In light of the appalling events in Christchurch, John looks at the various versions of the covenant between Abram and God where the people of God are blessed to be a blessing. But what happens when we simply want to be blessed, special, better than others? What happens when we forget about being a blessing? Christchurch happens.
To help us think about how we might respond, John explores Jesus' commitment to hope expressed in his determination for follow his call to Jerusalem. What did/does Jerusalem represent then and now? How does all this help us recognise “our true being which brims over into true words and deeds”? How are we determinedly committed to hope in light of Christchurch?
The notes for this sermon can be found here