tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89402852340807330282024-03-14T13:51:02.215+00:00God's Word in God's World at HighburyUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger406125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-66519797210412484952018-07-15T23:21:00.002+01:002018-07-15T23:21:46.032+01:00The Lord's Prayer - the heart of the Christian faith<br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">160
Praise my soul the king of heaven<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise, my soul, the King of heaven;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>to his feet thy tribute bring;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>ransomed, healed, restored, forgiven<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>who like thee his praise should
sing?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise him! Praise him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise the everlasting King!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise him for his grace and favour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>to his people in distress;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>praise him still the same for ever,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>slow to chide, and swift to bless:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise him! Praise him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Glorious in his faithfulness!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">3<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Father-like he tends and spares us;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>well our feeble frame he knows;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>in his hands he gently bears us,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>rescues us from all our foes:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise him! Praise him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Widely as his mercy flows!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Frail as summer's flower we flourish,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>blows the wind and it is gone;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>but while mortals rise and perish<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>God endures unchanging on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise him! Praise him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise the high eternal One!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">5<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Angels, help us to adore him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>ye behold him face to face;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>sun and moon, bow down before him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>dwellers all in time and space:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise him! Praise him!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Praise with us the God of grace!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Henry
Francis Lyte (1793-1847)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ezekiel
34:1-6, 11-16<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Psalm
23 – OBG<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
11:1-13<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:
We limit not the truth of God<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
limit not the truth of God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
our poor reach of mind,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">By
notions of our day and sect,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Crude,
partial, and confined;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">No,
let a new and better hope<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Within
our hearts be stirred:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord has yet more light and truth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
break forth from His word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who
dares to bind to his dull sense<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
oracles of heaven,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
all the nations, tongues, and climes,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
all the ages given?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
universe, how much unknown!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
ocean unexplored!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Darkling
those great fore-runners went<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
first steps of the way;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">'Twas
but the dawning, yet to grow<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Into
the perfect day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
grow it shall; our glorious Sun<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">More
fervid rays afford:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">O
Father, Son and Spirit, send<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Us
increase from above;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Enlarge,
expand all Christian souls<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
comprehend your love:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
make us all go on to know,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With
nobler powers conferred,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">George
Rawson (1807–1889)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Based
on the parting words of Pastor John Robinson <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to
the Pilgrims who were to sail on the Mayflower, 1620<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Tune:
Ellacombe 247, 367, 413<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so we come to the end … and discover it’s the start of something new both for
us and for the church family here at Highbury. There are so many thank you’s to
say, I am not going to try to begin – suffice it to say it has been good to
share here over all these years and we have to say a big thank you to everyone
in the church family for all that we have shared.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Felicity
and I gave 10 months notice and now we have come to the end of our time in
ministry here at Highbury. In the run up to Easter I decided to preach a series
of sermons that went to the heart of the Christian faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Starting
on Easter Sunday and the Road to Emmaus I have in a series of sermons on Sunday
mornings explored the way Luke as he tells the story of the early church in
Acts from that evening onwards and as he tells the story of Jesus coming to a
climax on that day of resurrection, helps us to address one of the biggest
questions facing people of all faith communities in the 21<sup>st</sup> century
– how we read our sacred texts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
evening I want to return to the heart of the Christian Faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
my first evening in Bethlehem at a conference on the theme of reconciliation
ten years ago, the Rector of the Tantur Institute who was hosting our
conference took us up on to a flat roof where we could see the hills around
Bethlehem. The tops of the hills were covered with what looked like new towns,
new housing estates – one or two of our number had been before and were shocked
– they had been bare hill tops before rather like the hill above Cheltenham overlooks
Cheltenham – but much more rugged and considerably more mountainous. And now
those hill tops were being built on. Ten years on … those housing estates have
been joined up – they are all in what is known as the West Bank, the
Palestinian Territories – they are the Settlements much condemned by so many.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
conference was set up to help us to see through the eyes of the other. It was
moving, it was powerful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
gave us a leaflet and introduced it too. You will hear the call of the Muezzin
at the hour of prayer. That beautiful musical chant that calls the faithful to
prayer. In the early hours of the morning, and then through the day and last
thing at night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
do you react, he asked?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some
react with fear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Don’t
do that, he suggested. Instead hear it as an invitation to prayer. And in those
moments pray. Why not say that short prayer our Lord taught us to pray. The
call to prayer of the Muezzin goes to the heart of Islam. The call to prayer of
Jesus goes to the heart of Christianity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
brought to mind a day I had been to at the University. It was shortly after
9/11. It seemed to me in the wake of that horror there was a responsibility
laid upon us to respond to that evil with love – that after all is the way
mapped out by Jesus. And love means just being friendly with Muslim neighbours.
It also means seeking understanding.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
The University had a number of day conferences on Islam – and I went along. All
but one of the speakers read their paper, had no visual aids, and what they
said has disappeared into the mists of time. One speaker stood out. He did not
read a thing as he was in his 90’s and could no longer read from a script.
Instead he spoke from the heart and he was the only one to use the simplest of
visual aids. I could recount the substance of his lecture to this day … but I
won’t. It was interestingly all about how to read the Qu’ran.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">His
name was Kenneth Cragge, he was a personal friend of Vaughan Harries who at the
time was a regular in our evening congregation. Kenneth Cragge, a Christian,
had spent a lifetime in the Middle East and was a scholar of the Qu’ran highly
regarded by Muslim and Christian alike.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">His
introduction to Islam is the finest I have come across. He explores Islam
through the Call of the Minaret – that indeed is the title of the book. He
takes each line of the call of the Muezzin and unpacks Islam. It’s a brilliant
account.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
then goes on to explore how Christians should respond. He suggests that the
prayer Jesus taught us can in the same way not only be a prayer but it can also
go to the very heart of the Christian faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
recalled that on one occasion when I had a conversation with one of the dads
from St John’s – his daughter had been part of the nativity here in Highbury
and we got talking at the Christmas fair. He came round. He was passionate as
he described to me Islam . He wanted to say in the wake of on eof those
horrific terror attacks – not in my name. That’s an aberration of Islam – he
wanted to share with me true Islam.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
got to the end – and he had taken a long time. Then he asked me, so what is
Christianity about. That’s when it came to my mind. And I found myself using
the Lord’s Prayer as pegs to hang an account of my Christian faith on. So this
for me goes to the heart of the Christian faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
know there are different versions in the Gospels. I know the one we say isn’t
in the oldest of the manuscripts. I love the old words. Three thoughts on those
words<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Spoken
English naturally has the rhythm of the heart beat. De Dum, De Dum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>William Tyndale captured that rhythm as did
Shakespeare. The traditional words have something of that rhythm – it’s is as
if praying these words is the stuff of life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thy
kingdom come, they will be done<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
earth as it is in heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
oldest words in English are single syllable words and come from the Anglo
Saxon. Longer words have come in from Latin or from French. Often you can weigh
words – longer words as it were weigh more. They are more weighty.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Father</b> who art in <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">heaven, hallowed</b> be thy name<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thy
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">kingdom</b> come, they will be done<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
earth as it is in <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">heaven</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Give
us this day our daily bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wait
for it now, we are about to encounter a three syllable word. It weighs more, it
weighs heavily.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Forgive us our trespasses<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we forgive those who trespass against us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Trespassing
is breaking the law – I think that’s a good way of describing what we need
forgiveness from<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
modern forgive us our sins – also needs explaining – but the word sins is too
short, it doesn’t weigh heavy, it’s a thruway word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
deliver us from evil. Notice that deliver is the first three syllable word that
carries weight – to counter temptation to be delivered from evil is weighty
stuff – it needs a counterweight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then we come to the climax<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
modern version goes<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
kingdom, the power and the glory are yours … the last word is a thruway word
that yours that’s lightweight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Contrast
that with<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
thine is the kingdom the power and the glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a mounting crescendo until you reach the climax in a glorious word – thine is
the kingdom the power, and the glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forever
– another three syllable word! And ever. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
it’s the content and meaning of those words that goes to the heart of the
faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Many
see the Christian faith as all about getting people into heaven. It’s all about
what happens when you die. I don’t accept that. When Jesus meets people he does
not begin by leading them through a step by step process which will get them
into heaven. He comes alongside people, meets them where they are and draws
them into a friendship that in his presence enables them to have life and have
it to the full.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Christian faith is not about getting people into heaven. It’s about getting
heaven into people’s hearts, into people’s lives, into people’s homes, into the
world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
what is heaven. It’s not the place we go to<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>when we die – though it can be a lovely picture of that. Heaven is where
God rules OK – heaven is where God’s way prevails. It’s where God’s will is
done. It’s here and now and it doesn’t come to an end at death. It’s for all
eternity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heaven
is where God’s will is done – where God rules – earth is where we are living
out our lives. We can live out our lives in a way that we want to – each one
for themselves. Or we can live out our lives according to God’s way – Love God,
love your neighbour, with the transforming love of God real in the presence of
Jesus empowering us but the strength that is from beyond ourselves in the Holy
Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
the start of the prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name – heaven is where God is<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thy
kingdom come, on earth as it is in heaven – heaven is where<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God is, where God’s rule prevails – that’s
what we pray for on earth as well. What is that kingdom like – the clue is in
the next phrase – thy kingdom come, thy will be done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God’s
rule is where God’s will prevails.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thy
kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
that’s the start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Getting
heaven into people’s hearts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Give
us this day our daily bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Each
day is to be treasured. Not wished away. That’s something for me to remember –
treasure each day – and live it to the full. Take no thought for the morrow.
The sacrament of the present moment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
this day give us just what we need. Not more, the things we need. The basics.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
There’s a whole life style thing there – not wanting to excess, but accepting
each day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it is to God we turn each day for our needs for that day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
That plaque Lord help me to remember that nothing is going to happen to me
today that you and I together can’t handle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgive
us our trespasses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
thing is you can’t do it. You cannot live up to the ideal of love for God, love
for neighbour, even before Jesus extends it to love for enemy too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Trespassing
is breaking the law – and we do break God’s law too often.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgive
us our trespasses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
also like that English word – you trespass when you go into someone else’s
space – forgive us those times when we have gone into someone else’s space –
those times when we haven’t stayed in God’s space but gone elsewhere.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgive
us our trespasses. The forgiving love of God in Christ is at the heart of the
Christian faith for me. Think of all those people Jesus befriended and they had
failed in some way or other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And yet
forgiveness was theirs – right through to the cross – Father, forgive them for
they know not what they do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
then comes the kick in the teeth – the bit that’s difficult to say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgive
us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
I remember one occasion when I interrupted the saying of the Lord’s prayer at
that point. And got people to think – so who has trespassed into our space. Who
don’t we get on with. Who do we bear a grudge against.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
it’s reciprocal this forgiving love<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgive
us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
lead us not into temptation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
another of those three syllable words. Some complain at that line – even the
Pope recently said that’s a line he wants to re-write. It’s not that God would
lead us into temptation. Rather it is a definite thing. Lead us not into
temptation. And there are temptations galore. Don’t let us succumb to those
temptations that nag at us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
deliver us from evil. That three syllable word again – God can counter the
awfulness of temptation and gets the better of evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Deliver
us from evil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
not just deliver us from the evil that may befall – but deliver us from
complicity in the evil that can so easily prevail in our culture, in our
hearts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
thine is the kingdom – that’s what Jesus message was about. God’s rule breaking
in here on earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We end in this prayer
as we began. It’s not human authority – we are citizens of God’s kingdom under
God’s rule.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Thine is the kingdom, the power.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
our faith is a source of strength for living our lives. We host a number of
twelve step programs – Gamblers Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous – someone I know
who belongs to one of those groups helped me to understand. I wanted to do
something with them, for them. No, they said. You mustn’t. The very fact they
have a safe space to meet that means the world to them. The very fact of a warm
welcome – that means the world. Not all churches would host those meetings.
There are very few secular meeting places in Cheltenham. It’s important.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
admitted we were powerless over alcohol – that our lives had become
unmanageable. ...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Came to
believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity. ...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Made a
decision to turn our will and our lives over to the care of God as we
understood Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God’s
way for us to follow involves love for God, love for neighbour<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
know the transformative power of the forgiving love of God in Christ, a
forgiveness we can reflect and share<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
we also have a strength from beyond ourselves, a power to live by in the
unseen, yet real presence of the enabling, empowering, Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thine
is the kingdom, the power and the glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
love the way the prayer builds up to that climax in glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Christian faith is not about getting people into heaven.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Christian faith is about getting heaven into people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
not to deny the glory – it is to affirm it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
the life that we live to the full begins here and now but does not end with
death. Death is not the end beyond which there is nothing but in Christ Jesus
the beginning of life in the eternal glory of the love of the God who is love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thine
is the kingdom, the power and the glory forever and ever …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
the ultimate victory – nothing can prevail against it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
to that you can only say Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">546
Prayer is the soul’s sincere desire<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Prayer is the soul's sincere desire,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Uttered or unexpressed,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The motion of a hidden fire<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>That trembles in the breast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Prayer is the burden of a sigh,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The falling of a tear,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The upward glancing of an eye<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>When none but God is near.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">3<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Prayer is the simplest form of speech<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>That infant lips can try;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Prayer the sublimest strains that
reach<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The majesty on high.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Prayer is the contrite sinner's voice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Returning from his ways,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>While angels in their songs rejoice,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And cry: 'Behold, he prays!'<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">5<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Prayer is the Christian's vital
breath,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The Christian's native air,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Our watchword at the gates of death;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>We enter heaven with prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">6<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Prayer is not made by us alone:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>the Holy Spirit pleads,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>and Jesus, on the eternal throne,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>for sinners intercedes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">7<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>O thou by whom we come to God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The Life, the Truth, the Way!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The path of prayer thyself hast
trod:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lord, teach us how to pray!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">James
Montgomery (1771-1854)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">CM<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Looking
back and Looking forward<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Offering
and Dedication<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">159
Lord, for the years<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lord, for the years your love has kept
and guided,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>urged and inspired us,
cheered us on our way,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>sought us and saved us, pardoned and
provided,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Lord of the years, we
bring our thanks today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lord, for that word, the word of life
which fires us,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>speaks to our hearts and
sets our souls ablaze,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>teaches and trains, rebukes us and
inspires us,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Lord of the word,
receive your people's praise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">3<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lord, for our land, in this our
generation,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>spirits oppressed by
pleasure, wealth and care;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>for young and old, for commonwealth
and nation,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Lord of our land, be
pleased to hear our prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lord, for our world; when we disown
and doubt him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>loveless in strength,
and comfortless in pain;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>hungry and helpless, lost indeed
without him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Lord of the world, we
pray that Christ may reign.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">5<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Lord, for ourselves; in living power
remake us, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>self on the cross and
Christ upon the throne;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>past put behind us, for the future
take us,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Lord of our lives, to
live for Christ alone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Timothy
Dudley-Smith (born 1926) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Music:
Richard Sharpe & Frank Guppy</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-29663092784617608502018-07-15T23:20:00.002+01:002018-07-15T23:20:54.977+01:00Journey of Faith 9 - Reading the Bible through the eyes of Jesus<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text for the Week</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Just then a lawyer stood up to test Jesus.
‘Teacher,’ he said, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ He said to him,
‘What is written in the law? What do you read there?’ He answered, ‘You shall
love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with
all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbour as yourself.’ And
he said to him, ‘You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.’
Luke 10:25-28<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any who are worshipping with us
for the first time. During our morning service we invite all who love the Lord
Jesus Christ to share with us in the Lord’s Supper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
ten months since Felicity and I gave notice that we would be retiring and
moving on and now the moment has arrived. How the time flies! Today’s a day for
looking back and saying thank you for the way everyone at Highbury and among
the churches of Cheltenham has made us as a family so welcome: it’s been great
to share! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
a day for looking forward as we, in a sense, hand over to the Ministry team and
the Deacons here at Highbury and as we look forward to a new adventure in
Bridgend. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">First
and foremost, we have all come together to share in our worship. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
at the heart of that worship we are once again going to look out for the way
the words of Scripture connect with the world we live in and become for us
God’s Word for today. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the three months leading up to Easter I set out to explore the heart of the
Christian faith: I’m going to return to that theme this evening and reflect on
the way the Lord’s prayer says it all. Since Easter I have been exploring what
seems to me one of the biggest issues facing the major faiths in today’s world:
how we read our Sacred texts each of which has passages that are hateful in the
extreme. That seems to me to be the big question explored by Jesus on the day
of Resurrection and worked out by Luke in telling the story of the early church
in Acts and of Jesus in the third Gospel. For me the key to it all lies in the
greatest of Jesus’ parables, the Good Samaritan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">122
Let all the world in every corner sing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Kind Stranger – Open the Book<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
do you read there?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
thought this morning I would finish where I began … with the parable of the
Good Samaritan. That was the theme I chose to take for my very first sermon at
a youth service in the church where Felicity and I grew up, Clarendon Park
Congregational Church in Leicester. It was, I think, 1970. Two years before
Martin Luther King had been assassinated and my father had taken me to the
memorial service at a church with a predominantly black congregation in
Leicester. That same year in Britain Enoch Powell had made his rivers of blood
speech in Wolverhampton. In 1969 my father had taken me to see the Springboks
play the East Midlands at the Welford Road Stadium, … from outside the ground –
we joined the demonstration that encircled the stadium in a successful attempt
to stop the South African cricket tour of England after South Africa had
forbidden the England Test side to select the mixed race Worcestershire player,
Basil D’Olivera.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fear
of the other, Xenophobia, Racism – these were the pressing issues of the day.
And the Parable of the Good Samaritan seemed remarkably modern – who is my
neighbour? The very one you think of as ‘the other’ turns out to be the one who
was neighbour to the man who fell among thieves. How vital we go and do
likewise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
the weekend of President Trump’s visit, as the detailed plans for Brexit are
laid before Parliament, fear of ‘the other’, the ‘stranger in the midst’ is as
rife as ever, the parable of the Good Samaritan speaks as loudly as ever. Who
would you cast as the Priest, the Levite, the Samaritan today?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
will leave that to your imagination.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
want to pursue another avenue of thought that seems to me to speak to one of
the major, if not the biggest issue facing faith communities in today’s world.
It seems to me that the big issue for us who are people of faith to address is
how we read our sacred texts. In Judaism, in Christianity, in Islam there has
been a resurgence in recent years of very narrow, tightly defined,
fundamentalist readings of the sacred texts of those three faiths. Those texts
are then used to justify fear and loathing of ‘the other’. And in the Jewish
Tanakh, the Law, the Prophets and the writings, the Christian Bible and the
Muslim Quran there are texts that are hateful and can be read in the most
divisive of ways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
do you read your sacred text?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Tradition
has it that two books of the New Testament that tell the story of Jesus and the
story of the Early Church were written by Luke the beloved physician who was a
travelling companion of Paul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
three moments in the Gospel, Luke describes an occasion when Jesus offers a way
of reading the Scriptures he and his audience who were all Jewish regarded as
their Sacred Scriptures and we regard as our Old Testament. That’s where those
hateful texts are to be found.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the very beginning of his ministry in Luke chapter 4 Jesus went to the
synagogue he grew up in and stood up to read. The scroll of the prophet Isaiah
was given to him. He unrolled the scroll and found the place at the beginning
of Isaiah 61 where it was written: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘The
Spirit of the Lord is upon me,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>because he has anointed me<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to bring good news to the poor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
has sent me to proclaim release to the captives<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and recovery of sight to the blind,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to let the oppressed go free, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to
proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. The eyes of
all in the synagogue were fixed on him. Then he began to say to them, ‘Today
this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
immediate response was entirely positive. All spoke well of him and were amazed
at the gracious words, the words of grace, that came from his mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
by the time he got to the end of his sermon, all in the synagogue were filled
with rage. They got up, drove him out of the town, and led him to the brow of
the hill on which their town was built, so that they might hurl him off the
cliff. But he passed through the midst of them and went on his way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
did he have to say that turned them to such rage?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
far as they were concerned they wanted someone to proclaim good news to THEIR
poor, release to THEIR captives, sight to THEIR blind, freedom for THEIR
oppressed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
had something else in mind entirely. It was entirely in keeping with their
Sacred Scriptures … but it focused on bits of those Scriptures those folk
didn’t really want to hear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
told two stories about the first two great archetypal prophets of the Old Testament,
Elijah and Elisha.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
were many widows in Israel in the time of Elijah, when there was a severe
famine over all the land; yet Elijah was sent to none of them except to a widow
living far beyond the boundaries of Israel at Zarephath in non-Jewish, Gentile,
Sidon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What’s
more, there were also many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha,
and none of them was cleansed except Naaman the commander of the oft-times
enemy Syrian army.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
message was clear the way Jesus brought the Scriptures to fulfilment was to
bring good news for the poor WHOEVER they are, release to the captives WHOEVER
they are, sight to the blind WHOEVER they are, freedom for the oppressed,
WHOEVER they are.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was when they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with rage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the end of the Gospel, on the day of resurrection Jesus joins two of his
followers walking sadly on the Road to Emmaus but they don’t recognize who he
is. The way they read those Sacred Scriptures we call the Old Testament, they
had been convinced Jesus would be the Messiah to free the people from Roman
oppression – and his death had shattered all their dreams.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He’d
shared with them his way of reading the Scriptures of the Old Testament but
they had missed the point, they simply hadn’t got it. So in that two hour walk
he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was in the breaking of bread that they recognized him and saw he was risen from
the dead<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>… rushing back to tell the
others they said to each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he
was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Back
in the Upper Room Jesus appeared to all his followers and said, Peace be with
you. Then he took them back to their sacred Scriptures:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘These are my words that I spoke to you while
I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the
prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled.’ Then he opened their minds to
understand the scriptures,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus’
priority on Resurrection day was to open the minds of his followers so that
they could understand the scriptures of what we call the Old Testament and see
them through his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
Luke goes on to tell the story of the early church in Acts time and again he
explores the way those first followers of Jesus, Peter, Stephen, Philip, James
and then later Paul read the scriptures of what we think of as the Old
Testament through the eyes of Jesus and see in Jesus the one who brings to
fulfilment the Law, the Prophets and the Writings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
the big question is, how did Jesus read the scriptures we think of as the Old
testament?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is as crucial a question for us now as it ever has been. For it is in the Old
Testament that texts can be found to justify slavery and racism, xenophobia,
islamophobia, homophobia and the hatefulness that is in our world today all too
often rearing its ugly head. Some extreme Christian readings of those texts can
even be used to justify anti-semitism.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
are used to a way of writing that leads up to a punchline which contains the
key message.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
Middle Eastern writing the key message often comes in the middle and the
beginning and the end match each other.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
how Luke’s exploration of the way Jesus reads the Old Testament works. At the
beginning in Nazareth and at the end on the day of resurrection Jesus opens up
the Scriptures. It is in the middle that we find the answer to the most crucial
question of all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
The middle part of Luke’s gospel is a journey to Jerusalem that begins at
chapter 9 verse 51 and ends in chapter 19.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the start of the journey a Samaritan village refuses to allow Jesus to enter. When
his disciples James and John saw it, they said, ‘Lord, do you want us to
command fire to come down from heaven and consume them?’ But he turned and
rebuked them and said, You do not know what spirit you are of for the Son of
Man has not come to destroy the lives of human beings, but to save them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
shortly after that that a lawyer, an expert in the Law put a question to Jesus.
It’s important to follow through the conversation. It’s easy to imagine the
lawyer was trying to catch Jesus out. He stood up to ‘test’ Jesus – maybe that
means he was testing out this new teaching of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
then a lawyer – that’s to say, an expert in the <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>stood up to test Jesus. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Teacher,’
he said, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
question is not ‘what must I do to get to heaven?’ It’s not even what must I do
to live for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
must I do to inherit from those who have gone before us in the faith, Abraham,
Isaac and Jacob all the great people of faith, What must I do to inherit that
life that can be lived to the full here and now, that life that is not
boundaried by death, eternal life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
Jesus does is to respond to the question with another question – because that’s
the Jewish way of learning. You always ask questions. It has been said that the
Protestant tendency in reading the Scripture is always to look for the one definitive
meaning – the Bible means this. The Jewish way of reading the Scriptures always
is ready to ask more questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Notice
the two questions Jesus asks. He said to him, ‘What is written in the law? What
do you read there?’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
is written in the Law, the Torah, the first five books of the Bible, Genesis,
Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers Deuteronomy is every single word from Genesis 1:1 to
Deuteronomy 34:12<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
do you read there? Is a question that invites you to go to the nub of the
matter. For Jesus this is the all important question.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is the Expert in the law who gives a classic Jewish response – this is not
Jesus’ idea in this conversation. It is the expert in the law. This is one way
of reading the Scripture. It might have been possible to come up with another
that focused on purity of race, keeping apart from others lest they taint you …
but he comes up with this statement that for him goes to the heart of what the
Torah, the Law is all about.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all
your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your
neighbour as yourself.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
says, You have given the right answer; do this, and you will live.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Notice
that. Not do this and you will get to heaven. It is do this and you live, here
and now, you will have life to the full, life in all its abundance – and that
life will not end at death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But wanting to justify himself, the expert in
the law asked Jesus yet another question.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘And
who is my neighbour?’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
replied in another classic Jewish way. One Jewish way of reading the Scrpture
is to find a story that illustrates the meaning of a passage, a Midrash. In a
sense the story that follows is Jesus’ story that shows how you are to read the
Torah through his eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to
Jericho, and fell into the hands of robbers, who stripped him, beat him, and
went away, leaving him half dead. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
still a road that goes down from Jersualem to Jericho and it is currently in
the news. It runs entirely through the Palestinian Territories, the West Bank.
It’s a major road two lanes going each way and it’s controlled by the Israeli
Government. You have to have Israeli number plates to drive on the road. Part
way along is a tiny village of Bedouin people who have a make shift encampment
under corrugated iron roofs – they wandered the Negev desert until 70 years ago
when they were removed from their lands and set up this tiny little village.
The village is to be demolished to make way for another settlement on the
Palestinian land. Christians who support the settlements, those who support the
government of Israel in what they are doing would do well to reflect on the way
Jesus invites us to deal with ‘the other’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is significant that the man is stripped – because naked he has none of the
markers that differentiate Jew and Roman and Samaritan and anyone else.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him, he passed by
on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him,
passed by on the other side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
great to update the story – but it is significant that it is a Priest and a
Levite – for the Priest and the Levite are the custodians of the Temple which
for the Jewish people was where God’s presence was most keenly felt – they are
effectively the custodians of the law – but somehow they have not got it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
a Samaritan while travelling came near him; and when he saw him, he was moved
with pity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Again,
great to update the Samaritan. But to do so is to miss the point. When Israel
divided into two kingdoms the northern kingdom was known as Samaria. They were
exiled when the Assyrian empire became a world power and overran their
territory. That left just Judah the territory around Jerusalem – the southern
kingdom. They were destroyed when the Babylonian empire became a world power.
It was when the Persian empire arose that people were allowed to return – those
exiled from the North were the Samaritans and they set up a holy temple on
Mount Gerizim. While they did not regard the Prophets and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Writings as their holy book, they did keep to
the Law – which they had in their own version. There is still a tiny Samaritan
community in Nablus on the West Bank.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
key thing here is that the Samaritan was also one who had regard for the Law –
he, however, was reading it differently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He went to him and bandaged his wounds, having
poured oil and wine on them. Then he put him on his own animal, brought him to
an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii, gave them
to the innkeeper, and said, “Take care of him; and when I come back, I will
repay you whatever more you spend.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
finishes with yet another question:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Which
of these three, do you think, was a neighbour to the man who fell into the
hands of the robbers?’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
expert in the law replies with very significant words. He said, ‘The one who
showed him mercy.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
a word that is a characteristic word of the Prophets and also in the writings –
and key to understanding the law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
it was that Jesus said to him, ‘Go and do likewise.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Read
this parable as Jesus’ response to the big question of our day, How do you read
your Sacred text’ and notice that Jesus places great store on what is at the
heart of the text.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
not what is written in every word that counts. It’s what you read there. For
Jesus it’s all about love: love for God, love for neighbour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
lives it out – there are words written in the law that keep a woman in her
menstrual period away from engaging with others – Jesus is not perturbed when
the woman who is bleeding touches him. There are words written in the law that
stop you from touching someone suffering from leprosy – Jesus reaches out and
touches the leper. So many words written in the Law can become hateful,
divisive … Jesus invites us to ask what do you read there? What is the nub of
matter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
ever someone builds a whole way of looking at the world, a whole way of dealing
with people that is based on what is written in certain particular texts of the
Bible – pause a moment, don’t just ask what’s written there? Remember the way
Jesus moved on to the second question, What do you read there?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then remember the nub of the matter is love – for God and for neighbour,
whoever that neighbour might be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
task is to show mercy, to go and do likewise, and to read the Scriptures the
way Jesus opens them up for us, not least here in this wonderful parable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:
Christ has called us to each other<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christ
has called us to each other<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Linked
in one humanity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Colour,
culture, class or gender<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Break
the chains to set us free.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hold
the hand of fiend and stranger,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hold
the dreams of age and youth,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hold
the cynic and the searcher,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we journey to the truth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christ
has challenged every motive<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
disturbed all stale belief,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Re-imagining
the future,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Scatt’ring
vision, healing grief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Open
doors will welcome homeless,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Open
eyes will see the need,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Open
hands will work in friendship,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sharing
love instead of greed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christ
will use all that we offer,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Build
the Kingdom in this space,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Living
stones of strength and weakness,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Each
unique and in its place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Art
and science, thought and action<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Human
struggle near and far:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
Christ transforms the questions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
our search of who we are.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christ
has called us to this moment,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Times
of change and new ideas,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Re-imagining
the future,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bringing
hope despite our fears.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Open
minds explore potential,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Open
arms embrace each child,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Open
hearts live out his purpose:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
creation reconciled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">C.Beverley
Hughes 2017 (Tune: Hyfrydol)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Looking
Back and Looking Forward<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
great to say thank you to everyone for all we have shared over the last 27
years here at Highbury … but good also to look forward – and a real sense of
handing over to the team we have put together – we have built up a team
ministry. That will take us forward – and I hope through the process the
deacons have already started when the church discerns whoever it is God is
calling to take up the ministry here at Highbury, there can continue to be a
real sense of a shared team ministry to go from strength to strength.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
Ministry Team<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pastoral
Care: Lorraine, Louise, Rachel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Worship
Maureen Williams with Karen Waldock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Discipleship
Judi Marsh with Karen Waldock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Children
– Andrea<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Youth
– Mary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mission
and Outreach Jean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Deacons:
Darryl, Janet, Kate, Sue, Mary<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Church
Secretary: Ian<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Church
Treasurer - Roger<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Administrator
– Julie Lane<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">May
God richly bless you in all you share together in the leadership of the Church
here in Highbury. Let me share a reading … and then Felicity is going to share
a prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
this reason I bow my knees before the Father, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">from
whom every family in heaven and on earth takes its name. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
pray that, according to the riches of his glory, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">he
may grant that you may be strengthened in your inner being <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">with
power through his Spirit, and that Christ may dwell in your hearts through
faith, as you are being rooted and grounded in love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
pray that you may have the power to comprehend, with all the saints, what is
the breadth and length and height and depth, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">so
that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
led by Felicity<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit
Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern – led by Karen Waldock<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit
Song – My lighthouse<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord’s Supper<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">167
Guide me O thou great Jehovah<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
to him who by the power at work within us <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">is able to
accomplish abundantly far more <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">than all we can
ask or imagine, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to
him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">for
ever and ever. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Love of God and <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Fellowship of the Holy Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Be
with us all evermore. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-50711947520094572302018-07-08T13:48:00.001+01:002018-07-08T13:48:39.993+01:00A Journey of Faith 8 - Back to the Heart of the Gospel - Luke 15 <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Text of the Week: “… let us eat and
celebrate; for this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is
found!” And they began to celebrate. Luke 15:24-25 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Welcome to today’s services and a special
welcome to any who are worshipping with us for the first time! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Today it’s Sunday Special: that means that
our children and young people are enjoying a late breakfast and some activities
around today’s theme before joining the rest of us for the last part of our
service. In our whistle-stop tour of Luke and Acts, today we almost get back to
where we started! We join Jesus and the women as well as the men who
accompanied him wherever he went. They’re on a journey that’s taking them to
Jerusalem. And on that journey they do what so many people down through the
ages have done on a journey: they share stories. It’s here in Luke’s Gospel on
the journey to Jerusalem that begins at chapter 9 verse 51 and ends when he first
sees the city at chapter 19 verse 41 that most of the ‘story-like’ parables of
Jesus are to be found. Right in the middle of the journey come three of the
most wonderful stories of Jesus and they go to the heart of the Gospel. As we
hear of the sheep that was lost and found, the coin that was sought and saved
and the son that was hugged and held we marvel at God’s grace and see the world
in a completely different way. Luke chapter 15 is nothing less than the Gospel
inside the Gospel.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">153
Great is thy faithfulness<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Journey begins</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
our whistle-stop tour of Luke and Acts, today we almost get back to where we
started! We join Jesus and the women as well as the men who accompanied him
wherever he went. They’re on a journey that’s taking them to Jerusalem. And on
that journey they do what so many people down through the ages have done on a
journey: they share stories. It’s here in Luke’s Gospel on the journey to
Jerusalem that begins at chapter 9 verse 51 and ends when he first sees the
city at chapter 19 verse 41 that most of the ‘story-like’ parables of Jesus are
to be found. It’s here, more than anywhere else, that we catch a glimpse of the
way Luke worked when he set out to write ‘an orderly account’ for a friend of
God, Theophilus. He is quite open in declaring that he made use of things other
people had written – lots of Mark’s gospel appears almost word for word in
Luke’s Gospel. But interestingly, Luke keeps close to the original Mark and includes
that Gospel in chunks. In all these 10 chapters there’s virtually nothing from
Mark’s Gospel. It’s all material Luke has researched himself. It includes
sayings of Jesus that appear in quite different contexts in Matthew’s Gospel,
giving rise to the view that Matthew and Luke both drew on an earlier
collection of the sayings of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
journey begins … and straightaway they run into conflict – conflict in part of
the disciples’ making as they enter a Samaritan village that refuses to receive
Jesus – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the disciples James and John saw this, they said, “Lord, do you want us to call
fire down from heaven to destroy them?” Some manuscripts add in Jesus’
response: You don’t know what kind of a Spirit you belong to: for the Son of
Man did not come to destroy people’s lives but to save them.” 9:51-55<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
it’s on to another village and reflections on what it takes to follow in the
footsteps of Jesus – would-be followers of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
almost as if they fan out – the twelve had already gone out and come back and
reported on their mission to preach the kingdom and to bring healing into all
levels of people’s lives. They went out in pairs – maybe each of those pairs
took on another 12 – making a cascade of 72 going out – to preach the kingdom
and bring healing to people’s lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Not
all receive the message as there are unbelieving towns. They come back and
report.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Rhythm of action and reflection that leads to more reflection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
notices how much Jesus prays – here he records a wonderful prayer of praise
Jesus makes to his Father.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
comes the Parable of the Good Samaritan , the visit Jesus makes to the home of
Mary and Martha – there’s action here that is called for in the Parable of the
Good Samaritan and reflection in the visit of Jesus to Martha and Mary as he
commends the quiet reflection of Mary.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
Jesus teaches on prayer – this is an example of the way Matthew and Luke seem
to draw on sayings that had been compiled of Jesus – this teaching appears in
Matthew in the middle of the Sermon on the Mount in chapter 6. Here there is a
focus on prayer – on the journey to keep going the disciples recognize that
Jesus keeps going by prayer … and they want to know how to pray.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a tussle going on – a spiritual battle if you like – Jesus and Beelzebul and
the return of the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>evil spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">True
happiness is hearing the word of God and doing it – a recurring theme.
