Lutheran - St. Paul's Sydney Podcast

This week we celebrate Trinity Sunday. The Triune nature of our God is a mystery ‘more than we can bear' (John 16:12b) as this week's Gospel reading says. Have you ever tried to use a tripod and have one leg collapse? Or have you put one on the ground and noticed it wouldn't stand until you made sure all the legs were the same length? When you get it right you have a really steady camera stand, or easel for your next piece of art. This week we spend time thinking about how God is one and yet three distinct persons. This kind of unity is only poorly imagined through the analogy of the tripod- as humans we cannot fully picture the amazing unity of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Imagine the closest, most loving relationship you have ever had, and then multiply that by infinity! You will still not know the full love and wholeness the three persons of the Trinity share. May we as God's church be blessed with growing in that same unity and love. Amen.Presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold. Support the show

Today we celebrate the gift of Pentecost- when the Holy Spirit was poured out for us. What a wonderful blessing! This is a fantastic reminder that the best gifts often don't come in boxes and can't be wrapped in fancy paper. The best gifts are those we receive with our hearts- and that can be passed on to others in love. The greatest love we can pass on is the love of Jesus. God sent the Holy Spirit to help the disciples and us to share the news of Jesus with the world. Let's pray this week for a special measure of this gift, so we can walk with others towards God's kingdom.Today's message was presented by Rev. Boaz Gill Support the show

This week we look both forward and back- as we examine the ways we see Jesus in God's Word after Easter. Next week we will celebrate Pentecost with a Multicultural Celebration and shared lunch at St Paul's- please come along if you are able! The lunch will offer an opportunity for fellowship and sharing with one another- a chance to see the face of Jesus in those around us. Our Gospel reading Luke 24:44-53  and reading from Acts today mention Jesus showing the disciples who he truly is- the Risen One. Jesus does this by eating with them- showing his disciples he is not a 'ghost' but a true human being, standing beside them. Jesus often shared a meal with others; this enabled him to show his love and compassion, to teach, and even to give us the gift of Holy Communion. We can't 'see' Jesus today, but we can share a meal with one another in faith and love and be pointed once again towards his kingdom. God bless your shared meals this week!Today's sermon was prepared by LCA and read by Bridgitte Willshire.Support the show

This week's Gospel reading John 5:1-9 recounts the story of an invalid Jesus encounters at the Sheep Gate in Jerusalem. In this encounter Jesus asks, 'Do you want to get well?" Jesus does not presume to know what is wanted, but reflects God's goodness in giving us our own 'free will'. God does not pressure creation to come to Him, but instead asks gently and extends His invitations into our lives- invitations towards wholeness, community and care. The invalid responds by listing a range of reasons why he is not already well! Through His compassionate listening Jesus discerns the man's desire for healing and so tells him to 'Get up!". Immediately the man is healed. Here is something we learn- that Jesus invites, and that God gives. We have faith through the Holy Spirit drawing us into trust in a God who truly cares for us, is generous, and does not seek God's own way. God gives each of us the final say in how we choose to live. How can you choose, this week, to reflect your trust in God's generosity? Could you invite someone you know into a deeper conversation, or share generously of your time and resources to improve someone else's wellbeing? Are you willing to follow their lead in how to do this? May Jesus guide you in showing others His face.This message was written and presented by Pr. Havard Osland of the Norwegian Lutheran Church Aust.Support the show

This week's focus is on the unity all people have in Christ through the gift of the Holy Spirit. In our Acts reading Acts 11:1-18  we hear that the Holy Spirit helped Peter to understand this. He was encouraged to eat things, and spend time with people, he usually wouldn't. The message God's Holy Spirit was bringing was that God's family would include people from all nations. Peter had to overcome rules he had lived by his whole life, because God's Holy Spirit showed him they were no longer as important as faith and love in Jesus Christ. What 'rules' do you follow today that might not be as important as they seem? How might the Spirit of God shine a different light on them? Can you think of new ways to express your faith and love in Jesus Christ? This week, try to share Jesus' love with someone who might not know Him yet! It might be as simple as taking the time to listen to someone, or saying 'Good Morning' to your neighbour. See where the Holy Spirit leads you!The message is from LCA.Support the show

