We live in a rapidly changing culture that often seems at odds with the character of God's kingdom. Some Christians choose to reject the surrounding culture, escaping to live separate lives. Others seem to embrace the culture uncritically and end up no different than the world around them. Could it be that a better approach is … Continue reading Mars Hill – Engaging Culture
They Sailed On
Each time I read the Gospels, I never fail to see something new about Jesus and the way he brought transformation to people who he came in contact with. After Jesus calmed the storm, he said to his disciples, "Why can't you trust me?" (Luke 8:25. Message Bible) That's a good question to consider after … Continue reading They Sailed On
Fuel – Focus – Faith
At our staff prayer meeting a few weeks back I was prompted to think and pray about three things as we began a new term of ministry: Fuel, Focus and Faith. Fuel In Ephesians 5:18-20, the apostle Paul tells us to, "Be continually filled with the Holy Spirit." Like a vehicle whose petrol tank gradually … Continue reading Fuel – Focus – Faith
Is it time to De-Clutter Your Life?
Do you feel like your life is cluttered? Are you a hoarder? Do you have stuff everywhere and the piles are only getting bigger? Do you feel overwhelmed? Maybe it's time to de-clutter. For some assistance, why not check out The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up. This #1 New York Times best-selling guide to decluttering your home from … Continue reading Is it time to De-Clutter Your Life?
Lessons from Jesus on Prayer (Pt.2)
Yesterday, we looked at the prayer Jesus taught his disciples. Before teaching that pattern or pathway for prayer, Jesus gave these important instructions: Matthew 6:1-8. When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell … Continue reading Lessons from Jesus on Prayer (Pt.2)
Lessons from Jesus on Prayer (Pt.1)
Jesus taught his disciples how to pray. Matthew records his teaching like this ... Matthew 6:9-15. Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have … Continue reading Lessons from Jesus on Prayer (Pt.1)
The Mystery of Healing
Let's reflect on the mystery of healing today. There is a close connection between love, forgiveness, healing and peace. God revives the humble and contrite … leading them to comfort. Only five of Jesus' healing events in the Gospels involve people dying. The main stories are for the blind, deaf, dumb, paralysed and possessed. In many ways, these can be … Continue reading The Mystery of Healing
God is thinking about you today
How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered. I can’t even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand. And when I wake up, you are still with me. Psalm 139:17-18.
NAIDOC Week
NAIDOC Week is a celebration of the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It’s one of the most important events in the Indigenous calendar, and you might be surprised to hear that it all began with a letter to the churches of Australia. The letter was sent by William Cooper, a … Continue reading NAIDOC Week
Marine Expedition
God's world.The power of the sea.Endless motion. Seasons come and go.The sands of time. Vast humanity.Creation care. Human achievements are but castles in the sand.Erosion. Shaped by relentless movement and motion. His love never fails. His faithfulness reaches beyond - from generation to generation. Mercy un-ending. The finite meets the infinite.
Discerning Truth and Error
Most followers of Christ understand the need to pursue truth and avoid error. Some take it upon themselves to find error and point it out to others. Most churches I know have a statement of faith and their teaching teams speak from this foundation. They believe that the Bible is inspired by God and is … Continue reading Discerning Truth and Error
It’s Halftime!
Today is the 1st July and the first half of 2015 is history! Like a halftime at a sports game, mid year is a good time to stop ... or at least pause ... and reflect. Ask yourself some questions: What has gone well and needs affirming? What isn't going so well and needs adjusting? … Continue reading It’s Halftime!