As we enter the final week of 2025, we find ourselves looking back at the year, reliving memories of how our life has been. To some, this may be a time of thankfulness, and to others, a bittersweet moment. But how great is our God, that as we prepare to enter into the new year, he always gives us a reminder of hope, with the celebration of the birth of Christ.
This time, let’s take a look at a different chapter of the Christmas story. When the angel appeared to Mary, she had a choice to make. Is she going to accept the plan that God has for her? This was the question that was brought up at the recent Hope Ipoh’s Christmas Camp, where almost 30 of them gathered for 2 days and 1 night. It was a time of fellowship across different life groups, as they enjoyed games and play in the pool together, as well as a scrumptious BBQ meal at night over carols and a Secret Angel gift exchange.
During the session on the first day that focused on Mary’s calling, participants were asked to consider what Mary was feeling, and how she could have responded. However, despite being troubled, Mary responded in a way that found favour with God. On the second day, their devotion focused on Joseph’s calling and how he responded to God despite how confusing it must have been for him. And the story of Christmas starts with the both of them having the same response…
They said yes to God!
So, what does it mean to say yes to God in our lives? Earlier this month, our brothers and sisters in Australia held their annual Christmas Fest, where they put into action their response to God’s plan. Across the two days of 6 and 13 December, they welcomed over 1,500 guests from the local community. Families, children, and individuals gathered to celebrate the joy of the Christmas season in an atmosphere filled with warmth, generosity, and connection. One of the most meaningful highlights was the distribution of more than 680 toys, given freely to children—bringing smiles, laughter, and a tangible reminder that they are seen, valued, and cared for.
Christmas Fest was also an opportunity to support families beyond the day itself. A range of local service agencies were present at both events, offering information, resources, and connection points for families seeking ongoing support and services within the community. These partnerships played a vital role in extending care beyond the celebration. None of this would have been possible without the incredible dedication of their 190 volunteers who generously gave their time, energy, and hearts to serve our guests. From set-up to pack-down, hospitality to activities, their commitment embodied the true spirit of Christmas by serving others with love and humility.
With that said, what is your response going to be? Let this Christmas season be a reminder of the two people who said yes to God’s will being done in their life. So as we step into 2026, let us say yes to God and continue to share His goodness and news of salvation to those around us, our families and communities. God came for each and every one of them, just as much as He did for us. Now, isn’t that a story worth spending the next year telling everyone about?
On that note, this will be our last Advance publication for the year, and we’ll be taking a short break to give way for the upcoming Global Leadership Conference 2026 (GLC26) that will be happening in Bangkok. Advance will be back in February 2026, with more updates of our HIM family from around the world. Thank you for reading our stories, and more importantly being a part of the stories we share. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
