Jul 18-19, 2020
Rev. Collins Kung

Dear brothers and sisters of RCAC,

Time goes so fast.  It has been 19 weekends since physical gatherings at church were suspended on March 14/15. I miss you all.  When I recall those days we worshipped together at church, different congregations hustled and bustled in RCAC on Sunday, the picture reminds me of Psalm 122, A Song of Ascents Of David. The psalmist was excited when they can worship together in the House of the Lord. Psalm 122:1 – I rejoiced with those who said to me, “Let us go to the house of the Lord.”.  It is such a grace to be able to worship God together.

As the pandemic continues, physical gatherings have changed to online worship, online prayer meetings and fellowship. My life is about the same as usual with a few changes.

Daily devotion:

The prophet Daniel has left us a beautiful example. He prayed and worshipped God at the same time, same place regularly even King Darius had issued the decree. Daniel 6:10 : “Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.”  I keep my habit waking up early in the morning, draw close to God and start my devotion as usual. On Sunday I worship God at the regular time.

Growth and learning:

The pandemic has driven me to learn and use technology more.  Google has become my technical consultant.  If I don’t understand, I Google.

In addition, there are some online theological courses that I can choose to study. I read a book – 《Coronavirus and Christ》written by Rev. John Piper.  It is a very good book and I recommend it to you. It is a free e-book, available in audio and video versions, and in Chinese and English. Under the pandemic, this book can help us to strengthen our faith, bring us back to the core value of our faith, and to focus on our Lord Jesus Christ.

Prayer and caring:

Under the pandemic, physical gatherings are prohibited, some church brothers and sisters felt lonely and depressed because of the lockdown. God reminded me of their needs; I contacted them and cared for them over the phone.  We prayed together for the church. I encourage you to actively care about our brothers and sisters in Christ, if God reminds you of them, please don’t hesitate to contact them.

Offering and donation:

The pandemic has hit all walks of life. Churches and charity organizations are no exception. I am so grateful that my family members are still employed. God moves me to give to help people who are in difficulties locally and around the world. Brothers and sisters, if God blesses you, don’t forget the needs of others. 1 Tim 6:18-19 : “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”

Physical exercises:

Under the pandemic, I still find time to exercise. I love biking and going on walks nearby. Sometimes, I will go to other areas such as Stanley Park and Crescent Beach.  I enjoy staycation. It turns out there are many local places that I haven’t been before.

May the Lord bless you all, let’s grow together under the pandemic, and keep our body and spiritual life healthy.

Rev. Collins Kung