Today, the Insurance Industry will make a statement about whether they will continue to offer insurance against flooding to those many home in the UK which are in serious danger of being flooded. Residents in Staines, Laleham and so on will be wondering what their future might hold.
Of course, in Woking, we have seen the massive improvements in the Hoe Bridge area, and residents there will be thankful for the work done, in spite of the inconvenience.
The Bible is alert to the dangers of flooding both real (remember Noah?) and metaphorical. One of Jesus' most famous short parables is on exactly this topic.
“Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the flood-waters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash.” (Matthew 7.24-27)
The difference between disaster and deliverance comes down to our reaction to Jesus and his teaching. Do we listen to his teaching and follow it, or do we refuse to obey what we hear? It might seem an academic question, and to many it is thought an irrelevance. But Jesus claims that our response to him and his words has practical, spiritual and eternal consequences.
Of course, if we know this to be true, we are in the favoured position of being able to help others to find the Flood Insurance they need. Let us use every opportunity to point to these important issues.
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 31 January 2012
Monday 30 January 2012
What Price?
What price should we expect to pay for good work?
Many will be relieved that Stephen Hester has decided not to take his annual bonus of nearly £1million. Their reasons may vary, and there will be much debate as to his reasons for this welcome decision too.
It makes me ask 'what price for a fair day's work?'
But what price should be paid for a good police force? Teresa May will make a statement today about many issues relating to the Police, including issues of pay and expenses.
But there is another story in today's news, about what price the police charge for assorted services. It may be one thing to charge HM Government for protecting the Houses of Parliament, but it seems quite another to offer to large organisations, such as Virgin Media, the possibility of investigating crimes more diligently, if they are paid! It reminds me of the t-shirt slogan, from the States, in the wake of yet another policing scandal, 'LAPD - the best that money can buy'.
What price should be paid for good work and what rewards should people expect from their work?
Jesus addressed this sort of issue, which relates to our culture and our expectations as to what is right.
'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 10.43-45)
His radical call to his followers cuts right across our greed-driven culture's desire for ever-increasing rewards and lifestyle options. If the credit crunch has had any message, it is surely that we have all been living beyond our means. More of the same is not the answer. Living more simply, and following Jesus more closely is the price we should be paying.
Do you agree? Why not comment on the blog?
Best wishes,
Richard
Many will be relieved that Stephen Hester has decided not to take his annual bonus of nearly £1million. Their reasons may vary, and there will be much debate as to his reasons for this welcome decision too.
It makes me ask 'what price for a fair day's work?'
But what price should be paid for a good police force? Teresa May will make a statement today about many issues relating to the Police, including issues of pay and expenses.
But there is another story in today's news, about what price the police charge for assorted services. It may be one thing to charge HM Government for protecting the Houses of Parliament, but it seems quite another to offer to large organisations, such as Virgin Media, the possibility of investigating crimes more diligently, if they are paid! It reminds me of the t-shirt slogan, from the States, in the wake of yet another policing scandal, 'LAPD - the best that money can buy'.
What price should be paid for good work and what rewards should people expect from their work?
Jesus addressed this sort of issue, which relates to our culture and our expectations as to what is right.
'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 10.43-45)
His radical call to his followers cuts right across our greed-driven culture's desire for ever-increasing rewards and lifestyle options. If the credit crunch has had any message, it is surely that we have all been living beyond our means. More of the same is not the answer. Living more simply, and following Jesus more closely is the price we should be paying.
Do you agree? Why not comment on the blog?
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 27 January 2012
Good News!
The other day, a friend told me some exciting news, that would be interesting to keen bird watchers.
So, yesterday, Betty and I enjoyed a glorious walk and topped it off by watching assorted owls flying low over the meadows near Send, as the sun was dropping into the west. It was most exciting, and revealed to us our ignorance of owl recognition skills. But the experts told us what we had been seeing, and we came home satisfied.
Sharing good news is often quite easy, especially if there is a shared interest between the giver and receiver of the news. For instance, if another friend had told me of the exciting news from the Big Brother house, I would not have been very interested!
So, St. Paul tells us some vital aspect of our 'Good News sharing' ministry. 'For “Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent?' (Romans 10.13-15)
Paul's basic position is that behind our sharing Good News is the hand of the Lord, who send and equips us to tell the story of what God has done for us in Jesus. Not all are interested to know what we are talking about, but some will be ready and open. s Paul observes, 'But not everyone welcomes the Good News, for Isaiah the prophet said, “LORD, who has believed our message?” So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.' (Romans 10.16-17)
Often, we may say something one day, and perhaps weeks or years later, the person who heard the Good News responds. Leaving the outcomes to the Lord is part of our partnership with Him.
I find that I have to ask myself, "What Good News have you got to share today?"
Best wishes,
Richard
So, yesterday, Betty and I enjoyed a glorious walk and topped it off by watching assorted owls flying low over the meadows near Send, as the sun was dropping into the west. It was most exciting, and revealed to us our ignorance of owl recognition skills. But the experts told us what we had been seeing, and we came home satisfied.
