Reflections - Archive - 2011

These reflections are published most Sundays on the front page of our parish newsletter.

Current reflections may be found here.

18 December 2011

“However you dress it up – Christmas starts with Christ” is a slogan that hopefully you may see in bus shelters or on bill-boards over the next couple of weeks. It’s a poster with a modern depiction of the stable scene, seeking to remind us that Christmas really is all about the birth of Christ – Emmanuel – God with us.

In the hustle & bustle of food, present buying & other preparations, it can be easy to forget the real “reason for the season”.

God sent Jesus – yes, as a baby, but that baby was to grow up to be a man, who would die on the cross for each one of us because God loves us so much.

We have been reminded recently that God doesn’t love us because we are good. He loves us because he is good, and because he loves us, he wants us to be good and love him.

As we celebrate Christmas and prepare for 2012, may we all know God is with us in a special way. May we make room for him in our lives, and as we reflect on how much God loves us and has given for us, may we seek to love him and others more.

Jan Matthews

11 December 2011

Last week our cell group were in the presence of God. Graham had invited Sister Brigid, a catholic nun, to speak to us about her service to the people of Rwanda. She had spent 40 years as a nursing sister in the same village and experienced with her adopted people epidemics of measles and other preventable diseases, slowly helping many of them to accept medicines that would alleviate and prevent further outbreaks. She was there during the ‘AIDS’ epidemic. Neither she nor her nursing sisters had any idea what was happening. They treated the symptoms and cared for the many who died. She was there after the horrific events of the genocide that resulted in one million deaths in one hundred days. A remarkable life!

As Brigid reflected on how such a peaceable people could inflict such horrors on their fellows she decided, instead, to try and understand how survivors could resolve to forgive those who had committed such atrocities. She told us that these people kept their feelings to themselves and acted out their compassion by ministering to all the needs of their fellow villagers. Looking back at her life she realised that she had had to rely on her faith in a loving and faithful God. She learned much from them. We were humbled as we listened to her.

Brigid did not try to change anyone. She told us that in life we can only change one person and that is ourselves. She shared their lives, befriended them and was always available, at whatever time of day or night. Her reliance on God was absolute. It was only her prayers and faith that was able to bring healing and peace in various situations. Miracles did occur. She told us of them. On many other occasions she held a mother or child as she slipped out of this life.

In the presence of God we were humbled and we are still humbled.

Richie Brown

4 December 2011

As we light the second candle of the Advent wreath today, we remember the prophets of Old Testament times, and what a real mixture of characters they were. Samuel, whose whole life was dedicated to God’s service and who audibly heard the voice of God as a young boy. Jonah who tried running away from God rather than take a scary message to the people of Nineveh. Isaiah, the member of the royal household who wrote such poetic and powerful prophecy that looked forward to Jesus as the suffering servant among many other things. Micah, the country man who spoke out against the greed, riches and corruption of Jerusalem and whose call to ‘do justice, love, mercy and walk humbly with our God’ has been our verse for 2011. Hosea, whose continued love and forgiveness of his unfaithful wife painted a vivid picture of God’s relationship with his unfaithful people. Amos, the shepherd who spoke out powerfully against exploitation of the poor, corruption in public life and religious observance based on ritual rather than real lived out holiness, and cried out for ‘justice to flow like rivers and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream’. Just a few examples.

As I remember the prophets, I find myself thinking about what God would give them to say to our society today; and actually, is he giving his church, his people, you and me, a message that we need to be proclaiming loud and clear today? What is our response as we look at our news screens – the strike action this week, the protest outside St Paul’s and so on. We may well have a variety of opinions as to the rights and wrongs of these particular courses of action, not a debate for this reflection now! But I firmly believe God would care about issues around injustice, greed, poverty and so on in his world today. The messages of the prophets were brave and clear (even after they’d tried to run away and avoid giving them!), they spoke out in no uncertain terms against injustice and wrongdoing, yet they also spoke out clear messages of hope – messages of love, forgiveness and faithfulness. Messages that pointed to the coming Messiah and the hope and light that he would bring. I believe God is calling us, his church, to be prophetic today – to speak out against injustice, corruption, greed, but also to speak out the messages of hope, love and forgiveness as we are challenged in this Advent season to point to our Messiah, Jesus Christ. Challenged to prepare to celebrate his first coming and the hope and light that brought into the world, and challenged to look forward to his coming again in glory.

Simon Elliott

27 November 2011
Advent Sunday

Today is Advent Sunday when we start to prepare for the coming of Christmas. I don’t mean writing cards, shopping and cooking; I mean that this season of Advent gives us an opportunity to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Christ Child and looking forward to his return.

I told a story recently about a minister who challenged his Sunday School class of youngsters when he said “If all the good people in the world were red and all the bad people were green what colour would you be?”. They thought about this for a minute and one youngster said, “I think I would be streaky.”

There are certain times in our lives when we are all streaky Christians. We try hard to keep God’s commandments and when it comes to the big commandments ‘do not commit murder or adultery’ etc we manage. But Jesus also tells us that if we think it in our hearts or minds then that is as bad as committing the act. Gossiping or telling lies about our brothers or sisters, bearing grudges, being cruel or mean spirited, disliking people because they don’t think the same as we do, all of these are barriers to God’s love flourishing in our lives.

Jesus told us that he would come again and at a time we would least expect him. We need to keep alert and be ready. How do we do that? By “seeking God’s kingdom” and spending time with him. Our Bible verse this year has been from Micah 6.8 “… what does the Lord require of you? Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God.” By doing the things that Jesus would want us to be doing — loving and caring for one another, looking after the sick, feeding the hungry, and helping the poor, we will be ready when he comes.

And these are probably also the very same things that we should be doing to get ready for the celebration of Christmas!

Barbara Chambers

20 November 2011
Christ the King

Today is the Sunday before Advent, the very last week of the Church’s year before we begin again with Advent Sunday. It is a day when we celebrate the ultimate authority of Christ over his kingdom – on earth and in heaven.

We know from throughout history of the various monarchs of the world that leave a bad taste in our mouths. Through recent events, we are very much aware of rulers like Saddam Hussein and Colonel Gadaffi. While some claim to be presidents they act like kings. From the dawn of civilization, kings have arisen who have dreamed of possessing a world-wide dominion, a universal kingdom that would last forever. It is difficult to follow a king who is cruel and only out for themselves. But what is truly amazing is that we know how to respond to this kind of king, the kings of the world, the ones who hurt and take from their own people - we overthrow them or kill them or put them away forever. We know how to treat despots or dictators.

But do we know how to respond to the one king who offers us compassion, care, love and hope, how to respond to the one who gives us life. We know how to treat despots but it appears sometimes it is more difficult to follow a king who is a servant.

In Jesus we have a king who is remarkably different to the kings of the earth. He came to serve all, even his enemies. He died on the cross with the title that he is the King of the Jews. To all intents and purposes, Christ, on the cross, was the perfect picture of defeat. He was left alone to be mocked, insulted, beaten, humiliated and finally to die a criminal’s death. His own disciples left him and ran away when he needed them the most. It was left to one of the thieves crucified with him to recognize him as a King and he asks for a place in his kingdom and is promised that place. He certainly knew the oppressive nature of secular kings and in contrast to them he connected his role as king to humble service, and commanded his followers to be servants as well. When we celebrate Christ as King, we are not celebrating an oppressive ruler, but one willing to die for humanity and whose loving-kindness endures forever.

The description in Revelation - King of kings and Lord of lords is a victorious title. It signifies sovereignty over all kings and all lords. Everyone will be in submission to him, King Jesus! No matter what person in history is the most victorious king or ruler on the earth, Jesus Christ is the King of kings!

Shirley Wallin

13 November 2011

On this Remembrance Sunday we once again have an opportunity to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our country. To me it is more than just remembrance but also a reminder of how important it is to honour those who have given their lives.

In Isaiah 29.13 we read of a people who honour God with their lips, but their hearts are far from him. To honour somebody is to respect and appreciate them and we need to understand that some people are worthy of special honour. In the Bible we are told to, “Honour your father and mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord has given you.” I’m not exactly sure what that promise means but it seems clear to me that a nation will be blessed by God when it honours him, and its people respect those who have done so much for them.

How can we honour those who have died. First of all we must strive to be honourable ourselves. Sometimes standing up for the truth can be risky, standing against tyranny of any sort can mean suffering, and caring for others can mean personal sacrifice and struggle. Those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom will be honoured by us not just by our words but by our integrity and the respect we show for one another.

