Living the Crucified Life

A man with great wealth walked sadly away from Jesus.  He had passed his Confirmation exam, nailed the Ten Commandments section, recognised God’s goodness in Jesus, was truly searching for God, but then the bonus question at the end – the one he wasn’t expecting.

“One thing you lack,” Jesus said.  For a moment, the man perhaps scratched his head and ticked off the markers of a good Jewish man: sacrifice, commitment, prayers, etc…  What am I missing?

“You have everything in this life – now sell it all and give to the poor, and then you will have treasures in heaven.  Then come, follow me.”  (Mark 10:21 paraphrased)

The disciples can’t figure it out – if the rich, who have the time and resources to go to the temple, sacrifice all the offerings, sit in the midst of the other wealthy men to pray and to talk, to connect with God through following the Law, if they can’t enter the kingdom of God, who is it and how is it that they can be saved?

This week we’re going to look at Jesus’ interaction with the rich man and the disciples and ponder the difficulties Jesus’ poses.  In essence, he is giving us the conundrum of what Halford Luccock writes Abundance is the (mortal) enemy of the Abundant Life. 
How does wealth get in the way?  What are the scriptural understandings of wealth and its detriment to the treasures in heaven?  How do we, as 21st century wealthy Australians understand wealth and its relationship to the priorities in life?

Join in on the discussion this Sunday?

Pastor Reid

Bible Reading: Mark 10:23-31
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Requests:
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.

Exciting opportunities for learning!  This Sunday is our parents’ meeting.  Folders will be distributed with information and we’ll be asking all the questions we need to continue the Revolution.  Transform Confirmation is for ages 11-Adult.  Come and find out why there is excitement in the youth programs.

Hearing God's Whispers Workshop

Saturday 24th February 2018, 9.45am to 4.00pm

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

388 Montague Road, Para Vista

Lunch:  BYO. Coffee and tea provided.

Cost:  Free, booklet table available

(A donation towards this ministry would be appreciated.)

RSVP to Ros Thiele by 21st February

Phone: 0417 814 491: Email:  mervrost@bigpond.net.au

Please bring:  a Bible, note pad & pen

All Welcome (suitable for teens upwards)

Don’t forget the Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School Aloha!  Come one and all to enjoy fellowship and community.

From the Office

Assistance
Can you assist with helping to improve our facilities?

Our new foyer and cafe look very clean and modern. This is offset by the tired appearance of the woodwork and walls in the toilet corridor which is visible from the new area. We are looking for volunteers to help freshen up this area.

Help is needed to:
•    sand the woodwork ready for painting ( 1 door would be a great help)
•    paint the wood work
•    gyprock the walls
•    paint the walls
If you can assist in any aspect of this project please contact John Dolling or Stephen Zanker.

Cafe Use!
The cafe came alive on Tuesday 6th February with the ‘return to school’ chapel, and again Thursday morning with the parents of first-time school students able to enjoy both fresh coffee and great conversation.  Approximately 70 parents made use of the area after both events; socializing and making new friends.  If you are passing by between 9am to 10am on Friday 9th or 23rd February, feel free to drop in and enjoy a free freshly brewed coffee and conversation with the school community.

Vacancy
Our Barista will be retiring at the end of February and a vacancy is open, for both services, to make the brewed coffee.  Please mark your connect card or contact the church office if you are able to assist in this small but very important part of service.

Do you claim to be a BBQ king?
BBQ cooks required to assist the school community on the 24th February from 3pm to 6pm.  Please mark BBQ on your connect card, or email the office with your availability.

Parking lot safety – One Way Traffic
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague road and exiting through the rear gate AT ALL TIMES.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague road after hours. 
As this is a shared area speed is restricted to 10KPH.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Faith Gym
You are invited to consider joining one of the short courses that will be offered at Faith Gym here at Good Shepherd, facilitated by appropriate lay people or pastors. We’ll be starting Wed February 21st 2018, 7:30pm. Contact the office for more information.

Craft Group
We are a group of ladies who meet together most weeks to craft and also support, encourage, affirm and celebrate one another. We each bring our own craft to do: knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, quilting/applique, just to name a few of the crafts that we do regularly.  Sometimes, not much craft gets done; we just sit and talk for 2 hours!

When:    Thursday evenings @ the GSPV Lutheran Church
Time:     7.30 – 9.30pm

Invitation to attend events at Australian Lutheran College (ALC)
ALC invites you to attend the following events being held on Monday, 26 February 2018, which mark the beginning of a new academic year for the College. The day will begin with worship in the College Chapel at 9.00 am followed by the Opening Lecture at 9.30 am in the Refectory. This year’s lecture will be presented by Rev James Winderlich (ALC Principal) and is entitled,

‘The shape of things to come for a church who learns: ALC’s renewing purpose to serve as an enquirer centred, transformational learning community.’
 
If attending either the service or the lecture, please park off campus and enter via the entrance at 200 Ward Street, North Adelaide. For all enquiries or to notify of your attendance, please contact ALC reception on (08) 7120 8200 or email: alc@alc.edu.au. For those unable to physically attend proceedings, the lecture will be live-streamed via the ALC website – www.alc.edu.au.

“Fight the good fight of the faith.

Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called 

when you made your good confession

 in the presence of many witnesses.”

1 Timothy 6:12 (NIV)

Life in Jesus - Together!

Perhaps the most popular religion of Western culture is individualism: “It’s all about me! I determine my own values, my own truth, my own ethics, and my story of self-fulfilment.” 

If “it’s all about me”, then what sort of person will I become?   How does that work out relationally?  What happens when my pursuit of self-fulfilment impacts others?  What happens to the “WE” when I am obsessed with “ME”?

If life is about getting my own way ALL the time, then how does that mesh in with Jesus, and what it means to be part of his Church? 

Jesus once said that a house divided against itself cannot stand – it crumbles.  We see it in marriages and families, in sporting teams and community groups, in political parties and governments.  And sometimes we see it in local churches! 

In the Church, we’re part of something much greater than self – we are participants in God’s unfolding story for his world.  This Sunday, I will be preaching on the body of Christ, and what it means to do life in Jesus – together! 

At both services we will be launching our small groups’ ministry for 2018. 

