Join us for three days of Christmas Cheer ...
24/12 - Nativity play (under the direction of Lori - a new theme & focus for the year)
25/12 - Christmas Day (Lessons & Carols - a more traditional celebration)
26/12 - Boxing Day (Christmas blessing on the family - with Holy Communion)
Worship services at 9am for normal Sundays (incl 25th & 26th Dec); Service on Christmas Eve is at 6pm (activities & a bite to eat) for 6:30pm commensement. Because of the nativity play count on about 90min for the service duration.
Currently we are celebrating the Advent season at church: please come along & join us
(for more info, click on: www.livingwordashmore.org )
02 December, 2010
01 December, 2010
Happy holidays to our TLC students and staff
Time flies when you are having fun - and the fun is just about to begin for our college community. Before you know it, school is back and you wonder where did the time go? Time is a precious gift these days, as is our talent and our treasure. In the Bible it advises us to make the best of our time, because the days are evil (meaning that time is so easily robbed from us by the stresses and strains of life and we are left without having done a worthwhile thing). Perhaps these holidays take up this bit of advice and make the most of every day.
Rev'D
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
17 November, 2010
As in the days of Noah
Christ was once asked about indicators for the 'end of days.' He remarked about how our 'last days' are like the days of Noah. What many may not know, is that the Bible has recorded for us the actual day when Noah went into the ark. Once the door was closed behind him, it rained for 40 days and nights. Those days are commenorated each year on the Hebrew Calendar on Cheshvan 17 (in our October running the 40 days to early December).
That event changed the climate and geography of our planet - the last time we actually had climate change. If Jesus is indicating that similar climatic events will accompany the 'last days,' then according to our scientist, we are approaching yet another earth-altering time. How sad for the countless lives lost, with only Noah and his family surviving ... because they trusted in God's Word for them. Are we in similar days, with countless people ignoring the Word of God for their lives? I guess Noah banked on this truth: God said what He meant, and God meant what He said. What are we banking on today, for tomorrow?
Rev.'D
That event changed the climate and geography of our planet - the last time we actually had climate change. If Jesus is indicating that similar climatic events will accompany the 'last days,' then according to our scientist, we are approaching yet another earth-altering time. How sad for the countless lives lost, with only Noah and his family surviving ... because they trusted in God's Word for them. Are we in similar days, with countless people ignoring the Word of God for their lives? I guess Noah banked on this truth: God said what He meant, and God meant what He said. What are we banking on today, for tomorrow?
Rev.'D
End of year
School is in its last weeks. Senior students finishing off their last exams. Closing services and graduation events well underway. Even on the Church calendar, its the last Sunday of the Church year.
The next Sundays are known as ADVENT. It is the season of preparation; in particular it's a season of anticipation of Christ's coming. Of course there is the acknowledgement of Christ's first coming (as the suffering servant who came to take away our sin), but ADVENT keeps the expectation before us of Christ second coming (as judge over the nations and the establishment of his kingdom reign).
In times of trouble, especially as we get to hear about 'wars and rumours of war' from the middle east, it is good to know that God is still involved in our human history. One day we are going to have to give an account for what we have done with our life and the lives of others. Don't mistake God's silence at the moment as an indication that He has left the planet to fend for itself. This is a time of grace ... to let us decide for ourselves if we want God in the picture, or if we want to have an existence without God's blessings, love, and forgiveness. ADVENT calls us to decide!
Rev.'D
The next Sundays are known as ADVENT. It is the season of preparation; in particular it's a season of anticipation of Christ's coming. Of course there is the acknowledgement of Christ's first coming (as the suffering servant who came to take away our sin), but ADVENT keeps the expectation before us of Christ second coming (as judge over the nations and the establishment of his kingdom reign).
In times of trouble, especially as we get to hear about 'wars and rumours of war' from the middle east, it is good to know that God is still involved in our human history. One day we are going to have to give an account for what we have done with our life and the lives of others. Don't mistake God's silence at the moment as an indication that He has left the planet to fend for itself. This is a time of grace ... to let us decide for ourselves if we want God in the picture, or if we want to have an existence without God's blessings, love, and forgiveness. ADVENT calls us to decide!
Rev.'D
01 September, 2010
Happy Father's Day
There is one unique feature in the Christian faith that sets it apart from all others. Jesus taught his disciples to pray in a manner unaccustomed to their former training. Jesus placed our faith experience in the context of an actual relationship with God; in particularly, God as our Heavenly Father!
The Lord's prayer begins with "Our Father in Heaven, ...". No one dared to presume such an intimate relationship with God as that of a family man. Yet, it shouldn't come as a surprise. Just as Jesus was born of Mary (his earthly mother) and also by divine inception (his heavenly status), so we read in Col.2:9 that in Christ the fullness of the deity dwelt bodily. In the Nicean Creed we confess that Jesus is fully man and fully God. In Phil 2:5-11 we read about how God became part of his creation, just as John 1:1-4, 14 claims ... the 'word became flesh.'
So this Father's Day, for us as Christians, we might like to remember that we belong to a huge family; the family of God. And thanks to Christ we now have access to God like it is in a family setting. My kids have access to me, benefit from my provision and love, have the right to come into our home at any time, indeed they have their very own room in our house. A stranger has none of these privileges - a stranger stays outstide at the front door. But through Jesus we are no longer strangers to God, we are family! We have a place in his kingdom; we have a room in his house; we have a seat at his table! And isn't it around the dinning room table where families celebrate all kinds of events with a huge meal for all to share in ... happy Father's Day!