Happy Mother's Day to all Mothers, Grandmothers, Great-Grandmothers, and those who care for us as a mother would. May God bless you today!  Our Gospel reading John 10:22-30  this week reminds us that Jesus is our 'Good Shepherd', and that He will never leave one of His sheep behind. That means you and I! These days there can be a negative connotation around being a 'sheep'. A 'sheep' can be someone who unthinkingly follows trends or others they look up to. Christian life is different. We are conscious that we follow our Shepherd, Jesus. This is something we purposefully remember each day, and it's a blessing because Jesus has claimed us for His own, righteously given by God. We do not follow without reason, or unthinkingly. We desire to be safe in the arms of Jesus, and to obey the ways He has shown us to live. In return, Jesus tells us today that we will never perish, because He knows us. What joy to be fully known and loved by our Creator! May this joy go with you through your week, as you listen to your Shepherd's voice. You could even invite someone else to hear God's Word- and share your favourite Bible verse with them!Today's sermon is from LCA and read by John Mickin.Support the show

This week's Gospel John 21:1-19  reminds us that we can rely on Jesus to give us all we need. We are blessed to be members of God's family. We are so loved that we are provided with every good thing, just as Jesus blesses His disciples with an extra-large catch of fish, and gives them a freshly-cooked breakfast! Jesus then asks His disciples to carry on the work He has begun. He gives Peter fish, then asks him to 'Feed my sheep.' Three times Jesus repeats His request- feed those I love and that the Father has given me- with your knowledge of the Good News. Thus, we are encouraged to receive from Jesus all we need to live with Him, and also asked to share that goodness and love with others. Who are the 'sheep' in your flock? Are you responsible for a family, or children in a classroom, or your work team? How can you 'feed them'? Jesus asks us to be active workers for His Kingdom in our world. Pray for guidance as to where you can bring God's blessings in your community this week. Then follow Jesus' example- you might find you have a bigger 'catch' of blessings than you can possibly imagine! The message was presented by Pr. Fin Klein of St. Michaels in Harndorf SA.Support the show

This week's Gospel reading John 20:19-31 recounts the story of Thomas, the disciple who heard that Jesus was alive but did not believe because he had not seen Him.  The good news is that Jesus meets Thomas' disbelief with compassion, gentleness and love. We too may have moments where we are unsure of God, or don't see His promises coming true in our lives. God also continues to come to us in those moments- with the same love, gentleness and compassion.  Jesus gifts each of us today with a special note- that those who trust in Him and believe, even though they have not seen, will be blessed. We are to carry that hope and joy into the world and share the news of Jesus' resurrection with those we meet. May you be blessed this week as you walk with God and share God's love with those you encounter.This massage was written for LCA and read by Bridgitte Willshire.Support the show

"He is Risen!" "He is Risen indeed!" This is the call and response we delight in on Easter Sunday, reminding us of the wondrous promise-come-true of God's Word. But phew! -there's a lot to get through in Holy Week before we say those heart-lifting words. Jesus enters Jerusalem to shouts of joy- then He gathers with His closest friends to institute His holy meal of thanksgiving and remembrance; this first meal of service and love ends in betrayal. Jesus suffers humiliation and pain as He is subjected to the worst of human nature on Good Friday, then laid in a tomb as the few friends He has left mourn. We endure a day of deep darkness, stillness and grief- a space between what was and what is to come. Then there is Life! Joy! Unspeakable wonder as Mary sees Jesus face to face in the garden. Death has been defeated, and our old sinful nature passes away in the light of our Risen Saviour.  Phew! Wow! And so many of us may also be saying "Phew! It's a lot." This sinful world isn't getting any easier to navigate. Many of us are standing in the space between what was and what is to come. Like Jesus' friends and followers, we may be feeling confused about what's happening, deeply ashamed, or full of grief as we recall our sinful actions. How have you come to the foot of the Cross this Easter? Whatever your journey along the path of life, Easter gives you the chance to pause and reflect. As you pause, take time with Jesus to be joyful, enjoy fellowship and be hospitable. Perhaps you will find the courage to truthfully reflect on your sinful actions and words. Then, as Easter dawns- allow your heart to be seized again by the Holy Spirit! As when you were baptised, death has been defeated- and yes- "He is Risen!" "Jesus is Risen indeed!" Amen, and God bless you this Easter.Sermon written for LCA and read by Bridgitte Willkinson.Support the show

