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Thanks
Thanks...
(1) To Marcel and Paula for offering to prepare the Lord's Supper - that's just tremendous!
(2) Your generosity last week meant over $7000 was collected for disaster victims. What a blessing to see God at work in his people!
(3) A few Sundays ago I thanked Ingeborg for her work with the Newsletter. It occurred to me later that Joyce Krassenburg was an indispensible part of the newsletter production, and Joyce has also brought her time with the newsletter to a close. Joyce, you have been such a great servant - and I'm so sorry I missed you on the day. I salute your commitment to this ministry and we thank you for your service!
9am Sermon Details
Today is a national day of mourning, and of course there is great sadness in many hearts and places. We will consider some words of the prophet Jeremiah in chapter 9, and he certainly knew what mourning was!
Next to the mourning for devastating losses, we have to mourn for our sins, and for the many times that we grieve Almighty God.
5pm Sermon Details
Baptise the BBQ...
Christian sometimes struggle to maintain friendships with people outside their church networks. This does not seem to have been a problem in the NT. Surprisingly, relationships with people who did not know Jesus may have been the backbone of missional success. How can we use relationships as open doors for Jesus' message? Read ahead at Luke 527-32
Question: Why is it so hard to maintain good friendships outside church circles?
Please take Dave's quick poll at http://tinyurl.com/arsw92
Urgent News Item
12th February, 2009.
URGENT
Dear Friends & Supporters,
We have learned today that our children's homes in Asia are experiencing a number of difficulties in the current political climate.
I have two urgent requests:
1. Please do not send any emails, as we suspect they are being monitored closely.
2. Please uphold our people in prayer at this time.
The situation is very tense and their future is at risk.
I will advise as more information comes to hand.
Yours in His service,
The committee.
Prayer
- Remember all those who are grieving as a consequence of the Victorian Fires.
Please prayerfully consider a generous gift to the appeal this Sunday. All funds given will support fire and flood relief
Property Issues:
- Boundary Rd: Please continue to bring the sale of Boundary Rd to the Lord. A good sale will help us reduce our debt
- We are seeking discernment about the viability of the boundary restructure on the Sturgeon St properties. Please pray that the Committee will be wise and good stewards
Backyard Mission - 14 Feb - This Saturday
Backyard Mission - mother of all missions - Saturday 14 February.
We have been called to a big job - ½ an acre with plenty of cleaning up, a LARGE tree (dead) to be cut down (unsure if this is achievable), several small trees and banana plants to be felled, trimming and hedging. This is for a 90 Year old lady who has been taken advantage of by a mowing contractor.
Required for the job - we have full vehicle access to the rear of the property so I would be looking for:-
- manpower
- mowers
- manpower
- trimmers
- manpower
- chainsaws (Cor and Frank - if you are available, would like to solely leave this to you if possible)
- manpower
- Ride on mower (look at perhaps taking the Church's)
- manpower
- trailers
Would be great to get a full turnout to lighten everyone's load. This is a lovely lady who needs to be shown some of the God's love as she has been badly treated of late.
Address is 19 Willowie Crescent Capalaba.
Please let me know asap if you are able to attend. I would be looking at leaving from the Church at 8.15am for anyone that needs a lift.
Cheers
Chris van
Dan Kroon
This week the Elders discussed Dan Kroon's appointment at Redlands CRC. Last March, before we heard the wonderful news about Clinton, we agreed to appoint Dan full time until the end of June 2009. Things changed a little when the Elders approved Clinton's request for extended leave.
We want to affirm Dan, and we remain thankful for the great work he's doing. Yet the end of June will be here before we know it, and we would not relish the prospect of Dan's work coming to an abrupt close at that time.
So we want to recommend to the congregation that Dan's full time appointment be extended to the end of 2009.
We will bring this as a formal recommendation to a forthcoming breakfast meeting in March. We just wanted to let you know about this in advance so we can all prayerfully consider.
Lords Supper
Lords Supper ... can you help?
Each time we celebrate the Lord's Supper, there are just a few tasks to be done: get some tables ready, buy bread and juice, fill some glasses, etc. We are in need of someone to take this task over. If you would like to bless your church family by doing this, please contact Dave or Margaret Nugent
Video Ministry
If you would like to have some fun with video creation and editing contact Josh! - josh@royalfoods.com.au
Whatever your skill level is, it doesn't matter. We're playing with a few things over the next couple of weeks and would love you to be involved. Also if you have a digital video camera it'd be great to hear from you!
Triple C Club
You are all invited to join us for a time of coffee, chatting and crafts.
When: Tuesday Mornings starting the 3rd February 2009
Where: Redlands Christian Reformed Church
Time: 9.30am - 11.30am
Who to contact: Anna 3207 4228 or Sherri 0415 835 533
This will be a time of sharing and getting to know one another, so bring along whatever your craft is and come and join us for a coffee and a chat.
We look forward to seeing you there.
