Exodus 40:34 
Then the cloud covered the Tent of Meeting, and the glory of the LORD filled the tabernacle…. In all the travels of the Israelites, whenever the cloud lifted from above the tabernacle, they would set out; …So the cloud of the LORD was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel during all their travels

Israel enjoyed the privilege of knowing the tangible presence of God with them both day and night. It was evidenced by a hovering cloud and a pillar of fire, manifestations that today would appear un-natural and strange. Yet the promise of the presence of God to guide, protect and strengthen us is just as vital to us today. Without God’s guidance, grace and presence we would flounder aimlessly in a sea of hopelessness. Thank God He does speak, He does guide, He does protect and provide in supernatural ways. The key for Israel to inherit the Promised Land was their willingness to listen and obey God’s
leading and direction.

Numbers 9:17 
Whenever the cloud lifted from above the Tent, the Israelites set out; wherever the cloud settled, the Israelites encamped.

God’s desire was to continually draw Israel to himself, and in doing so to move them closer to their inheritance. He did so by moving His cloud, whenever the cloud moved they moved, when the cloud stopped they stopped and encamped for as long as God desired them to stay.

As a church we have been encamped at the Murdoch University for a number of years through God’s leading and the willingness of leaders to follow God’s direction, and it has served us well. We now believe that God is moving us on as a people to inherit new territory. For Israel their inheritance was land, while physical property can, and I believe will be something God can give, the real inheritance for us as New Testament believers (priests) is first of all God himself, and secondly people. To see people who either have rejected God or who have no knowledge of Jesus respond and give their lives to Christ is a true inheritance, one that has eternal ramifications and rewards.

Psalm 84:4 
Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.

As we prepare to move location to the Cockburn Youth Centre, we embark on a new adventure with new challenges and new possibilities. We do so with the understanding that God’s presence is always with us, leading and guiding, preparing the way ahead. We go knowing that there will be times when we will be called to walk through hardships with others, but confident that by God’s strength in and through us we can turn barren land into an oasis of God’s glory and life. Thanks to all who are journeying with us—what an opportunity—what an adventure—lets go and enjoy this new venue for as long as God would have us there.