Rev Jackie

Forgetting God

2012-01-05T00:11:00.002Z

O Lord, you know how busy I must be this day. If I forget you, do not forget me.
(Sir Jacob Astley, before the Battle of Edgehill, 1642)

Jacob Astley was a sergeant major with the Royalists who fought against the Parliamentarians in the Battle in 1642. A nobleman he came from an established Norfolk family and his first experience of war was age 18.

His characteristic battle-prayer at the Battle of Edgehill has become famous:

"O Lord, Thou knowest how busy I must be this day. If I forget Thee, do not forget me." which he followed promptly with the order "March on, boys!"

I guess at the start of a new year we are not heading into a battle which demands the strategic and military might of Jacob Astley but we do engage in a different type of struggle. Our struggle centers around ourselves, our relationships, battles with the past and fear for the present and future. In all of this I think the prayer of Jacob Astley is therefore entirely appropriate.

Let us never lose sight of the one who sustains, guides, comforts, challenges, heals, delivers and loves. Happy New Year.

The Continued Journey - 27 December

2012-01-05T00:07:00.003Z

Reflection
The journey of Moses was not straightforward. He told God he did not want to lead any people anywhere if God’s presence was not going with them. What a brave and right decision. How easy to do things in our own strength fixed on our own agenda. When did you recognise Gods presence going with you into a situation and what
difference did that recognition make?

There is no place worth going without Gods presence. It is all about one major truth, we need the one who loves us enough who gave his own life. Our journeys may not be like Moses, Mary and Joseph, the magi or like our neighbour yet they are still important to God - the one who travels with us. We may flee, get diverted or never see the final earthly destination, yet with God as our guide and companion we can know fulfilment and joy in the travelling.

Prayer
Dear God,
I acknowledge my need of you. Without you my life would be void and have little purpose. At times the journey of my life seems relentlessly difficult and I struggle.

I cannot see around the corner, I do not fully know what tomorrow will bring. The paths I have chosen have not always been right but I am thankful that you, the Holy One travels with me. In my today and in my tomorrow may I trust you and may my past journey be an offering to you. Restore and guide me for I am willing to listen to you. Amen

Readings
Exodus 33:12-23, Matthew 2:1-12

Hymn/Song
Wise Men Seeking Jesus

Shh - Be Still - 26 December

2012-01-05T00:03:00.003Z

Reflection
Have you ever been silent. Really silent? Sitting so still that you could sense your own breathing. Without thoughts, without worry.

“For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him” (Psalm 62)

We cannot tell what God will do in our midst, but we wait with bated breath to see it. Why? It hardly ever makes sense, our waiting on God. Why do we do it? Why do we bother? We bother because all our hope rests in God. We have nothing without God. God is our refuge, the source of our salvation. Our souls cry out to the One who saves us, so we wait for him no matter what

God is about to do something big in our midst. Are we willing to wait in intense silence to see what it will be? Are we willing to stay on the edges of our seats even when it doesn't make any rational sense? Are we willing to cling to the One we need no matter what?

Prayer
God, there are times when the waiting is hard. It seems we wait forever for you to do something, As we wait for you let us be reminded that you are always moving, always doing something within and among us, no matter how small. Help us to cling to you always. Amen

Readings
Psalm 62, Luke 2:41-52, Philippians 4:4-7

Hymn/Song
Silent Night

Jesus, Promised Child of Bethlehem - 25 December

2012-01-05T00:01:00.002Z

Reflection
May you now the peace and hope of a blessed Christmas. Perhaps at one point today you may take just a moment to utter the words “O come let us adore him, Christ the Lord”. Perhaps as a grace, a private prayer - at the start and end of the day. A moment of simple worship to a God who has spanned time and space and became vulnerable and dependent because of us.

It is the call to now begin a journey of grace. Saying yes to Jesus is
acknowledging who He is; it is even giving thanks to God for “so loving the world that He sent His Son so the world may be saved through Him” (John 3:16-17). To be saved is to be healed, to be made whole or, to continue to journey with Jesus to happiness, holiness, and love.
May God bless you in the joy and struggles of this day.

Prayer
May I sing with the angels. May I hurry with the shepherds
May I seek the star with the wise men. For today Jesus is born

The Word is made flesh and we have seen his glory
Glory in the darkness of a stable
Glory in the humility of a manger
Glory in the love of God poured out

I offer my lips in praise, O Word beyond words
I offer my life in adoration, O Light transforming darkness
I offer my heart in worship, O Love without limits
May this day be filled with the light of the glory of your love

Readings
Isaiah 9:2-7, John 1:1-5, Galatians 4:4-7

Hymn/Song
Joy to the World

Places we meet God - 24 December

2012-01-04T23:58:00.004Z

Reflection
A small town from one of the little clans of the Hebrew tribe of Judah. A small baby born. Small and seemingly insignificant - a town, a clan, a baby. Yet from these small things God has blessed the world with love and peace. We too are small potatoes, perhaps even insignificant in our own or others' eyes. Who knows how God might use us - how God might use you - to bless the world with the love and peace of Jesus, the holy Child of Bethlehem? The time of Advent waiting and expectation almost is over. God is at work, bringing forth hope through the Child born of Mary. Come, Lord Jesus.

On this night may we be transformed by the mystery that has been unfolded. The word did become flesh and has dwelt amongst us and that word is full of grace and truth. God continues to dwell in our streets, homes and hearts and in these places we encounter the divine.

Prayer
Gracious God, Ruler of the Nations, use me as you have used your people down through the ages to bring your blessings to the world. Fill me with your peace as the time of celebration draws near.

God be the host of this day and in my remembering and in celebrating help me to receive and extend your grace to others.I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, the Child of Bethlehem. Amen.

Readings
Psalm 121, Micah 5:2-5a. Luke 2

Hymn/Song
O Come all ye faithful

A God - Here, There and Everywhere - 23 December

2012-01-04T23:55:00.002Z

Reflection
“I’m waiting for 5pm on Christmas Eve,” he said “it will be too late then.” Too late for what I wondered?. “For gifts, meeting the expectations of others and will they be disappointed on Christmas Day morning”
In the past years as I have wandered through packed shops I have seen the trolleys so full that not one more sprout could fit in. I have seen the post boxes overflowing - literally - with cards and I have seen the tension on people’s faces. What we need is a “silent night” when the pressures are lifted and exchanged for something altogether different. But then I remember a couple of people with tension, pain and fear etched on their faces over 2000 years ago and I realise that we have come full circle. No room for them and no room for Christ in so many at Christmas. I know you may have heard it before but take Christ out of Christmas and you have left M&S! And for so many - even to some extent us for us - that is what it has become. Let us put the emphasis back onto Christ, let us make room for the Holy Child of Bethlehem to descend to us again.

Prayer
Even if the gatherings in our homes do not reflect perfect love, make us into more perfect hosts at your table.
Bless those equipped to share your love with your hurting children. Remind those whose families are still divided by the damages of sin of the hope that we might someday find right fellowship with you and one another.
God with us, be Immanuel to all. Amen

Readings
Psalm 8, Luke 1, Colossians 1:15-23

Hymn/Song
O little town of Bethlehem

The God beyond Us - 22 December

2011-12-22T07:37:00.004Z

Readings
It took an angel to rescue Joseph from his shock at his fiancée’s pregnancy. That only seems fair as it was the angel that brought the tidings of joy to Mary - so to reassure Joseph seems entirely reasonable.

Do you need reassuring? What life altering message have you been given that has rocked your world? What assurance do you need?
Let’s try…. The God of the universe - the known and unknown. The God of history, present and future. The God of Mary, Joseph, the disciples, the woman at the well and many others. The God of our forebears, inspirational and Godly saints. This God, this very God is right with you now. The one whose promises are steadfast , the one who is not slow in keeping promises, the one who will never leave or forsake is with you right at this very moment. Our God is beyond our understanding but is within our grasp.

Prayer
O God you come with power to shock and disturb Shock me out of my familiarity with the story of Jesus’ birth Disturb the complacency which leads me to wrap Christmas up in a box of taken-for-granted stories
Open my ears to listen for the voices of angels
Open my eyes to see the work of your Holy Spirit
Unexpected and disturbing God, grant me the courage of Joseph to hear the voice of the angel and see life in a new way. May I be ready to receive the one who comes as Saviour. Amen

Readings
Isaiah 53:5, Psalm 139, Matthew 2:18b-21

Hymn/Song
King of Kings

A love that never goes - 21 December

2011-12-22T07:33:00.002Z

Reflection

The opening chapters of Genesis yield a description of God’s purpose in creating. This purpose is largely echoed throughout the Old Testament where we regularly encounter phrases like, “I will be their God and they will be my people” (Gen. 17:8, Exod. 6:7, Jer. 24:7, Joel 2:27). In those early chapters of Genesis we also discover the devastating effects sin has on God’s purpose. The rest of the Biblical story unfolds this tension between God’s purposeful design for creation and the sinful sabotage of God’s plan.

Advent is that season in the church year that unequivocally declares that God’s purpose for creation will not be ultimately frustrated. Neither the darkness of sin, nor the devastating powers of evil can derail God’s good purpose. It is here, during Advent, that the church reaches back with one hand to Bethlehem where the eternal Word was made flesh and took up residence among us (John 1:14). With the other hand, the church reaches forward to the New Jerusalem where the home of God is finally, permanently, among His people (Revelation 21:3). Just as the church looks in remembrance, she also looks forward in eager expectation for the fulfilment of Gods purpose, when finally the dwelling of God is among His people and He will live with them as God, and they will be His children.

Prayer

Maranatha” (Come, Lord Jesus! Come!). Abide in me, dwell with me, as I continue my journey through this Advent season by the presence of your Holy Spirit. Open my eyes that I might see you, my ears that I might hear you, my heart, home, church and life that I might welcome you, the Word made Flesh, until at last all your good purposes for me are completely fulfilled. O, come to us, abide with us, our Lord Immanuel. Amen

Readings
Psalm 134:2, Isaiah 60:1-3, Luke 2:8-20

Hymn/Song
See him lying on a bed of straw

We need to go - 20 December

2011-12-22T07:30:00.001Z

Reflection
The strange and remarkable thing about Advent is that it is a combination of the unknown and the utterly predictable. It can be as exciting as the little paper doors and windows that our children open each day in the Advent calendar; it's as known and familiar as the words to the Advent songs that we can easily sing from memory. And somewhere in between these two extremes lies the meaning of Advent and its significance for us.

The true essence of Advent is about a journey. The first Advent the adventure was there in all its terrifying, harsh, bewildering reality. Mary visited by an angel and waited for her baby to be born, not knowing what kind of life her son would lead or what kind of impact it would have on her. The pregnancy burst in upon her and imposed a new direction on her life. All she knew was that she was bearing the Messiah, the Long-Awaited One. The rest was pure adventure. Passing through Advent means we to need to move, to go on an adventure .

Prayer
Watch, dear Lord, with those who cannot sleep and those who weep this night.
Tend the sick, give rest to the weary and bless the dying.
Relieve those who are suffering, have pity on those in great distress, and shield those who are happy. Amen.
(St Augustine)

Readings
Genesis 1:1-5, Psalm 63,Matthew 2: 13-18

Prayer
It came upon a midnight clear.

Avoiding Wordly Passions - 19 December

2011-12-22T07:27:00.003Z

Reflection

As we walk through these days of Advent, I find myself wrestling with "the reason for this season." Christmas carols ring everywhere, and have for weeks; commercialism is at its worst; and people buy and spend for some good reasons and for many not so good ones. And yet we proclaim Jesus, the one who is, but is also the one to come.

Paul writes to Titus to remind him of what is important. "…We wait for the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ." Paul and Titus were not in the midst of preparing for Christmas, but these words speak to us nonetheless. What is important in this hectic season is preparing hearts and homes for the celebration of Jesus' birth. We can't completely avoid the "worldly passions" of this age, but we can take time to walk and talk with God in these days of Advent, and live faithful lives in Jesus' name. With less than one week to go will you ask God to speak more fully to you.

Prayer

Lord,
help us to still seek you in this season of excess and to hear you above all the other distractions that vie for our attention. Amen.

Readings
Psalm 36: 5-9, Zechariah 4, Luke 1:67-75 Titus 2:11-14

Hymn/Song
Hark the Herald

Myster and Awe - 18 December

2011-12-17T21:34:00.004Z

Reflection
On this last Sunday of Advent, we quietly reflect on the mystery resting in awe, in wonder of how our God entered our world and came to be with us. We pause to receive the gift offered us: that the Spirit of God will open up our lives and that Jesus will really come into our hearts.
This sense of awe is further emphasized by the fact that God chose the innocence of a young woman, and understanding Aunt and Uncle (Elizabeth & Zechariah), a sensitive, faithful, upright and religious Joseph. Thee is so much hope for us then.
May we have watchful hope today, believing what the Lord promises us. Let us pray today, that we might be God's servants, that we might be instruments of God's love for our families and all we serve this week.

Prayer
They all were looking for a king
To slay their foes and lift them high
Thou cam’st a little Baby thing
That made a woman cry.’
George MacDonald (1824-1905)

Lord Jesus, King of kings and Lord of lords the only ruler of princes, help me not to seek to possess truth but strive towards its goal

Readings
2 Samuel 7:1-16; Psalm 89, Luke 1:5-23, Romans 16:25–27

Hymn/Song
Tell Out My Soul

To Serve, Not to be Served - 17 December

2011-12-17T21:30:00.003Z

Reflection

Isaiah was a court prophet for four kings in Judea in the sixth century B.C. It was in that time that the northern kingdom of Israel had fallen to the Assyrians. Hence the king and his court, along with the whole population of Judea, feared for their safety in front of the military advance of these despised conquerors.

Much needed in this environment of desperation were words of hope. Isaiah endeavours to provide just such words. There will be better times under the rule of a great king, a Messiah. This messianic time will be an age when God will bring life from death and victory from defeat. For Christians, they, like their master, can be endowed with or blessed with the spirit. Here the Messiah and his followers have a social conscience. They have a passion for justice. The question for each of us is: Do we have a passion for justice in our daily work? Are we called to serve? By justice, I mean not what each is due just because of his or her humanity, but rather what each needs as a Child of God.
May we reach out in the name of Jesus to a hurting world just as God reached out and continues to reach out to our broken lives.

Prayer
Lord God, your Son came among us to serve and not to be served, and to give his life for the world. Lead us by his love to serve all those to whom the world offers no comfort and little help. Through us give hope to the hopeless, love to the unloved, peace to the troubled, and rest to the weary. Amen.

Reading
Psalm 19, Jeremiah 23:5-6, John 13:1-17

Hymn/Song
The Church of Christ in every age

More than I can Imagine - 16 December

2011-12-17T21:26:00.002Z

Reflection
Ephesians 3:20 “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine….”

Wow this is far more than we can imagine. None of us can properly understand what it must have been like for Mary to learn about what was going to happen to her. Are you grateful to Mary for being open to God’s working in her life. Her humility, obedience and faithfulness are an example of what can happen when people are open to God’s movement in their lives. Our scriptures are full of examples of people like Mary who partner with God, participating with God in the redemption of creation.

Do we fail to anticipate the “new thing” that God desires to do, do we continue doing the “old thing” that is comfortable and familiar. What are the old and new things that comes to mind? What do we struggle with in our lives. Churches that are changing? Does it all seem to much? Why not ask God who can do immeasurably more than we can imagine to help us. Why not let go and let God?

Prayer

Almighty God, I desire to see you working in my life. I confess God that sometimes I have limited your power by my own imagination and lack of faith. Help me Lord be open to the new things you are calling me to. Thank you God that when you call me you also give me the grace and skills needed. Strengthen me O God as I participate in your Kingdom. In the powerful name of Jesus, Amen

Readings
Psalm 21, Isaiah 49:8-13, Matthew 17:1-13, Ephesians 3

Hymn/Song
In the bleak mid winter

A Promise Fulfilled - 15 December

2011-12-17T21:23:00.002Z

Reflection

Have you ever made a promise that you could not keep? It is probably safe to say that we all have done that at least once in our life. We start out with good intentions for fulfilling the promise. But then, out of the blue, things can happen, like the boss asks us to work overtime, the car breaks down, someone gets sick, or the weather turns bad, and well, we just can't live up to our word. When this has happened to me, I feel really sad and sorry that I could not keep my word. And I also worry that people will not trust or believe me the next time I promise something to them.

How grateful I am that God always keeps the promises that he makes. Throughout all of Scripture, every time God promised something it was fulfilled. Nothing ever hinders or interferes with the will of God. The greatest promise God ever made was that he would send his Son to bring salvation to the world. Through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ we were forgiven our sins and brought into a right relationship with God. Thanks be to God for promises made and kept!

Prayers
Almighty God,
I give you thanks for the fulfilled promise of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour. Help me to always trust in your Word and promises. Amen.

Readings
Numbers 24:17, Habakkuk 3:17-19, Matthew 5:17-19, 2 Peter 3:9

Hymn/Song
Cradled in a Manger Meanly

Waiting....14 December

2011-12-14T05:40:00.003Z

Reflection
Waiting is probably the most challenging thing in our society at this time. We avoid waiting in long lines and have turned to technology for rapid processing, only to be told that the delivery date is still two weeks away. Some of us tweet, use facebook, email and expect an immediate comment or reply. The thought of waiting for riches is unheard of, so we turn to "get rich quick" schemes, only to find that we lose our investments. When youthful we detest the thought of waiting to become an adult so we engage in adult activities early, only to find that we are too young to handle the responsibilities.

