Lessons from Big Panda and Tiny Dragon for 2026

I was gifted a book entitled Big Panda and Tiny Dragon by James Norbury last December. Though it contains only a few words, the book is rich with beautiful illustrations and conveys deep, profound messages about friendship and hope. At first glance, it appears to be a book that can be read through in less than thirty minutes. However, to truly benefit from it, one must slow down and take time to reflect on the underlying messages. I have therefore chosen to approach the book at a deliberate pace, reading and re-reading it while making connections to Biblical principles in preparation for 2026.

Before reading further, I would like to clarify that it is not my intention to endorse the philosophy which the author has relied on in writing this book. Rather, it is to acknowledge that, as we read books written by man, we need to be cognizant that God’s Word is supreme and is our guide to all things pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).

Below are five of my favourite quotes from the book which I would like to share in the hope of encouraging and reminding my fellow sisters-in-Christ as we strive to be the light of the world in 2026.

1. Each decision you make on your journey takes you closer or further from where you want to go (p.37)

This quote reminds me of the impact that our decisions has on our spiritual journey, and whether they keep us on the strait and narrow way towards Heaven (Matthew 7:13-14). How thoughtful are we when making decisions? Is God part of our consideration? In Proverbs 14:15, it reads “The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.” Being thoughtful entails using God's Word as the measure and standard to discern between good and bad decisions, for it is the lamp unto our feet and light unto our path (Psalm 119:105). Let us be more intentional and thoughtful in the decisions we make in 2026.

2. I wish this moment could last for ever, said Tiny Dragon. This moment is all there is, smiled Big Panda (p.45)

This quote reminds me of the importance of seizing the moment to do good or to share the gospel. Because of the false perception which we often have in thinking we have plenty of time, we end up procrastinating, delaying important decisions or missing opportunities. The Bible describes life as a vapor (James 4:14) and urges us that “as we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith (Galatians 6:10). May 2026 be a year where we are more present in the moment so that we will not miss opportunities to do good and to share the gospel.

3. Some people are like candles. They burn themselves out to create light for others (p.71)

This quote reminds me of those who are leading and serving tirelessly in our congregation. Are there brethren among us who may be burning out as they are serving others? How can we help to shoulder their load and support them? The Bible reminds us to bear one another’s burden (Galatians 6:2) and to “look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others” (Philippians 2:4). Let us practise more gratitude towards our elders, deacons, full-time workers or even members who shoulder heavy responsibilities in the church by building them up, encouraging them, or offering them support in 2026.

4. The leaves are dying, said Tiny Dragon. Don’t be sad, said Big Panda. Autumn is nature’s way of showing us how beautiful letting go can be (p.97)

This quote reminds me of the importance of letting go, of giving up and of changing. What are the things – habits, possessions, desires – we need to let go to align our lives with our spiritual goals in 2026? In running this Christian race, Paul urged us to “lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1). This can only be possible if we are willing to put off our old self which belongs to our former manner of life (Ephesians 4:22). Just as we would regularly discard unwanted items in our house, we should similarly do so with the ‘unwanted items’ in our lives in 2026.

5. When you light a lantern for someone else, you cannot help but light up your own path (p.111)

This quote reminds me that generosity and service brighten not only the lives of others but also our own journey. As Acts 20:35 teaches, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” When we pour our time, energy, and love into others, our own hearts are illuminated with joy and fulfilment. When we teach, encourage, or share the gospel with others, it deepens our own understanding and renews our spirit through the sharing of God’s Word. Let’s remember that “whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered” (Proverbs 11:25). May 2026 be a year where our light shines brighter as we help and lead others to Christ.