Sixty. Turning 60, a life of Grace. Wow. It’s a number that once felt so far away, yet here I am—standing at this milestone, looking back on the road I’ve traveled and forward to what’s still ahead. And if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s this: I didn’t get here on my own. God’s grace has carried me every step of the way. His mercy has been my shelter. His love has been my anchor through life’s highs and lows.
Reaching this stage of life fills me with deep gratitude. I’ve seen good days and hard days, laughter and tears, victories and heartbreaks—but through it all, God has been faithful. Every experience, whether joyful or painful, has shaped me, grown me, and drawn me closer to Him. And the best part? He’s not finished with me yet. At 60, I know there’s still purpose in my days, still beauty to be found, and still so much love to give.
Every morning I wake up is a gift. Every breath is proof of His faithfulness. So as I step into this new chapter, I want to live with intention—to love deeper, to serve with joy, and to follow wherever God leads. I don’t have all the answers, but I trust the One who does. His grace is enough for me today, tomorrow, and always.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NIV)
“Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” — Isaiah 46:4 (NIV)
So here’s to the next chapter—embracing the journey, trusting in His plan, and celebrating the beauty of life at 60 and beyond! 
Beginning 2025, January marks a remarkable milestone for me—it’s my second year of passionately selling my books to raise funds for the children’s home in Kulai, Johor, a cause that resides deeply in my heart. This year, I celebrated my 60th birthday surrounded by family and friends, although a bittersweet note lingered since my daughter and her boyfriend couldn’t be there. Our celebration transformed into a vibrant tapestry of laughter and love over dinner at a restaurant, followed by cherished conversations at home as we indulged in Lunar New Year goodies (also known as “disappearing treasures”).
Soon after these jubilant moments, my husband and I set off for Johor, where we had errands to run but also an incredible mission to fulfill. Handing over the funds raised for the Pertubuhan Kebajikan Vision Kulaijaya, Johor (Kulai Vision Children’s Home, currently houses about 30 children between 10 and 25 years old. Founded 22 years ago by Pastor Rev Chong Soo Yin, the children’s home is devoted to orphans, single parent children and other disadvantaged children, felt like a beacon of hope. We arranged with Rosemary to treat the kids to A&W, a newly opened eatery that had them buzzing with excitement like little fireflies! Bonding with them served as a wonderful reminder that joy knows no bounds, and it was a great time full of heartwarming connections. We captured countless pictures that day, each snapshot a precious memory in our ever-growing collection.
The adventure didn’t end there. After Johor, I took the next leap to Kuala Lumpur, where my heart leaped with enthusiasm at the prospect of reuniting with old schoolmates from Kampar. Just imagine reconnecting with friends after 36 years! The sheer joy of reminiscing over coffee, sharing laughs, and rekindling sweet memories made my heart swell. Proverbs 27:17 (NIV) rings true—“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Our conversations were illuminating, and it felt as though the years melted away, leaving only the vibrant connections we had forged in our youth.
Eagerly anticipating my next excursion, we (me and two other friends) initially planned a trip to Hoi An and Hanoi. However, in a classic twist of fate, that adventure fell through. Without hesitation, we booked a spontaneous trip to Chiang Mai instead. I had been daydreaming about the succulent chicken and beef pho in Hanoi, a dish that truly feels like a warm embrace on a plate! Yet, I had no idea that Chiang Mai would offer its own flavor of adventure and growth.
Upon our arrival at Chiang Mai airport, we met a driver who seemed just as eager to chat as we were to explore. My friend Bell, with her boundless curiosity, took the lead in conversation, and I worried we might end up lost in Timbuktu! Thank God for our driver’s patience as he shared local insights and guided us. After some exploration, we decided to hire Tony for the day, blissfully unaware that Bell had a divine mission brewing. What started as a celebratory trip transformed into a journey of evangelism!
On the day of our adventure with Tony, the conversation shifted toward Jesus, flowing seamlessly between us like a powerful river. Over lunch, we invited Tony to join us, turning our mere acquaintanceship into camaraderie—a moment saturated with purpose. Bell even provided him with a Four Spiritual Laws booklet before we set out to discover more of Chiang Mai. Meanwhile, we prayed silently, like spiritual ninjas, ready to uplift and support.
We then found ourselves at Fleur for coffee, tea and cake, invoking a delightful birthday celebration. Armed with cake and laughter, we embraced our newfound identity as “senior travelers.” Admittedly, I had initially mourned the idea of missing out on pho in Vietnam, but God clearly had a master plan—one that would bloom in Chiang Mai, where we found joy waiting to unfold.
Just when we thought the magic of our trip couldn’t get better, something miraculous happened: at dinner by the riverbank, Tony prayed the sinner’s prayer with us! We are now fervently praying for God to watch over him and his family, guiding them in His grace. To further ignite that faith, we introduced him to Chiang Mai Grace Church, ensuring he could immerse himself in community and worship.
Then came the jungle trekking—an endeavor I initially hesitated over. I considered sitting back at the village café with a book, but something urged me to join my two other friends. The trek became a journey filled with fresh air and untouched beauty, a stark reminder of God’s wondrous creation. “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (Psalm 118:24)!
