As leaders we don’t need a title to be effective in our service, just the willingness to put others’ needs ahead of our own. Michael Rowell
Quote for the Day
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Quote for the Day
Service of others means we choose to place someone else’s needs and priorities ahead of our own. It is generated by care, concern and love for others. Michael Rowell
Quote for the Day
It is important that we focus on building deep, strong connections, possibly with just a few, rather than building shallow and superficial connections with a multitude, because numbers have never been a good indicator of the continuation of legacy. Michael Rowell
Quote for the Day
As we grow as a legacy leader, our concept of success becomes less about our achievements, and more about being able to reproduce ourselves in the hearts and minds of another generation so our work can continue after we’ve gone. Michael Rowell
Quote for the Day
Legacy is what the pioneer of one generation labours for, builds and establishes, then strategically sows into and passes to the next generation. The content of this transfer is not so much focused on possessions, but on the personal internal dynamics, priorities, values, victories and lessons carried by the forefather. Michael Rowell
Quote for the Day
The strength of what we build as a leader will ultimately be proven by how long it lasts. A house built using sound design principles, tested construction techniques and quality materials, under direction from a wise master builder, will last many generations. Michael Rowell
Reflection on Matthew 13:47-58
Scripture
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind. When the net was full, they dragged it up onto the shore and sorted the good fish into crates, but threw the bad ones away.
Observation
Jesus introduces another parable, this time from fishing. Just as a fishing net catches all kinds of fish and other creatures, that are later sorted, so at the end of the age, the angels will sort the wicked from the righteous. The wicked will be thrown into the fiery furnace.
Jesus then returns to Nazareth where he teaches in the synagogue. At first, they are amazed at His teaching but then they start to scoff. They are deeply offended and refused to believe in Him. Jesus says that a prophet is honoured everywhere, but in his own hometown. He is only able to do a few miracles there because of their unbelief.
Application
Jesus uses a different parable to explain how the judgement happens.
The kingdom of God is like a fishing net that sweeps in all kinds of fish. A sorting takes place after the fishing is finished. In the same way, there will be a judgement as the righteous followers of Jesus are separated from the unrighteous.
It is all a part of God’s grace that unbelievers and hypocrites can be found in church. We should not be surprised when pastors fall into scandalous sin.
The church attracts all kinds of people. Some are seeking the Lord, some are true believers, while others remain committed to their self-centred lifestyle.
Everyone, genuine or not, hears the same gospel week by week. The hypocrites and sinners, still have a chance to repent.
But there will be a judgement. Everyone will be sorted into those who are faithful and those who are not
Prayer
Lord, I thank you for the gift of salvation. Thank you for the knowledge that, in you, I will be raised to eternal life. Amen.
Quote for the Day
As leaders we need to develop a level of comfort with the idea that we could be in the minority with our views and opinions. This doesn’t make us wrong. Michael Rowell
Today’s Sermon
The sermon for December 15th 2024 is now available on the New Life web site.
In this sermon, which is based on Luke 3:1-18, I talk about Jesus Baptises in Holy Spirit and in Fire
Click here to download the mp3 or listen in your browser.
Quote for the Day
Failure will always occur, but failure isn’t final. Mistakes and defeat are part of our leadership journey. It’s not a sign that we should quit. Michael Rowell
New Life Narrabri 