BI-MONTHLY MAGAZINE OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE STATE OF NEW SOUTH WALES AND THE AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY

HOW GOD WORKED DURING THE BUSHFIRES AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO ASSIST FUNFUN ANDAND NEWS FROM PWA, SCHOOLS, APWM, JERICHO, METRO, PIM

FIVE MINUTES WITH FELLOWSHIPFELLOWSHIP PAC ASHFIELD’S REV TREV PETER BARNES CONTINUES ATAT PYPY SUMMERSUMMER CAMPCAMP STUDY SERIES ON ELIJAH

“GLORIFYING AND ENJOYING GOD AS CHRIST-LIKE COMMUNITIES TRANSFORMING OUR NEIGHBOURHOODS, OUR NATION AND OUR WORLD.” MAR - APR '20 EDITORIAL

Bi-monthly magazine of The Presbyterian Church in the State of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory. Editorial

PUBLISHER: As we start 2020, many Aus- Committee, writes about the im- THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH tralian communities have portance of resisting polarisa- (New South Wales) Property Trust been ravaged by fire and tion in the increasingly bitter drought. In this first edi- and divided debate on climate EDITOR IN CHIEF: tion we share amazing change and the importance of JEOFFREY FALLS stories of resilience in the us caring for God’s creation, [email protected] face of loss and grief; of particularly for future genera- anger as communities wait tions as we benefit from the bless- EDITOR/JOURNALIST: for financial relief and resourc- ings of the current world. KAREN FORMAN 0437 591 581 es; and of anxiety for all the work We also share stories from across the de- [email protected] that must be done to rebuild. nomination, including the Presbyterian But you will also read of hope, and of Youth Summer Camp, which was a time PROOF READER (HON): of joy, learning and fellowship for all BETTY THOMPSON God strengthening and growing the faith of people facing adversity and grief. who attended.

CIRCULATION: SUZANNE JENSEN Our Moderator reminds us that, in the Please take the time to read about all that (02) 9690 9311 face of community anger, we need to be has been happening across the church. [email protected] disciplined in praying for those affected by the fires and drought, to be reminded In doing so, and from a personal perspec-

DESIGN: that “the prayer of a righteous person is tive, it is with joy that I commend the BEN DAVIS powerful and effective” (James 5:16). news from Australian Presbyterian World www.benrdavis.com Mission (APWM) that, God willing, my [email protected] He also reminds us that pray-ers are son and his family have been called to great do-ers. Many people of faith are serve at the Tulua Theological Training PRINTING AND DISTRIBUTION: volunteers in a myriad of different and Institute in Vanuatu after he is ordained SIGNS PUBLISHING effective ways; from fighting fires; to as a Minister at the end of this year. supporting those fighting fires; to those Registered by Australia Post continuing to support local communi- The first few verses from Ecclesiastes 3 PP2455550/00020 ties recover and to rebuild over coming affirm: "For everything there is a season, months and years. a time for every activity under heaven … The Pulse is an internal publication of the a time to heal and a time to build; a time Presbyterian Church of Australia in New Liz McClean, the CEO of Jericho Road, to weep and a time to laugh; a time to South Wales and the Australian Capital Ter- ritory. We do not accept paid advertising. shares stories of volunteers helping their mourn and a time to dance; and a time The Pulse is a forum for sharing ideas and neighbours in prayer, but also in very to gather stones after they have been encouraging outreach to our local commu- practical ways, and reminds us that scattered.” nities, our nation, and the world. while immediate help and donations are deeply appreciated, consistent and It is now time for all those who lost GENERAL MANAGER: loving ongoing support over the months loved ones and properties in the recent JEOFFREY FALLS following tragedy (particularly after the fires to gather together to mourn and to eyes of the media have turned to another build - “to gather stones that have been STATE MODERATOR: story) are even more appreciated. scattered”. We also need to continue to REV RICHARD KEITH take time to support our volunteer fire Whilst the amounts donated to and fighters and the communities continuing 168 Chalmers St distributed by Jericho Road are small to fight fires and the drought through Surry Hills NSW 2010 by comparison to the millions raised prayer, and through financial and prac- PO Box 2196 through social media, they reflect the tical help. Strawberry Hills NSW 2012 faithful financial support of many, many Phone: 1300 773 774 members attending our churches week Thinking on Ecclesiastes 3, time is a gift Fax: (02) 9310 2148 by week. Thank you! I remind our that should never be taken for granted. I Email: [email protected] readers that 100 per cent of every dollar encourage all our readers to remember www.pcnsw.org.au raised is distributed through our congre- to take time during 2020 to stop and re- gations to those in need. flect on how they are spending this gift. The views and opinions expressed in The Presbyterian Pulse do not necessarily rep- resent those of the Presbyterian Church of John McClean, Convener of the General Grace and peace, Australia in the State of NSW (Church) and Assembly’s Gospel, Society and Culture Jeof the Church is not responsible for the ac- curacy, currency or reliability of any advice, opinion, statement or other information contained therein. Trustee Investment Fund (TIF) COVER: Bright images from PY Summer Camp Interest rate on deposits 2.50% p.a. remind us of the brightness of God's word and As from January 1st 2018 promises amidst the darkness of bushfires. See No Fees the report in words and pictures inside. Collage by Pulse designer Ben Davis.

2 The 2Pulse THE PULSE NEWS Glengarry burns; Aged residents evacuated BY KAREN FORMAN

The Christmas bushfires badly affected Scots College Campus in the Kangaroo Valley but thankfully main buildings were saved.

New South Wales and ACT in a tion, six-month residential experience for “Fortunately they have all now been able state of emergency. More than 19 all Year 9 students, was in the line of the to return to their properties,’’ he said. million hectares of bush burned. firestorm, with various dormitories, resi- 6000 buildings destroyed, 30 dential buildings and cabins destroyed, to- “PAC implemented our emergency and human and one billion animal gether with the water filtration and sewage crisis plans to deal with the event. lives lost. systems and electricity substation. “We made contact at least once (in most That was the tragic situation after bushfires Fortunately, most of the key buildings cases twice or more) with around 40 Home swept through the State and the ACT from and infrastructure survived, although Care clients who were directly affected. October-January and as The Pulse went the fire swept right over and through the One Home Care client of ours who resided to print, it wasn’t yet over. As hot weath- property. All staff had vacated the site in Bargo was evacuated and we accommo- er collided with drought conditions, many and the College arranged temporary ac- dated her at our PAC Thornleigh residen- PCNSW-ACT churches, schools, homes commodation for all those affected. tial care home,” Mr Sadler added. and people were affected by the flames, the smoke and the fear in the north, the south Presbyterian Aged Care (PAC) South “During this time we worked together and the west. West Sydney Home Care services was with local communities, family mem- substantially impacted by the Green bers, neighbours and churches to ensure Up to the end of January, there was no Wattle Creek and Bargo fires. PAC that all PAC clients were attended to and loss of life within the PCNSW-ACT and CEO Paul Sadler said Home Care cli- in a safe place. prayers were ongoing. ents, many of whom lived in Bargo and surrounding areas, and around half of “We have plans in place to ensure on- The Scots College Glengarry Campus, PAC staff in the region were directly going service delivery for all our clients which offers a unique outdoor educa- impacted and had to leave their homes. during this difficult time.”

CRC joins PCNSW in bushfire appeal The Christian Reformed Churches of Australia have in country NSW to reach out in Jesus' name to some who joined with the Presbyterian Church of NSW through Jer- have been so badly affected by the bush fires. icho Road to provide funds to folk affected by the bush- fires. Jericho Road is thankful for their generosity. “The Christian Reformed Churches of Australia pray that God would bless the money raised by CRCA congrega- Bert Kuipers, Publicity Officer for CRCA's Bushfire Ap- tions. May he bless those who are fighting fires! May he peal (pictured) said it was “really great’’ to know that Jer- soon send rain to end the drought and stop the fires. Lord, icho Road was able to work through local congregations hear our prayer.

Check out and Like PCNSW’s new Facebook page and receive updates from all around the Church. www.facebook.com/presbyterianchurchnsw

THE PULSE 3 FIRES REPORTS God at work in the heat of the flames

Photo: Andrew Campbell, Guyra Home Missionary Photo: Andrew Campbell, Guyra Home Missionary Photo: Andrew Campbell, Guyra Home Missionary

Photo: George Ayoub

PRAYER POINTS Many Presbyterian communities have been affected by FROM OUR MINISTERS the bushfires that burned through NSW and close to the • For the Lord to move by His ACT prior to Christmas and at the start of 2020. KAREN Spirit among the valiant fighters, the bereaved, traumatised and FORMAN spoke to five ministers about their experiences, injured as well as the wider com- munities to bring repentance their thoughts and where they believed God was in all of it. and faith in the Lord Jesus. • For Him to keep raising up His followers to show His loving Andrew Campbell was “surprisingly so resilient, positive, and trusting God.’’ compassion and care to those calm’’ as the Tingha Plateau fire came, particularly affected. In His even though he was entirely alone for The Tingha Plateau Fire which affected mercy to send rain and easing three days with his wife, not being able Andrew began in February 2019 and he conditions. to cross the fire area. has since been on high alert with fires to • For rain, rain and more rain. the east of Guyra and Glen Innes, which “I was well prepared, but more than that, began in October and were still burning • That God would multiply the I know there were multiple answers to as the Pulse went to press. witness of the Church in word prayer,’’ the Home Missionary for Guyra and deed as people come through this period and come and Glen Innes in NSW told The Pulse. The Tingha Plateau fire came from the to terms with what they have west, and burnt half his property. “We been through. “The fire came over our road, and slowed had help from the Rural Fire Service air- right down. There was a wind change, craft dropping fire retardant; and water • According to Luke 13:1-5, pray and we are sure that was God’s provision bombing aircraft. Also, neighbours and that we as a church would be awakened to what God is do- for us. family members came to our assistance. ing and especially for the world to repent and believe because “As far as my farmers are concerned, the “That fire also burnt Rev Fred Mon- of the fragility of life. situation is a double whammy, drought ckton’s bush block, a large area to the and fire. Many are feeding their stock north. “Presently we are watching a fire • That those affected may be during the day, wondering whether it’s seven kilometres to our west, burning for drawn nearer to Jesus who is the only security and for them worth doing so, throwing money away, two weeks. It hasn’t spread much, but a to find their joy and hope in and whether it would be better to sell westerly wind could revive it. Him. I pray that when things everything. return to “normal”, the present “Meanwhile we have improved our fire urgency may not be a distant “Then during the evening and night equipment and preparations like install- memory, but a reminder of (usually) they are fighting fires. One -el ing sprinklers on the roof of our house God’s grace in the crisis. Our der apologised that he might fall asleep and shed. The fires now on the Escarp- immediate physical needs are in church today - he had been working ment (east of Glen Innes and Guyra) for rain and support for the af- all day feeding stock (and it’s pretty hot) have been of concern for many months. fected families who are doing and then was up to 3am fighting fires. Church members have been variously af- it tough with a combination of fires and the drought. Then he came to church, 45 minutes fected - some have had their entire prop- away, to be with his church family at erty burnt; some have been concerned 9am. I am in awe of the farmers who are about close fires for literally months.

