In the blink of an eye, 2024 is coming to an end, and it is once again a time to greet and to share a quick summary of this past year. It is my belief that historians will regard this year, the year of the dragon, a year full of dramas and tensions, to be a year of surprises and volatility; especially after the landslide U.S. election in November, the coming year will surely usher in a new era.
2024 was a fruitful year for my personal learning. I was able to visit families in Taiwan at the beginning of the year, participated in the delegation of Oversea churches to Taiwan, and to experience the fierce Taiwan presidential election. Then it was a year full of activities for EFC Year of Equipping, until the completion of the U.S. presidential election. I have gained new insights and growth in many areas with unforgettable impressions.
After completing all the plans for the EFC Year of Equipping, a wedding invitation allows me to take my family back to Toronto, Canada, where we used to call home some fifteen years ago. We met many old friends, coworkers, and to see how their children have all grown. Even with young people that we used to shepherd, many of their children are now in college or about to get married. As for my peers, many are preparing for their retirement! During the many conversations, there seems to be a sense of passing of time and shifting of the worldly affairs. I felt strongly that both the church and I are reaching the point to pass the baton to the next generation.
Moreover, our house in Irvine is getting older and was experience issues of termite and mold, it was in need of some major renovation. Besides giving it a new coat of paint both inside and out, we also got rid of many books, furniture, tools, it was truly a renewal process even for our body, soul, and mind. During this process, I was also reminded of many elderlies who passed away this year, family and friends who are battling illnesses, and I realized I do not have much time to waste, I must quickly do what I need to do.
Recently I finished reading a masterpiece by David Brooks, “How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen.” There is much insights and reflections, realizing I am facing the stage of retirement, like what Brooks mentioned, I should be inspired to become an illuminator, a guide, and a sharer. In our family, Isaac suddenly grew taller than mom this year; after much consideration, Anita and I decided to home school. Isabella entered her third year of teaching in a school nearby and has matured in many aspects.
With the forming of the new GA leadership team, I also experienced new challenges and reflections with my responsibilities as the Secretary General. Nevertheless, truly hope that our entire family will call upon the Lord and pray more in this coming year. I believe with the new cabinet of President Trump, there will be many changes both in the U.S. and of the world. As for the EFC churches in 2025, it is going to be a year of application as we enter the Year of Evangelism. I also believe that we will encounter unprecedented challenges and changes with ministry, life, and growth. At the same time, I believe the Lord has already prepared for us greater grace and blessings.
Finally, may we encourage one another with Paul’s exhortation to us in Ephesians 5:14-17: “‘Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.’ Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” Perhaps we have not connected for a while, how are you doing? Sincerely praying for the Lord to keep you, guide you, and bless you and your family in this coming year. May He accomplish in your life things beyond you ask or think! All glory and praise be to our God, Amen!
Have a Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year! Looking forward to seeing you next year!
Sincerely,
Allen, Anita, Isabella, Issac