Alan Lewney

6 November 2011

I cannot remember when the Church has featured so much on national news. Virtually every time we have switched on the TV there has been coverage from the Occupation in front of St Paul’s and also the prominent sign – ‘what would Jesus do?’ There have been those who have criticised the church for threatening to remove the occupiers, and those who have criticised it for accommodating them.

It is not my job here to get involved in the political discussion, although I entirely support the view that our financial institutions are desperately in need of an ethical clean up and Archbishop Rowan Williams’ call for a tax on the profits of major corporations. But I think this is an opportunity to remind ourselves of Jesus’ heart for the poor.

In his first public address recorded in Luke’s gospel he says - “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free.”

In Matthew 25 he says to those who feed the hungry, welcome strangers, comfort the sick and visit those in prison - “Come, you who are blessed by my Father.” Time and time again in the bible we are encouraged to care for the poor and oppressed. I once heard the American author and activist Jim Wallis who said that he once removed all pages in his bible that mentioned the poor and there was virtually nothing left!

So whatever we think of the occupation, the answer to the poster that we see is this – Jesus would do whatever is needed to show God’s heart for the poor. The news coverage of the last week has been a real opportunity to remind the world that this issue is far more important to Jesus than a beautiful building.

Steve Cornforth

30 October 2011

Ten years ago two babies were born and mistakenly given to the wrong parents. The mistake was discovered and recently the children were returned to their real parents. One of the families is a devout Muslim family. It isn’t said but I’m assuming the other family is nominally Christian. What will happen to the children now? No doubt support will be offered to help the children and their families to assimilate the changes to their lives. But how important will be their religious training? There are many people about with definite views about which aspects of Christian and Islamic doctrines are important. I have a real concern that these children and their parents will be subjected to subtle and not so subtle persuasion to make a split with the other religion. Thirty years ago I would likely have agreed but what would Jesus say to the parents if he were around today?

In reflecting on this dilemma a thought surfaced. Jesus said. ‘Let the little children come to me for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.’ In the newsreel that highlighted the story the children are seen together talking and laughing. They have become friends as have their parents. Seeing this I prayed that the children remain fixed friends and that whatever differences that might emerge over the years it will be the strength of their friendship that will enable them to discuss any emerging differences they might have without it affecting their relationship.

God wants a growing relationship with us. At least one aspect of it we can learn from children. They are far more likely to accept differences. If you and I have problems with differences, we should recall the many occasions Jesus found himself with individuals who you and I would not wish to associate with, and reflect on why that might be.

Richie Brown

23 October 2011

Today is the annual Bible Sunday, and that is given even more poignancy than usual this year with all that is going on to celebrate 400 years since the publication of the famous King James, or ‘Authorised’, version of the Bible. The KJV has been described as “the most influential version of the most influential book in the world, in what is now its most influential language”, “the most important book in English religion and culture”, and “the most celebrated book in the English speaking world.” It has contributed 257 idioms to English, more than any other single source, including Shakespeare. Though we at St Luke’s as with many churches no longer use this version, preferring to use versions that are written in more modern English, there is no doubting the influence of the KJV over the years in terms of the massive impact it has had in helping the Bible to be such a key part of culture and in helping millions of people to read and get to know the scriptures.

As we mark Bible Sunday today, it’s my hope and prayer that we would seek to continue that legacy. The Bible is so central to the Christian faith, it’s the main way in which our God reveals himself to us – his love for us, his will, his ways, his guidance to us for us to live life in all its fullness. I pray that we together will continue to seek to go further and deeper in our reading and studying the Bible. I pray that the words on the page would really come to life for us – that we would see God’s meaning in it all and realise its relevance to us today. (The ‘Greatest Story Ever Told’ event at the Cathedral this week was great for that – seeing the story of the Bible brought to life in such a clear and dramatic way in that amazing setting was fantastic!) And as this amazing book becomes more and more alive for us, I pray that it would do for others through us.

If you’d like more help with reading the Bible and coming to see its relevance for our lives today, a few suggestions: please do come and check out our Bible Sunday bookstall available after each service today with various things that might help you, please speak to any of the leaders and others here at St Luke’s about what they find helpful, and please ask me about joining one of our groups that meet to read and study the Bible together.

Simon Elliott

16 October 2011

We read in 1 Thessalonians 1.6 that in spite of persecutions, they received the word with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit.

I have been increasingly impressed lately by the faithful witness of persecuted Christians throughout the World. Most of the persecution is based on false allegations and lies and is extremely unjust. At some stage in life we all have to suffer from things that are unfair and unjust. There can be nothing more unfair than a debilitating illness or a relationship breakdown that is no fault of our own. How can we continue to praise God in these difficult circumstances?

Paul said that he constantly remembered the Thessalonians before God. He then reaffirmed his faith in them. When others around us are suffering we need, like him, to pray for them and reaffirm our deep respect for the way they have remained faithful. When we ourselves are suffering we can easily become bitter and frustrated and sometimes the only thing we feel able to do, is to seek the help of the Holy Spirit. He is ‘The Comforter’ who has promised to be with us.

It could be that God is wanting to use you to bring comfort and support to somebody today. It could be that you are tempted to give up because you feel so alone. In Jesus there is always hope because he not only listens to us but completely understands. We may not all be highly regarded in society but we can all be used by God to bring comfort, healing and ultimately joy to those around us. What could be more important than this.

Alan Lewney

9 October 2011

Harvest is a time for celebration; what was sown in hope, tended in faith, is reaped in joy; this has been true throughout the centuries. Like other farmers the people of ancient Israel celebrated an annual gathering of the harvest in a religious ceremony; they presented a part of the harvest to God, affirming the words of Deuteronomy 26.10: “So now I bring to the Lord the first part of the harvest that he has given me.” This reminded the people that it was God who gave them the land to tend and care for.

In the New Testament Jesus taught his followers using parables and using illustrations of ploughing, harvesting, times of sowing, wheat and tares; down to earth and practical but with a message reminding people about God.

So what makes a fruitful harvest? To have a successful harvest there needs to be seeds, a sower and soil. The parable of the sower can be found in the gospels (Matthew chapter 13, Mark chapter 4 and Luke chapter 8). In this parable Jesus is the sower; he talks of the seed being ‘the word of God’ the word of the kingdom, good news, the gospel. Through his preaching and teaching he is sowing his words in hope and with great grace.

Seeds, just like the word of God are remarkable; whilst they may be small and easily overlooked they have enormous potential disproportionate to their size and all that is necessary for the seed to reach its potential is contained within it. Nevertheless, seeds do require appropriate conditions if this potential is to be realised; yet sometimes the time between planting and its subsequent growth may be a long time; however the process of growth and the development are a wonderful mystery: a process of transformation.

Seeds need soil in which to grow, so what of the soil? The soil is the heart or the soul of the hearer. God knows our hearts; with amazing grace he continues to sow his word in the hope of our responding. He knows that the seed of the gospel holds tremendous promise for us all. So as we ask ourselves “what sort of soil are we?” let us pray that we would be good soil, and be receptive to Jesus’ message, hearing his word, understanding it and bearing fruit.

Gillian Beardwood

2 October 2011

I don’t often watch programmes like the X Factor or Britain’s got Talent on the television because it makes me squirm in my seat when I watch people come on the stage who obviously don’t have a talent for singing, dancing, juggling or whatever else. But they are so desperate to be famous and see it as a way to earn lots of money. The times you hear people say “this is my only chance I’ve got to take it”. Yet nobody along the way has told them that they sing off key, or have no rhythm and might be ridiculed and laughed at.

Our Gospel reading today (Matthew 21.33-end) is a parable of how the chief priests and Pharisees persecuted and killed the prophets that God had sent and finally part of himself, his only Son, Jesus. All that Jesus did threatened the leaders of the day. He never backed off or worried about offending when he was telling people about God.

Jesus referred to himself as the cornerstone that was rejected. If we follow Christ this means dying to self including our own will and feelings, when we might experience suffering, rejection and pain. Jesus died that we might have a new life and a life in all its fullness, no more suffering and no more pain.

A certain man wanted to sell his house for £140,000. Another man wanted very badly to buy it, but because he was poor, he couldn't afford the full price. After much bargaining, the owner agreed to sell the house for half the original price with just one stipulation: He would retain ownership of one small nail protruding from just over the door.