4 THE PULSE FIRES REPORTS

One family is surrounded on three sides “(I also felt) Joy, gratitude and admira- “The crisis revealed the difference -be by ‘under control’ fires. tion when good solutions came through tween believers who were affected by for responding constructively in the cri- the fires and those who had no spiritual Andrew says it has been particularly ses, and for those who were genuinely foundation. As a Christian, I pray that tough having drought and fires togeth- concerned and helped generously.” even through this tragedy people will er. “I think my farmers are wonderfully want to ask the important questions of faithful men and women who wonder Bryan said, however, that while much life and lead them to seek that which what God is doing, but still hold onto loss was sustained, much more loss was cannot be burned or stolen or rust.’’ their faith, knowing that the Lord is possible. holding on to them.” Les Moreman, pastoral assistant at Evans “To the church - God reminds us that Head Presbyterian Church, the region of For David Hann, former Minister at For- he is both in control of the fires and, be- the Swan Bay/New Italy/Bora Ridge fires ster Tuncurry Presbyterian and interim cause he is sovereign, the only one to call in November, saw frequent evacuations Moderator at Taree Presbyterian, the upon. He reminds us that he gives real fires were a reminder to turn to Jesus as peace, and a peace that is qualitatively and some homes lost, but thankfully no we contemplate our own frail mortality alien to that of the world. loss of life. and the transient nature of earthly life (Luke 13:1-9). “For non-Christians - I do believe in di- “I wasn't too closely affected. People in vine retribution but I think that perhaps our church, however, spent many nights David said he felt great sadness for those what is most needed in these situations away from their home during Novem- at the centre of grief due to loss of life is for people to recognize the fragility of ber,’’ he said. and property, a sobering somberness life and to repent when they can (Luke reinforced by continual fire brigade 13:1-5). “We also have the local brigade Fire and alarms, road closures, evacuations, and a Rescue Captain and deputy Captain in month or so of thick smoke blanketing “What is God doing with these fires? our church. the town. Perhaps with all our technology this was a good reminder that we are not the mas- “They were very closely involved and “The Lord is sovereign and also ‘close to ters of the universe, or even our own uni- the broken-hearted’. He will work out have shared about how they gained an verse. Perhaps to awaken us to the fact appreciation for the saving Jesus does as His purposes for His glory and the good that climate is a real factor and though of His people and those who are yet to they had to put themselves in harm’s way we might not agree with the causes, become His people." for the sake of being able to save people. churches have a role to play in showing the right balance in loving debate, the At Forster a large fire burned in bush land “For me personally, I was teaching SRE care of people, economy and environ- in the centre of town leading to the evac- one Tuesday afternoon at Woodburn ment?" uation of a number of residents and the Public School and as I arrived that day whole of Stockland Mall. There were fires George Ayoub, Minister at Casino NSW the school was sitting under a huge shad- around Tuncurry threatening homes; (where Rappville, Busby’s Flats etc were ow from the pillar of smoke that was to fires to the north of Tuncurry (Darawank, affected by fires) had never had any the west of the school. During my first Tallwoods village and Hallidays Point) lesson many students were being pulled where many were evacuated, some homes experience with fires when the flames threatened from October onwards and out of class as parents were taking them were lost and a lot of bush land was burnt home early. out and fires all around Taree from the said his greatest emotion at the time was Hillville fire that moved across to Johns fear at the possible loss of life. “During my second class, all the students River to the north where a woman lost her life and homes were lost. “A young boy (12) was on the property were called into the hall and the lesson on his own and was uncontactable when had to finish early. But in both classes I Minister at Kempsey and South West the fire came through,’’ he said. was able to facilitate prayer with the stu- Rocks, Bryan Kim, says God spared dents, some who went on to have their his community much loss during fires “Later on, seeing the devastation, it was homes burn down, in a manner that was that burned in his area in the leadup to heartbreaking to see the mangled and in truly in accord with 1 Peter 5:7 - "Cast Christmas, but concedes he felt many molten mess that was left after the fire all your anxiety on him because he cares emotions during that time. had gone through, as well as the effect it for you." had on the people. As the little towns of Willawarrin and “And in the subsequent weeks the stu- “Four of our families were personally Bellbrook were devastated, as with many dents shared how helpful this time was affected. One in particular lost the ma- other homes and sheds and livestock at the start of what would go on to be a jority of their possessions. Their large and many people were evacuated to the very testing time.’’ showground over the course of about shed contained the house they were two weeks, he says he felt fear – for oth- about to build as well as their cars and Les said it was evident through the fires ers, especially church members in the other possessions.’’ what a fragile and broken world we live path of the fires. George says from a Christian perspec- in. “Yet the steadfast faith of people in “(Also) Grief. Helplessness. And as a tive, the fires had revealed the fragility our church who were very close to the minister – stress and worry about what and frailty of life. fires really speaks to the firm and unbro- my response as a leader should be, espe- ken faithfulness of our Almighty God. cially not having experience with fires, “It caused people to view material pos- It’s been a great witness to see that God and not wanting to overburden people sessions as merely “things” that are tem- would strengthen and grow the faith of already stretched. poral,’’ he said. his people in the face of adversity.’’

THE PULSE 5 FIRES REPORTS

BY KAREN FORMAN

f you are thinking of leaving, leave and and a sense of hopelessness and anxiety set in. leave early. If you are thinking of staying “The fires will be around for months’’. “It will to defend your property, be sure you have take years to recover from the damage’’. “More fire-fighting items to hand and are physi- homes lost. “Lives lost’’. Not to mention the “I cally capable of using them. Please note: continual social media attacks and blame games You will be on your own. We do not have the on politicians, weather systems and government resources to help you.’’ bodies.

That was the brief but succinct message given Inevitably came the thought, “where is God in to residents of the Snowy Mountains town in all of this?’’. Although we were praying hard, it which I live as it – like towns in the Blue Moun- didn’t feel that God was answering our prayers tains, South Coast and across the border in Victoria - was sur- for the fires to stop and I became frustrated and dare I admit, rounded by bushfires on Friday January 3. We were told that in- unbelieving, wavering in faith. The fires kept on burning and we credibly hot temperatures would combine with strong winds to watched as South Coast towns, and historic buildings and a ski send fire right towards our town and that even if the flames of a resort in Kosciuszko National Park were destroyed. “mega fire’’ did not reach us, embers could. That most fire fight- ers and trucks and dozers had been sent to other fires and that Suddenly, I wondered, perhaps we were praying for the wrong ours were really only able to try to save lives, not property. The thing? Perhaps we were not completely trusting in God and His possibility of losing our home, my daughter’s school, our church plans for us? A flick through a fellow Christian’s Facebook page, and even lives was suddenly very real. where she had helpfully posted encouraging Bible verses, re- As a solo mum, my initial thoughts were only for the safety of my minded me that God had promised to be near, no matter what daughter. I did not have the equipment nor the support to put trials we faced, and wanted us to rely on and trust Him. “Do not out fires, so my only choice was to pack important things (my yield to fear, for I am always near. Never turn your gaze from Me, daughter’s bag included her school uniform!) and take shelter in for I am your faithful God. I will infuse you with My strength my brother’s air conditioned home in a city safe from fires but and help you in every situation. I will hold you firmly with My overwhelmed with unsafe levels of bushfire smoke. victorious right hand’’ (Isaiah 41:10).

Evacuating might be a safer option, but has its own set of prob- Later on that frightening day (made less so by firmly holding lems. Glued to social media for the entire 48 hours of the crisis, onto God’s Word for the rest of it), we learned the wind had watching what the friends and neighbours who had stayed were changed direction and the fire bearing down on our town had doing and how they bonded together to help each other inspired slowed. Soon after that came rain. It was safe to return home. A guilt and second guessing. Did I do the right thing? Did I over- week later, with warnings the weather was about to change again react? Am I a coward? Should I have stayed to help out? On the and the fires could once again turn toward us, before I turned to flipside was an all encompassing fear. What if the fire came and prayer, I turned straight to the Bible to remind myself of what gobbled up our home and all our belongings? Our community? God had told us He would do. Or even, our friends? Our lives would be over! “We acknowledge You as our provider of all we need each day’’ As the media continued with what felt like an assault of horrific (Matthew 6:11). After all, as my friend said, “it is really hard to and fear mongering reports, the world became very black indeed demonstrate hope when you are thinking hopeless’’. Juvenile justice chaplaincy opportunity A rare opportunity is now available to a suitable person to work just melts your heart,’’ he said. “At Christmas I organised the lo- as a chaplain with children and young people within the Juvenile cal church to put a Christmas package together for each of the Justice system. This position, over two days at week at the Riv- boys, boys that had very few gifts in life. One boy said getting erina Juvenile Justice Centre in Wagga Wagga, is a great way of bail for Christmas would have been the best thing but this was taking the gospel to particularly vulnerable people. the next best.”

