The Long Wait - no quick fix

Happy Christmas everyone!

After long years of waiting, God kept his many promises, made through Abraham, the prophets and many others, and sent Jesus, in whom all the promises of God find their fulfilment, 'For all of God’s promises have been fulfilled in Christ with a resounding “Yes!” And through Christ, our “Amen” (which means “Yes”) ascends to God for his glory.' (2 Corinthians 1.20)

It is wonderful, today and every day, to know that God is a God we can trust in all circumstances - whatever the outward setting.

But this does not mean that with Jesus we get a quick fix.

The child born in Bethlehem had to grow for 30 years before he started his public ministry. And faithful people had to learn to wait a bit longer.

And in his death & resurrection, we see the foretaste of future consummation. 

Sadly, many have not realised that we all need patience and perseverance, and so they lose faith in God-  because he hasn't delivered everything now.

But we are those who live in hope, trusting Him to bring us all safely home.

May we all grow to know Jesus better in the days that lie ahead.

Every blessing,

Richard

Good News!

Good News comes in many stories.

After moving to Banbury nearly 10 weeks ago, I managed to clear the garage (final resting place for the stuff which doesn't fit anywhere in the house) sufficiently, on Saturday afternoon, so that our car was able to spend one night inside! It is a small thing, but a significant marker on the journey of getting settled. Good News!

But much better news is that God has chosen to step into our world of mess and muddle, with all its junk and rubbish, and items of beauty and preciousness.

It is wonderful that God didn't take 'No room'! as the end of the story, because I know that many are times when I have made no room for Jesus. Yet, in his loving and gentle patience, the God who made the universe has beckoned me to join him on the journey.

Yesterday afternoon, having missed listening to Desert Island Discs in the morning, Betty & I listened to it on the BBC iPlayer, as Archbishop Justin Welby was interviewed by Kirsty Young. 

It was brilliant, and it did our souls a lot of good. Archbishop Justin spoke so compellingly of how Jesus has changed his life. If you haven't heard the programme, click on this link - http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b04vd69f

In a nutshell, the Good News can be summed up in these famous words from John's Gospel. 

' He came into the very world he created, but the world didn’t recognize him. He came to his own people, and even they rejected him. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God. They are reborn—not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God.' (John 1.10-13)

It is wonderful to know that God calls us into his family, to become his children by adoption and grace. In the midst of all else that happens at Christmas, I want to keep looking at the Good news.

Best wishes,

Richard

Mother Mary

Mothers have a tough time. 

From the start of a pregnancy, they face sickness and many worries about what may be happening to them, and concerns about an unknown future. Then the pain of childbirth, and from then on, a lifetime of concern for the well-being of their child. Their job is never over, and on top of that, many mothers blame themselves for whatever happens in their child's life.

And this is the life that Mary was facing.

We know there were added complications for her - becoming pregnant before being married, and much else. So, following Gabriel's startling declaration about her pregnancy and the prospects for the child, she comes out with words of active participation in what was coming.

'Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.” And then the angel left her.' (Luke 1.38)

Mary's desire that Gabriel's words, as part of the eternal plan of Almighty God, would be fulfilled in and through her active partnership, show me again what trusting God looks like.

None of us is called to take on Mary's role, but we are called to discern what is God's desire for us, whatever our situation and opportunity. This is a journey we all share with one another. 

When Mary went to visit her elderly relative, Elizabeth, who was also miraculously pregnant, they had three months to discuss and wonder at the ways of God. Elizabeth could discern that Mary was fully on board with God's plan for her life, and comes out with a wonderful description. 'You are blessed because you believed that the Lord would do what he said.” (Luke 1.45)

At various stages in my own life, I have been challenged to follow Mary's example, as described by Elizabeth. Trusting that God will do what he has said is at the root of our life of faithful following, whatever our age, opportunities and setting. 

I am praying that Jesus will help me to be like his Mother Mary.

Best wishes,

Richard

Darkness and Light

How deep is the darkness in the hearts of the Taliban murderers. Their wickedness reveals a terrible truth. Human beings like us can become prisoners within a darkness of our own creating. 

Killing 132 school children is astonishing., and we shall see whether the politicians and military in Pakistan can unite to deal effectively with the Taliban threats.

In September 2013, two Taliban suicide bombers attacked a Church in Peshawar, killing at least 80 members of the congregation. No one knows the final death toll from that attack, as so many bodies were blown to pieces.

That attack brought many ordinary Muslims to support the threatened Christian community in wonderful ways. But still the darkness threatens all in Pakistan.

Sydney's siege is over, and questions are asked about how these events can happen. We can understand the sense of horror and vulnerability that such events generate.

John's Gospel famously reminds us of the battle between darkness and light, and we do well do recall these words.

'The Word gave life to everything that was created, and his life brought light to everyone.
The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.
God sent a man, John the Baptist, to tell about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony. John himself was not the light; he was simply a witness to tell about the light. The one who is the true light, who gives light to everyone, was coming into the world.' (John 1.4-9)

As we recall over the Christmas season, Jesus brings light into our dark world. Both He and his cousin, John, paid with their lives for the costly business of bringing light into our dark world.

But John reminds us of a deeper truth - the darkness can never extinguish it.

So today, while we may be more aware of how deep is the darkness, we can also recall that after the darkness of Good Friday, there comes that glorious morning, when the light shone brightly again, and when we often sing, 'See what a morning, gloriously bright!' 

In that hope, we invite all to come and see the humble entry of the Light of the World into our darkness.

Best wishes,

Richard

Stress Tests!

Christmas is coming, and the stress levels are rising!

