16th November 2020
I'm something of an F1 fan. I've liked F1 for years and have been a fan of Lewis Hamilton for a number of years now.
I had the privilege of meeting Lewis in 2014. It just happened to be my birthday and my wife, Kat, suggested we have a day out together. We ended up going to the Mercedes-Benz visitors centre near Woking. Whilst we were sitting enjoying a sandwich together Kat nudged me, told me to look behind, and there was Lewis Hamilton! He went out onto the track to put a few cars through their paces and have a few photo's taken. I went to the gift shop and quickly bought a t-shirt. As I came out the gift shop Lewis returned to the visitors centre and I interrupted his progress to ask him to sign my shirt, which he duly did. For a few brief moments we chatted and then he went off with his entourage to continue doing his stuff for the cameras.
I have to admit that it was a very brief encounter, but it was great for me. I found him to be a polite, endearing and humble character. On the race track he's as hard as nails - uncompromising, unyielding and focused only on what he can best accomplish with the equipment he has surrounding him. But beyond the track he proves himself to be a man who cares deeply and sincerely about important social issues, and is willing to speak up about those issues.
That outspokenness has brought as much criticism as it has praise. There are always those who will want to bring down those they consider to be using their popularity as a means of making a difference in the world.
So, like him or loathe him, you have got to admit that he is at least trying to do something positive. He's a great role model and a champion of 'Black Lives Matter'.
And did I mention he's also 7 times world champion, and probably the best driver who ever graced the F1 circuit!
Words from the Bible come to mind. Have a look at Paul's letter to the Philippians Chapter 4 verses 8. It's an interesting reflection!
"And now, brothers, as I close this letter, let me say this one more thing: Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about." TLB
12th October 2020
Here's a prayer I found which I would like to share with you. Allow the word pictures that are drawn bring you closer to God during these uncertain and unsettling times...
Through Light and Shadow
Through light and shadow
I am led, I follow,
through the ins and outs
the ups and downs
of these days,
when my heart is failing,
when my spirit rejoices,
when I can barely put one foot
in front of the other
still you beckon me on...
when I stumble you support me,
when I can go no further
you carry me,
through light and shadow,
in death's dark vale,
and on the mountain peaks
you lead me,
through tangled webs,
on rocky ground,
on smoother paths,
through light and shadow
you lead me,
I follow,
may I never
walk alone...
~ written by Sally, and posted on Eternal Echoes. http://sallysjourney.typepad.com/sallys_journey/
21st September 2020
Last Sunday we were able to hold our first service in the Church since the COVID-19 lockdown. It was so good to be back into our lovely old church and worship God together.
Our theme through the service was HOPE.
It was an appropriate theme, as we all need a bit of hope at this time, and we were able to look forward to all that God is going to do in us, through us and for us in the coming days.
Here's a few thoughts that we shared together during the service.
We have hope because we know that God knows what is going on in our lives.
We have courage to face the future because he is in control of all of existence, and he will overcome all the problems that evil has brought into our lives.
God will overcome this and make us victorious in the process.
Because of who God is, we know that something good is going to happen. Something is on the horizon. Something is growing. Something is happening because there is Someone behind the scenes making it happen.
We are not sure what it is going to look like, but we know it is going to be wonderful. It has already begun in us, and one day it will be completed.
Paul said that he was “confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).
It is in knowing whose we are that we are able to redirect our confidence from ourselves, our efforts and our abilities to something which is lasting.
We are able to hope because we are able to trust God. We no longer have to be in control. We can let go and let God.
It is important to understand that hoping is not wishing. Wishing is something that those who do not have God do.
Henri Nouwen writes:
“I have found it very important in my own life to let go of my wishes and start hoping. It was only when I was willing to let go of wishes that something really new, something beyond my own expectations, could happen to me. . . .
To wait open-endedly is an enormously radical attitude toward life.
So is to trust that something will happen to us that is far beyond our own imaginings. So, too, is giving up control over our future and letting God define our life, trusting that God moulds us according to God’s love and not according to our fear.
The spiritual life is a life in which we wait, actively present to the moment, trusting that new things will happen to us, new things that are far beyond our own imagination, fantasy, or prediction. That, indeed, is a very radical stance toward life in a world preoccupied with control.”
To hope is to give up control and give the control to God. It replaces confidence in ourselves with confidence in God.
Hoping is not wishing - wishing keeps things within the bounds of our own imaginations. Hope is open-ended — an expectation that God is going to do something greater than we could have ever dreamed. Wishing is fantasy, hope is based in a grand reality — the person and character of a loving, ever imaginative God who always has our best in mind.
10th August 2020
Here’s something I found on the website re:worship. It contrasts two Psalms -Psalm 13 and Psalm 23- and helps us find the hope and confidence of the psalmist in Psalm 23 (in bold print) and contrasts this with the anguish and despair of the writer of Psalm 13 (light print).
I hope you enjoy reading it through, and maybe you could ask yourself which Psalm best represents your current experience of God’s presence.
Experiencing God: Two Views
O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever?
How long will you look the other way?
The LORD is my shepherd;
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul,
with sorrow in my heart every day?
He restores my soul.
He guides me along paths of righteousness
for the sake of his good name.
How long will my enemy have the upper hand?
Turn and answer me, O LORD my God!
Restore the sight to my eyes, or I will die.
Even when I walk through the dark valley of death,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, “We have defeated him!”
Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall.
You prepare a feast for me right in front of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
But I trust in your unfailing love.
I will rejoice because you have rescued me.
I will sing to the LORD
because he has been so good to me.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.
(Christine Longhurst, re:Worship)
27th July 2020
Lost
Last Sunday evening we lost our cat. Quite literally, we lost her.
She must have sneaked out of the patio door and escaped out of the garden through the bushes. She’s a housecat so wouldn’t normally go out, and very old – 22 years old, or 104 in human terms – and doesn’t walk very well.
As a consequence, my wife and I have been out searching for her. At various times during the day and night we’ve been out calling her, trying to entice her back to us. We’ve left food out for her to try and tempt her home. Neighbours have been searching their gardens for us. All to no avail.
Luke chapter 15 talks about things that are lost. There’s a lost sheep, a lost coin, and a lost son.
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbours together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
The Parable of the Lost Coin
8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins[a] and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbours together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
The Parable of the Lost Son
11 Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them.
13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.
When Jesus talks about the lost sheep and the lost coin, he speaks of the shepherd and the woman making a concerted and intensive effort to find the thing that has been lost. The woman searches the house from top to bottom. (We did that too when searching for our cat). The shepherd goes out and searches the countryside until he finds his sheep. (We’ve done that too – no bush has been left unsearched!)
The parable of the lost son is different though. Read a little bit more of the parable and hopefully you’ll see what I’m getting at.
17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.
The Father doesn’t go out searching for the son, rather he watches and waits for the son to return. You see, that’s how God works. Sometimes He sees it to be necessary to go out searching for his children when they have gone off, other times He knows that it’s best to wait until they decide for themselves that they want to return.
Those parables that Jesus told were about all of us.
We all of us have a tendency to wander occasionally.
But the Father is always there, watching and waiting, to welcome us back.
We’ve done the searching for our cat – and will continue to do so for a while yet. We also hope that she’ll decide to come back home of her own accord. We can hope!
13th July 2020
Rest
Sometimes we get really tired.
Exhausted, worn out, no energy left!
That can be physically, mentally or spiritually. Either way, we need to recognise it and take some rest to recover our energy and get revitalised.
I can’t give much advice on physical or mental exhaustion, but here’s a little help for those that are feeling spiritually drained.
