The Cross has become something of a fashion statement, an item of jewellery. And the world generally thinks of 'love' and something soft and romatic. But the Cross is a symbol of discipleship, of following Jesus. And we who follow are called to show the same kind of self-giving, suffering love that he demonstrated in dying for us. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 12 - Bach Cantata BWV 22 "Jesus nahm zu sich die Zwölfe" (Jesus took under Him the twelve)]

Australia now is a multi-cultural nation. In that way, it's similar to the environment where Christ first announced the Good News. In today's Gospel, we have the good news shared with an outsider, a foreigner, and a woman (all categories that good Jewish men then shunned). We are the people of God, called to live and serve as he did -- without barriers. [ Instrumental - Pentecost 10 - Baptism of Willow M ]

God has treasure waiting for each of us, treasure we need to uncover. To find it we need three things: a map that marks the spot (where the spot is compassion); motivation, which is our personal responsibility; and we need God's miracles, blessing what we give and multiplying it to bring blessing to others. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 8 ]

We are stirred by big dreams, and need big visions for following God's purposes. We need a growing awareness of his presence, and of the way our lives (where we are) belong to him. We carry the Spirit with us wherever we go. And this means that it is a time to make vows. Jacob made three vows: submission to God; to be a temple of the Holy Spirit; and to give generously. Jacob's vision of a stairway to heaven encourages us, too, to live as children of God. [ Organ/Choir - Pentecost 6 ]

Each generation thinks they will make good the world. But the generation that Jesus wants is characterised by three things: on-going repentence, on-going action, and then a generation that can rest in Christ. In fact, this is not any single generation, but all generations together. [ Organ - Pentecost 4 ]