The Coop Bank has failed the Bank of England stress test, showing that it might not survive another financial crisis. Lloyds and RBS didn't do very much better.

The Russian economy looks to be struggling, as the value of the rouble has plunged, and their interest rates have jumped up to 17%. That will produce stress.

The UK Footsie 100 index is sliding downwards, having lost 7.5% value in just over a week. 

As Christmas is looming, for many families struggling with 'normal life', the extra expectations to spend money they haven't got on presents and food they do not need will mean stress levels will rise. 

And then there are all the Christmas parties, with too much drink, and the temptations to behave disgracefully, and then the consequences! 

The season of Advent reminds us that there are bigger issues to address. The special Advent prayer takes us back to look at deeper matters. 

'Almighty God, give us grace to cast away the works of
darkness, and put on the armour of light, now in the time of
this mortal life in which your Son Jesus Christ came to visit
us in great humility; that in the last day, when he shall come
again in his glorious majesty to judge both the living and the
dead, we may rise to the life immortal; through him who lives
and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and
for ever. Amen.'

The basis for this prayer comes from Paul's letter to his friends in Rome.

'Time is running out. 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 13.9-14)

Paul addresses many of this week's stress issues. 

As we think ahead to the coming of Jesus - both his first coming in great humility, and his second coming in glorious majesty - we can see that our lives could be different from the way of the world. We must do what we must do - remove the dark deeds, and put on the presence of Jesus.

That would make a difference for all we meet these days.

Best wishes,

Richard

'Just Following Orders!'

News from the Lindt cafe in Sydney will bring a sense of terror to many. 

'If it could happen there, where can we be safe?' may be the questions lurking in many minds. That is why we call the people who do such things 'terrorists', because their behaviour brings terror. 

In order to overcome the threats, real and imagined, posed by such people, some will propose any response, and initiate many sorts of counter-terrorism measures. The US Senate's recent report on the covert activities of the CIA, following the 9/11 attacks, has revealed the extent to which torture of many sorts was used, as a justified weapon against those who may have been involved in planning further acts of terror.

We shall see how much action is taken to address these evils, on both sides of the Atlantic.

After the end of the Second World War, when the victorious Allies set up the Nuremburg War Trials, the judges did not accept the defence statement, made by many German prisoners, that 'I was just following orders'.

Both the terrorists and torturers could make the same claim. 'I was just following orders.'

This then leads me to ask who is it that is giving the orders, and will they be held to account.

I recall that Jesus taught his followers to pray that God's will might be implemented on earth, just as it is in heaven.

'Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy.
May your Kingdom come soon.
May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven.' (Matthew 6.9-10)

As we relentlessly pray that our wills may be brought into line with Our Heavenly Father's will, we will then be 'just following orders', that bring his love and mercy, joy and courage, hope and life to those around us. We will be Good News people, bringing a little bit of heaven to the patch of earth that we are in.

How different from the terrorists and torturers who blight the lives of so many.

Best wishes,

Richard

Promises, Promises, Promises!

Politicians do it all the time! 

They make bold and attractive promises - 'we will limit immigration', 'we will put more money into the NHS', 'we will build lots more roads' - and then we wait to see what happens. The answer is that they usually deliver much less than promised.

Advertisers do it all the time too!

Black Friday (and every other shopping day to Christmas) makes the same sort of promises - 'buy this (bargain that you cannot afford and do not really need), and your life will be suddenly wonderful'. And then people discover that shopping is just like another addictive drug, and you need more and more to end up with another hangover.

And God makes promises too. But His are of a different order. 

Hundreds of years before Jesus was even a twinkle in Mary's eye, God had been promising to send a Shepherd King, who would right wrongs and rescue people from their own folly.

'Out of the stump of David’s family will grow a shoot—
    yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root.
And the Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—
    the Spirit of wisdom and understanding,
the Spirit of counsel and might,
    the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.
He will delight in obeying the Lord.
    He will not judge by appearance
    nor make a decision based on hearsay.
He will give justice to the poor
    and make fair decisions for the exploited.' (Isaiah 11.1-4)

And of course, I could find plenty more such promises.

In the coming of Jesus, God showed himself to be faithful and true, loving and merciful. On these sorts of promises, we could build lives of stability and hope, because we would know for sure that we are never alone, and never abandoned to our own fate.

As we look forward to the annual reminder of the coming of Jesus - what an astonishing story it is - angels singing, shepherds hearing, Mary & Joseph wondering, and so much more - we would do well to make time to reflect on God's life-bringing promises made to us and our neighbours. 

While we may look forward to celebrating God's faithfulness, many around us will look forward to yet another bleak and 'broken promises' future, because without Jesus, we are all LOST! The promises that we so much value could transform the lives of the poor (rich) people around us, if we can find a way to share the good news. Wouldn't that be great?!

Best wishes,

Richard

Stirred Up!

Yesterday was important for Christmas Pudding makers. 

Because the puddings need time to mature, for Christmas Day, they should have been cooked by yesterday. I was well ahead of the game, as I made our puddings 2 weeks ago!

But many traditions have built up around making Christmas Puddings - as the recent Waitrose weekend paper and no doubt many other media have recalled. 

One of them notes the words of the special prayer used in many Church of England churches yesterday.'Stir up, O Lord, the wills of your faithful people, that they, bringing forth the fruit of good works, may by you be richly rewarded: through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen' 

At the local church we attended yesterday, that prayer came at the end of the service. The whole service had an element of stirring us up to think carefully about whether we were living in the way that would glorify Jesus, who is our true King.