Jesus said, “Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11 verse 28 (Message translation)
Here’s part of a prayer, written by Nick Fawcett, for our reflection and meditation. I hope you can use it to draw closer to God.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving and intercession
Companion God,
we praise you for the grace which is always on the move,
from death to life, desolation to hope, famine to feasting.
As we travel this road of pain and rejoicing,
we give thanks that you go with us as our guardian and friend:
that you have taken us by the hand and led us,
giving guidance and support.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that you have strengthened us for the work of faith,
the labour of love, the steadfastness of hope.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that you have made us imitators of your saints and disciples,
and of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that as we have received your Word with joy,
even in the midst of our suffering,
you have revealed to us your ways.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that we belong to you and you have shown us your glory.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that through our example others have been encouraged and
inspired.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
Amen
6th July 2020
Peace
Last Sunday in our online service we thought about peace. And I just want to continue in that same vein and share with you a thought for this week.
I know a lot of people have become somewhat agitated and upset at the way that the lookdown has been lifted and many people seem to be flouting the social distancing rules. For some, this lifting of the regulations has become an opportunity to let their hair down having been cooped up for so many weeks. For others there is still a sense of caution and fear that a second wave of Covid19 might be unleashed on the population.
Amidst all of this we need to both get some personal perspective and from that attain some peace in our hearts and minds.
For me, the way I deal with it is to look at what I am doing and ask myself if I am doing what is expected of me personally by others. In other words, am I doing my bit? If I can answer ‘yes’ to that question then I’m at peace with myself. Then having found peace with my surroundings and with others I consider how I might find a personal inner peace.
A wise man once said to me! "The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all the things you’ve started." So I looked around the house to see all the things I started and hadn’t finished ... and before leaving the house this morning I finished off a bottle of red wine, a bottle of white, some cheesecake and a box of chocolates!
Being at peace is not just about a sentimental, gushing, weak ideal. There is strength and character in being at peace with yourself. It’s an understanding of our weaknesses and our strengths. It’s being aware of the troubles surrounding us and, despite its closeness and the agitation it causes us, we can still find a calm, a peace, a serenity that the troubles cannot disturb.
Jesus told his disciples in John 14:27 - “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (TLB)
The peace that Jesus gives is not the absence of trouble, but is rather the confidence that He is there with you always.
So we’re not trying to maintain an inner peace by ourselves. Jesus has promised that he will help us. For our part, we simply need to trust him.
“God knows that we are easily made fearful, anxious and troubled. At that moment God walks with us, hand in hand, with deep care, wanting us to be safe. Even when in fear or anxiety, we are safe because we belong to God. In that is our peace.” (Irish Jesuits)
28th June
Pause for prayer
May the prayer and pictures help you to reflect on the goodness and greatness of God.
By faith
I gaze up to the heavens
and know
within its vastness
that this is your creation
planned and effected within eternity
By faith
I pluck an ear of corn
and know
within its symmetry
lies the chemistry of life
the potential of creation within my hand
By faith
I listen for your voice
and know
the whisper that I hear
breathed a world into existence
yet listens to the prayer within my soul
By faith
I strive to do your will
and know
the door that I approach
may lead me to shadows
where my role is to become your light
By faith
I cling to your word
and know
the strength that I receive
has its source within the love
that is at the centre of all things
With thanks to John Birch (https://www.faithandworship.com/)
for the words of this prayer.
I'm something of an F1 fan. I've liked F1 for years and have been a fan of Lewis Hamilton for a number of years now.
I had the privilege of meeting Lewis in 2014. It just happened to be my birthday and my wife, Kat, suggested we have a day out together. We ended up going to the Mercedes-Benz visitors centre near Woking. Whilst we were sitting enjoying a sandwich together Kat nudged me, told me to look behind, and there was Lewis Hamilton! He went out onto the track to put a few cars through their paces and have a few photo's taken. I went to the gift shop and quickly bought a t-shirt. As I came out the gift shop Lewis returned to the visitors centre and I interrupted his progress to ask him to sign my shirt, which he duly did. For a few brief moments we chatted and then he went off with his entourage to continue doing his stuff for the cameras.
I have to admit that it was a very brief encounter, but it was great for me. I found him to be a polite, endearing and humble character. On the race track he's as hard as nails - uncompromising, unyielding and focused only on what he can best accomplish with the equipment he has surrounding him. But beyond the track he proves himself to be a man who cares deeply and sincerely about important social issues, and is willing to speak up about those issues.
That outspokenness has brought as much criticism as it has praise. There are always those who will want to bring down those they consider to be using their popularity as a means of making a difference in the world.
So, like him or loathe him, you have got to admit that he is at least trying to do something positive. He's a great role model and a champion of 'Black Lives Matter'.
And did I mention he's also 7 times world champion, and probably the best driver who ever graced the F1 circuit!
Words from the Bible come to mind. Have a look at Paul's letter to the Philippians Chapter 4 verses 8. It's an interesting reflection!
"And now, brothers, as I close this letter, let me say this one more thing: Fix your thoughts on what is true and good and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely, and dwell on the fine, good things in others. Think about all you can praise God for and be glad about." TLB
12th October 2020
Here's a prayer I found which I would like to share with you. Allow the word pictures that are drawn bring you closer to God during these uncertain and unsettling times...
Through Light and Shadow
Through light and shadow
I am led, I follow,
through the ins and outs
the ups and downs
of these days,
when my heart is failing,
when my spirit rejoices,
when I can barely put one foot
in front of the other
still you beckon me on...
when I stumble you support me,
when I can go no further
you carry me,
through light and shadow,
in death's dark vale,
and on the mountain peaks
you lead me,
through tangled webs,
on rocky ground,
on smoother paths,
through light and shadow
you lead me,
I follow,
may I never
walk alone...
~ written by Sally, and posted on Eternal Echoes. http://sallysjourney.typepad.com/sallys_journey/
21st September 2020
Last Sunday we were able to hold our first service in the Church since the COVID-19 lockdown. It was so good to be back into our lovely old church and worship God together.
Our theme through the service was HOPE.
It was an appropriate theme, as we all need a bit of hope at this time, and we were able to look forward to all that God is going to do in us, through us and for us in the coming days.
Here's a few thoughts that we shared together during the service.
We have hope because we know that God knows what is going on in our lives.
We have courage to face the future because he is in control of all of existence, and he will overcome all the problems that evil has brought into our lives.
God will overcome this and make us victorious in the process.
Because of who God is, we know that something good is going to happen. Something is on the horizon. Something is growing. Something is happening because there is Someone behind the scenes making it happen.
We are not sure what it is going to look like, but we know it is going to be wonderful. It has already begun in us, and one day it will be completed.
Paul said that he was “confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:6).
It is in knowing whose we are that we are able to redirect our confidence from ourselves, our efforts and our abilities to something which is lasting.
We are able to hope because we are able to trust God. We no longer have to be in control. We can let go and let God.
It is important to understand that hoping is not wishing. Wishing is something that those who do not have God do.
Henri Nouwen writes:
“I have found it very important in my own life to let go of my wishes and start hoping. It was only when I was willing to let go of wishes that something really new, something beyond my own expectations, could happen to me. . . .
To wait open-endedly is an enormously radical attitude toward life.
So is to trust that something will happen to us that is far beyond our own imaginings. So, too, is giving up control over our future and letting God define our life, trusting that God moulds us according to God’s love and not according to our fear.
The spiritual life is a life in which we wait, actively present to the moment, trusting that new things will happen to us, new things that are far beyond our own imagination, fantasy, or prediction. That, indeed, is a very radical stance toward life in a world preoccupied with control.”
To hope is to give up control and give the control to God. It replaces confidence in ourselves with confidence in God.
