"What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you." Philippians 4:9
For those who join us regularly, you would have heard us talk about three simple rhythms. They sound good, they make sense. Living them out, however, can be challenging!
Lately, I've spoken to several people who have decided to take some of those rhythms more seriously than they previously had. In particular, they have chosen to read a book of the Bible with us all each month (the bookmarks!).
It's amazing how getting to know Jesus through reading the Bible can make a difference in our life and faith. However, it took a decision to follow the example and direction they hear on a Sunday when we gather.
This model of taking on board spiritual habits of other followers is clearly laid out in the Bible.
Paul famously says, "Imitate me, as I imitate Christ."
This is not about centring your life around another human, but learning from other human followers of Jesus how to follow Jesus more closely.
Like any parent or guardian knows, kids imitate them in every way. This is because God has designed us to grow through imitation.
As it says in Philippians 4:9 (above), this includes spiritual growth. I want to encourage you to find someone (ideally someone close to you or in our church) who knows Jesus more than you and learn from them! And this isn't just about learning information or content, but how you see them live out their faith day-to-day.
If you want to deepen your faith, and experience the presence of the "God of peace" in your life, then find someone who is imitating Christ and learn, listen, watch and do what they do.
This is why our rhythms are verbs - words of action. Get to know Jesus. Invite people into your life. Gather and get involved. While following Jesus starts with life, it's about a new life and a whole new way of living for eternity. Don't settle for a faith of thoughts and beliefs, but allow God's gift of life to flow out into every part of your life and being!
See you Sunday! Enjoy following Jesus this week.
Dan
Worship in the Mountains - 3pm/4pm, Sunday Feb 4th
We are kicking off our monthly gatherings in two weeks by heading to the mountains! We are gathering on the top of a hill just outside of Maleny in an old-school hall purpose-built to worship Jesus many decades ago.
Bob built some dorms and a community hall on his farm for Christian camps, retreats and worship gatherings. It's beautiful, serene and perfect for us to gather, play games (footy, lawn games, ping pong or an old pool table in the hall!), explore the hills, share a picnic rug and whatever food you bring and then gather to worship Jesus.
Sally and her family are going to lead us in some thoughts, prayer and reflection on God's word for adults and kids alike. They'll lead us into communion followed by Jared leading us in worship.
My hope is that we can start our year cherishing God, his presence and each other.
For those keen to just relax you can join us from 3:00 pm for some fun (bring any sports gear). We'll lock in the exact times we hope to eat and worship next week but it will be similar to last year.
More details to come next week!
Coming Up
January
Sun 28 Jan 4pm Moffat Gathering
Feburary
Sun 4 Feb 4pm Church Picnic, Games, Worship, Communion
Bob's Nut Farm, 209 Burgum Rd, North Maleny
Sun 11 Feb 4pm Moffat Gathering
Sun 18 Feb 4pm Moffat Gathering
Sun 25 Feb 4pm Moffat Gathering
Our Mission
To help people find and follow Jesus
Our Rhythms
Know Jesus: how are you getting to know Jesus this week?
Invite people into your life: who can you bless this week?
Gather and get involved: How can you connect, listen, share or pray with others this week?
Our Giving
Please take time to ask God if there is someone in need around you whom God is wanting to help! Maybe God would have you and a friend meet the need directly, or maybe you feel Open Road could contribute?!
Last month's giving: $6,039
Last month's expenses: $5,003
Balance: $29,088
Giving Kitty Oct-Nov: $3,026
Giving out Oct-Nov: $1,190
"Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed." - Proverbs 19:17
If you would like to support what we are doing and our giving to those in need, you can get started with giving to Open Road to meet needs as a church or get in touch with any questions you may have.
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