God's Light in a Dark World

Every day we are bombarded by messages of hopelessness: bushfires, climate change, murder, strife, anger, greed.  Constantly soaked in these images and texts, there is a tendency for even the strongest of humanity to sink into the quagmire of desire.  Darkness draws a blanket over the collective cultures of the world and we cry out…

Hosanna. Save us.

In the book of Isaiah, we hear the voice of God’s chosen instrument, the prophet, reminding people of two things: 1.) their consequences are a product of their actions.  They have disobeyed God and turned to idols. 2.) God will not abandon them in their consequences, but will help them through.

Eventually, as the prophetic promise resonates centuries later, the people of Israel will not only be God’s servants, but lights in the world.  And, as is written in chapter 49, “See, these will come from far away; from the north and from the west…”

People will be drawn to the light of God in this world because he saves his people, Israel.
How does this translate into the 21st century?

Some of what we experience in 21st century culture, the perpetual indignation, of taking offense, of discarding the word of God for the idol of self – these have consequences.  But God promises not to leave us out in the darkness.  In Isaiah 9:2, “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; a light has dawned on those living in the land of darkness,” we are told of the light that has come in the darkness, and now we are called to be mirrors to reflect Christ, the light of life, into the same kind of darkness.

This, in its very essence, is the journey of culture change.  As we look towards the next seven years, we’ll be using a chart like this to mark our progress:

Using Isaiah’s words, this week we will take a look at where God was calling the people of Israel about to be sent into exile, and where he sends the people of the contemporary Church to be the reflection of light as God brings about his culture change.

Pr Reid Matthias
Bible Readings: Isaiah 49:1-13
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.

Hi Good Shepherd!
I am excited to be appointed as your new Office Administrator, in the role formerly held by Belinda Konrad. At the moment I'm available Tuesday to Friday, 9am-3pm.  A big thank you for the lovely warm welcome I have received thus far... looking forward to working for you!

Blessings,
Rachel Koopmans





Ladies Fellowship 2020
All ladies are welcome to come to the first meeting of Ladies Fellowship for 2020.  We will be meeting at 12 noon on 4th February at the church hall.  Please bring your lunch.  We look forward to seeing you with all ladies most welcome to attend.







Grow Ministries Faith at Home
Dear Church Family,
Jesus calls his followers to ‘fish for people’.
What does he mean?
Please have a look at some ideas that you might like to try out with you family through the week.
God bless, Georgie

Noticeboard

In some parts of Australia bushfires are continuing to threaten lives and livelihoods. In other places, hundreds of people are sifting through ashes, wondering how they will put their lives back together.

Many of us are asking how we can bring the love of God into this awful situation, how his love might come to life through us. Here are some ways that could happen.

To help people in immediate need you can donate to
Red Cross, Salvation Army and other organisations that are able to provide on-the-ground local support right now.
To help Lutherans and the communities they are supporting with immediate assistance and then, later, post-emergency restorative support, you can donate to
LCA Disaster & Welfare Fund (tax-deductible)
Click on the link to make a donation by credit card.  To make a bank transfer:
BSB 704942
Account: 100042902
Account name: LCA Disaster and Welfare Fund

Always wanted to study Biblical Greek?
ALC has an introductory New Testament Greek class running in 2020 which has already attracted a number of enrolments from mature-age lay people.  The class can be completed either for credit or as audit (no assessment required) and is time-tabled Monday to Wednesday at 11.15am for one hour commencing Monday 24 February.  For further details, contact enquiries@alc.edu.au or phone 08 7120 8200.  Special seniors’ discounts apply for audit students.  Semester audit fees: $360 Concession  $540 Non-concession.  All welcome.

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.”

1 Peter 2:9

Jesus Lamb of God

In just over a week’s time we will celebrate Australia Day.  Perhaps you can remember the lamb adds by Sam Kekovich.  Here’s what he recommended as the appropriate cuisine for Australia Day: lamb chops from the BBQ, a few beers from the esky, and perhaps a Pavlova for those with a sweet tooth!

For you, what comes to mind with the word: “lamb”?  Perhaps lamb on a spit, lamb chops, or a lamb roast with a sprig of rosemary, vegies and lots of gravy?

Maybe you grew up on a property where your family had a pet lamb?  If so, you could hardly imagine eating it - could you?

When John the Baptist sees Jesus approaching, he declares: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” (John 1:29 NIV)

When John the Baptist pointed to Jesus as "the Lamb of God" what do you think that triggered in the minds of his hearers?  Probably not lamb roast!

This Sunday we will explore what John’s evocative term, “Lamb of God,” might have meant for his hearers – and what it could mean for us.

Jesus takes away the sins of the world.  That means each and every person on this planet: including you and me, children and grandchildren, relatives and friends, work colleagues, sporting buddies, and the people on your street.  Jesus wants every person on this planet to receive his forgiveness and leadership over our lives – so we can have life to the full… and an eternity of life.

How might you and I take a leaf out of John’s book, and point people to Jesus?  Maybe we can start by praying to see people through Jesus’ eyes – and to love them like Jesus loves them.  Also asking Father God for opportunities to share our stories on what Jesus has been doing in our lives.  And that might open doors to sharing who Jesus is, what he has done for all people, and the identity, purpose and destiny he gives to all who trust and follow Him.

