Building for Eternity
Archive for June, 2008
It’s What’s on the Inside that Counts
Jun 27th
I love my “Ugg” Boots! Anyone who has seen them will probably wonder why they are worn and tatty. However they are my most comfortable footwear. My feet feel warm and “at home” in them. It’s what is inside that counts!
As we finish our journey in the book of Romans, we have before us, examples of great disciples of Jesus. They partnered with Paul and therefore with Jesus. They served out of their heartfelt devotion. As they grasped the blessings that came their way, they shared blessings with others.
We share the call to partner with Jesus, to join in Paul’s mission and to live lives of joyful obedience to God. There is no better way to live a life of meaning, purpose and celebration.
Stephen Semenchuk
End Of Year Opportunities
Jun 20th
Last week Shane reminded us of Jesus’ great answer to the Pharisees, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s”.
This week we are enclosing envelopes to assist you in making end of financial year, tax effective contributions to God’s work in Dapto. Donations to the SRE or Building funds are fully tax deductible.
Our SRE Fund supports schools scripture in Dapto. We teach 1,505 primary students each week and 1,400 high school students in seminars.
The building fund will allow us to continue in making our vision a reality. There will be a full report next week on the project progress.
For you to receive the tax deduction for this year’s tax return it needs to be received by the 29/6/2008 (next Sunday).
Stephen Semenchuk
Government – God’s Good Gift
Jun 13th
No-one really enjoys paying tax! Often when we see speed cameras it is easy to view them cynically as revenue raisers. Rather than seeing the authority structures of our society as blessings many of us, view them at best, as necessary evils.
Have you ever considered the alternative? Historically, humanity has not coped with anarchy. Given our propensity for self interest, society requires order and authority to restrain evil and protect the weak from the powerful.
Paul’s letter to the Romans reminds us that God is a step ahead. Romans 13 teaches that our human governments are a God given provision for our well-being. Christians are called to obey and support them. The only exception would be when the earthly authority is so out of step with God’s ways that we have no choice other than to take a conscientious stand.
Stephen Semenchuk
What Does God Want Me To Do With My Life?
Jun 6th
We pray: “Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven…” How do I determine God’s will for me? The mistake many of us make is to spend our time concerning “what” we should do. However God’s will for us is more clearly revealed in “how” we do it.
Romans 12 places love front and centre of God’s will for His people. Love that is sincere, devoted, joyful, patient and hospitable. He even expects us to show love to our enemies and avoid taking revenge.
On a week when we are challenged by such a truth, we also remember the life of Betty Fleetwood. Betty died on Thursday in hospital. She lived her life very much in God’s will. Betty was one of the most loving people I have encountered. She leaves behind a great example and legacy of love.
Stephen Semenchuk
