Spiritual Discipline
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Ephesians 6:10-11).
​The past February felt like a fleeting transition between the lingering winter and the budding spring, interwoven with both joy and remembrance. We celebrated the Lunar New Year with a lively and festive gathering, enjoying a wonderful feast and warm fellowship. At the same time, we bid a heartfelt farewell to our beloved brother, Mr. Lau Kwok Fan, with deep sorrow and gratitude. On the last Sunday of February, amid the observance of World Mission Sunday and the Feast of St. Matthias, we successfully held our Annual General Meeting (AGM), electing the new Parish Council and Broad of Directors. During the AGM, we also officially launched the Church Relocation Project, issuing an open letter to call for prayers and support over the next two years. With such a packed schedule, February—already a short month—felt even more fleeting.
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With Ash Wednesday on March 5, our church now steps into the solemn season of Lent. This year, we have prepared a devotional booklet published by Union Gospel Mission for our English-speaking congregation, guiding them in meditating on God’s Word throughout Lent. Meanwhile, starting from March 22, Rev. Alan Choi will return to SMSL for four consecutive Saturday mornings to lead a course titled "The Joy of Spiritual Discipline." This course not only builds upon the first phase of our learning from last year but is also designed as a special Lenten practice for our Cantonese-speaking congregation. We sincerely invite everyone to register and take part. Additionally, on the ministry front, Deacon Walter Wong will soon launch a CPU-2 fellowship group to provide a welcoming space for families who have joined our church in recent years.
As I write this, the United States has just announced new tariffs against Canada, Mexico, and other nations, sparking significant economic tremors. The impact of this trade war will likely be far more profound than the recent natural earthquake that shook the Greater Vancouver area. When speaking of the end times, Jesus said, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pains" (Matt 24:7). He urged His disciples to remain vigilant and watchful. Likewise, Paul exhorted the believers in Ephesus, saying, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes" (Eph 6:10-11).
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May we all take these words of Scripture to heart and commit ourselves to the practice of spiritual discipline this Lenten season. Amen.
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In Christ,
Angus
March 2025