In Christ, we belong to God ... Amen to that!
Rev.'D
The Lord's prayer begins with "Our Father in Heaven, ...". No one dared to presume such an intimate relationship with God as that of a family man. Yet, it shouldn't come as a surprise. Just as Jesus was born of Mary (his earthly mother) and also by divine inception (his heavenly status), so we read in Col.2:9 that in Christ the fullness of the deity dwelt bodily. In the Nicean Creed we confess that Jesus is fully man and fully God. In Phil 2:5-11 we read about how God became part of his creation, just as John 1:1-4, 14 claims ... the 'word became flesh.'
So this Father's Day, for us as Christians, we might like to remember that we belong to a huge family; the family of God. And thanks to Christ we now have access to God like it is in a family setting. My kids have access to me, benefit from my provision and love, have the right to come into our home at any time, indeed they have their very own room in our house. A stranger has none of these privileges - a stranger stays outstide at the front door. But through Jesus we are no longer strangers to God, we are family! We have a place in his kingdom; we have a room in his house; we have a seat at his table! And isn't it around the dinning room table where families celebrate all kinds of events with a huge meal for all to share in ... happy Father's Day!
In Christ, we belong to God ... Amen to that!
Rev.'D
25 August, 2010
Reasons to come along
Over the next months we will have quite a few highlights at our worship services (9am):
* September 5th ... Father's Day special with College invited (Stephan House).
* September 19th ... Disability Services Week with guest speaker Edmund McMahon from the Trinity Lutheran Disability Services, and our own Jennifer Johnston, speaking about the work carried out to help those in need.
* October 10th ... Back to Baptism, celebrating with all our past baptisms
* October 17th ... Affirming our Volunteers (& training for greeters, ushers, etc)
* October 31st ... Reformation Sunday (& congregational meal)
* November 7th ... Service with Primary School at Living Word
* November 14th ... Confirmation Sunday
* September 5th ... Father's Day special with College invited (Stephan House).
* September 19th ... Disability Services Week with guest speaker Edmund McMahon from the Trinity Lutheran Disability Services, and our own Jennifer Johnston, speaking about the work carried out to help those in need.
* October 10th ... Back to Baptism, celebrating with all our past baptisms
* October 17th ... Affirming our Volunteers (& training for greeters, ushers, etc)
* October 31st ... Reformation Sunday (& congregational meal)
* November 7th ... Service with Primary School at Living Word
* November 14th ... Confirmation Sunday
College @ Church
Great to have the College community at church! We have been linking with the College via their 'House' groups. At Trinity Lutheran College these house groups are in honour of past foundation members from the church. They are MacKenzie, Strohmeyer, and Stephan. Along with these links, we invite the primary school to come and join us at Living Word. Last Sunday we had the Prep E class with us as well as the dancers from the Primary School.
Thanks to Ps.Michael for sharing a challenging message based on the question: 'does church make a difference?' Which was then redirected to: 'does Christ make a difference?' There was a moving personal account from his school days, someone he just recently caught up with on Facebook. The difference, that a faith in Christ can make over the years we live, begins early and lasts all the days of our life ... just as rejection early in life, persists over the years. And boy, does it make a difference how our life pans out!
Rev.'D
Thanks to Ps.Michael for sharing a challenging message based on the question: 'does church make a difference?' Which was then redirected to: 'does Christ make a difference?' There was a moving personal account from his school days, someone he just recently caught up with on Facebook. The difference, that a faith in Christ can make over the years we live, begins early and lasts all the days of our life ... just as rejection early in life, persists over the years. And boy, does it make a difference how our life pans out!
Rev.'D
18 August, 2010
Worship w TLC
The Trinity Lutheran College (Ashmore) worships with Living Word on a number of occasions throughout the year. This term we have already seen the MacKenzie House Chapel service which will soon be followed up with the Stephan House Chapel service (Sept 5th). But this weekend we have a special inclusion from the primary school prep class. These services at Living Word have become appreciated for the strong links that are built between the college and the congregation. We thank our Chaplain, Michael Alfson, the Heads of House and school captains, as well as our Principal, Ann Mitchell, along with the Heads of SS, MS, and JS.
Check out details about our college through our newsletter at: http://tlc.qld.edu.au/newsletter.html
Worship service every Sunday at 9am - Ashmore Road Campus at the Trinity Centre building
Rev.'D
Check out details about our college through our newsletter at: http://tlc.qld.edu.au/newsletter.html
Worship service every Sunday at 9am - Ashmore Road Campus at the Trinity Centre building
Rev.'D
Life choices that matter
There are parts in the Bible that are difficult. Difficult because they challenge our comfortable and cosy church belief that God's grace and love will eventually get everyone to heaven. Well, then we come across a passage from Jesus' words, where he says: 'Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people and cause them to choose!'
What's the choice? In the context of our passage (Luke 12:51), Jesus just spoke about his coming again, then demands that we exercise our free will and choose, and then calls us to repentance (that is: to turn around from where we are going and follow him). Now here is my struggle. A small portion of our membership are demonstrating their relationship with Christ through their weekly worship, but a large number of our membership might pop in now and then, or leave it just to Christmas. What choice are they making about the importance of the gift of salvation for them and their future? In my own family there are those who have walked away from the Christian faith. What have they chosen? Would you blame God for the excercise of your own free will? Here is an aspect of the Gospel that is rarely talked about: God lets you decide your future! And it starts right now ...
