Dear Northside
For the past few weeks, we have looking at some of the Fruit of the Spirit. Spiritual gifts are given to us to help us find our place of service in God’s church. The Fruit of the Spirit give us an indication of our spiritual maturity. So, it is important to be growing in the areas of love, joy peace, patience or long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
These Fruit of the Spirit describe Jesus, don’t they? Where can we find true Spiritual Fruit? Only when we are “Walking in the Spirit”. And when the Spirit is working in us.
As you know our theme for the year is “Walking in the Spirit: Activated for Growth.” We must not forget the second part – activated for growth. Yes, we are hoping that Northside will grow in size. We long to see the sanctuary and our Sunday school full. That is why we are encouraging you to invite someone from your circle of influence to come with you to our Easter services. But we are also praying for spiritual growth. Growing in love, joy peace, patience or long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Are we as a church helping you to grow spiritually? We would love to hear some short testimonies about this. In fact, we have some space in the weekly bulletin to put in a testimony. If you would like to submit something short (100-200 words) please send it through the church office.
Maturing in faith does not just happen. Yes, the Holy Spirit does the work internally. But you also have a part to play. And that part is to continue the journey of discipleship – Walking in Faith. Where are you on your journey? At the start line, close to the start line, a little further on the journey? We have a lot of ways to help you grow. Come and have a chat with one of the pastors or one of our elders.
Talking of journeys, today is the start of the Passion Week. Jesus’ last week before His death, burial and resurrection – Palm Sunday. We love Easter, because we love the message of Easter, because it is the Gospel. Please make every effort to be part of all we have planned. For example, you really cannot grasp the significance of Easter Sunday without experiencing Good Friday. And to encourage you to attend the Good Friday service, our Doulos ministry are doing teas AND hot cross buns after the service. If you want to experience a Passover Meal (the Last Supper Jesus had with His disciples) you need to register and pay to secure your seat/s. Places are limited, so hurry. This year our Easter program continues for 2 weeks after Easter Sunday as we continue our journey to Jesus’ Ascension into heaven. Please pray and ask God who He wants you to invite to experience Easter with you!
Finally, here is an advance notice. We will be hosting a Newcomers Tea for anyone who is new to Northside on Saturday 17th May in the afternoon. Put it in your diary if you want to attend.
God bless, Pastor Gary