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: John 1:29-42
(See also Exodus 12, Isaiah 52:13-53:12, Revelation 5)
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.

Praise Point
This Sunday at the 10.30am service Tyler Max Stirling, son of Matthew and Alicia, will be welcomed into God’s family through Holy Baptism.




Hi Good Shepherd!
I am excited to be appointed as your new Office Administrator, in the role formerly held by Belinda Konrad. At the moment I'm available Tuesday to Friday, 9am-3pm. A big thank you for the lovely warm welcome I have received thus far...
looking forward to working for you!

Blessings,
Rachel Koopmans









Ladies Fellowship 2020
All ladies are welcome to come to the first meeting of Ladies Fellowship for 2020.
We will be meeting at 12 noon on 4th February at the church hall.  Please bring your lunch.
We look forward to seeing you with all ladies most welcome to attend.







Grow Ministries Faith at Home
Dear Church Family,
When Andrew heard that Jesus was the Messiah, the first thing he did was search for his brother Simon and bring him to meet Jesus (John 1:40-42).
In what ways do you help others meet Jesus?
Check out the Growing Faith at Home resource for some devotional ideas, conversation starters and activities to try out with your family.
God bless,
Georgie

Noticeboard

Open Garden
Every Saturday at 3 Aldrin Crescent Modbury North from 9–11 am.  Free entry and plants available to purchase.  All proceeds donated to LCA Disaster & Welfare Fund.  Phone 83953177 for more information.

In some parts of Australia bushfires are continuing to threaten lives and livelihoods. In other places, hundreds of people are sifting through ashes, wondering how they will put their lives back together.

Many of us are asking how we can bring the love of God into this awful situation, how his love might come to life through us. Here are some ways that could happen.

To help people in immediate need you can donate to
Red Cross, Salvation Army and other organisations that are able to provide on-the-ground local support right now.
To help Lutherans and the communities they are supporting with immediate assistance and then, later, post-emergency restorative support, you can donate to
LCA Disaster & Welfare Fund (tax-deductible)
Click on the link to make a donation by credit card.  To make a bank transfer:
BSB 704942
Account: 100042902
Account name: LCA Disaster and Welfare Fund

Always wanted to study Biblical Greek?
ALC has an introductory New Testament Greek class running in 2020 which has already attracted a number of enrolments from mature-age lay people.  The class can be completed either for credit or as audit (no assessment required) and is time-tabled Monday to Wednesday at 11.15am for one hour commencing Monday 24 February.  For further details, contact enquiries@alc.edu.au or phone 08 7120 8200.  Special seniors’ discounts apply for audit students.  Semester audit fees: $360 Concession  $540 Non-concession.  All welcome.

“For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

Luke 19:10

The Baptism of Jesus

“What does your baptism mean to you?”  How would you answer someone who asked you this question and was genuinely interested in your reply?

Decades ago, I was asked this question by a chap who did not think it was fitting and right to baptise babies.  My response: “I was baptised as a baby… so I know that at one point in history, God has put his name on me, joined me to Jesus, and adopted me as his child.  No matter what happens in my life, nothing can ever change that!”

Luther was subject to long bouts of depression.  In the midst of his melancholy, he would often declare: “But I am baptised!”  Not: “I was baptised!”  But: “I am baptised!”  God’s promise and commitment to us never wavers.  His unfailing love is a constant reality – in which we can always find refuge – regardless of our circumstances.

This Sunday we’re looking at Jesus’ baptism.  What does Jesus’ baptism mean for you?  For me, it provokes a lot of questions.

As John the Baptist preached, “Repent for the kingdom of heaven has come near!” people realised they’d fallen short of God's ways.  They confessed their sins to John and were baptized as an outward expression of their change of heart and life (Mt 3:6).  John's baptism was a baptism of repentance, preparing the people of Israel for their Messiah.  It is not the same as Christian baptism!

But then Jesus approaches John for baptism.  Hmmmm.  If Jesus was sinless, why did he ask John to baptize him?  Why did Jesus need it?  What on earth did he need to repent of?

John was not keen, but Jesus insisted: “Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness.”  Then John consented. (Matthew 3:15 NIV)

What does it mean ‘to fulfill all righteousness’?  How would you explain that word “righteousness” to someone else?  How did Jesus’ baptism ‘fulfill all righteousness’?

When Jesus was baptised, some really interesting things happened.  As he came up out of the water, heaven opened… and the Spirit of God came down and rested on Jesus.  What’s that about?

And there was a voice from heaven.  Whose voice was it?  And what did the voice say?  What is the significance of all this for us?

Come along this Sunday as we wrestle with these questions, look into the Scriptures for answers, and help one another to live in the grace and leadership of Jesus, our Friend and King.

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Isaiah 42:1-7. Matthew 3:13-17. (See also Psalm 2, Isaiah 11:1-3) 
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.

Grow Ministries Faith at Home
Dear Church Family,
What took place at Jesus’ baptism?
How do you think he felt?
How do you feel about your baptism?
What does it mean to you?
Check out the Growing Faith at Home resource for some devotional ideas, conversation starters and activities to try out with your family.
God bless,
Georgie

From the Office

Office Closure January
The office will be closed for an extended period to allow staff to exhaust leave.  Times will be:-

Every Monday in January 2020 CLOSED
Tuesday to Friday January 2020 OPEN 9.00am to 3.00pm

For urgent contact during this time please call 8263 5087 and leave a message.  Messages will be retrieved on working days over this time.

