Matthew 25 says: Truly I tell you, just as you did for the least of these, you did it for me.
I ask us all to consider carefully what role our community of faith will play in our lives this coming Christmas. For many outside and within our community Christmas is a difficult time of year. It is important for us to take every opportunity to celebrate together and it is equally important that we not allow the break of school to be cause for us to forget our motto – Non Nobis Solum. The motto we ask our students and daughters to model here can only be fully appreciated if we all are prepared to model it to them in return. The sacrifice of putting others first this Christmas, I am sure you will agree, would bring a below but do not be limited by this list or a single giving; rather, continue to seek out ways to model selflessness every day these holidays, as I am sure many do with their families already. My best wishes to all this Christmas, and I look forward to your safe return next year.
I hope this list is of some assistance to you this Christmas. God bless, Ian Dredge.
Anglican Board of Mission Australia - they do some amazing work.
http://www.abmission.org/
Free Rice (fun, learning and giving!)
http://www.freerice.com/index.php
Ausaid
http://www.ausaid.gov.au/
Reconciliation Australia
http://www.reconciliationaustralia.org/i-cms.isp
Oxfam
http://www.oxfam.org/
Monday, 24 November 2008
Friday, 7 November 2008
Sunday, 12 October 2008
Please the Lord
Scripture:
“When a man's ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him” (Proverbs 16:7).
Today's Word:
What does it mean to please the Lord? In the book of Hebrews, it says that faith pleases God. Faith is simply believing that God is who He says He is, and that He rewards those who seek after Him. The Bible also tells us that faith without works is dead. In other words, we know that we have faith in our hearts because it impacts our actions. For example, when you go to sit down in your favorite chair, you probably don’t stop and study it or wonder if it’s going to hold you up. No, you have faith in that chair because you’ve probably sat in it hundreds of times.
If you didn’t have faith that the chair would hold you, you wouldn’t sit down. Your actions are affected by your faith. In the same way, when we have faith in God, we follow His commands knowing He will fulfill His promises. Every believer has been given a measure of faith. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God. The more we act on that faith, the more we will see His faithfulness and the more confidence we will have in Him!
A Prayer for Today:
Father in Heaven, my greatest desire is to please You in all things. Fill me with Your faith and revelation of Your Word so that I can stay close to You always. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
“When a man's ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him” (Proverbs 16:7).
Today's Word:
What does it mean to please the Lord? In the book of Hebrews, it says that faith pleases God. Faith is simply believing that God is who He says He is, and that He rewards those who seek after Him. The Bible also tells us that faith without works is dead. In other words, we know that we have faith in our hearts because it impacts our actions. For example, when you go to sit down in your favorite chair, you probably don’t stop and study it or wonder if it’s going to hold you up. No, you have faith in that chair because you’ve probably sat in it hundreds of times.
If you didn’t have faith that the chair would hold you, you wouldn’t sit down. Your actions are affected by your faith. In the same way, when we have faith in God, we follow His commands knowing He will fulfill His promises. Every believer has been given a measure of faith. Faith comes by hearing the Word of God. The more we act on that faith, the more we will see His faithfulness and the more confidence we will have in Him!
A Prayer for Today:
Father in Heaven, my greatest desire is to please You in all things. Fill me with Your faith and revelation of Your Word so that I can stay close to You always. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Wednesday, 8 October 2008
YOU REAP WHAT YOU SOW:
Seek to Do Good
Scripture:
“See that none of you repays another with evil for evil, but always aim to show kindness and seek to do good to one another and to everybody” (I Thessalonians 5:15).
Today's Word:
In Galatians chapter five, the Bible talks about nine specific fruits of the Spirit. These are spiritual qualities that manifest in our lives when we allow Him to work in us. The more we invite God to move in our hearts and follow His Word, the more those attributes will be displayed through us. Kindness and goodness are two of those qualities. The Bible tells us that His kindness leads people to repentance. Kindness advances the kingdom of God. The more kindness and goodness we show other people, the more we are acting like God.
The Bible tells us that what we sow, we shall reap. When we seek to do good for others, we will reap goodness in our own lives in return. I encourage you today to look for ways to show kindness and goodness to the people around you even when they aren’t kind to you. Don’t repay evil for evil. Take the high road. Bless those who wrongfully use you. Seek to do good, show kindness, and you will see it come back as blessings in your own life in return!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for displaying Your character through me. I choose kindness and goodness so that I can honor You with my thoughts, words, and actions. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Scripture:
“See that none of you repays another with evil for evil, but always aim to show kindness and seek to do good to one another and to everybody” (I Thessalonians 5:15).
Today's Word:
In Galatians chapter five, the Bible talks about nine specific fruits of the Spirit. These are spiritual qualities that manifest in our lives when we allow Him to work in us. The more we invite God to move in our hearts and follow His Word, the more those attributes will be displayed through us. Kindness and goodness are two of those qualities. The Bible tells us that His kindness leads people to repentance. Kindness advances the kingdom of God. The more kindness and goodness we show other people, the more we are acting like God.
