Media

Revd Graham Coldman discusses the use of words. We communicate with friends and family more than usual during Advent, sharing news, greetings and offering words of encouragement. The apostle John describes Jesus as the Word who became flesh – the fullness of God being made manifest to all. We are challenged to listen for the Word of God spoken into our lives and to allow that to change us. To speak the Word of God into the lives of others and to Live out (find ways to express) the Word of God in our lives.

Revd Graham Coldman introduces one of the key themes of advent – waiting. We approach advent with anticipation, expectation and hope. We are challenged to ask “what do I need to be a good waiter?” Revd Graham offers some suggestions but the real challenge is for each of us to reflect and explore through prayer.

Revd. Billy Fenning takes us through Ephesians 3 v 14-21, showing how we need to be deep in our relationship with God to reach great heights.

God reveals his character and the fullness of the covenant made with his people. Even in the times when God appears to be silent and therefore absent, we are called to remain in obedience to his laws, to live and serve as priests of a holy nation in obedience and trust in God. Then His presence, grace and mercy will fill every aspect of our lives. Jesus made a way for all of us to know the fullness of God in our lives, not something we can buy, but a free gift for all.

Revd Steve Prince unpacks Isaiah 61 1-7, we explore the character of father God and understand what God has done in our lives, establishing us as oaks of righteousness, reminding us of strength and endurance. We are called into the priesthood of believers, ministering to one another, encouraging and building each other up in the faith.

We explore the parallels between Passover and the plan of salvation – Passover reminds us how God recued his people from a dark and oppressive ruler. These events foreshadow the salvation that God has made available to all people. Passover provides God’s people with a reminder of what God had done for them. Breaking bread together, offers an opportunity to reflect, remembering what God has done for us and what he can do for dark and needy world.

Revd. Julia Binney goes through Exodus 3, where God shows himself to Moses via the burning bush and explains who I AM.

Joseph was exiled to a foreign land where he demonstrated great wisdom and integrity in his dealings with pharaoh. Joseph was drawn into the culture of Egypt, becoming an Egyptian without compromising his relationship with God – even pharaoh recognised the spirit of God in him. Like Joseph, we must live authentic godly lives in whatever "land" God has placed us.

Richard explores the life of Joseph – how throughout his life he was wronged and treated badly by those who were closest to him. Joseph leaned to trust is God’s promises and provision and God blessed him and made him successful in all he did. We see echoes of this in Jesus’ life and death – the actions of those who wanted to kill him resulted in the salvation of the world.

Revd Graham Coldman explores the relationship between Esau and Jacob. Jacob used an elaborate deception to obtain his brother’s birthright. This deception overshadowed Jacob’s life for the next 20 years. Esau and Jacob were reconciled in an encounter with echoes from the parable of the prodigal son. Despite a life built on lies and deception, God’s purpose was fulfilled trough Jacob. God has a plan for each one of us and can use us for His purposes irrespective of our past faults and failings.