Presented by Bishop Richard Schwedes.Support the show

This week we hear again the story of Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem. It is a moment of great joy and excitement before the trials and sadness of Holy Week. We may have heard this story many times over our Christian lives- yet we are challenged each time to hear God's Word with fresh ears. This week I have been struck by Jesus' final words- "....if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out."  Imagine all of creation celebrating and worshiping God so completely that the very stones cry out! Imagine a heart so full of joy and understanding of God's great mercy that it is unable to stay silent. This is the heart inside each one of us, as we prepare to celebrate the greatest mystery of all- Jesus, God's Son, amongst us- dying to restore us to a full relationship with His Father. Jesus overcomes death, He restores relationships, and He truly loves each one of us. Let your heart be filled with joy and worship as you enter His story along the road to Jerusalem. This message was presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold.Support the show

This week's sermon and theme focus on our reading from Philippians 3:4-14. Here Paul explains to the Jews that, although he is fully 'qualified' to belong to their cultural and religious family, he considers his identity first to be in Christ. Paul insists that he may be recognised as 'belonging' in other ways, but his priority is to 'press on towards' fully joining Jesus in His life.  Where do you feel like you belong, and why? Is it at your local club, where you have an embroidered t-shirt in the correct colours, and a badge with your name on it? Is it in your own home, where only a few trusted and loved people have a key to enter? How do you feel about your place in your family- do you have a sense of belonging there?   God knows that in all of those places, we at times still feel unacknowledged, unseen, and unloved. But the Holy Spirit calls us into God's heart- where we have been granted permanent belonging through baptism. Like Paul, we are called to strive towards the goal of drawing ever closer to God's heart. May we be like Paul this week- secure in the knowledge we belong with God, and encouraging others to join us in His love.The sermon was presented by Vicar David Seligmann at Good Shepherd Toowoomba Qld.Support the show

In this week's Gospel Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32  Jesus tells the parable of the Prodigal Son. This is a familiar story to most Christians. Why is it so familiar? Perhaps not only because we have heard it often- but also because we really can identify with the characters in the story. There may have been a time you resented someone who gained advantages over you whilst doing less, or a time you received an excess of blessing and squandered it without thinking. Perhaps you have been a parent watching a child break free from the restraint of your family environment and making silly choices- or been a welcoming presence when someone who has sinned realizes their mistake and asks for forgiveness. Maybe you have been all of these during your lifetime. How deeply does each person's part in this story touch you today? Who do you most resonate with? This week let's invite God into our heart as we listen to the Word- and ask the Holy Spirit to shed light on where we need to dwell more deeply. Step into God's arms this week, as God welcomes you home.The message was written and presented by Pastor Håvard Osland of the Norwegian Lutheran Church A&NZ.Support the show

This week's Gospel Luke 13:1-9 contains a warning from Jesus about where we focus as we live here on earth. Jesus tells those around Him to turn away from sinful and selfish things, and reimmerse themselves in His teachings.  Jesus then tells a parable about a fig tree which bears no fruit. Our theme for this week draws upon that parable- we investigate the idea of being 'freshly fertilised'! In the story Jesus tells of a worker asking the farmer to give the fig tree just one more year- he'll fertilise it and dig all around to give the tree another chance to bear fruit before it is cut down. How are you 'bound' by the soil of this world? Are you focused on Jesus' light, and bearing fruit for Him? This week, the Holy Spirit wishes to tend your heart- dig all around where you might be 'stuck' and where your roots have no space to grow in God- and to pour out the 'fertiliser' of Jesus' Word in your life. May the Spirit strengthen and refresh you, returning your focus to Christ this Lenten season.The sermon was written for LCA and read by John Mickan.Support the show

This week's Gospel reading Luke 13:31-35  recounts Jesus' ongoing mission despite persecution, and His frustration that the people of Jerusalem are not willing to be gathered safely to God. Instead, their hearts are hardened; despite knowing that something is 'not right' with their city even their ruler seeks to destroy the Good News.  Although we often go our own way, Jesus loves and heals us. Lent is a time to remember just how far God's love and forgiveness extends. We might 'choose' to reach up a hand to heaven, but Jesus is already reaching out to us- even as we decide. His patient offering of Himself and outpouring of blessing goes beyond anything we could imagine. How can we extend that same blessing and love to those around us this week?This message was written and presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold.Support the show

This week's Gospel reading Luke 4:1-13 , tells us of Jesus' testing in the desert. Jesus was put to the test with offers of food, wealth and power. How pertinent a reading for today's times! It seems that everywhere we look there are examples of those who want to control the world, lead it towards their own ends, or sacrifice the good of some for the benefit of a few. If we look into our own hearts we may recognise some of these behaviours on a smaller scale. However, God created us in His own image. The freedom He gave us to choose our own paths may bring us to tempting times, but if we remember the One who made us and who inspires (literally 'breathes into') our every moment we will go astray less often. Let's pray this Lent to follow Jesus' example, saying no to the easy temptations and yes to things that may feel hard but bring us closer to Him. Amen.Written and presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold.Support the show

