One Life

It is obvious to say but hard to grasp - we only have one life to live.
The recent sad death of Amy Winehouse has highlighted the pressures that our celebrity obsessions place on those who are the focus of our idolatry. Her brilliance and potential have been destroyed  by the very people who loved what she could offer.
But yesterday had news of the death of John Stott, who was 90. He was 'full of years', and has had an influence on millions, as a preacher and Bible teacher.
As I reflected on his influence on my life, and countless others, I thought of the many times I heard him preach and speak. What amazed me was we never thought, 'What an exciting preacher!', but always, Isn't the Bible an amazing book!' or 'Isn't God's love wonderful!'.
But John Stott was not just a great teacher. His life modelled what he preached. In this, he was like the great apostle, St. Paul, who wrote, '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)
As I think of my one life, my prayer is to follow the example of John Stott and St. Paul - to be so Jesus focused that I am not obsessed by things of this world. What is your desire for your one life?
Best wishes,
Richard

Airbrushed Image

Here is a startling piece of news!
Julia Roberts is getting older!
But the recent L'Oreal advert made her look much younger, as part of their campaign to sell more of their expensive anti-ageing cream. She was made to look younger, not by the cream in question, but by some clever airbrushing work on the computer!!
So they have been telling lies, and have been told to stop it.
But most of us would like an airbrushed image - to seem better than we are, so that we might be better liked and appreciated. In our image obsessed culture, we focus on the outward appearance. And yet we live with the fear that 'if you really knew me, you wouldn't like me'.
The Psalmist has discovered an astonishing truth. Not only does the Lord know all about him, but he knows he is loved and blessed by his all-knowing Creator..
O Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me.
  You know when I sit down or stand up.
      You know my thoughts even when I’m far away.
  You see me when I travel and when I rest at home.
      You know everything I do.
  You know what I am going to say even before I say it, Lord.
  You go before me and follow me.
      You place your hand of blessing on my head.
  Such knowledge is too wonderful for me,
      too great for me to understand! (Psalm 139.1-6)
To know we are loved by the One who made us, and who knows us through and through, is the way to freedom from our relentless obsession with ourselves. As Jesus said, "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8.32)
The truth which sets us free can be put in many ways. How about this thought? We are NOT the centre of the universe, and we are loved by the One who is.
I find that so amazing, that it frees me from loads of worries and fears. Good medicine for a sick soul!
Best wishes,
Richard

Direction

We had a map, and set off from the Car Park, by turning right along the lane, as the guide book said. However, we were soon in a place unrecognised from the guide book's description. We seemed to be well and truly lost! Apart from retracing our steps, we didn't know where we were, nor which way to go! After an hour or so, we came across a path we thought we recognised, and at last we were back!
Our mistake - to take the wrong path from the Car Park, which was going in the wrong direction! How interesting!
Apply this story to any situation you like - the economy, the government, preparations for the Olympics, going on your family holiday or what ever takes your fancy. We can easily be lost. What direction should we choose?
So it is very helpful when Jesus talks to his puzzled and confused disciples. 'When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. And you know the way to where I am going.”
  “No, we don’t know, Lord,” Thomas said. “We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?”
Jesus told him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.' (John 14.3-6)
Unless we go in the right direction, we can never reach the right destination. But Jeus promises a simple way to ensure we go the right way and get to right destination - go with Him.
In the details and the decisions of today, that is what we all need. Lets set off with him this morning, and let him lead us to the evening - going right.
Best wishes,
Richard

Networks

Networks work!
We hear stories of the way the social networking sites, like Facebook, have influenced events in the Middle East.
Egypt, Tunisia, Syria and Libya have all seen changes, as significant numbers of people have worked together, enabled by their internet connections, and networking links. Their networks have brought confidence and courage to those facing repressive regimes.
But all of us know the power of good or bad networks in our own lives. When families work well, they are an amazing force for good. When trouble breaks out, in communities, we know the results.
St. Paul reminded us of the network within which we all live, as followers of Christ. And he spoke passionately of the changes we can expect in our own lives.
'So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves.
But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there. Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives.' (Galatians 5.16a, 22-25 edited!)
So long as we keep connected to this dynamic Jesus network, enabled by his Holy Spirit, and encouraged by one another, our lives can be places of amazing life and blessing to those around us. Instead of being obsessed by ourselves, we get to live useful and God-glorifying lives. How amazing.
Best wishes,
Richard

