Pastor Deric's Blog

Screensavers!

Posted on Jan 14, 2021 in Pastor Deric's Blog |

Most people know what a screensaver is meant to do on a computer screen. A screensaver displays default images at pre-set intervals when a computer is “resting.” It’s a security feature so that when the owner of a computer steps away a default image replaces your focused work screen.

Your mind has a screensaver too. Your brain displays basic images that have been installed in the mind over the course of your life, especially the thoughts and emotions that were imprinted on your brain during early childhood. I would call your brain’s screensaver the mind-set or attitude that displays the images of how you view yourself. It has great influence over how you live your life. Just like your computer screensaver, you can change the images that are stored in your brain, or more precisely you can re-write their ongoing effect in your daily life.

One of my favourite screensavers during the pandemic is one of my grandson Henry. I love it because it’s one of my grandkids (no surprise there!). I love it because it makes me laugh every time I see it. I love it because it resets the screensaver of my mind. It reminds me to change the “images” I’m looking at all day. It says, “don’t forget to take time to laugh.” Silliness is a little boy’s superpower.

We all have to change the screensaver in our brain, or the pressure of the pandemic will wear us out. In our latest elders meeting Ric exhorted us to practice a mind “reset” regularly or the negative rhetoric all around us will get us down. His reflection was based on Lamentations Chapter 3. Jeremiah has been expressing his emotional and spiritual distress until he comes to verse 21 where he says, “but this I call to mind.” That is Jeremiah’s way of saying that he changed the screensaver of his mind. He deliberately changed his outlook and mindset which altered his attitude. And the image he captures is a deeply loved passage of Scripture.

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases: His mercies never come to an end:

They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.

The LORD is my portion, therefore, I will hope in Him.”

Make these words the default screensaver in your mind and you will find yourself filled with hope and strength from the Lord. Call these words to mind every day and you will soon find yourself rising above all the chaos in our world.

Praying with you and for you church family,

Pastor Deric

Flight 2021

Posted on Jan 8, 2021 in Pastor Deric's Blog |

I was ready to post my blog for this week entitled – “making disciples in the pandemic” – just as I was catching up on my holiday emails. I knew as soon as I read this email that I had to share it with my church family. The faith and strength of our congregation is an example to me, and I want to share it with you. By permission of course. Thanks, Lorna, for a faith filled flight!

Welcome aboard FLIGHT 2021.

Ladies and Gentlemen, this is “Captain Emmanuel” (God with us)

Thank you for choosing SALVATION AIRLINE I assure you comfort during your flight as bestowed in John 3:16 and John 10:10b.

Please be reminded that we will land in 12 interesting sites during our flight, taking us to a total of 365 discovery days.

We shall be cruising at uncountable blessings per day and at millions of miles above the sorrow level.

The weather may be cloudy, but Grace is sufficient. There may be some turbulence, but Divine intervention is certain.

The Prince of Peace will speak, “Peace be still” to your storms.

The Angels are our Cabin Crew. They will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. You shall not lack anything good.

Our menu includes: shalom/peace, grace, mercy, love, favour, sound health, success and prosperity. Amazingly, they are all free, courtesy of Captain Emmanuel (Jesus).

Note that this is a “No weeping, No mourning flight!”

Please, fasten your prayer belt!

You and all the members of your family will land safely.

For more information about your safety on board, please refer to your Safety Manual on a Daily basis – The Bible.

For any questions you might have about your flight, The Holy Spirit will give you answers any time.

In Jesus, there shall be no losses! (John 17:9-19)

Should we lose the altitude under pressure, during the flight, reach up and pull down a prayer. Prayers will automatically be activated by faith. Once your faith is activated you can assist other passengers.

There will be NO baggage allowed on this flight! The Captain has cleared us for takeoff.

Destination Greatness.

Go In Peace, and with Blessings. Enjoy your flight!

Tracking with you with all our love and shalom,

The Martins