Burnside Presbyterian Church
Mill Road, Portstewart, BT55 7SW
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Friday 30th April 2021

30/4/2021

1 Comment

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Temptation?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.

Here are the songs for today with a little thought about their subject matter.


  • Never See the End,” Mission House
  • “Let Your Heart Sing,” Young Oceans


Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For Social Witness
Pray for Department of Health, Health & Social Care Trust and Public Health Agency staff as they work to support and advise care providers during these challenging times. Give thanks for all those individuals, organisations and agencies who have worked tirelessly over the past 14 months to provide the appropriate  professional information and services and who are now planning the transition to the new normal in the Health & Care Sector.


Schools
Give thanks for those who voluntarily serve on school boards of governors and management across the island of Ireland. Pray for great wisdom and discernment as they seek to support principals and staff in making the best decisions for pupils in the midst of Covid-19 restrictions and other stresses.    


General Council
Pray for the Clerk of the General Assembly as he responds to, and seeks to interpret, the
changing regulations as they apply to church life going forward. Pray for wisdom, insight and a sense of unity of purpose as PCI’s leadership works with the leaders of the other main denominations.


Council for Training in Ministry
Third year ministry students are due to have what’s known as an “Exit Interview”. The student, a member of college staff and a member of presbytery meet to review the student’s training. When satisfactorily completed, the student is licensed by presbytery, usually in June. Give thanks for these students and pray for them as they reach the end of their college training.
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Balham’s Ass

Jerusalem (2 minute video)
The Bible Society have a series of very short videos on Old Testament Jerusalem today King David’s Palace

Songs Of Praise
This week on Songs Of Praise, Claire McCollum learns about the partition of Ireland and the formation of Northern Ireland from Dr Eamon Phoenix. Catch it on Sunday @BBCOne 1.15 & afterwards on iplayer at https://t.co/nKUydqx6Pz #SongsOfPraise

God’s Plan (21 minute video)
Do you find yourself scrolling through social media and comparing your life to others? Don't get distracted so much that you miss out on the amazing plan God has for YOUR life! Watch this encouraging message from @leonfontaine
https://t.co/bdvOobM4ds
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw


Richard 2:30
Jean 2:37
​
On the day that shops re-open what about this view of a deserted Promenade during Lockdown 1


Play the "Empty Promenade Friday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=13058f9c3ce0

1 Comment

Thursday 29th April 2021

29/4/2021

1 Comment

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Temptation?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.

Here are the songs for today with a little thought about their subject matter.

Perfect Father,” Josh Gauton Reminding ud again that God Is Not The Problem - God is Good.

Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For David Boyd (Irish mission worker in Dublin) 
Pray for the International Cafe team planning new online events to get to know, entertain and build relationships with students from overseas. Continue to pray for a woman who is doing Bible studies with David online. Give thanks she is getting a good understanding of the gospel.


Inch (Co Donegal)
Pray for this small island church as they continue to witness for God to neighbours and friends. Pray for them as they discuss future plans with the Linkage Commission and other local congregations.
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Brazen Serpents

Wilderness
This quote from DL Moody was shared by Anne at the prayer meeting yesterday.
Take courage, we walk in the Wilderness today and in the promised land tomorrow.
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Forgiveness
Ray Ortlund says the following about forgiveness.
If we find forgiveness painful, so did God. 
For us, it’s the pain that reveals the ultimate meaning of our lives — where what is given overrules what is deserved. 
It’s the sacred center where peace calms our storm. 
Forgiveness proves to be our high and holy privilege.

Leaping Like Calves
Article from Farming Life this week.
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Jerusalem (2 minute video)
The Bible Society have a series of very short videos on Old Testament Jerusalem today an introduction

Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Jean 2:30
​Derek 4:05


Play the "Harbour Thursday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=33992f9f279b

1 Comment

Wednesday 28th April 2021

28/4/2021

1 Comment

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Temptation?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.
Here is the song for today with a little thought about their subject matter.
Father,” Junior Garr
Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For Steve & Rosie Kennedy (global mission workers in Romania) 
Give thanks for new people coming along to the Cluj Christian Fellowship services and pray for the wise nurturing of these new relationships. Pray also for the wider networks that Steve and Rosie have begun to establish and that these will prove fruitful.