Blinded

The rabbit caught in the headlights didn't have a chance. Its escape route was frozen in a moment of  petrified blindness. The very light which helped the car driver brought death to the rabbit.
Our culture sees this event repeated all around us. People like us are blinded by the appeal of celebrity fame and fortune, by the attractiveness of material pleasures, and by the transience of the present. Our souls die daily as we miss the purpose for which we were created.
Jesus knew this, and the crowds around him faced the same issues. His appeal was great, but his remedy was too challenging for most. 'Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must turn from your selfish ways, take up your cross, 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 and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?' (Mark 8.34-37)
Today, we will all face the dangers of being blinded by the attractiveness of stuff, and the only known antidote that works is being close to Jesus. Closely walking with Jesus, moment by moment, will keep us out of danger and lead us into deeper fellowship with him.
Which is your choice today? Mine is with Jesus.
Best wishes,
Richard

Staying Relaxed

Golf is a maddening game. I know, as I used to watch my dad getting mad when things didn't go right. Golf clubs would be thrown and the air was blue with expletives!
I have had my moments of frustration too, when the ball disappears into the woods.
But yesterday, in the wild weather of Kent, Darren Clarke won the Open Championship, at the grand old age of 42. Throughout the 4 days, he stayed relaxed, and was able to play much better because of it. Confident in his own ability, he refused to tense up and get stressed. That improved his performance. The result was there for all golf fans to see.
Most of us get stressed about things, at times, and I guess we all know that it doesn't usually improve matters. Is there a way to learn to stay relaxed?
Jesus seemed to know human experience well, and he saw a way to help us. 'Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light.”' (Matthew 11.28-30)
Doing life with Jesus alongside us - that is the image of sharing his yoke - is the way we were designed to live. If we are determined to do life on our own, struggling in our own obstinate strength, we should expect to be stressed and tense. But if we learn from Him, and humble ourselves, and accept His leadership and direction, then we can relax ourselves into His safe care.
Whatever today's pressures, we can discover this secret of handing it ALL over to Jesus. That would be great for us and those around us.
Let us stay relaxed today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Appearance

Our visual culture loves image and appearance. It is long since it was stated that 'One Picture is worth a Thousand Words'. For some, appearance is all that matters. For many, style is more important than substance.
Many newspapers and other media have long made it their business to feed us stories of image and appearance. While the official position with regard to the law is that people are deemed to be innocent until proved guilty, in the fast moving world of 24 hour media, evidence and proof are of less importance. Allegations and innuendo will do very well, thank you!
So it is hugely ironic that the Murdoch empire has been dealt a blow to their advances through persistent allegations and public outcry, on account of what may have happened. As we know, the police are still in the midst of their enquiries, and even the House of Commons Select Committee is only asking questions about this whole business. We do not yet know the substance of what has been happening, though we mostly don't like the style or appearance of what we think has happened
Reputations are threatened because of the appearance of evil practice.
So it not surprising that St. Paul warns his friends in Thessalonica, 'Abstain from all appearance of evil.' (1 Thessalonians 5.22)
Other translations have it as 'Stay away from every kind of evil.' This reminds us to be more careful about how we live, because other people may well make their judgements about the Jesus we follow, based on the lives we lead in full view of those watching. Of course, by keeping close to Jesus, we can live lives which allow him to shine through us all day. Wouldn't that be great!
Best wishes,
Richard

