Who is this man?

We have endured a stormy night, and the wind has caused damage in varying amounts. For those caught in the storms, these are terrifying times. 

But there doesn't seem much let up promised.

My mind goes to a brief story in the Gospels. 'So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. 

Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” 

When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!”Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 

The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!” (Mark 4.36-41)

It is striking that the disciples, experienced fishermen, were more terrified by the realisation that Jesus had the power to still the storm, than they were terrified by the storm itself.

As the disciples keep asking the question “Who is this man?”  throughout the Gospels, the penny slowly drops that they are in the company of someone with the power and authority of God himself.

As we approach Christmas, I pray that we will all learn to see Jesus as the King who reigns supreme over all, and whose Kingdom will be seen and known by many.

Best wishes,

Richard

Ready for Christmas?

The weather forecasters are telling us that the next few days will be windy and wet - possibly a mild understatement, but you know me! I wouldn't want to overstate the case to get you attention.

And the shops are staying open longer today than normal, and maybe even staying open longer tomorrow. This is all supposed to help us get ready (=spend MORE money than is necessary) to mark the birth of Jesus in a humble stable. That seems odd in the extreme.

How is it that we have forgotten God's style (humble service) and replaced it with worldly flashiness?

So are we ready?

St. Paul reminded his friends in Philippi how they should behave. It seems there are lessons for us all as we approach the birth of our Saviour. 'Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. 

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 

Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. 

Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; 

he took the humble position of a slave 

and was born as a human being. 

When he appeared in human form, 

he humbled himself in obedience to God 

and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

(Philippians 2.3-8)

I pray that we might draw closer to Jesus in these next days, and recall that we are not trying to impress one another with what we do or how we do it. I think that would please Him.

Best wishes,

Richard 

Shortest Day?

If you blink, you might miss it! I am talking about the daylight. There isn't much of it around today, for though the sky looks bright and clear, there will be darkness again before we know it! 

But from tomorrow, the days start getting longer, and summer is just around the corner (you can see I am wired up as an optimist!)

St. Paul uses the idea of night turning to day as a reminder to Christian people that we have changed sides, by God's mercy. 'God has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins.' (Colossians 1.13-14)

In many of his letters, Paul uses this image of our new identity to remind us how we should live. 'Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armour of right living. Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see. Don’t participate in the darkness of wild parties and drunkenness, or in sexual promiscuity and immoral living, or in quarrelling and jealousy. Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.' (Romans 13.11-14)

In the midst of all the parties and indulgence in these days, it is good to recall Paul's very straight words about living decent lives for all to see. The antidote, as usual, is to clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.'

Best wishes,

Richard

Blue Sky

How lovely to see a blue sky, after days of cloud and rain. 

I don't know what the future holds, in terms of weather, but the present looks very pleasant.

That lesson has much to teach me. 

In my job, I often spend much time thinking and planning about the future, so it is good to learn to live in the present moment.

That has great implications for how I learn to live by faith in Jesus. Faithful in people in times past learned that we live by faith in God, moment by moment. 'The Sovereign Lord has given me his words of wisdom,

    so that I know how to comfort the weary.
Morning by morning he wakens me
    and opens my understanding to his will.' (Isaiah 50.4)

Today is the only time that I will live this particular day, and I need to face it with all the simple trust in Jesus that every day requires. I know what is planned, but I don't really know what is coming. But the Lord, my Shepherd knows, so I can trust Him, whatever comes.

In the evening, i shall have a chance, I hope, to reflect.

Best wishes,

Richard

Global Growth

The Airport Commission has plans to develop UK runway capacity. 

Driven by a determination to see British trade and business flourish in the global economy, new runways are proposed at Heathrow & Gatwick. Details will no doubt be argued about for some time, but the focus on global growth should mean that agreement and progress on these schemes will be seen, in time.

In the run up to Christmas, I am reminded that the events in far off times, in Nazareth and Bethlehem, are all part of God's plans for global growth. 