Rev.'D
What's the choice? In the context of our passage (Luke 12:51), Jesus just spoke about his coming again, then demands that we exercise our free will and choose, and then calls us to repentance (that is: to turn around from where we are going and follow him). Now here is my struggle. A small portion of our membership are demonstrating their relationship with Christ through their weekly worship, but a large number of our membership might pop in now and then, or leave it just to Christmas. What choice are they making about the importance of the gift of salvation for them and their future? In my own family there are those who have walked away from the Christian faith. What have they chosen? Would you blame God for the excercise of your own free will? Here is an aspect of the Gospel that is rarely talked about: God lets you decide your future! And it starts right now ...
Rev.'D
advice: overcoming adversity
Solid as a foundation may seem when it is poured, any foundation is still built on the ground. The Bible gives us the advice to check out the ground before we build anything on it. It was one of Jesus' parables - the one about the man who built his house on sand, the other on rock. The weather factor was then brought into the story as to who survived the storm. Have you ever noticed that when life is generally good to all, it apparently makes little difference what kind of ground you build your life on; not until the storms of life come battering against you? Suddenly it makes all the difference in the world.
The advice we have from scripture to build our life on faith in God is what has helped numerous people weather the storms of life. So what is it that gives people of faith such confidence? Here it is: It is the belief that God can make the difference in our life when we allow Him to. Such confidence built on faith leads many to do great things; actions that serve and bless our wider community. As an example here at Living Word, our support for others in need, like the orphans in India or the displaced people in Pakistan, becomes our way of extending God's rescus when life's storms quite litetally destoys everything we have and hold on to. So, what is left when disaster strikes? Again, here it is: faith the God will use people like you and me to extend a helping hand - to lead people back to solid ground on which they can build their future.
To help financially, please contact ALWS at www.alws.org.au or phone 1300 763 407
Rev.'D
The advice we have from scripture to build our life on faith in God is what has helped numerous people weather the storms of life. So what is it that gives people of faith such confidence? Here it is: It is the belief that God can make the difference in our life when we allow Him to. Such confidence built on faith leads many to do great things; actions that serve and bless our wider community. As an example here at Living Word, our support for others in need, like the orphans in India or the displaced people in Pakistan, becomes our way of extending God's rescus when life's storms quite litetally destoys everything we have and hold on to. So, what is left when disaster strikes? Again, here it is: faith the God will use people like you and me to extend a helping hand - to lead people back to solid ground on which they can build their future.
To help financially, please contact ALWS at www.alws.org.au or phone 1300 763 407
Rev.'D
16 June, 2010
Bible Studies with our College Staff
The term is now coming to a close and the first semester of this year is concluding. Holidays are upon us in just a few more days. To all the school staff - have a plesant R&R!
Posted on our church web site will be the study we have used for the college staff called: 'Digging Thru Daniel.' It is available in two parts - first, on Daniel's life; second, on Daniel's visions. This is an interesting book as it sets out for us the procession of world empires, with one last world empire yet to come in order to fulfill Daniel's visions. When you consider the middle-east events as they unfold currently, then Daniel certainly comes into perspective for our time.
Next study will be: 'Filpping Thru Philippians' / previous studies are also listed on our resource page on the church web page: livingwordashmore.org
Rev.'D
Posted on our church web site will be the study we have used for the college staff called: 'Digging Thru Daniel.' It is available in two parts - first, on Daniel's life; second, on Daniel's visions. This is an interesting book as it sets out for us the procession of world empires, with one last world empire yet to come in order to fulfill Daniel's visions. When you consider the middle-east events as they unfold currently, then Daniel certainly comes into perspective for our time.
Next study will be: 'Filpping Thru Philippians' / previous studies are also listed on our resource page on the church web page: livingwordashmore.org
Rev.'D
PENTECOST SEASON
The first half of the church calendar season in the liturgical year (beginning with Advent) focuses our attention on the life and activity of Christ. Once we move into the Pentecost season, that focus is redirected to the life and activity of the Church - in particular, faith as it relates to the individual Christian and the body of Christ as a whole. Pentecost is sometimes known as the 'Birthday of the Church.' It certainly began with the outpouring of God's gift - the Holy Spirit, with its accompanying gifts and influences (like the fruits of the Spirit).
We celebrated this event with a weekend workshop exploring the ancient Hebrew origins of this festival (as instigated by God - read Leviticus 23). This festival sits fifty days after the first grouping of three festivals (fulfilled in Christ's first coming), and leads into a long period before the last three festivals (yet to be fulfilled). In ancient times this festival was thought to commemorate the giving of the 10 commandments; which is picked up in the New Testament period with the giving of God's Spirit. But it is also a call by God to gather for worship...
Rev.'D
We celebrated this event with a weekend workshop exploring the ancient Hebrew origins of this festival (as instigated by God - read Leviticus 23). This festival sits fifty days after the first grouping of three festivals (fulfilled in Christ's first coming), and leads into a long period before the last three festivals (yet to be fulfilled). In ancient times this festival was thought to commemorate the giving of the 10 commandments; which is picked up in the New Testament period with the giving of God's Spirit. But it is also a call by God to gather for worship...
Rev.'D
05 May, 2010
Happy Mother's Day
In the month of May on the Australian Yearly Calendar, we have a day set aside to say 'thank you' to our mums. We will be treating them to a special champaign morning tea this coming Sunday at our church. But here's a thought. Why wait until we have a date set aside for something that should be a natural occurance every day ... think about it; saying 'thank you' to Mum or anyone else who goes out of their way for us, should happen automatically. This was so important to God, that He wrote it into the 10 Commandments - the commandments for the best practice in relationships; it goes something like this: Honour your father and mother.