I was reading last week of how St. Paul wrote a sort of farewell letter to one of his younger co-workers, Timothy, in which he challenges him. 'I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.' (2 Timothy 1.6-7)

I wonder how Timothy responded to that stirring challenge to get on with following Jesus wholeheartedly.

I know that for myself, I find direct challenges hard to take, while a warm reminder to do what I know I really want to do is much more effective. So I am encouraged that the God who made me, and loves me, has given me a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline.

Knowing that is a great reminder to be stirred up for the start of this week.

Best wishes,

Richard

Keeping in Touch

Royal Mail are up against plenty of competition, and they believe it is unfair. There are so many different ways in which letters and parcels can be delivered that Royal Mail are being squeezed. We shall see what the competition watchdog has to say. 

For ordinary people like us, there are so many ways to communicate, and to keep in touch with one another that we are often literally spoilt by our choices.

But because there are so many options does not necessarily make us any better at keeping in touch with one another. Assorted social media platforms give us the opportunity to be public about various levels of communication, and to touch base with one another, but the long letters of previous generations seem to find no modern equivalent.

Many are people who have told me in days gone by that 'you don't have to go to church to be a Christian'. Part of what they are saying is that an hour a week doesn't necessarily translate into a transformed life. But because we can pray anywhere and any time doesn't mean that we take all the available opportunities. Again, I am challenged by the relentless determination of the Psalmist, who loved to make a special effort to go up to the Temple in Jerusalem. 

How lovely is your dwelling place,
    O Lord of Heaven’s Armies.

 I long, yes, I faint with longing
    to enter the courts of the Lord.
With my whole being, body and soul,
    I will shout joyfully to the living God. (Psalm 84.1-2)

I am challenged by the outspoken passion and heart-felt desire to be closer to God. I wonder why I don't feel like this very often. Maybe it is because I don't shape my life in the way these people did. 

What joy for those whose strength comes from the Lord,
    who have set their minds on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
 When they walk through the Valley of Weeping,
    it will become a place of refreshing springs.
    The autumn rains will clothe it with blessings.
 They will continue to grow stronger,
    and each of them will appear before God in Jerusalem.' (Psalm 84.5-7)

As we take time - and it always takes time - to focus on being in the presence of the God who loves us and wants to share life with us, then many things will be seen differently. These ancient pilgrims had to set their minds on a pilgrimage, for it didn't happen without careful planning and deliberate action.

At the start of this new phase of my life, I need to make sure that I do all that I can to be keeping in touch with the God who is my strength and my shield. How about you.

Best wishes,

Richard

Catch a Falling Star!

Have you seen the astonishing pictures taken over 300 million miles away?

I guess that I am not alone in having been amazed at the progress of the Rosetta space probe, and its tiny lander, Philae, as it has aimed at landing on a lump of rock and ice after travelling more than 4 billion miles in ten years. 

Knowing how often I get lost even with the advantage of maps and past experience, it is astonishing to know that the European Space Agency team, working together on this project for many years, succeeded in getting Philae to land somewhere that was over 300 million miles away.

The comet,  67P Churyumov Gerasimenko (I had to look up that name!), would have been thought of as a falling star in days of yore, as star gazers noticed these bright moving lights in the clear night sky. And in their own way, these people have managed to catch that falling star, to do some experiments on it.

But by working together, this group of scientists and engineers, over many years, from many nationalities and backgrounds, have done something which none of them could have done on their own.

And then the scientific experiments which were the reason for this amazing venture will help people to understand quite how life on earth might have developed, because all present theories are currently just theories.

The more scientists explore and experiment, the more we may understand our own origins. 'How did we get here?' and 'Why are we here?' are questions lurking in many of our minds.

The ancients also asked these sort of questions. 

The Psalmists put together many such reflections. 

'O Lord, our Lord, your majestic name fills the earth! 

Your glory is higher than the heavens. 

When I look at the night sky and see the work of your fingers — the moon and the stars you set in place — what are mere mortals that you should think about them, human beings that you should care for them? 

Yet you made them only a little lower than God and crowned them with glory and honour. (Psalm 8.1,3-5)

How often do we allow ourselves to be caught up in wonder at the size and beauty of creation? And do we look beyond the creation to the Creator? With dark nights, it might be easier to do some star gazing.

And yet I also reflect that the God who made the whole Universe, chose to come and live among us, because he loves us. 

'In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. 

So the Word became human and made his home among us. He was full of unfailing love and faithfulness. And we have seen his glory, the glory of the Father’s one and only Son.' (John 1.1, 14)

In the run up to Christmas, we shall be confronted repeatedly by this astonishing truth about the God who made the world and all else. Wonderful!

Best wishes,

Richard

'Getting there!'

'Getting there!' 

In response to the question, 'How are you?', many give the 'Getting there!' update. This comment has the benefits of being brief and hopeful, and of deflecting other more intrusive questions. Perhaps that is why we so often use the expression.

So if you are wondering how Betty & I are doing in Banbury, in our new home, I can say 'Getting there!'.

Many things are different - the rooms are smaller, there are hardly any trees to drop their leaves, and we can see lots of sky from our bedroom window. 

We have made much progress on unpacking our stuff, and repainting some rooms, and this week or next, I may get round to unpacking the contents of the study!

But behind the response 'Getting there!' lies a deeper question about the intended destination. 

Where exactly is the end of the journey for which 'Getting there!' is a progress report? 

Many parents may recall the question from the children in the back of the car, when on a long journey on holiday, 'Are we nearly there?' 

Betty & I are very aware that we are on a journey, as we settle into Banbury, and we look the the Lord to lead us towards his intended direction and destination.