The Bible tells us that what we sow, we shall reap. When we seek to do good for others, we will reap goodness in our own lives in return. I encourage you today to look for ways to show kindness and goodness to the people around you even when they aren’t kind to you. Don’t repay evil for evil. Take the high road. Bless those who wrongfully use you. Seek to do good, show kindness, and you will see it come back as blessings in your own life in return!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for displaying Your character through me. I choose kindness and goodness so that I can honor You with my thoughts, words, and actions. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Friday, 12 September 2008
IMITATORS OF GOD:
Today's Scripture:
“Therefore be imitators of God (copy Him and follow His example), as well-beloved children (imitate their father). And walk in love…” (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Today's Word:
When people look at you, do they see your family resemblance? Perhaps in the natural, you have characteristics of your father or mother; maybe you have their eyes, or mouth or mannerisms. But we should also have the characteristics of our heavenly Father. We should display His likeness. We should have His eyes, His mouth and His mannerisms, too. We should study Him and imitate Him with the same awe that little children do as they imitate their earthly fathers.The Bible tells us that God is love. We are never more like God than when we are walking in love—when we are being patient and kind; when we are extending grace and mercy and forgiving others the way Christ has forgiven us. When you imitate God, when you do things His way, you get His results! And God’s ways always lead to life, freedom and blessing. The more you imitate your heavenly Father by walking in love, the more you will see Him moving in your life. He’ll open doors for you that no man can close, and you’ll see His hand of blessing in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today:
Father in heaven, I invite Your love to flow through me today. Show me how I can be a blessing to others and follow Your ways. Let my life please You so that I can be an example of Your awesome character. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
“Therefore be imitators of God (copy Him and follow His example), as well-beloved children (imitate their father). And walk in love…” (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Today's Word:
When people look at you, do they see your family resemblance? Perhaps in the natural, you have characteristics of your father or mother; maybe you have their eyes, or mouth or mannerisms. But we should also have the characteristics of our heavenly Father. We should display His likeness. We should have His eyes, His mouth and His mannerisms, too. We should study Him and imitate Him with the same awe that little children do as they imitate their earthly fathers.The Bible tells us that God is love. We are never more like God than when we are walking in love—when we are being patient and kind; when we are extending grace and mercy and forgiving others the way Christ has forgiven us. When you imitate God, when you do things His way, you get His results! And God’s ways always lead to life, freedom and blessing. The more you imitate your heavenly Father by walking in love, the more you will see Him moving in your life. He’ll open doors for you that no man can close, and you’ll see His hand of blessing in every area of your life!
A Prayer for Today:
Father in heaven, I invite Your love to flow through me today. Show me how I can be a blessing to others and follow Your ways. Let my life please You so that I can be an example of Your awesome character. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Thursday, 11 September 2008
QUOTES BY MOTHER THERESA:
- "WE CANNOT ALL DO GREAT THINGS, BUT WE CAN DO SMALL THINGS WITH GREAT LOVE. "
- "IF YOU JUDGE PEOPLE, YOU DO NOT HAVE TIME TO LOVE THEM."
- "IF YOU WANT TO MAKE PEACE, YOU DON'T TALK TO YOUR FRIENDS, YOU TALK TO YOUR ENEMIES."
- "WE SHALL NEVER KNOW ALL THE GOOD THAT A SIMPLE SMILE CAN DO!"
- "KIND WORDS ARE SHORT AND EASY TO SPEAK, BUT THEIR ECHOES ARE TRULY ENDLESS."
- "THE BIGGEST DISEASE TODAY IS NOT LEPROSY OR TUBERCULOSIS, BUT RATHER THE FEELING OF BEING UNWANTED."
ALWAYS REMEMBER: SERVICE BEFORE SELF, GOD BEFORE ALL.
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
Wednesday, 27 August 2008
Thursday, 7 August 2008
Sunday, 20 July 2008
The power of passion:
THE WORD:
"But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, And I could not." Jeremiah 20:9
THE MESSAGE:
If you've ever built a fire, you know that its tendency is to go out. You must feed and protect it. Not everyone will help you do that. There are two kinds of people you'll meet in life: fire lighters and fire extinguishers. The first group will inspire you, encourage you and go out of their way to help you. The second group will throw cold water on you. How can you tell the difference? Fire extinguishers use phrases like: 'It's not in the budget ... that's not practical ... we've tried that before and it didn't work ... if it ain't broke, don't fix it ... who will do all the extra work? .. who do you think you are?' If you've heard one or more of these excuses coming from the people around you, pray for them, love them, but don't let them influence you. Fire extinguishers focus on what's wrong rather than on what's right. They find the cloud that comes with every silver lining. They doubt. They resist change. They keep you from reaching higher by trying to put out the fire of your passion. Sometimes they do this deliberately, other times unknowingly. Handle them with care! Instead, spend more time with fire lighters who understand what a calling of God is; who fuel your faith and ignite your passion. It's estimated that there are about 200 million Christians in the Chinese church today. One of the fire lighters who helped start it was Hudson Taylor. He's the man who said, 'The sun has not once risen in China in 40 years, without finding me on my knees in prayer.' That's passion!
