"Rise up for this City" is such a grand vision. This city is our home that we grow up in. When we stand up for our home, it requires both giving and commitment. Our city currently faces quarrels, frustration, unease and worries. Even life is filled with competition, stress and difficulty. Burdens are heavy for many people, and leads us to ask: "Is Hong Kong sick?" As a member in this family, who would want to see dissension and a loss of mutual trust and love toward one another? Who would want to see confrontation and antagonism? If we truly love this country we call home, then whether in good or bad times, this is still our home. What can we offer our city or home? How can we revive the country? It requires our hearts, attitude and action. We need to be determined to stand up for our city, and no individual can make us fall.
Why would "rise up" require our hearts? In the past when we faced hardships, a loving heart for Hong Kong was formed, along with strength and courage to overcome difficulties, and problem-solving ability. In the past we possessed these qualities. Have we lost any of these qualities today? In order to "rise up", it requires our love, rational thinking and courage in overcoming difficulties.
Why would "rise up" require our attitude? When we faced adversity in the past, we hung onto our responsibility, exchanged trust and help, possessed an optimistic attitude and did not retreat. Today Hong Kong is under the rule of "one country two systems", with our country becoming more affluent. If we lack the trust, understanding, optimism, how can we truly rise up? In order to "rise up", we have to maintain perseverance, mutual trust, mutual help and an optimistic attitude.
Why would "rise up" require our actions? The best thing Christians can do for Hong Kong is to pray unceasingly. Let us pray that faith, hope and love will stir up again in our city. The Scripture says, "if we ask anything according to His will, he hears us." To all the brothers and sisters, let us not take lightly their prayers. As long as we earnestly pray in unity, this gigantic force will enable this city to rise up again. May the Lord bless everyone and Hong Kong.