In this week's Gospel Luke 9:28-43 we have Jesus shining with the full glory of God, in front of regular humans like you and me. We all know the feeling when sunshine reflects off a window or some other shiny surface directly into our eyes- it forces us to look away. Now imagine someone you know and love very much being transformed into an image of that brightness- do you think you would be able to keep looking at them, or engage in conversation? The Gospel tells us that Peter, John and James woke from their sleep and spoke with Jesus! Imagine that radiance being something that shone before you but didn't harm you. The disciples were only afraid when a cloud covered them, and a voice spoke. That voice told them that Jesus was indeed the Son of God, and that they should listen to Him. God is revealing to ordinary people exactly who Jesus is. Again today through His Word God reveals to us that His Son is the One, chosen to lead us back into relationship with God. Let's delight in this revelation, as Peter did, saying, “Lord, it is good to be here.” May you dwell this week in the light of Christ, and may it illuminate others you meet through you.The message was presented by Bridgitte Wilshire and written for ALC.Support the show

Dear friends- God calls us to be different! This week's Gospel reading outlines how. In today's world we are drawn by opposing forces- both to conform and be 'like' (or 'liked') by those around us, and to be 'individual' and stand out in the crowd. Many people spend lots of time, especially on social media platforms, trying to show what makes them special. Others look at those posts and try to shape themselves more closely to those they admire. All of us wish for our different qualities to be recognised and noticed by those we care about.  But Luke, Luke 6:27-38. recalls God's wish - for us to follow the example of Jesus. Luke tells us we are to be different. Not only different, but people who take the difficult routes in life, rather than those which are most comfortable for us. This includes loving those who are unkind to us, caring for those who steal from us and offering more of ourselves in love to those who disappoint us. This is not the same as the rosy pictures painted for us in people's carefully curated social media feeds. Yet this true difference is how Luke tells us others will know we belong to Jesus. Imagine how different our world could be if more people tried to shape themselves more closely to Jesus. May you walk His way this week.The message was written and ptesented by Pr. Lassi Pappinen of Finnish Lutheran Church Sydney.Support the show

This week God's Word blesses us with reassurance for those who trust in Him, and who use their lives to proclaim Him. It seems a pretty scary thing to do- opening our minds and hearts to others and sharing with them that Jesus is our everlasting hope. We pray that those around us see our lives of joy and expectation- yet we often are hesitant to speak about why we have this joy. Today's world seems very fear-inducing. Many around us are living with anxiety about the future. Jesus does not say our path will be easier, but He does promise us His peace. If we step out of our comfort zone and offer that same peace to others, however unsure we may be about what to say, He promises to be right alongside us. His Spirit will prompt our words. May we listen deeply to God's Word this week, and allow God's Spirit extra room to speak in our conversations.Tha message was presented by Pr. Fin Klien of Hahndorf SA for LCA.Support the show

This week's we focus on God calling us to be witnesses- through the story of the prophet Isaiah and that of Jesus calling ordinary fishermen to be 'fishers of all'. In both cases we see those called responding with alarm- "....but I am a sinner!" "I am afraid!" Many times in our own lives we are shaken, and indeed our souls know what it feels like to tremble before an unforseen challenge. Imagine yourself in that space for a moment. It's certainly not a comfortable place to be! Have you been aware of Jesus speaking into your life, gently prompting you towards a deeper journey of serving and witnessing for Him? This prompting may lead you to uncomfortable places; we may even struggle or suffer for Him. But God reassures those God calls- "Do not be afraid." Take some time this week to let that peace fill your heart as you listen closely to God's calling.This message was written for LCA and presented by John Mickan.Support the show

This week's Gospel Luke 4:21-30 reading is one you may have heard many times. It's often used during wedding ceremonies, but that's certainly not the only time we should reflect on it! On the contrary, these words describing the awesome qualities and power of love should be constantly in the hearts of those who follow Jesus.  Every day we are challenged to love 'more' and to love 'better'. The world tells us the appropriate things to love this way are possessions, status, and power. Paul's words bring a corrective, for they speak of love as Jesus loves. This love encourages us to speak gently to those around us, to seek what is best for them and to always hope. It teaches that faith in God's love for us is what truly sustains us. May God direct our hearts this week as we seek to love in God's way.The message was written for ALC and presented by Bridgitte Willshire.Support the show

