PRAYER NOTES - LISTEN AND OBEY

22 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. 23 Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror 24 and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. 25 But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

PRAISE AND THANKS

• For the word of God that he speaks through to teach us about God's charcter, his will and about our true selves. 
• That obedience to God's word leads to freedom for us, and blessing through what we do. 
• For the scriptures that have come to mind to encourage and lead us in difficult times. 

PRAYER NOTES

• For a posture of obedience each time we come to read God's word. 
• That we would hear clearly what the Lord is saying to us individually and as a church.
• For courage to step out in obedience in all areas of our lives as God calls. 
• That we would allow the word to be a mirror, reading us as we read it. May we humbly recieve the truth.
• Forgive us for the times we have ignored God's word, and forgotten to follow through on his direction.
• May we perververe in the directions God gives us, and hold onto the promises that bring us hope. 
• For a revival of reading God's word as a practice in our church community. Pray for those who neglect the word, and pray for victory over the enemy who tempts us to be busy and distracted on other things. 
• That God would grow our confidence in the truth of scripture in a time when false messages flood the airwaves.
• For the word of God preached and taught at The Grove to cut deep into the minds and hearts of hearers and that many would respond and be saved and changed. 
• Pray for our children and teenagers to be lovers of the word, and responsive to God's call. 

I was talking about work the other day with my son, and we got onto the subject of career changes. Some people stay in the same line of work their whole working lives, while others change careers once, twice or numerous times. What's your story? Have you landed in the job that fits you? For some, your career has been a positive experience, for others it's been a frustrating journey. You might love your job, hate your job, or at the moment don't have a job. Whatever your experience has been or is right now, how has your faith played a part?  

As we focus on faith at work I thought it might be helpful to share my story. I have been working for 36 years now, 16 years in the building industry as a painter, and 20 years as a pastor. Within those two career paths, there were some changes also. In the building industry, I did a 4 year apprenticeship with the state government, I worked for private enterprise as a tradesman for 5 years, and I was self-employed for 7 years. At 33 years of age I was called into vocational ministry, first as an intern and then as an Associate Pastor at Bridgeman Baptist for 6 years. During that time I also completed a Bachelor of Ministries degree at Malyon college. Then in 2007 Leanne and I, along with a small group of people, were sent out to plant The Grove where I have been Senior Pastor for almost 15 years.   

I think that's the first time I have ever written down my career history, and it feels like I am writing a CV! But behind the statistics, like most people's working life, there have been some high points, and some difficult sections of the journey. As we start this Faith at Work series, it got me thinking about how faith has played a part in my working life. As you can imagine, there is quite a contrast between painting and pastoring. But looking back, you might be surprised to hear me say, faith has been just as important in both careers. 

The book of James is the New Testament's wisdom book. It's highly practical for engaging faith with daily life. As Jesus' brother, you can tell James was influenced by Jesus' teaching with many parallels to the Sermon on the Mount. It doesn't take long to discover that James thinks faith is fairly useless if it doesn't benefit our lives outside of Sunday. It's Monday to Friday where we need it most. Faith that works, is faith at work. 

It was during my painting career that I had a major faith renewal. I was a prodigal who came home to God after years of running away. Early in my renewal I remember one Sunday being prayed for by my Pastor about being a bold witness for Jesus at work, and something radically changed in me. I started seeing opportunities open up to have spiritual conversations. I used to hide my faith before that day, but now I was talking about it with other tradies. As a pastor I sometimes really miss being on the front line on a job site. There was something exciting and adventurous about how the Holy Spirit would create an opportunity at work. I used to feel so alive after a conversation, not because a person accepted what I said; they usually didn't. But because I saw God so involved, full of love and pursuing everyone. I'll never forget painting the back door of a client's house, and sensing the prompt to pray that Jesus would open the door for a chat about the gospel. Before I finished painting that door, the client was outside talking to me and brought up the subject of faith in God. I can't remember what was said, but I can still see that door and the backyard. Powerful experiences somehow imprint a lasting memory. I was blown away that day.  