After several years, the original owner wanted the house back, but the new owner was unwilling to sell. So the first owner went out, found the carcass of a dead dog, and hung it from the single nail he still owned. Soon the house became uninhabitable, and the family was forced to sell the house to the owner of the nail.

If we leave the Devil with even one small peg in our life, he will return to hang his rotting rubbish on it, making it unfit for Christ to come and live there.

"God wants everyone to be saved and to know the whole truth, which is, There is only one God, and Christ Jesus is the only one who can bring us to God. Jesus was truly human, and he gave himself to rescue all of us." [1 Timothy 2.4-5]

Barbara Chambers

25 September 2011

God tells Moses at Mount Sinai: 'When you enter the land that I am giving you, the land shall observe a sabbath for the Lord. For six years you shall sow your field and for six years you shall prune your vineyard, and gather in their yield; but in the seventh year there shall be a sabbath of complete rest for the land, a sabbath for the Lord: you shall not sow your field or prune your vineyard’ (Leviticus 25:2-4). This is the origin of sabbatical and the Diocese of Liverpool encourage its clergy to take one every 9 years or so. On their website they say: ‘a serious block of time spent away from their post, and its immediate demands, can be a source of enrichment, new experiences and energy, different perspectives and fresh vision.’

When we were talking together as a Shared Ministry Team (SMT) on Monday I remarked that I was hurtling to a full-stop as my sabbatical begins on 3 October, and from that time there is very little in my diary as it's a break from meetings, appointments, occasional offices, service and sermon preparation until January. I am excited and nervous at the same time wanting to make the most of the opportunity but not wanting the time to go too quickly.

Simon has kindly agreed to take my place and it will be good experience for him as he prepares to move to his first incumbency by summer 2011. Inevitably, there will be more work for him, service leaders and preachers, the office, the SMT, wardens and PCC members so please pray for them.

There is never a good time to take a sabbatical and it's an exciting time as we leave our church building for 5 months; please pray for our builders GAC, for Paul Beardwood who is taking such care over the re-ordering plans and for Bill our architect. Please also pray for God’s continuing provision for our needs as a church. God has brought us this far on our journeys and we need to keep our eyes fixed on him, confident that he will continue to lead us.

Pete Spiers

18 September 2011

In our sermons starting today we will be following the Israelites' journey from captivity in Egypt under the leadership of Moses towards Canaan, the goal to which God was leading his people. When he appeared to Moses in the burning bush he pledged himself not only to deliver the Israelites from bondage but also to bring them to a land flowing with milk and honey, their promised land, and we will be reflecting on the many attributes of God, his provision, guidance, faithfulness, discipline, forgiveness, and his presence with them through the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.

We can relate to this on two counts, together we are starting a new phase of our own journey – a time of change as we leave our church building and step out of our comfort zone to experience God in new ways and face new challenges.

Individually of course we are all on our own journey and we can use the story of the Israelites as an analogy of our own walk with God. Are we content with a wilderness experience or do we experience life ‘in the heavenly places’ as Ephesians describes it, not in heaven but in the fullness of God’s blessing. I don’t believe that God offers us all his fullness on a plate, and just asks us to help ourselves, with a low level of expectancy. The whole of the land was given to the people but they only possessed the portion which they claimed. All of the Lord Jesus is ours at conversion but we possess only as much of him as we claim by faith. A whole generation died in the wilderness and only two of the generation which left Egypt succeeding in entering the land, two who followed the Lord wholeheartedly, who were eager and hungry for God, whose faith was stronger than their fear of opposition and who pressed into and received the full blessing of their promised land.,

Let’s follow their example.

Shirley Wallin

11 September 2011

Can you remember where you were/what you were doing 10 years ago today? For all the wrong reasons, sadly, 11 September 2001 is a day that will be etched into the memories of many people all over the world, and obviously this Sunday marks the 10th anniversary of that horrendous day. I remember being at work when a shout came round the office to look at the news online, and so lots of us gathered round a screen and watched it all unfolding.

One of those days that will go down as changing the world forever. Sadly a language entered the world’s vocabulary that day – ‘war on terror’, the need to ‘stand firm’, ‘zero tolerance’ leading to a new focus on language of revenge, of hatred, of punishment and of racial distrust. And since 9/11 we’ve seen things that can all be linked to that day where this language has been in common use, like the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, controversy over detention and treatment of potential ‘terror suspects’ at places like Guantanamo, and the military manhunt for and killing of Osama bin Laden with the worrying scenes of celebration that accompanied his death (irrespective of what he had done I saw it as a sad reflection on what has gone on over these 10 years, and not a cause for rejoicing). The language of revenge, hatred and punishment that was given a new focus in response to the terrible events of 9/11 has become commonplace, and it’s the sort of language that’s currently being used in regards to the Ghaddafi situation in Libya, and closer to home in responses to the riots here of a few weeks ago.

As Christians, what is our response to this? First and foremost I believe, to pray. I find myself praying for a language of justice rather than punishment and revenge, of reconciliation, of true repentance and forgiveness, of peace, of mutual understanding and respect, of friendship, of trust; praying for a desire to deal with root causes of violence; and praying for a real wisdom and sense of compassion for all in authority. Please join with me in that prayer for God’s world today.

Simon Elliott

4 September 2011

On Bank Holiday Monday, we went to Greenbelt, the Christian arts festival for 20,000 people that meets at Cheltenham racecourse each year. We have never been before and wanted to see what it was like. It was a long day but worth it and we bumped into a number of friends, old and new. The diversity of speakers, events and activities is incredible and there was something for everyone. They also have a real ale tent called the Jesus Arms and it hosts a very popular ‘beer and hymns’ event.

Whilst I was there, I participated in an event to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible. The Bible Society is inviting 35,000 people to write two verses between June and November 2011 and then present the People’s Bible to the Queen at Westminster Abby at a special ceremony. They want to highlight the fact that very few people read the Bible and they are taking their stand all over the UK. You use a special digital pen that transfers your handwriting to the internet. You will be able to read the whole version and search for particular verses. Mine were Acts 4, verses 5 and 6.

As Christians, the Bible ought to be very important to us and we should value it and appreciate it and read it! Many Christians don’t have a version of the Bible in their own language and many more have limited access. If we want our faith to be ‘living and active’ then we must hear the Bible being read and explained, we must read it for ourselves and in the company of others and we must put it into practice! Start today.

Pete Spiers

28 August 2011

‘Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.’
[Romans 12:9-18]

Great words from the apostle Paul – a manifesto really for the Roman Christians he was writing to to seek to live by, and just as important and relevant to us today. As I watch the news I can’t help but think about how much better a world we’d live in if this manifesto were being truly followed. If true and genuine love was being shown by all, if evil was hated; if people, shared of what they had, served God, rejoiced in hope, were patient in suffering, persevering in prayer, appropriately rejoicing and weeping, living in harmony; would we be watching riots here in the UK, the hunt for and death of Osama Bin Laden, the strife in Libya, the famine in East Africa, on our news screens?

So often the Christian message is counter-cultural isn’t it – bless those who persecute you, associate with the lowly, are not the sort of messages that society often bombards us with. But the call on us as Christians, as disciples of Christ, is to dare to seek to live out this manifesto, to dare to be counter-cultural in standing for all that is good and right and against all that is evil. Not seeking to condemn others but to show by our lifestyle, our words, our actions, the qualities Paul describes. No easy task, and in our gospel reading today we find the famous words of Jesus: ‘If any want to be my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.’ Doesn’t make following Jesus sound like the most appealing option ever does it? But these words are followed by an amazing promise: ‘those who lose their life for my sake will find it.’ Following Christ, living out Paul’s manifesto, daring to be counter-cultural, standing for all that is good and right, involves sacrifice and hardship, but it leads to life. May we find that life that Jesus’ promises to all who follow him today. Amen.

Simon Elliott

7 August 2011
Are you a ‘water-walker’ or a ‘boat potato’?

Today’s gospel reading brings us to the famous episode in Matthew 14 where having just fed the 5000 Jesus has sent the disciples off in a boat to the other side of the lake and gone off somewhere by himself to pray. A storm blows up on the lake and the poor old disciples are struggling away in the boat, when they notice a shadowy figure walking on the water. ‘Ghost’ they think, terrified, but Jesus speaks out to reassure them that it is him. For some reason, Peter, impetuous as ever, calls out ‘Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water.’ Jesus simply says ‘come.’

