Commenting on two articles in the July NZ Baptist:

• Randall Scott entitled his article “Why are Baptists so tight with their money?” and in so doing has placed every Baptist under one umbrella. I challenge this. When I was baptised at the age of 19 and joined the Baptist church I committed myself to prayer, service and giving – a commitment that has continued for 65 years.

As well as giving to the church’s general offering I support a young missionary couple and their family who are members of our church. I also give to a number of charitable causes, two of which are involved in our Baptist work. I believe there are thousands of Baptists out there who would identify with me.

• I want to thank Glenn Melville for his inspiring article “A Christian worldview for today.” At 7am, Monday to Saturday, I walk over to my local supermarket and get the NZ Herald. I have made friends with one of the checkout women who is going through a rather tough time.

To my knowledge she is not a church attender but I found myself telling her about Glenn Melville’s article. I spoke about how we believers are inclined to emphasise the hereafter – “Heaven-bound for all eternity” – whereas we should be sending a more positive message – “Heaven comes to Earth.”

Her response: “Wow, Shirley, what a wonderful idea.” I have a prayer book and I asked if she would mind me putting her name in it. She agreed. God certainly moves in a mysterious way his wonders to perform.

– Shirley Thompson
North Shore, Auckland