Again, I come back to the mature wisdom of the imprisoned Apostle, St. Paul.

'I press on to possess that perfection for which Christ Jesus first possessed me. No, dear brothers and sisters, I have not achieved it, but I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead, I press on to reach the end of the race and receive the heavenly prize for which God, through Christ Jesus, is calling us.' (Philippians 3.12-14)

The Apostle was clear that it was Jesus who has set both the direction and destination for his journey of life. Know that, and living in the light of it, makes all the difference for us, whatever is happening in our lives. 

Our prayer at this interesting new stage in our lives is that we will press on pressing on with the call of Jesus every day.

Best wishes,

Richard

Moving Home

For the last weeks and months, Betty & I have known that we are about to move house. 

After 21 years living in Woking, we have discovered that we have amassed a great deal of junk, and so we have been de-cluttering. 

We are also downsizing, and so have to discard many things for which there will be no room in our new house. 

In these weeks, we have had to say 'goodbye' to many items which bring back precious memories, and that has been both painful and joyful.

I think we have taken stuff to the Recycling Centre on Martyrs Lane (what a great name - martyrs being those who witness to Jesus by their life and death) on about 30 occasions! And what a brilliant place it is to help us all be more responsible with our stuff.

But we are not just moving house, we are moving home, and that has a much deeper significance, for home is where your heart is, as the saying goes. 

The Bible is full of stories of people on the move, heading towards home.

The writer to the Hebrews had a wonderful description of Abraham and the other saints of old.' And even when he reached the land God promised him, he lived there by faith—for he was like a foreigner, living in tents. And so did Isaac and Jacob, who inherited the same promise. Abraham was confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by God.' (Hebrews 11.9-10)

In this present world, where we are all pressured into believing that our very being is shaped by the things we own, it is good to recall that we are called to be those who are confidently looking forward to a city with eternal foundations, a city designed and built by God.

 St. Paul writes, to his friends in Corinth, of the great journey we shall all take one day, as we are called home.'For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands.' (2 Corinthians 5.1)

In all our days, this call to leave behind that which is failing and decaying in order to receive that which is eternal and lasting will strengthen us for today's journey. A temporary tent may be fun for a moment, but a permanent palace is much better. 

Therefore, we can all live as those who are on the journey, moving home, to be with the Lord, which is much better.

My next 'Richard's Reflection' will be written from Banbury - possibly later this week!

Best wishes,

Richard

Love Changes Everything

I confess that I have not been to see the musical 'Aspects of Love'. But Ihave heard the fabulous song 'Love Changes Everything' many times.

The music by Andrew Lloyd Webber soars and the words by Black & Hart rise above the mundane to state some wondrous truths. 

All of us know a little of the transforming power of love, in our own days and ways. The Bible is full of the astonishing love of God towards his world and his people. The most famous verse in the Bible states,'For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.' (John 3.16).

The rest of the New Testament unpacks that profound truth.

In the Old Testament, Jeremiah, often known as the Prophet of Doom, because of his relentless message of judgement, reminds God's people of his deep love for them, in spite of their behaviour. 'Long ago the Lord said to Israel:
“I have loved you, my people, with an everlasting love.
    With unfailing love I have drawn you to myself.' (Jeremiah 31.3)
One of my favourite passages about the love of God comes in Paul's prayer for his friends in Ephesus. 'I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.  And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.' (Ephesians 3.16-19)

Paul sees that as our roots will grow down into God’s love, then we are enabled to discover the 3-D nature of God's love towards us, and are made complete - job done! And that all comes as we know the love of God more and more and more.

Remarkably, we are to be the agents of God's transforming love for one another, as together we discover how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is.

So today, whatever we are doing, my prayer is that we help others to realise that Love Changes Everything!

Best wishes,

Richard

And now what?

The UKIP success in yesterday's two by-elections has caused panic amongst the other parties at Westminster. They are all wondering what must done to counter the inexorable rise in UKIP's popularity. No doubt we will hear many different remedies being proposed from all sides, and some of them will sound pretty odd! And then in May of next year we can make up our own minds. 

In the meantime, there is no obvious answer to UKIP's popularity that makes much sense.

But most of us face difficulties for which there is no obvious answer, whether the issue is personal, family-related, within our community, or more national or global. Rather than having instant fix-it remedies, it seems to me that the Bible presents us with the qualities we need if we are to be Christ-like in our living. 

St. Paul has set out the way of Jesus. '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. 

Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honour and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.' (Philippians 2.5-11)

As we can see in the ministry of Jesus, he never pushed himself forward and was willing to give away his rights and entitlements in order to serve others, going all the way to the cross. 

That progressive stepwise descent into choosing his own death sets the pattern for our everyday lives. The only way up is down! 

That principle applies to every day of our lives, whatever we are doing.

Therefore, as we live today for Jesus, whatever we face, we all need to have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. 

Best wishes,

Richard

Team Work

Cricket fans will know that Kevin Pietersen has complained about the lack of team spirit in the England cricket team.

His book, published this week, reveals a sad situation of groups within the team pulling in different directions. People will draw their own conclusions about the causes of this disunity, but the team has not performed well in the recent past and relationships have been damaged.

The earliest Christians didn't play cricket, but they did know the need for good team work.

In St. Paul's letter to his friends in Philippi, the first Christian community in Europe, he urges them to grow closer together, and to work at their relationships.'I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding.' (Philippians 1.9) 

Knowing that there had been divisions and arguments within the church, Paul tells his friends that he is praying for them. He then sets them the standard by which to live and love. 'Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 

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.' (Philippians 2.1-5)

Paul knows that teams only work well when everyone is committed to show the love of Jesus towards everyone. That way, working together becomes a joy and not a trial. Leaving our ego at the door, and learning to be humble servants of one another is the recipe for great Team Work.

