Pastor’s Annual Report 2020-21
Revelation 1:4-6 Grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits who are before his throne, 5 and from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood 6 and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Dear brothers and sisters,
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the grace and faithfulness he has shown us throughout this season of uncertainty. In a world that has revealed how easily it can be shaken, it is reassuring to know our Father is in control and continues to work out all things for his glory and our good. May the knowledge of his faithfulness help us to remain steadfast in these days and may our eyes continually look forward to the return of our Saviour and King the Lord Jesus Christ, the only hope for the world.
I would like to thank God for all the brothers and sisters who, over the past 12 months, have blessed TBC by serving in the various ministries across our congregation. This last year has proved particularly challenging as ministries have had to unexpectedly stop/start and adjust, with minimal notice, in an ever-fluctuating situation. This has required additional energy and effort to negotiate, and so on behalf of the entire congregation I would like to say a big ‘thank you!’ to each and every one of you who have shown so much patience and understanding. May the Lord continue to give you a heart of love and zeal for him as you serve his beloved people.
Without doubt one of the highlights of the last 12 months was the IC congregational camp we were able to hold on the Sunshine Coast in late April/early May. Given the restrictions of the previous months, this was a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together, getting to know each other more while also being challenged by the word of God throughout the weekend. A word of thanks must go to the IC deacons for their efforts in helping to make this weekend possible, and a special thanks to Wilson Tam for coordinating the whole event. I am sure this will be a weekend that will live long in our memories. Praise the Lord.
Other highlights and happenings over the last year include: the baptisms of Terry and Chandler, new members welcomed, our sermon series on 1 Timothy, 2 Samuel, the gospel of Matthew (with a special focus on the Sermon on the Mount) and the book of Revelation, the community group gatherings, as well as our weekly meetings every Sunday morning. May the Lord continue to be gracious to us and grow us both in maturity and number as we follow him throughout all our days holding firmly to his word.
God willing, into the future we hope to see the establishment of an eldership team in our church as well as the beginnings of the construction of the manse redevelopment. May we continually seek God’s guidance and wisdom in these undertakings, and prayerfully ask for his grace to be upon us. For as Psalm 127:1 teaches us, “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labour in vain.”
God’s richest blessing brothers and sisters, and Lord willing, I look forward to continuing to serve our Saviour with you. To God be the glory both now and forevermore.
Rev. Dave Martin
Revelation 22:20-21 - He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.