The centre accommodates up to 42 young people aged from 11 Applicants need to have theological training to at least a diploma to 21. The role involves conducting weekly chapel, providing one level (or be in the process of completing this training) and have to one pastoral care to the detainees, conducting programs relat- completed (or be willing to complete) training in chaplaincy as ed to chaplaincy in the centre and providing pastoral care to the approved by the Civil Chaplaincy Advisory Committee. Appli- staff of several hundred people. cants must be able to provide a clear criminal record check and a Working with Children Check. Grahame Abrahams has been filling in for the past five months and says it has been a hugely uplifting experience. If you have any questions or wish to express interest in this role please contact Senior Chaplain Rev Ian Schoonwater by email “To be embraced by boys who don’t know what it is to be loved [email protected]

6 THE PULSE MODERATOR

FROM THE MODERATOR WITH REV RICHARD KEITH THOUGHTS andPRAYERS

his morning the sun rose red. Again. to a developing emergency by saying that their thoughts and prayers were with the victims. The smoke is back again too. Last Tuesday it was so thick that it cut visibility to 100 metres. I won- But no longer. Now it has become a condemnation from T der if it has an accumulative effect. At its worst, progressives against do-nothing conservative politicians. the smoke hardly troubled me. Today my eyes are run- If they will do nothing about gun control in the US, if they ning and I’m starting to talk funny, like I’ve got something will do nothing about climate change in Australia, they caught in my throat. have no right to say that they care for the victims, because their actions show that they do not care at all. How are My town, Corowa, feels emptier than usual. It’s a tourist thoughts and prayers going to help, if people in power re- destination, with its river sports, golf course and nearby fuse to do the right thing in response to the obvious need? wineries major summertime attractions.

But this year, the folks of Melbourne are staying home or go- I think that this is an important point to remember. As ing somewhere safer, perhaps where the air is still invisible. I see it, it is not an attack on people of faith. No one is saying that you can’t think. No one is saying, “Keep your Corowa RFS has been sent to Talbingo and Rutherglen prayers to yourself.” This is not a time for Christian people CFA has been deployed in the Upper Murray region. to sulk in the corner and say, “Fine, I won’t pray for you.” Meanwhile, refugees from the Upper Ovens district have Instead, this is the time for Christian people to remember been billeted in nearby Wangaratta and Wodonga. two very important facts.

The bushfire season started earlier than usual. The fires Firstly, “the prayer of a righteous person is powerful and started in the NSW North Coast in October. effective” (James 5:16, NIV). Prayer can accomplish ex- traordinary things because we pray to the Father of Jesus In November, the national parks north-west, west and who makes the extraordinary ordinary. Prayer can stop south-west of Sydney burned. Before Christmas, it was the fires because it is directed to the God who can stop the Southern Highlands district and after Christmas, the fires. And maybe the showers predicted this week are northwestern Victoria. Twenty-nine lives have been lost God’s answer to our prayers. Or maybe we will have to and 2000 homes have been destroyed. keep praying.

Doubts hang over the rebuilding of entire towns. More Secondly, pray-ers are great do-ers. Normally, I’m allergic than 10 million hectares of forest have burned and whole to self-praise, but the statistics show that believers give habitats are gone, putting at risk many species of wildlife. generously to charity and volunteer their time and work to And so, although I’m not brave enough to post this on worthy causes. And you might think that there is nothing Facebook, I have to confess that my thoughts and prayers you can do in the current bushfire emergency, but you can are focused on this current emergency. give generously. Consider a donation to the Jericho Road I think of the grieving families, the displaced families, the Bushfire Appeal or to the Lions or Rotary Bush Fire Appeal. anxious families. I think of those fighting fires far from And maybe a holiday in autumn to a fire affected area. home. I think of those trying to decide whether to defend their homes or to evacuate. In the comfort of my home, “Thoughts and prayers” - in my mind, it’s simply the frus- while others have real problems and I don’t know what tration of passionate people against people in power who else to do, I think and pray. aren’t doing what they want. But as an accusation against real people of real faith, it is empty. And so, although I’m “Thoughts and prayers” - they are a modern crime. There not brave enough to tweet it, I urge you during this cur- once was a time when high profile people could respond rent emergency not to be afraid to think and pray and do.

THE PULSE 7 JERICHO ROAD

Showing God’s love in dark places How can you be a good neighbour after the bushfires? BY LIZ MCCLEAN

ver the past few months I have person affected was, who was in contact • We grew plants to give away to help rees- been reminded again of the im- with them – and tried to make sure each tablish gardens portance of showing God’s love time we contacted them it was the same • We tried to keep support going for 12 in dark places. The persistent person so we built relationship if we could, months as and where we could and we tried to make sure we contacted at O drought and the grief and hard- least monthly after the initial period to see Every situation is different though, so ship it has brought has been followed how they were going. by bush fires of a size and scope that it what worked for us may not work for • We offered help to clean houses after you. I think the key thing we found was is hard to comprehend. Sometimes it is smoke / dust etc – it’s amazing how filthy easy to be a good neighbour – the solu- the inside of houses get with the smoke. trying to deliver “no strings / forms at- tions seem simple and we can take action • We set up a tool library – with the help of tached” support. People are exhausted to provide help. At other times, like now, the local Lions club – for people to bor- and having to “register” for services and we can be overwhelmed by the size of the row tools to clear / clean. retell their trauma over and over adds to sorrow and need. • We got donations of boots and gloves in the strain. partnership with a local shop and gave them away – people need really good From Debbie H, who So, what do we do when faced with this boots for clean-up. scope of need? Turn to God in prayer • We used the Jericho Road Facebook page experienced the fires in and ask for his mercy and his wisdom. – but if you have a local church one that Winmalee in 2013 That’s always the place to start. And then would be better – to let people know (shared with permission) what was on offer and got other local turn to our neighbours and ask “How do Debbie recently wrote this to let people I love them well in this place?” agencies to “share” it. • We offered access to counselling – you know how she thought they could be of help and to encourage those who have For me, the recent weeks of bush fires can do this by putting people in contact with Justine our Counselling Service Co- lost everything. She makes some good have brought back many memories of ordinator on 1800 818 133 points: Winmalee and Yellow Rock in 2013. We • We opened the church as a place for people did not lose our house. We did not lose a to come and have a break, chat to someone “To those who have lost everything and loved one. But they were scary days and etc – not many came but those who did to those who want to help. What advice the sights and sounds of those days re- found people who would listen. can we give? main with me. • We set up a freezer (three actually) in a local car port where people could come and collect meals anytime – it worked Winmalee and Yellow Rock residents Jericho Road in 2013 was, in its new understand and feel your pain only too form, just a few weeks old when the fires well in the car port as it felt “anonymous” and easily accessible – we did things like clearly. We sit and watch the awful im- hit. We had no idea what to do or how to put up on fb “Tonight’s dinner from the ages on the TV and sympathise but it’s do it. So, we just tried – and some things freezer could be beef stroganoff or spa- when we hear your stories that we cry, worked and some didn’t. Here are some ghetti bolognaise, if you or someone we remember and we connect with your ideas that you might like to consider in you know needs a dinner tonight please souls. Many people in our community your local area that worked for us. come and collect anytime.” Freezers were would love to do something and I’m hear- donated, people from all over cooked ing about wonderful people organising and just delivered when they could. The In the immediate: clothes, shoes, food and vouchers yet I sit freezers stayed in operation for just over a year. here incapable of doing anything. Why? • We had volunteers go out and walk Because for the weeks/months these fires around the affected streets with bottles of have been burning, I have been on high water, snack bars and lunch – they just In the short term we put together boxes alert, re-living the day in October 2013 offered the refreshments and offered to of things for affected families: sit and chat with people. You need really when so many lost so much. The sound good de-briefing for the volunteers after- • Kitchen boxes with all the basics – plates, of helicopters forever scares many in the wards. We issued “volunteer” name tags cutlery, a saucepan set etc. Blue Mountains. So, we know the road with the details of the church on the back • Christmas boxes with decorations and ahead for you. The only thing we can do so people knew who we were – we had small gifts as Christmas was just a few is give some advice to you and to others identifiable (bright orange) T-shirts too. weeks after who want to help you. It is just reassuring that it is a group not • We did resource boxes for teachers who had lost their homes just random stranger. While in most ar- To those wanting to help: eas the need for an immediate response • We did back to school packs for kids has passed, the need for people to talk to 1. Gift cards are wonderful as they let you will not have. In the medium long term: choose what you need. When they are able, • We started a register of contacts – who the • Winter warmer boxes the next Winter they can then choose their own clothes/