Sharing good news is often quite easy, especially if there is a shared interest between the giver and receiver of the news. For instance, if another friend had told me of the exciting news from the Big Brother house, I would not have been very interested!
So, St. Paul tells us some vital aspect of our 'Good News sharing' ministry. 'For “Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved.” But how can they call on him to save them unless they believe in him? And how can they believe in him if they have never heard about him? And how can they hear about him unless someone tells them? And how will anyone go and tell them without being sent?' (Romans 10.13-15)
Paul's basic position is that behind our sharing Good News is the hand of the Lord, who send and equips us to tell the story of what God has done for us in Jesus. Not all are interested to know what we are talking about, but some will be ready and open. s Paul observes, 'But not everyone welcomes the Good News, for Isaiah the prophet said, “LORD, who has believed our message?” So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.' (Romans 10.16-17)
Often, we may say something one day, and perhaps weeks or years later, the person who heard the Good News responds. Leaving the outcomes to the Lord is part of our partnership with Him.
I find that I have to ask myself, "What Good News have you got to share today?"
Best wishes,
Richard
Wednesday 25 January 2012
Down or Up?
Discussions in Davos, amongst the rich & famous, may not be very different from what happens in pubs up & down thee land. 'Things may be looking bad, but maybe things will get better', is possibly how many feel. Others will be much more gloomy. Are things going down or up?
As we look to the future, none of knows for sure how the details will work out. That is worrying for many, who are used to being in control.
Does being a Christian affect how we face the future?
It certainly made a difference for St. Paul.
In writing to his awkward friends in Corinth, he tells them of the troubles he has faced. 'We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.' (2 Corinthians 4.8-9)
His troubles were not economic, but much more basic - physical attacks, imprisonment and relentless opposition from people inside and outside the Christian community.
Paul had many reasons to be hopeless and gloomy. But he is ever hopeful, because he knows that Jesus can be trusted. His conclusion is startling. 'That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.' (2 Corinthians 4.16-18)
It is clear from this that our degree of hope is determined by the direction of our gaze. If we spend our time looking at the troubles, we will be hopeless! But if we fix our gaze on Jesus, and his victorious love for us, then we will never give up, looking at what really matters.
What a lesson for us all. Which way will you look today - down or up?
Best wishes,
Richard
As we look to the future, none of knows for sure how the details will work out. That is worrying for many, who are used to being in control.
Does being a Christian affect how we face the future?
It certainly made a difference for St. Paul.
In writing to his awkward friends in Corinth, he tells them of the troubles he has faced. 'We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.' (2 Corinthians 4.8-9)
His troubles were not economic, but much more basic - physical attacks, imprisonment and relentless opposition from people inside and outside the Christian community.
Paul had many reasons to be hopeless and gloomy. But he is ever hopeful, because he knows that Jesus can be trusted. His conclusion is startling. 'That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.' (2 Corinthians 4.16-18)
It is clear from this that our degree of hope is determined by the direction of our gaze. If we spend our time looking at the troubles, we will be hopeless! But if we fix our gaze on Jesus, and his victorious love for us, then we will never give up, looking at what really matters.
What a lesson for us all. Which way will you look today - down or up?
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 24 January 2012
Friends and Family
The famous BT adverts, with Bob Hoskins, promoted the idea that we might get a cheaper rate of phone charges if we identified to BT who were our 'Friends and Family'. This little exclusive group could be phoned at great length without too much cost. But that was a long time ago!
The whole social networking revolution has blown apart the idea of a select group of people with whom we may wish to keep in contact. The virtual world is challenging how the real world may behave.
But in the real world, we often have our special circle of 'friends and family', that may or may not be linked to blood relatives. 'You can choose your friends, but you cannot choose you family' is often quoted, with sad resignation.
Jesus was confronted by this issue, and his response is very instructive. 'Then Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him. They stood outside and sent word for him to come out and talk with them. There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.”
Jesus replied, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” Then he looked at those around him and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mark 3.31-35)
Jesus tells us that his family is not one based on human connections, but on our response to the call of God on our lives. Instead of being exclusive and selective in our relationships with each other, we can learn to be changed by Jesus into becoming a welcoming and inclusive community. That would be good!
Best wishes,
Richard
The whole social networking revolution has blown apart the idea of a select group of people with whom we may wish to keep in contact. The virtual world is challenging how the real world may behave.
But in the real world, we often have our special circle of 'friends and family', that may or may not be linked to blood relatives. 'You can choose your friends, but you cannot choose you family' is often quoted, with sad resignation.
Jesus was confronted by this issue, and his response is very instructive. 'Then Jesus’ mother and brothers came to see him. They stood outside and sent word for him to come out and talk with them. There was a crowd sitting around Jesus, and someone said, “Your mother and your brothers are outside asking for you.”
