Good News!

David Cameron's speech, last week, in which he stated that Britain was a Christian country, has stirred up much debate.
When we were singing carols in the pub on Saturday evening, a fellow who had had too much to drink told me that he would be coming to our Carol Service, because of the Prime Minister's words. But it doesn't seem as though we are in a particularly Christian country when we encounter a lot of ignorance about so much of what Christians believe.
But have you noticed what this year's Christmas stamps have on them?
The second class one shows a stylised angel flying, and in small print, but clearly visible, are the words Matthew 1.21.
Did you know what that verse says?
'And she will have a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.”
 Most people may not know the significance of Christmas, having allowed it to be drowned in the shopping and feasting. But this message is the Good News of Christmas.
This angelic announcement is at the heart of the Christian understanding of why Jesus came into our world. It explains why we need rescuing, and why we can trust Jesus to save us.
And we could make use of this piece of Christian information to talk with friends and neighbours about the 'real meaning' of this wonderful season. That is good news too.
Best wishes,
Richard

Evidence

Following our World Record Attempt at our Carol Service (to be The Largest Group of carol Singers Across Multiple Venues!), we have to provide evidence of how many people were present.
This is provided in 3 ways.
First, Ed Stokes took some still photos, which look good, and show a big crowd of people, mostly their backs, appearing to  be singing!
Then Barry Nay set up his video camera, which has produced a great film of the whole 15 minutes of our singing. The evidence there is more detailed - we can even hear that some singing isn't in tune!
But the most important pieces of evidence are the two signed statements from 'Independent Witnesses' (Sue Tresillian, Headteacher of Sythwood School, and Hedley Quinton, from Lakeside Christian Fellowship).
They had Hand Tally Counters to aid them, and they had to ignore all under 10s, and all stewards and supervisors. Sue's figure was 192, and Hedley's was 193.
That is a good level of evidence for the truth of our claim to have been part of the genuine World Record.
When Luke tells his story about the events surrounding the birth, life and death of Jesus, he needs to present reasons why we should trust his story. And this he gives us, as he writes to his original recipient, a man named Theophilus. 'Many people have set out to write accounts about the events that have been fulfilled among us. They used the eyewitness reports circulating among us from the early disciples. Having carefully investigated everything from the beginning, I also have decided to write a careful account for you, most honourable Theophilus, so you can be certain of the truth of everything you were taught.' (Luke 1.1-4)
Serious historians and theologians of these days generally accept that Luke was one of the greatest historians of the ancient world. Whenever his details can be checked against other sources, they agree.
This means that when we read these stories, we are in the realm of fact and truth, rather than fable and fantasy.
As we retell this great Christmas story in the next few days, let us rejoice to know we have solid grounds for trusting the God who sent Jesus for us.
Best wishes,
Richard

It's a World Record!

News from the World Record bid is that 'we did it!' At 10.30 p.m., I received the following message:

WE'VE DONE IT…. So far we are at 17117 carol singers…

As a further 57 churches' numbers had not been received, the final total will be somewhere in the high 20000s.
At St. Andrew's, while our 'official numbers' were 192, that did not include children 10 and under, nor any of our sides-persons and others involved in hosting and welcome. I guess that would put our figures well above 220.
Thanks are due to our musicians, singers and others who helped in many ways. I am particularly thankful for those who invited family, friends and neighbours, so that all could hear again the 'Greatest Story' Ever Told' in a friendly atmosphere.
I am reminded of the words of Jesus, and pray we will all prove this to be true in our own experience. 'Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”' (John 8.12)
Over these days, I am also reminded that we have great opportunities to invite many more people to our other Christmas events - mostly on Christmas Eve. Please pray that our Family Carol Service (3.30pm) and our Midnight Communion (11pm) will also be full! Do some extra inviting to these events as well.
Best wishes,
Richard

Rising Faith

With only 10 days to go before Christmas Day itself, the pressure is rising.
Shops are slashing the prices of items which haven't sold as well as expected, and bargains may yet be acquired. But what else might be happening?
I have been struck by the way the central characters in the Christmas story respond to their encounters with God's activity.
As we saw yesterday, Zechariah struggled to believe that God could do what he said. 'Zechariah said to the angel, “How can I be sure this will happen? I’m an old man now, and my wife is also well along in years.” (Luke 1.18) In other words, "I don't believe God can do what you have just said!"
The heart of unbelief is to reckon that God cannot deliver on his promises. On the other hand, rising faith believes that God can deliver on his promises.
So Gabriel then demonstrates that God is able to deliver. He provides Zechariah with a startling demonstration of God's power.  'But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.” (Luke 1.20) Once Zechariah realised that he indeed could NOT speak, I guess he realised that he had better start trusting God.
He goes home, and in due course, Elizabeth becomes pregnant. Zechariah will have learned that God is able to do what he promises. That will have led to rising faith.
For many of us, we may have a theoretical faith that God is faithful and loving. But our faith will only grow and rise if we find ourselves ready to trust particular promises in difficult situations. In these days, where are the pressure points in your life? What do you think the Lord wants to do there? Can you trust him to make a difference? As we learn to trust him outside our comfort zones, then we will see our faith rise and we will be growing in wonderful ways.
Best wishes,
Richard

Well Prepared

Just over 10 days to Christmas Day, and some will be asking, 'Am I well prepared for what is coming?'
But these are days of exciting opportunity, and plans for our World Record Attempt at our Carol Service are going well. The Lord is providing us with opportunities to reach out - and will we be well prepared enough to take them?
Reflecting on the activity of God, in the Christmas story, we can see how people varied in their reactions to God's activity.
The old couple, Zechariah and Elizabeth, to be the parents of John the Baptist, show these different reactions. As we know  Zechariah was slow on the uptake, while his wife was much more eager for God's activity in her life. He is struck dumb, and she is excited. 'Then the angel said, “I am Gabriel! I stand in the very presence of God. It was he who sent me to bring you this good news! But now, since you didn’t believe what I said, you will be silent and unable to speak until the child is born. For my words will certainly be fulfilled at the proper time.” (Luke 1.19-20) When Zechariah’s week of service in the Temple was over, he returned home. Soon afterwards his wife, Elizabeth, became pregnant and went into seclusion for five months. “How kind the Lord is!” she exclaimed. “He has taken away my disgrace of having no children.” (Luke 1.23-25)
These well known Bible stories remind me that each of us has the challenge to respond to what God wants to be doing in our lives and around us.
We can miss the chance to be fully engaged, like Zechariah, or be eagerly involved, like Elizabeth. 
So I ask, 'Are you well prepared? - not just for the Christmas season, but for God's activity in your life? 
 It is such an amazing privilege to see the Lord's activity in the lives of ordinary people in our Church. I have been very excited to hear great stories in recent days. But we can all be the location of miracles and wonderful answers to prayer, if we choose to be well prepared!
Best wishes,
Richard

Properly Connected

Amazing Christmas lights adorn a selection of homes near here - with Santa climbing chimneys or ladders. Blue fairy lights seem to be the fashion, as well as reindeer and sledges. Apart from the effect on the electricity bills, I think they look great!
But they only work because they are properly connected to the electricity supply.
Jesus spoke of the effects of our being properly connected to him.
Obviously, Jesus used and illustration that was not of electric lights, but the principle is the same.  “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing.' (John 15.5)
'How do we remain in him?' is the obvious question.
The experience of many people is that we practice 'keeping in touch', by deliberate focus and frequent short conversations with Jesus, as our Friend and Leader. Just as some use their Blackberry or smart phone to keep connected with friends and family (or the latest news), so all of us can, with or without technology, keep properly connected to Jesus throughout the day.
That will be a wonderful experience in it own right - and the result will be that we live lives which produce much fruit. That fruit will be both changed lives (ours and other around us) and changed attitudes and character (so we are more like Jesus).
Good result, I would say!
Today, make sure you are properly connected - and lets hear the stories that result.
Best wishes,
Richard

