Hi Church,
Family Service lived up to its amazing reputation again. How hilarious was Kaidee and Carin in their presentation of Sling and Stone and the battle of David and Goliath? I could not of thought of a more entertaining way of presenting the story of David and Goliath and seeing Carin fly through the air as a stone after spinning off the back of Kaidee, who played the sling, this will be a sight that is truly unforgettable. Apart from the value of laughing together the true meaning of fulfilling your God purpose even if it seems scary is well worth remembering. It was also good to see some of the young people do some big things for the first time like Jarmaine doing communion and Bethany reading the scriptures.
My message was a wrap up of a very significant week of family moments for myself and sharing at Mal’s memorial service and then a lean into the scriptures found in Ecc3:1-10. These key verses teach us about timing and seasons and how we need to respond appropriately at just the right time to bring about positive outcomes in the relationships that are close to us. We only looked at the first 4 verses but they can be summed up by these points as follows.
1. You have one shot at life so make it count. Verse 2
2. There is a time to prepare for fruitfulness. Verse 2b
3. There is a time to put things right. Verse 3
4. There is a time to show your emotions - it brings you closer to those you love. Verse 4
Everyone goes through different seasons at different times but the important thing especially as a parent no matter how hard, or ugly in the appearance, or long the journey it seems. Do not give up hope.
The promise of Verse 11 is, God will make all things beautiful according to His time.
So I encourage you, to listen again to the message, there was lots of tips for family life. Strong families make for great churches which make for greater communities. Let’s keep encouraging each other, and spurring one another on, to live better together.
For the next two weekends Amanda and I will be away for a week’s holiday crossing over two Sundays. On one of those Sundays, we will be celebrating in Canberra at our Son’s Peter and bride to be Amelia Raymond, engagement party. During this time the services will continue here at Grace with preaching from Paul Betenson and Kerry Medway. Ps Debbie-Ann and the Grace Executive Leadership team will keep the Church moving under God’s direction and care.
Also just be aware that our Kingdom Kids Shed will be leased out for a short term for pre-poll voting for the National Referendum to be held on Saturday 14th Oct. This will mean we have no access from the 5th of Oct to the17th of Oct to the KK Shed. All other services and use of our Church is as normal, but carparking will be difficult mid-week. Church on Sunday will be unaffected. We give thanks to God for the revenue that is generated, by releasing the facility for community use.
See you soon Church
Love Ps Greg and Amanda.