There is a pattern here that is quite obvious. Every time we rush the calendar, we lose precious moments when the opportunity for waiting, reflecting and understanding would help remove the stains and blemishes that impact our lives.

Prayer
Almighty God,
in the midst of my desire to rush the precious time that you give me, give me patience as I wait to fulfil your promise of a new day with you.
Through your son, Jesus Christ our Lord, I pray. Amen.

Readings
Psalm 132:10-16, Proverbs 8:34, Zechariah 9:9-10, Luke 2:25-32

Hymn/Song
Be Still for the presence of the Lord

The Word became flesh - 13 December

2011-12-12T22:57:00.002Z

Reflection

The narrative of the incarnation in John’s gospel is as succinct as it is direct. "The Word became flesh and lived among us." It is difficult to produce romanticised images for Christmas cards or nativity scenes. John cuts through the birth narratives of Matthew and Luke to get straight to the point - God the creator has become created.

The mystery of this paradox lies at the centre of the Christian faith. Whilst we might want to take control of our spiritual journey as followers of Jesus, asking 'what would Jesus do', this paradox of grace is beyond our control. This is because what Jesus would do is what God does in our midst for our sake and the sake of "all things [that] came into being through him".

Our celebration of this gift of grace, the incarnation of God in Jesus. This is the good news of a Christmas spirituality - we do not have to earn God's favour but through grace we can celebrate what God has already done for us in sharing our existence. We can do this as we enter into the rhythm of weekly worship, taking bread and wine, feasting on God's word, showing compassion for those around us and caring for this creation for which Christ came.

Prayer
Teach me good Lord, to serve you as you deserve, to give and not to count the cost, to fight and not to heed the wounds, to toil and not to seek for rest, to labour and not to ask for any reward, save that of knowing that we do your will. Amen. (St Ignatius Loyola)

Readings
Psalm 72:1-8, Zephaniah 3:14-20, John 1:14

Hymn/Song
Once in Royal David's City

A Peace that Passes Understanding - 12 December

2011-12-12T22:52:00.003Z

Reflection
What is trust? Two artists were commissioned to paint a picture of trust and confidence in the Lord. The one painted a beautiful pastoral scene. The meadow was green and aflame with blooming flowers. The sky was exotic blue and dotted with playful clouds. Cows grazed in the distance and a happy family sat on their back porch serenely surveying the tranquility of the moment.

The second picture depicted one of the most devastating storms imaginable. The sky was ominous, the lightning terrifying. The heavy rain was lashing against the rocks. The trees nearly touched the ground as they bent before the onslaught of the wind.

A close inspection revealed a small bird in the cleft of a rock unruffled by the storm. Underneath the picture was the one word, Peace. This one was chosen because it depicted the peace of God in the midst of the turmoil of the world. You can trust Him at all times and in all ways.

May the God of peace bless and carry you.

Prayer
Lord God, We stand amazed at your power and majesty bowed by such humility. We stand amazed at the suffering love that transforms our lives. We stand amazed that you, O God most high, were brought low for our sake.
We bow down, to praise, to worship and to adore. Amen

Readings
Psalm 23, John 14:27, Philippians 4:6-7

Hymn/Song
What a friend we have in Jesus

My Soul Magnifies the Lord - 11 December

2011-12-10T23:38:00.004Z

Reflection
When Mary cries out her song of praise to God it occurs after Elizabeth has noticed she is “blessed” It is reassuring to know that Mary was fully accepted by Zechariah and Elizabeth. There was no condemnation and no disbelief on their part . Why was that? Simply they too had experienced God’s hand upon them, a miracle for them both - so why not Mary?

The radiance of heaven came and rescued us—Mary and Elizabeth responded.
The radiance of heaven still comes and rescues us. Will we respond?

As people living life in God's time, living eternity life now, we like Mary are called to share in her response. To magnify the Lord as an expression of thankfulness for what God has already done in and is doing through Jesus' own life, death, resurrection and ascension.

Will your soul magnify the Lord? Will you commit as Mary did?

Prayer

Lord, lighten our darkness.
Let the bright shafts of your love colour our lives.
Let us be transformed as the light of the morning star blazes in our hearts, that we may show your light in the dark places of this world. Amen.

Readings
Isaiah 61:1–2, 10–11; Luke 1:46-55, John 1:6–8, 19–28, 1 Thessalonians 5:16–24;

Hymn/Song
The Magnificat

Good News - 10 December

2011-12-09T00:40:00.003Z

Reflection
Can you imagine the preacher getting into the pulpit and beginning with "You brood of vipers!"? I can imagine the phone calls that would flood into the Superintendent's office. I wonder if John the Baptist sensed that his time was short to cut through the deceit of the people that were coming to him. He answered their self-serving questions with obvious answers - things they must have known perfectly well already. We, too, know what is expected of us as children of God. But in so many ways we fail to share, to want only what is ours, to not cut corners, and to be satisfied with what we have.

Like the crowds that gathered around John, we gather in this Advent season to hear the truly good news that the Messiah has come. The presence of Jesus in our world gives us assurance that our failures are redeemed and courage to try again to be living examples of God's love. It can be difficult to hear the truth about ourselves, but without acknowledging our need, we do not value the gift. May we welcome Jesus into our world with full understanding of the value of the gift the Father gives to us.

Prayer
Gracious God, help us to look forward to the good news of the
Messiah’s birth with honest and grateful hearts. Let the world see us as people who have received a great gift and are eager to share it. Amen.

Readings
Psalm 97, Luke 3:7-18, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31

Hymn/Song
For unto us a child is born

Lord I am not worthy to receive - 9 December

2011-12-09T00:36:00.005Z

Reflection

Have you ever been accused of having selective hearing? Or hearing what you want to hear? Today's scripture reminds us of the danger in having ears that hear, but don't understand. Isaiah was called to preach to a group of people who weren't going to listen to him... hardhearted people who were going to hear what they wanted to hear.

We face this danger every time we hear a sermon or open scripture. Our tendency is to read what we want to read... and to hear what we want to see. We expect God to fit into the boxes that we construct for Him, and to act according to our expectations. This Advent, we're reminded that Jesus didn't come the way people expected. Instead, he came as a baby in a manger, born in a rough stable behind a busy inn. May our eyes and ears be open, that we see Him when He comes to us today.

Prayer
We worship you eternal and everlasting God;
Alpha and Omega – the first and the last.
For you are the source of all life.
You set the world in motion, creating solar systems and planets;
You are beyond our understanding more than we can ever imagine.

Thank you for your love, the delicate wrapping in which you enfold us from our beginning to our end. We are not worthy yet we open our hearts to receive your love. Amen

Readings

Isaiah 6:1-13, Matthew 3: 1-12, 1 John 4:1-6

Hymn/song
Love Came down at Christmas

Indeed he is coming - 8 December

2011-12-08T17:40:00.005Z

Refection
Malachi prophesied during the post-exilic period. During this time, as people returned to Jerusalem and the temple was restored, there was great hope among the Israelites. But these hopes were soon dashed. The priesthood had lost their way, engaging in practices that violated the laws governing ritual sacrifice and failing to guide and teach the people. The widows and orphans, and all those the torah demands the people of Yahweh protect, were suffering under oppression and neglect.

Into this setting Malachi promises a messenger will come to remind the people of the covenant. This reminder will come as a shock to the ones who have lost their way, and the message will be painful. However, through this messenger God will draw near and draw the people back into a covenant relationship with God.

For Malachi, this messenger will come soon and not without violence. “Indeed he is coming…but who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire.”

God loves perfectly and completely and Gods love is one of action—giving, guiding and guarding.

Prayer
Lord, may we who have plenty live simply so that others may simply live. Amen.

Readings
Psalm 85, Malachi 4:1-6, Luke 1:76-80, Ephesians 5:1-21

Hymn/Song
Hills of the North rejoice

Blessed are the .. 7 December

2011-12-08T05:40:00.012Z

Reflection

Christ has come.. Christ will come again..
We might expect people in general to get anxious about the things of our world: a difficult economy, a growing disparity between the rich and the poor of the world, natural disasters, and much more..
Yet for all who proclaim and follow the Christ, our anxiety is of a different sort. We anticipate especially during Advent, we remember that Christ is already Lord and so we anticipate his coming again.

Despite difficult or disappointing situations, Jesus is already Lord.
Despite loneliness, Jesus is already Lord.
Despite changed circumstances, Jesus is already Lord.
Despite unexpected situations, Jesus is already Lord.
Despite my mistakes, your disappointment, our inadequacy or anything else that would cause us to be brought down…Jesus is already Lord.
Jesus turns everything upside down and always will.

Prayer

O God, the burdens of the world are so heavy, yet you do not faint
O God, the cries of the needy are so great, yet you do not grow weary
I offer to you my faint heart that you will give me courage
I offer to you my weakness that you will make me strong
I offer to you my praise for you lift me up on eagle’s wings
I offer to you my adoration for you take away my weariness
In this Advent season I wait expectantly on You for You offer so much more than I can dream of receiving.
Amen

Readings
Psalm 34, Matthew 5:1-11, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12

Hymn/Song
Light of the World

Rejoice Highly Favoured One - 6 December

2011-12-05T22:44:00.002Z

Reflection
I was standing on the top of the hill and looked over the most amazing view, there was little to be said. I whispered, “Who am I, Lord, that you would show me such favour?” I was in awe of the scene. Ancient words pierced my thoughts. “Rejoice, highly favoured one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” Luke 1:28 NKJV

But these words were for Mary, the mother of Jesus, not for one as unworthy as me. Yet God replies to us all Mary was chosen to carry my son in her womb. You were fashioned to carry Him in your heart. Highly favoured. Chosen. Called by the Creator of the universe. Purposed for Gods work. Equipped. How will this be? But this is how God refers to you. You are highly favoured, you are chosen, You are loved, you are important. In our quest for telling others the good news have we forgotten such grace, such mercy for you. Our God who has spanned all time has a love which surpasses all and it is this love which we celebrate and glory in. To know Christ and to make him known—that is what it is all about.

Prayer
Lord, inspire me to live in such a way that my choices each day and my commitment to live in a positive way may transform the negative into something positive, and the ordinariness of daily life into something extraordinary. Amen.

Readings
Psalm 150, Luke 1:28, Philippians 3:1-11

Hymn/Song
All I once held dear

Let it be to me - 5 December

2011-12-05T14:20:00.002Z

Reflection

When reading Mary’s response to Gods invitation the words that jump out are “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38). Did she know what she was agreeing to? Did she know the scorn and ridicule she would suffer as an unwed mother? Did she know that people would hold that against her son as he grew up (John 8:41)? Did she know the pain she would experience when her son died a young man, an innocent man dying a criminal’s death?

I have no idea what she knew or thought at the time. She didn’t know either. However, as her spiritual father Abraham followed God wherever He led even if he didn’t know where it was going to be, she was willing to pursue whatever God had in store for her. Do we need to have this attitude as we read God’s word? “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” May we have the faith and trust that God’s way works. Whatever God has in store for us will be all right in the end, even if it leads through hard and difficult times.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for knowing me better than I know myself,
and for letting me know myself better than others know me. Help me to grow in grace, faith and discipleship.
Holy God I consider the things of my life that I keep hidden from others. Show me how I may lay down the obstacles of life that prevent me from drawing closer to you. Teach me your ways God. Amen

Readings
Jeremiah 33:14-16, Luke 1: 26-38, 2 Peter 3:8-15

Hymn/Song
Behold the Servant of the Lord

Prepare the Way of the Lord - 4 December

2011-12-04T14:46:00.002Z

Reflection
A voice cries out: In the wilderness prepare the way of the LORD!

Prepare the Way of the Lord cries the forerunner John. Our God comes with power to save us. Each of us can name what it is we long to be saved from. There are things in our lives that distract us from the full relationship God longs for.
Today, let's imagine ourselves freer. Throughout the day, let's picture new ways of responding to challenging relationships, habitual sins, and other ruts we are in. This day can you picture what a difference you could make and what memory could be created for ourselves and others. We are God’s ambassadors land thus when people see us they expect to see God - do they? As we envision our freedom we can experience how much our God desires to save us.

Prayer
Almighty God, I hear it over and over: you are coming to me.
I feel my heart stir in anticipation, and I sense that you are inviting me to enter more deeply into the mystery of your birth.
Help me to feel renewed patience settle in my heart, and to lift my face in joy.
I have been like a lost lamb, but I hear your voice calling me and I feel how deeply you want me to return.
Somehow I know that you rejoice in my desire to find you.
Help me not to be afraid to say out loud, to believe:
Here is God, coming into my life.

Readings

Psalm 118:19-29;Isaiah 40:1-5,9-11;Luke 21:25-36

Hymn/Song
On Jordan's Bank

Do you believe I can do this? 3 December

2011-12-04T14:41:00.002Z

Reflection
I just cannot believe it. What am I going to do?

The story of Mary and Elizabeth reflects the courage of a young girl who truly believes her faith and on that of an old woman who was blessed with the Holy Spirit, allowing her to see the purpose and the glory of her life. In our age, as the young sit at the feet of the old and reflect upon changing times, the young ask how they are to live in this age. We must be encouraged by the example of these two women who share their faith together and uphold one another in their time of promise. We reflect upon Mary and Elizabeth, and see that they are able to reach out and bless one another. Elizabeth reassures Mary in the power of their Lord, and the young girl also blesses her. How we must remember the importance of family and friends! We must look to one another to help us through our trials, which are before us every day.

Prayer
God of Strength,
I need your courage.
You offer to make firm the knees that are weak.
Only you know how frightened I so often am.
And you do offer me strength. There is the promise of your Son's coming and knowing that you will save me.
I can't do this on my own no matter how often I think I can.
Give me the humility to ask for your help and open heart to accept
your healing and love in my life. Amen

Readings
Psalm 72, Isaiah 11:1-9, Luke 1:39-45

Hymn/Song
My Jesus, My Saviour

Someone Great is Coming - 2 December

2011-12-04T14:21:00.005Z

Reflection

Are you anticipating guests and the fellowship of friends during this holiday? Many of us are, but did not John the Baptist prophesy someone greater is coming? Many thought John the Baptist was someone he was not (the Messiah); likewise many think Santa Claus is someone he is not (the reason for Christmas).

When Pope Julius I authorized December 25 to be celebrated as the birthday of Jesus in A.D. 353, who would have ever thought that it would become what it is today. When Professor Charles Follen lit candles on the first Christmas tree in America in 1832, who would have ever thought that the light in our hearts would replaced by the lights on our houses. It is a long time since A.D. 353 or even 1832. How long has it been since the greatness of it took centre stage during your Christmas festivities? As we approach December 25 again, we have another opportunity to pause, and in the midst of all our celebration and excitement and the unfortunate commercialization which surround Christmas today, we need to consider that someone greater – Jesus Christ. Make Christ the centre of your Christmas.

Prayer

Holy God, I acknowledge my great need of you. When I think of the void my life would be without you it brings a sense of fear and trembling to my heart. But in that fear and trembling remind me that you are never far from me, even when I chosen different paths. Thank you for how much you love me. I thank you for your grace that called to me even before I recognised your voice. I am yours. Amen

Reading

Isaiah 42:1-9; Acts 10:34-46, Philippians 2:1-11

Hymn/Song
Sing we the King who is coming to reign

God Within - 1 December

2011-11-30T21:39:00.003Z

Reflection
We are sealed by the Holy Spirit of God, by our receiving his real stamp upon our souls; being made the partakers of the divine nature. This is, indeed, the design of his dwelling in us, to heal our disordered souls, and to restore that image of his upon our nature.” – John Wesley

We believe that God is already alive and active within us. Do we dare believe this? Are we really able to have the mind and heart of Zachariah, Elizabeth and Mary to hope that what God has begun in us will be fulfilled according to God’s plan for us? When was God last active in us? Do we sometimes spend so much time talking about God we forget to talk to God? The Scriptures tell us that the whole purpose of prayer and community is to support, celebrate and affirm what God is already doing within each one of us and in the whole community. God is within you. The flame of God’s life is in us, is alive in us already!

Prayer

Jesus, protector, I long for your coming.
The promise of new light and life is before me, give me the faith to believe in your presence this day.
Protect me from dangers and lead me through the darkness to the joy I so long to find in you.
Lift me from my sins and give me the promise and assurance of salvation with no more shame, only the light and saving grace of your love. May your peace come to my life and may it be evident in my relationships and daily living. Amen

Readings
Psalm 145, John 17, Hebrews 2: 5-15

Hymn/Song
Come thou Long Expected Jesus

An Unexpected Encounter - 30 November

2011-11-30T21:28:00.003Z

Reflection

What comes to mind when you think of the word “faithful”? Do you think of commitment, loyalty, devotion, sticking with something even when it seems impossible or when it doesn’t make sense?

In Isaiah 1 we have God telling Israel that he has had enough of burnt offerings and sacrifices. The rituals they practiced had become an empty burden. What God wanted from them was faithfulness, to reach out to the oppressed, defend orphans and care for the widows. God asks them to look beyond themselves and see a hurting world that needed help and care.