Party Time

Tesco, Iceland, Sainsbury's. Morrisons and the rest promise to provide all we need, apparently, to feed our guests over the Party Season, without much work.
Many of us will enjoy some form of party or special gathering around Christmas. Taking time to meet friends and family, and to enjoy one another's company, is something that seems to happen in the next few weeks. This feature of the Christmas season is, however, one reason why some people dread this time of year. Family relationships may be strained, and real friends are hard to find.
It is quite striking that Jesus was himself something of a party animal. The Gospels record him enjoying hospitality on numerous occasions, and he often told stories about wealthy and powerful people laying on extravagant parties and feasts.
'“The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a king who prepared a great wedding feast for his son. When the banquet was ready, he sent his servants to notify those who were invited. But they all refused to come!' (Matthew 22.1-3) Jesus here indicates that many people refuse or ignore his invitation to enjoy the blessings of relationship with Him.
Elsewhere, Jesus is portrayed as being the One who needs to be invited to share hospitality. '“Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends.' (Revelation 3.20)
I am reminded of the time, many years ago, when I asked Jesus in to my life, to be my friend. It has been wonderful to know that he has kept his promise - I will come in - and I have benefited hugely from his faithful friendship. Doing life with Jesus makes every day a real party experience. How is your life with Jesus?
Best wishes,
Richard

Storms

Troubled times in the eye of the storm - whether that is weather in Scotland or European issues in Brussels.
While those who have lost their electricity cables in Scotland can expect 'normal service' to resume before too long, no one knows where last night's EU discussions will lead. I will leave the deeper discussions in the hands of the media, for a change.
At the heart of our culture, in all its forms, is an ever more invasive idolatry - everything is affected, and we are all caught up in it.
Those of us who have so much, in global terms, find ourselves intoxicated with the acquisition of more. Contentment with simply living simply has been replaced by the weary pursuit of new things and experiences, which generate storms within us, leaving us blown away.
I there an answer?
St. Paul would say so, as would Jesus!
'A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on all of God’s armour so that you will be able to stand firm against all strategies of the devil. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.' (Ephesians 6.10-12)
Every day, we are fighting in a battle for the health and life of our souls. Unless we are living from within our relationship with Jesus, we will go with the flow, which if away from the Lord who has called us.
Our security does not come from seeking more stuff and larger financial rewards, but from a deeper relationship with Jesus. As Jesus himself told us, '“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.' (Matthew 6.19-21)
If we live that way, we shall ride out the storms, and be a shining light for those caught up in it.
Best wishes,
Richard

Life Sentence

Does 'Life' mean life?
This question is often asked when a convicted murderer is released from prison, after serving the sentence given by the courts. In some cases, the release is much publicised in the media. Apparently, many people believe that some sentences are too lenient, while others appear too hash.
So the Homicide Review Advisory Group are suggesting that the time has come to seek to match the severity of the crime to the length of the prison sentence. The mandatory life sentence replaced the death penalty in 1965.
This question will no doubt be debated and discussed up and down the land.
When Jesus called people to follow him, he used very graphic language.
'Then Jesus said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but are yourself lost or destroyed?' (Luke 9.23-25)
The call of Jesus is to a life sentence, which means we follow him for the rest of our lives. With this life sentence, there is no remission for good behaviour, when some acts of selfless sacrifice can be balanced by some indulgent hedonism. Here, there is no parole board, and no excuses for not taking up the cross daily.
I find that challenge bracing.
Instead of being shaped by the comfort-driven ethos of our culture, I recall that Jesus' call is to whole-life discipleship, where my comfort and pleasure are low priorities.
But at least that is clear. As the greed-obsessed food binge that is coming our way approaches, our call is to follow Jesus, for life. What a privilege!
Best wishes,
Richard

Credit Rating

Irony rules, OK!
Standard & Poor (what an ironic name for a Credit Rating agency!), is wondering whether to lower the credit rating of the eurozone countries. This news in itself will then have some effect on the markets.
A group of MPs complain that no one can care for Care Homes when they run into financial difficulties. How ironic.
Some believe that the proposed reforms of the NHS threatens the very health of the nation.
Who can help the helpless and bring hope to the hopeless?
St. Paul asked those questions, as he wrote his letter to his friends in Rome. 'When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.' (Romans 5.6) While our credit rating with the Lord was at rock bottom, Jesus died to pay off our debts. Jesus has done for us, in terms of our moral debts, what the banks and governments have not been able to do for the deeply financially indebted nations of the world.
But Paul goes on to show that the consequences of God's generous mercy doesn't just clear the debts. It leads to changed relationship and new life. 'But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son.' (Romans 5.8-10)
That gives us good reason to be grateful, and to live thankful and generous lives.
Best wishes,
Richard

Progress

Whatever the problems, there are some humans, at least, who look for solutions. This is how progress is made.
So, this week, as the French and German leaders are to meet to unveil proposals intended to stem the eurozone debt crisis, many are hoping for progress.
In medical research, looking at the most difficult conditions, there are those who are dreaming of making breakthroughs in understanding and treatment, so that hope can be given. The desire for progress is relentless.
During the Advent season, we are challenged to look for the progress of God's Big Plan, as it approaches its finale.
In Old Testament times, prophets would speak of the Day of the Lord, when all wrongs would be righted, and his eternal purposes would be revealed.
Jesus taught of the 'coming of the Son of Man'. 'Then everyone will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds with great power and glory. And he will send out his angels to gather his chosen ones from all over the world—from the farthest ends of the earth and heaven.' (Mark 13.26-27)
St. Paul reminded his friends in Rome that they should be making progress in their Christian lives. 'Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armour of right living.' (Romans 13.11b-12a)
Today, each of us can make progress in our Christian lives, as we do the simple things well. We can focus on Jesus, moment by moment, and recall his presence with us. We can turn difficulties into opportunities to pray and seek his wisdom, and trust him to work out the muddles and problems we face.
Then we shall be making progress in our lives, and be ready for his return, as Jesus taught. '“However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. And since you don’t know when that time will come, be on guard! Stay alert!' (Mark 13.32.33)
Best wishes,
Richard

Market Confidence

Lack of confidence is apparently at the heart of the economic woes being experienced across the world.
Markets are not confident that debts can be repaid or interest payments made, so they raise the cost of borrowing.
Investors have little confidence that they will earn a good return on their risk, so they keep their money safe. This lack of confidence then has costly effects all round the financial cycle.
What a difference is the way the Lord works. If we have confidence in Him, he promises to repay our confidence in wonderful ways.
The prophet Malachi told his hearers that the Lord promises a very good return on investments. 'Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!' (Malachi 3.10)
When His people trust him, have confidence in His promises, and 'invest' in His work, in whatever way, He promises to multiply their efforts.
It is wonderful to report that so far, the St. Andrew's Day Appeal has raised over £20,000. I have no idea who has given what, but together, the Lord has enabled us to be generous. Please join me in thanking Him for this good sign of our shared commitment to His work.
Jesus gives us a very clear principle, which translates into every area of life. 'Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.” (Luke 6.38)
We now look forward to seeing the returns on our investments, in lives and communities changed through encountering Jesus himself.
best wishes,
Richard

The Great Escape

Many of us watched the classic Steve McQueen film, 'The Great Escape' in our youth. The story, the music, the acting and the motorbike stunts all contributed to its appeal. 
Tonight, on Channel 4, the story will be explored again, and found to be even more astonishing. Tragically, most of those who escaped were quickly recaptured, and then shot. It is remarkable what people will do to win their freedom.
Today's elections in Egypt, in a very different setting, show the same determination of people to win freedom from tyranny. As\Margaret Thatcher famously said in East Berlin, "When people are free to choose, they choose to be free."
The whole Bible story is about other great escapes.
Abraham escapes the idolatry of his homeland, in response to the call of the Lord to go to 'The Promised Land'.
Moses and the Israelites escape from bondage in Egypt, to wander in the desert and then arrive in the Promised Land.
Gloriously, Jesus provides the means by which we can enjoy The Great Escape, through his own great escape after death. When Jesus is praying, and is changed in appearance, his disciples see him talking with 2 men. 'And behold, two men were talking with him, Moses and Elijah, who appeared in glory and spoke of his departure, which he was about to accomplish at Jerusalem.' (Luke 9.30-31)
The death & resurrection of Jesus make it possible for us to be free from condemnation and the fear of judgement.
St. Paul describes the difference between our previous prison, and our present freedom. 'For God has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.' (Colossians 1.13-14)
So whether you watch Channel 4 this evening, or hum the Great Escape theme tune, today is a day to rejoice in the freedom which Jesus has made available for us.
Best wishes,
Richard