May Jesus help us today to live like this.

Best wishes,

Richard

The Last Word?

The people of Scotland have spoken decisively, and all parties both north and south of the border must listen.

How Westminster and all concerned respond appropriately will fill the next few months with plenty of discussions and even arguments. But it is clear that the Independence question is answered for a generation or more.

The writer to the Hebrews makes a bold claim at the start of his letter. 

'Long ago God spoke many times and in many ways to our ancestors through the prophets. And now in these final days, he has spoken to us through his Son.' (Hebrews 1.1-2)

After many centuries of prophets bringing 'the word of the Lord' to God's people, God's final or last Word has come, in the person and ministry or Jesus. 

The Christian claim is that after Jesus, there is nothing further that God can say. The writer goes on to show, in characteristic Jewish style, the seven qualities that Jesus brings. 'God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe. The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and he sustains everything by the mighty power of his command. When he had cleansed us from our sins, he sat down in the place of honour at the right hand of the majestic God in heaven. (Hebrews 1.2-3) 

Did you spot the seven attributes of Jesus in these verses? 

I am particularly grateful that, 'having cleansed us from our sins', Jesus demonstrates that the job is completed, so he is now seated in heaven, at God's right hand. Because He finished his work, though at great cost to himself, we can be thoroughly confident that God will accept us at the throne of Grace. The Last Word has been spoken, and we can receive that with joyful trust.

On Sunday, I shall be preaching at St. Andrew's, as Vicar, for the last time. These have been rich and wonderful years, for which I thank the Lord and his people here. But I shall continue to send our 'Richard's Reflections' while retired, possibly not quite as regularly, but I enjoy trying to connect current events to the wisdom and challenge of Holy Scripture. I shall, however, change the signature stuff at the bottom of the emails!

Best wishes,

Richard

Blind Leaders?

Records will be broken tomorrow, in Scotland's Referendum vote. The turnout is likely to be more than 80%, which is pretty startling, when we think of the middle 30s range for General and Local elections. Clearly, the people of Scotland are keen to have their say.

But both sides are still claiming that the other side is blind to the realities they are offering. And the charge made is that the leaders are blind, and their followers are also blind.

By Friday morning, we shall all know which way the majority have voted.

Jesus spoke with great clarity about blind leaders, as he roundly criticised the Pharisees. ' Then Jesus called to the crowd to come and hear. “Listen,” he said, “and try to understand. It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.” 

Then the disciples came to him and asked, “Do you realize you offended the Pharisees by what you just said?” 

Jesus replied, “Every plant not planted by my heavenly Father will be uprooted, so ignore them. They are blind guides leading the blind, and if one blind person guides another, they will both fall into a ditch.” (Matthew 15.10-13)

These words were deeply shocking to his first hearers, because they were used to holding the Pharisees in very high respect. Suddenly, Jesus is saying that these shapers of the minds of others are hopelessly out of touch with the reality as seen by God. 

The particular context related to what makes people unclean or clean in God's sight. For the Pharisees, our position before God is determined by whether or not we had followed the multiple rules and regulations which they had set down for ritual purity. For Jesus, is related to the state of our hearts, and is shown by the actions which emerge from within us. These two visions of purity couldn't be more different. 

As we know, when the early Christians preached about Jesus' way of becoming right with God, they were aggressively resisted by those taking the Pharisees line. One such was Saul of Tarsus, who then met the risen Jesus on the Damascus Road, and was himself blinded. 

But he did receive his sight after three days.  'So Ananias went and found Saul. He laid his hands on him and said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road, has sent me so that you might regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Instantly something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he got up and was baptised.  Afterwards, he ate some food and regained his strength.' (Acts 9.17-19)

Let us pray that our eyes are opened by the Lord, and that leaders, whether in politics, business or church are also people who have had their eyes opened.

Best wishes,

Richard

Promised Changes

The gloves are off in the Scottish Referendum campaign. It has led to some wild claims from both sides.

I was particularly struck by a swipe from David Cameron, reminding the people of Scotland that they should not believe the promises made by Alex Salmond that everything would be better if they voted 'Yes'.

What amazed me is that we are mostly used to politicians of all sorts making promises that don't get fulfilled - even David Cameron. So it is a bit rich that he should use that weapon against his opponent!

In contrast, the God of the Bible is presented as one who is faithful and trustworthy, and whose promises for change are fulfilled. At our Church Council last evening we were looking at words from St. Peter's second letter.

'By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvellous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. (2 Peter 1.3-5)

Peter sets out what God has done to enable us to live a changed life, in which we are godly. 

First, we come to know God in and through Jesus. Then we begin to notice that God has has given us great and precious promises., and we start to live our lives trusting that what he says he means to deliver. So our weak and selfish lives begin to be transformed, and we find our shabby lives are set free from the world’s corruption caused by human desires.. And by his divine power, we start to share his divine nature. 

That is all going on within us day by day, as we seek to make every effort to respond to God’s promises. This is the part which we play in our own transformation, as we seek to continue well in our following of Jesus. This makes every day an exciting and life changing experience. 

Best wishes,

Richard

Its Monday Morning!

Many people struggle with Mondays. The reasons are many, and you know what is your reason. 

Hearing today's news, there are many reasons from the big wide world to dread every day's stories of horror and fear-making threats from places both near & far. And then there are the personal and painful matters which we keep to ourselves.

