Entering into a new year can open up lots of possibilities. For students they can start from scratch. Fresh and ready for what studies the new course, the new subjects and the new classes bring. For workers even if in the same job with the same boss and the same fellow workers, if our minds are open, it can bring new possibilities. What will the new year bring? Are we open to all things new? Scripture tells us that even Our God has new mercies for us every morning. A new fresh start every day with Him. They never come to an end. The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases;    his mercies…

The sunset was a spectacular orange colour. Crowds of people were enjoying God’s wonderful display of His glory. The heat had drawn them out, all trying to find a cool breeze. I was captured by the hues and wonder of God’s creation. The ocean was clear as glass and cool to the touch. I breathed in the beauty. It made me wonder how many times have I just taken sights like this for granted. How many times I have not appreciated what God has given to us. Since Christmas Eve, after the church service we went to, I had been overcome with more appreciation of what God has done for…

Christmas time is upon us. A Season of gift giving. Reflecting upon why we give presents, to our loved ones, why we give to those in need, give gifts to those less fortunate than ourselves. It makes you realise how grateful you are for your life, your family and friends. In Europe this gift giving started by St Nicholas is celebrated on December 6 with stockings and socks hung up in front of the fireplaces. Nicholas (now traditionally known as Santa) was young when his wealthy parents died. He committed to obeying Jesus’ words to “sell what you own and give the money to the poor.” And so used his…

In the Advent season we are reminded that God has come, is here and is coming again. I was praying in the car. Listening to songs of worship, joining in at times or just talking to God. Bringing up areas in my life I was wanting God to be victorious in. As I prayed out loud, the Spirit reminded me of all the prayers that have been coming in during the last few days. Prayers needed for so many things, so many people, so many situations. In the midst of the words of prayer, the feelings of pain, grief and suffering, real tears in my eyes came to the fore.…

Do you find it hard to risk? Aubrey was about to step out of the car. I yelled out to her to stop. “There is danger below your foot. Hop back in and come out the other door.” This six-year-old little girl did not hesitate especially because of the tone, the sound of my voice. There was a sense of urgency, desperation, and danger in my voice. As she got out on the other side of the car, she asked, “What’s wrong?” I started to describe to her the danger as she came around the side of the car to see for herself. The drain in the road was missing…