Hoping is not wishing - wishing keeps things within the bounds of our own imaginations. Hope is open-ended — an expectation that God is going to do something greater than we could have ever dreamed. Wishing is fantasy, hope is based in a grand reality — the person and character of a loving, ever imaginative God who always has our best in mind.
10th August 2020
Here’s something I found on the website re:worship. It contrasts two Psalms -Psalm 13 and Psalm 23- and helps us find the hope and confidence of the psalmist in Psalm 23 (in bold print) and contrasts this with the anguish and despair of the writer of Psalm 13 (light print).
I hope you enjoy reading it through, and maybe you could ask yourself which Psalm best represents your current experience of God’s presence.
Experiencing God: Two Views
O LORD, how long will you forget me? Forever?
How long will you look the other way?
The LORD is my shepherd;
I have everything I need.
He lets me rest in green meadows;
he leads me beside peaceful streams.
How long must I struggle with anguish in my soul,
with sorrow in my heart every day?
He restores my soul.
He guides me along paths of righteousness
for the sake of his good name.
How long will my enemy have the upper hand?
Turn and answer me, O LORD my God!
Restore the sight to my eyes, or I will die.
Even when I walk through the dark valley of death,
I will not be afraid,
for you are close beside me.
Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.
Don’t let my enemies gloat, saying, “We have defeated him!”
Don’t let them rejoice at my downfall.
You prepare a feast for me right in front of my enemies.
You welcome me as a guest, anointing my head with oil.
My cup overflows with blessings.
But I trust in your unfailing love.
I will rejoice because you have rescued me.
I will sing to the LORD
because he has been so good to me.
Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me
all the days of my life,
and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.
(Christine Longhurst, re:Worship)
27th July 2020
Lost
Last Sunday evening we lost our cat. Quite literally, we lost her.
She must have sneaked out of the patio door and escaped out of the garden through the bushes. She’s a housecat so wouldn’t normally go out, and very old – 22 years old, or 104 in human terms – and doesn’t walk very well.
As a consequence, my wife and I have been out searching for her. At various times during the day and night we’ve been out calling her, trying to entice her back to us. We’ve left food out for her to try and tempt her home. Neighbours have been searching their gardens for us. All to no avail.
Luke chapter 15 talks about things that are lost. There’s a lost sheep, a lost coin, and a lost son.
The Parable of the Lost Sheep
3 Then Jesus told them this parable: 4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbours together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.
The Parable of the Lost Coin
8 “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins[a] and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? 9 And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbours together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ 10 In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.”
The Parable of the Lost Son
11 Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. 12 The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them.
13 “Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. 14 After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. 15 So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. 16 He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.
When Jesus talks about the lost sheep and the lost coin, he speaks of the shepherd and the woman making a concerted and intensive effort to find the thing that has been lost. The woman searches the house from top to bottom. (We did that too when searching for our cat). The shepherd goes out and searches the countryside until he finds his sheep. (We’ve done that too – no bush has been left unsearched!)
The parable of the lost son is different though. Read a little bit more of the parable and hopefully you’ll see what I’m getting at.
17 “When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ 20 So he got up and went to his father.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.
21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.
The Father doesn’t go out searching for the son, rather he watches and waits for the son to return. You see, that’s how God works. Sometimes He sees it to be necessary to go out searching for his children when they have gone off, other times He knows that it’s best to wait until they decide for themselves that they want to return.
Those parables that Jesus told were about all of us.
We all of us have a tendency to wander occasionally.
But the Father is always there, watching and waiting, to welcome us back.
We’ve done the searching for our cat – and will continue to do so for a while yet. We also hope that she’ll decide to come back home of her own accord. We can hope!
13th July 2020
Rest
Sometimes we get really tired.
Exhausted, worn out, no energy left!
That can be physically, mentally or spiritually. Either way, we need to recognise it and take some rest to recover our energy and get revitalised.
I can’t give much advice on physical or mental exhaustion, but here’s a little help for those that are feeling spiritually drained.
Jesus said, “Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Matthew 11 verse 28 (Message translation)
Here’s part of a prayer, written by Nick Fawcett, for our reflection and meditation. I hope you can use it to draw closer to God.
A Prayer of Thanksgiving and intercession
Companion God,
we praise you for the grace which is always on the move,
from death to life, desolation to hope, famine to feasting.
As we travel this road of pain and rejoicing,
we give thanks that you go with us as our guardian and friend:
that you have taken us by the hand and led us,
giving guidance and support.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that you have strengthened us for the work of faith,
the labour of love, the steadfastness of hope.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that you have made us imitators of your saints and disciples,
and of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that as we have received your Word with joy,
even in the midst of our suffering,
you have revealed to us your ways.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that we belong to you and you have shown us your glory.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
- that through our example others have been encouraged and
inspired.
Your presence travels with us: You will give us rest.
Amen
6th July 2020
Peace
Last Sunday in our online service we thought about peace. And I just want to continue in that same vein and share with you a thought for this week.
I know a lot of people have become somewhat agitated and upset at the way that the lookdown has been lifted and many people seem to be flouting the social distancing rules. For some, this lifting of the regulations has become an opportunity to let their hair down having been cooped up for so many weeks. For others there is still a sense of caution and fear that a second wave of Covid19 might be unleashed on the population.
Amidst all of this we need to both get some personal perspective and from that attain some peace in our hearts and minds.
For me, the way I deal with it is to look at what I am doing and ask myself if I am doing what is expected of me personally by others. In other words, am I doing my bit? If I can answer ‘yes’ to that question then I’m at peace with myself. Then having found peace with my surroundings and with others I consider how I might find a personal inner peace.
A wise man once said to me! "The way to achieve inner peace is to finish all the things you’ve started." So I looked around the house to see all the things I started and hadn’t finished ... and before leaving the house this morning I finished off a bottle of red wine, a bottle of white, some cheesecake and a box of chocolates!
Being at peace is not just about a sentimental, gushing, weak ideal. There is strength and character in being at peace with yourself. It’s an understanding of our weaknesses and our strengths. It’s being aware of the troubles surrounding us and, despite its closeness and the agitation it causes us, we can still find a calm, a peace, a serenity that the troubles cannot disturb.
Jesus told his disciples in John 14:27 - “I am leaving you with a gift—peace of mind and heart! And the peace I give isn’t fragile like the peace the world gives. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” (TLB)
The peace that Jesus gives is not the absence of trouble, but is rather the confidence that He is there with you always.
So we’re not trying to maintain an inner peace by ourselves. Jesus has promised that he will help us. For our part, we simply need to trust him.
“God knows that we are easily made fearful, anxious and troubled. At that moment God walks with us, hand in hand, with deep care, wanting us to be safe. Even when in fear or anxiety, we are safe because we belong to God. In that is our peace.” (Irish Jesuits)
28th June
Pause for prayer
May the prayer and pictures help you to reflect on the goodness and greatness of God.
By faith
I gaze up to the heavens
and know
within its vastness
that this is your creation
planned and effected within eternity
By faith
I pluck an ear of corn
and know
within its symmetry
lies the chemistry of life
the potential of creation within my hand
By faith
I listen for your voice
and know
the whisper that I hear
breathed a world into existence
yet listens to the prayer within my soul
By faith
I strive to do your will
and know
the door that I approach
may lead me to shadows
where my role is to become your light
By faith
I cling to your word
and know
the strength that I receive
has its source within the love
that is at the centre of all things
With thanks to John Birch (https://www.faithandworship.com/)
for the words of this prayer.
14th June
I don’t know if you feel the same, but I find music very therapeutic. I’ll clarify that, by saying I find some music therapeutic. There is definitely some music that I wouldn’t choose to add to my play list!
