Will Grace Church Continue to Be a Lighthouse for the Lord?

By Rev Tan Eng Boo

Photograph of Grace Bible-Presbyterian Church taken by Rev. Tan Eng Boo

“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.” (Matthew 5:14)

Years ago, a tornado destroyed a small church along the coast of England. The congregation was too poor to rebuild it. One day, a representative from the British Admiralty visited the local minister and asked whether the church intended to rebuild. The pastor explained their financial difficulties. The official replied, “If you do not rebuild the church, we will. That spire is marked on all our charts and maps. It is the landmark by which ships from the seven seas steer their course.”

As Grace Church enters her 51st year of service, an important question confronts us: Will Grace Church continue to be the Lord’s lighthouse?

For the past 50 years, Grace Church has shone for the Lord at No. 5 Jalan Haji Salam. Our neighbours know of our presence. The cross has stood as a visible testimony for many years. As we move forward, this calling must continue.

Jesus declared, “You are the light of the world.” We are not the light in ourselves, but reflections of Christ, who is the true Light of the world. Through us, His love and truth are made visible. God has placed us in this part of Singapore, and our lives are on display for His glory.

How, then, can we continue to shine for Jesus?

In the context of Matthew 5, Jesus says,

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16).

Christians are called to manifest good works—not as a means of salvation, but as its result. Through these works, God is glorified.

But what are these “good works”? They are the outward expression of a transformed life in Christ. People long to see authentic Christianity. They are not impressed by hypocrisy. Grace Church must demonstrate genuine faith through the lives of its members and worshippers.

When visitors, especially non-believers, come to Grace Church, what impression do they receive? How do they perceive Gracians? Do they see Christ reflected in our words and actions?

One way we shine for Jesus is through compassion—showing care for all people, regardless of ethnicity, social standing, gender, or personal beliefs. Another way is through humility. We support and serve one another, regardless of status, choosing to become servants of the Lord and of His people.

Above all, we are called to love. Jesus said,

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:34–35).

Albert Barnes explains that this love is to be such clear and decisive evidence of Christ-likeness that all people will recognise it. Love is the distinguishing mark by which believers are known. And it will be seen in the unity of the church, which will always bring glory to God. While no church is perfect, love must remain the basis for everything we do.

Grace Church cannot be hidden. Jesus reminds us,

“A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14).

This image is especially fitting, as our church is physically elevated and highly visible. Some years ago, some neighbours encouraged us to renovate the building, which we did. They rejoiced in its renewal. Yet it is not the building that ultimately shines for Jesus. Though it may be pleasing to the eye, it is the people of God who must radiate His light.

The greatest outcome of shining for the Lord is the salvation of lost souls. Like lighthouse keepers, we bear the responsibility of lighting the way for those walking in darkness, pointing them to Christ.

As Grace Church enters her 51st year of service, may the words of Jesus inspire us anew to shine for Him.

If we could take a moment to ponder, is there an area in our lives where we can shine more brightly for the Lord?