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
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 12
Mary’s response to the wonder of the first Christmas was not just amazement but deep faith. Instead of dismissing what she didn’t understand, she treasured and pondered God’s unfolding plan in her heart. Her journey teaches us that faith means trusting God with the mysteries and holding on to His promises, even when life doesn’t match our expectations.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 11
After encountering Jesus, the shepherds couldn't contain their joy—they had to spread the word! Their excitement challenges us: What fills us with such passion that we can’t help but share it? Could it be faith? Even if it feels uncomfortable, maybe it’s time to tell someone in your life about Jesus and invite them to experience the joy He brings.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 10
"When the angels had left, the shepherds didn’t hesitate. They said, 'Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about' (Luke 2:15). Despite their humble status, they were chosen to witness the miracle of Jesus' birth, embodying the qualities God values: humility, obedience, and faith in action. In this season, let’s emulate the shepherds' wonder and willingness to act on God’s call."
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 9
The angels’ song in Luke 2:13-14—the first Christmas carol—declares a profound truth: God’s greatest glory is found in His peace and goodwill towards humanity. Remarkably, the heavenly host praised this gift with awe, though they were not its recipients. For shepherds, humble and ordinary, this message was life-changing. It’s a reminder that God’s grace and peace extend to all, including us. How might this truth shape the way you live today?
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 8
"Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people" (Luke 2:10). These familiar words echo through countless nativity plays, but they carry a message far deeper than a simple birth announcement. God's promise is fulfilled in an unexpected way—a Savior, not as a mighty king but as a baby in humble surroundings. Just as the angel shared this joyous news with shepherds, ordinary people like us are invited to trust God's surprising plans.