This past Sunday we had the amazing privilege of hearing a testimony from Alvin Koh, Steven Tse, and a message from our dear Grandpa Perry. Please take a moment to listen to them – you will be blessed!
As Grandpa Perry was sharing his words of wisdom from his experience, I couldn’t help but think back of all the people that have made an impact in my own life. As a young man, I was trying to discover who I was – in searching to discover who I was, I found myself looking to examples and role models because I wanted ‘to be like them’.
My favourite baseball player was Roberto Alomar – a quick and skinny 2nd baseman – I wanted to be just like him. In basketball there was a little PG named Damon Stoudamire and I wanted to be fast, just like him! I had people I looked up to. I have now realized that I had role models all around me, and not just celebrities! My parents were amazing role models, I learned to pastor from Alvin, Adrian, and Perry, I learned to be an adult with Jerry, I learned to lead through Joe… I could keep going!
As I have matured in my life – discovering who I am, those role models helped to shape who I am today. And for that I am forever grateful.
I believe Lifespring is no different. As we have grown and matured as a church, really discovering who we are: A Kingdom Family: Genuine Love for God & Genuine Care for Others – I think of all the people and groups that have helped shaped us to be who we are today. I think of some of the ministries that have walked alongside us over the past 41 years of Lifespring’s history: Denis Ignatius, Jean Lim, Leonard John, Jubilee, Clive Pick, Donna Parachin, IHOP, Adrian Wi, Wanda Fost – so many people have helped shape who Lifespring is today. For them, I am forever grateful.
Discovering who we are (corporately and individually) can be hard. But role models can really shape who we become. Take a moment to reflect on the role models that have come through your life – thank the Lord, send them a quick note – they have blessed you.
Now, remember that we are blessed to be a blessing. Be a role model to others – encourage them, pray for them, correct them, be a blessing. One day, prayerfully, when the next generation reflects on their Godly role models, they will remember you.