Vicars letter - 8th September 2023

Kia ora All Saints whānau,

Spring has sprung this week with some lovely sun! I (Emily) have been reflecting lately on what brings me joy, and whether my life reflects the joy I have in following Jesus, both for myself and for others looking at my life. I'm not saying my life always has to be sunshine and rainbows, but I do wonder if sometimes I dwell on the hard bits and forget to really enjoy the good bits, being present in those moments.

My brain likes fresh starts, like new seasons, for starting something new like a new habit, otherwise my procrastination kicks in with vigour. So from this spring I've decided to check my attitude more frequently and really try to find joy in life through the busyness. So far I've sat in the sun, held my babies longer than they needed, made them giggle instead of doing more washing, and played card games far too late into the night. These are little but joyful things for me. I wonder what those things are for you? Another way of thinking is what draws you closer to the well of Jesus, where LIVING water comes from. What does it mean to truly live, not just exist?

These are my thoughts for this week. As we gather for our central gatherings this Sunday, may we find joy in our family of Christ, in worshipping our Saviour, and in a good cup of coffee!

​And don't forget to pray for our teenagers and their leaders who are away at Rise Up Camp this weekend - may they encounter the risen Christ and be filled with the joy of the Spirit, encouraged that they are seen, loved, and enough.