Craig's Corner

Another year has flown by!

My reflection for this year revolves undoubtedly around gratitude. “Thank you” is such a flippant word - something we say when receiving a gift or are paid a compliment. The Lord gives abundantly every second of our existence on this planet, (which we can’t really comprehend) but I have become more aware that Jesus’ greatest gift to us is people.

It’s primarily our families, but I am touched and moved, sometimes to tears, every time I think about the wonderful FfF family that the Lord by His sovereign grace, (not by accident) has brought together.

Yes, we are individuals, with unique gifts and stark differences, but the Lordship of Jesus unites us with focus and direction “as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth.” Ephesians 1v10

So, when I pray and mediate on all who serve at FfF – Different personalities, each Stewardship centre with its own flavour, nuances, teaching techniques, I am constantly reminded that there is no one person, trainer, training station, stewardship centre more important than the other. We are simply different parts of the same body – we are all flowing in the same direction – Towards Jesus!

There are no favourites, it is not a competition…. “After all, who is Apollos? Who is Paul? We are only God’s servants through whom you believed the Good News. Each of us did the work the Lord gave us. I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. And both will be rewarded for their own hard work. For we are both God’s workers. And you are God’s field. You are God’s building. Which brings us to our foundational scripture… Because of God’s grace to me, I have laid the foundation like an expert builder. Now others are building on it. But whoever is building on this foundation must be very careful. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have—Jesus Christ. (1 Cor 3 5-11)

Yes, Brian and Cath were used by God to birth a movement, but it is up to every one of us to honour their obedience and sacrifice by being grateful for one another, humbling ourselves to exalt only Him. “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will exalt you.” James 4v10

I wish to honour every team member, every partnering organisation, every prayer warrior, and every FfF supporter – You are so valued. Thank you!

Wishing you a blessed Christmas in Him with your family.