Shalom!  Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Transform
Transform ministry is about to begin!  Transform (a confirmation program) is designed for people of all ages.  Here are the dates you need to know as of right now:

February 11:  Planning and organisation time for our youth programs, 12 noon – 2pm Good Shepherd education room

February 18:  Parents information time.  We’ll distribute the brochures, the calendar for the year, the parental forms, and a brief vision for what we’re trying to accomplish.  12 noon – 1pm GS sanctuary

February 25: First Transform session.  Because we’ll be starting at 12 noon, it will be great to have a lunch packed for your 11-13 year olds.  We will have lunch together, then an hour and 45 minutes of teaching, learning and practicing the faith.  We will start in the hall, and move to different areas of the campus.

Keep your ears and eyes open for updates.

Prayer Requests
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.

Don’t forget the Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School Aloha!  Come one and all to enjoy fellowship and community.

Involvement with Lutheran Community Care
At the Half Yearly meeting the Congregation adopted LCC at Ingle Farm as one of the outreach organizations it will support in 2018.

Congregational members are already working at the centre helping with BBQs, Homework Club, Conversational English for new arrivals, and some renovations.  Over the next few weeks there will be more information about how members can get involved with helping LCC cater for the many and diverse needs in this local community.

If you are interested in finding out more or would like to work on a Task Force, to coordinate our involvement with LCC, contact John Dolling on 8367 5296 or jdolling@bigpond.net.au

From the Office
Assistance
Can you assist with helping to improve our facilities?

Our new foyer and cafe look very clean and modern. This is offset by the tired appearance of the woodwork and walls in the toilet corridor which is visible from the new area. We are looking for volunteers to help freshen up this area.

Help is needed to:
• sand the woodwork ready for painting ( 1 door would be a great help)
• paint the wood work
• gyprock the walls
• paint the walls
If you can assist in any aspect of this project please contact John Dolling or Stephen Zanker.

Cafe Use!
The cafe came alive on Tuesday 6th February with the ‘return to school’ chapel, and again Thursday morning with the parents of first-time school students able to enjoy both fresh coffee and great conversation.  Approximately 70 parents made use of the area after both events; socializing and making new friends.  If you are passing by between 9am to 10am on Friday 9th or 23rd February, feel free to drop in and enjoy a free freshly brewed coffee and conversation with the school community.

Vacancy
Our Barista will be retiring at the end of February and a vacancy is open, for both services, to make the brewed coffee.  Please mark your connect card or contact the church office if you are able to assist in this small but very important part of service.

Do you claim to be a BBQ king?
BBQ cooks required to assist the school community on the 24th February from 3pm to 6pm.  Please mark BBQ on your connect card, or email the office with your availability.

Ignite the Future building update
This week the plumber finally finished plumbing in the last sink and gas to the main range. 
The range will need to be commissioned before it can be used, so please check with the Admin Manager before attempting to use this piece of equipment.  Please remember training should be completed before using any of the equipment in the area. 
Research on a coffee machine for the café area is in progress.  If you have any contacts or information on a machine you wish to share, please contact the Admin Manager.

Facilities Development
The FDT and architect Craig Vale are meeting next week with the builders to discuss the outstanding defects in our redevelopment.   Hopefully we will be able to come to some resolutions, and this will enable us the sign off on the project.

Parking lot safety – One Way Traffic
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague road and exiting through the rear gate AT ALL TIMES.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague road after hours. 
As this is a shared area speed is restricted to 10KPH.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au 
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Faith Gym
You are invited to consider joining one of the short courses that will be offered at Faith Gym here at Good Shepherd, facilitated by appropriate lay people or pastors. We’ll be starting Wed February 21st 2018, 7:30pm. Contact the office for more information.

Craft Group
We are a group of ladies who meet together most weeks to craft and also support, encourage, affirm and celebrate one another. We each bring our own craft to do: knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, quilting/applique, just to name a few of the crafts that we do regularly.  Sometimes, not much craft gets done; we just sit and talk for 2 hours!

When: Thursday evenings @ the GSPV Lutheran Church
Time: 7.30 – 9.30pm

Invitation to attend events at Australian Lutheran College (ALC)
ALC invites you to attend the following events being held on Monday, 26 February 2018, which mark the beginning of a new academic year for the College. The day will begin with worship in the College Chapel at 9am followed by the Opening Lecture at 9.30am in the Refectory. This year’s lecture will be presented by Rev James Winderlich (ALC Principal) and is entitled,

‘The shape of things to come for a church who learns: ALC’s renewing purpose to serve as an enquirer centred, transformational learning community.’
 
If attending either the service or the lecture, please park off campus and enter via the entrance at 200 Ward Street, North Adelaide. For all enquiries or to notify of your attendance, please contact ALC reception on (08) 7120 8200 or email: alc@alc.edu.au. For those unable to physically attend proceedings, the lecture will be live-streamed via the ALC website – www.alc.edu.au

“Cast your cares on the LORD 

and he will sustain you: he will never let the righteous be shaken”

Psalm 55:22 NIV

In the Beginning

In the movie, The Mission, Robert De Niro plays the role of Rodrigo Mendoza, a South American slave trader who is convicted of his sin and attempts to go to the village of the people he had forced into slavery and atone for his trespasses.  In one of the most powerful scenes of the movie, Mendoza, while dragging his weapons and armoury from a hessian net behind him, attempts to ascend the falls where the native inhabitants live.  Struggling, almost asphyxiated from the cords binding him, he encounters the chief of the village who, upon recognising the slave trader, pulls his knife and holds it threateningly in front of his neck.  Instead of killing the slave trader, he cuts the bag of armour from his back and throws it into the river where it is carried away out of sight.

De Niro, released from the sin of his past, shrieks loudly, weeping into the heavens as the very people he sinned against have freed him.

This is what happens when the unclean spirits of this world attach to us.  Whether the demon of greed, or spite, or hatred, or arrogance – they become that sin that so easily entangles us which the writer of Hebrews pens.

In our gospel lesson for the day, Jesus encounters a man, inside of a church, who has an impure spirit clinging to him.  It recognises that the day they had feared has come: the destroyer of evil has entered the church and commands the spirit to free the man.  And when the spirit leaves, thrown into the abyss again like the armour of Mendoza, a shriek is heard.  A wail of sorrow and joy and pain and relief.

This weekend, we’ll take a look at the freeing power in Jesus, the Christ, in his words as he cuts the entangling cords of the spirits that dig into us – but one in particular. 
Find out which one that is this weekend.