8 THE PULSE JERICHO ROAD household goods. Bunnings gift vouchers with them regularly and talk about the then make the connection with local are great for replacing tools lost. fire. You are part of a club now that no churches who may have a need. To find one really wanted to be in. I was able to out more go to www.jerichoroad.org.au/ 2. Clothes donations can be good if they cry and laugh with other survivors and bushfire-volunteer-register-2020/ are quality and washed and the right size. we all count those times as the most Remember that it needs to be help and not meaningful and beneficial. Jericho Road Bush Fire Appeal charity. Don’t give them your old, worn out and Prayer letters clothes. It takes a lot of mental energy to Take time out when you can. We all felt Jericho Road is appealing for funds to sift through the many bags that arrive. the urgency of finding accommodation, help those affected by the bush fires. All filling out insurance forms, applying for donations will be given directly to those 3. Our local disposal store gave work birth certificates, licences etc. We also had most affected via local Presbyterian boots to wear when we cleared the land. work commitments so we kept going. I churches. That was so helpful. personally had report comments to write for my class three weeks after the fires! The The way the bush fire funds work is 4. Offer to come every few days to dis- one thing we wished that we had done was through local churches. We work with pose of unwanted donated items etc. We to go away as a family, turn off the phones them to determine what they need had bags of things piling up that we had and grieve together, blocking everything and how best to deliver it. Sometimes to dispose of and this became a problem. else out. Meet with the insurance assessor this might be purchasing goods locally but then everything else can wait. 5. They need time with family so respect for distribution, sometimes it may be providing accommodation or clothes, that they are trying to keep their fami- Try to appoint a person close to you to be sometimes it means a cash transfer to ly together and grieve with them. Don’t your contact person so you aren’t being stay long. the church account so that they can dis- bombarded by visitors. Meet with people tribute the funds onwards to people. We on your terms but put family first. That can also make a donation direct to an in- 6. Containers that stack or new suitcases person can sift through donations and to store the clothes/possessions they get dividual or family identified by the local make easy decisions for you. They can church as being in need. as they have lost everything. also record the donations and help so you can thank them many months later. 7. Many are living in temporary accom- We do it this way so that the funds and goods are delivered by locals to locals in modation so help them find accommo- Go together as a family to your burnt- dation. If you have holiday houses that need, within a caring relationship. We’ve out home. Friends need to respect that done it this way for quite a few years now survived then offer them for either a re- you do this with family first. spite holiday or rental. and it seems to work really well. Where we buy goods there are receipts held lo- Accept practical help. It took us a long 8. Meals are everything. Jericho Road cally, where we give cash it goes through time to admit we needed help. It was the Jericho Road and local church ac- Charity put a big freezer in someone’s hard to accept charity. This takes time. carport in Winmalee. It was stacked with counts. We pass on 100% of all funds Seek out a counsellor/psychologist to raised. homemade frozen meals. You went in talk things through. and got some when needed and didn’t Information about the appeal can be have to explain or talk to anyone. I am Remember that everyone in your com- forever indebted to this charity. found at https://jerichoroad.org.au/ munity went through this trauma bushfire-appeal/ whether they lost their homes or not. 9. Be sensitive what you write on social PTSD affects everyone - not just those We continue to publish prayer letters and media. It is their story not yours. They who lost the most. don’t want to see pictures of your burnt aim to include specific prayer points for fence when they have lost everything!! people in bush fire areas. If you or others Stay off Facebook – it is hard to see peo- would like to receive our prayer letters ple’s holiday posts or pictures of burnt you can sign up using the link above. 10. Be a point of call for them. Organ- sheds when you have lost everything. ise the donations, sift through them and Given the scope of the fires across NSW/ make decisions as they are incapable of Hope this helps in some small way.” doing this. Dispose of items not suitable. ACT it is likely that we will miss some people with our communication about So how can you be a good neighbour 11. If you are a boss then pay them for what assistance is available. If you know after a bushfire? You can follow the -ex extra days they need to take off. of someone in need due to the fires please ample set in the parable of the Good let us know and we will see what we are Samaritan, by providing generous care The other thing to consider is that help able to do to assist. Contact Liz McClean that exceeds the expectations of the re- and donations come in the first few on [email protected] cipient and is focused on their needs in weeks. Sometimes it’s nice to get some- the immediate and the long term. You thing a month or two after when you Counselling can show mercy, seek justice and always have accommodation and are going The trauma of the bush fires for those make Jesus known. through a change of season in clothes. involved, those serving in emergency Jericho Road did this well. They gave out services, those who have been through boxes every few months so you knew Opportunities to volunteer similar experiences in the past and many you weren’t forgotten. Jericho Road has had quite a few people others can be significant. If you or some- asking how they can volunteer to assist one you know needs professional Chris- For those who have lost everything: those in bush fire affected areas. To -as tian support, please call Justine Jenner at sist with this, we are starting a register the Presbyterian Counselling Service on No-one else understands you like other so that individuals and churches can let 1800 818 133. Funds are available to as- families going through the same. Meet us know they are interested and we can sist with the cost of counselling.

THE PULSE 9 CHURCH NEWS New initiative to help women network

How do you connect with women from all across NSW who are I have been delighted to see the faces and hear the voices of involved in Presbyterian churches without even having to leave many wonderful, gospel hearted sisters in Christ joining in The your house? Living Room from across NSW.

“The Living Room” is a new initiative aimed at helping women I am excited to keep developing this initiative and, God willing, throughout the PCNSW to network, share ideas and be further it will continue to provide fruitful encouragement for many. equipped in the many and varied ministry contexts they are serving in. Initiatives like The Living Room can continue to grow, largely It has been hugely encouraging for me to begin this project in due to the recent decision for the Women’s Ministry Facilitator 2019 and to see women coming together from across the state to role to be funded through the Ministry Development Program. learn and to talk about ministry and life. So far this year we have The funding, which commences in January 2020 enables the role heard from several guest presenters who shared generously and to become a three day a week position. honestly about their experiences in ministry. It is my hope and prayer that this funding will help women in Cathy Tucker spoke about intentionally creating space to others to ministry roles to be supported, equipped and encouraged in the shine, the challenges of wise pastoral care and how men and women valuable work of gospel ministry. can work together well. Caroline Spencer spoke about intention- al self reflection practices in ministry and Lynette Cain shared her wisdom about ministry mentoring and professional supervision. Gospel ministry involves men and women serving together in partnership - honouring God and honouring one another. The Living Room also held a smaller networking forum for wom- en specifically involved in children and family ministry this year. May this step be one small but significant part of that exciting process.

Be Creative, Be There at Craft Camp BY JACKIE REINER FOR THE BE CREATIVE CRAFT CAMP COMMITTEE

Once again my article is taking the form kit for a set price. After Quilting classes are of a promotion for a wonderful camp, registration campers very popular. Campers organised by the women of the Presby- are notified of the list learn quilting skills on terian Church to bring women together of tools or materials simple items or those for fellowship, sharing God’s word and, they need to bring with more experience of course, a love of craft. As with most along. embark on much larger endeavours of our Church a hard-work- ing committee is essential. A dedicated On Friday evening, projects. These ladies group of eight ladies meet throughout following the arrival are focused on their the year to plan. Some take on the role of campers, the guest quilting over the entire of tutor, as well as search out specialist speaker is introduced weekend which makes tutors, design brochures and distribute and we have a short them very productive. them to churches and previous attend- devotional time with ees. Well done ladies! live music, praise and Campers are free to a short talk from the speaker. On Sat- bring along their own projects to work The inaugural camp was held in 2005 urday and Sunday devotions take place on over the weekend. There is even a na- and it is now held every year at Stanwell after breakfast prior to classes com- ture walk held on Saturday afternoon for Tops Conference Centre on the second mencing. As campers are encouraged weekend in November. This is an out- to bring friends and neighbours not those who enjoy the local flora and fauna standing facility providing great meals everyone who attends has a personal around the campsite. and accommodation. relationship with Christ so this is im- portant to consider when devotions Women from all over NSW travel to The camp offers a variety of crafts pre- are prepared. Craft Camp. Some attend the same sented by specialist tutors. Over time church. Over the 15 years many moth- the list of crafts has increased to provide If you like a challenge and enjoy making ers, daughters and sisters have made it an campers with a wealth of choice. Many new friends then you should consider at- annual get together. Last year I met two activities are designed to be completed tending Be Creative Craft Camp this No- friends who had met at camp and now over a two-hour session. At the time of vember Friday 6 to Sunday 8. After attend- keep in touch during the year and travel registration campers must nominate their ing a number of craft camps, I can assure first and second choice of classes to enable you that it is a great opportunity to try to camp together. the committee to organise the schedule something new and out of your comfort over the weekend. Cost of classes varies zone. In 2018 I did a drawing class with I trust you will be encouraged to come according to the activity. Some require a charcoal and pencil, and last year there was along this November 6-8 to the Be Cre- sewing machine while others provide a a creative writing course available. ative Craft Camp.

10 THE PULSE CHURCH NEWS PY/APWM Japan 2019 Mission Vision Trip

What do you get when 12 young adults travel together with a For all who travelled it was a transforming insight into the day- couple of older folks and a Presbyterian Minister to Japan? to-day challenge of promoting the gospel in a country where there is very little obvious Christian witness. The group was A greater understanding of mission life in a foreign country, a pleased to assist the missionaries in Osaka and Tokyo, and to greater insight into a different culture, and a fun time. contribute to the APWM missionaries in Osaka about $500. This was the experience of the PY/APWM team of 15 who trav- elled to Japan in November to December in 2019. They heard This has been a wonderful initiative between PY and APWM. firsthand from missionaries and assisted them, in both Osaka David and Angela Bell are keen and willing to take another and Tokyo, with some of their pre-Christmas outreach activities. group in 2020.

Discovering the heritage and future of the Presbyterian Church BY ROBYN JACKSON Growing up in the Presbyterian they can concentrate on their God given Croker, the young pastor, sees the reno- Church in the 50s and 60s, I was calling. This has become our passion. vations as an integral part of the renewal oblivious to the rich legacy of he is praying for in that area. He has been the pioneering days in Australia. Imagine my joy when we were called to encouraged and inspired. What more I do have precious memories of paint the beautiful old Cameron memo- could we ask for? rial church in Glen Innes (now Uniting )! Scottish dancing, vibrant Sunday It has a hall that took me straight back to MMM has also worked on the Terrigal schools with great costume com- my childhood, with “Presbyterian blue” Presbyterian church and is preparing to petitions and big church picnics. velvet curtains on the stage and fittings paint the hall of the Newcastle St Mat- and pictures from that era. The stories of thews in the city. My choir teachers talked about Jesus as the Rev Archibald Cameron are so in- if he was their best friend and that we spiring! He ministered faithfully in that There is room for more people to join us. could know Him as they did. The seed very isolated area for 50 years! He trav- MMM is made up of retired tradies and they sowed led me to twice responding elled on horseback over a huge area and others who are willing to learn on the job. to inspired altar calls by visiting evange- risked outlaws, raging rivers and very lists. I remember watching “A man called tough terrain to share the Good News We travel in our caravans and share Peter”, still a favourite of mine and mis- with everyone he met. There are stories meaningful fellowship and bible study as sionaries who were role models respond- of him coming across a swagman who, well as working together. ing to God's call. I was challenged by the when invited to come to church, said “the late Rev Cyril Goodwin, to give my heart roof would fall in”: so the Rev Cameron There is a chance to join a “Safari” when and life to God's service when I “took” got off his horse and preached a powerful we travel for a few months up in the NT my communion. sermon to a congregation of one. He was and WA, working in isolated Aboriginal respected and loved by all. He preached communities and places like Katherine Now, thanks to the work my husband in pubs, picnics and well known pulpits. and Darwin. and I do for Mobile Mission Mainte- He founded the church building and is nance, I have made a wonderful dis- honoured there today. Greg and I have discovered a “family” covery. We have found small Presbyte- who share the same ideals and adven- rian churches being renewed with their We also travelled to Tenterfield to paint turous spirit. We are always looking for buildings and infrastructure AND in the original church where Banjo Pater- more volunteers as there are always more their congregations all over Australia. son was married. The year before, we had requests for help than we can fill. If you There is something wonderful happen- painted and repaired the church hall and are interested, you can ring us on 0428 ing. The legacy of the pioneering days is the transformation was amazing…..both 775 057 or look up MMM on mmm.org. being honoured, the stories told, and at in the building and the revived and en- au for more details. the same time there is fresh new forward couraged congregation. Our fellowship thinking and a search for contemporary with these people, while we worked and Become a part of what God is doing in styles to engage with our current society. prayed together, is a memory we cherish. NSW.