Jesus replied, “Who is my mother? Who are my brothers?” Then he looked at those around him and said, “Look, these are my mother and brothers. Anyone who does God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mark 3.31-35)
Jesus tells us that his family is not one based on human connections, but on our response to the call of God on our lives. Instead of being exclusive and selective in our relationships with each other, we can learn to be changed by Jesus into becoming a welcoming and inclusive community. That would be good!
Best wishes,
Richard
Monday 23 January 2012
Manifesto of Hope
The Chinese New Year starts today.
The Year of the Dragon is seen by many Chinese as very hopeful, because the dragon, in Chinese mythology, is the creature that protects the vulnerable and needy. (How different from most European views of dragons!)
For those unable to help themselves, hope and rescue comes from a powerful creature who does for us what cannot be hoped for from 'normal' agents. In European thinking, such an agent was describes a 'deus ex machina', a god outside of normal human operation.
These days, some expect that politicians can be that figure - a Superman, able to sort out the mess. But we have mostly lost hope in politicians of all sorts, because our problems seem too deep for them.
When Jesus started his public ministry, he presented an amazing Manifesto of Hope, drawn from the prophet Isaiah. '“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, and that the time of the LORD’s favour has come.' (Luke 4.18-19)
I am reminded again that we are all in need of the help of Jesus. His life's work was to bring hope and change to those trapped by forces that are beyond their powers to deal with. Only this Saviour can rescue and redeem us. I need Him today as much as ever.
But so does everyone else that you or I meet today. May we have opportunity to point others to Jesus today.
Best wishes,
Richard
The Year of the Dragon is seen by many Chinese as very hopeful, because the dragon, in Chinese mythology, is the creature that protects the vulnerable and needy. (How different from most European views of dragons!)
For those unable to help themselves, hope and rescue comes from a powerful creature who does for us what cannot be hoped for from 'normal' agents. In European thinking, such an agent was describes a 'deus ex machina', a god outside of normal human operation.
These days, some expect that politicians can be that figure - a Superman, able to sort out the mess. But we have mostly lost hope in politicians of all sorts, because our problems seem too deep for them.
When Jesus started his public ministry, he presented an amazing Manifesto of Hope, drawn from the prophet Isaiah. '“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, and that the time of the LORD’s favour has come.' (Luke 4.18-19)
I am reminded again that we are all in need of the help of Jesus. His life's work was to bring hope and change to those trapped by forces that are beyond their powers to deal with. Only this Saviour can rescue and redeem us. I need Him today as much as ever.
But so does everyone else that you or I meet today. May we have opportunity to point others to Jesus today.
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 20 January 2012
Seasons and Growth
Earlier in the week, we had 'proper cold'. Yesterday was warm, windy and wet. Now it is cooler again. But most trees are dormant, and it is not the time to sit in the garden! But the strong winds of three weeks ago uprooted several trees locally, and many around the country. This is the sort of thing to observe in winter.
But we know that later in the year, it would be normal to expect trees and plants to grow and be fruitful. That is unless their roots are so shallow that they are easily blown over!
Future growth depends of the present roots being healthy and fed.
Which makes me ask the question about how we are nourishing the roots of our own spiritual lives. Such a process will also help us to weather the storms of life - and it will be too late if we leave attention to root-deepening to when life gets tougher.
The Psalmist was shrewd observer of life's struggles.
'Oh, the joys of those who do not
follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners,
or join in with mockers.
But they delight in the law of the LORD,
meditating on it day and night.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do. (Psalm 1.1-3)
It takes time to grow deep roots and develop life habits. The time to start is NOW, and all of us have the time we need. The Psalmist had noted that when people choose not to waste their time with following the advice of the wicked, or standing around with sinners, or joining in with mockers, there was something more substantial about their lives. That substance was the result of what they did do with their time - meditating on God's word.
We have to choose not to waste our precious time with trivia, so that we too can grow deeply in God's word.
Many say it is too difficult or too problematic. Is that a reason or an excuse?
There are excellent resources available to help us, so that we can become stable and fruitful. Then we will be blessed in lives with eternal consequences.
Best wishes,
Richard
But we know that later in the year, it would be normal to expect trees and plants to grow and be fruitful. That is unless their roots are so shallow that they are easily blown over!
Future growth depends of the present roots being healthy and fed.
Which makes me ask the question about how we are nourishing the roots of our own spiritual lives. Such a process will also help us to weather the storms of life - and it will be too late if we leave attention to root-deepening to when life gets tougher.
The Psalmist was shrewd observer of life's struggles.
'Oh, the joys of those who do not
follow the advice of the wicked,
or stand around with sinners,
or join in with mockers.
But they delight in the law of the LORD,
meditating on it day and night.
They are like trees planted along the riverbank,
bearing fruit each season.
Their leaves never wither,
and they prosper in all they do. (Psalm 1.1-3)
It takes time to grow deep roots and develop life habits. The time to start is NOW, and all of us have the time we need. The Psalmist had noted that when people choose not to waste their time with following the advice of the wicked, or standing around with sinners, or joining in with mockers, there was something more substantial about their lives. That substance was the result of what they did do with their time - meditating on God's word.
