Remembering the Reformation

Today is October 31. I am saddened to see the increasing involvement that Australians now have in Halloween celebrations. The supermarkets and department stores have huge displays selling lollies and creepy accessories. I would not be surprised to see trick-or-treaters at my door this evening. But I hope not. I see this shift towards Halloween, not so much as a shift towards Americanism, but towards hedonism. Australia embraces Halloween with all the enthusiasm of Christmas, Grand Final Day, Easter...and all the other excuses for spending money and indulging in excess food.

Today is October 31. It is also Reformation Day; the day many Reformed people around the world remember God's wonderful work in the 16th century. Today, if you were to come to my door, I would not give you lollies. I would give you something far sweeter, the five solae that rang out so strongly in the 16th century. I pray that they can ring out again through the world today:

Sola Scriptura - the Bible is the only inspired and authorative word of God.
Sola Fide - we are saved by faith alone, not good works.
Sola Gratia - this salvation comes only by the grace of God.
Sola Christus - Christ is the only mediator between God and man; there is no salvation without Him.
Soli Deo Gloria - the glory goes to God and to God alone.

A Way with Words

I have been reading the text of Arlindo Marcal's wonderful new children's book, 'Istória kona-ba José Mehidór', and attempting an English translation. I cannot pretend that my Tetun is good enough for me to serious believe that I could translate this myself into English. But I do know that the Lord I serve can give understanding to anyone he chooses - even me. I feel - or rather, I know- that this work is for Him and He is blessing it.

My previous books have been picture books, aimed at early readers, with full colour pages. Pastor Marcal's book will be different. It is an early chapter book, for slightly more confident readers. It focuses on aspects of the story of Joseph, highlighting God's Providence and Joseph's trust in Him. We pray that it will help these young people to ponder their relationship with God and to understand that 'all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose'. Romans 8:28.

We ask that you remember this project in your prayers. If you would like to assist financially or pre-order a copy of the book, please let us know at: grasa DOT mesak AT gmail DOT com (replacing 'AT' with '@' and 'DOT' with '.')