The message of the angel set the scene, which can still shape our own planning and praying in our local setting.. 'That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Saviour—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David!' (Luke 2.8-11)

In a wonderful blend of the local and global, the shepherds close to Bethlehem are told of a birth in Bethlehem, which will have global consequences. People like us are to be part of the all people who will experience great joy. The light has penetrated the darkness, and the darkness has never overcome this light.

The extent of this global growth is further foreshadowed by the singing choirs of angels, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” (Luke 2.14)

All round the world, there are communities of people, from every tribe and language, culture and background, who have been drawn into the circle of God's peace, and whose lives are now lived for the glory of God. 

From small beginnings, this global growth continues to shape the destiny of millions and we have our part in this grand plan. Let us rejoice and give God the glory!

Best wishes,

Richard

Slavery

The Labour MP Frank Field has produced a Report on the extent of modern slavery in Britain. Its shocking observation is that there are over 10,000 people enslaved in Britain, and that number is rising sharply. 

The Government is publishing their Modern Slavery bill, and anti-slavery campaigners are divided over whether the bill goes far enough.

Slavery was a hot topic in Jesus' day, as Jewish people looked back to their escape from Egypt, under the leadership of Moses over 1200 years before Jesus. 

In a famous dispute, Jesus challenges people to realise that they are still slaves, who need to be set free. 'Jesus said to the people who believed in him, “You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 

“But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do you mean, ‘You will be set free’?” 

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin." (John 8.32-24)

It is striking that the people to whom Jesus was speaking were those who had started to believe in him. In spite of that developing faith, these people are still blind to their own persistent slavery to sinful habits. In our own day, we easily acknowledge that some behaviour patterns can be addictive - whether it is shopping, alcohol consumption, drug taking, sexual activity, sports, fitness, eating, electronic gadgets a=or anything else. The truth that Jesus presents is that we are all naturally enslaved, and only He can bring us freedom. 'So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.' (John 8.36)

Today, surrounded as we are by people who are enslaved and blind to their slavery, we have a chance to live as people set free by Jesus to live a God-glorifying life, life in all its fullness.

Best wishes,

Richard

Christmas Publicity

Does publicity work? 

Plenty of money and effort goes into influencing people's behaviour by publicity campaigns of one sort or another

The special Christmas adverts for television and the clever window dressing of major stores all have their effect. Having bought a cheap pair of jeans from Marks & Spencer recently, I am amused at their 'Believe in Magic and Sparkle' slogan.

And the birth of Jesus, which is missing from most commercial Christmas publicity, was also well publicised. 'Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying, 

“Glory to God in highest heaven, 

and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” 

When the angels had returned to heaven, the shepherds said to each other, “Let’s go to Bethlehem! Let’s see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.” (Luke 2.13-15) 

The singing angelic choirs, with their challenging message, were enough to move the shepherds to take action to see the newborn Jesus. 

This evening at 6.30 pm, in Waitrose, as part of their commercial promotion, St. Andrew's has been asked to provide some Carol Singers. This will provide us with an opportunity to promote our own Christmas special events. So please join us if you can.

But also take the opportunity to invite friends, neighbours and colleagues to join us in our celebrations of this astonishing reminder of God's great goodness and love.

Best wishes,

Richard

More Mandela, please!

Yesterday's Mandela Memorial event at the Johannesburg FNB Stadium was astonishing. The singing and dancing crowds were so full of life and gratitude for the difference that one man had made to their lives and the life of the world. 

In the mood of celebration, the cheers for President Obama, and for his startlingly direct challenge to other world leaders, showed that Mandela's work is not yet finished. 

And the boos for Jacob Zuma showed that the people of South Africa want more of Mandela, and less of old style corruption and tyranny.

If the crowd could choose, they would have said, 'More Mandela, please!'

And what about the crowds around Jesus? In Advent, it is good that we recall how Jesus was viewed by people in his day. 

At the end of his Galilean ministry, Jesus comes to Jerusalem. 'Many in the crowd spread their garments on the road ahead of him, and others spread leafy branches they had cut in the fields.  Jesus was in the centre of the procession, and the people all around him were shouting,

“Praise God! 

Blessings on the one who comes in the name of the Lord! 