"But His word was in my heart like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I was weary of holding it back, And I could not." Jeremiah 20:9
THE MESSAGE:
If you've ever built a fire, you know that its tendency is to go out. You must feed and protect it. Not everyone will help you do that. There are two kinds of people you'll meet in life: fire lighters and fire extinguishers. The first group will inspire you, encourage you and go out of their way to help you. The second group will throw cold water on you. How can you tell the difference? Fire extinguishers use phrases like: 'It's not in the budget ... that's not practical ... we've tried that before and it didn't work ... if it ain't broke, don't fix it ... who will do all the extra work? .. who do you think you are?' If you've heard one or more of these excuses coming from the people around you, pray for them, love them, but don't let them influence you. Fire extinguishers focus on what's wrong rather than on what's right. They find the cloud that comes with every silver lining. They doubt. They resist change. They keep you from reaching higher by trying to put out the fire of your passion. Sometimes they do this deliberately, other times unknowingly. Handle them with care! Instead, spend more time with fire lighters who understand what a calling of God is; who fuel your faith and ignite your passion. It's estimated that there are about 200 million Christians in the Chinese church today. One of the fire lighters who helped start it was Hudson Taylor. He's the man who said, 'The sun has not once risen in China in 40 years, without finding me on my knees in prayer.' That's passion!
Sunday, 15 June 2008
Take the Limits Off:
Scripture:
“He raised us up together with Him…that He might clearly demonstrate through the ages to come the immeasurable, limitless, surpassing riches of His free grace, His unmerited favor…” (Ephesians 2:6-7).
Today's Word:
We serve a God of unlimited grace, favor and blessing. He longs to show you His goodness and pour out His abundance in your life. When God sees you, He sees unlimited possibility. He sees unlimited potential. He sees unlimited resources. God’s grace and favor in your life enables you to become what He sees, but you have to first open your heart and take the limits off. We limit God in our thinking. Thoughts of doubt, unbelief and unforgiveness in your heart will close the door to His favor. In Mark chapter 6, it says that Jesus could do no mighty works in a particular town because of the unbelief of the people. It works the same way today. But when you choose thoughts of faith and expectancy, you are opening the door for God to work in your life. You are taking the limits off. You are giving Him the opportunity to multiply what you have in your hand. Choose to take the limits off by choosing His thoughts of victory. Choose thoughts of increase and blessing. As you do, you’ll rise higher and higher and live the abundant life He has prepared for you.
A Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I choose Your unlimited grace and favor today. I choose to believe that You have good things in store for me. I give You everything that I am and ask that You use me for Your glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Sunday, 18 May 2008
Faith and Righteousness
Today's Scripture
“Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness” (Galatians 3:6).
Today's Word
So many people today are looking for ways to be righteous or to be in “right standing” with God. The Bible simply says that when we believe God, that’s righteousness. The proof, or evidence, of our faith in Him is found in our actions. The Bible says that faith without works is dead. That means, when we really believe something, our actions will support what we believe. Because Abraham believed God, he obeyed His word and left his father’s land even when he didn’t even know where he was going. In the same way, when we believe God, we have to leave some things behind in order to embrace the new life He has in store. As you let go of the old and, by faith, embrace God’s promises, know that He is leading you down paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake! Keep believing, keep stepping out, knowing that your best days are ahead of you. As you follow His leading, you’ll walk in righteousness and live the abundant life He has in store for you.
A Prayer
Father in heaven, today I choose to accept and believe Your Word by faith. Thank You for making me righteous and help me to follow You all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
“Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness” (Galatians 3:6).
Today's Word
So many people today are looking for ways to be righteous or to be in “right standing” with God. The Bible simply says that when we believe God, that’s righteousness. The proof, or evidence, of our faith in Him is found in our actions. The Bible says that faith without works is dead. That means, when we really believe something, our actions will support what we believe. Because Abraham believed God, he obeyed His word and left his father’s land even when he didn’t even know where he was going. In the same way, when we believe God, we have to leave some things behind in order to embrace the new life He has in store. As you let go of the old and, by faith, embrace God’s promises, know that He is leading you down paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake! Keep believing, keep stepping out, knowing that your best days are ahead of you. As you follow His leading, you’ll walk in righteousness and live the abundant life He has in store for you.
