It was amazing to be at the dawn opening of Puhi-moana-ariki Marae on Saturday. I was privileged to participate in the service and read from Acts 15:15-18 where the apostle quotes from the prophet Amos who predicted that the Lord would rebuild the tabernacle of David that had fallen down. "So that the rest of mankind may seek the Lord."

I believe that the rebuilding and opening of Puhi-moana-ariki Marae is a prophetic statement that speaks on many levels. It is symbolic of the restoration of the Whare Tapu of Ngapuhi i.e. the restoration of God's plans and purposes for the Ngapuhi tribe and their role in nation building. I also believe it is symbolic of Christ's intention to build His church, the called-out-ones, the people of God from every tribe and nation to advance His Kingdom purposes of community transformation. It has not escaped my notice that one of the principle hapu behind this project has been Te Uri o Hua. This name could be translated, "The Descendents of Fruitfulness." 

May the Lord bless you and cause you to be fruitful.