"Lets start making a difference together"
5pm Sermon Details
Telling our story can be one of the most impacting ways to share the good news of Jesus. On one hand, it is the power Jesus has to enter into a person's story, show them love and grace, save them from sin and turn their life completely around. But on the other hand, each story that features the saving work of Jesus is part of a much bigger story - God's story of salvation and redemption! Each of our lives is like a mini version of God's restoring work in the world. So, our testimony not only helps other people to identify with real life circumstances, it also points to God's great story of hope and rescue, which sees it's climax in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ! Your story is not just for you... God can use it to bring more people to know Jesus. Have a look at the story of the blind man in John 9 for an example.
9am Sermon Details
Disaster: Why?
It has been a terrible week, hasn't it? I have stared at my screen or TV more than a few times and have just been assaulted by the level of destruction and the heaviness of grief in Victoria and to a lesser extent, northern Queensland.
The questions just keep coming: Where is God in all this? Why do these things keep happening? Why?
Sunday AM we'll seek to place ourselves in Scripture's light, and find some meaning in what God has to say. We will be praying. We will be seeking. And together we'll search for Jesus' comfort together. Read ahead at John 9:1-3, Ecc 9:1-12
(Dave's 'Missional Manifesto' will resume on Sunday March 01, Keith Warren will be preaching on Sunday Feb 22 at 9am)
Sunday: Fire & Flood Relief Collection
This Sunday Redlands CRC will hold a special relief appeal for the victims of fires in Victoria and the floods in northern Queensland.
We will pass on the full 100% of Sunday's giving, with 50% to flood relief and 50% to the bushfire appeal.
Funds will be disbursed through the government appointed channels in each case
- Floods: The Premier's Relief Fund
- Fires: The Australian Red Cross
In both cases the agencies have guaranteed that that 100% of donations will be given to people in the worst affected areas.
These agencies have a proven track record, the necessary infrastructure, and public accountability.
We encourage the entire church family to give generously and to assist those who have been traumatised by these terrible disasters.
Remember how the King will reply, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it for me." (Matt 25:40)
Please continue to pray for the many families affected and the thousands of homeless. Pray for churches and emergency aid organisations as they seek to bring help and assistance in this very difficult time.
Further reading:
My blog: http://davidgroenenboom.com
ABC News: http://www.abc.net.au/news/
9am Sermon Details
Prayer is where the heart is
Ever examined what you actually pray for over the period of a week or so?? What tends to be the focus of your prayers? Do you think your prayers show the true focus of your heart, and is this a good focus? When we look at Jesus' prayers, and Paul's prayers, this is, in fact, what we see. On Sunday 9am, we'll be looking at the role of prayer in joining God's mission. You can read ahead at Colossians 4:1-4 and Rom 15:30-33.
Creche
EVENING CRECHE - more helpers for evening creche are urgently needed. Please see Margaret Nugent or email mnugent@redlandscrc.org.au if you can help in this ministry. If we can get enough people on roster we try to keep it to a once every 6 week commitment.
GEMS
Gems Girls Club
We are starting the year off again every second Friday night from 6.30 - 8.30pm. The first meeting will be on Friday 6th February at the church hall. We would love to see any girls of the grades 3 - 7 attend this club so if you are interested in sending your daughter/s and/or their friends, please contact me (Margaret Bos) on 32865272 and I will be able to give you more information. We have lots of fun in a christian environment.
Backyard Mission - 14 Feb
Backyard Mission - mother of all missions - Saturday 14 February.
We have been called to a big job - ½ an acre with plenty of cleaning up, a LARGE tree (dead) to be cut down (unsure if this is achievable), several small trees and banana plants to be felled, trimming and hedging. This is for a 90 Year old lady who has been taken advantage of by a mowing contractor.
Required for the job - we have full vehicle access to the rear of the property so I would be looking for:-
- manpower
- mowers
- manpower
- trimmers
- manpower
- chainsaws (Cor and Frank - if you are available, would like to solely leave this to you if possible)
- manpower
- Ride on mower (look at perhaps taking the Church's)
- manpower
- trailers
Would be great to get a full turnout to lighten everyone's load. This is a lovely lady who needs to be shown some of the God's love as she has been badly treated of late.
Address is 19 Willowie Crescent Capalaba.
Please let me know asap if you are able to attend. I would be looking at leaving from the Church at 8.15am for anyone that needs a lift.
Cheers
Chris van
5pm Sermon Details
Where do we aim to get people? The head or the heart? That's one of the questions we face when we think about evangelism. Do we pile them up with data and information or do we just say, "Jesus loves you."
Well, the truth is, there is no right or wrong answer here. Some people need to be convinced in their minds before they believe in their hearts and others just need to feel loved. This week we want to think about the intellectual approach to evangelism - and the question, "Is Jesus relevant in today's culture?" If not, what are we doing to change that. Some of us, especially, are called to know Jesus, know the culture and make that link between the two, just as we see Paul doing in Acts 17:16-34... Have a read!
Newsletter Changes
Hi church
Recently you will have noticed some changes to the Sunday newsletter. Given that some questions have been asked, we thought it would be good to let you know why some of these changes have been made.
- Ingeborg de Ruysscher has volunteered her time to compile the newsletter for many years. Ingeborg has done great work. She has done this tirelessly and without complaint. In the first half of 2008, Ingeborg advised us that she'd like to bring her involvement to a close. As a result we asked for others to give their time to continue this work. The newsletter is currently published using software that many people are familiar with, however no one with the required skills came forward.
