The dilemma in our relationships and workplaces: When we are entrusted with responsibility, how can we avoid becoming control freaks?
As a person who takes responsibility seriously (perhaps it’s “the oldest child syndrome”), I do not pretend to have mastered this! But I’ve learnt that every person is passionate or obsessive about some things – and not others.
Furthermore, we all have hopes and dreams of how that area of life works out for us. We like to be in control of that. In that arena, we seek to establish our significance and security.
What happens inside us when we sense that we are no longer in control?
Fear, anxiety, worry, confusion, anger, grief and conflict!
As the Roman Governor of Judea, Pilate was responsible for tax collection, construction, law and order, and whether or not to impose the death penalty.
On Good Friday, the Jewish leaders want to eliminate Jesus. But Pilate wants to set him free. As the conflict of outcomes unfolds, Pilate finds his bastion of control undermined by the angry crowd. He keeps the peace, but is he in control?
Hopes and dreams, plans and aspirations – they are good things – as servants.
But they can bring us undone if they become our masters. When the most important thing in life is working out my plans, then I have fallen to the idolatry of self; and my controlling behaviour will negatively impact others.
Scripture reminds us that our plans do not always come to pass, because God is working out his plans for us and his world:
In their hearts humans plan their course,
but the LORD establishes their steps. (Proverbs 16:9 NIV)
You can make many plans,
but the LORD’s purpose will prevail. (Proverbs 19:21 NLT)
Paul reminds us that God is also working out his plans through us:
For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. (Ephesians 2:10 NLT, cf Proverbs 3:5-6 )
Freedom is having our identity, security and destiny in Christ… and joining God in his good plans!
Pr Rolly Stahl
Bible Reading: Luke 23:1-25
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au
Prayer Request
Prayer requests are not included in the weekly news. If you would like to view the current requests refer to the email that alerted you to this weekly news. If you have a prayer request please email churchenquiries@paravista.org.au with your request.
Family Hub Food Support
We will again support the Family Hub by having monthly food collections on the last Sunday of each month. This food is used to support families in need in the local area. The first collection will be on Sunday March 31st.
The Family Hub have identified the following requirements:
• pasta sauce
• tins of baked beans and spaghetti
• 2 minute noodles or similar product
• muesli bars or similar product
• cheese - creamed, sliced, small block grated
• large glad bags.
Ladies Fellowship Meeting
2nd April at 1pm
Bible study lead by Pastor Rolly
Our guest speaker this month is Craig Felix, a firefighter from the MFS. He will speak on fire safety in the home. Come along to receive some helpful information.
I’m excited
Our Mission Vision Support Plan (MVSP) has been launched providing opportunities for you to invest directly into different ministries here at the Good Shepherd community.
I’m excited
That each month we get to spend the entire month focused on a ministry based here like Transform, Meet N Greet or Visual Arts. During the allocated month, the ministry team will have opportunities to share stories of how their ministry has impacted the community and individuals, share stories of celebration and to share their dreams for the ministry so that as a congregation we can understand more about what they do in our community.
I’m excited
As many of you are passionate about different areas of ministries here at Good Shepherd; Therefore this is an opportunity to invest directly into the areas of ministry you are passionate about.
I’m excited
This month, March we are focusing on ministries for children, families, youth, young adults, and intergenerational mission. Last week you heard Zac share his story and vision for Transform Youth, Listen out for more stories on Playgroup, Young Adults, Camping Ministry, Parents all focused on Intergenerational ministry.
Go and seek
A clearly marked envelope available from our Worship Hosts or the host desks for your gift. This will mean that your donation will go straight to the ministry intended. Your gift may include time you can allocate to this ministry. Envelopes can be either placed on the collection plate, placed in the bowls on the way out of handed into the office during office hours.
Be a part of
Donating via direct debit using the following information:
BSB 704942
Acct# 129523 (add S1 for internal LLL transfers)
Acct Name Para Vista Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Operating
Please ensure the reference includes the ministry area. Donations without clear reference will be classed as general income. Remember this is not intended to substitute from your normal offering but is allowing you to grow your ministry area of choice and not detract from the great things already happening within our community.
I’m excited, Look out for
The Posters that will indicate what Ministries need support and how you have helped.
From the Office
Notice Board
Hymns We Love
Monday April 1st then Monday May 6th. There will be a ‘winter break’ until we start again on first Mondays September 2nd, October 7th, November 4th at Zion Glynde Lutheran Church, 15-17 Glynburn Rd, Glynde. Arrive at 10-30am for cuppa, biscuits and chat time. Singing begins at 11am until 12 noon. ”..you choose the hymns, I play the organ and we made a very ‘joyful noise unto the Lord’! “ Enjoy airconditioned comfort. No cost – just come!
Joy Mildren, organist, 0458 650 135/ 8367 9969 joymildren@hotmail.com
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Micah 6:8
