Sowing and Growing

The trees are doing their best to grow the next generation of their species. Acorns and conkers are everywhere, and leaves are on their way to falling, rotting and decay. In the midst of autumnal death, we see the signs of new life awaiting the spring.

Every time we leave one phase of life behind, we reach a new stage, with its challenge and excitement. For St. Andrew's Church, the first 25 years of the building are over, and we look ahead to the next stage, whatever that may hold. The weekend was like a great birthday celebration, but we get back to 'normal' patterns, marked by sowing and growing into the lives of the people and community of Goldsworth Park.

A special feature of this weekend has been the presence of Martin Olando, the Acting Principal from the Bishop Hannington Institute in Mombasa, Kenya. 

As I have listened to him sharing his passion for training pastors for their role in Kenya, I realise that we are doing similar work in the lives of those we encounter. 

But that is no surprise, as we seek to follow the steps of Jesus. As Jesus approached his own arrest, death and burial, he challenged his followers to follow. 'Jesus replied, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory. I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat is planted in the soil and dies, it remains alone. But its death will produce many new kernels—a plentiful harvest of new lives. Those who love their life in this world will lose it. Those who care nothing for their life in this world will keep it for eternity. Anyone who wants to be my disciple must follow me, because my servants must be where I am. And the Father will honour anyone who serves me.' (John 12.23-26)

The pattern we see in the life of Jesus, which He calls us to follow, is the willing sacrifice of our own desires and habits, for the sake of those who need to know His life in theirs. 

We know that we have benefited because Jesus gave His life for ours. As we learn to sow our lives in the pattern of Jesus, not only will we be changed, but others will grow to know Him too. What a privilege that is!
Best wishes,

Richard