A Prayer
Father in heaven, today I choose to accept and believe Your Word by faith. Thank You for making me righteous and help me to follow You all the days of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Saturday, 10 May 2008
LIVE LIKE A CHAMPION!
Seeing Adversity The Right Way
Anytime God is about to take you to a new level you’re going to face opposition. There will be new battles to fight and new obstacles to overcome. It’s easy to get discouraged and think, “Why is this happening?” But we have to change our thinking and focus on the fact that on the other side of those challenges is a new level of victory—a new level of success. David would only be known as a shepherd boy if it weren’t for Goliath. David’s enemy became the tool that God used to promote him. And God will do the same in your life today. He’ll use those challenges and difficulties in your life to catapult you towards success! If you are going through a hard time today, if things look impossible, don’t give up now. Change your perspective and believe that God is working behind the scenes. Put a smile on your face and stand in confidence knowing that you are a child of the Most High God. When all is said and done, you’re not just going to come out of that difficulty, but you’re coming out stronger, wiser, and better than you were before! That problem is going to be the catalyst for God to open supernatural doors of opportunity for you! Stand strong in the Lord today and trust that what the enemy meant for your harm, God will turn around and use to your advantage. He’ll take you places you never dreamed and cause you to rise higher and higher in every area of your life!
Anytime God is about to take you to a new level you’re going to face opposition. There will be new battles to fight and new obstacles to overcome. It’s easy to get discouraged and think, “Why is this happening?” But we have to change our thinking and focus on the fact that on the other side of those challenges is a new level of victory—a new level of success. David would only be known as a shepherd boy if it weren’t for Goliath. David’s enemy became the tool that God used to promote him. And God will do the same in your life today. He’ll use those challenges and difficulties in your life to catapult you towards success! If you are going through a hard time today, if things look impossible, don’t give up now. Change your perspective and believe that God is working behind the scenes. Put a smile on your face and stand in confidence knowing that you are a child of the Most High God. When all is said and done, you’re not just going to come out of that difficulty, but you’re coming out stronger, wiser, and better than you were before! That problem is going to be the catalyst for God to open supernatural doors of opportunity for you! Stand strong in the Lord today and trust that what the enemy meant for your harm, God will turn around and use to your advantage. He’ll take you places you never dreamed and cause you to rise higher and higher in every area of your life!
Tuesday, 6 May 2008
Unity...why would we unify
Friends, as we remember the wonderful achievements we may make from day to day in world, might we also remember that we have a significant responsibility to those who might not have our opportunities. Let us remember those who have died young, or poor of spirit, or those whose lives have been inundated and plagued by war or famine. Might we take time, just a minute, to pray for unity in our world, and strive for it ourselves. Might we consider what it means to be unified. Might our great fortunes, our freedom and way of life, our wonderful weather, our supportive friends and family be more of a reason for us to desire unity with God and one another than less – lest we take advantage of these things, and they hold us back from remembering our wider world’s needs. Who knows where this simple prayer might lead us...
God, may our souls quiver with delight in knowing you.
May our lives be renewed in meeting you.
May our love be complete and unified, in you and one another; and may all whom we meet, meet us and know that you are love and unity. Amen.
God, may our souls quiver with delight in knowing you.
May our lives be renewed in meeting you.
May our love be complete and unified, in you and one another; and may all whom we meet, meet us and know that you are love and unity. Amen.
Monday, 28 April 2008
Column 28 April 08
This week we celebrate Ascension Day, as the day that Jesus ascended to heaven, 40 days after His resurrection.Now some might say that this was Jesus’ final hurrah, before He ran away from His silly disciples, claiming ‘they just don’t understand me!’...of all the clichés, why, oh why 40 days afterwards? 40 days of rain for Noah, 40 days in the wilderness, could it be that 40 days with His disciples was all Jesus could take?
I don’t think so.
I think it is a reminder to us that we all have a time, and a place and a mission in God’s world. To add another cliché, now the mantle rests on us.
If we want the world to change for the better, it is up to us.
I we want to see people loving and respecting one another, not because of fear but because of love itself, it is (with God’s help) up to us.
Be the change that you want to see in the world. Live it, love it and start now. This coming generation of young women deserves the dignity of us being able to look them in the eye and saying ‘yes, I did all I could, and now it us up to you.’
http://drulogion.blogspot.com/2007/05/ascension-day-this-same-jesus-will.html
http://www.baggas.com/posts/category/australia/Amongst the many moving moments of the ANZAC service celebrated here, including a drama by members of 9K, some touching and beautiful music by the choir and orchestra, were several poignant prayers, led by our own Prefects. As a community; as we should on such an occasion, we prayed for peace, for those who suffer for war, and for those dreams and possibilities lost because of war. Please continue to pray for peace; and as we remember those whose lives are affected by war, and those who perished, join with our community,
by taking time to pray the following prayer; Lest We Forget.