Pastor Reid

Bible Readings: Mark 1:21-28, Genesis 12:1-8
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Requests:
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.

Transform
Transform ministry is about to begin!  Transform (a confirmation program) is designed for people of all ages.   You’ll see the opening video this weekend to prepare us for the kickoff.
Here are the dates you need to know as of right now:

February 11:  Planning and organisation time for our youth programs.  12:00-2:00 Good Shepherd education room.

February 18:  Parents information time.  We’ll distribute the brochures, the calendar for the year, the parental forms, and a brief vision for what we’re trying to accomplish.  12:00 – 1:00 GS sanctuary.

February 25: First Transform session.  Because we’ll be starting at 12:00, it will be great to have a lunch packed for your 11-13 year olds.  We’ll have lunch together, then 1:45 minutes of teaching, learning and practicing the faith.  We’ll start in the hall and move to different areas of the campus.

Keep your ears and eyes open for updates.

Don’t forget the Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School Aloha!  Come one and all to enjoy fellowship and community.

Vacancy - Young Families Coordinator
The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Para Vista is seeking someone with a passion for seeing young people and their families progress their faith journeys, to join their ministry team in a new, exciting position – ‘Young Families Coordinator’ on either a 0.8 or 1.0 basis.

In conjunction with the congregational Lead Pastor, this position will be the primary connection between the congregation and the onsite Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School.
In addition, with the support of other teams, this role also includes the leadership and oversight for the care and spiritual development of people in 12 – 23 years age groups.

This is a leadership role that includes developing ministry vision, preparing, nurturing and equipping teams, and intentional ministry planning.

The successful applicant will be driven by a passion for ministry involving children, young families and schools. They will also bring a natural ability to develop meaningful personal connections for ministry using good communication skills. The ability to work in a team and with other teams is essential.

For more information please contact the office or via the net at http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/church-worker-support/calls-employment-volunteering/  under Young Families Coordinator.

Ladies Fellowship
Meeting 6th February – early start @12pm. Bring your own Lunch. Fruit platter provided
Bible study: Pastor Reid

From the Office

Assistance
Can you assist with helping to improve our facilities?

Our new foyer and cafe look very clean and modern. This is offset by the tired appearance of the woodwork and walls in the toilet corridor which is visible from the new area. We are looking for volunteers to help freshen up this area.
 Help is needed to:
•    sand the woodwork ready for painting ( 1 door would be a great help)
•    paint the wood work
•    gyprock the walls
•    paint the walls
If you can assist in any aspect of this project please contact John Dolling or Stephen Zanker.

Parking lot safety – One Way Traffic
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague road and exiting through the rear gate AT ALL TIMES.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague road after hours.  As this is a shared area speed is restricted to 10KPH.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Faith Gym
You are invited to consider joining one of the short courses that will be offered at Faith Gym here at Good Shepherd, facilitated by appropriate lay people or pastors. We’ll be starting Wed February 21st 2018, 7:30pm. Contact the office for more information.

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in
Cambodia and Tonga.

Craft Group
We are a group of ladies who meet together most weeks to craft and also support, encourage, affirm and celebrate one another. We each bring our own craft to do: knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, quilting/applique, just to name a few of the crafts that we do regularly.  Sometimes, not much craft gets done; we just sit and talk for 2 hours!

When: Thursday evenings @ the GSPV Lutheran Church
Time: 7.30 – 9.30pm

Invitation to attend events at Australian Lutheran College (ALC)
ALC invites you to attend the following events being held on Monday, 26 February 2018, which mark the beginning of a new academic year for the College. The day will begin with worship in the College Chapel at 9.00 am followed by the Opening Lecture at 9.30 am in the Refectory. This year’s lecture will be presented by Rev James Winderlich (ALC Principal) and is entitled,

‘The shape of things to come for a church who learns: ALC’s renewing purpose to serve as an enquirer centred, transformational learning community.’
 
If attending either the service or the lecture, please park off campus and enter via the entrance at 200 Ward Street, North Adelaide. For all enquiries or to notify of your attendance, please contact ALC reception on (08) 7120 8200 or email: alc@alc.edu.au. For those unable to physically attend proceedings, the lecture will be live-streamed via the ALC website – www.alc.edu.au.

“Therefore encourage one another

and build each other up,

just as in fact you are doing.”

 1 Thessalonians 5:11 NIV

Repent and believe the Good News

If you were working in a hum-drum job that you did not enjoy, and were offered the job of your dreams, would you think twice about leaving the old one behind to pursue the new? 

If you were living in constant fear of death, and someone came along who could offer your security and life forever, would you remain in slavery to fear? Or would you leave that behind to walk in newness of life?

At the start of his ministry, Jesus announces new possibilities: “The time has come. The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15)  

Jesus is the Messiah-King who establishes the Kingdom of God. He invites all people to enter his kingdom. How? Repent and believe the good news.

Some say that repentance comes first and believing comes next. I think they are two sides of the same coin. 

Jesus is good news. In Jesus, God comes to do all people good, offering us something better than we can ever manage on our own.  When we believe the good news of Jesus, then we can turn away from all the stuff that is messing us up, and enjoy the kingdom life he promises: life to the full.

Come along this Sunday as we unpack Jesus’ call and invitation: “Repent and believe the good news!”

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Mark 1:14-20, Mark 10:13-16.
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Requests:
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.

Vacancy - Young Families Coordinator
The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Para Vista is seeking someone with a passion for seeing young people and their families progress their faith journeys, to join their ministry team in a new, exciting position – ‘Young Families Coordinator’ on either a 0.8 or 1.0 basis.

In conjunction with the congregational Lead Pastor, this position will be the primary connection between the congregation and the onsite Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School.

In addition, with the support of other teams, this role also includes the leadership and oversight for the care and spiritual development of people in 12 – 23 years age groups.

This is a leadership role that includes developing ministry vision, preparing, nurturing and equipping teams, and intentional ministry planning.

The successful applicant will be driven by a passion for ministry involving children, young families and schools. They will also bring a natural ability to develop meaningful personal connections for ministry using good communication skills.

The ability to work in a team and with other teams is essential.

For more information please contact the office or via the net at http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/church-worker-support/calls-employment-volunteering/  under Young Families Coordinator.