Reflection on the word leads to action which in turn leads to more reflection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
discussion and debate as people demand a miracle and Jesus speaks of the need
for an inner light to light up the body – and debates with the Pharisees and
the Teachers of the Law – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
Jesus sits down and eats with he Pharisee – who is critical that Jesus had not
adequately washed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
has gone in to eat with Mary and Martha. Here we see him eating at the home of
the pharisee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
warns against hypocrisy – fear those who kill the spirit k- how important to
confess Christ and the fear of rejection<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
another gredat story parable – the parable of the great fool – who puts I, me
at the centre and gets his come-uppance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
important to trust in God and seek riches in heaven.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be watchful – the watchful servants at the
feast – the call for action<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
call for decision – can lead to division – are you for Jesus and his way or not<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Settle
with your opponent, turn from your sins or die, the parable of the unfruitful
figtree.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
the journey presses on there is a need to decide for or against, are you with
Jesus or not?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heals
a crippled woman on the sabbath – and then more stories – the parable of the
mustard seed, of the yeast, of the narrow door.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
tension mounts in 13:31ff<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
that same time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “You must get out
of here and go somewhere else, because Herod wants to kill you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
the determination of Jesus …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">32Jesus
answered them, “Go and tell that fox: ‘I am driving out demons and performing
cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I shall finish my work.’33Yet I
must be on my way today, tomorrow, and the next day; it is not right for a
prophet to be killed anywhere except in Jerusalem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
his lament over the Jerusalem he knows he is going to and what lies in store<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">34“Jerusalem,
Jerusalem! You kill the prophets, you stone the messengers God has sent you!
How many times have I wanted to put my arms round all your people, just as a
hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you would not let me!35 And so your
Temple will be abandoned. I assure you that you will not see me until the time
comes when you say, ‘God bless him who comes in the name of the Lord.’ ”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
heals the sick man and again there’s reflection on what happens at a feast as
some guests seek the place of highest honour and Jesus speaks of humility and
hospitality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Then comes the parable of the Great feast – Jesus reflects on the cost of being
a disciple and of the dangers of worthless salt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Journey is pressing forward – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
9:51<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
9:53<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">10:30<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">13:4<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">13:22<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">13:33<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">13:34<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
one of those jaunty modern songs from school and church days … though actually
it is one we are growing older with. At our dementia friendly service one of
Joan’s friends chose the next hymn – a great choice in all sorts of ways,
especially when you remember that Sydney Carter who wrote this and Lord of the
dance and many others himself lived with an increasingly serious dementia. And
it was a struggle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">530
One more step 1,2,3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Right
in the middle of the journey come three of the most wonderful stories of Jesus
and they go to the heart of the Gospel. As we hear of the sheep that was lost
and found, the coin that was sought and saved and the son that was hugged and
held we marvel at God’s grace and see the world in a completely different way.
Luke chapter 15 is nothing less than the Gospel inside the Gospel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it’s all about who you eat with – this gets to the heart of some big issues. It
goes to the heart of the Gospel. Religion is all about keeping the right
company, eating the right things in the right way with the right people. For
Jesus it wasn’t like that – he had a whole different way of thinking of things
and of seeing the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is the complaint of the ultra religious that leads into these three wonderful
parables:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lost
and Found - Luke 15:1-7<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
day when many tax collectors and other outcasts came to listen to Jesus, 2the
Pharisees and the teachers of the Law started grumbling, “This man welcomes
outcasts and even eats with them!” 3So Jesus told them this parable:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
immediate point at issue is – who you eat with<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4“Suppose
one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them — what do you do? You
leave the other 99 sheep in the pasture and go looking for the one that got
lost until you find it.5When you find it, you are so happy that you put it on
your shoulders6and carry it back home. Then you call your friends and
neighbours together and say to them, ‘I am so happy I found my lost sheep. Let
us celebrate!’7In the same way, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven
over one sinner who repents than over 99 respectable people who do not need to
repent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it finishes with great feasting.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
could think of these three parables as parables about our plight and our
salvation - the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the Parable of the Lost coin, the
parable;e of the Lost Son or the Prodigal son<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
they are wonderful in what they say about that love of God that reaches out to
us and brings us to a safe place, sets us in the right place welcomes us home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">HTC
212 I will sing the wondrous story<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
can think of them as Parables about us, our plight and our salvation:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Parable of the Lost Sheep, the Parable of
the Lost Coin, the Parable of the lost or prodigal son.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Or
you can think of them as parables about the nature of God: the parable of the
Good<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shepherd, the Seeking Woman, the
Waiting Father <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sought
and Saved<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
15:8-10<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">8“Or
suppose a woman who has ten silver coins loses one of them — what does she do?
She lights a lamp, sweeps her house, and looks carefully everywhere until she
finds it.9When she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbours together, and
says to them, ‘I am so happy I found the coin I lost. Let us celebrate!’10In
the same way, I tell you, the angels of God rejoice over one sinner who
repents.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
speaks of God as the mother hen who takes us under her wing – this is a
wonderful image – and it invites us into that safe place that is special.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">678
Here is the place<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is a recurring phrase in each of those first two parable – as they come to the
end<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">7In
the same way, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who
repents than over 99 respectable people who do not need to repent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<sup><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">0</span></sup><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In the same way, I tell you, the angels of
God rejoice over one sinner who repents.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Repentance
goes to the heart of the gospel – it’s what it is all about.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
what is repentance? – in a sense the third parable is a parable that is all
about repentance. What it means.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hugged
and Held<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
15:11-24<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
went on to say, “There was once a man who had two sons.12The younger one said
to him, ‘Father, give me my share of the property now.’ So the man divided his
property between his two sons.13After a few days the younger son sold his part
of the property and left home with the money. He went to a country far away,
where he wasted his money in reckless living.14He spent everything he had. Then
a severe famine spread over that country, and he was left without a thing.15So
he went to work for one of the citizens of that country, who sent him out to
his farm to take care of the pigs.16He wished he could fill himself with the
bean pods the pigs ate, but no one gave him anything to eat.<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">17At last he came to his senses</b> and
said, ‘All my father's hired workers have more than they can eat, and here I am
about to starve!18I will get up and go to my father and say, Father, I have
sinned against God and against you.19I am no longer fit to be called your son;
treat me as one of your hired workers.’20So he got up and started back to his
father.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“He
was still a long way from home when his father saw him; his heart was filled
with pity, and he ran, threw his arms round his son, and kissed him.21‘Father,’
the son said, ‘I have sinned against God and against you. I am no longer fit to
be called your son.’22But the father called his servants. ‘Hurry!’ he said.
‘Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and shoes on
his feet.23Then go and get the prize calf and kill it, and let us celebrate
with a feast!24For this son of mine was dead, but now he is alive; he was lost,
but now he has been found.’ And so the feasting began.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
key moment is when he comes to his senses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
came to himself<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
what repentance amounts to – a whole new way of thinking – a whole new way of
acting – a whole new way of being …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it draws us home – hugged and held.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
easy it is to begrudge those who are brought home – but we’ve been there all
along … the elder brother<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Really?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
15:28-32<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">28“The
elder brother was so angry that he would not go into the house; so his father
came out and begged him to come in.29But he answered his father, ‘Look, all
these years I have worked for you like a slave, and I have never disobeyed your
orders. What have you given me? Not even a goat for me to have a feast with my
friends!30But this son of yours wasted all your property on prostitutes, and
when he comes back home, you kill the prize calf for him!’31‘My son,’ the
father answered, ‘you are always here with me, and everything I have is
yours.32But we had to celebrate and be happy, because your brother was dead,
but now he is alive; he was lost, but now he has been found.’ ”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Takes
us back to where we began – and that sense that these are parables of feasting
– and the feast is for all – let’s not stay outside!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">724
Christ’s is the world<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Journey goes on<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">17:11<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">18:31<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">19:11<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">19:28<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Look
at the story parables that are coming up –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Shrewd manager – 16:1-13 about the scale of forgiveness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
rich man and Lazarus – 16:19-32<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
servant who ploughs – 17:7-10<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
widow and the judge – 18:1-8<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
pharisee and the tax collector – 18:9-14<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
parable of the gold coins<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
the things Jesus does <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heals
ten men suffering from leprosy 17:11-19<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Blesses
little children 18:15-17<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Heals
a blind beggar – 18:35-43<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
and Zaccaheus – 19|:1-10<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then he’s almost there … and when he sees the city he weeps over it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Triumphant
approach to Jerusalem 19:28-40<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
weeps over Jerusalem<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">41He
came closer to the city, and when he saw it, he wept over it, 42saying, “If you
only knew today what is needed for peace! But now you cannot see it!43<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">530
One more step 1,4,5<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">555
Amazing Grace<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
time to share<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit
song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-1070652889736913782018-07-01T13:08:00.001+01:002018-07-01T13:08:40.939+01:00A Journey of Faith 7 - Putting it into Practice<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the Week: Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to
you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them
be afraid. John 14:27 <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping with us for the
first time. During our evening service we shall be sharing in the Lord’s
Supper. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
are going to reflect on the sound of sheer silence that is nothing less than a
still small voice of calm. It is in that silence, in that calm that the voice
of God may be heard and the presence of God felt. At first sight there is not
much silence and very little calm as the ministry of Jesus gets under way in
Luke’s gospel. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
morning we are going to skim read through Luke’s account of the first part of
Jesus’ ministry, from Nazareth to the mount of transfiguration and the point at
which he set out for Jerusalem (Luke 4:14 - 10:51) In his home town of Nazareth
he had set out what his life’s work was all about: with the anointing of the
Spirit of God he was to bring ‘good news to the poor, whoever they are, to
proclaim release to the captives, whoever they are, and recovery of sight to
the blind, whoever they are, to let the oppressed go free, whoever the
oppressed might be, and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
he makes his base on the shore of the Sea of Galilee in Capernaum he does just
that. He teaches love not just for neighbour but enemy too and he brings
healing to hurting people not least those everyone else rejects. Luke notices something
the other Gospel writers don’t notice. All this activity is sustained by times
of quiet, times of calm. It is those times of quiet, those times of calm that
can sustain us in all that we do<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">189
Be still<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
friends can do!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 5:27-32<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Whoever
they are<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
are going to reflect on the sound of sheer silence that is nothing less than a
still small voice of calm. It is in that silence, in that calm that the voice
of God may be heard and the presence of God felt. At first sight there is not
much silence and very little calm as the ministry of Jesus gets under way in
Luke’s gospel. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
morning we are going to skim read through Luke’s account of the first part of
Jesus’ ministry, from Nazareth to the mount of transfiguration and the point at
which he set out for Jerusalem (Luke 4:14 - 10:51) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
his home town of Nazareth he had set out what his life’s work was all about.
Jesus went to the very heart of the Hebrew Scriptures and read from the scroll
of the Prophet Isaiah what we think of as the opening verses of chapter 61. At
first the people who had gathered together in the synagogue in Nazareth where
Jesus had grown up, for fellowship, for prayer, to listen to the teaching of a
teacher of some renown who was just starting out, were amazed at the words of
grace that came from his mouth. But their wonder turned to rage as he re-told the
story of Elijah and the Gentile Widow of Zarephath and the story of Elisha and
the Gentile commander of the Syrian army, Naaman, who was suffering from
leprosy. It ws the Gentile woman Elijah saved from famine, it was the Gentile
commander of an enemy army Elisha healed of leprosy. There could be no doubt
about what Jesus meant. He was in no doubt, with the anointing of the Spirit of
God he was to bring ‘good news to the poor, whoever they are, to proclaim
release to the captives, whoever they are, and recovery of sight to the blind,
whoever they are, to let the oppressed go free, whoever the oppressed might be,
and to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
was a radically different way of reading the Old Testament story for those
people gathered together in Nazareth – and it was not what they wanted to hear.
The good news was for their poor, release was for their captives … they were so
enraged at the way Jesus read those Scriptures seeing that the grace of God was
for all that they hounded him out of the village and would have hurled him over
the cliff, had he not walked through the crowd and walked his way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
he makes his base on the shore of the Sea of Galilee in Capernaum he does just
that. Notice how from the very start of his ministry, Jesus reaches out to all,
not least to the very least, the ones who so many had no time for, the ones so
many so often rejected.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">His
teaching really was something.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
4:31-32.,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Accosted
by a man with an evil spirit so many would simply have rejected, Jesus brought
healing into his heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4:36-37<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
brought healing to many people and went around teaching in the synagogues
before going on to call his first disciples.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then,
it was from the outcast to the untouchable, as he heals a man suffering from
what the GNB calls a dreaded skin-disease – the untouchable leprosy sufferer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
Jesus breaks the rule – as 5:13 he stretched out his hand and touched him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
it was that paralysed man, brought by his friends, who received the forgiveness
of sins, then it was Levi, a tax collector sitting in his office.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
is breaking out and reaching out to the ones with an embrace that’s as wide as
can be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
disregards the letter of the law and allows his followers to pick grains on the
Sabbath – he breaks the code eating and drinking, there’s something new in the
air.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a question about fasting, a question about the Sabbath – Jesus is breaking out
of the straitjacket- raching out beyond the box. Thinking out of the box.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
it’s the man with the paralysed hand, again something that is breaking<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the bounds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
this is noticed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
There’s still rage in the air.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">6:11
They were filled with rage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
it was the twelve that Jesus called.as he chooses the Twelve Apostles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
the man with the evil Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4:31<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He teaches love not just for neighbour but
enemy too and he brings healing to hurting people not least those everyone else
rejects. Luke notices something the other Gospel writers don’t notice. All this
activity is sustained by times of quiet, times of calm. It is those times of
quiet, those times of calm that can sustain us in all that we do<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
now that he brings all this teaching together … and it sums it all up<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy
are you poor, How terrible<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is powerful stuff – echoes of Mary’s song.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 6:27-42<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
it goes on <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
heals a Roman officer’s servant – a centurion’s servant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
he raises a widow’s son – just like Elijah had done before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is carrying out what he said he would do in that first sermon back in Nazareth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
come messengers from john the Baptist.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Tnhey want to know – is he the one we’ve all been waiting for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
7:21-23<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
really is happening – the Hebrew Scriptures at the heart of Jesus ministry are
being lived out in all that he does.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
is for everyone – the Pharisee included.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
in Luke’s eyes, it involves all and is for everyone. Indeed women play a key
role in the work that Jesus is doing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
8:1-3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
as if he is sowing the seeds of a whole new way of thinking – not that it is
received to universal acclaim, some seed falls by the wayside, some on rocky
ground where it’s overwhelmed by weeds, some fell among thorns – but some fell
in good soil and grew and produced corn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
as if a light has come to shine in the world<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Everyone
who hears the words of God and does it – is part of Jesus family.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
storm is stilled, the man with demons, the legion is healed, he brings healing
to Jairus’s daughter, to the woman with the issue of blood no one will touch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is a mission Jesus shares as Jesus sends out the Twelve Disciples – herod is
worried who is this Jesus – another Elijah, one of the prophets – he feeds five
thousand men and then we reach the mid-point of the Gospel with Pet’er’s
declaration about Jesus, jesus’s speaking of his suffering and death and the
transfiguration … with a healing, more talk about his death and a depate over
who is the greatest Jesus makes up his min an dset out on his way to Jerusalem
9:51<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is a frenetic round of activity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
puts into practice the program he had announced in Nazareth – it’s happening –
and it is life changing for so many people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Luke has noticed something remarkable- it’s not noticed by the other gospel
writers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4:42
– at daybreak Jesus left the town and wnent off to a lonely place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">5:16
he would go away to lonely places, where he prayed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">6:12
Jesus went up a hill to pray and spent the whole night there praying to God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">9:18
one day while jesus was praying alone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
importance of those times of quiet …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
the times of quiet that are so precious.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
The practice of the presence of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
session Karen is going to lead on Tuesday evening – a time to share in prayer
out of the Scriptures – to use the Scripture in prayer and to sense the
presence of God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
rhythm of prayer that was so important to Jesus is the rhythm of prayer we too
must capture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Times
of Quiet<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">716
Come and find the quiet centre<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">448
Lord, the light of your love is<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">shining<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-70064109943149205222018-06-24T15:27:00.001+01:002018-06-24T15:27:17.213+01:00Praising the God of Creation - Psalm 95<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p>Text for the week: <i>Sing joyful
songs to the Lord! Praise the mighty rock where we
are safe. Come to worship him with thankful hearts
and songs of praise. Psalm 95:1,2 </i></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p>Welcome to today’s services and a special welcome to all who are
worshiping with us for the first time today. </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p>Today’s morning service
has been put together by our Hy-Waves group with the help of Judi
Marsh. Their service is inspired by the first seven verses of Psalm 95
and by Psalm 104. They are two marvellous Psalms that celebrate the
wonder of God in creation. Before our service begins use the first
seven verses of Psalm 95 to reflect on the God who is at the heart of
our worship today, the God whose voice we are going to listen out
for! </o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sing joyful songs to the Lord! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Praise the mighty rock where we are
safe. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Come to worship him with thankful hearts and songs of praise. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Lord is the greatest God, king over all other gods.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">He holds the deepest part of the earth in his hands,
and the mountain peaks belong to him. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">The ocean is the Lord’s because he made it, and with his own hands
he formed the dry land. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Bow down and worship the Lord our Creator! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">The Lord is our God, and we are his people, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">the sheep he takes care
of in his own pasture.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Listen to God’s voice today! (CEV)</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Call
to worship:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Judi & Hy-Waves<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Abi
– a few words of welcome<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Judi
– says something about the service<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ceitidh
will say, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sing
joyful songs to the Lord!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Praise
the mighty rock where we are safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Come
to worship him with truthful hearts and songs of praise<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ceitidh
announces the two hymns:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We’re
going to sing two joyful songs to the Lord<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
is Lord! Creation’s voice proclaims it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God
is good – we sing and shout it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymns:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(these are both in the complete edition of
Mission Praise)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">MP367:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>'Jesus is Lord'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ORGAN<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">MP
185:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>'God is good, we sing and shout
it'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>H/S<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
& the Lord's Prayer:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hy-Waves<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Abi
will introduce this, and we will all read our prayers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
Judi will call Gwyneth up for the reading<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psalm 104:1-12<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Gwyneth)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In Praise of the
Creator<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1Praise the LORD,
my soul!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">O
LORD, my God, how great you are!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
are clothed with majesty and glory;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">you
cover yourself with light.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
have spread out the heavens like a tent<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
built your home on the waters above.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
use the clouds as your chariot<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
ride on the wings of the wind.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
use the winds as your messengers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
flashes of lightning as your servants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
have set the earth firmly on its foundations,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
it will never be moved.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
placed the ocean over it like a robe,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
the water covered the mountains.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
you rebuked the waters, they fled;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">they
rushed away when they heard your shout of command.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
flowed over the mountains and into the valleys,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to
the place you had made for them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
set a boundary they can never pass,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to
keep them from covering the earth again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
make springs flow in the valleys,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
rivers run between the hills.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
provide water for the wild animals;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">there
the wild donkeys quench their thirst.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the trees near by,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
birds make their nests and sing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Abi
will announce the hymn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
… who put the colours in the rainbow? – let’s join in singing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>CH143<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>'Who put the colours in the rainbow?' H/S<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Children's
slot:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>simultaneous short craft activity
for the younger children, and quiz on the quality of rocks for the
congregation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Abi
is the quiz master. Judi will say there’s a craft activity for the little ones.
Laura will sit with them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
hardest natural substance on earth is a) diamond b) sandstone, c) bone<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
most common rock on earth is a) limestone, b) basalt, c) seaside rock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
ancient Egyptians used a powder made from this rock as eye make-up a)sandstone,
b) marble, c) lapis lazuli<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The Taj
Mahal in India is made entirely of this rock a) diamond, b) marble, c) rock
salt<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Igneous
rock is formed when magma reaches this temperature in Farenheit a) 2 degrees,
(- 17˚ Celsius) b) 200 degrees (93˚ Celsius) c) 2000 degrees (1093˚ Celsius) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Psalm
95 begins like this …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sing
joyful songs to the Lord!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Praise the mighty rock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>where we are safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Come to worship him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">with
thankful hearts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and songs of praise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Why
do you think the writer of Psalm 95 used the image of a rock to describe God?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">After
the Quiz Judi will ask the little ones to show what they have done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ceitidh
will introduce Psalm 95:1-7<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
all read Psalm 95 together:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">(This
is all brought together by everyone reading Psalm 95:1-7)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sing
joyful songs to the Lord!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Praise
the mighty rock<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">where
we are safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Come
to worship him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">with
thankful hearts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
songs of praise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord is the greatest God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">king
over all other gods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
holds the deepest part<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">of
the earth in his hands,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
the mountain peaks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">belong
to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
ocean is the Lord’s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">because
he made it,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
with his own hands<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">he
formed the dry land.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bow down and worship<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Lord our Creator!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Lord is our God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and we are his people,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the sheep he takes care of<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in his own pasture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit
song: 'My lighthouse'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>H/S<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Judi will say it
is time for <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">(the
younger children leave for their own activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hy-Waves & Hy-Tide remain)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Judi
will invite Gwyneth to come back to to continue the reading<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Psalm 104:13-26 (Gwyneth)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
the sky you send rain on the hills,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
the earth is filled with your blessings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
make grass grow for the cattle<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
plants for human beings to use,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">so
that they can grow their crops<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
produce wine to make them happy,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">olive
oil to make them cheerful,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
bread to give them strength.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
cedars of Lebanon get plenty of rain —<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
LORD's own trees, which he planted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
the birds build their nests;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
storks nest in the fir trees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
wild goats live in the high mountains,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
the rock-badgers hide in the cliffs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
created the moon to mark the months;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
sun knows the time to set.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
made the night, and in the darkness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">all
the wild animals come out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
young lions roar while they hunt,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">looking
for the food that God provides.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the sun rises, they go back<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
lie down in their dens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
people go out to do their work<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
keep working until evening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">LORD,
you have made so many things!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
wisely you made them all!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
earth is filled with your creatures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is the ocean, large and wide,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">where
countless creatures live,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">large
and small alike.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
ships sail on it, and in it plays Leviathan,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">that
sea monster which you made.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>'God is great, amazing'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(in Graham Kendrick book)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>H/S<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Talk:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>by Richard<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
words of the first seven verses of Psalm 95 tell us why it’s so important to
praise God and they also tell us how to do it. And they are wonderful words.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
getting closer!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We’ve
been making the journey from Cheltenham to Bridgend and back quite a lot for
quite a time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
the countryside is beautiful.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’ve
grown up knowing South Wales and over the last thirty years we have been to the
Gower Peninsula and had the most wonderful holidays there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Congregational Federation has a wonderful holiday cottage – quite reasonably
priced – Rachel Jacques has been going recently – over the years we have gone
time and again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
on the road to Rhossili and the Worm’s Head at a place called Pilton Green.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
From the cottage you can walk to the coast<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
as you reach the sea you are above one of the most wonderful spots in Britain
and one of the most historic. It is where the oldest human remains to be found
in Britain were discovered. Known wrongly as the Red Lady of Paviland they were
found in a cave from the time whgen the Bristol channel was a stretch of land
where the mammoths roamed and the caves in the cliffs were our ancestors lived.
And this is one of them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
a wonderful spot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Looking
in there’s hardly any sign of a cave<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
from inside, looking out it’s a place that feels secure, a place that feels
safe. From the storms, from the winds there is security here there is safety
here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the rock that provides a home that is safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Why
praise God – because it is in his presence that we are safe – safe from the
storms, safe in his safe-keeping.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sing
joyful songs to the Lord!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Praise the mighty rock [a]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>where we are safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Why
praise because in God’s presence we are safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
how should we praise?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2
Come to worship him<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">with
thankful hearts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and songs of praise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
a wild and rugged place where you touch the beauty of God’s creation in all its
splendor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
That suggests the Psalmist, is the second reason to give God our praise – it’s
because he is the God of creation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">he
Lord is the greatest God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>king over all other gods.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">4
He holds the deepest part<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>of the earth in his hands,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and the mountain peaks<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>belong to him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">5
The ocean is the Lord’s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>because he made it,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and with his own hands<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>he formed the dry land.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">6
Bow down and worship<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Lord our Creator!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
in our time in Cheltenham that I have become passionate about geology. Olga
gave me two books on Glos geology by William Dreghorn, a friend and colleague
of her father’s.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Marvellous
sketches. So when I found a book on Welsh geology in the same series I snaffled
it up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
says of the road from Bridgend over the tops to the Rhondda that it is one of
the most beautiful mountain roads in Britain for its wonderful geology – and
its glacial cirques.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
you emerge at the top, known as the Bwlch, the gap – there’s the most wonderful
view over to Treorchy and my family grave. And at your feet a plaque.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
the words of the plaque are the words of Psalm 104<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">LORD,
you have made so many things!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
wisely you made them all!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
earth is filled with your creatures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
won’t stand there long before being joined by one of the Rhondda’s residents.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
sheep!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Which
takes us back to Psalm 95 and the last reason.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
It’s not just because we are safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
not just because we look to the God of creation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is because God cares for us with the deepest possible love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord is our God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and we are his people,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the sheep he takes care of<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in his own pasture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lake
is going to announce the next hymn<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
lead into our prayers we’re going to stay sitting down to sing <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘The
Lord’s my shepherd’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy
Spirit lead the singing of the Lord’s my shepherd<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let
us pray …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Loving
Lord Jesus, we give you thanks that you care for us <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">as
a shepherd cares for his sheep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Look
after all those who are lonely,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
those who are sick,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
those who are sad<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
those who are without a home<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lord
God, our heavenly Father, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
give you thanks for the wonder of your creation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thank
you for the wonderful world you have given us to live in<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Be
with those who live in places where there are earthquakes <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
in places where there are volcanoes,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Be
with those who live in places where there is drought <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
in places where there are floods<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Keep
them safe, we pray<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Help
us to look after your world and to care for it in all that we do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God
of all creation, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
give you thanks that you are always there for us, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
rock to keep us safe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Keep
us and our families and friends safe now and always.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
we ask in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
join together in singing our last hymn, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:
CH804<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>'You shall go out with joy'<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>ORGAN<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of blessing – Richard to lead<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span></b>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-4311877792767279142018-06-10T20:21:00.002+01:002018-06-10T20:21:18.530+01:00A Journey of Faith 6 - Reading the Scriptures Through the Eyes of Jesus<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the Week: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has chosen me to
bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives
and recovery of sight to the blind; to set free the oppressed and announce that
the time has come when the Lord will save his people.” Luke 4:18-19<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping with us for the
first time. Today is Sunday Special and so our young people are meeting for a
late breakfast and activities from 10-15 and for the first part of our service.
All the best TV dramas begin each episode with that tantalisingly brief
collection of snippets from previous episodes that enables you to catch up with
the story. So, in that tradition, Previously … we began on Easter Sunday in the
very last chapter in Luke’s Gospel on the Emmaus Road when Jesus opened up the
Old Testament to two of his followers. That evening he did the same with the
rest of his followers back in Jerusalem. From that day on they ‘got it’: they
now began to read the Old Testament Scriptures in the way Jesus had opened up
for them. Reading through Luke’s story of the beginning of the Church in Acts
we’ve seen that the first followers of Jesus drew on the insights Jesus shared
with them in their reading of the Old Testament: we’ve seen it in the speeches
of Peter, Stephen, Philip and Paul. It’s is as if Luke in Acts is getting us to
see that as followers of The Way, as Christians, we are to read the Old
Testament through the eyes of Jesus and see in Jesus that all it stands for is
brought to fulfilment. The story finishes in Acts with Paul under house arrest
in Rome preaching about the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus
Christ, speaking with all boldness and freedom. All the best TV dramas come to
an end with a taster of what’s in store. Having accompanied Paul on so many of
his travels and arrived with him in Rome, Luke went on to draw on the
researches he had already started to commit to writing the story of Jesus and
the movement he started. And so today we go back to the very beginning of the
story he had to tell … and we’ll discover a thread running through the story
that shows how Jesus read the Old Testament. This, I believe, is one of the
pressing stories of our time: how we read our Bible. In Acts, as we have seen,
and in Luke as we are going to see there are pointers that can transform the
way we read some of the most difficult bits of the Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">213
Every new morning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Back
to the beginning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
the best TV dramas begin each episode with that tantalisingly brief collection
of snippets from previous episodes that enables you to catch up with the story.