Spain
Pray for Grupos Bíblicos Unidos as they continue to train and encourage Christian students and recent graduates to share their faith with their peers on a daily basis. ​
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Wilderness Years

Scripture Union
Latest Prayer Update from Andrew Neill the E3 North Coast Worker.
Read the Letter or watch the video
e3nc_may_2021_prayer_update.pdf
File Size: 3387 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File


Prayer
How do we pray when we're going through a 'wilderness' season? Well, let's take a look at the story of Moses for some answers...
Watch Answers with Bayless Conley @BaylessConley now on UCB Player.
https://ucb.lightcast.com/player/21323/356169
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Is Jesus Really The Only Way?
Help! My Beliefs Are Viewed as Intolerant
Michael J. Kruger, writes - As our world continues to speak about inclusivity, diversity, and tolerance, it can seem like Christianity is embarrassingly behind the times.
What is needed is perhaps some fresh thinking about how to engage the non-Christian world about the exclusive truth claims of Christianity.​

https://www.crossway.org/articles/help-my-beliefs-are-viewed-as-intolerant/
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Open Doors - World Watch List
Open Doors has released the World Watch List. The list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian in 2021. 
The full list can be found here
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/​

This week the focus is on Maldives the 15th most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Read about it here 

https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/maldives/
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Christian Unions Ireland
The prayer points for this week.

22 – 28 April
– Pray for all student committees in the handover process to new committee leaders. Pray that the transitions would go smoothly and that God would prepare and protect the minds and hearts of new leaders.
– Praise God for a student who came to faith through ‘FOMO’, Queens University Belfast CU’s (QUBCU) mission week. Pray they would continue to feel encouraged and built up in their faith by QUBCU.
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Peter and Anna Crawford
In the latest EMF Newsletter Peter and Anna Crawford take us on a prayer walk through their new mission location in Greece.
prayer_20210421_peter_and_anna_crawford.pdf
File Size: 1943 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File


Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw


Jean 3:04
Frances 3:35
Derek 3:48

Play the "Keswick Wednesday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=079902dd782e

1 Comment

Tuesday 27th April 2021

27/4/2021

2 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Temptation?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.


Here is the song for today with a little thought about their subject matter.

The Love of God,” Sara Groves -  beautiful song reminding us about the love that God has for us. God is not the Problem, God is good.

Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For Sonya Anderson (deaconess in Shore Street, Donaghadee)
Pray for the congregation, leaders and staff whilst the congregation is vacant. Pray too for the various children, youth and adult groups which have met online over the past year. They are thankful for the online platform, but long to have in-person groups again.


Howth & Malahide
Pray for this congregation and others in the Republic of Ireland who long to be allowed to hold public, corporate, weekly worship on the Lord's Day. Pray for a deepening grasp of why it is so important.
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Spy Out The Land

New City Catechism
Q. Why Must the Redeemer Be Truly God?
A. That because of his divine nature his obedience and suffering would be perfect and effective; and also that he would be able to bear the righteous anger of God against sin and yet overcome death.


https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/new-city-catechism/why-must-the-redeemer-be-truly-god/

Finding Hope in the Halls of the Hospital (52 minute audio)
In this podcast, Kathryn Butler discusses her work as a trauma surgeon working in the ICU. She shares what it was like to be inundated with life and death situations day in and day out, how she coped with the stress of the job and eventually began to see God's grace at work even in the midst of deep pain and tragedy, and what she saw working in a hospital at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
https://www.crossway.org/articles/podcast-trauma-pain-and-loss-a-doctors-story-of-faith-and-healing-katie-butler/
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

​Derek 2:52
Jean 3:14
Frances 3:55


Play the "Strand Tuesday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=1f9de7cd9291

2 Comments

Monday 26th April 2021

26/4/2021

2 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Temptation?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.


