From the Editor

Dear Friends

What interesting days to be alive -– but then again, I'll
bet every generation has made that statement. I have been reading about 'Saint
Anthony' -– a man who lived around 250ad, who chose to be a hermit for
Christ. At certain times this 'hermit calling' has appeared quite attractive
to me...but then again, Anthony's life was characterised by self denial. I'm
working on it but it's not easy. He taught others about fasting, prayer, and
works of charity...he meant business and was prepared to die for his faith. He
shared a message that 'true religious folk' should withdraw from the world
-– abstaining from worldly pleasures (I can't imagine what worldly pleasures
you could abstain from in 205; but it's all relative I guess) -– including
marriage and having families. Amazingly, elements of such teaching continue to
re-emerge in modern day religious teaching. I have to admire the commitment of
many believers both historically and currently to live under very strict and
religious disciplines. I am determined to please God with my life -– much more
than ever before. The interesting part is, I must listen to what He is saying to
me...and what He is saying to me is 'for me'. It's so easy to follow what
everybody else is saying and doing! Easier still to tell others what you think
God wants for them! Must stay open and teachable, but obedient! -– and
therefore 'at peace'. What is God saying to you?

In this edition of Omega Times we are including a previously
published article "The effect of a lifestyle and our actions" by Marcus
Ardern -– it's thought provoking and worth a second reading. If you haven't
had the privilege of listening to Marcus Ardern teaching the Scriptures, can I
recommend you do! His teaching is very practical, edifying and full of
scripture. I've listened to many great bible teachers over the years, and
Marcus's teaching is truly like a breath of fresh air... A new series
of Marcus Ardern teaching has been released on video (advertised in this edition
of OT on page 10) called 'Life Lines' -– loaded with pearls of wisdom, and
practical tips for living life... I highly recommend the series - It's great!

Christian love as you pursue Christ Jesus -– the Alpha and
Omega.

Andrew Smith