Blessings on the coming Kingdom of our ancestor David! 

Praise God in highest heaven!” 

So Jesus came to Jerusalem and went into the Temple.' (Mark 11.8-11)

But as we know, the mood changed later in the week. 'Pilate asked them, “Then what should I do with this man you call the king of the Jews?” 

They shouted back, “Crucify him!” 

“Why?” Pilate demanded. “What crime has he committed?” 

But the mob roared even louder, “Crucify him!” 

So to pacify the crowd, Pilate released Barabbas to them. He ordered Jesus flogged with a lead-tipped whip, then turned him over to the Roman soldiers to be crucified.' (Mark 15.12-15)

These stories remind me that in following Jesus, we do not go with the crowd, especially when they cheer their support. Learning to be consistent, whether or not it makes us popular, was a lesson that Nelson Mandela learned.

Following that example is demanding, and yet ultimately rewarding.

Best wishes,

Richard

What Next?

Today, the world is celebrating all that Nelson Mandela was, and his astonishing legacy of bringing peoples together. Many words will be spoken, and many will seek to bask in the glow of his reputation and goodness. But already people are asking 'What Next?'.

The present leadership in South Africa and many other nations are not in the same league as the great man. Rhetoric may flow freely, but actions seem to be very slow. The challenges to make the future better than the past seem endless. 

And still we are in the season of Advent, awaiting the return of Jesus Christ, as Saviour and Judge. 

What difference does that waiting make for us, day after day?

Jesus repeatedly reminded his hearers that they should be forward-focused. '“The coming of the Son of Man can be illustrated by the story of a man going on a long trip. When he left home, he gave each of his slaves instructions about the work they were to do, and he told the gatekeeper to watch for his return. You, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him!” (Mark 13.34-37) 

Some may wonder, how do we 'watch for him'? How can we be ready for Jesus coming amongst us? St. Paul reminded his friends in Colossae how they should live. 'And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.' (Colossians 3.17)

If we live every day, fully aware that we are always on duty as a representative of the Lord Jesus, then we shall always be ready for his coming amongst us. People around us will be blessed and challenged, as though Jesus were speaking and living in their company. That will bring glory to God and good to our community.

Are you ready?

Best wishes,

Richard

Marketing Messages

'Believe in Magic & Sparkle', 'Truly Magical', 'Merry & Bright', 'Live well for less', 'Love you Food', 'More of what matters', 'Every little helps' and many more.

These are the marketing messages that we hear and see every week. The run up to Christmas is the busiest time in the year for the shops and businesses which rely on consumers like us buying stuff. 

Without their relentless advertising, we might not be persuaded to spend our money on all that food which we will end up throwing away. What a waste of our money and precious resources. Why do we do it?

We do it because we are convinced that we need (or must have) all that stuff that we manage without during the rest of the year. Why? Because we get caught up in communal madness! Those marketing messages are clearly quite effective.

The Old Testament is full of similar marketing messages, which may whet our appetite for something longer lasting.

For a child is born to us,
    a son is given to us.
The government will rest on his shoulders.
    And he will be called:
Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God,
    Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.His government and its peace
    will never end.
He will rule with fairness and justice from the throne of his ancestor David
    for all eternity.
The passionate commitment of the Lord of Heaven’s Armies
    will make this happen! (Isaiah 9.6-7)

Isaiah's prophecy, from over 700 years before Jesus, but only 300 years after King David, picks up the idea that when God acts decisively, his kingly rule on earth will make a profound and lasting difference. When Jesus announced the arrival of the Kingdom of God, people of his day will have recalled this earlier marketing message, and joined the dots.

Today, we can be living billboards and advertising agents for the King of Kings, whose righteous rule has brought hope and life to broken people like us. What a privilege!
Best wishes,

Richard

One Life

I thank God for Nelson Mandela. What a man! What a life!

Much is made of the way 27 years in prison made him into a President who brought healing change to a divided and hate-filled land. With humour and courage, he opposed those calling for revenge and violence, and taught us all to see each other as fellow human beings. Again and again, he echoed the words of Jesus about forgiveness and peace. How that man's one life transformed the destiny of millions brings a challenge to us all.