Thanksgiving

My diary tells me that yesterday was 'Thanksgiving Day' in the USA. Giving thanks (to the Lord) for their national survival at this time in the year goes back to the experience of the first 17th Century settlers, but it isn't something deeply embedded in our national DNA. 
By contrast, the British seem to be much more a nation of grumblers, fearful of how the future may turn out.
Christians are people who are called to be thankful in all circumstances. '“And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.” (Colossians 3.17)
St. Paul reminds his friends in Corinth of the reasons for our gratitude. 'You know the generous grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty he could make you rich.' (2 Corinthians 8.9) 
Paul then goes on to link this to the practical business of giving money to support the needs of Christian ministry and care. 'You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others.' (2 Corinthians 9.7-8)
As we approach our St. Andrew's Day Appeal, please pray that our giving will be in response to His costly giving, and that we will have much joy in our response.
Best wishes,
Richard

Gossip

You may know the old joke, "I don't gossip, but I can tell you someone who does!" The old form of gossip - literally word of mouth stories shared person to person - still happens. As someone said to me yesterday, 'You know what this estate is like. Stories go round like wild fire, and people believe anything.'
But modern forms of gossip are potentially even more dangerous. Stories and comments on Facebook and Twitter circulate far and wide and very fast. Friendships and families are being ruined daily by comments made in the virtual world. Is there anything we can do?
St. James, obviously writing about the old form of gossip, has some very sharp things to say. 'In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison.' (James 3.5,7-8)
It would help us and other people if we spoke less about what we have heard from others. That is hard, as at times, being the first to pass on news gives us a sense of importance. But before we do that, we need to ask three significant questions.
Is it true? We must check the facts in any story.
Is it kind? Even if it true, we are called to be kind to one another.
Is it necessary? Often, we only pass on stories because we don't want to miss out on the buzz that comes from being the bearer of some juicy tale.
May we never have the reputation of being those who destroy reputations by what we say or share over the internet.
Best wishes,
Richard

Growth

The slow or stopped growth of the national economy is a great cause for concern for those who have been used to seeing steady increases in earning power and spending habits.
We almost always consider 'growth' in financial terms, while other dimensions of life are often ignored.
But what about growth in family relationships, or in community cohesion, social responsibility, fairly traded goods and so on?
Could we not become less focused on the 'me, me, me' aspects of life and instead think of how our lives impact others?
Jesus, as usual, is our leader in this. He taught about the way of life that his Father had given for him, and then he lived and died that way. '“I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd. The Father loves me because I sacrifice my life so I may take it back again.' (John 10.14-17)
It is has been so encouraging, in recent weeks, to see how people at St. Andrew's have been growing in knowing the Lord Jesus for themselves.
The Confirmation Service last month, and the Christianity Explored Course which has just finished, have both shown people growing in their Christian faith, understanding and experience. This is wonderfully encouraging, and just what Jesus speaks about when he says, 'I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.' When new people join any church, these verses are being fulfilled!
Perhaps today, when we listen to yet more gloomy economic news, we can praise the Lord for the growth that He is producing in the lives of people in our church and area. And maybe we will commit to making that our aim too - to grow to know Jesus better, so that Jesus may be better known!
Best wishes,
Richard

Deja Vu?

What is going on in Cairo looks familiar. Ordinary people are protesting, and the military backed security forces are acting with considerable violence, as both sides did earlier this year. Has anything changed? This is deja vu!
Our present economic and political struggles are also similar, in very many ways, with previous problems. While we often imagine that 'this is new', the underlying features are pretty familiar. Deja vu again!
As one cynic wrote, 'There is nothing new under the sun' (Ecclesiastes 1.9), so that everything that humans do is merely a repeat performance of a previous tragedy.
However, there is another way of seeing the events of history. It is not all deja vu
The prophet Isaiah, writing to demoralised and dispirited Jewish exiles in Babylon, declares, as the mouthpiece of the Lord, ' “But forget all that—it is nothing compared to what I am going to do. For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.' (Isaiah 43.18-19)
The something new was to be the rescue of God's people from Babylon through the active agency of a foreign power - the Persians. The return from exile was granted by the new 'king on the block', Cyrus the Mede, in 537BC, after the fall of Babylon.
As we approach Christmas, we can recall that the Lord did something new in the birth of Jesus. Another something new can be seen in the ministry, death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus. The growth of the Church is another something new.
So let us be on the lookout today for other acts of God that are something new, and trust Him with the details of today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Work in Progress

The building work involved with the Elm Bridge improvements have been going on since early February, and they are not yet finished.
I have found it very interesting to see the various stages, and the 'work in progress' has been endlessly changing. But there has been chaos and upset for many - and how some have grumbled!
The latest reason for the grumbles are the car parks at the Leisure Centre, because we all have to walk a bit further than suits some people in a hurry.
However, when all done, it will be great!
I think of the vision that is painted for us in John' Revelation.
It tells us what the future, in God's hands will be like. 'Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.
  I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God’s home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever.” (Revelation 21.1-4)
In the present, we endure the problems of the building site, with upset and pain and innumerable causes of suffering. Because we are living in a 'work in progress', nothing works as it should and everything ends up broken and ruined. But our present experience is not the last word. God has the Last Word, and we can be part of that.
Knowing that gives us reason to press on and endure all that gets thrown at us.
Best wishes,
Richard

Grumpy or Gracious?

Mr. Grumpy writes regularly to Goldsworth Park News, grumbling about one thing or another. The tone is negative and critical, and strikes me as rather sad.
We know that there is plenty in the news and our present world to make us grumpy. Fear and worries about the future seem to make some people grumblers and critical about everything. By contrast, others seem to rise above the problems, and see possibilities of being gracious, and reach out positively.
Which route will we take?
St. Paul, while waiting for his friends in Athens, is stirred by what he sees. 'While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was deeply troubled by all the idols he saw everywhere in the city.' (Acts 17.16)
But he didn't get grumpy or grumbling about what he saw, he engaged with the people around him, and made the most of the opportunities to share the Gospel. 'He went to the synagogue to reason with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and he spoke daily in the public square to all who happened to be there.
  He also had a debate with some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers. When he told them about Jesus and his resurrection, they said, “What’s this babbler trying to say with these strange ideas he’s picked up?” Others said, “He seems to be preaching about some foreign gods.” (Acts 17.17-18)
I guess what made it possible for Paul to be so open-hearted and gracious was he wanted to share the Gospel at every opportunity. If that was our aim too, then we also might find ways to turn every grumpy-making problem into an opportunity to point to Jesus. Wouldn't that be great!
Best wishes,
Richard

Crucified?

Are families being crucified by petrol prices? I don't think so!
Robert Halfon, a well-meaning MP, trying to highlight an economic problem faced by all who fill up at the pumps, described the discomfort we experience because of high prices as being crucified! I think he chose the wrong word.
I hope he discovers the folly of his inflammatory language soon. So what does it mean to be crucified?
When the New Testament refers to crucifixion, it is not being emotive or inflammatory. Jesus was really and properly crucified, and he called his followers to be those ready to 'take up their cross' as they lived their lives. 'Then he said to the crowd, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross daily, and follow me.' (Luke 9.23)
Jesus calls his followers to put to death their self-centred way of life - submit to be crucified - in order that we may live new lives, for Him.
This metaphor is not just a form of words, but reflects a deep reality. Thus, St. Paul, writing to his friends in the churches in the area of Galatia, tells them, 'As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died.' (Galatians 6.14)
The question remains whether as Jesus' followers, we take seriously our call to face metaphorical crucifixion - to be mocked and jeered at, to be different from the crowd, to be like Jesus. That would be the right use of language.
Best wishes,
Richard

New Leadership

New leaders in Greece & Italy may have the immediate effect of calming the markets. But their honeymoon period is likely to be short, as substantial changes will be needed rather than skin-deep changes. We know that a coat of paint doesn't address the structural problems of a tottering wall. What is not so clear is what structural issues must be addressed to solve the world's economic problems. And then there are other issues, like justice, fair trade, religious freedom, and environmental matters. Is there an answer to all this?
In Jesus' day, there were looming problems of all sorts, and some expected Jesus to solve them all.
The Zealots were those looking for a radical response to the Roman Empire. There were Jewish religious groups, all with a different take on their problems. Then ordinary people, exploited by crooked financial systems, facing an unequal struggle. How was Jesus to provide the answer to everyone's problems?
In word and action, Jesus procalimed the Kingdom of God, which is when we are under new leadership and with a new direction for our lives. Not a big programme, but people in community with one another, living out a different sort of life.
He spoke often of what this life would look like.  'So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10.42-45)
Today, all of us have a chance to live out this sort of life - showing ourselves to be ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven. If we are like Jesus, that will show up. What next? Just watch what happens!
Best wishes,
Richard

Surprise! Surprise!