Here are the songs for today with a little thought about their subject matter.


  • Father of Lights,” Aeron Brown - This is a beautiful acoustic song, I’m going to try and find some more songs by Aeron.
  • “For the Beauty of the Earth,” A New Liturgy - A Modern take on a classic hymn.


Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For Moderator
Pray for the Moderator as opportunities to visit congregations may start to open up as Covid-19 regulations gradually relax.  Pray for his ongoing ministry of encouragement and pastoral care to all ministers and their congregations.


Gary & Mary Reid (global mission workers in Kenya) 
Pray for Gary and Mary Reid as they continue to work remotely from their home in Northern Ireland. Pray especially for their youngest son who has been studying online through his school in Kenya for over a year and is having to sit his school exams remotely.


India
Pray for the work and witness of the Church of North India as it seeks to be an effective witness. Pray too for the Covid-19 situation in India for those in need of medical assistance and for the vaccine roll-out.
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Facing The Canon
This week, J.John is joined by Graham Kendrick. Graham is a trailblazer in Christian worship, known for songs such as ‘Shine Jesus Shine’ and ’Knowing You Jesus’.

Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Love Thy Neighbour

Conversion Therapy
What is the problem with MLAs trying to ban Conversion Therapy, in this article from the Christian Institute they seek to explain the Presbyterian Church’s position. The Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland defends gospel freedoms as MLAs debate a ban on so called conversion therapy: https://t.co/84KA3WDopg
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Committed To Christ
What does it mean to be committed to Christ? In this 2012 talk, Calisto Odede shows us from Luke 14 that it's being prepared to give up everything in this life for him. When it’s easy to feel lukewarm, we’re reminded of the radical cost but remarkable reward of following Jesus.
https://www.buzzsprout.com/960415/8384286-20-be-committed-calisto-odede-2012
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How do I know if I’m saved?
In this episode of TGC Q&A, @RevDaveHarvey and Michael Lawrence answer the question, “How do I know if I’m saved?”

https://t.co/rV77Ol0NbH
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Norman Hamilton
Former Moderator Norman shares some thoughts as he watches his new Webcam.
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Jean 13:01

Play the "Portballintrae Monday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=20ed4eefb067
2 Comments

Friday 23rd APRIL 2021

23/4/2021

1 Comment

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Trials?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.


Here are the songs for today..


  • “Strong in the Fire,” Latifah Makuyi
  • “Hold On,” Flame
  • “Abide with Me,” Indelible Grace Music
  • “Abide,” Liz Vice
  • “He Will Hold Me Fast,” Shane and Shane
  • “Christ the Sure and Steady Anchor,” Matt Boswell and Matt Papa


Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For Social Witness
Pray for all who partner our homes/units – in providing food, maintenance, medical and nursing services, cleaning materials, PPE and all essential goods. Give thanks that they have maintained services through-out the Covid-19 crisis and have played a vital part in keeping our quality of care at a high and safe standard. 


Businesses
Give thanks for people who use their talents and gifts in the business world. Pray that those
working in businesses soon to re-open to the public would be equipped to make good and wise decisions following this long time of uncertainty.


General Council
Give thanks for the work of those who work in the General Secretary’s Department in Assembly Buildings led by the Clerk, Trevor Gribben.  Pray for those who are involved in answering numerous queries and fulfilling vital administrative tasks, often having to work from home and in challenging circumstances. ​
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Love Thy Neighbour

Unity (15 minute video)
We all want unity in our church or community, but it's easier said than done! Watch this powerful episode of @DiscipleshipXP to learn how Christian unity can only be achieved through modelling Jesus.
https://t.co/lAuMl4ieqa
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PODCAST EPISODE #33 (40 Minute Audio)
In our last episode we explored how we could go about pursuing new connections with new people. This time we take a look within our church communities, to consider how we can go about re-building our congregational life together again. 
Host Rick Hill is joined by Rev Helen Freeburn (Galway) and Rev David McCullough (Annalong) to discuss opportunities of reconnection in the months ahead along with some practical reflections on how they are seeking to rebuild community when so much of our life has been fragmented over the past year.
Listen wherever you get your podcasts from or via:

Women in the Patriarchal World of Jesus Death & Resurrection (44 minute audio)
Have you ever heard someone claim that the Bible was 'anti-women'? Presenter Vicky Gibbens chats with philosopher Elaine Storkey, and they look at the courageous women in scripture and how we can learn from the way they challenged their patriarchal world.

https://t.co/FcG8SyeftC
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Frances 2:31
Jean 2:41
​Derek 2:59


​Try a more difficult puzzle for Friday.
Play the "Storm Portstewart Friday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=232046bcf4ee

1 Comment

Thursday 22nd April 2021

22/4/2021

2 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Trials?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.


Here are the songs for today with a little thought about their subject matter.


Humility (James 1:9–10)
  • “There is a Mountain,” Caroline Cobb - There is a mountain only the lame can climb. True humility.
  • “High and Lowly,” Bethany Barnard - A song about the humility of Jesus.
  • “I Want a Principle Within,” Zambroa - A powerful hymn originally written by Charles Wesley examining our sensitivity to sin.
  • The original version of the hymn with lyrics
  • “Humble Heart,” Jess Ray - I want a humble heart! Pride makes me lonely and leaves me stranded.

Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For Josh McCance (community outreach worker, Donabate & Balbriggan) 
Praise God for a great response to the spiritual gifts workshop held online. Pray that this would help people think about how they can use their gifts. Pray that the members of the church family grow in faith as they look forward to meeting again in person.


University chaplains
Pray for students coming towards the end of their last semester of the academic year and preparing for exams. Pray for PCI chaplains who continue to offer pastoral support to students and staff.
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Scapegoat

Romans
Every note of Paul’s Epistle to the Romans serves to create the symphony revealing God’s righteousness brought to bear in history through the saving work of Jesus. Learn more in this free course. https://t.co/QNoau4uDMo
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Why is the Word of God SO powerful? 
​(30 minute video)

What is it about a book that lays the foundation of understanding the Creator of the Universe? Watch this incredible message from @DrRTKendall and discover the power of God's Word to redeem and restore us.
https://t.co/i5Mco5sUWJ
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100th Birthday
On Friday we reported Isobel  Claypole’s 100th birthday, here is the report from the Belfast Telegraph this week.
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw


Richard 2:31
Jean 2:40

Play the "Strand Thursday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=120b4229b919

2 Comments

Wednesday 21st April 2021

21/4/2021

1 Comment

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Trials?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listening to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.

Here are the songs for today with a little thought about their subject matter.
  • “Lord, from Sorrows Deep I Call (Psalm 42),” Matt Boswell and Matt Papa. A beautiful version of Psalm 42 on how we can call to God in the midst of the most difficult circumstances.
  • “Sweet Comfort,” Sandra McCracken - Another song by Sandra McCracken who brings a subtle country vibe to a song reminding us of the comfort of God during trials.
  • “Sovereign Over Us,” Aaron Keyes - A cover of the Michael W. Smith song which reminds us that God is Sovereign and in control of all things in our lives.
  • “Shepherd,” John Tibbs and Sandra McCracken - God is our Shepherd through the Valley Of The Shadow.
  • “Always Good,” Andrew Peterson - Reminding us that no matter what we go through God is always Good
Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For St Petersburg Christian University, Russia
Give thanks for the mission trip by students and staff from the university to South Africa and pray that the students on the trip will have new vision and perspectives. Pray that God will bless all the work of the university and multiply it in the ministry of its former students.