This week's Gospel, Luke 4:14-21, holds a very exciting note that we might easily miss! Imagine being in the synagogue when Jesus himself was teaching- what a moment, to be able to hear the words of Isaiah spoken by the Son of God himself! The text tells us that all who were present had their eyes 'fastened on him.' Jesus clearly had a presence. How do you think you might have felt, when he finished reading about the good things God's Spirit would bring to the world? Imagine your surprise as a man you knew as a neighbour and teacher went on to announce that this Word was fulfilled in your hearing! How many questions might this have raised in your mind- isn't this Mary's son? Don't we know him as a simple carpenter? I wonder if we could have understood all that Jesus meant in that moment. We are truly blessed to know all that followed this day- Jesus' travels, teaching, healing, death and resurrection. May we not be taken by surprise at his announcement today, but instead cultivate wonder in our hearts at the tremendous gift of faith we have received. Today's message was written and presented by Pr. Harvard Osland of the Norweigan Lutheran Church Sydney.Support the show

This week's Gospel John 2:1-11  recounts the story of Jesus turning water into wine. Our sermon tells us this is the first 'sign' given by Jesus that 'reveals His glory'. Water at a wedding, in jars of clay- a pretty ordinary offering that Jesus made extraordinary in a great gift of compassion and love. We today may be at risk of missing signs of glory all around us, thinking that things are 'ordinary'. How 'ordinary' does every morning seem- as we get up again from our beds (perhaps missing the extraordinary gift of rest and refreshment given in God's peace), and note the sun coming in at the window (a sign from the heavens of the glory of God and His goodness in creation). Yet all around us are signs that point to the extraordinary glory of Jesus- what a blessing to experience His smile in the smile of a loved one, or His refreshment in the cool water of the ocean. May we be 'awake' this week to the signs all around us- that God is near, and of His great love for us.The message from ALC was read by Bridgitte Willshire. Support the show

This week Luke's Gospel Luke 3:15-17, 21,22  brings us the story of Jesus' baptism, and God's gift of the Holy Spirit resting upon Jesus. The Epistle reading recalls the great blessing of the Holy Spirit bestowed on a group of new believers who had been baptised in Jesus' name. There are many blessings to unpack here for us who are baptised in Jesus' name!             We understand that through baptism we enter into the life and death of Jesus. We are clothed in His love and share in all the richness that God gives His Son. Sometimes we will suffer in this life of following Him, just as Jesus suffered. However, how much more are the blessings we receive! We are called ‘God's children', His ‘beloved', ‘heirs to the Kingdom through Christ'- and gifted the Holy Spirit to walk alongside us as we live. Through baptism God builds an ever-closer relationship with us, that we can never break! May your heart be filled with the joy and wonder of so many good gifts as you journey through this week.This message was written for LCA and read by Jimmy Hong Ning.Support the show

 In this week's readings we see very different examples of encountering Jesus. The Gospel, Matthew 2:1-12.  tells of the Wise Men from the east, kneeling before a baby in a manger with their precious gifts of great value. We imagine the scene each Christmas as we gaze at our Nativity. But in Ephesians Paul tells us we may approach the throne of Jesus with freedom and confidence. What a different picture! Not only is Jesus now seated on a throne, He is to be approached confidently- like one who we love and know well. Someone we can share our intimate secrets with, because there is a bond of love between us that knows no bounds. How amazing is the gift of God's grace, poured out for us through His Son! May you feel the same confidence as you approach Jesus this week. The message was written and presented by Dr. Wendy Mayer.Support the show

'Children run joyfully- Jesus is born. Tell all the mountains to sing!' This is the beginning of a Christmas song I sang in primary school. This week's Gospel Luke 2:41-52 tells the story of the young Jesus in the temple sharing about His Father in heaven, and asking questions of the temple leaders. Those who heard Him speak were amazed that someone so young could speak so well and have such knowledge. The Gospels joyfully record the life of Jesus and His teachings in a way that allows us to be astonished by Him, even today. We are truly uplifted by the Spirit as we learn more- perhaps our hearts even 'sing', just like those mountains! The song ends with, "Thank you- for Jesus is born!" May we carry the joy and thanks of Christmas forward as we journey into the New Year. God bless you.The message was written and presented by Pr. Lassi of Sydney Finnish Lutheran church.Support the show