No one knows how this present economic crisis will end, because we do not seem to have been this way before. But in the longer term, we can see from history that empires of one sort or another have come and gone.
It is ironic that while the focus of our attention these last days is on the collapse of the Greek and Italian economies and their changes in governments, in times past, Greek and Roman power and empires shaped the ancient world. How things have changed! How the mighty have fallen!
And then there are the debates about what Christians should or might be doing in the present crisis. The Archbishop's thoughtful article in the Financial Times has produced more grist fro the mill of public debate and discussion.
I have been reflecting on the song that Mary sang after her visit from Gabriel. In her astonishment at being chosen to be the mother of the world's saviour, she observes how God works in the world. ' His mighty arm has done tremendous things! He has scattered the proud and haughty ones.
  He has brought down princes from their thrones and exalted the humble.
  He has filled the hungry with good things and sent the rich away with empty hands.' (Luke 1.51-53)
These words look suggest to me that we haven't seen anything yet in terms of the world being turned upside down. Most people seem to be trying to fix the present broken situation, whereas these words suggest that the Lord has a much bigger agenda in mind.
Instead of making everything more comfortable for those in power, Mary's song speaks of the hand of the Lord upsetting the 'rich getting richer' status quo. We don't yet see much evidence of the hungry being filled, and the rich being sent away empty - except at a spiritual level.
In these days, we are all being challenged to see what we count as valuable. If it isn't our relationship with the Lord, then we are in for trouble, sooner or later.
Best wishes,
Richard

Amazing Grace

In the much loved musical, Les Misérables, the ex-convict, Jean Valjean, receives hospitality from the gentle and godly Bishop. He then steals the Bishop's valuable silverware, and is caught and brought before the Bishop again.
This time, the Bishop shows astonishing generosity and mercy, in 'reminding' Jean Valjean that he had forgotten to take the other 'gifts' that were intended for him, namely, the much more valuable silver candlesticks.
The rest of the story shows how Valjean seeks to leave his past behind, and live generously, because of his own experience of being treated with amazing grace. It is stirring stuff!
It doesn't take most Christians very long to see why this story of redemption and hope rings true for us.
St. Paul tells of the way God has shown us amazing grace. 'When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.' (Romans 5.6-8)
Paul identifies God's 'great love for us' as the motivation for 'sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.' Paul also highlights our own inability to do anything to effect our own rescue - we were utterly helpless.
But God's amazing grace meets us in our need, and gives us better than we  deserve. As Rico Tice, in Christianity Explored points out, we are more sinful that we ever imagine, and more loved that we could ever know. That is amazing grace.
This grace provides the only means by which we may be put right with God. This is our only life-line. If we ignore or refuse this, we are lost.
Today, I pray you will live thanking the Lord for his amazing grace.
Best wishes,
Richard

Costs and Benefits

Is it worth it?
With the High Speed Rail link to Birmingham and the North being discussed, people are wondering whether the costs involved, over 20 years, will produce the necessary benefits to make it worthwhile.
I fancy that most of the complaints are from NIMBY (not in my back yard) people, who don't fancy seeing green fields turned into railway lines.
The assumed benefits include 'better connectivity' between cities and even Europe for people and goods. I think that means journey times will be shortened!
Thinking of other forms of connectivity, I reflect again on the death of Jesus.
Even with study and reflection on the events outside the walls of Jerusalem, when Jesus 'suffered under Pontius Pilate', we can barely understand the costs to God in the plan of salvation. But hat of the benefits?
St. Peter, who was there, and who was presumably wondering if his denial of Jesus was ever going to be forgiven and his friendship restored, wrote, 'Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit.' (1 Peter 3.18)
Peter is aware that the death of Jesus is a 'once for all time' payment, made on behalf of, or 'for sinners', with the benefit 'to bring us safely home to God'. That looks like great connectivity.
The whole of Christian living can be seen as saying 'Thank yo' to Jesus for his great love for us. He willingly paid the costs and we receive the benefit. Today is an chance to live for Jesus, and make a difference in His name. What a privilege.
Best wishes,
Richard

Global Growth

The world's leaders and financiers worry about the evidence for economic growth. But growth is happening in other aspects of life. We know the world's population is growing, which has now passed beyond 7 billion.
Global faith communities record growth in the numbers of their adherents, especially amongst Muslims and Christians.
Sadly, in some parts of the world, there is also a growth in violence between faith communities, whether in Nigeria and Pakistan, and people of many faith communities are persecuted by those in power.
It is not only Christians who are persecuted - in places like Pakistan, Iran and Saudi Arabia. Members of other faith communities also face the reality of discrimination and violent oppression. Buddhists in Tibet, Shia communities in Bahrain, or Pakistan, and many others face suffering on account of what they believe, when it is different from the views of the ruling elite.
In his day, the prophet Micah, spoke of God's promises to make a better world. 'The Lord will mediate between peoples and will settle disputes between strong nations far away.
   They will hammer their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks.
   Nation will no longer fight against nation, nor train for war any more.
  Everyone will live in peace and prosperity, enjoying their own grapevines and fig trees, for there will be nothing to fear.
   The Lord of Heaven’s Armies has made this promise!' (Micah 4.3-5)
As we approach Armistice Day, and Remembrance Sunday, we do well to recall the promises of God to bring peace and justice to His world. Can we imagine a day when there is a growth in world peace?
We can pray that this will happen, and play our part in being peace-makers wherever we can.
Best wishes,
Richard

Remember, Remember

With tomorrow being Guy Fawkes Day, it seemed appropriate to recall why we send off lorry loads of fireworks at this time in the year. Some of the details are recalled in the rhyme about 'gunpowder, treason and plot'. Mercifully, the plot didn't work, and the conspirators were arrested. Unless we remember our history, we will face the future with no sense of national identity or direction. National amnesia is dangerous.
But earlier this week, on 1st November, Christian celebrated All Saints day, recalling the lives and faith and courage of all those who have gone before us in the life of faith. I am so grateful for those that I have known who have served the Lord so well in days gone by. Many Christians are dangerously ignorant of the stories of those whose lives and witness has shaped the world.
But supremely, we remember Jesus, and all that he has done for us. It is striking that He gave us an acted out way of remembering his death and victory over death, when we share bread & wine. 'He took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this to remember me.”
After supper he took another cup of wine and said, “This cup is the new covenant between God and his people—an agreement confirmed with my blood, which is poured out as a sacrifice for you. (Luke 22.19-20)
Today, as we reflect on many things, we need most of all to remember Jesus, and his willing and loving sacrifice for us. That will enable us to face whatever comes today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Reshaping Community