Poor old Peter is often given a rough time because of his headstrong, impetuous nature that lead to him charging into things without really thinking, and then panicking and wondering what he’s got himself into! But I’m sure he’s not the only one who’s ever behaved in that sort of way! And actually, at least he had the courage to get out of the boat, because ‘if you want to walk on water … you’ve got to get out of the boat!’

This episode challenges us all today to consider the reality that being a disciple of Christ can and often does involve being called to step out of our comfort zones into the unknown or uncertain, being called to face our fears, being ready and willing to face change and so on. It involves a call to trust God as individuals and as a church rather than relying on what we know and are comfortable with, or seeking to do everything in our own strength. We’re called to recognize Jesus’ presence as Peter and the disciples gradually did on the lake that night, and to listen to his voice saying ‘Come’, and step out in faith. Of course there’ll be times when we stumble, get things wrong, mess up, have doubts and so on, but notice as Peter did that he cried out to Jesus for help and Jesus reached out and caught him, just as he will us when we call out to him.

Jesus is saying to each one of us ‘come’, step out of your comfort zones, trust me with your fears and worries, ‘follow me’, even when we don’t know where that will take us and what it will involve. Are we ready to do that? Are we ‘water-walkers’ ready to step out into the unknown, or ‘boat potatoes’ happy to sit back where we are comfortable?

Simon Elliot

31 July 2011

Most people like to get away from it all, spending time at home or going on holiday abroad. Others take time out to enable them to do something completely different endorsing the saying "a change is as good as a rest." Jesus recognized the need to take time out and catch up on our rest. Having a quiet time with God was very important to him.

In Mark 6.31-32 we are told that one day the disciples went to Jesus and told him how busy they had been teaching and ministering to the needs of people. "There have been so many people coming and going that we sometimes don't even have time to stop and eat," they told Jesus. "Come with me to a quiet place so that you can get some rest," Jesus said to the disciples. So the Bible tells us that they got in a boat and went away with Jesus to a quiet place.

So whatever you’re doing for your holiday please:

So many times we make excuses about not spending time with God. May this summer break be for you a time for refreshment and renewal and a time to recharge your batteries. May you continue to be blessed to enable you to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with our God.

Barbara Chambers

24 July 2011

Who can you trust these days? In recent times, we have the scandals of MPs' expenses, bankers' bonuses and phone hacking casting doubts over our journalists and police officers. Where there is medical negligence or worse death, we can lose trust in those who should be looking after our best interests. Where there is child abuse, we can lose trust in their carers, social workers and even the church.

Fortunately, whilst such stories are front-page news, the vast majority of people in these professions do an excellent job, and without them our lives would not be the same. For every bad story, there are 10 good stories which never make the headlines.

In a speech to General Synod last weekend, the Archbishop of Canterbury reminded us that 'Christianity is not advice but news.' This was a challenge to me to present Jesus Christ in a fresh, relevant and meaningful way to people today. It's not 'take it or leave it' wisdom that we are free to decide about but an announcement that is real and life-changing.

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday today and forever (Hebrews 13.8). We might find our trust in others damaged but we can always trust him who is The Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14.6). That is the news wherever you are today!!

Pete Spiers

17 July 2011

“The man of integrity walks securely, but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.”
“He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart.”
Do these scriptures remind you of anything in the news at the moment? Where is the honesty and integrity of some of the leaders of this nation, with authority to govern yet at the same time allowing those with the power to harm their reputation pull their strings. What price freedom? - The measure of our freedom is our defencelessness. We all have power, every relationship has its own power dynamic whether we realize it or not. Sometimes there is a genuine equality but more often than not power is exerted in subtle ways between wives and husbands, parents and children, employers and employees, friend and friend, the list goes on but how can power be used in a way that glorifies God? Jesus is our example. In Philippians we read the astounding reversal of what most people think about power. Jesus contained the very power of God in his own being but didn’t cling to it. Instead he deliberately let go and let go and let go … He identified with us until he was apparently powerless in the face of death. Only after letting go of all power was Jesus exalted by God to the highest place.

And if we want an example of great leaders we need to look at those who have put their trust in God, Moses for example, far from the timid and unconfident person he was early on in Exodus, he is a fantastic example of someone in an incredible relationship with God. He knows God and speaks with him with confidence, reverence and honesty. He has grown into someone decisive and assured, not swayed by changing circumstances or pressurized by people. Out of his relationship with God he lives well. He trusts and obeys God. This is true freedom.

In our worship in cell group on Tuesday someone had a picture of a raging forest fire out of control, someone else had a picture of a flickering candle and felt that the world’s view of God was the flickering candle but that we know him to be a raging fire. The Bible tells us to pray for those in authority, let’s pray for our Government, for righteousness, wisdom, fear of God rather than fear of man, for integrity and truth and for that raging fire to sweep through our nation and burn away all the dross.

Shine, Jesus, shine, Fill this land with the Father’s glory; blaze, Spirit, blaze,
set our hearts on fire, Flow, river, flow, flood the nations with grace and mercy;
send forth Your word, Lord, and let there be light!

Shirley Wallin

10 July 2011

People around the World are longing to be free. Free from poverty, free from oppression by self-seeking governments or overpowering religion. However, if we are not careful we can achieve freedom and then find we are trapped again by our own sinful desires.

True personal freedom actually comes from a surrender of ourselves to God and his ways. When we trust in Jesus the first thing we know is forgiveness. As St Paul puts it: ‘The spirit is life because of righteousness.’ We do not achieve righteousness. It is not a personal attribute, but something God declares that we are in his sight, when we turn to Christ and are forgiven. This should evoke in us a sense of gratitude and not a sense of pride in what we are, because it is not down in any way to our goodness or any effort we have made.

We can live our lives by following our own selfish interests, or we can know true freedom by following the guidance of the Spirit. This unique combination of freedom from guilt, sin and the empowering of God’s Holy Spirit enables those who choose to follow Christ to become more like him. Because we know we are not condemned we will not condemn others but love them as Christ loved us, and tell them that God wants to do the same for them. We need to remain open to God and his word each day if we are truly to know his freedom in our lives.

Alan Lewney

3 July 2011

‘My Lord and my God!’ So said Thomas the disciple as he realised beyond any doubt that the risen Jesus was for real. Today is the day in the church’s calendar that focuses on Thomas. Forever known as ‘doubting Thomas’ because of both his reaction to being told by the other disciples that they had seen the risen Jesus: ‘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’ and his rebuke from Jesus a week later: ‘Do not doubt but believe.’ Thomas was missing when Jesus first appeared to the other disciples and his reaction to their telling him was one of doubt that led to his label. I think it’s hard for us to really comprehend the turmoil, worry, disappointment and fear that those disciples felt over that whole period of Jesus’ arrest and death, and the absolute jumble of emotion that Thomas must have felt about it all. He’d given up everything to follow this Jesus and it all seemed to have gone horribly wrong. Yet here were the others offering some kind of hope – dare he believe? Were they delusional/mistaken somehow? He’d seen Jesus die! He couldn’t be alive could he? He needed to see for himself! ‘Doubting Thomas!’ But given the circumstances I wonder would we have reacted any differently?

Speak to Christians in South India and you get a slightly different picture of Thomas. There he’s remembered with thanks and held in great esteem as the one who brought them the good news of Jesus Christ. Not much is known about the rest of his life other than that he travelled East spreading the gospel message and got as far as the south of India where he died, and the church there traces its roots back to his missionary work.

Thomas came to the point of being able to say truly and meaningfully: ‘My Lord and my God!’ to the risen Christ and after Jesus' rebuke about his doubting he went on to do great things for God. How about us today? Do we know that the risen Jesus is for real? Are we at that point of being able to say truly ‘My Lord and my God!’ and live out who we are called to be? Or are there doubts or other things that hinder our response to God? It’s my prayer that we’d all truly know the risen Christ, our Lord and our God, and do great things in his Name as his people, his church here in Crosby.

Simon Elliott

26 June 2011

You might be wondering what happened at the Gift day last Sunday? First of all, the worship with the Prom Praise orchestra was very up lifting and much appreciated by so many.

Second, we were able to hear what God has been saying to us through the 24 hours of prayer we had held the previous weekend. As we reflected on this at our Parochial Church Council (PCC) meeting this week, we sense that God is with us, that he calling us to make a legacy for future generations and to move forward together.

