A FAITHFUL SERVANT WENT HOME
TO BE WITH THE LORD

"Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of his saints."
Ps 116: 15

A fervent and faithful Sis Sonya or Ibu Sonya, as she is known in Filadelfia church, Batam, Indonesia, was called home to be with the Lord on Friday 6 January 2012. Sonya was one of the pioneers of Filadelfia church 8 years ago. At age 67, she was still going strong in the Lord's work. She worked with Sis Maria, looking after the kids in Shelter Home. The kids will surely miss her dearly.

Sonya sat in the Filadelfia church committee and worked tirelessly for the Lord in her retiring years. I can see her zeal in service for Jesus. Now she is rested from her labour and is comforted by the Lord (Rev. 14: 13; Lk. 16: 25). Her labour in the Lord had been a blessing to so many members in Filadelfia church. I have been greatly encouraged by her zeal in serving the Lord each Sunday.

When I was in Batam on Sunday 18 Dec 2011, I visited Sonya in hospital. She had been warded for some stomach disorder. I prayed for her and was told a few days later that she was diagnosed with liver/colon cancer and was given 6 months to live. She did not even last for 6 months. The Lord took her home so fast.

Beloved, our life is like a vapor, it is here for a while. We can expire anytime. When that happens, can we face the Lord with confidence that we have been a faithful servant of God? Life is too short to be spent in building our empire on earth. What is done for Jesus will last for eternity (1 Cor. 15: 58).

I had the privilege of conducting her funeral on Monday 9 January in Batam.

Pastor