A Willing Heart, A Greater Mission
Mission Emphasis July-December 2026
Missions Emphasis July 2026 invited us to look beyond the familiar and consider what it means to step out in faith. Inspired by the theme “Stepping Out” and the assurance of Joshua 1:9, the church was reminded that mission is a shared responsibility and that courage comes not from knowing every step ahead, but from trusting the God who goes with us.
The church foyer was eye-catching with its rows of miniature flags representing nations from around the world, and a central display reflecting different expressions of missions. The display consisted of three human silhouettes, which together capture the heart of Missions, stepping beyond our comfort zones and trusting God as we participate in His work.
The first, kneeling in prayer, carried the words “Praying Without Limits,” reminding us that mission begins with prayer that travels across borders, reaches unseen needs and strengthens those serving faithfully in challenging places. The second held a briefcase and Faith Promise response card, and beneath it were the words “Giving Beyond Comfort,” challenging us to see giving as an act of faith, obedience and trust. The third carried a Bible and appeared to be moving forward; the accompanying words “Going Without Fear” reflected the courage to answer God’s call, step into unfamiliar places and carry His Word wherever He leads.
...feelings of inadequacy, inexperience or uncertainty should not prevent us from responding to God’s call.
A special highlight was the ministry of our guest preacher from Thailand, Reverend Meechai Kowae, whose message, “The Desires of the Called,” centred on a powerful truth: God does not merely choose the qualified; He qualifies those whom He chooses. His sharing reminded us that the feelings of inadequacy, inexperience or uncertainty should not prevent us from responding to God’s call. Throughout Scripture, God used ordinary people willing to trust and obey Him. He equipped them, strengthened them and worked through their weaknesses for His glory. The message reminded us that willingness often matters more than ability. When He calls, He also provides the grace, wisdom and strength needed for the journey. Our responsibility is to respond with faith and allow Him to shape and prepare us.
The missions video report gave the congregation a glimpse of how the church’s prayer, giving and acts of service have impacted lives locally and overseas for the first six months of 2026. Each contribution became part of a greater story, one reflected in lives transformed, faith strengthened, and hope restored. This truth was echoed in the testimonies of Faith Promise partners, both young and old, demonstrating that age is no limit to expressions of faith. Some shared how they gave amid uncertainty, while others testified to God’s unexpected provision. These reminded us that Faith Promise is not merely a financial pledge; it is a personal journey of trust the giver takes with God – the value lies not in the amount pledged, but in the willingness of the heart. Calvarites were given an opportunity to renew their Faith Promises or make new ones at the close of the service. Pastor Steven Kum reminded them that this was not merely a ‘faith giving’ exercise but a ‘faith building’ one too.
Participants put their Bible knowledge to the test by identifying characters through emoji clues in 3Sixteen's Bible Quiz
Participants putting their decision-making skills into practice by selecting food within a given budget
Meanwhile, in the church foyer, thoughtfully curated booths representing Thailand, India (featuring Balakong and Cameron Highlands Tamil Outreach), East Malaysia, Sekinchan Outreach, Nilai BM Outreach, Calvary Youth and Young Adults Ministry, Muhibbah Community, Bread of Life, Men’s Ministry and 3Sixteen introduced the needs of each mission field, the people being ministered to, and the many ways worshippers could pray, give or serve. Besides bringing missions close to home, this served to reaffirm that the Great Commission belongs to the whole church. Every act of obedience contributes to the advancement of God’s Kingdom and brings glory to His name.
Traditional snacks, games, quizzes, souvenirs, cultural displays and performances made the experience both lively and engaging. Among the delicious comestibles were fragrant cardamom tea, kuih sarang semut, penganan, kuih goyang and cha manao. Volunteers clad in Ngepan Iban at the East Malaysia booth performed the Ngajat dance and displayed the terabai shield. At the Sekinchan corner, displays of different rice varieties and volunteers in farmers’ hats brought the area’s agricultural identity to life. At the Muhibbah Community booth, along with intricate henna art and carrom, was the portrayal of hardships faced by underprivileged families – highlighting sober realities such as babies being fed sugar water when milk is unaffordable, and families surviving on simple meals of rice and plain curry sauce.
Opportunities were also given to our youth and children to receive fresh challenge to be involved in this vital ministry of missions.
Showcasing Sekinchan’s agricultural heritage through a display of local rice varieties
As we move forward, may the reflections from this week remain in our hearts, reminding us that the work of missions grows when faith translates to action. Every act of missions begins with a willing heart that responds, “Here I am, Lord. Send me."
Celebrating East Malaysia’s vibrant cultural heritage as a volunteer clad in Ngepan Iban performs the Ngajat dance