CHURCH CAMP, A FORETASTE OF HEAVEN, A TIME FOR LEARNING

Dear Members in Christ,

Church Camp, a foretaste of heaven, a time for learning 

The Family Bible Camp has been a regular feature of our annual church activity. This year, the Calvary Jaya Family Bible camp was held at the GEO hotel in the highlands, a township on the slopes of the Genting Highlands called Genting Permai. The theme for this year’s camp is “God honours those who honour Him”. We know that those who honour God will be blessed, and such is the example of many saints in the Bible. We have the example of Samuel who was the bearer of God’s message to Eli (the high priest), and the message was, “Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour.” (1 Samuel 2:30).

In this camp, we studied the character of Joseph, the son of Jacob. Joseph had to undergo considerable trials and afflictions in the early years of his life, yet he consistently kept his faith and obedience to God. Despite being sold into the slavery by his brothers, despite being imprisoned by the false accusation of Potiphar’s wife, Joseph was able to say at the end of it all,  

“Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.” Genesis 45:5

Whatever our challenges in life, whatever difficulties we may face, whether it be threats against our lives or livelihood, or even circumstances that seem ill-favoured, a saint can rest assured in the sovereign and gracious hand of God. Joseph was able to see the spiritual task for which he had been prepared for, he says, “for God did send me before you to preserve life.” Instead of a spirit of hatred and vengeance, Joseph saw all his trials and his exaltation to premiership in Egypt as God’s gracious dealing with him and his brothers. Brothers and sisters, many are moved by this message from God’s Word, that God will deal graciously with those who would walk in His ways and honour Him. Let us obey and honour God despite the challenges posed by the adversary to hinder our spiritual walk with God. May God honour those who honour Him.

A. Family Bible Camp - truly a foretaste of heaven 

It has often been said that the annual Family Bible Camp is a foretaste of heaven. Truly it is, for we see during camp times of close fellowship and bonding between members of the body of Christ. This is a foreshadow of our unity and fellowship before God in that great eternal day. The Apostle John wrote of this when he described his vision, “And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.” (Revelation 21:3). It is a great pleasure to put aside all worldly cares for a few days, just to be fed from the precious wisdom of God’s Word. The psalmist expresses it when he wrote,

“Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” Psalm 16:11

Brothers and sisters, for those who missed this year’s camp, make it your priority to attend Family Camp 2027. We got to hear remarks of some who enjoyed the camp so much that they did not wish to leave the camp, these include the very young and even some elderly. Dearly beloved, family camp is truly a foretaste of heaven and let us savour each annual Family Bible Camp. 

B. Testimony by a participant 

Finally, we would like to share the testimony of brother Jerome Liew of the blessings of being a participant in this year’s family camp. 

“We praise and thank God for Calvary Jaya Family Bible Camp 2026. There is no greater blessing than spending time meditating on God's Word and fellowshipping with those with the common faith, away from the cares in distractions of the world. We have also heard many testimonies of how the camp has been a blessing and encouragement to God's people.

We thank God especially for the participation of the youths. During this season, when they are free from school and tuition, they receive spiritual nourishment and surround themselves with like-minded brethren. Christian youths ought to spend more time in the company of fellow believers so that they can be safeguarded from the influence of worldly wisdom, which can lead them astray. Instead, they can be filled with godly wisdom and spiritual strength to face the challenges of living in a sin-filled world.

It is encouraging to see many of them diligently taking notes during sermons, something not often observed during our regular worship services. The youths thoughtfully considered the questions presented and were willing to share their opinions and personal experiences. Through such interactions, bonds of trust are formed, and we learn from one another. It is also heartening to see the youths interacting with one another and building friendships beyond the camp, even exchanging Instagram to stay connected.

We thank God that this camp has served as a platform for fellowship, mutual encouragement, and the sharing of personal joys and struggles. God-willing, these experiences will help them grow in their walk with the Lord and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the preaching and study of His Word.”

May God bless His people with wisdom and strength to live and serve Him. Amen.    

In His Service,
Rev. Lim Seh Beng, Pastor