The Pastor’s Message
Time flies! We have entered the final month of 2025!
Looking back over the past eleven months, life's journey may have had its ups and downs, but we can all sincerely thank God for His care and witness that His grace truly suffices!
According to the Church Calendar, we enter Advent on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, November 30th. Advent lasts approximately four weeks and concludes on December 24th, Christmas Eve.
The first Sunday of Advent marks the beginning of the liturgical year. Advent is first of all about the end of time. Because the word itself means “coming” or “arrival,” and occurs before Christmas, it is often mistakenly thought that Advent is solely for celebrating the infant Jesus born in the manger at Bethlehem. In fact, the core focus of Advent is the Second Coming of Christ.
Therefore, Advent concerns what the risen Lord Jesus will accomplish in the future He will judge and conquer all sin. Advent celebrates Christ's precious promise to end all that defies the Father's will; Jesus' resurrection was the first sign of death's power being shattered the beginning and the anticipation of its future fulfilment!
The start of the liturgical year directs our thoughts toward the end of all things. For “end” signifies not merely “the end of time,” but points to the core purpose and goal of God's creation. We do not wander aimlessly in the wilderness; for history marches toward the direction God has set, and our own life's journey is guided by Him. (Proverbs 16:9, 20:24)
This Advent, let us remember: Christ will bring an end to all that defies the Father's will! History and each of our lives is steered by God's purpose! It is precisely this glorious hope that enables us to rejoice and be glad over the Lord Jesus' birth in a manger, the Word made flesh!
Let us all celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus with grateful heart this Christmas!
Note: Reference material: Calendar-Christ’s Time for the Church by Laurence Hull Stookey, published by Abingdon Press.
How To Practice Daily Devotions
God is a personal Spirit, and “Heavenly Father” is more than just a title—it reflects the deep reality that He is our loving and caring Father. Through the spiritual discipline of daily devotions, we come to know, communicate, and walk closely with Him.
Daily devotions involve setting aside specific times to draw near to God, to know Him, and to align with His will. Through reading the Bible, we come to understand His intentions, and we can respond to God in prayer and reflection. By dedicating time each day to read the Bible, pray, and meditate on God’s word, we allow God’s presence into our lives to guide us. Jesus often withdrew from the crowd and His disciples to commune with the Father in solitude, gaining strength and direction to fulfil His mission.
1. The Purpose of Daily Devotions
a. To draw closer to God and communicate with Him. In these end times, God calls us to be awake and alert, using His Word to sustain us. “I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word. My eyes stay open through the watches of the night, that I may meditate on your promises.” (Psalm 119:147-148, NIV)
b. To receive guidance and light for our lives. “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105, NIV)
c. To renew our minds to live out our new life in Christ. By studying the scriptures, God’s servants are thoroughly equipped for every good work and taught to live righteously. “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17, NIV)
2. Preparation for Daily Devotions
• Time: Select a time when you can be undisturbed and alone, whether in the morning or in the evening for reflection.
• Place: Find a quiet, distraction-free space where you can focus.
• Materials: Have your Bible, a notebook for recording reflections, and a pen ready.
• Mindset: Approach God with a calm and open heart, prepared to hear from Him and encounter Him.
3. Spiritual Discipline
Daily devotions as a spiritual discipline is not meant to be rigid or legalistic, just as our relationships with family members are not meant to feel burdensome. Time spent with our Heavenly Father should feel genuine and heartfelt. For those starting out, simple and practical methods can help cultivate meaningful spiritual habits and deepen our relationship with our Heavenly Father.
Daily Scripture Readings
Date Verses Date Verses
1/12 Isaiah 2:1–5
2/12 Psalm 122
3/12 Romans 13:11–14
4/12 Isaiah 60:1–5
5/12 1 Thess 5:1–11
6/12 Weekly Reflection
7/12 Sermon- Mat 3:1–12
22/12 Isaiah 7:10–16
23/12 Psalm 80:1–7, 17–19
24/12 Luke 1:26–38
25/12 Luke 2:1–20
26/12 John 1:1–14
27/12 Weekly Reflection
28/12 Sermon- Mat 2:13–23
8/12 Isaiah 11:1–10 29/12 Isaiah 63:7–9
9/12 Psalm 72:1–7, 18–19
10/12 Romans 15:4–13
11/12 Malachi 3:1–4
12/12 Hosea 10:12
13/12 Weekly Reflection
14/12 Sermon- Mat 11:2–11
15/12 Isaiah 35:1–10
16/12 Psalm 146:5–10
17/12 James 5:7–10
18/12 Luke 7:18–23
19/12 Isaiah 61:1–3
20/12 Weekly Reflection
21/12 Sermon- Mat 2:13–23
30/12 Hebrews 2:10–18
31/12 Colossians 1:15–20
Reflection
The society of Isaiah's time faced moral and spiritual decay. Yet the prophet earnestly called the people to turn back, declaring that only by walking with God could they experience true peace .
