Esther Chua's Kingdom missions

When I first heard our church was embarking on this new series, I asked myself what the Kingdom of God meant. Was it referring to Christ’ reign in Heaven- with possibly soldiers, chariots and us as little minions? Was it the superior authority of God ruling over the lands? Or was it an allusion to the memory verse I’ve conscientiously remembered “seek first the kingdom of God...and all these things will be given to you as well?” Speaking from the perspective of a young person, I dare say that many of the youths of today grapple with understanding such a simple yet perplexing concept, and often I ask myself how to reconcile the tension of living in the now and the not yet.

I must admit that hearing many parables and bible stories alluding to the kingdom of God after years of learning and growing through sunday school and in youth is a privilege I’ve came to realize. But then again how could I practically ‘see’ the kingdom and ‘seek it first’, putting God in the centre despite the busy life in and out of the classrooms? I think I can admit that I have no actual answer. Yet our God is a gracious and merciful God, opening doors for me through these years to practically involve myself in Kingdom work and even briefly grasp the outpouring of grace, mercy and love in his magnificent kingdom to come. Over the years, I have learnt to see it as different stages of growth and progress; more as a pilgrim’s journey through this side of eternity as He transforms us to Christlikeness.

In my younger days, I often found ways where I could engage myself in Bible studies and conversations about seeking God first, hearing the perspectives of both the young and old, which arguably shaped a bit of my perspective today. While I did not find it extremely challenging to be serving God in ministry (KSS), I felt that God was calling me to do much more for His name. This year, with time to spare on my side, I chanced upon many opportunities in and out of church to find ways to be an effective witness through initiating programmes for outreach and evangelism. (English Corner and Digital mission trips in partnership with Campus Crusade Singapore, which has certainly revealed more of the father heart of God as he continues to prick at my capacity for love for the nations). As I reflect upon my life thus far, looking ahead at the New Eden, the place where all Christians will be glorified and redeemed, it fills me with huge expectancy to see what our good God and perfect father has to offer. Whether you are young like me in the spring of your life, or slightly older like Aunty Ying Kheng and Aunty Soontheri, I believe one thing still holds true- to always choose to put God first and seek out His will in every season of life.

By His grace, I will be headed for Australia next February to pursue my university education- a course I have been personally convicted of and seen how God has orchestrated circumstances to bring me to this place today. I can’t say I know exactly what it is like to live overseas and what my future is really going to look like- except that even in the busyness of university life, in dealing with the problems of real people and in living out the will of God in a new environment- to remember to ultimately choose to follow Him and by his strength live one day at a time, and draw more into the Kingdom of God. I hope this encourages you to actively seek out [God] and live for His name in anticipation of the coming, greater Kingdom, at whatever stop of life you’re in- to have your final destination in mind!