Our present Government has spoken about encouraging the Big Society. We can all believe that it would be great if more people played a greater part in helping our society to work better. But who is doing their bit?
A major story in this month's Diocese of Guildford's newspaper, the Wey, reveals that the largest charity in the country is the Church of England.
Many pieces of research into the workings of charities and non-profit organisations reveal that the largest proportion of volunteers working in assorted charities are active Christian people. Again, when people have studied what sort of people are willing to serve as school governors, it is revealed that so many are active Christians that it is startling!
Why should this be the case? And what can we do to reshape society?
In one of his last parables, Jesus told a startling story about the way different people responded to the needs in society.
One group are praised, much to their astonishment, and they wonder why they have received praise from the King. '“Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see you hungry and feed you? Or thirsty and give you something to drink? Or a stranger and show you hospitality? Or naked and give you clothing? When did we ever see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ “And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’ (Matthew 25.37-40)
Today, and everyday, we will meet people in one sort of need or another. If we respond, as though we were meeting Jesus, then we will be generous and caring, and we will seek to serve their needs. And that is the motivation we have for reshaping the communities around us.
May the Lord bring us great joy in our service of Him, in the poor and downtrodden in our society.
Best wishes,
Richard

Resistance Movement

All around the world, people are challenging the way things are, with Resistance Movements.
The variety is enormous - from the Occupy Wall Street clones, so much in the news these days, to the Greek populace, whose Prime Minister has offered a referendum. The media tend to brand most of these movements as fringe and somewhat wacky. But they didn't take that view of the wartime Resistance Movements in continental Europe, together challenging the German war machine. Their courage and sacrifice were praised and their actions were effective.
 St. Paul reminds his friends in Rome that as followers of Jesus, they are part of a resistance movement. They are to resist the power of the culture all around them, in order to be true to Christ. 'Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.' (Romans 12.2)
The translator, JB Phillips, had a very striking way to express that resistance. 'Don’t let the world around you squeeze you into its own mould, but let God re-mould your minds from within'.
Every day, we are being squeezed by our culture - the news we hear, the shops we visit, the TV we watch, our ordinary conversations with friends and colleague. All the time, we are being invited to share the prevailing materialist values and aspirations. But there is another way to live, which puts God at the centre of everything. Only the Lord can develop that world view within us - and we need to cooperate with Him if we are to have renewed minds.
Today, we can either be drifting along with the dying culture around us, or be part of the life-giving Resistance Movement that Jesus has brought into being. Your call!
Best wishes,
Richard

Numbers

Today, for the first time ever, there will be 7 billion people living on Planet Earth!
Some will be like us, but the vast majority will be astonishingly different in their life expectancy and prospects. Apparently, an average child born in the USA will consume 9 times as many of the world's resources as an average child born in sub-Saharan Africa.
While the human population is increasing, the numbers of stars in our galaxy and universe are much greater. Within our own galaxy, the Milky Way, there are one hundred thousand million stars (100,000,000,000). And conveniently, there are about one hundred thousand million galaxies (100,000,000,000) in the universe as a whole! That makes a lot of stars!
And yet the Bible teaches us that the Lord God Almighty not only is the Creator of all we see, but that He knows the names of all!
The Prophet Isaiah, in a delightful passage that teaches so much about the nature of God, has a wonderful imaginative comment about God's personal involvement in his creative actions. 'Look up into the heavens.  Who created all the stars? He brings them out like an army, one after another, calling each by its name. (Isaiah 40.26)If God knows the stars by name, how wonderful is that!
Jesus, in a much loved passage about the Good Shepherd, teaches that each of His flock are personally known and named. 'The one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.' (John 10.2-4) Carrying on with this picture of being intimately known, Jesus then says, '“I am the good shepherd; I know my own sheep, and they know me, just as my Father knows me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice my life for the sheep. I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.' (John 10.14-16)
In a world where so many feel unimportant and unappreciated by others and perhaps even by God, it is wonderful to know that because of Jesus, we are known and loved by the Lord God Almighty. We are not just a number. We have a name! That is very good news to share with all we meet today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Prophet & Loss

St. Paul's Cathedral is in the news for the wrong reasons!
The resignation of Giles Fraser, over how to respond to the Occupy London protests, has raised uncomfortable issues. On the one hand, Canon Fraser and others have appeared to speak with a prophetic voice, challenging the greed of our culture and the City which generates so much wealth. On the other hand, the cathedral authorities appear to have taken the side of the rich & powerful, and appear to be more worried about their own health & safety than wider issues.
I wonder what the prophets Amos or Micah might have said!
In our culture, everyone wants to be popular, and to win the public vote. It is striking how many popular TV programmes give 'the public' a chance to vote contestants or participants off the show. We like to feel our voice matters. But with whom do we want to be popular?
But Jesus gave us some stark warnings about what we should value. 'What sorrow awaits you who are praised by the crowds, for their ancestors also praised false prophets.' (Luke 6.26)
Those called by Jesus are called to value His opinion more highly than the fickle moods of the crowds. Trying to fit into the latest fashion will never lead to a God-shaped life. So which side should we take on these complex issues? How can we be in line with the way of Jesus, who cleansed the Temple, and attacked those whose highest value seemed to be making money? Are we prepared to be unfashionable, in order to walk in step with Jesus?
Best wishes,
Richard

Blocked

In spite of all the recent rain, one of our water butts is still mostly empty! Why? What is wrong? One brief look suggests that the gutter is so full of leaves, that the gutter is blocked! It lies under one of the oak trees, and I must get it cleared AGAIN! How annoying that having done a good clearing job 4 weeks ago, I have to repeat the process.
But most of our lives are made up of repeating basic processes - waking up, getting up, having breakfast, getting dressed and so on. (you can see how far I have got this morning)
I note that it is easy for us to find that some of our relationships and channels of communication get blocked - for any number of reasons. I am not sure what the equivalent of the overhanging oak tree might be (answers on a postcard, or by email!).
St. Paul knew how easy it was for relationships to go sour, and he gave wonderfully helpful advice about how we should sort things out. 'Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tender-hearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.' (Colossians 3.12-17)
There is so much wise common sense here - particularly Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.
Too often, we may feel offended by what has been said or not said by someone, and we easily jump to conclusions - often by our failure to listen carefully. All this leads to blocked relationships - and the simple and oft-repeated answer is to forgive, as the Lord has forgiven us.
I am going to work at this today, and trust the Lord to help me to get important relationships unblocked.
Best wishes,
Richard

Finished!

Alex Waters was running the Great Birmingham Run yesterday, all 13 miles! I hope he finished well! After all the training and time spent preparing, getting to the finish line would be a great achievement.
But 'finished!' can mean different things. For the French rugby players, yesterday's very close World Cup Final probably meant they were 'finished!' (and desolated) at the end. For the New Zealand players, their 'finished!' was triumphant.
The death of two members of St. Andrew's Church in recent days has reminded me of the race of faith in which we are involved.
Jean Harrison died peacefully in Woodbank Nursing home a week ago. The Thanksgiving Service for her life and faith is on Wednesday this week at 3pm. All are welcome.
Yesterday, we were told of the peaceful death of Eddie Bradley Feary, who has been declining slowly over the last months. We don't yet know when his Funeral will be.
In their different ways, both lived out their faith in Jesus, right to the end of their lives. They finished well.
St. Paul describes his own determination to finish in his life, in a Jesus glorifying way. 'As for me, my life has already been poured out as an offering to God. The time of my death is near. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.' (2 Timothy 4.6-8)
What strikes me from Paul, Jean & Eddie, is that how we live now determines whether we will be able to say, 'I have finished the race'. Today we must choose to live a life poured out as an offering to God. Unless today is a day of self-offering to Jesus, we may not finish well. That would be a terrible waste, and an eternal shame.
Which way are you living?
Best wishes,
Richard

Good News

Most people in Libya are celebrating the death of Colonel Gaddafi. Questions are being asked by some about the actual circumstances of his death. But for most, this is a 'Good News' event.
The decision of ETA, the violent Basque separatist organisation, to turn away from violence, once and for all, has been hailed by eh Spanish Government as very Good News.
But so far, there is no Good News on the economic front, as European leaders again meet to try to make progress.
The heart of the Christian story is the announcement of Good News. The angels, at the birth of Jesus, told the astonished shepherds. 'That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you Good News that will bring great joy to all people. The Saviour—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!' (Luke 2.8-11)
We know we don't have to wait till December 25th to celebrate this great event.
We too can be messengers bringing Good News to the broken and battered people around us. There is no other Good News available, which can have such an impact for time and eternity.
Best wishes,
Richard

Prisoner Release

The extraordinary exchange of prisoners between Israel and Hamas brings good news to a region long starved of that commodity. Hamas has handed over Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit to Egyptian mediators after five years' captivity, and in exchange, 1000 Palestinians will be set free, and returned to their families.
Hamas may be hoping that this good will gesture will lead to their popularity increasing in the Gaza area. Whatever their hopes, for all concerned, the lives of hundreds of families are transformed.
In a context with some parallels, as an unpopular occupying force of Romans made life unbearable in many ways, especially for the poor, Jesus spoke of freedom for prisoners. 'The scroll of Isaiah the prophet was handed to Jesus. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where this was written:  “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor.
   He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free.' (Luke 4.17-18) The whole of his ministry was spent in bringing freedom to captives, and changing lives.
We may not be incarcerated in an Israeli jail, or be held by an organisation like Hamas, but most in our society are captive to fashion, or held prisoners in bondage to destructive habits, addicted to drink, drugs, shopping, and much else. Our consumerist culture promises so much, and delivers debt and frustration.
But Jesus can set us and others free. That is wonderfully Good News. It is exciting to see people at Christianity Explored discovering this Good News, as they get to see who Jesus is.
Today, let us bring Good News to prisoners too.
Best wishes,
Richard

Friend or Foe?