As volunteers in Mobile Maintenance The team then travelled to Wollomombi, If you would like us to come to your Mission, MMM, we have the privilege of near Armidale, to paint a small but very church and give a talk with lots of inter- visiting these small churches, meeting a significant church built in 1926. esting slides, contact us on greg@mmm. growing number of young, enthusiastic org.au. This can be as short as a few min- and dedicated ministers and their wives, Another rewarding project has been at utes or a more comprehensive slideshow and sharing in the renewal. Our role is the Wallsend Presbyterian church in of 20 mins. to work with our hands on much needed Newcastle. Last year we painted and re- repair work, renovations and painting. paired the interior of the church and this • Greg and Robyn Jackson are NSW State Our MISSION IS TO RELEASE THOSE year we did the same for the hall. Matt Managers for MMM Australia. IN MINISTRY from this manual work so

THE PULSE 11 ETHICS WITH JOHN MCCLEAN Can we talk about climate change?

s fires ripped through the Australian There are two foundational discussion. bush this summer destroying towns steps for any discussion. Address misunderstandings. Concern and filling our skies with smoke, about climate change does not deny we discovered our society was also Lay good biblical foundations. As a start, God’s sovereignty. God’s care for his A tinder dry and ready to explode. Christians need to think about the im- world calls us to be responsible and gives Acerbic debates erupted, insults flew, re- portance of creation, the role of human- us hope, but it does not provide a guar- criminations compounded. Combustion ity as stewards, the impact of sin, God’s antee that the world and humanity will sparked by shocking disasters was inten- providence and the new creation. Well not face terrible suffering. sified by social media and reached into known biblical passages have direct Christmas conversations and church implications for responding to climate Avoid alarmism and mockery. Talking communities. change: “love your neighbour as your- about an “emergency” can make some self”; “you cannot serve both God and people feel they are being manipulated. Anything related to the fires was contro- money”; “administer true justice, show Snide comments about protests seem to versial: government preparation, using mercy and compassion”. These founda- dismiss the issue. The “funny” meme you the army, hazard reduction policy, pay- tions should be addressed in preaching. share may be a slap in the face for a sister ing the ‘firies’, discussion of arsonists, There are several good resources on this or brother. Church discussion of tricky commenting on historical fires; even of- including a paper on Creation Care on issues needs well-chosen words. Hold fering to pray could fuel the blaze. the GS&C website and the website for A discussions, not debates. Rocha Australia (australia.arocha.org). I was shocked by the level of vitriol. Peo- Be honest about the faults in both camps. ple derided the Prime Minister in ways Provide good information. The com- The environmental movement can wor- I thought were undeserved, others at- plex scientific and economic issues are ship the creation and forget about God’s tacked any suggestion that the fires were not easy to navigate. We need to admit care. Business leaders and politicians linked to climate change. this, whatever our views, and be ready and voters can be greedy and focussed on short term outcomes. Even some Christians talked about how to think carefully and patiently. If you to combat the “other side”. When I led in are equipping people at church (or even Seek the truth. Search for what is true, prayer at church it was hard to find the sharing on social media) check your even if confronting, in the Bible, from right words. Will I offend people? What sources carefully. Try to find someone climate scientists and in the experience is responsible to pray? What helps peo- at church who can give an even-hand- of a worsening climate. ple pray well? ed and accessible summary of the dis- cussions and answer questions. (GS&C We’re left with a question, especially for has provided a Climate Change Report Listen to each other. As in every heated churches — can we talk about climate which aims to do this). discussion, it is important to make the change? effort to understand what people really So how do we talk about it? think. Do not just assume the media and I want to make the case that we need the social media positions. On this issue, es- discussion and suggest some ways that You have probably worked out my view pecially, it is important to let young peo- we go about it. — that humans are causing climate ple have a voice. change and that we should take action to From the Pope to the United Nations, reduce emissions. Nothing I suggest here Remember that farmers and regional leaders identify climate change as the diminishes the importance of the issue communities are under pressure and issue of our era. Even Boris Johnson or the urgency of action. face immediate consequences from cli- described it as “one of the most serious mate change and policy responses. We challenges” (though his view has not Here are some suggestions for construc- need to listen to our rural congregations. been entirely consistent). tive discussion. In those churches, the discussion has to be particularly sensitive. If human activity is changing the cli- Resist polarisation. This debate trades in mate quickly and irreversibly, impacting contrasts. We are told God is in control Christian fellowship does not depend on people around the world especially the or that humans are responsible, when agreement on science or economic poli- poorest, as well as devastating ecosys- the Bible says both are true. We are called cy. Our bonds in Christ should allow us tems, then it is a grave problem. It is an to pray or to act but Christians must do to have robust discussions, learn from issue which now alarms many, especially both. We are presented with the options each other and pray together. If we do young people. It deserves more than off of care for creation or using it, but the that, we may show the remarkable unity handed dismissal. Churches can’t ignore biblical vision is both/and. You are a “de- Christ creates and contribute to a better it (if they have been). nier” or a “cultist”. None of these help the social climate.

12 THE PULSE PAC

INTERVIEW SERIES: FIVE MINUTES WITH 'REV TREV'

INTRODUCING TREVOR LUNNEY, CHAPLAIN AT AGED CARE ASHFIELD

What made you decide to become What do you find the most enjoyable a pastor? part of performing pastoral care? Q An opportunity came up for me about a de- It’s the everyday of sitting with people talking cade ago to go into aged care and it seemed with them, having a laugh. You listen to their to be a really good fit. I like it because you see pain whether its physical pain, emotional people on a daily basis whereas if you are in pain, pain deriving from fractured family re- a parish you only see people once a week on lationships. I’m just privileged to be the one a Sunday. Seeing people every day offers you that they are sharing their deepest innermost better insight into who people really are. I thoughts with. And I’m happy to sit with them enjoy working with older people - I enjoy for as long as they want. helping them, cheering for them, walking with them, loving them, laughing with them, We have people here who were making aircraft crying with them. It’s a privilege to do this job. during World War Two. And you say to them “Tell me about that, what was it like?” I often What does the day to day job of being a pastor at think “Wow! that’s a really cool story I’ve just heard!” PAC Ashfield involve? Well I call it walking and talking. You just pop into a person’s There was a guy here who was a tail gunner in a Lancaster bomb- room or the lounge room or the dining room and you pull up a er during World War Two. He told me at the end of the mission chair and say, “How’s it going?”, “What’s the latest in your life - they used to hose him down with water because tail gunners what’s going on?” It allows the conversation to get past, “Hello, are the most vulnerable part of the plane. Enemy fighter planes how are you”. shoot at a plane from below and above and the tail gunner is the one who gets it. And he was very fortunate to survive 13 or more You get to a more intimate level with a person because you’re missions which is quite extraordinary for that position in the journeying with them every day. Over time they start trusting plane. That guy was a hero. you, they will tell you things they’ve probably never told any- body before. You can ask them, “What was it like growing up?” What’s the most challenging part of pastoral care? and their eyes light up because sometimes you are the only per- Knowing that I can’t be the same person to everybody. Some son who’s ever asked them that in their life. people I’ll never get past hello with, no matter how hard I try, and other people will tell you their whole life story. Can you think of a resident where your pastoral care really made a difference? What do you do in your spare time? Yes. I remember there was this one resident and it was the morn- I like to catch up with friends, I like to swim, I like to travel. My ing after the Lindt Café siege in the Sydney CBD and he wanted wife and I have just come back from a trip overseas and for part to know “Why do we live in a world where things like this hap- of it we did charity work in Soweto in South Africa. There’s in- pen?” I gave him a multilayered answer and we talked about it credible poverty in South Africa and a friend of ours works with for half an hour and it was the beginning of a really fabulous re- these people, children whose parents have died of AIDS, peo- lationship I had with him, because he opened up about all sorts ple living in abject poverty. The charity’s called Youth Outreach of stories about himself and his family and his life as a kid. I was South Africa and we really support the work he is doing. My wife privileged to be there during his struggles at the end of his life brought 70kg of clothes for him to distribute to orphanages. So and also to help care for his family during that difficult time. I my wife and I go there and we make a little bit of a difference in still keep in contact with his family even now. people’s lives.

