A Bang of a CNY Lunch

Full Screen Slide Show

The SJ24 gathered at Pastor SL's house last Saturday for our yearly reunion lunch. It has become tradition that every year during Chinese New Year, we will gather to eat popiah at pastor's house. As always, we had a great time of fellowshipping with each other and enjoying the good food. What made it all the more special was the presence of old/ new friends among us. Ha ha. Take a look at the photos, you will understand. It is during occasions like this, that it really hits me how much of a family we have grown to become. [+]

I still remember the first few years when we were became SJ24. As we often met at pastor's place, I always remember the scene of opening the front door to enter the house. Over the years, I could see a change in my feelings and emotions as I walked through the door. In the initial years, it was very much one of apprehension. Sometimes, the thoughts in my mind would go like this, "Wah, today has been a really long day, now got to make small talk some more. I think I will stick close to Evan..." Over the years, it was not uncommon to feel tired and distracted after coming from school. Sometimes, the thoughts in my head would go, "Hmm.. I wonder what time we will finish today. I wonder who is here today..." Many times, I would walk through the door quietly, feeling a little out of place, especially when there are already many people at the dinner table. It's not so much that I did not feel welcomed, rather, seeing so many people suddenly just made me want to shy away for a while.

Last Saturday was a fresh experience for me. I came with my brother (one of our new friends, go figure. ha ha). It was his first time there, so I had to show him the way (Brother - "Oh, you mean not taking the lift ah?") We had not met at pastor's place in a while, and it felt like I was coming home as I directed him up the stairs. As I opened the door, the familiar chorus of 'Hello! Come in!" greeted me. The lunch table was packed. It was a familiar scene and I was totally comfortable. I felt totally at ease. I wanted to see my spiritual family and to spend time with them. It wasn't an obligation to be there. I didn't have to put on any masks. I could be who I was and I knew that I was accepted.

I realise of course, not everyone feels the same way as I do. You might feel differently about your open cell or G12 group whenever you gather. Perhaps, you are thinking, we are different because we are SJ24. We know how to support and encourage each other. Well, I can tell you we only GREW to become that way because we decided we wanted that and we still are growing. There is no perfect family. But over the years, I have learnt that it starts with you taking ownership of your own family. Don't wait for others to be a blessing to you. Start by being a blessing to those around you. Take time to ask about each other sincerely, not just in a "Hi-bye" manner. Surprise one another with something special whether it's their birthday or not. Inspire each other towards love and good deeds.

And learn to do all these in your own physical family too.

I believe CNY is a time to remember the goodness of God in our families. I pray as you do that, that God will give you a greater capacity to love your family (physical and spiritual) in this year of sabbath. Enjoy the photos. :)


Joshua Teo