On the day of Pentecost, “all of them were filled with Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability. “Acts, 1: 4. Sometimes, we need a catalyst to prompt us into action and for the Apostles that gave them the courage and the gift of languages to boldly proclaim Christ’s mission. Pope Francis declares, the spirit frees hearts chained by fear and opens hearts that are closed. How often do I hold back from the challenges that arise daily in my relationships with others because I am uncertain of how people may react.? If the apostles held back because they felt they weren’t ready maybe 2000 years later we wouldn’t have known about Jesus. For me I wonder what other reasons suppress my desire to act freely in how I live my life?

So, the first obstacle I face is determining when to listen and when to speak. The lack of clarity that goes through my head leads me to be unsure of how I want to express myself in certain situations. However, Pope Francis,” impels us not to be comfortable but to drive to new directions making the lukewarm thrill to new dreams. That is what it means to change hearts.” (Crux taking the Catholic Pulse) In other words never die wondering about what is possible.

The second barrier is busyness. How often do I hide behind I have a lot on, to I just need to finish this off, that prevents me from taking the opportunities that may be available to me? Perhaps I am resistant to change and I like to be surrounded by circumstances that I at least I have some power in directing the outcome. I feel it is when I lose control of the situation and am reliant on other factors that doubt creeps in. Thus, my reluctance to make a decision results in me making no decision on all.

The final hurdle is having a decision thrust upon you.  In other words, having to make an assessment with no time to think it through. In these cases, I have to trust my own judgement hoping that the course of action I have taken achieves a positive outcome.  At least I see the results of my determination evolving in front of me.

Jesus has demonstrated that through his death and resurrection we don’t always have to benefit from the choices we make however, it is not inconceivable that other people might be the beneficiaries. So, when seeking clarity, possibly the answer is just make a decision no matter the cost.

*GOT Spoiler Alert

Luke 22:47-48 Judas, one of the Twelve, was leading them. He approached Jesus to kiss him,but Jesus asked him, “Judas, are you betraying the Son of Man with a kiss?

In the series Game of Thrones, Ned Stark, like Jesus sacrifices his life while trying to achieve the greater good for the people of the seven kingdoms.  What instigated the demise of Ned was that he had too much faith in the people he trusted, Lord Varys and Lord Baelish which contributed to his downfall. Similarly, for Jesus it was one of the chosen twelve, Judas that assisted in the Pharisees quest to have Jesus sentenced to death. So, what were the motives that led to the betrayal?

I would argue in Varys and Lord Baelish’s case it was to strengthen their own power so their influence on the decision-making process of the political and economic policies in the seven kingdoms would lead to their preferred outcome. Contrastingly, for Judas he perceived that the goal of Jesus’s mission conflicted with his own purposes which led to his betrayal. The question is did Judas, Varys and Lord Baelish’s actions enable them to achieve their own objectives? However, ultimately, they were destroyed by the leaders who they went to for their betrayals.

‘For wicked men are found among My people, They, watch like hunters lying in wait; They set a trap, They, catch men.  Jeremiah 5:26

I sometimes wonder if people walk into a situation that may contain many pitfalls, i.e. high risk, high rewards. For Jesus it was going to Jerusalem knowing that the hierarchy of the Jewish faith and the Roman rulers perceived that he was threat to their own power, while the crowd saw Jesus as the one who could overthrow the power base. However, in this instance, Jesus was writing his own narrative where he would challenge the Jewish and Roman Leaders on how their rule differed from his own mission which was to proclaim God’s Kingdom. Additionally, the crowd turned on him when it became abundantly clear that his life’s end goal was not to overthrow the Jewish and Roman rulers but to sacrifice his life so that everyone would have the opportunity to gain eternal life.

Conversely, with Rob Stark who hears of death of his father, Ned and immediately assembles the Northern armies to oppose the rulers and the armies who ordered Ned’s death.  Instantaneously, Rob Stark is enacting force creating a conflict between selfish ambition and what he perceives to be for the Greater Good.  The Northern Armies massage his ego with cries of “King of North”, and encourage his actions to achieve their goals. Nevertheless, one of the Commanders of the army, Rob Bolton, defected to the enemy and was promised the position of Warden of the North. It culminated in what the Stark’s believed to be a Wedding Celebration that would result in a strong alliance with the Frey’s instead it was a trap that resulted in the death of Rob Stark and his mother. Hence, Rob Stark’s narrative of becoming King of North was reliant on the allegiance of the Commanders of the North endorsing him as leader and in Rob Bolton’s case that loyalty could be brought for him to defect to the enemy to enhance his own power and position. Thus, Rob Bolton by setting the trap demonstrated his lust for power hardly a template for future job security.

