Uniting Church,

MARK’S Gospel is the focus of this month’s study. A very short piece of only 16 chapters has caused scholars problems because of its brevity, but also the depth of what it says.
He opens the gospel with the statement “The beginning of the gospel about Jesus Christ, the Son of God”, a statement of faith and the beginning of the good news. He declares Jesus to be the Son of God.
At the end of chapter 8 he returns to the phrase that Jesus is the Son of God. Jesus asks the disciples “Who do you say I am?” The second half of the gospel begins with the transfiguration showing the glory of God to the Disciples. The focus is again on Jesus who is bringing good news to the world.
Jesus’ ministry saw people clamouring to hear what he had to say. Jesus did not speak in complicated language; he spoke to the people so they could understand him. Jesus was filled with compassion when he saw the crowds, which came to hear him. Jesus listened and heard, looked and saw what was in front of him.
He then acted with compassion, so it is no wonder that crowds flocked to hear and see him. Mark’s Gospel tells us that we are not to be just people of compassion when there is a disaster and need but always, as Jesus was.
This morning we heard Bruce Chappell’s faith journey, which according to Bruce wasn’t a dramatic conversion. Born into a Christian home he attended Sunday School and church. During World War Two, American soldiers based near Bruce’s home often came to the family home on a Sunday evening and sang hymns with the family.
Bruce was interested in the words of the hymns and the background behind them. He learnt Bible stories from his father, while drying the dishes after dinner each evening, and these helped complete the picture for him. Bruce has continued his work and acts as a lay preacher for us. We are grateful for his deep Christian convictions and his love of God, which he shares with others.
Christian Blind Mission International (CBMI) Peter Breen was blinded soon after birth. Relying on God’s guidance and strength, instead of struggling with his blindness, Peter soared, studying at the Conservatorium of Music.
He will share his story of Thailand and Vietnam and of meeting people transformed by the practical love God has shown him. He is gifted with perfect pitch, “sings with the voice of an angel” and will perform at Pakenham Uniting Church on Saturday, 4 March at 2pm. RSVP by 1 March to 1800 678 069.
This week
Wednesday, 8 February: 7.30pm: Induction of Rev Bob Brown as General Secretary of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania at Wesley Uniting Church, Lonsdale Street, Melbourne.
Friday, 10 February: 10.30 – 1pm: Community Drop in Centre in lounge.
Sunday, 12 February: 10.30am: First meeting of the Singing Group for 2006. See Lois Morrison for details.
Sunday, 12 February: 2pm: Allan Robinson will entertain you on the keyboard at Meadowvale. Enjoy the entertainment and a cuppa. Cost $2.
Tuesday, 14 February: 10am – noon: Beehive Craft Group.
Tuesday, 14 February: 10am: Bible Study.
Tuesday, 14 February: 2pm: Worship and Associated Matters Working Group meet at the Church.
Coming Events
Friday, 17 and 18 February: Tom Bandy seminars. Bookings to Merryn Gray 9852 7433.
“Praise the Lord. Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise him in the heights above.” Psalm 148 V1