- Over the last years considerable printing costs were being incurred. The estimate is that the newsletter alone cost over $8000 last year. As time went on, we believed this was not a God honouring use of finances.
- Given Ingeborg's wish to conclude her involvement, inability to find a replacement for Ingeborg, and the rising costs of production, the leadership decided at the end of 2008 to make some changes the newsletter along the following lines:
- The outer cover of the newsletter will be redesigned and eventually bulk printed commercially. "Back text" will be added by passing the wrappers through the photocopiers, as opposed to the colour printer. This will greatly reduce costs
- The inner pages will have less content. Only information about the Sunday messages, and other urgent material will be placed in the printed weekly copy
- Once a month a newsletter with more detailed information and rosters will be published
- We believe these changes will be fine, as most people now read much of RCRC's news on the eNews network, and there is less reliance. Changes have been made so eNews releases communicate more effectively. We will try to limit these releases to two or three per week. You can subscribe to eNews by visiting RCRC's website.
- If your notice does not appear in the newsletter it does not mean that your ministry is not valued. We would ask that if you have material people need to hear about, please ensure that it goes to Wendy Hammond before 12:00 noon on Wednesdays. Material can also be sent to the newsletter email before 12 noon on Wednesday
We ask you to be patient while these changes are implemented. There are always teething problems. Margaret Nugent is our Ministry Administrator, and Leadership never intended for her time to be taken up with newsletter production. Even so, Margaret has graciously offered to assist us with this.
If things do not quite meet your expectations in this time of transition, please remember, this is not a time to be critical or rude, but to be like Jesus. Show his grace, and encourage those who serve. Keep some perspective: When we appear before the Lord on the great day, he probably won't ask us too many questions about what we thought about the newsletter...
Comments or questions about the newsletter need to be directed to Pastor Dave.
Shalom,
Dave Groenenboom
Prayer Meeting
PRAYER MEETING will commence again on 1st February - meeting weekly at 4pm at the church. (Admin office). This is the same group which used to meet on Wednesday evenings but we have had to change meeting time. All are welcome to join in prayer for our community. For more info. contact Cameron Nugent (0402 265 484).
Mid Week News
URGENT NOTICE - CARWASH POSTPONED
The carwash planned for this weekend has necessarily been postponed. Don't fret!! There will be another opportunity to get all sudsy on Satuday 7th February. James Sikkema, Ross Tenni and a group of other Redlands College students will be holding a car wash to raise funds for a mission trip to the Phillipines. They would love your help, and your dirty car to wash! More details to follow this weekend.
Sunday
9am: Our Missional Manifesto - 1 Cor 9:12b-27
Want to know what RCRC is really on about? Want the big picture on where we are headed? Then you need to lock into this new teaching series. It will help you understand the ‘why' or our planning and ministry, and it will help you understand more about the CRCA. Whether you're new to RCRC or an old timer, there are bound to be a few surprises.
When it comes to planning, goals and strategies, some people suggest all that sort of stuff is an invasion of business methodology into the church. Every thought about that? This series will help us understand that Jesus had a plan, and he followed it. Paul had a plan, and he followed it. God has a plan, and the Scripture is the story of him following that plan and bringing it to completion in Jesus.
The question we all need to ask, then, is "do we see how important it is to be intentional about planning what we do, how we are going to do it, and why it all matters?
5pm: In the age of acceptance and tolerance we often find ourselves trying to mould the gospel into something pretty and non-offensive before we feel ready to share it with others. We want people to like Jesus and like Christianity and like us, don't we? Yet, Peter reminds us that the gospel of Jesus is confronting, making people stumble and fall. It is not a pretty lifestyle, but a bold declaration of Jesus, the Son of God.
Though we are not all gifted as preachers and public speakers, we can all seek to become bolder in our sharing of the gospel. We're not called to be chickens for Jesus. And people need to see that Jesus gives courage and that the Christian faith is worth making a stand for. For those gifted in confronting people, Peter's example in Acts 2 encourages you to 'tell the gospel like it is' - there is definitely a need for such boldness.
Upcoming series
The Normal Christian Life
- Sermon Series on Evangelism.
We often see "evangelism" as the scary extra that comes on top of our "Normal Christian Life." It's something we constantly feel challenged about, but mostly just guilty about. It seems unnatural, awkward, and just plain embarrassing. So, more often than not we avoid it. Yet, it's often our false and narrow view of evangelism that has scared us away. The picture we find in the Bible, of the lives that are touched by Jesus, is that "The Normal Christian Life" is all about evangelism. It is a natural response to the effect that Jesus has on people - on us.
The purpose of this series is to show the diversity found under the topic of ‘evangelism' - that no one needs to fit any special mould of an ‘evangelist'. Once this hits home, sharing the good news about Jesus becomes the most natural thing to do. God can and will use what is unique about you - your gifts, personality and contexts - to spread the unique and amazing story of his Son with those who need to know. You are part of his plan to bring hope to his world!
