Abraham Kuyper, the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, once famously said, “There is not a square inch in the whole domain of our human existence over which Christ, who is Sovereign over all, does not cry: ‘Mine!'” Kuyper wasn’t employing a flourish of rhetorical exaggeration common for politicians (and some pastors). He was distilling the implications of the Bible’s teaching about Jesus. The Apostle Paul said of Jesus, “all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together” (Col. 1:16-17).
Kuyper’s statement can make us uncomfortable. We’re used to claiming ownership and credit for things for ourselves. We live in a meritocracy where we receive what we work hard for. However, Jesus’ sovereignty isn’t a constraint on us. Instead, it’s wonderfully liberating. Living under Jesus’ rule is what we’ve been created and redeemed for. In an insecure world, we find true and lasting security in him. Therefore, we joyfully and gratefully seek to live for him in every part of our lives.
Jesus’ lordship is a truth that we especially celebrate this year during St Andrew’s 120th anniversary. We look back on God’s wonderful provision for our church over so many years, giving thanks for all the ways in which he’s built this community of faith in Jesus. And we look forward to the years to come with a renewed resolve to continue serving Jesus.
an opportunity for prayer, proclamation, and praise
What does this resolve look like? Summed up briefly, it’s an opportunity for prayer, proclamation, and praise. Pray for those in your life who don’t yet know Jesus (a suggestion: pray for two people for two minutes every day, and see what the Lord does). Proclaim Jesus through word and deed to family, friends, and colleagues. And live a life of praise to Jesus, seeking to serve him with your time, talents, and treasures.
We’ll speak more specifically about our anniversary in the coming months, including celebrations on the weekend of 25-26 April, and an opportunity to provide for a thanksgiving gift towards much needed renovations.
This Sunday, we’ll have a finance update following the Council’s recent approval of the church budget. We give thanks for God’s provision through his people last year. Whilst income was below that which was budgeted, we’re grateful for a small budget surplus in 2025 due to less than forecast expenses. In 2026, we’re seeking similar to budgeted income in our general fund from last year, so that we can plan prudently for capital expenses in the coming year.
How can you respond? As always, we covet your prayers for God’s provision and the wise stewardship of our resources. We also invite everyone who calls St Andrew’s their spiritual home to give regularly (monthly) via direct debit to the ministry of the church. If you’re already involved, please prayerfully consider increasing your giving. There are more details on how to give on the church website. Finally, give thanks to God, remembering that everything is from Jesus and is for Jesus.