The prophet also presented the vision of God's kingdom to the people: in the last days, Zion would become the origin of “the Way” and the “Path,” and the centre of God's ‘law’ and “word.” Then people would enjoy true peace and prosperity.
Reflection: In verse 5, the prophet calls the people to walk in the light. What does this remind me of in today’s world and in my own life?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
This is a pilgrim's song, celebrating the joy of encountering fellow travellers journeying “to the house of the Lord” along the pilgrimage path! (v.1) The heavenly road is no easy walk, so God will never let us journey alone He will surely provide companions for us.
When we joyfully worship the Lord God, we become like a city whose walls are perfectly joined together. God grants us hearts of unity, and we, too, must be united in Him so that His blessings may come upon us.
Reflection: During this Advent season, how shall we prepare ourselves to welcome Christ's coming?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Romans 13:11–14
“The hour” refers to this period of waiting for the Lord's return. While ancient Greeks generally believed history would continue indefinitely or follow a cyclical pattern, both Jews and Christians held that history would eventually come to an end.
During this Advent season, let us reflect on how to live out the Christian life in a world where “the night is far gone; the day is at hand.”
Reflection: Could we challenge ourselves this Christmas season to cultivate a good habit? Let it be a Christmas gift offered to our loving Lord.
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Isaiah 60:1–5
The prophecies of the holy city New Jerusalem in Hebrews and Revelation both originate from this passage in Isaiah 60.
The Zion depicted in this chapter presents an uplifting vision: the glorious King will come, His light will shine upon Zion, and this glory will be revealed through Zion to all nations, allowing the world to behold God's majesty.
Reflection: Try to envision the glorious Zion depicted in this vision. List the passages that speak of God, paying close attention to His central position in Zion. Does He occupy this central place in your life and in your Christian fellowship as well?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
“For you yourselves are fully aware that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.” (v. 2) indicates that the apostles had already taught about Christ's return and were now merely reminding them. Believers should not speculate about the timing of the Lord's return. What matters most is to remain vigilant and prepared at all times, living holy lives to welcome Christ's coming.
Reflection: How will “the day of the Lord” come upon the world? What significance does this hold for: (a) the world; (b) Christians? How should I prepare myself to welcome the Lord's coming?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Application & Prayer 6/12 (Sat)
7/12 (Sun)
Notes
Sunday Service: Matthew 3:1–12
Sermon Topic: Prepare The Way “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Isaiah 11:1–10
This passage describes the kingdom where God will reign in full authority at Christ's return. In the Messiah's kingdom, the entire earth will be restored to the glory and beauty of Eden before Adam and Eve's fall.
The Messiah will not only restore the twelve tribes of Israel but also become a “resting place” for the Gentiles (v.10).
Reflection: What characteristics define the Messianic Kingdom? How do these characteristics enlighten me?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Application & Prayer Psalm 72:1–7, 18–19
“The Song of Solomon” is originally attributed to “Solomon,” which may refer to a poem written by Solomon or one dedicated to him. Thus, the author remains uncertain, though it was likely composed by David for Solomon's coronation (v. 20). Jewish tradition regards this psalm as a Messianic psalm.
“Righteousness” and “justice” on earth can only be fully realised when Christ returns; likewise, ‘righteousness’ and “justice” in the human heart can only be perfected when Christ reigns within.
Reflection: Why is it so difficult to achieve true “righteousness” and “justice” in a humanistic society?
Reflection
Romans 15:4–13
Only those who consider themselves “worthy” refuse to accept those deemed “unworthy.” Neither Jews nor Gentiles were inherently worthy of acceptance, yet Christ unconditionally embraced them both. Thus, the “welcome one another” between Jews and Gentiles involves acknowledging one's own unworthiness, thereby giving “glory to God” (v. 7).
Paul exhorts the Gentile and Jewish believers in the Roman church to “live in such harmony with one another” (v. 5), not to suppress their thoughts or lose their convictions, but to be united in “accord with Christ Jesus” (v. 5) and glorify God with “one voice” through their unified witness (v. 6).
Reflection: Who are the Gentiles today? Who are the members of God's household? Within the church family, how am I living out a life of unity as a testimony?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Malachi 3:1–4
This verse in the original text begins with “Behold,” indicating it responds to the question “Where is the righteous God?” (2:17).
“The refiner's fire and the fullers' soap” (v. 2) are metaphors for God's “judgment” upon His people (v. 5; Zechariah 13:9). This judgment, unlike the “burning furnace” (4:1) intended to destroy enemies, aims to “purify” (v. 3) the people .