We have to choose not to waste our precious time with trivia, so that we too can grow deeply in God's word.
Many say it is too difficult or too problematic. Is that a reason or an excuse?
There are excellent resources available to help us, so that we can become stable and fruitful. Then we will be blessed in lives with eternal consequences.
Best wishes,
Richard
Wednesday 18 January 2012
Proper Darkness
Have you been watching the BBC programme Stargazing Live? I have missed the first 2 evenings, but hope to catch some of it this evening. Tonight, they plan to discuss the effects of light pollution. Apparently, we have so much artificial light around that it makes seeing the stars (and planets) difficult. To see the sky properly at night, we need proper darkness.
But most of us don't like proper darkness, so we switch the lights on.
More seriously, for many, life itself can be a time of proper darkness. Switching on the lights is much more difficult when the darkness is spiritual or psychological.
It is quite surprising that the Psalms speak of the darkness which is everywhere.
'You have taken away my companions and loved ones.
Darkness is my closest friend.' (Psalm 88.18)
This, the bleakest of all the Psalms, has barely any glimmer of light to bring hope. But this is how it is for many, at times of deep despair.
Jesus himself, while hanging on the cross, quoted from Psalm 22, which starts, 'My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?' (Psalm 22.1) This psalm turns from darkness to light, so that later we can read, 'The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. ' (Psalm 22.26)
It is quite startling that many people of faith, particularly some notable great saints, have written about 'the dark night of the soul', when God seems distant, and prayer is difficult.
What do we do when the darkness seems to be winning?
Sometimes, there may be obvious causes, which we can address - such as bad lifestyle choices, and deliberate disobedience to the will of God. But often, the darkness may have no human cause that we can identify. The experience of those far wiser than me is that these are times of testing in which we can deliberately draw close to the God we cannot see, and cast ourselves on his mercy again. At the end of all things, only God can save us.
Mark's Gospel tells us, 'The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him.' (Mark 1.12-13)
Best wishes,
Richard
But most of us don't like proper darkness, so we switch the lights on.
More seriously, for many, life itself can be a time of proper darkness. Switching on the lights is much more difficult when the darkness is spiritual or psychological.
It is quite surprising that the Psalms speak of the darkness which is everywhere.
'You have taken away my companions and loved ones.
Darkness is my closest friend.' (Psalm 88.18)
This, the bleakest of all the Psalms, has barely any glimmer of light to bring hope. But this is how it is for many, at times of deep despair.
Jesus himself, while hanging on the cross, quoted from Psalm 22, which starts, 'My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?' (Psalm 22.1) This psalm turns from darkness to light, so that later we can read, 'The poor will eat and be satisfied. All who seek the LORD will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with everlasting joy. ' (Psalm 22.26)
It is quite startling that many people of faith, particularly some notable great saints, have written about 'the dark night of the soul', when God seems distant, and prayer is difficult.
What do we do when the darkness seems to be winning?
Sometimes, there may be obvious causes, which we can address - such as bad lifestyle choices, and deliberate disobedience to the will of God. But often, the darkness may have no human cause that we can identify. The experience of those far wiser than me is that these are times of testing in which we can deliberately draw close to the God we cannot see, and cast ourselves on his mercy again. At the end of all things, only God can save us.
Mark's Gospel tells us, 'The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him.' (Mark 1.12-13)
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 17 January 2012
Proper Cold
The last few days, with their crisp beauty, and brilliant blue skies, have been a reminder of proper winter - even if so far, we have had no snow.
This is the weather that we think may deal with 'all those unwanted bugs' - whatever they happen to be!
My preferred option for winter is 'proper cold', and my preferred option for summer is 'proper hot'. Warm and muggy is not my choice - though others may wish differently from me. Such wishes won't change the weather, of course. But either hot or cold is my preference!
In the ancient city of Laodicea, their water supply was neither ice cold, straight from the mountains, nor bubbling hot from the local volcanic underground source. It was just lukewarm (and filthy tasting!).
The risen Jesus, doing his OFSTED inspection of the 7 local Churches, compares the Christians there to their water supply. '“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!' (Revelation 3.15-16)
Worse was to come from Jesus, as he saw their smug complacency, which failed to look beneath their surface comfort. 'You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. So I advise you to buy gold from me—gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. Also buy white garments from me so you will not be shamed by your nakedness, and ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see.' (Revelation 3.17-18)
The remedy was very simple - they needed to welcome Jesus into their deeply damaged lives. '“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)
That particular verse has helped thousands to clinch the deal with Jesus - including me! It is so simple to understand and visualise - Jesus coming into the house of my life, to bring his friendship and presence, to bring change and hope.
So, on the proper cold day, let us all make sure that Jesus is inside the house of our lives.
Best wishes,
Richard
This is the weather that we think may deal with 'all those unwanted bugs' - whatever they happen to be!
My preferred option for winter is 'proper cold', and my preferred option for summer is 'proper hot'. Warm and muggy is not my choice - though others may wish differently from me. Such wishes won't change the weather, of course. But either hot or cold is my preference!