As we think of those in our families, churches, community and world that need a reminder that God is present how can we show that? What can we do? Praying for a world in need brings us closer to our God. Acting this prayer out can bring others closer to God too. Just imagine you too can be the unexpected encounter others have with our living God. May God bless you in your rich encounters.

Prayer
Lord God I praise you for creating me and restoring me through
Jesus.
Word becoming flesh, Word indwelling
Word transforming, Word restoring
Word challenging, Word healing
Word sharing our weakness and making us whole. Amen

Readings
Isaiah 1:10-20, Matthew 8:1-4, 1 John 4:7-12

Hymn/Song
O the bitter shame and sorrow

Behold a Virgin Shall Conceive - 29 November

2011-11-29T00:18:00.003Z

Reflection
Isaiah 7:14 “ The Lord of his own accord will give you a sign; it is this: A young woman is with child, and she will give birth to a son and call him Immanuel” (Revised English Bible).

It seems so strange to think about the last supper during Advent. Don’t we have our seasons wrong? But as we pause, waiting to celebrate God made flesh, we have glimpses and reminders of his flesh and blood. We see God present in Christ’s first meal as well as his last. In those early days, Christ’s body was made vulnerable and small, totally dependent on his parents for everything. We are reminded of the depth of his love for us. Who among us would take the place of a child?

We see Christ reflected in the youngest baby gathered in worship. We see Christ reflected in an expectant mother. This is his Body, given for us. We are expectant parents in these days of Advent, men and women watching for signs of Christ born among us . Jesus came as a swaddled infant, then as a toddler scattering crumbs of bread, eventually as the honoured host. His grace has permeated our lives from beginning to end. We learn from Him the customs of His Table.

Prayer
Risen Lord, be known to me in the breaking of the bread.” Bless my table, Lord, to be a place of holy fellowship. Make me aware, this season, of how you are present among us. Amen

Readings
Isaiah 7:13-15, Luke 2:1-7, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31

Hymn/Song:
Born in the Night

God so Loved the World - 28 November

2011-11-28T17:27:00.002Z

Reflection
Where did we get the idea of gift giving at Christmas? Of course there are the three gifts of the Magi and that is great in showing the elect paying homage. But John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only son” is the true message of Christmas. This is the Christmas Story. John doesn’t reveal the how of the birth of Jesus. The New English Bible translation puts it “for this is the way God loved the world. He gave everything.”

The definition of love is action. God is giving and God’s action of giving is love. The real story of Christmas is not our gift giving but of God’s giving. It takes an intervention of God in human history to fix the world. This is no pretty picture—there is something wrong in the world - wrong that we cannot fix, nor science, nor philosophy, nor education ..it is God acting in love. Oh what a gift.

Prayer

Lord, give us hearts that never forget your love; to remain in your love whatever we do, whether we are asleep or awake, whether we work or rest. For your love is eternal life and everlasting rest; for this is life eternal - to know you and your infinite goodness.

May the flame of your eternal love never be quenched in our hearts; let it grow and brighten, till our whole souls are glowing and shining with its light and warmth. Amen

Readings

Psalm 130, Malachi 3:1-4, John 3: 16-21; 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13

Song/Hymn
God is Love

Being Awake or Woken Up - 27 November

2011-11-26T22:41:00.003Z

Reflection

If we think of Advent as being a time of preparedness and of being attentive then this First Sunday of Advent calls us to be awake. Being caught napping at a critical point can at times be embarrassing. To be caught out in this way can result in us missing out on so much.

May we be ever vigilant to God’s Spirit moving in this world. Underpinning this vigilance is the hope that God will deliver on promises, in God’s time and in God’s way. On our side, may there be a deep yearning in us for the coming of the Lord, and God’s bringing to completion what was achieved in His death and resurrection. Is this desire for the Lord to come again strong in our hearts? Or are we quite happy to settle for the ‘same again, please’ of a more worldly celebration of Christmas, focussing on the elements that we enjoy but which are quite empty if they are taken away from their Christian origins and the hope for the future? May we be awake to God’s presence.

Prayer

Thank you Creator God.
What a gift this day is from you from the blazing sunrise through a cloudy winter sky to the setting sunset.
Lord in this day, may you gift me with a sight that I often miss at other times of year, when the weather is warmer and the sun rises before I get up. In this day may I be aware of your grace lighting up my life. As I wait and watch in silence for your coming may I be filled with a sense of your presence in my life. Amen

Readings
Isaiah 2:1-5, Matthew 24:37-44 and Romans 13:11-14

Song or Hymn:
O come O Come Emmanuel

A promise .....

2011-01-08T12:27:00.002Z

Have you ever had a promise broken? Of course you have - we all have. Some of those broken promises are more significant than others and some have lasting impressions. Our lives are filled with promises made by ourselves and others.

Each year Methodist Church members affirm their promises made at baptism and confirmation and recommit themselves to God. This is done in the Covenant Service which takes place in January or September (the start of the Methodist Year). Central in this service is holy communion, the time we remember God's everlasting covenant with us and how much we are worth to God. Our covenant to God is to follow and surrender to God's will and purpose. This means we are called to do things that are natural to us and others things we are not.

The Covenant Prayer is not easy to say, it challenges us in deep ways.

I am no longer my own but yours.
Put me to what you will,
rank me with whom you will;
put me to doing,
put me to suffering;
let me be employed for you,
or laid aside for you,
exalted for you,
or brought low for you;
let me be full,
let me be empty,
let me have all things,
let me have nothing:
I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things
to your pleasure and disposal.
And now, glorious and blessed God,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
you are mine and I am yours.'

In our world we prize our ability to make decisions and choose our own path in life. It can feel very hard to give that up. But this coveant prayer is like a love poem. It is about surrendering to God in love and joy. When we ofer this covenant prayer to God we can be assured that God, in mercy and grace, has already made a covenant with us. This covenant we see suprememly in Jesus as God's presence to us.

May God bless us as we journey with God in our lives.

Additional Prayers and Reflections

2010-12-23T00:31:00.004Z

I have found these prayers so helpful - I hope you do to. May I wish you a very Happy Christmas.

To Bring Salvation

The Lord of the world did not consider it right to allow human beings,
for love of whom everything had been made,
to be besieged by sin and to be sold like slaves to death.
For this reason he assumed human form,
hid his invisible nature under visible guise,
and kept the visible nature free from the stain of sin.
Undoubtedly, it would have been easy for him
to save the human race without assuming the garment of the flesh.
He could have overthrown the power of death by a simple act of will.
He could have made the father of that power, sin,
disappear by exiling it from the earth in such a way
that no trace of it would remain on the earth.
Instead of that, he chose to demonstrate the holiness of his providential care.
To restore salvation to human beings
he did not employ as his servants the angels or archangels,
nor cause a piercing voice to resound from heaven.
He preferred to build for himself a chamber in the womb of the Virgin
and from there to come among us.
For this reason we think of him as man and adore him as God.
Begotten of the Father before the beginning of time,
he took of the Virgin a visible body.
He is the Being who is both new and pre-existent.

Theodoret, Bishop of Cyrrhus
(393-460)

Prayer
Still, my Soul be Still

As I gaze in awe and thanksgiving at the manger soften my heart that I may
again be touched deeply by the truths of this season.

I offer my life in humility - help me recognise I am an inheritor of your kingdom and share in your work and joy.
Prepare our hearts and soothe the sadness that hinders us from feeling the joy and hope which his presence will lavish on us. Amen

Saturday 25 December - The Lord is Near

2010-12-23T00:27:00.004Z

The Lord is Near

Readings - Isaiah 9:1-6 Psalm 96, Titus 2:11-14 and Luke 2:1-4

“For today a Saviour has been born for you who is Christ the Lord” Luke 2:11

Reflection
Each year through Advent we have the custom in our chapel of putting up a manger with straw but no infant. We place the infant there on Christmas day (though last year we forgot until the last hymn!) I don’t know if many notice the symbolism. Straw is basically useless, it is leftover stuff.
The crib is empty, vacant until God steps in.
Gazing at the nativity scene, a mixture of emotions can overwhelm—sadness at the barrenness of the manger or joy because God is not absent.

Does it feel like God is absent in today’s world? Are we excluding God from decisions in our lives and in public life? Where are the reminders of God in our society today? Where is God working?

We can become sad gazing at the scene yet we are reminded that God is indeed with us. He says “I am here, with you, don’t be afraid” The final word is not the empty manger, the last word is Jesus in the manger, risen Jesus in communion and the living Lord in our lives.

May we live this day to God’s praise and glory

Jesus is here. Emmanuel—God is with us

Prayer
Holy and Righteous God.
I thank you that your word is no longer solely a commandment but a gift of love, incarnate in Christ.
I thank you for the gift of knowing you for I now we know the living word.
Transform my life with wonder, expectation and joy.
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for those we know who, this day, feels as though God is absent.

For those unable to celebrate the Saviour’s birth.

We pray for the homeless and vulnerable who struggle to find shelter. For those seeking asylum and safety to be met by “no vacancy“ signs.

Friday 24 December - Holy Night - Remembering

2010-12-23T00:24:00.004Z

Remembering

Readings - 2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8-12, 14, 16 Psalm 89 :and Luke 1:67-79

“Praise be to the God of Israel” Luke 1:68

Reflection
On this Silent Night who are you remembering? As one year draws near its end and we recall its joys and sorrows, may our God, the maker of heaven and earth, manifest, in a child, be ever present with us in our remembering.
Each year we recount the familiar story - Mary and Joseph, the donkey, the star, angels, shepherds, cattle, stable and wise men? The story is steadfast, true and we know it so well. We have heard it, sung it and read it countless times over our years - so what changes with each passing year?

Do we appreciate more of the depth of love that brought God into our world in this vulnerable form? The immense losses that God suffered in the sacrifices of the incarnation? For yes, God has suffered loss too. God know. God understands. God has come to stand alongside us. What changes? We change - as we embrace this story once more may we open ourselves to the miracle of God with us.

Prayer

How silently, how silently, the wondrous gift is given
So God imparts to human hearts the blessing of his heaven
No ear can hear his coming, but in this world of sin
Where meek souls will receive him still, the dear Christ enters in.

Show me O God this night how to sing with angels, respond like the shepherds, gaze in adoration like Mary and Joseph and offer like the innkeeper. May I again respond to the familiar story with recognition, love and gratitude. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray and remember all who this day long for stillness and silence.

For countries at war

For communities in turmoil

For individuals threatened by abuse and violence

Thursday 23 December - Light

2010-12-23T00:20:00.003Z

Light

Readings - Malachi 3: 1-4, Psalm 150 and Luke 1: 57-66

“I will send my messenger” Malachi 3:1

Reflection
And is it true,
This most tremendous tale of all,
Seen in a stained-glass window's hue,
A Baby in an ox's stall ?
The Maker of the stars and sea
Become a Child on earth for me ?
Sir John Betjeman

There are only a few windows left on the advent calendar to open, a few notches of the advent candle to burn down. Nearly there! The birth of any baby is a wonderful, amazing thing. It is one of those things that takes our breath away. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of a most special baby, may the light of understanding and wonder lead us to a place of praise and worship.

It is only natural that parents and families have dreams and hopes for their newborn. Some sadly project their own lives on to them and others painfully abandon any hope based on their own life experience. But we should not overlook what the child already is: a child of God, one who is graced with a profound dignity and an eternal destiny. Not because of anything the child or its parents have done, but by the grace of the child of Bethlehem.

Prayer
All powerful God,
You made known the birth of Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, by the light of a star.
May you continue to guide me with light and purpose.
Enlighten me with your radiance and strengthen me with your care.
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for all who long to celebrate with family and friends yet cannot.

For those:

serving in aid organisations or the military.

in prison

in hospital

who grieve and mourn

Wednesday 22 December - Christ Bearers

2010-12-20T19:08:00.006Z

Christ Bearers

Readings - 1 Samuel 1:24-28 1 Samuel 2, 1, 4-8 and Luke 1: 46-56

“Now I give him to the Lord” 1 Samuel 1:24

Reflection
Throughout the world the song of the Magnificat is prayed by countless people.Mary’s prayer reveals the great desire of a nation in a glorious song:

God casts down the mighty from their thrones and has lifted up the lowly. The hope of Mary is that the unjust domination of Rome and the unspiritual leadership of the Jewish scribes will not last.
God fills the empty with good things and the rich are sent away empty. Whilst hard to feel empty and acknowledge our need for God, we are then filled with blessings which are new every morning.
God has come to help his servant Israel and remembers his promise of mercy. Mary needed this help with Joseph, her family, the towns-people and God intervened.

We too are called to be Christ bearers in our world—yet first we need to receive him in our hearts. We are called out of our comfort zone to show mercy and compassion. May we be like Mary and respond with joy, eagerness and anticipation.

Prayer
Source of all that is light and life, truth and peace,
I have hope because your steadfast love never ceases and your mercies never end; they are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.
I remember those who feel lowly and insignificant., who feel empty and abandoned. May peace and hope bring justice, comfort and freedom. Amen

Additonal Prayer Ideas
We pray for all who have shown us Christ and revealed your truth. We remember our church community that we may be inspired in new and bold ways to show your love.

Tuesday 21 December -To Help

2010-12-20T18:57:00.005Z

To Help

Readings - Song of Songs 2:8-14, Psalm 33 and Luke 1: 39-45

“Why should the Mother of my Lord visit me” Luke 1:43

Reflection
Both Elizabeth and Mary are in changing circumstances. Elizabeth, sadly reconciled to not having children, finds herself pregnant and with a husband unable to speak. Mary is facing an uncertain future and the possibility of a child born out of wedlock. Yet both women are free enough in their spirits to praise God for all that God is doing in their lives.

In the midst of their changing circumstances they do not lose sight of God’s hand in their lives. As we approach Christmas, is the busyness and change to our routine causing us to lose sight of God’s hand on our lives?

But Mary did not go to Elizabeth to sing the Magnificat but to help her. In the same way, we must not go to our neighbours only to reveal to them the spiritual treasure we carry in our hearts, but also to share with them their sorrows, burdens, joys and responsibilities. If we do this then the time will come when we shall be able to open our hearts in order to share our spiritual riches with our neighbours. Then, together, we will be able to love the one who has shown us how to live in peace with one another.

Prayer
Lord Jesus, I long for your coming
O Come O Come Emmanuel.
Jesus came bringing the reality of peace and righteousness.
O Come O Come Emmanuel.
Jesus is coming again into our world bringing the realisation of God’s kingdom.
O Come O come Emmanuel
And ransom our captive souls. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for those struggling with change.
For those fearful of finances,those without paid work.
We remember those who fear the changes ahead of them.
May they know God’s peace.

Monday 20 December - Gods Ways Not Ours.

2010-12-17T22:38:00.004Z

Gods Ways Not Ours

Readings - Isaiah 7:10-14, Psalm 24 and Luke 1:26-38

“The Lord himself will give you a sign” Isaiah 7:10

Reflection
We are on the brink of the nativity. Our sense of the one to come has been stretched, challenged, recast over the last few weeks. This astonishing revelation that God is confident enough to be vulnerable and confident in us to be vulnerable to us.

King Ahaz needed the appearance of strength and not vulnerability to carry out his military duties. Isaiah challenges the King to imagine what God may be like yet the King refuses, declaring he will not test God. Isaiah unhappy at the response seeks a sign from God - a sign of gentleness, quiet and ordinary, yet one which will
transform. A sign of a virgin with child bearing a son - Immanuel. That was so probably so far from the King’s mind but the truth is that God’s ways are not ours. God can be found in the most trying of circumstances for God is in all..

This day will you look for God?
Will you ask God for a sign?
Not a sign to test God but a sign to see God. For if you look you will find God in the ordinary, vulnerable and willing. You will find God in the one who holds your hand and in the one who cares for you. “Seek and you shall find”

Prayer

God of light I wait.
Give me freedom to walk in the footsteps of Jesus.
Let your light shine out for all to see by turning to those who call for my help.
Let me never turn a closed ear and heart away from the world.
Heal our world. Heal our past. Heal our community and churches.
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for all who feel judged and ignored by others. We pray for our churches and our call to spread the gospel to all people.

Sunday 19 December - Prayer - 4th Sunday in Advent

2010-12-17T22:30:00.006Z

Prayer

Readings - Judges 13:2-7, 24-25 Psalm 71 and Luke 1 5-25

“Your prayer has been heard” Luke 1:13

Reflection
What an answer to prayer it was for Zechariah and Elizabeth. Childlessness was regarded as a disgrace in the Jewish culture at that time so their “fruitfulness” was focused on their spiritual lives by praying for and serving others with love.
Zechariah and Elizabeth waited and they waited. The waiting room is the place where time stands still. In the doctors, the dentist, the hospital waiting room it seems as though hours have passed then we view the clock and it is only ten minutes. When in a waiting room the world seems to come to halt– time slows almost to a stand still!

When the Bible extols us to “Wait upon the Lord”, we find if painfully difficult We live in a world where waiting is a rare phenomena. Waiting in line, people cut in. Waiting on the phone with the same tedious tune being played causes our blood pressure to rise as well as our phone bills. Why wait when we can have it now? Credit, fast food….we want it now but sometimes we just can’t have it now. Waiting is hard. The news for a test result, for health to improve, waiting for Mr or Mrs Right, the weight to drop off or go up.