So, in that tradition, Previously … we began on Easter Sunday in the very last
chapter in Luke’s Gospel on the Emmaus Road when Jesus opened up the Old
Testament to two of his followers. That evening he did the same with the rest
of his followers back in Jerusalem. From that day on they ‘got it’: they now
began to read the Old Testament Scriptures in the way Jesus had opened up for
them. Reading through Luke’s story of the beginning of the Church in Acts we’ve
seen that the first followers of Jesus drew on the insights Jesus shared with
them in their reading of the Old Testament: we’ve seen it in the speeches of
Peter, Stephen, Philip and Paul. It’s is as if Luke in Acts is getting us to
see that as followers of The Way, as Christians, we are to read the Old Testament
through the eyes of Jesus and see in Jesus that all it stands for is brought to
fulfilment. The story finishes in Acts with Paul under house arrest in Rome
preaching about the Kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ,
speaking with all boldness and freedom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
the best TV dramas come to an end with a taster of what’s in store. Having
accompanied Paul on so many of his travels and arrived with him in Rome, Luke
went on to draw on the researches he had already started to commit to writing
the story of Jesus and the movement he started. And so today we go back to the
very beginning of the story he had to tell … and we’ll discover a thread
running through the story that shows how Jesus read the Old Testament. This, I
believe, is one of the pressing stories of our time: how we read our Bible. In
Acts, as we have seen, and in Luke as we are going to see there are pointers
that can transform the way we read some of the most difficult bits of the
Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who
knows … and there are all sorts of possibilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
one I’m drawn to is the one that goes back in the mists of time to the early
traditions of the church – that Luke and Acts were written by Luke the beloved
physician who was a travelling companion of Paul.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
in Acts 16:10 that the narrative in Acts changes to the first person – I’m
persuaded that’s when Luke joins Paul. Luke is with Paul in those bits that are
in the first person plural.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
16:10-17 in Philippi. The next parts of the story are in the third person until
20:5 when it’s ‘we’ again. What’s telling is that we are back in Philippi at
that point. It looks as if Luke stayed in Philippi when Paul moved on. 20:5-16,
Paul in Luke’s company travels to Miletus where Paul summons the leaders of the
church in Ephesus and shares with them his message again. Then Luke accompanies
Paul on his fateful journey to Jerusalem as he takes the collection there. Luke
is with Paul in Jerusalem … <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>21:1-19 but
we don’t have any more of the ‘we passages’ until and the decision to sail to
Rome – but the implication of 27:1 is that Luke has by now joined Paul in
Caesarea. That suggests that Luke is around in Jersualem and then Caesarea for
the couple of years this covers. Then he is with Paul on the journey to Rome
and with him in Rome. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>27:1-28:16.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">IN
my imagining Luke has taken the opportunity while in Jerusalem and Caesarea to
meet with people who had been around with Jesus and get the story of Jesus. It
is at this point maybe that he begins to turn his hand to the task of putting
the gospel together. It could be that that is in the 60’s. It maybe he
continues to do his research and it takes him into the 70’s.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
at this point having followed the story through Acts we can return with Luke to
the way he tells the story … and as we do that we are on the look out for the
way in his telling of the story he notices how Jesus himself has a way of
reading the Hebrew Scriptures we think of as the Old Testament that is apparent
in that story as it unfolds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke’s
gospel begins as Luke explains how he is going to write. Is he writing to a
particular person called Theophilus or to anyone who is a Theo Philos – a
friend of God. I rather like the idea – because I think of him as writing for
me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading: Luke
1:1-4 – Gwyneth<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Dear
Theophilus:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Many
people have done their best to write a report of the things that have taken
place among us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Interesting
that right at the beginning Luke acknowledges that he is drawing on other
accounts of Jesus. There’s a very strong argument to be had that Luke draws on
Mark and on a collection of sayings of Jesus – and if you map out all the
verses of Luke’s Gospel and set it alongside Matthew and Mark you can
demonstrate that pretty effectively. We had the chart on the wall in our Sixth
Form RE room at school. It was given me out of the blue by James. I found it on
the wall of David Wenham who teaches NT in Oxford when we had that shared
mission with St Luke’s and Holy Apostles and I have used it in my teaching ever
since.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>2They wrote what we have been told by those
who saw these things from the beginning and who proclaimed the message.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What’s
interesting is that Luke also says that those people were drawing on
eye-witness accounts that he also makes use of. I am persuaded of that too.
Felicity and I went to the Hay<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Festival
and when Romola’s daughter chaired a panel discussion with four short listed
for the Templeton prize for a religious book. I found myself in conversation
with the winner in an Evensong service later that evening and bought the book.
He makes a convincing argument from close study of the frequency of names in
Jewish communities around the Mediterranean that those who are named in the
Gospels have names that are characteristic of Palestine. He suggests they are
named because they were the ones who told their story –Zachaeus is the one I
always think of, Bar Timaeus is another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>3And so, your Excellency, because I have
carefully studied all these matters from their beginning, I thought it would be
good to write an orderly account for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
has made a study – interesting he should research … so his book is not just
random. It has a basis in serious research. And then it is ordered.
Interestinly in that chart you can demonstrate that he treated his sources
carefully and accurately, quoting Mark when he used him … and slotting in other
material he came across without spoiling the passages he has used form Mark.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
writes with a clear purpose he states at the outset.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>4I do this so that you will know the full
truth about everything which you have been taught.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
know where we are with Luke – and we are with someone who has done his research.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so he begins his story. What’s apparent is that the first two chapters are very
long, they tell the story of how Jesus came to be born and of his birth … they
also link him with the birth of John the Baptist his cousin … and they include
an account of the birth that’s also unique to Luke.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
has the best Greek of the New Testament. He knows what he is doing as he
writes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
the style of these two chapters is different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
They almost read as if they are written in the style of the Old Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is almost as if they are rounding off the Old Testament to bring us into the
New Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Whether
it’s the Priestly tradition of the Temple or the tradition of the Prophets or
the ways of the Psalmists in writing their Psalms it’s all there in the first
two chapters of Luke.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
so often happened in the telling of the story of Israel at key points a song or
a psalm shows you the significance of what’s happening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
that happens here as well. With three songs, psalms traditionally known as canticles
that give the message behind the story.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
the birth of John the Baptist is announced, the birth of Jesus is announced,
Mary visits Elizabeth and then Mary’s song of praise brings out the
significance of all that’s happening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it’s wonderful to sing … <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">86
Tell out my soul<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
we come to the birth of John the Baptist and Zechariah’s prophecy – and it’s
this psalm or song that brings out the significance of John’s ministry and the
way it relates to Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">HTC
599 O bless the God of Israel<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
that we know the significance of what’s going on Luke tells us of the birth of
Jesus, of the shepherds and the angels, of the way Jesus is named and of the
way Jesus is presented in the Temple.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is that a woman, the prophetess Anna, becomes the first to speak about the
child to all who were waiting for God to set Jersualem free – a woman the first
to declare the Good news. Never let it be said the Bible prohibits women from
preaching and speaking!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Or
older people for that matter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
it is Simeon who has recognized Jesus for who he is just before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
his song is one of the most wonderful of all – and it reminds us of the
significance of this little one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">HTC
55 Faithful vigil ended<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Listening
and Asking Questions<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
then returns to Nazareth where the child grew and became strong; he was full of
wisdom, and God’s blessings were upon him,. ~And the we jump to the point at
which he comes of age, as it were. The age of the Jewish Bar Mitzvah. And we
find the Boy Jesus in the Temple. Or at least his parents find him after he
goes missing for three days in the temple among the teachers of the law. They
find him listening and asking questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 2:41-52<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Every
year the parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem for the Passover Festival. 42When
Jesus was twelve years old, they went to the festival as usual. 43When the
festival was over, they started back home, but the boy Jesus stayed in
Jerusalem. His parents did not know this; 44they thought that he was with the
group, so they travelled a whole day and then started looking for him among
their relatives and friends. 45They did not find him, so they went back to
Jerusalem looking for him. 46On the third day they found him in the Temple, sitting
with the Jewish teachers, listening to them and asking questions. 47All who
heard him were amazed at his intelligent answers. 48His parents were astonished
when they saw him, and his mother said to him, “My son, why have you done this
to us? Your father and I have been terribly worried trying to find you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">49He
answered them, “Why did you have to look for me? Didn't you know that I had to
be in my Father's house?”50But they did not understand his answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">51So
Jesus went back with them to Nazareth, where he was obedient to them. His
mother treasured all these things in her heart. 52 Jesus grew both in body and
in wisdom, gaining favour with God and people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
the classic Jewish way of reading the Scriptures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a tendency among especially Protestant Christians to narrow the meaning down of
a passage of Scripture and say ‘this is what it means’. The Jewish way of
reading the Scriptures is always to ask more questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
then tells us of the Preaching of John the Baptist and his arrest not before he
had shared in the Baptism of Jesus. We then learn of the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ancestors of Jesus and the temptation of
Jesus. And then Jesus’ ministry of teaching, and healing begins. It’s not long
before he goes back to Nazareth where he is welcomed as a teacher in the
Synagogue gathering that has been a part of his growing up. The place where
people teach and people ask questions of the Scripture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
has left us in no doubt by now that Jesus knows his Scriptures. No wonder he is
asked to speak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Grace<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 4:16-22<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
Jesus went to Nazareth, where he had been brought up, and on the Sabbath he
went as usual to the synagogue. He stood up to read the Scriptures 17and was
handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. He unrolled the scroll and found the
place where it is written:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">18
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">because
he has chosen me to bring good news to the poor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
has sent me to proclaim liberty to the captives<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
recovery of sight to the blind;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to
set free the oppressed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">19and
announce that the time has come<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">when
the Lord will save his people.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">20Jesus
rolled up the scroll, gave it back to the attendant, and sat down. All the
people in the synagogue had their eyes fixed on him, 21as he said to them,
“This passage of scripture has come true today, as you heard it being read.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">22They
were all well impressed with him and marvelled at the eloquent words that he
spoke. They said, “Isn't he the son of Joseph?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Good news Bible lets us down when it speaks of ‘the eloquent words that he spoke.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Literally it can be translated ‘words of
grace’ that he spoke.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
like that translation – that’s the point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
speaks wonderful words of grace – that was the message of Jesus Luke had
absorbed from Paul – grace was at the heart of his understanding of the
Christian faith. It is right here at the beginning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
join in singing a celebration of these words of grace …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit – Only
by grace<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
something happens then that changes the atmosphere. In verse 22 everyone there
is well impressed and marvel at those words of grace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
by verse 28 the mood had changed and those there were filled with anger, filled
with rage so much so they took him out of the town and tried to push him over a
cliff. What happened to make them change?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 4:23-30<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
said to them, “I am sure that you will quote this proverb to me, ‘Doctor, heal
yourself.’ You will also tell me to do here in my home town the same things you
heard were done in Capernaum.24 I tell you this,” Jesus added, “prophets are
never welcomed in their home town.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">25
“Listen to me: it is true that there were many widows in Israel during the time
of Elijah, when there was no rain for 3.5 years and a severe famine spread
throughout the whole land.26 Yet Elijah was not sent to anyone in Israel, but
only to a widow living in Zarephath in the territory of Sidon.27 And there were
many people suffering from a dreaded skin disease who lived in Israel during
the time of the prophet Elisha; yet not one of them was healed, but only Naaman
the Syrian.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">28When
the people in the synagogue heard this, they were filled with anger. 29They
rose up, dragged Jesus out of the town, and took him to the top of the hill on
which their town was built. They meant to throw him over the cliff, 30but he
walked through the middle of the crowd and went his way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
powerful words from Isaiah 61 that Jesus reads from are like a manifesto
statement of his mission. And it’s what the people want to hear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
good news for the poor … but they really are only concerned about their own
poor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
There’s liberty for the captives but it’s really only their own captives they
are concerned for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
sight for the blind so long as it’s their blind,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Freedom
for the oppressed so long as it is their oppressed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
that is taken for granted. And it’s so often how we feel. Charity starts at
home. It’s those who are like us we are concerned for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Jesus then goes on to follow a classic Jewish way of teaching. He explains what
is meant in those words from Isaiah by telling two stories. It is not
insignificant that the first is a story of Elijah and the second a story of
Elisha. Elijah was the first of the great Prophets of the Hebrew Scriptures who
spoke God’s word to the powers that be of his time. And Elisha took up his mantle
and followed on in his footsteps.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Elijah
gave food to the Gentile widow of Zarepath and Elisha healed the Gentile
commander of the enemy Syrian army Naaman.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
left no one in any doubt hehad come to bring <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Good
News to the poor whoever the poor might be, Jew and Gentile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Liberty
for the captives whoever the captives might be, Jew and Gentile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sight
to the blind whoever the blind might be, Jew and Gentile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Freedom
for the oppressed, whoever the oppressed might be, Jew and Gentile.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Here
Jesus is offering an alternative way of reading the Scriptures they had not
encountered before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
opens them out to include all people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it is a powerful and radical way we need to hear today as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
live in dangerous times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
our people that are all important.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">No,
says Jesus it is all people that are all important.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
first decade of the Twentieth Century was a time when people put us first –
Rudyard Kipling wrote a poem in which he said with great pride East is East and
West is West and never the twain shall meet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Minister of one of our churches, who wrote poems and hymns under a pen name as
John OXenham, wrote a hymn that was a riposte to that Me First way of thinking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">624
In Christ there is no east or west<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">HTC
324 God of grace<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Something
to share<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-55766023993349632792018-06-10T20:19:00.002+01:002018-06-10T20:19:28.193+01:00A Journey of Faith - Seeking Common Ground<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sunday 3rd June 2018</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the Week: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The God who made the world
and everything in it, he who is Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in
shrines made by human hands, nor is he served by human hands, as though he
needed anything, since he himself gives to all people life and breath and all things.
</i>Acts 17:24-25<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping with us for the
first time. It’s a big, bustling modern city on the verge of being overwhelmed
by air pollution. But Athens is also a wonderful ancient city opening up a
window on to the world of the New Testament. Long ago I visited in the company
of a good friend who went by the name of Paul. We made for a hill overlooking
the Acropolis: was it somewhere nearby that another Paul had long ago debated
with the philosophers and thinkers of that great ancient city? Now it’s in
ruins: then it was in its splendour a wonderful temple to the goddess that gave
the city her name, Athene. A remarkable feat of engineering, a remarkable
design, it remains a wonder of the world. And yet it is nothing compared to the
breath-taking views of sea and mountains that Paul and his travelling
companion, Luke, must have enjoyed. The God of creation cannot be contained in
buildings made from stone, for God is Lord of all and gives to all people life
and breath and all things. Paul looks not just to the God of creation but to
the God who in Jesus Christ comes alongside us and stays with us wherever the
journey leads us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">182
Now thank we all our God<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Paul’s
Story<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Acts 20:7-12<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Focus on Jesus<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
do you come to be here?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
I don’t mean, how did you get here?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Where
did your journey of faith start?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Is
it something that’s just grown, is it something that’s always been there, is it
something that had a moment when it began?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Share
with someone near you … <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
time to share<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then a time to share with the rest of us too … if anyone wants to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
first meet him under the name of Saul in Acts 8 looking after the cloaks of
those who are stoning Stephen to death and he is approving of that brutal
execution. The next we know something has happened to change him. And it’s not
long before we know him as Paul. He’s had a new start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
was an encounter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
saw in a new way<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
had a new strength within<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
he had a message.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
at the heart of it all was Jesus. He thought of it as a meeting with the risen
Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it happened at that very moment when he was bent on pursuing the followers of
Jesus and eliminating them from Damascus as he had endeavoured to eliminate
them from Jerusalem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was life-changing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
wasn’t just a flash of light he saw or a voice he heard it was the one he met
that make a difference. IT was nothing less than the risen Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
wasn’t just a healing he experienced – it was as if he had a whole new way of
seeing things. And it came about not just through the faithfulness of Ananias
but through that time of prayer Ananias was devoted to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then he had a strength from beyond himself in the Holy Spirit that filled him –
and standing up he was baptized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
stayed with the believers and went to the synagogues and he had something he
did.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
has a message to share – for Gentiles and kings and the people of God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
began to preach that Jesus was the Son of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
focus was on Jesus. And it was to make a difference.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
was a message for Gentiles – and for Kings – this is a message for the Roman
world – with the heart of the region in Damascus and the Roman province of
Syria. It’s for Gentiles – who is son of god in that Gentile world but the
Roman emperor – Tiberius has given way to Caligula and then to Claudius – but
no Jesus is the one to look to. Straightaway a message that is to the powers
that be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
it is also for the people of Israel – who looked to their kings as sons of God
to. But Jesus is the one to look for who demands our allegiance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Look
to Jesus – it’s the start – but it sets the scene for the rest of his life. He
takes time out maybe as long as 14 years but then he begins – and he journeys a
little way into Asia minor, Eastern Turkey today, then further afield and over
into what we think of as Europe. And then Athens and Corinth – makes a
collection to go to Jerusalem and finds himself arrested – on trial he tells
his story twice more. Until finally, the shipwreck in Malta over, he makes it
to Rome albeit under arrest. And Acts finishes with that wonderful statement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
lived there for two whole years at his own expense and welcomed all who came to
him, proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ
with all boldness and without hindrance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it all finds its focus on Jesus<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">No
matter what our story, no matter what it is that brings us here – it is to
Jesus we turn and to Jesus we look.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit song – focusing on Jesus<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Common
Ground<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
Paul does is interesting – we find him there preaching of Jesus the Son of God.
The words are interesting – he proclaims – it’s the proclamation of a herald –
Jesus -the son of God we look to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Paul
teaches, he declares the good news, he preaches. But there’s one more thing we
find Paul doing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
argues, is one way of putting it. The word is the word we get dialogue from –
he enters into dialogue. He does that in the synagogue with those who are
Jewish and he draws on the Hebrew Scriptures – again he is influenced by the
way of reading the Hebrew Scriptures the very first followers of Jesus have
been directed to – they have at their heart, Jesus. He is the fulfilment of all
those Scriptures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Hebrew Scriptures are the common ground he has.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
when he finds himself with people who do not have the Scriptures as their
sacred text he seeks common ground. And again he enters into dialogue, he
enters into discussions with them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">6While Paul was
waiting in Athens for Silas and Timothy, he was greatly upset when he noticed
how full of idols the city was. 17So he held discussions in the synagogue with
the Jews and with the Gentiles who worshipped God, and also in the public
square every day with the people who happened to pass by. 18Certain Epicurean
and Stoic teachers also debated with him. Some of them asked, “What is this
ignorant show-off trying to say?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
it is that he gives an account of himself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
moves from discussion to declare the good news<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Others answered,
“He seems to be talking about foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was
preaching about Jesus and the resurrection. 19So they took Paul, brought him
before the city council, the Areopagus, and said, “We would like to know what
this new teaching is that you are talking about. 20Some of the things we hear
you say sound strange to us, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21(For
all the citizens of Athens and the foreigners who lived there liked to spend
all their time telling and hearing the latest new thing.)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
he finds common ground with the people he is engaging with. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">aul
stood up in front of the city council and said, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“I see that in
every way you Athenians are very religious. 23For as I walked through your city
and looked at the places where you worship, I found an altar on which is
written, ‘To an Unknown God’. That which you worship, then, even though you do
not know it, is what I now proclaim to you.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
starts where they are … and leads them to new ground.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>24 God, who made the world and everything in
it, is Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples made by human
hands. 25Nor does he need anything that we can supply by working for him, since
it is he himself who gives life and breath and everything else to everyone.
26From one human being he created all races on earth and made them live
throughout the whole earth. He himself fixed beforehand the exact times and the
limits of the places where they would live.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
wonderful sense of the awe and majesty of the God of creation. A sense of
seeking – maybe a common strand in so many people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">27He did
this so that they would look for him, and perhaps find him as they felt about
for him. Yet God is actually not far from any one of us; 28as someone has said,<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘In him we live
and move and exist.’<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It is as some of
your poets have said,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘We too are his
children.’<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Paul
finds the common ground – he quotes now from the works his audience are
reading.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">29Since we are
God's children, we should not suppose that his nature is anything like an image
of gold or silver or stone, shaped by human art and skill. 30God has overlooked
the times when people did not know him, but now he commands all of them
everywhere to turn away from their evil ways. 31For he has fixed a day in which
he will judge the whole world with justice by means of a man he has chosen. He
has given proof of this to everyone by raising that man from death!”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
now he turns to Jesus – and again the focus is on Jesus. The one who opens up a
window on to God and discloses God to be the God of love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">32When they heard
Paul speak about a raising from death, some of them made fun of him, but others
said, “We want to hear you speak about this again.” 33And so Paul left the
meeting. 34Some men joined him and believed, among whom was Dionysius, a member
of the council; there was also a woman named Damaris, and some other people.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Among
all the people named is one woman – named Damaris – the inspiration for an
initiative that has used film as a starting point for discussion – maybe an
area of common ground to explore further.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Common
Ground<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Acts 17:22-31<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">470
Jesus shall reign<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">604
Holy wisdom, lamp of learning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-75797204787747314142018-05-20T20:30:00.000+01:002018-05-23T09:42:28.213+01:00A Pentecost Celebration of Baptism<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Text for the week:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus
stood up and said in a loud voice, “Whoever is thirsty should come to me, and
whoever believes in me should drink. As the scripture says, ‘Streams of
life-giving water will pour out from his heart.’ ” Jesus said this about the
Spirit, which those who believed in him were going to receive. John 7:37-39<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Welcome to our services for Pentecost and a
special welcome to any who are worshipping with us for the first time. It’s the
fiftieth day after the day of Resurrection and it’s the festival of Pentecost,
the day when we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit. Flowing water, living
breath, powerful wind, cleansing flame. There are so many ways of thinking of
the Holy Spirit! Our service opens as Helen Bloxham invites us to turn to the
one who ‘breathes life’ who restores and renews. We’ll then focus on that
wonderful image Jesus shared with his friends of life-giving water that’s
poured over us and brings us a newness of life as we share in Baptism with
Bethany. Then in the second part of the service Karen Waldock and Karen Haden
have been putting some thoughts together out of our Explore group about that
transformative power of the Holy Spirit for us all which Karen Waldock is going
to share with us. This is the faith we share: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Now that we have been put right with God through faith, we have peace
with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. He has brought us by faith into this
experience of God's grace, in which we now live. And so we boast of the hope we
have of sharing God's glory! We also boast of our troubles, because we know
that trouble produces endurance, endurance brings God's approval, and his
approval creates hope. This hope does not disappoint us, for God has poured out
his love into our hearts by means of the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to us. Romans
5:1-5<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
breathe life, you restore – Hill song – introduced by Helen B<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
- Helen<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">582
O day of joy and wonder<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
Pentecost – what do you associate with the Sprit of God?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
Jesus it began at his baptism by John in the Jordan … in water – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p> </o:p></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">and
water became a wonderful symbol of new life – as he shared with the Samaritan
woman at the well</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
answered, “If only you knew what God gives and who it is that is asking you for
a drink, you would ask him, and he would give you life-giving water.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">11“Sir,”
the woman said, “you haven't got a bucket, and the well is deep. Where would
you get that life-giving water? 12It was our ancestor Jacob who gave us this
well; he and his sons and his flocks all drank from it. You don't claim to be
greater than Jacob, do you?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">13Jesus
answered, “All those who drink this water will be thirsty again,14but whoever
drinks the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water
that I will give him will become in him a spring which will provide him with
life-giving water and give him eternal life.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Water,
Breath, Wind and Fire<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
the last and most important day of the festival Jesus stood up and said in a
loud voice, “Whoever is thirsty should come to me, and38 whoever believes in me
should drink. As the scripture says, ‘Streams of life-giving water will pour
out from his side.’ ” 39Jesus said this about the Spirit, which those who
believed in him were going to receive. At that time the Spirit had not yet been
given, because Jesus had not been raised to glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Breath
– was another wonderful image – the breath that gives life – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">John
21<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father sent me, so I send you.”
22Then he breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit. 23 If you
forgive people's sins, they are forgiven; if you do not forgive them, they are
not forgiven.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
forty days Jesus appeared to them … and then his last words to them asked them
to wait …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Acts 1:4-5<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
when they came together, he gave them this order: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but
wait for the gift I told you about, the gift my Father promised. 5 John
baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy
Spirit.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
waited and they waited<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
day and a night,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Another
day<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
week passed<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
another day and night <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
another day and night<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
another day and night …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then it happened<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wind
and fire …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Acts 2:1-4<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the day of Pentecost came, all the believers were gathered together in one
place. 2Suddenly there was a noise from the sky which sounded like a strong
wind blowing, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. 3Then they
saw what looked like tongues of fire which spread out and touched each person
there. 4They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to talk in other
languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
had a remarkable strength – they could get up – they had a new strength about
them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
it was only the beginning of something new. We’ve heard the Christmas story and
the Easter Story now it’s time for the Story not just of Pentecost but the
beginning of something that’s still going on!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/vJPM7oegfEM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vJPM7oegfEM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
share in Baptism<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
our font we have a scallop shell – it’s a very special one. When your Mum and
Dad got married there was a sea shell theme – and you’re your mum was baptized
here we used a scallop shell to pour the water over – so that’s a great family
connection. But also the scallop shell has been significant in pilgrimages
Christians have made down through the centuries. They would wear a scallop
shell to show they were pilgrims. Maybe as you profess your faith today it’s
part of a journey you are on – and that journey is a journey with God always
with you, Christ in your heart and the Spirit to guide you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
some ways Baptism is a sign of belonging to the church, being part of a church
family. But much more than that, at heart it’s a wonderful reminder that being
a Christian doesn’t start with anything we do – as if we could do something to
persuade God to accept us. Neither does it start with anything we believe as if
we needed to have exactly the right kind of faith to be accepted by God. It all
starts with the free gift of God’s love that’s poured over us because God loves
us and accepts us just as we are. That’s the wonderful message of God’s grace –
a free gift given to us all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
I am going to pour water over you – and it’s real water. Just as the water is
real, so too God’s love is real – and it’s poured over you completely. It’s the
water Jesus experienced in his baptism, it’s the life-giving water he shared
with the woman at the well and spoke of in the temple – it’s the water that
pours over us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
wonderful thing about the love of God is that it can really make a difference
in our lives – help us through difficult times, open up for us a way of living
that’s based on that love and involves love for God and love for our neighbour
and love for everyone around us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
that’s the same with the love of God. The love of God reaches out to us, pours
over us just as we are, however young, however old, but for it to make a
difference in our lives we have to make it our own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You,
Bethany, have grown up here very much as part of the Church Family – but you
have not been baptized. You have said that you want to be baptised because your
faith has become important to you. So in baptism we are celebrating the way
God’s love reaches out to you and is poured over you – just as the water is
real, so too the water of life, the life-giving Spirit of God is real and can
transform your life – For it to make a difference you need to respond to that
free gift of God’s love in faith – and so after you have been baptized I am
going to ask you to rise up in the strength of God’s spirit – the strength of
God in your life and I am going to ask you to make your profession of faith. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
I ask you, Bethany, to kneel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bethany,
I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk513290873"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now, in that love of God, rise up
to a new life in Christ Jesus and stand in the love of God. I invite you to
make your profession of faith<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that you
want to make this love of God your own in Jesus Christ and draw on that
strength from beyond us in the power of the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513290873;"></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bethany,
do you believe in God and in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour?<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span> I do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord bless you and keep you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
will take your name to our Church Meeting at the beginning of June and then at
a Communion Service we will extend the right hand of fellowship and welcome you
into membership of the Church of Jesus Christ here at Highbury and the Church
worldwide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
am now going to ask the whole Church Family here which of course includes your
Mum and Dad to stand together with all those who have come specially for
today’s service. I invite you to share in a statement of faith using words of
Paul from Romans 5 in which he takes that imagery first used by Jesus of the
living water that flows out from Christ in the power of the spirit and is poured
over each one of us and makes the world of difference in the living of our
lives. The words are on our notice sheet and on the screen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
that we have been put right with God through faith, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
has brought us by faith into this experience of God's grace, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">in
which we now live. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so we boast of the hope we have of sharing God's glory! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
also boast of our troubles, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">because
we know that trouble produces endurance, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">endurance
brings God's approval, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
his approval creates hope. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
hope does not disappoint us, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">for
God has poured out his love into our hearts <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">by
means of the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to us. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
– Mary B<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
have a gift for Bethany – a Bible – with a guide to help you get into the
Bible. Think of it as a guide on that journey of faith you are on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit
are going to lead us in a song <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
the end of Christian<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Aid Week – we are
going to dedicate the Christian Aid Week collection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
prayer for the building of God’s Kingdom<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Give
us, Lord God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
vision of your Kingdom as your love desires it:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where the weak are protected, and none go<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">hungry,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where life is shared, and enjoyed by all,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where all races, nations and cultures live in<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">tolerance
and respect,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where peace is built with justice, and justice is<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">guided
by love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Give
us the inspiration and courage to build your<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Kingdom
here and now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for All Over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Difference the Spirit Makes – Karen Waldock<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">As part of
the Holy trinity the Holy Spirit has been around since the beginning of time.
It has always been a powerful and active presence in the world from the
beginning of Genesis where it plays its part in creation hovering over the water
expectantly waiting for things to come into being and is there all the way
through the story of the people of Israel, in the Hebrew scriptures, from
Joseph through to the prophets . In the Old Testament we read of the Holy
Spirit only being with great chosen leaders like Moses and Gideon, kings like
Saul, David and Solomon and the prophets. It empowered them to lead the people
of Israel, to make the right choices, to call for justice, to convict the
people of their sin and reassures them of God’s willingness to forgive. It gave
those chosen ones courage, intelligence, wisdom and skill needed to do what God
wanted them to do. All of this was not for the benefit of the individual, but
for the good of all the people of Israel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">When we move
into the New Testament we read how the Holy Spirit descended on Jesus at his baptism
to show God’s approval and marking Jesus as a chosen person, it remained with
him throughout his ministry and even played a part in his resurrection. But
something momentous happened after Jesus was taken back into heaven, he
promised a helper and that helper arrived in a most dramatic way and it is that
which we celebrate today, Pentecost. Firstly the Holy Spirit was poured out on
all those gathered in the house and then on all the believers male, female,
young old, Jew, gentile and later on even the Samaritans! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">What effect
did the Holy Spirit have on them? The disciples had been waiting quietly
together, waiting for the helper that Jesus had promised and after a dramatic
scene with a violent wind and tongues of fire the Holy Spirit came and they all
became bold, excited and they went out into the street speaking in different
languages. The Spirit also gave them the words to use to convince the people of
the good news of Jesus Christ and about three thousand became believers that
day. But this was not a one off event, the Holy Spirit did not just come once
and then leave and it remained with them. They continued to seek the spirit’s
leading all the way through the building of the early churches, from choosing
new leaders, and to making key decisions about the distribution of food. It led
them to see different people, speak boldly in difficult situations, to take the
gospel to so many different people in so many different countries and to create
unity amongst all the believers whatever their religious or ethnic background.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">This Holy
Spirit is as active and powerful force today as it was it the times of the
early church, there are so many ways in which the Spirit can work through
people today. There are the fruits of the spirit and the gifts of the spirit,
for Explore I had a list of 27 different ways in which the spirit work in
people in the Bible, but there are more than I had listed. It is available to
all believers in all circumstances, to help us and strengthen us when to go
through difficult times, to do the things we cannot do in our own strength and
at other times the Holy Spirit can inspire us to new and different things,
guiding us and making us bolder and braver than we could ever be alone. Even
when we struggle to pray, not knowing how best to pray or what to pray for
Romans 8:26 tells us that “the Spirit helps us in our weakness. “ The Holy
Spirit intercedes for us. It empowers us for our foremost commission, to go
make disciples and spread the good news of Jesus Christ. It is power, it is
knowledge, it brings us closer to God and helps us to encourage others. The
Holy Spirit is a vital partner in the creative redemptive work of God and it draws
us into that process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">The Holy Spirit
can work in a private, quiet way within an individual or sometimes it works in
more obvious and visible ways in groups and churches. The Holy Spirit is not
just important for us as individuals it is vital for the church. It brought the
early believers together, bound them in unity and helped them to function as a loving
and cohesive group. Different gifts were given to different members of the
church so that all of the work necessary for the functioning and growth of the church
could be carried out effectively and to the benefit of everyone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">The Holy
Spirit is here in this church, it is real and it is moving not solely for our
individual benefit, but also for the benefit of the whole church. It works in us so that we can love each other,
work together for justice, peace and healing in this broken world.<u> </u>It
helps us to serve God, our community and each other. How can we tap into this
power and understand where the Holy Spirit is leading us? We have to learn how
to listen to the Holy Spirit. Just as the first disciples did we need to regularly
meet together, to pray, to read the Bible and to wait for God to reveal his
will to us. When we have a church meeting we are trying to “find the mind of
Christ” through the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit does not force
us, it does not shout, but guides gentle and it is a very real power source we
can tap into.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">I have to
say that I, along with many others, found the address given by Bishop Michael
Curry at the Royal wedding very inspiring and I encourage you to read the whole
transcript, but this part in particularly caught my attention, he said </span>“Someone
once said that Jesus began most revolutionary movement in all of human history,
a movement grounded in the unconditional love of god for the world-and a
movement mandating people to live that love and in so doing, to change not only
their lives but the very life of the world itself. I'm talking about power,
real power, power to change the world.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">He was
talking about love, but not the fickle and imperfect kind of love that we, as
human beings, are capable of in our own strength, but the real unconditional
love that we are capable of through the power of the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">So here is
our challenge as individuals and as a church. Do not worry about what is ahead
of us, God knows what we need and he will not abandon us. We need to wait and
listen for God to reveal his plan for us through leading of the Holy Spirit.
Wait, listen and share God’s love with each other and all those around us and
remember that as 2 Timothy 1:7 says “For
God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of
self-discipline.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">
</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;">Spirit of
wisdom and understanding, enlighten our minds to perceive the mysteries of the
universe in relation to eternity. Spirit of right judgment and courage, guide
us and make us firm in our baptismal decision to follow Jesus' way of love.
Spirit of knowledge and reverence, help us to see the lasting value of justice
and mercy in our everyday dealings with one another. May we respect life as we
work to solve problems of family and nation, economy and ecology. Spirit of
God, spark our faith, hope and love into new action each day. Fill our lives
with wonder and awe in your presence which penetrates all creation. Amen (from Catholic.org)</span></div>
</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">595
O Breath of life<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord’s Supper<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">615
Holy Spirit, ever living<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-51586806816334091632018-05-13T12:54:00.003+01:002018-05-13T12:54:54.823+01:00United in our Diversity - standing together - a service at the start of Christian Aid Week<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the Week: <i>There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit
gives them. There are different ways of serving, but the same Lord is served.
