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 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.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 14
Before His birth, Jesus’ name was divinely chosen. The angel declared, 'You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins' (Matthew 1:21). The name ‘Jesus,’ derived from the Hebrew ‘Yeshua,’ meaning 'The Lord saves,' is not just a name but a testament to His identity and mission. This Advent, reflect on the name of Jesus—a name that holds power, transforms lives, and serves as the foundation of our faith.
Advent Daily Devotional - Day 13
The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen." (Luke 2:20)
On the night of Jesus' birth, God chose humble shepherds to receive the angelic announcement. These men, often overlooked and undervalued, encountered the divine and were forever changed. Though their circumstances remained the same—long hours, poor pay, and difficult work—they returned filled with awe and praise. This Christmas, reflect on how an encounter with Jesus can transform your heart, no matter your situation, as you discover the depth of God's love and His personal invitation to you.
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.