“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners
and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.”

 Jesus’ unconditional love for the marginalised sets him apart from other leaders as he was all about inspiring them to change their lives which in turn saw them in many cases go on to change other peoples’ lives, e.g. Zacchaeus who vowed to give half his possessions to the poor and pay back 4 times the amount to those who he cheated in tax payments. Therefore, for Jesus it was about empowering people to change through his teachings, miracles and his ability to exhibit his love for people that he hoped would inspire them not only to change heir own circumstances but for others as well. Hence, creating a better world.

Contrastingly, with Jon Snow, who has the story reaches its conclusion wants what is best for the Seven Kingdoms not what is best for Jon Snow. He is a person who is loved by the people and his peers but is reluctant to be King not because of the responsibility but it is role that others would not stop at any lengths to dethrone him. I believe that Jon doesn’t want to be preoccupied with making decisions about maintaining his own power but rather how can we best feed and clothe the people of the Seven Kingdoms just not for the present but for the future.

Hence, Jon Snow wants to leave a legacy that can be read about in books for thousands of years to come. Just like Jesus whose gospel teachings have continued throughout Christian Churches. However, for Jon the question is what sacrifices will he have to make for this to happen?

 In Proverbs 31:10 “A Mother of noble character who is worth far more than rubies.”When I reflect about who my mother is, I think this verse about my mum is very apt. She would always put others before herself both at home and in her workplace. Her behaviour was always beyond reproach never ever getting flustered by any challenges she faced but always patient and tolerant in how she dealt with the issue. Furthermore, was how she was held in such high esteem by her work colleagues who always praised her work ethic as well as positive relationships with all members of staff.

 “She provides for her family from her earnings she considers what she buys.” 7 She sets about her work vigorously; her arms are strong for her tasks. Proverbs 31:16 & 17.My mum always spent on my sisters and I before she spent money on herself. We were fashionably clothed and went to private schools which gave us the best opportunity for our future careers. Her meals were appetising and when she didn’t cook, we were lucky enough to enjoy takeaway. She always amazed me how she could work full time, cook a meal, nurse us when we were sick and get all the housework done. What it showed to me was her great discipline and selflessness as she had very little time to pursue her interests.

She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue.Proverbs 31:16 & 17. My mum has a quiet but strong nature, where nothing ever phases her which meant when she speaks, I listen. Her favourite sayings are “a still tongue is a wise ahead” and “don’t walk into situations like a bull at a gate.” They have been two edicts that I have I have tried to live by throughout my life. She introduced me to British comedy and her laughter would echo around the lounge room when she was watching one of her favourite shows. It was so infectious that I would sit down and watch them with her. Occasionally, I reminisce and view the odd episode or two of her favourite series.

 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. Proverbs 31:30 The most striking feature about my Mum today is her unwavering faith. She prays and reads her bible everyday with the knowledge that she is loved by God, her family and friends. Always fairly reluctant to talk about herself I love how she is now sharing stories with me about growing up in the South Australian Country town of Jamestown, riding a horse called Jack and playing with a black Kelpie called Nigel. Later on, when she met Dad, she would ride on the back of his motor bike I would have liked to have seen that. I really look forward to reading her memoirs and finding out things that I didn’t know about her before. To me mum will always be a miracle in her lifetime.

Jesus said, “For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted. Luke 18: 14

This scripture I relate to when I was coaching soccer teams centred on having a game plan that utilised every players skills and talents so my team could achieve at the optimal level. Furthermore, like Jesus with his discipleship of missionaries, the team I assembled was comprised of varying abilities and backgrounds which meant for both Jesus and me crafting a role for everyone that will produce the best outcome to achieve our goals.  Additionally, the disciples were vehement about Jesus’ mission as my team were passionate about the game. The question is how did the disciples and my team maintain their commitment to the game plan?