"Halt! Who goes there? Friend or Foe?"
In the 'old days (whenever they were!), these questions would be asked to avoid killing the wrong people. Those asking these questions had to presume that those answering were telling the truth! And that might not be the case.
As Liam Fox has discovered, sometimes those who claim to be friends end up causing costly damage. But this is true in many situations. It is important to discover where the true friends are.
Many aspects of international relations are made much more complicated because politicians are uncertain about the answer to these questions. Is the US or the EU a friend or a foe?
Today, we will all wonder whether Jesus is friend or foe, if we face his call seriously.
Jesus was clear that he came to be friend and helper to those in need. 'When Jesus heard this, he told them, “Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.” (Mark 2.17)
But at the same time, the demand that Jesus made on those of his day meant that some did not see him as a friend. 'As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
“There is still one thing you haven’t done,” Jesus told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.' (Mark 10.17, 21b-22)
If the call from Jesus, to follow him with passion and integrity, is costly - and it is - we must always ask whether the call to treat him as foe is not more costly.  May we be found faithful today, however much it costs!
Best wishes,
Richard

Competition

It is good to hear that Ofgem, the energy regulator, is seeing whether consumers, like us, are getting good value for money from our energy suppliers. Competition in the market place has its value.
Many of us enjoy playing or watching one sort of sporting competition or another. My own favoured competition is against the clock, when I go swimming. The challenge to do better, or beat the other side, helps to raise the game.
But in our spiritual lives, we are not in competition with one another. 
Jesus told this wonderfully hopeful story. “Two men went to the Temple to pray. One was a Pharisee, and the other was a despised tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed this prayer: ‘I thank you, God, that I am not a sinner like everyone else. For I don’t cheat, I don’t sin, and I don’t commit adultery. I’m certainly not like that tax collector! I fast twice a week, and I give you a tenth of my income.’ (Luke 18.10-12)
The Pharisee thought that his spiritual life was one where he scored more points by being better than others. But all of us may find ourselves comparing ourselves with others in the way our lives are going.
But the heart of our relationship with Jesus is one of trust and love. We are not on a performance related benefit scheme, or being paid by commission for good works done. We can come to Him, as did the tax collector in Jesus' story. '“But the tax collector stood at a distance and dared not even lift his eyes to heaven as he prayed. Instead, he beat his chest in sorrow, saying, ‘O God, be merciful to me, for I am a sinner.’ I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” (Luke 18.13-14)
What a relief!
Best wishes,
Richard

Watching

What connects the following? A computer screen, people, sport, clouds, birds, Strictly ....!
The answer is that we all watch these  - in varying amounts each day or week. We spend a great deal of life watching people or events and much else.
How well do we watch? Do we watch for entertainment, information, as part of our work, or to make a difference in the world?
Jesus was clearly very observant about people and nature, and spent much of his teaching using illustrations for his observations. He was good at watching.
So was Jeremiah, the prophet in Jerusalem in about 600BC.
Soon after he receives his commission, we read of this fascinating exchange. 'Then the Lord said to me, “Look, Jeremiah! What do you see?”
   And I replied, “I see a branch from an almond tree.”
  And the Lord said, “That’s right, and it means that I am watching, and I will certainly carry out all my plans.”
  Then the Lord spoke to me again and asked, “What do you see now?”
   And I replied, “I see a pot of boiling water, spilling from the north.” (Jeremiah 1.11-13)
We may wonder what this is all about.
The footnotes tell us that the Hebrew for  'almond tree' sounds like 'watching'. The pot spilling from the north is more obvious.
But as Jeremiah saw and watched what was going on around him, so he learned that the Lord was watching too.
In our own day, we can be watching people and events, and asking the Lord to make things clear to us, so that we too can make sense of what we watch. Then, like Jeremiah or Jesus, we can speak and live in step with the Lord.
Best wishes with your watching today.
Richard

Very Revealing

The 4 biggest internet providers (BT, Sky, Virgin and TalkTalk) are going to make it possible for people to opt out of watching pornography on the internet. This will be hailed by some politicians as making a great change. But will it?
Following a report by the Mothers Union (a Church of England voluntary group), Bye Buy Childhood

http://www.themothersunion.org/byebuychildhood.aspx

, about the commercialisation and sexualisation of children, the Government promised to act. But these actions now promised are themselves very revealing, as they amount to little or no change at all.
The proportion of pornography on the internet is staggering. 125 of all websites contains pornography, and it is estimated that 90% of 8-16 year olds have accessed pornography while 'doing homework'.
There are steps we can all take, not relying on the help of internet providers.
Jesus warned us about the power of thoughts and images. 'I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. So if your eye—even your good eye—causes you to lust, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.' (Matthew 5.28-29)
He also warned us about the responsibility we all share in caring for children. 'One day Jesus said to his disciples, “There will always be temptations to sin, but what sorrow awaits the person who does the tempting! It would be better to be thrown into the sea with a millstone hung around your neck than to cause one of these little ones to fall into sin. So watch yourselves! (Luke 17.1-2)
My prayer is that we can live conspicuously different lives, by what we value and by how we behave. That would be very revealing.
Best wishes,
Richard

Partnership

In Government circles, talk of partnership brings mixed responses. They know they are in a coalition, but many might prefer to be one their own.
In many other situations, the problems of partnerships seem to outweigh the benefits. Watching the Europe's governments wonder how to address the financial problems of Greece and others shows how hard t is working with may partners.
But it seems to me that deeply embedded in the way the Lord works is partnership based.  Thus, as humans we are called to work in partnership with others, and most astonishingly, we are called to be partners with the Lord himself.
'Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28.18-20)
We may be so familiar with these verses that we are not shocked by what they say. But we might have expected the risen Jesus to say - All authority is mine, as I have single-handedly conquered sin & death. So I will now, single-handedly, go on to win the world'.
But he doesn't.
He calls us into partnership with Himself, to change the world, one person at a time. What a privilege!
Pray that he will help you with your partnership with Him and others today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Life & Death

The death of Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple Computers, and the man behind all the remarkably innovative iThings, has produced some astonishing responses. This is partly because of his own very public statements about his attitude towards his approaching death. Not many people are as candid nor as courageously wise about difference our certain death should make to our lives.
In a culture which prefers to talk of 'passing' or 'slipping away', his openness about death was refreshing. Much of this may have had its roots in his Buddhist faith and practices.
St. Paul had a pretty startling view of life and death too. 'For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me. But for your sakes, it is better that I continue to live.' (Philippians 1.21-24)
None of us knows how long we may live from today. We often think that 'one day' I will decide to make the good choices which will shape my life - but not yet! But unless we live for Jesus from today, deliberately and courageously, then we are wasting our lives and we will end up with regrets and sorrow. Today is the day to choose the right choices - because we may never have a better opportunity.
Best wishes,
Richard

Living Well

The Chief Executive of Sainsbury's was talking about their slogan - Live well for less - which is part of their response to the difficult times we all face. The Prime Minister will try to give a rallying call today to the nation (and his party) as we face tough times. he will tell us all to cut our debts, and learn to live responsibly!
Over the years, by contrast, we were encouraged to borrow  and spend (so that the banks could get rich at our expense!). Now we are told that we have to swallow the medicine that tries to address the disease of our own greed.
St. Paul has a different remedy to our greed and different recipe for living well. 'Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy.' (Ephesians 4.21-24)
Paul describes someone changing their clothes - throw off your old nature and put on your new nature - which would have been symbolised in the way baptisms were carried out in those days. The newly baptised would emerge from the water and be given a new white robe or towel, marking the spiritual change that coming to Jesus had brought about.
Merely telling us that we should be living better doesn't help us. But with God's Spirit teaching us and giving us new thoughts and attitudes can help us to show our God-given new nature in living well. What a powerful message this is! I am asking the Lord to help me to live like this today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Guilty or not?