But that’s what makes music so special. Just as there are individual people so there are individual tastes, whether that is regarding food, books, tv programmes, or, of course, music.
My likes are rooted in my past, the music I grew up with. And being a child of the sixties and seventies that is where my music tastes lie – or should I say the foundation for my musical taste. I have diversified over the years and developed a liking for a variety of different styles and genres, but I still like to go back to my musical roots.
I like to have music on in the background while I’m working. I like to have something going on in the background that will help me concentrate on what I’m doing but at the same time act as a distraction when things become repetitive or boring. Sometimes I’ll choose more modern stuff to listen to, while at other times I’ll go back into the past and pull out some of the old stuff. There are also times when I’ll get on Youtube and listen to Christian songs. They are particularly helpful when I’m trying to focus on things beyond myself, on the spiritual, on God.
That’s the wonder of music – there is so much for us to listen to. So diverse, different and personal.
But the real reason so many of us enjoy music is for the emotion it evokes. It gets into your heart as well as your head! It’s not just the listening that makes it so special, it’s what it does to your feelings - how it changes you emotionally - that gives it a special part in our lives.
It’s actually a biblical thing, this singing and making music. King David, who wrote many of the Psalms, was definitely into music. David makes numerous references to music and singing in his psalms, especially as part of our worship with God. Even the apostle Paul, who was as straight-laced as they come, tells us to, ‘Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.’ (Ephesian 5:19)
I’m going to listen to a bit of Bowie this week, or maybe some Pink Floyd or Emerson, Lake and Palmer. Or maybe a bit of Queen. Or John Miles. Or Mike Oldfield. Or maybe some Genesis.
I’m also going to listen to Hillsong worship, and Lauren Daigle, and Graham Kendrick, and Stuart Townend, and Matt Redman.
It doesn’t really matter what the music is so long as it hits the heart as well as the head. Some of it might even draw us closer to God!
7th June 2020
It is so sad that racism has reared its ugly head again, not just in the USA but around the world. Riots, looting and protesting have followed the death of George Floyd. Some people have used his death as a means of expressing their disgust that such racism still exist in our modern culture; others have used it as a means of protest against seeming hypocrisy and racial blindness; still others have seen it as a way of expressing their opposition to the political structures that determine our way of living.
Thankfully, for most of us, racism isn’t something we generally think about. We accept each other regardless of colour, ethnicity, religion, etc.
But there are times when we, unconsciously, differentiate between people. Maybe it’s the experiences of the past or the culture we are part of; maybe it’s our upbringing or just simple ingrained prejudices.
The truth is, we are all guilty of racism and prejudice at times, whether we like it or not. However hard we try to be open and accepting of everyone there are times when we allow prejudicial thoughts to cloud our judgement. Whether that is through the language we use, our attitudes or the choices we make.
Over the years I’ve had to listen to my own head and heart to make sure that I’m not drawn into prejudicial thinking or judging. And I’ve found that the bible is surprisingly helpful in dealing with our prejudices.
The bible tells us that -
1) We were all made by God;
2) We were all made in the image of God;
3) We were all made with distinction and variety—including the colour of our skin;
4) We are all called into a relationship with God the Father by the Holy Spirit through Jesus the Son.
This is why the Bible makes the following declaration:
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28, NIV).
What I’m getting at is that we need to be aware of our need for each other, despite our differences.
We are not all the same, thank goodness. We each have our own personality, talents and abilities. We each of us can add something positive to our relationships and to society as a whole. We all have valuable opinions and the freedoms to express them. We all have ideas and ideals which we want to see come to fruition.
And we all have a responsibility to be aware of others. To value them as we value ourselves. To want the best for them as we do ourselves. To be able to look at each other and see our differences, and then see past them in order to see the riches of our commonality.
That responsibility is probably best worked out by not always looking at others but, at times, looking at ourselves. Robbie Burns, the famous Scottish poet wrote –
O wad some Power the giftie gie us
To see oursels as ithers see us!
Translation from Scots:
Oh, would some Power give us the gift
To see ourselves as others see us!
What a gift it would be, says Burns, to realize how we look to others, how we are all just vulnerable and equal human beings. With that knowledge we can be sure to treat everyone, no matter who they are, the same.
I leave you with words from John Bucki. You may, like me, want to use these words to form a prayer for yourself and others.
In a world of racism and xenophobia and fear of immigrants,
the Spirit speaks to people of every nation under heaven.
In a world of fear and doubt and confusion,
the Spirit inspires people to open the doors and speak out
especially about issues of justice and peace.
In a world of selfishness, competition, and control,
the Spirit gives out gifts that are shared for the benefit of all
especially those who are poor or in need.
In a world with war, violence and terrorism,
the Spirit proclaims a message of peace and reconciliation to all.
In a world of economic problems,
the Spirit reminds us that the things of the world are meant to be shared by all
and are to be used for the common good.
In a world where the environment is abused and overused,
the Spirit calls to reform how we live and to use the earth with care and love.
In a world of ideology and prejudice,
The Spirit calls us to think about things in a new way.
Thankfully, for most of us, racism isn’t something we generally think about. We accept each other regardless of colour, ethnicity, religion, etc.
But there are times when we, unconsciously, differentiate between people. Maybe it’s the experiences of the past or the culture we are part of; maybe it’s our upbringing or just simple ingrained prejudices.
The truth is, we are all guilty of racism and prejudice at times, whether we like it or not. However hard we try to be open and accepting of everyone there are times when we allow prejudicial thoughts to cloud our judgement. Whether that is through the language we use, our attitudes or the choices we make.
Over the years I’ve had to listen to my own head and heart to make sure that I’m not drawn into prejudicial thinking or judging. And I’ve found that the bible is surprisingly helpful in dealing with our prejudices.
The bible tells us that -
1) We were all made by God;
2) We were all made in the image of God;
3) We were all made with distinction and variety—including the colour of our skin;
4) We are all called into a relationship with God the Father by the Holy Spirit through Jesus the Son.
This is why the Bible makes the following declaration:
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28, NIV).
What I’m getting at is that we need to be aware of our need for each other, despite our differences.
We are not all the same, thank goodness. We each have our own personality, talents and abilities. We each of us can add something positive to our relationships and to society as a whole. We all have valuable opinions and the freedoms to express them. We all have ideas and ideals which we want to see come to fruition.
And we all have a responsibility to be aware of others. To value them as we value ourselves. To want the best for them as we do ourselves. To be able to look at each other and see our differences, and then see past them in order to see the riches of our commonality.
That responsibility is probably best worked out by not always looking at others but, at times, looking at ourselves. Robbie Burns, the famous Scottish poet wrote –
O wad some Power the giftie gie us
To see oursels as ithers see us!
Translation from Scots:
Oh, would some Power give us the gift
To see ourselves as others see us!
What a gift it would be, says Burns, to realize how we look to others, how we are all just vulnerable and equal human beings. With that knowledge we can be sure to treat everyone, no matter who they are, the same.
I leave you with words from John Bucki. You may, like me, want to use these words to form a prayer for yourself and others.
In a world of racism and xenophobia and fear of immigrants,
the Spirit speaks to people of every nation under heaven.
In a world of fear and doubt and confusion,
the Spirit inspires people to open the doors and speak out
especially about issues of justice and peace.
In a world of selfishness, competition, and control,
the Spirit gives out gifts that are shared for the benefit of all
especially those who are poor or in need.
In a world with war, violence and terrorism,
the Spirit proclaims a message of peace and reconciliation to all.
In a world of economic problems,
the Spirit reminds us that the things of the world are meant to be shared by all
and are to be used for the common good.