Foundations - starts Feb 11
Reserve a place for you or your small group through Marg Nugent: mnugent@redlandscrc.org.au; 3286 4700
EVENING CRECHE
More helpers for evening creche are urgently needed. Please see Margaret Nugent or email mnugent@redlandscrc.org.au if you can help in this ministry. If we can get enough people on roster we try to keep it to a once every 6 week commitment.
Blacktown CRC
Hi Everyone,
As it's the beginning of a new year, I'm just sorting out my email list for sending out the Blacktown Christian Reformed Church bulletin. I just thought I would ask if there are any ex Blacktownonians or other interested people out there who would be like to receive it on a regular basis. If so then please let me know your details.
Yours in Christ, Jack Kapinga.
crca-bounces@lists.crca.org.au
Sign up for Foundations now!
Foundations - commences Feb 11
In just over two weeks time RCRC starts an exciting new ministry.
Foundations is designed to stimulate our growth, our understanding and our fellowship.
Foundations majors on learning together in a way that
- Gives you a deeper sense of following Jesus
- Helps you grow with others
- Deepens your prayer life
- Opens your mind to what Christianity is all about
Each week of Foundations you will
- Learn a core Christian truth
- Do some engaging bible study in a relaxed and relational setting
- Learn great background information
- Discover more of the fullness of life in Jesus
Foundations is designed for
- New and old Christians alike
- People who really want to grow
- Those who want their faith to relate to life
Who should come?
- Small groups (bring your entire group!). They'll love it!
- Individuals: great way to grow and meet people
- Young and old alike: great way to learn from one another
What you need to commit to
- Register before Feb 8: Please email mnugent@redlandscrc.org.au or phone on 3286 4700 to reserve your place. Resources are limited, and we need to know who's coming. Please don't just roll up on the night: we probably won't have material for you if you do
- Each week: complete your study. This consists of some brief reading, some bible study, and answering some questions. It's not hard work, but you will need to discipline yourself, and that is a good thing.
- Attend every session. All who come will be placed in smaller groups of people to interact with the material. They will be depending on you to be regular. Each unit will go for about 6 consecutive weeks
- Pray: that Foundations will be a blessing to RCRC as we walk the path of discipleship together.
Foundations is designed specifically to assist small groups, not replace them. We have often talked about deepening our teaching and stretching us toward maturity. Here is a great opportunity for us to work toward some of those goals!
Questions? dave@redlandscrc.org.au or mnugent@redlandscrc.org.au
Help Wanted...
Victoria Point State High School are in need of some "real men" to help teach life-skills to the boys in Grade 8 this year. This would be done through small talks about drinking, bullying, being men, etc. As well as sporting activities that teach them rules and teamwork. This would involve about 40 boys each week on Wednesday mornings between 10:30 and 11:40.
If you think you could help at short notice, please contact Dan on 0438 332 695. Ultimately, we need someone to help plan out a program and run some effective sessions. This is a great opportunity to mentor some young people for a better future.
Mid Week News
Sunday
9am:Compromise and toleration!
This morning there is correspondence for the church at Smyrna, and this letter is also for the church at Redlands!
In Smyrna there are plenty of distractions, especially for Christians. But the church there remained faithful even in a tough situation. But even though these Christians had maintained their acceptance of the truth, they nevertheless tolerated in their fellowship some false prophets. Was this a matter of sacrificing some truth for the sake of love? Or had they just become slack?
The Lord of the Church rejects this attitude of compromise. Repent!
5pm: As the year begins, we're all making lots of plans and goals. We're thinking about our priorities and our directions. For some of us, perhaps the year is already looking a little busy. Do you want to be a better reflection of what it means to follow Him in 2009? Interestingly, this is not far from any of us, and the most surprising thing is that it comes through very surprising means. Read ahead at Matt 15:21-28
Car Wash
Car Wash Saturday 31st January 8.00am-12.00 midday.
Raising funds for School Chaplaincy in the Redlands. We need helpers to wash cars, cook sausages and serve morno's to our clients.
Contact Damien Watson Ph 3829 3468 for more info.
The Triple C Club
You are all invited to join us for a time of coffee, chatting and crafts.
When: Tuesday Mornings starting the 3rd February 2009
Where: Redlands Christian Reformed Church
Time: 9.30am - 11.30am
Who to contact: Anna 3207 4228 or Sherri 0415 835 533
This will be a time of sharing and getting to know one another, so bring along whatever your craft is and come and join us for a coffee and a chat.
Have you ever....
- Wanted to play house or trucks with someone who really knows how?
- Wanted to make the difference in the life of a child?
- Wanted to be the tallest in the room?
- Wanted to sing songs with silly hand motions and not worry if you mess up?
- Wanted to give a new mum a chance to regain her sanity while experiencing God's love through other mums?
- Wanted to feel truly needed and appreciated?
- Wanted to tell a joke to a crowd that will laugh even if it isn't funny?
- Wanted to make a bump feel better just by kissing it?
- Wanted to share the love of Jesus with a young child who has never heard of Him before?
- Wanted someone to really appreciate your artistic skills?
If you answered YES to any of these questions and you have 2 1/2 hours to give just 2 Wednesdays a month then MOPS has an opportunity for you!!!