Christmas Day message was written and presented by Howard Osland of the Sydney Norweigan Lutheran Church.Support the show

Tonight's message for Christmas Eve was written by LCA and presented by Bridgette Wilshire.Support the show

Throughout Advent we draw closer to the fulfilment of God's promise to His people- that He will send a Saviour and Redeemer for all the world. Can you feel the excitement building? This week's Gospel Luke 1:39-55  reading tells us about the baby in Elizabeth's womb 'leaping for joy' as Mary came to visit. Do you remember a time when a promise made you 'leap for joy'? Perhaps it was on your wedding day, or when Santa brought you the first toy on your Christmas list! God's promise is greater than any gift or blessed relationship we can have here on earth- in fact, God Himself is the source of all gifts, love, and blessed relationships. We should expect His promises to be GREAT! May you 'wait with joyful hope' for the coming of our Saviour and Redeemer this week- He is near!Support the show

This week we hear about 'God's Amazing Plan' in our Nativity Service at St Paul's! Come and hear of 'God's Amazing Plan'- and look forward to the ways it will ripple through your own life. God bless you this week!The message was written and presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold. Support the show

This week's Gospel message Luke 3:1-6  invites us to 'Prepare the way for the Lord!'. The people of Israel had great expectations about the coming King- he would rule in majesty and be a powerful ruler. They looked forward to the arrival of this King in glory- after all, the Son of God was coming! However, God often fulfils His promises in ways that people don't expect- indeed, perhaps instead of 'great expectations' we ought to 'expect the unexpected!'. Jesus was born of Mary- a human baby- just like you and I. His life contained simplicity, service, and great love for the poor alongside pain and suffering. There was a bit of 'pomp and ceremony' in his human life, but it was brief. However the revelation of this Son of God had a powerful, majestic and glorious message for all people of the world- for all eternity. May your heart be prepared, this week, to receive the ways of the Lord. May his power, mercy and love dwell deeply within you. Amen. Support the show

This week's Gospel reading Luke 21: 25-36  appears difficult; speaking openly of nations in anguish, terror and perplexity. The world around us often feels like this today. Considering the judgement each person will face when Jesus returns may feel heavy, and bring a spirit of fear. However, Jesus comes to bring us life and freedom with Him. 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that His Spirit gives us power. Let us look to Luke 21:28 and feel the gladness that comes as we recognise 'redemption is coming near'.The Mesage was written and presented by Dr. Wendy Mayer.Support the show

This week our Gospel reading John 18: 33-37  speaks about truth. These days truth seems like quite a slippery concept. We can easily become confused by conflicting stories we hear online and in our neighbourhoods. This makes us feel unsure, and sometimes even unsafe. At times people deliberately spread things that are not true, just to get a reaction or make themselves seem important. However, God made us to have a deep relationship with the truth. When we know for sure who we are and what is true we are more secure and steady in the world. This week Jesus reminds us that His word is truth, and that we will flourish if we listen to Him. May your week be one where you can share this word of truth with others!Support the show

This week we welcome Bishop Richard Schwedes to St Paul's. Bishop Richard will be speaking on 'Rock Solid Hope', based on Mark 13: 1-8. These days the world seems full of change; it can be hard to know what we can depend on and what to keep hold of as differences swirl all around us. We know that change is a constant in life, yet it can feel scary or worrying when we aren't sure where to put our anchor. The Bible tells us that our stronghold is the Lord. We have no need to fear if we look to Jesus for our hope. What burdens of fear are you carrying that you can give over to Jesus this week? Alternately, who can you pray for- that they might find strength in knowing Jesus is their hope?Support the show

This week we are joined by Mark Simpfendorfer, who is sharing a message based on Jeremiah 29:4-14. This passage reminds us that God keeps his promises to those who love him. Promises are not always easy to keep, and the Bible shows us many ways God's people do things which hurt God's heart. Perhaps you have been struggling to keep a promise you have made. Perhaps someone has hurt you, and God's command to 'love as I have loved you' suddenly seems just too hard to bear. In Jeremiah, God reminds us that if we seek him with our whole heart, he will be found by us. He will gather us into his family once more. May you know his love and good promises as you journey through this week.Support the show

