Today we begin the season of advent, a time to prepare for Christ's birth.

This week centered on theme of Hope, in the anticipation of Jesus' birth, his future return, and the promise of redemption and renewal.

Matt 24:36-44

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Today as we come towards the end of Luke, we read from Chapter 21 as Jesus talks about the future, and we reflect on anxiety and how its dealt with in the chaos of todays world.Edwin Friedman coined the term ‘non-anxious presence'. He used it to describe someone who can stand firm amidst chaos and confusion.In the face of societal turmoil the pattern which emerges across culture is:Anxiety, Herd mentality, Blame, Immaturity, Poor Leadership.Leaders need a strong sense of self: Knowing your own values, goals, and boundaries. Staying connected to others without being controlled by their anxiety or expectations. Being able to take a stand without becoming defensive or reactive.John Mark Comer identifies "the ruthless elimination of hurry" as the antidote to the exhaustion and anxiety of modern life, suggesting a slower, more intentional way of living.The greek word is koinonia which was used to describe Christian community and indifference is meant as healthy detachment from the turmoil.Luke 21:5-19allsaintsburwood.nzfacebook.com/allsaintsburwoodyoutube.com/@allsaintsburwood910podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/all-saints-burwood

As we read this week from Luke Chapter 20, we ask the question, what makes us worthy?

The values of God's kingdom values are very different from those of today's society - it's about service & suffering. The suffering you endure for the sake of God's Kingdom here on earth as it is in Heaven.

Here is the invitation & the challenge: To be worthy of eternity, follow Jesus.

Jesus said “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me" John 14:6

Luke 20:27-38

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In celebration of All Saints day on Saturday – we take time to reflect of what it really means to be a saint. What does it mean to have life in the kingdom?

In reading the Beatitudes from Luke Chapter 6, we hear Jesus proclaim that all people are esteemed in Gods kingdom, not just those whom society traditionally elevates, but everyone, regardless of status or circumstance.

We are reminded that God's blessing is for all, even when the world may judge us differently.

Luke 6:20-31

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In celebration of All Saints day on Saturday – we take time to reflect of what it really means to be a saint. What does it mean to have life in the kingdom?

In reading the Beatitudes from Luke Chapter 6, we hear Jesus proclaim that all people are esteemed in Gods kingdom, not just those whom society traditionally elevates, but everyone, regardless of status or circumstance.

We are reminded that God's blessing is for all, even when the world may judge us differently.

Luke 6:20-31

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Today the reading from the book of Luke is The Parable of the Tax Collector.

The challenge here is to look inside our own hearts & seek out where we are going off track, in a culture today that may support these traits.

The lesson for all of us is that it is easy to judge others but much harder to self-reflect.

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Today the reading from the book of Luke is about prayer.

Prayer can be an area where we end up feeling a bit of guilt because we're not praying enough.

Thankfully there are several different models of praying in the bible. Some people pray alone and regularly, others pray in temple with other people, while other go out into the wilderness to pray when needed.

The key thing with prayer isn't the way that you do it, but just that do you it in a way that helps you connect with God our creator.

Luke 18:1-8 

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Today the reading from the book of Luke is about prayer.

Prayer can be an area where we end up feeling a bit of guilt because we're not praying enough.

Thankfully there are several different models of praying in the bible. Some people pray alone and regularly, others pray in temple with other people, while other go out into the wilderness to pray when needed.

The key thing with prayer isn't the way that you do it, but just that do you it in a way that helps you connect with God our creator.

Luke 18:1-8 

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We go off topic this Sunday to reflect on the appointment of the first female Archbishop of Canterbury.

We look into the etymology of some of the key words in passages that have been used against this appointment. And we can see if we look closely that what we find is permission giving and inclusion of women. There were many women in the early church leading & teaching, that were esteemed.

The invitation here is to break down the barriers that divide.

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Today we reflect on the mustard seed.

Here is a picture of the kingdom is where people on the outskirts find a place to belong. This is what we are invited to be a part, a place where people find rest & welcome.

Here is the promise - the seed of the Kingdom of God can grow in your life & the life of the church.

But just like plants grow, this isn't something you can manufacture - this is something where we ask God to work in our presence.

Luke 17:5-10

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