Midweek Devotion
Our reading for this Sunday Hebrew 12:1-7, 12-14
Hebrews 12:1 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
God Disciplines His Children
4 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says,
“My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline,
and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,
6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves,
and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son.”
7 Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. For what children are not disciplined by their father? 8 If you are not disciplined—and everyone undergoes discipline—then you are not legitimate, not true sons and daughters at all. 9 Moreover, we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and we respected them for it. How much more should we submit to the Father of spirits and live! 10 They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 “Make level paths for your feet,” so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.
Warning and Encouragement
14 Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord. (NIV)
Notices
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All church members are encouraged to join a Connect group, please let Richard know if you need assistance in finding one.
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All church members are encouraged to be part of a prayer team.
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Morning tea will be served after both the services. We are not allowed to consume food and drink inside the building, but you are welcome to use our beautiful garden.
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CAP course please speak to Roger or Ajit.
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We need assistance setting up the stations of the cross for Good Friday-Easter Services. Please let Richard know if you can assist.
Archbishop’s COVID-19 Update
Dear brothers and sisters Masks From midnight Friday night, masks are not required indoors for services, groups, events, meetings or for work in the church office. Masks must be worn by those serving food and drink and staff in op shops
Mission Matters
Steve & Deanne Cooke continue to help Afghan families settle into Melbourne after the fall of Kabul. 15,000 Afghans are expected to arrive here in the next few years.[ God is bringing people from “ the ends of the earth “ to Melbourne, to hear the GOSPEL.]
The situation for Afghans is made worse by the fact that Afghanistan is now rated the worst place in the world for a Christian to live in. North Korea is now only the 2nd worst.!!
So Melbourne Afghans fear for family and friends left behind in Afghanistan as well as having other challenges.
For details of Steve’s wonderful work & prayer points press here.
Thank you
A big thank you to the anonymous donor, for covering the cost of the vicarage roof painting. The Lord bless you.
Thank you everyone for generously donating to the vicarage renovation fund. The Lord bless you all.
March Services
6/3/22: Adrian Lane from Bush Church Aid will be visiting us.
2/3/22: Ash Wednesday Service at 7pm in the Heritage Church, all are welcome.
Pastoral Care
Please email Richard or call if you require pastoral support.
Email: richard@ccd.org.au Phone: 9551 7871