Almighty God, our Heavenly Father, we remember with thanksgiving those who made the supreme sacrifice for us in time or war. We pray that the offering of their lives may not have been in vain. May your grace enable us this day to dedicate ourselves to the cause of justice, freedom and peace; and give us the wisdom and strength to build a better world, for the honour and glory of your Name, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Monday, 21 April 2008
THE LORD IS OUR LAMP IN THE DARKNESS:
Ephesians 5:8-10 says "once you were in darkness; but now you are light in the Lord, walk as children of light. For the fruit of the light or the spirit consists in every form of kindly goodness, uprightness of heart and trueness of life. And try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord".
Wednesday, 26 March 2008
Last Thursday the school celebrated the Easter story by reflecting upon the Stations of the Cross or Way of the Cross; the journey that Christ took between praying in the garden after dining with His disciples, all the way through to the resurrection from the tomb. The grade 9’s have been, for some time, the group who present this to the school, and with the grade 4’s to 12’s in attendance, this was always going to be a challenging ask; but the students beautifully, subtly and yet very inspirationally took us all on this journey. Thanks to those grade 9’s who took so much time and effort preparing for this service and for all the family members who supported this journey. A big thanks also to the choir for their contribution in creating the desired environment.
Amongst the multitude of messages that should be recalled at Easter is a very simple one, one that I reminded the girls of: At the very centre of the mission that Jesus undertook is the notion that He began to change to world, for the better. He preached of love and peace as being the primary needs of all people. I pray that as you continue to reflect on your own spiritual journey, whatever stage you are at, that you seriously consider what you value most, and what you show to others. As always, if I can assist you in finding new ways to be an example of love and peace, then I will do so gladly.
With thanks and prayer in this time of love, peace and resurrection, Ian Dredge.
prayers@sthildas.qld.edu.au
idredge@sthildas.qld.edu.au
Amongst the multitude of messages that should be recalled at Easter is a very simple one, one that I reminded the girls of: At the very centre of the mission that Jesus undertook is the notion that He began to change to world, for the better. He preached of love and peace as being the primary needs of all people. I pray that as you continue to reflect on your own spiritual journey, whatever stage you are at, that you seriously consider what you value most, and what you show to others. As always, if I can assist you in finding new ways to be an example of love and peace, then I will do so gladly.
With thanks and prayer in this time of love, peace and resurrection, Ian Dredge.
prayers@sthildas.qld.edu.au
idredge@sthildas.qld.edu.au
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
WALK PROUDLY AND UPRIGHTEDLY:
WALK PROUDLY AND UPRIGHTEDLY:
SCRIPTURE:
“For the LORD is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see His face” (Psalm 11:7).
Our God is a god of justice! He loves truth, and He loves what is right. The Bible promises that if we follow His plan and walk uprightly before Him, we will see His face. And God wants you to see His face. He wants to reveal Himself to you in ways you never imagined. Walking uprightly simply means following the Word of God with a humble heart. It means you have a heart to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord. In this day and age, people have so many different ideas of what they think is right, but God is the same yesterday, today and forever, and His standard, the Word of God, will never change. The Bible also says in Psalm 84, that no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. God longs to pour His blessing and goodness on your life. Choose to follow His Word and allow Him to work His purposes on the inside of you. As you do, you will walk uprightly and see His face and experience His hand of blessing in every area of your life!
A PRAYER:
Father in heaven, today I submit myself to Your ways. I choose to walk uprightly before You because I long to see Your face. Thank You for guiding and blessing every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
SCRIPTURE:
“For the LORD is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see His face” (Psalm 11:7).
Our God is a god of justice! He loves truth, and He loves what is right. The Bible promises that if we follow His plan and walk uprightly before Him, we will see His face. And God wants you to see His face. He wants to reveal Himself to you in ways you never imagined. Walking uprightly simply means following the Word of God with a humble heart. It means you have a heart to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord. In this day and age, people have so many different ideas of what they think is right, but God is the same yesterday, today and forever, and His standard, the Word of God, will never change. The Bible also says in Psalm 84, that no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. God longs to pour His blessing and goodness on your life. Choose to follow His Word and allow Him to work His purposes on the inside of you. As you do, you will walk uprightly and see His face and experience His hand of blessing in every area of your life!
A PRAYER:
Father in heaven, today I submit myself to Your ways. I choose to walk uprightly before You because I long to see Your face. Thank You for guiding and blessing every area of my life. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Monday, 17 March 2008
Weekly reflection...Baptism
Baptism is the funniest of things, for all the emphasis we place on its importance, it was a ceremony which Jesus went through, but of which there is no record of Him ever doing himself (He did however, command all His disciples to do). It is an important ritual welcoming new members into the life of the Church, and yet so often an isolated Christian event in someone’s life. It is a conundrum of an era which is currently changing – to baptise or not to baptise? For hundreds of years now, we have baptised infants because the whole of society was driven by faith and religion, a child was by virtue of their birth a member of the Church; yet, this may no longer being the case. Baptism is a tricky one.