Practice makes Perfect

Rory McIlroy is a phenomenal golfer! From the age of 4, he has been practising his golf, and getting better all the time. This week, he will hope that his efforts will pay off, as they did recently in the US Open championships. Winning the Open would make this a special year for him.
Of course, other golfers also practice relentlessly, and they don't all get to be as good as Rory. Natural ability is another requirement! But most of those who succeed at this level suggest that it is their commitment to regular practice which means they develop their gifts to their maximum.
Most of us know the truth of this in one area of life or another. A first-time try at archery or salsa dancing doesn't usually result in a perfect result. The same goes for our relationships too. Time and practice make all the difference.
Thus it is in our following Jesus. We need to habits of regular practice, if we are to be those who see Him making a difference in our lives.
The writer to the Hebrews has some very practical advice for all of us. 'Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.' (Hebrews 10.24-25)
here we see that we can help one another in our living as Christians - by mutual encouragement and challenge. Being in a family of other faithful followers will keep us going when the going is tough.
My question for myself today is 'Who can I encourage and motivate to keep growing in knowing Jesus?' Who are you going to motivate and encourage? We are in this together. Let's get practising!
Best wishes,
Richard

Family Fallout

Today's Times newspaper has roundly criticised the leadership of News International for its handling of the whole hacking saga emerging from the News of the World. This shows a family of enterprises that is in an unhappy position. Maybe, in the circumstances, we are not surprised.
A friend on the inside of the Wapping base for News International was telling me of the pain and anger experienced by those whose careers and lives have been treated with disdain by senior management.
But we are all familiar with the sad fact that many families face difficulties and the pain is felt in many ways.
Jesus prayed that his followers would learn to be one family, reflecting the very nature of God himself. 'I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.' (John 17.21)
St. Paul teaches his friends in Colossae how they should treat one another. I have often used these verses when speaking at weddings, but they apply primarily to Christians in their relationships with one another. '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 3.12-15)
My prayer for those in the midst of family fallout is that they might discover this wonderful remedy provided by Jesus.
Best wishes,
Richard

Well connected?

Its not what you know, but who you know. Being well connected matters.
Rupert Murdoch and News Corporation had hoped that they had all the necessary connections - both business and political - to enable their bid for BSkyB would be approved.
But their illegal activities, through phone hacking and management complicity and deception, shows they also had the wrong sorts of connections. Instead of giving them what they have so much worked to get, it looks like their information piracy and criminal behaviour will unravel their dreams.
There is a warning here for all of us. Investing in the wrong sort of connections will destroy us.
As followers of Christ, we need to take account of our connections too.
Jesus said, '“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. Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. ' (John 15.5-6)
Staying consciously connected to Jesus throughout the day - moment by moment awareness of his presence, and a deliberate and determined desire to do his will and go his way - is what 'remaining in Him' is about.
Jesus shows us how we keep well connected, when he tells us, 'But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father.' (John 15.7-8) Keeping his words as our guide and inspiration will have startling results.
I am so excited at the prospect of people like us exploring the ways in which we can stay well connected to Jesus throughout each day. From our side, we need to practice this way of living, and see how Jesus works through us.
It would be great to hear stories from all who discover Jesus working in their setting. Please get back to me with your discoveries!
Best wishes,
Richard

Exposed!

How ironic. The News of the World, with its habit of 'world exclusive' stories, exposing the salacious details of assorted people's lives, has now had a taste of its own medicine.
From the start, NoW reporters had very close relationships with the police, so that they could get the details which would feed the interest in the public which would sell the papers. But their modern methods (phone hacking) have been exposed, and their focus (murdered children) have been found to deeply disturbing.
Before any of us starts to feel smug, we would do well to recall the warning given to God's people in the time of Moses. 'You may be sure that your sin will find you out.' (Numbers 32.23)
While we may be appalled at the behaviour of some of Rupert Murdoch's employees, they like us are fallen human beings. We would do well to remember that his power and influence has risen because he feeds the world with the sort of stuff - some of it very nasty, in my view - which too many people find addictive.
We wait to see whether Government will try to muddle their way through this event, as many may not with another enquiry which may expose some of their dirty dealings.
Best wishes,
Richard