Firstly, I believe a great game plan allows everyone to play a role in carrying out Jesus’ ministry?   Jesus aimed to instil a belief in the disciples that they could contribute to Jesus’ mission. Sure, it was hard to continually uphold what Jesus was asking them to do through his teachings has it may have challenged their own set of values and beliefs however, they could see that what Jesus was imploring all people to do would create a more compassionate and just society. This was evident through his own personal witness, his empathy for the marginalised and his healing of the afflicted. Therefore, the teachings and miracles inspired the disciples to say I want to make a difference in the world. While for me, has coach it is finding the best fit for each player in my team. Furthermore, imparting them with the skills and opportunities to showcase their ability and how they will provide value to the team.  If I can achieve that I am setting up my players to be team orientated which will give my team the utmost opportunity to achieve success.  Thus, Jesus and myself through our different styles of learning want people to have a mindset that seizes the prospect to change the status quo with a focus on team rather than self.

Secondly, the game plan needs everyone engaged in the process. Jesus through his teachings and miracles provided the template for the mission the disciples had to continue after Jesus’ death. However, there were times when his apostles were challenged by the responsibility of discipleship. For example, Peter’s denial of Jesus three times. Matthew 26:69-75 In this case Peter’s faith was tested under the fear of suffering the same fate of Jesus so self-preservation prevailed. Nevertheless, later Peter was able to pledge his love for Jesus three times as he was commissioned to take leadership of his mission. I believe this demonstrated Jesus’s willingness to forgive and allowed Peter to understand and take ownership of his failings which empowered him to be a great leader of the Christian faith. Similarly, as a Coach it is trusting that each player, I send to deliver my game plan will sacrifice their own game for team success. Sometimes, players can put their own selfish interests above the team’s goals. For example, it might be that they are not happy with the position they have been selected in or when they could pass the ball they choose to shoot instead. It is important to realise that every player reflects both on their achievements as well as their mistakes and for those players they become better players in the future. Additionally, for Jesus and myself it is about not only having disciples and players but producing leaders who don’t seek personal glory.

Finally, when devising a game plan there needs to be expectations. For example, when Jesus sent the disciples out in pairs to every town, he requested them to go without purse, bag or sandals. Luke: 10-1-12 Hence, he was trusting them to fulfil the game plan and overcome the obstacles placed in their way. The fact that they returned home with joy, Luke 10-17, acknowledges they relished their assignment and demonstrated their agency in continuing Jesus’ mission.Conversely, as a coach I have thought as long as they play their role, showcase their skills and take a few risks without fear of making a mistake they will be able to have fun. Consequently, I believe with the proper sustainable structure in place it creates an atmosphere where both the disciples in pairs and players in the team will feel they were supported in their endeavours no matter the end result. At the end of the day a humble person and humble teams accomplishments are a powerful witness of Jesus’s life and my coaching prowess, acknowledging the many gifts the disciples and my team’s players had been  given  by God in their lives.

In John 5:30 – “By myself I can do nothing; I judge only as I hear, and my judgment is just, for I seek not to please myself but him who sent me.” What I gain from this scripture verse when I read it is that all decisions that I make should not be influenced by what is best for me but for both parties. The question is what guides me in my decision-making process? The bottom line being does it please the one who sent me.

The first point in my decision-making process is not to be emotional. For example, in Jesus’ first miracle changing the water into wine, Jesus was reluctant to perform the task requested my Mary, his mother when she anticipated that the wedding banquet was running out of wine for the guests. However, Jesus put aside his own unwillingness by providing 10 more barrels of wine for the reception. Therefore, this example, reminds me of always trying to focus on what I believe to be is the right thing to do in any situation. If I allow my feelings to get in the way then it would cloud my judgement and impede my ability to reach a successful outcome for all.