Third, we have now pledged a total of £121,000 towards the cost of our re-ordering project and that is a great achievement and a sign that people are supportive of what we are doing. All this helped the PCC to go to the next stage and put it out for tender and we will know in a few weeks what the cost will be. We do appreciate that times are getting harder for people but if you able to give, it would be a very encouraging sign.

In Numbers 13 and 14, we hear the story of how God told Moses to send some men into Canaan (the Promised Land) to explore it before advancing, It is well worth reading in full! When they came back with their reports, whilst they acknowledged it was indeed a land flowing with milk and honey, there were also many difficulties to overcome and they were impossible. They grumbled about Moses and blamed him for bringing them so far. However Caleb said ‘We should go up and take possession of the land for we can certainly do it’ (13.30).

God has brought us as a church this far and though there might be difficulties ahead (there always are by the way!), he is not about to leave us so long as we keep looking to him and trusting him for all that we need. That was the overwhelming consensus of the PCC meeting this week and that was very encouraging.

Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labour in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain (Psalm 127.1).

Pete Spiers

19 June 2011
Gift Day

So now our gift day is finally here, and we have an opportunity to respond. Our response is personal and individual, just between us and God, and we will all come to it in different ways. My thoughts have been that only God ever sees the bigger picture and no matter how we try we can never discern or know God’s plans for the future through our intellect or intuition. This is why it is so important to listen to him with an open mind and a willingness to change our own opinions and preferences.

God was very specific when he instructed Moses to build the very first church in the Old Testament, the Tabernacle. This Tabernacle was very significant, as it revealed God’s character and made known his purpose of redemption, a place of sacrifice pointing forward to the sufferings and death of Christ. To make the Tabernacle God, through Moses, asked for free-will offerings, no-one was made to feel that they had to bring a gift but only if they wanted to. God’s character from that day to this has never changed, he only ever desires a heart response. The people responded with a deep sense of thankfulness for all that God had done for them and they gave, and gave, and gave again until Moses had to tell them to stop!!

The other interesting point about this story is that the gold, silver, brass and other gifts offered to God were already provided by him. When the children of Israel left Egypt at Passover, they were instructed to ask for silver, gold and clothing and the Lord had given the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that their request was granted. But what use would gold and silver be in a wilderness? God provided everything. They had need of nothing! So even in Egypt, God had in mind that he would dwell amongst his people and they are provided with the means whereby they will, when the time comes, provide the offerings necessary for that first church.

So as we prayerfully consider our own response to plans for his church here at St Luke’s, over four thousand years later, we remember that even though God now dwells in his people by the Holy Spirit, the building is still very important to him, and if we believe that he has brought us this far and wants us to push on with this final phase, and if we take on board the encouragement from the 24 hours of prayer, then we must recognize too, that we are no different to the Israelites in that everything we have, has been given to us first by God, - "But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly as this? For all things come from you, and of your own we have given you." [1 Chronicles 29.14]

Shirley Wallin

12 June 2011
Pentecost changes everything!

The Lord told the disciples to wait. What state were their emotions in? Anxious, fearful, worried. Yes! But perhaps at least one of them was thrilled at the prospect of something that was to change their lives. We read on and see the birth of the church, with all in the upper room, changed, filled with the Holy Spirit, able to speak to everyone in their own languages. And then thousands of lives were changed as they understood the truth of the gospel and accepted the love of Jesus.

We in 21st century Crosby can be refilled with the same Holy Spirit but, Crosby is not first century Palestine. We are not surrounded by thousands clamouring for the truth of the gospel to be revealed to them, although we should never doubt that there are more people open than we think.

The Holy Spirit brings about change in our lives if we allow him and there is nothing as certain as change. Our church is about to change, but how involved are you and I in that change. Do we want to change or are some us fearful, anxious and worried. I don’t think there is anything wrong having these emotions. After all Peter and his pals did! But I also think there are many who are looking forward to change.

Jesus wants us all to join those wishing to embrace change. By joining, you and I can contribute. We all know people in our community who do not come to church, but to whom we would like to introduce Jesus. We have to do at least two things: we have to introduce Jesus to the community in ways and language that make sense to those who have little Bible knowledge and we have to adapt our building in such a way that it will encourage them, not only to enter, but help them feel comfortable and leave them wishing to return. We can do both these things if we want to but do we want to?

Richie Brown

5 June 2011

Jesus was concerned about his disciples, and before he went away he prepared them and promised to be still with them. Through the Holy Spirit he would come to them personally. Nobody likes to be alone when they are going through difficulties, and it is in the hard times that we need to know that he is with us. Paradoxically it is when times are difficult that it is hardest to feel the presence of God in our lives, and yet at the same time it may be that in the hard times we are more aware of the ways in which he has helped us.

When we are troubled or we have taken on a difficult task we have to look to God for help because we cannot cope on our own. In John 17.11 Jesus prays for his father’s protection for us, his followers. He wanted his father to be with us. He then prays that we would be one because God is with us. Relying on God and not ourselves draws us together because we are looking to him and not to ourselves. In doing so we become united. As we pray this week let us try to put aside our fears and to know that if we are looking to God to supply our needs we will also been drawn to each other in love and so have the double comfort of God’s presence plus the loving care of our Christian brothers and sisters.

Alan Lewney

29 May 2011

We are still affirming that Christ is risen in our services as we are still in the Easter season. People forget that Jesus appeared to his disciples for a period of 40 days after his resurrection. This week, on Thursday, we will be celebrating his ascension into heaven and remembering his instructions to his disciples 'not to leave Jerusalem but wait for what there for the promise of the Father' (Acts 1.4). So ten days after his ascension we will be celebrating the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (12 June). Ascension Day marks the end of Jesus' earthly ministry. Having laid aside his majesty, he lived, died, rose again and ascended to be King where 'his throne lasts forever' (Hebrews 1.8).He had already promised that this would herald the sending of the Holy Spirit, another helper, who would not just be along side his disciples but would also live within them. He was going to be present to them in a way he had never been before and could be experienced by anyone anywhere. Jesus' ministry continues today through the Church all over the world. Paul tells us that Jesus is 'at the right hand of God and intercedes for us' (Romans 8.34). Next time you feel discouraged about anything, just Remember that!

Pete Spiers

22 May 2011
John 14.1-14

In the Gospel reading this morning Jesus makes some pretty amazing statements:
“In my Father’s house are many mansions … I go to prepare a place for you.” I have often wondered why Jesus only ministered for three years and had to die so young. One of the reasons that the departure of Jesus was necessary was, by his death on the cross to allow us direct access to God and to open the way to heaven, signified by the tearing of the veil in the temple. But, not only does he prepare the way, he is the Way and if we follow Christ in our lives then we will follow him to the Father’s house. He is the Truth, not merely truth, but ‘the Truth’, the key of all truth and in himself a revelation of all truth necessary to reconcile men to God. I always find it ironic that when Pilate asked Jesus at his trial: “What is truth?” the Truth was staring him in the face, and still is right under our noses. We can search for years in every corner of the world and every possible area of life to find the true meaning of life but the actual Truth in all its entirety is just a prayer away and can be found sitting in a chair in our own living room! And, he is the Life, or rather he is life itself, the living waters, the bread of life, without him there would be no Way revealed, no saving Truth, no eternal Life.

Another statement and reason why Jesus had to depart—”the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these …” Can this be true? At the time of his death Jesus had only about 500 disciples, after the coming of the Holy Spirit the apostles converted 3000 in a single day. Paul made far more converts than Jesus so it was necessary for him to go to the Father in order to enable his disciples (and us!) to accomplish these “greater works”.

I read in my paper yesterday about a blood test that can show how fast someone is ageing and offers the tantalising possibility of estimating how long they have left to live, this is about to go on sale in Britain later this year, at a cost of £400. Well who needs it? We have a loving heavenly Father, who gave us life, all the days ordained for us were written in his book before one of them came to be. We have Jesus, for whom it cost everything to open up the way to heaven where he is at this very moment preparing a place for us to go and be with him for ever!