Ladies Fellowship
Meeting 6th February – early start @12pm. Bring your own Lunch. Fruit platter provided
Bible study: Pastor Reid

From the Office

Air-conditioning
Air conditioning has been installed in all the new areas and is in the completion stages in the hall.  PLEASE turn the units on and off using only the on/off button.    The units have been pre-set for the most economical use and effectiveness and adjusting the settings may render the unit ineffective.  For any issues relating to the units please advise the Admin Manager or speak with office staff.

Parking lot safety – One Way Traffic
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague road and exiting through the rear gate AT ALL TIMES.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague road after hours.  As this is a shared area speed is restricted to 10KPH.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Australian Lutheran College (ALC) – preparing tomorrow’s teachers
Do you know someone who is currently studying or is about to commence studying a teaching degree? No matter where they are in Australia, ALC offers students the opportunity to complete many of the requirements to be eligible for accreditation as a teacher in a Lutheran school, while concurrently studying a teaching degree at another university.

The Lutheran Strand is a program which helps to prepare teachers to teach Christian Studies.  It adds a Christian Studies minor to initial teaching studies and is highly regarded by those who employ teachers in Lutheran and other Christian schools.  Many Bachelor of Education programs have elective spaces where Lutheran Strand units can be studied and cross credited. 

For more information visit www.alc.edu.au or contact the college on free call 1800 625 193
or email set@alc.edu.au

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Craft Group
We are a group of ladies who meet together most weeks to craft and also support, encourage, affirm and celebrate one another. We each bring our own craft to do: knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, quilting/applique, just to name a few of the crafts that we do regularly.  Sometimes, not much craft gets done; we just sit and talk for 2 hours!

When: Thursday evenings @ the GSPV Lutheran Church
Time: 7.30 – 9.30pm

“I consider that our present sufferings

are not worth comparing

with the glory that will be revealed in us.”

Romans 8:18 NIV

The King's Campaign Commences

While generations of Australians may hold Queen Elizabeth II in high regard, I suspect many today perceive the monarchy as outdated and irrelevant. 

Yet way back in 1954, millions of Australians turned out to catch a glimpse of their new queen! In Sydney, more than a million people lined the streets and the harbour to welcome Her Majesty and the Sydney Morning Herald described their welcome as 'tumultuous'. http://www.abc.net.au/archives/80days/stories/2012/01/19/3411411.htm

Back in biblical times, we find kings and queens, Pharaohs, emperors and Caesars as part of the historical record.  Even among Israel’s rulers and kings, we find a mixture of good, bad, and ugly! 

Yet in spite of this patchy record of royalty, God kept making a promise that a descendant of King David would establish a kingdom that would never crumble.

The angel Gabriel reiterates this promise to Mary: “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be very great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his ancestor David.  And he will reign over Israel forever; his Kingdom will never end!” (Luke 1:31-33 NLT)

For 30 odd years, Jesus remained in obscurity, living in a small village and working with Joseph as an everyday carpenter.  But following his baptism and time in the wilderness, Jesus one day declared: “The time has come. The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (Mark 1:15 NIV) 

“The kingdom of God has come near.”  The King’s campaign has officially commenced. What sort of King do we encounter in Jesus?  How do you understand “the kingdom of God”?  How would you explain it to a young person today?  And what is your response to God’s Son, King Jesus?   

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Psalm 145:8-13,  Isaiah 9:6-7,  Mark 1:14-15.
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Prayer Requests
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.

Vacancy - Young Families Coordinator
The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Para Vista is seeking someone with a passion for seeing young people and their families progress their faith journeys, to join their ministry team in a new, exciting position – ‘Young Families Coordinator’ on either a 0.8 or 1.0 basis.

In conjunction with the congregational Lead Pastor, this position will be the primary connection between the congregation and the onsite Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School.

In addition, with the support of other teams, this role also includes the leadership and oversight for the care and spiritual development of people in 12 – 23 years age groups.

This is a leadership role that includes developing ministry vision, preparing, nurturing and equipping teams, and intentional ministry planning.

The successful applicant will be driven by a passion for ministry involving children, young families and schools. They will also bring a natural ability to develop meaningful personal connections for ministry using good communication skills.

The ability to work in a team and with other teams is essential.

For more information please contact the office or via the net at http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/church-worker-support/calls-employment-volunteering/  under Young Families Coordinator.

From the Office

Ignite the Future building update
Thank you for your patience while we settle into our remarkable area.  Our morning tea hosts did a fantastic job last week of adjusting to the new facility.  Due to Work Health and Safety there will be some changes to the way morning tea will be served and this will be explained over the next few weeks.

Remember if you have not been trained on kitchen equipment please refrain from using it until you have.

Air-conditioning
Air conditioning has been installed in all the new areas and is in the completion stages in the hall.  PLEASE turn the units on and off using only the on/off button.    The units have been pre-set for the most economical use and effectiveness and adjusting the settings may render the unit ineffective.  For any issues relating to the units please advise the Admin Manager or speak with office staff.

Communications book
The communications book has been temporarily placed back into the café area for members to communicate with staff.  Out of office hours, please use the folder to communicate issues rather than disturbing staff from worship or other activities.

Parking lot safety – One Way Traffic
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague road and exiting through the rear gate AT ALL TIMES.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague road after hours.  As this is a shared area speed is restricted to 10KPH.

Found
A fitbit was found in the carpark on Christmas Day.  Please contact the office if this belongs to you.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au 
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Australian Lutheran College (ALC) – preparing tomorrow’s teachers
Do you know someone who is currently studying or is about to commence studying a teaching degree? No matter where they are in Australia, ALC offers students the opportunity to complete many of the requirements to be eligible for accreditation as a teacher in a Lutheran school, while concurrently studying a teaching degree at another university.

The Lutheran Strand is a program which helps to prepare teachers to teach Christian Studies.  It adds a Christian Studies minor to initial teaching studies and is highly regarded by those who employ teachers in Lutheran and other Christian schools.  Many Bachelor of Education programs have elective spaces where Lutheran Strand units can be studied and cross credited. 

For more information visit www.alc.edu.au or contact the college on free call 1800 625 193 or email set@alc.edu.au

Dried apricots 
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient,

Bearing with one another in love”

Ephesians 4:2-3

All in God's good time

Don’t we love to be in control!

As my calendar ticks over from one year to the next, I realise that my desire to be in control even extends to controlling time.  Perhaps this is why time travel has always been the subject of so much fascination in human thinking.  Whether it be H.G. Wells’ classic “The Time Machine”, the adventures of Marty McFly in “Back to the Future”, or the escapades of Dr Who and the TARDIS, time travel has sparked the imagination of humanity for centuries.

