St Mark Church News

Dear All,

Please note the following 5 announcements and reminders:

1. Weekly Spiritual MessageSpiritual message of the week by Father Elijah:

Sometimes when we are dealing with authorities we tend to forget that God is the ultimate authority and remains in control. We may feel that our destiny is in the hands of human decision makers and this leads to worry and uncertainty. Jesus’ interaction with Pilate provides  some insight:

““Then Pilate said to Him, “Are You not speaking to me? Do You not know that I have power to crucify You, and power to release You?” Jesus answered, “You could have no power at all against Me unless it had been given you from above… John 19:10-11

The people who occupy positions of authority have this authority “from above”. God is the source of this authority and remains in control of it. He is the Pantocrator (ruler of all).

In the Proverbs we also read; “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, Like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes.” Proverbs 21:1

The authorities not only have their authority “from above” but God can turn their hearts “wherever He wishes”.

Are you waiting for an outcome? Do you feel helpless and that others control your destiny? Remember that we stand before the creator of the world Himself and approach Him “without fear, with boldness” as we pray in the annual fraction of the Divine Liturgy. If you stand before the creator with boldness, does it make sense that I fear one of his creatures? He is in control!

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.”

Proverbs 3:5-6

2. Parent Seminar – Sunday 2 July

Topic: Parenting different abilities, gifts and abilities

Speaker: Father Elijah

When: Sunday 2 July

Where: Arabic Church