January 26 – Australia Day

Hello and happy Australia Day. What a blessing it is to live in such a wonderful country as Australia. I have been blessed to visit many countries – first, second, and third world countries and each time I am reminded how blessed we are – our freedom, health and education systems, our lifestyles, so much to be thankful for. We are though far from perfect and yesterday we prayed for and remembered that for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders today is far from being a celebration. As we work together, seeking reconciliation, let us do what Paul tells the church at Thessalonica to do: “Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:15-18 NIV). Let’s give thanks to God for our nation, our freedom, and lifestyle. Let’s pray for our governments, harmonious relationships, for the ending of racism, and that we will be a blessing to people from other nations.