On Sunday afternoon 29th June, congregations from the Mid North Coast gathered for an area day, where we shared in a potluck meal, worship and fellowship, as well as putting hampers together to give to those affected by the recent floods in the Taree, Wingham, Glenthorne and surrounding areas.
Our theme for the Worship was HOPE IS HERE, BLESSED TO BE A BLESSING
The service reflected that Hope is here, not because circumstances are easy, but because Christ is with us, and because we are with each other.
We had a HOPE Box, filled with everyday items in which were reminders of how we can bring hope to others.
After the message given by myself, reminding us that when we do it unto the least of these, we do it unto the good Lord, I played the moving song, Not too Far from Here, with lyrics that say:
[Verse 1]
Somebody's down to their last dime, Somebody's running out of time
Not too far from here. Somebody's got nowhere else to go
Somebody needs a little hope, Not too far from here
[Chorus]
And I may not know their name but I'm praying just the same
That You'll use me, Lord, to wipe away a tear, 'cause somebody's crying
Not too far from here
[Verse 2]
Somebody's troubled and confused, somebody's got nothing left to lose
Not too far from here, somebody's forgotten how to trust
And somebody's dying for love, Not too far from here
It may be a stranger's face, but I'm praying for Your grace
To move in me and take away the fear, ‘cause somebody's hurting
Not too far from here
Many of us were moved to tears, thinking about those who have lost homes, household items, businesses, livestock, and more….
In the Disciples Generous Response, we received an offering--some bought bags of groceries, some $’s, some both, and following the worship all that was given was put into hampers to distribute to those in need. The offering will go towards fresh fruit and eggs to accompany dry goods.
I was reminded again of the Margaret Mead quote that says,
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed individuals can change the world. In fact, it's the only thing that ever has."
Hope does not deny the pain. It enters into it—and stays.
Hope is here—because Christ is here.
Hope is here—because we are Christ’s body.
Hope is here—because we are blessed to be a blessing.
Let us find ways to be hope-bearers in this weary world. There are people who need us, not too far from here. Amen.
Wendy Ballard
Mid North Coast Area Co-Ordinator
Photos by Wendy Ballard and Krissie Waugh