The careers we have are a service to our community, and it's important to work hard and do our best. But as people of faith, there is a larger narrative. Our real boss is Jesus, and he has called us to our work as his witnesses. A simple prayer each day asking God to open doors of opportunity is a prayer God loves to answer. Through our lives, our actions and even our words, we bring salt and light into the front lines of our mission field. We spend most of our time at work, so it makes sense that's where we can have the most impact and influence. When we see work as a calling to a mission field, even the toughest work places can be transformed into exciting opportunities. 

As we study the book of James, we are going to learn wisdom for life in the real world. It's a world that looks nothing like what we have ever seen before. But the wisdom we learn works in every culture and circumstance, because it's God's wisdom. I pray God would bless you with fresh insight that will not only bring new joy to your daily work, but many would be blessed because you are among them, reflecting the life of Jesus.

May the Lord bless the work of your hands this week. 

Marty

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. (Colossians 3:23-24)

The Road Ahead - Part 2

Praise Points:

• For all that our amazing God will do on the road ahead for The Grove
• That the Lord has gone before us and prepared the way
• For the word of God, and how he reveals his will to us as we listen
• For the privilege and joy it is to journey life with Jesus, and be part of his plans to rescue a lost and hurting world
• For Ros Corke's service in administration for almost 15 years at The Grove.

Prayer Points:

• For powerful unity at the Road Ahead church conference next Saturday. Pray that Jesus speaks and reveals his plans and promises.
• For Mel Goopy as she starts as Admin Coordinator next week.
• For God to make a way in term 4 for the mission of The Grove and for many to come and find a spiritual home among us.
• For provision of all the finances we need to meet our budget and complete the office fit-out
• For the successful installation of the new church sign, and that God would use it to make us known as a place of hope and life in our community to all who drive by
• For the Holy Spirit to open the road ahead for those who feel stuck in their life. Pray for those who are sick, who are struggling mentally and emotionally and relationally. May the Lord bringing healing and peace.
• For our faith at work series, that God would teach us how to live our faith out in our workplaces. 
• For those in times of trial to know God is testing their faith to purify it and reflect his character.

Dear church family,

I want to let you know about a significant administration staffing change that is happening early in term 4. 

Ros Corke

After almost fifteen years working at The Grove, and close to fifteen years working at Bridgeman Baptist before that, Ros Corke is retiring. For nearly three decades Ros has served Jesus local church, planted in two locations from their beginning through to building and beyond. Ros has been one of the most humble and faithful servants I have ever served alongside. Her genuine love, godly wisdom and unquenchable kindness has been an incredible gift from the Holy Spirit to our church family. 

I have worked with Ros for the last twenty years in a staff team, and are so full of thanks to God for her contribution. Leanne and I praise God for the incredible support she and Trevor have been throughout our ministry. While its hard to imagine not working with Ros anymore, we are faithfilled for what Jesus has next for Ros as a grandma, and for the new opportunities to serve in the body of Christ at The Grove down the track. 

Mel Goopy

The other news I have to share, is about the next person who will join the team as The Grove’s Administration Coordinator. That person is Melinda Goopy. For the last ten years, Mel has worked as the Corporate Services Manager of SPELD QLD, a not-for-profit organization that supports people with learning difficulties. In her role Mel coordinates all of the SPELD administration, manages their events, is the IT help desk person and supports individuals and families who are dealing with significant challenges. Mel is also part way through a Bachelor of Business: Commerce, Marketing and HR. 

It is remarkable the way God has led us to Mel, and Mel to this position at The Grove. Mel and Chris were our first baptisms in the new building on Easter Sunday. Their lives have been turned around by Jesus in recent years, and Mel has been sensing God calling her to something new. Both Ros and I had independently thought about Mel for the administration position, and the timing could not be more God ordained. The church council selected a committee to oversee the interview and employment process, which returned with an overwhelming affirmation of Mel Goopy for the role starting at two days a week. 

