Beauty and the Beast is a great story! But this is not my take on the Royal Wedding!
Betty & I went to see the local production of Beauty & the Best this week. There were some impressive performances, a very professional production, and two of our young people doing very well in the company.
But it was the story which grabbed me. The Beast is paying for his selfish treatment of an elderly woman, who has cursed him and all his staff. He can only be rescued from his (deserved?!) fate by the love of a woman if he learns to love in return. And in spite of everything, the love and commitment of Beauty wins out, and he is restored.
Now many of you will have other comments on this story - do add them on the Blog page (available through the Church website!)
What struck me so clearly was the way that so many such stories and fables - I think of Richard Wagner's opera, The Flying Dutchman - have this theme. Someone is redeemed and rescued from their fate by the sacrificing love of the hero. Or as another show has it, Love Changes Everything.
St. Paul knew that too! 'It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.' (Galatians 2.20).
St. John also knew this truth. 'God showed how much he loved us by sending his one and only Son into the world so that we might have eternal life through him. This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. (1 John 4.9-10)
And the most famous verse in the Bible tells this loud and clear - our beast has been met by the beauty of His love. “For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.' (John 3.16)
Today, I want to thank the Lord for His love for me, and commit myself again to living for him. That alone will deal with all that is 'Beastly' within my life and character. Will you do that too?
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 29 April 2011
Wednesday 27 April 2011
Secrets Exposed!
I guess we all have secrets, which would rather not be exposed.
But we seem uncertain how to respond to information disclosures of other people's personal secrets.
When it is the judges in the High Court issuing super injunctions to protect spoilt over-paid celebrities, we are unhappy.
When it is over-eager reporters trying to find out the same sort of stuff to print in mass circulation papers, we cry 'Foul!'
When it is Wiki-leaks making available 'Intelligence reports' from assorted security agencies, we are less clear how to react.
And when Sony's 75 million gamers have their details stolen, panic sets in.
I suppose it depends on whose secrets are being revealed to whom, and for what purpose.
Jesus' days were not very different from ours, in that the rich and famous were happy to behave badly, so long as they were not criticised in public for these misdemeanours.
Jesus reminds us all that a time will come when all secrets will be revealed, and that these secrets are already known to God. 'The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!' (Luke 12.2-3)
I am very glad that my fears and failings are not widely known, but that those who know me the best also know my worst character and behaviour weaknesses. The best of friends are those who know the worst about us and love us just the same. At root, this is the response of grace and mercy, and is seen supremely in the way God longs to deal with us. 'So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.' (Romans 8.1)
This response of grace and mercy then challenges me to live as openly and freely as I can, under the mercy of the God who knows me perfectly.
Best wishes,
Richard
But we seem uncertain how to respond to information disclosures of other people's personal secrets.
When it is the judges in the High Court issuing super injunctions to protect spoilt over-paid celebrities, we are unhappy.
When it is over-eager reporters trying to find out the same sort of stuff to print in mass circulation papers, we cry 'Foul!'
When it is Wiki-leaks making available 'Intelligence reports' from assorted security agencies, we are less clear how to react.
And when Sony's 75 million gamers have their details stolen, panic sets in.
I suppose it depends on whose secrets are being revealed to whom, and for what purpose.
Jesus' days were not very different from ours, in that the rich and famous were happy to behave badly, so long as they were not criticised in public for these misdemeanours.
Jesus reminds us all that a time will come when all secrets will be revealed, and that these secrets are already known to God. 'The time is coming when everything that is covered up will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. Whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be shouted from the housetops for all to hear!' (Luke 12.2-3)
I am very glad that my fears and failings are not widely known, but that those who know me the best also know my worst character and behaviour weaknesses. The best of friends are those who know the worst about us and love us just the same. At root, this is the response of grace and mercy, and is seen supremely in the way God longs to deal with us. 'So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.' (Romans 8.1)
This response of grace and mercy then challenges me to live as openly and freely as I can, under the mercy of the God who knows me perfectly.
