The imitation initiated by incarnation
Wednesday 20th December 2023
As we approach the joyous apex of the Christmas season, Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV) illuminates the profound relevance of this celebration in our lives.
“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."
Christmas serves as a powerful reminder to follow in the footsteps of Christ, not merely in words but in our actions and way of life. Just as Christ's birth embodied God's love among us, the apostle Paul urges us to emulate this divine love in our interactions with others.
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.
Eph 5:1-2 NLT
The passage encourages us to be imitators of God, embracing the identity of His beloved children. This involves consciously walking in the path of love, reflecting Christ's selfless, sacrificial love. The essence of Christmas lies not only in joyful festivities but in our commitment to embody Christ's love daily.
Love is patient; love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.
1 Cor 13:4-8 NIV
Christ's birth wasn't just a historical event; it signifies the epitome of God's love and His sacrificial gift to humanity. Therefore, Christmas becomes more than a commemoration; it's a call to action—a call to love unconditionally, serve humbly, and sacrifice willingly as we mirror Christ's love in our relationships, communities, and to the world.
As we gather with loved ones, exchange gifts, and share in the season's warmth, remember that Christmas encapsulates the essence of selfless giving and unconditional love. It challenges us to extend kindness, forgive generously, and embrace all compassionately.
May this Christmas season be a time of celebration and transformation—a time to rekindle our commitment to walk in love just as Christ loved us, to inspire hope, healing, and reconciliation in a world yearning for love's enduring embrace.
Wishing you a Christmas season filled with the profound joy and immeasurable love that Christ's birth continues to bestow upon us.
Playgroup 2023 and 2024!
It’s been a great year at Playgroup, with many families attending all seven groups regularly (plus a number connecting through Woman to Woman, Young Families Camp, picnics, and church). Our Christmas parties and graduations have been fabulous, with the Christmas message shared, bibles given to graduating children and Christian gifts given to all adults and children.
Our team is brilliant, but there are a few vacancies in 2024, particularly for extra child-free helpers. We would like to have enough helpers to continue running all of our current groups and to start another baby group but we need extra help to do so.
Do you have availability on a regular weekday morning during the school term? In that case, we offer loads of fun and a chance to make a real difference (perhaps even an eternal difference) in the lives of the families who attend.
To register interest in helping or participating in playgroup, please click here, or you are welcome to contact Sue Nicholls at 0403 822 324 or [email protected] to learn more.
Sunday Service | Christmas Service | 24th December | 10 am
Rediscover the true meaning of Christmas! Join us for a heartwarming and meaningful Christmas service that goes beyond the glitz and glamour this holiday season. Let's embrace the essence of Christmas.
- Experience God’s Spirit at work: Step into a Holy Spirit filled atmosphere of warmth, joy, and revelation. Dive into timeless truths and principles that resonate with the reason for the season.
- Connect & Reflect: Find solace in the community and share moments of connection that remind us of the true significance of this special time of year.
- Celebrate with Purpose: Engage in soul-stirring worship, a thoughtful, challenging message, and a celebration that aims to rekindle the joy and kindness Christ awakens in our hearts.
Join us to create lasting memories and celebrate Christmas with depth and meaning!
Kids Church | ONLINE ONLY | 24th & 31st December| 10 am
Onsite Kids Church is enjoying a holiday break. Our online Kids Church program is available for Sunday 24th and 31st of December. We wish you a blessed Christmas with your family and friends.
Sunday 24th December
2 to 4-year-olds | Happy Birthday, Jesus!| Luke 1:26-33, 38; 2:1–2:21
5 to 12-year-olds | In Excelsis Deo: Shepherds and Angels | Luke 2:8-20
Sunday 31st December
2 to 4-year-olds | The wise men go to see Jesus, God’s Son | Matthew 2:1-2, 9-11
5 to 12-year-olds | Following yonder star: Wise Men | Matthew 2:1-12
No Services | Monday 25th & Sunday 31st December
Please be reminded that there are no worship services on Christmas Day and Sunday, 31st December. We want to thank our volunteers who have served at Berwick Church of Christ and hope you have a wonderful holiday break with your family and friends. Please take this opportunity to catch up on some of the fantastic messages you missed throughout the year. Watch on our 'YouTube Channel' here.
Sunday services are back! | 7th January 2024 | 10 am
How would you like to start 2024 on the path of spiritual growth and fruitfulness?
Join us as we discover the foundational principles of seeking God’s kingdom first in our lives. Drawing inspiration from the Parable of the Sower in Matthew 13, this series will delve into three aspects of living intentionally for God’s kingdom.
- Preparing the SOIL of your heart
- SOWing seeds of kingdom living
- Nurturing the GROWth of kingdom fruit
You will discover how to step into the New Year to actively seek God’s kingdom first and experience a transformative and fruitful 2024. We look forward to seeing you at Kingdom First!
Men's Prayer Group | Sunday 7th January 2024 | 5.45 pm
The Men’s Prayer Group is a group of men who meet regularly to pray together. James 5:16 – speaks about the effect of fervent prayer and how it achieves great things! Come along and enjoy fellowship, worship, and prayer as men of faith gather to seek God for mighty breakthroughs. Time: 5.45 pm – 7.30 pm.
Young Families Picnic | 14th January 2024
January can feel long, especially after the Christmas and New Year rush ends!
Pop the Young Families Picnic in your diary for some fun and connection. We are meeting near the playground at the Old Cheese Factory on January 14 at noon. Bring a rug and your lunch (or grab some takeaway) for a lovely chance to socialise with other families and maybe make some plans for a mid-week catch-up while you’re there!!
Young Families Camping Weekend at Warburton Holiday Park | 23rd-25th February 2024
Yes, it's on again in 2024! This year about 60 people had an amazing time together at our first-ever Young Families Camping Weekend.
We are so looking forward to our next Young Families Camp in 2024. This is an awesome opportunity to invite camping friends who don't attend church and give them a chance to connect with other Christian young families in a relaxed environment.
Please check out next year's event by clicking on the link below and booking as soon as possible to avoid missing out on a campsite.
>>>BOOK NOW<<<
Xtreme Character Challenge | Men | 21st-24th March 2024
An XCC is a mind, body, and soul adventure – an active and challenging endurance event for men out in the wild. This is NOT a Church Men’s Camp. The XCC is set up like an endless adventure; for 72 hours, men are confronted with significant physical challenges, deep camaraderie, and profound moral and spiritual input moments. Through the XCC process, men find perspective; they evaluate who they are and find a purpose worth living for.
Details:
- Date: 21st – 24th March 2024
- Where: Scenic Rim, Queensland
All participants will be screened to ensure they are up for the challenge. Please note that a full refund will be provided if you are not eligible to participate.
* This event is independently organised by 4MAUS.
>>>BOOK NOW<<<
Thank you for being His Presence in Every Place!
BRAAM BOTHA
Senior Pastor