Much more easily understood is the practice of confirmation. Confirmation was traditionally a part of baptism, but over time became separated for good reason. Confirmation is that process whereby we stand before God and our community and affirm those baptismal vows made on our behalf at an earlier stage.
Students, staff and family members interested in Baptism and Confirmation have begun to touch base with me. Preparation will take place in term 2 and is great fun.
Our community faith is strong and growing. The faith of its individuals are, I hope, continuing to develop. If you find yourself with questions like ‘What might my next step of faith be’?, then please consider Baptism or confirmation a worthwhile investment! Just call me at the school or send an email if you want to know more!
Much more easily understood is the practice of confirmation. Confirmation was traditionally a part of baptism, but over time became separated for good reason. Confirmation is that process whereby we stand before God and our community and affirm those baptismal vows made on our behalf at an earlier stage.
Students, staff and family members interested in Baptism and Confirmation have begun to touch base with me. Preparation will take place in term 2 and is great fun.
Our community faith is strong and growing. The faith of its individuals are, I hope, continuing to develop. If you find yourself with questions like ‘What might my next step of faith be’?, then please consider Baptism or confirmation a worthwhile investment! Just call me at the school or send an email if you want to know more!
Tuesday, 4 March 2008
Monday, 25 February 2008
Separate Yourself
Today's Scripture
“So whoever cleanses himself [from what is ignoble and unclean, who separates himself…be a vessel set apart and useful for honorable and noble purposes.” (II Timothy 2:21)
Today's Word:
Are there people or activities in your life that you know you need to separate yourself from? The Bible says that bad company will corrupt good morals. God wants you to constantly be growing and rising higher in life. That’s why this verse encourages us to separate ourselves from corrupting influences. And those influences are more than just the people in your everyday life. The influences are anything that influence your thinking. Be careful about what you are allowing into your mind. Be careful about what you read and what you watch. Don’t give your attention to things that are going to drag you down. Choose to separate yourself today. Remember. God wants you to live an abundant life. He wants you be separate so that He can work through you and fulfill his purposes in you life. As you cleanse yourself God will work in and through you so that you can live as an over comer the way God intends!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word which is the Truth that sets me free. Give me strength to separate myself from anything that does not honor You. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Today's Scripture
“So whoever cleanses himself [from what is ignoble and unclean, who separates himself…be a vessel set apart and useful for honorable and noble purposes.” (II Timothy 2:21)
Today's Word:
Are there people or activities in your life that you know you need to separate yourself from? The Bible says that bad company will corrupt good morals. God wants you to constantly be growing and rising higher in life. That’s why this verse encourages us to separate ourselves from corrupting influences. And those influences are more than just the people in your everyday life. The influences are anything that influence your thinking. Be careful about what you are allowing into your mind. Be careful about what you read and what you watch. Don’t give your attention to things that are going to drag you down. Choose to separate yourself today. Remember. God wants you to live an abundant life. He wants you be separate so that He can work through you and fulfill his purposes in you life. As you cleanse yourself God will work in and through you so that you can live as an over comer the way God intends!
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank you for your Word which is the Truth that sets me free. Give me strength to separate myself from anything that does not honor You. In Jesus Name. Amen.
Sunday, 24 February 2008
Weekly Column in Extra!
Hi, someone asked me last week if I could post my column somewhere on the web for them to access, now I think they meant just one in particular, but I thought it may be a decent idea to pop them up regularly - so watch this space, every Monday afternoon!
God bless, Ian Dredge.
12.02.08
http://www.lcmb.org/images/prayer.jpg
One of the most important things that our Chapel wardens, prefects and pretty much anyone in the school can be encouraged to do is to pray. Prayer can be light and joyous and song-full, yet it is not reserved for songwriters or those who do not experience hardship; it can be deep and mournful, but is never just for the weary of heart – it can be artful and beautiful in expression, but it is not reserved for the artistic...prayer, like forgiveness, is a gift – a gift that everyone has to offer. It is for everyone – and I want to encourage you to join us as a prayerful community. We have put together two simple ways of making this easier for you: the first is a simple email address: prayers@sthildas.qld.edu.au; a confidential email address. If you have a prayer request just send me an email, and be assured of my prayer. The 2nd is being managed and maintained by several students: sayalittleprayer.pbwiki.com, and will soon provide weekly meditations, a group prayer blog, and a service to keep you in touch with the school.
Who knows where a little prayer will take you: as Martin Luther King Jr said: “To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Maybe today is a good day to start breathing!