We are currently looking for more carers to help support our growing MOPS ministry. Because Better Mums make a Better World.
MOPS begins again on 4 Feb. Please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry!
Call Wendy 0400 197 208 or email mops@redlandscrc.org.au
Junior Leaders 2009
What is it: Junior leaders is a program designed to develop young people into servants of Christ, challenging them to grow in their faith.
Who: Young people (13 years or older)
What is involved: A team meeting once each term plus a weekly commitment to serve in one of the RCRC ministries.
How long: The program takes two years to complete but a one year commitment is required.
For more information email lisa@redlandscrc.org.au or collect an enrollment form from the welcome desk.
Thank You!
Dear Church Family! We wanted to say THANK YOU so much for all of your wonderful, generous, loving support throughout the 2008 year as we prepared to have our precious gift from above, Malachi James! Thank you for the beautiful gifts, words of encouragement, and all of the meals that we were blessed with and enjoyed. Thank you to all the visitors at hospital and at our home after Malachi's arrival into the world. We are so grateful to be a part of the body of Christ at RCRC! We were thrilled for many of you to meet my wonderful mother, Nancy. You all made her feel very welcome and encouraged that she is leaving her daughter and darling new baby grandson in such caring hands. We look forward to this new year as we watch Malachi grow and be surrounded by the love of God through the body of Christ!
Eternally Serving HIM,
Lance, Ruth, and Malachi Bishop
"I will praise You, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will tell of all Your marvellous works.
I will be glad and rejoice in You; I will sing praise to Your name, O Most High." Psalm 9:1-2
Back To School Supplies
When you buy the school supplies for your children, why not buy an extra set and put them in a bag in the foyer for the Redlands Community Centre. That way you can help families in our community who are not able to afford some of the basics or essentials for their children.
Suggested items: Pencils, Pens, Pencil Cases, Excercise Books, Textas, Colouring Pencils, Crayons, Rulers, Folders, Binders, Rubbers, Sharpeners.
Solomon Islands Exercise Books
Keep an eye open for the specials on Exercise Books. The SWIM group at Solomon Islands would love to be able to give more exercise books out to the children in the schools there. And at this time of year they are available for as low as 5cents each! Please place your purchases in the foyer at church, and we will make sure they are on the next container being sent to the Solomon Islands. If you are able to buy pencils and sharpeners too, that would also be helpful.
Likewise, if you have any school textbooks that are no longer being used, the schools would welcome the additional resources.
Exchange student
A 16 year old German female exchange student is looking for a family to host her for 4 months (July till October 2009). If anyone is interested or has questions please feel free to email me at the following email address.
Regards
Petra Jung [pjung24@gmail.com]
Ladies Retreat
Are you longing.....
- to deepen friendships with other women from church
- to talk with a friend without interruption
- to sleep in
- to be encouraged by other Christian women
- to have a weekend without cooking, serving or clearing away
- to choose how YOU would like to spend a Saturday afternoon
- to use sheets and towels that you don't have to wash when the weekend is over?
...then come with us!
COST-$200
Includes hotel style triple share accommodation (all linen supplied), buffet breakfasts, Friday and Saturday night dinner and Sunday light lunch.
Deposit of $50 payable immediately
Further payment of $50 payable by 31st January
Balance of $100 payable by27th February 2009.
Please see Margaret in the Office or to Sherri Greeff or Paula Doedens for Registration forms.
New Years Revolutions
Welcome to 2009
It may be nineteen days late, but I've been on leave for the last three weeks, so this is the first chance I've had to express some thoughts and prayers I have been working through for the two months. I have called these ‘New Year's Revolutions', because most of them I just want to keep rolling around, returning, reforming and reframing with greater focus.
So here's what I am looking at
- I want a more prophetic and challenging ministry. That means I want to listen to what's going on in my life, the lives of people around me, the culture in which I live, and hold that up to God's call to be a people implementing and anticipating new creation. I want to speak to and expose our blind spots and the complacencies of my own culture. I want this to be decisive, incisive and breathed by the Spirit. Please understand: I do not want to suggest that we are all slacking off. The truth is, there are lots of people at RCRC who are great servants in great ministry. But we do have a tendency to favour what like and want, rather than true needs around us. I 2009 I would love to see that change
- I want to see more spiritual passion. I could be wrong, but sometimes I sense that we're wary about a rich expression of following Jesus in life and worship. Whether it's a lavish gift, some outward expression of heartfelt joy, or a rich sense of community and acceptance when the community of Jesus followers gather. For this reason, I think it would be good to ask a few questions of ourselves:
- Is my celebration of God as expressive as my celebration of great exam results or the victory of the team I love? Which one is better? Which gives me more hope?
- Is my welcoming of Jesus followers on Sunday as warm, expressive and heartfelt as the meeting of a best friend I have not seen for a long time? Does our expression of community say something about the wonderful transformation Jesus has brought and is bringing?
- Is God really the centre of my celebration on Sunday? How could I give better expression of this with his new community?
