Let’s Go & Save

Develop New Caring Norms

written by Pr. Pysong

COVID-19 pandemic is wreaking havoc on our economy, hitting particularly hard on the labour force. According to national statistical report, unemployment rate in January 2021 recorded a high of 4.9%, representing 800,000 are out of jobs. Government had predicted that, with gradual recovery of economy and progressive vaccination rates, unemployment will drop to 4% by end of the year. However, such numbers can never described the immeasurable sufferings of many underprivileged families. Government has allowed withdrawal of EPF savings, for those whose income have been significantly affected by the pandemic , tapping into their retirement funds in order to survive!       


Churches helped those affected by pandemic to apply for 7979 Family Crisis Intervention Assistance Fund, as they have either lost their jobs or their income reduced significantly, thus unable to meet even basic day to day expenses, medical or children educational expenses etc. With the surge of pandemic, MCO which was implemented have brought about various degree of social impacts on different communities. Aiming to curb the spread of pandemic on one hand, while ensuring livelihoods of people are not grossly affected. However, for the underprivileged families, the impact of pandemic, that has lasted more than a year, is devastating. Some even said; “they may starve to death, instead of die of sickness.” The poor are caught in both dire situations. 


Thankfully, there are still many people with compassion. Seeing families and children in need, there is still kindness in our society where many are willing to extend help. Judging from present pandemic situation, earliest recovery may be within 2 to 3 years, hence, accepting and adjusting to co-exist with Covid virus shall be a new norm for our generation. More creative caring approaches shall be the normalcy for new generations. Although the various SOP can restrict our movements, but our care and love shall continue to flow in the communities. 

  
ǀ How to develop new caring norms?          

1. ​Do Good Anytime and Anywhere
The Bible said: “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them”. To “do good and display kindness” anytime, anywhere, one must foremost be prepared with, extra cash in the wallet, extra umbrella in the car, various charitable services hotline numbers are saved in the mobile. Never let “unpreparedness” be an excuse for failing to do good and display kindness.  

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2. ​Scheduled and Planned Donation
“For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” To cultivate a heart of compassion, one has to start with habit of giving. Committing to a pledge of fixed sum at scheduled time. Irrespective of the amount pledged, this is a good habit to be cultivated. Once you developed a habit of regular donations, you’ll begin to care, and you’ll also desire to contribute your other resources besides money.  

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3. ​Searching for Your Calling and Destiny
“That the man of God may be completed, equipped for every good work.” If this pandemic has triggered you to ponder upon life’s destiny, this could be the time for you to consider, how to let God use your talents, resources and spiritual gifts that He has bestowed upon you, to bless your communities. Things that touched you most, is where God calls you. Hurry, use your mortal life in exchange for eternal treasures. 


This year, there have been a significant increase in the number of applications for various assistance programs under 7979, looking at the trend, it will certainly exceed our budget. May I invite you to join us as partner, by contributing your energy, resources and money to transform our communities?