19.02.08
A time to meet
Making time to meet with friends and family can be very difficult. We live in a society and often have lifestyles which present challenges in maintaining close relationships with one another – the paradox of course is that in such a society it is all the more important to do just the opposite, and keep your relationships alive and healthy, for the sake of our very sanity! Of course we use technology as a life line, and with mobiles and skype, ims and sms making contact easier, and while a quick conversation may not be the face to face that we so often yearn for, it can certainly plug the gap until time is made for that all important catch-up.
From the Christian perspective, comes the question of: How do we keep our relationships with God alive...? Of course there are many ways, such as thumbing through your Bible regularly, and of course there is prayer (see last weeks column), which can be tough on your own, especially if it is something new to our lifestyle. It can be made easier of course by meeting with friends or family and praying together regularly, something we are hoping to be able to offer everyone in the community in time. Remember, even Jesus took time out for prayer, for connectivity with God, prayer is an expression of an intimate relationship with our heavenly creator, who makes love available to us all, anytime we need it. Don’t be afraid to touch base with God, and certainly don’t be afraid to ask for help doing it!
26.02.08
Several grade 12 girls asked that the Boarder’s Chapel this week be themed on family. Family is so important to us social beings, they are so often our source of guidance and help, love and acceptance, forgiveness and hope. Now sure, families can also be hard work, challenging, even unbearable sometimes; but this is not a new conundrum – dealing with family is as old as the hills, and dealing with it is important, because when we need them for the love, acceptance, guidance and so on, we had better make sure we have dealt with the niggles which may otherwise get in the way.
The challenge placed on us by Jesus is to question not the value of family, but why perhaps we do not apply these same values to our entire world.
The words of Jesus himself are that his commandment to us as “his friends” was to love one another, as he loved us (John Chapter 4), and that anyone who does this, is His brother and sister (Matthew 12). Little niggle or big argument, brother, sister, mother, father; neighbour, workmate, employee or boss ~ it is our prerogative as leaders in our community (because that is what you are when you come to St Hilda’s), to take the command of love first, and show it to everyone! Need help working out how to do this? I am more than happy to, if I can!
P.S. Don’t forget – any prayer requests that you might have, please don’t hesitate to email them to prayers@sthildas.qld.edu.au!
God bless, Ian Dredge.
12.02.08
http://www.lcmb.org/images/prayer.jpg
One of the most important things that our Chapel wardens, prefects and pretty much anyone in the school can be encouraged to do is to pray. Prayer can be light and joyous and song-full, yet it is not reserved for songwriters or those who do not experience hardship; it can be deep and mournful, but is never just for the weary of heart – it can be artful and beautiful in expression, but it is not reserved for the artistic...prayer, like forgiveness, is a gift – a gift that everyone has to offer. It is for everyone – and I want to encourage you to join us as a prayerful community. We have put together two simple ways of making this easier for you: the first is a simple email address: prayers@sthildas.qld.edu.au; a confidential email address. If you have a prayer request just send me an email, and be assured of my prayer. The 2nd is being managed and maintained by several students: sayalittleprayer.pbwiki.com, and will soon provide weekly meditations, a group prayer blog, and a service to keep you in touch with the school.Who knows where a little prayer will take you: as Martin Luther King Jr said: “To be a Christian without prayer is no more possible than to be alive without breathing.” Maybe today is a good day to start breathing!
19.02.08
A time to meet
Making time to meet with friends and family can be very difficult. We live in a society and often have lifestyles which present challenges in maintaining close relationships with one another – the paradox of course is that in such a society it is all the more important to do just the opposite, and keep your relationships alive and healthy, for the sake of our very sanity! Of course we use technology as a life line, and with mobiles and skype, ims and sms making contact easier, and while a quick conversation may not be the face to face that we so often yearn for, it can certainly plug the gap until time is made for that all important catch-up.
From the Christian perspective, comes the question of: How do we keep our relationships with God alive...? Of course there are many ways, such as thumbing through your Bible regularly, and of course there is prayer (see last weeks column), which can be tough on your own, especially if it is something new to our lifestyle. It can be made easier of course by meeting with friends or family and praying together regularly, something we are hoping to be able to offer everyone in the community in time. Remember, even Jesus took time out for prayer, for connectivity with God, prayer is an expression of an intimate relationship with our heavenly creator, who makes love available to us all, anytime we need it. Don’t be afraid to touch base with God, and certainly don’t be afraid to ask for help doing it!
26.02.08
Several grade 12 girls asked that the Boarder’s Chapel this week be themed on family. Family is so important to us social beings, they are so often our source of guidance and help, love and acceptance, forgiveness and hope. Now sure, families can also be hard work, challenging, even unbearable sometimes; but this is not a new conundrum – dealing with family is as old as the hills, and dealing with it is important, because when we need them for the love, acceptance, guidance and so on, we had better make sure we have dealt with the niggles which may otherwise get in the way.