In the ancient city of Laodicea, their water supply was neither ice cold, straight from the mountains, nor bubbling hot from the local volcanic underground source. It was just lukewarm (and filthy tasting!).
The risen Jesus, doing his OFSTED inspection of the 7 local Churches, compares the Christians there to their water supply. '“I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!' (Revelation 3.15-16)
Worse was to come from Jesus, as he saw their smug complacency, which failed to look beneath their surface comfort. 'You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. So I advise you to buy gold from me—gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. Also buy white garments from me so you will not be shamed by your nakedness, and ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see.' (Revelation 3.17-18)
The remedy was very simple - they needed to welcome Jesus into their deeply damaged lives. '“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)
That particular verse has helped thousands to clinch the deal with Jesus - including me! It is so simple to understand and visualise - Jesus coming into the house of my life, to bring his friendship and presence, to bring change and hope.
So, on the proper cold day, let us all make sure that Jesus is inside the house of our lives.
Best wishes,
Richard
Monday 16 January 2012
Thirst Quencher
Drinks advertisers spend many creative hours dreaming up how to persuade people to buy their products. Apart from their taste, the main feature of all drinks is that they are supposed to quench our thirst! From that point of view, water would be a fine substitute. And that does not mean buying bottled water at an exorbitant price. Water from the tap will do fine. But most of us are not satisfied with 'corporation pop', as it has been called.
The Prophet Isaiah has some startling things to say about wasting money on ineffective products. “Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money!
Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free!
Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength?
Why pay for food that does you no good?
Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food.'
(Isaiah 55.1-2)
Jesus invited people who were thirsty to find in him what they were seeking. 'On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”(When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.) (John 7.37-39)
Today, all of can draw close to Jesus, and ask Him to fill us, by His Spirit, so that we may live lives which are glorifying to Jesus, and a blessing to others.
What are you waiting for?
Best wishes,
Richard
The Prophet Isaiah has some startling things to say about wasting money on ineffective products. “Is anyone thirsty? Come and drink— even if you have no money!
Come, take your choice of wine or milk— it’s all free!
Why spend your money on food that does not give you strength?
Why pay for food that does you no good?
Listen to me, and you will eat what is good. You will enjoy the finest food.'
(Isaiah 55.1-2)
Jesus invited people who were thirsty to find in him what they were seeking. 'On the last day, the climax of the festival, Jesus stood and shouted to the crowds, “Anyone who is thirsty may come to me! Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, ‘Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.’”(When he said “living water,” he was speaking of the Spirit, who would be given to everyone believing in him. But the Spirit had not yet been given, because Jesus had not yet entered into his glory.) (John 7.37-39)
Today, all of can draw close to Jesus, and ask Him to fill us, by His Spirit, so that we may live lives which are glorifying to Jesus, and a blessing to others.
What are you waiting for?
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 13 January 2012
Discrimination
The police all around the country are accused of using 'stop & search' powers in a way that discriminates against black people. Statistics prove it - as does the poor arrest rates following such actions. And worst of all, their actions lead to a breakdown of the good relationships on which good policing relies.
At the other end of the spectrum, some children in school may find themselves to be their teacher's favourite. Favouritism is another form of discrimination, and has wide consequences.
The Bible is alert to these issues, and the family histories of Jacob, Joseph and David are riddled with disastrous relationships arising from favouritism and discrimination.
Jesus shows us a different way.
'One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat. When a certain immoral woman from that city heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. Then she knelt behind him at his feet, weeping. Her tears fell on his feet, and she wiped them off with her hair. Then she kept kissing his feet and putting perfume on them.' (Luke 7.36-39)
In this awkward situation, how might we respond? Embarrassment and confusion, I guess.
But Jesus is very clear, even when he is challenged about his accepting of the woman's attention. 'Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.”
The men at the table said among themselves, “Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins?” And Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7.48-50)
Did Jesus show favouritism towards the woman? It may seems so, but he earlier accepted the invitation to eat with the Pharisee, which might have surprised us. Jesus seems to have been able to walk the difficult road of showing equal care and dignity towards all sorts of people. That was both very powerful and long remembered. If we can live like that, others will notice too - even if they do not understand why we are as we are - like Jesus.
Best wishes,
Richard
At the other end of the spectrum, some children in school may find themselves to be their teacher's favourite. Favouritism is another form of discrimination, and has wide consequences.
The Bible is alert to these issues, and the family histories of Jacob, Joseph and David are riddled with disastrous relationships arising from favouritism and discrimination.
Jesus shows us a different way.
'One of the Pharisees asked Jesus to have dinner with him, so Jesus went to his home and sat down to eat. When a certain immoral woman from that city heard he was eating there, she brought a beautiful alabaster jar filled with expensive perfume. Then she knelt behind him at his feet, weeping. Her tears fell on his feet, and she wiped them off with her hair. Then she kept kissing his feet and putting perfume on them.' (Luke 7.36-39)
In this awkward situation, how might we respond? Embarrassment and confusion, I guess.
