This year has been a significant and eventful year for the family. We are blessed with the arrival of our grandson, Jared Lee in August. The birth of a child is a momentous occasion not only meaningful to the parents, but also to the grandparents. The Bible records for us the very first command God : “Be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth and subdue it” (Genesis 1:28). God’s command in Genesis 1:28 was viewed as a great privilege and blessing. The desire to fulfill this command is the subject of many stories in the Bible. Remember the story of the son promised to Abraham in his old age (Genesis 15:4; 18:14) or the prophecy that Isaiah delivered to King Ahaz : “Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14)? As in the Old Testament times, children were God’s gift to the couple, “a heritage of the Lord” (Psalm 127:3). Jared has brought much joy to us as we thank God for his rich blessings.
On the other end of the scale, there is a sad event that happened during the year – an event we did not expect but God allowed it. In March 2010, Steven was diagnosed with colon cancer. The announcement sent shock waves to us as we sat solemnly in front of the doctor listening to the test results. It shattered Steven’s dream as he had been making plans to continue with his work for the Lord. “I am not ready to go yet Lord!” was his first reaction. To him, he was silently pleading with his Maker for his precious life; for more time to do the some many works that are still undone. For the first time, life became so very precious, but we know that it’s only by grace that He allows things to happen in our lives.
Family members met to discuss the series of action plan to be taken. We thank God for bringing family closer together in this time of crisis. Two major surgical operations ensued, followed by six cycles of chemotherapy treatment, all within a period of six months. We believe that this is God’s plan – lining up the surgeries and chemo treatment and providing for all our needs, including financial. The chemotheraphy took its toll on Steven’s body, but we also believe that the joy of the Lord brought about by the prayers of friends and various churches have been our greatest strength. “The joy of the Lord is our strength!” (Nehemiah 8:10). By the grace of God, every step was guided by Him! Praise the Lord!
Our life on earth is the time God gives to us. Friends, life is precious. We know how helpless we are without God. Our loving compassionate Father cares for us and will not leave us to fend for ourselves. He delights in us whenever we seek Him. Do not waste you life away but seek Him. God is happy when we allow Him to be involved in our lives. He does not expect us to be perfect without sin, but we must nevertheless be willing to do what we can to and allow Him to discipline us.
As we approach the Christmas season, and the threshold of a new year, it is rewarding for us to reflect on our successes and failures and perhaps, to rearrange our priorities for the coming year, holding forth the message of Christ : “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13-16). The process of reflection and planning helps us to see the state of our spiritual life and orders our allegiance and commitment as believers. Even though some os us may be going through struggles and challenges in our own lives now, Jesus says, “Hold on to what you have until I come” (Revelation 2:25). Do not be disheartened but look forward to His greater blessings by committing ourselves to be involved in at least one ministry in the coming year with more dedication.
Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year! Shalom!
Steven & Doris Lee.
(note : Brother Steven Lee went home to be with our Lord in glory on the 14th of November, 2010)