the preciousness of this global family? We do share manpower and resources anyway. During my stay with brothers and sisters, however, I realized the importance and preciousness for us to come together: this is indeed God’s desire. When we worshiped together and sang the same song in different languages yet one heart, my heart was thrilled, and I had inexpressible joy. So, I imagined how joyous Abba and the Lord must be! He has longed for His family to come together as one like this. “And they sang a new song, saying: ‘You are worthy to take the scroll, and to open its seals; for You were slain, and have redeemed us to God by Your blood out of every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us kings and priests to our God; and we shall reign on the earth.’” (Rev. 5:9-10) We foretasted the joy of worship in heaven. I thank the Lord that I have a part in this royal family.
In this gathering, I was inspired by many precious brothers and sisters from across the globe. In particular, I met a brother who forsook the opportunity to study abroad because he wanted to do God’s work in his home country. Another one responded God’s calling to take care of suffering children even though he needs to take care of his own family and work full time. Some forsook their comfortable life at home and serve in developing countries for decades. Many more have become frequent flyers to support God’s work. Looking at these beautiful people, I was deeply moved that God’s love and His purpose have driven them to forsake all and live for Him and strive for His purpose! Some of them seem to possess fewer resources than I do (both physically and spiritually), I was reminded to treasure what I have and not to waste my time and resources that I possess. I promised myself that I will lead a lifestyle that is aligned with God’s purpose and commission. I hope to live out an abundant life fully every day.