Like so many of us in this strange and stretching season I won’t get to see my Dad for Father’s Day tomorrow, but my heart will surely be with him. Tomorrow he will wake for his first Father’s Day without my Mum at home by his side. As the ancient wisdom writer penned “there is a … Continue reading The ageing clock
Lockdown opportunities:
We begin a season of heightened restrictions in Melbourne again tonight. How might we respond? With authenticity: Embracing the emotional rollercoaster of these unusual days, reaching out to others and valuing the support of others speaking into our lives. With lament: Seeing afresh the pain and tragedy of this pandemic across the globe and praying: “God help … Continue reading Lockdown opportunities:
Yearning for hope!
Can I ask you to count to two ... yes - 1, 2! Why? Because one person is forcibly displaced from their home, somewhere around the globe, every two seconds as a result of conflict or persecution. Hard to fathom, but that's the real world in 2020, exacerbated by the COVID pandemic. Now the danger … Continue reading Yearning for hope!
Thank God for places green!
Thank God for places green! The older I get the more I appreciate them, the more I need them, the more I yearn to be immersed in them again. Bush tracks in suburbia, familiar winding dirt trails in my own neighbourhood that nurture refreshment, renewal and much-needed rhythms. Inner-city grassed squares, small spaces to pause … Continue reading Thank God for places green!
It starts with me!
I’m white, male, middle-aged and privileged, in the midst of a broken, hurting, unjust world. This reality can all too easily lead me towards comfortable choices, unhelpful attitudes and patronising positions. And that's why I know I need to keep praying: "Lord, change me!" I'm sure like me you've been dismayed by another horrible example … Continue reading It starts with me!
Open our eyes!
Open our eyes! On this Mother's Day, open our eyes to see a young Syrian mother, clinging to her toddler in an over-crowded refugee camp, which has been her home for far too long. See her there, bereft of hope. Let us see the Congolese mother, in forced slavery, with her two boys alongside her. … Continue reading Open our eyes!
A one way ticket to war!
It’s such a small item. So easily disposable. A tiny orange, fading paper rail ticket. Yet what a treasured possession! Why is it so special? Well, it’s stood the test of time. It’s 103 years old and it belonged to my great grandfather Harold Stanley Butler. The ticket made it all the way back from … Continue reading A one way ticket to war!
A new song to sing together!
Stan Grant has become one of our nation's leading and most respected voices. The award-winning journalist and proud Wiradjuri man speaking about Australia Day says that "we are still to find a song we can all sing". What a powerful metaphor to reflect on this long weekend. Surely with mature debate, compassion and courage we … Continue reading A new song to sing together!
Escaping the noise
When I visit my parents' house I now need to prepare myself for the onslaught. I tell myself, don't say the wrong thing as soon as you walk in the door! No, I'm not about to confess via a blog some terrible relationship breakdown with my parents. In fact, all is very well, but sadly … Continue reading Escaping the noise
Staying the course!
It was one of those special moments to bottle! After two seasons of basketball and playing his last game before feet surgery this week, Arli found himself at the free-throw line with his mighty U10 Whitehorse Mustangs. Despite giving his best and loving playing with his friends, Arli hadn't scored a basket in more than … Continue reading Staying the course!
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