Our desire to transcend time is a result of our brokenness.  Like Adam and Eve bought into the lie that they could be like God, we think that by controlling and managing time we become a bit more God-like.  We forget that only God holds all of time in his hands.

We fool ourselves into thinking that we can ‘make more time’ for things.  This is often part of our new year’s resolutions, ‘This year I’ll make more time for my family’ or maybe, ‘I want to make more time to read my Bible.’  Whatever it is, we always seem to think we can or should fit more in, or do more stuff, or make more time.  The reality is that the amount of time we have is limited to the amount of time that God gives us.

In Matthew 6:27 Jesus says, ‘can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?’
As the new year of 2018 gets underway I want to encourage you to stop worrying about making more time or fitting more in.  Instead of thinking about how to ‘make’ time, think about how you are going to ‘spend’ it.

Time can be spent just like money.  It can be wisely invested, or foolishly wasted.

As you consider your ‘time spending’ intentions for 2018, I would like to encourage you to spend some time asking God what he hopes you will achieve this year.  Consider allowing him to guide your plans because in all the uncertainty of a new year, one thing is certain; God’s plan is to draw you closer to himself and that’s a great place to be.

Vicar Mat von Stanke

Bible Readings:  Mark 1:14-15, Galatians 4:4-6
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Requests
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.

Meet 'n' Eat Ministry
Blessings to all for a prosperous New Year filled with positive achievements for people in our community though our various church ministries.

2017 was a year in which the Meet 'n' Eat group moved to a temporary home in the school hall, while renovations were carried out on our building.  Although this move was necessary for the short term, building issues meant that this turned into twelve months.  Thanks to the experience of the team, issues faced were overcome quickly.

A big thank you to our school for allowing us to use their facilities for a year, and to Endeavour College for the loan of chairs.

This Monday 15th January, we will start the fresh year back in the hall, and along with our weekly guests, start to enjoy the new facilities which look terrific.

To volunteer your help to our Monday night group on either a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis please mark your connect card or contact the office.

Vacancy - Young Families Coordinator
The Good Shepherd Lutheran Church Para Vista is seeking someone with a passion for seeing young people and their families progress their faith journeys, to join their ministry team in a new, exciting position – ‘Young Families Coordinator’ on either a 0.8 or 1.0 basis.

In conjunction with the congregational Lead Pastor, this position will be the primary connection between the congregation and the onsite Good Shepherd Lutheran Primary School.

In addition, with the support of other teams, this role also includes the leadership and oversight for the care and spiritual development of people in 12 – 30 years age groups .

This is a leadership role that includes developing ministry vision, preparing, nurturing and equipping teams, and intentional ministry planning.

For more information please contact the office or via the net at http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/church-worker-support/calls-employment-volunteering/  under Young Families Coordinator.

From the Office
Thank you
Thank you to all the members who gave the gift of service to others over the Christmas break welcoming our visitors by:

• Parking in Mattiske’s car park or on the school oval
• Sitting in the middle of the isles for service
• Being involved in audio and visual presentation.
• Welcoming and providing steward service
• Directing traffic
• Cleaning and tidying after each service
• Welcoming visitors and sharing a cup of coffee with them
• Anyone else who assisted in any way shape or form to celebrate the “light” and passing on its radiance

Ignite the Future building update
We were fortunate enough to have access to the area by Christmas and have since been blessed with a group of volunteers who have already been busy washing all the equipment to go back into the new area.

This week we will have the pleasure of some china coffee cups to put our coffees into.  Remember to return them to the counter so they can be washed. 

Please do not use any of the equipment until you have been shown how to use it.   A number of training sessions will be conducted in the next few weeks to allow all volunteers the opportunity to be able to use the equipment.

Communications book
The communications book has been temporarily placed back into the café area for members to communicate with staff.  Please use the folder out of hours to communicate issues rather than disturb them from participating in service or other activities.

Parking lot safety – One Way Traffic
Remember traffic flow is one way entering from Montague road and exiting through the rear gate AT ALL TIMES.  Please do not ‘sneak out’ onto Montague road after hours.  As this is a shared area speed is restricted to 10KPH

Can you help?
Volunteers are required Tuesday morning (16th January) from 9:30am to help move Vicar Mat von Stanke into his new office.  Please mark your welcome card if you can help.

Notice Board
Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au 
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

Dried apricots 
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

“And he said to them, 

Why are you so fearful? 

How is it that you have no faith?”

Mark 4:40

Life...lit up!

One of my earliest memories – perhaps when I was just 3 or 4 - was Christmas at the farm where my mum and her 10 siblings grew up!  There were lots of aunts and uncles, amazing food cooked in grandma’s wood-fired oven, and a massive dining table stacked with presents for everyone. 

And in one corner of the room was a large pine Christmas tree, decorated with baubles and real candles!  With the aroma of pine needles, and burning candles shining light into the darkness, I hold a precious memory of generations gathering to celebrate when Jesus was born.

John presents Jesus as God’s light in our world of darkness: ‘The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.’ (John 1:4-5 NLT)

No one likes to be in darkness.  Now that God has come up close and personal to us in Jesus, we are no longer in the dark about who God is, or God’s love for us!

Jesus promises that anyone who follows him will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life (John 8:12).  In Jesus we see God clearly, and find ourselves loved. The light of Jesus brings healing, transformation, and hope.  As we do life with Jesus, he guides us, grows us, and shines to others through us.  Life lit up!

I invite you to come and be part of the generations who celebrate Jesus’ birth and worship him at our Christmas services.  Christ in you is the hope of glory! 

Pr Rolly Stahl

PS. On behalf of the Good Shepherd staff, thank you for your prayers and encouragement over this last year and your best wishes for our families in this festive season.  May Jesus infuse you and your families with his light and love this Christmas! 

Bible Readings: Luke 2:1-20, John 1:1-14, John 8:12
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au 

Reminder
Christmas services this year are:
Christmas Eve 5pm, 6:30pm & 8pm, and Christmas Day at 9:30am

Prayer Requests
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.

Advocacy
We’ve been given a truly biblical task – straight from the book of Jeremiah.

