On the morning of the crucifixion Pilate met Jesus and asked if he was a king – the one with power met the one with authority. Jesus replied that his kingdom was not from this world. In our age of despots and tyrants, do you serve the true king who rules with mercy and gentleness?

Perhaps we feel we just have to grin and bear this Covid thing. It’s hard to be patient. Jesus tells his disciples there’ll be tough times, there’s a time to wait on God, and then there’s a time to act…

Rev. Pauline's sermon given at our 9.30am service, Sunday 14 November 2021

Elijah was sent to the most powerful person in the land as well as the most disadvantaged – a widow from Zarephath. God works in world events as well as with individual people in need. So do not be afraid when events seem overwhelming – trust in the purposes and love of God.

In Mark 10:46-52 Bartimaeus is portrayed as an ‘ideal’ disciple. He called out to Jesus in faith and was not put off by obstacles. He recognised Jesus true identity, genuinely wanted to be healed, and became a follower of Jesus. Will you seize the day?

Jesus heals Bartimaeus who is blind. But we might ask the question – who in the Gospel story is really blind? And who actually has the most insight into who Jesus is, and can be too for us?

In Mark 10:35-45 James and John represent all status-seekers hungry for honour and prestige. They failed to understand that Jesus had come to lay down his life as a ransom for many. Jesus calls into question our human values of pride and self-importance.

The rich, young ruler was an eligible disciple in so many ways and yet his wealth had a hold on his heart. What idols have formed attachments on your heart that leaves God out in the cold? Without God at the centre we will never be truly free or truly human.

Jesus invites us to share our burdens with Him. Are we prepared to accept this offer?

On the surface Mark 9:38-50 is a strange collection of sayings but the common theme is the importance of taking our walk with Jesus seriously – who are our allies, who are we fighting against and how are we to wage this struggle – don’t you know there’s a war on?