In all of these settings, I am glad to reflect on some wonderful words from 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)

Worry and sorrow make us all feel weary. 

It is tiring to be in pain, and deeply exhausting to be carrying the pain of others. Some friends endure the deep sorrow of watching a child slowly die before their eyes, while others are caught up in the shattering tragedy of an unexpected death. To all such people, Jesus' invitation brings hope in our weariness. 

Jesus is promising to walk beside us, pulling the plough alongside us, keeping us on the straight path. We then discover that the yoke he puts on us fits us like a well-made glove, so that the burdens are bearable. Such discoveries are wonderful.

So Mondays become exciting and places where we explore more of the wonders of knowing our loving Lord Jesus.

Best wishes,

Richard

Winds of Change

The 'not quite united' leaders of the three main Westminster parties are off to Scotland, to beg the Scots to stay connected with the Westminster parliament. Their attempts may well backfire, as respect for Westminster politicians is Scotland (as elsewhere) is very low. In the face of possible defeat for the 'No' campaign, commentators are wondering what might be the next stage in unravelling that we experience.

It was Harold Macmillan, whose 'Winds of Change' speech given to the South African Parliament in 1960, who saw that change will take place, in one way or another. Watching this present chapter develop is leading many to be fearful. Where will it all end?

Jesus spoke of a different wind of change, in his discussions with the respected Jewish leader, Nicodemus. 'The wind blows wherever it wants. Just as you can hear the wind but can’t tell where it comes from or where it is going, so you can’t explain how people are born of the Spirit.” (John 3.8)

Poor old Nicodemus didn't understand what Jesus was talking about! 

In order to help him, Jesus then referred back to a famous event in Jewish history. ' And as Moses lifted up the bronze snake on a pole in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, so that everyone who believes in him will have eternal life. 

“For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.' (John 3.14-17)

Connecting all this together, we can see that people are 'born of the Spirit' when they put their trust in Jesus, the Son of Man, whose death on the cross would provide the means by which we may receive eternal life. And it is God's Spirit who blows into people's lives to bring about that transformation. 

I was talking with someone yesterday, as we were in a group studying the story from the Gospels, and it was clear that God's Spirit was blowing gently and firmly into this person's life. 

God-directed change will come for all of us, as we entrust ourselves into the hands of the God who loved us so much that He sent Jesus for us. And there is no safer place to be.

Best wishes,

Richard

Better Together?

The race towards the Referendum vote on Scottish independence is hotting up. It seems difficult to see which way the vote will go, and at present, the "undecideds" have the power to decide how things will turn out.

Questions have been all about whether or not it would be better for Scotland to be together with the other nations in these islands, or become a separate nation. We shall see, in the next weeks, how that turns out.

But my thoughts turn, as usual, to the slogan 'Better Together', which seems to describe well the nature of Christian relationships within and between congregations and denominations. 

Because Jesus prayed, on the night before his execution, that his followers would be united, our starting point should always be that we are Better Together.
“I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one—as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.' (John 17.20-21)

One of the great blessings that I have enjoyed in our time in Woking is the wonderful level of cooperation and unity between the many different churches, and between their leaders. This has given us a solid basis for united action and committed prayer.

But this reaches down to how each local fellowship needs to behave. It is too easy to see that people drift away from regular involvement and attendance, and to do little to address the matter.

This was an early problem for at least one fellowship in the earliest days of the Christian church.' Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.' (Hebrews 10.24-25) We all have a part to play in helping one another to be 'Bette Together'.

I was talking with a local friend last evening, who commented that she had been absent from regular worship for too long, and that she needed to come back. I encouraged her to show up on these next few Sundays! 

And I was chatting to another local lady, who has not been a regular worshipper for more than 20 years, and sh said that she wished she hadn't drifted away! 

To every one of us, I am reminded that we are 'Better Together' and much worse apart! Let us think of ways to motivate one another!

Best wishes,

Richard

Lost & Found

It is six months today since the Malaysian airliner travelling to China disappeared. And still no one knows for sure where it might have gone. The searching continues, with decreasing hope, and the grieving families are left with nothing.

At the end of the First World War, there were many families who had been told that their relatives were lost, but with no trace - missing presumed dead. Many hoped against hope that they might be discovered somewhere, and yet when the fighting was over, the fact of their loss had to be accepted. 

In these situations, loss seems to be the last word.

Many others face different forms of loss, and again, it is difficult to see any signs of hope emerging - whether that is for Syrian refugees, or for children taken into care and separated from their brothers or sisters, or for the countless victims of abuse and exploitation.

The Bible is full of stories of people whose lives were shot through with bleakness and hopelessness. And yet, it is into this world that the Good News of Jesus comes. He spoke of the Good Shepherd who went about seeking those that were lost, and He laid down his life for them. 

St. Peter, reflecting on many Old Testament passages, sets out the astonishing change which has come to those who trust in Jesus.'You are a chosen people. You are royal priests, a holy nation, God’s very own possession. As a result, you can show others the goodness of God, for he called you out of the darkness into his wonderful light. 

“Once you had no identity as a people; now you are God’s people.
Once you received no mercy; now you have received God’s mercy.” 

(1 Peter 2.9-10)

The difference between being Lost (and being in the dark) and being Found (and being in the light) is staggering. Peter makes the point so clearly that 'As a result, you can show others the goodness of God'. 

That changes the way I live today.

Or as we learned in Church yesterday, 'God is with me and he loves me!'

Best wishes,

Richard

Not Waving but Drowning

Stevie Smith's famous poem (http://www.poetryfoundation.org/learning/poem/175778) is about the man who was not waving but drowning. This poem could be applied to the disasters in the Middle East. 