Noticeboard

In some parts of Australia bushfires are continuing to threaten lives and livelihoods. In other places, hundreds of people are sifting through ashes, wondering how they will put their lives back together.

Many of us are asking how we can bring the love of God into this awful situation, how his love might come to life through us. Here are some ways that could happen.

To help people in immediate need you can donate to
Red Cross,  Salvation Army and other organisations that are able to provide on-the-ground local support right now.
To help Lutherans and the communities they are supporting with immediate assistance and then, later, post-emergency restorative support, you can donate to
LCA Disaster & Welfare Fund (tax-deductible)
Click on the link to make a donation by credit card.  To make a bank transfer:
BSB 704942
Account: 100042902
Account name: LCA Disaster and Welfare Fund

“But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy.  He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,..”

Titus 3:4-5

Consolation

Simeon probably thought he had waited long enough.

Living in Jerusalem for many years, Simeon had grown used to being patient.  For thirteen generations from the Exile, the people of God had anticipated and expected that Immanuel would be arriving any day.  Through those times of struggle and wrestling with doubt, questions of God’s care and providence, the people of Israel longed for the time when God would send his Messiah, the anointed one, to take up the throne in Israel again.  David’s son would crush the litany of conquerors which had overrun the land and exact revenge on behalf of Israel.

Waiting, though, is not a very fun thing.  Patience is one of the virtues most highly valued but least likely to be embraced.

To make matters more difficult, the Spirit had revealed to Simeon that he would not see death before he saw the Messiah.  Yes, he had something to look forward to every morning, a hope as of yet unfulfilled, but the measure and burden of patience, especially when expecting Israel’s consolation, was extraordinarily difficult.

To long for a consolation…

We don’t often talk about this consolation that Simeon was waiting for.  We more often skip this period of patience and leap right into the moment he lofts the Saviour child into the air and blesses both God and Son and now understands that Simeon can move on.

This week, though, we’ll be looking at both patience and promise.  What does it mean for we who wait for the Return of the King (Messiah) in an increasingly difficult world that seems to be burning right before our eyes?  Where do we see the Messiah and how do we wrestle with doubt and questions of God’s care and providence?  How do we trust Jesus in what seems to be a cosmic absence?

In essence, how do we wait?

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Reading: Luke 2:25-35
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.

Praise Point
This Sunday at the 10.30am service, Madison Rose Gibbs, daughter of Bryce and Lauren, will be welcomed into God’s family through Holy Baptism.

Weekly News
This will be the last weekly news for 2019.  The first edition for 2020 will be published on 10 January.

Christmas is coming… literally!
So let’s come together to celebrate God coming to us, through the birth of our Saviour, Jesus.
Bring your family and invite your friends. This year we need… you!

The ancient Jewish tradition was for families to gather together and retell the story of their escape from slavery.

This year we are encouraging families, young and old to come together for the 5pm Christmas Eve service and share in the story that changes our lives forever.

• Be ready to retell the Christmas story in your own words.
• Be ready to think about why you are here.
• Be ready for dress ups.
• Be ready to sing carols.

Big hint: You can check out some details in Luke 1 and 2.

See you Tuesday at 5pm!

Blessings,  Georgie

Grow Ministries Faith at Home

A title for Jesus is ‘Immanuel’ which means ‘God with us’.  How have you experienced God ‘with you’ recently?

Why was Jesus a special baby? What does his birth mean for you?

Please find attached to the weekly news email some resources from ‘Growing Faith at Home’ that you might like to consider over the next couple of weeks as we celebrate the birth of our Saviour, Jesus.

Blessings,  Georgie

From the Office

A Parking Blessing for Christmas
Please note this year is going to be different to previous years as the school oval will not be available.  Parking for members will be in the new Good Shepherd early learning centre car park (old Alliance church) and can be accessed via Hillary Cres without having to enter the church grounds.  Please consider 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 of the car parking attendants is appreciated.

Office Closure over Christmas
The office will be closed for an extended period to allow staff to exhaust leave.  Times will be:-

24 December 2019 9.00am to 2.00pm OPEN
25 December 2019 to 7th January 2020 CLOSED
Every Monday in January 2020 CLOSED
Tuesday to Friday January 2020 OPEN 9.00am to 3.00pm

For urgent contact during this time please call 8263 5087 and leave a message.  Messages will be retrieved on working days over this time.

“Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion.

For the Lord is a God of justice.  Blessed are all who wait for Him.”

Isaiah 30:18

Expectation

Some of you would be familiar with the Charles Dickens’ story: Great Expectations.  According to Google search: ‘Great Expectations is the story of Pip, an orphan boy adopted by a blacksmith's family, who has good luck and great expectations, and then loses both his luck and his expectations…  Pip learns several hard truths about life, all of which may be considered part of Dickens' message.  Pip's "great expectations" are all disappointed.

What are your hopes and expectations for this Christmas-New Year season?  Perhaps some rest, gourmet food, holidays, watching cricket, time at the beach, or catching up with family.

What are you expecting from God as your life unfolds in the years ahead?