St. Paul reminds us of what we can do with our one life, if we choose to go the right way. 'And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.' (Romans 12.1-2)

Mandela, at the close of his trial speech, indicated that he was ready to live, and if necessary die, for what he believed to be true.

St. Paul call us to live, and if necessary die, in our grateful sacrificial response to God generous mercy towards us. 

When I look back to Jesus dying in my place, for my failings and wilfulness, nothing I do for Him looks very difficult. But living like this makes all the difference to how we live. Living like this will make a startling difference in the lives of those we we encounter. I want to live like this today. Will you?
Richard

The Coming King

There was great excitement when Prince George was christened. Not only were there plenty of photos of the family, but this child will one day be a king. He also received some interesting gifts, including from the Samburu community in Kenya four heifers, a bull, and a goat. This makes the gifts from the Wise Men look fairly ordinary!

But as, during Advent, we reflect on the Coming of Jesus, as Judge & Saviour, I am reminded of how he started his ministry in Galilee.

'Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God’s Good News. “The time promised by God has come at last!” he announced. “The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!” (Mark 1.14-15)

In announcing the Kingdom of God, Jesus was stating in word and deed that God is the rightful King on earth. In the prayer Jesus taught us, we repeatedly pray, 'May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.' In the Kingdom of God, that is exactly what happens.

And the conditions that make it possible for us to enter the Kingdom, and play our part in doing God's will on earth as it is in heaven are simple and clear. We first have to turn away from all we know to be wrong. We then believe God's Good News, which involves us in discovering that there is always a better way to live, free from guilt and greed, given over to new-style relationships and generosity. And this is a continuing and deliberate process of relentless realignment of our living.

So I ask myself again how much of my life is reflecting the Good News that Jesus was bringing.

On Sunday, when we wrote out what we needed to do, to be ready for Jesus' return, I wrote some clear words demanding action from me. Yesterday, in God's mercy, I was able to put those words into practice. I now pray that the next steps will lead to God's will being done on this small part of earth, as it is in heaven. Will you pray that too?

Best wishes,

Richard

"Testing, Testing!"

The sound engineer is doing his best to check whether the equipment works, and says "Testing, Testing!"

The OECD wants to check on the performance of school children in Maths, English & Science, so they are testing, testing! And Britain's schools don't seem to be doing as well as they might. 

These are testing times for many.

RBS customers had a very testing time last evening, when they were unable to use their bank cards at ATMs or over the internet. So I guess RBS people will be having a testing time trying to sort out the mess, and get everything working as it should.

And so I could go on.

I visited several homes yesterday where people are under considerable stress and pressure. The reasons were all different, varying from external events to the behaviour of people. The result was that life has become almost unbearable. Very difficult. A testing time.

And as Christmas approaches, most of us get more busy and stressed, because of the extra events and expectations which come with this time of year. As we know, little of it has much to do with Jesus!

How do we respond when life is full of tests and troubles?
St. James has an extraordinary outlook. 

'Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.' (James 1.2-4)

Because this is so different from the way I normally think, I have to keep going back to see what James is saying. James is reminding us that we only ever grow stronger in anything with relentless practice and application. As the proverb goes, 'Practice makes Perfect'. 

So when I am wondering whether I can handle whatever comes along, I remind myself that Jesus knows what is coming my way, and He can help me to endure, joyfully, rather than through gritted teeth. And the result will be an astonishing outcome - you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

So today, while life may be "Testing, Testing!", I shall ask Jesus to give me joy as I grow stronger in faith and trust.
Will you do the same?
Best wishes,

Richard

Getting Ready

Today is due to be the busiest day of the year for internet shopping. Huge numbers of people will be spending loads of money, apparently on new iPads and tablets. For many, who have spare spending capacity, this is a very exciting time of the year.

And others will be wondering if they will be able to cope with family pressures or financial problems that are getting worse, as the 'festive season' approaches. Food banks, crisis loans, heightened expectations, children and young people trying to keep up with their friends and much else suggest this is the worst time in the year for many.