Amanda Knox prepares to fly home to the US after she and ex-boyfriend Raffaele Sollecito were cleared of murdering the British student Meredith Kercher. The court has declared her innocent of that crime. The Knox family are obviously delighted, while the Kercher family continue to mourn the death of their daughter.
There has been so much publicity around this case that it is hard to realise that this is not a TV drama, but real life.
At all levels of public life, questions are asked about the guilt of people, ranging from England's rugby players, Premier league footballers, and politicians, to bankers, tax exiles, Russian billionaires and so on. Many hours of discussion and debate ask where guilt or responsibility lies. It seems to matter to us to know what makes someone else guilty or innocent.
But most of us do not live under the scrutiny of the press, and so we may think that how we behave doesn't matter too much. We may happily apply less stringent standards to ourselves, often justifying our own bad behaviour by assuming we are the special case.
The Psalmist had a different view. He knows that none of us is innocent, yet he finds mercy from the God who made him. 'The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love.
  He will not constantly accuse us, nor remain angry forever.
  He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. (Psalm 103.8-10)
To know that I am guilty, but have been graciously forgiven, leads me to want to live a different sort of life - being generous and hopeful for all that I meet today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Dangerous Influences

Greece is having at startling effect on our lives - some we like and others we fear.
This astonishingly warm weather has its origins in the area of Greece & Turkey. We are enjoying this influence. But then Greek finances are appearing to drown the world's financial markets in despair, and the results are deeply dangerous to our chosen lifestyles.
Out difficulty is that we cannot pick and choose the influences to which we are subject. We can choose how to react to those influences. And in response, we can choose to build our lives on values and loyalties which have lasting significance.
Jesus illustrated this in his Sermon of the Mount. '“That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are?' (Matthew 6.25-26)
The winds of fashion blow all around us - influencing the way we think and behave. Watching an episode of the X factor over the weekend, again and again the contestants said - presumably set up by their interviewers - 'This is the most important day of my life. I really want this, as it will change my life for ever. If I fail, I will have to return to a terrible life.' All watching this deadly diet will find themselves believing the same drivel, and will be be increasingly driven by materialistic dream and hopes. But we can discover that our true value comes from being loved and nourished by our Father's care. What influences your life?
Thanks the Lord for his care for us.
Best wishes,
Richard

Stormy Weather

While the late autumn sun streams into my study window, I hear that we may yet get wild and wintry weather before too long. Some have told me there will be snow in October - which starts tomorrow! How will we cope if we get a tough winter? As far as some forecasters are saying, the economy will be worse, there will be more unemployment and loads more shops will be shutting. Stormy weather indeed.
The disciples had some extraordinary experiences with Jesus.
'But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water.' (Mark 4.37) As we know, Jesus was asleep and the disciples were terrified they would all drown. They woke Jesus, and he showed himself to be 'the man who calmed the sea', as we have sung recently in church.
But the very next story shows Jesus calming a different sort of storm. 
'When Jesus climbed out of the boat, a man possessed by an evil spirit came out from a cemetery to meet him. This man lived among the burial caves and could no longer be restrained, even with a chain. Whenever he was put into chains and shackles—as he often was—he snapped the chains from his wrists and smashed the shackles. No one was strong enough to subdue him.' (Mark 5.2-5) 
This storm-tossed man had no one to help him - except Jesus, who drove out the evil spirits, and restored him to life again. I guess the disciples were astonished by these two events. What did they learn?
All of us face storms of one sort or another - external or internal - and the same Jesus can prove himself in our lives to be the man who calms the sea. I have to learn to give to Him, every day, all the storms which come my way. Daily, he proves himself good at his job!
Best wishes,
Richard

The New Community

While leaders and politicians talk, and wonder how to restore their own image, and in some cases try to persuade voters that they are worth trusting, life goes on. In communities and neighbourhoods all over the world, people live, work, sleep, and worry about how things will turn out.
But thus it has always been. Is there a plan, in the purposes of God, to help us build the sorts of communities and neighbourhoods, where all sorts of people can flourish?
Jesus had a startling way of addressing these issues, usually through telling stories. In many, there were themes of invitation, hospitality, community and relationships. 'Jesus replied with this story: “A man prepared a great feast and sent out many invitations. When the banquet was ready, he sent his servant to tell the guests, ‘Come, the banquet is ready.’ But they all began making excuses. (Luke 14.16-18a) In order to have guests at his feast, the new instructions were astonishing. '‘Go quickly into the streets and alleys of the town and invite the poor, the crippled, the blind, and the lame.’ After the servant had done this, he reported, ‘There is still room for more.’ So his master said, ‘Go out into the country lanes and behind the hedges and urge anyone you find to come, so that the house will be full.' (Luke 14.21b-23)
This new community, that comes about through the ministry and mission of Jesus, is not monochrome and nor is it for only one sort of people. It is wonderful in its diversity, and it demonstrates the astonishing generosity of the Master of the Feast.
And as followers of Jesus, it is our privilege to be in on this world-challenging life-enhancing community.
Today's challenge for all of us is to be as open-hearted and generous in our dealings with one another as Jesus has been to us. With his help, we can be like that. How exciting.
Best wishes,
Richard

Finishing Well

I don't know much about professional cycling, but I have heard of Mark Cavendish, from the Isle of Man, who has just become World Champion at road cycling. On Sunday, ably supported by the other members of the British team, he narrowly beat everyone else to finish well - ahead by half wheel's length. It was striking that while others praised his achievement, he thanked his team mates. As far as Cavendish was concerned, without teamwork, victory was not possible.
This takes me back to some words from Hebrews, which we looked at on Sunday. 'And so, dear brothers and sisters who belong to God and are partners with those called to heaven, think carefully about this Jesus whom we declare to be God’s messenger and High Priest.' (Hebrews 3.1)
It is striking that the writer emphasises the corporate nature of our Christians lives.
We are family together, all belonging to the Lord as loved children.
We are all partners in a lifelong and life-giving journey. Our present experience of knowing the Lord's love and mercy is merely the first course in a magnificent banquet to be enjoyed together in eternity. Thinking carefully about Jesus - together and in community - will keep us strong together. Dreaming about anything else will ruin our prospects of making it to the end.
With all this that we share, we can continue to encourage one another to finish well - or as the old First World War song had it, 'Keep right on to the end of the road'.
I wonder who we might be able to encourage today. How exciting!
Best wishes,
Richard

Freedom & Fulfilment

Startling news from Saudi Arabia ! Women can vote in 4 years time! They might even be able to drive. The same forces which are driving the Arab Spring looks to be having an effect in that troubled land. At this stage, we cannot see how things will turn out, in Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Syria, Yemen or Saudi Arabia.
But wherever we look, people long for freedom from tyranny and oppression, and are seeking to fulfil their dreams.
In the West, where people appear to be much more free and may chase whatever dreams they choose, many are not thriving. Suicide rates among young men are astonishingly high, and in the UK, according to the latest United Nations report, our children are at the bottom of the 'well-being league table in Europe. All is not well.
If chasing the wrong dreams for freedom & fulfilment can be so damaging, what leads to true freedom & fulfilment.
Jesus addressed exactly this issue, early in his ministry. '“Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.' (Matthew 6.19-21)
Living in a greedy and materialistic culture, we can so easily think that getting more money and having the latest stuff will give us freedom & fulfilment. But this is just a deceptive trap to imprison us. Working harder and earning more money will not bring deep satisfaction. If our treasure turns out to be trash, we will be full of regrets.
'“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.' (Matthew 6.31-33)
Only having our priority on a Kingdom-focused life will bring real freedom and fulfilment.
So what is your priority in life? Good job, successful career, bigger house. Beware! That way leads to ruin. Go with Jesus today.
Best wishes,
Richard