Best wishes,
Richard
Wednesday 20 April 2011
Watch Out!
My regular drive to the Pool in the Park takes me past the impressive Elm Bridge construction site. All over the place, there are warning signs of one sort or another, effectively saying 'Watch Out!'.
In order to remove the old bridge, it is necessary to reroute all the utilities. So there are new pipes for gas, water, electricity and whatever else is needed. But they have connected to the mains supplies - without an explosion or disaster!
I guess that is because they took care, obeyed the warning signs, and followed their procedures.
In the Holy Week story, Jesus gives some very clear 'Watch Out!' warning messages to his followers. They are mostly ignored.
As the week proceeds, and as the opposition to Jesus himself is more overt, the heat is going to be turned up on all associated with him. While Jesus himself is praying earnestly that he will keep to his Father's will, his disciples sleep. He warns them again. 'Then he returned and found the disciples asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” (Mark 14.37-38)
We should never underestimate our capacity for failure in discipleship and denial of Jesus by our words, thoughts or actions.
As St. Paul reminded his Corinthian friends, 'If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.' (1 Corinthians 1012)
In these days, we can take avoiding action, but only if we choose to follow Jesus with obedience and submission. We could even pray for one another, that we all follow Jesus worthily. That would be good.
Best wishes,
Richard
In order to remove the old bridge, it is necessary to reroute all the utilities. So there are new pipes for gas, water, electricity and whatever else is needed. But they have connected to the mains supplies - without an explosion or disaster!
I guess that is because they took care, obeyed the warning signs, and followed their procedures.
In the Holy Week story, Jesus gives some very clear 'Watch Out!' warning messages to his followers. They are mostly ignored.
As the week proceeds, and as the opposition to Jesus himself is more overt, the heat is going to be turned up on all associated with him. While Jesus himself is praying earnestly that he will keep to his Father's will, his disciples sleep. He warns them again. 'Then he returned and found the disciples asleep. He said to Peter, “Simon, are you asleep? Couldn’t you watch with me even one hour? Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak.” (Mark 14.37-38)
We should never underestimate our capacity for failure in discipleship and denial of Jesus by our words, thoughts or actions.
As St. Paul reminded his Corinthian friends, 'If you think you are standing strong, be careful not to fall.' (1 Corinthians 1012)
In these days, we can take avoiding action, but only if we choose to follow Jesus with obedience and submission. We could even pray for one another, that we all follow Jesus worthily. That would be good.
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 19 April 2011
Rejuvenation
The Cuban President, Raul Castro, the younger brother of Fidel Castro, has announced that from now on the retirement age for politicians will be 68. As he and his brother are much older, their days in leadership are over. But the reason for this brave decision is that he sees that the Communist Party needs rejuvenation. If the old guard keep all the power, then the Cuban revolution will die with them.
The same truth applies to all organisations. The inevitable ageing of every generation means that special attention must be given to training up new leaders and visionaries, who will shape the future in positive ways. Church history is littered with those churches and groups which never planned for handing on responsibility to the next generation.
Jesus surrounded himself with a group of followers who could take his ministry onwards. Their training in leadership was to spend time watching and learning from Jesus. In this Holy Week, there was much to learn. When some Greeks came, wanting to see Jesus, his response indicates the way that rejuvenation and new life comes about. 'Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man[e] to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. (John 12.23-25)
What was literally true in the life of Jesus - being willing to die in order that new life might come to others - is true for churches and Christian communities. If we live for our own life and comfort, we will die, and deserve to, in our capacity to bring new life and hope to the communities around us. Individually and together, we must look to plan for rejuvenation - by giving away our right to a safe life - and living for others.
Best wishes,
Richard
The same truth applies to all organisations. The inevitable ageing of every generation means that special attention must be given to training up new leaders and visionaries, who will shape the future in positive ways. Church history is littered with those churches and groups which never planned for handing on responsibility to the next generation.