And what might devoted followers of Jesus be thinking or doing?

The Advent season, which is looking beyond our annual remembrance of the first coming of Jesus, to his glorious and climactic return as Judge and Saviour, is a startling wake up call to get our own priorities in order. As we were powerfully reminded in yesterday's worship, there are some things which must be addressed. St. Paul, writing to friends in Rome, has a direct challenge. 'Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armour of right living. Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see. Don’t participate in the darkness of wild parties and drunkenness, or in sexual promiscuity and immoral living, or in quarrelling and jealousy. Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.' (Romans 13.11-14)

Each day, as we get ready for the Coming Day of Jesus' return as King, let us deliberately submit our wills to His, so that He lives his life through ours. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armour of right living. Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see.

That means choosing not to do some things. Don’t participate in the darkness of . . . . . We can add our own contemporary examples of deeds of darkness - such as self-indulgent greed and excessive consumption. That way, we will be getting ready, in our inner lives, to be shaped by the Jesus we worship.

What a privilege!
Best wishes,

Richard

Independence

After yesterday's presentation from the Scottish Nationalist Party, the people of Scotland may be beginning to understand what talk of independence may mean. The details are complex and probably poorly understood by most. 

Those presenting the case for rejecting the independence view have a much easier job. Fear of the unknown will drive many to vote 'No' to the independence question.

As Margaret Thatcher famously said, when visiting West Berlin, 'When people are free to choose, they choose to be free'. Might this mean being free to choose to be independent?

The Bible tells the story of many people wanting to establish their own freedom from tyrants and foreign domination. 

Again and again, Jewish people were under the control of Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Greeks or Romans. Their nationalistic aspirations were relentlessly crushed. And yet, perhaps surprisingly, their national identity was shaped by religious laws and cultural taboos. 

St. Paul, writing to the Galatians, reminds them that Jesus has made it possible for us to find true freedom. 'So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.' (Galatians 5.1)

True freedom comes as we learn to break away from religious legalism, and learn to trust Christ to keep us in the right path. 

But that does not mean we can live independently from the good and loving rule of our Creator God. 

There were clearly some in the area of Galatia who thought freedom & independence meant they could live anyway they chose. 'For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” (Galatians 5.13-14)

Today, we have the opportunity to serve one another, not to be independent of one another. How will that show itself for you?
Best wishes,

Richard

Autumn Harvest

The apples in our garden are still ripening! 

In spite of my best efforts to see whether the apples on our tree are ready for picking, they seem to indicate that they would like to stay on the tree for a bit longer. 

I didn't know that some apples are not ripe until December, but there they are, looking red and shining, happy in their autumnal beauty. And these late ripening apples, one quarter of the whole harvest, remind me that people ripen at different rates too. 

Spiritual maturity isn't something that is determined by age. Something else needs to be going on.

St. Paul, in writing to the new Christians in Colossae, reminds them that developing fruitfulness is something we should expect. 'This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful grace.' (Colossians 1.6)

At our Church Council meeting last evening, we spent some time, in pairs, looking at this verse and the life of our Church. We were looking for signs of fruitfulness, especially in changed lives. It was most encouraging to notice more children in Sunday School, more people coming to worship regularly, more activity in the Coffee Shop, and much else. Some are involved in the Growing Leaders course, and are finding that very helpful.

Because this is God's work, and he is able to bring about real life change even in people like us, we can be thankful to Him, and entrust ourselves to help us all to keep growing towards maturity.

What is the change which you would like God to bring about in your life? Pray for that, and look for ways to join Him in his work. It is never too late to grow towards maturity.

Best wishes,

Richard

Friends or Enemies?

The deal between Iran & the 'West & the Rest' has put the cat among the pigeons. While those involved are very pleased with themselves, both Israel & Saudi Arabia, unlikely bed-fellows, are annoyed with the US, with whom they thought they had a deep and lasting friendship. 

It looks surprisingly like a playground argument, even though we know the issues are much bigger. Friends are falling out and becoming enemies, while enemies look like they might become friends. We shall have to watch this space.