There are different abilities to perform service, but the same God gives
ability to all for their particular service. The Spirit's presence is shown in
some way in each person for the good of all. 1 Corinthians 12:4-7<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping with us for the
first time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This morning’s service is a
Sunday Special service. That means the children and young people meet from
10-15 for Breakfast and to explore together. They will then join the rest of us
for the last part of the service. “The Highbury Church Family is made up of
everyone who belongs … and everyone has a part to play, however small that part
may seem to be.” It was back at the beginning of the year that we launched
Giving for Growth. We invited everyone in the church family to reflect on the
way we can give of our time, our talents and our money so that the church here
at Highbury may grow to the glory of God. At the end of April we were reminded
again of the call to give of our money at our annual Gift Day. Today, our
Explore Group invite us to re-visit all we give of our time and of our talents.
Our morning service is a celebration of creativity and diversity, of difference
within the Body of Christ, around the theme of ‘Diverse Unity’.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are using material prepared by Lucy Mills
for Magnet, a thought provoking magazine a number of the church family
subscribe to. If you would like to have a copy please see Judi Marsh. Today
also marks the beginning of Christian Aid Week and so we shall be commissioning
our collectors. We still need more volunteers to cover the streets around the
church – please take a bag of envelopes and sign your name on the list.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
as we Gather Together<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Gather
us, O God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we focus on your gracious presence in our lives;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we reflect on what it means to be the Body of Christ;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we open our hearts to receive your Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All: Gather us, O
God</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">103
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fill
your hearts with joy and gladness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sing
and praise your God and mine!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Confess<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lord,
forgive us when we have treated one another badly,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
we have treated members of your precious body as disposable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Restore
us; draw us together in this space<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
teach us how to be your Body in every place, for your glory. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading: I
Corinthians 12:1-11<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">HTC
246 Spirit of holiness<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reflect
– Giving for Growth<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ask
people to reflect on what they enjoy, what energises them, what inspires them
and what challenges them. How can we encourage each other and inspire others to
use their gifdts? Where might we be forcing someone into a mould that isn’t
right for them?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Suggest
taking time to pray over the coming weeks and to think about how the Holy
Spirit has gifted us, where God might be calling us, what we need to pick up or
put down. Offer the challenge that we might need to rethink our activities, as
individuals and as groups, to use our gifts most effectively and to bless our
communities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
our patterns of church and service use the gifst we have or are we forcing
ourselves into a model that doesn’t reflect our gifting? Perhaps we are
spreading ourselves too thinly; on the other hand, maybe we need to broaden our
vision.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
can we join with each other, within and across congregations and denominations
to embody Christ more fully in our world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Giving
for growth discussion.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
– Beyond Ourselves<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Grant
us a vision, Lord,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
see what we can achieve<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
reach out beyond ourselves<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
share our lives with others<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
stretch our capabilities<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
increase our sense of purpose<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
be aware of where we can help<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
be sensitive to your Presence<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
give heed to your constant call.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pray
for ourselves<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Generous
God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
celebrate our differences;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
rejoice in our diversity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
give thanks for one another’s gifts;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
delight in our unity.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Help
us to listen to your Spirit’s leading,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
it is the same Spirit who gives to us all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">May
we build each other up,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Encourage
one another,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Refuse
to pigeon-hole but instead release one another<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Into
your service and for your glory,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rejoicing
in who we are made to be in Jesus’ name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">HTC
233 Filled with the Spirit’s power<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
1 Corinthians 12:12-26<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Together
we’re Stronger<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Poverty
is an outrage against humanity. It robs people of their dignity and lets
injustice thrive. But together we have the power to transform lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Will
you #StandTogether with us this Christian Aid Week (13-19 May 2018) to help
families like those of Vilia, Marcelin and Jocelyne live full lives, free from
poverty?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Vilia’s
story<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/WH1AjYwJwHA/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WH1AjYwJwHA?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christian
Aid Commissioning<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Loving
God, today we join with thousands of others<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">stepping
out in mission for the world’s poorest people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
Jesus prayed to you before sending out the disciples,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
pray now that our words, actions and deeds will<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">bring
your Kingdom closer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
pray for the Spirit to fill us with yearning, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
the courage to live out your love for the world –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
love so strong that you gave your only Son.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
Jesus entrusted his disciples with his mission to the world, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
pray that we, who have felt the transforming power of your love, will bear
witness to that love far and wide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God,
your people are homeless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God, send us.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God,
your people are hungry.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God, send us.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God,
your people are oppressed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God, send us.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God,
your people are ignored.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God, send us.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God,
your people are afraid.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God, strengthen us
as we go.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We pray that as we
reach out <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to our sisters and
brothers around the world, <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">justice and hope
will flourish in our own community.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Give
us, Lord God, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
vision of your Kingdom as your love desires,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where the weak are protected, and none go hungry,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where life is shared, and enjoyed by all,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where all races, nations and cultures <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">live in tolerance
and respect,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
world where peace is built with justice, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and justice is guided
by love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Give
us the inspiration and courage <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to build your
Kingdom here and now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Cornerstone
– Hy-Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pray
for Others<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Everyone
joins with the words in bold. Pause between sentences to allow people to bring
to mind individual circumstances as they pray. You can adapt or add to the
wording if other situations feel relevant at the time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Loving
Lord, when one part of your body suffers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We all suffer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
one part of your body is honoured<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We all rejoice<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
suffer with those <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">who have lost
someone dear to them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who are battling
chronic illness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who have been
injured and are recovering in hospital or at home<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who are struggling
to find work<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Or a permanent home to live in<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who are worried
and anxious about anything<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who are frightened
for their lives,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Through
violence and war<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt; text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Terror
and persecution<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk513631242"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When one part of your body suffers<o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513631242;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We all suffer<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513631242;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When one part of
your body is honoured<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513631242;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We all rejoice.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513631242;"></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
rejoice with those<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Who have had or are having a new
life arrive in their family<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Who have been encouraged in their
workplace this week<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Who have made a new friend<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>Or had healing in a
long-term relationship<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Who have made peace where there was
strife<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Who have welcomed someone in your
name<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Who have found shelter from the cold<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>And a place to call
home.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
one part of your body suffers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We all suffer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
one part of your body is honoured<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We all rejoice.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
1 Corinthians 12:27-31a<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">251
I the Lord of sea and sky<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sharing
Together for Sunday Special<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Song:
Lord, let your love shine through me<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-68306648154198103312018-05-06T15:11:00.002+01:002018-05-06T15:11:35.492+01:00The Journey of Faith - Baptism and God's Amazing Love<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the week: “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">I now realise that it is
true that God treats everyone on the same basis.” Peter in Acts 10:34</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any who are worshipping with us
for the first time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">During
our morning service we are going to share in the Sacrament of Baptism with Ben and
with Phil and Adam.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
I was growing up in a Christian family and came to the point of making
decisions that would be affecting the rest of my life I made my own profession
of faith and received the right hand of fellowship. It was the teaching of
Jesus and the way of life he mapped out that caught my imagination, a way of
life based on love for God and love for neighbour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was when I left home and people called in question all my inconsistencies that
I discovered another verse that turned my whole idea about the Christian faith
on its head. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
1 John 4:10 “This is what love is: it is not that we loved God but that he
loved us and sent his Son to be the means by which our sins are forgiven.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
starts not with anything I’ve done, not even my faith: it starts with God and
the love that reaches out through Jesus by the power of the Spirit and is
poured over each one of us individually. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That,
for me goes to the heart of the message of baptism. It’s a celebration of God’s
grace, the free gift of God’s love, poured over us before we know anything
about it. But the love of God won’t make a difference to us unless we make it
our own and say, I believe in God and in Jesus Christ as my Lord and Saviour. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
we share baptism with younger children it’s our prayer that they will come to
the point of making that profession of faith for themselves. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
older young people and adults come to be baptised it’s wonderful to hear them
make that profession of faith in response to the baptism they receive. That’s
the celebration we share today!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
time of Praise<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Open
the Book – God has no favourites<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
marvelous telling of the story of Peter and Cornelius from our Open the Book
team – and what a message – God has no favourites! And what a prayer …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Dear
God, thank you that you don’t have favourites. Please help us to be like that
too, so that people we know don’t get left out. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
a meal they had together – quite some party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
that’s not all that happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
followed on next is interesting …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Acts 10:44-48<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">While
Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit came down on all those who were
listening to his message. 45The Jewish believers who had come from Joppa with
Peter were amazed that God had poured out his gift of the Holy Spirit on the
Gentiles also. 46For they heard them speaking in strange tongues and praising
God's greatness. Peter spoke up: 47“These people have received the Holy Spirit,
just as we also did. Can anyone, then, stop them from being baptized with water?”
48So he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they
asked him to stay with them for a few days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
morning we are going to share in the Sacrament of Baptism and we’re going to do
that with Ben, with Adam and with Philip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
we are going to sing one of Ben’s favourite songs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Be
bold, be strong for the Lord you God is with you<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
share in the Sacrament of Baptism<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
some ways Baptism is a sign of belonging to the church, being part of a church
family. But much more than that, at heart it’s a wonderful reminder that being
a Christian doesn’t start with anything we do – as if we could do something to
persuade God to accept us. Neither does it start with anything we believe as if
we needed to have exactly the right kind of faith to be accepted by God. It all
starts with the free gift of God’s love that’s poured over us because God loves
us and accepts us just as we are. That’s the wonderful message of God’s gift.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
I am going to pour water over you – and it’s real water. Just as the water is
real, so too God’s love is real – and it’s poured over you completely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
wonderful thing about the love of God is that it can really make a difference
in our lives – help us through difficult times, open up for us a way of living
that’s based on that love and involves love for God and love for our neighbour
and love for everyone around us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
the water in this jug [taking a jug of water from beside the font]<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is real, it’s wet, it’s cold. And it has
incredible life-giving properties. If I pour out this water over this glass
[taking a glass and holding it upside down] – it’s real water, it’s wet, it’s
cold – it has life-giving properties and it’s useless. It cascades to the
floor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If,
however, I turn the glass the right way up [turning the glass the right way up]
and pour the water over it, now I can catch the water. I can drink it and the
life-giving properties help to give me life!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
that’s the same with the love of God. The love of God reaches out to us, pours
over us just as we are, however young, however old, but for it to make a
difference in our lives we have to make it our own.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so the hope in baptism as we shared it with Jamie and Matthew when they were
tiny, and now as we share it with Ben who is 5 and in year 1 is that when as
they grow up and when they come to be making decisions for themselves about the
rest of their lives they will come to that point of saying, this love of God is
for me, being a Christian is for me. And then they come to the point of making
a profession of their faith and say I believe in God and I believe in Jesus
Christ as my Lord and my Saviour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
as we see that grace of God at work within you we hope to extend the right hand
of fellowship to you and welcome you into membership of our church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
as we share first in the baptism of Ben I am going to ask Vicky and Phil and Karen
as God Parent to come forward with Ben – and I will ask Vicky and Phil, do you
believe in God and in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour? – We do<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Do you promise to bring Ben and Jamie and Matthew up in the family of the
church to know the teachings of Jesus and the love of God for himself? – We do<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
the God parent – do you promise to give all your support to Phil and Vicky as
they bring Ben up in a loving home with Jamie and Matthew?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
the Family – do you promise to give all your support to Phil and Vicky as they
bring Ben up in a loving home with Jamie and Matthew?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
the Church family – do you promise to give a welcome to all and especially to
those who are children, growing up in the family of the church so that they can
come to know the love of God for themselves?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ben,
I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord bless you and keep you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Adam
and Phil have grown up here very much as part of the Church Family – but they
have not been baptized. You have said that you want to be baptised because your
faith has become important to you. So in baptism we are celebrating the way
God’s love reaches out to you and is poured over you – just as the water is
real, so too the water of life, the life-giving Spirit of God is real and can
transform your lives – and we are then going to ask you to make your profession
of faith. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
I ask you, first Adam, and then Phil<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to
kneel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Adam
/ Phil, I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk513290873"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now, in that love of God, rise up
to a new life in Christ Jesus and stand in the love of God. I invite you to
make your profession of faith<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that you
want to make this love of God your own in Jesus Christ and draw on that
strength from beyond us in the power of the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513290873;"></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Adam,
do you believe in God and in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour?<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span> I do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord bless you and keep you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
will take your name to our Church Meeting at the beginning of June and then at
a Communion Service we will extend the right hand of fellowship and welcome you
into membership of the Church of Jesus Christ here at Highbury and the Church
worldwide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Phil
do you believe in God and in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour?<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span> I do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord bless you and keep you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now,
in that love of God, rise up to a new life in Christ Jesus and stand in the
love of God. I invite you to make your profession of faith<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>that you want to make this love of God your
own in Jesus Christ and draw on that strength from beyond us in the power of
the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
will take your name to our Church Meeting at the beginning of June and then at
a Communion Service we will extend the right hand of fellowship and welcome you
into membership of the Church of Jesus Christ here at Highbury and the Church
worldwide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
am now going to ask the whole Church Family here which of course includes your
Mum and Dad to stand together with all those who have come specially for
today’s service. I invite you to share in a statement of faith using words of
Paul from Romans 5 in which he takes that imagery first used by Jesus of the
living water that flows out from Christ in the power of the spirit and is
poured over each one of us and makes the world of difference in the living of
our lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
that we have been put right with God through faith, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
has brought us by faith into this experience of God's grace, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">in
which we now live. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so we boast of the hope we have of sharing God's glory! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
also boast of our troubles, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">because
we know that trouble produces endurance, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">endurance
brings God's approval, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
his approval creates hope. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
hope does not disappoint us, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">for
God has poured out his love into our hearts <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">by
means of the Holy Spirit, who is God's gift to us. Amen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
- Felicity<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
have a gift for Ben … and a gift for Adam and Phil –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
Ben a book of Bible stories for you to read.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
for Adam and Phil – The Bible Book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Bible is a handbook for living the Christian life – great Bible stories to
read. But also a book to get your mind round and to explore – and maybe this
can be something to help you as you explore that faith into the future as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit
are going to lead us in a song that Adam and Phil have requested –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song - Your love is amazing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
we needed a new logo who better to turn to but Phil, Ben’s Dad. I’d got all
sorts of ideas – about a circle with cross in it, but an open circle that’s all
welcoming – but in the nicest of ways Phil wasn’t having anything of it! But
you don’t want a new logo, said Phil, that’s very old hat. You just want to say
who you are – but say it in an eye-catching way. And our notice boards and the
presentation of our leaflets do exactly that. Highbury Congregational Church –
with its special font. But then, Phil was really nice … and if you look very
carefully there’s a line under Highbury Congregational Church it’s broken in
the middle … and what do you see but my circle! Take a look afterwards!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
then on our main notice board we’ve got a statement of our two service times –
and what we stand for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Highbury
– a place to share Christian friendship, explore Christian faith and enter into
Christian mission, with Christ at the centre and open to all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
still think that’s an exciting vision.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
all sorts of ways it’s great for today’s service as we celebrate baptism –
growing up in a church family is to share Chrsitain friendship – it’s to be
challenged in Christian mission – it’s to seek to put Christa at the centre and
it’s to be open to all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
hope is that Ben comes to make his own profession of faith … and it’s great to
share in Baptism with Adam and Phil and for them to make their profession of
faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
love the idea that faith is something to be explored. My hope is that you will
want to explore your faith. And keep asking questions!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
explore your faith it’s great to share with others – but it’s also good to go
back to the sources of the faith. To go back to the Bible – Ben’s got a book of
Bible stories hopefully to read!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Adam
and Phil have a copy of a book by Nick Page – The Bible Book – a User’s Guide.
Nick Page spoke at a church leaders conference we had a couple of years ago. He
works for Open Doors in Witney supporting the Persecuted church – and hopefully
we’ll be able to get him to come across and preach sometime in the not too
distant future! He’s a great speaker.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Think
of studying the Bible, he suggests,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as
like exploring another land – how do we map the Bible? What’s the terrain? What
does the country look like?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“The
most important thing to bring to the Bible is the ability to ask questions. We
have to be willing to engage with the text, to ask questions and look for the
answers.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“The
Bible is full of people who asked God challenging questions; they weren’t
afraid, neither should we be.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
comes up with a whole set of questions that help you to understand the origin
of the passage, the contents of the passage and the meaning of the passage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
all helps as you explore the faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Explorers,
Nick Page suggests, have one aim: to explore. They want to visit new place, to
climb new heights, to discover things that no one has ever discovered before.
Exmporation is about the gathering of knowledge – and exploring the Bible is no
different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Bible gives us knowledge in all sorts of different ways – Nick Page puts his
finger on three things it will give us knowledge about<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Knowledge
of the Bible – you need to read it, explore it and the more you do the more you
will find your way round it, the more useful it will become.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Knowledge
of life – it’s all about life how you live it, what you do with it, what it’s
for<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Knowledge
of God – explore the Bible and find out what God is like.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
take care!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Parts
of the Bible are difficult to get your mind round and hard to understand. Not
least the earlier parts of the Old Testament. The great thing is that there is
a key to understanding the Bible inside the Bible itself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
the key is Jesus – it was on resurrection day, the first Easter that he spent a
great deal of time with his closest friends showing how the whole story of the
Bible he knew, we call the Old Testament, reached its fulfilment in him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was as if he gave his followers a way of reading the Bible that always used
Jesus as the measure and the guide.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
what Luke does in the Gospel of Luke and in the Book of Acts is to give us an
insight into ways Jesus read the Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
That’s what that story of Cornelius, the Roman Centurion, who comes to faith
and discovers that God has no favourites is all about.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
worth looking at the text in the church Bibles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
10 - <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peter
had grown up reading the Bible with its very strict rules about what you can
eat and what you cannot eat. Strict rules about who you should eat with as
well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
he had meet with Jesus who ate all kinds of things and would eat with anyone
and everyone. Luke tells many of those stories in his Gospel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
in that time of prayer as Peter has a dream he feels he is commanded by God to
eat anything and everything.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
one of those breakthrough moments for Peter – so that when he does meet with
Cornelius, the Centurion he sees God at work.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then in his speech he describes what he now realizes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it is all down to what Peter knows of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peter began to
speak: “I now realize that it is true that God treats everyone on the same
basis.</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <sup>35</sup>Those
who worship him and do what is right are acceptable to him, no matter what race
they belong to. <sup>36</sup>You know the message he sent to the people of
Israel, proclaiming <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">the Good News of
peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.</b> <sup>37</sup>You know
of the great event that took place throughout the land of Israel, beginning in
Galilee after John preached his message of baptism. <sup>38</sup>You know
about Jesus of Nazareth and how God poured out on him the Holy Spirit and
power. He went everywhere, doing good and healing all who were under the power
of the Devil, for God was with him. <sup>39</sup>We are witnesses of
everything that he did in the land of Israel and in Jerusalem. Then they put
him to death by nailing him to a cross. <sup>40</sup>But God raised him
from death three days later and caused him to appear, <sup>41</sup>not to
everyone, but only to the witnesses that God had already chosen, that is, to us
who ate and drank with him after he rose from death. <sup>42</sup>And he
commanded us to preach the gospel to the people and to testify that he is the
one whom God has appointed judge of the living and the dead. <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><sup>43</sup>All the prophets spoke about
him, saying that all who believe in him will have their sins forgiven through
the power of his name.”<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God
treats everyone on the same basis – God has no favourites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
Christ is Lord of all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">His
life of teaching and healing ends in crucifixion and then in resurrection – he
and his message is exactly what all the prophets of old had been speaking of.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the message to take to heart. It’s a big message to take to heart – and the
church in Jerusalem are skeptical so Peter tells them in a spirit of wonder
what had happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are whole swathes of the Bible especially in the early books of the Law where
those laws are worked out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Jesus has brought the story of the Bible to fulfilmnet. You cannot just read
verses in the Old Tetament and say, it says so there. You have to take into
account what Jesus did, who he was, what he taught, all he shared in accepting
all – know that Jesus is Lord of all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so realise that was then this is now – and we do this in the name of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
11:5-17<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“While
I was praying in the city of Joppa, I had a vision. I saw something coming down
that looked like a large sheet being lowered by its four corners from heaven,
and it stopped next to me. 6I looked closely inside and saw domesticated and
wild animals, reptiles, and wild birds. 7Then I heard a voice saying to me,
‘Get up, Peter; kill and eat!’ 8But I said, ‘Certainly not, Lord! No ritually
unclean or defiled food has ever entered my mouth.’ 9The voice spoke again from
heaven, ‘Do not consider anything unclean that God has declared clean.’ 10This
happened three times, and finally the whole thing was drawn back up into
heaven. 11At that very moment three men who had been sent to me from Caesarea
arrived at the house where I was staying. 12The Spirit told me to go with them
without hesitation. These six fellow-believers from Joppa accompanied me to
Caesarea, and we all went into the house of Cornelius. 13He told us how he had
seen an angel standing in his house, who said to him, ‘Send someone to Joppa
for a man whose full name is Simon Peter. 14He will speak words to you by which
you and all your family will be saved.’ 15And when I began to speak, the Holy
Spirit came down on them just as on us at the beginning. 16 Then I remembered
what the Lord had said: ‘John baptized with water, but you will be baptized
with the Holy Spirit.’ 17It is clear that God gave those Gentiles the same gift
that he gave us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ; who was I, then, to
try to stop God!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Church in Jerusalem is persuaded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">18When
they heard this, they stopped their criticism and praised God, saying, “Then
God has given to the Gentiles also the opportunity to repent and live!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
for Peter was a new way of reading the Bible that changed his whole life. It
changed the lives of those he was with as well – no longer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
key to reading the Bible is to seek that inspiration that Jesus offers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
way the Bible will be for us the inspiration it was for those who wrote it, for
those who lived it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
There’s one more question to ask, suggests Nick Page.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
me, as for so many Christians, the Bible is not just another Book: it is the
Book where we find God’s Word for us – it is the book that is in a very special
way inspired by God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Nick
Page puts it really well …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
key thing is what we mean by ‘inspire’. The word comes from two Latin words
spirare meaning ‘breathe’ and in meaning … um … in. Inspire literally means to
breathe in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
read the Bible is to breathe in God – to feel what God feels, hear God’s words,
feel God’s life within us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
“That means the most important question is <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">How
has it changed your life?</b> To breathe in something of God is to be more
loving, kind, forgiving, faithful, patient, understanding, compassionate in
ourselves and to recognize and respond to those qualities in God. If we do
that, then we will truly be inspired and the Bible will truly be
inspirational.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">No
barriers<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">OBG
38 Heaven’s walls<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">1<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Heaven's
walls at times seem far too high -<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>It's hard to see God's throne;<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For fear and darkness take a
hold<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And we are left alone.<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And yet those walls come
tumbling down<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As we in Christ believe;<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Then let us find fresh faith
and love<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And God's good grace receive.<br />
<br />
2<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Church walls within can soon
divide<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>All those who should be one;<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For arrogance and pious pride<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Have all too often won.<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And yet those walls come
tumbling down<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As we in Christ can see<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>A oneness which rejoices in<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>God's rich diversity.<br />
<br />
3<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>The walls of hatred in our
world<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Destroy the ways of peace;<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>For humankind seems bent on
war<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And strife that will not
cease.<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And yet those walls come
tumbling down<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>As we to Christ pay heed,<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>And give ourselves with
selfless love<br />
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>To serve a world of need.<br />
<br />
<br />
Richard Cleaves</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB;">Tune: Vox Dilecti<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Praise
with Hy-Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-54181662904028049872018-04-29T17:24:00.000+01:002018-04-29T17:24:08.701+01:00The Journey of Faith - Practising the Presence of God<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the Week: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Faith is the assurance of
things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to old friends and new! Do join us
for coffee and biscuits at the back of the church after the service. Today is
our Gift Day. All we do as a church is funded by us and by no one else. Our
planned giving scheme is a way of giving that enables us to give regularly. Do
take one of our Giving for Growth leaflets and find out more about that scheme.
Twice a year we have a special focus on giving and today is one of those days.
For today’s Gift day we have a special focus on giving to support our mission
project working with children and families. We hope you will be able to give a
special gift today for that work. Please use one of the yellow envelopes and
mark it for Gift Day. If you are able to Gift Aid please fill in your details
on the envelope. In a couple of weeks we are going to begin Christian Aid Week
with the Big Brekkie and invite everyone to start Sunday with a breakfast and
make a special gift towards Christian Aid. We collect from the streets around
the church. If you are able to join in collecting please have a word with Laura
or with Louise. We need more volunteers. Where it be giving for the growth of
our church or giving for the work of Christian Aid, it’s all about the faith we
share that finds its focus in Jesus Christ. He asks us to share in love for one
another and in love for all. And that takes faith!</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>200
Christ is made the sure foundation<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Stephen’s
Story<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Reading:
Acts 8:1-4<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>A
Hy-Spirit Song</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Activities
for all over 3</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>A
way of Being Church</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512671328;"></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you want to know how to do church Acts is a good place to start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
all about <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">the apostles’ teaching and
fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Acts 2:42<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
all about bringing healing to hurting people (2:43), it’s about sharing with
each other in the fellowship of the church (2:44).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
about witnessing to Jesus Christ Acts 2,3,4 – even, or maybe better,
particularly, in the face of opposition from the powers that be Acts 4.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
about working collectively to move forward together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
6:1-7 is one of those passages where we find our roots in our Congregational
way of doing church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
6:1-7<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now during those
days, when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists complained
against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily
distribution of food. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are always tensions in church life. There always have been. There always will
be. If you want a church where there are no tensions and disagreements then you
will look in vain. We are all people – and we all have our blemishes. As our
old lower school head said in his Yorkshire accent, There’s nowt so queer as
folks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
we are all people with our failings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
were tensions among the Jewish people in Jerusalem. There were the Hellenists
who were quite happy to incorporate into their Jewish way of life Hellenistic,
Greek, cultural ways, not least the language. And then there were Hebrews who
were keen to stand out over against the contemporary culture and it was in
their language that difference was most notably apparent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
first church was made up of people who were Jewish and those tensions spilled
over into the life of the church too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
at this point, the twelve apostles, those who had been sent by Jesus out into
the world following the Resurrection – saw that there was a problem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
They did not resolve it themselves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And the twelve
called together the whole community of the disciples and said, ‘It is not right
that we should neglect the word of God in order to wait at tables. Therefore,
friends, select from among yourselves seven men of good standing, full of the
Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this task, while we, for our part,
will devote ourselves to prayer and to serving the word.’ What they said
pleased the whole community, <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is a way of working that gets the whole community of disciples, the whole group
in the Church to recognize the problem, own it and do something about it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and they chose
Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, together with Philip,
Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. They
had these men stand before the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on
them.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is one of those places where we trace our roots in our Congregational way of
being the church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Those
who are leaders recognize something needs to be done – they don’t just go ahead
and do it. They call together the whole community of the disciples in this place
– that’s the whole church – that’s our Church meeting. They set out a course of
action to follow – but it is important that all agrere that course of action.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
our Church Meeting it is recognizes those who sense they are called to various
parts of ministry in the life of the church – pastoral care, mission and
outreach, developing us as disciples, putting our worship together, involving
children and families and young people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are practical things we are responsible for – safeguarding, health and safety,
managing the property, seeing that the finances are properly managed – that’s
all the responsibility of our Deacons who act as our managing trustees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
all of us then have a responsibility that we share – and on this Gift Day we
recognize that in particular.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The word of God continued to spread; the
number of the disciples increased greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the
priests became obedient to the faith.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Of
those seven who were set aside to carry out this specific, much needed task, it
was said that they were “of good standing, full of the Spirit and of Wisdom.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we reflect on what it takes to do church and all that lies ahead of the church
family let’s make this our prayer …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">619
and 620 Spirit of the living God<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sharing
the Presence<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Church
is all about seeking and sensing the Presence of God with us, the Presence of
the God who is love … and then it is about sharing that Presence of God with
all around us. And that goes to the very heart of the Bible – which you can
think of, not only as the Guidebook for the journey of faith, but as the Manual
for the life of the Church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
trouble is that the Bible can be a very difficult book to read, not least in
the pages of what we call the Old Testament, which of course for the people of
this very earliest church was the extent of the Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
the day of resurrection Jesus had spent hours with the two on the road to
Emmaus and with his other disciples in the upper room opening up that part of
the Bible, giving them a way of reading the Law, the Prophets and the Writings
that make up the Hebrew Scriptures, our Old Testament, with Christ at the
centre. For the first time those followers of Jesus got it. Luke tells the
story of the beginnings of the church in such a way as to give us a glimpse of
Jesus’ way into reading the Old Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
the way for us to follow in reading that book too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Of
those seven, Stephen is the one who is known for the power of his preaching and
for the wonderful way he brought healing into the lives of hurting people. And
in Jerusalem he came up against the very powers that be who had put Jesus to
death.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
had a way of reading what we call the Old Testament that focused on the
Presence of God. It’s the presence of God with us that makes all the difference.
And the presence of God is focused on a particular place, the House of God,
built on the very rock in Jerusalem where Abraham had been willing to sacrifice
Isaac his son. The Temple. Modelled on the earlier Tabernacle the people had
taken with them through their wandering in the wilderness, it had a sequence of
courtyards. Anyone could go into the outer court, then only men, then only
priests, then the Holiesst of Holy places could only be entered on the Day of
Atonement by the High Priest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
was where the Presence of God was made most real.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
when it was destroyed by the Babylonians in 586 BC that was catastrophic for
the Jewish people and as soon as they returned to Jerusalem their first
priority was to rebuild the temple. It had had its ups and downs. When it was
violated 165 years before Christ it led to the Maccabean revolt and then the
Roman General Pompey violated and damaged it 63 years BC … and then when Herod
the Great came to power he completely rebuilt it as what he hoped would be seen
as one of the wonders of the world – lavishly clad in gold leaf and seen from
miles around.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
Jesus took offence. When he saw it, he wept over it, would that you had known
the things that make for peace but you did not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
And when he entered the temple he was outraged, My Father’s house should be a
house of prayer and you have made it a den of thieves.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">According
to John he went so far as to say that it would be destroyed and raised again in
three days. Which as John points out was a reference to his own resurrection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">His
followers sensed that there was something of the presence of God in Jesus
himself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
the Sermon on the mount came to an end he challenged his followers to listen to
his words and act on them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Everyone then who
hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built
his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat
on that house, but it did not fall, because it had been founded on rock.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
wise man in the Old Testament who had built a house on the rock had been
Solomon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was as if Jesus was saying that the presence of God was let loose in the world
through him, and that all who followed him and acted on his words would let
loose that presence of God into the world as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Paul
took this thinking to heart and said that we are each part of the body of
Christ and each one of us individually is a temple for the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is a powerful strain of thought – and it
comes from Jesus’ reading of the Old Testament – the insights he gave, Luke
suggests, on that Day of resurrection which you then see played out in the speeches
of Acts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it is this train of thought that emerges here in Acts 6.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
Stephen is taken to task – and false witnesses are raised up just as they had
been at the trial of Jesus and they accuse him quite specifically.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
6:12-15<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2They stirred up
the people as well as the elders and the scribes; then they suddenly confronted
him, seized him, and brought him before the council. 13They set up false
witnesses who said, ‘This man never stops saying things against this holy place
and the law; 14for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will
destroy this place and will change the customs that Moses handed on to us.’
