Thought for the month

Thought for November

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For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; 15 and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. (2 Corinthians 5:14-15 ESV)

As the clocks change and the nights begin to draw in we get to that time of the year when we remember those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to Queen and Country. We remember those that have lost their lives in two world wars and numerous other conflicts since. It is a time to remember the cost that our freedom has been, and continues to be, bought at. We also remember those touched by the effects of war such as the families of the fallen, veterans and those still serving. It is good to be reminded of these things, to have time to reflect, to pray and to give thanks for those that have been willing to risk so much. It is also a reminder to believers of the one who paid the greatest sacrifice at Calvary’s cross. We have been blessed to just have had our communion weekend where we remembered the greatest ever sacrifice given for our freedom, Christ willingly and in perfect obedience to the Father suffering and dying on a cross to secure freedom from the power of death and sin for all those that believe in their heart and declare with their mouths that Jesus is Lord. The poppy has become the symbol of remembrance for the fallen and at the Lords table simple elements speak of all that Christ has done in the shedding of his blood and the giving of his body and yet we did not come to the table mourning but in thankful celebration that we serve a risen Saviour, death is not the end and all those that trust in the Lord can have new life as they share in his resurrection. This life is one that knows the joy of serving the risen saviour and one day being with him in his glorious presence for eternity. As the dark nights close in we remember that even with all the spiritual darkness in the world the light of the good news of the gospel has broken in and that it is spreading and Christ’s kingdom is growing. So as we approach Remembrance Sunday this month we come with hearts that are heavy from the loss that conflict brings but we also remember that there is one conflict that has been won, through the sacrifice of one, Christ has conquered sin and death and there is hope, life and joy for the believer in the Masters service.

Every blessing

Gordon

Thought for June

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Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. (Hebrews 13:2 ESV)

As we read this verse we get a sense of the importance of hospitality and indeed the blessings that can flow from it. Over the years we have become known as a fellowship for our warm welcomes and our hospitality. Indeed much of church life centres around a cup of tea and fellowship together or even congregational meals and other events that all involve food. Even at funerals, where we are able to provide a good spread for the family in their time of grief. None of these things are possible without the hard work of those that tirelessly make preparations for such events. Over the years our current kitchen has served us well but due to the passage of time and current legislation it is now becoming unsuitable for all that we ask and require of it. Recent discussion at the last Committee of Management addressed the issue and it was felt that now would be a good time to look at journeying towards the installation of a new kitchen. This will allow those that work for Gods glory, in this area, to have up to date and suitable facilities that meet current legislation and which can serve us well into the future. This is an exciting venture that will allow us to carry on in the ministry of hospitality and fellowship and which will allow us to explore new ideas to connect with those yet to hear the Good News of the gospel. However this is not something that will happen overnight and there is much work to be done but it is something that as an entire church we can get behind and make possible. The plan in the coming months is to begin looking at ways to raise the funds required for such a project and again I’m sure a few of these will involve food. The hope is that these will also be more than mere fundraising events but opportunities for fellowship and outreach. However before we begin any of these things please make this a matter for prayer. We seek God’s guidance in all things even something such as this because we seek to bring glory to His mighty name. We seek His will and His ways and we humbly ask that He would bless our endeavours in His service.

Every Blessing

Gordon