Focus

Friday 26th May 2023

Focus is a remarkable force that can shape our lives and propel us toward success. In a world filled with distractions and constant stimulation, cultivating the power of focus becomes essential for achieving our goals and unlocking our true potential. Christ came and gave a crystal-clear message on what our focus should be as humans:

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Matt 6:33 NIV

When we harness the power of focus, we direct our attention and energy toward a specific task or objective. By eliminating distractions and honing in on what truly matters, we become more efficient and productive. We enter a state of flow, where time seems to fade away, and we are fully engaged in the present moment. In this state, our performance reaches its peak, and we accomplish more in less time. Imagine the disillusionment to arrive in heaven and realizing you have wasted your earthly life by being very successful at things that bear no eternal significance!

When we concentrate our efforts on a particular pursuit (His Kingdom and righteousness), we train our God-given abilities to find innovative solutions. This growth as an individual is beautifully portrayed in the life of Daniel:

God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams.

When the training period ordered by the king was completed, the chief of staff brought all the young men to King Nebuchadnezzar. The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they entered the royal service.

Daniel 1:17-19 NLT

Have you recognized the reality that God is training us for eternity? I see even in Jesus’ life how he developed as the only begotten Son of God:

Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.

Luke 2:52 NLT

The power of your focus is not as much on “focus” itself…but in “what you focus on”.

Which area of your life needs a better focus on His Kingdom and righteousness?

Summit | Highlights

The annual Churches of Christ Vic/Tas Summit had 250 pastors and leaders descend on Berwick Church last week. The Summit showcased inspiring guest speakers, a panel, worship, and plenty of food and coffee. Throughout the Summit, participants could choose from many electives such as making property serve mission and what are we planting? Summit partners displayed stalls and our fabulous volunteers blessed participants with great coffee, beautiful worship, and much needed sound and tech. His presence was in our place!

Bakers | We need your help!

At State Youth Games on the King's Birthday weekend we feed a huge tribe of hungry, cold teenagers and adults – and we love to give them some home-baked treats to keep them going!

If you are able to bake something, please let us know beforehand if possible (with your name and what you are able to provide) by texting Sue Nicholls on 0403 822 324. Deliveries can be made to the church during office hours or on Sunday mornings so we can keep items in our freezer ready to take with us. Containers should be labeled with your name and the ingredients. Thanks in advance for your help!

Playgroup | Prayers

Could you keep our Playgroup families in your prayers? Many of the little children are battling the colds and illnesses of winter already and it can be tough for mums. We love to support them in any way we can and appreciate you partnering with us in prayer as we share Christ's love with them each week. Sue 0403 822 324.

Food Pantry | Our city needs our help!

Last year the Food Pantry supported 96 families with 231 visits who were in need of crisis support. 96 families! Imagine, they could be your friends or neighbours. Families who are doing it tough. The City of Casey Council recognised the generous support the Food Pantry and volunteers give to our local community. Council presented BCOC Food Pantry with the 'Community Group of the Year' award. Let's reach out and show our support by purchasing something from our list in your next shop. You can drop it off in the Food Pantry basket located in the foyer, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm or Sundays 9am-12 noon.

Let's Love People and Serve Our City, and buy one item to be His presence in the City of Casey!

At your next shop, please pick up:

Biscuits (e.g. Arnott's)
Jam Spreads
Pasta sauces
Olive oil
Muesli bars
Tinned tuna
Soup (e.g. tinned, powdered)
Long life milk
Toothpaste & toothbrushes
Shampoo & conditioner

>>>FOOD PANTRY<<<

Sunday Service | Divided, Distracted, and Disturbed

We continue our church-wide series, The Daniel Dilemma. The primary objectives of the series are to “Raise and Equip Followers of Christ” and to “Love People”. The strategy we’ve employed is to go through a journey on truth and love by using the Daniel Dilemma series.

This will be reflected in our Big Church services, Life Groups, FUSE Youth and Kids’ Church. The series helps us learn to stand firm in God’s truth and love well with God’s love in the culture we live in. We will look to Jesus and Daniel as our examples.

Why not come early and enjoy a coffee at our cafe. We look forward to seeing you!

>>>WATCH ONLINE<<<

Kids Church | Sunday 28th May

Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 28th May

The Men’s Prayer Group is a group of men who meet to pray together. The group meets at the church every Sunday evening. Where individuals spend time in prayer, worship, and fellowship together as men who walk together to seek the face of God. Starts 5.45pm.

Boys Brigade | Monday 29th May

Be part of the action Monday night. For over 20 years the Boys Brigade has advanced Christ’s Kingdom among boys.

ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6pm – 7.15pm
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7pm – 8.30pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7pm – 9.30pm

>>>CHECK OUT BOYS BRIGADE<<<

Child Dedication | Sunday 4th June

Child dedication is the acknowledgment that not only are children a gift from God, but they are His children. You place your child into God’s hands and trust that He will guide you in parenting. Essentially, dedicating your child to God is to declare that you will train your child in the ways of the Lord. If you are interested, please complete the Child Dedication Application Form and we will contact you.

>>>REGISTER HERE<<<

Baptism Class | Tuesday 6th June

Baptism is a step of obedience in a person’s life. Perhaps you are interested in getting baptised or would like to know more about what baptism is all about. If that is you, then we encourage you to sign up as soon as possible.

Complete the expression of interest form if you would like to be contacted about being Baptised. Class is 7.30pm to 9.00pm.