If things don’t turn out the way you expect, how could that affect your relationship with God?

This week we look at how things worked out for John the Baptist.  I wonder what his expectations were of Jesus.  Did he expect the promised Messiah to evict the Romans from the land and establish perfect justice and peace throughout Israel?  Did John expect to one day hang up his preaching boots and live in quite retirement until one night he would die in his sleep and join the children of Abraham in God’s glory?

While languishing in prison, John reaches out with a question to Jesus.  This Sunday we’ll explore his question – along with Jesus’ answer.

If God does not satisfy all our expectations, will we get offended, turn our back on God and pout?  Will we stop following Jesus, reject God as Father, and grieve the Holy Spirit?

Or will we rewind and remember Jesus: his suffering, death, resurrection and promises to bring his faithful ones into the place he is preparing for us in his Father’s house (John 14:1-6).

Come along and be part of God’s transformation of our Good Shepherd culture.

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Reading: Matthew 11:2-11
You might also check out: Isaiah 29:18, 32:1-4, 35:4-6, 42:5-7, 42:16, 61:1-3
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.

Praise Point
This Sunday at the 10.30am service, Elliott James Scott Bruggemann, son of Matt and Andrea, will be welcomed into God’s family through Holy Baptism.

From the Library
A number of Christmas resources including books, DVD’s and CD’s are displayed on the spinner in the church library.  They may be borrowed following the instructions near the computer in the library. Enjoy them!!

(Carol Gallasch  - Librarian)

Request for Musicians by Family Hub

Message from Kathlene

We are in the final stages of planning/preparing for ‘our’ Christmas event on Saturday 14th December 12.00 – 2.00.  Would there be anyone from the congregation who might be free to share background music for the event?  In the past we have had Endeavour students – a couple on guitar and/or singing Christmas music.

Hopefully this might be a possibility?  If you can assist please contact John Dolling 0409819864 / 83675296

Final Summary of Support for the Family Hub
Besides the very generous support through our monthly food donations and practical help with on site volunteering, the congregation provided cash to assist the Hub to support families in need.

The total of this support was the fantastic amount of $5980 made up of:
Women's Fellowship donation $500
Pat Varney card sales $567
Donations $510
Plant stall sales $914
BBQ $433
Karaoke Night $3056

Thank you for your ongoing support during 2019

Christmas Eve… Jesus’ Birth
A time to come together as family once again…

This year we need… you!

The ancient Jewish tradition was for families to gather together and retell the story of their escape from slavery.

This year we are encouraging families, young and old to come together for the 5pm Christmas Eve service and share in the story that changes our lives forever.

Be ready to retell the Christmas story in your own words.
Be ready to think about why you are here.
Be ready for dress ups.
Be ready to sing carols.
Big hint:  You can check out some details in Luke 1 and 2

See you soon!

Grow Ministries Faith at Home
How about asking someone…
What is your favourite thing about Christmas?
Why is Advent important to Christians?
What is your favourite part of the Christmas story?
Check out the Growing Faith at Home resource provided.

Blessings,  Georgie

Christmas ‘Gift of Life’ Cards
This Christmas Maranatha Health is sharing Gifts of Life with our Ugandan community.  We invite you to donate and receive Christmas Gift Cards to share with friends and family - and give a Gift of Life that lasts long into the future.

Your gift of a tax deductible donation to Maranatha Health can provide life-saving medical care, increase community understanding to prevent ill-health, and help build a more accessible and just health care system that will bring lasting change to people’s lives.

To give a Gift of Life and order your cards, visit our website at www.maranathahealth.org/christmas.  To see samples of our elegantly designed Gift Cards, see Julie Freund after church!

From the Office

Church Phone System
A new phone system has been installed and is now operating.  Thank you to all who have been patient with the old system.  Communication has been greatly enhanced and appreciated by staff for the ease of use.

Mission Vision Support
Donation amounts have been updated again so look for the graphs around the complex.
This month’s support will go towards Pastoral Care.  Donations will assist in training for our care volunteers and ensuring legal requirements are followed.  Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Pastoral Care

Regular Electronic Giving (REG)
www.lll.org.au/REG

REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission of our church.  Details of transactions are kept totally confidential.  For those who are altering their giving through REG or wish to start giving via REG the appropriate forms are available from this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use BSB 704942 and Account number 100354939,
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
BSB 704942. Account number 10354939

Christmas Whirlwind Competition
The competition is open again this year on Tuesday 24th December at 8.30am to find the best dust blowing machine on the block.  The competition heats up this year to see if the electric machines can outdo the petrol ones and will greatly assist in giving the church grounds a bit of a dust off and the facility a bit of a spruce up?

For free entry, please bring along your best blow vac machine 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.  BEWARE last year an electric blower nearly took the prize until the big GSPV machine was brought out of hiding.
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 note this year is going to be different to previous years as the school oval will not be available.  Parking for members will be in the new Good Shepherd early learning centre car park (old Alliance church) and can be accessed via Hillary Cres without having to enter the church grounds.  Please consider 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 of the car parking attendants is appreciated.