After the enthusiasm of the Arab Spring, everything in the wider Middle East has turned much worse. The levels of suffering and hardship can hardly be imagined.

In Syria, after 3 years, over 200,000 people have been killed and over 6 million have been displaced. For that reason, our Far & Near committee agreed, last evening, to send £1000 to the Tearfund relief effort in Syria.

Much is being made of the inaction of western and other nations in facing the challenges presented by IS and other extremist groups. The fear of the cost of taking action has blinded many to the reality of the cost of inaction. 

But the same dilemma is faced in many other difficult situations. Early intervention might help, and be effective, but most situations are left to get much worse, before people will become involved - and then the cost all round is much higher. Exactly this issue will have been raised by NATO leaders discussing what to do about Russia!

The disciples of Jesus faced a similar situation, while out in a fishing boat with Jesus. They were experienced sailors, and were used to facing storms and bad weather. Jesus was their passenger, and he was enjoying a sleep. But then a big storm developed. Should they do nothing or should they wake Jesus? And Jesus seems completely oblivious to their sense of terror, as he is fast asleep!

'Then Jesus got into the boat and started across the lake with his disciples. Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” 

Jesus responded, “Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!” Then he got up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly there was a great calm. 

The disciples were amazed. “Who is this man?” they asked. “Even the winds and waves obey him!” (Matthew 8.23-27)

While the disciples feared for their lives, Jesus is astonished at how little is their faith! When in the close company of Jesus, we have no need to fear anything. Our troubles multiply when we are not close to Jesus.

How are you facing the storms in your life? I must learn to trust Jesus even when things look rough.

Best wishes,

Richard

Out of the Depths

How low can people sink into depravity and degradation? 

Those who are beheading their victims, in the name of God, shame the name of their God, and bring anguish to the vast majority of their co-religionists. 

Jesus spoke of those who were so far from God that they called good evil and evil good. This seems to be the case here.

In recent days, many have also been appalled at the behaviour of Hampshire police in having the parents of Ashya King arrested and detained. Such actions don't seem civilised or kind.

In ancient days, as faithful people reflected on life's troubles and journeys, many wonderful songs were written. One such focusses on the relationship between the troubles we face, and the conflicts within our own souls. 

From the depths of despair, O Lord, I call for your help. 

Hear my cry, O Lord. Pay attention to my prayer. 

Lord, if you kept a record of our sins, who, O Lord, could ever survive? 

But you offer forgiveness, that we might learn to fear you.' (Psalm 130.1-4)

What strikes me is that the singer/poet doesn't point the finger of blame at others, but takes responsibility for his or her own mistakes. I know for myself that I am usually the cause of most of my own struggles.

And it is to God I need to turn, again and again, to rescue me, to bring me his forgiveness and hope in the face of my own sense of despair (which is another word for hopelessness!)

Today, I pray for those caught up in the depths of their own or other people's wickedness and depravity, that they might find new life and hope from the God who sent Jesus for us.

Best wishes,

Richard

Nine a Day!

There was a young man, very brilliant and very debauched, whose mother prayed that he might discover the transforming life of Jesus. 

He started asking questions from those who might help him, and several friends helped him to begin to understand how his life could be transformed. 

Then one day, 'out of the blue' as we might say, he heard some children playing a game, and it seemed to him he was being told, "Pick it up and read it!" 

So he found a New Testament, opened it 'at random', as we might say, and read the following words.'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 13.13-14)

These words seemed to speak clearly into his life, exactly describing the challenge he was facing, so then and there, he gave his life to Jesus.

His name was Augustine, from North Africa, and this event took place in Milan in 386 AD, where his faithful mother, Monica, had enlisted the help of Ambrose, who was the godly Bishop of Milan. Augustine went on to become one of the most brilliant and influential theologians of the early centuries of the growing Christian church.

But what Augustine discovered is what St. Paul had also discovered, that when we become followers of Jesus Christ, we clothe ourselves in his character, and his Spirit grows that character in us. 

Our summer series on the Fruit of the Spirit has made this clear.'But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!' (Galatians 5.22-23)

So every day, instead of merely eating 'five a day' pieces of fruit, all of us are called to cooperate with the Spirit of Jesus in developing this 'Nine a Day' character. If we do this, Jesus is glorified and others are blessed. There is a brilliant website which helps us with this. Check it out. http://www.9aday.org.uk/

Best wishes,

Richard

Ruined or Restored?

Today's news tells us of the appalling situation for Syrian refugees. 

The civil was there has been brutal and deadly, and nearly half the population has fled, desperate to avoid injury or death. The cities and towns are ruined by relentless bombardment. As one commentator mentioned, in the recent Gaza conflict, 2000 have been killed. In the Syrian conflict, that number is over 100,000.

Is there hope of restoration? Comments from one of President Assad's advisors present a regime still trying to convince the world that they are the good guys.

There doesn't seem to be any realistic good news coming soon.

Over 2500 years ago, a prophet of God spoke to a broken and despairing people. 'How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! 

The watchmen shout and sing with joy, for before their very eyes they see the Lord returning to Jerusalem. 

Let the ruins of Jerusalem break into joyful song, for the Lord has comforted his people. He has redeemed Jerusalem.' (Isaiah 52.7-9)

Jerusalem had been destroyed by the conquering Babylonian army, who had been brutal in their defeat of the small nation of Judah. Vast numbers had been deported to exile, and all hope of return or restoration had gone. 

But then the prophet Isaiah announces this extraordinary turn around. The ruined, boulder strewn streets are told that they will start singing for joy, because the One True God is about to act, to bring the captives back.