15And all who sat in the council looked intently at him, and they saw that his
face was like the face of an angel.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
follows is one of two places in the New Testament where you get a potted
account of the story of the Old Testament told to highlight the key theme of
the Old Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
a bit like those summaries you get in the paper of a whole book reduced to one
page.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
tetlls the story of Abraham, Isaac verses 1-8 and Jacob and Joseph and the
captivity in Egypt 9-22 and Moses – and liberation at the Exodus 23-43 and then
it focuses on the Tabernacle – the Tent of God’s Presence with them in the
desert (GNB) verse 44 and David and Solomon focusing on the house of God 45-48.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
now we reach the climax – because this is about the temple – and Stephen
notices something. There’s one strand in the Old Testament that focuses on the
Temple as the place of the presence of God – but the Old Testament has other
views as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
take up the reading<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
6:46-50<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">44 ‘Our ancestors
had the tent of testimony in the wilderness, as God directed when he spoke to
Moses, ordering him to make it according to the pattern he had seen. 45Our
ancestors in turn brought it in with Joshua when they dispossessed the nations
that God drove out before our ancestors. And it was there until the time of
David, 46who found favour with God and asked that he might find a
dwelling-place for the house of Jacob. 47But it was Solomon who built a house
for him. 48Yet the Most High does not dwell in houses made by human hands; as
the prophet says, <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">49 “Heaven is my
throne,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and the earth is my footstool.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What kind of house
will you build for me, says the Lord,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or what is the place of my rest? <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">50 Did not my hand
make all these things?”<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
can almost hear the murmurs of disapproval from the council members listening
to Stephen rising in a crescendo as Stephen raises his voice – as he condemns
these powers that be in Jerusalem for resisting the Holy Spirit, persecuting
Jesus as a prophet just as the prophets of old had been persecuted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the point for Stephen – that God’s presence cannot be confined to a place,
to a location, but is let loose in the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Yet the Most High
does not dwell in houses made by human hands; <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
finds its focus in Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
temple was of course destroyed again by the Romans in AD 70 – for 60 years it
lay in ruins. Then the Jewish people took up arms against the Romans again and
Hadrian put down the second revolt and built a Temple to Jupiter on the site of
the Jewish temple making Jerusalem into a classic Roman City.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
Constantine became a Christian that Temple to Jupiter was demolished and the
plaza where once the temple stood empty for another 250 years until Mohammad
had his vision and was as Islam maintains given the words of the Quran there on
that spot. And the shrine built to mark that place that is still there as the
Dome of the Rock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mohammed
had respect for all peoples of the Book and decreed that places marked by Jews
and places marked by Christians should be preserved. He was able to build the
Dome of the Rock on that location because for 300 years it had been an empty
piece of waste land.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
do we as Christians support those Jewish people who want to demolish the Dome
of the Rock and replace it with a Temple. That’s one way many Chjristians have
of reading the Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Or
do we read the Bible in a different way?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
believe this reading of the Bible, Luke sees as the inspiration of Jesus and
his conversations on that Day of Resurection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
points us in a different direction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
encourages us to seek and to sense the Presence of God anywhere and everywhere
but in particular as we Gather together with others – for this is what Church
is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is about seeking and sensing the Presence of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then it is about sharing that presence of God with others around us – through
taking seriously acts of love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Helen
was telling me of the speaker at the Hillsong conference she had attended who
spoke of the need we have to do ‘acts of love’ wherever we are.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
we do that what we are doing is making this presence of God real in the lives
of those we meet and those we seek to serve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Here
as we gather together, indeed, even as 2 or 3 gather together in the name of
Christ his presence is real and that presence is a presence we are to share
around us too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">374
From heaven you came<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">533
Will you come and follow me<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-2582668412793841122018-04-22T12:43:00.004+01:002018-04-22T12:43:51.668+01:00The Journey of Faith - Earth Day<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk512072992"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome and Announcements<o:p></o:p></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Today is Earth
Day. Our Hy-Tide Group have been inviting us to think of all we can do to care
for the wonderful world of God’s creation. They invite us to share in coffee
and refreshments after the service they have prepared with Eilidh’s help the
Vegan way. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Out service begins
with an invitation, one for us to take to heart. Please join in with the
response … <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Come, let us dwell
in God’s shelter.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let us dwell in
God’s work of art.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Come, because the
Earth is the Lord’s,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And God’s Earth is
our home.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We live in God’s World; we are not alone.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We share this life with the heavens and
the earth,<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With the waters and the land,<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With trees and grasses,<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With fish, birds, and animals,<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With minerals and creatures of every form,<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And with all our brothers and sisters.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God is good and everything God makes is
good.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God is love and everything God makes is
love’s fruit.<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let us worship God
… as we sing the first three verses of our first hymn<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>…<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All creatures of
our God and King,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lift up your voice
and with us sing,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Alleluia,
alleluia!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Dear mother earth,
who day by day<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Unfolds God’s
blessings on our way,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">O praise him,
alleluia!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">147 All creatures
… 1-3<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer and the
Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s turn in the
Church Bibles to Psalm 19 – page.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We are going to
join in saying Psalm 19<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It is a wonderful
Psalm that begins with a celebration of God’s glory in creation in verses 1-6.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It then goes on to
remind us of the Law of the Lord and the way the Bible gives us all the
guidance we need to care for God’s creation in verses 7 to 11.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Verses 12-13 are a
prayer of confession for the wrong things we do that damage the world of<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God’s creation.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And then verse 14
is a wonderful prayer each of us can make our own.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’ll say one line
and then we all respond with the second line through the Psalm – there’s a
rhythm right through the Psalm as the second line echoes the meaning of the
first.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Psalm
19 using the Church Bible<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And now we’ll sing
verses 4,5 and 7 of our first hymn …<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And all who are of
tender heart,<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgiving others
take your part<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let all things
their Creator bless<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And worship God in
humbleness<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">O praise him,
Alleluia!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">147 verses 4, 5 and 7<o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk512072992;"></span>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
welcome Linda into Church Membership<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Belonging
to church we commit to each other in our shared faith in God and in Jesus
Christ as our Lord and Saviour to make a difference in our world. It’s great to
welcome into church membership today Linda Hoarau – our hope and prayer is that
Highbury can be a place to share Christian friendship, explore Christian faith
and enter into Christian mission with Christ at the centre and open to all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
this earth day it is a reminder to us that our mission involves caring for the
world around us and the wonder of God’s creation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Our
commitment is to care for the world of God’s creation – it also to care for
each other. Two things were important to those very first followers of Jesus –
prayer – they prayed regularly each day – and bringing healing to people who
were hurting in the name of the risen Jesus Christ.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Angela
is going to tell us what happened very early on in the life of the church as
they continued to meet and to grow in Jerusalem<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peter and John
went to pray – Angela<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
One who Leads to Life<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a wonderful moment in the Easter story that happens a week after Resurrection
day – Doubting Thomas had not been with the others when Jesus appeared to them
that day. He had been adamant when they told him they had seen the Lord …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Unless
I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the
nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
it was one week later that he was there when Jesus appeared again and said once
again, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Peace
be with you.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
he said to Thomas, and looked him in the eye<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Put your finger here and see my hands. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reach
out your hand and put it in my side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
not doubt but believe.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thomas
answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
words Jesus said next are among the most wonderful words in the Gospel story.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who
have not seen and yet have come to believe.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then John explains why – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not
written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe
that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may
have life in his name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are those who have the most remarkable experiences and it is as good as seeing
the risen Christ. There are those who want to wait until they have such an
experience before coming to a real faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
treasure those words of Jesus, Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have
come to believe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
it is in John ‘s words, through believing that we have life in his name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
think that’s wonderful – something wonderful to take to heart for all of us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
was one of those writers in the New Testament who had not actually seen Jesus
with his own eyes. But he had come to believe. He had come to a newness of
life. And he researched who this Jesus was. And then told the story of Jesus
and the journey he made to the heart of the Jewish world in Jerusalem in the
Gospel that bears his name and the story of the beginnings of the church and
the many journeys followers of The Way took to bring the Good News of Jesus to
Rome and the heart of the Roman Empire.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Gospel ends with Easter and Resurrection … and Acts begins with the final
appearances of Easter and Resurrection. The whole story hinges on Resurrection
at Easter and the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
notices that in spite of all Jesus’ teaching, on Resurrection day his followers
had still not ‘got it’. In particular they had not understood how to read the
words of their Bible as Jesus intended.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
Psalm 19 we read earlier is a wonderful psalm that celebrates the Glory of God
in creation and the Law of the Lord in the Bible Jesus himself used.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
problem is that the scriptures of the Old Tesatment can be difficult to read –
they are prone to misunderstanding. And those friends of Jesus still hadn’t got
it. They still imagined that the one who would come to bring new life, freedom,
the kingdom of God, would come with military might to overthrow the hostile
powers of the World.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
the day of resurrection, first with the two on the Road to Emmaus and then in
the Upper Room Jesus went through the Law, the Prophets, the Psalms and all the
Hebrew Scriptures showing how he was the fulfilment of them all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
they got it. What the two friends from Emmaus said says it all ‘Were not our
hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was
opening the scriptures to us?’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What’s
fascinating is that as Luke tells the story from that moment on in Acts he time
and again comes back to the way the first followers of Jesus explained their
faith in Jesus by showing that he really was the fulfilment of all the
Scriptures of all had said.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
contains a remarkable number of the speeches the first followers of Jesus gave.
It is as if they are drawing on the way Jesus opened up the Scriptures for
them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peter
and John continued the practice of so many in Jerusalem and shared in prayer
three times a day, going to the Temple. It was at 3 o’clock in the afternoon
that they were accosted by someone unable to walk – and they brought healing to
him in the name of Jesus Christ the messiah of Nazareth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
then go on to explain what has happened …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Acts 3:11-16<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">11
While he clung to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the
portico called Solomon’s Portico, utterly astonished. 12When Peter saw it, he
addressed the people, ‘You Israelites, why do you wonder at this, or why do you
stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we had made him walk? 13The
God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the God of our
ancestors has glorified his servant Jesus, whom you handed over and rejected in
the presence of Pilate, though he had decided to release him. 14But you
rejected the Holy and Righteous One and asked to have a murderer given to you,
15and you killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we
are witnesses. 16And by faith in his name, his name itself has made this man
strong, whom you see and know; and the faith that is through Jesus has given
him this perfect health in the presence of all of you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Notice
verse 13 – the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob, the<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God of our ancestors has glorified his
servant Jesus … just that single statement is rooted in the way Jesus opened up
the Scriptures on the Day of Resurrection.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who
is this Jesus? – verse 14 – the Holy and Righteous One … the Author of Life
whom God raised from the dead. This is the one to whom we are witnesses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
pause a moment in the words of a song express something of the wonder of this
Jesus, the holy and righteous one who is the Author of Life – the one who is
holy and good and leads to life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
Things Made New<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is this name that brings strength, that brings healing and wholeness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a danger in these words!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
we are being made aware of to our shame as a society. It is the danger of
anti-semitism.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is very dangerous to read these words as if Peter were belonging to one
religion – Christianity – and he is speaking to the Israelites who belong to
another religion and are Jews.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
way of reading these words is the way too many have read them – and it results
in antisemitism.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
is important, however, is to realise that Jesus is Jewish, he is rooted in the
Hebrew Scriptures, and his followers are also fully Jewish. This is one set of
Jewish people engaging with others who are Jewish exploring what it means to be
Jewish.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Anti-semitism
is quite wrong.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was not ‘the Jews’ who killed Jesus … it was the Jewish Herodian Regime who in
collaboration with Pilate that killed Jesus. And it was quite in order for
Jewish people to be critical of that regime – that’s what the Prophets of the
Hebrew Scriptures had always done – holding the powers that be to account.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is quite proper to hold any government to account – and it is quite proper to
do that of the current government in Israel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
is totally wrong is to read texts like this as if they laid the blame for the
death of Jesus at the door of all Jews – the text simply does not say that. It
is so important to see what’s happening here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
notices something in the preaching of the first followers of Jesus that he finds
goes back to Jesus himself. And that is that the message of the Kingdom has to
do with everyone everywhere. There is a universality about it too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
made absolutely clear in the next verse with its reference to the ignorance of
the crowd that had been whipped up by the rulers, the leaders, due to their
ignorance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading
Acts 3:17-26<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘And
now, friends, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. 18In
this way God fulfilled what he had foretold through all the prophets, that his
Messiah would suffer. 19Repent therefore, and turn to God so that your sins may
be wiped out, 20so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the
Lord, and that he may send the Messiah appointed for you, that is, Jesus, 21who
must remain in heaven until the time of universal restoration that God
announced long ago through his holy prophets. 22Moses said, “The Lord your God
will raise up for you from your own people a prophet like me. You must listen
to whatever he tells you. 23And it will be that everyone who does not listen to
that prophet will be utterly rooted out from the people.” 24And all the
prophets, as many as have spoken, from Samuel and those after him, also
predicted these days. 25You are the descendants of the prophets and of the covenant
that God gave to your ancestors, saying to Abraham, “And in your descendants
all the families of the earth shall be blessed.” 26When God raised up his
servant, he sent him first to you, to bless you by turning each of you from
your wicked ways.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
the same theme of the prophets coming to fulfilment in Jesus Christ, the
Messiah who suffers. This time he goes back to Moses, to Samuel, to the
prophets, and sees Jesus as the one who brings that line to fulfilment with
words that must be heeded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What’s
called for is in verse 19 that we repent – and have a whole new way of thinking
– we look to the fullness of all time …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Which
will be a time of refreshing, times the GNB describes as times of spiritual
strength.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
we look to the time when all things will be made new<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
time of in the words of the NRSV ‘universal restoration’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
at the end the fulfilment of that promise made to Abraham – that time when ‘all
the families of the earth shall be blessed – through your descendeants I will
bless all the people on earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is in these words a universality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
have to have in mind the totality of all people’s of all the world – and if
that is the hope of glory then our task is to bring that down to earth in the
here and now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
on earth as in heaven, God’s will may be done, God’s kingdom come.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
brings us back to the responsibilities we are challenged to meet on Earth Day
as we care for the planet and the whole world of God’s creation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">238
Lord, bring the day to pass<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">259
Beauty for Brokenness<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-76036284904283498702018-04-15T13:56:00.001+01:002018-04-15T13:56:47.230+01:00The journey of faith - Words that Change Lives<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the Week: This Jesus God raised up and of that we are all witnesses. Acts
22:32<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping with us for the
first time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Morning
Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">193
God is love: his the care<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
to Change the World<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sticks
and stones may break your bones but words can never hurt you!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
wisdom of the ages has some truth in it – I can remember taking some comfort
from the thought after people had been calling me names when I was little.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">However,
that only goes so far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Proverbs
18:21<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
will have to live with the consequences of everything you say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
you say can preserve life or destroy it; so you must accept the consequences of
your words.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">James
3:1-12<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Verse
5<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
think how large a forest can be set on fire by a tiny flame! And the tongue is
like a fire<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of thanksgiving and cursing pour out from the same mouth: brothers and sisters
this should not happen! Verse 10.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
count and make a difference.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Shouting
‘fire’ in a crowded room causes a stampede to the exit in which people are
crushed … and it’s just a joke – no, words have consequences, words can kill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
was there yesterday – I’ll cheer for my side for all I’m worth: but I don’t
like calling the opposition names for real – tongue in cheek maybe! But there’s
something ugly in an angry football crowd.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
as for social media. Take care what you say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Don’t
call names.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Diplomacy
by tweet has its consequences.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
… words can have a life-transforming power.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
That’s the power of the words the risen Jesus wanted us to share.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
wanted us to share words to change people’s lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Matthew 28:16-20<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had
directed them. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. And
Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been
given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them
to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you
always, to the end of the age.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
what we are involved in together … passing on that word, making disciples of
all nations, teaching them to obey everything Jesus has commanded.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
new way of working – Iain as our new Church Secretary<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
would usually welcome people and commission them … I had thought we would do
that around now – but I have thought again. Things are falling into place for
the vacancy – and we are going to have a re-commissioning of our team of
officers, Diaconate, Ministry Leaders, I hope, in June when we will be very
much looking forward to new things in church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
now Iain is going to have a word about how things will work as Church Secretary
– and tell us of the appointment of an Adminstrator.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all 0ver 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a lot of truth in the old children’s chorus I sang as a youngster in the annual
CSSM beach mission on Criccieth beach, a beach mission that still meets each
year! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
best book to read is the Bible, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
best book to read is the Bible: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">if
you read it every day it will help you on your way: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
best book to read is the Bible. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lots
of people at church are doing just that with the help of Fresh From the Word –
there are still one or two copies of the notes available and a leaflet with all
the readings and themes for the year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a catch, however. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
you read the Bible makes a world of difference. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Over
the years the Bible has been used to justify all manner of hateful, vengeful
things. That’s particularly apparent in the pages of the Old Testament. There
are ways of reading those bits of the Bible that lead on to massive hurt and
massive pain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Think
of the way whole swathes of the Bible were used to justify slavery. The defenders of slavery justified their position turning to passages in the early part of the Bible and through the Bible that accept having slaves and give instructions on how to deal with them. They pointed out those passages and justified retaining slavery. Others read other passages in the Bible, that we are all made in the image of God, that in Christ there is neither Jew nor Gentile, male nor female, slave nor free for we are all one in Christ. And they opposed slavery. a century and a half later there's no Christian who would justify modern slavery from the Bible. Ways of reading the Bible do change.Whole
swathes of the Bible were used to justify the supremacy of one race over
another in Apartheid South Africa. Whole swathes of the Bible can be used to
justify all manner of hatred.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We've just marked the 50th Anniversary of the assassination of Martin Luther King. The last speech he gave was as inspirational as his speeches had always been ... and it's moving to listen to. It's a reminder of the power of words for good. They are rooted in a way of reading the Bible that sees at its heart the love of God in Christ for all people. As a sixth former we would listen to his speeches and they became part of us. Shortly after his assassination my father took me to a memorial service in a black-led church in Leicester. It was one of those moving occasions that has remained with me for a lifetime.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This weekend marks the 50th anniversary of another speech. Enoch Powell's Rivers of Blood speech had an incendiary effect, arousing the fears of racism. Never broadcast in full on Radio or TV it's to be included in a Radio programme this weekend to mark the 50th Anniversary and that has aroused great controversy. And yet he was rooted in a Christian tradition that took seriously the Bible.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How do we measure up which way of reading the Bible to follow?</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The choice between the way of Martin Luther King and the way of Enoch Powell is not a historical choice. It's real today as well. We encountered directly the Government's policy of having a 'hostile environment' for immigration, when our Caretaker was summarily dismissed from her job of 37 years by her employer here in Cheltenham. The employer had no option as she was required to provide documentary evidence of her citizenship. She had been born in Pakistan of a British born father who had spent a lifetime in the British army and at independence had been asked to stay on by the newly independent Pakistan government because he was held in such high regard.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When tiny, our Caretaker came to this country on her mother's passport. She has worked a lifetime here, paid taxes, voted, been a County Councillor. But after travelling as a teenager on a temporary passport she had not been abroad and so didn't have a passport.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In the six months that led us to having a date for an Employment Tribunal hearing we found how hard it was to get advice. With 40% cuts in the Home Office there was no advice to be had - phone calls simply said call back in 6 months time. Emails bounced back with the same message. There is no solicitor in Gloucestershire offering brief pro bono advice on immigration matters - there is no legal aid either. It took more than 60 hours of my time, and a wonderful solicitor linked to a member of teh church who put us in touch with a Barrister specialising in citizenship law and eventually she simply got a passport.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">It was a nightmare.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><br />And that nightmare is now happening to the young children who would have been in that Congregation 50 years ago in Leicester. They had come from the Caribbean with their British parents, settled here, worked a life time here. And now they are being summarily dismissed from employment, are being asked to produce four official documents for each year since they arrived in teh country [I thought Government advice was to keep tax records etc for 7 years!!!].</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">And they are facing destitution.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;">50 years on from those two speeches I know which one I support. And I know why. It accords, it seems to me with the way Jesus opens up for us to read the Bible and especially those bits of the Old Testament that can be taken to justify all manner of hate and separate people out.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If
you do find bits of the Old Testament hard to get your head round you are not
alone!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Initially,
the first followers of Jesus didn’t get it at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
that exasperated Jesus: “‘Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to
believe all that the prophets have declared! (Luke 24:25). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
opened their eyes, their minds and their hearts to read the Old Testament and
see him at the centre of it all. It’s as we put Jesus at the centre of it all
that it comes alive in ways to transform our lives too. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
what we are going to explore in our services today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Staying
with Luke, I get the feeling that the priority Jesus had on the day of
Resurrection was to open the eyes of those two on the Road to Emmaus so that
they could read the Bible and see Jesus at its centre, Jesus as the fulfilment
of it all: Law, Prophets and Writings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
get the feeling that the priority Jesus had on the day of Resurrection was to
open the eyes of the other followers he had meeting in that upper room so that
they could read the Bible and see Jesus at its centre, Jesus as the fulfilment
of it all: Law, Prophets and Writings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
two on the Road to Emmaus got it. So did the others in the Upper Room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
met in the Upper Room. They prayed. They read those Hebrew Scriptures we think
of as the Old Testament with new eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
saw things differently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
on the fiftieth day after the Resurrection they were gathered in that upper
room once again when the Holy Spirit came upon them. Like tongues as of fire,
like a mighty rushing wind – it was that strength, that power from beyond
themselves they had been waiting for, that Comforter, that Strengthener, that
unseen yet so real Helper they had been waiting for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
they rushed down on to the streets … all understood something of what had
happened but some were skeptical.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so it was that Peter got up and addressed the crowds.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Speeches
have the power to change things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On the
50<sup>th</sup> Anniversary of his death, the PM programme played the last of
Martin Luther King’s speeches in full. It was powerful to listen to as he spoke
of being on the mountain top and having to return to the valley.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Those
speeches of his we played on LP’s at school when I was a sixth former – they
were powerful and they shaped a generation in their thinking – my generation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
you notice in Acts as Luke tells the story of the journeys that take the good
news of Jesus from Jerusalem to Rome and the heart of the Roman Empire is that
there are a sequence of speeches. They are great speeches. And they have a
similarity to them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is as if in those speeches you catch a glimpse of something that transformed
people’s lives then, has done down through the centuries and still does today!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so many of them start in the Hebrew Scriptures, in the Old Testament. And all
of them see Jesus at its centre, see Jesus as the fulfilment of all those
Scriptures stood for.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the way of reading the Scriptures, Luke would have us believe, that Jesus
opened up on the Day of Resurrection for the two on the Road to Emmaus and for
the others in the Upper Room.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Four
things leap out at me, reading the first of the great speeches that somehow
encapsulate the preaching of the early church and the very first followers of
Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Old Testament so often looks to the day of the Lord, a time when all is
fulfilled and the glory of God is revealed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a forward momentum in so much of the Old Testament and in so many of the
prophets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Nowhere
is that more apparent than in the Book of Joel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Joel
looks to the coming of the Day of the Lord – is it to be feared? Is it to be
welcomed? Is it to come soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
here says Peter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
For the first thing to realise is that Jesus is the fulfilment of all the
prophets spoke of – now is the Day of the Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
crowds had mistaken the exuberance of the apostles and the language they spoke,
a language somehow understood by people of all languages gathered in that city
for drunkenness.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Great
Speeches<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
2:14-24<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: ‘Men of
Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to
what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine
o’clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“In
the last days it will be, God declares,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">that
I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and your sons and your daughters shall
prophesy,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
your young men shall see visions,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and your old men shall dream dreams. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Even
upon my slaves, both men and women,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>in those days I will pour out my Spirit;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and they shall prophesy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
last days are here – this outpouring of the Holy Spirit is it. Sons and
daughters will prosy, young men and old men see visions and dream dreams. Even
on slaves the Spirit poured out – on men and women equally – and all, slaves
and free, men and wome will have words to share that will change people’s lives
and transform them as they all of them prophesy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peter
had in mind the darkness that came over the face of the earth as Jesus had been
crucified – somehow the elements themselves spoke out that day …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
I will show portents in the heaven above<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and signs on the earth below,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>blood, and fire, and smoky mist. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
sun shall be turned to darkness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and the moon to blood,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>before the coming of the Lord’s great and
glorious day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thatt’s
the excitement of the message they have to share.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Everyone
will be saved, made whole – restored, renewed – so many words to describe it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it all comes to a head in Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
that |Jesus had shared meant so much and Peter wanted to share it too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘You
that are Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man
attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did
through him among you, as you yourselves know— this man, handed over to you
according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and
killed by the hands of those outside the law. But God raised him up, having
freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its
power.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Something
remarkable has happened – death itself does not have the last word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
authorities thought they had had the last word – they hadn’t death could not
contain him. Roman powers, the religious leaders of the time thought they had
had the last word.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
they had not had the last word!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Through
the suffering of the cross, the devastation of the death and the victory of the
resurrection something had happened!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hy-Spirit
song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
the prophet Joel Peter turns to the greatest King of the Old Testament, David,
and finds again straight away his gaze is turned back towards Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">[For
David says concerning him,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“I
saw the Lord always before me,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>for he is at my right hand so that I will
not be shaken; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">therefore
my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>moreover, my flesh will live in hope. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
you will not abandon my soul to Hades,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>or let your Holy One experience corruption. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
have made known to me the ways of life;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>you will make me full of gladness with your
presence.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Fellow Israelites, I may say to you
confidently of our ancestor David that he both died and was buried, and his
tomb is with us to this day. Since he was a prophet, he knew that God had sworn
with an oath to him that he would put one of his descendants on his throne.
Foreseeing this, David spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, saying,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“He
was not abandoned to Hades,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>nor did his flesh experience corruption.”]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
the Jesus who is God’s anointed is one who goes through suffering and opens up
a way through the darkness of the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acts
2:32-36<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
Jesus God raised up, and of that all of us are witnesses. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Being
therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father
the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you both see and
hear. For David did not ascend into the heavens, but he himself says,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“The
Lord said to my Lord,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Sit
at my right hand, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>until I make your enemies your footstool.’ ”
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Therefore
let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both
Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wonderful
to see the witness Peter and the others bore.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is so that we may know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and
Messiah – this Jesus, who was crucified.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the perverse, scandalous yet liberating insight.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And you have to do something about it! As </span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">with the greatest of speeches it leads on to action [maybe we should do something about the scandal of the hostile environment for immigration and do something - maybe write to our MP] – what must we do to be
saved – have a whole new way of thinking, be baptized – </span>everyone<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> one of you in
the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven and you will receive
the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and
for all who are far away, </span>everyone<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> whom the Lord our God calls to him.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wonderful
excitement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">3000
people are added to the number of the followers of Jesus that day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
movement is off – in a sense already that day it’s going to move in all sorts
of directions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
among that crowd were people from, all over the Mediterranean world – and after
the festival was over they would be journeying back home, taking the message
with them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it shaped the way they led their lives as they devoted themselves to the
apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Healing
was brought into hurting people’s lives. They shared with a selfless generosity
and they were filled with the praise of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
day by day people were added to their number.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
This is an exciting message – a way of seeing Jesus at the centre not just of
the Old Testament but at the centre of all of our lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">436
Christ triumphant<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">673
Let us talents and tongues employ<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Lord’s Supper<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">643
For me to live is Christ<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a lot of truth in the old children’s chorus I sang as a youngster in the annual
CSSM beach mission on Criccieth beach, a beach mission that still meets each
year! The best book to read is the Bible, the best book to read is the Bible:
if you read it every day it will help you on your way: the best book to read is
the Bible. Lots of people at church are doing just that with the help of Fresh
From the Word – there are still one or two copies of the notes available and a
leaflet with all the readings and themes for the year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a catch, however. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
you read the Bible makes a world of difference. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Over
the years the Bible has been used to justify all manner of hateful, vengeful
things. That’s particularly apparent in the pages of the Old Testament. If you
do find bits of the Old Testament hard to get your head round you are not
alone!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Initially,
the first followers of Jesus didn’t get it at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that exasperated Jesus: “‘Oh, how foolish
you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared!
(Luke 24:25). Jesus opened their eyes, their minds and their hearts to read the
Old Testament and see him at the centre of it all. It’s as we put Jesus at the
centre of it all that it comes alive in ways to transform our lives too. That’s
what we are going to explore in our services today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-34445929057012397792018-04-08T13:22:00.002+01:002018-04-08T13:22:22.311+01:00The Journey Goes On - A Guide and a Guide Book<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
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</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype><v:shape alt="Image result for clipart for Emmaus road" id="Picture_x0020_8" o:spid="_x0000_s1026" style="height: 54pt; margin-left: -.25pt; margin-top: .3pt; mso-position-horizontal-relative: text; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: text; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; visibility: visible; width: 54pt; z-index: 251662336;" type="#_x0000_t75">
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</w:wrap></v:imagedata></v:shape><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Text for the Week: <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Then beginning with Moses and all the
prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the
scriptures. Luke 24:27</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Welcome to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping
with us for the first time. The journey’s over … or maybe, it’s just begun!
This coming Friday we are going to have a retreat, a quiet day, a prayer day at
Brockworth Court. It’s not too late to sign up to join us – have a word with
Judi Marsh or sign the list on the piano in church. Just before Easter we
joined Jesus on the long journey as he ‘made up his mind and set out on his way
to Jerusalem’. That was way back in Luke’s Gospel at chapter 9 verse 51. The
journey, with all its wonderful story-parables, takes up no fewer than 10
chapters in Luke’s Gospel – almost half the Gospel! On Easter Sunday, in Luke’s
Gospel, Jesus is on the road again. This time he joins two of his followers on the
Road to Emmaus, a distance of approximately 7 miles. It was great re-living
that journey dramatically in our Easter morning service and around the Lord’s
table in our Easter evening service. But for Luke that journey doesn’t mark the
end of the story he has to tell: it’s the beginning of something new. There’s a
second part to his story of Jesus. In the Book of Acts, Luke takes us on a
sequence of journeys from Jerusalem to the heart of the Roman Empire, to Rome
itself. On all those journeys Jesus was the guide and the Bible was the guide
book. There are all sorts of journeys ahead of us through the summer and into
the future. We’re going to join Luke and reflect on the way Jesus is the guide
and the Bible the guide book we need for the journeys we make.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome and Call
to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">410 Jesus Christ
is risen today!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer and the
Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The Seriously
Surprising Story<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ndtnZV-5QTo/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ndtnZV-5QTo?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading: Luke
24:36-49<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A Hy-Spirit Song</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities for all
Over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The Journey Goes
on<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A Guide … and a
Guide Book<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
before Easter we joined Jesus on the long journey as he ‘made up his mind and
set out on his way to Jerusalem’. That was way back in Luke’s Gospel at chapter
9 verse 51. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
journey, with all its wonderful story-parables, takes up no fewer than 10 chapters
in Luke’s Gospel – almost half the Gospel! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
Easter Sunday, in Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is on the road again. This time he joins
two of his followers on the Road to Emmaus, a distance of approximately 7
miles. It was great re-living that journey dramatically in our Easter morning
service and around the Lord’s table in our Easter evening service. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
for Luke that journey doesn’t mark the end of the story he has to tell: it’s
the beginning of something new. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a second part to his story of Jesus. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the Book of Acts, there’s a drama to the way Luke tells the story of the way
the Good of News of Jesus spreads. It starts in a tense Jerusalem awaiting the
outpouring of the Holy Spirit – it is Jesus who maps out all that is going to
happen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be
my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the
earth. Acts 1:8.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
in Acts 2 the Holy Spirit is poured out and we remain in Jerusalem and Judea until
chapter 7. And then in chapter 8 the Gospel spreads through Judea and Samaria
and into Africa in Ethiopia. By chapter 9 the followers of the Way as Jesus’
followers are called have spread north to Damascus in Syria. It reaches the
Roman capital of Judea and Samaria Caesarea Maritima in chapters 10 and 11 and
then the coastal lands of Phoenicia, the island of Cyprus and Antioch a leading
city in Syria in chapter 11. In chapter 13 it spreads to what we think of now
as Western Turkey and as far as Pisidian Antioch, a really important Roman city
that is the capital of the province of Galatia, still minland Turkey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
reaches the Mediterranean coast at Ephesus and crosses over into what we think
of now as Europe – Philippi, Corinth and Athens by chapter 20.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Paul
makes his own journey to Jerusalem in chapter 21 where he is arrested, put on
trial and held captive in Caesarea Maritima through to 26. In chapters 27 and
28 he makes his journey to Rome, being shipwrecked on the shores of Malta and
eventually in chapter 28 arriving in Rome where Luke leaves him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is not just Paul who has arrived in Rome – it is the Good News of Jesus Christ,
more than that it is the presence of the living Christ let loose by the Holy
Spirit that has we now see at the very heart of the Roman Empire, Rome itself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
first part of Luke’s story is built around Jesus’ journey to Jerusaloem and the
heart of the Jewish world while the second part of Luke’s story is built around
the journeys that take the Gospel to very heart of the Roman Empire, to Rome
itself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is here in Acts that we learn that one of the very earliest titles for the
Christian Church was taken from the imagery of the journey. The followers of
Jesus are known as The Way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
love that image.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
think it’s a metaphor for life. It’s a metaphor for faith as well. We are
always on a journey … but to follow Jesus is to be part of the Way he has
opened up for us. That makes the journey a purposeful one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
Luke it is the presence of Jesus that is there for the whole of the journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
That’s the first thing I want to take with us into the future that lies ahead
of us. Life’s a journey, Faith’s a journey – but it has purpose and direction
if we look to Jesus every step of the Way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
is our guide for the journey. He gives us a sense of direction – as he maps out
the way of life for us all to follow with love for God and love for neighbour
too. It’s a challenge to follow his way – as we have been recalling in
celebrating the 50<sup>th</sup> anniversary of the assassination of Martin
Luther King – to put that love into practice is the challenge he gives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
there is also a comfort and a strengthening as we were recalling as we
celebrated David’s life on Thursday – it’s always good to know you’re not
alone, there’s someone with you on the way – the last image on a lovely collage
of pictures had David standing on a beach – bringing to mind the footprints
poem that meant such a great deal to Danny too. Jesus with us along the way …
and at the most difficult times carrying us in his arms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Not
only do we have the presence of the living Lord Jdesus Christ as the Guide
along the Way, the Guide for the
journey.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
We also have a guide book to follow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the Guide Book – the Bible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is a problem, however. How do we read the Bible? It can be a difficult book –
especially in the Old Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Indeed,
it can be a dangerous book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
we read the Bible is something I am passionate about. I believe we each of us
as Chrsitians who are followers of the Way of Jesus Christ need to think
through how we use our Bibles. And Especially how we use the Old Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
can be problematic.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you find it difficult, especially reading the Old Testament it is some comfort
to know that you are in good company.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Those
two on the Road to Emmaus simply hadn’t got it. They had missed the point. It
is in the conversation with the Jesus they do not recognize that this becomes
apparent.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
were “14 talking with each other about all that had happened, talking and
discussing. There was no concealing the fact that they were sad.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
were speaking of Jesus of Nazareth who was a prophet mighty in deed and word
before God and all the people, how he had been crucified, and how their hopes
had been dashed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
had been rumours that he was even now alive. But they and none of the other men
believed the women who had passed that message on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
then shares something with them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
24:25-27<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">25Then
he said to them, ‘Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all
that the prophets have declared! 26Was it not necessary that the Messiah should
suffer these things and then enter into his glory?’ 27Then beginning with Moses
and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all
the scriptures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
think that it’s really significant that this is Jesus’s priority that
resurrection day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
had not got it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
had spent possibly three years with Jesus and still they had not got it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
had not read their Hebrew Scriptures properly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
is frustrated – how foolish they are … and how slow of heart to believe <b>all </b>that the prophets have declared. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
spends the time on that walk – maybe an hour and a half left working through the
Hebrew Scriptures – beginning with Moses, that’s the books of Genesis through
to Deuteronomy, the Law, or the Torah, and then going on to all the prophets –
that’s Joshua to II Kings and Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and th eBook of the 12
and interprets to them the things about himself in <b>all the Scriptures – </b>which includes Psalms, Proverbs, Job, and the
rest of that miscellany known as ‘The writings’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is as if he is offering them a way in, a way of reading the Hebrew Scriptures
we think of as the Old Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
recognize him in the breaking of the bread and then they recall how they felt
as Jesus was working through the Scriptures through them. It was as if for the
first time they had got it. They could see how they held together. They really
had got it!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
24:32<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">32They
said to each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking
to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
33That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem only to find that the
risen Jesus had appeared to the others in the Upper Room, where the eleven and
their companions had gathered together. 34They were saying, ‘The Lord has risen
indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">35Then
the two companions on the Emmaus Road told what had happened on the road, and
how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is at this point in the story that Jesus himself stood among them and said to
them, ‘Peace be with you.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
are startled and terrified, and thought that they were seeing a ghost. He
addresses their fear and their doubts and shows them his hands and feet. “Touch
me and see,” he says, “for a ghost does not have flesh and bones as you see
that I have.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
has a meal of broiled fish and ate in
their presence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
notice what happens next. IT may be late. But Jesus has much he wants to share
with this larger gathering of the 11, their companions and the two travelers on
the Road to Emmaus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
24:44-49<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">44
Then he said to them, ‘<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk510716491">These are my words that I spoke
to you while I was still with you—that everything written about me in the law
of Moses, the prophets, and the psalms must be fulfilled</a>.’ 45Then he opened
their minds to understand the scriptures, 46and he said to them, ‘Thus it is
written, that the Messiah is to suffer and to rise from the dead on the third
day, 47and that repentance and forgiveness of sins is to be proclaimed in his
name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. 48You are witnesses of these things.