Today, the Lord Jesus is also “sought and delighted” (v. 1) by many believers. Yet in reality, what they “seek” is a Lord who satisfies and comforts themselves. If our hearts are like this, then “who can endure the day of His coming? Who can stand when He appears?” (v. 2).
Reflection: During this Advent season, let us examine our hearts. If I am to prepare for His coming, what should my heart be mindful of? What must I remove?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Hosea 10:12
“Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love” (v. 12) does not mean that people can exchange “righteousness” for God's “love,” but rather that “righteousness” and “love” should be cultivated and reaped as a way of life .
The northern kingdom of Israel had long been blessed by God, yet because they abandoned Him, they had become a hardened “fallow ground” (v.12). Now God offers them an opportunity to reclaim the fallow ground, allowing the rain of His righteousness to permeate it.
Reflection: “For it is the time to seek the Lord” (v.12). In this season, how shall I prepare my heart's soil so that God's Word may grow within me?
Application & Prayer
(Sat)
Reflection
Weekly Spiritual Reflection
Application & Prayer
14/12 (Sun)
Notes
Sunday Service: Matthew 11:2–11
Sermon Topic: Tell Me What You hear and See “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Application & Prayer Isaiah 35:1–10
The wilderness and dry land rejoice because of God’s salvation; desolate places blossom again with His glory. Isaiah foretells the One who is to come , who will open the eyes of the blind, make the lame leap, and lead the redeemed to return with singing on the Way of Holiness. This vision is not only a promise for the future, but it has already begun in Jesus Christ. He enters our barren and weary lives, reviving our hearts and freeing those crushed by sin.
Reflection: In my recent days, what situation has left me tired, discouraged, or powerless, needing Jesus’ renewal and support? Amid busyness and pressure, what habits or attitudes in me have drifted from the Way of Holiness He prepared? What small step can I take today to realign myself with His leading?"
Reflection
The psalmist reminds us not to trust in earthly powers but in the Lord who made heaven and earth. He executes justice for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry, and lifts up those who are weighed down. Jesus’ coming reveals this very God. He sets captives free, heals the blind, and raises up the fallen. During Advent, we are invited to turn our eyes again to this eternal King rather than the fleeting power of the world.
Reflection: Whom or what have I recently relied on, or feared, the most? How can I learn to trust God’s justice and grace again through Christ?"
Application & Prayer
Reflection
James 5:7–10
Just as a farmer patiently waits for the early and late rains, believers are called to patiently wait for the Lord’s coming. Waiting is not passive endurance but a hope-shaped perseverance . Jesus’ first coming has already revealed God’s saving plan; His return will bring full restoration. In this inbetween time, we are called to patience, righteousness, and mutual encouragement.
Reflection: When waiting for God to act, do I tend to grow anxious or discouraged? How can I respond to Him today with faith and patience?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Application & Prayer Luke 7:18–23
When John the Baptist struggled with doubt in prison, Jesus answered with His works: “the blind receive their sight, the lame walk… the poor have good news preached to them.” He is not a political liberator but the conqueror of sin and death. The gospel shows that honest doubts do not cancel faith. When we bring our questions to Him, Jesus confirms through His grace and deeds that He truly is the One who is to come .
Reflection: In which areas of Jesus’ identity or work do I still wrestle with doubts? Am I willing to let His grace and truth reshape the way I see Him?"
Reflection
The Spirit of the Lord anoints His servant to proclaim good news to the poor, bind up the brokenhearted, and set the captives free . Jesus affirmed the fulfilment of this prophecy in the synagogue of Nazareth. He is the One sent to save . Through His cross, He heals our shattered hearts and turns mourning into praise . Advent reminds us that the gospel is not only to be received but also to be shared.
Reflection: Do I remember moments when God comforted or freed me? How can I share this hope with someone today?
Application & Prayer
(Sat)
Reflection
Application & Prayer
21/12 (Sun)
Notes
Sunday Service: Matthew 1:18–25
Sermon Topic: God With Us “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Isaiah 7:10–16
King Ahaz refused to ask for a sign, yet God still took the initiative to give one far beyond human expectation: “Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” This sign is the beginning of the gospel, where God enters human history to dwell with us. The birth of Jesus reveals God’s faithfulness. He came not because we were worthy, but because He graciously acts to save sinners. Advent reminds us that salvation is not something we earn by our own effort, but a gift God freely gives us.