Jesus surrounded himself with a group of followers who could take his ministry onwards. Their training in leadership was to spend time watching and learning from Jesus. In this Holy Week, there was much to learn. When some Greeks came, wanting to see Jesus, his response indicates the way that rejuvenation and new life comes about. 'Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man[e] to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. (John 12.23-25)
What was literally true in the life of Jesus - being willing to die in order that new life might come to others - is true for churches and Christian communities. If we live for our own life and comfort, we will die, and deserve to, in our capacity to bring new life and hope to the communities around us. Individually and together, we must look to plan for rejuvenation - by giving away our right to a safe life - and living for others.
Best wishes,
Richard
Monday 18 April 2011
Harry the Donkey
'Great crowds of disciples followed Harry the Donkey round the Goldsworth Park shopping area, singing praises to God for all He had done!'
Some of the crowd were dressed in costume, looking somewhat like residents of ancient Jerusalem, while the rest of us were looking 'normal'.
Harry the Donkey added much to the event, and many children enjoyed their rides later. Thanks to our friends, Jason & Donna, who collected him from his owners, and returned him later.
But getting Harry back into the trailer was difficult. Donkeys are notoriously obstinate and stubborn, and Harry did his bit for this folklore. Mandy Hucker had been leading him along, quite effectively, but once he saw the trailer, he dug in all his four heels. In the end, two people were pulling him and two were pushing or carrying his back legs - he did not want to budge. If he is going to be like that next year, maybe we will ask for a different donkey.
The Psalmist knew of this character trait in horses, mules and donkeys.
'The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you.
Do not be like a senseless horse or mule
that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.” (Psalm 32.8-9)
This wonderful promise to be guided into the best pathway for your life, from the Lord who knows us and loves us, is a treasured gift. It is like a group of football players being supervised and managed by the best manager in the business. Or musicians being under the care of Sir Simon Rattle.
But for our part, we must learn to be willing, submissive and obedient to His leading and guiding. That way leads to a peace and joy which passes understanding. Which way will we choose today?
Best wishes,
Richard
Some of the crowd were dressed in costume, looking somewhat like residents of ancient Jerusalem, while the rest of us were looking 'normal'.
Harry the Donkey added much to the event, and many children enjoyed their rides later. Thanks to our friends, Jason & Donna, who collected him from his owners, and returned him later.
But getting Harry back into the trailer was difficult. Donkeys are notoriously obstinate and stubborn, and Harry did his bit for this folklore. Mandy Hucker had been leading him along, quite effectively, but once he saw the trailer, he dug in all his four heels. In the end, two people were pulling him and two were pushing or carrying his back legs - he did not want to budge. If he is going to be like that next year, maybe we will ask for a different donkey.
The Psalmist knew of this character trait in horses, mules and donkeys.
'The Lord says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life.
I will advise you and watch over you.
Do not be like a senseless horse or mule
that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control.” (Psalm 32.8-9)
This wonderful promise to be guided into the best pathway for your life, from the Lord who knows us and loves us, is a treasured gift. It is like a group of football players being supervised and managed by the best manager in the business. Or musicians being under the care of Sir Simon Rattle.
But for our part, we must learn to be willing, submissive and obedient to His leading and guiding. That way leads to a peace and joy which passes understanding. Which way will we choose today?
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 15 April 2011
Memories - Hurting or Healing
We usually think of War Memorials as a mark of national unity and community cohesion. But this isn't always the case. Sometimes, the memorial can cause hurt.
A conference is being held in Cambridge today which will explore the different reactions, around the world, to public memorials of deaths and tragedies. For instance, in Srebrenica, in Bosnia, the memorial to the 500 killed in the massacre of 1995 has reopened the wounds of that troubled time. The memorial itself has added to the hurt.
But we know this to be true in normal human experience.
All of us have memories from our past which have the capacity to cause us repeated pain and trouble. Much of the struggle we face to grow up to become stable adults is centred on how we handle the painful memories from our past, which can continue to trouble us.