This week's Gospel reading is very familiar, Matthew 5: 1-12. The 'Sermon on the Mount' assures us that we are truly blessed, even (and especially) when we struggle. It can be tempting, when coming to this text, to think we know it all already- that something so familiar could have nothing new to say to us. We must remember our God is a God of creativity; his word is always fresh and he longs to speak deeply to our hearts each time we encounter him. Our Christian lives will require us to step into difficult places, or deal with things differently to the way the world around us expects. The Sermon on the Mount reminds us that the chance to speak up for Jesus will always bring blessings, even if it challenges our circumstances here on earth. We are already the children of God! What fresh message might he be speaking to you this week?Today's message was presented by Daniel Valle from  Celebrate Messiah .Support the show

This week we remember the Reformation, a time of upheaval, renewal and refreshment for the church. We thank God for the gift of Martin Luther, whose struggles helped birth the Lutheran Church. Today's Gospel reading, John 8:31-36 reminds us that God's grace and forgiveness are gifts, received through faith in Him and His goodness as revealed through Jesus Christ. Our sermon asks, "Do I have to?", as it considers various tasks and requests we may encounter on our life journey with others. Asking "Do I have to?" questions what we might 'get' in return for our compliance with a request or rule. Instead we must consider Jesus, who freely gave everything He had to serve us, right to His own death. This greatest example of God's love seeks to change the conversation from "Do I have to?" to "Yes, I'm glad to!" It's a thankful response to the gift of grace we so freely receive. How might you bring this posture of grace into your life this week?Today's sermon was read by Kohn Mickin and written for Reformation Day by the Lutheran Church.Support the show

This week we celebrate God's gift of many nations within His Body. We are thankful for the chance to hear the Pentecost blessing as we worship God together.Christian life brings both challenges and joys as we navigate our culture and rest in God's Word. As we listen to many voices from our church family and hear the languages of their hearts, we grow in love and fellowship. May God bless you as you listen, watch and join in His love 'coming to life'!Today's message was written and presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold.Support the show

In this week's Gospel reading Mark 10:17-31 Jesus' disciples recall how much they have left behind to follow Him. Jesus reassures them that no matter what they lose in this world, they will receive much more when they join Him in eternal life. We too might struggle in this world as we follow Jesus, who gave His life for ours to be saved. However we live with joy knowing that Jesus goes before us. As Paul writes in Philippians 3:8-10 the joy we have in knowing Jesus is greater than anything else we might have on earth. May you be blessed with drawing closer to Jesus this week!Today's message was written and presentede by Dr. Wendy Mayer.Support the show

Bishop Paul's Synod message reflects on Ephesians 2:8-10. These verses remind us that we are God's handiwork, created to do good things for Him. Imagine the things you make with your own hands- crafts, furniture, a beautiful meal or a garden bed. Think of the process and time taken to plan, gather materials, build and grow. Remember how much you loved and enjoyed the end result of your labours. We are God's handiwork- how much more must our God love and enjoy us! Our response to this goodness is to do the things He asks of us. How might this look in your life this week?Support the show

This week in our Gospel reading, Mark 9:38-50, Jesus tells us that everyone will be salted with fire.  Salt water can cleanse a cut or a scrape, and salt in our tears can cleanse our inner wounds as we release our cries of repentance.  Sanctification can be painful, like removing a foot, or a hand, or an eye, as even the deepest parts of ourselves are transformed from who we are today into who God is shaping us to be.  Is there a time when the pain of your sin made you feel like you were burning?  How did God take that pain away?Todays' sermon was written and presented by Bishop Paul Smith.  Support the show

This week in our Gospel reading, Mark 9:30-37, we hear how Jesus asked His disciples what they were arguing about on the road, but they kept quiet because they had argued about who was the greatest.  Jesus doesn't rebuke them for wanting to be great. Instead, He explains to them exactly what it means to be great - "Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all."  The greatest doesn't just sit at the table with the high and mighty, though to truly be the servant of all, they would indeed minister to those with worldly power, whose souls need care as much as anyone else's.  Rather, the greatest is the one who welcomes little children in the name of Jesus, caring for the smallest and most vulnerable among us.  What gifts of service has God given you that make you truly great, in the way He wants you to be?Today's sermon was written and presented by Anthony Fawcett.  Support the show

This week in our Gospel reading, Mark 8:27-38, we hear how St Peter was the first disciple to acknowledge that Jesus is the Messiah.  But others around Jesus thought He was John the Baptist, or Elijah, or one of the prophets.  Some people today might say that Jesus is a "good teacher," but not that He is the Messiah or the Son of the Living God.  Who do you say that Jesus is?Written and presented by Rene' van den Tol  Support the show

