Celebrating SG60 with Joy plus Sober Reflection
As Singapore marks its 60th National Day on 9th August 2025, the nation comes alive with its characteristic exciting parades and celebratory programs. This diamond jubilee is a significant moment to honour our journey and rejoice in the blessings bestowed upon us as a nation.
However, amidst the excitement, it is crucial to approach this milestone with a sense of sobriety and thoughtful reflection, especially in light of the current turmoil in the world. While we celebrate our achievements, we must also acknowledge the fragility of peace and prosperity.
Acknowledging Our Extraordinary Journey
Singapore’s journey to independence was an uphill battle. Many doubted a small island nation with no natural resources could survive, let alone thrive. Yet, thanks to the diligence and enterprise of our forefathers, we not only defied expectations but flourished. Our success story has earned us international recognition, far beyond what our “little red dot” on the world map might suggest.
This remarkable journey is truly a cause for celebration, affirming that hard work yields great dividends. It’s a powerful reminder of what a united people can achieve through perseverance.
As Singapore celebrates SG60, the Christian community also gathers for Day of His Power (DOHP) 2025. This significant city-wide prayer event will take place on Friday, 8th August, at 8:00 pm. Believers will come together across 30 regional prayer centres, including Jurong Christian Church, to give thanks for the nation’s blessings and intercede for its future.
Humility Amidst Success
While we take pride in Singapore’s accomplishments and the peace and political stability we enjoy – a stark contrast to the perennial hostilities and transient political fortunes observed elsewhere – we must guard against complacency and self-congratulation. In these turbulent times, humility is paramount.
As the words from 1 Chronicles 29:11-13 remind us:
“Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all. Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name.”
This ancient wisdom, a testament from David, underscores that all richness and honour flow from a higher power. Our achievements are not solely our own; they are blessings to be stewarded with gratitude, not boastfulness. True honour comes from acknowledging this divine source and remaining faithful in serving a greater good.
Lessons from History and Scripture
History, both ancient and contemporary, consistently teaches us that nations rise and fall. As Christians, we understand that what is given can also be taken away. As stated in Job 12:23-25:
“He makes nations great, and destroys them; he enlarges nations, and disperses them. He deprives the leaders of the earth of their reason; he makes them wander in a trackless waste. They grope in darkness with no light; he makes them stagger like drunkards.”
This is not a message of pessimism, nor is it meant to dampen our celebratory spirit. Instead, it serves as a cautionary reminder to temper our excitement with a deep sense of responsibility. We must not succumb to the dangerous illusion that all is well and will always be.
The wisdom gleaned from scripture and the unfolding events of our world call us to continual prudence and discernment. As Proverbs 14:34 wisely states, “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.” And Amos 5:14 urges, “Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the Lord God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is.”
Our Continuing Journey
May Singapore’s 60th National Day be a moment not just for joyous celebration, but also for wise reflection and renewed commitment to the good values that we have pursued this far. Let us continue to strive for righteousness, seeking wisdom in all our endeavours, so that we may continue to be blessed with peace and prosperity.
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