Shirley Wallin

15 May 2011

William Gladstone (1809-1898) was on a holiday in Scotland, when a snow storm blew up. He noticed that the sheep were coming up out of the hollows and from under the trees and going to stand on the bare hillsides facing the storm. Eventually he met an old shepherd and said to him, "Are not these sheep the most foolish animals? When a storm comes, instead of remaining in a sheltered place they are walking out into the full fury of the winter weather. If I were a sheep I would have remained down there in the hollow". The shepherd replied, "Sir, if you were a sheep you would have more sense than that." And he explained that if the sheep stayed down in the hollows they would be buried in snowdrifts and be suffocated. The sheep knew that their only hope of survival was to stay out on the hills. They were cold and wet facing the storm, but at least they had life, breath and air.

In this country, shepherds are rarely seen. They don't constantly check up on their sheep, because they know exactly where they are, even when they are roaming freely.
The 23rd Psalm was written by King David. “The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want.” In this psalm there is an assurance that God will meet all our needs. He will satisfy our hunger, quench our thirst, restore us when we are tired and weary and help us to know which way to go in the good and bad times.

As Christians we’re not all the same, we’re given free will and allowed to exercise it and to be independent and responsible for ourselves. Sometimes we fall and we're left to get up by ourselves and to learn from our mistakes. But we need to be assured that Jesus is always there, sometimes walking alongside us or carrying us in the good times or the dark times.
Jesus said: “I am the good shepherd”. He faced death and sacrificed his life to save each of us from the wrong things that we have done and will do. He rose from the dead that we might reconcile with God and have life in all its fullness. Can we do less than trust this wonderful shepherd, come to know him, follow him and learn to listen to his voice every day.

Barbara Chambers

8 May 2011
Treasure For Us All

I dug up the treasure. It surprised me. A book! Three pages: black, red, white. It flopped open. The vividness of the black and red struck my face. I turned it over to save my eyes. I brushed away the dust of ages. What was this I was holding?

The gardener appeared from I don’t know where. He told me what I’d found. Said it was treasure I had to share. It wasn’t for me to keep. Said the black page represents my past thoughts and actions: those that needed to be confessed and forgiven. He asked me to look at the red page. Its brightness hit me like fire. I had to look away again. This page, he said, represents the sacrifice of Jesus. The way to restoring your relationship with God is through the loving sacrifice of Jesus. ‘Now turn the page,’ he said. ‘It’s stuck,’ I told the gardener. ‘Have you confessed your sins?’

‘Yes’ ‘Try again then,’ he said. ‘The page will turn.’ I placed my hand on the red page. Its colour, so vivid in the heat of the day, changed to white as I turned the page. I was looking at two white pages: a whiteness that was so much brighter than snow. And yet I could look upon it.

In that moment I recognised Jesus as the gardener. I knew then that my book of three pages was his way of telling me to confess my failings every day and never to store up ill-feeling or resentment towards any one. He wants me to rely on his willingness to forgive and in so doing have my relationship with God put right.

Oh, I thought, what a treasure I have in my hands. But I cannot keep it. I pass it on to you, for you to use and, in turn, for you to pass it to others.

Richie Brown

1 May 2011

Someone wrote these words having been asked about his belief in the resurrection of Jesus:

‘Without equivocation or hesitation I fully and completely admit that I deny the resurrection of Christ. I deny the resurrection of Christ every time I do not serve at the feet of the oppressed, each day that I turn my back on the poor; I deny the resurrection of Christ when I close my ears to the cries of the downtrodden and lend my support to an unjust and corrupt system. However there are moments when I affirm that resurrection, few and far between as they are. I affirm it when I stand up for those who are forced to live on their knees, when I speak for those who have had their tongues torn out, when I cry for those who have no more tears left to shed.’

‘As you might expect,’ he says, ‘this does not calm the questioners down. So let me be even more clear:The ancient story is that the most powerful government the world had ever known, Rome, had done the worst thing it could imagine to this man Jesus. They beat him and killed him by the most brutal means at their disposal. Yet and still, some of the last words on his lips are reported to be his asking God to forgive his killers. On that Friday, the powers of the world said “No” to Jesus and the Kingdom of God he was preaching. If the tomb was empty on that Sunday morning long ago, that was God’s “Yes” to Rome’s “No”. If the tomb was empty, then love overcame power and vindicated Jesus. It means that Jesus was right – the Kingdom of God is at hand, and we are invited to live in it. If I swear allegiance to this Kingdom, where apparently the dream of God is that it be on Earth as it is in Heaven, then that has implications for how I live. I cannot see how I can lend aid and support to the things that oppose it: injustice, racism, violence, consumerism and so on. If I act hateful, or in fact, less than loving to my neighbour, I have denied the resurrection. And I can believe whatever you want about what happened that Sunday morning, but if I am not using what power I have to help God bring the Kingdom into fruition, to help make it on Earth as it is in Heaven, I don’t expect you to call me a Christian.’

There’s a challenge to us all here – faith in Jesus Christ and his death and resurrection isn’t simply about head knowledge, knowing and saying the right things. We need to live it out; it needs to show in our actions and attitudes 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, it needs to impact everything we are!

Simon Elliott

17 April 2011
Palm Sunday

The crowd were expectant not just because of the arrival of Jesus whom they welcomed as a King, but because they believed that the Messiah had finally appeared. They chanted “Praise to David’s Son! God bless him who comes in the name of the Lord!” a direct quote from Psalm 118. This psalm was probably sung at the end of the Passover meal and would have been familiar to all the faithful Jewish people gathering for the festival. The people were desperate to be delivered from the oppression they had suffered for centuries, and especially from the current Roman occupiers.

This year we have witnessed an amazing succession of countries where the people have cried out for deliverance from oppression and our thoughts and prayers are with them in their struggle. We pray that their hopes and aspirations will be fulfilled but we also know that true freedom can only be found in Jesus. The signs of God’s true Kingdom were there for all to see. The peaceful king riding on a donkey, the holy place at the centre of Jerusalem, the joyful worship and thanks to God for their deliverance from Egypt. In the end they failed to follow him to the cross.

As society in general continues on without thought of God or even of its own need of deliverance from sin and repentance to God, let us worship the true King of Kings in our hearts and lives this Easter time and let us not be diverted by earthly power and praise but follow the way of the cross in our lives.

COME SERVANT KING AND REIGN!

Alan Lewney

10 April 2010

This week the government announced that it had 'paused' its consultation on the NHS. Some of its critics have said that their election slogan of last year, NHyeS, should be re-named, NHmesS. The government says it wants to listen to what people are saying about their proposed reforms. Its critics say there is no point in listening unless the government is prepared to change its views in the face of such a large majority against their proposals.

One of the things we see as important to us here at St Luke's is the need to listen to God. We have held a number of listening to God evenings over the past few years when we have come together as a church and tried to listen to what he is saying to us. We believe in a God who wants to communicate with us: 'The heavens are telling the glory of God; and the firmament proclaims his handiwork. Day to day pours forth speech, and night to night declares knowledge' (Psalm 19.1-2).

At the beginning of Lent, we gave away Bible reading notes to 30 members of the congregation for free to encourage them to read the Bible daily and listen to him: 'the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing until it divides soul from spirit, joints from marrow, it is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.' (Hebrews 4.12)

Listening to God is not always easy in these days when 'background noise' seems so unrelenting but it shows that we value God highly after all, as they say, it's rude not to listen! But we then need to be willing to change our views in the light of what we hear. So are you listening to him?

Pete Spiers

3 April 2011

God has had a tough time over the past few years, the debate as to whether faith has any relevance in a sceptical modern world goes on and on. But recently I read a refreshing article by Tom Knox who, after researching for his latest novel, discovered startling and unexpected evidence which completely changed his atheist views. A growing yet largely unnoticed body of scientific work, amassed over the last 30 years shows religious belief is medically, socially and psychologically beneficial. Space doesn’t permit me to show all the statistics so I will quote just a few and I have the details of the research if you want to know more.