This week in our Gospel reading, Mark 7:24-37,  we hear how a Gentile woman came to Jesus and asked Him to help her daughter, who was possessed by an impure spirit.  Jesus told her to first let the children eat all they want, that it isn't right to give the children's bread to dogs, but she told Him that even the dogs eat the children's crumbs.  And what are the "crumbs" of Jesus? What small part of the bread of life doesn't contain the fullness of life within it? Even the tiniest crumb, the faith the size of a mustard seed, was enough for Jesus to tell the woman that her daughter was healed.  Has there ever been a time in your life when only a tiny crumb was all you had to sustain your faith?  Was that tiny crumb enough to get you through the night?Today's message was written and presented by Dr. Bruce Arnold.  Support the show

This week in our Gospel reading, John 1:1-14 , we hear how Jesus is the true light come into the world, who has given us the right to become children of God. As children of God, we are guided by our heavenly Father, and nurtured by Christ's church, so that we may reach the full height of our faith and be conformed to the image of the only begotten Son of God. Just as trees bear fruit with seed according to their kinds, the fruit of the Holy Spirit who conceived Jesus Christ can only bring forth the image of God in us, and bring us into right relationship with the Father and the Son.  What fruit of the Holy Spirit do you see in yourself as a child of God?The Message was Presented by Pr. Nathan Hedt.  Support the show

This week in our Gospel reading, John 6:56-69 we hear Jesus speaking with His disciples, knowing from the beginning who would believe and who would betray Him. St Peter, also known as Simon Peter, was the first disciple to acknowledge that Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah, and at this confession of faith, Jesus declared that Simon, son of Jonah, would be known from then on as Peter. But St Peter is also the man who Jesus knew would deny him three times before His crucifixion -- the disciple who wept bitterly once he heard the rooster crow.  How does the pain of knowing you've done wrong lead to the healing grace of repentance and forgiveness?  How do you trust that Jesus knows you will believe, even though He also knows you will stumble along the way?  Todays message was presented by Pastor Havard Osland from the Sydney Norweigan Church.Support the Show.

This week in our Gospel reading, John 6:51-58, we hear how whoever feeds on the flesh of Christ will live forever.  When we come to Holy Communion, we are the Church, the Body of Christ, come to receive the Body and Blood of Christ. That which we receive nurtures who we are and who we are becoming, as we grow to be conformed to the image of the Son of God.  How does knowing that you are a part of Christ's Body shape your perspective on receiving the sacrament of Holy Communion?  Today's message was presented by Bishop Richard Schwedes. Support the Show.

This week in our Gospel reading, John 6:35, 41-51 we hear how Jesus is the living bread that came down from heaven.  The word 'eucharist' that we use for Holy Communion comes from a Greek word that means gratitude or thanksgiving.  How do you express your gratitude to God in response to Him giving us the gift of His Body and Blood, so that we may have eternal life?  Today's message was Prepared and presented by Rene van den TollSupport the Show.

This week in our Gospel reading, John 6:24-35 , we hear how Jesus is the true Bread of Life, come down from heaven.  We're all familiar with bread, whether fresh baked or days old and turning hard, but that's the bread of earth, kneaded together by human hands and destined to perish and return to the dust.  But Jesus, the true Bread of Life, sustains us both in this world and into our heavenly home, and in Him we have the food that endures to eternal life.  The bread we eat on earth feeds our bodies so we continue to grow and have energy throughout the day.  How do you see the growth in your soul and the vitality of hope that comes from your faith in Jesus?Today's message was written and presented by Dr. Wendy Mayer.  Support the Show.

This week in our Gospel reading Mark 6:30-34; 53-56, we hear how Jesus brought His disciples to a solitary place to rest. But when a crowd followed them there, He had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd.  How does the love of Jesus draw people to you?  How do you find rest in Him when you need a quiet place, but the people around you are still in need of His love?  Today's message was written and presented by Pastor Lassi Pappiner of    The Southern Cross Finnish Church Sydney.Support the Show.

This week in our Gospel reading,  Mark 6:14-29 we hear how King Herod originally protected John the Baptist even though his wife was angry that he called their marriage unlawful, because he believed him to be a righteous and holy man.  But after making an oath to his wife's daughter, he had John executed to protect his own reputation in front of his dinner guests.  Even today in our own lives, there are times when defending the righteous may make people dislike us.   How does your faith comfort you when you're in these situations?  Support the Show.