Table of Contents
Spiritual Responsiveness
Wednesday 22nd May 2024
In the tapestry of life, we are often met with moments that test our patience, challenge our resolve, and stir our emotions. In these moments, we hold a powerful choice: to react hastily or respond gracefully. As bearers of His presence in every place we tread, our response has the potential to shape our journey and the world around us. James 1:20 (NIV) reminds us,
“Human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.”
When we react angrily or frustratedly, we risk straying from following Christ’s example. Reacting is impulsive, driven by the heat of the moment, and often leads to hasty words and regretful actions. By comparison, responding is to pause, to breathe, and to seek guidance from the wellspring of divine wisdom within us as we are filled with the Holy Spirit.
Being His presence in every place means embodying His love, compassion, and wisdom. It means seeing beyond the surface of a situation and tapping into the deeper currents of grace and understanding. When faced with adversity, we are called to respond as He would—with patience, kindness, empathy and a desire to see His rulership breakthrough in the circumstances.
Consider the difference between a stone cast in anger and a ripple of compassion spreading across a still pond. Our reactions may cause temporary waves, but our responses can create lasting transformation. Loving responses can mend broken relationships, bridge divides, and illuminate the path towards reconciliation and healing.
Let us strive to be active channels of His peace, vessels of His love, and ambassadors of His grace. May we cultivate the habit of responding rather than reacting, knowing that in doing so, we not only honour His presence within us but also contribute to the manifestation of His kingdom here on earth.
SYG needs your prayers!
As you maybe aware our State Youth Games are fast approaching (Friday 7th – Monday 10th June). Would you join us in praying for safety, strong connections and for spiritual encounters.
Do you love to bake? SYG needs your help!
If you’re a baker, we would love some of your home-baked treats for the youth and young adults coming with us to State Youth Games (June 7-10). If you are able to bake a tray or two of cookies, muffins, etc, please contact Sue Nicholls ([email protected] or 0403 822 324). Our young (and not so young) people camp in chilly conditions and yummy food is what keeps them going and helps them feel loved!!
Overcoming Offence - Forgive Yourself | Sunday 26th May | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
Join us for a two-week series focused on being “unoffendable”. During this series, we’ll learn how choosing not to take offence has the power to not only free us from the burden of anger and resentment, but also allows us flourish – living a life of love and compassion.
Kids Church | Sunday 26th May | 9:00 am & 11:00 am
This week at Kids Church…
2 to 4-year-olds | I can live for God | Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego | Daniel 3:10–28
5 to 12-year-olds | All I have to give | The Widows Mite | Mark 12: 41-44
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 26th May | 5:45 pm
Calling all men! At our weekly gatherings, we come together to pray, support one another in our faith journey, and grow deeper in our relationship with God.
Whether you are a seasoned prayer warrior or new, we welcome you with open arms. Our group is a safe space where men can come together to share their hearts, struggles, and victories.
Join us as we seek God’s guidance, wisdom, and strength in our lives and for our families. Together, we can uplift each other, grow in faith, and make a real difference in our community.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land”. (2 Chronicles 7:14).
Come and join our Men’s Prayer Group where together we seek the Lord for our families, community and nation.
Boys Brigade | Monday 27th May | From 6:00 pm
For over 20 years, the Boys’ Brigade has advanced Christ’s Kingdom among boys. We provide a Christian community that supports boys and young men and assists in their Christian growth, physical development, and leadership training while teaching life skills. Come along and be part of the action!
ANCHORS | Grades 1 & 2: 6pm – 7:15pm
JUNIORS | Grades 3 – 6: 7pm – 8:30pm
SENIORS | Grades 7 to 18 years old: 7pm – 9.15pm
Mental Health Support Gathering | Tuesday 28th May | 7:30 pm
Mental Health Support Gatherings cater for people who may benefit from mental health support. This may be personally or to assist a friend, family member or carer. This is a safe place to be heard, to share life’s challenges, make friendships and have hope restored. Remember, you are not alone.
In addition, the Gatherings also provide tools to assist people in dealing with life challenges and, on occasion, have specialist speakers addressing relevant topics. The Mental Health Support Gatherings are held on Tuesdays fortnightly during the School Terms from 7:30pm to 9:30pm. If you’re interested in coming along please click the ‘Book Now’ link below and choose: Special Interest Group: Mental Health Support Gatherings. For more information please contact the Church Office 03 9702 1011. The Mental Health Support Gatherings are a ministry of the Berwick Church of Christ.
Seniors Ministry | Friendship Group | Wednesday 29th May | 1:30 pm
The stage is set for a great afternoon! Lollies, popcorn, and a super movie! This would be a great afternoon to introduce a friend to Friendship Group. Cost $2.
Next Steps Lunch | Sunday 2nd June | 1:00 pm
As a movement, it’s important for us to get to know each other better and take the next steps in our journey of faith. To this end, we want to invite you to the next … Next Steps Lunch.
The Next Steps Lunch is a 3-Sunday Lunch event (Sunday 2nd, 16th and 23rd of June 2024) where you will get the opportunity to get connected, learn more about the movement, and discover your potential whilst enjoying a delicious meal.
The lunches are especially relevant to Newcomers but if you’ve been an attendee, a volunteer, or a partner and you have never been to a Next Step Lunch before, then we encourage you to register.
The expectation is that people who book will attend all 3 lunches as each gathering has a different focus. And did I mention that it’s free?
Writers Group | Saturday 15th June | 9:00 am
Aspiring writers, are you looking for a creative outlet to showcase your writing talents and connect with fellow literary enthusiasts? We are thrilled to invite you to join our Writers Group, where your words will come to life in a community of like-minded individuals.
Whether you write poetry, short stories, essays, or anything in between, we welcome all writing styles and genres. So come join us and ignite your passion for writing! Together, we will inspire each other to reach new heights and unlock our full potential as writers. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be a part of something truly special.
Join us today and let your creativity soar!
Baptism Class | Monday 17th June | 7:00 pm
Baptism is the complete immersion into water of those who have confessed their faith in Jesus Christ as God’s Son and their Saviour.
However, it is more than just immersion in water. It has a number of significant meanings.
Complete the expression of interest form if you want to be contacted about attending the Baptism Class.
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