In the coming of Jesus, that prophecy was fulfilled, though the leaders of his time didn't see it that way, and he was executed. But, as we know, that was not the end of the story, for in the resurrection, we can see that the One True God is reigning as King.

Today, we will not encounter the problems of Syrian refugees, but our world is well and truly broken and ruined. So we all need to know that in Jesus we have God's final word of hope and restoration for a ruined world. And that message can bring change to the broken and ruined people we may encounter today.

Best wishes,

Richard

Protecting Children

The Rotherham report is shocking and appalling. We shall be hearing much more on this topic, for many different reasons, for some time to come.

Children have always been the most vulnerable members of any society. Pictures of children facing starvation, or as victims of bombing or earthquakes, are familiar scene in the media. It is for good reasons that the post war charity was named 'Save the Children'. 

Jesus had many encounters with children, and some of his most challenging comments referred to children and their care.'One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could touch and bless them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him. 

When Jesus saw what was happening, he was angry with his disciples. He said to them, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.” Then he took the children in his arms and placed his hands on their heads and blessed them.' (Mark 10.13-16)

Not only does Jesus see children as worthy of the highest value, he also sees in their helpless dependence a model for the way in which all of us must come to Him. Many are the adults who will not become childlike in their reception of Jesus. Adult arrogance is a besetting sin.

But Jesus also sees that adults have a high responsibility in their care of children. “But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone hung around your neck.' (Mark 9.42)

It is in this matter that the Rotherham report demands decisive action to remove those adults who have so obviously failed in their care of children.

It is because St. Andrew's Church takes these words of Jesus seriously that we invest heavily in our Youth & Children's ministry. We want many more children and young people to discover the wonder of being friends with Jesus. And there is no better way to be active in protecting children that to share the Good News of Jesus with them and their families.

Best wishes,

Richard 

Darkness and Light

It is striking that the flag which proclaims the presence of the Islamic State is black. Obviously, that makes the Arabic writing stand out more clearly, but the behaviour of their fighters reveals what Joseph Conrad called 'The Heart of Darkness'.

My prayer for the disintegrating Syria, for Israel & Palestine and now the terrible situation in Iraq has always been that the light of Jesus might be seen there. It is striking how often Jesus spoke of the effect of light in dark places.'Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” (John 8.12)

But Jesus was also aware that people have to choose whether or not to accept the results of being in the light, and not everyone will take that moral challenge. 'God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.' (John 3.19)

Today, people like you and me have the chance to live a different sort of life, making a difference where we are are. Again, Jesus set out this challenge very clearly.'“You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house.  In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.' (Matthew 5.14-16)

So we must resist the temptation to keep our light hidden, and instead bring hopeful change to those around us.

Best wishes,

Richard

Armed and Dangerous

The police in St. Louis, Missouri, have shot dead another black man, but this one was armed and dangerous, brandishing a knife, so they say.

The militants from the extremist group calling themselves Islamic State have executed an American hostage, in retaliation for the US air strikes against their colleagues in Iraq. This group is already notorious for their brutality and we know that their being armed makes them extremely dangerous.

The latest breakdown in the Gaza ceasefire is because both sides claim the other side is armed and dangerous.

These very different stories show how we are used to people justifying their violent behaviour when they can point the finger at others who need to be stopped from using their positions of power to cause damage to others. In the background lurks the claim of righteous self-defence.

Is there a different way?

St. Paul was used to the rough and brutal Roman world, and he describes his response to the struggles he has faced. But he did not use the violence of others as an excuse for his own violence.

'We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. We have been beaten, been put in prison, faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion, endured sleepless nights, and gone without food. We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love. We faithfully preach the truth. God’s power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defence. We serve God whether people honour us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us.' (2 Corinthians 6.4-8)

It is striking that Paul talks of power and weapons, but it is God's power and the weapons are weapons of righteousness. He talks of serving God, which shows itself in sincere love for people.

In this brutal and dangerous world, I pray that people who follow Jesus will live in such a way that others are brought to the freedom of the children of our Father.

Best wishes,

Richard.

Just War?

When is it good to be violent and kill people? When can violence be used in self-defence? Many of these questions have been summarised in Christian theology and ethical debate over the issue of 'The Just War'.

These interesting academic questions are being addressed daily in the struggles in the wider Middle East. My sympathies are usually with the underdogs and the weakest, and I am suspicious of the 'might is right' views of many. 

Because all the settings in the present conflicts are complex, there are no simple and easy answers. Understanding the history and background to each setting is itself difficult for outsiders like ourselves. Until last week, we had probably never heard of the Yazidis, nor were we aware of the long history of Christians in Iraq.

Behind many of my reflections is the dialogue between Jesus and the Roman Governor, Pontius Pilate. 

'Then Pilate went back into his headquarters and called for Jesus to be brought to him. “Are you the king of the Jews?” he asked him. 

Jesus replied, “Is this your own question, or did others tell you about me?” 

“Am I a Jew?” Pilate retorted. “Your own people and their leading priests brought you to me for trial. Why? What have you done?” 

Jesus answered, “My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18.33-36)

There have been many debates about whether these words mean Christians should be pacifists, and refuse to fight in any setting. But many serious Christian disciples have accepted that there is a place for taking up arms to fight the evil and wickedness of others, in a proportionate and limited way. It is that which makes for a Just War.

Sadly, in the present Middle East, whether in Gaza or from the Islamic State group, there is no sense of limitation or proportionality.

I continue to pray that the light and life of Jesus will break into these places of darkness and death.

Best wishes,

Richard