This is a short account of my first missions trip to Sarawak; the circumstances surrounding the journey and the experience gained through serving in fellowship.

At a time when I was going through some very tough personal challenge exactly one week before leaving, God in His foresight pulled my attention away to His work that has to be accomplished elsewhere. I loathe to discuss the details of the “ordeal” that preceded the trip but suffice to say, I am thankful that God understands rejection in its lowest defeat, in light of His purpose for the highest good. Questions did arise about myself if I was ever good for anything and if I will be accepted for who I really am. Thus, I departed for Miri with a slightly heavy heart but full of hope for the destiny that awaits as I avert my eyes to Christ.

Our team was welcomed with opened arms. For the next three days, we were shown great hospitality, loved and served with gladness. Even as our mission was to bless and equip the local church with relevant skills, the table was turned in a way that we were blessed a thousand-fold instead. Together with the team from FGA Kuala Lumpur, we had the joy of genuine fellowship with the people from SIB Canada Hill/On The Rock.

Such could only come from loving God together. It is amazing to think that despite being separated by a deep ocean, distance of a physical nature and names unknown to the mind, our spirit was immediately tied together as a family from the moment we gather. All of us forged new friendships and bonded so closely. I wouldn’t be surprised to find a kindred spirit or two. Our destiny was found in God’s purpose for us, and the journey to that discovery both at the individual and corporate level was exhilarating. I had the personal privilege of serving in fellowship with the Bahasa-speaking congregation. The Word that proclaims that every nation, tribe and tongue will worship the Lord is exemplified, and I couldn’t help but to feel right at home. I have to say this: the Mirians are so warm, genuine, joyful and humble…it made me forget momentarily my own circumstances back in Singapore.

Leaving Miri was slightly hard, not to mention I nearly missed my flight. For a moment I thought it was God’s humor to leave me back in Miri. But thankfully, He left the door slightly ajar. This is prophetic enough, for an ajar door opens a path for me to return.

The ties that bind us together as a family from three separate places could well come from many different sources. It could’ve been the food. The long travel. The slapstick moments. The tears shed. The prayer shared. The sweat poured out. But all in all, I will just simply say that He had a hand in knitting them in His hiding place, long before we even know it. God brought me to understand that He knows best when I do not, and rejection can only be overcome by accepting and experiencing the love of God that continues to heal.