The lyrics from an old song, ‘Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning’ always stimulate and motivate me to participate in mission trips to the indigenous people in the interior of Sarawak. The 25th Ulu Julau mission trip on 6-10 June 2016 was concluded. I expect the more than 120 participants have gone home with different stories and experiences to tell and share with their friends, especially the first timers.
The end of something is always the start of another beginning. We finished this journey, but we haven’t reached our destination. The Ulu Julau mission is a continual journey. The people there need to hear the words of God more frequently to keep their faith glowing. The children and the youths need the correct nourishment to uphold them in building their characters. The old and the weak needs sympathy and care.
Our mission team was divided into nine components going to different longhouses along Jalan Entabai, inland and up river to Ai Kanowit and Ulu Entabai. Wemanaged to bring the good news and joy to 48 longhouses. At the Iban Methodist Training Centre, Nanga Matop, there were various activities for the children’s camp, leadership training at the youth camp and a team of prayer warriors going round the area praying and keeping watch over the people, longhouses and the participants. A medical team comprised of doctors, pharmacists, nurses and a physiotherapist also moved round the longhouses to give medical checks and health care advice to the longhouse folks.
We aimed to bring P. E. A. C. E. to the indigenous people at Ulu Julau. Our agenda was to Promote Christianity, Equip young leaders, Assist the poor, Care for the weak and Educate the next generation. “To go and do” is within the capability and reach of everyone. You don’t need to be‘called’ or hear a supernatural voice telling you to go. Just go and you would learn through the process how to volunteer your time for God.
To participate in a mission is a privilege. Telling others how they can have eternal life is the greatest gift you can offer them. The Great Commission was given to every follower of Jesus, not only to pastors and missionaries. This is your COMMISSION FROM JESUS, and it is NOT OPTIONAL. It’s a command from Jesus, ‘Go.’ If you are a part of God’s family, your participation in missions is expected. To ignore taking part in missions would be disobedience to the purpose and will of God for you. Refill me Lord! Keep my lamp burning. See you there at the next Ulu Julau Mission Trip.
Jason Siew
Nyelong Park Methodist Church, Sarikei