These days in our western culture, respect and honour are rare things. We hear that 'you have to earn it before I will give it.' So here is the challenge: 'you have to give it before you can receive it back.' God's Word gives us a principle for life with the thought of sowing and reaping. Sow the seeds of honour and respect into the lives of those who are closest to you and see what happens. It is transformational. Don't wait to do this on just one day of the year; practise it every day and see the results of blessing come back to you: 'You reap what you sow!' Sow the good stuff...
Rev.'D
These days in our western culture, respect and honour are rare things. We hear that 'you have to earn it before I will give it.' So here is the challenge: 'you have to give it before you can receive it back.' God's Word gives us a principle for life with the thought of sowing and reaping. Sow the seeds of honour and respect into the lives of those who are closest to you and see what happens. It is transformational. Don't wait to do this on just one day of the year; practise it every day and see the results of blessing come back to you: 'You reap what you sow!' Sow the good stuff...
Rev.'D
Pentecost Sunday - celebration coming up
John the Baptizer prophecied about a day that would come through the work of the Messiah when we would be baptized with God's Holy Spirit (Matt.3:11). The work of Christ to bring redemption found its fulfillment on this day. The crucifixion dealt with our sin; the resurrection secured for us eternal life; but it is on this day of Pentecost that Jesus gave us the promise of God (John 20:19-23; and John 14:26). From this moment onwards, believers have been empowered by God's Holy Spirit to share the Gospel (Acts 2:1-4; and Acts 2:39).
We will be holding a Pentecost Festival here at the church over the weekend of May 22nd & 23rd with guest speaker and presenter Eileen McDonald from Celebrate Messiah. Participants will discover the Hebrew background to this festival, its fulfillment with Christ, and its meaning and purpose for us Christians today. This church supports Celebrate Messiah's ministry and we have had Eileen speak at previous functions, including last year's Passover Meal. To find out more about their ministry, click on to: celebratemessiah.com.au
Rev.'D
We will be holding a Pentecost Festival here at the church over the weekend of May 22nd & 23rd with guest speaker and presenter Eileen McDonald from Celebrate Messiah. Participants will discover the Hebrew background to this festival, its fulfillment with Christ, and its meaning and purpose for us Christians today. This church supports Celebrate Messiah's ministry and we have had Eileen speak at previous functions, including last year's Passover Meal. To find out more about their ministry, click on to: celebratemessiah.com.au
Rev.'D
21 April, 2010
Easter Season
With Holy Week and the special services, like Good Friday, now a past events, as are the school holidays, it doesn't take long before we are back in our busy routine. Before you know it, the holiday photos are just a reminder of a little escape from all the demands of life. Like a mountain-top experience, we have to leave and return back down to the valley. So often our Christian life is just like that - a moving moment, an inspiration, a conviction ... and then back into the ordinary flow of everyday sameness. What happened to Jesus proclamation: "I have come to give you life, and life in all its fullness" (John 10:10)?
During the Easter Season our readings from the Bible (Lectionary at Church) all draw our attention to an aspect of the Christian life that aims to be a witness of what God means to us. It is based on Jesus' directive: "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you" (John 20:21). The way to stay fresh and connected with any good experience is simply to share it and tell others. The good stuff God shares with us is never meant to be bottled up.
The picture that comes to mind is the rally champion as they shake the champagne and spray it over the crowd as their victory salute. Isn't Easter all about a victory? Let's open the champagne! Let's enjoy the fullness of life given to us through Christ who said: "Behold I make all things new again".
Rev.'D
During the Easter Season our readings from the Bible (Lectionary at Church) all draw our attention to an aspect of the Christian life that aims to be a witness of what God means to us. It is based on Jesus' directive: "Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you" (John 20:21). The way to stay fresh and connected with any good experience is simply to share it and tell others. The good stuff God shares with us is never meant to be bottled up.
The picture that comes to mind is the rally champion as they shake the champagne and spray it over the crowd as their victory salute. Isn't Easter all about a victory? Let's open the champagne! Let's enjoy the fullness of life given to us through Christ who said: "Behold I make all things new again".
Rev.'D
10 March, 2010
The Prodigal son in Luke 15
This parable must surely be the best known of all the stories told by Jesus. The son wishes his Dad dead ('give me my inheritance , NOW!') and makes his way to wreck and ruin. Finally he comes to his senses and makes his way back home. There is a great moment when the Dad welcomes him, but as you read on, the other brother is not happy about this at all!
Family life is difficult. Someone once said: you can choose your friends, but there is no choice with family. I know of many families where there are rifts between siblings or children with their parents. Oh boy, and when it comes to inheritance - there's fuel for family feud.
So when Jesus teaches us to pray and sets up the first line with 'Our Father, who is in heaven', we are brought into the context of God's family - including the dynamics and dysfunctional aspects of each one of us. What a project: reconciliation with God as our Heavenly Father, and through his Son, Jesus Christ, we are brought into a place of healing. Even healing among all of humanity?! Lots of work to be done, lots of egos to overcome, lots of hurt to be forgiven.
Scripture tells us that as Christians we have been enlisted in Christ's cause as 'ministers of reconciliation' (see NT, 2 Corinthians 5:18). Isn't it amazing that is starts in the home?! I know of missionaries who have no fear in going to far away places in the cause of Christ, but are reluctant to share the same zeal for the Gospel with their own family members. So, are we more like the son in this story that rebelled or more like the other son who just refused - both are actually wrong ; both are in desparate need of healing and restoration.
