As we look at Nehemiah over the next few weeks, we see him mainly a a leader, and he certainly was that. But before he was a leader, he was an employee. And it was the character he developed while still a servant that prepared him to be such a great leader. A recent study reported that Gen Y is sometimes called the Echo Generation because they want (reflect/echo) what Baby Boomers have created for themselves over the past 40 years.Boomers have worked hard all their lives and now can have some rewards for it.  Gen Y, having grown up with it, just expect to have it. Unfortunately, when it comes to character, you don't just automatically have it; you must develop it. There are few areas in life in which we live or work that do not come ready-equipped with a superior- a boss or other authority figure. It is our task to develop qualities of leadership germinating within ourselves while still being accountable to these superiors in our individual spheres of influence- just as Nehemiah did. Take a few moments to write down the characteristics that make Nehemiah a commendable employee. For instance, you might note how he investigated the circumstances before sharing his heart with others and taking action. Another was his positive approach even though the situation was dismal. But Nehemiah also prays about his situation and his employer, the king. How much time have you spent grumbling about your boss as opposed to praying for him? Maybe now would be a good time to take a leaf out of Nehemiah's book and start balancing out the scale.

This Sunday, we start an eight-week journey through the book of Nehemiah. Who is he? As we will discover, Nehemiah is a leader in the making. And maybe you're thinking, "This isn't for me. I'm no leader! I'm just an ordinary person." But are you sure about that? Because, when it comes right down to it, all leadership is simply influence. Now you can't say you don't influence anyone! Thnk about it for a moment. Over whom do you have the greatest influence.. your children? Coworkers? Friends?
In this book, an ancient man by the name of Nehemiah is going to hand you a few bricks- bricks you can use to build a character of such quality that your faith can't be destroyed. But those bricks of character also make good bricks of leadership- qualities you can use to guide the people around you.

Remember, a great leader doesn't have to be someone who's well known.  A great leader is just an ordinary person who is highly motivated. And that can be you!   (Hand Me Another Brick- C. Swindoll)
 Join us this Sunday for the start of this inspiring journey.

Our Quick Build was a big task.. a lot of work.. and it certainly wasn't easy. But your enthusiastic involvement made the task lighter. Thank you so much for encouraging and supporting us with our Extreme Church Makeover.
It has been a wonderful blessing seeing so many folk working together to refresh this wonderful facility God has provided for us. It is anticipated that the roof for the patio/coffee stop will be constructed this week pending the release of the stamped plans from council. We are also waiting for the donation of a playground to be constructed in the designated children's area.
More photos of the Quick Build will  be uploaded soon to the website.