OUR “GROUP OF FIVE”

by Arene Koh

Five became a figure that took on greater prominence right after we emerged from the circuit breaker.

We witnessed a quick dissipation of regular face-to-face meet-ups with extended family and friends because they had to be limited to a party of five. However, subconsciously, and upon reflection, my wife and I witnessed a re-focus on our “group of five”, comprising:

1. Our work and ministry in our work spheres that we have been called to lead and serve

Because of the ongoing crisis, we found more opportunities to pray for and work more closely with our colleagues. We navigated through some challenging terrains to keep students and colleagues safe while we stayed on course.

2. Our helper who has been part of the family for close to 16 years

With more time spent at home, we found ourselves engaged in deeper dialogue to find out how she is doing, and kept her family in prayer as they grappled with COVID-19 in her home country.

3. Our children

We had more time with our children and understood them and their needs better. There was also convergence towards more give-and-take among them. The youngest picked up painting skills and origami from the elder siblings, while as a family, we ventured into board games at home, and watched several comedy sitcoms as a family that brought much humour and laughter.

4. Ourselves

My wife and I maintained the equilibrium we have committed ourselves to. Besides setting aside Friday evenings just to ourselves to unlearn and relearn about each other as we approach twenty years of blessed union, we embarked on a new workout routine daily, continued our fortnightly trips to our favourite market to stock up on fresh produce, and renewed building our home that is centred on God and His purpose for our lives.

5. God

John 15:5 reminds us that we will bear fruit if we remain in Christ. COVID-19 compelled us to hit pause, slow down, and as a result of it, that which used to take prominence dimmed as God became more pronounced. 2020 saw us yielding to, sometimes struggling with, but always endeavouring to keep steadfast to God. This season tested our walk with Him – and we held close to His Word and promise as we took ourselves, our work and our family through. Hebrews 12:1-2 held close to our hearts and reminded us to run this race that God has marked out for us without allowing weights to hold us down, but to keep fixing our eyes on Jesus.

And so, God’s faithful and unwavering love for us despite our failings saw the bearing of fruits in our work, our home and ourselves. By fixing our eyes on the most important area in this “Group of Five” – God, we found the other four aspects falling into place. As 2021 brings on new areas of growth and its challenges, the race is not over, but our hearts are full of joy and thanksgiving for all that He has done, for He has been, and continues to be, the “strength of (our) hearts and (our) portion forever”.