As we reached two stunning waterfalls, a sense of awe washed over me. Waterfalls have a magical way of rejuvenating the spirit! They whisked me back to joyful childhood days spent with my uncle (he just passed on in January) and his family in Kampar, where every waterfall visit felt like discovering a hidden gem. Those calming sounds enveloped me, and I reflected on the importance of pausing amid life’s chaos—a crucial reminder that often, profound truths come to us in moments of stillness. We took countless photos throughout our journey, capturing the beauty and joy of each moment and adding even more memories to our collection.
Just like our trek through the jungle, we had a local guide guiding us through the trek; we must consciously seek God’s guidance to experience the beauty that awaits us. Where is He leading you today? Are you listening to His whispers? It’s easy to get caught up in life’s whirlwind. He promises us in Jeremiah 29:11 that He has plans for us—ones filled with hope and purpose!
However, let’s pause our waterfall talk momentarily to discuss our Sunday service at Chiang Mai Grace Church. The sermon focused on 2 Corinthians 1, and afterward, we enjoyed a meal served by the devoted church volunteers. Nothing cultivates connection like sharing a meal; it is through these gatherings that we bear each other’s burdens in prayer and unity. I missed this type of Sunday service immensely. It brought back fond memories of the Asian church experience I had in Adelaide, where members gathered to share life together after service over lunch.
Now, let’s shed light on the mission aspect of our stay. Our missionary friends, Jes and Erek, introduced us to an inspiring woman in a wheelchair who selflessly serves her community despite her own challenges. Her spirit radiated kindness and compassion, reminding us of 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV), “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms” We didn’t just listen to her story; we prayed with her and shared a small contribution—a seed of empowerment before moving on.
Next, we ventured into the Sansai Compassionate Village, where we met Pastor Sawan. His commitment is awe-inspiring; he has taken it upon himself to build a church in a community hungry for hope. In November 2024, he gathers worshippers—all without walls—his faith shines through like a lighthouse as he rents land. Watching him construct this dream, step by step, is a testament that “…. With God, all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26, NIV).
As we commenced to pray for Pastor Sanwan and the Amen Church, a vision of Jesus standing among us illuminated my heart. That was my cue to share the moment of clarity. We then followed our journey to the Akha village, where we encountered an incredible children’s home housing about 20 children. Each child had faced hardships—orphans, kids from broken families, or those missing parents. It was humbling.
Pastor Hadassah and his wife, having answered the call to raise these children, have created a nurturing haven thriving on sustainability. They grow rice, vegetables, and operate a small coffee plantation (run by their son, Ball)! Their son’s initiative to teach the kids Mandarin speaks volumes about their commitment to brighter futures. Talk about planting seeds of hope for the next generation!
Once our journey concluded, the three of us gathered over coffee to reflect. “We must do something meaningful for the church building!” exclaimed our da jie, Susie, where Karyn saw Jesus when we pray. Within days, we organized to collect contributions for the Amen Church in Sansai Compassionate Village. A drumroll moment: we raised an impressive 5,000 SGD in no time! And just when we thought it was over, my friend in Singapore stepped in with another generous contribution, bringing our total to a remarkable 6,000 SGD!
Yet, even amid our joy, I left Chiang Mai knowing the children’s home still needed additional teachers. The two extra teachers are an ongoing expense they must bear. With his big heart, Pastor Hadassah foresaw the benefits for the children. With the extra teachers teaching Chinese, they can accommodate many more children who want to learn Mandarin for their future benefit. There were many more children in the village (those not residing in the children’s home) who wanted to learn Mandarin from Ball, but due to limited manpower, they could only accommodate so many. With the increase of teachers, they can also register with the Yunan Association, allowing the children to take exams and receive certification as translators, which could improve their future prospects. We thank God for the vision the pastor has, showcasing incredible foresight for the next generation—bringing poverty and unemployment to a close! Hallelujah, Lord! To God be the glory; this is only the work of God!
As I returned home, my heart began to beat like a drum, echoing “Akha, Akha, Akha…” in Mandarin. It was God nudging me, reminding me not to forget those children. My response? “Okay, Lord!” Then it stopped pounding. I don’t know what I’m okay with, but I said, “Lord, just illuminate my path—Your direction is what I need!”
On Tuesday, March 4, I have the profound opportunity to share my trip, especially my Chiang Mai journey, with my small group. My leader has graciously agreed to let me put out a collection box for funds each time we meet for Bible study. For that, I am filled with gratitude—thankful to God for all He has accomplished and for His compassion toward the children in the Akha Village, Chiang Mai, and Kulai, Johor, Malaysia.
Moreover, I want to extend an invitation for continued contributions toward the ongoing needs of the children’s homes. These children require our support every step of the way—whether it’s for education (the children in these homes, who could strive for better, will be sent to universities), food, or essential care. Any amount, no matter how small, can make a significant difference in their lives. If God leads you to contribute, I encourage you to consider supporting this heartfelt mission. Find out more and how to …
As I navigate this journey, I hold tightly to His assurance that God’s grace is sufficient for all of us (2 Corinthians 12:9). And who knows? Perhaps each adventure is a new chapter where faith and action draw closer together in powerful ways! As we embark on these journeys, I am ever reminded of Philippians 4:13(NIV): “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” With His guidance leading the way, I’m excited to see where the road takes us next
Philippians 4:9 NIV
Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you
In His Service, Karyn Lee