A message from Jeremy Rensford, Chair of Greater Shepparton Ministers’ Association
The Christian life is far from an easy one. Jesus wasn’t vague when explaining this; “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” It may leave some people of the faith wondering what’s the point if it’s all going to be too hard? Well to the faithful on this earth, a promise, noted in the bible, awaits them – and that is an eternal reward, the likes of which we’ve never seen on this side of eternity; “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things, enter into the joy of your Lord”.
Speaking of faithfulness, I’d like to highlight local clergyman, Father Joe Taylor spending his last month in full-time priesthood, retiring in a few short days from now (sadly for him, he won’t be celebrating a Carlton Premiership at the same time!). Joe is a member of our combined churches ministers group and is known to our local community as a man who has served us for many years. What I note the most, is, like Jesus, he’s lived a life that has served people, often to his own detriment, in order that others can gain and win. You get pretty good at this after 52 years of practicing it!
We need as many people like this in our towns as we all are tempted to just live for ourselves. Joe, we honour you, as a living example of doing life the Jesus way – you’ll be missed, and remember, you’ll always have a seat at our combined churches ministers’ breakfasts.
God bless you and the beautiful community you’ve tirelessly served all these years.