The challenge placed on us by Jesus is to question not the value of family, but why perhaps we do not apply these same values to our entire world.
The words of Jesus himself are that his commandment to us as “his friends” was to love one another, as he loved us (John Chapter 4), and that anyone who does this, is His brother and sister (Matthew 12). Little niggle or big argument, brother, sister, mother, father; neighbour, workmate, employee or boss ~ it is our prerogative as leaders in our community (because that is what you are when you come to St Hilda’s), to take the command of love first, and show it to everyone! Need help working out how to do this? I am more than happy to, if I can!
P.S. Don’t forget – any prayer requests that you might have, please don’t hesitate to email them to prayers@sthildas.qld.edu.au!
Saturday, 16 February 2008
Love Never Fails:
Today's Scripture:
“Love never fails” (I Corinthians 13:8).
Today's Word:
We all have people in our lives that are difficult at times. Maybe it’s someone you are at school with, a family member or even close friend. Relationships can be complicated, but remember: love never fails. The Word of God clearly defines love in: 1 Corinthians 13. It says that love is patient and kind. It doesn’t seek its own way. Love doesn’t keep a record of wrongs. And most importantly, love never fails. Notice that this chapter doesn’t talk at all about how you feel. God’s love isn’t about feelings: It is a choice. You can choose to be patient, even when you don’t feel like being patient. You can choose to be kind, even when you don’t feel like being kind.
No matter what situation you find yourself in, you can choose love. You are never more like God than when you are walking in love. And when you are walking in love, you will never fail because love never fails. Open your heart to God’s love today. Ask Him to show you how to love others better. As you walk in love, you’ll find peace and live in victory all the days of your life!
A Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love which never fails. Thank You for loving me so that I can be free to love others. Empower me, by Your Spirit, to walk in love no matter what I may face today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Today's Scripture:
“Love never fails” (I Corinthians 13:8).
Today's Word:
We all have people in our lives that are difficult at times. Maybe it’s someone you are at school with, a family member or even close friend. Relationships can be complicated, but remember: love never fails. The Word of God clearly defines love in: 1 Corinthians 13. It says that love is patient and kind. It doesn’t seek its own way. Love doesn’t keep a record of wrongs. And most importantly, love never fails. Notice that this chapter doesn’t talk at all about how you feel. God’s love isn’t about feelings: It is a choice. You can choose to be patient, even when you don’t feel like being patient. You can choose to be kind, even when you don’t feel like being kind.
No matter what situation you find yourself in, you can choose love. You are never more like God than when you are walking in love. And when you are walking in love, you will never fail because love never fails. Open your heart to God’s love today. Ask Him to show you how to love others better. As you walk in love, you’ll find peace and live in victory all the days of your life!
A Prayer for Today :
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love which never fails. Thank You for loving me so that I can be free to love others. Empower me, by Your Spirit, to walk in love no matter what I may face today. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Friday, 8 February 2008
New Creation
Today's Scripture
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come” (II Corinthians 5:17).
Today's Word:
Everyone loves to get something new. But as a believer in Jesus, you’re not only getting something new, you are something new. You are a brand new creation! Your eternal being, or the spirit on the inside of you, is re-created in Christ. The old is gone, the new has come. The Bible says that we are to work out our salvation. That means you have to retrain your body and mind to act, think, speak and live according to the new spirit within you—instead of the old habits you used to have. Don’t ever get stuck in a rut thinking, “I’ll never change…that’s just the way I am.” No, the Bible says that the Spirit of God aids us in our weakness. He gives us strength to overcome. He empowers us to live as more than conquerors. Is there something you want to change in your life today? Remember, you are a new creation in Christ. You are empowered to overcome. You are equipped to walk in the new, abundant life the Lord has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father in Heaven, thank You for making me a new creation. Thank You for empowering me to live as an overcomer. I give this day to You and ask You to help me fully understand the plan You have for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come” (II Corinthians 5:17).
Today's Word:
Everyone loves to get something new. But as a believer in Jesus, you’re not only getting something new, you are something new. You are a brand new creation! Your eternal being, or the spirit on the inside of you, is re-created in Christ. The old is gone, the new has come. The Bible says that we are to work out our salvation. That means you have to retrain your body and mind to act, think, speak and live according to the new spirit within you—instead of the old habits you used to have. Don’t ever get stuck in a rut thinking, “I’ll never change…that’s just the way I am.” No, the Bible says that the Spirit of God aids us in our weakness. He gives us strength to overcome. He empowers us to live as more than conquerors. Is there something you want to change in your life today? Remember, you are a new creation in Christ. You are empowered to overcome. You are equipped to walk in the new, abundant life the Lord has in store for you!
A Prayer for Today
Father in Heaven, thank You for making me a new creation. Thank You for empowering me to live as an overcomer. I give this day to You and ask You to help me fully understand the plan You have for me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Wednesday, 23 January 2008
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