Simon Benham’s Blog
Hello, and thanks for making it to my blog. My name is Simon and I am the Senior Pastor here at Kerith Community Church.
This blog is a place for me to share thoughts on pretty much anything which takes my interest. This will often be related to things happening in our church community or life lessons I am in the process of learning. It could also be reflections on current world events, reviews of books I am reading or commentary on how well Newcastle United are doing in the league! You just never know what you're going to get...
I hope you find this blog interesting and insightful. If you have any ideas on topics you'd like me to write about, then please email me and I’ll see what I can do. Also, if you’d like to get these blogs sent straight to your email inbox, you can subscribe using the button below.
Happy reading,
Simon
Passion Week Devotional - Friday - John 19:16-30
At the height of His agony on the cross, Jesus didn’t focus on Himself—He made sure His mother was cared for. In His final breaths, He demonstrated a love that goes beyond pain, beyond duty. Jesus’ death wasn’t just a tragic injustice—it was the greatest act of sacrificial love in human history. As we reflect on the cross, we’re invited to consider how this love shapes our lives, relationships, and faith.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 22
“Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God.” (1 John 4:7)
God’s love is unconditional, shown through the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus for our sins. This passage reminds us to love as God loves—graciously and without reserve. It challenges us to show love in our actions, even toward those who test our patience. As we prepare for Christmas, let us embody Christ’s love in our interactions, bringing joy and grace to every situation, even amidst the challenges.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 17
Herod’s secret scheming to locate baby Jesus mirrored the innocent "invisibility" of a child hiding in plain sight. Just as Levi's father easily spotted him during hide-and-seek, God saw through Herod's manipulative plans. This story reminds us of an unshakable truth: God's divine plan cannot be thwarted by human deception or fear. As we navigate our own struggles, hiding our anxieties or trying to control circumstances, we can trust in the loving, all-knowing Creator who sees us fully and offers grace. This Christmas, may we find courage in surrendering to His perfect plan.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 16
As the authors of Christmas carols attempt to convey the miraculous nature of Jesus, they sometimes strip away His humanity and divine power. Yet, the infant Jesus, simply by existing, disrupted corrupt power structures and elevated the humble town of Bethlehem. From His birth to His ministry, Jesus’ love and grace rattled societal norms, championed the marginalized, and challenged systems that separated people from God. This Christmas, reflect on the biblical accounts and ask: Am I ready to let Jesus bring disruption and transformation through my life?
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 15
Matthew 2:1-2 tells the story of the Magi, wise men from the east, who followed a shining star to find the King of the Jews. These star-gazers, astronomers of their time, were guided by God to encounter the true Light of the World—Jesus. Their journey reveals how God's light pierces the darkness, inviting us all to follow and worship the King of Kings. As we approach Christmas, may we reflect on how God draws us to His light and how we can share it with others.