- I want to lead and preach toward full commitment and Christ centeredness. We all know perfection only comes when Jesus returns so I'm not thinking of dividing us into business class Christians and the economy variety: some Christians who have ‘made it' and others who haven't. But let me ask you - and let me keep asking you:
- Are you in top spiritual condition? Where do you rate yourself on a scale of 1-10 where 1 is ‘not at all Christ centred', and 10 is ‘as Christ centred as I think I can be'. Let's say you give yourself a 6/10. Do you think God is satisfied with that? If not, what do you have to do to move up a notch? What attitudes have to change? What do you need to put to death? What needs to come alive?
- Is RCRC in top spiritual condition? What needs to change? What do we need to do more, and what should we be doing less?
- Are you in a context where you are being stretched theologically? Where your desire to know God and serve him is really being deepened? Are you seeking greater opportunity to grow? Have you made a goal to nurture your faith significantly in 2009? Have you signed up for Foundations? (watch this space)
- I want to see RCRC truly embrace a healthy outward focus. We've talked a lot about this: serving our community, being salt and light, being an agent of hope for Redlands. Now we have take it to the next level. I know we are all busy. Me too. I probably can't do more things than what I am doing at present, so I need to think of the following:
- What can I drop or do differently? Letting something go doesn't mean I no longer agree with it, or that it's become bad. It may just mean that as I change and meet new opportunities being a good steward means I need to do things differently
- What will I do to specifically serve the outward mission of the church? Jesus has given his transforming love to me minute by minute - so how will I implement something of his transformation in my life? You may not be Mother Theresa, but here are 10 suggestions (as distinct from commandments) to start you on your way:
- visit some lonely people
- cook a meal for the single mum a few doors away
- ring/email school chaplains to let them know I'm praying for them
- offer to mentor a child at a local school
- get involved in something like the Matthew Stanley Foundation or the Melanoma Awareness Foundation - two causes that have been too close to home for many
- help Meals on Wheels
- pray for the Missional Communities group at RCRC
- send regular encouragement to those involved in RE teaching
- support RCRC specifically engaged in evangelism ministry
- just pray daily for my church to move from ‘in here' to ‘out there'. Pray for Ministry Team people like Dan Neville, Geoff Hughes and Rod McWilliams as they seek to lead us into this
And then, a wish: I would love to see some healthy creative ministry develop, specifically for powerful communication at Sunday services. I am not talking about 'skits' so much, as well produced, well presented, dramatic presentations that support, add texture, and harmonise with what preachers like me present. These can be so powerful!
I wouldn't mind betting that there are a few people in the RCRC family who could run with this - speak to me! What a great way to use your talents and gifts to bring God's message of grace and hope to people!
Friends, I know this year will have its share of challenges. We all, by God's grace, need to pull together and in the same direction. Ours is the rich privilege of taking the blessings God has so graciously poured out on us, and using them to bless those who have no hope, or power, or love. God has blessed us with life in Jesus, and this year we get to celebrate it afresh with one another.
What we need to understand it that the purpose of that life and blessing is to carry it to the community around us, so that the world may know there is a God who is transforming His world through His Son, Jesus.
Shalom,
Dave
Feedback: dave@redlandscrc.org.au
Mid Week News
Sunday
9am: Often we find ourselves in times of apathy in our faith. Our efforts seem to be going nowhere and we wonder if doing anything is worthwhile. We get mixed messages from people, some saying we have to wait and let God work in us and others saying we need to take initiative and let God work in what we do. And so the question comes to mind, "Do we have to try?"
In John 15, Jesus teaches us that our Christian lives need a bit of both. God is the one who bears fruit in our lives and makes us grow as Christians. But Jesus clearly calls us to remain in him also. He calls us to try, to put in the effort and make it a priority to live and exist in Jesus, drawing from his unlimited life-source. When we do that, a passion to serve and bring glory to God is promised.
5pm: TIME magazine has honoured Barrack Obama as the "2008 Person of the Year". Do we live our lives in such a way that we matter? What kind of recognition or honour would you receive? What would it take for us to have our picture on the cover of TIME magazine? As we think about the year ahead, how we live our lives today will have an impact on how we will live our lives into the future and even eternity. Jesus is prepared to do for us in heaven what we are prepared to do for him on earth. We are to live our lives in such a way that we will receive divine recognition.
Summer in the Park
You are all invited to join us for a time of sharing and fun.
When: Wednesday 21st January 2009
Where: Wellington Point BBQ picnic area
Time: 5.30pm onwards
What to bring: BYO BBQ or picnic, chairs, family and friends
This will be a time of sharing and getting to know one another, so bring along your bbq or picnic supper and lets enjoy our summer in the park together.
We look forward to seeing you there.
"Lets start making a difference together"
The Triple C Club
You are all invited to join us for a time of coffee, chatting and crafts.
When: Tuesday Mornings starting the 3rd February 2009
Where: Redlands Christian Reformed Church
Time: 9.30am - 11.30am
Who to contact: Anna 3207 4228 or Sherri 0415 835 533
This will be a time of sharing and getting to know one another, so bring along whatever your craft is and come and join us for a coffee and a chat.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Junior Leaders 2009
What is it: Junior leaders is a program designed to develop young people into servants of Christ, challenging them to grow in their faith.
