Hi Grace family,
We are into the Christmas season now and days are filled with organising and planning and making ready for all the festivities ahead. Somehow amid this we need to be aware of the people around us so as to not just walk on by, drive on by, or look on by, without connecting intentionally to the people that matter in our lives and the ones that God brings into our lives.
Its also very easy at this time to start saying no! Don’t bother me, I don’t want to be involved in anything else. But be careful as to not block God’s plan and purpose. I posed a challenge to everyone in my message on Sunday. What plan is poised on your permission and what is required to remove your resistance?
The Scriptures show many examples of simple faith and trust in God regardless of the cost and regardless of the likely opposition. The best example of this is Mary the mother of Jesus, who when faced with a lot of unknows but a big promise and a big request, her default position was, “Let it be according to your word.” Or in other words YES count me in. I’m willing.
Such surrender without resistance brought the saviour of the world into existence. What could your simple Yes to the plan and purpose of God do for the people in your world. Maybe a box of mangoes given to a cranky neighbour just may mellow their heart to the gospel. Maybe a prayer meeting started in your workplace could change the whole culture and save your job and others.
Let’s be ready to act and let our Yes be a loud Yes! Just like Mary.
I’m excited for this weekend coming Carols in the Carpark 2025. A simple family time in our grounds to celebrate the birth of Jesus and reach out to our local community. Invite a friend, bring your camp chair and mozzie repellent. Park in Coles car park to leave spaces on site. And please pray and please help as able.
Now thinking about the end of the year. The very last Sunday 2025, the 28th of December, this is Thanksgiving Sunday. This is when you as a church speak up about the goodness of God and testify how he has impacted your life or your family during 2025. So have a short testimony ready and together we will finish 2025 with great gratitude.
See you there!
Christmas blessings love from Pastor Greg and Amanda.