22 & 23 Feb 2025 (Pastoral Page) GOODNESS OF GOD

By Asst Ps Timothy Lee

Last year, two days before officiating a wedding, my aunt passed away and went home to be with the Lord. During her passing and at her funeral service, the song “Goodness of God” was sung. The couple getting married also chose the same song for their wedding; and during that weekend's services, we sang the song too. As part of the song goes:

I love you, Lord

For Your mercy never fails me

All the days, I’ve been held in Your hands

From the moment that I wake up

Until I lay my head

Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

‘Cause all my life You have been faithful

And all my life You have been so, so good

With every breath that I am able

Oh, I will sing of the goodness of God

Was it merely a coincidence that this song was sung during grief, joy, and worship? I don’t believe so. This song focuses on God’s goodness and active involvement in every season of our lives, from birth to our final breath.

For many of us, the past year has been busier and more challenging. Some have faced retrenchments, financial difficulties, changes in life stages, various losses, health issues, etc. At the same time, we’ve also experienced joy through weddings, the arrival of newborns, unexpected blessings, renewed relationships with God and man, etc.

Yet, I must admit, there are times when I doubt God's goodness, especially when I consider the challenges in life. With three growing kids who eat adult-sized portions and still want more, along with health and ministry challenges, and ageing parents, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Yes, there will be times when we experience doubt. One way I strengthen my faith in God is by reflecting on and counting the instances of His goodness and love in my life.

Last Sunday, I celebrated my 46th birthday. As I reflect on my life, I find many things to be thankful for: the gift of life and the years He has given me, a family, the blessing of children, a community of faith and the experience of God's provision in times of need. I am grateful for all the events of 2024 because He is in control. Indeed, there are countless reasons to express gratitude for His protection, care, love, faithfulness, and guidance.

How have you entered 2025? Are you feeling apprehensive or excited? None of us know what this year will be like. However, we can find encouragement and strength to press on through the promise of God’s word. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us "He is the same yesterday, today, and forever." As God's children, we are reassured of His care and love (1 John 3:1) and we are called to fix our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith who endured the cross and its shame, suffering for our sake so we will not grow weary or lose heart (Hebrews 12:2-3). Whatever circumstances we find ourselves in, let’s press on. God’s goodness and love are always with us and let us with confidence declare,

“Surely your goodness and love will follow me.

all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the Lord

forever.” (Psalm 23:6)