In Psalm 51, David vividly tells us of the reality check he (and we) have because of sin. All humans are guilty of sin, and face God's sentence of death. In Lent, we meet this reality check for ourselves. But this is not the final word. For Lent also gives us the call to focus anew and in new ways on the one who saves: Jesus Christ and his cross - and so Lent is truly a springtime for our souls. (YouTube video of the service including this sermon: https://youtu.be/bQWgfA4wG2Y ) [Prerecorded music - Ash Wednesday]

Nelson Mandela’s autobiography is titled 'Long Walk to Freedom'. Mandela did all he could to free his country from the bondage of apartheid. Christ Jesus made the long walk to the cross and from the tomb to set all people free who put their trust in him. New life in Christ brings a wonderful freedom to serve others so that they too may receive the freedom to live and make the life-long walk to freedom with Christ. (YouTube video of the service including this sermon: https://youtu.be/w-0dWyYtaYU ) [Organ - Epiphany 5]

In today’s Gospel reading, we hear of two calls — one call to repentance, and one to follow Jesus. As we repent and believe, we are equipped to follow — Jesus calls us and provides all we need. (YouTube video of the service including this sermon: https://youtu.be/KVuRDxGY8Rw ) [Organ - Epiphany 3]

Baptism is God’s act of love, where he claims us and names us as his own. Similarly, when Jesus was baptised, God announced his identity — and then sent him into the wilderness, beginning his journey to the cross for our salvation, the ultimate act of love. We are the new creation, made righteous by Christ's perfect obedience and 'fulfilment of all righteousness' on our behalf; and now through his obedience, God is well pleased with us. (YouTube video of the service including this sermon: https://youtu.be/4vS3zvZclq4 ) [Organ - Baptism of Jesus]

The Christmas story introduces a little baby born in tough, hard circumstances in a cattle shed. This little baby is God's big plan for you and for all people. The little one whose name is Jesus grew and gave his life for all people, that all who believe in him may live eternally, and be known as children of God. (YouTube video of the service including this sermon: https://youtu.be/YMhVC5vdxZk [Prerecorded music - Christmas Day]) Repeated Sunday Dec 27th.