When struggling with waiting may I encourage you to look at the life of Elizabeth and Zechariah, who encourage us to look to God and to remember that those who wait will mount up with wings like eagles. Dear friend, in your waiting may you know the God of hope.

The word gospel actually means “good news”. How fitting that is as we remember our responses to the cry “this is the gospel of Christ” and we respond “Glory to Christ our Saviour”

Prayer

I wait and look for you in my life.
I wait longing for the news I desperately want to hear.
I wait in desperation.
Help me to remember that “your grace is sufficient for me” that all I cling to I can lay at your feet. So I lay it down, my tears, my fears .. my all. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We remember all who wait.

For all whose waiting will bring joy.

For those whose waiting will bring sorrow.

We pray that all will know God’s patience and love.

Saturday 18 December - What shall i do?

2010-12-17T22:19:00.005Z

What shall I do?

Readings - Jeremiah 23:5-8, Psalm 117 and Matthew 1:18-25

“Joseph woke, he did what the angel said”

Reflection
Joseph has a decision to make and it is not an easy one. He saw what could be his new family, Mary the one to whom he was betrothed and her extended family including the deeply religions Zechariah. It was all looking wonderful when suddenly it all changed.

Mary had just returned form visiting Zechariah a true and deeply religious man when Joseph found out she was with child. What would Zechariah had said? If he accepted Mary’s account of things then why not Joseph. But it is difficult when you are the one directly involved - all advice is great, but in the end it is down to you.

Then Joseph has a revelation that changes everything. He sees something of the bigger picture. This child’s family is wider than he could ever imagine—this family involves you and me and heirs of God’s kingdom. It is no longer about genes it is about Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross for we are all one in God’s eyes.

Our dilemmas are seldom resolved by divine intervention—at least not an angel Gabriel kind. We reflect, we pray, we ponder and seek advice then take action. If we honestly follow a process of surrendering to God then we can be at peace—even if the decision turns out to be wrong. We can comfort ourselves and be assured of God’s blessing if we can say “we made the best and most honest decision with the knowledge we had at the time.

Prayer
God forgive me for promises and commitments broken.
Often the spirit is willing but the flesh is week.
Help me to forgive others who have broken their promise to me.
May I be like Joseph willing to be obedient to your voice. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all who receive unexpected and life changing news. News of joy and also that of despair. May Our God bless and direct them.

Friday 17 December - It's just a list or is it?

2010-12-15T23:10:00.003Z

It's just a list or is it?

“The Lord has established his throne in heaven” Psalm 103:19

Readings - Genesis 49:2, 8-10, Psalm 103 and Matthew 1:1-17

Reflection
Do you avoid it? Reading the Genealogy of Jesus? It’s rare, in fact I can safely say, that I have never heard this read at a nine lessons or carol service.
Family tree investigation is a growing phenomenon. There are a number of websites, courses, books to help you track down your ancestors, who they are, where they lived and other relevant information in relation to your family history. The television programme “Who do you think you are?” illustrates this even further as delving into the past of famous people releases unknown information.

The first century Christian converts were also curious about the genealogy of Jesus. Both Matthew and Luke present it in their gospel narratives. Listeners to the gospel may easily switch off to the long list of names. But there are three striking things about these readings.

Firstly, it reminds us of the humanity of Jesus. Like each of us Jesus had a human history, all who fought and loved, sinned and repented, were faithful and unfaithful to the religion of Israel. Secondly, Jesus’ bloodline was not pure. It involved many characters involving people who broke promises, were prostitutes, adulterers, idolaters and corrupt. Not a pretty picture but Jesus is “one like us in all things except sin”. Finally, it is Joseph’s line that we trace not Marys - God’s fulfilment and the willingness of Joseph and Mary. Nothing is insignificant—not with God
involved.

Prayer

Comforting and restoring God help me again to sing your praise.

Help me to learn from past, embrace the present and hope in the future. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for whom Christmas brings on peace on earth. For those who this year have been broken by relationships with others. We remember all Pastoral visitors who seek to draw near to others.

Thursday 16 December - For Everybody

2010-12-15T23:06:00.003Z

For Everybody

Readings - Isaiah 56, 1-3, 6-8, Psalm 67 and John 5:33-36

“Do what is right” Isaiah 56:1

Reflection

Inclusiveness. We don't want to see anyone excluded from our communities and our churches—do we? The reading from Isaiah is a strong proclamation of a desire for inclusiveness and not exclusion. For God’s house is a “house of prayer for all peoples” (Isaiah 56:7). This would be a really hard thing for the Jews to accept as they had come to the realisation that they were the only ones to receive God’s favour. But now they were being required to expand their ideas, their vision and their understanding of what was required of them.

Do our church decisions, policies and procedures exclude others within and outside of our church? Some Christians and churches see themselves as the only ones who will be saved - they exclude others. Is this what the “gospel”, which is translated as “good news” actually means? Whilst we continue to have division in our churches, locally,nationally and world wide how can we be “partners of the gospel?” (Philippians 1)

As we approach a time when shepherds and kings, religious and non-religious witnessed the birth of Jesus—may we openly welcome and beckon others to draw near. Then we will know what a true house of prayer can achieve.

Prayer
Welcoming God
I come as stranger yet as friend to you.
There is much I seek to know about you, yet the more I know the more I fail to understand.
May I willingly extend my hand in friendship to others, those similar and those different to me. May I share with them a journey of life and faith.
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We remember those seeking a place of acceptance in out town, churches and streets.

We pray for all who feel judged and ignored by others. We pray for our churches and our call to spread the gospel to all people.

Wednesday 15 December - Change?

2010-12-15T00:15:00.002Z

Change?

Readings - Isaiah 54:1-10, Psalm 30 and 1 John 4:7-8

“My unfailing love for you will not be shaken” Isaiah 54:10

Reflection

What a tender passage we find in Isaiah, God has allowed the Babylonians to conquer the Israelites and take them captive. Yet now we see the king of Babylon allowing them to return to him no longer will “Israel” be barren, but fruitful. She has learned through suffering. God reveals “a change of heart” that after “a brief abandoning” God will take them back.

The question of God changing is perhaps a constant mystery. Does God change? God’s love, tender and mercy never does. God does not abandon - God never says “I give up”. Instead tenderness, mercy and love are ours. Signs of which we see constantly in each other, even those who we struggle will. God’s love is constant.

John Henry Newman suggests “to live is to change and to be perfect is to have changed often.” If this perfection is a humble, gentle, patient love of God and our neighbour, if it is ruling our tempers, actions and words (as perhaps is
indicated by John Wesley’s teaching on Christian perfection) then maybe we do need to change.

As we journey towards the stable do you need a genuine reconciliation with God and others? As you consider this may you also rejoice in God’s mercy whose love is
everlasting.

Prayer

God in whom I live and move and have my being, come teach me that you have made me your own.
You are not far from me, show yourself to me again this day.
That as you reveal yourself to me in Love I may reveal that Love to others. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all who have shown us Christ and revealed your truth. We remember our church community that we may be inspired in new and bold ways to show your love.

We pray for a fresh vision as we look ahead to changing times in the life of the church.

Tuesday 14 December - The List

2010-12-13T23:55:00.003Z

The List

Readings - Psalm 96, Matthew 2 and Ephesians 3: 1-13

“The giver not the gift”

Reflection

Have you made a list and posted it to Greenland? Are you frequently asked “what would you like?” when all along you have what you need. I wonder what you feel about the list below.

"Christmas gift suggestions: To your enemy, forgiveness. To an opponent, tolerance. To a friend, your heart. To a customer, service. To all, charity. To every child, a good example. To yourself, respect." - Oren Arnold

The gift I can give to another need not be costly in world terms. A moment of my time to show I care, the long overdue phone call or letter as a reminder that the other is in our hearts. Within these gifts we find the essence of joy because of the spirit in the which the gifts are given And what of the gifts we receive? The ones we are uncomfortable with—the ones that don’t quite fit. I am sure some go to EBay or even dare I suggest the next church fayre. What of the ones which reach out in reconciliation and friendship? Are we as quick to dismiss them as we do the unwanted box of hankies.

Are we generous with the gifts that have been given to us, seeing ourselves as stewards and not owners? Are we reverent of others, their ideas and needs, and of creation? These and other questions can be light in our Advent by which we may search the deep, dark corners of our hearts.

Prayer
Lord, forgive me when I doubt your voice,
forgive my unreadiness to receive you,
make me attentive to your word and help me prepare your way. Your way in my heart and your way in the lives of others. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all young people and children, our local schools and those involved in youth and children activities in our local churches.

Monday 13 December - Rejoicing

2010-12-13T23:51:00.003Z

Rejoicing

Readings - Zephaniah 3:1-2, 9-18 Psalm 34 and Matthew 21:28-32

“Repent and believe” Matthew 21:32

Reflection

Yesterday, the third Sunday in Advent, is considered by some to be Gaudete Sunday. The word "gaudete" comes from the imperative form of the Latin verb "gaudeo," which means to rejoice or take delight in. In Latin, the imperative form of a verb is a direct command. The third candle (the pink candle in some traditions) extols us to
“rejoice”.

At the time of Zephaniah, the worship of false gods and the immorality that accompanied this worship had corrupted Jerusalem. The text preceding this joyful reading is a prophecy of God's punishment and judgment. It is so easy to become discouraged by all that happens around us that if we are not careful our attitudes and lives can mirror those of the world and not of God.

When did you last speak praise of God in your prayer time? When was the last time your prayer time was full of thankfulness rather than prayer of petition? Have you tried thanking God for the person that constantly frustrates and hurts you?
When we come before God in repentance seeking a change within us - the response is not just one of acceptance but that of deep joy. God rejoices over us. God rejoices over us with singing - Zephaniah 3:14.

Prayer
Almighty God,
In humility and in my humanness
I simply offer myself to you.
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for those who are worried and anxious. For those who are hurt by waiting for news.
We remember those who cannot rejoice.

Sunday 12 December - I See Him

2010-12-08T15:05:00.006Z

I See Him

Readings - Numbers 24:2-7, 15-17, Psalm 123 and Matthew 21: 23-27

“I see him , but not now.” Numbers 24:17

Reflection

The Israelites have moved into the promised land, and are occupying more of it. The neighbours, the Moabites led by their King Balak, are becoming increasingly alarmed that these newcomers are pushing them out. Summoning the prophet Balaam they order him to curse the Israelites. God intervenes and speaks to Balaam saying he has blessed them and he must not curse them. King Balak then seeks to influence Balaam by offering him gifts to curse the Israelites and his response is to use the words of God and then to add his own. “The Lord is near and a star advances” suggests Balaam.

What a gentle reminder mid way through our Advent journey, that Christ’s coming draws near. Balaam, a pagan had some knowledge of God and spoke what God wished him to speak.

May our words speak God’s truth , may our eyes see God working and may we respond by following God in holiness and obedience.

Prayer

Faithful God,
Prophets called your people to make a road through the desert, fit for a king.
They were called to prepare a way for your coming God I want to travel towards Bethlehem not out of tradition or expectation but with a desire for a fresh experience of your love.
Help me to travel with a willing heart.
Help me to lay down all that would hinder me from drawing closer to you this Christmas.
Help me to clear the way so that my life journey may lead me closer to you.
Help me to see you in a variety of places and may I never limit you. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for teachers, local preachers, worship leaders, support workers and ministers that this season all may resound “let it be to me according to your will”

Saturday 11 December - Pointing to God

2010-12-08T14:57:00.008Z

Pointing to God

Readings - Psalm 126 and Matthew 17:9-13

“The Lord has done great things for us” Psalm 126:3

Reflection

At one of the local hospitals there is a sign on the grounds which points people to “mino njuries.” Fortunately you can work out the missing letters and figure out what it is saying and get directed to the right place. But what happens when you miss the clues? When it doesn’t make sense and you cannot find your way?

Matthews reading follows Jesus’ transfiguration. A common belief among Jews was that Elijah would pave the way to the Messiah (Malachi 3:23). Have you ever heard people say something like?

I became a Christian because I saw others (my friends, my partner, my child or work colleagues) living out their faith in a convincing way.
I quit church because of how I saw people treating others….it didn’t make sense.

So many people throughout our lives have pointed us to Christ. Whether it is our intention or not our words and a actions reveal God to others - or do they? Do we point others Christ or do we confuse people? Do our actions betray the faith we have or allow others to be guided to God? It is our choice.

Prayer

Christ has no body now on earth but yours,
no feet but yours, no hands but yours.
Yours are the eyes through which the compassion
of Christ is to look out on a hurting world.
Yours are the feet with which he is to go about doing good.
Yours are the hands with which he is to bless all now. Teresa of Avila

Holy God may my life, my words and my actions point others to the miracle of your coming. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for those who rush around unable to be still because of the demands of others. Grant them peace.

We pray and give thanks for who have pointed us to Jesus.

We pray for opportunities of revealing Christ’s love to others

Friday 10 December - Pleasing Everyone

2010-12-08T14:51:00.007Z

Pleasing Everyone

Readings - Isaiah 48:17-19, Psalm 1:1-6, Matthew 11:16-19

“If only you had paid attention to my commands”

Reflection

It’s hard to please everyone. You just cannot do it. But should we try? Does our own happiness rely on the happiness of others. If that is so, then we are probably at a hiding to nothing!

Isaiah tells us about our priorities “If only had paid attention to my commands.” Have you ever experienced that despair when we have ignored a warning sign, not followed the instructions and things have gone wrong.

Mother Teresa, one who showed the compassion of God in dramatic ways in the down trodden streets of Calcutta says, “It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you...yes, it is Christmas every time you smile at your sister and brother and offer them your hand”

God commands us to love. Not to worry about pleasing others - simply to love them - to bring the spirit of Christmas into our world.

Prayer

God of forgiveness,
I turn to you in my weakness and humanness and seek your help.

Let me feel the joy growing in my heart as I anticipate your coming.
I hear the message of the prophets of old and know that the Messiah will bring
new life and new ways of living.

From the humbleness of my life, help me to grow and bloom
and hear the words that will change the world. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for our neighbours whose names we do not know. May we reveal your presence by our words and actions.

Thursday 9 December - Do not be afraid

2010-12-08T14:43:00.005Z

Do not be afraid

Readings - Isaiah 41:13-20, Psalm 145:1, 9-13 Matthew 11:11-15

"So do not fear, for I am with you” Isaiah 41: 10

Reflection
Are you afraid of anything? Some of the more uncommon phobias are Pagophobia (fear of ice or frost), Papaphobia (fear of the Pope), Rhytiphobia (fear of getting wrinkles) and Syngenesophobia (fear of relatives) - maybe a common one! Perhaps we don’t identify with these particular type of phobias but we have our own.

Fear is a common human emotion - we have all experienced it. I still smile when I hear the readings of the angels’ greeting in those circumstances “don’t be afraid”. It is probably one of the first emotions we would possibly feel. A blaze of light in front of us, such noise that we have never heard of before - I’d be afraid. Then I may well remember what Mary was asked to do and I would be even more afraid.

But just as God gave Mary the strength and endurance for her task, so God will give to us the resources we need when we follow God’s way.

Prayers

Lord of all, you are a God who provides for me in my need.
As I travel through Advent help me to believe that you know what I need.
Give me the courage to listen to your voice and the freedom
to open my heart to the graces you are offering.
For the moments of fear in my life, enable me to trust in your goodness.
When I feel I can endure no longer the stresses of this world help me to look to you.
O God you are the author and perfecter of my faith.
May I remain and abide in you forever
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for those who suffer for their faith that they may know God’s
strength through the encouragement of the gospel.

Wednesday 8 December - Look Up

2010-12-07T10:16:00.006Z

Look Up

Readings - Isaiah 40:23-32, Psalm 8 and Matthew 11:25-30

"How majestic is your name in all the earth” Psalm 8:9

Reflection
In the reading from Isaiah we hear God speaking directly and is speaking about the stars. “Lift up your eyes on high” God says “ see who has created these things.”
There has been a recent surge in buying people unusual gifts. You can now buy a star—how lovely. Registering with a company you can point to the heavens that God formed and created—the stars of the handiwork of God. You can point and say that is my star? How does that work? Who has the rights to the universe—the billions and billions of stars in the universe which God has named and we just re-name them.
God reminds us that he creates, that nothing is missing. Then after seeing his glory we are reminded that God does not grow weary, he never forgets and he renews our strength.

Let us centre ourselves each day in prayer that we may be reminded that Jesus promises us rest when we come to him. When we come in stillness, in praise, in sorrow, in communion, in reading the word, in prayer.. When we come—he gives rest. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” Matthew 11:28

Prayer
Comforting God
May I know your rest in weariness, strength in adversity and patience when frustrated.
Shine in the dark places of this world
You are the Light of the world
Where there's hatred, shine love
Where there's injury, shine healing
Where there's darkness, shine light Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all who respond to your call to follow you.
For those exhausted and weary through service - give them rest.
For those ill and afraid -give them peace.