God instructs Jeremiah to go straight to the place of power, to the palace of Judah, where he is to say to authorities and the people in control, “This is what the LORD says: do what is just and right.  Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed.  Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow…”  Jeremiah 22:3

Throughout our country and community, there are new and beautiful people coming to the shores of this immensely blessed country seeking a new life, one of peace and safety.  In the current state of our restlessly fearful world, our governments and society often try to exclude those from foreign shores.

We have a biblical responsibility to be an advocate for those who have been marginalised, especially those who seek refuge from the strain of a terrified life. 

Into our community in the last week, we have had requests from Good Shepherd Lutheran School for some congregational members to be advocates – those who would walk with our brothers and sisters from foreign lands. 

Some of the difficulties that have been encountered deal with the speed at which English speaking Australians communicate and this is very difficult when working with Centrelink payments, or working with the electric companies on the high costs of electricity bills.

If you have time to be part of an advocacy team to work with people, to create a relationship of trust so that the transition to Australian culture may be eased, please contact either Tim Oestmann at Good Shepherd Primary School, or let your name be known at the Good Shepherd Congregational office.

Thank you in advance for responding to God’s call to our brothers and sisters in need.

Pastor Reid Matthias

As the school is now closed for the school holidays, please contact the Church office and leave your name to participate in this program.
We will be holding an information session at the end of January 2018.

From the Office
Office closure over Christmas
The office will be closed from 3pm on Friday 22nd December 2017 and re-open at 9am on Thursday 4th January 2018.

Christmas Whirlwind
Its’ that time of the year when the competition heats up for the great blower challenge.  Can you be available on Saturday 23rd December at 9.00am to assist in giving the church grounds a bit of a dust off and the facility a bit of a spruce up?
Bring along a petrol driven blow vac that needs a dust out with safety equip and join the group to create an inviting appearance to our church facility for Christmas. If you don’t have a blow vac and have the time, still come along as I have a few spare you can put to the test.
Cobwebbing will also be completed so if you don’t have a competitive machine you can still compete for the longest broom handle.

A Parking blessing for Christmas
Mattiske’s car park will be open.  Please consider parking in either the Mattiske car park or on the school oval leaving the parks close to the entrance of the church as a blessing for our visitors.  These arrangements will be in place for all Christmas services.  Parking signs will be in place and your assistance in following directions is appreciated.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

A book by Peter Steicke
“How different would life be if we all knew we were loved beyond our wildest imagination?”
Localy available from Debbie Wesselingh for $20.00 or from www.yourbooksonline.com.au or see Peter’s website: www.incrediblyloved.com

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

“And this will be a sign for you: 

you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths

and lying in a manger”

Luke 2:12

Rise and Shine!

Perhaps you heard these words as a child, teenager or young adult?  Or maybe your parents had some other greeting to rouse you from your slumber?

Daytime is when we wake up, get up, get dressed and get into life.  Night time is when we sleep. 

One day we will “fall asleep” and no family member will be able to wake us up.  Instead, they will be arranging our funeral.  And what will be next for you and me?

Death as always been regarded as a curse.  For ancient peoples, death meant a descent into the shadowy underworld of darkness – a sleep from which no one would rise and shine... unless the Creator God stepped in. 

Enter Jesus!  His words have authority to wake dead people and restore life.  As we reach the third Sunday of Advent, we recall that Jesus has rescued us from the darkness of death, and calls us to walk in his light.  Rise and shine! 

Paul reminds his Christian friends in Ephesus of a song that may have been sung at their baptisms: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.” (Ephesians 5:14)

Each day when we wake up, we can remember that we are God’s loved and forgiven people – set apart for his pleasure and purposes.  We can put to death our attitude and acts of darkness, and walk in the light of Christ. 

Bible scholar, William Barclay, puts it well: “A tree will be fruitless unless the light of the sun can get at it; and a life will be fruitless unless the light of Christ touches it.” (William Barclay, Letters to the Galatians and Ephesians, 195)

In these days I encourage you to make some unhurried space for Jesus to infuse you with his light and love.  Rise and shine!

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings:    Luke 8:40-42a, 49-56.   Ephesians 5:13-20
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Requests
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.

Advocacy
We’ve been given a truly biblical task – straight from the book of Jeremiah.

God instructs Jeremiah to go straight to the place of power, to the palace of Judah, where he is to say to authorities and the people in control, “This is what the LORD says: do what is just and right.  Rescue from the hand of the oppressor the one who has been robbed.  Do no wrong or violence to the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow…”  Jeremiah 22:3

Throughout our country and community, there are new and beautiful people coming to the shores of this immensely blessed country seeking a new life, one of peace and safety.  In the current state of our restlessly fearful world, our governments and society often try to exclude those from foreign shores.

We have a biblical responsibility to be an advocate for those who have been marginalised, especially those who seek refuge from the strain of a terrified life. 

Into our community in the last week, we have had requests from Good Shepherd Lutheran School for some congregational members to be advocates – those who would walk with our brothers and sisters from foreign lands. 

Some of the difficulties that have been encountered deal with the speed at which English speaking Australians communicate and this is very difficult when working with Centrelink payments, or working with the electric companies on the high costs of electricity bills.

If you have time to be part of an advocacy team to work with people, to create a relationship of trust so that the transition to Australian culture may be eased, please contact either Tim Oestmann at Good Shepherd Primary School, or let your name be known at the Good Shepherd Congregational office.

Thank you in advance for responding to God’s call to our brothers and sisters in need.

Pr Reid Matthias

Christmas Eve 5pm service
Last rehearsal this Sunday after the 10.30am service.  Please bring lunch for your children.

Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them in the Narthex.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Youth Ministry
This Friday the 15th December we will be having our final SOUL Crew event.  This will commence at 6pm with dinner and will then be followed with 2 hours of non-stop Laser Tag fun.  The cost is $25 per person and this will cover both dinner and the Laser Tag.  This will be the final event for SOUL Crew and youth on a Friday night as we know it.  Youth Ministry will continue in 2018 in a new direction.  I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support and allowing me the privilege and enjoyment of journeying with your youth for the past 2 years. 

Celebrate this Christmas with Maranatha Health
Maranatha Health invites you to join us this Christmas as together we share Momentous News, Dynamic Hope, Boundless Joy and Fervent Love.

Read, reflect and share our four-part reflection series in the four weeks leading up to Christmas. Our advent reflections are available in printed form from the church, or download them here Advent Reflections

We invite you to learn, share and donate - and give a gift that lasts long into the future. Plus, when you donate you'll receive a gift card so you can share your gift with your family, friends and colleagues.