In a world where the environment is abused and overused,
the Spirit calls to reform how we live and to use the earth with care and love.
In a world of ideology and prejudice,
The Spirit calls us to think about things in a new way.
24th May
Churches maybe closed but peoples openness to God and faith is certainly not!!!
I’ve been inspired over the past couple of months by the seeming popularity of the Sunday services that we put out each week on Facebook and our church website. Far more people view the services than would normally have attended a service at our church.
There have been lots of theories put forward as to why online church services have become so popular. My thinking is simple! People want to have something to believe in during times of struggle, stress and uncertainty. We want to know that something is solid, sure and unmoveable during times of fluidity and doubt.
A recent survey of Christian hymns and songs that have been listened to have come up with some interesting results. The two most popular hymns are a couple of old favourites. The most popular being, It is Well With My Soul by Horatio Spafford, which was written after several tragic events in his life. And the in second place comes, Great is Thy Faithfulness by Thomas Obadiah Chisholm.
It’s not the first time that old hymns have become popular. Hillsong church in Australia recorded a special single of the song, It is well with my soul, in December 2010 to aid victims of the flooding in Queensland, Australia.
The author of the survey, Bob Pritchett, commenting on the results said,
“It’s inspiring to see how the popular song choices and lyrics reflect themes of trust, faith and praise, even though the world is experiencing unprecedented hardship. The Lord is working throughout this difficult time, and it’s evident that Christians are trusting Him to carry us through this pandemic.”
The great hymns of the past still have a message for us today. The language may be a little antiquated but the message is still load and clear.
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee,
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not,
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
So maybe this week, take a little time to look on Youtube, Spotify, or ask Alexa to play some of your old favourite hymns. Have a look at some of the new ones that have been published in recent years too, and allow your heart and soul to be encouraged by the truth that God is very much alive and at work in our world today.
I’ve been inspired over the past couple of months by the seeming popularity of the Sunday services that we put out each week on Facebook and our church website. Far more people view the services than would normally have attended a service at our church.
There have been lots of theories put forward as to why online church services have become so popular. My thinking is simple! People want to have something to believe in during times of struggle, stress and uncertainty. We want to know that something is solid, sure and unmoveable during times of fluidity and doubt.
A recent survey of Christian hymns and songs that have been listened to have come up with some interesting results. The two most popular hymns are a couple of old favourites. The most popular being, It is Well With My Soul by Horatio Spafford, which was written after several tragic events in his life. And the in second place comes, Great is Thy Faithfulness by Thomas Obadiah Chisholm.
It’s not the first time that old hymns have become popular. Hillsong church in Australia recorded a special single of the song, It is well with my soul, in December 2010 to aid victims of the flooding in Queensland, Australia.
The author of the survey, Bob Pritchett, commenting on the results said,
“It’s inspiring to see how the popular song choices and lyrics reflect themes of trust, faith and praise, even though the world is experiencing unprecedented hardship. The Lord is working throughout this difficult time, and it’s evident that Christians are trusting Him to carry us through this pandemic.”
The great hymns of the past still have a message for us today. The language may be a little antiquated but the message is still load and clear.
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee,
Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not,
As Thou hast been, Thou forever wilt be.
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me!
So maybe this week, take a little time to look on Youtube, Spotify, or ask Alexa to play some of your old favourite hymns. Have a look at some of the new ones that have been published in recent years too, and allow your heart and soul to be encouraged by the truth that God is very much alive and at work in our world today.
10th May
It’s not always easy to find a reason to be thankful. Particularly when normal life is restricted, isolation is the new norm and there are so many concerns about health, family, money, relationships, etc.
But we have so many reasons for thanking God and being grateful!
We could come up with every excuse under the sun to not be thankful – especially with the world the way it is at the moment. But ultimately we have EVERYTHING to be grateful for!
The apostle Paul realised the truth of giving thanks when he wrote to the Philippian church, (Philippians 4:6-7 Good News Bible) 6 Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. 7 And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.
So … When in doubt, make a list. Make a list of some of the things that you would want to thank God for!
Breath, electricity, clean water, friends, fingers to type this with, the internet, relationships, loose fitting trousers!!!!…. The list is endless.
And with those things in mind, give God your thanks. Through praise. Through prayer. Through your words. And through your actions.
Here’s a prayer that you can read for yourself. Maybe you’d like to pause after each line and reflect upon the words for a few moments.
Dear God,
Thank you for your amazing power and work in our lives, thank you for your goodness and for your blessings over us.
Thank you that you are able to bring hope through even the toughest of times, strengthening us for your purposes.
Thank you for your great love and care.
Thank you for your mercy and grace.
Thank you that you are always with us and will never leave us.
Thank you for your incredible sacrifice so that we might have freedom and life.
Forgive us for when we don't thank you enough, for who you are, for all that you do, for all that you've given. Help us to set our eyes and our hearts on you afresh.
Renew our spirits, fill us with your peace and joy.
We love you and we need you, this day and every day. We give you praise and thanks, for You alone are worthy!
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
But we have so many reasons for thanking God and being grateful!
We could come up with every excuse under the sun to not be thankful – especially with the world the way it is at the moment. But ultimately we have EVERYTHING to be grateful for!
The apostle Paul realised the truth of giving thanks when he wrote to the Philippian church, (Philippians 4:6-7 Good News Bible) 6 Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. 7 And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.
So … When in doubt, make a list. Make a list of some of the things that you would want to thank God for!
Breath, electricity, clean water, friends, fingers to type this with, the internet, relationships, loose fitting trousers!!!!…. The list is endless.
And with those things in mind, give God your thanks. Through praise. Through prayer. Through your words. And through your actions.
Here’s a prayer that you can read for yourself. Maybe you’d like to pause after each line and reflect upon the words for a few moments.
Dear God,
Thank you for your amazing power and work in our lives, thank you for your goodness and for your blessings over us.
Thank you that you are able to bring hope through even the toughest of times, strengthening us for your purposes.
Thank you for your great love and care.
Thank you for your mercy and grace.
Thank you that you are always with us and will never leave us.
Thank you for your incredible sacrifice so that we might have freedom and life.
Forgive us for when we don't thank you enough, for who you are, for all that you do, for all that you've given. Help us to set our eyes and our hearts on you afresh.
Renew our spirits, fill us with your peace and joy.
We love you and we need you, this day and every day. We give you praise and thanks, for You alone are worthy!
In Jesus' Name, Amen.
3rd May
Be a Blessing
The lockdown sparked by the coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on the economy, but it has helped bring British families closer together, according to a new survey.
The poll of 2,000 British parents conducted by MumPoll found four in five parents saying their families have formed an even stronger bond since the lockdown began. Likewise, 60 percent of parents say they are happier with their partner compared to the time before the quarantine. The research website ‘Study Finds’ reported on the poll.
“Being forced to halt our busy lives and spend time together in quarantine has made many of us consider what’s really important, like children, parents and the community they are part of,” said Siobhan Freegard, founder of ChannelMum.com, which commissioned the research.
“Despite the dreadful toll the pandemic is taking, people are becoming more thankful for the small pleasures in life. Coronavirus may well see us emerge a kinder community and more thankful for the things we enjoy in life.”
The survey also found, according to ‘Study Finds’:
- Half of families “are getting together to play board games and make puzzles.”
- 30 percent of parents say their families have formed book clubs and read together.
- 28 percent say their families have, for the first time, started gardening.
- 62 percent say their children are more “community-minded” than before.
- About three in four parents say their children “are tasked with getting groceries for people in their community who are vulnerable to the coronavirus.”
