This morning Keith reminded us that 1 Thessalonians 1:1-7 teaches us to not lose confidence in the power of God’s word and to pray that God would be at work as we share His word (if He isn’t at work, nothing will happen).
The Seniors team got involved with Open Doors, the seniors craft group that gathers to work on personal projects and enjoy morning tea together. Cathy had the privilege of getting to know the women who was won over to Christ 40 years ago on mission – she exists! The team were so encouraged to chat to people who have been trusting in Jesus for decades and to see God keeping his people in his fold. Jason got to chat and pray with a woman whose husband and 2 sons do not believe. Please pray that she would continue to stand firm in her faith through the encouragement of this group and that God would soften the hearts of her family. Thank God for Nicky and Robyn who run this group and pray that God would have mercy on the non-believers who attend.
After lunch, the team got their heads down to refine their talks for this week. Here’s a snapshot of what the process can look like:
Others set up the place to make St John’s feel more like home in Newtown:
In the afternoon, Andy, Cathy, Jason and Jenny set off to Elderslie to do some door knocking with the aim of informing the locals about St John’s. The conversations had were a wonderful reminder of what we read in 1 Thessalonians this morning: God’s word is powerful and He is at work when we pray! Cathy and Jason got chatting to a mum of 4 who was looking for a kids club for her children and a woman who had been to church but stopped going after a death in the family. Andy and Jenny got to chat with a man who did not believe but is related to a Moore student; a woman who identified with the Church of England but could not give a reason why; and a woman who had a mixed experience with religion but trusts that God is real though unknowable to her. Praise God for the work he was already doing in these peoples lives and for the opportunity to sow seeds to be grown by him. Ask that he would draw these people to him and long to know more about him by visiting St John’s.
Camden fun-fact #3:
Camden hosts an annual dog show called Paws in the Park. It is a fun and festive affair with prize categories such as “Best Dressed Dog in Footy Colours”. I know, amazing. Details here: http://www.camden.nsw.gov.au/events/major-events/paws-in-the-park/
Pray for:
- Ben G leading men’s bible study over breakfast tomorrow
- a bunch of the team who will be visiting the Sisters of Mary, a Lutheran convent who rely on food donations as an expression of their reliance on God
- the Year 7-8 boys bible study after school led by Ben G and Tom sharing his testimony
- the primary after school groups, Meteors and GFS, where Beth and Edwina will give talks to the girls
- for the team’s energy levels and that we would care for one another as we reach the halfway mark on mission
“For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction.” 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5