But Jesus is very clear, even when he is challenged about his accepting of the woman's attention. 'Then Jesus said to the woman, “Your sins are forgiven.”
The men at the table said among themselves, “Who is this man, that he goes around forgiving sins?” And Jesus said to the woman, “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7.48-50)
Did Jesus show favouritism towards the woman? It may seems so, but he earlier accepted the invitation to eat with the Pharisee, which might have surprised us. Jesus seems to have been able to walk the difficult road of showing equal care and dignity towards all sorts of people. That was both very powerful and long remembered. If we can live like that, others will notice too - even if they do not understand why we are as we are - like Jesus.
Best wishes,
Richard
Wednesday 11 January 2012
Change or Not?
Should Scotland gain independence from Britain? Should the Republicans in the US vote for Mitt Romney? How should Syria change?
Should any of us change our shopping habits? Do we want to be changed or not?
These are interesting times, all around the world, and we are faced with changes, either chosen or inevitable.
As I look out of the window, it is still dark, but the clouds are tinged with red. In an hour or so, all that will have changed. But what sort of day will I experience?
Jesus lived in the same sort of world that we inhabit, and he had to make choices daily. How did he do that?
'Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.' (Mark 1.35)
In the midst of a very busy life, with many demands and opportunities around Him, Jesus knows that He needs to get away from the relentlessness of it all, and spend some time in His Father's presence. Following this time in prayer, it is striking that He then makes a decisive change to His working pattern.
So for all of us, pressured and too easily frantic, we too can choose to follow the example of Jesus - take time to pray - at moments through the day, and most importantly before we get overwhelmed.
Best wishes,
Richard
Should any of us change our shopping habits? Do we want to be changed or not?
These are interesting times, all around the world, and we are faced with changes, either chosen or inevitable.
As I look out of the window, it is still dark, but the clouds are tinged with red. In an hour or so, all that will have changed. But what sort of day will I experience?
Jesus lived in the same sort of world that we inhabit, and he had to make choices daily. How did he do that?
'Before daybreak the next morning, Jesus got up and went out to an isolated place to pray.' (Mark 1.35)
In the midst of a very busy life, with many demands and opportunities around Him, Jesus knows that He needs to get away from the relentlessness of it all, and spend some time in His Father's presence. Following this time in prayer, it is striking that He then makes a decisive change to His working pattern.
So for all of us, pressured and too easily frantic, we too can choose to follow the example of Jesus - take time to pray - at moments through the day, and most importantly before we get overwhelmed.
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 10 January 2012
Market Forces
We are told that "Competition is good or everyone."
That is what much of modern culture promotes. It is hard not to live as though this were true. But should life be driven by 'market forces'?
It is obvious that those involved in commerce are pushed this way, and market share drives their decisions.
But there are surprises in store for those taking note of the way God deals with people.
Consider the first disciples that Jesus called, Andrew & Simon, James and John. 'One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him.
A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee’s sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men. (Mark 1.16-20)
Did you notice that both these pairs of brothers were engaged in a commercial fishing business? The two fishing families, with their hired staff, had been selling fish to the people and communities around the Sea of Galilee. This means that they could well have been rivals and competitors.
But Jesus calls them to become his followers, and to learn to collaborate and cooperate with one another on a common task. Instead of behaving like the commercial world from which they came, they were called to be part of a new community, in which everybody is welcome and valued.
This change has far-reaching consequences for how we live and behave. How we treat people and how we make decisions about our money and our time can either be shaped by a 'market forces' culture, or we can be shaped by the call of Jesus. Each of us, together and in community, can make a difference, that will affect the lives of all those around us.
Best wishes,
Richard
That is what much of modern culture promotes. It is hard not to live as though this were true. But should life be driven by 'market forces'?
It is obvious that those involved in commerce are pushed this way, and market share drives their decisions.
But there are surprises in store for those taking note of the way God deals with people.
Consider the first disciples that Jesus called, Andrew & Simon, James and John. 'One day as Jesus was walking along the shore of the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew throwing a net into the water, for they fished for a living. Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!” And they left their nets at once and followed him.
A little farther up the shore Jesus saw Zebedee’s sons, James and John, in a boat repairing their nets. He called them at once, and they also followed him, leaving their father, Zebedee, in the boat with the hired men. (Mark 1.16-20)
Did you notice that both these pairs of brothers were engaged in a commercial fishing business? The two fishing families, with their hired staff, had been selling fish to the people and communities around the Sea of Galilee. This means that they could well have been rivals and competitors.
But Jesus calls them to become his followers, and to learn to collaborate and cooperate with one another on a common task. Instead of behaving like the commercial world from which they came, they were called to be part of a new community, in which everybody is welcome and valued.
This change has far-reaching consequences for how we live and behave. How we treat people and how we make decisions about our money and our time can either be shaped by a 'market forces' culture, or we can be shaped by the call of Jesus. Each of us, together and in community, can make a difference, that will affect the lives of all those around us.