49And see, I am sending upon you what my Father promised; so stay here in the
city until you have been clothed with power from on high.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
key priority of the risen Jesus on this Resurrection Day is to “open their
minds” so that they “understand the
Scriptures., that’s to say, the Hebrew Scriptures we call the Old
Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Notice
again what he says, “These are my words that I spoke to you while I was still
with you—that everything written about me in the law of Moses, the prophets,
and the psalms must be fulfilled.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
whole of the Hebrew Scriptures, Law, Prophets and the writings find their
fulfilment in Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the key.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
grasping it makes a world of difference to the first followers of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
have often thought it would be wonderful to have been a fly on the wall in the
Upper room and a fly hovering over the travelers on that road to Emmarus. It
would have been wonderful to have heard what strategy Jesus shared with them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Actually,
it’s my belief, that we can do the next best thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading
Luke’s gospel account of the resurrection it seems to me that this is what Luke
wanted us to take away from the Easter story. As he tells the story of the
risen Jesus let loose into the world by the power of the Holy Spirit in the
Book of Acts he shows how the followers of Jesus took to heart Jesus’ way of
reading the Hebrew Scriptures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Follow
that story through and you can see how the risen Lord Jesus is the guide for us
all on the journey that lies ahead of us … and you begin to see how to read the
Bible through Jesus’ eyes. Get to the end and you reach the point at which Luke
turns his hand to researching the story of Jesus further. Come back then to
Luke’s Gospel and as he tells the story you find that from the very start
Jesus’ way of reading the Hebrew Scriptures is there for all to see if only you
have eyes to see it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Since
we gave notice of our retirement more seven months ago, we’ve shared in
Harvest, Remembrance, Christmas and now Easter. It’s a bit scary! I don’t think
the next three months will go any more slowly!!!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the lead up to Easter I shared what to me is at the heart of the Christian
Faith. In the next three months we’re
all going to be on something of a journey. We’re going to read through the
story Luke tells in Acts and come back to the story he tells in Luke and we’re
going to be on the look out to see how Jesus is the guide we each of us need on
the journey ahead and we’ll also reflect on how vitally important it is to read
the Bible through the eyes of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Reading: Luke 24:25-27, 32, 44-49<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hymn: Light of the minds that know him<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Prayers of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">416 Christ is alive!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Words of Blessing</span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-50974921432425081952018-04-08T13:12:00.002+01:002018-04-08T13:17:37.559+01:00He Is risen ... our Easter celebration<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A Sunrise Service to Celebrate Easter</span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Cleeve Hill, starting at the Quarry Car Park</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif;">About 30 of us gathered together, not quite at dawn! But with the sun low over the horizon we did an imaginary walk over the limestone hill of the Cotswold Escarpment to a quarry suggestive of the empty tomb and on to the top of the hill. On the way we shared again the Easter story ...</span><br />
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He is Risen!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">An Easter Celebration<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was just outside the city of Jerusalem, on
a barren hill top of limestone rocks and quarries not unlike the rocks around
here, that they crucified Jesus. They called it Golgotha or The Place of the
Skull. It was a Friday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">1)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All who knew Jesus personally, including the
group of women who had been with Him from the beginning in Galilee, stood at a
distance, watching all of these things unfold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">2)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Meanwhile a man named Joseph had been at
work. He was a member of the council, a good and fair man, from a Judean town
called Arimathea. He had objected to the plans and actions of the council; he
was seeking the kingdom of God. He had gone to Pilate and asked for the body of
Jesus. He removed the body from the cross and wrapped it in a shroud made of
fine linen. He then laid the body in a cave-like tomb cut from solid rock, a
tomb that never had been used before. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">1)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was Preparation Day—the day before the
holy Sabbath—and it was about to begin at sundown. The women who had
accompanied Jesus from the beginning in Galilee now came, took note of where
the tomb was and how His body had been prepared, then left to prepare spices
and ointments for His proper burial. They ceased their work on the Sabbath so
they could rest as the Hebrew Scriptures required.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">2)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Early on Sunday morning, even before the sun
had fully risen, these women made their way back to the tomb with the spices
and ointments they had prepared.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
included Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, along with a
number of others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> I wonder
how they felt. At this moment that morning there was no elation, no excitement,
nothing that gave them hope. There was sadness in their hearts and maybe fear
too. Jerusalem was a city set on mountains twice the height of this hill and
more. Those women knew they could look to God and find in God help in their
sadness. Maybe they looked up to the mountains and asked where their help could
come from.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I lift my eyes up<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Up to the mountains<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Where does my help
come from?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">My help comes from You<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Maker of Heaven<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Creator of the earth<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Oh, how I need You
Lord<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">You are my only hope<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">You're my only prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">So I will wait for You<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">To come and rescue me<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Come and give me life</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">(Brian
Doerksen CCL 3540)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> With a
heavy heart filled with sadness and apprehension they made their way towards
the place where he had been buried. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">To
the Place of the Skull …<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> It was not
far from the spot where he had been crucified. They brought to mind the words
he shared from the cross<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">3)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> My God, My
God, why have You turned your back on me?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">4)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> (to the believing
criminal who, turning to Jesus, said, Jesus, when you come into your kingdom
please remember me) Jesus said, I promise you that this very day, you will be
with me in Paradise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">5)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> (to Mary,
His mother motioning to the beloved disciple) Dear woman, this is your son. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">6)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> (to John,
his beloved disciple), This is now your mother.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">7)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Father,
forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">8)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Father, I
entrust My Spirit into Your hands!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">9)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> It is
finished!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Seeing
that cross on the hill side gave them some sense of peace, some sense of hope.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">When I survey the
wondrous cross<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">where the young Prince
of Glory died,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">my richest gain I
count but loss,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">and
pour contempt on all my pride.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Forbid it, Lord, that
I should boast,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">save in the death of Christ,
my God:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">all the vain things
that charm me most,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">I
sacrifice them to his blood.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">See, from his head,
his hands, his feet,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">sorrow and love flow
mingled down;<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">did e’er such love and
sorrow meet,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">or
thorns compose so rich a crown?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Were the whole realm of
nature mine,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">that were an offering
far too small;<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">love so amazing, so
divine,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">demands my soul, my
life, my all.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 2;"> </span>(Isaac Watts)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">To
the Tomb …<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">10)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> When they
arrived at the tomb, they found the stone was rolled away from the tomb
entrance, and when they looked inside, the body of the Lord Jesus was nowhere
to be seen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">11)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> They
didn’t know what to think. As they stood there in confusion, two men suddenly
appeared standing beside them. These men seemed to glow with light. The women
were so terrified that they fell to the ground facedown.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Man 1)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Why are
you seeking the living One in the place of the dead? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Man 2)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> He is not
here. He has risen from the dead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Man 1)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t you remember what He told you way back
in Galilee? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Man 2)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> He told
you that the Son of Man must be handed over to wicked men, He must be
crucified, and then on the third day He must rise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">11)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> The women
did remember Jesus’ words about this, so they returned from the tomb.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">10)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> One of
them, Mary Magdalene, turned around to see Jesus standing before her, but she
did not recognize Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Jesus</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">: Dear
woman, why are you sobbing? Who is it you are looking for?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">10)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> She still
had no idea who it was before her. Thinking He was the gardener, she muttered:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Mary Magdalene</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">: Sir, if
you are the one who carried Him away, then tell me where He is and I will
retrieve Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk510127751"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Jesus</span></b></a><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk510127751;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">: Mary!</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk510127751;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Mary Magdalene</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Rabboni,
my Teacher!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Jesus:</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Mary, you
cannot hold Me. I must rise above this world to be with My Father, who is also
your Father; My God, who is also your God. Go tell this to all My brothers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">10)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Mary
Magdalene obeyed and together with the other women returned from the tomb and
found the eleven and recounted for them—and others with them—everything they
had experienced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Song:
Lord, I lift your name on high<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">11)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> The Lord’s
disciples heard their stories as fiction, a lie; they didn’t believe a word of
it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">10)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Peter,
however, got up and ran to the tomb. When he reached the opening, he bent down,
looked inside, and saw the linen burial cloths lying there. But the body was
gone. He walked away, full of wonder about what had happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">11)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> That same
day, two other disciples (not of the eleven) are traveling the seven miles from
Jerusalem to Emmaus. As they walk along, they talk back and forth about all
that has transpired during recent days. While they’re talking, discussing, and
conversing, Jesus catches up with them and begins walking with them, but for
some reason they don’t recognize Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> What
happened next is one of the most remarkable of all the Easter stories … and we
are going to tell that story back at church … it was quite some time later that
the disciples and those women made their way back to Galilee , to the mountain
where they were to meet Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">To
the top of the hill …<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> When the
disciples saw Jesus there, many of them fell down and worshiped, as Mary and
the other Mary had done. But a few hung back. They were not sure (and who can
blame them?). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">R)</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Jesus came forward and addressed His beloved
disciples.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">Jesus</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">: I am here
speaking with all the authority of God, who has commanded Me to give you this
commission: Go out and make disciples in all the nations. Ceremonially wash
them through baptism in the name of the triune God: Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit. Then disciple them. Form them in the practices and teachings that I
have taught you, and show them how to follow the commands I have laid down for
you. And I will be with you, day after day, to the end of the age.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Jesus we celebrate Your victory<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Jesus we revel in Your love<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Jesus we rejoice You've set us free<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Jesus Your death has brought us life<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> It was for freedom that Christ has set us free<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> No longer to be subject to a yoke of slavery<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> So we're rejoicing in God's victory<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Our hearts responding to His love<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> His Spirit in us releases us from fear<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> The way to Him is open<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> With boldness we draw near<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> And in His presence our problems disappear<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;"> Our hearts responding to His love.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.0pt;">John
Gibson CCL 3540<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt;">No matter what comes,
we will always taste victory through Him who loved us. For we have every
confidence that nothing—not death, life, heavenly messengers, dark spirits, the
present, the future, spiritual powers, height, depth, nor any created thing—can
come between us and the love of God revealed in the Jesus our Lord and Saviour.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.0pt;">Bible
passages from the Voice translation<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "tahoma" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.0pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
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We returned to Highbury for breakfast and for our Easter celebrations where we walked once again on the Emmaus Road and met with the risen Jesus.</div>
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</w:wrap></v:imagedata></v:shape><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Text for the Week: <i>Then their eyes were opened and they recognised
him! Luke 24:31</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Happy
Easter! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 11.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Tahoma; mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">Welcome
to our celebration of Easter and a special welcome to any worshipping with us
for the first time. Before or after today’s services do take a moment or two to
walk through the Easter story. Pause at each display and pray. Start at the
table at the back of the church and remember the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem
on Palm Sunday. Then move round anti-clockwise and pause for a moment,
reflecting on the way Jesus broke bread with his closest friends and shared a
cup on Maundy Thursday. Pause then at the foot of the cross and recall the
words of Jesus, Father forgive them … and know that you are forgiven! Then move
round the front of the church to the opposite side and the empty tomb. The last
of our windows invites you to walk the road to Emmaus. Take your seat and in
our worship be prepared to meet with Jesus on the Road to Emmaus. Pray that
through all we share your eyes will be opened and that you will recognise the
risen Lord. Then take with you the presence of the risen Christ into all that
lies ahead, knowing that his promise will ever be in your hearts: Lo, I am with
you always to the end of the age!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-49552358514917699892018-03-25T17:38:00.001+01:002018-03-25T17:38:09.384+01:00Going to the heart of the faith - it's all about Jesus<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Text for the Week:<i> Blessed is the King who
comes in the name of the Lod! Peace in
heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!
Luke 19: </i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Welcome to our services for Palm Sunday and a special welcome
to any who are worshiping with us for the first time. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
During our
service Our Open the Book team are going to tell the story of the
Grand Parade into Jerusalem. And they would like everyone’s
help! As Jesus rode into Jerusalem the crowds waved palm
branches: we would love you to pick up something from the team
at the front that you can wave as the Grand Parade passes
through! </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
We are going to focus on Luke’s account of Palm Sunday
in Luke 19. It’s the culmination of a journey to Jerusalem that had
begun in Luke’s Gospel way back in chapter 9 verse 51 when Luke
tells us Jesus “set his face to go to Jerusalem.” Much was said on
the journey and a great deal happened. Jesus’s journeying did not
finish on Palm Sunday: day by day through the following week he
journeyed in and out of Jerusalem, until he was arrested. It
seemed as if it really had come to an end on Good Friday … but
on the third day he rose again from the dead and, as we shall find
out in our Easter celebrations next week, the journeying went on.
There is so much Jesus has to offer on the journey we are on! It
takes us to the cross … and beyond to resurrection too! </div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">364
All glory, laud and honour<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Introduce
Christ’s entry into Jerusalem – painting and backdrop for our service …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christ’s
Entry into Jerusalem by Norman Adams<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">from
the Methodist Art Collection John 12: 12–15<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus is at the
centre riding a donkey, with a foal or colt, along a sunlit road lined with
sunflowers. There is no obvious depiction of Jerusalem, no garments or palm-tree
branches cast before Jesus, but there is a joyous crowd with bunting and
decorations. Various flags are flown, some on their side or upside down. The
figure to the right, at a window, may be Zacchaeus, who climbed a tree to see
Jesus. Luke records this as happening at Jericho, but it is often included in
the Entry into Jerusalem. The rich luminous colours recall medieval stained
glass. When commissioned to undertake this work for the Collection in 1990,
Norman Adams replied ‘I would like to do this very much ... It is a wonderful
subject’.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Methodist
Art Collection
http://www.methodist.org.uk/our-faith/reflecting-on-faith/the-methodist-modern-art-collection/index-of-works/norman-adams-christs-entry-into-jerusalem/
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Helen
Cook in Magnet: this picture of the event helped me<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>feel what it might have been like to be
there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Flags
of the nations brings it into today’s world – Jesus comes for us!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
figures can you spot? – those dark figures ahead of Jesus – the darkness he is
going into before he reaches the light of resurrection?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:
Jesus is coming 1-2<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
is coming,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Joy
and excitement,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Telling
our friends that<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He’s
on his way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Will
you come with us?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Leave
what you’re doing?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wait
at the roadside,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wonderful
day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Here
he comes smiling,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Happy
to see us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
wave our branches<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">His
praises sing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
told us stories,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Valued
our friendship,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Join
us to welcome<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
children’s King<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Grand Parade<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:
Jesus is coming 3-4<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Humble
and riding on a donkey<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
greet you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Acclaimed
by the crowds and caroled by the children,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
cheer you<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Moving
from the peace of the countryside to the corridors of power<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
salute you,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christ our Lord.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
are giving the beasts of burden<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
new dignity;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
are giving majesty <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
new face<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">you
are giving those who long for redemption<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">a
new song to sing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With
them, with heart and voice<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
shout Hosanna!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so we arrive at Palm Sunday, Holy Week and Easter and reach the heart of our
Christian faith … and it’s all about Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">His
story is told in the gospels and each has a story to tell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mark
is brief and punchy and full of action as Jesus criss crosses across the Sea of
Galilee from the Jewish to the Gentile territory bringing healing to hurting
people’s lives and shaping a new way of being together which he calls the
Kingdom of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Matthew
sees Jesus as the new Moses – he presents the teaching of Jesus in five
sections that offers us a whole new of thinking about the world and a whole new
way of living in the world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">John’s
Gospel homes in on seven things that Jesus did: he calls them signs – and each
one is accompanied by Jesus’s reflections that bring out the significance of
all that happened – and then one more sign is the death and resurrection of
Jesus – and the significance of it all is brought out in the wonderful
reflections Jesus makes at the last supper – from, five whole chapters of
reflections from 13 to 17.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then there’s Luke.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it’s all about the Journey Jesus makes to Jerusalem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
easy to think of that journey to Jerusalem as happening on Palm Sunday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
Luke’s gospel it begins a long way before – the bulk of the book is built around
Jesus’s journey to Jerusalem<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Luke
9:51<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">9:53<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">10:30<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">[13:4]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">13:22<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">13:33,
34<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">17:11<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">18:31<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">19:11<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">19:28<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There’s
a mounting tension as he makes his way to Jerusalem.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
do you do on a journey? You tell stories<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Where
to find parables?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Seed,
harvest, nature – Parables of the Kingdom – Mark 4 or Matthew 13<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Parables
of choice – wide and narrow door, good and bad fruit, wise builder and foolish
builder, wise women and foolish women, worthy servants and unworthy, sheep and
goats – End of Sermon on the Mount and End of last sermon – Matthew 7 and 25<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Story-like
parables – Good Samaritan, Rich Fool, Lost Sheep, Lost Coin, Lost Son – all on
the journey to Jerusalem …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reflections
– the journey of life, the journey of faith … but on this journey there is a
sense of purpose, a sense of direction<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Good
to share at the Annual Meeting on Thursday – the church is moving forward –
looking to the time of the vacancy – looking to the Autumn. It is important to
have that sense of vision – the sense of direction – the sense of purpose in
moving forward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
journey to challenge, to take up the cross, to find the glory Christ promises.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
in all the journey to sense the presence of God with us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">533
Will you come and follow me<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 19:36-44<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
things that make for peace<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now
approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the
disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of
power that they had seen, saying,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Blessed
is the king<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>who comes in the name of the Lord!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peace
in heaven,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and glory in the highest heaven!’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some
of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, order your disciples to
stop.’ He answered, ‘I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout
out.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the start of the story of Jesus in Luke’s Gospel – the angels song – Glory to
God in the highest and on earth peace …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
now as the story of Jesus comes to its climax in Luke – that song is echoed <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Peace
in heaven,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Glory
in the highest heaven<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
that prayer Jesus taught us to pray invites us to seek to bring heaven down to
earth – a task for us to do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Thy
kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
does that entail?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
at this point we come to one of the most poignant of all the moments in the
Gospel story, of all the moments in the story of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
he came near and saw the city, he wept over it, saying, ‘If you, even you, had
only recognized on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are
hidden from your eyes. Indeed, the days will come upon you, when your enemies
will set up ramparts around you and surround you, and hem you in on every side.
They will crush you to the ground, you and your children within you, and they
will not leave within you one stone upon another; because you did not recognize
the time of your visitation from God.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
he came near and saw the city, he wept over it, saying, ‘If you, even you, had
only recognized on this day the things that make for peace! But now they are
hidden from your eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
the journey, in all that we do our task in bringing heaven down to earth is to
recognize the things that make for peace.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">360
Jesus Christ is waiting<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">392
When I survey<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-17865398627123892652018-03-18T20:01:00.002+00:002018-03-18T20:01:50.380+00:00Going to the heart of the faith - True Happiness in the BeatitudesText for the Week: <i>Praise the Lord! O give thanks to
the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love
endures for ever. Happy are those who observe
justice, who do righteousness at all times. </i><br />
<br />
Welcome to our services and a special welcome to
any who are worshipping with us for the first time. With the snow at
its worst we had to postpone our Annual Meeting. And indeed with the return of the snow we had to cancel this evening's service.<br />
<br />
This Thursday is
the rearranged date. It’s an important meeting when we look back at
the last year and look forward to the year that lies ahead. With the
changes that will happen at our retirement in July that makes this
year’s annual meeting particularly important. We will be electing two
Deacons and appointing a Church Secretary, a Worship Ministry
Leader and people to join our Ministry Leaders team. The Deacons
will be giving an update on plans for the vacancy and beyond. Do
remember the whole life of the church in your prayers. Please bring a
copy of March Highbury News to the meeting.<br />
<br />
In the run up to Easter
we are exploring what is at the heart of the Christian Faith.<br />
<br />
Looking
to the God of creation I see things in a fresh perspective but that’s
not enough for me.<br />
<br />
I look to Jesus and see the God who is a God of
love that transforms and changes my life and those around me.<br />
<br />
What
makes the faith Good News is that there is a strength I can draw on
in the unseen yet very real power of the Spirit of God.<br />
<br />
Such a faith
helps shape the things we do with our lives. The 10 commandments
amount to two, Love God and Love your Neighbour, and can be
summed up in one word, Love. They provide a framework for living
life to the full.<br />
<br />
This week’s readings in Fresh from the Word take us to
the Book of Lamentations and a time when everything seems to be
falling apart. In such a time where better to turn than to the
blessings of God in the words of the Beatitudes.<br />
<br />
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Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.</div>
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‘Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.</div>
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‘Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.</div>
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‘Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.</div>
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‘Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.</div>
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‘Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.</div>
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‘Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.</div>
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‘Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.</div>
<br />
I have always loved the use of the word 'Blessed' in the NRSV and loathed the use of the word 'happy' in our church Bibles, the Good News Bible. I thought I would make connections with a number of verses in the Psalms that start Blessed are .... But digging deeper I found that actually when those verses were translated into Greek a different word was used from the word that's here in Matthew 5. In fact, in the NRSV, the word used here in Matthew 5 is frequently used in the Psalms ... and always translated 'happy...'<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 2:12 Happy are all who take refuge in him.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 32:1 Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.<br />
2 Happy are those to whom the LORD imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 33:12 Happy is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 34:8 O taste and see that the LORD is good; happy are those who take refuge in him.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 40:4 Happy are those who make the LORD their trust, who do not turn to the proud, to those who go astray after false gods.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 41:1 Happy are those who consider the poor; the LORD delivers them in the day of trouble.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 84:4 Happy are those who live in your house, ever singing your praise. Selah<br />
5 Happy are those whose strength is in you, in whose heart are the highways to Zion.<br />
12 O LORD of hosts, happy is everyone who trusts in you.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 89:15 Happy are the people who know the festal shout, who walk, O LORD, in the light of your countenance;<br />
NRS Psalm 94:12 Happy are those whom you discipline, O LORD, and whom you teach out of your law,<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 106:3 Happy are those who observe justice, who do righteousness at all times.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 112:1 Praise the LORD! Happy are those who fear the LORD, who greatly delight in his commandments.<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 119:1 Happy are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the LORD.<br />
2 Happy are those who keep his decrees, who seek him with their whole heart,<br />
<br />
NRS Psalm 128:1 <a ascents.="" href="https://www.blogger.com/null" of="" song=""> Happy is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways.</a><br />
<br />
So I re-visited the Beatitudes in the Good News Bible Translation/<br />
<br />
We are obsessed with the pursuit of happiness. This week sees the international day of happiness ... and a league table has been published of nations who have a high happiness factor - Scandinavian countries score well, we come down the league table!<br />
<br />
Maybe there is an insight in the words of Jesus that points us, as the heading of the GNB suggests, to true happiness.<br />
<br />
True Happiness<br />
(Lk 6.20–23)<br />
3“Happy are those who know they are spiritually poor;<br />
the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!<br />
<br />
<i>Maybe we should be open and honest about our failings, it's OK not to be super-religious - indeed to live with the poverty of our spiritual lives is maybe the start of something important that can lift our spirits.</i><br />
<br />
4 Happy are those who mourn;<br />
God will comfort them!<br />
<br />
<i>This is the most difficult of them all! I usually cannot bring myself to say this. For those who mourn are not happy. And yet, with my reflections today i wanted to revisit this ... our culture finds 'mourning' 'grieving' difficult with that great 'stiff upper lip' we show to the world. Many employers allow three days of compassionate leave and beyond that you need a note from the doctor as if mourning were like a sickness that requires help from the doctor. Sometimes such help is needed and can be really valuable. But actually, it's OK to mourn. It's OK to grieve. Indeed, as so many other cultures recognise and we have to constantly re-learn, it is actually good to grieve. To bring our grief, our mourning out. For then we can discover help and strength from others and from beyond ourselves. To bottle up our grieving is the path that leads furthest from 'happiness'. The path to 'true happiness' lies through letting our mourning out so that then we can receive the comfort we need not just from those dearest to us who are able to give it, but from the love of God let loose in our hearts through that unseen yet real power of the comforter.</i><br />
<br />
5 Happy are those who are humble;<br />
they will receive what God has promised!<br />
<br />
<i>What a difference humility - not the humility of the door mat but the true humility that leaves its mark on others.</i><br />
<br />
6 Happy are those whose greatest desire is to do what God requires;<br />
God will satisfy them fully!<br />
<br />
<i>I much prefer the metaphors of the original ... happy are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for justice. The injustices of this world fill us with anger, with despair. To sit back and do nothing about them, to switch off and ignore them may suggest a route to happiness. But true happ;iness is found as we address those injustices in the way God wills.</i><br />
<br />
7Happy are those who are merciful to others;<br />
God will be merciful to them!<br />
<br />
<i>It is one of the mysteries of forgiveness that it can bring release from pent up anger that destroys. That's the discovery of the Truth and Reconciliation commission in South Africa and the Forgiveness Project in Northern Ireland.</i><br />
<br />
8 Happy are the pure in heart;<br />
they will see God!<br />
<br />
<i>So often our society gives us the impression that happiness lies in the things we accumulate. Actually it lies in the heart.</i><br />
<br />
9Happy are those who work for peace;<br />
God will call them his children!<br />
<br />
<i>This is one of the great calls Jesus makes - to be a peace maker and work for peace. Again it is in doing something about the hatred in the world that the path to true happiness lies.</i><br />
<br />
10 Happy are those who are persecuted because they do what God requires;<br />
the Kingdom of heaven belongs to them!<br />
<br />
<i>This, like the one on mourning, is once again very difficult. And in a way we have no right to pass any comment. But in the last couple of years we have made links with the Persecuted Church through Open Door, through Embrace the Middle East and through Middle East Concern. The more we make those connections the more we discover that faith in that great big God, in the Jesus who opens up the way of love, in the power from beyond ourselves that is the Holy Spirit, makes a world of difference to those who face persecution. They are far from happiness ... and yet through their faith have a pathway to true happiness they share far more with us, than our concern can share with them.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I finished recalling one of those who has died recently ... not Billy Graham, not Stephen Hawking, but the one who made his name among other things with the song that is played at Whaddon Road after every Cheltenham Town Victory, and sadly this season has not been played often enough.<br />
<br />
There was something special about Ken Dodd ... a remarkable achievement and a remarkable life. And through it all the pursuit of happiness. Maybe there's more to the song than at first meets the eye!<br />
<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 22.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Happiness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=Ken+Dodd&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgVuLUz9U3MDQuTDMBAIkQ2hINAAAA&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwj8-dSmhvPZAhVJD8AKHeExAGoQMQgsMAA"><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #660099; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Ken Dodd</span></a></span><span style="color: #777777; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Happiness,
happiness, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">the greatest
gift that I posses<br />
I thank the Lord I've been blessed<br />
With more than my share of happiness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">To me this
old world is a wonderful place<br />
And I'm just about the luckiest human in the whole human race<br />
I've got no silver and I've got no gold<br />
Just a whole lot of happiness in my soul<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Happiness,
happiness, the greatest gift that I posses<br />
I thank the Lord I've been blessed<br />
With more than my share of happiness<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Happiness to
me is an ocean tide<br />
Or a sunset fading on a mountain side<br />
Or maybe a big old heaven full of stars up above<br />
When I'm in the arms of the one I love<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Happiness is
a field of grain<br />
Lifting its face to the falling rain<br />
I can see it in the sunshine, I breathe it in the rain<br />
Happiness everywhere<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial",sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Happiness,
happiness,…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
I was tempted to carry on for another three hours. But I resisted the temptation. Instead we gathered around the Lord's table, remembered a body broken and blood shed and celebrated the wonderful love of the risen Lord Jesus Christ who enables us to share in his resurrection victory and take the path of True Happiness.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-2373346497435773462018-03-04T13:32:00.000+00:002018-03-04T20:47:24.067+00:00Going to the heart of the faith - 10-2-1 A Framework for Living Life to the Full<i>Text for the week: Jesus said: “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.” John 13:34,35</i><br />
<br />
Welcome to our services today and a special welcome to any worshiping with us for the first time.<br />
<br />
During our evening service we will be sharing in the Lord’s Supper.<br />
<br />
In the lead up to Easter we are exploring what is at the heart of our faith.<br />
<br />
My faith begins with a great big God who is nothing less than the God of all creation. As Job discovered an encounter with the God of creation in all its unimaginable immensity gives you a whole new way of thinking about the problems that can otherwise overwhelm.<br />
<br />
But for all that, it’s not enough just to have a sense of some kind of God who is greater than anything we can ever begin to understand. Over the years it has become more and more important for me as a Christian to focus on Jesus. He lived a real life in the real world and it’s possible, I believe, to discover a great deal about the Jesus of history. One thing that emerges is that those who met with him found themselves drawn into a close relationship with God: it was as if Jesus opened up for them a window on to the God who is love.<br />
<br />
And that’s not just something of interest in history. It’s life changing because the faith that’s important to me is a three-dimensional faith. For this God of love, made real in Jesus is made real today in our lives through the power of the Holy Spirit, unseen and yet so very real. We have a strength to draw on from beyond ourselves that brings us through Jesus into the living presence of the God who is Love. And that makes a difference in the living of our lives.<br />
<br />
Today we look at the way 10 becomes 2 and 2 becomes 1 in the commandments that shape our lives.<br />
<br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>189
Be still for the presence of the Lord<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>On
the Mountain Top<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>The
Ten Commandments – the Congregation</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/YyR4A4sMn7o/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YyR4A4sMn7o?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US">The Ten Commandments<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">As
we listen to God's Commandments we pray for strength to keep them:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">You shall have no other gods but me:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to love you<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">with
all our heart. all our soul,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US">all
our mind and all our strength.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">You shall not make for yourself any idol:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to worship you<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">in
spirit and in truth.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">You shall not dishonour the name of the
Lord your God:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to honour you<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">with
reverence and awe.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Remember the Lord’s day and keep it holy:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to remember Christ<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">risen
from the dead,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">and
to set our minds on things above,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">not
on things on the earth.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Honour your father and your mother:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to live as your servants,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">giving
respect to all,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">and
love to our brothers and sisters in Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">You shall not kill:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to be reconciled with each other,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">and
to overcome evil with good.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">You shall not commit adultery:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to realise<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">that
our body is a temple of the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">You shall not steal:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to he honest in all we do,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">and
to care for those in need.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">You shall not be a false witness:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us always to speak the truth.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">You shall not covet anything which belongs
to your neighbour;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">Lord,
help us to remember Jesus said,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">‘lt
is more blessed to give than to receive,’<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">and
help us to love our neighbours as ourselves;<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US">for
his sake. Amen</span></b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>A New Commandment I give unto you</b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Activities
for all over 3</b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the lead up to Easter we are exploring what is at the heart of our faith. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My
faith begins with a great big God who is nothing less than the God of all
creation. As Job discovered an encounter with the God of creation in all its
unimaginable immensity gives you a whole new way of thinking about the problems
that can otherwise overwhelm. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
for all that, it’s not enough just to have a sense of some kind of God who is
greater than anything we can ever begin to understand. Over the years it has
become more and more important for me as a Christian to focus on Jesus. He
lived a real life in the real world and it’s possible, I believe, to discover a
great deal about the Jesus of history. One thing that emerges is that those who
met with him found themselves drawn into a close relationship with God: it was
as if Jesus opened up for them a window on to the God who is love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
that’s not just something of interest in history. It’s life changing because
the faith that’s important to me is a three-dimensional faith. For this God of
love, made real in Jesus is made real today in our lives through the power of
the Holy Spirit, unseen and yet so very real. We have a strength to draw on
from beyond ourselves that brings us through Jesus into the living presence of
the God who is Love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
to believe in that God of Creation who is made real in Jesus and is made real
in our hearts by the unseen and yet so real power of God in the Holy Spirit makes
a difference in the living of our lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Right
at the heart of the Moses story in Exodus is a meeting with the God who is
beyond our understanding who yet shapes the way we lead our lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Moses
discovers God to be God with no name whose name is filled with mystery – I am
who I am – and that happens in the mystery of that encounter with God in the
wilderness at the burning bush.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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it is on the mountain top that he encounters God once more – he comes face to
face with God … and yet lives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Moses
brought the people out of the camp to meet God (19:17). The mountain is
shrouded in mystery – smoke and fire – and Moses goes up the mountain and in
that encounter with God warns the people not to try to look to see God … it is
then that God gives these words that will shape the lives of the people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
call them commandments. And commandments they are. But much more than that.