Who: Young people (13 years or older)
What is involved: A team meeting once each term plus a weekly commitment to serve in one of the RCRC ministries.
How long: The program takes two years to complete but a one year commitment is required.
For more information email lisa@redlandscrc.org.au or collect an enrollment form from the welcome desk.
Burma Mission Trip
Seeking people interested in a Mission trip to Burma New Life Orphanage. - April 2009.
A group teaching trip is planned for this year and there are still a couple of vacancies for those who are interested. This is an educational trip and we are particularly interested in people who may have skills in any of the following areas. - handcrafts (for boys and girls), drama, dance, teaching english, or piano.
We will be leaving 30th March and returning 11 th April. (easter Saturday)
Please keep in mind that this is an extremely hot and humid time of year and you will need to be reasonably fit and healthy.
The cost will be approximately $2500 - for flights, food and accommodation. Personal spending money is extra.
This is a trip that will be a blessing for the 200 children and leaders but in turn be a great experience and blessing for you.
Please consider, pray about it and if you are interested, I am keen to speak with you. My mobile number is 0416 000 412 or email : janette@royalfoods.com.au
Janette Hemelaar
Have you ever....
- Wanted to play house or trucks with someone who really knows how?
- Wanted to make the difference in the life of a child?
- Wanted to be the tallest in the room?
- Wanted to sing songs with silly hand motions and not worry if you mess up?
- Wanted to give a new mum a chance to regain her sanity while experiencing God's love through other mums?
- Wanted to feel truly needed and appreciated?
- Wanted to tell a joke to a crowd that will laugh even if it isn't funny?
- Wanted to make a bump feel better just by kissing it?
- Wanted to share the love of Jesus with a young child who has never heard of Him before?
- Wanted someone to really appreciate your artistic skills?
If you answered YES to any of these questions and you have 2 1/2 hours to give just 2 Wednesdays a month then MOPS has an opportunity for you!!!
We are currently looking for more carers to help support our growing MOPS ministry. Because Better Mums make a Better World.
MOPS begins again on 4 Feb. Please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry!
Call Wendy 0400 197 208 or email mops@redlandscrc.org.au
Mid Week News
Sunday
9am: Jesus sends a letter to the church in the city of Smyrna, some 2000 years ago. Today that city is still there (it's now called Izmir, in Turkey), but how different the situation! In Revelation 2:8-11 the apostle John writes to a church which is going through a very tough time: persecution, poverty, even death. Fear must have been their daily companion.
Jesus encourages them to remain faithful, for He knows all their pain and grief. He is in control, He is victorious! And because of that, His children will also be victorious!
5pm: Eyes that see, but never see!
Summer in the Park
You are all invited to join us for a time of sharing and fun.
When: Wednesday 14th / 21st January 2009
Where: Wellington Point BBQ picnic area
Time: 5.30pm onwards
What to bring: BYO BBQ or picnic, chairs, family and friends
This will be a time of sharing and getting to know one another, so bring along your bbq or picnic supper and lets enjoy our summer in the park together.
We look forward to seeing you there.
"Lets start making a difference together"
Berends contact details
Mobile: 0421 636 839
Clinton.berends@gmail.com
Follow the journey at: www.junothejayco.wordpress.com
Burma Mission Trip
Seeking people interested in a Mission trip to Burma New Life Orphanage. - April 2009.
A group teaching trip is planned for this year and there are still a couple of vacancies for those who are interested. This is an educational trip and we are particularly interested in people who may have skills in any of the following areas. - handcrafts (for boys and girls), drama, dance, teaching english, or piano.
We will be leaving 30th March and returning 11 th April. (easter Saturday)
Please keep in mind that this is an extremely hot and humid time of year and you will need to be reasonably fit and healthy.
The cost will be approximately $2500 - for flights, food and accommodation. Personal spending money is extra.
This is a trip that will be a blessing for the 200 children and leaders but in turn be a great experience and blessing for you.
Please consider, pray about it and if you are interested, I am keen to speak with you. My mobile number is 0416 000 412 or email : janette@royalfoods.com.au
Janette Hemelaar
Mid Week News - 2nd edition
Sunday
9am: The Gospel of Ruth.
The story of Ruth is a very simple story at heart. It's the classic girl meets boy - girl and boy get married - boy dies - girl moves in with the mother-in-law - girl finds another boy - falls in love - gets married - everyone lives happily ever after - type of story. It's the sort of story that speakers at women's conferences like to use, and it's a popular study topic for groups of teenage girls, because both Ruth and Naomi are such strong, heroic characters. But we want to see that the reasons for including Ruth's story in the Bible go much wider and deeper than just her strength of character. These reasons go right to the heart of God and what He is doing in this world, and so God is really the focus of this story, not Ruth.
If you get the chance, please read through the story before Sunday - it's only 4 chapters - and it will give you a good head start on the message.