The second point is reserve judgement as relationships are always are evolving. For example, “Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem”, John 12: 12-19 suddenly becomes “The Crucifixion of Jesus”, John 19:17-30”, in the matter of a week. I still find it hard to comprehend how Jesus can go from being lauded has a King to being tried and convicted as a criminal in a week. When I reflect on these two events, I compare to the interaction of the continual relationships I have daily in my own life.  The key I believe is the way people react to an event. In Jesus’ case the significant verses that underlined Jesus ’anointing as King were that crowd had seen Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead and told other people of his miracle powers hence the glorification. John,19:17-19. Thus, was Jesus’ deification based on him continuing to go throughout life performing miracles or the values that he espoused through his teachings? Like the crowd’s reaction to Jesus as he was entering Jerusalem how many times are our relationships formed by how people interact with us that lays the foundation for an ongoing relationship? Do I just reflect on how many times my relationship with other people is formulated by how people are acting towards me in the present? However, I should think about how people have acted towards me previously and will in the future.

The third point is often a hasty  judgement  can lead to dire consequences  such as Jesus being sentenced to death? Is it because the people who feted him as he entered Jerusalem thought he was the solution to all their problems and when he didn’t provide them with the outcomes, they wanted they became frustrated and angry? Perhaps I need to question if that is my first reaction when people’s words and actions aren’t what I hoped for? I believe it is important to refrain from a snap judgement and arrive at a conclusion before you are across all the facts. Sometimes such a supposition can make me look foolish and regret my part in what has occurred. For example, like Pilate when he washed his hands after sentencing Jesus to death failed to realise his part in Christian history for his adjudication. Matthew 27-24. How often to I fail to realise the impact on others because of my words and actions in the heat of the moment.

The final point is that you have to trust your judgement. This is illustrated, when Pilate asks Jesus, “What have you done? “Jesus replies, “My kingdom is not from this world if it was my followers would be fighting to keep me from being handed over to the Jews.” John, 18:35-37. Jesus’ judgement was that his focus was carrying out his Father’s will for the greater good and to act beyond self. I believe that when I experience challenges, I need to have the faith that my response, firstly, is for a positive outcome for others and maybe not in three days as it was for Jesus through his resurrection but eventually there is a learning experience for me. So, ultimately, when I am faced with a dilemma, I need to realise that not everything is irretrievable but sometimes there are road blocks along the way that prevent a quick solution. More importantly, that on the journey is that I understand that my words and actions have hopefully resulted in assisting others in their lives.

In Mark 10:27, Jesus states, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for God, for God all things are possible.” So how does God make things possible?
I often think when I am in a challenging situation where seemingly is not a quick fix I pray even more earnestly to God for a possible solution. However, I find that solution is more of a process.

Step one of the process is that I know that the final solution will not be the result that I originally sought. After all I seek to do God’s will not mine. So, bearing that in mind, I need to come to a satisfactory outcome that requires a change in how I approach the issue. Therefore, I need to analyse all the factors that are contributing to the problem and just not from my point of view.

Step two, God is asking me to take into account how the other parties are reacting to the dispute and are they interested in changing their position in dealing with the matter. Furthermore, I must differentiate my perceptions from their actual words and actions.

Step three, I think sometimes God provides a solution where things just take care of themselves. This means if I continue to pray for answers, act in a conciliatory manner towards other parties and allow the issues to take their natural course things do improve. Why? because as a mere mortal I don’t focus on the issue negatively but instead look at the possibilities with the view that God makes all things possible.

In Monday’s Gospel this week, “some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, “Teacher, we want to see a sign from you.” Matthew 12:38. Why did they want a sign? I would argue whatever sign Jesus chose to display would that have been sufficient to acknowledge that he was God’s son?

 Secondly, why did Jesus need to yield to their demands?  It would seem to me the Pharisees and teachers of the law were treating Jesus like a magician wanting him to deliver a bag of tricks. However, that was not Jesus’ purpose to make people believe because of the miracles he performed but through the proclamation of the Gospel message that encourages everyone to be selfless in their words and actions.

Finally, why should you have to second guess yourself. I believe when try to please others you start to compromise yourself and fail to fulfil what you have set out to achieve. I am inspired by Jesus that he refused to entertain the Pharisees and teachers of the law and focussed on achieving his end goal. That was extolling the Good News and dying and rising again so that have everyone has the opportunity for eternal life. Jesus’ selfless act and commitment to his mission has changed many lives since, including mine.

