Dear Friends
I’ve put up those words from Jeremiah 9:23–24 because they were the text of my meditation this morning, and they brought much encouragement to my heart today. A hallmark of the converted heart is a desire to glory in God and in Christ. Those who know God and know themselves understand there is nothing in this world and in human nature that is ultimately worth boasting about. So we desire to glory in God alone, even if we are imperfect in doing that in this life. Matthew Henry, commenting on those verses, said:
“In this world of sin and sorrow … how foolish for men [and women] to glory in their knowledge, health, strength, riches, or in anything which leaves them under the dominion of sin and the wrath of God, and of which an account must hereafter be rendered; it will but increase their misery. Those … who worship God in the Spirit rejoice [and glory] in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh. Let us prize the distinction which comes from God, and will last for ever. Let us seek it diligently.”
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Last week’s Diocesan Synod, held in Greymouth, was a successful one. I’m grateful for the opportunity to attend it, together with our Synod Reps (Mary Griffiths, Alan and Valerie Nicholson). The Bishop’s Synod Charge, titled “Harvest,” focused on the familiar theme of evangelism. This year’s motto, according to the Bishop, is “There is harvest in the basket!”, which follows on from “There is a hole in the bucket” two years ago and “There is hope in the boat” last year. Valerie Nicholson has written a brief report on Synod, published in this Sunday’s service sheet. I commend it to you.
I’m grateful to Rev Kevin Gwynne for taking our services last Sunday, making it possible for me to take the Sunday morning off and spend a bit of time with my family. We went down to Kekerengu, had a lovely lunch at the Store, and enjoyed a leisurely walk on the beach. A nice way to celebrate my 42nd birthday! At Messy Church on Sunday afternoon the team surprised me with a birthday cake – so nice of them to do that! I’m very thankful for such loving gesture!
I give thanks for the success of last Sunday’s Messy Church! We had about 65 people in attendance – a very good turnout given that there was a major rugby match in town that afternoon. Congratulations and a huge thanks to the Messy Church Team for the successful event!
The other Sunday the Chinese congregation had their monthly service and a special celebration of their third anniversary (see photo below). Congratulations to Guan and her team, and we give thanks to the Lord for His blessings upon the Chinese ministry.
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We have some important and exciting events coming up – I ask you to pray for all these and to attend those that you can.
This Sunday we have our final “open meeting” for the evaluation of our Discipleship, Pastoral Care and Children’s Ministries. The focus of the meeting is to formulate strategies for the dreams that we came up with at the previous “open meeting” for those 3 ministries (see below). Please come along at 10am – your participation and input will be much appreciated.
On 29th September we will have a special Combined Service featuring the Baptism of Hunter Uys, with a shared lunch following the service. Please come along and bring a plate of finger food to enjoy and share. The Service will begin at 10.30am.
Other important events:
OLDER PERSONS SEMINAR on 26th September
VESTRY on 26th September
REST & RECEIVE PRAYER: Saturday 28th September. Drop in at your convenience at any time between 2pm and 4pm in our Church to receive prayer ministry and rest in God’s presence.
COMMUNITY SURVEY: Keith Buck has been conducting research into the demographics and needs of our community. He will present his findings at a congregational meeting on Sunday 6th October at 10am in the Hall. All welcome!
MARKET MORNING: 8 weeks to go. We still have places for helpers – response forms at the back of the church. Keep us in your prayers as we get the planning finished.
For other important dates, please refer to the Service Sheet this Sunday.
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This Sunday we will be finishing our series on 1 Peter. I’ll be preaching from 1 Peter chapter 5.
The Lord be with you always,
Deo
