Last night’s prayer meeting focussed primarily on thankfulness for all that God had done in 2012 which acts, in many ways, as the fuel to our faith for what He will do in 2013. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thess 5:16-18)
Last year, we particularly saw God working in our relationships with people from other churches. That largely started with the Women’s World Day of Prayer back in March, which we hosted for the first time. Suspictions were overcome and there was great fellowship and unity as we worked with a range of local churches to highlight themes that were the focus of prayer throughout the whole world. (This year’s service will be at the Salvation Army on Friday 1st March, praying for France, a country very dear to my own heart, even as Malaysia was very dear to Antony’s heart as he preached last year.)
From the offerings given at that event back in March came the vision to help the Salvation Army regularly with their food parcels, which became one of the key features of the year. The amount given by church members and others has been staggering. Every month, boxes have been filled to overflowing with tinned food and clothing. It’s been truly amazing to behold. We continue with that giving in 2013, this time extending our giving to baby food and baby milk to help needy families feed their children.
Other churches joined with us in that and we rejoice in the growth the Salvation Army has seen since then, particularly in those who have come to know the Lord as a result of this social action. We want to see growth in all the local churches.
The culmination of the cooperation between the local churches resulted in the community carol service in December. It was good to see local ministers working together and to be part of that corporate witness just a few weeks ago.
So as we enter 2013, we rejoice and pray and give thanks. As we seek God for what HE wants to do in this new year, we know that if we do those things, we are right in the middle of His will!