Tuesday 7 December - Pondering

2010-12-07T10:12:00.005Z

Pondering

“Mary pondered on all these things in he heart” Luke 1

Readings - Genesis 3:9-15, 20, Psalm 98, Luke 1:26-38 and 2:19 Luke 1:26-38

Reflection
Have you ever pondered what Mary was pondering? What did Mary know of the Old Testament prophecies spoken of her child. We receive the classic Christmas cards of an adoring Mary gazing on the face of an angelic baby, being meek and mild, and we sing “no crying he makes!” In my experience every baby cries! As she watched her baby sleep was she thinking about the world being turned upside down with those who are last being first and the first being last. Did she consider this baby a revolutionary as well as a King? Something for us to ponder. Have we adapted God and Jesus to conform to our own mould or are our views as radical as Mary’s. We will read later in this booklet about Mary’s response of lifting the lowly and helping the poor. That is radical. We don’t get Christmas cards with images portraying the hungry being filled, the rich being sent away empty handed.

What did Mary ponder? As she and Joseph took flight as the mighty slaughtered the innocent, and as she gazed at the one who would turn the world upside down. What did she ponder?

When he healed, raised the dead, restored and forgave, when he stumbled to the cross and died—what did she ponder? “Mary pondered all these things in her heart” - will you?

Prayer
Loving God, the angel told the Virgin Mary that she was to be the mother of your Son.
Though Mary was afraid, she responded to your call with joy.
Help me, whom you call to serve you, to share like her in your great work of bringing to our world your love and healing. In Jesus’ name Amen.

Additional Prayer Ideas
We remember those to ill or stressed to ponder.
We pray for those whose energy is sapped by waking each day.

Monday 6 December - Tested to the Limit

2010-12-04T23:00:00.010Z

Tested to the Limit

“These are the treasures of God” St Lawrence

Readings - Isaiah 35:1-10, Psalm 85 and Luke 5:17-26

Reflection

Helping my niece recently with her homework we investigated the life and death of St Lawrence. Martyred for helping the poor and those who were disabled. Prior to his death he was persecuted and killed for distributing the “church treasures” for which he was given responsibility, whilst serving under Pope Sixtus II. He was given three days to sort things out. When after the three days he stood in front of the Roman Court with the poor and disabled, proclaiming that these precious people were the “treasures of God,” he was tortured and killed. On the 10 August the Church commemorates the life of Lawrence.

Isaiah reminds us in his prophecy of those in exile in Babylon who were depressed and bitter. Some even questioned if God actually exists. They cry out “if he does then why does he not help us? Isaiah’s words ring out “Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way (v3)”

Perhaps we have uttered the phrase “my faith is being tested” or “ I feel that God is giving me more than I can handle” or like the Israelites we may feel we are in exile in a environment where we struggle to find comfort and friendship. When these moments come do not be surprised - we are human but God gives strength. “Be Strong, fear not. Here is your God” (v4) Yes we are tested. Yes we have doubts. But always behold Emmanuel - God is with us.

Prayer
God of light—Give us freedom to walk in the footsteps of Jesus.
Let our light shine out for all to see by turning to those who call for our help.
Heal our world. Heal our past.
Heal our community and churches. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for those who respond to Gods call to work in our communities and in our world.

We remember those who sacrifice their lives for others.

Sunday 5 December - Shh

2010-12-04T22:46:00.008Z

Shh

“Be Still and know….”Psalm 46:10

Readings - 1 Kings 19:11-13, Psalm 46, Mark 1: 35-39

Reflection

‘The Big Silence’, a programme recently broadcast on BBC revealed a fascinating insight into the impact that silence can have in our lives. Five individuals representing different outlooks on life, occupations and ages descended on St Buenos in North Wales for an 8 day silent retreat. With the exception of talking to their spiritual director each day they were expected to maintain complete silence.

Did they do it? Well some of them did - others initially used mobile phones or talked together. At the outset all but one said they did not have any kind of relationship with God. Yet by the end each had experienced something of God. They got in touch with their lives, their past, present and future in a new way. It was a very moving to see people embrace stillness and to have an opportunity to listen to and speak with God.

Mark’s gospel reminds us that Jesus frequently went and found a solitary place to spend time with God. Do we? When was the last time you found a time of stillness and quiet - a time when you could hear the tender whisper of God. May your soul be still and may you know that God is with you.

Prayer

Lord God, only you can see into my heart and know that under all the busyness of my life, there is a deep longing to make this Advent one that welcomes you more deeply into my own life.

As I reflect on this first week of Advent may I look ahead with an eager
expectation of seeing you in my world and hearing your word in my life.
Help me to be a peacemaker this Advent and to give special love to those who disagree with me.

Give me the strength and courage to forgive those who have hurt me.
Help me to free my heart from the prison of my anger and hurt.
In the name of Christ. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for those who are fearful of silence because of memories that flood their being.
We remember those whose lives scream out for silence - silence and stillness from the everyday life.

Saturday 4 December - Care for the Caregivers

2010-12-03T22:52:00.000Z

Care for the Caregivers

“This is the way, walk in it” Isaiah 30:21

Readings - Isaiah 30:19-26, Psalm 147: and Matthew 9:35—10:1, 5-8

Reflection
The gospel reading of Matthew shows Jesus looked out over the crowd, and “his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd.” The Greek translation is dramatic “his intestines were stirred up” - he had a gut reaction as he looked and saw the people. The very people God sent him to care for, the very people he was to die for. And he cared right up to his final sacrifice—his own life.

Many people, moved with pity for those they love, become part time of full time carers. Let us pray today for those carer—that God will strengthen them and care for them as they walk in their chosen way.

And if you are one of those carers - thank you for your steadfastness, gentleness, patience and kindness. As you have given tirelessly to others, may God bless you mightily today.

Prayer
Gracious God,
Send me your grace this Advent so that I can prepare for your coming.
Touch my heart with longing so that I can better love and serve you and others.
Fill me with hope so that I can be transformed by your Spirit and so help to transform the world.
Give me peace of knowing that you came to share our human life and redeem us.
I remember those who care for others, may they know your strength.
May I also reach out to another person and show your compassion
In the name of Jesus I pray
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for those who live, work and socialise with.
May the hope of Advent be present in our conversations and actions with
others.

Friday 3 December - A Greater Healing

2010-12-02T23:00:00.007Z

A Greater Healing

“Have Mercy on us, Son of David” Matthew 9:27

Readings - Isaiah 29:17-24, Psalm 27 and Matthew 9:27-31

Reflection
The readings are wonderful. They sound amazing, perhaps almost too good to be true. A blind man healed, an orchard turned into a forest, moral evils checked with the unjust condemned and the tyrants and the arrogant gone.
In addition freedom from shame and all honouring God. If only these things could happen today.

We look around the world and we ask deep questions of life. Why are they starving? Why does evil spread? What is wrong with this world? The prophecies spoken point to a world to come. To a hope. To a dream. Don’t we all dream? Maybe our dreams are limited to spending the Euro millions each week. Do you believe God can do immeasurably more than we dare dream? The manger tells us God can and God does.

Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador sought to help and defend the poor. It didn’t start that way, yet as his eyes, heart, mind and spirit were opened to the situation in his country he became a mighty defender of others. So dangerous was he considered by others that he was murdered by authorities whilst saying Mass. His words of freedom echo thy cry of Isaiah, Mary and Jesus. Words spoken turning things upside down. The lowly - exalted; the poor - rejoicing; those mourning - blessed and comforted. Let our dreams be God’s dreams for nothing is impossible with God.

Prayer
Lord God, Sometimes I am so blinded by the world that I fail to see you working.
Forgive me for the missed opportunities of rejoicing when I do not notice you.
In my struggles with life may I know your presence. Help me to grow in faith, that as I gaze on your presence I may truly see you. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray that we may see the needs of others, even unspoken and hidden. We pray we may see with the eyes of God and respond in a way that brings honour and delight to God

Thursday 2 December - Would you Pass?

2010-12-01T21:04:00.004Z

Would you Pass?

“God’s love endures for ever” Psalm 118

Readings - Isaiah 26:1-6, Psalm 118 and Matthew 7:21-29

Reflection
Have you ever arranged an MOT? If you are a driver of an older vehicle the answer should be yes. How about a physical MOT? A health update where we are checked over. If not a vehicle or health, how about an annual check of gas or our electrics. Some things in our lives have to have the once over occasionally - so how about a spiritual MOT?

When was the last time you examined your prayer life, your spiritual discipline of reading God’s word. When did you last examine your giving of time and resources? When was the last time you were still and quiet in God’s presence? A day, a week, month or years? Do we avoid this? Not have time for it? Not see it as a priority?

Do we spend more energy on the physical world than our spiritual world? The foundations of our lives and faith need to be strong to withstand the storms of life. Yet too often, we busy ourselves with the external decoration. Advent is an excellent time to take stock.

Prayer

Help me O God to examine myself in the light of your mercy.
Give me patience and faithfulness to except the joys and delights which you offer.
Give me the willingness to embrace the changes I need to make to become more like Jesus.

Quiet my soul O God.
Renew me O God
Create in me a clean heart O God.
In the name of Jesus. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas

We pray for all who have shown us Christ and revealed your truth. We remember our church community that we may be inspired in new and bold ways to show your love.

Wednesday 1 December - Catching our Tears

2010-11-30T23:10:00.002Z

Catching Our Tears

“You anoint my head with oil, my cup overflows” Psalm 23:5

Readings - Isaiah 25:6-10, Psalm 23 and Matthew 15: 29-37

Reflection

God cares about us—our concerns are God’s concerns. Isaiah tells us that our cries will be wiped away. It reminds us of the reading from Revelation in Chapter 21 where a comforting word tells us that God will wipe away our tears from our eyes.

God promised through Isaiah a new earth, a new kingdom and comfort shown through the coming of Jesus. God promises in Revelation to wipe away the tears from every eye and bring in a new kingdom and a new earth at Jesus’ second coming.

Jesus’ first and second comings reveal the fullness of God and Gods kingdom in our lives and in the world. We touch the kingdom of God here and now – each time we acknowledge by word and action that God is the ruler in our lives. We touch the kingdom of God in this season of Advent as we reflect on the wonder of God’s plan. And we hold in our hearts the hope of touching the kingdom of God in its full reality at some point in our future.

Prayer
Comforting and strengthening God.
Grant me insight and faith to recognise the signs of your kingdom here on earth.
Help me to be a faithful member of your kingdom, serving you with heart and soul.
For yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory
Forever and ever
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all who face difficult challenges in life.
Transforming God help, comfort and lead us as we offer ourselves to you

Tuesday 30 November - Out of Dryness

2010-11-29T23:08:00.004Z

Out of Dryness

"May Righteousness Flourish”

Readings - Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72 and Luke 10:21-24

Reflection
“A shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse.” On the whole we do not expect growth from stumps—they are dry, barren and rootless. We dig them up and throw them away. But we have probably all seen a tree stump sprouting new life, new growth in defiance of the axe.

When we feel discouraged and empty, cut down and squashed may we remember that new shoots are always possible even from the most barren of situations. And for this growth roots are critical. Our roots are critical. This Advent let us care for our roots, feeding off the good soil of prayer and the written word as we wait to celebrate the arrival of the living word.

This living word arrived in the most ordinary of situations. Was he the only baby born in Bethlehem? Were the holy family the only family without room for the night? For all but his final three years, Jesus was content with an “ordinary” life.

Learning a skill, being a good family member, learning about his religious heritage—his roots. But it is impossible to believe that in this ordinariness Jesus did not find the presence of God. We too, can catch glimpses of God in the ordinariness of our own lives.

Prayer
Help me, Loving God, to stand bravely before this changing world and to see the shoots of life in everyday.
Help me to grow my roots deeply into your love.
In my despair may I find your hope.
In my darkness may I see your light.
In my loneliness may I know your presence.

The Lord’s Prayer.

In the name of Christ Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all who seek to find meaning in their lives.
We remember those whose family relationshipsare strained and un co-operative.

For pray for all who struggle with issues of self esteem.

Monday 29 November - Hands to Reach Out

2010-11-28T22:29:00.003Z

Hands to Reach out

"Swords into Ploughshares” Isaiah 2:4

Readings - Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122 and Matthew 8:5-11

Reflection

In 1965 Pope Paul VI visited the United States of America for the first time and spoke at the United Nations. Making an impassioned appeal for peace he asked for an end to warfare. Before the gathered assembly and with the world listening he pleaded “let the weapons fall from our hands...you cannot love with weapons in you hands.”

Isaiah dreams of those who will “beat their swords into ploughshares and spears into pruning hooks.” Rather than war they will be called to cultivate land to provide for others. What a challenge for us today. Rightly so, we are called to challenge injustice and liberate the oppressed- we are called to fulfil the request to ensure liberty for all.

How can we offer the hand of friendship when our hands and lives are full with all that can divide? We may not carry spears and swords but the hands that should reach out to heal all to often become fists of anger and resentment. The hands that could reach out in concern are full of the pressures of our lives—this Advent what can we lay down so that we may reach out.

Prayer
Redeeming God,
May I surrender myself to you this day.
As I offer my plans, my dreams and ambitions, my anxieties and my fears may I be fully open to the prompting of your Spirit.
Help me, O God, to embrace this Advent and to use it as a time to expand and transform my life.
Help me, O God, to look for ways of cultivating my relationship with you and with others. Give me opportunities to show your grace and your mercy.
In your name I pray.
Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all who are caught up in the
conflicts of this world. For those too scarred and scared to leave their homes. For those serving in armed forces and aid organisations. May they know Gods peace.

Sunday 28 December - Advent 1 - A Spiritual Advent

2010-11-27T21:46:00.005Z

A Spiritual Advent

"To you O Lord, I lift up my Soul—Psalm 25:1"

Readings - Jeremiah 33:12-16, Psalm 25 and Luke 21:25-28

Reflection

Advent (from the Latin word adventus, meaning "coming") is considered to be the beginning of the Church Year for most churches in the Western tradition. It begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Day, which is the Sunday nearest November 30, and ends on Christmas Eve (Dec 24). If Christmas Eve is a Sunday, it is counted as the fourth Sunday of Advent, with Christmas Eve proper beginning at sundown
Advent is also a spiritual journey that Christians take, through the truths of Scripture that point to the birth of Messiah, to a reaffirmation that he has come, is present in the world today and will come again in glory. It mirrors the journey of faith that Christians make after that moment of realisation and acceptance of who Jesus is, in that we take that first step of faith in commitment, continue hopefully to walk the road of faith and increasing understanding, and look forward to our destination, which is to be in his presence forever!

May you be more fully aware of God as you journey through Advent.

Prayer
Loving God. As I enter this Advent season,
open my eyes to see in new ways the delight and wonder of your love.
In the darkness help me to see the promise of light and peace.
In the cry of the hungry help me see the possibility of a world where all are fed.
In my own yearnings and weakness help me to see the hope of Christ.
And in the eager anticipation of the coming of Jesus, may
I embrace the dawn of a new heaven and a new earth. Amen

Additional Prayer Ideas
We pray for all in our churches-those we meet through our weekly activities.
May we may reveal the light of Christ to them this Advent.

Advent Preparation

2010-11-27T21:42:00.004Z

We often miss the power of Advent because, for so often, we are consumed by the demands of December. For many these demands mean additional busyness, for some - family pressures, yet for others the lead up to, and the season of Christmas, bring a loneliness rarely acknowledged and recognised by the busy world around us. The busyness may lead us to be distracted from having an Advent season that truly prepares us for the celebration of Christmas, with all its meaning.

The reflections which will follow over the next 4 weeks offer daily thoughts, prayers and meditations for Advent. I hope you will find the resource simple and friendly, challenging yet encouraging.

There is no need to rush or to do anything. It encourages you to “be” - to be the person God cherishes—for you to be yourself.

Advent is almost countercultural—the secular world around us is focused on buying and selling, rushing and worrying. It is one of the most stressful times of the year—guilt abounds in relation to visits, gifts:- “did I give as good as I got?”. “Did I invite the right people or miss someone out?” “Do I send a card to them? They didn’t send me one last year!” So much guilt and fear as we celebrate the birth of one who came to take away our guilt and fear.

What better time than Advent for us to become more aware of Christ’s coming to us. May each day of this Advent draw us more fully towards God with a renewed appreciation of Jesus’ presence in our lives.

Stillness

2010-08-18T22:04:00.006+01:00

What does stillness sound like? How does it smell? A random question I suppose but nonetheless an important one. Important as stillness involves everything about us.

For some stillness and silence is to be avoided. As though the very thought is deafening. For others it is but a dream and hope and even for others a place they long to escape from.

What is stillness?

The psalmist extols us to "Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10) is this where God is? I wonder if in today's vocabulary we would use the phrase "chill out."
Though the phrase chill out can have negative connotations of telling someone to "calm down" or "stop blowing a gasket" to ease someones temper and our own avoidance of dealing with a situation.

Perhaps the command “be still” — forces us to think that we are finite, and that God is infinite. If that is the case for us then, can we relax in God's presence and allow God to be .... to be God?

So where do we run to for stillness? Where is the safe haven or safe place to hide? If you were running for your life where would you run too?

What stillness and silence has taught me is that our lives are useable by God. We do not always have to be doing, or effective, or successful (what success is? because that measure changes everyday)just transparent, open and vulnerable. It is then that God takes it from there. God being creator, sustainer, redeemer, healer, lover and much more....

So may we find a moment to "Be Still, and Know thatI am God" Psalm 46

For God’s past provides calm for our future.

Do you remember?

2010-04-02T21:23:00.002+01:00

Readings from the Good Friday Service this morning at Bold Street Methodist Mission.