Mel has a great heart for Jesus, his church and brings with her high-level experience, skills and leadership that will be a blessing to The Grove for the next stage of our growth and mission. 

Timing

Mel starts in her role on Tuesday the 12th of October, when Ros will handover. On Sunday the 10th of October, we will honour and give thanks for Ros, and commission Mel during our service. Both ladies will share how God has been leading them into this new season in their lives. I pray many would come out to encourage Ros and Mel in this significant moment in our church. 

We praise our great King Jesus for once again leading us into a future where many peoples lives will be changed by his love and grace.     

God raised him (Jesus) from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule. And not just for the time being, but forever. He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, Christ rules the church. The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is Christ’s body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence (Ephesians 1:20-23 MSG).

God bless,

Marty

The last couple of weeks have been very different for us as a staff team. We have all taken a bit of a different role in planning services and keeping ministries running while Marty is away on Long Service Leave. I am so thankful for all those who have put their hand up to be able to support the team as well as all those who continue to pray for our church in every season. I wanted to take the time to update everyone on what has been happening during this time but more importantly to give some insight specifically into the Youth and Young Adults here at The Grove.

As a church, we have just finished the Christian Foundations course. During the past few weeks, we have been taking a look at different principles and topics that form our faith as Christians. Over this time we have been so blessed by a range of different speakers. All bringing unique insight and wisdom into the topics we have covered. I have been blown away by the faithfulness of our God and seeing him work in people’s lives.

In our world and current culture, it can be so easy to finish something and move straight onto the next thing. Wondering, what’s next? Whenever we finish a TV show we look for a new one. Finish a season of sport and the next one seems to start right away. Finish an assignment, or big work project and the next one seems to roll in. Finish a term and the holidays fly past and all of sudden we are in term four getting ready for Christmas!

We are always looking ahead and looking to the next thing which I don’t think is bad at all. It allows us to plan and prepare, as well as to adapt and change to our current situation. What we sometimes miss is the beauty in slowing down and reflecting. Taking the time to journal and write down our prayers. This allows us to sit in God’s presence for longer and spend more time with him. As a church, we have been praying that this season of Christian Foundations doesn’t just come and go but is used as a tool for us to journey with others in discipleship. To have a specific study, paired with devotions and journaling to be able to walk the Christian life with those around us.

You don’t have to do it every term but what would happen if we chose one person or one couple to journey alongside every year in doing this course with them. What could take place during this time of intentional discipleship? What could God do in their lives? What new revelations could God reveal in your life? After all, it’s what Jesus call us to do, isn’t it?

The Great Commission

16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go.17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Matthew 28:18-20 (NIV)

During this term, Jordy and I have been running a young adults connect group every fortnight. We have loved getting to know the young adults in a laid back environment. We see a group of people whose hearts are focused on following Jesus and in particular have a passion for leading the next generation and seeing them come into a deeper relationship with Jesus. 

In addition to this, we have continued to see God move in our PM service. Whilst this service is aimed at youth and young adults our heart is for all to come and hear the word of God. I am so thankful for the many talents and gifts of the body of Christ that allow us to host a PM service. Please continue to pray and lift up our young adults as we look to reach a generation who we believe is open and ready to hear the word of God.

Youth has been a huge blessing to be a part of this term and I am feeling God’s hand in everything. Friday nights provide a great platform for us to build a community that loves and accepts everyone, as well as share the gospel message. Whilst this is important our heart goes beyond just a Friday night, we want to journey and walk alongside the youth through life’s ups and downs. Helping them in their faith journeys, and while we won’t be able to answer all their questions we are here to provide a space for them to feel comfortable in sharing what’s on their hearts.

Upon reflection, over the past few weeks, I have been overwhelmed by the goodness of God. How in every season of life and in every aspect of our lives he is working behind the scenes to bring about his plan. We don’t know why certain things happen or don’t happen but we do know that our God is good and faithful. Be encouraged to press into God and continue to lean on his never-ending love and faithfulness!

Psalm 100:5 

For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Blessings,

Henry