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?
Author: APilgrimPens
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
For such a time as this!
Over the past 12 months, in small villages and towns in Africa and Asia, I’ve had the privilege to sit and listen to some amazing, humble women of faith. I've been inspired by their stories, courage and resilience. I’ve wiped tears from my eyes as they have shared their hopes and dreams for their local … Continue reading For such a time as this!
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
Thankful!
I’ve joined a new club over recent months. I’ve received membership to shopping centre lounge areas where, without overly stereotyping, older men often sit and wait for shopping family members. I’ve done my bit to bring down the average age of the cohort and I’m hoping my membership is temporary. With a coffee and novel … Continue reading Thankful!
Herods come, Herods go!
Seduced by ego Charmed by power. Threatened by opposition, captivated by pride Fearing anyone who might steal the limelight Herod - the self-consumed King I dare look inside my life again And while I may prefer to ignore it I see some Herod in me I can seek to excuse myself “I haven’t slaughtered innocents” But … Continue reading Herods come, Herods go!
When life throws you a curve ball [and jelly!]
My wife believes there is nothing good at all about green jelly and so the only time it gets a run on our family menu is when Megan makes my Dad his favourite Christmas trifle. Well, Christmas has come early this year, with a bowl of sweet and tangy lime jelly on my hospital menu … Continue reading When life throws you a curve ball [and jelly!]
Calling out bullies!
Over recent weeks Megan and I have had to help our youngest child deal with the pain of being bullied at school. You have a heavy heart when your child is distressed about going to school, when you know she usually loves it so much! From the school playground to the workplace, from the sporting … Continue reading Calling out bullies!
Wrestling with the beast
For the past few years, I’ve had doctors telling me “listen to your body”. I have been trying to heed their advice as best I can. I have tried to pace myself. I have slept more than I ever have. I'm often in bed before the kids, much to their amusement. I’ve learnt many lessons. … Continue reading Wrestling with the beast
Something to be cherished
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how, in an increasingly polarised world, do followers of Jesus foster unity in diversity. I appreciate, it’s not an easy path to navigate, but as one who has chosen to actively engage in the Baptist movement, unity in diversity is something I cherish. I have the privilege of … Continue reading Something to be cherished
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