They amount to a way of life to follow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Eric
Liddell of Chariots of Fire fame had that sense of the mystery of the presence
of God and when interned in that Japanese prisoner of war camp he hand wrote
copies of a book of discipline, a book of prayer to shape the lives of those he
was so close to. And he commended committing to memory a few short passages of
Scripture, first among them the Ten Commandments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">No
idols<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Don’t
dishonor the name of God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Keep
the sabbath day holy<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Honour
Mother and Father<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
not kill<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
not commit adultery<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
not steal<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
not lie<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
not covet your neighbour’s family or goods<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
a wonderful framework – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
am frustrated by the creeds. They speak of God in creation, of Jesus and all
his cross and resurrection mean for us, and of the Holy Spirit and the church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
they omit the way of life that God asks of us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">IN
particular they skip the life and teaching of Jesus – they jump from born of
the virgin Mary to suffered under Pontius Pilate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
want to home in and have at the heart of the Faith for me the bit between.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
brought healing in to hurting people’s lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
Jesus taught a way of life to follow.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Nowhere
is that summed up more powerfully than in the Sermon on the Mount.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
that follows the two parts of the Ten Commandmnets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Chapter
5 is all about the second set of commandments and chapter 6 is all about the
first set of Gommandments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
are traditionally on two tables.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Actually,
come to think of it in many a parish church the creed is written on a tablet on
the wall … and also the Ten Commandments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
I want to home in on Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
10 to 2<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Reading:
Mark 12:28-34</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
of the scribes came near and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing
that he answered them well, he asked him, ‘Which commandment is the first of
all?’ Jesus answered, ‘The first is, “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the
Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all
your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” The second is
this, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” There is no other
commandment greater than these.’ Then the scribe said to him, ‘You are right,
Teacher; you have truly said that “he is one, and besides him there is no
other”; and “to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding,
and with all the strength”, and “to love one’s neighbour as oneself”,—this is
much more important than all whole burnt-offerings and sacrifices.’ When Jesus
saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, ‘You are not far from the kingdom
of God.’ After that no one dared to ask him any question.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
much that’s powerful there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
response to the scribe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
scribe would have responsibility to write out Scriptures, laws, commandments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Which
is the first of all?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus’
response brings in the word ‘love’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Love
God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Love
your neighbour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
another occasion Jesus finds himself asking an expert in the law who gives this
very answer but wants to know who my neighbour is. That prompts the telling of
the Parable of the Good Samaritan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who
is my neighbour – even the one deemed to be an enemy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
plays out in all sorts of ways – not least in our contemporary world across the
divides we are so aware of in our world.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
all inclusive nature of the neighbour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
it is that word ‘love’ that catches my eye.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From 10 to 2 to 1.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is as Jesus gathers aroiund the table at the Last Supper that he gives his
closest friends a new commandment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is as if the ten are gathered into two and the two into one.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
John 13:31-35<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
he had gone out, Jesus said, ‘Now the Son of Man has been glorified, and God
has been glorified in him. If God has been glorified in him, God will also
glorify him in himself and will glorify him at once. Little children, I am with
you only a little longer. You will look for me; and as I said to the Jews so
now I say to you, “Where I am going, you cannot come.” 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.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is in love for one another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is a framework for the living of our lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
a sense it is the framework of the God of creation – in the mystery of that
mountain top experience of Moses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is the framework of the Jesus who makes the love of God real …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
I want to come back to what makes my faith three dimensional.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
can I love? Not in my own power.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is in the power of the presence of God with me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
love, with joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, is nothing
less than the fruit of the Holy Spirit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>269
Eternal Ruler<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>173
Sing to God new songs of worship<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Words
of Blessing</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-7057687214792319002018-03-04T13:28:00.001+00:002018-03-04T13:28:20.221+00:00Going to the Heart of the Faith - I believe in the Holy Spirit<i>Text for the Week: Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26</i><br />
<br />
Welcome to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping with us for the first time.<br />
<br />
Since the end of January we have been sharing a diary of Prayer for our church here at Highbury. This week is the fourth of those weeks of prayer … and it leads us up to our Annual Church Meeting on Thursday evening. It’s an important meeting as we will be receiving reports of the life of the church, electing Deacons and making appointments in the life of our church. We also be making plans for the future of the church as Felicity and Richard will be retiring and moving in July. Do remember the life of the church in your prayers and join us for the meeting on Thursday. If you haven’t already, please take a look at the Giving for Growth leaflets and see if you can fill them in so that we can see what gifts of time, talents and money people are able to share.<br />
<br />
In the run up to Easter we are looking at what is at the heart of the Christian faith.<br />
<br />
We began with faith in a great big God who helps put the problems of the world in some perspective.<br />
<br />
We went on to see how Jesus Christ not only opens up a window on to the God who is Love but draws us in the closest of relationships with God our Father.<br />
<br />
Today we recognise that we cannot follow Jesus in our own strength but need to draw on that unseen yet very real power he promises in the Holy Spirit.<br />
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<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-68366783163349427032018-02-11T20:29:00.004+00:002018-02-11T20:29:38.991+00:00Going to the heart of the faith - I believe in Jesus<br />
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<i>Welcome to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping
with us for the first time. </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>In the run up to Easter I am exploring what for me
goes to the heart of the Christian faith. </i></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
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<i>For me, the God I believe in is a
great big God, nothing less than the God of Creation. I don’t see any conflict
between science and religion. The world of science opens up wonderful insights
into the wonders of the universe – the God of creation is more wonderful still!
To believe in the God of creation helps me to put in perspective the troubles I
am all too aware of in the world around me. It also challenges me to care for
the world we find ourselves in. But focusing on the God of creation only gets
me so far in my faith. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>I am a Christian. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>For me, my faith finds its focus in
Jesus Christ. Jesus open up a way of life to follow that is based on love for
all, bringing healing into hurting people’s lives. The more I discover about
this Jesus through my reading of the Bible and in fellowship with others who
share this very special faith, the more he opens up for me the presence of a
God who is not just the God of creation, but much more, the God of love. </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>This Tuesday is Shrove Tuesday and we have a
special evening with a difference as the orchestra and chorus of the Harpsichord
Collective present Vivaldi's much-loved 'Gloria'. Louise Cawte of St Luke’s who
is the inspiration behind this evening comments, “This jewel of baroque music
is a great hymn of praise in a number of short sections, with beautiful
melodies and catchy rhythms. The orchestra will also perform some string music
by Vivaldi and Bach's magnificent double concerto for oboe and violin.”
Admission is free, with a retiring collection for SolarAid.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<i>These are very rough notes of the service we shared ...</i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">457
All hail the power of Jesus’ name<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
you leave your mark?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Can
you tell things people have done?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Cleaning
– flowers arranged<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">John’s
story – in prison wants to know if Jesus is the one … and so sends his
disciples – Jesus sends word back – look at what’s been happening, look at what
I’ve done …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Work
out the answer for yourself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">John’s
story<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 7:18-23<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Drawn
into the Presence of God<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
the run up to Easter I am exploring what for me goes to the heart of the Christian
faith. For me, the God I believe in is a great big God,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">nothing
less than the God of Creation. To believe in the God of<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">creation
helps me to put in perspective the troubles I am all too<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">aware
of in the world around me. It also challenges me to care for<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
world we find ourselves in. But focusing on the God of creation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">only
gets me so far in my faith. I am a Christian.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">More
and more, over the years, I have found myself coming back to Christ and the
Jesus who is at the heart of the faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
all you’ve got is some sense of God, the God of creation then there are big
questions that have no answer – and they cropped up when I went into school on
Tuesday morning – why is there so much suffering in the world?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
God is all powerful, all loving, how does he allow suffering to happen?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
do find it helpful to turn to the story of Job – and sense that you have to
live with unanswered questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
is this the only picture of God we can have.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Is
there another way into the God who is so important.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
This is where Jesus comes in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
have always found Holy Week to be one of the most powerful weeks in the year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
have found it helpful to mark the stages in the week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Palm
Sunday, Maundy<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thursday, the three hours
of Good Friday.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
found that for myself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
Good Friday our youth group met together at 12-00 and we had a bread and cheese
lunch – and we listened to a concept album that had just been released. There
was no stage musical at that point. Just a double LP. Jesus Christ Superstar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
put big questions about the identity of Jesus into the mouth of Judas – it
prompted so much discussion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
story itself is so powerful – told from different perspectives in the Gospels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
the biblical texts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Passion Play was such a moving experience at the Millennium<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Maundy
Thursday we basically read an extended part of the text and share in the Lord’s
Supper.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
on Good Friday – the sayings at the Cross.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
a prayer walk through the town.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
a number of yeas I went up to Prinknash after the walk of witness – most
memorably on the Day of the Good Friday Agreement. Driving back came the news
the agreement had been signed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
am one of those who is drawn to digging away at the Jesus of history -0 and
that is a project that can be done. It’s been exciting to do that in all sorts
of ways – not least in the project I am doing at the moment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
teaches such a powerful way of living – love God, love neighbour, love enemy
too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
makes that love real in bringing healing into hurting people’s lives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
somehow in his presence those who follow him sense he opens up a window on to
God that shows God to be a god of love who draws us into the closest of
relationships with him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
Father …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
most wonderful of prayers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Those
who follows him sense that he brings that god of love close to them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is the god of love who is there through suffering, there even when he doesn’t
appear to be there, the God who draws us to him in the middle of the suffering.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
very different kind of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For me, my faith finds its focus in Jesus
Christ. Jesus opens up a way of life to follow that is based on love for all, bringing
healing into hurting people’s lives. The more I discover about this Jesus
through my reading of the Bible and in fellowship with others who share this
very special faith, the more he opens up for me the presence of a God who is
not just the God of creation, but much more, the God of love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
of the books of the New Testament where that comes home to me is in the letter
to the Hebrews.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
one of the later books of the New Testament – wrongly attributed to Paul in the
AV, it is an anonymous letter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
is a considered reflection in the light of the Jesus of history, but also the
risen Jesus whose presence is there with us and whose presence is made real as
we gather together in his name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
Jesus we meet with the reality of God. These words are up with the opening
words of John’s Gospel as they confront us with the imprint of God in the life
of Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hebrews
1:1-4<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Long
ago God spoke to our ancestors <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">in many and
various ways by the prophets, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">but
in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">whom he appointed
heir of all things, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">through whom he
also created the worlds. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
is the reflection of God’s glory <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and the exact
imprint of God’s very being, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and he sustains
all things by his powerful word. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
he had made purification for sins, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">he sat down at the
right hand of the Majesty on high, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">having become as
much superior to angels <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 36.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">as the name he has
inherited is more excellent than theirs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
quite some statement<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
bearing the imprint of God – the reflection of God’s glory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
HySpirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
writer goes on to speak of the greatness of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is a sense of the distance of the awesomeness of a great big God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Jesus is the one who draws us intot he presence of God and draws God into our
presence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hebrews
is built around the thought world of the Hebrew Scriptures – our Old Testament.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
is seens as the one who is the great High Priest – the bridge builder –
pontifex – bringing us to God, God to us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
High Priest is just like God – but also just like us …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hebrews
4:14-16<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Since,
then, we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus,
the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high
priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in
every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore
approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and
find grace to help in time of need.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
has experienced humanity at its worst – and is there with us in the worst
humanity can hurl at us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
that is so important to hold on t<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
then has implications for us …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
writer explores the imagery and the thinking around the Templea s the place of
God’s presence. Then imagines that we are invited into that presence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
can enter into the presence of God – by the new and living way opened up for us
by jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Therefore,
my friends, since we have confidence to enter the sanctuary by the blood of
Jesus, by the new and living way that he opened for us through the curtain
(that is, through his flesh), and since we have a great priest over the house
of God, let us approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our
hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure
water. Let us hold fast to the confession of our hope without wavering, for he
who has promised is faithful. And let us consider how to provoke one another to
love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some,
but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
can enter into the presence of God<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
approach with a true heart in full assurance of faith,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
hold fast to the confession of our hope<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
we provoke one another to love.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the heart of such a faith is faith – we have to trust and believe …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
act on that faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hebrews
11:1-3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
Indeed, by faith our ancestors received approval. By faith we understand that
the worlds were prepared by the word of God, so that what is seen was made from
things that are not visible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
rest of the chapter goes through the great people of Faith of those Hebrew
Scriptures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With
such faith … we need to focus on <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Therefore,
since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside
every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with
perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and
perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him
endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right
hand of the throne of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
then makes a differencve in the living of our lives …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hebrews
13<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let
mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by
doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it. Remember those who
are in prison, as though you were in prison with them; those who are being
tortured, as though you yourselves were being tortured. Let marriage be held in
honour by all, and let the marriage bed be kept undefiled; for God will judge
fornicators and adulterers. Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be
content with what you have; for he has said, ‘I will never leave you or forsake
you.’ So we can say with confidence,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘The
Lord is my helper;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I will not be afraid.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What
can anyone do to me?’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Remember your leaders, those who spoke the
word of God to you; consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate
their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and for ever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">461
How sweet the name of Jesus sounds<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">456
Christ is the world’s true light<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Retiring
Collection for Highbury<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Music:
Alan Berry & Hy-Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-52173460906151716532018-02-04T17:32:00.003+00:002018-02-04T17:32:33.585+00:00Going to the heart of the faith - I believe in a great big God!<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Text of the week: I knew of you then only by
report, but now I see you with my own eyes.
Therefore, I melt away, I repent in dust and
ashes. Job 42:5,6 </i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Welcome to our services today and a special
welcome to any worshipping with us for the first
time. Any talk of spring is premature. So unpredictable has our
weather become that we may yet be in store for the depths of
winter! And yet snowdrops are out, the crocuses have been in
bloom for a fair while and we’ve had the first daffodil in bloom in
our garden. The first signs of spring are there. In the lead up to
Easter we are going to reflect on what goes to the very heart of
our faith in the God of creation, in Jesus and his power to bring
about a new creation in the lives of each one of us and in that
unseen yet so real power of God, the Holy Spirit who bears fruit in
the living of our lives. </i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>This Tuesday our Explore group will be
creative in another craft evening. At the same time if you would
like to join in planning some of the services that are coming up
then come along for a worship planning evening. </i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Then on the
13th February, Shrove Tuesday, we have an evening with a
difference as the orchestra and chorus of the Harpsichord
Collective present Vivaldi's much-loved 'Gloria'. Louise Cawte of St
Luke’s who is the inspiration behind this evening comments, “This
jewel of baroque music is a great hymn of praise in a number of
short sections, with beautiful melodies and catchy rhythms. The
orchestra will also perform some string music by Vivaldi and
Bach's magnificent double concerto for oboe and violin.”
Admission is free, with a retiring collection for SolarAid.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><i>If you want to see a recording of this service please email minister@highburychurch.co.uk to receive a link.</i></span></div>
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<b>Welcome and Call to Worship</b></div>
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<b>137 All things bright and beautiful</b></div>
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<b>Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer</b></div>
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<b>Learning to live with losing!</b></div>
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<b>The Story of Job</b></div>
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<b>Reading: Psalm 19:1-6</b></div>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; width: 600px;">
The heavens are telling the glory of God;<br /> and the firmament<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" style="color: #0000bb;"></a> proclaims his handiwork. <br class="ii" />Day to day pours forth speech,<br /> and night to night declares knowledge. <br class="ii" />There is no speech, nor are there words;<br /> their voice is not heard; <br class="ii" />yet their voice<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" style="color: #0000bb;"></a> goes out through all the earth,<br /> and their words to the end of the world. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; width: 600px;">
<br class="kk" style="background-color: #ffaaaa; margin-top: 0em; padding-top: 0em; text-indent: 3em;" />In the heavens<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" style="color: #0000bb;"></a> he has set a tent for the sun, <br class="ii" />which comes out like a bridegroom from his wedding canopy,<br /> and like a strong man runs its course with joy. <br class="ii" />Its rising is from the end of the heavens,<br /> and its circuit to the end of them;<br /> and nothing is hidden from its heat. </div>
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<b>Song: Our God is a great big God</b></div>
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<b>Activities for all over 3</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Going to the heart of the Faith - 1 - I believe in a great big God</b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Forgive
me for being personal! But I’m going to be!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
now till Easter I want to share what goes to the heart of the faith that’s
important to me. We’ll dip in and out a bit. Other things may crop up.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’m
going to begin with the God I believe in.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
God I believe in is a great big God. He’s higher than a skyscraper, he’s deeper
than a submarine, he’s wider than the universe, he’s beyond my wildest dreams …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That’s
the way the song puts it. You can put it in more philosophical terms. The God I
believe in is that than which nothing greater can be conceived.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
God I believe in is the God of creation. The bigger you release the universe to
be the bigger the God I believe in is … for the God I believe in is the God of
all creation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
here in Cheltenham that I’ve become fascinated with the world of science. If
you were to talk to people in the previous churches I was minister of I didn’t
talk much about science at all. It was only here that I was introduced to the
wonders of the world of science. And I find it an inspiration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
one of the things I have shared in my assemblies at St John’s – as a Christian
I see no conflict between science and my faith. And for the first time I have
been invited in to talk with the Year 6 class who are doing science and
religion at the moment – they’ve got lots of questions to put me on the spot
with … so think of me as I go in on Tuesday morning.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
are going to be asking me questions about Genesis and about evolution. It’s a
great place to start. But it’s not the
only place in the Bible that has to do with the world of God’s creation. The
Book of Job has to lots to say as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
of the CWM mission partners who joined us for a while way back suggested we
should read the Bible with our heads, with our hearts and with our hands. Lucy
Winkett says much the same in her foreword to this year’s Fresh from the Word –
well worth reading again. She suggests we must read the Bible with our heads,
our hearts and with our feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Book of Job is one of those books I have come back to at different points along
the way of my journey of faith. First, I came to it with my head … as a study
of a text. I had studied literature at A Level – and grappled with
Shakespeare’s Hamlet, great novelists, Henry Fielding and Joseph Conrad, Mary
Barton, George Eliot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Job
is one of a number of books in the last part of the Bible with Proverbs and
Ecclesiastes that you can think of as Wisdom literature – they are in a way the
most philosophical books in the bible. They make you think about life, its
meaning, its purpose and how to cope with its dark side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
in Job life has a very dark side.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Job
is the classic person who has done no wrong and can do no wrong. Everything is
right in his life. And so in what I think is the closest you come in the Bible
to Greek drama, a fun story sets him up so that everything goes wrong in his
life. First he loses his property, then his family and finally his health.
Until he is all alone in the dark in abject pain, forsaken and forlorn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then in turn come three friends. Each says much the same thing in subtly
different ways. And what they say is just the classic religious thinking of the
time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
a generalization it has some truth in it. If you do what God wants you to do
then on the whole things will go well and work out. If you do what God does not
want you to do then things will go badly. It’s all right as a generalization –
you can see it works.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Their mistake, however, is to turn the generalization on its head and work
backwards. They look at Job and see that everything has gone wrong in his life.
They then reason that it’s when you don’t do what God wants that things go
wrong. They then conclude that Job must have done stuff that God did not want
him to do. And so their advice to Job is – change your ways, acknowledge your
wrong doing and then everything will go well for you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Job is adamant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
has not done anything wrong. He has done exactly as God wants him to do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
yet, and yet … everything has gone wrong, his whole life has fallen apart. It’s
something he cannot understand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Three
times each of the friends comes to Job – and all the time Job is adamant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
fourth friend comes with variations on the same theme in what he has to say.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then you reach the climax to the book. A remarkable climax. Job finds himself
in the great open spaces – it’s as if he goes out to the wild countryside, to
the top of the mountain. And there he
senses the immensity of the God of creation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
the voice of God speaks to him out of the whillwind<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
Job 38 to 41 there are four chapters. And it is simply God putting question
after question to Job. The questions highlight the immensity of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
the questions follow a remarkable structure …<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
basically, the heavens above, the beasts of the field, the birds of the air,
the fish of the sea.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Job 38:1-7, 31-33, 39:1-4, 41:1-2,31-</b><b>34</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>42:1-6</b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then the</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span class="sc" style="color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">answered Job out of the whirlwind:</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; width: 600px;">
<sup class="ii" style="color: #777777; display: inline;">2</sup> ‘Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge? <br class="ii" /><sup class="ii" style="color: #777777; display: inline;">3</sup> Gird up your loins like a man,<br /> I will question you, and you shall declare to me. </div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; width: 600px;">
<br class="ii" /><sup class="ii" style="color: #777777; display: inline;">4</sup> ‘Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth?<br /> Tell me, if you have understanding. <br class="ii" /><sup class="ii" style="color: #777777; display: inline;">5</sup> Who determined its measurements—surely you know!<br /> Or who stretched the line upon it? <br class="ii" /><sup class="ii" style="color: #777777; display: inline;">6</sup> On what were its bases sunk,<br /> or who laid its cornerstone <br class="ii" /><sup class="ii" style="color: #777777; display: inline;">7</sup> when the morning stars sang together<br /> and all the heavenly beings<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" style="color: #0000bb;"></a> shouted for joy? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">‘Can you bind the chains of the Pleiades,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> or loose the cords of Orion? </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">32</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Can you lead forth the Mazzaroth in their season,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> or can you guide the Bear with its children? </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">33</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Do you know the ordinances of the heavens?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Can you establish their rule on the earth? </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">‘Do you know when the mountain goats give birth?</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Do you observe the calving of the deer? </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Can you number the months that they fulfil,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> and do you know the time when they give birth, </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> when they crouch to give birth to their offspring,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> and are delivered of their young? </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Their young ones become strong, they grow up in the open;</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> they go forth, and do not return to them. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">‘Can you draw out Leviathan</span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" style="background-color: white; color: #0000bb; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;"></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> with a fish-hook,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> or press down its tongue with a cord? </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> Can you put a rope in its nose,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> or pierce its jaw with a hook? </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">It makes the deep boil like a pot;</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> it makes the sea like a pot of ointment. </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">32</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> It leaves a shining wake behind it;</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> one would think the deep to be white-haired. </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">33</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> On earth it has no equal,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> a creature without fear. </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">34</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> It surveys everything that is lofty;</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> it is king over all that are proud.’ </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
climax of this part of the drama of Job comes in 42-1-8 it is as if Job is able
to look from a new perspective with new eyes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Job
42:1-8</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Then Job answered the </span><span class="sc" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; font-variant-caps: small-caps; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal;">Lord</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">: </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">2</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> ‘I know that you can do all things,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted. </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">3</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> “Who is this that hides counsel without knowledge?”</span><br class="kk" style="background-color: #ffaaaa; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium; margin-top: 0em; padding-top: 0em; text-indent: 3em;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> things too wonderful for me, which I did not know. </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">4</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> “Hear, and I will speak;</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> I will question you, and you declare to me.” </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">5</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> I had heard of you by the hearing of the ear,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> but now my eye sees you; </span><br class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><sup class="ii" style="background-color: white; color: #777777; display: inline; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">6</sup><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> therefore I despise myself,</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #010000; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"> and repent in dust and ashes.’ </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
he is able to live with unanswered questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
in the fun of the drama – then we revisit the original set up and as in the
best of stories everyone lives happily ever after.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
my head I could see and it meant something to me that we live in a very complex
world, beyond our understanding. In the world of God’s creation we can
encounter the other, the immensity of the Great big God I believe in … and
realise that we se only a tiny fraction of the much bigger picture that is
God.s And so we too can live with
unanswered questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
was in my head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Three
years into my first church in Yorkshire, my father had long awaited major heart
surgery that we all thought would give him a new lease of life. He didn’t come
home from hospital. Before his surgery he passed on to me something his father
had passed on to him – timely in the context of what has happened in the
medical world this week. My grandfather had said to my father, and my father
said to me … we all make mistakes, in your work if you make a mistake you can
say sorry and try to make up for it. If a surgeon makes a mistake on the
operating table there’s no going back. I wasn’t with my father when he died.
But I did have the opportunity to see the surgeon. And I passed on what he had
said … though I have no reason to believe any mistakes were made.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
read the Book of Job again … and it went from my head to my heart.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Three
years into my ministry here in Cheltenham my mother died in circumstances that
have again been in the news this week. She was knocked over crossing the road
by a car going 40 mph in a 30 mph speed limit zone. It happens to all of us …
but ever since I cannot make light of exceeding the speed limit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My
Mum and Dad were by no means perfect – but on the other hand they still had
lots to give – that day my mum had just been to visit a home run by the free
churches of Leicester for elderly people – she chaired the committee … and we
ended up having her 80<sup>th</sup> birthday cake that had already been baked
at the wake rather than the birthday party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Again,
I found myself reading the Book of Job – indeed shortly after that we did a
Bible study series on it, dramatizing it in our imagination.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
world can be a pretty messy place. But delve into the wonders of the world and
it puts things in perspective – go up on the mountain top in your mind’s eye –
see the super moon, watch the lunar eclipse livestreamed by NASA, see the
immensity of nature’s awesome power in the volcano in the earthquake in the
storm. There is something beyond our understanding in the world around us … <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Encounter
this God who is a great big God and somehow, you see the mess going on all
around in a different perspective. It’s not that any of the difficult questions
are answered … but there comes a point when it is possible to live with
unanswered questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
my head to my heart. But I was invited to read these chapters from Job again
only last September. I met again the great big God I believe in, the God of
creation. But this time there was something for me to do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
these 4 chapters there are 64 questions. In the week of nature watch, the super
blue moon, in the wake of those awful storms and news of earthquakes and
volcanoes, many of those questions now have an answer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Such
is the ingenuity of humanity. Science has a good idea about what happened at
the beginning, what happens in the depths of the ocean, how the weather is
formed. Cameras have recorded in remarkable detail the intimate lives of the
beasts of the field, the birds of the air and the fish of the sea.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
what has humanity done to the beasts of the field, the birds of the air and the
fish of the sea.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
try an experiment. Let’s give a voice to the beasts of the field, the birds of the
air and the fish of the sea that are mentioned in these four chapters. What would
they say to us, human beings living in 2018?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
time to share<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>People
shared three responses<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">1.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What have
you done to us?!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">2.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Don’t eat
meat!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">3.<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>There are
too many of you!</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">More
than any of his previous series, Blue Planet II highlighted the damage done to
the oceans by humanity and our obsession with things plastic. The Prime Minister,
Mrs May, presented the President of China with a boxed set of Blue Planet II together
with a specially recorded message from David Attenborough.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To
believe in the God of creation is to be challenged to care for the creation we have
received so that we can hand it on to the next generation. It’s a theme that comes
out in Genesis … and here in Job, as I read the verses in chapter 42 I heard something
of that message speak to me as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
knew of you then only by report<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
now I see you with my own eyes,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Therefore,
I melt away [I yield]<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Repenting
in dust and ashes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Encountering
the living God of creation my problems can be seen in a new perspective, but they
also prompt me to do something – with my hands, to walk the talk with my feet –
and to care for the earth beneath, the heavens above, the beasts of the field, the
birds of the air and the fish of the sea.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>a Hy-Spirit Song</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Prayers of Concern</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>154 O Lord my God!</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b>Words of Blessing</b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-65247121885505530272018-01-28T20:44:00.003+00:002018-01-28T20:48:19.520+00:00Giving for Growth PrayerText for the week: <i>Do not be anxious about
anything, but in everything, by prayer and
petition, with thanksgiving present your
requests to God.</i> Philippians 4:6<br />
<br />
<i>Welcome to our services today and a special welcome to any
worshipping with us for the first time. One of the great things
about belonging to church is that everyone counts, everyone
matters! At the same time, that means everyone has a part to
play. If you haven’t already, do write your name and contact
details on our Giving for Growth … time and talents leaflet and
identify the things you feel you are able to contribute to the life
of the church: then place it on an offering plate. Use the Giving
for Growth … money leaflet to reflect on what you are able to
give in a planned way to help to ensure we have the funds to
further the vision we have to share in our community.
Underpinning all that we do is prayer. From the start prayer
has been at the heart of the life of the church. Whenever he
wrote to a church, as Karen Waldock pointed out in one of this
month’s Explore evenings, he always began with prayer. Put
those prayers together and you can see how he prayed for
unity, for wisdom, for strength, for encouragement, for love.
Above all, he longed in prayer for the churches he worked with
to bear fruit. So, let’s join together in prayer for our church and
its future … and use our up-dated Prayer Diary to focus our
prayers together. Be warned, however, “Prayer is always a
dangerous activity since it is a drawing near to the God who
will change us!”</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>If you would like to watch a recording of our service please email minister@highburychurch.co.uk</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Morning
Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Praise
with Hy-Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
this is prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
hadn’t got off to a good start. And since then everything had gone wrong. They
may have been twins but the family traditions of the time dictated that all the
family inheritance would pass to the first of the twins to be born.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They
were great brothers. They loved playing with each other. Their dad was always
full of fun, his name meant a bundle of laughs. Their mum kept them in order.
But she had her favourite one. And it wasn’t the eldest.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">By
the time they were young men, Esau loved to spend time out in the fields – he
had a rough beard and a swarthy complexion. Jacob loved to stay at home. His
skin was soft to the touch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Their
father was very sick. He had lost his sight. And was at the point of dying.
