RICHMOND CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

Last night I found myself watching the Matildas playing Brazil in an international soccer friendly at Suncorp Stadium.

It was an amazing game to watch. There was skill, finesse, joy, a whole lot of lying down (as is sometimes the case in this game ). However, some commentators described the game as a ‘brutal affair’. It was one of the toughest soccer matches I had ever seen, regardless of gender.

As I was watching it was clear that the players were loving playing. They were enjoying the game, all of it apart from the brutality of the contact that was un-sports-woman-like. Whilst it was also clear that this probably wasn't how the game was designed to be played, it was how it was being played.

For the players, to play the game they loved though, they had to endure the unfair parts, the less than comfortable parts, the difficult opposition, the unfair calls, the pain... I think you get my point.

It was also interesting to read that some of the Matilda players, some very high profile, elite players, had withdrawn from the upcoming four international friendlies citing a variety of reasons. However, Caitlin Foord, a long serving Matilda and elite attacking player, acknowledged that whilst it was going to be a very busy and difficult time, this is what they had worked so hard to achieve; the opportunity to play women's international football in front of tens-of-thousands of Aussies.

I'm not sure if it's just me, but towards the end of the year it feels like this football match is the perfect metaphor for sometimes how life goes? To enjoy the benefits of the less than comfortable parts, the difficult people, the unfair calls, the pain... (I think you get my point) we have to keep playing!

In John 10, Jesus outlines that one of his many reasons for coming to walk the earth is to enable us to have an abundant life. However, 6 chapters later, at the conclusion of some teaching on how to live with him and walk in this abundance, he finishes with the most honest and true backhanded encouragements of all: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).

With Him, we can have peace. Even though it will be hard, we can still choose courage, take heart, and enjoy what we have been given.

It's interesting that when assessing the current ‘state of the game’ Jesus’ conclusion is not don't play, complain, blame others, become bitter, it’s the ref’s fault (you get my point…). Rather, we are encouraged to take heart, grab courage, receive the help and peace that God has won for us and enjoy playing the game he has given us to play…

So, as we draw to the end of yet another year and we become more aware of the bumps and the bruises, the unfair pushes in the back, the bad calls (you get my point…) it is my prayer that we can be encouraged by God and by one another to take heart, be of good cheer and recognise that there's a whole lot of good to our ‘game’ that should be celebrated because we've worked so hard to get here. 

Good Tidings,

Jonno

LAST DAY TERM 4 - THURSDAY 12 DECEMBER 2024

K-12 FIRST DAY OF TERM 1 2025 

Monday 3 February 2025

PRE-KINDY FIRST DAY OF TERM 1 2025

Wednesday 5 February 2025

Grace is a 26 y/o local performing musician and songwriter with over 7 years of tutoring experience across a wide range of genres, abilities and demographics. She has 2 years of experience working as a support for NDIS and has used music as a support and learning tool for children with disabilities. She holds a Bachelor of Music (JMC Academy Sydney 2017) and tutors vocals (all levels), guitar (electric, acoustic, beginner-intermediate), ukulele and keys (beginner). Additionally, Grace has completed a graduate diploma in Gestalt Psychotherapy and is in her final year of her Master of Gestalt Psychotherapy (Gestalt Therapy Brisbane). She is incredibly passionate about pairing her knowledge of music with psychotherapy, where appropriate and wanted, to improve creative confidence and self-expression. She is available on Wednesdays 10am - 2.30pm for tutor sessions at School.  Please contact Grace on 0435 129 675 for more details.

Music with Ben... At School Music Tuition is available with Ben for all levels of guitar (acoustic and electric). Music theory, songwriting and music appreciation is built into lessons. Ben also incorporates singing into lessons for students who also want to sing. Ben has a Bachelor of Music Composition & Production and has played and been involved with music for many years. He is keen to have fun and work with students who love music expression and can be diligent with their practice. Lessons available on Tuesdays at Richmond Christian College during school hours. Please make enquiries with Ben at benjaminwhitwood@gmail.com.

Sonya Lopes has been a professional musician since 2001 with vast experience around the world.

Sonya is a multi-instrumental music teacher, freelance musician and conductor.  She has conducted the Lismore Symphony Orchestra for 7 seasons over the past 10 years and has also enjoyed playing in worship at a number of churches over the past 15 years.  She is excited to foster an interest in instrumental music at Richmond Christian College and is offering lessons on Trumpet, Trombone and Flute.  She is available on Mondays between 9 and 3 for private tuition.  She is willing to prepare students who wish to sit exams as well as developing students to play in the Chapel Band. 

Feel free to look at her website or email her with any questions regarding lessons.  (sonyalopes1978@gmail.com)

Racecourse Café provides a lunch canteen Monday to Friday.

Note: No Change will be given as orders go straight to the Racecourse Café.  Also, if you make payment over the phone, Racecourse Café will charge an extra 50c.