Going Home

The United Nations Refugee agency reports of the plight of the millions people who have had to flee from their homes for many reasons. Not only is their situation terrible on account of violence and injustice, but now in many places there is a severe food shortage, and even aid agencies struggle to have food to distribute.
In these circumstances, we can only imagine what 'Going Home' might mean to those millions who have lost almost everything, including hope. I guess most of us could do something for such people, if the opportunity arose.
But Jesus spoke of that longing for 'Going Home' that is our hearts. All of us seem to have a homing device, which means that our hearts are 'restless till their find their rest in Him' (as St. Augustine reflected!)
'“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. There is more than enough room in my Father’s home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.' (John 14.1-3)
Jesus describes his coming death and resurrection as his way to 'prepare a place for us'. He is like a building contractor, who has to make the pile of bricks into a home fit for his family and friends. At great cost to Himself, Jesus provides the Way and the Place for us, so we can look forward to that home which will be Home Indeed!
Knowing that should strengthen us as we seek to help others find their way too.
Best wishes,
Richard

Who am I?

Lady Gaga's album, 'Born This Way', suggests that she is continuing to explore questions about her own identity. She has wondered whether she is a teacher or religious leader, or whether her creativity emerges from a part of her that is verging on delusional. Whoever she is, she seems to be adored and emulated by her fans, whom she delightfully calls monsters!
But many people are wondering who they are. Most don't have the luxury to indulge in public crises of identity, as they have to get on with the struggles of life. We are familiar with the many stars in public view face horrendous problems, ranging from Amy Winehouse and Justin Bieber to Wayne Rooney and Andy Murray.
St. Paul, writing to his friends from Ephesus, explores the answer to the 'Who am I?' question.
He starts with the bad news. 'Once you were dead because of your disobedience and your many sins. You used to live in sin, just like the rest of the world, obeying the devil—the commander of the powers in the unseen world.' (Ephesians 2.1-2) This looks a hopeless diagnosis, but it is part of the truth that sets us free.
In one of those wonderful 'But God' passages, Paul then tells us, 'But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much, that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God’s grace that you have been saved!) (Ephesians 2.5-6)
And his conclusion is mind-blowingly hopeful. 'For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.' (Ephesians 2.10)
Most of us struggle with the idea that we might be considered by God to be a masterpiece - except that is his assessment of us.
That means that TODAY, our Creator has a planned series of good things for us to do. Fulfilling that calling is what makes life such a delightful privilege. And it all comes from knowing the Christ-shaped answer to 'Who am I?'. Have you got it?
Best wishes,
Richard

Independence Day

Being July 4th, most of our friends from the US will be celebrating what happened in 1776. After years of unease with being ruled and taxed from Westminster, and the campaign of 'No taxation without Representation', and a bloody conflict, the famous Declaration of Independence was signed on 4th July.
King George III and the British Government took a different view, and lamented the loss of the Colonies!
Our culture values independence and encourages people to strive for their own self-determination. But as another thought runs through my mind.
St. Paul reminds his readers, in the context of a discussion about slavery, that all of us were called to relationship with God, through Jesus. 'Are you a slave? Don’t let that worry you—but if you get a chance to be free, take it. And remember, if you were a slave when the Lord called you, you are now free in the Lord. And if you were free when the Lord called you, you are now a slave of Christ. God paid a high price for you, so don’t be enslaved by the world.' (1 Corinthians 7.21-23)
Far from trying to live lives independent of God and his rule and will in our lives, we are called to be his willing slaves. As St. Augustine observed, 'His service is perfect freedom.' I shall remember to thank the Lord for this precious gift of freedom, as I seek to live dependent upon Him today.
Best wishes,
Richard

Pressures

Unusually, for me at least, this week I have had to go to London for 3 full days, attending a conference.
The conference has been brilliant, but I have learned as much about some of the pressures which many working people live with every week. Rather than wishing that everything could be different, it seems that instead we have to address life's pressures from a different point of view.
The writer to the Hebrews was fully aware of the pressures that followers of Jesus face. He imagines living the Christian life as a race, and he tells us to look forwards to the finishing line. 'Let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.' (Hebrews 12.1b-2a)
In the midst of the rush, bustle and pressures of daily life, we are all called to keep our eyes looking in the direction of Jesus. Moment-by-moment connection to Jesus helps us to live differently, and to be always open to his nudge to live for him, in the present moment. That way, whatever the pressures, when things don't happen as we want, and all else, we can 'make Jesus better known' every day. Wouldn't that be great!
Best wishes,
Richard