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

Before they started, the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in 2021 were seen as the unpopular games by many people. By the time they finished, they seemed to be exactly what everyone needed. COVID19 has been the central global issue for the last 18 months, but for 17 days the world received a circuit breaker. The focus shifted onto the best athletes across the globe competing for a place on the podium of Olympic glory. 

Maybe this Olympic Games were so special because we saw ourselves in the narrative, as athletes strived and struggled for victory. In empty stadiums, behind mask wearing interviews, we connected with the stories. Of triumph against the odds, to valiant efforts despite defeat, and moments of extreme sportsmanship. It was the games where non podium finishers were venerated as champions. Peter Bol’s fourth place was celebrated like gold in Australia. Sinead Diver, in her debut Olympic marathon at 44,  made the top ten, just four minutes behind the winner. And who will forget Cedric Dubler who couldn't win a medal in the Decathlon, but made sure his team mate Ash Maloney did. 

There are many more examples, but for me the highlight was Nicola McDermott. She called herself a misfit at school, wondering why she was so tall. But she won the silver medal in high jump, and took the opportunity in her post competition interview to tell her story. Her opening comments had every follower of Jesus on the edge of their seats shouting come on! In an empty stadium she declared her belief that stadiums would once again be full, not just for the Olympics, but for a revival like the Billy Graham era. Where the gospel is preached across the world, and people respond in droves. 

The interviewer pressed the faith question and Nicola didn’t miss the opportunity. She spoke of her teenage struggles with identity until being introduced to a faith community. She was accepted and loved for who she was, and discovered that God is just like that. It totally changed her life. She now lives her life and sport from the confidence of knowing she is loved and accepted; the secret behind her success. She boldly declared of how faith in God makes everything possible. I was busting as I heard her share on the world stage, at such a time as this. WOW, praise God for you Nicola! God’s voice came through loud and clear.    

I realize at this point my blog is shaping up to be longish! But I have so much in my heart to share with you church family. When Nicola was journaling between jumps, the metaphor wasn’t lost on me. She recorded what she learned from previous jumps, which prepared her for when the bar was raised to new heights. That is like where we are at as a church. God has enabled us to get over some pretty high bars in the past. But there is a bar ahead that is raised again, since we have been placed permanently as a light on the hill. 

We are journaling and listening to Jesus in this new season, desperate for his instructions for how to reach new heights. We are praying and laying foundations of faith, for the core strength we need to jump into mission in a way that is powerful and effective. Our goal is for so many in our community, who feel like misfits, to come to this faith community. A place for people to belong, believe and become, as they discover the love and acceptance of God, found in Jesus. I pray you are saying amen!

In light of this, let’s get practical for a moment. Something I am sure a coach would say to an athlete as they dream of reaching new heights. There is training, planning as well as goals to set. So here are few things to note.

In October, we are going to hold a church conference on Saturday the 16th. It will be an important moment to gather and mine the gold that Jesus has scattered among us in this listening season. Keep journaling and stayed tuned for more details to come. 

Dive into the last few weeks of Christian Foundations. You are in for a treat with three great communicators coming to speak. 

• Who better than Andy Gourley, the founder and CEO of Red Frogs, to speak on mission this Sunday. You don’t want to miss this! 
• Then the Christian Foundations author, Rev Dr John Sweetman, is preaching on perseverance. You will be so blessed by the message.
• Finally, Malyon lecturer and our regional minister, Rev Dr Ian Hussey will teach about baptism. Whether you have been baptized or not, there is no greater moment in a person's life! May we see so many more in our new pool.

There is another practical way we are preparing to be a church where people belong, believe and become. We are pressing on with our property development. The LED sign will be installed by mid-September, and stage one of the admin floor fit-out will commence this term. Funds only allow us to go so far initially, but we pray that God would provide for the completion of the admin floor and kitchen fit-out in the future. These are vitally important spaces to serve the people God brings to The Grove.

I am almost finished my longest pastor's blog ever! But I also wanted to let you know Leanne and I are taking four weeks Long Service Leave from this Saturday. A time to rest, and for us to listen to God as a couple in this important season. We are so excited about what’s ahead, and our hearts are full of faith that a mighty movement of the Holy Spirit is coming. 

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard,
    and no mind has imagined
what God has prepared
    for those who love him.” (1 Cor 2:9)

Our amazing staff team will be on deck over the next four weeks, to serve the church. Encourage, support and pray for them. I look forward to seeing everyone soon, and pray the Lord watches over you all, as you watch over one another in love, prayer and encouragement. 

May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 15:5-6)

God bless you, Marty