This reminds me of what is at the heart of the Christian understanding of the way that God deals with people like us.

He takes all the necessary steps to turn his enemies into his friends. He takes the initiative, and invites us to benefit from all He has done to change everything. 

St. Paul sets it out as follows. 

'God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.' (Romans 5.8-11)

Paul reminds us that the motivation for this astonishing process is the 'love which drew salvation's plan', as the old song goes! This love is not just some warm and tender feeling, but it leads to costly and sacrificial action. It is startling how often Paul focuses on the death of Jesus - sending Christ to die for us, the blood of Christ, the death of his Son. It will do us well, today and every day, to keep recalling that our new life in Christ comes at a great price. Therefore, today and every day, we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God.

Best wishes,

Richard

What a Day!

Like many others, I recall where I was when I heard the news of the assassination of President Kennedy. In the immediate aftermath, we school boys thought it would lead to a World War, and annihilation.

Like many others, the death of CS Lewis passed me by at the time, though I knew of the Narnia books (my mother read them to us), and had had to read Mere Christianity at school. In the years since, I have come to love his wisdom and clarity.

Looking back 50 years is quite shocking in many respects. 

The world has changed hugely, and many of the fears from those days are thankfully past. The Soviet block has gone, and China is much more open. But the instability in the Muslim world brings plenty of reasons for concern.

How can we face such a changing and fear-inducing world with responsible living? 

Again and again, I find myself drawn to the Psalms, where the writers and poets reflect on their world in the light of their faith in God. 

'Lord, through all the generations
    you have been our home! 
Before the mountains were born,
    before you gave birth to the earth and the world,
    from beginning to end, you are God.' (Psalm 90.1-2)

This Psalm was turned into the hymn, 'O God our help in ages past', by Isaac Watts, which we always sing at Remembrance Sunday.

'Those who live in the shelter of the Most High
    will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 
This I declare about the Lord:
He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;
    he is my God, and I trust him. 
For he will rescue you from every trap
    and protect you from deadly disease. 
He will cover you with his feathers.
    He will shelter you with his wings.
    His faithful promises are your armour and protection.' (Psalm 91.1-4)

We do well to recall that God is God, 'through all the changing scenes of life' (which is another favourite hymn, written by Isaac Watts, based on Psalm 34).

Today, I go forth into the day trusting the God who made me and has good purposes for me. That makes all the difference.

Best wishes,

Richard

Gettysberg 150

Abraham Lincoln's short speech, known as the Gettysberg Address, was spoken 150 years ago today. After the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War, his speech set out the path for the future unity and democracy of the United States. Again and again, since then, politicians and citizens from around the world have reflected on what he said.

Followers of Jesus and those interested in what he said have reflected on his famous words, especially those that seem to set the agenda for our actions and thoughts. 

In the synagogue on Nazareth, Jesus set out his own agenda, which have become formative for his followers. 'When he came to the village of Nazareth, his boyhood home, he went as usual to the synagogue on the Sabbath and stood up to read the Scriptures. The scroll of Isaiah the prophet was handed to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place where this was written: 

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,

for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. 

He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, 

that the blind will see, 

that the oppressed will be set free, 

and that the time of the Lord’s favour has come.” 

He rolled up the scroll, handed it back to the attendant, and sat down. All eyes in the synagogue looked at him intently. Then he began to speak to them. “The Scripture you’ve just heard has been fulfilled this very day!” (Luke 4.16-21) 

Jesus clearly saw himself as the fulfilment of the Old Testament promises of God's activity to bring change and hope to a broken and hopeless world.

The rest of the Gospel sets out how Jesus engaged with his contemporaries, and how some accepted his invitation, and how some rejected it.

We live in a similar world, and the medicine of the Good News is still needed by those we meet today.

It is startling to think that every generation needs to hear, understand and respond positively to the words of Jesus, for the history itself will not bring about the changes we need.

The same is true, of course, of Abraham Lincoln's words. Great historical oratory needs to be applied and followed in each generation. Otherwise, why bother to remember it?