A Divided House

I am no economist.
But it seems that the present collapse in the 'Markets' is because the governments and banks of the world cannot agree on how to solve the muddle of debt. The divisions between Europe, the US and the rest play havoc with confidence. It seems like we are discussing the latest trivial issue while the Titanic is going down.
In a very different context, Jesus spoke about the dangers of disunity. 'A kingdom divided by civil war will collapse. Similarly, a family splintered by feuding will fall apart.' (Mark 3.24-25)
Unity comes when people can be focused on a common task, and with a shared aim. While aims are muddled, people will be disunited. My mind goes back to the leadership of Winston Churchill in war-ravaged Britain. It would be great if today's meeting in Washington could bring that unity of purpose and action.
But Jesus was actually talking of his superior power over the forces of evil. 'And if Satan is divided and fights against himself, how can he stand? He would never survive. Let me illustrate this further. Who is powerful enough to enter the house of a strong man like Satan and plunder his goods? Only someone even stronger—someone who could tie him up and then plunder his house.' (Mark 3.26-27)
Whatever struggles we may face today, we can know that Jesus is the 'Stronger than the Strong', who has supreme power and authority, demonstrated by his death & resurrection.
I am very thankful for the great unity and collaboration which Christians and churches in Woking share in many areas of mission & ministry. We are so much stronger together that apart.
Best wishes,
Richard

Thinking Christians

Daily news gives horrific stories of suffering and hardship. Many of us have been challenged in our faith to explain to those around us how God could allow such appalling suffering. Questions like this have undermined the faith of some as they have struggled both with understanding some the difficult passages in the Bible and how to apply the Bible in the modern world.
And on the other hand, aggressive atheists challenge the basis of all faith in God, and the steady mockery of Christian faith in the media and our culture has a sapping effect.
On a bad day, we keep our heads down, and hope the storm may blow over, rather than blow us over.
But this has often (or always) been the case. The psalms bear witness to the struggles that believers had 3000 years ago! Reading and reflecting on these verses keeps me sane! 'O Lord, I give my life to you.
     I trust in you, my God!
   Do not let me be disgraced,
      or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat.
  No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced,
      but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others' (Psalm 25.1-3)
The fear of being disgraced, with enemies rejoicing over our defeat, powerfully affects us. But God can be trusted to hold us in troubling times.
Starting next month, promoted by Premier Radio, there is a series of events arranged under the banner of Be a Thinking Christian. http://www.bethinking.org/the-reasonable-faith-tour-2011/
This will provide encouragement for all who may struggle in the battle for the hearts and minds of all of us.
Best wishes,
Richard

Paying Debts

While the panic and fears in the financial markets rumble on, and the sovereign debt crisis deepens, no one knows where it will end. Calls for clear leadership and decisive action rebound the world, like the echo in a vast dark cavern.
How can debts be paid off?
Rupert Murdoch seems to know. He has agreed to pay £1million to a charity, because of the phone hacking scandal linking his News International to Millie Dowler's phone. Presumably, he believes this is his way of paying off his moral debt to the Dowlers and society. As he earns over £80million a year, it doesn't look like a very significant payment.
How do we handle our debts - particularly our moral ones?
There is a great little story in the Gospels, showing how Jesus brings both chnaged attitude and behaviour to a debt-ridden situation. The chief tax collector, Zacchaeus, had brown rich by cheating the masses. meeting Jesus leads to a startling change. 'Meanwhile, Zacchaeus stood before the Lord and said, “I will give half my wealth to the poor, Lord, and if I have cheated people on their taxes, I will give them back four times as much!”
  Jesus responded, “Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost.” (Luke 19.8-10)
In personal terms, Zacchaeus understood that dealing with his debts - both moral and financial - needed firm action. Tokens gifts are not enough. His life had been turned round by the visit of Jesus - 'Salvation had come to his house'.
If we are facing struggles about sorting out a moral debt, we probably need the help of Jesus. I guess we will know astonishing relief when we can sort things out, with His help.
Best wishes,
Richard

Family Fortunes

Fans of Downton Abbey will be glad that the second series started last evening. The icing on the cake is that Maggie Smith, the matriarch of the Crawford family, won an Emmy award last night in Los Angeles. But we know that all that is fiction!
We all experience, in one way or another, the pleasures and pains of family life, and yet we sometimes wonder if anyone else might understand our own particular experiences. Our differences can seem to provide a reason why we are a special case. Our troubles can be isolating, which then accentuates them.
But the writer to the Jewish Christians, knows as 'Hebrews', tells us some amazing news.
He asserts that Jesus is both fully human and fully understanding of our trials and temptations. 'Therefore, it was necessary for Jesus to be made in every respect like us, his brothers and sisters, so that he could be our merciful and faithful High Priest before God. Then he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people. Since he himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.' (Hebrews 2.17-18)
Because Jesus has been tempted, in particular to go soft on his call to live and die as Messiah and Saviour, he can help us all today when we find the call to live like a member of the family demanding and difficult. We are all family together, and Jesus, our older brother, will help us. Great news.
Best wishes,
Richard

Trapped

News from South Wales, and the 4 trapped miners, will keep us gripped until they themselves are freed. The last year has had 2 major stories of trapped miners, and we know the outcome is always uncertain. These are anxious times.
But there are other stories of people being trapped in one way or another.
'Trapped in debt' applies to individuals and governments. The inability of the EU to solve the Greek debt issues shows the complexity of the muddle.
'Trapped in poverty' applies to many families and individuals, and is often linked to 'trapped in unemployment'. These are troubling times all round.
The natural reaction of many is to remain complacent and unconcerned, because this is someone else's problem. We too easily remain blind and deaf to the needs of others, for many reasons.
Jesus was startling in his challenge to the complacent in his society. 'One Sabbath day Jesus went to eat dinner in the home of a leader of the Pharisees, and the people were watching him closely. There was a man there whose arms and legs were swollen. Jesus asked the Pharisees and experts in religious law, “Is it permitted in the law to heal people on the Sabbath day, or not?” When they refused to answer, Jesus touched the sick man and healed him and sent him away. Then he turned to them and said, “Which of you doesn’t work on the Sabbath? If your son or your cow falls into a pit, don’t you rush to get him out?” Again they could not answer.' (Luke 14.1-6)
The roots of our complacency may not be strictly religious, as with the Pharisees, but all of us find ways to justify our ignoring of those around us who are trapped in one way or another. Usually, we are too busy with getting on with our own lives, so we have no time or energy left for those in need.
I wonder what Jesus would have us do to help those around us who are trapped. Perhaps we might discover that if we imagined ourselves as a one of the trapped ourselves. We could pray that we find out what Jesus wants from us.
Best wishes,
Richard

Boundary Changes

Future British Parliamentary constituency boundaries are going to be changed. The aim is to make all constituencies about the same size in terms of voting population. The reason for these changes is that populations have moved away from one area to another. We can all get involved in the consultation process, if we want.
Only last month, the latest new nation is the world was formed - Southern Sudan - after 30 years of terrible civil war. Negotiations for this boundary change have been very costly.
Today, the Arab League are discussing how to work towards the recognition by the United Nations of a Palestinian State.
While we may be involved in the details of our own democracy, millions of other are wondering if they can be recognised and heard.
But as the Arab Spring is showing, it is not only boundaries which need changing.
St. Paul describes a different sort of change, which happens when people entrust themselves to Christ.
We move into the realm of his authority - like a refugee or asylum seeker leaving a tyrannical regime, seeking a better life. 'For God has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.' (Colossians 1.13-14)
Today, I want to thank the Lord for the amazing privilege it is to be a member of the Kingdom of Jesus. And I also want to help other join this new community.
Best wishes,
Richard