Some of you may have seen the post doing the rounds that suggests to be a true Australian means you celebrate the following six days: Christmas Day, Easter, Anzac Day, Australia Day, Fathers Day and Mothers Day. It’s a short list isn’t it? It’s intentionally exclusive. People who I have spoken with, who suggest lists … Continue reading “Not one of us!”
Justice
Fear mongering!
No one is getting out of Gaza in a hurry. That’s a fact. “Hamas sympathisers” are not lined up at the airport bound for Australia as Mr Dutton might want us to believe. But fostering immigration fear - no matter what side of politics plays this cheap game - is never concerned with the facts. … Continue reading Fear mongering!
The difference default
When you get more than 400 people from 65 countries in a room - and throw in that they’re Baptists - you are amid a very diverse bunch. Difference is all around you - be it language, skin colour, dress, equity, cuisine, theology, worship style or preferred football code. And given we were meeting in … Continue reading The difference default
Disturb me this Christmas!
I had asked the big man in the red suit for a dragster for Christmas. It was 1975 and I was trying to hold on to my Santa convictions despite the discouragement of my older brother. As was the tradition on Christmas Eve, I was sleeping on an air mattress in my grandparents’ lounge room … Continue reading Disturb me this Christmas!
Be inspired!
We all love stories, and I am finding that my appreciation of First Nations history, perspectives and cultures continues to grows as I intentionally read, listen to and watch stories made by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Be it the disturbing truth-telling of watching The Australian Wars on SBS, or the beauty and heartache … Continue reading Be inspired!
What should Christians do about guns?
“I know of churches that would never hire a pastor who smoked but have shooting events at their yearly men’s retreats. I know Christian parents who warn their kids about the dangers of marijuana use but don’t hesitate to buy them firearms. I know conservative people of faith who affirm the need for legal and … Continue reading What should Christians do about guns?
What if?
There is so much to celebrate about this wonderful country. There is so much to be thankful for. But on this divisive national day, I feel like we face a stark choice. We can throw a snag on the BBQ, slap on an Australian flag tattoo, grab a cold beer, play Oz hits of the … Continue reading What if?
Aboriginal Sunday Prayer
My prayer on Aboriginal Sunday 2023, written on Wurundjeri country. “Lord I confess that it’s all too easy to take for granted my white privilege and the comforts and position it brings me. I confess my pride, apathy, blindness and greed. I confess those innate things within me that hinder justice, fairness and reconciliation. Break my … Continue reading Aboriginal Sunday Prayer
A 2023 invitation
Did you make any new year’s resolutions? Are you on track? Or have you had some early hiccups? I’ve been speaking to lots of people over recent months who share a common goal for 2023. They’re looking for positive and practical ways to make a real difference in hurting communities – locally and globally. They … Continue reading A 2023 invitation
apilgrimpens 