Best wishes,

Richard

Legacy Issues

Those planning and delivering the London Olympics and Paralympics always hoped that there would be a great legacy from their efforts. A committee of members of the House of Lords wonders whether their dreams will be fulfilled.

It is much easier to talk about making profound changes in the ways the general public might engage with sport at all levels than it is to make it happen. 

We know that from our own lives. 

We may resolve to go to the gym, or to walk more often, or to use the bike, but I wonder what the reality is. For myself, I only seem to manage to go swimming twice a week, which is fewer times than I would like.

Translating words and dreams into action is a struggle we all live with. How can we be changed? 

What legacy will there be from those of us who seek to follow Christ?

It is striking that St. Paul often reminds the young churches to which he writes his letters that God is in the business of changing lives. 

In his letter to the young church in Colossae, Paul says, 'The Good News is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful grace. 

...... the love for others that the Holy Spirit has given you. 

The way you live will always honour and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.' (edited highlights from Colossians 1.6-10)

As we grow to know Jesus better, and learn to live as people of faith shown in active obedience, we will be changed by God. Paul repeatedly uses the idea of fruit growing - which takes months and years to happen. The fruit of Christ-like lives is the legacy that we should expect to see in our lives - in ordinary acts of kindness and patience, mercy and courage.

Best wishes,

Richard

Rebuilding Lives

News stories from the Philippines reveals the extent of the damage and destruction following the typhoon. Whole communities look like so many matchsticks, with people climbing over piles of shattered houses. It will take time to rebuild both homes and lives after the devastating power of this storm.

Friends at Tearfund continue to encourage us to give what we can to enable them to play their part in meeting the needs both for immediate relief and longer-term reconstruction. See the latest link.  http://www.tearfund.org/en/news/philippines_typhoon/

More locally, there are plans drawn up by Woking Borough Council to rebuild the Lakeview Social Centre. Over the last 9 years or so, this centre has been the base for community-building activities, such as youth clubs, toddler groups, IT classes and much else. The new plans propose a two-storey building which will be able to accommodate far more community-building activities. People's lives have already been transformed and rebuilt through what has happened in the past. But we want to do more and better.

In order to get as much local support as possible for this project, the Lakeview Community Action Group, of which I am the Chairman, is planning to deliver a letter to every household on Lakeview, starting tomorrow (Saturday) at 2pm. Please join us if you can.

As we know, St. Andrew's Church is about rebuilding the lives of people caught up in the storms of life. It is wonderful to see what God has been doing in recent months.

I often recall the words of Jesus. '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)

In my life, and in the lives of many that I know, Jesus has brought rest, refreshment and renewed life and hope. Each of us needs to be restored and rebuilt, so that we can play our part in rebuilding the lives of those around us. 

Best wishes,

Richard

Face to Face

It is great that these days there are so many options for keeping in touch with assorted friends and family members. Facebook, Twitter, texting, phoning, speaking, writing letters and much else.

When my father was far from home, in the 1920s, working in Saigon, a letter back home would take 6 weeks, and the reply another 6 weeks! But that was much quicker than in previous generations.

Using Skype to chat with assorted far flung friends has been so much better - and cheaper - that using the normal phones, because we can see each other. That adds another level of communication.

In a startling description, it is said that Moses spoke with the Lord, face to face. 'Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.' (Exodus 33.11)

This suggests a wonderful level of both familiarity in their relationship, but also a deep trust and a sense of being deeply known. 

Indeed, the next part of the story has Moses in a probing exploration of how this friendship with the Lord was going to show itself in experience. Moses was not content just to keep his relationship shallow and trivial. He wanted to know the Lord deeply. 'One day Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favourably on you.’ If it is true that you look favourably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favour. And remember that this nation is your very own people.” 

The Lord replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you.” (Exodus 33.12-14)

I long to have this sort of deep and trusting relationship with the Lord, and I often imagine myself talking face to face with Him. I need to listen to His words, through Scripture and reflection, and I need also to probe whether my ideas and plans, hopes and dreams are in line with His will and way. 

But that is how good conversations with trusted friends go.

Best wishes,

Richard

Philippines Appeal

A group of leading UK aid charities launches an appeal to help victims of the devastating Philippines typhoon Haiyan. 

