LifeWay,
Where do I even begin to put into words my thanks for the incredible adventure that we have shared for the last 18 years. This has been a community that has stretched me, challenged me, grown me and prepared me for this next chapter of what God has called me to do. I did think that I would be here for the rest of my ministry…but God has other plans. But it is you the people here that have made LifeWay what it is; to see generations of families that I have married, baptised, stepped up to Communion and sat in homes and hospitals with has been such a blessing to me. To experience your Kingdom generosity, your missional heart, and your (mostly) adventurous spirit to “have a go” has been a gift that brought glory to God. Thank you for letting me be a part of that. May the Gospel of Jesus always be front and centre of what inspires your discipleship, your mission and your worship. I look forward to seeing what the next instalment is of what God has in store for you all. My prayers will remain with you...that God would prepare your hearts for what he has for you next and continue to give you a heart of faith to go where he calls you to go.
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Mark
Most of us know what it is like to live with a broken heart. Whether it’s from the loss of a loved one, the betrayal of someone we trusted, or a literal heart attack, the pain is acute and the recovery often slow and equally painful. But as we join Jesus on his journey to the cross, he offers us the opportunity to have our hearts made whole and to follow him wholeheartedly. So join us this Lent and experience the strength and confidence that comes from following Jesus with a whole and undivided heart.
Join us for this six part series beginning Ash Wednesday 5th January. Go to www.lifeway.net.au for service times and locations or watch via livestream here on our channel.
Take some time to reflect and refocus in the run up to Easter with these inspiring books by Tim Chester.
The Beauty of the Cross: Reflections for Lent from Isaiah 52 & 53 - $22.95
Delight in the beauty of Christ afresh this Easter.
Some of the richest prophecies about the cross of Christ can be found in Isaiah chapters 52 and 53 (the last of the 'Servant Songs'). Take time to go through these familiar yet extraordinary chapters in the run up to Easter with this Lent devotional by Tim Chester. You will be thrilled and challenged as you see how Jesus matched every part of every prophecy, and brought glory to his name through his beautiful sacrifice on the cross.
Contains 47 days of short, stirring reflections as well as a link to an original song.
The Glory of the Cross: Reflections for Lent from the Gospel of John - $22.95
In many ways, Easter is supposed to be the high-point of the year for Christians, where we remember the three days that changed history for ever. But for many of us, the day quickly comes and goes without us really feeling any different. Yet for centuries Christians around the world have marked the season of Lentthe forty days leading up to Easteras a way of reflecting on their need for forgiveness and anticipating Christ's work on the cross.
These daily readings present deep theology in a concise and understandable way, allowing you to soak up the real meaning of Christ's death and resurrection. Each week, you'll read through one or two chapters of John's Gospel. The Sunday reading provides an introduction to the passage as a whole, while the rest of the week's reflections work through it in smaller sections. A carefully selected prayerdrawn from the rich work of writers throughout church historyis included each day.
So this Lent, prepare your heart with 47 days of short and stirring reflections from the Gospel of John.
Our Radiant Redeemer: Lent Devotions on the Transfiguration of Jesus - $22.95
This devotional looks at the transfiguration of Jesus in depth, giving readers a glorious lens through which to view Jesus during Lent and Easter.
Tim Chester says: The transfiguration is a light that illuminates the meaning of the cross and resurrection. As we look deeper, well discover that its not just Jesus who is transfigured. His promise is that we, too, can be transfigured by the light he brings to our lives.
As we see Jesus in all his glory, we will be reminded of how marvellous he is and how brilliant our future with him will be. We will be moved to worship Jesus with our whole lives, giving thanks for all that he is and all that he has done.
Each of the devotions includes prompts to reflect and pray.
Introducing a beautiful range of organic swaddles and burp cloths! Made of GOTS* certified 100% organic cotton that is both eco-conscious and gentle on baby's skin, every item is pre-washed, breathable, extra versatile, and ultra soft, becoming even softer with each use and washing. These black and white designs feature verses from scripture or a lovely kiss & hug pattern. Research shows that high-contrast, black and white patterns enhance baby's vision and stimulate brain development.
Available at shopACR.com.au - make a lovely gift!