Nepal
Pray for United Mission to Nepal as it works hard to conclude its new General Agreement with the government of Nepal, including obtaining all necessary work permits for both expats and Nepali employees.
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Unclean, Unclean

Answers to Prayer  (3 hour Audio)
A Free Audiobook on Youtube by George Muller 

Open Doors - World Watch List
Open Doors has released the World Watch List. The list of countries where it is most dangerous to be a Christian in 2021. 
The full list can be found here
https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/


This week the focus is on Saudi Arabia the 14th most dangerous country in the world to be a Christian. Read about it here 


https://www.opendoorsuk.org/persecution/world-watch-list/saudi-arabia/
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Christian Unions Ireland
The prayer points for this week.
15 – 21 April
–        Praise God for the opportunity UCDCU have to host an interview–style talk with John Lennox online on the 15 April. Pray for the various science societies that have been invited along as they hear what John has to say and engage during the Q&A afterwards, and that God would use this event for his glory.
–        Pray for the CUI prayer evening. Praise God for how technology has provided the means to unite with others from around the island and abroad this year, both students and supporters of CUI. May our prayers to him today and this evening be set before him like incense, pleasing and honouring to the Lord as we join together.
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NEWS Moderator's thanks for over 1/3 million pound raised

The Moderator, Right Reverend Dr David Bruce, has thanked Presbyterian congregations across the island for their ‘prayerful and sacrificial generosity of spirit in some of the hardest of times’ for raising £337,147 to date to provide support to people in fragile, vulnerable countries, suffering due to the ongoing effects of the global Covid-19 pandemic. 

Launched in December last year, the Moderator’s Special Christmas Appeal, which replaced the annual World Development Appeal for 2020, has to date raised £337,147 (€388,393). That money has now be distributed between PCI’s relief and development partners, Christian Aid and Tearfund, who are already engaged on the ground in longer term sustainable development work amongst those most affected by Covid-19. 

The final third has also gone to churches with which PCI partners directly to support relief efforts in seven countries on three continents - South Sudan, Malawi, Indonesia, Nepal, Lebanon, Syria and Romania.

Read more here:
https://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/April-2021/Moderator-s-thanks-for-over-1-3-million-raised.aspx​

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Moderator Requests Prayer For Timor and Indonesia

At this particular time can I encourage you and your congregations to pray for our partner churches in the region, the Evangelical Christian Church of Timor and the Christian Church of Sumba.
Our Mission Department has provided the following prayer points:
  • Pray for those still searching for missing family, especially when communications are difficult and roads and bridges have been washed away
  • Give thanks for the swift action of local church partners in helping to provide food and shelter, as they assist in locating the missing, and help with the distribution of aid
  • Pray for those who have lost loved ones, those who have been injured, and for everyone whose homes have been destroyed. Many have also seen their land and crops washed away - pray for support for replanting and the replacement of vital irrigation channels
  • Give thanks for our partners in the region, pray for their leadership teams and local ministers on the ground, and for their strong and growing church fellowships that have a track record of reaching out to their communities with both practical and spiritual care.​
Conversion Therapy
Following today’s debate in @niassembly on conversion therapy @PCIModerator welcomed the opportunity for local MLAs to discuss/debate an issue that is important to many, including people of faith, highlighting the need for clarity and balance: Read more here :
https://t.co/bd7pYvq9u4
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

​Eddie 2:53
Jean 3:29

Play the "Keswick Wednesday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=39c3b08d2d8d

1 Comment

Tuesday 20th April 2021

20/4/2021

2 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Trials?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listen to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.

The selection of songs today are all about finding God in the Trials.
You may not like them all but hopefully you will discover some artists that you do like. You might even be able to tolerate a little bit of Rap today.

  • “Anchor,” Beautiful Eulogy and Josh Garrels - a beautiful gentle tune and the addition of some Rap doesn’t detract.
  • “James 1:2–5,” The Corner Room - A jolly little bible memory song.
  • “The Sower’s Song,” Andrew Peterson - Asking that God would remove/prune the branches that do not bear fruit.
  • “When Trials Come,” Keith and Kristyn Getty - When trials come do not fear.
  • “God Is for Us,” CityAlight​ - City Alight always have some very singable songs

Youtube Playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Let’s Pray For Louise Davidson (deaconess in West Church, Bangor)
Pray for the women’s ministry in the church and for the key role Louise plays in this. Pray that all the women who attend online meetings and events will feel a warm welcome and the power and presence of Jesus. Pray all will have a real desire to go deeper in their walk with God.


