On Monday, Leanne and I farewell our daughter Gemma, her husband Matthew and our grandchildren Audrey, George and Wesley. They leave for a two-year call in Japan, where Matt will teach English in the Connect English School in Nagoya. The school was originally established by two missionaries from the UK, one of whom still runs it today. 

While we are so thankful to God that Matt and Gem are following Jesus call, we are going to really miss our children and grandkids. While we always tried to encourage our children to go where Jesus leads, we didn’t think it would include our grandchildren too! Yet I am thankful for the timing of God’s word today, which once again brings us courage. Providentially I am starting the Fan the Flame series by preaching on Acts 1:8.

But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.

The context of this verse couldn’t be more on point. Jesus was leaving to ascend into heaven, when he gave his final commission to go into all the world as his witnesses. We have received the power from the Holy Spirit to be bright witnesses to the hope of Christ in Ferny Grove, Upper Kedron, Queensland, Japan and wherever he leads. This deeply confirms in my heart that Jesus’ call, is backed by his power. Not only for my family, but for our family at The Grove. Thank You Lord for this guarantee today. 

I pray that as we journey through the book of Acts, and reflect on the birth and spread of Jesus church, we will hear his call and receive his power. Whether it’s to be a witness to our neighbours, in our workplace or to another culture, it for the same purpose. We are sent to share the love and life of Jesus with anyone, anywhere, anytime. We don’t want anyone to miss out on an everlasting relationship with our Father in Heaven. 

On Easter Sunday we celebrated the baptisms of two women, who talked about the witness of those who follow Jesus and their impact in their faith. Then on Easter Sunday night, Hazel O’Farrell was called home to be with Jesus. Hazel used to attend The Grove in person for many years, until her health prevented her. But Hazel would continue to watch online thanks to our live stream witness. I fondly remember Hazel’s unique witness to Jesus’ love through her strong hugs and sloppy kisses! Now she has been embraced and welcomed by the one who loves her the most. 

I believe God is confirming his promise to us with the timing of his word. That he will fan into flame our witness as his church at The Grove. That as each of us pray and point to Jesus, his power will make us more effective than we have ever been before. It’s a guarantee – you WILL receive power…and you WILL be my witnesses…to kids, teenagers, adults, families in Ferny Grove and to the ends of the earth. God bless, Marty