From our Queensland Bishop, Reverend Noel Noack: After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. Revelation 7:9. Recently I was at the 20th anniversary of Peace Lutheran College, Cairns. It was a wonderful celebration recalling, with thanks to God, the journey of the school. After worship on Sunday I toured the school and visited students in the boarding school (total boarders = 100 in 2014 growing to 110 in 2015). In conversation I discovered there were students from 32 different countries enrolled at Peace, Cairns. I spoke to a student from Mongolia and another from Tanzania. This is not unusual in our schools. St Peters has approx. 30 of its students from 72 countries. All of this has made me realise again how multi-cultural our country has become. This is in some contrast to our Congregations which are mostly mono-cultural. I want to stress the importance of welcoming new folk into our homes and congregations. My observation is that often this happens with difficulty in our Church. Christ calls us to welcome with hospitality and compassion all people. He has commanded us to go and make disciples of all nations. Matthew 28.18 The nations are coming to us. Welcome them to their new home with the open arms of Christ, with a smile, caring conversation and hospitality. It will bring joy to their hearts. These actions of simple Christ-like kindness and welcome can be the beginning of the work of the Holy Spirit in their hearts. I recognise that there are difficulties and challenges in engaging with people from a different culture and language. There will be misunderstanding. St Paul recognised this too. But he reminded his readers: There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3.28 To encourage you I refer you to the fine introductory book: Foreign to Familiar – Sarah Lanier. M & M Department have copies for sale or loan (contact Lois Hage Ph 3511 7286. [email protected]). It is quick read and most helpful. I recommend it – for starters. Just remember - heaven will be filled with people from every nation, tribe, people and language. Revelation 7.9 May we be the means for welcoming into our homes, community and into the family of Christ people of other cultures and languages. Rev Noel Noack, Bishop LCAQD
Posted on: Tue, 02 Sep 2014 01:36:37 +0000