Do you remember a man who had dreams of what might be:
that people would be set free from ideas and images about God that enslaved them?

Do you remember a man who had his moments of breakthrough,
when it must have seemed his dream was being realised:
the times people really listened and responded,
the men and women who were prepared to walk with him and support him?

Do you remember a man who learned of the cruel death of his cousin? He got into a boat, seeking a lonely place, where he could be with his friends to absorb the shock, to grieve quietly, and to calm the feelings of powerlessness and frustration and fear for his own future.

I wonder what he prayed about that night?
I wonder what helped him leave that lonely place and go forward to confront life, rather than retreat into isolation and safety?

Do you remember a man whose dream was shattered:
who broke down and cried over what could have been,
who knew the pain of failure and powerlessness,
who knew what it was like to feel broken and terribly alone?

Do you remember a man who knew he was going to die:
who gathered with his friends knowing it was for the last time,
who spoke to them about what he really believed,
who wanted them to remember him and to keep his dream alive?

Do you remember? Do you remember?

Yes God I remember.

I remember a man called to serve
I remember a man enthused to serve others
I remember a man who wept over a friend
I remember a man who touched and healed
I remember a man human like me
I remember a testament to love.

I remember.

I remember.

Do you remember a man crucified?
He was abandoned by his friends, taunted, despised,enduring a shameful and agonising death.

Do you remember a man who turned to another,even with his last breath to speak words of comfort and assurance?

Do you remember a man who looked upon his own beloved Mother, with a gaze reminding her of a stable and a promise of “let it be to me according to your will”?

Do you remember? Do you remember?

Yes God. I remember

I remember the word made flesh
I remember a man whose faith in all he believed was tested to the limit.
I remember Jesus the expression of God’s love.
I remember Jesus.

I remember
I remember

We remember all of this

First time ever.....

2010-03-18T22:43:00.004Z

Well for the first time I have done it. It caught my attention, I was interested, I sought, pursued and got it.... Yes there it was advertised on TV - this wonderful new desert and so off I went to a local, well known supermarket, asked an assistant for help and purchased the product - well to be honest 6 of them.

So the advertising worked. It caught the attention of my taste buds and I responded. Well done to the advertisers.

So what do we advertise? What message do we portray by our actions and words. Ephesians 5:1 commands us to be imitators of Christ and scripture provides many examples of what we need to do in order to be imitators. How are we doing on the following?

Loving your neighbour (even those who park in your space)
Visiting the imprisoned
Setting captives free
Healing others
Feeding the hungry
Forgiving and accepting forgiveness
Allowing others to care for us whilst we care for others
Going the second mile.. the list in endless

How are we doing? I know I can do much much better.

Credited to Francis of Assisi the phrase “Preach the gospel at all times. Use words if necessary.” reminds us how we can reveal Gods love to others by who we are and what we do (along with what we say) - also by things we don't do and say.

In Acts 4:13 we read "Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus." The scribes and pharisees (religious folk) were academically intelligent people. Having heard the apostles speak with such authority, boldness and conviction they discovered the reason for this boldness. Clearly, not a result of their education, given that Peter and Johns education focused on the craft of fishing. No, their boldness was not from the self-sufficiency of knowledge, but from the Spirit of the living God. Peter and John had been with Jesus and that was enough. Yes they got it wrong (Hallelujah because we all do)yet they also made a difference.

So where are we to be imitators of Christ? The answer whilst hard is simple - everywhere... workplace, home, gym, street, shops, even in church!

Let us therefore, purpose ourselves to be imitators of Jesus .. and to make a difference whilst we can. Yes we will get it wrong on this roller coaster journey of life. Sometimes we will stumble yet in these moments God can pick us up, dust us down and set us off again.

Be imitators of Jesus it can make a difference.

Brokenness

2010-02-02T00:43:00.003Z

“Melt our Cold hearts let tears fall like rain
Come change our love from a spark to a flame”
Graham Kendrick – Beauty for Brokenness

This week is Homelessness and Poverty week. Perhaps you knew maybe you did not. As we consider the needs of others are we becoming immunised and sanitised to the needs of our world and community. Images are beamed directly into our homes of broken lives and lands almost daily and I wonder "are we affected and infected by the desperation of others?" Are statistics of poverty, homelessness and brokenness mere fragments of our imagination - sadly no behind ever statistic is a person - desperate, scared, lonely and vulnerable.

It is of course hard, desperately hard, to slight the plight of others when we are broken ourselves. We avoid the issue - paint on a smile and say the words "I'm fine" whilst inside we are screaming "why don't you notice." Do we avoid because there is no support? Avoid for we feel we have failed? Avoid for being condemned and judged? How heartbreaking that is.

Henri Nouwen wrote in his book, The Return of the Prodigal Son, that "it is often difficult to believe that there is much to think, speak or write about other than brokenness". I am not sure how often I have heard this preached about or taught about in our churches - oh how we avoid it. Charles Dickens wrote "We need never be ashamed of our tears, for they are rain upon the blinding dust of earth, overlying our hard hearts".

The bible provides us with so many stories where tears have been shed.
Hannah poured out her soul to God in prayer over her barrenness. Micah wept in prayer for God’s people. Jeremiah wept in prayer over the sin and pain of God’s people.
Psalm 126:5-6 Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting. He who goes to and fro weeping, carrying his bag of seed, Shall indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him” The woman washing Jesus feet wet them with her tears, Jesus wept for his friend and there are more.

In a beautiful book "My utmost for his highest" Oswald Chambers suggests "Prayer is the falling of a tear." In that case we pray alot don't we.

Jesus, God incarnate, was the man of sorrows. Isaiah 53:3, “He was despised and forsaken of men, a man of sorrows [pain], and acquainted with grief . . . ”.
Not removed and not remote but in the midst, centre of our pain and our world.

So in our brokenness we come to worship and surrender. In our brokenness we come to the source of healing the one who shines light into our lives that we may show light through the fragments of the cracks in our lives to others. Friends may you know the healing light of God's presence.

Questions, Questions, Questions

2010-01-09T23:25:00.007Z

Can you imagine the conversation?

Jill: I just don't understand the attraction golf has for men.

Mary: Tell me about it! I went golfing with my husband one time, and he told me I asked too many questions!

Jill: Well, I'm sure you were just trying to understand the game. What questions did you ask?

Mary: I thought I asked legitimate questions...like, "Why did you hit the ball into that lake?"

There have been many funny questions asked in ministry - some more easy to answer than others. Why was Samson so strong? One child answered before I could, ‘anabolic steroids’, he said - a good answer I thought. One particular difficult question asked by a child: "Where does your lap go when you stand up?" I did manage that one ok but it makes you think! There was also the one about Jesus and the cross and a smurf (if you really want to know I will share it sometime).

Of course the major question asked by young and old alike is Why? Why has this happened? Why me? Why now? Why them? How I long to be able to provide palatable answers to such heart-wrenching questions asked in this vein, but in all honesty most answers fail to satisfy. Fail to satisfy, because nothing I can say can provide the healing, release and answer people really need at this time. What is it we want when we ask these questions,? A fix? For it all to be well? To change the course of what is happening?

So many have attempted to provide glib answers in my own past when I have asked why?
For example:

I promise it will be ok? It wasn't.
It is the cross you have to bear? Gee thanks (but I'd prefer some help to carry it).
You will be stronger for it? Brill - a good one - but at the moment .... (you can fill in your own words here.)
I will pray for you? Thanks this is great - (really) - but I could do with a hand too.
And from one couple who were, incidentally, ill themselves, “You need more faith." I simply asked them how they were and they mumbled and walked away.

In the whys of my life the most help has come from those who have shared the journey, cried along the way and have shown me Christ. No glib answers, no false promises - just an ability to be God in that situation. To point me to God who is faithful, constant and dependable - who never abandons and never disowns.

In all honesty, I have found more healing in wrestling with these questions with those who are close to me than in finding the answer I longed for. If that makes sense?
So Why? I have no idea but I will journey with you until the answer comes our way.

New Year Reflections

2009-12-31T01:07:00.003Z

So what has changed?
Throughout 2009 what has happened that has made us take stock of our lives?

Reflecting is an important activity for each of us. In taking the time to look back and consider the past, we also think of the present and hope for the future. The past is important but can we live far too much in it? This is not a criticism or a rash desire to jump on ahead without thinking about what has gone before. Of course some of what has happened to us in our lives has formed us – made us the people we are and without a doubt events of the last year contribute to who we are today.

Just a reminder though – that what we have said and done in the last year have become other people’s memories. Have you ever really contemplated that? That what we say and do impacts others not just now but becomes their memories for the future. What a responsibility we have! How wonderful to know that we can provide others with wonderful memories. And of course without really saying "negative" memories too.

So as we approach 2010 ….

What has been the highlight of the year?
Who has been the person of the year for us?
How about the moment of the year?
What could have gone better?
What can we learn from the year?
What have we achieved?

All these things form us…

What are our hopes for the next year?
What do we long for?

And in all of this - we are reminded in this Christmas and New Year season that God expressed love for us in a very dramatic way? God stooped down tenderly and picked us up and God still does the same today.

As we reflect and ask the questions of 2009 can we ask where was God? And in the year ahead where could God be? If we seek, we can find God in all things and through all things. May you have a blessed and God filled 2010.

Advent Meditation - Christmas Day

2009-12-25T01:24:00.001Z

Joy to the World , the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing

Readings
Isaiah 9:2,6-7
John 1:1-5
Galatians 4:4-7

Reflection
May you have a blessed Christmas. I hope the gifts we got for folks are well received—when did the tradition of gift giving start and why? It is difficult getting the right gift for the right person. What do you get someone that seems to have everything? The answer is…I have no idea (nothing doesn’t seem fair).
The best gift is free! It has been told in many different ways yet the best gift does not come from a shop, no queuing needed and no credit card details need be exchanged. A gift receipt is not needed. God's gift to us, in Jesus is free. God became one of us.
Today take advantage of this gift. God gave us his only Son! Perhaps this today with family and friends we will remember the gift God gave—what love. May we this day look for ways of showing that love to our family (even the ones who gave us the jumper we really would not like to wear in public) and give them little reminders of how much they are loved by us. Love your family and friends unconditionally, showing them the love that our God has shown us. Thank you God for giving us the most precious gift of all!

Prayer
We shout and sing for you have come to us
Angels dance as creation bows to the Lord of all.
God bring us Christ’s peace
Christ’s light
Christ’s love Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those we meet today – may you love radiate from us. We remember those needing to work today for the safety and care of others.

Advent Meditation - Christmas Eve

2009-12-24T00:08:00.001Z

Be near me, Lord Jesus,
I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever
And love me I pray
(Away in a Manger)

Readings
Isaiah 60:1-3
Luke 2:1-20

Reflection

A Saviour as a child…. a Saviour as vulnerable, as inconspicuous and unarmed as a child. A new-born baby cannot attack, cannot threaten, cannot kill. The world exhorts us to look up to the strongest but the birth of a child, a needy child, tells us it was not so for God. This small child will rescue, redeem, heal and restore.

We are on the very brink of the Nativity. Our sense of the power of the One coming has been stretched, challenged, recast over the last three weeks. And now the reality of that power begins to dawn more clearly. And what is astonishing about it, is that, unlike any power we know, this power is confident enough to be vulnerable. And that means confident enough in us to be vulnerable to us. What sort of power is it that allows itself to be so vulnerable? It is the power that heals, transforms and delivers— it is the power of God.

Come thou long expected Jesus. I am ready.

Prayer
Light of light, Lord of Lords and King of Kings
In excitement we approach the dawn.
Re-awaken in us the Spirit of grace and mercy that
we may receive you once again.
Bring peace to those who are in distress, peace where there is hatred. In your saving name Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for nations at war for whom Christmas is not still , silent of peaceful.
We remember our armed forces and their families particularly those who have lost loved ones through conflict.

Advent Meditation - Wednesday 23 December

2009-12-22T23:34:00.004Z

Hark! the herald angels sing,
Glory to the new-born King,
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled.
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With the angelic host proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem.”

Readings
Isaiah 11:1-9
Psalm 150
Titus 3:4-8

Reflection
When Charles Wesley wrote that Jesus came to give us second birth, he describes the greatest gift we could ever receive. We have the ability to live a life that includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Christ's coming and sacrifice meant that we all have this gift available to us. With this understanding of Jesus' birth, we are able fully to celebrate what Jesus was born to do. God was not responding to us because we had achieved a goodness that needed reward. From the heart of God comes an action that is motivated by compassion for a race that has gone very wrong and has lost its way badly. God had come among us to enable us to live in a very different way. To our shame, sin sometimes takes us by the hand and controls us in a completely destructive way. We are now to seek the things of God as a priority. We are now to become a people for God, and because of that, as the apostle Paul tells us, to “have no ambition except to do good”. We are put back on track.

Prayer
Lord Jesus light of the world
Born in David’s city of Bethlehem
Born like David to be a King
Be born in our hearts
Be king of our lives today. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for the fruit of God’s spirit to be evident in our lives and the life of the church.

Advent Meditation - Tuesday 22 December

2009-12-22T01:36:00.001Z

“The heavenly Babe you there shall find
To human view displayed,
All meanly wrapped in swathing bands,
And in a manger laid.”
(While Shepherds watched)

Readings
Psalm 23
Isaiah 42:1-9
Luke 15:1-7

Reflection
Shepherds are committed people, and by today’s standards, probably strange. After all who would leave 99 sheep to go and find the one that is lost? Who would leave all they know in search of those who have no hope and those who would wander aimlessly - who would do that? Who would leave the comfort of what is certain and
comfortable? Who would leave all they know? Who would do that?

Jesus brings a new idea of God. Our view of God is limited until this point. Jesus does not simply corroborate the notions of Greek philosophers, Hebrew rabbis and teachers of the law - he does more than that. He tells us, or better, shows us what God is like. God saw, God heard, God came and God lives.

Praise be to our God.

Prayer
Surprising God
May I, this season, again join in the adventure of seeking the Christ child.
May I again offer myself to you,
offering all I have been, all I am and all that is to come.
Praise you almighty God—for you are the same yesterday, today and forever. In you we trust.
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those aid organisations who respond to the needs of others. Provide resource, wisdom and understanding.

Advent Meditation - Monday 21 December

2009-12-20T22:04:00.004Z

Truth of our life
Mary’s child
you tell us God is good
Prove it is true
Mary’s child
Go to your cross of wood.
(Born in the night Mary's child)

Readings
Zephaniah 3:14-20
Matthew 4:17
Matthew 6:33

Reflection
Kingdom builders are history makers—moving beyond what the world says and embracing the full nature of God’s creation. Do you feel called to be a kingdom builder or history maker? Mary could have said no. Joseph could have abandoned the one he was betrothed to and walked away. But they didn’t - they said “Yes” and became part of His Story (Gods story).

We admire Mary & Joseph yet at times we do not emulate their faith journey and courage. They were ordinary lay folk called by God and equipped by the Spirit. They trusted their inner experience of God and responded - and that response took them to Bethlehem and Egypt. When they were called by God, there was no mention of them having to “clear” this with the rabbis or teachers of the law. They just responded. There was no safety net or back up plan—they heard and they went. But what would the priests have said? Would they have tried to dissuade them—we will never know. What we do know is they responded to the greatest story ever told— will you be part of it too.

Prayer
Holy God, born in the darkness of night you bring us light.
Give us grace to live and grow in the generosity of your Spirit
that when all the trappings of Christmas have gone, you remain. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for all those who give of themselves in our church and community. We pray that God would inspire and equip them.

Advent Meditation - Sunday 20 December

2009-12-19T17:31:00.002Z

Silent night! holy night!
Son of God, love’s pure light
Radiant beams from Thy holy face,
With the dawn of redeeming grace.
Jesus, Lord at Thy birth.
Jesus, Lord at Thy birth.

Readings
Psalm 46:10

Just one small reading to help us too be still.

Reflection
So we begin the final week of Advent.

In the silence of the night where do your thoughts go?

When all is quiet and you hear the ticking of the clock, the creaking of the house who and what do you think of?

Can the silent night be a holy one?

We have a few days left and it will be busy. So in the last week...
Be still and listen.

Quiet us, Lord, that we might be able to hear, over the noise of our busy lives, beyond the clutter of our Christmas preparations;

Help us to become still, even for a moment, that we might hear the herald of your angel voices: "Glory!" ... "Peace on arth" ...."Mercy".... "Reconciliation" "Joy!"
"Christ is born."

The message of the ages still rings out for those willing to listen. This is our desire. Open us that we might hear. Today ... Now.

Prayer
O lord of the silent night
you have given me my heart, mind and soul to wonder.
May I wonder again in the stillness.
Quiet us with your spirit that I may be still and know that you are God.
Amen

We pray for those who rush around unable to be still because of the demands of
others. Grant them peace.

