In Paul’s letter to the Galatians, he encourages followers of Jesus to have compassion for one another. While in some circumstances, this comes quite naturally; on other occasions, it will be more difficult to extend love, seek to understand another person’s point of view or be open to new ideas.

Being there for people in need can sometimes seem like ‘someone else’s problem’.

Jesus taught that it was through our love for one another that we fulfilled God’s commandments – our rituals and spiritual practices ultimately only point towards this divine love which has been fully revealed through Christ in his birth, life, ministry, death, resurrection and ascension.

One of the beautiful aspects of being part of the Body of Christ is sharing in, learning from and appreciating human diversity. As an intergenerational community, we benefit from rejoicing in the delight of children, listening to the wisdom gleaned across long lives, and being there for one another in good times and in bad, across our lives.

This coming week, as we mark NAIDOC Week, we have an opportunity to be enriched by the oldest living continuous culture. NAIDOC Week was originally founded in churches as an opportunity for God’s people to be committed to prayer, work for justice, and model friendship and understanding between people of many cultures and backgrounds. There are a number of similarities between some Aboriginal cultural practices and biblical teachings, including showing respect and care for elders, stewarding the natural environment well and living in loving communities characterised by kindness and generosity. Aboriginal Christian leaders have worked in ministry, amongst their communities and alongside non-Aboriginal people, to lend a hand to those in need, proclaim the gospel of Christ’s hope and work towards an Australian society and global political landscape which promotes peace and justice for all.

While the church has unfortunately contributed to acts of violence and harm against First Nations people, many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a strong faith in Christ and seek hope and strength from God. For Second Peoples, who have been born in Australia to non-Indigenous families, or immigrated or sought refuge in this country, may we be encouraged by their example, and the love of Jesus, to seek, pursue and experience flourishing alongside all people and all creation.

Blessings. - Pastor Abbey