Church goers have lower blood pressure than non believers. Researchers in Texas discovered that the more often you go to church the longer you live! There is a 7 year difference in life expectancy between those who never attend church and those who attend weekly, 2000 older Californians were studied for 5 years and it was reported that those who attend religious services were 36% less likely to die during this half decade that those who didn’t. The American Journal of Psychiatry discovered believers with broken hips were less depressed, had shorter hospital stays and would even walk further when they were discharged compared to their similarly broken-hipped and hospitalized, unbelieving peers. Believers recover from breast cancer quicker than non believers, have better outcomes from coronary disease and rheumatoid arthritis; and are less likely to have children with meningitis. A 1999 study found that going to church or praying actively strengthened your immune system. These medical benefits add up even if you adjust for the fact that believers are less likely to smoke, drink or take drugs. In 1998 it was found that depressed patients with a strong ‘intrinsic faith’ (a deep personal belief, not just a social inclination to go to church) recovered 70 per cent faster than those who did not have a faith. Research professors in Paris found that believers record less stress, are better able to cope with losing jobs and divorce, are less prone to suicide, report higher levels of self esteem, enjoy greater ‘life purpose’ and report being more happy overall. Another study of 4000 older adults in America showed that atheists had a notably increased chance of dying over a six year period than the faithful. So given all this evidence it seems that contrary to expectation, could it be the atheists who are eccentric, flawed and maladaptive, and the believers who are healthy, well adjusted and normal?

Shirley Wallin

27 March 2011

Recently I have been thinking about our spiritual growth. Of course the first thing I realised is that it's not automatic. We must want to grow, be prepared to make the effort to grow and to persevere in that effort. If we're not careful we can grow old without ever growing up!

When Jesus called people to follow him, they did so without knowing all the implications of doing so. They would go with him, spend time with him and watch how he did things and listened to him. In the same way, we need to be willing to spend time in prayer, alone or with others, read our Bible and respond to anything we feel He is saying to us.

If we don't then we will drift through life aimlessly or be continually frustrated at our failure to grow or end up full of regrets.

We need to remember that every choice we make has consequences. God wants us to become more like Christ in our thinking and in our speaking and in our doing. Only he can reproduce this in our lives but we must want him to do this.

St Peter writes in 2 Peter 1.5-7: 'You must make every effort to support your faith with goodness, and goodness with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with endurance, and endurance with godliness, and godliness with mutual affection, and mutual affection with love. For if these things are yours and are increasing among you, they keep you from being ineffective and unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Pete Spiers

20 March 2011

It is St Patrick’s Day, as I sit writing this. As with many of the patron saints, not a lot of real facts are actually known about Patrick, and lots of legends have built up over the years which may or may not be based in reality! But what is known is that he was responsible for introducing the Christian gospel to Ireland, and though he certainly didn’t have it easy he kept going – faithful to the call that he knew God had placed on his life despite the difficulties he faced. I’d like to share with you these words of a traditional Irish blessing which might or might not have been written by Patrick himself, but either way I’ve no doubt he’d have agreed with what is expressed here.

I wish you not a path devoid of clouds, nor a life on a bed of roses.
Not that you might never need regret,
nor that you should never feel pain.
No, that is not my wish for you.

My wish for you is:
That you might be brave in times of trial,
when others lay crosses upon your shoulders.
When mountains must be climbed and chasms are to be crossed,
When hope can scarce shine through.
That every gift God gave you might grow with you
and let you give your gift of joy to all who care for you.

That you may always have a friend who is worth that name,
whom you can trust and who helps you in times of sadness,
who will defy the storms of daily life at your side.

One more wish I have for you:
That in every hour of joy and pain you may feel God close to you.
This is my hope for you now and forever.

Highly appropriate words for us to pray for ourselves and each other today, as we face life and all its ups and downs, seeking to serve God through it all.

Simon Elliott

13 March 2011

Everybody loves a good story whether in the written word or someone’s interpretation of it on the television or cinema. Stories can be long or short. They can be written as a romance or a mystery, a travel guide or a diary, an adventure or self help. Each is appealing in its own way to those who love to read.

Over 400 years ago King James VI of Scotland also became King James I of England. To unite the countries and religions of the time he authorized that the Bible which up until then had been written in Hebrew, Aramaic, Greek or Latin be translated into English and be available to all his people. There are 66 books in the Bible, 39 in the Old Testament and 27 in the New Testament. Now whether you choose to read the King James Authorised Version or one of the newer translations the stories are still there.

Stories of romance, tragedy and overcoming hardship, struggles with life and faith, words of wisdom, songs and poetry, letters and diaries. They’re all there, but most importantly it tells us of the ministry, death and resurrection of Jesus.

The Bible is freely available and during Lent when people give up or take up something why not read the Bible. A few chapters every day or why not come along to read aloud or listen on a Thursday afternoon when the Bible will be read aloud from 2.00 to 3.00 pm in the Crosby Room. There will be tea available from 1.30 pm.

During Lent we are called to carefully consider all that Jesus did for us through his death and resurrection. He loves us just as we are today but when we meet with him we want to change. If you don’t have a copy of the Bible please do let us know because reading it will change your life. You’ll never be the same again.

Barbara Chambers

6 March 2011
Matthew 17.1-9

Religion is in the news. Our World is in turmoil and there does not seem to be any certainty anymore. Politicians are apprehensive about the possibility of democratic progress being impeded by the rise of governments heavily influenced by Islam. There has been an increase of publicity for those who are more militant in their atheistic views and many intelligent people are publishing books that try to explain away religion and its origins.

In reality it would be very difficult to refute such clever people by the force of argument alone. Peter, a fisherman by trade, had no doubts about the reality of who Jesus was. In his letter he writes ‘we did not follow clever invented stories.’ His faith was built upon a real experience of being with Jesus and seeing him transformed by the power of God. The word used literally means, metamorphosed. On the mountain, Peter saw the power of God at work and was reminded that God had been at work throughout history by the presence of Moses and Elijah.

Jesus is alive today and it is by knowing his presence in our lives and by living in the power of his spirit, that we too will grow in faith and be assured of the reality of Jesus. Perhaps during Lent you will find some time to reflect, pray and allow his glory to be revealed to you in a new way.

Alan Lewney

27 February 2011

What is going on in the world at the moment? An earthquake in New Zealand has brought death and destruction to hundreds of people and traumatised thousands more. People in Tunisia, Egypt, Bahrain and Libya are making their voices heard for a change of government. In our own country, government spending cuts are causing anxiety on a large scale.

We need to remember that this is God's world and that whatever happens, he is in control. We must therefore trust him that he is able to bring good out of bad situations. This is not always easy. The prophet Habbakuk knew what uncertain times were like and he pleaded with people to be like watchmen and wait to understand God's ways.

Of course, we should help those in need, we should support the rights of people to make their views heard and we should make the most of the opportunities we have to make our views known.

Paul's words to Timothy are relevant to us at such a time as this: 'I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2.1-4)

Pete Spiers

20 February 2011
Education Sunday

Education Sunday is a national day of prayer and celebration for everyone involved in education. Today we welcome Richard Miller to our pulpit. Richard is the headteacher of our own church primary school, now operating in its recently magnificently refurbished building fit for 21st century teaching and learning.

‘It’s only bricks and mortar.’ Well, that’s one way to describe a building – but there is so much more! An architect designed it, a builder dug the foundations, a surveyor oversaw it, an electrician wired it, a roofer made it water-tight, a glazier added windows. The structure is decorated, reshaped, fashioned to suit its occupants’ needs, all building on the work started by the construction team, the children move in and the building comes to life.

One understanding of education is laying the foundations needed for life. The readings for Education Sunday 2011 offer a chance to muse further on this. Jesus Christ is the foundation (I Corinthians 3) and whether we are educators at school, church or home we need to build with regard to our faith. So what ‘materials’ might we use? Matthew 5 suggests values that run counter to cultural norms, which offer children and young people a perspective on life that encompasses compassion, forgiveness and generosity. Psalm 119 shows the pathway of God’s law – signposting obedience with understanding.

But education – in whatever context – also needs to build children’s spiritual lives as well as their intellect and moral capacity. Space for God to break through – and space for children and young people to glimpse the Divine – needs to have its place in the building blueprint, to give them a chance to glimpse holiness (Leviticus 19). Awe, wonder and curiosity contribute to a child’s spiritual growth and development. We omit them at our peril. On solid foundations, children and young people, created in the image of God, can fashion their unique identity and flourish in their human potential.

In England, Education Sunday offers an opportunity to celebrate the churches’ gift to the nation, of education for all, alongside celebrating Christian educators in all places of learning, whose vocation, skills and care shape young lives in school, church and home. It gives each of us the chance to look back in thankfulness for those who laid the foundations in our own lives, allowing us to grow in faith and understanding.

Mary Hawes, National Children’s Adviser for the Church of England

13 February 2011

The choices we make are very important and sometimes they can affect our whole future. Sometimes this has been depicted on screen. In the film ‘Sliding Doors’ for instance, we see the lives of two people following two different pathways with two completely different outcomes as a result of one incident.

