As I prepare to return to Canada after seven months as your Youth Ministry Intern, I recall one of my favourite parts of Scripture:
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:15-17
These verses simply and profoundly tell the Church how we are to be with one another.
As I read these words and reflect on my time with Oak Flats and Jamberoo Anglican Churches, I see this passage being lived out.
It is beyond encouraging to walk into church on a weekend and be greeted by a room full of people who clearly love the good Lord and his church deeply, are at peace with one another, and take such joy in worshipping God communally.
In caring so deeply for the church family, even times of trials and admonishment seem to come and go with joy (James 1:2-3) and thankfulness in our churches, which further reflects the integrity of God being so clearly at the centre of everything.
Many churches do not reflect Colossians 3 as well as your two parishes do. Your witness as church congregations is profound.
I hope you are encouraged by this and continue to build one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11) as the body of Christ, for I have been so encouraged by you. I will thank God for you always.
Blessings, Rayne Loehndorf