THE PULSE 13 A New Campus in New Zealand Christ College opens up in Auckland

Samantha Ho speaks to When I visited Aus- ing I have to go over- Geoff Macpherson, Principal tralia in 2005, I was seas – I have to go to of Grace Theological College introduced to Christ Australia, I have to about the news of a new College [then Pres- go to America to do byterian Theological t h at .” Christ College campus in Centre] by Bruce Auckland, New Zealand. Christian. When I Although we have was looking to com- given the world plete further study evangelical lead- 1. Tell us about the formation of in 2012, I enrolled in ers and scholars Grace Theological College (GTC). postgraduate study like E.M. Blaik- at Christ College. And Geoff Macpherson and his wife lock, Francis Foulkes, [GM]: “GTC began in 1995 as a non-de- then I think that rela- Oswald Sanders and nominational Reformed and evangelical tionship intensified in recent years as Murray Harris, New Zealand has never college committed to pastorally orientat- GTC has been grappling with the whole had a distinctly Reformed and Evangel- ed training for ministry. It started through issue of accreditation – how do we meet ical Bible college. The mainline colleges the efforts of individuals and churches in that need for formally accredited theo- became liberal very early on, and our New Zealand who were really concerned logical training and the fact that we are evangelical colleges have tended to be about the lack of options and particularly unable to do that ourselves? That conver- Arminian. There is no institution pro- the churches that were Reformed, evan- sation has been going on for about five moting and defending the authority and gelical churches. Those involved came years, if not more.” reliability of Scripture and the suprema- from reformed Presbyterian Congrega- cy of Christ-centred preaching. tions, Reformed Churches, Reformed Baptists and independent churches. 3. Why did you decide to work There have been bright spots like the with Christ College in starting a Equip Conferences (www.equipcon- Things were at a low ebb in New Zealand new campus in New Zealand? ference.org.nz), and various preaching at that point. Liberalism on the one hand conferences run by different church- and the Charismatic movement on the [GM]: “Although GTC has done what it es and trusts (e.g. Stand for the Gos- other hand. Men wanting to train for the can to offer quality theological education pel). Equip was very exciting. It started ministry chose one of three options: to self- in NZ, we are limited by our size and re- in Christchurch in 2004 and it’s based train, tough it out in a liberal college, or go sources. One particular area of challenge around the whole Katoomba [Katoomba overseas. None of those are ideal options. has been the growing desire for external- Christian Convention] model. It’s grown ly accredited qualifications. A good thing amongst the churches that are keen for So that’s why there was a growing real- has been the growth of the Reformed Bible-based and exegetical teaching that isation that for the future of New Zea- church movement in NZ. Since GTC arises out of a good biblical theology. land, we needed to have something for was established there have been the new Not all of the churches would all neces- ourselves. It was key individuals who Grace Presbyterian Church of New Zea- sarily be on the same page theologically, were supporting [GTC] and St Andrews land (GPCNZ) denomination, mainline but the attendees are primarily young Presbyterian Church that helped get Baptist churches taking up a Reformed people there keen to grow and deepen GTC started initially. They set up a trust stance, a new FIEC group of churches their knowledge of the Scriptures, and to launch it. The first four full-time stu- seeded from Australia, and just last year willing to sit under good biblical expo- dents enrolled.” a brand new Confessing Anglicans de- sition. I think it’s a growing ministry nomination. To quote Peter Adam, ‘New which I think is really vital and connects Zealand needs its own Reformed theo- well to what Christ College and GTC are 2. What is GTC’s connection to logical college.’ GTC is unable to provide trying to do in New Zealand.” Christ College? this, but Christ College has graciously agreed to offer classes here in NZ. GTC [GM]: “GTC’s connection goes back will do whatever it can to facilitate this.” 5. How can we be praying for to its inception when we received en- New Zealand this year? couragement and offers of help from Presbyterian Theological College. Ian 4. Can you tell us more about [GM]: “Pray for GTC and Christ College as Smith mentioned to me that right back what ministry training and theo- we develop our relationship in the future, in the mid-90s when GTC was started, logical education is like in New that the new Christ College campus will he had contact with Andrew Young. Zealand at present? be well supported. I think there’s been a bit There’s always been a connection there of a surge in interest – not only for Christ through individuals, but now also from [GM]: “There are pastors of churches and College, but for our own internal courses. relationships with some of the support- students who say to me, ‘I want to train Overall for New Zealand, there are really ing churches of GTC. Over the years for a Reformed and evangelical ministry, encouraging signs. There are more church- the relationship has grown, helped by that’s thoroughly committed to the Bible es that are committed to teaching the Bible the formation of the Grace Presbyterian and is Christ-centred, but there’s nothing right across the whole spectrum of denom- Church New Zealand (GPCNZ). in New Zealand that fits that. I’m think- inations and movements.

14 THE PULSE New Innovation Centre set to transform education in Bathurst

s a first for regional NSW schools, be a purpose-built building covering leading co-educational day and 600 square metres in size to accommo- boarding College, Scots All Saints date spacious, open plan and interactive A in Bathurst, has announced it will learning spaces incorporating six dis- create a state-of-the-art Innovation tinct (but not exclusive) Learning Labs Centre where its students can immerse in focussing on: experiences that combine and accelerate learning in STEM, Design, Technology, 1. Design – explores the world of engi- Nature, Growth and the Environment to neering, manufacturing, robotics, artifi- build skills and knowledge to apply them cial intelligence. to real-world problems. 2. Bodies – explores the world of health care, medicine, wellness. Head of College, Mr John Weeks was delighted to be able to announce the new Innovation Centre as the first of its kind in 3. Energy and Hi-Tech – explores the world of energy generation a school setting within regional NSW providing effective tools and transmission using high-tech innovation such as wind, solar and training to transform education, bringing transdisciplinary to produce energy. problem-based learning into classrooms. 4. Growth – explores the production of food and agriculture in intensive environments. “The Scots All Saints Innovation Centre brings world’s best prac- 5. Digital – explores the world of data, coding, industry in inten- tice in education to regional NSW, enabling our students to work sive environments. collaboratively and develop knowledge to propel them into net- work pathways and long-term, future success as the next gener- 6. Young Inventors – building entrepreneurial capabilities from ation of community leaders,” Mr Weeks said. idea to concept and pitching to the market.

“Research shows the new basic skills needed by young people to The exterior and interior design concepts were unveiled to Year 8 engage in a complex world and navigate the challenges they will STEM students and the College community today who were ex- inherit are problem-solving, communication skills, digital learn- cited and impressed by their future learning environment. Initial ing, teamwork, critical thinking, creativity and financial literacy. building and construction will begin very soon with the plan for Other schools are doing this around the world, and we are pleased the Innovation Centre to be completed and ready for use in 2020. that our students will have a dedicated cutting-edge Innovation Centre and teachers who will have professional development to The site of the Innovation Centre will be on All Saints Campus focus on skills needed beyond the 21st century,” Mr Weeks said. which houses the Junior (K-4) and Middle (5-8) School students. A Senior School (9-12) STEM Centre, including plans for new At the launch of the ground-breaking Innovation Centre project, science facilities, is part of the Scots All Saints College Master Mr John Weeks was joined by President of the College Founda- Plan which will be developed in the coming months. tion, Mr Bruce Clydsdale who presented a $750,000 cheque as a significant investment to help fund the project. Member for Calare Andrew Gee today announced Scots All Saints College (SASC), All Saints Campus will benefit from new Mr Clydsdale spoke on behalf of College Foundation Members, science laboratories and covered outdoor learning area thanks to many of whom are past students, teachers and staff from the for- a Coalition Government grant. mer All Saints’ College, announcing their endorsement of the project and support of further growth of Scots All Saints College Mr Gee said the Australian Government would provide $700,000 as a modern and progressive College of all-round excellence. towards the project at Scots All Saints College, All Saints Campus “The College has a long history of innovation including Com- through the Capital Grants Program, which provides funding puting with the first interactive Classroom computer in 1975, for non-government schools to improve capital infrastructure. teaching of Asian languages, and staff-designed Life Skills course in 1978 which is now almost identical to the PD/H/PE “There are very exciting things happening at Scots All Saints curriculum so the Foundation Directors voted unanimously to College,” Mr Gee said. fund this new innovative development,” Mr Clydsdale said. “The future is extraordinarily bright and this grant will add to Since the Foundation was established in 1979, with generous do- the strong momentum that’s been building under Head of Col- nations from students, staff and corporations, the Foundation has lege, Mr John Weeks. helped to upgrade many of the College’s educational facilities. “Students and staff at Scots All Saints College, All Saints Campus Mr Weeks said the new Innovation Centre was made possible with would benefit from the refurbishment of two existing buildings the generous investment by the College Foundation and Federal to create six innovation labs specifically focused on the teaching Government funding who can see the value of the new Innovation of STEM based curriculum and construction of a large covered Centre, not just for regional NSW education but a best practice outdoor learning area,” Mr Gee said. model in building future ready learners for the country. “Scots All Saints College has a wonderful school community, and The Innovation Centre is modelled on a US prototype and will the new facilities will further enhance the learning environment.”

THE PULSE 15 Special Feature : PY Camping

SUMMER CAMP 2019: A WEEK OF FUN, FELLOWSHIP AND FLESHING OUT THE BIBLE

nother year and another PY Summer Camp, where with Jesus as my King” or ticking “I’ve grown up in a people from across the State from more than 100 dif- Christian family, and now I want to own living with ferent churches joined together for a week full of fun, Jesus as my King for myself.” fellowship and fleshing out the book of Numbers. It was such an overwhelming and blessed response. We reduced the camp length by one day and that With also a few more people confessing Jesus as their AA helped the overall flow of the camp, allowing camp- King as the week went on. This certainly highlights ers and leaders to remain at the peak of their energy the importance of youth ministry with over 80 per throughout the camp without the normal drop off cent of people coming to faith before the age of 20. and also allowing families to spend more of the holi- days together before coming to summer camp. This is truly an important and vital ministry for so many churches in the PCA, and it is a resource for We had over 150 campers and almost 100 leaders on so many to learn leadership, and pastoral care skills, camp, while the internship had 14 people in their but also to be able to meet new people and build re- 2019 cohort. This included 26 campers who were lationships. For students to know that they are not able to attend camp through a drought subsidy we alone in their schools, or in the country and that offered to the drought affected areas. We were glad many people share in their beliefs. We are also look- to be of some help to those communities in whatever ing to expand what Presbyterian Youth offers this way that we could. year to train more people for youth ministry.

As usual we had buses running from the north and One such resource is the internship which runs their the south, bringing campers from Albury and Coffs intensive each year at the same time as Summer Harbour. Allowing campers who otherwise would Camp before they spend a year of serving and being not have been able to come, to come and benefit mentored at their church. Part of their training in- from this week of gospel teaching and fellowship volves leading an activity for the campers at Summer with other Christians. This is something we want to Camp, this year they gathered people and shared expand and it would be of great benefit to us if we their testimony. The campers enjoyed the time, and could have people to volunteer, or be willing to be it led them to think about their own walk with God, trained to do this. So, if this is you please let us know. where they were at, and where it was headed.