It is therefore all the more astonishing that Jesus told us to allow ourselves to shaped by the memory of his disgraceful and shameful death. 'On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and said, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this to remember me.” (1 Corinthians 11.23-24)
Because Jesus was wiling to die for us and in our place, his death provides the very healing which we all need. St. Peter, who had denied Jesus before his death, and who must have had terrible memories of that fateful night, recalls Jesus' death as the very means of our own healing and restoration.
'He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross, so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right.
By his wounds you are healed.
Once you were like sheep who wandered away.
But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.
(1 Peter 2.24-25)
While our painful memories may still cause us grief and hurt, this particular memory has the power to heal and restore - and we all need to take this medicine if we want to know wholeness and healing.
Best wishes,
Richard
A conference is being held in Cambridge today which will explore the different reactions, around the world, to public memorials of deaths and tragedies. For instance, in Srebrenica, in Bosnia, the memorial to the 500 killed in the massacre of 1995 has reopened the wounds of that troubled time. The memorial itself has added to the hurt.
But we know this to be true in normal human experience.
All of us have memories from our past which have the capacity to cause us repeated pain and trouble. Much of the struggle we face to grow up to become stable adults is centred on how we handle the painful memories from our past, which can continue to trouble us.
It is therefore all the more astonishing that Jesus told us to allow ourselves to shaped by the memory of his disgraceful and shameful death. 'On the night when he was betrayed, the Lord Jesus took some bread and gave thanks to God for it. Then he broke it in pieces and said, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this to remember me.” (1 Corinthians 11.23-24)
Because Jesus was wiling to die for us and in our place, his death provides the very healing which we all need. St. Peter, who had denied Jesus before his death, and who must have had terrible memories of that fateful night, recalls Jesus' death as the very means of our own healing and restoration.
'He personally carried our sins in his body on the cross, so that we can be dead to sin and live for what is right.
By his wounds you are healed.
Once you were like sheep who wandered away.
But now you have turned to your Shepherd, the Guardian of your souls.
(1 Peter 2.24-25)
While our painful memories may still cause us grief and hurt, this particular memory has the power to heal and restore - and we all need to take this medicine if we want to know wholeness and healing.
Best wishes,
Richard
Wednesday 13 April 2011
Drought
The weather forecast has promised some rain for Woking today - but we haven't seen it yet. My guess is that we haven't had any rain for about 6 or more weeks. It has been lovely to enjoy so much sunshine and blue sky, but we will need some rain to avoid a drought. Getting the right balance between rain & shine is not something we humans can arrange. Our powers are strictly limited, we know from the global scene, where droughts and floods seem to occur in equal measure. Climate change scientists point out links between human activity and these changing weather patterns.
As I look around and within, I am aware that there is a great spiritual drought in many lives. Can we do much about that drought?
While we may not have much power over the local weather, we do have a lot of influence over what grows in our lives. The prophet Isaiah paints a wonderful picture of what grows, when God is at work. '“The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth.
They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry.
It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit.
It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. (Isaiah 55.10-11)
But this powerful and life giving word is something which we can either accept or reject. So the prophet makes that point, as the mouthpiece of God.
'Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near.
Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong.
Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them.
Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.' (Isaiah 55.6-7)
If we want the life of God in our dry and dusty lives, we must deliberately turn to Him, turning away from all that we know is not in line with His will and purpose for us. In these last weeks of Lent, we can bring an end to the spiritual drought in our lives, if we turn to the Lord.
Best wishes,
Richard
As I look around and within, I am aware that there is a great spiritual drought in many lives. Can we do much about that drought?
While we may not have much power over the local weather, we do have a lot of influence over what grows in our lives. The prophet Isaiah paints a wonderful picture of what grows, when God is at work. '“The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth.
They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry.
It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit.
It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. (Isaiah 55.10-11)
But this powerful and life giving word is something which we can either accept or reject. So the prophet makes that point, as the mouthpiece of God.
'Seek the Lord while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near.
Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong.
Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them.
Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously.' (Isaiah 55.6-7)
If we want the life of God in our dry and dusty lives, we must deliberately turn to Him, turning away from all that we know is not in line with His will and purpose for us. In these last weeks of Lent, we can bring an end to the spiritual drought in our lives, if we turn to the Lord.
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 12 April 2011
Safe Separation
UK banks' retail operations should be "ring-fenced" from their investment banking arms, the Independent Commission on Banking (ICB) has recommended in its interim report.
The aim is to provide a safe separation between the risky, and previously reckless, casino style banking of the markets, and the boring High Street banking of the old school, run by people like Mr. Mainwaring (Dad's Army!!).
This safe separation is not meant to lead to a break up of the banks, as that is deemed too drastic. That treatment might kill the patient, apparently.
This led me to wonder whether we think we can deal with our own lives in the same way. Can we have one part of our lives where we live to please Jesus, and another part where we think we can get away with a risky and potentially damaging lifestyle? Is it possible to have a safe separation? But what would Jesus say?
'“No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.' (Matthew 6.2)
Jesus doesn't see that it is possible to have a mixed economy, as our lives cannot sustain this sort of separation. '“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act.' (Matthew 7.15-16a) It is not possible to be both harmless and harmful in the same life.
Today, let us seek to be integrated followers of Jesus, in which all of our life is given over to Him.
Best wishes,
Richard
The aim is to provide a safe separation between the risky, and previously reckless, casino style banking of the markets, and the boring High Street banking of the old school, run by people like Mr. Mainwaring (Dad's Army!!).
This safe separation is not meant to lead to a break up of the banks, as that is deemed too drastic. That treatment might kill the patient, apparently.
This led me to wonder whether we think we can deal with our own lives in the same way. Can we have one part of our lives where we live to please Jesus, and another part where we think we can get away with a risky and potentially damaging lifestyle? Is it possible to have a safe separation? But what would Jesus say?
'“No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.' (Matthew 6.2)
Jesus doesn't see that it is possible to have a mixed economy, as our lives cannot sustain this sort of separation. '“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act.' (Matthew 7.15-16a) It is not possible to be both harmless and harmful in the same life.
Today, let us seek to be integrated followers of Jesus, in which all of our life is given over to Him.
Best wishes,
Richard
Monday 11 April 2011
Peace or Division?
The African Union are seeking to bring the two sides in Libya together, and to broker a ceasefire. Time will tell whether they have been successful, but the signs are that the rebels will not tolerate any solution that leaves Colonel Gaddafi is charge. Division seems more likely than peace.
In France, while the vast majority from all sections of the country are in favour of the new law banning the wearing of the burqa in public, there will be some who will see this move as divisive. The stated aim is to bring peace and unity.
But Jesus made an astonishing claim, which we don't often take seriously. '“Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.' (Matthew 10.34) What is he telling us? Surely Jesus is not telling us to get into fights with others. What about peace-making?
He goes on to reflect on the realities of whole-hearted discipleship. '‘I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Your enemies will be right in your own household!’
“If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.' (Matthew 10.35-39) These are tough words.
In her sermon yesterday, Chris Harrison pointed out that Jesus is not looking for conditional commitment from us - 'I will follow you if . . . ', or 'I will follow you when . . . '.
He isn't looking for a place in the rankings of our loyalties. He is either first or nowhere - before family, career, popularity or pleasure. That is the challenge he is setting out.
Are we ready for that sort of discipleship? The next 2 weeks, as we take time to read and reflect on the road to the Cross, will show us what He did for us, to deserve such a response from us.
Best wishes,
Richard
In France, while the vast majority from all sections of the country are in favour of the new law banning the wearing of the burqa in public, there will be some who will see this move as divisive. The stated aim is to bring peace and unity.
But Jesus made an astonishing claim, which we don't often take seriously. '“Don’t imagine that I came to bring peace to the earth! I came not to bring peace, but a sword.' (Matthew 10.34) What is he telling us? Surely Jesus is not telling us to get into fights with others. What about peace-making?