Best wishes,
Richard
Monday 9 January 2012
Struggles
Companies, like Morrisons, Waitrose and HMV are reporting their financial results, and commentators are speaking of the struggles in the market. 'These are tough times', is what they all say.
There is a battle for survival going on. Some may grow, like Roll Royce Cars, while others, like Blacks Outdoor Clothing, go to the wall.
Conflict and struggle is a fact not only of the market, but much else in our experience. It was striking to hear yesterday, from St. Mark's account of the commissioning of Jesus, that it was the Spirit of God that drove Jesus out into the wilderness, to face temptations.
'The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him.' (Mark 1.12-13)
The writer to the Hebrews tells us, 'Since the Son himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.' (Hebrews 2.18)
We will all face times of testing and struggle today. This is not because we are particularly wicked or weak, but because we have an enemy of our souls, who wishes to make us take our eyes off Jesus and focus on ourselves. Once Satan gets us thinking about ourselves, then he has us at his mercy.
Knowing that Jesus faced relentless struggles in his life and ministry, and that He was never outwitted or defeated, should encourage us in our daily struggles to keen close to Him. He is the only One who can help us - let's keep our eyes fixed on Him.
Best wishes,
Richard
There is a battle for survival going on. Some may grow, like Roll Royce Cars, while others, like Blacks Outdoor Clothing, go to the wall.
Conflict and struggle is a fact not only of the market, but much else in our experience. It was striking to hear yesterday, from St. Mark's account of the commissioning of Jesus, that it was the Spirit of God that drove Jesus out into the wilderness, to face temptations.
'The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him.' (Mark 1.12-13)
The writer to the Hebrews tells us, 'Since the Son himself has gone through suffering and testing, he is able to help us when we are being tested.' (Hebrews 2.18)
We will all face times of testing and struggle today. This is not because we are particularly wicked or weak, but because we have an enemy of our souls, who wishes to make us take our eyes off Jesus and focus on ourselves. Once Satan gets us thinking about ourselves, then he has us at his mercy.
Knowing that Jesus faced relentless struggles in his life and ministry, and that He was never outwitted or defeated, should encourage us in our daily struggles to keen close to Him. He is the only One who can help us - let's keep our eyes fixed on Him.
Best wishes,
Richard
Friday 6 January 2012
Adoration
We are all at it.
Followers of X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing, as well as sports fans, and music lovers find ourselves doing the same thing. We love to adore and worship the focus of our our interest (or obsession). Our celebrity culture has helped to develop this human desire to idolise.
But idols rise and fall, and we manage to gain enjoyment from all phases of the life of a rising or falling star. When it comes to it, we seem to be more like vultures than genuine worshippers.
But of course the Bible is also full of people who are hooked into adoration and worship of one thing or another. This should be no surprise, as the people we find in Scripture are very much like us - warts and all.
Being The Feast of the Epiphany today, the story of the Wise Men's visit to Bethlehem shows different sorts of adoration.
'Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2.1-2) The Wise Men worked out that this amazing rising star demanded an astonishing response from them, and they were ready to adjust their lives in order to give what what due to this king.
Later in the story, the disturbed Herod asks the Wise Men to help him. 'Then he told them, “Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!” (Matthew 2.8) It is striking that Herod used the language of worship when considering his own response.
The Wise Men themselves show the way, in their adoration of the child Jesus. 'They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.' (Matthew 2.11)
The question that we face, every day, is how we show our adoration of Jesus - in the way we live and the way we go through life.
Best wishes,
Richard
Followers of X Factor and Strictly Come Dancing, as well as sports fans, and music lovers find ourselves doing the same thing. We love to adore and worship the focus of our our interest (or obsession). Our celebrity culture has helped to develop this human desire to idolise.
But idols rise and fall, and we manage to gain enjoyment from all phases of the life of a rising or falling star. When it comes to it, we seem to be more like vultures than genuine worshippers.
But of course the Bible is also full of people who are hooked into adoration and worship of one thing or another. This should be no surprise, as the people we find in Scripture are very much like us - warts and all.
Being The Feast of the Epiphany today, the story of the Wise Men's visit to Bethlehem shows different sorts of adoration.
'Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the reign of King Herod. About that time some wise men from eastern lands arrived in Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star as it rose, and we have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2.1-2) The Wise Men worked out that this amazing rising star demanded an astonishing response from them, and they were ready to adjust their lives in order to give what what due to this king.
Later in the story, the disturbed Herod asks the Wise Men to help him. 'Then he told them, “Go to Bethlehem and search carefully for the child. And when you find him, come back and tell me so that I can go and worship him, too!” (Matthew 2.8) It is striking that Herod used the language of worship when considering his own response.
The Wise Men themselves show the way, in their adoration of the child Jesus. 'They entered the house and saw the child with his mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped him. Then they opened their treasure chests and gave him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.' (Matthew 2.11)
The question that we face, every day, is how we show our adoration of Jesus - in the way we live and the way we go through life.