We were blessed by Hamish Burke from Cronul- But this is not the end, we have Summer Camp 2020 la Presbyterian Church, who came and spoke to us coming up. Where Davo Gunning from South Aus- from the book of Numbers in a straight-forward and tralia is coming to preach from the book of Luke, on relatable way. the theme “Who is this Man?”. From December 27 2020 to January 1 2021. Mark it in your calendars. We were issued the challenge of whether we would be a faithful generation or a faithless generation. Other events we have are our three Winter Camps. Asking whether we honestly take God at his Word One for years five and six, where we again invit- and follow him, or if we don’t believe him and would ed Quiz Worx to come, our Junior Winter Camp, try and forge our own way. for years seven to 10, where Russell Smidt will be speaking from the book of James, on the theme At night Juno then reinforced the lessons taught in “Life Hacks”, and the Young Adult Winter Camp the morning to bring each day to a close. Bookend- where the Gospel Society and Culture Committee ing each day with the word to make the campers will speak on the theme “Who am I?” exploring our think seriously about faith and life and who they identity in Christ. were in light of this. These camps are coming up June 5-8 2020 at Stan- God certainly blessed the work of the camp when on well Park. Registration will launch in February. the Sunday night through the evangelistic talk, we had 42 campers respond to the talk by either ticking For more information please go to our website, www. “[during] this camp I have realised that I want to live pynsw.org.au, or email us at [email protected].

16 THE PULSE Special Feature : PY Camping

THE PULSE 17 The Australian Presbyterian World Mission exists to glorify God by facilitating the spread of the gospel to people overseas and Aborigines within Australia. Special Feature: APWM Australian Presbyterian World Mission www.apwm.org.au 1 Clarence Street, Burwood NSW 2134 (02) 8073 7490 [email protected] 2020: Two Short Term Mission Opportunities Japan: Presbyterian Youth NSW Team It’s deeply satisfying when a program turns out to be even better “I was so encouraged visiting Osaka than hoped! Christian Church and seeing the small church community’s joy and enthusiasm A Presbyterian Youth NSW team recently returned from a two having us come and help evangelise with week vision and study trip to Japan. This trip was carried out in their local community. I enjoyed engaging partnership with APWM. with the locals and learning more about their language whilst teaching them about The 15 members of the team visited Presbyterian Churches, Australia and hopefully encouraging them to Amber heard from missionaries, visited some tourist sites and grew return to church.” Amber, 20 in their understanding of what it means to be a Christian in another culture — a culture where Christians are a very small Interested in the next trip? The next trip will take place from minority. 24 November to 8 December, 2020 and will cost $3,000. All participants must be at least 18 years of age. To find out more Here’s what two of the participants had to say: please contact David Bell [email protected]

“I have a greater respect and understanding for people who come to Australia with limited English. The outreach event had a small sermon in Japanese and I could only pick up small parts of it. It was only when someone was kind enough to translate that I could understand what was said. It has helped me to see the value of Church Shaun ESL ministries which help people to understand English and

Australian culture.” Shaun, 23 The PY team at “Aussie Outreach” Day at Osaka Christian Church Vanuatu: Workpartners Can you use a hammer? For many years APWM has sent work teams to Talua, the main Bible College of the Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu. The tropical climate means that at Talua there is always something in need of repair! Our work teams are a practical expression of our partnership with the Presbyterian Church of Vanuatu.

The dates for the 2020 teams are: 6-21 June 2020 31 October-15 November 2020

Each participant pays for their own airfare to Talua plus team expenses. If you would like to know more then please contact Sheryl Sarkoezy in the APWM National Office [email protected] or (02) 8073 7492

18 THE PULSE The Bible Among Refugees

In 2018 we ran an appeal to buy We also ran an appeal for Special Feature: APWM Bibles for the Nuer-speaking glasses for pastors. The pastors South Sudanese Presbyterian who needed glasses had their Church in the refugee camps eyes assessed before receiving in Ethiopia. A few months ago their prescription glasses. This APWM placed an order with has enabled them to read the the Bible Society for 9,000 Bible clearly as they prepare Bibles. We had hoped to place to teach their congregations the order earlier but there were week by week. Again we say some issues with the order that “ Th a n k y o u”. took longer to resolve than A Pastor being tested for Motor Yat and Julia Thom expected. We anticipate that in prescription glasses In mid 2019, APWM missionary early 2020 the Bibles will be in Motor Isaac Yat married Julia Thom and we praise God for the hands of those who need them. this marriage. Julia currently has the status of a refugee and we are praying that her status will be altered to enable her to Thank you very much to everyone who contributed toward accompany Motor when he visits Australia in October 2020 for meeting this vital need among our brothers and sisters! We home assignment. look forward to sharing photos of the distribution of the Bibles.

Farewell…and welcome Growth in Timor Leste

Rob, El, Jason and Zachariah Falls The Synod at work After serving for five years, John and Kara Dekker have ended Picture this: 55 people going through a denomination’s constitu- their service at the Talua Theological Training Institute in Van- tion - word by word, sentence by sentence, paragraph by para- uatu. John has accepted a call to pastor a church in Eugene, Or- graph. Sound exciting? Actually, yes! egon in the USA. We thank them for serving as they sought to equip pastors and others for service in the Presbyterian Church It’s slow but necessary work. It’s a sign that our Partner Church, of Vanuatu. the Evangelical Presbyterian Church of Timor Leste is growing in maturity as it looks to the future under God’s hand. Over the years, finding lecturers for Talua hasn’t been an easy task. We praise God for raising up Rob and El Falls to succeed In November, Kevin Murray and APWM Treasurer Peter Burke the Dekkers at Talua. Rob is in his final year at Christ College visited Timor Leste to meet with the church and encourage it as and Elena is a nurse and midwife. They have two young sons, it went through this process. Zachariah and Jason. God-willing, Rob and El will commence service at Talua in early 2021. Australian Presbyterians are committed to helping this church — particularly in helping in the translation of the Bible into Te- If you would like to know how you can partner with them in tun, the national language. We also help by sending personnel. prayer and finance then please contact the APWM office (02) In early 2020, Chris and Julie Dean (pictured) 8073 7490 or email [email protected] from Victoria, will commence serving with CMS and APWM in Timor Leste.

Each year we contribute about $13,000 to help this church meet its running expens- es and supplement the income of pastors, many of whom are often paid a salary of a few dollars a week. Can you make a donation to Chris and Julie APWM to enable us to keep on doing this? Dean

THE PULSE 19 Special Feature: PIM

AN EXCITING NEW ERA FOR PIM

e finally found it! After many months of searching and negotiating, we have purchased PIM’s new home. By the time you read this, we will have picked up the keys to the W property which will soon become “New Dunesk”. Our new home has 600 acres, a homestead, a great spot for a camping ground, and a range of sheds that will be put to good use as we roll out the New Dunesk initiative.

You will find PIM’s new home just five minutes south of Ard- lethan, along the Newell Highway. It is easy to find and easy to get to. And crucially, it is ideally located to connect churches in the most populated parts of our nation with frontline mission activities in the least populated areas – places where there is very little gospel witness.

This year we plan to launch our Grey Nomad and Gap Year programs from New Dunesk. A number of other initiatives are also being developed that will create lots of new ways for you to get involved in the ministry of PIM.

Keep up to date with how New Dunesk is developing by following PIM on Facebook, signing up to receive On Track or dropping in to 6550 Newell Highway, Ardlethan, if you are driving past (after the 1st of February).

We look forward to seeing you at New Dunesk sometime in 2020!

You can also join with us in reaching isolated people by praying for our teams in New South Wales, Tasmania, Western Australia, Victoria and Queensland, and by supporting them financially.

Presbyterian Inland Mission PO Box 287, Woori Yallock VIC 3139 03 9005 8256 www.pim.org.au 20 THE PULSE Jericho Road is a great story of how we can work Special Feature: Jericho Road together to show that we, like the Samaritan, are ready to be the people who love our neighbours.

Tuesday Story Time at Allowah Tuesdays at Allowah are brought to you by the Strolls have also became an important part of letter S. Thanks to our Tuesday Story Time vol- Tuesday Story Time, for those children at Al- unteers Alison, Margaret and Alex, the children lowah who prefer to be mobile rather than listen at Allowah have the opportunity to enjoy sto- to a story or song, with this being volunteer Al- ries, singing and a stroll. ex’s area of expertise. The children have come to know Alex over the years, with the quieter chil- Stories are an important part of the Tuesday dren who don’t like noise taking his hand so that Story Time at Allowah, with Volunteer Alison they can walk around instead. Alex has an un- bringing to life stories like We’re Going on a derstanding of children who engage the world Bear Hunt, The Wonkey Donkey, and There’s a with their senses, and what they can enjoy with Possum in the House. Alison and Margaret find their senses on Veranda strolls. that the children most enjoy stories with famil- iar animals, animal noises and puppets, enjoy- Tuesdays would not be the same at Allowah ing the story with their eyes, ears and hands. without our Tuesday Story Time. Every day at Allowah is made better by the network of volun- Songs are also an important part of Tuesday Sto- teers who spend time with the children making ry Time at Allowah. Seeing how important it is for the children at Allowah to engage the world a difference to their day. Maybe 2020 is the year with their ears, Alison recognised the need to add that you have time to volunteer at Allowah, us- songs to her stories, even though this was not her ing your skills to make a difference. When asked strength. However God saw this need, raising up what motivates her to volunteer with Tuesday volunteer Margaret to join the Tuesday Story-time Story Time Alison replied, “It must be hard hav- team and help out with singing, so that songs like ing a child with a severe disability especially if The Wheels on the Bus, Ten in the Bed and Jesus they have siblings. I feel that Allowah fills a gap Loves Me are now heard floating from the recre- and must be a lifeline to parents in that situa- ation room, with a Scottish lilt reminiscent of the tion and so I hope my little contribution helps. I Gaelic choir that Margaret sings in. The children at believe in putting faith into action and showing Allowah enjoy music as part of the percussion sec- God’s love to others. I could never be a Dorcas tion with bells, maracas, tambourines and drums, as I’m hopeless at sewing so I read at Allowah dancing in their wheelchairs with the help of nurs- instead.” If you are interested in volunteering es and volunteers. Praise him with tambourines at Allowah please email Chaplain Rochelle on and dancing (Psalm 150:4). [email protected]

OctoberProject 10, 2019 saw many excited Kin chil- Thesecomes Play and Learn toPacks containAllowah an gee children, children again who are sharing, dren when Project Kin came to Allowah individual handmade doll with quilt with their parents, the consequences of during the school holidays to distribute and clothes made by an amazing group the drought, children facing domestic their Play and Learn Packs to the chil- of volunteers around Australia. There is violence and indigenous children. dren who were enjoying their school also a book, ‘Imagine You had a Friend’, holiday time. an activity book, pencils and a book Project Kin uses organisations such as Jer- mark which can be shared with siblings icho Road and the Salvation Army to facil- too!! We desire to let children know that itate the giftings. At the time of writing, we Thanks to the support of Chaplain Ro- even when life is hard, they still have a are preparing for our third gifting at Tre- chelle and Activity leader Rowena and friend in God who will not let them gear Presbyterian Preschool in December. the wonderful staff, the Project Kin down. Parents are not forgotten either, volunteers, Anne Madell and Margaret with Parent Activity books too. Project Kin has gifted 625 packs since its Mayger, were able to give out 43 Play inception in 2016. and Learn Packs. It was lovely to see the These packs are designed for children response from the children who all face who need support in some way. Children Go to ProjectKin.org for more details many challenges in their lives. who have been given packs include refu- with ways you can become involved.