Office Closure over Christmas
The office will be closed for an extended period to allow staff to exhaust leave.  Times will be.
24 December 2019 9.00am to 2.00pm OPEN
25 December 2019 to 7th January 2020 CLOSED
Every Monday in January 2020 CLOSED
Tuesday to Friday January 2020 OPEN 9.00am to 3.00pm

For urgent contact during this time please call 8263 5087 and leave a message.  Messages will be retrieved on working days over this time.

Weekly News
The last weekly news for 2019 will be published on Friday 20 December and the first edition for 2020 will be published on 10 January.

Church Candles
We are seeking the services of a ‘chandler’ to service the candles in the church on a weekly basis.  Time required for this is less than 30 minutes per week and can be done from home or at the church to keep the candles trimmed and burning bright.  Training so a new skill can be attained will be free.  (Chandler is a person who makes Candles or trims them.)

“I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.”

Isaiah 42:6-7

Preparation

With Christmas approaching, what’s been happening at your place?  Perhaps cleaning, sorting, or preparing for visitors?  Maybe you’ve been working out the Christmas menu - whether to buy ham or turkey this year?  Perhaps an Advent wreath or Christmas tree has appeared, or a few Christmas cards have arrived?  Or maybe a nativity scene has been set up again in its special place?

We are getting our homes ready for Christmas.  What about preparing our hearts for Jesus?  This Sunday, we’re looking at John the Baptist.  His mission: to prepare the way for the Lord.

His birth was announced by the angel Gabriel to an old priest, Zechariah, while carrying out his duties at the temple:

“Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard.  Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.  He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord.  He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born.  He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God.  And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”  (Luke 1:13-17 NIV)

Around 30 years later, John is God’s herald in the wilderness: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near!” Many went out to the Jordan to watch and listen.  Some dismissed him as a crazy guy and went back to the way things had always been.  Yet others were dramatically impacted by John’s message and responded.  They confessed their sins and looked forward to meeting their promised Messiah.

When God’s chosen King comes on the scene, will he find us so occupied with our own plans that we have little or no interest in him?  Advent is a time to pause, reflect, and prepare our hearts for Jesus.  Repentance is about getting rid of the junk in our hearts, and receiving the gifts of Jesus’ forgiveness and leadership over our lives.

As Luther puts it his Christmas carol:
Ah dearest Jesus, holy child,
Make Thee a bed, soft, undefiled,
Within my heart, that it may be
A quiet chamber kept for Thee.
(From Heaven Above to Earth I Come, LH 23, v11.)

How are you and I preparing room in our hearts for King Jesus in the days ahead?

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Isaiah 40:1-5, 9-11. Matthew 3:1-6 
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.

Request for Musicians by Family Hub
Message from Kathlene
We are in the final stages of planning/preparing for ‘our’ Christmas event on Saturday 14th December 12.00 – 2.00.  Would there be anyone from the congregation who might be free to share background music for the event?  In the past we have had Endeavour students – a couple on guitar and/or singing Christmas music.
Hopefully this might be a possibility?  If you can assist please contact John Dolling 0409819864 / 83675296


Experience Christmas

Thank you to every-one who contributed to Experience Christmas 2019 in any way!
Thank you to everyone who came along and engaged in the experience.
Thank you for the conversations, the connections, the carols!
Thank you God for your gift of Jesus!

Christmas Eve… Jesus’ Birth
A time to come together as family once again…
This year we need… you!
The ancient Jewish tradition was for families to gather together and retell the story of their escape from slavery.
This year we are encouraging families, young and old to come together for the 5pm Christmas Eve service and share in the story that changes our lives forever.

Be ready to retell the Christmas story in your own words.
Be ready to think about why you are here.
Be ready for dress ups.
Be ready to sing carols.
Big hint:  You can check out some details in Luke 1 and 2

See you soon!

From the Library
A number of Christmas resources including books, DVD’s and CD’s are displayed on the spinner in the church library.  They may be borrowed following the instructions near the computer in the library. Enjoy them!!

(Carol Gallasch  - Librarian)

Grow Ministries Faith at Home
Advent is a season for preparing….  What are you and your family preparing for?  More ideas for you to try with your family as we step closer to Christmas.

Blessings,  Georgie

Christmas ‘Gift of Life’ Cards
This Christmas Maranatha Health is sharing Gifts of Life with our Ugandan community.  We invite you to donate and receive Christmas Gift Cards to share with friends and family - and give a Gift of Life that lasts long into the future.

Your gift of a tax deductible donation to Maranatha Health can provide life-saving medical care, increase community understanding to prevent ill-health, and help build a more accessible and just health care system that will bring lasting change to people’s lives.

To give a Gift of Life and order your cards, visit our website at www.maranathahealth.org/christmas.  To see samples of our elegantly designed Gift Cards, see Julie Freund after church!

SPIN Camp
Will your children be looking for something to do in the Summer holidays?  Here is an opportunity for you!

SPIN is a summer kids’ camp for young people in Years 4–6 from across South Australia, which ‘turns church upside down’ by showing how the church is relevant and important for the kids of today.
To register go to: www.blueprintministries.org.au

There is a $50 discount code available for campers from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.  See Church Office or Georgie for details!