Best wishes,
Richard
Wednesday 4 January 2012
Justice & Mercy
Following the unanimous verdicts at the Old Bailey yesterday, Garry Dobson & David Norris can expect to face the consequences of their actions 18 years ago.
Some will see this as justice.
Others will believe that their continuing lack of honesty or regret shows that even the full weight of the law cannot deal effectively with their crime.
But how do we face the reality of our own failings?
The Bible is alive to the realities of human behaviour, and acknowledges the universality of human failings.
With refreshing honesty, humans are seen both as created in the image of God, and yet tainted through and through. None of us is as bad as might be, but equally, none of us is a good as we should be.
The Psalmist often reflects on our failings.
Psalm 51 seems to come from the context of King David's disastrous relationship with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite. Not only did David commit adultery, he also organised to have Uriah killed, and so implicated many of his loyal servants in his assorted crimes. The psalm's heading states, 'For the choir director: A psalm of David, regarding the time Nathan the prophet came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.'
But the words of the Psalm itself reveal an astonishing response to the behaviour which is common to all of us.
'Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.
2 Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.
3 For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night.
4 Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight.
You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgement against me is just' (Psalm 51.1-4)
In this cry for mercy, I see how I should face my failings and God's holiness. But supremely, I see my need of His mercy, for which I have no right. Only God can save me from myself, and make me a new person. Wonderfully, this is exactly what Jesus came into our world to do - to save people from their sins!
My prayer is that many in our community will discover this wonderful good news, and find lives and destinies transformed.
Best wishes,
Richard
Some will see this as justice.
Others will believe that their continuing lack of honesty or regret shows that even the full weight of the law cannot deal effectively with their crime.
But how do we face the reality of our own failings?
The Bible is alive to the realities of human behaviour, and acknowledges the universality of human failings.
With refreshing honesty, humans are seen both as created in the image of God, and yet tainted through and through. None of us is as bad as might be, but equally, none of us is a good as we should be.
The Psalmist often reflects on our failings.
Psalm 51 seems to come from the context of King David's disastrous relationship with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah the Hittite. Not only did David commit adultery, he also organised to have Uriah killed, and so implicated many of his loyal servants in his assorted crimes. The psalm's heading states, 'For the choir director: A psalm of David, regarding the time Nathan the prophet came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.'
But the words of the Psalm itself reveal an astonishing response to the behaviour which is common to all of us.
'Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love.
Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins.
2 Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin.
3 For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night.
4 Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight.
You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgement against me is just' (Psalm 51.1-4)
In this cry for mercy, I see how I should face my failings and God's holiness. But supremely, I see my need of His mercy, for which I have no right. Only God can save me from myself, and make me a new person. Wonderfully, this is exactly what Jesus came into our world to do - to save people from their sins!
My prayer is that many in our community will discover this wonderful good news, and find lives and destinies transformed.
Best wishes,
Richard
Tuesday 3 January 2012
Planning for Growth
With the New Year under way, and as the days are now getting longer, it is time to plan for growth in the garden.
The weather was lovely yesterday, so some jobs in the garden were done. Dead oak leaves needed to be cleared, so that our fruit bushes and other beds are free to develop and grow. The plants need feeding and training, pruning and protecting, so that we get a good results later in the year. Do nothing now, and we will be disappointed later.
Jesus often used parables and illustrations from agriculture and horticulture. He might well have agreed with Alan Titchmarsh, who has said that gardening is more important than politics!
'“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.' (John 15.1-2)
From these familiar verses, we see that the Lord's intention is to look for growth in his people.
I am deeply reassured, at the start of an uncertain year, to know that Jesus teaches us that God Almighty, his Father, is the gardener. Nothing that happens to us, individually or corporately, is outside His loving care and will.
But Jesus also teaches us that He alone is the source of our life and growth, so we need to keep close to Him. 'You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.' (John 15.3-4)
As we go into this New Year, may I encourage us all to pray that we cooperate with the Lord in bringing about the growth in us and through us which is His best will for us all.
Best wishes,
Richard
The weather was lovely yesterday, so some jobs in the garden were done. Dead oak leaves needed to be cleared, so that our fruit bushes and other beds are free to develop and grow. The plants need feeding and training, pruning and protecting, so that we get a good results later in the year. Do nothing now, and we will be disappointed later.
Jesus often used parables and illustrations from agriculture and horticulture. He might well have agreed with Alan Titchmarsh, who has said that gardening is more important than politics!
'“I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more.' (John 15.1-2)
From these familiar verses, we see that the Lord's intention is to look for growth in his people.
I am deeply reassured, at the start of an uncertain year, to know that Jesus teaches us that God Almighty, his Father, is the gardener. Nothing that happens to us, individually or corporately, is outside His loving care and will.
But Jesus also teaches us that He alone is the source of our life and growth, so we need to keep close to Him. 'You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me.' (John 15.3-4)
As we go into this New Year, may I encourage us all to pray that we cooperate with the Lord in bringing about the growth in us and through us which is His best will for us all.
Best wishes,
Richard
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