Reflection: Have I ever used my weakness, fear, or sense of unworthiness as excuses to resist God’s grace? How can I respond today with trust to the One who takes the initiative to be with me?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
The psalmist cries out, “Restore us, that we may be saved!” They know true restoration comes from God, not human effort. Israel’s pain and wandering remind us of how sin leads all humanity far from God, yet He does not abandon us. The weak and suffering Israel was upheld by God’s hand, and Jesus, the Man at God’s right hand, came into the world to bring final restoration. He is the One who turns us from darkness, shines His face upon us, and grants us new life .
Reflection: Which part of my life most needs God’s light and restoration? Am I willing to let Him lead me to return and seek Him anew?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Luke 1:26–38
When the angel announced Jesus’ birth, Mary faced uncertainty, risk, and the possibility of misunderstanding, yet she responded, “I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to Your word.” The story of Jesus’ birth shows that God often fulfils His saving purposes in places that seem impossible . Mary’s faith was not based on complete understanding but on trust in the One who rules over all.
Reflection: What is God inviting me to surrender in my life? Am I willing, like Mary, to let God’s will take precedence over my desire for control?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Luke 2:1–20
Jesus was born in a humble manger, yet God chose to announce the good news first to shepherds, the lowly of society: “I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people . ” From the beginning, the gospel declares that God draws near to the humble, receives the weak, and gives salvation freely. The shepherds’ swift response reminds us that those who hear the good news should not hesitate but come quickly to see, worship, and share what they have heard.
Reflection: Are there areas of my life, such as my weaknesses or shame, that I still hide and keep from Jesus? How can I respond today like the shepherds to His good news?
Application & Prayer
Reflection
John 1:1–14
“The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth.” (v.14, ESV) Jesus is not a distant God but the Saviour who entered the world to dwell with us. He is the Creator, the Light of life, and the darkness cannot overcome Him. He came so that we might receive the right to become children of God. Advent reminds us that Christ came to bring light and to give us a new identity and new life .
Reflection: Do I truly live as a “child of God”? In today’s relationships, choices, and hopes, how can I allow the light of Christ to shine into my life?
Application & Prayer
(Sat)
Reflection
Application & Prayer
28/12 (Sun)
Notes
Sunday Service: Matthew 2:13–23
Sermon Topic: The Word Made Flesh “Be still, listen, and respond to God.”
Application & Prayer
The previous passage mentions, “My year of redemption had come . ” (v. 4b)
Verse 7: “I will recount……, according to all that the LORD has ranted us. ” refers to praying in accordance with God's promises. The original text uses the plural form ‘steadfast love’ at both ends, which can be translated as “unchanging love”, which is a covenantal term specifically denoting God's faithful, enduring love toward His people . No matter how God's people fail or prove unworthy, He will grant abundant steadfast love and grace according to the covenant promise .
Verse 9: “In all their affliction he was afflicted” signifies God's deep empathy for His people's suffering, just as He declared during the Exodus: “I have surely seen the affliction of my people” (Exo 3:7).
Reflection: The two great predicaments of humanity are the bondage of sin and the power of death. During this Advent season, let us give thanks to God for sending His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to deliver us from these two great predicaments.
Reflection
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Hebrews 2:10–18
The purpose of Christ's suffering was that the Father might “bring many sons to glory” (v.10). Precisely because Christ first endured suffering and walked the path of the cross, we have the assurance to follow in His footsteps into salvation. The path of the cross that Christ leads us on is the way of humiliation followed by exaltation (Phil 2:6-7; Rom 6:8). This is the path to glory.
Christ's death and resurrection abolished the devil's power to keep humanity in the realm of death, granting us the hope of resurrection; thus, death lost its “sting” over mankind.
Christ did not become a mighty angel, for salvation was prepared by God for humanity created in His image; fallen angels cannot receive forgiveness (2 Pet 2:4). Thus, He became a descendant of Abraham (Matt 1:1) to rescue Abraham's offspring. (v.16)
Reflection: Jesus' suffering was essential to fulfilling His redemptive mission, making Him the perfect High Priest who sympathizes with humanity's struggles and rescues people from the fear of death. This also reveals that even the righteous endure suffering, and the meaning of suffering lies with God.
Application & Prayer
Reflection
Colossians 1:15–20
Verses 15-20 contain the New Testament's most profound Christological statement, enumerating eight unique attributes of Christ. The original text employs eight identical Greek words consecutively to describe Christ, emphasising Christ's primacy in creation and redemption (v.18). Most remarkably, this Christological passage never once mentions Christ's name . Paul did not need to speak His name, for in his heart there was only one “He” (3:2).
One's knowledge of Christ determines one's attitude toward life . The purpose of this Christological exposition in verses 15-20 is not to deliver an abstract theological essay on Christ's person, but to enable us to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him.” (v.10)
Reflection: “One's knowledge of Christ determines their attitude toward life . ” On the last day of 2025, take some time to reflect on your experiences this year and pray for the coming year.
Application & Prayer