From the Office

Mission Vision Support.
Donation amounts have been updated again so look for the graphs around the complex.
This month’s support will go towards Pastoral Care.  Donations will assist in training for our care volunteers and ensuring legal requirements are followed.  Look for the Mission Vision Support envelopes at the entry doors and consider how you can assist, or donations can be made to:
BSB: 704942
Account number: 100713424
Reference: Pastoral Care

Regular Electronic Giving (REG)
www.lll.org.au/REG
REG is a way for our members to regularly support the mission of our church.  Details of transactions are kept totally confidential.  For those who are altering their giving through REG or wish to start giving via REG the appropriate forms are available from this link http://www.lll.org.au/giving_through_the_lll/regular_electronic_giving_reg  use BSB 704942 and Account number 100354939,
Alternatively deposits can be made to the following bank account details
BSB 704942. Account number 10354939

Christmas Whirlwind Competition
The competition is open again this year on Tuesday 24th December at 8.30am to find the best dust blowing machine on the block.  The competition heats up this year to see if the electric machines can outdo the petrol ones and will greatly assist in giving the church grounds a bit of a dust off and the facility a bit of a spruce up?

For free entry, please bring along your best blow vac machine 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.  BEWARE last year an electric blower nearly took the prize until the big GSPV machine was brought out of hiding.  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 note this year is going to be different to previous years as the school oval will not be available.  Parking for members will be in the new Good Shepherd early learning centre car park (old Alliance church) and can be accessed via Hillary Cres without having to enter the church grounds.  Please consider 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 of the car parking attendants is appreciated.

Car parking attendants are required to assist with traffic and parking on Christmas Eve from:
• 4.30pm till 6.45pm
• 8.30pm till 9.15pm
Please, contact Stephen on 0403 180 814 or email churchenquires@paravista.org.au to assist.

Office Closure over Christmas
The office will be closed for an extended period to allow staff to exhaust leave.  Times will be.
24 December 2019 9.00am to 2.00pm OPEN
25 December 2019 to 7th January 2020 CLOSED
Every Monday in January 2020 CLOSED
Tuesday to Friday January 2020 OPEN 9.00am to 3.00pm

For urgent contact during this time please call 8263 5087 and leave a message.  Messages will be retrieved on working days over this time.

Weekly News
The last weekly news for 2019 will be published on Friday 20 December and the first edition for 2020 will be published on 10 January.

Noticeboard

Hossein has asked for prayer into the brutal totalitarian regime in Iran, where protesters have been killed, Christians in jail are tortured, civil rights abuses are common, and the internet has been shut down.

You can find more details via internet searches:
https://www.amnesty.org/en/countries/middle-east-and-north-africa/iran/
https://edition.cnn.com/2019/11/20/middleeast/iran-fuel-protests-intl/index.html

“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God;

may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.”

Psalm 143:10

Anticipation

A common tendency when watching movies is to fast forward through the opening credits.  In doing so, we often miss clues to what is going to happen and what might be the background for the action that will ensue.

In the book of Matthew, the author begins the gospel by giving a genealogy of Jesus, fourteen generations at a time.  Often, we fast forward directly to the end of chapter one when the good stuff happens.  But in doing so, we miss out on what Matthew, who is writing the Jews to let them know that after the exile, and the return to Jerusalem, the King of heaven has come.

Skipping over the genealogy and right into the Christmas story robs us of a chance to remember what it’s like to wait in (im)patient anticipation.  When you are told that a gift is coming and that it will change every part of your life, the anticipation is immense and painful and wonderful all at the same time.

Imagine the struggle and impatience of the Israelites in exile hundreds of years before the birth of the king.  Imagine being told that your salvation is coming, but then having to wait fourteen generations for it to occur.  Could you remain faithful?  As you wait in exile, away from your home, and your comfort and the peace that comes with God being with us, does faith come easy?

This week as we delve into both Matthew and the book of Isaiah, walk with me through the comfort that comes knowing that God always keeps his promises.  Even if it takes a very long time.

Read Isaiah 40 especially verses 8-11 this week and experience with new eyes the songs that we sing as we wait for the advent of our Lord Jesus.

Pr Reid Matthias

Bible Readings: Isaiah 40:1-10
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.

Support for the Family Hub
In November we were supporting the Family Hub financially to assist with funding their Christmas celebrations for over 250 families and 400+ children.  Again our congregation was very generous in their support.  We raised $1755 to assist the Hub in their ministry to needy families in the district.

Money raised:
BBQ $433.50
Plant Stall $411.50
Donations $110.00
Sub Total $955.00

The Women's Fellowship gave a very generous donation of $500.  Pat Varney raised $300 from the sale of cards.  Both these amounts were donated to the Family Hub.  We thank them for their very generous donations. Total donations =$955.00 + $800 = $1755.00

Ladies Fellowship
Just a reminder of our Christmas Luncheon on 3rd December at 12 noon in the church café at Good Shepherd.  Dress to impress!  Delicious meal and wine.  If you are able, please bring a small wrapped Christmas gift.  All gifts will be given to Foodbank SA.

Christmas Trees
All orders for Christmas trees must be in to John Dolling (0409819864/83675296) by Sunday December 1st.  Trees available are 5, 6 or 7 foot.  Cost $45 with all money raised going to support chaplains in schools.

SPIN Camp
Will your children be looking for something to do in the Summer holidays?  Here is an opportunity for you!

