Ten spiritual disciplines to grow deeper in faith

Here are ten classic spiritual disciplines or practices for Christian discipleship, drawn from Scripture and centuries of church tradition. There are many more. 1. Sabbath (Rest) A weekly rhythm of ceasing from work to delight in Godโ€™s creation, grace, and sovereignty (e.g., Gen 2:2โ€“3; Ex 20:8โ€“11). Sabbath is a time for rest, play, feasting and celebration, …

First steps: Letter to a young Christian

By John McCrindle Last month I shared the text of a pamphlet that my grandfather, John Cree McCrindle, wrote many years ago to commend and share his Christian faith with fellow workers in the coal mines in Ipswich, Queensland. That was one of two similar undated pamphlets I possess. In the other, in the form of a …

The winds of change and renewal

The winds of unwelcome change blow harsh through all our lives. Last week we looked at the challenge of negotiating the changes that come our way. Today I want to continue that theme, and reflect on the relationship between change and personal renewal. Long ago the psalmist wrote these words: As a deer longs for …

The good side of personal conflict

A sermon by Rod Benson 1 Corinthians 10:31-33 At U2 concerts in the early 90s, a regular part of the show featured criticism of George H.W. Bush. In fact, front man Bono used to call the White House in the middle of the concert to try to get a chance to speak to the 41st …