Auckland Mountainside – Where Love Comes to Life
Where love comes to life
When was the last time that you experienced an outpouring of love?
As visitors to Auckland for meetings Pastor Phil and I became aware that the Chinese Speaking congregation of Mountainside Lutheran Church would be gathering for worship on the Saturday afternoon. This was an opportunity for us to not only meet and worship with the group, but also to be an encouragement to Felix Tong.
Upon arrival at the church we had to make our way past young children engaged in the Twister game in the foyer and then others in a variety of other games. Church is about coming together as family and this was immediately very evident.
Little did we know, that the Gospel reading for the day and which would be the base for the message, was John 12:1-11. What does this text talk of? – Mary’s ‘illogical love’ of Jesus, expressed in her pouring the expensive perfume on Jesus’ feet and then wiping his feet with her hair.
During the message and then again at the end of the service there were discussion questions posed. Small groups were formed for the questions considered.
Given that the service was all in Cantonese this presented somewhat of a challenge for us. Thankfully Felix had provided, prior to the commencement of the service, copy of the message in English form. This was of great assistance. These times of discussion created a bonding of new people with the regular attenders.
Although only a relatively small congregation, people willingly use their God given gifts on a roster basis playing the piano, singing and Bible reading. Following the worship there was a time of fellowship.
The love that was outpoured by them to us was very much reflective of the act of Mary as we all had heard in the message. We were blessed way beyond how we could ever have imagined.
Please pray that the love of Jesus that these folk shared with us will touch many others as they continue their faith walk and remain as a place where love comes to life.
Pr Phil Husband and Dennis Mollet
Auckland
April 2025