THE PULSE 21 “And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses

Special Feature: PY Metro entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others." 2 TIMOTHY 2:2

WHAT THEY SAY ABOUT METRO: CHUANG AND BRETT

METRO provides an excellent opportunity to grow as a Christian and serve as a Gospel worker with the help of my trainer Brett.

It is a great privilege to be part of a ministry team at Church, and study at Corn- hill Seminary in Sydney. To know God better and to be conformed to the image of his Son is the most important part of my training. And both my training at Church and at Cornhill is an invaluable experience for this purpose.

I serve as a gospel worker in the local congregation (City Central Presbyteri- an Church, Wollongong), and the international University Christian group. It is a joy to be part of these ministries and see God’s wonderful work among us. I am seeing how prayer is more and more important, as I see ever so clearly how God is the one who does the work in people’s lives.

Please pray that God would strengthen my faith and cause me to bear fruit in these ministries. Pray that God would help me in my attempts to build relationships in the university context where people are coming and going all the time. CHUANG LIU AND If you would like to know more information about my ministry and pray BRETT RICHARDSON for me please contact me through my Email address: [email protected]

CHUANG LIU METRO TRAINEE FROM THE

We first met Chuang in 2016 when he came to our congregation wanting to CONVENER… investigate more about Christianity. He became a Christian and was bap- tized in February the following year. At that stage Chuang was studying a Praise God for what we see Master’s degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Wollongong. happening amongst us with these Chuang grew in his faith and began to appreciate the need for people to be enthusiastic apprentices. Please equipped for Gospel ministry, particularly in his home country. So we talked about the possibility of him doing a METRO traineeship to discover more pray for them as they undertake about ministry and to begin a process of training. ministry training in local churches The traineeship is giving Chuang an opportunity to grow in his love and and serve on the campuses of understanding of God and to understand what it means to serve his Lord some of our universities. Pray and Saviour Jesus. also for their trainers who invest For us at Church it is an absolute pleasure to have Chuang as part of the min- in them. May the Presbyterian istry team. He brings an enthusiasm and freshness to our group. Chuang has a particular insight into the life of international students at the University Church continue to see the fruits and Chinese culture. This is invaluable for us in our attempts to minister in an ever changing city. Wollongong is becoming more and more multicultur- of this investment in gospel al, and the presence of the University is becoming more pervasive. ministry for years to come. And pray that the Lord will raise up BRETT RICHARDSON more apprentices in coming years. PASTOR, CITY CENTRAL PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH WOLLONGONG DAVID BELL

22 THE PULSE THE REFORMERS BOOKSHOP TOP 5 BOOKS OF 2019

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THE BOOK YOUR PASTOR WISHES YOU WOULD READ COMPETING SPECTACLES BUT IS TOO EMBARRASSED TO ASK (CHRISTOPHER ASH) TREASURING CHRIST IN THE MEDIA AGE (TONY REINKE) Often we think, “What can my pastor do for me?” Far less often do we We live in a world full of shiny distractions, faced with an onslaught of think, “What can I do for my pastor?” viral media constantly competing for our attention and demanding our Christopher Ash urges church members to think about pastors not just affections. In a journalistic style, Tony Reinke shows us just how distracting in terms of what they do but about who they are. He encourages us to these spectacles in our lives have become and calls us to ask critical remember that pastors are people and to pray for them as they serve us. questions about what we’re focusing on. The book offers us practical steps Paradoxically, caring for our pastor will be a blessing to us as well as to to redirect our gaze away from the addictive eye candy of the world and them, and create a culture of true fellowship in our church family. onto the Ultimate Spectacle—leading to the joy and rest our souls crave. [$9.99 PAPERBACK] [$18.99 PAPERBACK]

THE PULSE 23 LAST WORD WITH PETER BARNES

SIN FOUND OUT

1 KINGS 21:17-29

ne of the most frightening of all the 9:30-37). Sin brings with it terrible Sam.24 and 26), and Simon Ma- Biblical texts is Numbers 32:23, 'Be judgment. Ahab's epitaph was gus was able to offer some kind sure your sin will find you out.' as bad as it could be – he was of credible profession of faith in O as abominable as the Amorites Christ (Acts 8) But that is not Ahab found this out. He had coveted (21:25-26) - no better than the the same as repentance. Ahab Naboth's vineyard, and stood by and heathen under judgment. All woke up the next morning with watched while Jezebel had Naboth judi- the covenant privileges are real the same unregenerate and dis- cially murdered. Ahab then took posses- enough - law, promises, circumci- obedient heart (1 Kings 22:5-8). sion of the vineyard. Evil had apparently sion, priests, sacrifices for sin - but they triumphed (21:14-16). But Ahab and all mean nothing without repentance Anybody with an ounce of common- Jezebel had left God out of their calcula- and faith. The northern kingdom of Is- sense will fear judgment. We are all well- tions. It was not long before God sent Eli- rael had twenty kings, and Ahab seems armed with an instinct for self-preser- jah - who had recovered from his fearful to have been top of the wicked list. vation. That is good and natural. But it depression - to confront Ahab yet again. is not an incontrovertible proof that the EVADING THE ISSUE Holy Spirit has worked in our hearts. A JUDGMENT ON SIN Ahab tries to portray the confrontation Christian does not just fear judgment; he The Lord told Elijah to confront Ahab in terms of Elijah being the king’s enemy also fears sin. He fears the consequences concerning his sin (21:17-19). Many (21:20a). This is very common. Earlier of sin, but he also hates sin because God people think that religion is about mak- Ahab had tried to portray Elijah as the hates it, because it is so contrary to God's ing people feel good - do you feel better one who was troubling Israel (18:17). Of nature. A person may feel remorse, for having come to church? Well, you course, it was actually Ahab's sin that humble himself, and receive something of God's favour, and still not be a Chris might come again - that sort of idea. was causing the trouble in Israel. Now - tian. B. B. Warfield defined repentance But true Biblical religion is about truth. Ahab tries to portray the differences be- as 'that fundamental change of mind by God unerringly uncovers sin (Prov.15:3; tween himself and Elijah as a result of which the back is turned not upon one Heb.4:12-13). God knows even our personal enmity. If the postman arrives sin or some sins, but upon all sin, and thoughts; the night is as day to Him. with news of a fine you must pay, it is the face definitely turned to God and to That is not altogether comforting to sin- unreasonable to blame the postman and His service - of which therefore a trans- ners like you and me, but it is not meant call him your enemy. Elijah is not Ahab's formed life is the outworking.' to be. Christianity is not necessarily de- enemy; he is simply delivering God's signed to make us feel good. word. Ahab is refusing to face facts. We can do what Ahab did, experience what Ahab experienced, and still be out- Ahab thought that he had got away A century later, the situation had not side the kingdom. There is some change with seizing Naboth's vineyard. Noth- changed for Israel (Amos 5:10). Peo- in Ahab's life. Something has happened ing could go wrong - or could it? Yes, ple may blame the preacher, or their to him. God has touched him in some it could because the God who sees all parents. They may say that the Sunday way. But not a saving way. Charles Wes- revealed His will to Elijah. With the au- School teachers were too strict, or they ley wrote: thority of the Lord, Elijah pronounced blame the Bible, - anything but face the

judgment on Ahab (21:21). The message reality that they are out of step with God. Ah! give me, Lord, the tender heart is not what we often hear today: 'What The Galatian churches blamed Paul for That trembles at the approach of sin; you have done is not socially unaccept- preaching grace (see Gal.4:16). Remem- A godly fear of sin impart, able'. Rather, it is that God has spoken ber that the hardened sinner is at odds Implant, and root it deep within, in clear commandments: 'You shall not with God, so he will also be at odds with covet, you shall not murder, you shall That I may dread Thy gracious power, His servant. not bear false witness'. There is a terrible And never dare offend Thee more. penalty to be paid, even in this life. The dogs licked Naboth's blood, and they A PARTIAL REPENTANCE That was Wesley but not Ahab (note Joel would lick Ahab’s. And so it happened Surprisingly, Ahab is moved to express 2:12-13). None of this is meant to fright- (22:34-38). The wages of sin is death. Pay his grief at his sin (21:27-29). This is sur- en people who need not be frightened, day will come. prising. What do we make of it? Is it sin- but it is there as a warning to us. God is cere? It looks good - like Jonah 3:6-8. And holy, God is gracious, but He demands Ahab had sold himself to sin (21:20b). God Himself looks upon Ahab's response us, not just a nod in His direction. Re- It was not a lapse, as with David's adul- with some favour. Ahab was probably pentance is not a half-turn but a U-turn. tery, but an habitual lifestyle. So, the sincere so far as it goes. He felt remorse at Ahab received some blessing from God, judgment is severe (21:21-24). Jezebel's Elijah's words. Judas felt intense remorse. but not the blessing of salvation. He died end was particularly grim (see 2 Kings Saul knew something about remorse (1 in his sins.