“Experiencing the love and life of Christ through vibrant and life changing communities and creative partnerships.”
Sunday’s service conducted by Rev Robert Elkhuizen was entitled “from grumbling to grace”. What do we complain about. Robert asked us to speak to those near us and discuss this issue. Pastor Jo presented a prayer where she asked us to clench our fists and hold our breath and then breath out and open our hands.
The Bible reading from Exodus Ch16 1- 15 shows the Hebrews complaining as they had no food. They direct their complaints to God. There are many things we can complain abut such as not enough rain, suffering in the world. Can one person make a difference. God reminds s of the gifts we have received and what we share. If we bless one person then things become better.
God’s generosity doesn’t always seem appropriate. The Hebrews were complaining about having n food. God heard the cries of the people. The complaint was justified and so God sent an answer – quails and manna.
In Matthew 20 1-16 the story of the vineyard workers shows God’s generosity doesn’t always seem appropriate. The landowner went and hired labourers early in the morning and put them to work. When he later in the day hired more workers he paid them the same as the ones who had been working all day. Those who had worked all day were upset and grumbled against the landowner while the landowner said to them that he had the right to pay what he wanted. Workers at this time were paid what was enough for them to live on. Itinerant labourers were vulnerable and the land owner wanted to ensure all had enough so was meeting genuine need.
Are we like this also, grumbling over grace not real need. Our complaints are from different places not real need. Sometimes life appears to be unfair but we do have what we deserve.
Can we be free to live generously for God. The love and generosity of God is the most important.
Please note that Christmas cards are available. See Wendy Rouse.
There will be a number of changes around the church building as we prepare to the Referendum. Pre-poling will begin on 2 October leading up to the referendum on Saturday 14 October.
To remember:
Tuesday Homework Hub in recess for the holidays
Wednesday Playgroup in recess for the holidays
Wednesday 4 October 1.30pm Friendship Group
Thursday 5 October 4pm Holy Communion
Tuesday 10 October 1.30pm Beehive Craft at Fiona’s
Tuesday 12 October 10am Elders Meeting
Thursday 19 October 4pm Holy Communion
“O give thanks to the Lord, call on his name, make known his deeds among the peoples.” Psalm 105 V1
