Kia ora! 

 “it being Christmas Day, I preached from the Second Chapter of St. Luke’s Gospel, and tenth verse: “Behold! I bring you glad tidings of great joy.”… When I had done preaching, [Ruatara] informed them what I had been talking about. [He] was extremely anxious to convince us that he would do everything for us that lay in his power and that the good of his country was his principal consideration. In this manner the Gospel has been introduced into New Zealand; and I fervently pray that the glory of it may never depart from its inhabitants, till time shall be no more” 

Te Rongopai came to Aotearoa/New Zealand on European lips but only at the invitation of Maori. Ruatara provided the Whenua and Whānau that would provide the first home for the good news of Jesus here. That partnership still bears gospel fruit from that which they planted deep into the soils and souls of New Zealand. Ruatara’s mahi and Marsden's prayer have yet more fruit to bear in these islands.  

Who is our Ruatara today? What must leaders do to seek the gospel good of this nation? How are we to work so that the unfolding whakapapa of Te Rongopai weaves in those who are being born right now? How will our mokopuna hear the good news of Jesus? What seed is planted in the whenua today for a harvest that will feed the generations of tomorrow? What is our prayer that God will answer? 

Do not be afraid, for I proclaim to you good news, for all people.

In Christ/i roto i a te Karaiti
Andy Shudall 

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