As we look at the world in all its brokenness and pain, it’s right to cry out “it shouldn’t be this way!”. And then what do we do? It has been good to ponder this question over the weekend with valued partners in Perth. I find myself crying out these words more and more as … Continue reading It shouldn’t be this way!
Acts of Kindness
Go and do likewise!
I’ve heard, read and spoken on the Good Samaritan story so many times. It’s a powerful story - but I keep reminding myself, particularly in the world we live in today, that it’s more than a good story. It’s a radical instruction. It’s a call to not embrace the message that those different to us … Continue reading Go and do likewise!
Ribbons of hope
In our chaotic, broken and hurting world, it does us good to stop, see and celebrate small acts of love, compassion, goodness, mercy, justice and kindness. Outside this local church in suburban Washington DC, passers by are being invited to write on purple ribbons examples of these acts they see in their lives. It was … Continue reading Ribbons of hope
It shouldn’t be this way!
When we see the world as it is, and our hearts break and we say “it shouldn’t be this way”, we live as discontenters! When we throw ourselves in to the brokenness and the beauty, and pursue the loving and just ways of Jesus, we live we discontenters! When we pursue shalom in the every … Continue reading It shouldn’t be this way!
A healing collective
Across the nation we're seeing the beauty of collective grief, compassion, empathy and respect; a quartet that that supports healing and fosters unity. And sadly, but predictably, we also see the ugliness of collective blame, which fuels division and fosters fear and often, more violence. It helps no one at all! We will see more of … Continue reading A healing collective
A choice
As our hearts ache that this happened. That this happened here. As we stand in strong solidarity with a shattered, grieving, yet courageous, resilient Jewish community. As we remember families that will never be the same - like beautiful Matilda’s. As we reflect on the worst and the best of humanity. As we celebrate beautiful … Continue reading A choice
Pooling our presence
A young man waits by the hydrotherapy pool with his mother. I don’t know his story - but it’s evident he lives with some significant physical challenges. Suddenly his physiotherapist walks into the pool area and the young man’s face lights up. He doesn’t speak, but his face and actions say it all. He shuffles … Continue reading Pooling our presence
A gratitude posture
I had a rough night in ICU with pain after surgery and a bad reaction to some stong meds. But throughout the night, Oish my nurse provided with me excellent, calm, patient, assuring care. It made such a difference. I’m mindful again today of the amazing work of health professionals and carers across the nation. … Continue reading A gratitude posture
Bridges not walls
“Take our country back” is one of the catch cries for tomorrow’s March for Australia. But here’s where the premise of the march fails. Yes, those that will march tomorrow are a part of our country, and they have the right to peacefully protest. But Australia is no more “their country” than a beautiful Nepali-born … Continue reading Bridges not walls
Seeing others!
One of the most powerful things we do in life is to see others, particularly to see those who often feel unseen! Senator Raphael Warnock says “you can’t serve me if you don’t see me”. This week it has been a joy to be with Baptist Mission Australia colleagues in Cambodia, witnessing how they are … Continue reading Seeing others!
apilgrimpens 