Glenelly (Co Tyrone)
Give thanks that during lockdown the congregation was able to hold drive-in services. Pray for the regular preaching of the Word - that sinners would be saved and believers built up in their faith.
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Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Peace Offering

New City Catechism​

Q. Why Must the Redeemer Be Truly Human?
A. That in human nature he might on our behalf perfectly obey the whole law and suffer the punishment for human sin; and also that he might sympathize with our weaknesses.
https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/new-city-catechism/why-must-the-redeemer-be-truly-human/

Joy In Suffering
Can we find joy, even in suffering? That is what we are looking at from James this week. That seems like a tall ask! Watch this encouraging episode of @DiscipleshipXP to look at the story of Paul, who found joy in Christ even when facing incredible danger.
https://t.co/1ucxS4P6Yv
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Prince Philip
A Life of Service - a tribute from J.John
Read it here.
https://canonjjohn.com/2021/04/16/prince-philip-a-servant-in-the-shadows/
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw

Frances 3:11
Derek 3:15
Jean 3:28


Play the "Portbalintrae Tuesday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=0e38171014df

2 Comments

Monday 19th April 2021

19/4/2021

2 Comments

 
Beside The Burn
This week we begin a new series “How do we cope with James?” This week we ask “How do we cope with ... Trials?” We all face difficulties in life and James has some great advice.

Songs From The Book Of James
The Gospel Coalition have produced a playlist of 100 songs inspired by the book of James, and I intend to share some of those songs each day on the Blog, but you can listen to the full playlist during the next few weeks as we continue our studies in this book. I have benefited greatly from listen to these songs over and over again as I have asked God to speak from His word.
You can stream the playlist on Spotify or on Apple Music right now.


Today the songs are mostly an introduction to worshiping God.
“Steadfast,” Sandra McCracken. Anything by Sandra will bless your soul, here she sings of the Steadfast God as we are lead through trials to find Steadfastness/Perseverance.
 “Morning Song (Give Me Jesus),” Antoine Bradford - a simple song where we just simply ask for Jesus.
“O Praise the Name,” Shane and Shane - a great hymn of praise to God.
“May You Be Glorified,” John van Deusen

Youtube Playlist 
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLq2dO6q3VUIbGS7l8qyXDSrTrU3iXS_-y
​
I’ll add the songs to this playlist each day.

Sermon From Sunday
You can view the sermon from Sunday on James 1:1-11 below

Let’s Pray For Moderator
Pray for the leaders of organisations who, in Northern Ireland, may be able to plan for a limited return to some face to face meeting. Pray for congregations in the Republic, where restrictions preventing meeting together remain in place.


Indonesia
Pray for Timor and nearby islands which were hit by Tropical Cyclone Seroja on Easter Sunday with severe winds, rains, floods and landslides causing loss of life and major damage to communications, roads, bridges and buildings. Pray for all affected, especially for the leaders and members of our partner, the Evangelical Christian Church in Timor.


Brazil
Pray for the people of Brazil who are suffering greatly from Covid-19. Pray for the witness of the Presbyterian Church of Brazil, that leaders and members will bring God’s comfort and strength to many.
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J.John on Sundays 
Facing the Canon with Dr Tanya Walker​


Glen Scrivener
“Reading Between The Lines” a series working through the bible looking at the well known phrases.
Atonement

John 3:16 
Probably the most famous verse! But who are the 'whoevers' in the 'Whoever believes in Him' part of the verse? Presenter Steve Best explores this idea with Mark Hayward in a short 2-minute reflection! Listen now on UCB Player.
https://t.co/kiRIjYDbAz
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Jigsaw
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw


Jean 10:31
Derek 15:04

Play the "Portstewart Sunset Monday" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=09215d18be3f

2 Comments
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