Recently, Melbourne was again honourably mentioned as one of the most liveable cities in the world, yet…we have so many people battling mental illness, migrants and minority groups feel threatened, marriages and families struggle for survival…and the youth are clearly and loudly protesting with the state of society through the many social causes presented to them. It is one thing to externally be a liveable city, but what can heal the heart of a city?

Sociology (the study of society’s functioning) over history doesn’t present much hope in terms of this changing the heart of a city. Political ideologies and revolutionary movements inevitably end up disappointing society.

The solution to our society’s ills are not based on the passing of better laws…but in the presentation of the highest law – love!

The highest law (or principle) is not an externally enforced rule, but an internally inspired power. Listen to the Apostle Paul’s revelation on this:

'But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. '  Galatians 5:22-23 NIV

I love the way Eugene Peterson paraphrases this passage:

But what happens when we live God’s way? He brings gifts into our lives, much the same way that fruit appears in an orchard—things like affection for others, exuberance about life, serenity. We develop a willingness to stick with things, a sense of compassion in the heart, and a conviction that a basic holiness permeates things and people. We find ourselves involved in loyal commitments, not needing to force our way in life, able to marshal and direct our energies wisely. Legalism is helpless in bringing this about; it only gets in the way.

This very presence of God’s Spirit in our lives enables us to be the carriers of his love, which alone can heal the sin, the pain, and the brokenness of our city.

It is with sad hearts that we have to inform you that Jordan Smith’s father – Graeme – has passed away. His funeral will be conducted from our premises on Thursday morning at 11:30. Should you wish to attend, please book your seat on Trybooking as we are not allowed to accommodate walk-ins. Pray with us for the family and friends in this time while they will be mourning the loss of the great man of God who has impacted so many lives.

With great excitement we encourage you to join us this Sunday evening at 5.30pm for our monthly Y&Y Service! This is a service for our youth, young adults and anyone who is young at heart. 

FUSE Youth – “Merge" this Friday Night, 26th February at 7pm.  We are combining with multiple Youth Groups from multiple Churches in the City of Casey,  with a focus on Worship!

In recent weeks we have seen an escalation in the bookings for our Little Sparks group (2–4-year-olds). Unfortunately, a number of families that booked their little ones in didn’t actually turn up. While we understand getting young children to church can be challenging, if a space is available for another family, we would like to know so we can offer it to them. Therefore, if you do book please do everything to follow through on your intentions, or if you can’t, please notify Karen on 0438 886 337 as soon as possible.

Playgroup has started really well for the year. Families and leaders are adjusting well to our new situation after the old building was demolished and good connections are being made. We have some new helpers and it’s been great to see them settling in to their roles, and we’ve also been able to start a “Transformed” group for young mums, with childminding, which is fabulous.

If you’d like to be His presence in one of our playgroups, we’d love to hear from you anytime. We can always find a spot for extra child-free helpers or Christian parents/grandparents! Please contact Sue on 0403 822 324 or go to www.bcoc.org.au/playgroup to register your interest.

Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place! 

BRAAM BOTHA

Senior Pastor