Repentance means: to return and face each other again. God's call is to repent - to return to him, and each other. This is the first step to overcome our problems - then it's ... let's talk!
Rev.'D
Family life is difficult. Someone once said: you can choose your friends, but there is no choice with family. I know of many families where there are rifts between siblings or children with their parents. Oh boy, and when it comes to inheritance - there's fuel for family feud.
So when Jesus teaches us to pray and sets up the first line with 'Our Father, who is in heaven', we are brought into the context of God's family - including the dynamics and dysfunctional aspects of each one of us. What a project: reconciliation with God as our Heavenly Father, and through his Son, Jesus Christ, we are brought into a place of healing. Even healing among all of humanity?! Lots of work to be done, lots of egos to overcome, lots of hurt to be forgiven.
Scripture tells us that as Christians we have been enlisted in Christ's cause as 'ministers of reconciliation' (see NT, 2 Corinthians 5:18). Isn't it amazing that is starts in the home?! I know of missionaries who have no fear in going to far away places in the cause of Christ, but are reluctant to share the same zeal for the Gospel with their own family members. So, are we more like the son in this story that rebelled or more like the other son who just refused - both are actually wrong ; both are in desparate need of healing and restoration.
Repentance means: to return and face each other again. God's call is to repent - to return to him, and each other. This is the first step to overcome our problems - then it's ... let's talk!
Rev.'D
04 March, 2010
03 March, 2010
Figuring out moments of tragedy
Aceh, Haiti, and now Chile. Massive loss of life. 'God have mercy.'
I hate it when I get to hear from pious fundamentalist preachers (mostly from America), that this is judgement sent from God. Jesus confronted the same narrow-mindedness (read Luke 13:1-9) and challenged this mind-set. So sad that we still come across it; especially in the church.
Let's set the record straight: we live in a fallen world (full stop). Stuff happens - including bad stuff like earthquakes, wars, pestilence, and the list goes on. This is part and parcel of living under the curse of death - and it is on all of us. Sometimes it's on a massive scale, other times it happens when a young man commits suicide, at other times it happens to loved ones and we find ourselves at their funeral. Jesus' point here is simply this: death is a reality that confronts all of us. So, with that in mind, it's not an issue of who is worse or who deserves to die more. NO! no! no!
Christ calls us out of that - basically saying, this is not where I want you to end up, so chose LIFE while you have life within you. In this life we have but a few years, but what happens when we breathe our last - will you know where you are going after this life??? Jesus made it clear as to why he came into our history: 'I have come to give you LIFE, and life to overflowing.' (Jn 10:10)
Let's not make a sad situation worse; let's pray for these families and help with our wealth.
Rev.'D
I hate it when I get to hear from pious fundamentalist preachers (mostly from America), that this is judgement sent from God. Jesus confronted the same narrow-mindedness (read Luke 13:1-9) and challenged this mind-set. So sad that we still come across it; especially in the church.
Let's set the record straight: we live in a fallen world (full stop). Stuff happens - including bad stuff like earthquakes, wars, pestilence, and the list goes on. This is part and parcel of living under the curse of death - and it is on all of us. Sometimes it's on a massive scale, other times it happens when a young man commits suicide, at other times it happens to loved ones and we find ourselves at their funeral. Jesus' point here is simply this: death is a reality that confronts all of us. So, with that in mind, it's not an issue of who is worse or who deserves to die more. NO! no! no!
Christ calls us out of that - basically saying, this is not where I want you to end up, so chose LIFE while you have life within you. In this life we have but a few years, but what happens when we breathe our last - will you know where you are going after this life??? Jesus made it clear as to why he came into our history: 'I have come to give you LIFE, and life to overflowing.' (Jn 10:10)
Let's not make a sad situation worse; let's pray for these families and help with our wealth.
Rev.'D
A saint for internet users
Would you believe it, there is a saint for internet users. Lutherans don't get into the saint thing, because, in Christ we are all declared to be saints (not by our efforts, but by the righteous acts of Jesus - transferred to us). But I still think it's worthwhile sharing with you that the patron saint of internet users, computer technicians, students of all ages is ... (drum roll): Saint Isidore of Seville.
This saint dedicated his life's work to collecting knowledge - much like the internet and the pursuit of every student. From a Catholic journal we read that "Isidore's greatest passion was in the field of education. He encouraged the educational institutes in Seville to prescribe the study of Greek, Hebrew, law, and medicine. To many, Isidore was seen as the most learned man of his time. Isidore was born circa 560AD and died on 4th April 636."
I wonder what we aspire to? The Roman Catholic Church recently canonized Australia's first acknowledged saint, namely Mary McKillop. This was recent news on our broadcasting channels. Through the papacy, saints are venerated because of their outstanding life and achievements. So, back to my question - what do you aspire to, so that you will leave a mark of blessing on others? Christ once said: 'what you do for the least of these, you have done it for me.' That makes you think - every one of our actions has a spiritual connection! Some people may not notice (and that should not be our motivation anyway), but it's good to know that God knows.
Rev.'D
This saint dedicated his life's work to collecting knowledge - much like the internet and the pursuit of every student. From a Catholic journal we read that "Isidore's greatest passion was in the field of education. He encouraged the educational institutes in Seville to prescribe the study of Greek, Hebrew, law, and medicine. To many, Isidore was seen as the most learned man of his time. Isidore was born circa 560AD and died on 4th April 636."