As the rescue operation gets going, both the scale of the destruction, and the numbers killed, will shock and astonish us.

I heard on the news this morning an estimate of 10,000 people killed, but that number will rise, I imagine.

What can we do to help?

As a Church, we already support the work of Tearfund, and they are involved in providing relief for this disaster. See the link to their website, and give directly in that way. http://www.tearfund.org/en/news/philippines_typhoon/

Why should we give? Because that is what Christians do, in the face of need. 'Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?' (James 2.15-16)

We are people who have resources, and so we have the opportunity to make a difference, through partnership with those on the ground, like Tearfund.

St. Paul's closing remarks to Timothy are clear. 'Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 

Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life.' (1 Timothy 6.17-19)

God has entrusted us with money and opportunities to be generous with what we have. Instead of thinking first of our own comfort and convenience, we have the opportunity to respond generously to this particular need. Please consider what your response might be.

Some may wonder why I am encouraging giving money to this particular appeal, when at St. Andrew's we also have an appeal to raise £40,000. 

Again, St. Paul has an fascinating insight into how generosity becomes infectious! 'Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. (2 Corinthians 9.6-8)

As we seek God's glory in facing a time with many needs, I believe He will enable us to be far more generous that we had imagined, and others will be blessed.

Best wishes,

Richard

The First, the Rest and the Best

My apple tree is most interesting, in several respects.

First, it didn't cost us anything, as it came as a free offer after we drank several bottles of apple juice! And as many of you know, I love free offers.

Then I learned that it produces enormous apples, in relatively small quantities.

This year, which is its fourth fruiting year, 12 or 13 apples have made it to maturity.

About 8 weeks ago, having tested whether any was ready to pick, the stalk of one apple gave way, and I shared the huge fruit with Betty.

Last week, a second one was ready for picking.

But the rest are still on the tree, with stalks that are strong, and the apples are getting redder & redder, and looking more wonderful every day.

But having had the first of the harvest, I am confident that the rest will be fine.

Which takes me to an astonishing observation from St. Paul.

'Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.' (1 Corinthians 15.22-23)

Paul knows that our mortality, which goes back to our human origins, is something we cannot escape. However, because Jesus died and rose again, and that was well known, even in Corinth, that has major implications for us with our own mortality.

Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.

Now I don't know when Jesus will come back, but if you or I die before that grand finale, we can be completely confident that our own resurrection is assured by Jesus' resurrection. The best of it is that the rest of us will receive transformed, immortal bodies, in which everything works perfectly, and nothing ever wears out.

The first apple from the tree demonstrates that the harvest is healthy and the rest will follow. And that is the best news we could have on any wet Monday you may like to choose!

Best wishes,

Richard

Power Cuts?

We may be facing regular power cuts this winter, so warns one of the power companies. 

I recall the dark days of the '3 day week' of the early 1970s, and the effects of the miners' strikes. But these days we use far more power to heat and light our homes, with so many gadgets to keep us entertained and warmed.

Could we cope?

But of course there is a different sort of power cut which we may experience, when we are not effectively connected to the life and power of God. 

Jesus reminded us of this in graphic terms. '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 15.4)

I am daily reminded that unless I keep close to Jesus, it is impossible for me to develop the character and values of Jesus in my life, and I am bound to fail.

But when I am allowing Jesus to shape me and direct, teach and lead me, then in place of impatience and self-serving nastiness, He can grow his life in mine. 

We sometimes assume that we need to be strong to be useful for Jesus. Paradoxically, the weaker we are, the more He can do his work in us. 

St. Paul learned that lesson in the only way we can - through times of trouble. 'Three different times I begged the Lord to take away my thorn in the flesh. Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me. That’s why I take pleasure in my weaknesses, and in the insults, hardships, persecutions, and troubles that I suffer for Christ. For when I am weak, then I am strong.' (2 Corinthians 12.8-10)

Today, we can all make sure we keep close to Jesus, and discover his power and life in us. Our weakness is not going to be a trouble. Our being being connected is.

Best wishes,

Richard