Advent Meditation - Saturday 10 December

2009-12-19T01:21:00.001Z

For lo! the days are hastening on,
By prophets seen of old,
When with the ever-circling years
Shall come the time foretold,
When the new heaven and earth shall own
The Prince of Peace, their King,
And the whole world send back the song
Which now the angels sing.
(It came upon a midnight clear)

Readings
Jeremiah 33:14-16
2 Peter 3:8-15

Reflection
Advent is a time of anticipation. We look forward to the season with the beauty of the winter, of family gatherings and a break from the every day. Though, for multiple reasons, many do not have these positive images of the Christmas season. One thing that brings hope is that this season calls us to a higher sense of being and purpose. No matter what our images of Christmas, together we can look forward to a renewal of God's message to us: Jesus.
This passage in 2 Peter talks about looking forward to renewal with a sense of anticipation. As the reader, we are met with images of anticipation for the carrying out of God’s promises in a world where the believers were still extremely persecuted. The author reminds the early Christians that God is not forgetful; rather, God is merciful.
The early church felt the urgency to restore God's reign on earth, and so do many Christians today. This passage should be encouragement for us. God will bring a new heaven and earth where righteousness will reign. The author means to reassure the believers. To God, "one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like one day." God is patient. Therefore, let your face shine! God waits for us, the beloved, to be reconciled to God.

Prayer
Reconciling God reign in my life, my past, my present and my future. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those who are worried and anxious. For those who are hurt by waiting for news.

Advent Meditation - Friday 18 December

2009-12-17T18:50:00.003Z

How silently, how silently
The wondrous gift is given!
So God imparts to human hearts
The blessings of His heaven.
No ear may his His coming,
But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive him still,
The dear Christ enters in.
(O Little town of Bethlehem)

Readings
Psalm 72: 1-7, 18-19
Micah 5:1-5

Reflection
In Micah 5:2-5, we are given the first hints of the impending birth of our Lord. The message first is to the people of Bethlehem, letting them know that, though they are one of many towns in Israel that could house the birth of our Saviour, they were the chosen one. Today, any small town in this large world could be worthy of his return, but Bethlehem was chosen—an ordinary town.
The message continues telling them that once the time is right He shall be revealed to the people of Bethlehem and the people of Israel. And He shall bring the Lord's message so all shall hear it and know it. This message will be one of Peace - a peace that passes the understanding of all - and it shall be with us until the end of time. As carols are sung and gifts are wrapped for friends and loved ones alike, we should remember the real reason for Christmas -- Peace, the Peace that our precious Lord and Saviour brought to us all those many years ago. After all it is hardly silent at Bethlehem at this moment.

Prayer
I depend on you so much. You are a rock for my belief and a sign of God's love.
Fill me with your praise! I want to sing your glory, filled with joy for the message of hope you send.
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for the Holy Land for restoration and peace.

Advent Meditation - Thursday 17 December

2009-12-16T22:43:00.003Z

Wise men seeking Jesus,
Travelled from afar,
Guided on their journey
By a beauteous star.

Readings
Psalm 54
Isaiah 43: 1-7
Matthew 2:2-12

Reflection
What’s in a name? Does our name describe anything of who we are? In some parts of the world the name given to a child may reflect the circumstances of birth. For example, a girl born into one of the indigenous groups of East Africa might have a name which means, “born at night” or “born when it rains.” (In which case in the UK there would be a lot of rain related names).

It was also common in Biblical times to choose a name that indicated something significant about the character of the person. Naomi, whose name meant pleasant, asked to be called Mara, meaning bitter, after her husband and two sons had died. When Rebekah gave birth to twins, the second born was grasping his brother Esau’s heel. So he was named Jacob, which means he grasps the heel, or figuratively in that culture, he deceives. And Jacob’s character was sometimes one of deception.
Jesus, too, was given a name that reflected his destiny, but one so unlike that of Jacob. Jesus was called Immanuel, God with us, indicating the purpose of his life. Jesus came to show us the face of God, to give us a clearer view of the will of God, and to help us understand the character of God. Jesus came to bring God’s truth to humankind, to be God with us, to provide the possibility of living life with hope, meaning and purpose, near to the heart of God.

Prayer
O God, whose nature is revealed in Jesus,
give us your spirit that our lives may reflect your character of love, hope and purpose in thought, word and deed. Amen.

Further Prayers
We pray for our neighbours whose names we do not know. May we reveal your presence by our words and actions.

Advent Meditation - Wednesday 16 December

2009-12-16T00:09:00.002Z

What can I give him, poor as I am?
If I were a shepherd, I would bring a lamb;
if I were a Wise Man, I would do my part;
yet what I can I give him: give my heart.
(In the Bleak mid winter)

Readings
Psalm 40
Luke 2:7
Ephesians 5:1-2

Reflection
According to the Scripture, God no longer wants physical offerings. He wants to build his kingdom using the intangible gifts he has given his children. Filling up
Christmas stockings never got anyone into heaven. It is God's will for us to give the gift of love this season. He has commanded us to further his kingdom and he made this possible through his Son.

During the Christmas season, we work hard to please everyone, sacrificing a lot of time and money for the sake of holiday cheer. But does God require us to be so sacrificial that it takes away from the building of his kingdom? As children many of us were taught the true meaning of Christmas. We were told how God loved us so much that he sent his only son into the world in human form to be the ultimate sacrifice for humankind. As we grow older we may tend to forget this and modify our definition of sacrifice. Instead of sacrificing time doing things that will further the kingdom of God, we can become overly busy trying to fulfil the material needs of those around us. Is God pleased by this? Definitely not. Our relationship with God is not based on how much money we sacrifice for others. God did not save us because of anything great that we have done. God’s gift is free, priceless and everlasting.

Prayer
In humility and in my humanness
I simply offer myself to you. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those struggling with finance this Christmas and those unemployed.

Advent Meditations - Tuesday 15 December

2009-12-14T23:04:00.003Z

Just a blanket on the floor
Of a vacant cattle-stall
But there the child was born
She held him in her arms
And as she laid him down to sleep
She wondered - will it always be
So bitter and so sweet
(Thorns in the Straw - Graham Kendrick)

Readings
Luke 2:19
John 19:25

Reflection
Mary, the mother of Jesus in her life and obedience reveals a
passionate life of prayer devoted to God's will, and He chose her to bring the Messiah into the world. Her exhausting journey to Bethlehem, the terrifying flight to Egypt, watching and hearing her son and as an older woman wanting to hold her precious, dying Son in her arms portrays a life journey - a life dedicated and devoted to God.

“To love Jesus, to live for Jesus, to suffer for Him, to make him known and loved by all hearts, to consecrate to Him every motion of her own heart, that was Mary’s desire.” St Peter Julian Eymard.
“Bitter and sweet” the moment of grace as she held her child. I can imagine the scene - Mary and Jesus together and Joseph, the skilled carpenter walking to the feeding trough rocking it in its rickety unstable state; “never trust nails son. Never trust nails”. - Bitter and Sweet.

Prayer
God, you showed the world the splendour of your glory
in the coming of Christ born of the Virgin.
Give to us true faith and love to celebrate the mystery of God made man.
Give us grace to remember the full of extent of your sacrifice for it is bitter and sweet. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those who are caught up with news of joy and news of sorrow.

Advent Meditation - Monday 14 December

2009-12-14T01:40:00.002Z

As the night closes in, there’s a star at my window
that still waits and beckons at break of the day.
And this star shining bright
seems to call me to follow,
to leave on a journey and I must obey.
(The Carol of the Star - Andrew Rudd)

Readings
Psalm 18:24-30
Matthew 2:1

Reflection
The theme of journey is commonplace in the Christian tradition. We consider the life of faith as a journey, a pilgrimage—one which takes us to different places.

Sometimes the journey seems long. Isaiah tells us to “make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God.” What could that mean? Making straight the wasteland. Does it mean clearing away the debris in our lives, removing the barriers in our way, laying down the burden we carry? Mary at times may have felt like a burden—Joseph could have made the journey a lot quicker without her—but that wasn’t the plan. The journey by the shepherds and wise men could have been prevented by them saying “no” - but that wasn’t the plan. The plan for us is to grow in God’s grace. Jeremiah reminds us that God has plans for our lives—plans for a future. How will you respond? Would you have followed the star? Will you follow the star? And this year will you lay down the burden that has made the journey hard? God cares for you.

Prayer
Lord of all, you are a God who provides for us in our need.
As we travel through Advent help us to believe that you know what we need.
Give us the courage to listen to your voice and the freedom to open our heart to the graces you are offering
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for all who make a journey this Christmas. Those who we visit and those who visit us. At every door, in every home, may the reality of your presence bring the peace we long for.

Advent Meditation - Sunday 13 December

2009-12-13T01:43:00.004Z

To You our hearts are open
To You our hands we raise
Come take the place
Of honour in our lives

Emmanuel
Our God is with us
Prince of peace
Mighty one
The ever-living God
(Together in this place of Worship - Emmanuel)

Reading
Psalm 63:4
Psalm 134:2
Philippians 4:4-7

Reflection

God’s calendar and timescales are not our own. The early church lived in the expectation of the imminent return of Jesus. John the Baptist came to people convinced of their superior status, Judgement would fall on the Gentiles yet the Sons of Abraham would escape because of their birthright. But John demanded that all repent - he did not preach in Jerusalem but the desert. The gospel is for all and we are called to surrender again our priorities and our prejudices in our calling and service of God.

Prayer
Lighten my darkness
Lord I Pray.
That I may radiate your glory to all I meet.
May my words and actions reveal your goodness
and grace preparing a way for your light to shine.
May my heart, life and being be open to you as you take the central place in my life. I offer myself afresh in Jesus’ name. Amen

Further Prayer
We pray for all who feel judged and ignored by others. We pray for our churches and our call to spread the gospel to all people

Advent Meditation - Saturday 12 December

2009-12-13T01:38:00.004Z

Once in royal David’s city
Stood a lowly cattle shed,
Where a mother laid her baby
In a manger for his bed:
Mary was that mother mild,
Jesus Christ her little child.

Reading
Psalm 78:70-72
Matthew 8:3
Hebrews 1:1-6

Reflection
The Lord God gave King David a significant reminder: I took you from following the sheep in the pastures, I have been with you everywhere you wandered and I will give you your own place and rest from your enemies. What a profound promise! And what does God want but our loving embrace. The joy of our salvation is the Prince of Peace, one who comes as a tiny infant in the humblest of circumstances, yet poised to set the world astir.Amidst the growing commercialism of Christmas - contrasted with the severe economic conditions of many needy people around the world - we must find the time and space to take Christ in. Pause for a few minutes during the busiest part of your day today and think about how God has taken you from the pastures and journeyed with you wherever you went. Then consider the ways that you can share God’s love with others. Sharing doesn’t just take financial form. It could be the gift of music, of friendship, or just listening. It might be down the church, having coffee, across the street, good friends or an unknown family, a simple gesture or a gift that stretches your resources. Receive the greatest joy by responding with a loving embrace.

Prayer
From the humbleness of my life, help me to grow and bloom and hear the words that will change the world. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for the Cathedrals of commercialism especially our town centre. May our town realise the true reason for the season. May we reach out in your name.

Advent Meditation - Friday 11 December

2009-12-11T02:12:00.004Z

From the squalor of a borrowed stable,
by the spirit and a virgin's faith;
to the anguish and the shame of scandal
came the Saviour of the human race!
But the skies were filled with the praise of heav'n,
shepherds listen as the angels tell of the Gift of God
come down to man at the dawning of Immanuel

Readings
2 Samuel 7:1-11, 16
Psalm 145
2 Peter 3:9

Reflection
The reading proposed for today from Samuel 2 lets us know that God is always with us. David thought he had to build for God a permanent home and God gently said no. Of course if you read the surrounding passage, you can find other explanations as to why God would not let David build his temple. However, God did not need a “real” home in order to be with the Israelites. He was with them all through history, he didn’t always give them what they thought they wanted, but he was always with them. Sometimes we think that the church building is where God dwells, but just as with the Israelites, God dwells in each of us. We are the church.
Also, this passage establishes an agreement between God and David that is realized in Jesus. Though David probably would have seen the promise to have a throne “established forever” as having a physical descendant on the throne throughout time, we have the benefit of seeing this promise through the New Testament, where we can match up prophecy and understand that the descendant of David is one man, Jesus, who will rule throughout time. Jesus is the fulfilment of the promise. God keeps promises.

Prayer
God forgive me for promises and commitments broken.
Often the spirit is willing but the flesh is week. Help me to forgive others who have broken their promise to me. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for the homeless and vulnerable who struggle to find shelter. For those seeking asylum and safety to be met by “no vacancy“ signs.

Advent Meditation - Thursday 10 December

2009-12-10T00:10:00.003Z

“Love shall be our token
Love be yours and love be mine
Love to God and all men
Love for plea and gift and sign”
(Love Came Down at Christmas)

Readings
Psalm 36:5-9
John 3:16-21
1 John 4:7-12

Reflection
Does love—to be true—have to be extraordinary? How does love for ourselves and others continue and develop? How does an oil lamp burn? With the force of its source or with gentle drops that keep it sustained and alight.

Jesus demonstrated self-giving love in his ministry as the Good Shepherd. Advent is a time for kindness, thinking of others, and sharing with others. It is a time to love as God loved us by giving us his most precious gift. As God is love, let us be love also. Jesus is not far off but in us—in you. In your words, actions and being.

From the Gospel of John we hear: “I give you a new commandment, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”

May we put Christ first in our lives, may we follow his footsteps, may we reveal his love to others.

Prayer
God in whom we live and move and have our being,
come teach us that you have made us your own.
You are not far from each of us,
show yourself to all who search for you.
That as you reveal yourself to us in Love we may reveal that Love to others. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for all who have shown us Christ and revealed your truth. We remember our church community that we may be inspired in new and bold ways to show your love.

Advent Meditation - Wednesday 9 December

2009-12-09T00:01:00.005Z

“My Jesus, My Saviour,
Lord there is none like you
All of my days I want to praise
the wonders of your mighty love.
My Comfort, My Shelter
Tower of refuge and strength.”

Readings
Psalm 97
Isaiah 49: 8-13
Matthew 5:1-11

Reflection
How do you deal with discouragement? Do you ever feel alone or exhausted by being that seemingly lone voice that shouts out for justice? Have you felt the burden of standing up for what is right? Do you speak out for the oppressed, outcast, vulnerable, broken? Do you wait in eager anticipation for things to change? Do you ever wonder is it worth it?
I am sure if you have said yes to any of these questions, then you can sometimes feel alone in the task God has called you too. The longing and waiting for the change to happen can be heartbreaking. We all wait for something , in spite of technology and almost immediate communication - dependent upon your phone and service provider, of course!!!, we still find ourselves waiting. Waiting for that package to arrive, for that appointment or news of results, waiting in the queue that always seem to be the slowest in the supermarket. Researchers tell us we spend 5years of our life waiting inline, 2 years playing tag on the telephone and 6 months sitting at red lights (not sure they have been to Warrington though). That is 7 1/2 years waiting or getting aggravated depending on your personality. So now as we wait together for the world to change, perhaps our focus can be on our own immediate world, and the difference God makes. We could then always smile when we wait in a queue.

Prayer
Comforting God, restoring God help me again to sing your praise. Strengthen me that I may be a voice for the voiceless.
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for our local church communities. May all who meet and worship together be inspired by the story of Christ again. That in unity we will strive for justice, love mercy and walk humbly before our God.

Advent Meditation - Tuesday 8 December

2009-12-07T22:57:00.003Z

Unto us a boy is born!
King of all creation,
Came he to a world forlorn
The Lord of every nation.

Readings
Psalm 21: 1-7
Zechariah 4:1-14
1 Corinthians 1:18-31

Reflection
We live in a world in which “bigger and better” define our expectations for much of life. We have become so enamoured of super size, super stars, and “high definition” that we tend to view life through a lens that magnifies what we expect from the world—and in doing so we tend not to see potential in small things. But as the prophet Zechariah reminds us (Zech 4:10), we should not "despise the day of small things," because God does some of his best work with small beginnings and impossible situations. God often begins with small things and inadequate people.

It certainly seems that God could have chosen "bigger" things and "better" people to do His work in the world. Yet if God can use the small things, and reveal Himself through them in such marvellous ways, it means that He might be able to use me, as inadequate, unwise, and too often lacking in faith that I am.

Prayer
Patient, life giving God
through your grace that dawned upon humankind
enable me to open my life to you so that you may
dwell in me.
That I may abide and remain with you forever.
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for all governments and local councils. Holy God inspire by your spirit that all who serve would do so with honesty and integrity. Bless all who serve others.

Advent Meditation - Monday 7 December

2009-12-07T00:00:00.002Z

And to those who never listened
To the message of Thy birth,
Who have winter, but no Christmas
Bringing them Thy peace on earth,
Send to these the joyful tidings;
By all people, in each home,
Be there heard the Christmas anthem;
Praise to God, the Christ has come!

Readings
Acts 10:34-48
Philippians 2:1-11

Reflection
'Tis the season to be jolly - but what if you're feeling
anything but jolly? While Christmas is supposed to be a happy time, for many it is far from joyful. It is winter, it is often lonely and where is Christ in Christmas?
Christ is the source of healing. A primary focus of Christ’s incarnation and ministry was to bring wholeness to people. Not just physical wholeness – though he did bring that to many – but also spiritual and emotional wholeness. That is what God longs to give us more than anything else. And all of us are in need of that, because we all carry around injuries, either self-inflicted by our poor choices or inflicted on us through broken relationships, financial setbacks or physical accidents. It is these injuries that God longs to heal in our lives. They can cripple us, blind us, deafen us or make us bitter and unfit for relationships. However, the healing light of Christ’s love and compassion is at hand and can restore us to wholeness. We can walk, see, hear and love again. Let us be open to receive his light.