SPIN is a summer kids’ camp for young people in Years 4–6 from across South Australia, which ‘turns church upside down’ by showing how the church is relevant and important for the kids of today.
To register go to: www.blueprintministries.org.au

There is a $50 discount code available for campers from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.  See Church Office or Georgie for details!

Grow Ministries Faith at Home
Welcome to the new church season of Advent.  A Season of waiting and watching.  A season of getting ready for Jesus.  Here are some ideas for you to try with your family as we step closer to Christmas.
Check it out!

Blessings,
Georgie

Christmas ‘Gift of Life’ Cards
This Christmas Maranatha Health is sharing Gifts of Life with our Ugandan community.  We invite you to donate and receive Christmas Gift Cards to share with friends and family - and give a Gift of Life that lasts long into the future.

Your gift of a tax deductible donation to Maranatha Health can provide life-saving medical care, increase community understanding to prevent ill-health, and help build a more accessible and just health care system that will bring lasting change to people’s lives.

To give a Gift of Life and order your cards, visit our website at www.maranathahealth.org/christmas.  To see samples of our elegantly designed Gift Cards, see Julie Freund after church!

From the Office

Christmas Whirlwind Competition
The competition is open again this year on Tuesday 24th December at 8.30am to find the best dust blowing machine on the block.  The competition heats up this year to see if the electric machines can outdo the petrol ones and will greatly assist in giving the church grounds a bit of a dust off and the facility a bit of a spruce up.

For free entry, please bring along your best blow vac machine 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 but have the time, still come along as I have a few spare.  BEWARE last year an electric blower nearly took the prize until the big GSPV machine was brought out of hiding.  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 note this year is going to be different to previous years as the school oval will not be available.  Parking for members will be in the new Good Shepherd early learning centre car park (old Alliance church) and can be accessed via Hillary Cres without having to enter the church grounds.  Please consider 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 of the car parking attendants is appreciated.

Car parking attendants are required to assist with traffic and parking on Christmas Eve from:
• 4.30pm till 6.30pm
• 8.30pm till 9.15pm

Please, contact Stephen on 0403 180 814 or emailchurchenquires@paravista.org.au to assist.

Office Closure over Christmas
The office will be closed for an extended period to allow staff to exhaust leave.  Times will be:-

24 December 2019 9.00am to 2.00pm OPEN
25 December 2019 to 7th January 2020 CLOSED
Every Monday in January 2020 CLOSED
Tuesday to Friday January 2020 OPEN 9.00am to 3.00pm

For urgent contact during this time please call 8263 5087 and leave a message.  Messages will be retrieved on working days over this time.

Weekly News
The last weekly news for 2019 will be published on Friday 20 December and the first edition for 2020 will be published on 10 January.

Facilities Upgrades
A dedicated team of enthusiastic builders spent the last three Saturdays replacing the old wooden pergola at the manse.  After years of weather the existing wooden structure finally succumbed to the elements and before embarking on some leave, Pastor Rolly assisted by removing the rotting timber leaving a clean slate for the volunteer team, led by Mat Eckermann, to erect a new steel structure.  Thanks to the:

• volunteers who did the hard work of digging holes, mixing concrete and standing at awkward angles to support framework and clambered around on the structure to put it all together.
• wives who encouraged and allowed their skilled husbands to volunteer, and
• to the children who gave their dads the time to spend engaging with others.

The manse now has an inviting outdoor entertaining and social area that provides shelter from the weather.

A replacement rain water tank was also recently installed at the manse to replace the old one which had rusted out.  Thanks also to the team of volunteers who helped with this project.















Noticeboard

Hossein has asked for prayer into the brutal totalitarian regime in Iran, where protesters have been killed, Christians in jail are tortured, civil rights abuses are common, and the internet has been shut down.

You can find more details via internet searches:
https://www.amnesty.org/en/countries/middle-east-and-north-africa/iran/
https://edition.cnn.com/2019/11/20/middleeast/iran-fuel-protests-intl/index.html

“For no matter how many promises God has made, they are “Yes” in Christ.  And so through him the “Amen” is spoken by us to the glory of God.”

2 Corinthians 1:20

Joy in the Lord... always?

In the book of Acts and in Paul’s letters, we come across the suffering he endured as an ambassador for Christ.  He was rejected by his fellow Jews, and run out of town a bunch of times.  He was dismissed as a madman, arrested several times, and spent years in prison.

Furthermore, listen to some of Paul’s own words:

• Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes.  Three times I was beaten with rods.  Once I was stoned.  Three times I was shipwrecked . Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea.

• I have travelled on many long journeys.  I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers.  I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles.  I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas.  And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not.

• I have worked hard and long, enduring many sleepless nights.  I have been hungry and thirsty and have often gone without food.  I have shivered in the cold, without enough clothing to keep me warm.     (2 Corinthians 11:24-27 NLT) 

In many of his letters, Paul is writing to people suffering on account of following Jesus.  Yet Paul writes to his friends at Philippi: ‘Always be full of joy in the Lord.  I say it again - rejoice!’ (Philippians 4:4 NLT)

Compare this to what he writes to the believers under the pump in Thessalonica: ‘Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV)

What?!  How on earth is it possible to have joy when life can be so brutal?  Is Paul delusional… or in some form of denial?

Note that Paul does not say, ‘Rejoice in your problems always.’  That would be crazy.  Rather: ‘Always be full of joy in the Lord!’