He goes on to reflect on the realities of whole-hearted discipleship. '‘I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Your enemies will be right in your own household!’
“If you love your father or mother more than you love me, you are not worthy of being mine; or if you love your son or daughter more than me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you refuse to take up your cross and follow me, you are not worthy of being mine. If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give up your life for me, you will find it.' (Matthew 10.35-39) These are tough words.
In her sermon yesterday, Chris Harrison pointed out that Jesus is not looking for conditional commitment from us - 'I will follow you if . . . ', or 'I will follow you when . . . '.
He isn't looking for a place in the rankings of our loyalties. He is either first or nowhere - before family, career, popularity or pleasure. That is the challenge he is setting out.
Are we ready for that sort of discipleship? The next 2 weeks, as we take time to read and reflect on the road to the Cross, will show us what He did for us, to deserve such a response from us.
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 8 April 2011
Testing, Testing
Over the last week, I have been at 2 conferences during which the sound equipment failed - and new microphones had to be deployed. How embarrassing!
'Testing, Testing' is what people often say to check whether a microphone is working. But the failure of the microphones was also 'Testing, Testing', in the sense that all concerned with the events were in a situation that they didn't choose - it was testing.
The Bible makes much of the fact that we all face testing times.
Things happen which are not of our choosing, and we are left with the consequences. How we respond to testing times will show what sort of people we are.
Moses reminds the people of Israel, after their 40 years in the wilderness, of this process. 'Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey his commands.' (Deuteronomy 8.2)
While we are in the midst of the testing desert experience, it is very hard to see what we are learning. But with hindsight - and the Bible gives us that hindsight - we can see how God has been at work in and through the tough testing times. 'For all these forty years your clothes didn’t wear out, and your feet didn’t blister or swell. Think about it: Just as a parent disciplines a child, the Lord your God disciplines you for your own good.' (Deuteronomy 8.4-5)
Maybe you are in the desert, or someone you know is in the desert. I pray that we will all learn to trust the Lord, and not lose sight of his Big and Good Plan for us.
Best wishes,
Richard
'Testing, Testing' is what people often say to check whether a microphone is working. But the failure of the microphones was also 'Testing, Testing', in the sense that all concerned with the events were in a situation that they didn't choose - it was testing.
The Bible makes much of the fact that we all face testing times.
Things happen which are not of our choosing, and we are left with the consequences. How we respond to testing times will show what sort of people we are.
Moses reminds the people of Israel, after their 40 years in the wilderness, of this process. 'Remember how the Lord your God led you through the wilderness for these forty years, humbling you and testing you to prove your character, and to find out whether or not you would obey his commands.' (Deuteronomy 8.2)
While we are in the midst of the testing desert experience, it is very hard to see what we are learning. But with hindsight - and the Bible gives us that hindsight - we can see how God has been at work in and through the tough testing times. 'For all these forty years your clothes didn’t wear out, and your feet didn’t blister or swell. Think about it: Just as a parent disciplines a child, the Lord your God disciplines you for your own good.' (Deuteronomy 8.4-5)
Maybe you are in the desert, or someone you know is in the desert. I pray that we will all learn to trust the Lord, and not lose sight of his Big and Good Plan for us.
Best wishes,
Richard
Thursday 7 April 2011
Mediation
Today sees a major change in Family Law.
Couples seeking a divorce must now work though the separation with help of the Mediation Service. Apparently, this will lead to much reduced financial costs being incurred, and the long-term family relationships will have much better hopes of being healthy.
When a mediator can bring people together, to solve a difficult problem, the mediator has to represent both sides fairly. With that trust in place, wonderful changes can result.
The New Testament makes much of the role of Jesus, as a Mediator of the New Covenant between God and humans. 'That is why Christ is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant.' (Hebrews 9.15)
Hebrews also makes the point that Jesus is the perfect mediator, because he both represents God to us, and because he shares our humanity, he represents us to God. So we have peace with God through the blood that Jesus shed on the cross. Living in the light of that makes all the difference to everything that happens to us today. It may be a beautiful day, but this is infinitely more beautiful! I shall seek to live today in thankful worship of his love and mercy.
