This week we continue our theme from Sunday of ‘RECENTERING’. Each day we develop the theme a little more in a short 5 minutes video.
These words caught my attention, the word ‘will’ in particular. Later, after pondering its many uses, I was surprised and interested to find just how many associations it has, e.g. it’s used when referring to our future intentions, ‘I will…’, it refers to determination, as in having ‘a strong will’, and it makes an inquiry such as, ‘Will you...?’ There’s also a ‘Last Will and Testament.’
However, regardless of the former suggestions, let’s turn to the most significant use of the word, ‘The Will of God.’
Romans 12:2 NIV instructs us: ‘Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is – His good, pleasing and perfect will.’
Following Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples, He prayed, ‘Father, if You are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but Yours be done.’
The Hymn ‘Take my Life and let it be’ was written in 1874 by Frances Ridley Havergal, the daughter of a Clergyman. Not enjoying good health, she led a quiet life, but she was a talented pianist and in demand as a concert soloist. She could have gained world fame, but chose instead to offer her talent to the Lord.
This Hymn is a Prayer dedicating her life, possessions and ability to God, each verse beginning with the words ‘Take my….’ Relevant to our reflections today, one of her offerings is her ‘Will.’
Frances.
Let’s Pray For Safeguarding
Pray for confidence and competence in safeguarding within children’s and young people’s ministries. Pray for the ability of leaders to continue to ensure the safeguarding of our young ones whilst continuing to witness to them. New opportunities Pray that in the midst of complexity and concern, political and civic leaders might have space to consider new opportunities for how we live and work together in a society that encourages human flourishing. |
Isolation For Farmers
Social distancing & self-isolation have become part of our everyday vocabulary. However, #farmers have long experienced social isolation. In his blog, Rev David Reid writes how we find in the #Bible a ‘friend who sticks closer than a brother’ http://bit.ly/2Hs7uLy |
Many of you will have heard this week that Rev. Noel Agnew died after suffering a heart attack and spending just over a week in hospital. The service below is from February this year when Noel preached at the annual Fisherman’s Service in Annalong Presbyterian Church. (Noel begins to preach at 46 minutes)
Want to join the 5 to Read Challenge?
10ofthose have bundles of five books on special offer on their website. 5 books for women, men, biography, discipleship, starting out, and parents. Commit to reading 5 Christian books between now and Christmas, and make the most of your nights in. They have packs to suit everyone! http://bit.ly/5toReadPacks |
The times for yesterday’s Jigsaw
Jean 2:24
Derek 3:39
Lynne 3:39
Frances 3:44
Hard to believe it is Friday again so a few extra pieces in the weekend puzzle.
Play the "Rope Bridge" puzzle!
https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=09397074046a