Aug 15
Arthur’s post about Christian belief vs. practice raised a discussion about how we understand belonging to a church community. It got me thinking about why I’ve persisted with church. Here’s one reason I’m part of a church: for the inconvenience. Read more
On Thursday nights, Arthur and I help to lead a cross-cultural Bible study. The participants are mainly skilled immigrants from the Middle East of varying Muslim backgrounds. We work hard at building bridges and commonalities but this week I was struck by the uniqueness of Christianity. Read more
I’m mainly familiar with John Goldingay‘s work because he’s an Old Testament scholar but To The Usual Suspects, also published as Walk On, is a book of quite a different nature. More autobiographical, it’s a series of reflections on what it’s been like to live with his wife who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis when they were engaged. The book is about his one word questions, like ‘calamity’, ‘darkness’, ‘friendship’, ‘hope’, ‘identity’, ‘trust’. Read more
Oct 22
Are you considering heading into Christian ministry? Here are some questions to ask — especially if you’re a Gen Y guy, like me.
A desire to put yourself forward, to ‘lead’, to ‘teach’, does not mean that you should pursue ministry. Have you truly begun serving others yet?
A preoccupation with theology, knowledge, and truth does not mean that you should pursue ministry. Are you already active in loving others?
Because we are the church, not a club, we need to be attentive to those around us. Have you been talking with your leaders, friends, family and workmates to help you reflect on your personality, your skills, and your motivations?
Discerning whether you are heading into ministry, and what that might look like, is not a solo flight. Do you already have existing supporters and partnerships?
A desire to give your whole life to God in service does not mean that you should lead a church, or even a small group. Before you consider ‘the ministry’ or ‘mission work’, have you considered paths like ‘workplace ministry’ and ‘professional mission’?
Monday night was three hours of raw emotion at Opera Australia‘s Aïda. We’ve only been to a couple of operas but we love the way opera captures the ebb and flow of emotions in all their unbridled power!
Nov 23
Marriage is a microcosm of human society. A key aspect of this micro level is headship in marriage.