Best wishes,
Richard
Couples seeking a divorce must now work though the separation with help of the Mediation Service. Apparently, this will lead to much reduced financial costs being incurred, and the long-term family relationships will have much better hopes of being healthy.
When a mediator can bring people together, to solve a difficult problem, the mediator has to represent both sides fairly. With that trust in place, wonderful changes can result.
The New Testament makes much of the role of Jesus, as a Mediator of the New Covenant between God and humans. 'That is why Christ is the one who mediates a new covenant between God and people, so that all who are called can receive the eternal inheritance God has promised them. For Christ died to set them free from the penalty of the sins they had committed under that first covenant.' (Hebrews 9.15)
Hebrews also makes the point that Jesus is the perfect mediator, because he both represents God to us, and because he shares our humanity, he represents us to God. So we have peace with God through the blood that Jesus shed on the cross. Living in the light of that makes all the difference to everything that happens to us today. It may be a beautiful day, but this is infinitely more beautiful! I shall seek to live today in thankful worship of his love and mercy.
Best wishes,
Richard
Wednesday 6 April 2011
No Perfect People Allowed
Did you hear about the notice outside a church building, which said, 'Only sinners welcome here!' ? Apparently, some of the regulars were most upset, as they mistakenly believed that they were better than those who didn't ever attend.
Much more engaging as a description of a church's welcome policy, and more in line with the approach of Jesus, is 'No Perfect People Allowed'. If that is true, then there is hope for everyone.
Jesus was often criticised for hanging out with the wrong crowd. 'Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people—even eating with them!' (Luke 15.1,2)
Earlier in the story, Jesus had been attacked for the company he kept. 'But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, “Why does he eat with such scum?”
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 2.16-17)
One of the dangers in 'religious circles' is that many people feel they must try to appear better than they are -as though we were in a moral beauty contest. But the Gospels show us that while we cannot deceive Jesus, nor should we try to deceive one another. It is much better for us all if we live by the maxim, 'No Perfect People Allowed', knowing that God's mercy meets all who turn to Him.
Great news.
Best wishes,
Richard
Much more engaging as a description of a church's welcome policy, and more in line with the approach of Jesus, is 'No Perfect People Allowed'. If that is true, then there is hope for everyone.
Jesus was often criticised for hanging out with the wrong crowd. 'Tax collectors and other notorious sinners often came to listen to Jesus teach. This made the Pharisees and teachers of religious law complain that he was associating with such sinful people—even eating with them!' (Luke 15.1,2)
Earlier in the story, Jesus had been attacked for the company he kept. 'But when the teachers of religious law who were Pharisees saw him eating with tax collectors and other sinners, they asked his disciples, “Why does he eat with such scum?”
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 2.16-17)
One of the dangers in 'religious circles' is that many people feel they must try to appear better than they are -as though we were in a moral beauty contest. But the Gospels show us that while we cannot deceive Jesus, nor should we try to deceive one another. It is much better for us all if we live by the maxim, 'No Perfect People Allowed', knowing that God's mercy meets all who turn to Him.
Great news.
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 5 April 2011
Healthy Choices
Health Secretary Andrew Lansley says ministers will "pause" for consultation on a planned NHS shake-up in England - amid claims the policy is in "chaos". Some will see this as a healthy choice for the NHS. A pause for thought looks like a wise choice
Time seems to be needed in most walks of life to arrive at wise solutions to difficult problems. But our culture doesn't seem to be good on spending time on important matters. We would rather rush ahead and hope that the wheels don't come.
When we look at the ministry of Jesus, we can see that he was often very busy. 'One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon he and his disciples couldn’t even find time to eat.' (Mark 3.20) But he also took time to pray - when he could be away from people. 'Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.' (Mark 1.35)
I have to keep recalling that unless my spiritual roots are deeply nourished - which takes time - then my whole life will shrivel up and die!
