Sunday 26th November 2023
You are welcome to worship in person this Sunday at 10.15am. Hand sanitizer and masks are available if you would like to use them.
We are also live streaming of our services. The service can be seen each Sunday morning commencing at 10.15am. Here is the link to our YouTube channel to access the live streaming: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHEm1fJeADpcP6gO1BsBKcg
Matthew 25:31-46, If we had known it was you
In today’s gospel reading, we can find a few lessons. First, we are responsible. There is a judgment and we will be asked to give an account of how we live our lives, how we use our resources, how we respond to God’s will and purpose (vs 31-32).
Second, it may sound simple to feed hungry people, welcome strangers (vs 35-36), but it is not easy. The fact is the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer. Hunger in the world is worse today than it was years ago. The cross is a constant reminder that to love one’s neighbour is not always easy or well received.
Third, there are surprises, unexpected discoveries, that disturb, yet serve to enlighten us. Those who are invited to come and inherit the kingdom are surprised (vs 37-39). Likewise, the people excluded from the kingdom are surprised (vs 44). They seemed unaware of the full implications of their lives centered around justice toward hurting people.
Fourth, we need to apply our lessons to our reason for being as a church (vs 40 & 45). When you take another look at this list, repeated four times, you sense a central focus on people – on certain kinds of people. In all of our theology, our music, our worship, our programs and budgeting, there needs to be a focus on compassion and mercy for people, a focus outward. IL-WOONG.
Our Mission is to
Connect with people in Jesus;
Build each other up in faith; and to
Become Like Jesus.