The idea of ‘holiness’ appears in all of this week’s readings in different forms. In Leviticus the people are commanded to be holy as God is holy, and this holiness is revealed in their treatment of one another and their seeking for justice. The psalmist prays for a life that is directed by God’s ways and...
Not surprisingly, there is a clear development this week from last week’s readings. This week the Lectionary continues with the Sermon on the Mount, and with an examination of what true spirituality looks like. Both Paul and Jesus try to engage with us in their teaching. For Paul it’s about growing into a spiritual maturity...
What is authentic spirituality? In what ways do we know – and do others experience – that we have a real, vibrant relationship with God? These are the questions raised by the readings this week. In Isaiah a contrast is drawn between the indulgent spirituality of the people, which leaves them disconnected from God and...
THEME: True happiness What does it mean to be truly happy? Truly blessed? Today’s readings remind us and encourage us of who we are as God’s people and how we are called to live. Identity and purpose – yes!! Start with first part of Micah reading: And what does the Lord seek from you? To...
THEME: Following Jesus Children’s Sermon: Fishing for People (Matthew 4:18-23) Do you enjoy fishing? Have you ever caught a fish? Fishing is a great sport, and if you have ever been fishing and have caught a fish, you know that there’s a great feeling of excitement when you catch a fish. One of the things...
MESSAGE: 15 January 2023 THEME: See, hear and know Jesus Come and see – watch – look – listen up! Being witnesses – News always interviews people for the eyewitness account. How do we eyewitness to Jesus? John the Baptist witnessed beautifully in today’s Gospel. So can we. Answering the call to follow the Lamb...
MESSAGE: Baptism of our Lord Sunday – A – 8 January 2023 THEME: Jesus revealed I’m sure you recognize what I have in my hand. It’s a photo album. Most parents have several photo albums that are full of pictures taken of their children as they were growing up. We have always been very pleased...
MESSAGE: Epiphany Sunday – A – 1 January 2023 HAPPY NEW YEAR! THEME: Epiphany a light for the nations. Arise, shine; for your light has come. What is the Epiphany of our Lord? Who are the major characters? Re-tell the story. It’s Epiphany! Epiphany: a realisation/revelation of the nature of God, shown in...
Merry Christmas! Today is one of the most significant days in the Christian Calendar. Unfortunately, we can easily miss how powerful and transforming this day really is – unless we’re willing to open our lives and hearts not just to the Christ Child, (in the manger) but to the way that God intends us all...
MESSAGE: 4th Sunday of ADVENT A – 18th December 2022 THEME: God with us Two names of the child tells us about the nature of God: Jesus, meaning “God saves” Emmanuel, meaning “God is with us” Where has God been present in your life this week? The Gospel reading for this last Sunday before Christmas...