I notice that I make sure I get up early on some mornings, in order to take exercise (swimming!). If I don't get up early, the exercise doesn't happen.
And if I don't make time - a healthy choice - praying and reflection doesn't happen either. I guess most of us have the same struggles!
Lets choose wisely for the sake of the health of our souls.
Best wishes,
Richard
Time seems to be needed in most walks of life to arrive at wise solutions to difficult problems. But our culture doesn't seem to be good on spending time on important matters. We would rather rush ahead and hope that the wheels don't come.
When we look at the ministry of Jesus, we can see that he was often very busy. 'One time Jesus entered a house, and the crowds began to gather again. Soon he and his disciples couldn’t even find time to eat.' (Mark 3.20) But he also took time to pray - when he could be away from people. 'Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.' (Mark 1.35)
I have to keep recalling that unless my spiritual roots are deeply nourished - which takes time - then my whole life will shrivel up and die!
I notice that I make sure I get up early on some mornings, in order to take exercise (swimming!). If I don't get up early, the exercise doesn't happen.
And if I don't make time - a healthy choice - praying and reflection doesn't happen either. I guess most of us have the same struggles!
Lets choose wisely for the sake of the health of our souls.
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 1 April 2011
April Fool!
Are you going to be an April Fool? Or will you spot the pranks and tricks being played today?
I will be listening to (and watching) news programmes looking out for clever 'April Fool' pranks. There was one on the Today programme before Thought for the Day, all about binaural radio, which sounded very like stereo sound!
The history of All Fools Day can be researched on Wikipedia, if you want to find out more!
In the Old Testament, the Psalmist is very clear that there are some people who deserve the title of fool. 'Only fools say in their hearts, “There is no God.” (Psalm 14.1) If we think that is a bit tough, the compiler of the Psalms (whoever that might have been!) repeats, word for word, that early psalm in Psalm 53. 'Only fools say in their hearts, “There is no God.” (Psalm 53.1)
One of Jesus' most memorable parables is usually called the Rich Fool, though one of my tutors at Theological College always called it The Poor Fool! This is all about the farmer who kept on building bigger and better, in order to store his increasing wealth. 'I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!”’
“But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’
“Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” (Luke 12.18-21)
These stark words from Jesus should be enough to make us reassess our attitudes towards possessions and wealth. But even the recent financial crisis hasn't done much to stop most of us being obsessed with things and money and stuff. Maybe the wisest thing we can do today it to look again at our relationship with God. Are we rich there, or poor? What will be we do about it? What needs to change?
Don't be an April Fool!
Best wishes,
Richard
I will be listening to (and watching) news programmes looking out for clever 'April Fool' pranks. There was one on the Today programme before Thought for the Day, all about binaural radio, which sounded very like stereo sound!
The history of All Fools Day can be researched on Wikipedia, if you want to find out more!
In the Old Testament, the Psalmist is very clear that there are some people who deserve the title of fool. 'Only fools say in their hearts, “There is no God.” (Psalm 14.1) If we think that is a bit tough, the compiler of the Psalms (whoever that might have been!) repeats, word for word, that early psalm in Psalm 53. 'Only fools say in their hearts, “There is no God.” (Psalm 53.1)
One of Jesus' most memorable parables is usually called the Rich Fool, though one of my tutors at Theological College always called it The Poor Fool! This is all about the farmer who kept on building bigger and better, in order to store his increasing wealth. 'I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!”’
“But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’
“Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” (Luke 12.18-21)
These stark words from Jesus should be enough to make us reassess our attitudes towards possessions and wealth. But even the recent financial crisis hasn't done much to stop most of us being obsessed with things and money and stuff. Maybe the wisest thing we can do today it to look again at our relationship with God. Are we rich there, or poor? What will be we do about it? What needs to change?
Don't be an April Fool!
Best wishes,
Richard
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