- 53 percent of parents say their children have picked up prescriptions for older neighbours.
Meanwhile, nine in 10 parents say they “have a much higher respect for their children’s teachers and educators.”
Maybe Covid 19 is giving us the opportunity to realise that we each have something positive to contribute to life and society. Families are rising above the stress and becoming closer than they were before. People are realising that we need to be a little more patient with each other and appreciate each other a little more.
These times can also be very testing and trying. We are not used to being together so much without being able to go out. But we are also able to spend far more quality time with each other - having conversations deeper than the superficial, listening to each other’s opinions, debating the difficult questions of life, showing each other how real our love is.
The Apostle Peter says it far better than I can ….
1Peter 3 verses 8 – 9 “Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that’s your job, to bless. You’ll be a blessing and also get a blessing.” (Message Translation)
The lockdown sparked by the coronavirus pandemic has had a devastating impact on the economy, but it has helped bring British families closer together, according to a new survey.
The poll of 2,000 British parents conducted by MumPoll found four in five parents saying their families have formed an even stronger bond since the lockdown began. Likewise, 60 percent of parents say they are happier with their partner compared to the time before the quarantine. The research website ‘Study Finds’ reported on the poll.
“Being forced to halt our busy lives and spend time together in quarantine has made many of us consider what’s really important, like children, parents and the community they are part of,” said Siobhan Freegard, founder of ChannelMum.com, which commissioned the research.
“Despite the dreadful toll the pandemic is taking, people are becoming more thankful for the small pleasures in life. Coronavirus may well see us emerge a kinder community and more thankful for the things we enjoy in life.”
The survey also found, according to ‘Study Finds’:
- Half of families “are getting together to play board games and make puzzles.”
- 30 percent of parents say their families have formed book clubs and read together.
- 28 percent say their families have, for the first time, started gardening.
- 62 percent say their children are more “community-minded” than before.
- About three in four parents say their children “are tasked with getting groceries for people in their community who are vulnerable to the coronavirus.”
- 53 percent of parents say their children have picked up prescriptions for older neighbours.
Meanwhile, nine in 10 parents say they “have a much higher respect for their children’s teachers and educators.”
Maybe Covid 19 is giving us the opportunity to realise that we each have something positive to contribute to life and society. Families are rising above the stress and becoming closer than they were before. People are realising that we need to be a little more patient with each other and appreciate each other a little more.
These times can also be very testing and trying. We are not used to being together so much without being able to go out. But we are also able to spend far more quality time with each other - having conversations deeper than the superficial, listening to each other’s opinions, debating the difficult questions of life, showing each other how real our love is.
The Apostle Peter says it far better than I can ….
1Peter 3 verses 8 – 9 “Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that’s your job, to bless. You’ll be a blessing and also get a blessing.” (Message Translation)
26th April
Psalm 23 reminds us that God is our constant, caring Shepherd and faithful Guide.
“The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
There was one phrase in the Psalm that caught my eye this week, and I’d like to share it with you. It spoke to me about these times of isolation and uncertainty.
“He makes me lie down in green pastures”
“He makes me lie down.” This word “makes” implies an involuntary action.
I’m not keen on being ‘made’ to do anything. That’s probably because I don’t like the idea of someone else having control of or over my life. I want to feel that I’m in charge and that my life is determined by my choices.
However, recent weeks have proven to me that there are times when I have to be submissive and obedient to those who have authority over me. The difficult times that we are going through demand that I think not so much about my own wants but of the needs of others.
Sometimes the Lord causes us, or makes us “lie down”.
Sometimes He makes us hit our knees.
Sometimes He allows trials to make us cry out to Him.
Sometimes He allows our plans, our goals, or our dreams to fail so that we are made to stop, to “lie down”, to slow down, and to seek His face.
I am so thankful that when, in our most broken moments, the Lord still is near. Many times we miss Him in the midst of trials because we have mentally allowed our circumstances to become larger than God, the Creator of the universe. When we do this, we will find it hard to crawl out of our pit of despair. But you see, we are promised that “He will never leave us nor will He forsake us” (Deuteronomy 31:8).
God is with us even in our greatest struggles.
You see, before the Lord can “lead me beside still waters”, lead me to the place He has planned for me, or lead me to the mission He has prepared in advance for me, He sometimes chooses to make me “lie down.”
Sometimes the Lord makes us “lie down” to remind us to depend on Him.
Sometimes He makes us “lie down” to protect us.
Sometimes He makes us “lie down” so that we can stop and realize how truly blessed we are.
Sometimes He makes us “lie down” because it is the only way He can get our attention.
There are many reasons He may cause us to “lie down”, but when He does, my prayer for you and for myself is that we would be quick to seek His face.
You see, the Lord doesn’t want to leave us “lying down.” He wants to “lead us beside still waters.” God calls His children to be actively led by His spirit. But before He can lead us any farther, sometimes He may cause us to stop, and “lie down.”
Dear God,
Thank you that you are our good Shepherd and we can trust you with our lives. We’re so grateful for your leadership and Sovereignty, for your guidance and care in all our days. Thank you that you restore our souls, give us peace, and bring us hope in all our tomorrows. Your protection and strength surround us like a shield, and we never have to fear. Thank you for your goodness and love that follows after us, chases us, even when we’re unaware. In you alone is true rest and peace. We praise you for the assurance that we will dwell with you forever.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
“The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”
There was one phrase in the Psalm that caught my eye this week, and I’d like to share it with you. It spoke to me about these times of isolation and uncertainty.
“He makes me lie down in green pastures”
“He makes me lie down.” This word “makes” implies an involuntary action.
I’m not keen on being ‘made’ to do anything. That’s probably because I don’t like the idea of someone else having control of or over my life. I want to feel that I’m in charge and that my life is determined by my choices.
However, recent weeks have proven to me that there are times when I have to be submissive and obedient to those who have authority over me. The difficult times that we are going through demand that I think not so much about my own wants but of the needs of others.
Sometimes the Lord causes us, or makes us “lie down”.
Sometimes He makes us hit our knees.
Sometimes He allows trials to make us cry out to Him.
Sometimes He allows our plans, our goals, or our dreams to fail so that we are made to stop, to “lie down”, to slow down, and to seek His face.
I am so thankful that when, in our most broken moments, the Lord still is near. Many times we miss Him in the midst of trials because we have mentally allowed our circumstances to become larger than God, the Creator of the universe. When we do this, we will find it hard to crawl out of our pit of despair. But you see, we are promised that “He will never leave us nor will He forsake us” (Deuteronomy 31:8).
God is with us even in our greatest struggles.
You see, before the Lord can “lead me beside still waters”, lead me to the place He has planned for me, or lead me to the mission He has prepared in advance for me, He sometimes chooses to make me “lie down.”
Sometimes the Lord makes us “lie down” to remind us to depend on Him.
Sometimes He makes us “lie down” to protect us.
Sometimes He makes us “lie down” so that we can stop and realize how truly blessed we are.
Sometimes He makes us “lie down” because it is the only way He can get our attention.
There are many reasons He may cause us to “lie down”, but when He does, my prayer for you and for myself is that we would be quick to seek His face.
You see, the Lord doesn’t want to leave us “lying down.” He wants to “lead us beside still waters.” God calls His children to be actively led by His spirit. But before He can lead us any farther, sometimes He may cause us to stop, and “lie down.”
Dear God,
Thank you that you are our good Shepherd and we can trust you with our lives. We’re so grateful for your leadership and Sovereignty, for your guidance and care in all our days. Thank you that you restore our souls, give us peace, and bring us hope in all our tomorrows. Your protection and strength surround us like a shield, and we never have to fear. Thank you for your goodness and love that follows after us, chases us, even when we’re unaware. In you alone is true rest and peace. We praise you for the assurance that we will dwell with you forever.