May your Christmas be filled with delight as you share Momentous News, Dynamic Hope, Boundless Joy and Fervent Love with those around you! maranathahealth.org/give/christmas

From the Office
Office closure over Christmas
The office will be closed from 3pm on Friday 22nd December 2017 and re-open at 9am on Thursday 4th January 2018.

Dried apricots 
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

Ignite the Future building update
Great news!  We have identified all the defects that need to be rectified and therefore have access to our new facilities.  The café has been set up and can be used on Sunday.  The brewed coffee urn will be set up on the café servery. 

This means on Sunday we can use the courtyard for entering the Worship Centre.  Worship hosts and welcomers rostered on this entrace please note this change.
The kitchen is not yet fully operation at the moment, but will become so as equipment is installed over the next week.  Members will need to be trained before using some of the new equipment.

If you have any questions or comments please see a member of the Facilities Team – Jeff Eckermann, Eric Hofmanis, Merv Thiele, Lindsay Freund or John Dolling.

Christmas Whirlwind
It’s that time of the year when the competition heats up for the great blower challenge.  Can you be available on Saturday 24th December at 9.00am to assist in giving the church grounds a bit of a dust off and the facility a bit of a spruce up?

Bring along a petrol driven blow vac that needs a dust out with safety equip and join the group to create an inviting appearance to our church facility for Christmas. If you don’t have a blow vac and have the time, still come along as I have a few spare you can put to the test.
Cobwebbing will also be completed so if you don’t have a competitive machine maybe you can compete for the longest broom handle.

A Parking blessing for Christmas
Mattiske’s car park will be open.  Please consider parking in either the Mattiske car park or on the school oval leaving the parks close to the entrance of the church as a blessing for our visitors.  These arrangements will be in place for all Christmas services.  Parking signs will be in place and your assistance in following directions is appreciated.

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

A book by Peter Steicke
“How different would life be if we all knew we were loved beyond our wildest imagination?”
Localy available from Debbie Wesselingh for $20.00 or from www.yourbooksonline.com.au or see Peter’s website: www.incrediblyloved.com

“For unto you is born this day

in the city of David

a Savior, who is Christ the Lord”

Luke 2:11

Exposing Darkness

If I were to begin the Bible verse John 3…

Most people would go directly to verse sixteen, probably the most popular and well known verse in the Bible.  Here we find God’s good intentions for the earth, not just people, but the entirety of the created universe – that because God loved it, he was willing to do whatever it took to bring it back into his good grace.

In this passage, Jesus is speaking with one of the religious elites, a Pharisee named Nicodemus, who has some questions for Jesus not just about his faith, but about life in general.   Throughout the discussion, he is found to be scratching his head, mystified by Jesus’ theology – that unless one is born again, no one can enter the ‘kingdom of heaven,’ whatever that might be.

But it is verse 19-21, that hits Nicodemus, and all of us religious ‘elites’ squarely between the eyes.  It is the krisis, which is the Greek word for ‘verdict.’ 

This is the krisis, light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil.  Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed.

This is quite the crisis of faith.

All of us, from the first to the last, have been filled with that which shrouds us in darkness.   This sin is not just about doing the wrong things, but it is about thoughts and words also.  This is why we confess every week so that the light can expose our darkest places and bring a space which only Jesus can fill. 

This week we are going to look at the process of how illumination leads to elimination of sin which then, especially during this time of advent, gives us opportunity to reflect not only on the light that has come into the world, but also on how we can reflect his light also.

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Readings:    John 3:19-21      Ephesians 5:8-13 
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Prayer Requests
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.

Christmas Eve 5pm service
This year we will again have a 5pm service where children can participate.  Non speaking parts are still available.  If your child would like to participate please contact Margot on 0401 850 814 or margot.mertin@paravista.org.au

Kingdom Kids
This Sunday at our 10.30am service Kingdom Kids will be having a Christmas Party to celebrate Jesus coming into the world to save all people!  Toddler Zone will be available in the Toddler Zone room for children aged 10 months – 3 years.  All other zones will be combining in the school for activities and morning tea.
Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them in the narthex.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Little Lambs Playgroup will be having their last ever meet in the church hall at 9.30am on Wednesday.  We will be celebrating Christmas!  Please bring pre cut fruit to share and/or a plate of party food. We look forward to seeing you there!

Youth Ministry
Last week Matthew Dutschke shared his journey through life, including his personal faith journey.  He explained about his work at Teen Challenge and what Teen Challenge does in the way of helping people leading troubled lives. 
We then went on to watch snippets from a movie and have discussion around them.  We had our minds blown away with a new way to look at baby Jesus and the manger scene.  We then discovered that the Christmas Tree and Santa actually have their place even in the Christian Christmas.  Even to some extent we can celebrate some form of materialism at Christmas. We all went away with some completely new ideas and eyes opened with regards to our thoughts around Christmas. 

This Monday we have the exciting opportunity to serve again at the Meet’n’Eat Christmas dinner.  This will be another great time of our youth and young adult leaders serving in the community.  Friday the 15th December will see us having our final SOUL Crew event for this year (watch this space for what is around the corner).  This will commence at 6pm with dinner, followed with 2 hours of non-stop Laser Tag fun.  The cost $25 per person will cover both dinner and Laser Tag.  Please let me know by Monday 11th at the latest, of your attendance that to ensure enough laser weapons are available on the night. 
Any queries at all please don’t hesitate to contact Margot Mertin 0401 850814 or margot.mertin@paravista.org.au

Celebrate this Christmas with Maranatha Health
Maranatha Health invites you to join us this Christmas as together we share Momentous News, Dynamic Hope, Boundless Joy and Fervent Love.

Read, reflect and share our four-part reflection series in the four weeks leading up to Christmas. Our advent reflections are available in printed form from the church, or download them here Advent Reflections

We invite you to learn, share and donate - and give a gift that lasts long into the future. Plus, when you donate you'll receive a gift card so you can share your gift with your family, friends and colleagues.

May your Christmas be filled with delight as you share Momentous News, Dynamic Hope, Boundless Joy and Fervent Love with those around you!
maranathahealth.org/give/christmas

From the Office
Office closure over Christmas
The office will be closed from 3pm on Friday 22nd December 2017 and reopen at 9am on Thursday 4th January 2018 

Offering Envelopes
Dated weekly offering envelopes are now available in the front foyer of the church. 
Should you wish a box to be put aside please let office staff know via email or phone.