Even in the midst of heartbreak, suffering, and grief, believers find joy in the Lord Jesus.  How on earth is this possible?  Because through Jesus we have come into God’s story of restoration and hope for his world – including us!

Come along this Sunday as we unpack this some more and conclude our current series: Joy in Tough Times.

Joy in Jesus!

Pr Rolly Stahl

Bible Readings: Luke 12:22-26 NLT, Philippians 4:4-9 NLT 
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.

Half Yearly Meeting
To be held on Sunday 24th November at 12.30pm.

Ladies Fellowship
Just a reminder of our Christmas Luncheon on 3rd December at 12 noon in the church café at Good Shepherd.  Dress to impress!  Delicious meal and wine.  If you are able, please bring a small wrapped Christmas gift.  All gifts will be given to Foodbank SA.

Honey Biscuits
Honey biscuits to the church kitchen by 24th November please.

Family Hub
There has been amazing support for the Family Hub in 2019.  This has been through our monthly food collections and also through financial help.  Thank you for this support as it has enabled The Hub to continue to support needy families in the district.

We have one more opportunity to support their work during 2019.  This year The Hub had contact with 250 families and over 400 children.  They plan to bring joy to these families by holding a Christmas celebration and part of this is giving each child a small gift.  This is a big and costly undertaking and we would like to support this financially.

This Sunday there are opportunities to contribute:
• there will be a BBQ between the 10:30 service and Half Yearly meeting- sausages $2, steak sandwich $4.  Maximum per family $15.
• there will be a plant stall after both services.  This will be a one Sunday only sale.
• if you won't be around for the BBQ or are not into plants you can give a donation. This can be placed in the bowl in the display on the left hand side of the platform at both services.

After services on Sunday several people asked if they could donate presents rather than give financially.  For uniformity of gifts The Hub has requested that we do not provide presents.

The Family Hub Support Team

Christmas Trees
All orders for Christmas trees must be in to John Dolling (0409819864/83675296) by Sunday December 1st.  Trees available are 5, 6 or 7 foot.  Cost $45 with all money raised going to support chaplains in schools.

SPIN Camp
Will your children be looking for something to do in the Summer holidays?  Here is an opportunity for you!

SPIN is a summer kids’ camp for young people in Years 4–6 from across South Australia, which ‘turns church upside down’ by showing how the church is relevant and important for the kids of today.

To register go to:
www.blueprintministries.org.au
There is a $50 discount code available for campers from Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.  See Church Office or Georgie for details!

Grow Ministries Faith at Home

Are you looking for some ideas to nurture your family’s faith at home?  Grow Ministries might have some suggestions for you to try out.
This particular resource is dated November 24th - 24th Sunday after Pentecost.  This is the ‘last Sunday’ in the church year.  Next week we begin the new church year starting with the season of Advent.  This resource offers some ideas for you to consider.  Check it out!

Blessings,
Georgie

Christmas ‘Gift of Life’ Cards
This Christmas Maranatha Health is sharing Gifts of Life with our Ugandan community.  We invite you to donate and receive Christmas Gift Cards to share with friends and family - and give a Gift of Life that lasts long into the future.

Your gift of a tax deductible donation to Maranatha Health can provide life-saving medical care, increase community understanding to prevent ill-health, and help build a more accessible and just health care system that will bring lasting change to people’s lives.

To give a Gift of Life and order your cards, visit our website at www.maranathahealth.org/christmas.  To see samples of our elegantly designed Gift Cards, see Julie Freund after church!

From the Office

Front Office Closure
Due to the front office reception position vacancy the church office will be closed all day Monday and Friday afternoons till further notice.  Please email churchenquires@paravista.org.au or leave a message on the answering service and staff will get back to you.

Facilities Upgrades
A dedicated team of enthusiastic builders spent the last three Saturdays replacing the old wooden pergola at the manse.  After years of weather the existing wooden structure finally succumbed to the elements and before embarking on some leave, Pastor Rolly assisted by removing the rotting timber leaving a clean slate for the volunteer team, led by Mat Eckermann, to erect a new steel structure.  Thanks to the:

• volunteers who did the hard work of digging holes, mixing concrete and standing at awkward angles to support framework and clambered around on the structure to put it all together.
• wives who encouraged and allowed their skilled husbands to volunteer, and
• to the children who gave their dads the time to spend engaging with others.

The manse now has an inviting outdoor entertaining and social area that provides shelter from the weather.

A replacement rain water tank was also recently installed at the manse to replace the old one which had rusted out.  Thanks also to the team of volunteers who helped with this project.




















Noticeboard

Luthern Nurses’ Association of Australia
All healthcare workers, members and visitors are invited to attend our meeting on Monday 25th November with Helene Schulz presenting about 'Lutheran Community Care', 7.30pm at 137 Archer Street, North Adelaide, at LCA/SA District Office.  Entry through rear door with 2 hour CDP evidence provided.  Contact:  Rose Howard - Secretary LNAA  Mobile; 0410 463 649

$5 from every schnitzel purchased on the night goes to

Family Zone

Where: The Brahma Lodge Hotel

When: 25th November

Time: Book a table between 5.30-8.30pm

Raffles and Lucky Squares sold on the night

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

Colossians 1:27