The latest issue of *De Wekker* focuses on truth, black-and-white thinking and taking a stand. Truth is also the first virtue to be discussed in the new series of the column Wordwork. The virtues mentioned in Philippians 4 are discussed in turn.
Rev. (Emeritus) Visser writes in the Meditation On the phrase ‘Salvation comes from the Jews’ in John 4:22b. What does Jesus mean by this? A.G. Dobbe-Bakker raises the issue of ‘zero-sum thinking’: our difficulty in accepting that another person’s gain comes at our own expense. God teaches us a different way.
At Pastoral Rev. C.J. Droger answers a question from a man who no longer feels a bond of love with his wife. “Wouldn’t it be better if we went our separate ways?” he wonders. Rev. Droger offers him some practical advice. Cees van Breugel also demonstrates that it is never too late for God. He shares his experiences with an elderly resident in a care home. It becomes clear that the Holy Spirit is at work right through dementia.
Sixteen-year-old Louise also bears witness to God’s work. “Even in difficult situations, I can find something to be grateful for,” she says.
De Wekker also contains the minutes of the meeting of the Groningen Classis held on 6 October. The Classis discussed the establishment and current situation of the new congregation in Groningen. In the coming period, the local church council intends to work with the congregation to find a new name for the church. The congregation has called Rev. W.C. van Slooten to serve as their minister. Following a request from the CGK Groningen for a brother to deliver an edifying message, the classis decided to schedule an examination for this purpose. Due to a change in ministers, a ‘classis contracta’ meeting is also being scheduled. Sister Draijer is stepping down from her role as executive clerk of the classis.
In addition, this issue contains a report on the General Synod in Hoogeveen and an invitation to the symposium Parenting in an uncertain world and information about the Early Church Week.
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De Wekker is the official national magazine of the Christian Reformed Churches, with articles on church, faith and the world.
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