I wonder what we aspire to? The Roman Catholic Church recently canonized Australia's first acknowledged saint, namely Mary McKillop. This was recent news on our broadcasting channels. Through the papacy, saints are venerated because of their outstanding life and achievements. So, back to my question - what do you aspire to, so that you will leave a mark of blessing on others? Christ once said: 'what you do for the least of these, you have done it for me.' That makes you think - every one of our actions has a spiritual connection! Some people may not notice (and that should not be our motivation anyway), but it's good to know that God knows.
Rev.'D
24 February, 2010
2nd Sunday in Lent
Our focus this Sunday is based on the Phillipians passage that declares: 'our citizenship is in heaven, and from there we await our Saviour, Jesus Christ.' Paul speaks about 'pressing onward to the goal and win the prize for which God has called me heavenward.' Isn't it amazing how the whole world loves the idea of 'going to heaven,' but want very little to do with the One who 'has gone the way before us, and knows the way back to the Heavenly Father.'
But lets face it, really, most westernized (secular) people actually do not believe in the existence of anything after we have breathed our last. It's a bit like the observation in Ecclesiastes: 'eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow you die.' But God's plan originally had no place for death; that's something that has come into our equation through sin; 'for the wages of sin is death.'
So the idea of being 'citizens of heaven' means that in Christ there is a new reality that defines us (a new position / place / and purpose). A reality that was transformed for us, because Jesus entered our reality (death / second law of thermo-dynamics: everything decays), took it upon himself (read Phil. 2:1-11), and gave us the gift of life (citizenship of a new reality - a heavenly reality / a dimension beyond the normal). Have you got your passport to heaven yet?
Wow! Who would let something like that slip through their fingers?
Rev.'D
But lets face it, really, most westernized (secular) people actually do not believe in the existence of anything after we have breathed our last. It's a bit like the observation in Ecclesiastes: 'eat, drink, and be merry, for tomorrow you die.' But God's plan originally had no place for death; that's something that has come into our equation through sin; 'for the wages of sin is death.'
So the idea of being 'citizens of heaven' means that in Christ there is a new reality that defines us (a new position / place / and purpose). A reality that was transformed for us, because Jesus entered our reality (death / second law of thermo-dynamics: everything decays), took it upon himself (read Phil. 2:1-11), and gave us the gift of life (citizenship of a new reality - a heavenly reality / a dimension beyond the normal). Have you got your passport to heaven yet?
Wow! Who would let something like that slip through their fingers?
Rev.'D
THE SEASON OF LENT - a time to reflect
The season of Lent began with Ash Wednesday and covers 40 days of a journey to the cross.
The first Sunday in Lent focused on Jesus' temptation by the devil in the wilderness. Because of Christ's victory, our sins have been dealt with once and for all - on the cross they were nailed! So the issue of wondering if my sins can separate me from God, well ... that is the main thrust of Paul's arguement in the Book of Romans: 'nothing will ever separate us from the love of God which is ours in Christ Jesus.' But is that it?
Salvation by grace, not by works, is huge! What a burden lifted off our shoulders - we could never ever have done it. If this still is a worry for you, remember Jesus' words: 'come to me all of you who are burdened, and I will give you rest.' It further proclaims: 'all who call upon the name of the Lord, will be saved.'
But Jesus' victory has not left us as 'poor little victims of temptation.' By the way, temptation is not sin (even Jesus was tempted), its what we do once tempted that gets us into trouble. In the Book of Revelation, John records for us seven Churches visited by Christ. With each one, Jesus tells us that he knows what is going on and what challenges we face. Then he says, 'but if you overcome this, then I will give you ...'. In Christ we are more than conquerors; we have been given the Holy Spirit from God - 'we are a new creation, the old has gone, behold the new is here.' So, as scripture declares: 'If the Son sets you free, then you are free indeed.' Temptation will no longer define us, but the very words of God will have their say ... and make it so!
Thanks be to God
Rev.'D
The first Sunday in Lent focused on Jesus' temptation by the devil in the wilderness. Because of Christ's victory, our sins have been dealt with once and for all - on the cross they were nailed! So the issue of wondering if my sins can separate me from God, well ... that is the main thrust of Paul's arguement in the Book of Romans: 'nothing will ever separate us from the love of God which is ours in Christ Jesus.' But is that it?
Salvation by grace, not by works, is huge! What a burden lifted off our shoulders - we could never ever have done it. If this still is a worry for you, remember Jesus' words: 'come to me all of you who are burdened, and I will give you rest.' It further proclaims: 'all who call upon the name of the Lord, will be saved.'
But Jesus' victory has not left us as 'poor little victims of temptation.' By the way, temptation is not sin (even Jesus was tempted), its what we do once tempted that gets us into trouble. In the Book of Revelation, John records for us seven Churches visited by Christ. With each one, Jesus tells us that he knows what is going on and what challenges we face. Then he says, 'but if you overcome this, then I will give you ...'. In Christ we are more than conquerors; we have been given the Holy Spirit from God - 'we are a new creation, the old has gone, behold the new is here.' So, as scripture declares: 'If the Son sets you free, then you are free indeed.' Temptation will no longer define us, but the very words of God will have their say ... and make it so!
Thanks be to God
Rev.'D
16 February, 2010
About St.Valentine
St.Valentine is credited as a patron saint of lovers and romantics. No doubt numerous cards were sent to express affection to loved ones over the weekend. The commercialization of this feast day has made it known as 'Hallmark's Day' in the US. But there is no romantic link to the martyr of the Christian faith that dates back to 197AD.
It was established as a saints day by the Pope in 496AD, but only became associated with romance in the late fourteenth century. Valentine was executed for expressing his 'dying devotion' of Christ as his lord and saviour in defiance of Emperor worship. That aspect of this festival day is today entirely forgotten.