In Jesus' Name,
Amen.
19th April 2020
Psalm 121 Good News Translation (GNT)
I look to the mountains;
where will my help come from?
2 My help will come from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
3 He will not let you fall;
your protector is always awake.
4 The protector of Israel
never dozes or sleeps.
5 The Lord will guard you;
he is by your side to protect you.
6 The sun will not hurt you during the day,
nor the moon during the night.
7 The Lord will protect you from all danger;
he will keep you safe.
8 He will protect you as you come and go
now and forever.
Sometimes we look for God in the wrong places.
We want to see him in the miraculous, earth-shattering events. We expect to see Him working in world-changing disasters and human tragedy. It’s true that during those times God is there! But he is more often to be found in the ordinary.
The Psalmist (probably David) looked to the hills to try and find God. The hills symbolise the omnipotence of God – majestic, imposing, immovable. The hills stand for strength and stability, dominance and power. Looking toward the hills would be looking to Jerusalem where the Jewish people were to worship Jehovah. But David realised that he had to look beyond the symbolism and realise that God was not confined to a particular place or time.
Sometimes we look at God in the wrong way. We belittle him. We try to make him fit our circumstances rather than allowing God to moves us beyond our circumstances.
Alan Carr tells the story of two men who went down to a lake one day to do some trout fishing.
One man had a strange habit. Every time he would catch a trout he would pull out a little ruler and measure it. If the trout measured larger than the ruler he would throw it back. So strangely enough he kept all of the little trout that he caught, but he threw back all the big ones.
Well his partner watched that all day long, and as they prepared to leave he looked at him and said, “I can’t stand this any longer. I have never seen a man fish like you in my life. You’ve kept all of the small trout and thrown back all of the big ones. . . . Why did you do that?” The man said, “Because I only have an eight-inch frying pan.”
We must try not to limit God to our own simple understanding. This Psalm is a hope-filled reminder that we can fully depend on God for help, that He is constantly watching over us, protecting us in every circumstance. I am glad that I do not have to look to this ever-changing world for my help and for my security. There is a great God in heaven who is interested in everything that happens in my life. My burdens are His burdens, my problems are His problems, my worries are His worries.
Dear God,
Thank you that you go before us and cover us from behind. Thank you that you are in our midst, and our future is secure in the place you’re preparing for us.
We choose faith over fear today.
We choose to set our eyes on you and not on our circumstances.
We choose joy over despair.
We choose peace over worry.
We trust you to protect our way and bring us safely through the trials we’re facing.
Your words bring hope to our souls and comfort to our hearts. Remind us of your strength today, in us, through us. May we see glimpses of your glory and blessing along the way as we seek after you. For victory and salvation are found in you alone.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
I look to the mountains;
where will my help come from?
2 My help will come from the Lord,
who made heaven and earth.
3 He will not let you fall;
your protector is always awake.
4 The protector of Israel
never dozes or sleeps.
5 The Lord will guard you;
he is by your side to protect you.
6 The sun will not hurt you during the day,
nor the moon during the night.
7 The Lord will protect you from all danger;
he will keep you safe.
8 He will protect you as you come and go
now and forever.
Sometimes we look for God in the wrong places.
We want to see him in the miraculous, earth-shattering events. We expect to see Him working in world-changing disasters and human tragedy. It’s true that during those times God is there! But he is more often to be found in the ordinary.
The Psalmist (probably David) looked to the hills to try and find God. The hills symbolise the omnipotence of God – majestic, imposing, immovable. The hills stand for strength and stability, dominance and power. Looking toward the hills would be looking to Jerusalem where the Jewish people were to worship Jehovah. But David realised that he had to look beyond the symbolism and realise that God was not confined to a particular place or time.
Sometimes we look at God in the wrong way. We belittle him. We try to make him fit our circumstances rather than allowing God to moves us beyond our circumstances.
Alan Carr tells the story of two men who went down to a lake one day to do some trout fishing.
One man had a strange habit. Every time he would catch a trout he would pull out a little ruler and measure it. If the trout measured larger than the ruler he would throw it back. So strangely enough he kept all of the little trout that he caught, but he threw back all the big ones.
Well his partner watched that all day long, and as they prepared to leave he looked at him and said, “I can’t stand this any longer. I have never seen a man fish like you in my life. You’ve kept all of the small trout and thrown back all of the big ones. . . . Why did you do that?” The man said, “Because I only have an eight-inch frying pan.”
We must try not to limit God to our own simple understanding. This Psalm is a hope-filled reminder that we can fully depend on God for help, that He is constantly watching over us, protecting us in every circumstance. I am glad that I do not have to look to this ever-changing world for my help and for my security. There is a great God in heaven who is interested in everything that happens in my life. My burdens are His burdens, my problems are His problems, my worries are His worries.
Dear God,
Thank you that you go before us and cover us from behind. Thank you that you are in our midst, and our future is secure in the place you’re preparing for us.
We choose faith over fear today.
We choose to set our eyes on you and not on our circumstances.
We choose joy over despair.
We choose peace over worry.
We trust you to protect our way and bring us safely through the trials we’re facing.
Your words bring hope to our souls and comfort to our hearts. Remind us of your strength today, in us, through us. May we see glimpses of your glory and blessing along the way as we seek after you. For victory and salvation are found in you alone.
In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
5th April 2020
Easter Hope
This Sunday we begin Easter week, or Holy week as some like to call it. It starts with Palm Sunday and goes through to Easter Sunday, and follows to Biblical account of the last days of Christ leading up to his death and resurrection.
For the Christian church it as time to focus on the ultimate sacrifice of Christ in his death on the cross. But this week also encourages us to look beyond the sorrow of Good Friday and realise the miraculous wonder of his resurrection on Easter Sunday.
As the church remembers again the wonder of Easter, we are also called to remember those who are suffering because of Covid19. This pandemic is affecting everyone around the world, whether through contracting the virus or because of losing a loved one; whether it is because of the need for self-isolation or simply being inconvenienced by social distancing, or being unable to get the groceries you want from the supermarket. We are all touched by the virus in one way or another.
Outside our church, on the notice board, is the picture of a rainbow and the words ‘Hope after the storm’. The rainbow is a picture that has taken on great symbolism during the Covid19 crisis, you will see it displayed around the area in peoples’ windows. It is a picture of hope; a reminder that there are good things that will come out of this dark time.
It’s a biblical picture going back to Noah and the flood. (You can look at the story in Genesis chapters 8 & 9). The rainbow is given by God as a symbol of hope to the world and as a reminder of his righteousness and grace. And it is the same hope that is shown by God through the resurrection of Jesus. Easter gives us hope; it gives us the reason for life; it points us to the goodness of God and the hope of better things to come.
Edward Mote (1797-1874) expressed the meaning of Easter for us with the words of the hymn,
My hope is built on nothing less
than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
(and he continues in the last verse of the hymn),
His vow, His covenant and blood
Are my defence against the flood.
Easter tells us about all the things we can place our hope in: forgiveness, freedom from past hurts, the power of the Holy Spirit to help us, and best of all, the promise of eternal life! Placing our hope in Jesus comes from faith: faith in the future and trust in God’s promises as we face the unknown.
In the midst of all of our troubles—and they can feel overwhelming—I know that God has his hand on the world. I see both faith and hope at work in people’s individual lives and in our communities because I know that Jesus, the risen Lord, loves every one of us. I know he will never abandon us. This is what Easter hope does for us: It rejuvenates us. It fills us with joy and moves us out into the world to share that hope with the people around us.
