It was, however, quite a strange experience, enjoying such a wonderful holiday whilst so many in Toowoomba, Brisbane, Murphy’s creek, Grantham etc were suffering so much. As soon as I caught up with the news I contacted Glen to find out what we were doing as a church and then Merrett, Kayla and I joined with you in praying for all who suffered so tragically. On arriving home I was very proud of the generosity of our church as you gave money, goods, prayer, time and practical assistance to those who lost so much. It was wonderful to hear the initiative taken to support people in Chinchilla and an amazing testimony to your and the College’s generosity that so much was given in such a short period of time.
Even as we connect with and support those who are devastated locally, my heart breaks for the tragedies in Brazil and Sri Lanka where the losses are on a scale I cannot get my mind around. I know each of us will continue to pray and help where we can.
There are two things I am looking forward to in particular this year. The first is our whole of church discipleship camp. The theme this year (“On fire for God without burning out”) is relevant for so many of us as I listen to story after story of people who are struggling with significant stress in their life. The whole shape of the weekend has been arranged so that we will find ourselves renewed emotionally and spiritually – with great input, plenty of free time, fun and relaxing activities, and times to support and encourage each other. This is well worth coming to and you need to register within the next two weeks.
The second is our series on Emotionally Healthy Spirituality. Faith in Jesus is meant to lead to deep personal change that leads us to a place of peace. For many this is not the case or at least our experience of God’s peace and love can seem superficial. This series will lead all of us on a journey of allowing our lives to be more fully and honestly shaped by the healing love and truth of God. This will lead to a greater capacity to live faithfully as disciples of Jesus. Truly being a disciple of Jesus is about loving God deeply and passionately and people deeply and honestly. I am actually slightly nervous (in a good way – you know when you sense something important and good is going to happen but you are not sure what it will really mean for you) because of the deep and amazing work I believe God will do in us and through us as we engage in this material.
Please be in prayer for these very significant experiences.
Also can you continue to pray for the Staff team and all who are affected by the changes we are going through with Ann and Craig finishing in their roles. Already there are creative things happening as people step up to God’s call...but it is different...and there are some gaps and holes that will require us to be gracious with each other.
Thank you for being committed to growing and serving as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ.
Yours in Christ
Graham Keech
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