Jesus used concrete examples to help people grasp what the Kingdom of God was like. Jesus taught the Kingdom of God was like the father of two sons, a woman losing a precious coin, a farmer casting seed. As one writer has put it, the kingdom of God is the way life would be “if a compassionate God were in … Read More
When dis-ease becomes a disease
We all live with dis-ease -that uncomfortable feeling when what you are experiencing now could be better. This is a good thing. It means we work hard to address any problems to improve the future. This is how most change happens. Some of us have higher levels of tolerance for chaos and so move slower than others. Eventually most people … Read More
Silly Season opportunities
We are in the last quarter of the year. Summer is coming, and I can almost hear the Christmas tunes in shopping malls. Already we are planning end of year breakups, preparing for school holidays. As we enter the silly season, I want to highlight some opportunities for community, faith and witness. Church camp is very soon, Oct 26-28. Building … Read More
The communities that matter
More than anything else, a community forms people. We know schools educate children, but families shape their character. We know peer groups can have powerful influence on the choices people make and the destinies they reap. In our desire to belong we will change our behaviour and our beliefs. A Church service or teaching program has its place in helping … Read More
The commitment of Church
Last week, after 92 years,my Nana passed away. Nana’s family was her life. With 5 children, 22 grandchildren and 32 great grandchildren, she had a lot to live for! Nana never forgot birthdays, never allowed her grandchildren to do household chores and looked after us like we were royalty. As the eldest grandson, of course I would say, she was … Read More
Where God’s grace brings generosity and joy
God is generous. Jesus’ teaching presumes it. This is why we need not worry. This is why we can confidently approach God and ‘ask, seek, knock’ (Luke 11:9-10). This is why lost people can return to a seeking, loving God. Even suffering and discipline, the writer of Hebrews says should be seen by the followers of Jesus through generosity: ‘God … Read More
Why we grow our giving
Does our Church talk enough about giving money? I think most Aussies believe in asking the question, I have said too much already! Some Churches of course talk a lot about giving. Ours? Not so much. There are lots of reasons we should speak more. Rev Melinda Cousins once gave nine reasons for how when we give financially we are: … Read More
Have you met an unhappy generous person?
Some months back I heard Cameron Doolittle, author of “Joy Giving” speak on generosity. He asked a question that has stuck with me, “Have you met an unhappy generous person?” A spirit of generosity comes with its own blessings. It brings joy to the bearer. It provides purpose to the giver. It cultivates connection and empathy for others. True generosity never … Read More