This Sunday we begin Easter week, or Holy week as some like to call it. It starts with Palm Sunday and goes through to Easter Sunday, and follows to Biblical account of the last days of Christ leading up to his death and resurrection.
For the Christian church it as time to focus on the ultimate sacrifice of Christ in his death on the cross. But this week also encourages us to look beyond the sorrow of Good Friday and realise the miraculous wonder of his resurrection on Easter Sunday.
As the church remembers again the wonder of Easter, we are also called to remember those who are suffering because of Covid19. This pandemic is affecting everyone around the world, whether through contracting the virus or because of losing a loved one; whether it is because of the need for self-isolation or simply being inconvenienced by social distancing, or being unable to get the groceries you want from the supermarket. We are all touched by the virus in one way or another.
Outside our church, on the notice board, is the picture of a rainbow and the words ‘Hope after the storm’. The rainbow is a picture that has taken on great symbolism during the Covid19 crisis, you will see it displayed around the area in peoples’ windows. It is a picture of hope; a reminder that there are good things that will come out of this dark time.
It’s a biblical picture going back to Noah and the flood. (You can look at the story in Genesis chapters 8 & 9). The rainbow is given by God as a symbol of hope to the world and as a reminder of his righteousness and grace. And it is the same hope that is shown by God through the resurrection of Jesus. Easter gives us hope; it gives us the reason for life; it points us to the goodness of God and the hope of better things to come.
Edward Mote (1797-1874) expressed the meaning of Easter for us with the words of the hymn,
My hope is built on nothing less
than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
(and he continues in the last verse of the hymn),
His vow, His covenant and blood
Are my defence against the flood.
Easter tells us about all the things we can place our hope in: forgiveness, freedom from past hurts, the power of the Holy Spirit to help us, and best of all, the promise of eternal life! Placing our hope in Jesus comes from faith: faith in the future and trust in God’s promises as we face the unknown.
In the midst of all of our troubles—and they can feel overwhelming—I know that God has his hand on the world. I see both faith and hope at work in people’s individual lives and in our communities because I know that Jesus, the risen Lord, loves every one of us. I know he will never abandon us. This is what Easter hope does for us: It rejuvenates us. It fills us with joy and moves us out into the world to share that hope with the people around us.
29th March 2020
Self-isolating is a new phenomenon introduced to help us deal with the Coronavirus. It’s something that we’re not really used to. Most of us are reasonably happy to be on our own for a while but we also enjoy socialising. It’s nice to get together with friends and family, swap stories, catch up on the latest gossip and generally enjoy each other’s company.
For me it’s been an opportunity to read, listen to music and enjoy the company of my wife (not necessarily in that order!).
I read again the passage of scripture from Matthews gospel chapter 14 verses 22-27….
22 Then Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people away. 23 After sending the people away, he went up a hill by himself to pray. When evening came, Jesus was there alone; 24 and by this time the boat was far out in the lake, tossed about by the waves, because the wind was blowing against it.
25 Between three and six o'clock in the morning Jesus came to the disciples, walking on the water. 26 When they saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. “It's a ghost!” they said, and screamed with fear.
27 Jesus spoke to them at once. “Courage!” he said. “It is I. Don't be afraid!”
I noticed that Jesus himself took time to self-isolate, though not for 12 weeks! Even He needed time by himself to refresh and renew and to spend time with his Father in prayer. Notice also that while Jesus is spending time alone a storm brews up. The disciples find themselves buffeted and blown around, they feel afraid and fear for their lives. Sound familiar?
The important thing to note though, is that Jesus didn’t leave them to fend for themselves.
He came to them, reached out to them, reassured them and gave them peace.
The Coronavirus storm rages around us and Jesus comes to us in the same way as he did when the disciples were in a storm. He reaches out to us in love, he reassure us because he is in the storm with us, and he brings peace. In fact, Jesus stilled the storm. He not only took away their fear, he took away the cause of their fear.
As a Christian church we unite with millions around the world that God’s presence will be with us during this crisis. That His reassurance will come to those who are fearful, discouraged, frustrated, disturbed or grieving. And through this difficult time will be able to find peace in our hearts through the presence of God.
Here’s a prayer I found that you might like to make your own.
Father God,
I have never felt so alone. I could never have imagined facing something like this on my own and I’m afraid. Please remind me that you are with me. Allow me to feel your presence. Remind me that, as your child, you have not given me a spirit of fear. Remind me that I can trust you with whatever may come. Lord, this isolation is overwhelming. I know I could pick up the phone and call someone, but I don’t want to be a burden. Please help me to have concern for others above myself. I know I’m not the only one feeling lonely, give me the courage to reach out and offer encouragement to others. Amen
And I mentioned at the beginning that I have enjoyed listening to music during this time of self-isolation. Here’s a couple of songs that I’ve enjoyed and you might enjoy them as well. The first is ‘Oceans’ by Hillsong, and it encourages us to find comfort in the presence of God. The second is ‘Bridge over troubled water’ by Simon and Garfunkel. It’s not a Christian song but I think it help us to realise that we’re not going through this time alone.
For me it’s been an opportunity to read, listen to music and enjoy the company of my wife (not necessarily in that order!).
I read again the passage of scripture from Matthews gospel chapter 14 verses 22-27….
22 Then Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead to the other side of the lake, while he sent the people away. 23 After sending the people away, he went up a hill by himself to pray. When evening came, Jesus was there alone; 24 and by this time the boat was far out in the lake, tossed about by the waves, because the wind was blowing against it.
25 Between three and six o'clock in the morning Jesus came to the disciples, walking on the water. 26 When they saw him walking on the water, they were terrified. “It's a ghost!” they said, and screamed with fear.
27 Jesus spoke to them at once. “Courage!” he said. “It is I. Don't be afraid!”
I noticed that Jesus himself took time to self-isolate, though not for 12 weeks! Even He needed time by himself to refresh and renew and to spend time with his Father in prayer. Notice also that while Jesus is spending time alone a storm brews up. The disciples find themselves buffeted and blown around, they feel afraid and fear for their lives. Sound familiar?
The important thing to note though, is that Jesus didn’t leave them to fend for themselves.
He came to them, reached out to them, reassured them and gave them peace.
The Coronavirus storm rages around us and Jesus comes to us in the same way as he did when the disciples were in a storm. He reaches out to us in love, he reassure us because he is in the storm with us, and he brings peace. In fact, Jesus stilled the storm. He not only took away their fear, he took away the cause of their fear.
As a Christian church we unite with millions around the world that God’s presence will be with us during this crisis. That His reassurance will come to those who are fearful, discouraged, frustrated, disturbed or grieving. And through this difficult time will be able to find peace in our hearts through the presence of God.
Here’s a prayer I found that you might like to make your own.
Father God,
I have never felt so alone. I could never have imagined facing something like this on my own and I’m afraid. Please remind me that you are with me. Allow me to feel your presence. Remind me that, as your child, you have not given me a spirit of fear. Remind me that I can trust you with whatever may come. Lord, this isolation is overwhelming. I know I could pick up the phone and call someone, but I don’t want to be a burden. Please help me to have concern for others above myself. I know I’m not the only one feeling lonely, give me the courage to reach out and offer encouragement to others. Amen
And I mentioned at the beginning that I have enjoyed listening to music during this time of self-isolation. Here’s a couple of songs that I’ve enjoyed and you might enjoy them as well. The first is ‘Oceans’ by Hillsong, and it encourages us to find comfort in the presence of God. The second is ‘Bridge over troubled water’ by Simon and Garfunkel. It’s not a Christian song but I think it help us to realise that we’re not going through this time alone.