In the opening chapters of the Book of Revelation, the Apostle John has a vision of Christ as he visited the churches. He records for us Jesus' call to return to your first love, to repent, and to do the things when you first believed (Rev.2:2-7). Actually, the entire Bible has sometimes been referred to by scholars as "God's love-letter to humanity." On that basis, happy Valentine's day!
Rev.'D
It was established as a saints day by the Pope in 496AD, but only became associated with romance in the late fourteenth century. Valentine was executed for expressing his 'dying devotion' of Christ as his lord and saviour in defiance of Emperor worship. That aspect of this festival day is today entirely forgotten.
In the opening chapters of the Book of Revelation, the Apostle John has a vision of Christ as he visited the churches. He records for us Jesus' call to return to your first love, to repent, and to do the things when you first believed (Rev.2:2-7). Actually, the entire Bible has sometimes been referred to by scholars as "God's love-letter to humanity." On that basis, happy Valentine's day!
Rev.'D
ALWS - says thank you
Message from ALWS (Australian Lutheran World Service): THANK YOU!
We praise God for the generosity of our people across Australia and New Zealand. As of this morning, $204,117 has been raised for the Lutheran Haiti relief effort, and we are still counting. $100,000 was put to work on 27 January. The next $100,000 will go this week. Please pass on news of this generosity and our ALWS thanks to you church members!
We praise God for the generosity of our people across Australia and New Zealand. As of this morning, $204,117 has been raised for the Lutheran Haiti relief effort, and we are still counting. $100,000 was put to work on 27 January. The next $100,000 will go this week. Please pass on news of this generosity and our ALWS thanks to you church members!
02 February, 2010
70th Wedding Anniversary
I would like to congratulate my Grandparents, Paul & Frieda - or as I call them: Opa & Oma.
They will be celebrating their 70th Wedding Anniversay this weekend.
In my case, the influence I have received from my Grandparents has been formative for my Christian faith
. I remember on one occasion many years back, as we were staying with them for the holiday break, that it came to saying 'good night.' We were asked to say a short prayer upon which I recited a learnt prayer and rattled it off. Mid way through this rote prayer, my Grandfather stopped me and asked if this is how I would like our conversation to proceed from now on. Then he asked me to kneel down and pray from the heart.
This was my first real and genuine prayer. From that moment on, I wanted to seek the heart of God, just as I then knew that God valued what's on my heart. The thought I leave with you, a thought I have learnt from my Grandparents, is simply this: "Seek the Lord while He is near." & "The Lord inhabits the prayers of his people." (Is.55:6 & Ps.22:3)
Rev.'D
They will be celebrating their 70th Wedding Anniversay this weekend.
In my case, the influence I have received from my Grandparents has been formative for my Christian faith
. I remember on one occasion many years back, as we were staying with them for the holiday break, that it came to saying 'good night.' We were asked to say a short prayer upon which I recited a learnt prayer and rattled it off. Mid way through this rote prayer, my Grandfather stopped me and asked if this is how I would like our conversation to proceed from now on. Then he asked me to kneel down and pray from the heart.This was my first real and genuine prayer. From that moment on, I wanted to seek the heart of God, just as I then knew that God valued what's on my heart. The thought I leave with you, a thought I have learnt from my Grandparents, is simply this: "Seek the Lord while He is near." & "The Lord inhabits the prayers of his people." (Is.55:6 & Ps.22:3)
Rev.'D
The offense of the Gospel
Sunday's sermon was based on the Luke passage where Jesus, having used the Isaiah passage about "the Spirit of the Lord is upon me to proclaim good news," basically told his hearers 'but none if it is going to be for you!' (quoting various examples from the past actions of the ancient prophets, like Elijah, to make his point even clearer - just in case they missed it).
Can you imagine that kind of an approach to preaching in the church of today. No wonder those people took offense at Jesus' words and tried to throw him off a cliff. Let's face it, we love good news when it comes our way, but to deliberately by-pass us and assign it to some foreigners; well, that's not on. God once spoke to the church through a modern prophet - namely Martin Luther - and several death threats were aimed at him from powerful people and the established religious order of things. You might say that Luther slaughtered some sacred cows. I read that on a title of a book once which suggested that such sacred cows make great hamburgers.
Religion can so easily become the reason for 'taking offense.' Today we have worship wars (if you can believe that this could be the case in a church), over music styles and preferences: traditional hymns verses contemporary songs ... and how quickly they become sacred cows!
Whatever happened to just being good news, identified by Jesus as the reason for his coming into our world? That sort of thing never gets old. It is needed in so many places on our planet, our neighbourhood, our friends and family. But Jesus' point was not about being on the receiving end, but empowered through the Holy Spirit, to be good news for someone else. St.Francis is quoted as having said: "At all times proclaim the Gospel, and when nessesary, use words."
Let's share more of that around this week!
Rev.'D
Can you imagine that kind of an approach to preaching in the church of today. No wonder those people took offense at Jesus' words and tried to throw him off a cliff. Let's face it, we love good news when it comes our way, but to deliberately by-pass us and assign it to some foreigners; well, that's not on. God once spoke to the church through a modern prophet - namely Martin Luther - and several death threats were aimed at him from powerful people and the established religious order of things. You might say that Luther slaughtered some sacred cows. I read that on a title of a book once which suggested that such sacred cows make great hamburgers.
