Church Camp, and How to Spot a Christian in Iran

“Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord!"
- Psalm 31:24

Ahoy Church,

As yuou know, in Term 1 we are highlighting one of our church rhythms, INVITE, and one of the three skills Jesus taught in his sermon on the mount, GIVING. Our goal is always that by following Jesus' teaching and example we don't miss out on anything he offers us in life and eternity!

Despite our best intentions, Christians in the West can often teach about giving in a self-interested (or church-interested) manner. While Jesus certainly taught that "it's better to give than to receive", Jesus-like giving always costs us something and benefits someone else.

However, we rarely consider the benefits of generosity beyond the obvious financial ones.

This week Martine found a great video from Voice of the Martyrs. In a small snippet of a VOM conference, Sister Neda shares how you can spot a Christian in Iran.

Do you know how she says you can spot a christian in Iran? Kindness.

In a country where you can be severely punished or killed for being a Christian, Neda says that when people witness your kindness to them they will confrontingly ask, "Why are you doing this? Are you Christian?"

If you've been a follower long enough to accept it as your new normal then you may have forgotten how rare it is to experience the unearned love of Jesus from another person in your life.

This leads us to one of most powerful parts of generosity - it introduces people to a a whole new way of seeing the world.

In a world that seeks to get their needs (real or perceived) met, Christians are called to meet the needs of others.

In a country where "giving" is about asking people to meet the needs of churches, we aim to be a church seeking to meet the needs of those among and around us.

It may be that following Jesus' call to 'give' isn't to make you a "better" person, but to radically introduce people to the personal goodness and grace of God himself.

As we explore giving this term, let's imagine a world where Aussie Christians were generous in ways that people would confrontingly ask us, "Why are you doing this? Are you Christian?"

Much love and see you Sunday,

Dan

P.S. Considering baptism? Check out www.openroad.church/baptism and get in touch with us!

Church Camp @ Cobb & Co

We've finally found a great location for our next church camp! We're thinking sometime mid-year, potentially June 19-21 (a week before school terms finishes). If these dates do/don't suit you, please hit REPLY and let us know!

Cabins, Glamping, and Camping - check!
Open fires - check!
Big billabong to swim in - check!
<1hr drive from Caloundra - check!
Recently bought by Qld Baptists QCCC ministry - bonus!

Forget Me Not - Women's Encounter Night

Maleny Baptist is running an event for local women. Sally, Martine and I know the guest speaker well and encourage anyone who's keen to grab a friend or two and head up the mountain 😄

A women's night, let's come together to worship and seek Jesus. International Guest speaker Tracy Valentine. Food and refreshments provided. Join us for Forget Me Not, a night just for women! It's all about shedding the stress, sharing stories, and connecting with amazing ladies in a warm, welcoming space.

Expect a lavish spread of food, worship, prayer, community, a good laugh and an impactful message from Tracy.

Don't miss out on an incredible night to seek Jesus and worship together. Special guest speaker - Tracy Valentine.

Grab your friends, register for FREE and come and join us!