A note from a colleague

4 June 2010

Philippians 2:10

Today's note is by Graham Harris, General Manager, Human Resources & Sustainability

Dear Friends,

It seems to me that there are a few types of people. Those that like the quiet life and those that choose to stand out from the crowd.

In today's society it doesn't seem to matter what you stand out for, but just that you do! It is an interesting world we live in, that you can attract just as much attention for negative exploits as you can for a positive contribution to society.

I don't know about you, my colleagues, but there are times that the idea of a 'quiet life' seems quite appealing!

I tend to not go looking for trouble. I would certainly try to keep out of the way if it looked like a brawl was about to start, but there are some things that really do matter. Some things that are worth defending. Things for which I would be willing to stand out from the crowd.

I was reading this morning of Paul and Silas' journey through Thessalonica and Berea. They offer the supreme example of standing out from the crowd. They don't go looking for trouble, but it does seem to follow them. They were stripped and beaten. They were severely flogged and thrown into jail. Acknowledging that 'Jesus is King' in the Roman Empire was a highly charged political act. It suggested that someone other than the Emperor had a call on the allegiance of the citizens - treasonous.

We don't have the same issues in Australia today, but we do still struggle with our allegiances. Success, materialism… the challenge is the same. Will we be able to say 'Jesus is King' and live with the consequences?

'At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.'
(Philippians 2:10).

At this time in the life of Wesley Mission, when our ministry of Word and Deed is so very important to so many in our community, I ask you to pray for each other. That we each submit to the Lordship of Christ in all our decisions. I commit this prayer to you:

Creator God,

We come to you with so many fears in these times - fears that keep us from living simply,
from speaking honestly in our relationships, and from challenging unfairness when we see it.

Release us from these fears.

May your spirit strengthen us and free us to testify to you in all that we do.

Amen

Graham Harris
General Manager, Human Resources & Sustainability

Christian Life