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Life can feel noisy, uncertain, and overwhelming at times. Yet in Philippians 4:8–9, the Apostle Paul offers a gentle but powerful invitation: to anchor our thoughts in what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.
This isn’t just a list of virtues — it’s a roadmap for joy. Paul reminds us that joy is not found in perfect circumstances, but in a mind and heart aligned with God’s truth. When we choose to dwell on what uplifts rather than what drags us down, we create space for peace to take root. Paul also urges us to practice these things — to live them out daily. Joy grows when our thoughts inspire our actions, and our actions reflect the goodness we’ve been meditating on. The promise is beautiful: “The God of peace will be with you.” So, let’s be intentional. Let’s filter our thoughts through the lens of Philippians 4:8–9, and watch how joy quietly transforms our perspective — not because life is suddenly easy, but because our hearts are resting in the One who never changes. I look forward to seeing you this Sunday as we celebrate Palm Sunday and hear Sue Shanasy speak on the symbolism of the cross. Her message will help us to focus on the cross as we appraoch Easter. Here are two beautiful songs that can aid our worship this easter season too. Living Hope by Phil Wickam (One of Tanya's fav's) - Click here to listen. Jerusalem by City Alight (Amy's favorite Easter Song) - Click to listen here Blessings on your week, Rev Tanya
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 Today I am filled with JOY after our first 'Taste and See' cooking class!
We had 4 young people, aged between 8-14 and possibly an extra sibling coming along next week too. I am filled with JOY at the partnership in the gospel with those who came along to help as leaders (thanks Kathy & Sandra this week!) and for all those who've lent their equipment for us to borrow. I am filled with JOY at the amazing questions Caesar had about God, how he made the world and how do we know what's right and wrong. I am filled with JOY at already, the pre-emptive questions about 'if we're made in God's image, how come we do bad things?' I am filled with JOY that one of the girls heard the story of God making the world for the very first time. I am filled with JOY and hope that one of the parents may be interested in joining our English Class. And I am filled with JOY at the possibility of new connections with these families. As we come together this Sunday, we'll be diving into Paul's letter to the Philippians and what he says about joy. We'll see that much of his JOY comes not from material things, but from the people he's ministered to and within Philippi, and the legacy of faith they will leave behind together. I wonder if there's a believer from your past and/or in recent times who has brought you joy? Why not spend a moment giving thanks for them right now? Rev. Amy Are you enjoying our Lenten studies on joy in the psalms this week?
The psalms help us pray when we don't know what to pray and they help us to praise God no matter what is going on in our lives. This morning, I heard Rosie Batty AO speak at an International Women's Day assembly at Peninsula Grammar School. She was a victim of Domestic abuse, and her son was murdered by his own father 12 years ago. Since then, Rosie has been a voice speaking out against Domestic Violence, promoting respect, equality, awareness and advocating for change. Domestic Violence is something we need to continue to talk about even though it is uncomfortable and upsetting for many, including myself. I will speak briefly about this on Sunday as it is International Women's Day on the 8th of March. This coming Sunday we will also look at Hebrews 12:1-3. This passage reminds us of the footraces of ancient Israel, Greece, and the amphitheaters of Rome. It was written to encourage and challenge believers to persevere in their faith, especially in the midst of trials and persecution. The race of life is not a sprint, but a marathon for which we need great endurance. To finish this race well we need to keep fit and healthy by encouraging one another, daily persisting in prayer, worship, reading God’s Word and examining our lives. To run the race to win (the finishing line being the end of our lives), we need to throw off all that holds us back and weighs us down, like the sin of unbelief. We need to persevere while maintaining a Christlike attitude even in the midst of trials. Remember Christ's example. He endured the cross and all its shame for the Joy set before him. This ought to inspire us to continue through our tough times with faith, trust, and joy in him. This is what all the Old Testament heroes did (the great cloud of witnesses), as they ran the race before them without giving up. No matter how long the race may be, we need to keep our eyes on Jesus, “the champion who initiates and perfects our faith”. And remember there is joy awaiting. In the words of songwriters Twila and Starla Paris, “Runner, when the race is won, you will run into His arms.” Jesus himself will be our prize and very great reward. So, run the race to win! Love in Christ, Rev. Tanya |