Prayer
Source of all that is light and life, truth and peace,
We have hope because your steadfast love never ceases and your mercies never end; they are new every morning, great is your faithfulness.
We remember those torn apart by fear, hatred, abuse, bitterness and scars of the past. May that same peace and hope bring justice, comfort and freedom. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for whom Christmas brings no peace on earth. For those who this year have been broken by relationships with others. We remember all Pastoral visitors who seek to draw near to others.

Advent Meditation - Sunday 6 December

2009-12-05T23:37:00.003Z

Long has the world fought the song of the angels;
Heavenly music is drowned by a warring world
Yet hope burns a light, that shatters the night;
Turn your heart to the call of glory.
(Glorious Light)

Readings
Genesis 1:1-5
Psalm 34
John 1:6-8

Reflection
Light: it made possible the beginning of our existence, illuminates our everyday lives, and, in many forms and across faith traditions, is evoked in metaphor and often manifest in as a powerful physical sign of a divine presence on earth.

Our world is transformed by our ability to use light, because our ability to switch on the power of light, also gives us the opportunity to transform our surroundings and impact our future. We see by light, we light up the darkness in order to see, and we think of light as a source of energy and potential. Such is a description of Christ -- Redeemer, Illuminator, Light of the World.

In this Advent season, may the love of Christ shine into the darkness, and reveal the honest yearning in our eyes to see the face of God. That we may be filled with light and radiate God’s very presence to others.

Prayer
Great God of Light
Shine in the dark places of this world
You are the Light of the world

Where there's hatred, shine love
Where there's injury, shine healing
Where there's darkness, shine light
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for teachers, local preachers,worship leaders, support workers and ministers that this season all may resound “let it be to me according to your will”

Advent Meditation - Saturday 5 December

2009-12-04T23:48:00.002Z

On Jordan’s Bank the Baptist’s Cry
Announces that the Lord is nigh;
Awake and hearken, for he brings
Glad tidings from the King of Kings!

Readings
Isaiah 61:1-11
Matthew 3:1-12
Romans 13:11-14

Reflection
A hairy, often smelly, flea-bitten, insect-eating, sharp-tongued wilderness man. Not at all like the well-mannered softies that lived in the king's palace. But they were coming from all around to hear this John. Many would be so shaken by his message that they would be baptized.

John the Baptist was full of the Holy Spirit. That's why his words hit home with so many. But he knew there was a greater power and greater effectiveness than he could ever have. It was John's job to tell of the One to come, the Messiah, the One who would send the Holy Spirit onto those he baptized. One whose words and deeds would have even more impact than John's. One who John knew as friend and family, whom John had already come to respect and highly value, but hadn’t previously known as the One. The One was Jesus. Throughout His ministry, and in the early years of the apostles, after Jesus' death, Jesus and his followers would keep coming across people who had come to love God through John's work. Some who heeded John's call soon took up their crosses and followed Jesus. But John's call for repentance helps us prepare too, for John was just trying to get people to do what God wanted, and that's how anyone can be prepared for the presence of God-with-us.

Prayer
God our strength and our hope,
grant us the courage of John the Baptist,
to speak your truth and patiently walk the path of peace
For your name sake. Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those who live and preach the gospel across the world. Bless them O God in their mission.

Advent Meditation - Friday 4 December

2009-12-04T01:56:00.003Z

Sing Choirs of angels
Sing in exultation
Sing all ye citizens of heaven above
Glory to God in the highest.
(O Come all ye faithful)

Readings

Psalm 85:1-2, 8-13
Jeremiah 23:5,6
Galatians 5:22

Reflection

Are you good at excuses. "I'm sorry God, I can't go to church this Sunday, I'm too tired. I got back home too late Saturday night." "I'm not going to pray or read any devotional tonight because I'm just so tired. It's 3 a.m. and I just got done with Facebook, catching up on tv and I have to get up early tomorrow. I'm sure God understands how busy I am."

Those are some classic excuses we use to compromise with God about our spiritual time with Him. We may do that over and over again and we forget that God actually delights to spend time with us. When life just seems painless and we know exactly what we are doing, then it may seem that we don't need God’s guidance in every single day of our lives. Sometimes it takes a major incident to remind us what really matters in life. Sometime it takes failures to snap us back to the reality that we need God. When all the things we do just don't feel right, that is when we realise that we really do need our God. So, have you spent time today praising God for all you have in your life and for people He has given to you to share it with? That's what really matters and God is faithful in welcoming us each time. Faithfulness shown to us in the birth of Jesus.

Prayer
Holy God may we greet thee every day of our lives afresh
Grant us Your peace, restore our joy,
and lift our worry from us, so that we can live in a way fitting for the nearness of Christ.
Amen.

Further Prayers
We pray and praise God for the faithful people we know who show time and time again the grace, mercy and faithfulness of God.

Advent Meditation - Thursday 3 December

2009-12-02T23:00:00.006Z

"Though and infant now we view him
He shall fill his fathers throne
gather all the nations to him
Ev’ry knee shall then bow down."
(Angels from the Realms of Glory)

Readings
Exodus 3:1-6
Psalm 19
Luke 2: 8 and 13

Reflection

Angels, From the Realms of Glory” first appeared as a poem in Montgomery's newspaper on December 24th 1816 - the weekly Sheffield Register.

An angel with a powerful transforming message what a role and responsibility that would be. Would you like it? I am not too sure. God’s messenger sent to unsuspecting individuals with life changing news. Would you have got the words wrong? Stuttered? Made excuses? Said “Oh Mary, it will be ok”?
I wonder if Angel Gabriel practiced what to say? I wonder if he tried different beginnings to the message - “Hi Mary” - too informal; “Greetings” - not quite right; “Peace be upon you” - bit religious. How about “don't be afraid”? That seems right given she will be petrified. Well it seemed to work as it worked with the Shepherds too. The angel did well—Mary heard, Mary responded—may we too listen for God’s calling and respond—remember it may come in unexpected ways.

Prayer
Holy God, the angel Gabriel told the Virgin Mary that she was to be the mother of your Son.
Though Mary was afraid,
she responded to your call with joy.
Help us, whom you call to serve you, to share like her in your great work of bringing to our world your love and healing.
We ask this through Jesus Christ,
the light who is coming into the world. Amen.

Further Prayers
We pray for all who receive unexpected and life changing news. News of joy and also that of despair. May Our God bless and direct them.

Advent Meditation - Wednesday 2 December

2009-12-01T23:30:00.003Z

“My heart feels as if its going to burst with joy
In praising God, My Saviour who sets me free
Though I’m only unimportant in the world
A lowly servant My God has remembered me.”

Readings
Psalm 132:10-16
Isaiah 7:13-15
Luke 1:46b-55

Reflection
Mary's song is a song of enormous contrasts in almost every sentence: the magnificence of the Lord and the lowliness of his servant; mercy and fear, bringing down and lifting up, filling and emptying. And in a few weeks time, we'll remember the greatest contrast human history will ever know: the birth of a Prince in a stable. There will be no palaces in this Prince's life - no silken robes, no leisure time, no fine horses to ride, no sumptuous feasts. Instead, there will be the realities of poverty, hard work and, eventually, agonising death as a most common criminal. Does Mary know all this as she speaks her inspired words? It doesn't really matter if she knew then, because we know now. As we wait this night for the magnificence of the Lord to come again to our needy world, we can remember those contrasts and God's purpose in sending us a Prince in a stable.

Prayer
O loving God,
Whose Advent we celebrate throughout this season and the journey of hope we remember.
Come renew our hearts and minds through the presence of Christ.
May we respond with grace and humility as Mary did to the calling you place upon our lives.“Let it be to me according to your will” Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for all who face difficult challenges in life.
Transforming God help, comfort and lead us as we offer ourselves to you

Advent Meditation - Tuesday 1 December

2009-12-01T17:25:00.003Z

“Then gentle Mary meekly bowed her head
“To me be as it pleaseth God” she said
“My Soul shall laud and magnify his holy name”
Most highly favoured lady! Gloria

Readings
Psalm 72:1– 8
Zechariah 9, 9-10
Hebrews 10:5-10

Reflection
With the Annunciation of Mary and the Incarnation of Christ, God’s purpose and intention took place in the human, created order. The event, for which all humanity had longed, came to be in the womb of a human woman in response to her faithful submission. The mystery of salvation is begun. The life of God in man begins to take form.

Mary allowed God to take her life - what a radical woman -she utterly surrendered to God’s purpose and command. “The power of the most high will overshadow you.” Which of us would like to be overshadowed? How many of us would completely surrender to God in a way that we become less as God becomes more and not for earthly riches – Mary, mostly highly favoured lady. Mary surrendered to God - do we? Will we allow God to overshadow us? Will we surrender to God’s love and care - care for others and for ourselves embracing what God has for us.

Prayer
Lord,
forgive us when we doubt your voice,
forgive our unreadiness to receive you,
make us attentive to your word and help us prepare your way.
Your way in our hearts and your way in the lives of others.
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those who seek to bring the hope of God’s kingdom to others in our community, our churches and the world.

Advent Meditation - Monday 30 November

2009-11-30T00:18:00.003Z

Come thou long expected Jesus
Born thy people to deliver
born a child and yet a King,
born to reign in us forever,
now thy gracious kingdom bring.

Readings
Psalm 130: 5-8
Malachi 3:1-4
1 Thessalonians 3:9-13

Reflection
During the recent postal strikes the level of people using recorded delivery increased. Users wanted proof of postage and the details given allowed them to track where their post was. Isn’t it amazing how God recorded the intention, delivery and effect of the incarnation?

In this season of Advent we begin to explore how God comes to us and of how God recorded supremely the act of redemptive love. We think and remember God’s first
coming into human history in the birth of Jesus. That God comes in the present moment and that God will come again.

Sometimes we long for God so much as the needs of our lives and the world press upon us. Life’s demands and the expectations of others can overwhelm us and we seek for God in it all. At the start of Advent what do you hope for? Do you seek a deeper understanding of God?. This season reminds us that our God is a God who comes to those who wait.

Prayer
Come thou long expected Jesus into the parts of my life hidden to others.
Come into the barren and hurting places. Come into the dry places that need refreshing by the outpouring of your love.
When I lack love and compassion, change me.
When I am impatient and frustrated, deliver me.
When I fail to see the goodness, help me to focus on you, the author and perfector of my faith.
Amen

Further Prayers
We pray for those who live, work and socialise with.
May the hope of Advent be present in our conversations and actions with
others.

Advent Meditation - Sunday 29 December

2009-11-29T09:49:00.004Z

O Come O Come Emmanuel

O Come, O Come, Thou Lord of might,
Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's height
In ancient times did give the law
In cloud, and majesty, and awe.

Readings:
Psalm 118:19-29
Isaiah 40:1-5
Luke 21: 25-36

Reflection

What does it mean to ask and pray that God would come?
“O Come Immanuel” is the cry of our hearts for the Messiah to dwell within our lives. What does it mean to watch and wait for Christ? Do you know how it feels to wait for a friend but they do not come?. Or to wish the time away or be anxious for something to happen and then it does not? Do you know how it is to be with someone so closely that you watch their every move, know their soul and anticipate what they are to say—that you know them so well that when they smile you smile, when they are sad you are downcast and when joyous you rejoice.

May we watch and wait with urgency and anticipation.

Come, O Come Emmanuel.

Prayers
Loving God. As I enter this Advent season, open my eyes
to see in new ways the delight and wonder of your love.
In the darkness help me to see the promise of light and peace.
In the cry of the hungry help me see the possibility of a world where all are fed.
In my own yearnings and weakness help me to see the
hope of Christ.

And in the eager anticipation of the coming of Jesus, may
I embrace the dawn of a new heaven and a new earth. Amen

Further prayers
We pray for all young people and children, our local schools and those involved in youth and children activities in our local churches.

Advent Meditation - Introduction

2009-11-29T09:45:00.003Z

Introduction
Today begins Advent and with this in mind all within the circuit have been offered this advent booklet as a resource. I hope you will also find the online versions helpful.

I hope you will find meditations a helpful resource over Advent and Christmas. They are designed purely as an aid to help us to draw close to God in the busyness of this particular season. The form of our Advent prayers this year reflect on our desire to seek God the giver of gifts - supremely seen in the gift of Jesus and continual outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
We all have very different lives and our pattern of worship and prayer is as diverse as we all are. This resource is based on both traditional and modern songs and hymns sung during this season, reflecting on a verse or line to help us focus on Christ. You may like to light a candle as a starting point. When God created the heavens and the earth, the first biblically recorded creative act was the
production and establishment of light, our Advent journey is a journey towards
that light – the light of Christ.

Can you pray for others during this time? Remembering particularly those for whom Advent and Christmas bring despair, fear and longing. And could you ask your neighbours if they have any prayer requests?

Could you pray with another person from church once a week during Advent?
Either in person or on the telephone—and perhaps using the booklet together.

For families this could be a special time together? If it is morning you pray for the day ahead. If the evening, then each could give thanks for some aspect of the day and also remember someone they have met.

I pray that this resource may help you on your Advent journey as we contemplate again the overwhelming love and grace of God dawning upon the world.
Jackie Bellfield—Advent 2009

Retreat - home again

2009-11-17T17:26:00.001Z

Just come back from a wonderful 2 day retreat. Space, stillness, chocolate and wine all contributed to the relaxed nature of the time. Andrew and Wendy Rudd led the retreat so well and allowed through careful planning and exploration a time of peace and restfulness. Both amazingly skilled creative individuals - Andrew - poet, teacher, preacher, composer and musician is skilled at communicating through words, music and imagery. Wendy, a textile artist communicates and ministers God's love through major art installations, and has a capacity in a genuine heartfelt way, to reveal the mystery of God in dramatic ways. So ably led, we looked at various picture and icons - Andrei Rublev's icon of the Trinity, a stained glass image of Abraham and Issac and The Annunciation by Fra Angelico. In our times of stillness we were encouraged to write and reflect on our thoughts:

My reflection on Windows (not the computer version! or the delight of anticipated double glazing)!

I close my eyes and the world around me disappears
I am Silent, Still
Empty

I open my eyes and the world dances to life
I gaze across the grounds
to forest masses
under gray skies of swirling clouds

Windows are for watching
Square pieces of life form ahead
and there i see life
ever changing

The second came after reading Blue Iris by Mary Oliver (see the previous blog entry to view this)

And my heart panics not to be *

to be

to be

to be

to be

be

what does it mean "to be"?

my heart panics
as I do
*Taken from Mary Olivers poem Blue Iris

Blue Iris - Mary Oliver

2009-11-17T17:14:00.002Z

Wow - what a poem

"Blue Iris" Mary Oliver

Now that I'm free to be myself, who am I?

Can't fly, can't run and see how slowly I walk.

Well, I think, I can read books.

"What's that you're doing?"
the green-headed fly shouts as it buzzes past.

I close the book.

Well, I can write down words, like these, softly.

"What's that you're doing?" whispers the wind, pausing
in a heap just outside the window.

Give me a little time, I say back to its staring, silver face.
It doesn't happen all of a sudden, you know.

"Doesn't it?" says the wind, and breaks open, releasing
distillation of blue iris.

And my heart panics not to be, as I long to be,
the empty, waiting, pure, speechless receptacle.

What is important?

2009-10-19T20:37:00.003+01:00

So what is important and crucial in life? Pondering on this it is clear that what is important to me may not make the top ten list for someone else. Acknowledging and recognising that is perhaps crucial in any ministry. Yet what is crucial is how we make others feel. "People may not remember exactly what you did, or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel." Unknown

The Acts of the Apostles describes Barnabas as a 'good man, full of faith and the Holy Spirit'. He was born in Cyprus and died in Salamis in the 1st century. His Jewish parents called him, Joseph, but after selling all his property and joining the apostles in Jerusalem, he got a new name: Barnabas, meaning "a man of encouragement."

In our lives, we all have feelings of weakness and weariness - none of us like these circumstances. We do not enjoy such experiences. These periods of helplessness, powerlessness and vulnerability have removed all our strength and make us prone to despair and self-pity. In the midst of these real experiences, the culture that we live in aggravates the matter. We grew up in a culture where criticism is the rule. We have been traumatised by criticism. Even if we grew up in a very encouraging family, the world outside of our homes does not have encouragement as a way of life.

When we encourage, we do not have to be gushing about another. Or to be too patronising. Encouragement is a sincere affirmation. When we criticise, we look for what is negative and find it so easy to give others the benefit of our opinion. On the other hand, encouragement is seeing what is positive and good and expressing it as readily as the tendency to criticise that is always with us. Criticism is the fastest way to stop another person from doing wrong; encouragement is the fastest way to make another person expand their good work.

Encouragement is remembering. You see, when a good thing has happened like a little improvement or a small change, when we express them as words of encouragement, the little development becomes fixed in the mind of the listener, and thus the likelihood of repeated success becomes greater. It makes a person take the next step to a new additional process of growth.
Barnabas did the same thing. He encouraged and thus he built communities of faith. We are built-up by a culture of trust and of consolation. We need a new culture in the world of positive reinforcement. With encouragement, we seek what is more. After all, we were made, not to destroy, but to build people.