Pilgrim Uniting Church, Adelaide SA SUN 10-OCT-2021 - 9.30 AM Sermon Rev Dr Greg Elsdon Pentecost 20 – Child Safe Sunday – The question of suffering is not an issue to be debated, nor is it a problem to be solved; it is a reality to be entered into with passion and mercy, in the name of Christ. The gospel calls us to serve and heal, and the assurance of God's presence will bring us grace and compassion. How do we respond to the realisation of someone's suffering, or to our own suffering? It matters that someone acknowledges our suffering. Paul talks of the God of all comfort, the companion and supporter who brings a deep sense of wellbeng. God can come in surprising ways, often in the form of a human being who travels with us along the bumpy road. Churches, like any other places where people come together, can become places of harm and abuse, and caring communities are on the lookout for each other, to be ready to respond practically and compassionately. We must acknowledge it when harmful things have happened, and we must take ownership of the harm done, especially when children are involved. Set up safe practices; speak up; be accountable for maintaining a safe place for children. It can be difficult and painful; compassion does not come easily; but with the companionship of God, compassion will make the disance. Mark 10: 17-31 Playing Time   –   22:01