5pm: (Note change) So what difference does God make? How do lives look different when Jesus and his work takes over? As we read the book of Acts we often focus on what is happening in the world as the gospel goes out and churches are planted. But when we start to look at the lives of those who carry the gospel, we see some pretty powerful stuff going on there as well. And so what might God do in our lives if we start to get serious about him and his work? What might the results be for 2009? Well explore this on Sunday night. Read ahead in Acts 16
Summer in the Park
You are all invited to join us for a time of sharing and fun.
When: Wednesday 7th / 14th / 21st January 2009
Where: Wellington Point BBQ picnic area
Time: 5.30pm onwards
What to bring: BYO BBQ or picnic, chairs, family and friends
This will be a time of sharing and getting to know one another, so bring along your bbq or picnic supper and lets enjoy our summer in the park together.
We look forward to seeing you there.
"Lets start making a difference together"
Christmas Newsletter from Jack and Trudy
Solomon Islands December 2008
Dear Friends and Family,
Christmas is here again. Another year has gone.
God has again kept us safe and healthy as we continued our work here in Solomon Island.
Our 5-year term has come to an end, and we are looking forward to moving back to Brisbane on the 15th of January.
For the last six months I have been concentrating on upgrading and improving the facilities here at the Base, while Trudy continued her mission of helping the sick and disabled with hospital visits, medicines and food, and the poor and needy with clothes.
With the help of a hardworking SWIM Team from Launceston, Tasmania, we relocated and rebuilt one of the Staff houses. We've also built a big new workshop with plenty of storage space.
Recently we refurbished and extended the other staff house: new roof and new water tank.
We are currently upgrading the water supply, with new Polytanks.
After Christmas we plan to give our house, and also the transit house, a fresh coat of paint.
One more day and our last carpentry project at the Tetere Prison will be finished.
Unfortunately, our board has not been able to find anyone to replace me, so for now the building of schools and clinics will cease.
When we went home (to Brisbane) in October, we managed to buy a block of land at Greenbank, and plan to build a new house when we get back. All the plans are approved and ready to start.
We are now really looking forward to going home, and the kids and grandkids are happy to have us back.
Again, we would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your prayers and for your financial support over the last 5 years.
May God Bless you richly!
Have A Wonderful Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year!!
Jack and Trudy Visser
Mission Trip - Burma
Seeking people interested in a Mission trip to Burma New Life Orphanage. - April 2009.
A group teaching trip is planned for this year and there are still a couple of vacancies for those who are interested. This is an educational trip and we are particularly interested in people who may have skills in any of the following areas. - handcrafts (for boys and girls), drama, dance, teaching english, or piano.
We will be leaving 30th March and returning 11 th April. (easter Saturday)
Please keep in mind that this is an extremely hot and humid time of year and you will need to be reasonably fit and healthy.
The cost will be approximately $2500 - for flights, food and accommodation. Personal spending money is extra.
This is a trip that will be a blessing for the 200 children and leaders but in turn be a great experience and blessing for you.
Please consider, pray about it and if you are interested, I am keen to speak with you. My mobile number is 0416 000 412 or email : janette@royalfoods.com.au
Janette Hemelaar
Midweek News
Sunday
9am: The Gospel of Ruth.
The story of Ruth is a very simple story at heart. It's the classic girl meets boy - girl and boy get married - boy dies - girl moves in with the mother-in-law - girl finds another boy - falls in love - gets married - everyone lives happily ever after - type of story. It's the sort of story that speakers at women's conferences like to use, and it's a popular study topic for groups of teenage girls, because both Ruth and Naomi are such strong, heroic characters. But we want to see that the reasons for including Ruth's story in the Bible go much wider and deeper than just her strength of character. These reasons go right to the heart of God and what He is doing in this world, and so God is really the focus of this story, not Ruth.
If you get the chance, please read through the story before Sunday - it's only 4 chapters - and it will give you a good head start on the message.
5pm: TIME magazine has honoured Barrack Obama as the "2008 Person of the Year". Do we live our lives in such a way that we matter? What kind of recognition or honour would you receive? What would it take for us to have our picture on the cover of TIME magazine? As we think about the year ahead, how we live our lives today will have an impact on how we will live our lives into the future and even eternity. Jesus is prepared to do for us in heaven what we are prepared to do for him on earth. We are to live our lives in such a way that we will receive divine recognition.
Summer in the Park
You are all invited to join us for a time of sharing and fun.
When: Wednesday 7th / 14th / 21st January 2009
Where: Wellington Point BBQ picnic area
Time: 5.30pm onwards
What to bring: BYO BBQ or picnic, chairs, family and friends
This will be a time of sharing and getting to know one another, so bring along your bbq or picnic supper and lets enjoy our summer in the park together.
We look forward to seeing you there.
"Lets start making a difference together"
NLT December 08 Newsletter
Dear Supporters of New Life,
Welcome to our December newsletter.
Thankyou for your support throughout this difficult year.
If you have friends who would like to receive our newsletter, please forward their email address. Also please email in any comments or suggestions
about the newsletter, please forward them to us...we would love to hear from you.
Our email contact details are trust.newlife@gmail.com
All other contact details are located on the last page of the newsletter.
Merry Christmas to you and your familes and please remember Bella, her family, staff and all the children in your prayers.
Eddie Bos
on behalf of the NLT committee
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