Religion can so easily become the reason for 'taking offense.' Today we have worship wars (if you can believe that this could be the case in a church), over music styles and preferences: traditional hymns verses contemporary songs ... and how quickly they become sacred cows!
Whatever happened to just being good news, identified by Jesus as the reason for his coming into our world? That sort of thing never gets old. It is needed in so many places on our planet, our neighbourhood, our friends and family. But Jesus' point was not about being on the receiving end, but empowered through the Holy Spirit, to be good news for someone else. St.Francis is quoted as having said: "At all times proclaim the Gospel, and when nessesary, use words."
Let's share more of that around this week!
Rev.'D
17 January, 2010
Second Sunday after Epiphany
The message today centred on the wedding at Cana in John 2:1-11 and as everyone knows, weddings are about 'the two shall become one.' When the wine ran out during the festivities, Jesus was asked by his mum to step in and save the day. His first miracle took place in turning an obscene amount of water into the best ever gold-award-winning wine.
But what's the deeper point of this account? Well, I think the first lot of wine signifies the basic elements of life (grapes) + our human effort, resulting in wine (enjoying the fruits of our works). But that is achieved by constant hard work and runs out very quickly. Without that effort the grapes rot; the basic elements stay as they have always been. So more effort is required. All of life works on this principle: take the raw elements of life, add human effort and you get a new product every time (just like turning rocks of iron ore into steel products for the building trade). But it is temporal at best. Nothing we make lasts; otherwise we would still be driving around in our grandparents' model T Ford. Old stuff rusts away and we have to apply more human effort to come up with something new. Sounds familiar - it should be, humanity has been at this merry-go-round since life began.
Now Jesus comes along at the Cana wedding and introduces a new thing: my life (water in the jars) + Jesus' effort resulting in the miraculous and eternal (see 1 Cor. 12:7&11). Even in the Old Testament, this futuristic thought is found: 'not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord.' The Christian life is all about allowing God to use the basic, normal, ordinary parts of my life and join them in union with Christ's acomplished works to result in the redemption of every part of ourselves, our plans, our decisions, hopes and dreams. John the Baptist knew what he was saying when he proclaimed: 'I must decrease so that Christ can increase.' So, put more of God into your everyday life and see the miracles take shape. Miracles don't happen by 'more effort', but simply by more of Christ impacting our life. Think about it.
Rev.'D
But what's the deeper point of this account? Well, I think the first lot of wine signifies the basic elements of life (grapes) + our human effort, resulting in wine (enjoying the fruits of our works). But that is achieved by constant hard work and runs out very quickly. Without that effort the grapes rot; the basic elements stay as they have always been. So more effort is required. All of life works on this principle: take the raw elements of life, add human effort and you get a new product every time (just like turning rocks of iron ore into steel products for the building trade). But it is temporal at best. Nothing we make lasts; otherwise we would still be driving around in our grandparents' model T Ford. Old stuff rusts away and we have to apply more human effort to come up with something new. Sounds familiar - it should be, humanity has been at this merry-go-round since life began.
Now Jesus comes along at the Cana wedding and introduces a new thing: my life (water in the jars) + Jesus' effort resulting in the miraculous and eternal (see 1 Cor. 12:7&11). Even in the Old Testament, this futuristic thought is found: 'not by might, not by power, but by my Spirit says the Lord.' The Christian life is all about allowing God to use the basic, normal, ordinary parts of my life and join them in union with Christ's acomplished works to result in the redemption of every part of ourselves, our plans, our decisions, hopes and dreams. John the Baptist knew what he was saying when he proclaimed: 'I must decrease so that Christ can increase.' So, put more of God into your everyday life and see the miracles take shape. Miracles don't happen by 'more effort', but simply by more of Christ impacting our life. Think about it.
Rev.'D
06 January, 2010
Topic : JOY
Would you believe that a person once accused me because I was 'too happy' as a Pastor. Personally I don't want to be part of a Church where the message is: 'join us and be as misserable as me.' The Christmas message was all about 'joy to the world,' yet so many Christians haven't even got a clue that it's meant for here and now - not just when we leave this life. Why is joy still so unwelcomed in traditional churches; even suspect and viewed with suspicion as false theology? 'There must be something wrong with you!' They think that Jesus lived his life in a solem and serious way; an ispiration to all medival monks for sure - and all seeking approaval for their religious demeanour. One of the readings during the Sundays after Christmas indicated that Jesus grew is favour with God and with all people. I believe that the message spoken by God's holy angels was incarnate in Christ: bringing joy to the world. While on earth, Jesus infected people during his ministry with joy, peace, hope, and healing. Through his Holy Spirit, Christ continues to work through his WORD to bring 'good news' (Gospel) to you and me. Want to find out more about that? Then follower these blogs .... Rev'd
Epiphany
Well folks, Christmas season is over and today marks Epiphany (6th Jan). That's when the Christmas Tree is packed up in our household. The first Sunday after Epiphany (10th Jan) will focus on the beginning of Jesus' ministry at the point of his baptism. In Galatians 4:4,5 we are reminded that "when the right time had come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive his adoption." During Advent, I mentioned in a sermon that 'I hate religion' - it was based on the text where Jesus said that God doesn't want our offerings and sacrifices. So, how do we have less 'religion with its rules and regulations' and more real Christianity? How do we find our freedom from the LAW? How do we find the JOY to the world spoken of at the birth of Jesus? How do we get closer to what Jesus was on about when he said to his disciples: "I've told you all this so that you might have peace within you. In this world you are going to have trouble, but cheer up; I have overcome the world!" (John 16:33). Join with me on this blog to find out ... Rev'd
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