Tradition had it that he must give his blessing to the older of the twins and
so he would inherit his father’s wealth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
their mum didn’t think that was fair. And so she plotted with Jacob and got him
to cover his arms and his face with the animal skin. She brought him in and in
his dying breath Isaac bestowed his blessing on him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
can imagine what Esau felt when he came in from the fields and found he had
been cheated of his inheritance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
that day the brothers fell out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jacob
fled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
on his journeyings he came to a deserted place where he found a rock to lay his
head and go to sleep.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
And in his sleep he dreamed a dream. A ladder was going up into the presence of
God and angels were going up the ladder and coming down.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
woke and it was as if that was such a special place it had re-connected him
with God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
determined to mark the place with the rock he had laid his head on and a
standing stone – this was nothing less than the House of God – Bethel – and it
would be a place to remember that connection with God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
from that day, Jacob had the presence of God in his life and was a changed
person.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Time
passed and the estranged brothers were far away from each other … until one
day, Jacob out in the fields heard that Esau was approaching. He looked out and
Esau was coming with a band of men. Jacob feared the worst. But as Esau came
closer a wonderful thing happened – he rushed forward, flung his arms around
Jacob and embraced him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
was a wonderful moment of reconciliation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
special that in that place Jacob re-connected with God – and it was as if his
prayers transformed his life and he became conscious of the presence of God
with him once more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
important prayer is … and how important for us to share our prayer with God. In
reconnection with God transformation happens.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 11:9-13<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘So
I say to you, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ask,
and it will be given to you;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">search,
and you will find; <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">knock,
and the door will be opened for you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
everyone who asks receives, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
everyone who searches finds, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Is
there anyone among you who, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">if
your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Or
if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">how
much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">to
those who ask him!’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One
of the great things about belonging to church is that everyone counts, everyone
matters! At the same time, that means everyone has a part to play. If you
haven’t already, do write your name and contact details on our <i>Giving for Growth … time and talents</i>
leaflet and identify the things you feel you are able to contribute to the life
of the church: then place it on an offering plate. Use the <i>Giving for Growth … money</i> leaflet to reflect on what you are able
to give in a planned way to help to ensure we have the funds to further the
vision we have to share in our community. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Underpinning
all that we do is prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
rounding off our month to start this important year in the life of the church
we turn from launching Giving for Growth to a focus on prayer. There is much we
think of in prayer … but specifically we
want to focus on prayer for our church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
the start prayer has been at the heart of the life of the church. Whenever he
wrote to a church, as Karen Waldock pointed out in one of this month’s Explore
evenings, he always began with prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Karen
is going to share with us what she shared with that Explore Group.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Explore:
Praying for the church – Karen Waldock<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Recently
in the Explore evenings we have been looking at prayer and I took a session on
praying for the church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
is the powerhouse of the church, it underpins everything we do, it is how we
find the Mind of Christ which is what we try to do in the church meeting and it
is how we put Christ at the centre.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
problem is that some of may find it difficult to think of exactly what we need
to pray for when praying for the church<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Paul
wrote more than anyone else in the Bible about the church therefore it seems a
logical place to find some clues<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the beginning of almost all his letters to the churches he tells the churches
that he has been “remembering them in his prayers” constantly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> Whilst each of the churches had different
issues that Paul addresses in his letters, there are somethings that he
highlights that he is praying for and these are the ones that I have picked out
to give us some headings to help guide us in our prayers remembering that we
will have other issues unique to our church that we will need to pray for as
well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
the first heading is<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Unity<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1
Corinthians 1:10 “that all of you agree with one another so that there may be
no division among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ephesians
4:3 “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of
peace.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
want to point out that unity does not mean uniformity, we are all individuals
we don’t see everything the same way. But it’s not about what we want it’s
about what God wants and finding that together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Which
brings me on to the second heading<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wisdom <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ephesians
1:17 ”I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ , the glorious
Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know
him better.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Philippians
1:9-10 “And this is my prayer: that your love may abound more and more in
knowledge and depth of insight, so that you may be able to discern what is best
and may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ,”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Colossians
1:9 “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped
praying for you and asking God to fill you with the knowledge of his will
through all spiritual wisdom and understanding.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How
often do we for get to ask for wisdom and yet it was what Solomon in the Old
Testament asked for first, he asked not for wisdom for his own benefit but so
that he could rule the people better. So we ask not for wisdom to be right all
the time but to know what God wants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So
the next heading<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Strengthened and
encouraged<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ephesians
3:16 “I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power
through his Spirit through your inner being,”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ephesians
4:29 “ Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what
is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit
those who listen.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Colossians
1:11 “being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that
you may have great endurance and patience,”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
need strength to see things through, to keep going. Strength can come through
the Holy Spirit but also it needs to come from one another. We need to
appreciating each other, encouraging each other and working together.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
none of this will help if we forget the next bit<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> Established in love<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ephesians
3:17-18 “so that Christ may dwell in
your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in
love, may have power, together with all the saints, to grasp how wide and long
and high and deep is the love of Christ,”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Ephesians
4:2 “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in
love.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Love
underpins everything else, love for God but also love for each other. This
sounds easy but in reality is more difficult. To pray for something when a
decision did go our way or for someone when we have been unintentionally hurt,
that requires love. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
of this is for a reason, the great commission, the primary work of the church,
to bring glory to God and<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">To bear fruit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Colossians
1:10 “And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and
may please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the
knowledge of God,” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
is why we do what we do and remember that it’s not just about how many people
we have in a church service but a much wider way we bear fruit. Telling people
the good news of Jesus Christ, sharing his love, building disciples<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Highbury
“a place to Share Christian friendship, explore Christian faith and enter into
Christian mission with Christ at the centre and open to all”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Ephesians 1:15-22<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
your love towards all the saints, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">as
I remember you in my prayers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">may
give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">as
you come to know him, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">so
that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">you
may know what is the hope to which he has called you, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">what
are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
what is the immeasurable greatness of his power <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">for
us who believe, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">according
to the working of his great power. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God
put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">far
above all rule and authority and power and dominion, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
above every name that is named, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">not
only in this age but also in the age to come. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
he has put all things under his feet <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
has made him the head over all things for the church,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">716
Come and find the quiet centre<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1 Come
and find the quiet centre<br />
in the crowded life we lead,<br />
find the room for hope to
enter,<br />
find the frame where we are
freed:<br />
clear the chaos and the
clutter,<br />
clear our eyes, that we can
see<br />
all the things that really
matter,<br />
be at peace, and simply be.<br />
<br />
2 Silence is a friend who claims
us,<br />
cools the heat and slows the
pace,<br />
God it is who speaks and names
us,<br />
knows our being, touches base,<br />
making space within our
thinking,<br />
lifting shades to show the
sun,<br />
raising courage when we're
shrinking,<br />
finding scope for faith begun.<br />
<br />
3 In the Spirit let us travel,<br />
open to each other's pain,<br />
let our loves and fears unravel,<br />
celebrate the space we gain:<br />
there's a place for deepest
dreaming,<br />
there's a time for heart to
care,<br />
in the Spirit's lively
scheming<br />
there is always room to spare!<br />
<br />
Shirley Erena Murray (born 1931) from the author's collection <i>In Every
Corner Sing</i><br />
© 1992 Hope Publishing Company. All rights reserved.<br />
8 7 8 7 D Trochaic<br />
<br />
Used By Permission. CCL Licence No. 3540<br />
Copied from HymnQuest: Copyright Licence Users' Edition<br />
HymnQuest ID: 72435</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Praying
for the Church<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so we turn to praying for the church … <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Share
the Giving for Growth Prayer leaflet and introduce the various sections …<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.jesusfortoday.co.uk/highbury/Highbury%20GfG%20Prayer.pdf" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="332" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimeGoao4yhcUvx5a5VkeHdowPc0Q6PkvasvFQF0lFWiOgYZhFGTDZAczHONYSAAazxS5oEDlTA75g_sMdSy73Cqx3XklpDyvLDClFOHa-SrpTa3bkEZ1B5jLWwvq1oNoQWd800stahZRo/s320/GFG+Prayer+picture.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.jesusfortoday.co.uk/highbury/Highbury%20GfG%20Prayer.pdf" target="_blank">http://www.jesusfortoday.co.uk/highbury/Highbury GfG Prayer.pdf</a></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do
not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with
thanksgiving present your requests to God. Phil 4:6<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
is always a dangerous activity since it is a drawing near to the God who will
change us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Worship<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Family<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
Church<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Church
Groups<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Caring<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reaching
Out<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Wider Picture<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">619,620
Spirit of the living God<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">647
What a friend we have in Jesus<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-62923223753032576602018-01-21T17:35:00.002+00:002018-01-21T17:35:59.775+00:00Giving for Growth<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text
for the week: <i>we pray that you may be
filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and
understanding, so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to
him, as you bear fruit in every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of
God. May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious
power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while
joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the
inheritance of the saints in the light. Colossians 1:9-12<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
to our services today and a special welcome to any worshipping with us for the
first time. Our Highbury Church family is made up of everyone who belongs … and
everyone has a part to play, however small that part may seem to be. Today we
are launching <i>Giving for Growth. </i>Do
the quiz. Use the leaflets on Time and Talents and on Money and decide what you
can do and what you can give as together we seek the growth of our church to
the glory of God. <i>Today is a day</i>,
Robert Pestell suggested last week, <i>for
us to “dream dreams, be brave, think the impossible, love one another and love
God.”</i> He invited us to reflect on
three things: <i>“What is God calling me to
do in my life and in the life of this worshipping community here at Highbury?
What is God calling us to do, as the worshipping community here, to further the
Kingdom of God in his place? Are we ready and willing to take up the baton, the
challenge of sharing and passing on the Good News to others, with energy and
enthusiasm as confident Christians, knowing that if we are listening to God He
will speak to us and bless our efforts of obedience to His will?</i> And he
challenged us “<i>above all to be a
prayerful community, seeking day by day to grow closer to God both as
individuals and as the Christian family in this place.” <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>We live-streamed this morning's service for those who couldn't get to church. To follow the live stream and to access a recording of the service please email richard.cleaves@blueyonder.co.uk for details to the private links.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Welcome
and Call to Worship<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">510
Jesus calls us here to meet him [Blaenwern]<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Something
old … something new<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
Highbury Church family is made up of everyone who belongs … and everyone has a
part to play, however small that part may seem to be. Today we are launching <i>Giving for Growth. </i>We’re going to think
about our church and the part we can play in the life of the church. It’s timely
doing this in January. It’s going to be a year of change for all of us as
Felicity and I move on in retirement and the church begins the process of
seeking someone else to share in ministry and leadership of the church. So we
began the year by inviting people to
reaffirm the profession of faith they made on joining the church and the
promises they made too – if you haven’t already, you are invited if you are a
church member to sign the Church membership book as a statement of that renewed
commitment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
today … we move on to think about the church and the part we can play in the
life of the church. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Have
you had a go at doing the quiz Roger has prepared? It’s surprising how many
pastoral visits we do, how many young people Highbury has helped train for
ministry of various sorts, how many children come to Highbury each week, how
many outside groups use our premises, how many local organisations we support, how
much the weekly FoodBank contributions weigh, and how much we support through
the Congregational Federation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
the morning in the month when we celebrate Communion … and we thought we would
do communion differently today. That last supper Jesus shared with his
disciples was a Passover celebration – and so we today are going to make just a
few connections between what we do in Communion and Passover.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Passover
is a family celebration that involves the whole family – from the youngest to
the oldest around a table at home – we aren’t at home, but we are a church
family and so we are meeting round tables – and everyone counts – from the
youngest to the oldest. The Passover celebration is a fun occasion and before it begins there’s a lot
of cleaning that needs to be done – as the whole house is cleaned. And then as
the celebration begins there’s a bit of fun involving the children – so we’ll
get the children to do the last little bits of clearing – Bridgette was hard at
work getting the place clean as she always does on Friday, and Grace earlier in
the week too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Passover
marks the last night before the people of Israel fled from Pharaoh to safety –
they didn’t have time to make the bread … they were in such a hurry they left
the leaven out of the bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
That’s what makes the bread rise and be lovely as it usually is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
so at a Passover meal it’s a unleavened bread that is used. And there’s a game
of hide and seek – there’s a piece of ordinary bread I have hidden – and I’m
wanting the children to find it! Can you
have a look to see if you can find it?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It
would be brushed up on to a wooden spoon with a feather – and then disposed of
…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Maybe
shaping what we do involves as a church family realising there are some things
we cannot do – maybe it’s good to have a clear out of what we have been doing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then people make sure they’ve washed their hands.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
Jesus got his close friends together as it were his family – he noticed it was
really sticky and hot, a mucky day and there was one thing he determined to do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
washed his disciples’ feet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Kate
is going to read to us the account of what happened in John’s Gospel – listen
carefully to what happened.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading
John 13:1,2b-5,12-15,34-35<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Now
before the festival of the Passover, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
knew that his hour had come to depart from this world <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
go to the Father. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Having
loved his own who were in the world, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">he
loved them to the end. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
during supper Jesus, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">knowing
that the Father had given all things into his hands, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
that he had come from God and was going to God, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">got
up from the table, took off his outer robe, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
tied a towel around himself. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Then
he poured water into a basin <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
began to wash the disciples’ feet <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">After
he had washed their feet, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">had
put on his robe, and had returned to the table, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">he
said to them, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘Do
you know what I have done to you? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
call me Teacher and Lord—and you are right, for that is what I am. So if I,
your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">you
also ought to wash one another’s feet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
I have set you an example, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">that
you also should do as I have done to you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
give you a new commandment, that you love one another. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
as I have loved you, you also should love one another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">By
this everyone will know that you are my disciples, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">if
you have love for one another.’<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Jesus
sets us an example – that we should serve one another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
gives us a new command – that we love one another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
that’s our starting point as we launch Giving for Growth – we are called by
Jesus to serve one another, to have a servant heart, and to love one another.
That’s the way everyone will know we are his discples.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Hy-Spirit Song<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Activities
for all over 3<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Giving
for Growth Time and Talents<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Giving for Growth </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">invites us to
think about the life of our church, and then the time and talents we have that
we can share in the life of our church.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Have
a look at the first of our leaflets – it starts and all of is it underpinned by
prayer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Karen
explored at Explore on Tuesday how we can pray for our church family – she
pointed us to the prayers that Paul makes for the church. She is going to read
the opening of Paul’s letter to the church family at Colossae – it could be
written to our church family here at Highbur.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer:
Colossians 1:3-6,9-12<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
our prayers for you <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">for
we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
of the love that you have for all the saints, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">because
of the hope laid up for you in heaven. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
have heard of this hope before in the word of the truth, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
gospel that has come to you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just
as it is bearing fruit and growing in the whole world, so it has been bearing
fruit among yourselves from the day you heard it <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
truly comprehended the grace of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
this reason, since the day we heard it, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">we
have not ceased praying for you and asking <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">that
you may be filled with the knowledge of God’s will <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">in
all spiritual wisdom and understanding, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">so
that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">fully
pleasing to him, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">as
you bear fruit in every good work <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
as you grow in the knowledge of God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">May
you be made strong <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">with
all the strength that comes from his glorious power, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">while
joyfully giving thanks to the Father, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">who
has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Have
a look at the leaflet – all of us can
share in prayer – but it’s good to get together with others for prayer as well
– Judi, can you explain the prayer partners idea … the regular prayer meeting
on a Wednesday. Or sometime else?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Worship,
Care and Children<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Youth,
Discipleship, Mission<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Sharon
is needing to hand over the reins as worship ministry leader, but is going to
be helping as part of a team to sort out services – which will become important
as we lead – we already have plans to do some services in-house, ourselves –
the first Tuesday of the month, alongside the craft evening we are going to do
an evening preparing services.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
sorts of ideas – sometimes people will come and speak, but would like us to
lead – so have a think … what might you be able to contribute to our Sunday
services?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pastoral
Care – Lorraine,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Children-
Andrea – particular need to help with Messy Church – cooking, crafts,
celebration.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Young
People – helping out with Hy-Tec – as Adrian will be finishing at Easter – and
joining the team of leaders – Mary for comment<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Discipleship
– help lead or plan – Judi?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Mission
and Outrach – Jean<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Support
behind the scenes – making it happen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Helen
not able to continue as Church Secretary – going to re-shape it, appoing an
administrator - need someone to be over-all responsible, Church Secretary in a
different way. Other helps with Admin – and room bookings too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Pause
a moment – around the tables – have a think about filling in what you feel able
to do – on the leaflet or on another piece of paper. Make sure you add your
name.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I
will offer up my life (Hy-Spirit)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Giving
for Growth – Money<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All
our financial commitments we have to meet ourselves – we don’t have any
external source of funding. Roger’s work as Treasurer is backed up by our
Finance Group.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Ted, who has been Treasurer with Jenny, is going to read for us some
reflections paul made about giving.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
2 Corinthians 9:6-12<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
point is this: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
one who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
the one who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Each
of you must give as you have made up your mind, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">not
reluctantly or under compulsion, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">for
God loves a cheerful giver. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">so
that by always having enough of everything, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">you
may share abundantly in every good work. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As
it is written,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">‘He
scatters abroad, he gives to the poor;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> his righteousness endures for ever.’ <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He
who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">will
supply and multiply your seed for sowing <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
increase the harvest of your righteousness. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You
will be enriched in every way for your great generosity, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">which
will produce thanksgiving to God through us; for the rendering of this ministry
not only supplies the needs of the saints<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">but
also overflows with many thanksgivings to God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Roger
is going to explain our Giving for Growth – money leaflet. Something for you to
reflect on , think about … and Roger has forms to fill in for a standing order
or for gift aid too.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Make
sure you return the forms with you names on so that we can then build together
for the future.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">502
Take my life, Lord, let it be<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers
of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
we renewed our profession of faith and our promises to the life of the church
we sang a hymn – we are going to sing again … it captures something of our
vision for church here at Highbury.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">522
The church is …<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Communion<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Children
to join our tables.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
Passover there were bitter herbs on the table – a reminder that sometimes there
are difficult times to go through – and there’s no escaping those difficult
times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then green herbs – a reminder that God provides, and God cares for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
were four cups – and at different points people drank from each … and then a
fifth cup was left untouched – a reminder that Elijah would come at the last
days.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are a number of different accounts of what happened that last supper night –
most have one cup – was this the cup of Elijah – because the kingdom was
ushered in by Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
Luke records two cups – maybe one is for fellowship together that we are bound
to God <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
drink that cup of fellowship together – on each table is one of our leadership
team – a Deacon or a Ministry Leader.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I’m
going to ask them to pour out the fruit of the vine into a glass for each of
us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then let’s drink a cup that binds us in fellowship with each other – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
share the cup of fellowship</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then unleavened bread. Three pieces – one for the Priests, one for the Levites,
one for the ordinary people. It’s telling Jesus had just one piece – we are all
in this together – as one people, the body of Christ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
be really quiet as I invite that person to take the bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
listen … in a moment as we break the bread – break the bread and share it
around – you can hear the snap as the bread is broken – a reminder that Jesus’
body was broken for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">THe
Passover would have had a shank of lamb to eat – roasted – but we don’t have
that because Jesus is the lamb of God
who has taken away the sins of the world<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
eat of the bread.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
share the bread<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
then another cup – this cup is the cup of new beginnings, that new partnership
we have with each other and with God, that new covenant, sealed by the blood of
Jesus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let’s
take this second cup and as we share together sense the presence of the love of
God in jesus Christ, renewing that partnship we have with each other and we
have with God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We
share the cup of new beginnings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Communion
Collection – a plate on each table – to bring to the front – as a sign of our
commitment to the wider world as well – this month it is for the Cheltenham
branch of Samaritans.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Communion<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
the last supper was over at the very last they sang a hymn and went out into
the future that lay ahead of them – the death, the resurrection of Jesus, the
outpouring of the Spirit and that great new life as the body of Christ on
earth.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
Passover they would have sung one of the great Alleluia Psalms – 116-118.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn
46 is Psalm 117 – as paraphrased by Isaac Watts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">146
– Psalm 117<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From
all that dwells below the skies<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let
the creator’s praise arise:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Alleluia!
Alleluia!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-37084504317775694022018-01-07T17:36:00.003+00:002018-01-07T17:36:40.064+00:00Belonging and Believing - a New Commitment for a New Year<i>Text for this week: Make my joy complete: be of
the same mind, having the same love, being in
full accord and of one mind. Philippians 2:2</i><br />
<br />
A Happy New Year!<br />
<br />
Welcome to the first
services of the New Year and a special
welcome to any who are worshipping with us for the first time.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://youtu.be/NYiCALsccVU" target="_blank">You can see a recording of this service by following this link. </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://youtu.be/NYiCALsccVU" target="_blank">The service begins at 7 minutes 45 seconds.</a></div>
<br />
The Highbury Church family is made up of everyone who
belongs … and everyone has a part to play, however small that
part may seem to be.<br />
<br />
Today we are inviting all who belong to
the church family to make a fresh commitment to the life of the
church.<br />
<br />
All are welcome at our church ... and we hope all feel that they belong. We belong not because anyone at church has invited us, important though such an invitation can be! We belong because Jesus in his love for us invites us to belong and be part of his church family.<br />
<br />
And so our service began as we all of us stood in a circle around the church, linked hands and shared our prayer concerns.<br />
<br />
But Jesus asks us not just to belong to his family but to follow His Way just as he called the fishermen, James and John, Simon and Andrew, the tax collector, Levi, the Woman at the Well, Martha and Mary. And he invited people to believe.<br />
<br />
There is the confident faith of a distraught Martha when her brother Lazarus had died.<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, some two miles away, and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them about their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary stayed at home. Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’ Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. <b>Do you believe this?’ She said to him, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.’</b></i><br />
<br />
There is the hesitant faith of the father who so wanted healing for his son.<br />
<br />
<b><i>the father of the child cried out, ‘I believe; help my unbelief!’ </i></b><br />
<br />
We invite all who feel at home with us in the church
family to become church members by making a simple
profession of faith in God and in Jesus Christ as Lord and
Saviour. We welcomed a number of people who have
joined us in recent years into church membership today. We asked those who have been church members over the
years to renew their profession of faith.We invited those any who feel moved to make that profession of faith to have a word with one of our leadership team<br />
<br />
At the heart of our Church family is the most basic of all statements of faith - that Jesus is our Lord and our Saviour.<br />
<br />
We heard Paul's challenge in Philippians 2 and then read together his account of Jesus and his vision that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.<br />
<br />
If then there is any encouragement in Christ, any consolation from love, any sharing in the Spirit, any compassion and sympathy, make my joy complete: be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility regard others as better than yourselves. Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others. Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus,<br />
<br />
Jesus Christ, though he was in the form of God,<br />
did not regard equality with God<br />
as something to be exploited,<br />
but emptied himself,<br />
taking the form of a slave,<br />
being born in human likeness.<br />
And being found in human form,<br />
he humbled himself<br />
and became obedient to the point of death—<br />
even death on a cross.<br />
<br />
Therefore God also highly exalted him<br />
and gave him the name<br />
that is above every name,<br />
so that at the name of Jesus<br />
every knee should bend,<br />
in heaven and on earth and under the earth,<br />
and every tongue should confess<br />
that Jesus Christ is Lord,<br />
to the glory of God the Father.<br />
<br />
We invited those who joined today to sign our Church Membership book and those who were already members to sign a reaffirmation of their profession of faith. In our card marking church membership is a challenge to us all.<br />
<br />
Jesus said ...<br />
“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. Love your neighbour as yourself.” <span style="white-space: pre;"> </span> Mark 12:30-31<br />
<br />
Therefore Church Members are called to ...<br />
<br />
o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>worship God regularly with the whole Church family<br />
o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>remember the covenant with God in the Lord’s Supper<br />
o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>read the Bible and pray regularly<br />
o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>share in the life and work of the Church Meeting gathered together in Christ’s name<br />
o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>witness by the power of the Holy Spirit to the truth of the Gospel through what they are, what t they do, and what they say.<br />
o<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>give their gifts of time, service and money to the work of the Kingdom as they are able<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
All the church family have been invited to join in reading the Bible together with the help of Fresh from the Word, the International Bible Reading Association's Bible reading notes. Nathan Eddy in his introduction to this year's notes explains the theme for the year. It has a particular appropriateness for us at Highbury as Felicity and I will be moving on this year and the church will soon be starting the process of seeking a new Minister.<br />
<br />
It's the third year we have as a church family shared in a Bible reading programme through the year. As I began the notes this week for this year I found it very moving to see that this was the theme for the year - how important as the church seeks new leadership that that reflect not just what people want but much more what God wants for us. And where better to discern that than in seeking God's Word for our church in the words of the Bible?<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>This year we turn to the theme of leadership in our Bible reading.</i><br />
<i>What does the Bible imagine good leadership to be?</i><br />
<i>What are the qualities of a good leader?</i><br />
<i>These are very timely questions we put to scripture, to God, and to you, this year.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>As people of faith we belive we can be part of the flourishing of our communities. We believe this can happen through reading and pondering the Bible; that God in the Spirit will work through our reading practice to help us be the leaders the world needs.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<a href="http://www.ibraglobal.org/" target="_blank">You can follow those Bible reading notes online by following this link.</a><br />
<br />
n 21st January we are
launching Giving for Growth as we invite all who belong at
Highbury to reflect on the part we can play in the life of the
Church. And at Explore on Tuesday evenings we will be
focusing on the prayer that supports all we do individually, as a
church family and in our mission and outreach.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8940285234080733028.post-6241101303881586632017-12-25T23:15:00.000+00:002017-12-25T23:15:17.789+00:00Forgiven we are to Forgive - Christmas Day<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Text
for Christmas Day<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk501184142">: </a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_Hlk501182494">In Christ God was reconciling the world to
himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message
of reconciliation to us. </a>2 Corinthians 5:19<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i>Happy
Christmas!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Welcome
to our Christmas Day celebration and a special welcome to any </span>worshipping<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> with
us for the first time. On Christmas Day we’ve only had one before. But today we
have all five! Each Sunday through Advent we have been lighting a candle. </span></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">On
the first Sunday we celebrated the hope that comes into a world that all too
often seem hope-less. On the second Sunday we celebrated the peace that Christ
promises deep in our hearts and the peace he challenged us to share with
others. On the third Sunday we celebrated the love of God that nothing in the
whole of creation can ever separate us from. And on the fourth Sunday in Advent
we celebrated the joy that comes at Christmas in the presence of Christ with
us. </span></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">And today there’s something new in the air. Something that’s special for
this moment, for this day. New hope, new peace, new love, new joy promised by
Christ, present in Christ prompting us to work with Christ in bringing that
something new into the world. In him we see the truth of the God of love,
through him we can have life in all its fullness and with him we have a way of
life to follow that makes all the difference.</span></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">It’s as if, in Paul’s words, God
was in Christ reconciling the world to himself and entrusting the message of
reconciliation to us.</span></span></i><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
Happy Christmas!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">306
O come all ye faithful<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayer
and the Lord’s Prayer<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></b><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lighting
the Christmas Candles</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">HOPE - Rejoice in
hope, be patient when things go badly, persevere in prayer</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">.
Romans 12:12<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">PEACE - Blessed
are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God.</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> Matt
5:9.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">LOVE - This is
what love is: it is not that we have loved God, but that he loved us and sent
his Son to be the means by which our sins are forgiven. Dear friends, if this is how God loved us,
then we should love one another. God is love.</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 1 John 4:7,8,16.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">JOY - Do not be
afraid; for see—I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to
you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, who is the Messiah, the
Lord.</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
Luke 2:10-11<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
with our Christmas candle a Christmas text:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In Christ God was
reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them,
and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.</span></i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> 2 Corinthians
5:19<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hymn:
Your promises are coming true<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Your
promises are coming true –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">our
waiting hopes fulfilled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Your
light has burst upon our world –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">the
new dawn that you willed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Your
coming gives us hope to live,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
strength, with you, to build.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Come, Jesus, and
be with us now,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">be with us now,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Come, Jesus, and
be with us now!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our
lives are troubled while we wait –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">our
failure leads to fear.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Great
God, we need your healing peace,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">both
now and ev’ry year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Come,
live and die, that we may live<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">because
you’re always near.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Failed
people living far apart<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">with
selfishness undone,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">oh,
heal us with your love, we pray,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">with
loving make us one:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">your
coming and your sacrifice –<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">in
us new life begun.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Yet
some still carry sadnesses<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">and
pains left by their past.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Surprise
us all with heav’nly joy,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">come
down to earth at last.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">With
happiness bought by your tears,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">embrace
us, hold us fast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">New hope, new peace,
new love are ours –<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">new joy on
Christmas Day!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We celebrate your
Christmas gift –<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">yourself: Truth,
Life and Way.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reshape us as we
worship you,<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christ-child upon
the hay.<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="right" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: right;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">John Campbell<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Reading:
Luke 2:1-7<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
those days a decree went out from Emperor Augustus that all the world should be
registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was
governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also
went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called
Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David. He went
to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a
child. While they were there, the time came for her to deliver her child. And
she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in bands of cloth, and laid
him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">312
Away in a manger<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Christmas
Greetings<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span></b>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hope,
Peace, Love and Joy<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On
Christmas Day we’ve only had one before. But today we have lit all five! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lighting
that first candle we celebrate the HOPE that comes into a world that all too
often seem hope-less. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lighting
that second candle we celebrate the PEACE that Christ promises deep in our
hearts and the peace he challenges us to share with others. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lighting
the third candle we celebrate the LOVE of God that nothing in the whole of
creation can ever separate us from. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Lighting
the fifth candle we celebrate the JOY that comes at Christmas in the presence
of Christ with us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
today there’s something new in the air. Something that’s special for this
moment, for this day. New HOPE, new PEACE, new LOVE, new JOY promised by
Christ, present in Christ prompting us to work with Christ in bringing that
something new into the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In
him we see the TRUTH of the God of love, through him we can have LIFE in all
its fullness and with him we have a WAY of life to follow that makes all the
difference. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
as if, in Paul’s words, God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself and
entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
yet, … can it really be so?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This
year has been a troubling year in so many ways. London Bridge, the Manchester Arena,
a Baptist Church in Texas, a Methodist Church in Pakistan, a Mosque in Egypt … and
Grenfall.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Remembrance
Sunday marked the thirtieth anniversary of the Enniskillen bombing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When
David Waters joined us to celebrate the 40<sup>th</sup> Anniversary of my
ordination he spoke movingly of having just finished the edition of Songs of
Praise that was going to go out on Remembrance Sunday. It had been filmed in
Enniskillen and marked the 30<sup>th</sup> anniversary of a bombing atrocity in
Enniskillen. A young nurse, Marie Wilson, had been killed. 24 hours later her
father, Gordon Wilson, stated his determination not to bear a grudge against
the perpetrators and his prayer that he would receive the grace to continue to
do so. 30 years on David spoke of the way even the cameramen had been moved to
tears as they interviewed Gordon Wilson’s widow, Joan, and she spoke of the
power of that determination to forgive. A long-time friend, Fr Brian D’Arcy
went on to make the observation, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Forgiveness
isn’t a flippant word; forgiveness isn’t an instant; forgiveness is a
lifetime’s process”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
he went on to suggest that “in time the influence of Enniskillen and the
influence of Gordon Wilson changed the whole picture in Northern Ireland – he
showed how it could be done.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
Christmas message has its power because it speaks into a troubled world. God
was in Christ reconciling the world to himself and entrusting the message of
reconciliation to us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">But
the cynic in me says, that was then. What about now? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
year ago upwards of 25 people were killed in a church in Egypt at Christmas. A
month ago many more were killed in an attack on a mosque in Egypt. We face
something even worse now. Can such a respond hold now?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
week after the broadcast of that Songs of Praise programme Frank Gardner, the
BBC’s security correspondent, himself a victim of a bombing outrage, was on the
radio interviewing first Bishop Angelos of the ancient Egyptian Coptic Church
about their experience of persecution. What was remarkable was the way Bishop
Angelos responded. It was exactly in the same spirit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“The
Copts are a resilient people who have faced persecution for 2000 years and the
wonderful thing for me, the very inspiring thing for me is that I always fall
back on the example of people here who face this with such forgiveness and such
strength and such grace.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“What
would you say then, to the extremists of ISIS and others who say Christians
have no place in the Middle East?” asked Frank Gardner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“My
message to those who choose to persecute us,” replied Bishop Angelos, “is that
you are loved, we forgive you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Frank
Gardner then went on to interview Samir, whose granddaughter had ben killed in
that bombing attack at Christmas last year.
He asked the same question about forgiveness:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Could
you ever forgive the terrorists who did this?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Samir
then spoke so powerfully of his Christian faith.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">“Our
religion teaches us to forgive. It teaches us to love our enemies, to bless
those who curse us. And to pray for those who hurt us. Yes we will forgive them
despite all the blood that was spilled. Our faith tells us to forgive.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
that very spirit, commented Frank Gardner that makes the Coptic Peoples of
Egypt and the Christians facing persecution around the Middle East so
resilient.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">At
the heart of our Christian faith is a forgiveness that reaches out to us all
from God and a forgiveness we are invited to extend to all for “In Christ God
was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against
them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
there in the Lord’s prayer: forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who
trespass against us. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There
is a <b>TRUTH</b> in this love of God that is
transformational for each of us: we are forgiven: we may begin again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">That
grace of God gives us a new hold on <b>LIFE</b>
that makes life in all its fullness worth living.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">And
it opens up for us a <b>WAY</b> to follow –
for we have been given a ministry of reconciliation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">So,
facing whatever 2018 will bring us – and it’s going to be a year of change for
all of us in one way or another – this is the message that makes a world of
difference, this is the message that has the power to transform that troubled
world and make all the difference in the living of our lives in that troubled
world..<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">God
was in Christ reconciling the world to himself … and entrusting the message of
reconciliation to us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 6.0pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A Christmas Song with Hy-Spirit<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Prayers of Concern<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">322 Good Christians all rejoice<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Words
of Blessing</span></b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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