In John 2:1-11, The Wedding at Cana, Mary tells Jesus they have no wine left at the Wedding. Jesus replies, “What concern is that to me my hour has not come yet?” However, Mary ignores the comment and instructs the servants to, “Do whatever he tells you.” So, Jesus asks them to fill six stone jars with water and through the power of the Holy Spirit it turns into the best tasting wine at the Wedding.

 For me Jesus’s unwillingness to change the water into wine is like the young sportsperson doubting their belief to successfully achieve their full potential. Mary according to the scripture just told the servants to do what Jesus told them. There was no time for contemplating the situation. Similarly, the coach of the young sportsperson asks them to perform to the best of their ability that enables the team to win. The bottom line was that both Mary and the Coach had the belief that Jesus and the young sportsperson would be successful.

 Secondly, what is going through the mind of Jesus’ and the young sportsperson has they are presenting for the first time under the public eye? Maybe, like Jesus the player is reluctant to take on the task the coach has asked for, however when the realisation kicks in that it is best for the team, they both attempt to fulfil their assignments to the best of their ability. When they have successfully achieved what they have been asked to do they experience elation about contributing to the team and the end result.

 Finally, Jesus and the young person by carrying out what they have been asked to do show they are team players who will do what is best for others rather than thinking of themselves. So, now people have witnessed Jesus’ first miracle and the young sportsperson’s first game now how do they deal with the scrutiny to go on to achieve their ultimate goals? That is Jesus doing God’s will and the young sportsperson having a successful career. Additionally, I would argue that would be always putting others before themselves and empowering them to utilise their talents to serve in a similar capacity. That is what I would call sticking to the game plan.

In Luke 3:3 John the Baptist proclaims what I believe to be an important Christmas message that of hope and forgiveness. As family members celebrate with one another all over the world whatever differences they may have they need to be put aside so everyone can celebrate this great day. So, what must be done to prepare?

John goes on to say “Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.” Luke, 3:4. I would consider when facing an encounter of needing to interact with people who challenge you the last thing that should occupy my mind is another possible conflict. I think if I go on with the mindset there are going to be issues then I miss out on the opportunity to positively engage not only in the celebration but with the people who make the occasion enjoyable. Thus, the first part of my Christmas preparation is having an affirmative mindset.

“And the crooked shall be made straight and the rough ways made smooth.” Luke 3:5 Therefore, what do I bring to the table when I arrive at the celebration? It is not only the delicious food and worthwhile presents I bring that enhance the atmosphere but also the welcome greeting, listening and engaging in the conversation and the final goodbye. Hence, make each person feel like they are part of the celebration.

“And all people will see God’s salvation.” Luke 3:6. That Jesus’ birth is celebrated by people all over the world and is underpinned by a message of hope and forgiveness. So, I reflect on those words when I celebrate Christmas with my family. Thus, realising Christmas is more than just the food and presents it is the meaning that we should aspire today everyday of our lives.

In Luke, 18:35-43 we have the story of the Blind Beggar who despite being asked by the crowd to be quiet persists in calling out to Jesus to ask for mercy.

“Son of David have mercy on me.” Luke, 18:39.

The inspiration I gain from the narrative of “Jesus heals a Blind Beggar near Jericho” is not only the courage and persistence of the blind beggar to ask for a healing but also Jesus despite his busyness displayed a willingness to help.

So, how does the blind beggar motivate me in my life? Well he seizes the opportunity. I wonder how many times in my life have I regretted not taking the opportunities I have been offered. When I think back, I hid behind the excuses of it wasn’t for me, not the right time or just I am happy at the moment. God is asking us to be courageous people not risk aversive.

Such a person was Jesus. Now Jesus could have ignored the voice and went on his way but instead he wanted to know who was crying out to him. Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” To which the blind beggar asks, “Lord let me see you again.” Luke, 18:42. Immediately, Jesus responds, “Receive your sight your faith has saved you.” Luke, 18:43. Therefore, Jesus saw a need and acted upon it because he had the capacity to help. Thus, Jesus challenges me not to walk past situations but to lend assistance wherever possible.

Ultimately, I continue Christ’s mission giving of my time and energy to assist others in their lives. Furthermore, to act when offered the chance  and to give guidance to others when I can. Maybe in those situations I am actually stirring the faith of others and bringing them closer to God.