Philippians 4 Part 2
Joy Through Prayer
Wilma’s Thoughts On Tuesday
Every Tuesday Wilma shares her thoughts The Royal Ramblers were staying in a cottage near Westport, where the majestic Croagh Patrick mountain 2507 ft is frequently in view, the locals have nicknamed it the "reek" from an ancient word meaning "stack" or "rick". The last Sunday in July is known as Reek Sunday, when pilgrims climb it in honour of St. Patrick, who is reputed to have spent 40 days there. |
Visitors to the area are asked by locals "have you been up the reek?" or "when are you going up the reek?" It is something they expect you to do, so we decided to accept the challenge.
There is a clearly identified path to the summit, but exceptionally rough in places, with loose stones and boulders. There were many walkers on the mountain from all over the world, who provided interesting encounters and conversation on the way. We were about 20 minutes from the summit where there is a small chapel, when I felt I could go no further as I had hurt my knee. At this stage we were aware that the last part had a lot of loose shale and more difficult to climb. I was exceedingly disappointed, having got so far. My companions did not want to go on without me, which was an added disappointment. We admired the wonderful view of Clew Bay and it's reputed 365 islands, and managed to make our way down the mountain which can be more hazardous than the ascent!
In life, generally, we experience many disappointments, but during this pandemic, many more than usual, either individually or collectively. As a church, our big disappointment was the closure of our church building which resulted in us not being able to meet for Sunday worship or other activities.
However, there has been much blessing through on-line services and the scattered church is growing.
Moses "the man whom God knew face to face" was an experienced mountaineer. He was associated with Mt. Horeb and Mt. Sinai, and the less familiar Mt. Nebo. In Deuteronomy ch 34 we read that Moses climbed Mt. Nebo which is in the land of Moab. God had directed him to go there. He showed him all the land He had promised to give to the descendants of Abraham and told him "I have let you see it with your eyes, but you will not cross over into it". In the wilderness God had instructed Moses to speak to a rock at Meribah to provide water for the Israelites. He lost patience with their complaining and quarrelsome behaviour, and in a rage struck the rock twice with his staff. He failed to honour God.
The picture of Moses, age 120 years, standing on that mountain surveying the Promised land is heart rending. He must have been sad and very disappointed that he was not permitted to lead the Israelites on the last leg of their journey.
I think God is often disappointed with us. Jesus was so, when here on earth. On one occasion He met a rich young ruler who wanted to get to heaven on his terms. He was not prepared to give up what meant most to him, his riches. He rejected Jesus and His salvation. We read in Mark ch 10 v 22 "the man's face fell" obviously disappointed "he went away sad".
We cannot earn salvation, it is not on our terms, our good works can never satisfy God.
Ephesians ch 2 v 8 "it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works so that no one can boast."
Wilma
Chaplaincy
Pray that God would open up opportunities to show and share his love in the ministry provided through chaplaincy in health care, prisons, the armed forces, education and sport. Pray for chaplains as they seek to be present in difficult circumstances, listen carefully in conversation and deftly direct others to God, asking for wisdom, tactfulness and boldness. |
This week we have a series of ideas for family worship which can be used with ether children or Grandchildren
2_engage-at-home_ball_tues.pdf |
Christian Unions Ireland
The Fruit of Lockdown. How have students been dealing with the ‘new normal’? CUI asked several students to share how God has been working in this unexpected period both in and through their CUs and individual lives. Read the article here. https://www.cui.ie/blog/215/the-fruit-of-lockdown |
Presbyterian moderator: To be safe as churches re-open, we will need to set aside some things that we love to do
Read the full article here :
https://www.presbyterianireland.org/News/July-2020/Longing-to-return-Moderator-s-News-Letter-opinio.aspx
Keswick Podcast
Our latest Keswick Convention Podcast is out now! James Cary talks to Director of the Solas Centre for Public Christianity, Andy Bannister. They talk about evangelism, apologetics & terrifying moments in Speakers Corner on step ladders. https://www.buzzsprout.com/866182/4414739-9-andy-bannister-apologetics-step-ladders-and-standing-your-ground |
SING
Each year the Gettys organise a conference of music and bible teaching. They have created a playlist on Spotify of the music to be used at the conference this year. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5eyuae5iKbtYL8go7yB4ip?si=JgLox68hSQuJAASRPkzuwg |
God Is Our Help (2 Minute Video)
The Psalms remind us that God is not far from us in our trouble. Be encouraged by this reading of Psalm 46 by Kristyn Getty and rest in the promises of God to be with us—and for us—in our time of need. Psalm 46 Reading |
Is There Such a Thing as Race?
The biblical way of talking about people groups leans heavily in the ethnicity direction, not the racial direction. In the last day when the global mission of Christ is finished, there will be redeemed people “from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Rev. 5:9). John Piper has written a fascinating article examining race and ethnicity. READ IT HERE |
Jigsaw
Janice 2:05 Jean 3:52 Derek 6:08 Wilfred 6:08 In response to yesterday’s comment Janice says, “I study all the pieces before I touch the screen, Getty family singing along.” Play the "Balintoy" puzzle! https://www.jigsawplanet.com/?rc=play&pid=20e946118647 |
Of course yesterday was the Big Wheel in Portrush at Kiddieland Amusements.
Where would you find these steps?
Yesterday I asked - What is the only number in English when written out has all of its letters in alphabetical order?
Some of you worked out the answer is - 40 - Forty.