Christmas Whirlwind
It’s that time of the year when the competition heats up for the great blower challenge.  Can you be available on Saturday 24th December at 9.00am to assist in giving the church grounds a bit of a dust off and the facility a bit of a spruce up?
Bring along a petrol driven blow vac that needs a dust out with safety equip and join the group to create an inviting appearance to our church facility for Christmas. If you don’t have a blow vac and have the time, still come along as I have a few spare you can put to the test.
Cobwebbing will also be completed so if you don’t have a competitive machine maybe you can compete for the longest broom handle.

A Parking blessing for Christmas
Please consider parking on the school oval leaving the parks close to the entrance of the church as a blessing for our visitors.  These arrangements will be in place for all Christmas services.  Parking signs will be in place and your assistance in following directions is appreciated. 

Car parking attendants are required to assist with traffic and parking on Christmas Eve from:
• 4.30pm till 5.00pm
• 5.30pm till 6.30pm
• 7.00pm till 8.00pm
Refreshments for attendants will be supplied.

LLL Annual Report
A copy of the 2016/17 LLL Annual Report is available in the Office Foyer for those that would like a read

Notice Board

Get the latest news from LCA www.lca.org.au
Subscribe to the LCA Notice Board
http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
To receive Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) Notice Board in your inbox on Wednesday
every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

A book by Peter Steicke
“How different would life be if we all knew we were loved beyond our wildest imagination?”
Localy available from Debbie Wesselingh for $20.00 or from www.yourbooksonline.com.au or see Peter’s website: www.incrediblyloved.com

Dried apricots
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

“When they saw the star,

They rejoiced exceedingly with great joy”

Matthew 2:10

Light from Light

Over the last few years, we’ve experienced power blackouts that have left parts of our city in darkness.  Hospitals, businesses, and thousands of households were affected.  Our politicians have been rallying to the cause and suggesting solutions ever since.

At night in our city, there’s something foreboding when there are no street lights, house lights, or traffic lights shining.  It makes us uncomfortable.  No one likes to be in darkness.  At night, when the power goes out in our homes, we are quick to find a torch or a lamp.  Even just a candle makes a big difference to how we feel.

When we listen to the news and read the papers, it’s pretty obvious that there is much darkness in this world. The prince of darkness delights in deceiving people and dragging them into destruction and despair.  No one feels whole or at peace when they are disconnected from the living God who is light and love. 

Jesus declares: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12 NIV)

What do you make of this promise of Jesus? 
How is Jesus lighting up your life? 
And how is Jesus bringing his light to others through you? 

As we commence the season of Advent, we prepare ourselves to again receive Jesus: Light from Light.  Living in the Light of Jesus will be our focus in worship throughout Advent-Christmas.  God fill you with his light and love in these days!

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings:    John 12:35-36, 44-46      Ephesians 5:8-10 
Podcasts of weekly messages are available at www.paravista.org.au

Praise Point
We welcome Noah Malcolm Rogers, son of Brad and Tara, brother to Xavier, and grandson to Stephen and Liz Zanker into God’s family through holy baptism this Sunday 3rd December.

Prayer Requests: 
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.

Advent Evening
This Sunday 4.30pm at the church on the big screen.  Family movie, shared meal and carols
Please bring a savoury plate to share.  Ice-creams provided for dessert

Christmas Eve 5pm service
This year we will again have a 5pm service where children can participate.  First rehearsal Sunday 3rd December.  Non speaking parts are still available.  If your child would like to participate please contact Margot on 0401 850 814 or margot.mertin@paravista.org.au

Kingdom Kids
This Sunday Kingdom Kids will be available at the 10.30am service for Kindy – Year 4 aged children.
Activity folders are available for the younger children and Worship Journals available for the older children for use during the services.  Please help yourself to them in the narthex.

Growing Faith at Home
Now available on our church Face Book page!  To encourage families to keep growing in their faith at home each week.

Little Lambs Playgroup
Little Lambs Playgroup meets in the church hall at 9.30am on Wednesday mornings during school term.  Please bring pre-cut fruit to share.  Join other Mums and Dads and Grandies for a coffee and chat with activities for the little ones.  We look forward to seeing you there!

Celebrate this Christmas with Maranatha Health
Maranatha Health invites you to join us this Christmas as together we share Momentous News, Dynamic Hope, Boundless Joy and Fervent Love.

Read, reflect and share our four-part reflection series in the four weeks leading up to Christmas. Our advent reflections are available in printed form from the church.

We invite you to learn, share and donate - and give a gift that lasts long into the future. Plus, when you donate you'll receive a gift card so you can share your gift with your family, friends and colleagues.

May your Christmas be filled with delight as you share Momentous News, Dynamic Hope, Boundless Joy and Fervent Love with those around you!
maranathahealth.org/give/christmas

Para Vista Women’s Fellowship Lunch
Tuesday 5th December at 12pm at the Blue Gums Hotel, Hancock Road
29 ladies have expressed intention to meet for lunch to complete our 2017 year.
Request the cost of $20 for the 3 course lunch is paid in advance to our treasurer, Dawn Spencer if you have not done so. Please contact Dawn on 8260 7090 to arrange payment.   To those who have paid, thank you.

A big thank you also to all the members who supplied honey biscuits recently for Lutheran Community Christmas Cheer.

From the Office

Office Hours Reminder
Reminder that the church office now closes at 3pm each day

Offering Envelopes
Dated weekly offering envelopes are now available in the front foyer of the church. 
Should you wish a box to be put aside please let office staff know via email or phone.

Notice Board

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http://www.lca.org.au/departments/ministry-support/communications/lca-notice-board/
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every week, sign up to LCA Notice Board eNews. It's free, and you can unsubscribe at any time. Please visit www.lca.org.au for more details.

A book by Peter Steicke
“How different would life be if we all knew we were loved beyond our wildest imagination?”
Localy available from Debbie Wesselingh for $20.00 or from www.yourbooksonline.com.au or see Peter’s website: www.incrediblyloved.com

Dried apricots 
For sale in the church office at $12 per 500gm pack which will help support ministries in Cambodia and Tonga.

“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good;

his love endures forever”

1 Chronicles 16:34