In Deuteronomy Chapter 30 we see the choice of loving God and following his ways or following other Gods, as a matter of Life and Death. God urges us to choose Life!

Jesus offers a new covenant sealed with his own blood. Our choice is to repent and believe, follow him and discover life, or follow our own way which leads to death. Following Jesus is an ongoing process - with the promise that he will work to heal our bad decisions so that new life is always open to us. This is especially true of our relationships. We should never give up on others, never allow hatred to grow and always seek to bring bad situations before God. In doing so we are choosing life in all its fullness here on earth and fulfilling God’s will in our lives. To reject or hate others is a very serious matter that must be faced up to if we are to know God’s complete blessing. Sometimes this is a matter of choice, so let us work at our relationships in the light of all that Jesus has done to secure our eternal relationship with God.

6 February 2011

Today is our World Mission Focus Sunday. I am really looking forward to hearing Malcolm and Sue sharing with us this morning about what God has put on their hearts relating to the work they are involved in, particularly in Malawi and Uganda.

This is vital stuff that we all need to think about and respond to. It’s not about coming to church to hear what other people are doing, and thinking ‘isn’t that very nice for them’ or ‘aren’t they good doing all they do’ and then going home again. It’s about taking on board what is shared with us and allowing ourselves to be challenged as to what God is saying to us about our role in his work – whether globally like Malcolm and Sue, or whether more locally in the community here; whether in practical ways, or whether prayer or financial support; or maybe a combination of all of these!

I believe God is calling each and every one of us to join him in his mission - his work in this world. Playing our part in this ought to be at the centre, the very core of who we are as Christians and as God’s church. As someone once put it: ‘the God of the Christian Scriptures – Father, Son and Spirit – is, first and last, a God of mission.’ The Bible introduces us to a God who constantly reaches out, longing to meet people wherever they are, longing to comfort those who are suffering, longing to draw alongside those in poverty and real need, longing to be in relationship with all his people. So much so that he came among us in the person of Jesus Christ, who showed in his life and ministry God’s care for all, but especially for the poor, the downtrodden, the outcasts of the society in which he lived and ministered, and who showed in his death and resurrection, the love of a God who longs to draw all people back to an everlasting relationship with him. That God is still at work in our world today, still reaching out, still meeting people where they are at, still forgiving, still healing, still comforting, still drawing people to himself. Jesus commissioned his disciples to play their part in that work of God, in this world, in the power of the Holy Spirit, when he returned to the Father. I firmly believe that today we are each still called to be his disciples, playing our part with God in his mission right now, empowered by his Holy Spirit. Let today act as a reminder to us of God’s call and a challenge to think about our response.

Simon Elliot

30 January 2011
(John 2.1-11)

We often know when it’s right for us to move on to the next step. Usually by praying, reading God’s word and all the little God incidences that go on around us. But sometimes we don’t. Human beings don’t like change. Most adults especially, are happy where they are within their comfort zone.

I wonder if Mary thought this of Jesus. We know that from a child he grew in wisdom and truth. She would have observed this with him. A lot of changes had taken place in a matter of weeks at the beginning of his ministry. He was baptized by John in the Jordan, he went into the wilderness and was tempted and when he returned called his disciples.

Maybe he needed a gentle push to get started on the next step. Mary stated “they have no wine” and then told the servants to do what he says. Jesus’ response was to say “Woman, what concern is that to you and to me. My hour has not yet come”, but in response to his mother, instructed the servants to prepare the water jars and then the best wine was produced and the first miracle recorded.

God only wants the very best for us. Sometimes we all need a gentle push to move us out of our comfort zone. People don’t always respond when asked about a particular job or role, but they usually respond when that request is made by a personal invitation.

During the next year or so there are going to be changes at St Luke’s as the church building is re-ordered. We will be asked to move out of our comfort zones. Maybe this will be hard for some, but we will all be in it together. The congregations of St Luke’s have always risen to the challenge of change. What is it the Lord God requires of you?

My prayer for us all is that we may be blessed with the ability to listen and to walk humbly with our God.

Barbara Chambers

23 January 2011

God hasn’t stopped choosing disciples. He chose you and me recently. Scripture tells us how disciples like Peter made use of their talents, but that doesn’t mean those about whom the Bible is silent didn’t use their gifts. They did. They are not recorded but in God’s eyes their work is well known.

The recent ‘X’ factor taught me much about talents. Thousands thought they had the talent for singing and while many were deluded many were not. It was not just the finalists whose abilities were recognised. One or two will go on to international fame while many will find fulfilment closer to home, but all those who are able to leave their former jobs and are able to make better use of their talent will be grateful for the opportunity that the ‘X’ factor gave them.

We can all learn from those aspiring contestants. Firstly we should acknowledge that we DO have talents and that we have a right and duty to exercise them. God-given talents need to be given back to him so they can be used for the benefit of all. If you, like me, plead guilty to thinking others can do it so much better, then you and I should think again. When the Lord is looking in your direction, and he is at this moment and at every other moment, he is only interested in you and your fulfilment in life. He has plans for those gifts and talents of yours’. And?

Tell God and then a friend what you think is your gift. You will not be laughed at like the contestants in the ‘X’ factor. You will be taken seriously. Take that first step. Your gift might find fulfilment in helping someone who looks tired all the time. Perhaps you’ve been thinking about helping your house group by offering to do something. Of one thing we can be sure. Our gifts when offered up to God will never be rejected. Quite the reverse! They will be multiplied by the ‘X’ factor. Actually they will be multiplied by the ‘G’ factor.

Richie Brown

16 January 2011

Last week we heard about the baptism of Jesus and the story continues this week, but because the very nature of John the Baptist’s ministry was to throw the spotlight upon Jesus and away from himself, we never seem to spend much time looking at the character of John.

His preaching dramatically changed after what John heard and saw at the baptism of Jesus. He sees the Spirit descend upon him and hears the voice of the Father declaring Jesus to be his beloved Son, in whom he is well pleased. John now knows for certain who the Messiah is.

Bearing in mind Micah 6.8, our verse for the year, there is no better example than John when learning to walk humbly with our God. John serves as a model of humility and true servanthood. He grasps his role in life, his calling and ministry, and devotes himself to carrying it out. He does not worry that he cannot be more prominent, but rejoices in exalting the Saviour and doesn’t seek to further his own interests. He teaches us about witnessing, a witness whose testimony was faithful and powerful, avoiding drawing attention to himself, continually bringing the conversation back to Jesus and what men must do to be saved. But his humility did not stop him from proclaiming the truth of the Gospel with boldness and clarity, identifying sin, condemning it and calling for repentance. There are many today who water down the gospel in order to make it more appealing when in fact they are only masking the true message.

John was very spiritual, even ‘Spirit filled’, we know the Spirit came upon him while he was still in the womb and we can see many evidences of the fruit of the Spirit in his life, but this is also the man who never performed a miracle. His spirituality was not evidenced by signs and wonders or healings, because there were none, it was evidenced by his faith, integrity, humility and message and, having been given the privilege of identifying the one who was the Messiah, although for much of his ministry he did not know who this person was, he discerned the will of God by going about his work faithfully and in the course of doing his job, God revealed to him that Jesus was the promised Messiah.

As we celebrate the 400th anniversary of the King James Bible this year, we can learn so much from studying the characters in the Bible and applying the same principals to our own lives today.

Shirley Wallin

9 January 2011

What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God (Micah 6.8).

The Bible is God's revelation of his will and purpose for the world from the beginning of creation until its consummation when there will be a new heaven and a new earth. We are living in-between those times and it can seem that the world is in constant change with its many ups and downs.

Micah was a prophet in the 8th century before Christ and his words are as relevant to us today as they were then. We are not left in the dark as to what God values: acting justly, loving mercy and walking humbly.

This means that each one of us needs to ask ourselves the following: what one action can I take this year to show that I am acting justly? - Buy something fair trade? Support a campaign for justice for the poor world? Save energy and help those affected by climate change?

How can I love mercy? - Express forgiveness to someone? Put myself in someone else's shoes? Be slower to criticise?

How can I walk humbly? - Read my Bible every day for 10 minutes? Pray with someone else once a week? Join a cell group?

It's still not too late to make a New Year's resolution and let the words of Micah printed on bookmarks and available from church be our inspiration!

Revd Pete Spiers